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diff --git a/32062-h/32062-h.htm b/32062-h/32062-h.htm new file mode 100644 index 0000000..78c47ac --- /dev/null +++ b/32062-h/32062-h.htm @@ -0,0 +1,23002 @@ +<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?> + +<!DOCTYPE html + PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Strict//EN" + "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-strict.dtd" > + +<html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" lang="en"> + <head> + <meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html;charset=UTF-8" /> + <title> + The Daltons by Charles Lever + </title> + <style type="text/css" xml:space="preserve"> + + body { margin:5%; text-align:justify} + P { text-indent: 1em; margin-top: .25em; margin-bottom: .25em; } + H1,H2,H3,H4,H5,H6 { text-align: center; margin-left: 15%; margin-right: 15%; } + hr { width: 50%; text-align: center;} + .foot { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; text-indent: -3em; font-size: 90%; } + blockquote {font-size: 97%; font-style: italic; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%;} + .mynote {background-color: #DDE; color: #000; padding: .5em; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 95%;} + .toc { margin-left: 10%; margin-bottom: .75em;} + .toc2 { margin-left: 20%;} + div.fig { display:block; margin:0 auto; text-align:center; } + .figleft {float: left; margin-left: 0%; margin-right: 1%;} + .figright {float: right; margin-right: 0%; margin-left: 1%;} + pre { font-style: italic; font-size: 90%; margin-left: 10%;} + +</style> + </head> + <body> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + +Project Gutenberg's The Daltons, Volume II (of II), by Charles James Lever + +This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with +almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org + + +Title: The Daltons, Volume II (of II) + Or,Three Roads In Life + +Author: Charles James Lever + +Illustrator: Phiz. + +Release Date: April 19, 2010 [EBook #32062] +Last Updated: February 27, 2018 + + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1 + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE DALTONS, VOLUME II (OF II) *** + + + + +Produced by David Widger + + + + + +</pre> + + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <h1> + THE DALTONS + </h1> + <h4> + OR, + </h4> + <h2> + THREE ROADS IN LIFE. + </h2> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <h2> + By Charles Lever. + </h2> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <h3> + With Illustrations By Phiz. + </h3> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <h4> + In Two Volumes: Volume Two. <br /><br /> Boston: <br /> Little, Brown, And + Company. <br /><br /> 1904. + </h4> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%;"> + <img src="images/frontispiece.jpg" alt="frontispiece" width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%;"> + <img src="images/titlepage.jpg" alt="titlepage" width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <blockquote> + <p class="toc"> + <big><b>CONTENTS</b></big> + </p> + <p> + <br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0001"> <b>THE DALTONS; or, THREE ROADS IN LIFE</b> + </a><br /> <br /> <a href="#link2HCH0001"> CHAPTER I. </a> A + MORNING OF MISADVENTURES <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0002"> CHAPTER II. + </a> A SAD HOUSEHOLD <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0003"> + CHAPTER III. </a> A LAST SCENE <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2HCH0004"> CHAPTER IV. </a> A PACKAGE OF LETTERS + <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0005"> CHAPTER V. </a> A HAPPY + DAY FOR PETER DALTON <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0006"> CHAPTER VI. + </a> MADAME DE HEIDENDORF <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0007"> + CHAPTER VII. </a> AT VIENNA <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0008"> + CHAPTER VIII. </a> PRIESTLY COUNSELS <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2HCH0009"> CHAPTER IX. </a> SECRETS OF HEAD AND + HEART <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0010"> CHAPTER X. </a> D'ESMONDE'S + LETTER <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0011"> CHAPTER XI. </a> THE + CADET VON DALTON <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0012"> CHAPTER XII. </a> VIENNA + <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0013"> CHAPTER XIII. </a> THE + MARCH <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0014"> CHAPTER XIV. </a> THE + SKIRMISH <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0015"> CHAPTER XV. </a> A + VILLA AND ITS COMPANY <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0016"> CHAPTER XVI. + </a> PETER DALTON ON POLITICS, LAW, AND SOCIALITIES <br /><br /> + <a href="#link2HCH0017"> CHAPTER XVII. </a> NELLY'S TRIALS + <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0018"> CHAPTER XVIII. </a> AN + ACT OF SETTLEMENT <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0019"> CHAPTER XIX. </a> THE + CURSAAL <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0020"> CHAPTER XX. </a> THE + LAST STAKE OF ALL <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0021"> CHAPTER XXI. </a> NELLY'S + SORROWS <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0022"> CHAPTER XXII. </a> A + LAST ADIEU <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0023"> CHAPTER XXIII. </a> THE + TYROL JOURNEY <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0024"> CHAPTER XXIV. </a> FLORENCE + <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0025"> CHAPTER XXV. </a> PRIESTCRAFT + <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0026"> CHAPTER XXVI. </a> THE + “MOSKOVA.” <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0027"> CHAPTER XXVII. </a> VALEGGIO + <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0028"> CHAPTER XXVIII. </a> PLOTS, + POLITICS, AND PRIESTCRAFT <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0029"> CHAPTER + XXIX. </a> A SECRET AND A SNARE <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2HCH0030"> CHAPTER XXX. </a> A SAD EXIT <br /><br /> + <a href="#link2HCH0031"> CHAPTER XXXI. </a> THE SUMMONS <br /><br /> + <a href="#link2HCH0032"> CHAPTER XXXII. </a> INISTIOGE <br /><br /> + <a href="#link2HCH0033"> CHAPTER XXXIII. </a> THE MANOR-HOUSE + OF CORRIG-O'NEAL <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0034"> CHAPTER XXXIV. </a> "THE + RORE.” <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0035"> CHAPTER XXXV. </a> A + TALK OVER BYGONES <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0036"> CHAPTER XXXVI. + </a> THE JAIL <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0037"> CHAPTER + XXXVII. </a> A FENCING-MATCH <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2HCH0038"> CHAPTER XXXVIII. </a> A + STEP IN VAIN <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0039"> CHAPTER XXXIX. </a> THE + COURT-HOUSE OF KILKENNY <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0040"> CHAPTER XL. + </a> THE RETRIBUTION <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0041"> + CHAPTER XLI. </a> THE END <br /><br /> + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="link2H_4_0001" id="link2H_4_0001"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <h1> + THE DALTONS; <br />or, THREE ROADS IN LIFE + </h1> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0001" id="link2HCH0001"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER I. A MORNING OF MISADVENTURES. + </h2> + <p> + “Well, my Lord, are we to pass the day here,” said Count Trouville, the + second of the opposite party, as Norwood returned from a fruitless search + of George Onslow, “or are we to understand that this is the English mode + of settling such matters?” + </p> + <p> + “I am perfectly ready, Monsieur le Comte, to prove the contrary, so far as + my own poor abilities extend,” said Norwood, calmly. + </p> + <p> + “But your friend has disappeared, sir. You are left alone here.” + </p> + <p> + “Which is, perhaps, the reason of your having dared to insult me,” + rejoined the other; “that being, perhaps, the French custom in such + affairs.” + </p> + <p> + “Come, come, gentlemen,” interposed an old cavalry officer, who acted as + second friend to Guilmard, “you must both see that all discussion of this + kind is irregular and unseemly. We have come here this morning for one + specific purpose,——to obtain reparation for a great injury. + The gentleman who should have offered us the amende has suddenly withdrawn + himself. I offer no opinion on the fact that he came out accompanied by + only one friend; we might, perhaps, have devised means to obviate this + difficulty. For his own absence we have no remedy. I would therefore ask + what you have to propose to us in this emergency?” + </p> + <p> + “A little patience,—nothing more. My friend must have lost his way; + some accident or other has detained him, and I expect to see him here + every instant.” + </p> + <p> + “Shall we say half an hour longer, my Lord?” rejoined the other, taking + out his watch. “That will bring us to eight o'clock.” + </p> + <p> + “Which, considering that our time was named 'sharp six,'” interposed + Trouville, “is a very reasonable 'grace.'” + </p> + <p> + “Your expression is an impertinence, Monsieur,” said Norwood, fiercely. + </p> + <p> + “And yet I don't intend to apologize for it,” said the other, smiling. + </p> + <p> + “I 'm glad of it, sir. It's the only thing you have said to-day with + either good sense or spirit.” + </p> + <p> + “Enough, quite enough, my Lord,” replied the Frenchman, gayly. “'Dans la + bonne société, on ne dit jamais de trop.' Where shall it be, and when?” + </p> + <p> + “Here, and now,” said Norwood, “if I can only find any one who will act + for me.” + </p> + <p> + “Pray, my Lord, don't go in search of him,” said Trouville, “or we shall + despair of seeing you here again.” + </p> + <p> + “I will give a bail for my reappearance, sir, that you cannot doubt of,” + cried Norwood, advancing towards the other with his cane elevated. + </p> + <p> + A perfect burst of horror broke from the Frenchmen at this threat, and + three or four immediately threw themselves between the contending parties. + </p> + <p> + “But for this, my Lord,” said the old officer, “I should have offered you + my services.” + </p> + <p> + “And I should have declined them, sir,” said Norwood, promptly. “The first + peasant I meet with will suffice;” and, so saying, he hurried from the + spot, his heart almost bursting with passion. With many a malediction of + George—with curses deep and cutting on every one whose misconduct + had served to place him in his present position—he took his way + towards the high-road. + </p> + <p> + “What could have happened?” muttered he; “what confounded fit of + poltroonery has seized him? a fellow that never wanted pluck in his life! + Is it possible that he can have failed now? And this to occur at the very + moment they are beggared! Had they been rich, as they were a few months + back, I'd have made the thing pay. Ay, by Jove! I 'd have 'coined my + blood,' as the fellow says in the play, and written a swingeing check with + red ink! And now I have had a bad quarrel, and nothing to come of it! And + so to walk the high-roads in search of some one who can load a pistol.” + </p> + <p> + A stray peasant or two, jogging along to Florence, a postilion with return + horses, a shabbily dressed curate, or a friar with a sack behind him, were + all that he saw for miles of distance, and he returned once more to + interrogate the calessino driver as to the stranger who accompanied him + from the city. + </p> + <p> + Any one whose misfortune it may have been to make inquiries from an + Italian vetturino of any fact, no matter how insignificant or unimportant, + will sympathize with Norwood's impatience at the evasive and distrustful + replies that now met his questions. Although the fact could have no + possible concern or interest for him, he prevaricated and contradicted + himself half-a-dozen times over, as to the stranger's age, country, and + appearance, so that, utterly baffled and provoked, the Viscount turned + away and entered the park. + </p> + <p> + “I, too, shall be reported missing, I suppose,” said he, bitterly, as he + walked along a little path that skirted a piece of ornamental water. “By + Jupiter! this is a pleasant morning's work, and must have its reparation + one day or other.” + </p> + <p> + A hearty sneeze suddenly startled him as he spoke; he turned hastily + about, but could see no one, and yet his hearing was not to be deceived! + He searched the spot eagerly; he examined the little boat-shed, the copse, + the underwood,—everything, in fact,—but not a trace of living + being was to be seen; at last a slight rustling sound seemed to issue from + a piece of rustic shell-work, representing a river god reclining on his + urn, and, on approaching, he distinctly detected the glitter of a pair of + eyes within the sockets of the figure. + </p> + <p> + “Here goes for a brace of balls into him,” cried Norwood, adjusting a cap + on his pistol. “A piece of stonework that sneezes is far too like a man to + be trusted.” + </p> + <p> + Scarcely was the threat uttered, when a tremulous scream issued from + within, and a voice, broken with terror, called out,—— + </p> + <p> + “D-don't fire, my Lord. You'll m-m-murder me. I'm Purvis—Sc-Sc-Scroope + Purvis.” + </p> + <p> + “How did you come to be there, then?” asked Norwood, half angrily. + </p> + <p> + “I 'll tell you when I g-get out!” was the answer; and he disappeared from + the loophole at which he carried on the conversation for some seconds. + Norwood began to fancy that the whole was some mystification of his brain, + for no trace of him was to be had; when he emerged from the boat-house + with his hat stripped of the brim, and his clothes in tatters, his + scratched face and hands attesting that his transit had not been of the + easiest. “It's like a r-r-rat-hole,” cried he, puffing for breath. + </p> + <p> + “And what the devil brought you there?” asked Norwood, rudely. + </p> + <p> + “I ca-came out to see the fight!” cried he; “and when you're inside there + you have a view of the whole park, and are quite safe, too.” + </p> + <p> + “Then it was you who drove out in the calessino meant for the doctor?” + said Norwood, with the air of a man who would not brook an equivocation. + </p> + <p> + “Yes; that was a d-d-dodge of mine to get out here,” said he, chuckling. + </p> + <p> + “Well, Master Purvis,” said Norwood, drawing his arm within his own, “if + you can't be the 'doctor,' you shall at least be the 'second.' This is a + dodge of mine; so come along, and no more about it.” + </p> + <p> + “But I ca-can't; I never was—I never could be a se-se-second.” + </p> + <p> + “You shall begin to-day, then, or my name's not Norwood. You've been the + cause of a whole series of mishaps and misfortunes; and, by Jove! if the + penalty were a heavier one, you should pay it.” + </p> + <p> + “I tell you, I n-never saw a duel; I—I never f-fought one; I never + will fight one; I don't even know how they g-go about it.” + </p> + <p> + “You shall learn, sir, that 's all,” said Norwood, as he hastened along, + dragging the miserable Purvis at his side. + </p> + <p> + “But for you, sir,” continued he, in a voice thick with passion,—“but + for you, sir, and your inveterate taste for prying into what does not + concern you, we should have experienced no delay nor disappointment this + morning. The consequences are, that I shall have to stand where another + ought to have stood, and take to myself a quarrel in which I have had no + share.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="linkimage-0001" id="linkimage-0001"> + <!-- IMG --></a> <br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%;"> + <img src="images/00022.jpg" alt="00022" width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p> + “H-how is that? Do——do——do tell me all about it!” + cried Purvis, eagerly. + </p> + <p> + “I 'll tell you nothing, sir, not a syllable. Your personal adventures on + this morning must be the subject of your revelations when you get back to + Florence, if ever you do get back.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, I—I'm——I'm not going to fight anybody,” exclaimed + he, in terror. + </p> + <p> + “No, sir, but <i>I</i> am; and in the event of any disastrous incident, <i>your</i> + position may be unpleasant. If Trouville falls, you 'll have to make for + Lombardy, and cross over into Switzerland; if he shoots me, you can take + my passport; it is <i>visé</i> for the Tyrol. As they know me at + Innsprück, you 'd better keep to the southward,—some of the smaller + places about Botzen, or Brixen.” + </p> + <p> + “But I don't know Bo-Bo-Botzen on the map! and I don't see why I 'm to + sk-sk-skulk about the Continent like a refu-refu-refugee Pole!” + </p> + <p> + “Take your own time, then; and, perhaps, ten years in a fortress may make + you wiser. It's no affair of mine, you know; and I merely gave you the + advice, as I 'm a little more up to these things than you are.” + </p> + <p> + “But, supposing that I 'll have no-nothing to do with the matter, that I + 'll not be present, that I refuse to see—” + </p> + <p> + “You shall and you must, sir; and if I hear another word of objection out + of your mouth, or if you expose me, by any show of your own poltroonery, + to the ribald insolence of these Frenchmen, by Heaven! I 'll hold your + hand in my own when I fire at Count Trouville.” + </p> + <p> + “And I may be mu-mu-murdered!” screamed Purvis. “An innocent man's + bl-blood shed, all for nothing!” + </p> + <p> + “Bluebeard treated his wives to the same penalty for the same crime, + Master Purvis. And now listen to me, sir, and mark well my words. With the + causes which have led to this affair you have no concern whatever; your + only business here is in the capacity of my second. Be present when the + pistols are loaded; stand by as they step the ground; and, if you can do + no more, try, at least, to look as if you were not going to be shot at.” + Neither the counsel nor the tone it was delivered in were very reassuring; + and Purvis went along with his head down and his hands in his pockets, + reflecting on all the “accidents by firearms” he had read of in the + newspapers, together with the more terrible paragraphs about fatal duels, + and criminal proceedings against all concerned in them. + </p> + <p> + The Frenchmen were seated in the garden, at a table, and smoking their + cigars, as Norwood came up, and, in a few words, explained that a + countryman of his own, whom he had met by chance, would undertake the + duties of his friend. + </p> + <p> + “I have only to say, gentlemen,” he added, “that he has never even + witnessed an affair of this kind; and I have but to address myself to the + loyal good faith of Frenchmen to supply any deficiencies in his knowledge. + Mr. Purvis, Messieurs.” + </p> + <p> + The old Colonel, having courteously saluted him, took him to a short + distance aside, and spoke eagerly for a few minutes; while Norwood, + burning with anxiety and uneasiness, tried to smoke his cigar with every + semblance of unconcern. + </p> + <p> + “I 'm sure, if you think so,” cried Scroope, aloud, “I'm not the m-man to + gainsay the opinion. A miss is as g-g-good as a m-mile; and as he did n't + strike him—” + </p> + <p> + “Tonnerre de Dieu! sir—strike him!” screamed the old soldier. “Did + you say strike him?” + </p> + <p> + “No, I didn't—I couldn't have meant that,” broke in Purvis. “I meant + to remark that, as there was no mischief done—” + </p> + <p> + “And who will venture to say that, sir?” interposed the other. “Is it + nothing that a Frenchman should have been menaced?” + </p> + <p> + “That's a gr-great deal,——a tremendous deal. It's as much as + beating another man; I know that,” muttered poor Purvis, deprecatingly. + </p> + <p> + “Is this a sneer, sir?” asked the Colonel, drawing himself up to his full + height. + </p> + <p> + “No, no, it ain't; no, upon my soul, I 'm quite serious. I never was less + disposed for a jest in my life.” + </p> + <p> + “You could never have selected a less opportune moment for one, sir,” + rejoined the other, gravely. “Am I to conclude, sir,” resumed he, after a + second's interval, “that we have no difference of opinion on this affair?” + </p> + <p> + “None whatever. I agree with you in everything you have s-said, and + everything you in-intend to say.” + </p> + <p> + “Your friend will then apologize?” resumed the Colonel. + </p> + <p> + “He shall,—he must.” + </p> + <p> + “Simply expressing his regret that an unguarded action should have + occasioned a misconception, and that in lifting his arm he neither + intended the gesture as a menace nor an insult. Is n't that your meaning?” + </p> + <p> + “Just so; and that if he <i>had</i> struck he would n't have hurt him.” + </p> + <p> + “Feu d'enfer! sir, what <i>are</i> you saying? or do you mean this for a + mockery of us?” screamed the Colonel, in a fit of passion. + </p> + <p> + “You terrify me so,” cried Purvis; “You are so impeimpe-impetuous, I don't + know what I 'm saying.” + </p> + <p> + The Frenchman measured him with a glance of strange meaning. It was + evident that such a character was somewhat new to him, and it required all + his skill and acuteness to comprehend it “Very well, sir,” said he, at + last, “I leave the details entirely to yourself; speak to your friend, + arrange the matter between you, and let us finish the affair as speedily + as may be.” + </p> + <p> + “What is all this delay about?” muttered Norwood, angrily, as the other + joined him; “is there any difficulty in stepping twelve or twenty paces?” + </p> + <p> + “None; but we've hit upon a b-better plan, and you've only to say that you + 're sorry for it all, that you did n't m-mean anything, and that you never + did b-b-beat a Frenchman, nor will you ever do so in future.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, what do you mean?” asked Norwood, in astonishment. + </p> + <p> + “That we 'll all go back and lunch at the 'Luna;' for there's no-nothing + to fight about.” + </p> + <p> + Norwood pushed by him contemptuously, and with hurried steps walked up to + where the old Colonel stood. “You are a French officer, sir,” said he, + “and I rely upon your honor that, whether from the ignorance or inaptitude + of that gentleman, no blame may attach itself to me in this business. I + have no apology to offer, nor any amende save one.” + </p> + <p> + “Very well, sir, we are ready,” said the Colonel. “I will ask one of my + countrymen to act for you, for I see you are in very indifferent hands.” + </p> + <p> + And now, like men who were well accustomed to the task, they set about the + details of the duel; while Purvis, being at full liberty, slipped from the + spot, and retired into the wood. + </p> + <p> + “You 've won the first fire, my Lord,” said a young Frenchman to Norwood. + “The conditions are twelve paces—back to back—to torn at the + word, and fire.” + </p> + <p> + Norwood bowed, and, without speaking, followed the other to the spot where + he was to stand. As he waited thus, pistol in hand, he was directly + opposite to the place wherein Purvis had taken refuge, and who, seeing + Norwood in front of him, with a cocked pistol, and his finger on the + trigger, uttered a scream of terror, and fell flat on the ground. Before + the rest could discover the cause of the outcry, a shout from outside of + “The Police!” “The Gendarmes!” was heard, and Dr. Grounsell rushed into + the garden, followed by several dismounted dragoons. In an instant all + were away. Norwood sprang over a low balcony into a vineyard; while in + various directions the others scampered off, leaving Purvis alone upon the + field. + </p> + <p> + But too happy to have fallen into the safe keeping of the authorities, + Purvis accepted his captivity with a most placid contentment. + </p> + <p> + “Where's Captain Onslow? Have you seen him, sir?” whispered Grounsell to + him. + </p> + <p> + “I have seen everybody, but I don't re-remember anything. It's all a + dr-dr-dream to me.” + </p> + <p> + “There was no duel? They hadn't fought?” asked Grounsell. + </p> + <p> + “I—I—I think not; pro-pro-probably not,” said Purvis, whose + faculties were still very cloudy. + </p> + <p> + Grounsell turned away from him in disdain, and entered the house. To all + his inquiries from the waiters of the inn the answers were vague and + insufficient, nor could the doctor discover either what had occurred, or + the reasons of the long delay on the ground. Meanwhile the <i>Carabinieri</i>, + stimulated by liberal promises of reward, were searching the park in every + quarter, and scouring the country around to arrest the fugitives; and the + peasantry, enlisted in the pursuit, hastened hither and thither to aid + them. Whether really unable to come up with them, or, as is more probable, + concurring in the escape through bribery, the dragoons returned to the inn + after about an hour's absence, without the capture of a single prisoner. + </p> + <p> + Grounsell cursed their Italian indolence, and reviled every institution of + their lazy land. How he raved about foreign falsehood and rascality, and + wished for a London detective and a magistrate of Bow Street! Never did + Lord Palmerston so thirst to implant British institutions in a foreign + soil, as did he to teach these “macaroni rascals what a good police + meant.” What honest indignation did he not vent upon English residents + abroad, who, for sake of a mild climate and lax morality, could exchange + their native country for the Continent; and at last, fairly worn out with + his denunciations, he sat down on a bench, tired and exhausted. + </p> + <p> + “Will you t-t-tell them to let me go?” cried Purvis. “I've done nothing. I + never do anything. My name is Purvis,—Sc-Sc-Scroope Purvis,—bro-brother + to Mrs. Ricketts, of the Villino Zoe.” + </p> + <p> + “Matters which have no possible interest for <i>me</i>, sir,” growled out + Grounsell; “nor am I a corporal of gendarmes, to give orders for your + liberation.” + </p> + <p> + “But they 'll take me to—to prison!” cried Purvis. + </p> + <p> + “With all my heart, sir, so that I be not your fellow captive,” rejoined + the doctor, angrily, and left the spot; while the police, taking as many + precautions for securing Purvis as though he had been a murderer or a + house-breaker, assisted him into a calèche, and, seated one on either side + of him, with their carbines unslung, set out for Florence. + </p> + <p> + “They'll take me for Fr-Fr-Fra Diavolo, if I enter the city in this + fashion,” cried Purvis; but certainly his rueful expression might have + belied the imputation. + </p> + <p> + Grounsell sat down upon a grassy bench beside the road, overcome with + fatigue and disappointment. From the hour of his arrival in Florence, he + had not enjoyed one moment of rest. On leaving Lady Hester's chamber he + had betaken himself to Sir Stafford's apartment; and there, till nigh + daybreak, he sat, breaking the sad tidings of ruin to his old friend, and + recounting the terrible story of disasters which were to crush him into + poverty. Thence he hastened to George Onslow's room; but he was already + gone. A few minutes before he had started with Norwood for Pratolino, and + all that remained for Grounsell was to inform the police of the intended + meeting, while he himself, wisely suspecting that nothing could go forward + in Florence unknown to Jekyl, repaired to that gentleman's residence at + once. + </p> + <p> + Without the ceremony of announcement, Grounsell mounted the stairs, and + opened the door of Jekyl's apartment, just as its owner had commenced the + preparations for his breakfast. There was an almost Spartan simplicity in + the arrangements, which might have made less composed spirits somewhat + abashed and ill at ease. The little wooden platter of macaroni, the small + coffee-pot of discolored hue and dinged proportions, the bread of + Ethiopian complexion, and the bunch of shrivelled grapes offered a meal + irreproachable on the score of either costliness or epicurism. But Jekyl, + far from feeling disconcerted at their exposure to a stranger's eyes, + seemed to behold them with sincere satisfaction, and with a most courteous + smile welcomed the doctor to Florence, and thanked him for the very polite + attention of so early a visit. + </p> + <p> + “I believe I ought to apologize for the unseasonable hour, sir,” blundered + out Grounsell, who was completely thrown off his balance by this excessive + urbanity; “but the cause must plead for me.” + </p> + <p> + “Any cause which has conferred the honor on me is sure of being + satisfactory. Pray come nearer the table. You 'll find that macaroni eat + better than it looks. The old Duke de Montmartre always recommended + macaroni to be served on wood. His maxim was, 'Keep the “plat d'argent” + for a mayonnaise or a galantine.'” + </p> + <p> + “Excuse me if I cannot join you, sir. Nothing but a matter of extreme + importance could warrant my present intrusion. I only reached this city a + few hours back, and I find everything at the Mazzarini Palace in a state + of discord and confusion. Some are questions for time and consideration; + others are more immediately pressing. One of these is this affair of + George Onslow's. Who is he about to meet, and for what?” + </p> + <p> + “His antagonist is a very agreeable young man; quite a gentleman, I assure + you, attached to the French mission here, and related to the 'Morignys,' + whom you must have met at 'Madame Parivaux's' formerly.” + </p> + <p> + “Never heard of one of them, sir. But what's the quarrel?” + </p> + <p> + “It originated, I believe, in some form of disputation,—an + altercation,” simpered Jekyl, as he sweetened and sipped his coffee. + </p> + <p> + “A play transaction,—a gambling affair, eh?” + </p> + <p> + “I fancy not; Count Guilmard does not play.” + </p> + <p> + “So far, so good,” said Grounsell. “Now, sir, how is it to be arranged?—what + settlement can be effected? I speak to you frankly, perhaps bluntly, Mr. + Jekyl, for my nature has few sympathies with courteous ambiguities. Can + this business be accommodated without a meeting?” + </p> + <p> + Jekyl shook his head, and gave a soft, plaintive little sigh. + </p> + <p> + “Is friendly interference out of the question, sir?” + </p> + <p> + Another shake of the head, and a sigh. + </p> + <p> + “Is there any law in the country? Can the police do nothing?” + </p> + <p> + “The frontiers are always easily accessible,” simpered Jekyl, as he stole + a look at his watch. + </p> + <p> + “Ay, to be sure,” broke in Grounsell, indignantly; “the very geography of + the Continent assists this profligacy, and five paces over an imaginary + boundary gives immunity in a case of murder! Well, sir, come along with me + to the place of meeting. It is just possible that we may be of some + service even yet.” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing could be more agreeable to me than the opportunity of cultivating + your acquaintance, Dr. Grounsell; but I have already sent off a few lines + to Lord Norwood, to apologize for my absence,—a previous + engagement.” + </p> + <p> + “What! at this hour of the morning, sir!” burst out Grounsell. + </p> + <p> + “Even at this early hour, doctor, our cares commence,” said Jekyl, + blandly. + </p> + <p> + “Upon this occasion they must give way to duties, then,” said Grounsell, + sternly. “The word may sound strangely in your ears, sir, but I use it + advisedly you have been well received and hospitably entertained by this + family. They have shown you many marks of kindness and attention. Now is + the opportunity to make some sort of requital. Come, then, and see if this + young man cannot be rescued from peril.” + </p> + <p> + “You touch my feelings in the very tenderest spot,” said Jekyl, softly. + “When gratitude is mentioned, I am a child,—a mere child.” + </p> + <p> + “Be a man, then, for once, sir; put on your hat and accompany me,” cried + Grounsell. + </p> + <p> + “Would you have me break an appointment, doctor?” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, to be sure I would, sir,—at least, such an appointment as I + suspect yours to be. This may be a case of life or death.” + </p> + <p> + “How very dreadful!” said Jekyl, settling his curls at the glass. “Pascal + compares men to thin glass phials, with an explosive powder within them, + and really one sees the force of the similitude every day; but Jean Paul + improves upon it by saying that we are all burning-glasses of various + degrees of density, so that our passions ignite at different grades of + heat.” + </p> + <p> + “Mine are not very far from the focal distance at this moment,” said + Grounsell, with savage energy; “so fetch your hat, sir, at once, or—” + </p> + <p> + “Unless I prefer a cap, you were going to add,” interposed Jekyl, with a + sweet smile. + </p> + <p> + “We must use speed, sir, or we shall be too late,” rejoined the doctor. + </p> + <p> + “I flatter myself few men understand a rapid toilet better,” said Jekyl, + rising from the table; “so if you'll amuse yourself with 'Bell's Life,' + 'Punch,' or Jules Janin, for five minutes, I 'm your man.” + </p> + <p> + “I can be company for myself for that space, sir,” said the other, + gruffly, and turned to the window; while Jekyl, disappearing behind the + drapery that filled the doorway, was heard humming an opera air from + within. + </p> + <p> + Grounsell was in no superlative mood of good temper with the world, nor + would he have extended to the section of it he best knew the well-known + eulogy on the “Bayards.” “Swindlers,” “Rakes,” and “Vagabonds” were about + the mildest terms of the vocabulary he kept muttering to himself, while a + grumbling thunder-growl of malediction followed each. The very aspect of + the little chamber seemed to offer food for his anger; the pretentious + style of its decoration jarred and irritated him, and he felt a wish to + smash bronzes and brackets and statues into one common ruin. + </p> + <p> + The very visiting-cards which lay scattered over a Sèvres dish offended + him; the names of all that were most distinguished in rank and station, + with here and there some little civility inscribed on the corner, ——“Thanks,” + “Come, if possible,” or “Of course we expect you,”—showing the + social request in which Jekyl stood. + </p> + <p> + “Ay,” muttered he to himself, “here is one that can neither give dinners + nor balls, get places nor pensions nor orders, lend money nor lose it, and + yet the world wants him, and cannot get on without him. The indolence of + profligacy seeks the aid of his stimulating activity, and the palled + appetite of sensualism has to borrow the relish from vice that gives all + its piquancy. Without him as the fly-wheel, the whole machinery of + mischief would stand still. His boast is, that, without a sou, no + millionnaire is richer than he, and that every boon of fortune is at his + beck. He might add, that in his comprehensive view of wickedness he + realizes within himself all the vice of this good capital. I 'd send such + a fellow to the treadmill; I 'd transport him for life; I 'd sentence him + to hunt kangaroos for the rest of his days; I'd—” He stopped short + in his violent tirade; for he suddenly bethought him how he himself was at + that very moment seeking aid and assistance at his hands; and somewhat + abashed by the recollection, he called out, “Mr. Jekyl, are you ready + yet?” + </p> + <p> + No answer was returned to this question, and Grounsell repeated it in a + louder voice. All was silent, and not even the dulcet sounds of the air + from “Lucia” broke the stillness; and now the doctor, losing all patience, + drew aside the curtain and looked in. The chamber was empty, and Jekyl was + gone! His little portmanteau, and his still smaller carpet-bag, his + hat-case, his canes—every article of his <i>personnel</i>—were + away; and while Grounsell stood cursing the “little rascal,” he himself + was pleasantly seated opposite Lady Hester and Kate in the + travelling-carriage, and convulsing them with laughter at his admirable + imitation of the poor doctor. + </p> + <p> + Great as was Grounsel's anger at this trickery, it was still greater when + he discovered that he had been locked in. He quite forgot the course of + time passed in his meditations, and could not believe it possible that + there was sufficient interval to have effected all these arrangements so + speedily. + </p> + <p> + Too indignant to brook delay, he dashed his foot through the door, and + passed out The noise at once summoned the people of the house to the spot, + and, to Grounsell's surprise, the police officer amongst them, who, in all + the pomp of office, now barred the passage with a drawn sword. + </p> + <p> + <a name="linkimage-0002" id="linkimage-0002"> + <!-- IMG --></a> <br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%;"> + <img src="images/00032.jpg" alt="00032" width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p> + “What is it?—what's this?” cried he, in astonishment. + </p> + <p> + “Effraction by force in case of debt is punishable by the 127th section of + the 'Code,'” said a dirty little man, who, with the air of a shoeblack, + was still a leading member of the Florence “Bar.” + </p> + <p> + “I owe nothing here,——not a farthing, sir; let me pass,” cried + Grounsell. + </p> + <p> + “'Fathers for sons of nonage or over that period, domiciliated in the same + house,'” began the Advocate, reading out of a volune in his hand, “'are + also responsible.'” + </p> + <p> + “What balderdash, sir! I have no son; I never was married in my life; and + as for this Mr. Jekyl, if you mean to father him on me, I'll resist to the + last drop of my blood.” + </p> + <p> + “'Denunciation and menace, with show of arms or without,'” began the + lawyer again, “'are punishable by fine and imprisonment.'” + </p> + <p> + Grounsell was now so worked up by fury that he attempted to force a + passage by main strength; but a general brandishing of knives by all the + family, from seven years of age upwards, warned him that the attempt might + be too serious, while a wild chorus of abusive language arose from various + sympathizers who poured in from the street to witness the scene. + </p> + <p> + A father who would not pay for his own son! an “assassin,” who had no + bowels for his kindred; a “Birbante,” a “Briccone,” and a dozen similar + epithets, rattled on him like hail, till Grounsell, supposing that the + “bite” might be in proportion to the “bark,” retreated into a small + chamber, and proposed terms of accommodation. Few men take pleasure in + acquitting their own debts, fewer still like to pay those of their + neighbors, and Grounsell set about the task in anything but a pleasant + manner. There was one redeeming feature, however, in the affair. Jekyl's + schedule could not have extracted a rebuke from the severest Commissioner + of Bankruptcy. His household charges were framed on the most moderate + scale of expenditure. A few crowns for his house-rent, a few “Pauls” for + his eatables, and a few “Grazie” for his washing, comprised the whole + charge of his establishment, and not even Hume would have sought to cut + down the “estimates.” Doubtless more than one half of the demands were + unjust and extortionate, and many were perhaps already acquitted; but as + all the rogueries were but homoeopathic iniquities after all, their doses + might be endured with patience. His haste to conclude the arrangements + had, however, a very opposite tendency. The more yielding he became, the + greater grew their exactions, and several times the treaty threatened to + open hostilities again; and at last it was full an hour after Jekyl's + departure that Grounsell escaped from durance, and was free to follow + George Onslow to Pratolino. + </p> + <p> + With his adventures in the interval the reader is sufficiently acquainted; + and we now come back to that moment where, bewildered and lost, he sat + down upon the bench beside the high-road. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0002" id="link2HCH0002"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER II. A SAD HOUSEHOLD + </h2> + <p> + It was already past noon when Grounsell reached Florence. He was delayed + at the gate by the authorities examining a peasant's cart in front of him,—a + process which appeared to take a most unusual degree of care and scrutiny,—and + thus gave the doctor another occasion for inveighing against the “stupid + ignorance of foreigners, who throw every possible impediment in the way of + traffic and intercourse.” + </p> + <p> + “What have they discovered now?” cried he, testily, as in a crowd of + vehicles, of all sorts and sizes, he was jammed up like a coal-vessel in + the river. “Is the peasant a revolutionary general in disguise? or has he + got Bibles or British cutlery under the straw of his baroccino?” + </p> + <p> + “No, Eccellenza.” (Every one in a passion in Italy is styled Eccellenza, + as an “anodyne.”) “It's a sick man, and they don't know what to do with + him.” + </p> + <p> + “Is there a duty on ague or nervous fever?” asked he, angrily. + </p> + <p> + “They suspect he's dead, Eccellenza; and if so, there's no use in bringing + him into the city, to bring him out again by and by.” + </p> + <p> + “And don't they know if a man be dead or alive?” + </p> + <p> + “Not when he's a foreigner, Illustrissimo; and such is the case here.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah, very true!” said Grounsell, dryly, as if acquiescing in the truth of + the remark. “Let me have a look at him; perhaps I can assist their + judgment.” And with this he descended, and made his way through the crowd, + who, in all the eagerness of curiosity, thronged around the cart A + peasant's great-coat was drawn over the figure and even the face of the + sick man, as he lay at full length on the mat flooring of the baroccino; + and on his chest some pious hand had deposited a rosary and a wooden + crucifix. + </p> + <p> + Grounsell hastily drew back the covering, and then clutching an arm of + those at either side of him, he uttered a faint cry, for the pale and + deathlike features before him were those of George Onslow. The instincts + of the doctor, however, soon rose above every other feeling, and his hand + seized the wrist and felt for the pulse. Its beatings were slow, labored, + and irregular, denoting the brain as the seat of injury. Grounsell, + therefore, proceeded to examine the head, which, covered with clogged and + matted blood, presented a terrific appearance; yet neither there nor + elsewhere was there any trace of injury by fire-arms. The history of + discovery was soon told. A shepherd had detected the body as he passed the + spot, and, hailing some peasants on their way to Florence, advised their + taking charge of it to the city, where they would be surely recompensed. + The natural suggestion of Grounsel's mind was that, in making his escape + from the gendarmes, Onslow had fallen over a cliff. To convey him home, + and get him to bed, if possible, before Sir Stafford should hear of the + misfortune, was his first care; and in this he succeeded. It was the time + when Sir Stafford usually slept; and Grounsell was able to examine his + patient, and satisfy himself that no fatal injury was done, long before + the old Baronet awoke. + </p> + <p> + “Sir Stafford wishes to see you, sir; he asked for you repeatedly to-day,” + said Proctor. + </p> + <p> + “Has he heard—does he know anything of this?” said Grounsell, with a + gesture to the bed where George lay. + </p> + <p> + “Not a word, sir. He was very cheerful all the morning, but wondering + where you could have gone, and what Mister George was doing.” + </p> + <p> + “Now for it, then,” muttered Grounsell to himself, as, with clasped hands + and knitted brows, he walked along; his mind suffering the very same + anxieties as had oftentimes beset him on the eve of some painful operation + in his art. + </p> + <p> + “Well, Grounsell,” said the old man, with a smile, as he entered, “is it + to give me a foretaste of my altered condition that you all desert me + to-day? You have never come near me, nor George either, so far as I can + learn.” + </p> + <p> + “We've had a busy morning of it, Stafford,” said the doctor, sitting down + on the bed, and laying his finger on the pulse. “You are better—much + better to-day. Your hand is like itself, and your eye is free from fever.” + </p> + <p> + “I feel it, Gronnsell,—I feel as if, with some twenty years less + upon my back, I could like to begin my tussle with the world, and try + issue with the best.” + </p> + <p> + “You 're young enough, and active enough yet, for what is before you, + Stafford. Yesterday I told you of everything in colors perhaps gloomier + than reality. The papers of to-day are somewhat more cheery in their + tidings. The hurricane may pass over, and leave us still afloat; but there + is another trial for you, my old friend, and you must take heart to bear + it well and manfully.” + </p> + <p> + Sir Stafford sat up in his bed, and, grasping Grounsell by either + shoulder, cried out, “Go on—tell it quickly.” + </p> + <p> + “Be calm, Stafford; be yourself, my old friend,” said Grounsell, terrified + at the degree of emotion he had called up. “Your own courageous spirit + will not desert you now.” + </p> + <p> + “I know it,” said the old man, as, relaxing his grasp, he fell back upon + the pillow, and then, turning on his face, he uttered a deep groan. “I + know your tidings now,” cried he, in a burst of agony. “Oh, Grounsell, + what is all other disgrace compared to this?” + </p> + <p> + “I am speaking of George—of your son,” interposed Gronnsell, + hastily, and seizing with avidity the opportunity to reveal all at once. + “He left this for Pratolino this morning to fight a duel, but by some + mischance has fallen over a cliff, and is severely injured.” + </p> + <p> + “He's dead,—you would tell me he is dead!” said the old man, in a + faint, thrilling whisper. + </p> + <p> + “Far from it Alive, and like to live, but still sorely crushed and + wounded.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, God!” cried the old man, in a burst of emotion, “what worldliness is + in my heart when I am thankful for such tidings as this! When it is a + relief to me to know that my child—my only son—lies maimed and + broken on a sick-bed, instead of—instead of—” A gush of tears + here broke in upon his utterance, and he wept bitterly. + </p> + <p> + Grounsell knew too well the relief such paroxysms afford to interfere with + their course; while, to avoid any recurrence, even in thought, to the + cause, he hurriedly told all that he knew of George's intended meeting + with the Frenchman, and his own share in disturbing the rendezvous. + </p> + <p> + Sir Stafford never spoke during this recital. The terrible shock seemed to + have left its stunning influence on his faculties, and he appeared + scarcely able to take in with clearness the details into which the other + entered. + </p> + <p> + “She's gone to Como, then,” were the first words he uttered,——“to + this villa the Prince has lent her?” + </p> + <p> + “So I understand; and, from what Proctor says, the Russian is going to + marry the Dalton girl.” + </p> + <p> + “Miss Dalton is along with Lady Hester?” + </p> + <p> + “To be sure; they travel together, and George was to have followed them.” + </p> + <p> + “Even scandal, Grounsell, can make nothing of this. What say you, man?” + </p> + <p> + “You may defy it on that score, Stafford. But let us talk of what is more + imminent,——of George.” + </p> + <p> + “I must see him, Grounsell; I must see my poor boy,” said he, rising, and + making an effort to get out of bed; but weakness and mental excitement + together overcame him, and he sank back again, fainting and exhausted. To + this a deep, heavy sleep succeeded, and Grounsell stole away, relieved in + mind by having acquitted himself of his painful task, and free to address + his thoughts to other cares. + </p> + <p> + “Lord Norwood wishes to see you, sir,” said a servant to the doctor, as he + at last seated himself for a moment's rest in his chamber; and before + Grounsell could reply, the noble Viscount entered. + </p> + <p> + “Excuse this abrupt visit, sir; but I have just heard of poor Onslow's + accident Is there any danger in his condition?” + </p> + <p> + “Great and imminent danger, my Lord.” + </p> + <p> + “By Jove!—sorry for it you don't happen to know how it occurred?” + </p> + <p> + “A fall, evidently, was the cause; but how incurred, I cannot even guess.” + </p> + <p> + “In the event of his coming about again, when might we expect to see him + all right,—speaking loosely, of course?” + </p> + <p> + “Should he recover, it will take a month, or, perhaps, two, before he + convalesces.” + </p> + <p> + “The devil it will! These Frenchmen can't be made to understand the thing + at all; and as Guilmard received a gross personal outrage, he is perfectly + out of his mind at the delay in obtaining satisfaction. What is to be + done?” + </p> + <p> + “I am a poor adviser in such cases, my Lord; nor do I see that the matter + demands any attention from us whatever.” + </p> + <p> + “Not from <i>you</i>, perhaps,” said Norwood, insolently; “but I had the + misfortune to go out as his friend! My position is a most painful and + critical one.” + </p> + <p> + “I should suppose that no one will understand how to deal with such + embarrassments better than your Lordship.” + </p> + <p> + “Thanks for the good opinion; the speech I take to be a compliment, + however you meant it. I believe I am not altogether unskilled in such + affairs, and it is precisely because such is the case that I am here now. + Onslow, in other hands than mine, is a ruined man. The story, tell it how + you will, comes to this: that, having gone out to meet a man he had + grossly insulted, he wanders away from the rendezvous, and is found some + hours after at the foot of the cliff, insensible. He may have fallen, he + may have been waylaid,—though everything controverts this notion; + or, lastly, he may have done the act himself. There will be advocates for + each view of the case; but it is essential, for his honor and reputation, + that one story should be authenticated. Now, I am quite ready to stand + godfather to such a version, taking all the consequences, however serious, + on myself.” + </p> + <p> + “This is very kind, very generous, indeed, my Lord,” said Grounsell, + suddenly warming into an admiration of one he was always prejudiced + against. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, I'm a regular John Bull!” said the Viscount, at once assuming the + burden of that canticle, which helped him in all moments of hypocrisy. + “Always stand by the old stock,—nothing like them, sir. The + Anglo-Saxon blood will carry all before it yet; never suffer a rascally + foreigner to put his foot on one of your countrymen. Have him out, sir; + parade the fellow at once: that's my plan.” + </p> + <p> + “I like your spirit!” cried Grounsell, enthusiastically. + </p> + <p> + “To be sure you do, old cock!” exclaimed Norwood, clapping him familiarly + on the shoulder. “Depend upon it, <i>I</i> 'll pull George through this. + <i>I</i> 'll manage the matter cleverly. There must be no mistake about + it; no room for doubt or equivocation, you know. All straightforward, + open, and manly: John Bull every inch of It That's <i>my</i> notion, at + least,——I hope it's yours?” + </p> + <p> + “Perfectly,—thoroughly so!” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, just hand that note to Sir Stafford.” Here he placed a sealed + letter in Grounsell's hand. “Tell him what I've just told you. Let him + fairly understand the whole question, and let me have the contents this + evening at the <i>café</i> in the Santa Trinita,—say about nine + o'clock; not later than that These fellows always gather about that hour.” + </p> + <p> + “I'll take care of it,” said Grounsell. + </p> + <p> + “All right!” cried Norwood, gayly, as he arose and adjusted the curls + beneath his hat. “My compliments to the old gent, and tell George not to + make himself uneasy. He 's in safe hands. Good-bye.” + </p> + <p> + “Good-bye, my Lord, good-bye,” said Grounsell, who, as he looked after + him, felt, as it were, unconsciously recurring to all his former + prejudices and dislikes of the noble Viscount “Those fellows,” muttered + he, “are as inexplicable to me as a new malady, of which I neither know + the stages nor the symptoms. The signs I take for those of health may be + precisely the indications of corruption; and what I deem unsound may turn + out to be exactly the opposite.” And so be fell into a musing fit, in + which certainly his estimate of Lord Norwood continued steadily to fall + lower and lower the longer he thought of him. “He must be a rogue!—he + must be a scoundrel! Nature makes all its blackguards plausible, just as + poison-berries are always brilliant to look at They are both intended to + be the correctives of rash impressions, and I was only a fool ever to be + deceived by him. Out of this, at all hazards,—that's the first + thing!” muttered Grounsell to himself, as he walked hastily up and down + the room. “The place is like a plague district, and we must not carry an + infected rag away from it! Glorious Italy, forsooth! There's more true + enlightenment, there's a higher purpose, and a nobler view of life in the + humblest English village, than in the proudest halls of their Eternal + City!” + </p> + <p> + In such pleasant reflections on national character he entered Sir + Stafford's room, and found his friend seated at a table covered with newly + arrived letters; the seals were all unbroken, and the sick man was turning + them over, and gazing at the different handwritings with a sad and + listless apathy. + </p> + <p> + “I 'm glad you 've come, Grounsell. I have not courage for this,” said he, + pointing to the mass of letters before him. + </p> + <p> + “Begging impostors, one half of them, I 'll be sworn!” said Grounsell, + seating himself to the work. “Was I not right? Here's a Cabinet Minister + suing for your vote on an Irish question, and entreating your speedy + return to England, 'where, he trusts, the object you are both interested + in may be satisfactorily arranged.' Evasive rascal! Could n't he say, 'you + shall have the Peerage for your support'? Would n't it be more frank and + more intelligible to declare, 'We take you at your price'? These,” said + he, throwing half a dozen contemptuously from him, “are all from your + constituents. The 'independent borough' contains seventy electors; and if + you owned the patronage of the two services, with a fair share of the + public offices and India, you could n't content them. I 'd tell them + fairly, 'I have bought you already; the article is paid for and sent home. + Let us hear no more about it!' This is more cheering. Shoenhals, of Riga, + stands firm, and the Rotterdam house will weather the gale. That's good + news, Onslow!” said he, grasping the old man's hand. “This is from + Calcutta. Prospects are brightening a little in that quarter, too. Come, + come,—there's some blue in the sky. Who knows what good weather 's + in store for us?” + </p> + <p> + Onslow's lip trembled, and he passed his hand over his eyes without + speaking. + </p> + <p> + “This is from Como,” said Grounsell, half angrily, tossing away a highly + perfumed little three-cornered note. + </p> + <p> + “Give it to me,——let me see it,” said Onslow, eagerly; while + with trembling fingers he adjusted his spectacles to read. Grounsell + handed him the epistle, and walked to the window. + </p> + <p> + “She's quite well,” read Sir Stafford, aloud; “they had delightful weather + on the road, and found Como in full beauty on their arrival.” Grounsell + grumbled some angry mutterings between his teeth, and shrugged up his + shoulders disdainfully. “She inquires most kindly after me, and wishes me + to join them there, for Kate Dalton's betrothal.” + </p> + <p> + “Yet she never took the trouble to visit you when living under the same + roof!” cried Grounsell, indignantly. + </p> + <p> + The old man laid down the letter, and seemed to ponder for some moments. + </p> + <p> + “What's the amount?—how much is the sum?” asked Grounsell, bluntly. + </p> + <p> + “The amount!—the sum!——of what?” inquired Sir Stafford. + </p> + <p> + “I ask, what demand is she making, that it is prefaced thus?” + </p> + <p> + “By Heaven! if you were not a friend of more than fifty years' standing, + you should never address me as such again,” cried Onslow, passionately. + “Has ill-nature so absorbed your faculties that you have not a good + thought or good feeling left you?” + </p> + <p> + “My stock of them decreases every day,——ay, every hour, + Onslow,” said he, with a deeper emotion than he had yet displayed. “It is, + indeed, a sorry compromise, that if age is to make us wiser, it should + make us less amiable, also!” + </p> + <p> + “You are not angry with me?—not offended, Grounsell?” said Onslow, + grasping his hand in both his own. + </p> + <p> + “Not a bit of it But, as to temperament, <i>I</i> can no more help <i>my</i> + distrust, than <i>you</i> can conquer <i>your</i> credulity, which is a + happier philosophy, after all.” + </p> + <p> + “Then come, read that letter, Grounsell,” said Onslow, smiling pleasantly. + “Put your prejudices aside for once, and be just, if not generous.” + </p> + <p> + Grounsell took the note, and walked to the window to read it. The note was + just what he expected,—a prettily turned inquiry after her husband's + health, interwoven with various little pleasantries of travelling, + incidents of the road, and so forth. The invitation was a mere suggestion, + and Grounsell was half angry at how little there was to find fault with; + for, even to the “Very sincerely yours, Hester Onslow,” all was as + commonplace as need be. Accidentally turning over the page, however, he + found a small slip of silver paper,—a bank check for five hundred + pounds, only wanting Onslow's signature. Grounsell crushed it convulsively + in his palm, and handed the note back to Onslow, without a word. + </p> + <p> + “Well, are you convinced?—are you satisfied now?” asked Onslow, + triumphantly. + </p> + <p> + “I am perfectly so!” said Grounsell, with a deep sigh. “You must write, + and tell her that business requires your immediate presence in England, + and that George's condition will necessitate a return by sea. Caution her + that the Daltons should be consulted about this marriage, which, so far as + I know, they have not been; and I would advise, also, seeing that there + may be some interval before you can write again, that you should send her + a check,—say for five hundred pounds.” + </p> + <p> + “So you <i>can</i> be equitable,-Grounsell,” cried the other, joyously. + </p> + <p> + “And here is a letter from Lord Norwood,” said Grounsell, not heeding the + remark, and breaking the seal as he spoke. “Laconic, certainly. 'Let me + have the enclosed by this evening.—N.' The enclosed are five + acceptances for two hundred each; the 'value received' being his + Lordship's services in upholding your son's honor. Now here, at least, + Onslow, I 'll have my own way.” And, with these words, he seated himself + at a table and wrote:—— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + My Lord,—Living in a land where assassination is cheap, and + even men of small fortune can keep a Bravo, I beg to return + your Lordship's bills, without submitting them to my friend + for endorsement, your price being considerably above the + tariff of the country, and more calculated to your own + exigencies than the occasion which it was meant to + remunerate. I am, yours, + + Paul Grounsell. +</pre> + <p> + “What have you said there, Grounsell? you look so self-satisfied, it can + scarcely be over-civil.” + </p> + <p> + “There,——'To the Viscount Norwood'” said Grounsell, as he + sealed and addressed the note. “We are getting through our work rapidly. + In a week, or even less, if George's symptoms show nothing worse, we shall + get away from this; and even on the sea one feels half as though it were + England.” + </p> + <p> + We need not follow Grounsell through the busy days which ensued, nor track + him in his various negotiations with tradespeople, bankers, house-agents, + and that legionary class which are called “commissionaires.” Enough if we + say that, in arranging for the departure of his friends, his impressions + of Italian roguery received many an additional confirmation; and that, + when the last day of their sojourn arrived, his firm conviction was that + none but a millionnaire could afford to live in this the very cheapest + capital of Europe! + </p> + <p> + And now they are gone! steaming calmly away across the Gulf of Genoa. They + have closed the little episode of their life in Italy, and with heavy + hearts are turning homeward. The great Mazzarini Palace looks sad and + forlorn; nor do we mean to linger much longer on a scene whence the actors + have departed. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0003" id="link2HCH0003"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER III. A LAST SCENE + </h2> + <h3> + One last glance at the Mazzarini Palace, and we leave it forever. + </h3> + <p> + Seated in the drawing-room where Lady Hester once held sway, in the very + chair around which swarmed her devoted courtiers and admirers, Mrs. + Ricketts now reclined, pretty much on the same terms, and with probably + some of the same sentiments, as Louis Blanc or his friend Albert might + have experienced on finding themselves domesticated within the Palace of + the Luxembourg. They were, so to say, parallel circumstances. There had + been a great reverse of fortune, an abdication, and a flight. The + sycophants of the day before were the masters now, and none disputed the + pretensions of any bold enough to assume dictation. To be sure, Mrs. + Ricketts's rule, like Ledru Rollings, was but a provisional government; + for already the bills for an approaching sale of everything were posted + over the front of the palace, and Racca Morlache's people were cataloguing + every article with a searching accuracy, very tormenting to the beholders. + </p> + <p> + From some confused impression that they were friends of Lady Hester, and + that Mrs. Ricketts's health was in a precarious condition, Sir Stafford + gave orders that they should not be molested in any way, but permitted to + prolong their stay to the latest period compatible with the arrangement + for sale. A sense of gratitude, too, mingled with these feelings; for Mrs. + Ricketts had never ceased to indite euphuistic notes of inquiry after + George himself,—send presents of impracticable compounds of paste + and preserves, together with bottles of mixtures, lotions, embrocations, + and liniments, one tithe of which would have invalided a regiment + Gronnsell, it is true, received these civilities in a most unworthy + spirit; called her “an old humbug,” with a very unpolite expletive annexed + to it; and all but hurled the pharmacopoeia at the head of the messenger. + Still, he had other cares too pressing to suffer his mind to dwell on such + trifles; and when Onslow expressed a wish that the family should not be + disturbed in their occupancy, he merely muttered, “Let them stay and be d——-d;” + and thought no more of them. + </p> + <p> + Now, although the palace was, so to speak, dismantled, the servants + discharged, the horses sent to livery for sale, the mere residence was + convenient for Mrs. Ricketts. It afforded a favorable opportunity for a + general “doing up of the Villino Zoe,”—a moment for which all her + late ingenuity had not been able to provide. It opened a convenient + occasion, too, for supplying her own garden with a very choice collection + of flowers from the Mazzarini,—fuchsias, geraniums, and orchidae, + being far beyond all the inventoriai science of Morlache's men; and + lastly, it conferred the pleasing honor of dating all her despatches to + her hundred correspondents from the Palazzo Mazzarini, where, to oblige + her dear Lady Hester, she was still lingering,——“<i>Se + sacrificando</i>” as she delighted to express it, “<i>Jai doveri dell' + amicizia</i>.” To these cares she had now vowed herself a martyr. The + General believed in her sorrows; Martha would have sworn to them; and not + a whit the less sincerely that she spent hours in secreting tulip roots + and hyacinths, while a deeper scheme was in perpetration,—no less + than to substitute a copy of a Gerard Dow for the original, and thus + transmit the genius of the Ricketts family to a late posterity. Poor + Martha would have assisted in a murder at her bidding, and not had a + suspicion of its being a crime! + </p> + <p> + It was an evening “at home to her few most intimate friends,” when Mrs. + Ricketts, using the privilege of an invalid, descended to the drawing-room + in a costume which united an ingenious compromise between the habit of + waking and sleeping. A short tunic, a kind of female monkey-jacket, of + faded yellow satin edged with swansdown, and a cap of the same material, + whose shape was borrowed from that worn by the beef-eaters, formed the + upper portion of a dress to which wide fur boots, with gold tassels, and a + great hanging pocket, like a sabretasche, gave a false air of a military + costume. “It was singular,” she would remark, with a bland smile, “but + very becoming!” Besides, it suited every clime. She used to come down to + breakfast in it at Windsor Castle. “The Queen liked it;” the Bey of + Tripoli loved it; and the Hospodar of Wallachia had one made for himself + exactly from the pattern. Her guests were the same party we have already + introduced to our reader in the Villino Zoe,—Haggerstone, the Pole, + and Foglass being the privileged few admitted into her august presence, + and who came to make up her whist-table, and offer their respectful homage + on her convalescence. + </p> + <p> + The Carnival was just over, the dull season of Lent had begun, and the + Rickettses' tea-table was a resource when nothing else offered. Such was + the argument of Haggerstone as he took a cheap dinner with Foglass at the + Luna. + </p> + <p> + “She 's an infernal bore, sir,—that I know fully as well as you can + inform me; but please to tell me who is n't a bore.” Then he added, in a + lower voice, “Certainly it ain't <i>you!</i>” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, yes,——I agree with you,” said Foglass; “she has reason + to be sore about the Onslows' treatment.” + </p> + <p> + “I said a bore, sir,—not sore,” screamed out Haggerstone. + </p> + <p> + “Ha!” replied the other, not understanding the correction. “I remember one + day, when Townsend—” + </p> + <p> + “D——n Townsend!” said Haggerstone. + </p> + <p> + “No, not Dan,—Tom Townsend. That fellow who was always with + Mathews.” + </p> + <p> + “Walk a little quicker, and you may talk as much balderdash as you + please,” said the other, buttoning up his coat, and resolving not to pay + the slightest attention to his companion's agreeability. + </p> + <p> + “Who is here?” asked Haggerstone, as he followed the servant up the + stairs. + </p> + <p> + “Nobody but Count Petrolaffsky, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Un Comte à bon compte,” muttered Haggerstone to himself, always pleased + when he could be sarcastic, even in soliloquy. “They 'll find it no easy + matter to get a tenant for this house nowadays. Florence is going down, + sir, and will soon be little better than Boulogne-sur-Mer.” + </p> + <p> + “Very pleasant, indeed, for a month in summer,” responded Foglass, who had + only caught up the last word. “Do you think of going there?” + </p> + <p> + “Going there!” shouted out the other, in a voice that made misconception + impossible. “About as soon as I should take lodgings in Wapping for + country air!” + </p> + <p> + This speech brought them to the door of the drawing-room, into which + Haggerstone now entered, with that peculiar step which struck him as + combining the jaunty slide of a man of fashion with the martial tread of + an old soldier. + </p> + <p> + “Ha! my old adherents,——all my faithful ones!” sighed Mrs. + Ricketts, giving a hand to each to kiss; and then, in a voice of deep + emotion, she said, “Bless you both! May peace and happiness be beneath + your roof-trees! joy sit beside your hearth!” + </p> + <p> + Haggerstone reddened a little; for, however alive to the ludicrous in his + neighbors, he was marvellously sensitive as to having a part in the piece + himself. + </p> + <p> + “You are looking quite yourself again,” said he, bluntly. + </p> + <p> + “The soul, indeed, is unchanged; the spirit—” + </p> + <p> + “What's become of Purvis?” broke in Haggerstone, who never gave any + quarter to these poetic flights. + </p> + <p> + “You 'll see him presently. He has been so much fatigued and exhausted by + this horrid police investigation, that he never gets up till late. I 've + put him on a course of dandelion and aconite, too; the first effect of + which is always unpleasant.” + </p> + <p> + Leaving Foglass in conclave with the hostess, Haggerstone now approached + the Count, who had for several times performed his toilet operation of + running his hands through his hair, in expectation of being addressed. + </p> + <p> + “How d'ye do,——any piquet lately?” asked the Colonel, half + cavalierly. + </p> + <p> + “As if I was tinking of piquet, wid my country in shains! How you can aske + me dat?” + </p> + <p> + “What did you do with Norwood t'other night?” resumed the other, in a + voice somewhat lower. + </p> + <p> + “Won four hundred and fifty,—but he no pay!” + </p> + <p> + “Nor ever will.” + </p> + <p> + “What you say?—not pay me what I wins!” + </p> + <p> + “Not a sou of it.” + </p> + <p> + “And dis you call English noblemans,—pair d'Angleterre!” + </p> + <p> + “Hush! Don't be carried away by your feelings. Some men Norwood won't pay + because he does n't know them. There are others he treats the same way + because he <i>does</i> know them,—very equitable, eh?” + </p> + <p> + The observation seemed more intelligible to the Pole than polite, for he + bit his lip and was silent, while Haggerstone went on,—— + </p> + <p> + “He 's gone, and that, at least, is a point gained; and now that these + Onslows have left this, and that cur Jekyl, we may expect a little + quietness, for a while, at least; but here comes Purvis.” And that worthy + individual was led in on Martha's arm, a large green shade over his eyes, + and his face plentifully sprinkled with flour. + </p> + <p> + “What's the matter with you, man? you 're 'got up' like a ghost in a + melodrama.” + </p> + <p> + “They 've taken all the cuti-cuti-cuti—” + </p> + <p> + “Call it skin, sir, and go on.” + </p> + <p> + “Sk-skin off my face with a lin-liniment,” cried he, “and I could + sc-scream out with pain whenever I speak!” + </p> + <p> + “Balm of marigolds, with the essential oil of crab-apple,” said Martha. “I + made it myself.” + </p> + <p> + “I wish to Hea-Heaven you had tr-tried it, too,” whispered he. + </p> + <p> + “Brother Scroope, you are ungrateful,” said Mrs. Ricketts, with the air of + a Judge, charging. “The vicissitudes of temperature, here, require the use + of astringents. The excessive heat of that police-court—” + </p> + <p> + “By the way, how has that affair ended?” asked Haggerstone. + </p> + <p> + “I'll tell you,” screamed out Purvis, in a burst of eagerness. “They 've + fi-fi-fiued me a hundred and f-f-fifty scadi for being w-where I never + was, and fighting somebody I n-never saw.” + </p> + <p> + “You got off cheaply, sir. I 've known' a man sentenced to the galleys for + less; and with a better character to boot,” muttered he to himself. + </p> + <p> + “Lord Norwood and the rest said that I was a pr-pr-principal, and he swore + that he found me hiding in a cave.” + </p> + <p> + “And did he so?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; but it was only out of curi-curi-curi—” + </p> + <p> + “Curiosity, sir, like other luxuries, must be paid for; and, as you seem a + glutton, your appetite may be expensive to you.” + </p> + <p> + “The mystery remains unsolved as to young Onslow, Colonel?” said Mrs. + Ricketts, half in question. + </p> + <p> + “I believe not, madam. The explanation is very simple. The gallant + guardsman, having heard of Guilmard's skill, preferred being reported + 'missing' to 'killed,' having previously arranged with Norwood to take his + place. The price was, I fancy, a smart one,—some say five thousand, + some call it ten. Whatever the amount, it has not been paid, and Norwood + is furious.” + </p> + <p> + “But the accident?” + </p> + <p> + “As for that, madam, nothing more natural than to crack your skull when + you lose your head.” And Haggerstone drew himself up with the proud + consciousness of his own smartness. + </p> + <p> + “Then of course the poor young man is ruined?” observed Martha. + </p> + <p> + “I should say so, madam,—utterly ruined. He may figure on the + committee of a Polish ball, but any other society would of course reject + him.” This was said to obtain a sneer at Petrolaffsky, without his being + able to guess why. “I believe I may say, without much fear of + contradiction, that these Onslows were all humbugs! The old banker's + wealth, my lady's refinement, the guardsman's spirit, were all in the same + category,—downright humbugs!” + </p> + <p> + “How he hates us,—how he detests the aristocracy!” said Mrs. + Ricketts, in a whisper to the Pole. + </p> + <p> + “And de Dalton——what of her?——is she + millionnaire?” asked Petrolaffsky. + </p> + <p> + “The father a small shopkeeper in Baden, sir; children's toys, + nut-crackers, and paper-knives being the staple of his riches. Foglass can + tell you all about it. He wants to hear about those Daltons,” screamed he + into the deaf man's ear. + </p> + <p> + “Poor as Job—has n't sixpence—lives 'three-pair back,' and + dines for a 'zwanziger.' Lame daughter makes something by cutting heads + for canes and umbrellas. He picks up a trifle about the hotels.” + </p> + <p> + “Ach Gott! and I was so near be in loaf wid de sister!” muttered the Pole. + </p> + <p> + “She is likely to d-d-do better, Count,” cackled in Purvis. “She caught + her Tartar——ha, ha, ha!” + </p> + <p> + “Midchekoff doesn't mean marriage, sir, depend upon it,” said Haggerstone. + </p> + <p> + “Martha, leave the room, my dear,” said Mrs. Ricketts, bridling. “He could + no more relish a pleasure without a vice than he could dine without + caviare.” + </p> + <p> + “But they are be-be-betrothed,” cried Purvis. “I saw a letter with an + account of the ceremony. Midchekoff fitted up a beautiful chapel at his + villa, and there was a Greek priest came sp-epecial from M-M-M-Moscow—” + </p> + <p> + “I thought you were going to say from the moon, sir; and it would be + almost as plausible,” croaked Haggerstone. + </p> + <p> + “I saw the letter. It was n't shown to me, but I saw it; and it was that + woman from Breslau gave her away.” + </p> + <p> + “What! old Madame Heidendorf? She has assisted at a great many similar + ceremonies before, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “It was the Emperor sent her on purpose,” cried Purvis, very angry at the + disparagement of his history. + </p> + <p> + “In this unbelieving age, sir, I must say that your fresh innocence is + charming; but permit me to tell you that I know old Caroline Meersburg,—she + was sister of the fellow that stole the Archduke Michael's dress-sword at + the Court ball given for his birthday. I have known her five-and-thirty + years. You must have met her, madam, at Lubetskoy's, when he was minister + at Naples, the year after the battle of Marengo.” + </p> + <p> + “I was wearing trousers with frills to them, and hunting butterflies at + that time,” said Mrs. Ricketts, with a great effort at a smile. + </p> + <p> + “I have n't a doubt of it, madam.” And then muttered to himself, “And if + childishness mean youth, she will enjoy a perpetual spring!” + </p> + <p> + “The ceremony,” resumed Purvis, very eager to relate his story, “was + dr-droll enough; they cut off a——a——a lock of her + hair and tied it up with one of his.” + </p> + <p> + “A good wig spoiled!” croaked Haggerstone. + </p> + <p> + “They then brought a b-b-b——” + </p> + <p> + “A baby, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “No, not a b-baby, a b-basin—a silver basin—and they poured + water over both their hands.” + </p> + <p> + “A ceremony by no means in accordance with Russian prejudices,” chimed in + Haggerstone. “They know far more of train-oil and bears' fat than of brown + Windsor!” + </p> + <p> + “Not the higher nobility, Colonel,—not the people of rank,” objected + Mrs. Ricketts. + </p> + <p> + “There are none such, madam. I have lived in intimacy with them all, from + Alexander downwards. You may dress them how you please, but the Cossack is + in the blood. Raw beef and red breeches are more than instincts with them; + and, except the Poles, they are the dirtiest nation of Europe.” + </p> + <p> + “What you say of Polen?” asked Petrolaffsky. + </p> + <p> + “That if oil could smooth down the acrimony of politics, you ought to be a + happy people yet, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “And we are a great people dis minet. Haven't we Urednfrskioctsch, de best + general in de world; and Krakouventkay, de greatest poet; and Vladoritski, + de most distinguish pianist?” + </p> + <p> + “Keep them, sir, with all their consonants; and Heaven give you luck with + them,” said Haggerstone, turning away. + </p> + <p> + “On Tuesday—no, We-Wednesday next, they are to set out for St. + P-P-Petersburg. And when the Emperor's leave is gr-granted, then + Midchekoff is to follow; but not before.” + </p> + <p> + “An de tyrant no grant de leave,” said the Pole, gnashing his teeth and + grasping an imaginary dagger in his wrath. “More like he send her to work + in shains, wid my beautiful sisters and my faders.” + </p> + <p> + “He'll have more important matters to think of soon, sir,” said + Haggerstone, authoritatively. “Europe is on the eve of a great convulsion. + Some kings and kaisers will accept the Chiltern Hundreds before the year's + out.” + </p> + <p> + “Shall we be safe, Colonel, here? Ought Martha and I—” + </p> + <p> + “Have no fears, madam; age commands respect, even from Huns and Croats. + And were it otherwise, madam, where would you fly to? France will have her + own troubles, England has the income-tax, and Germany will rake up some + old grievance of the Hohenstaufen, or the Emperor Conrad, and make it a + charge against Prince Metternich and the Diet! It's a very rascally world + altogether, and out of Tattersall's yard I never expect to hear of honesty + or good principles; and, <i>à propos</i> to nothing, let us have some + piquet, Count.” + </p> + <p> + The table was soon got ready, and the players had just seated themselves, + when the sound of carriage-wheels in the court attracted their attention. + </p> + <p> + “What can it mean, Scroope? Are you quite certain that you said I wouldn't + receive to-night?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; I told them what you b-bade me; that if the Archduke called——” + </p> + <p> + “There, you need n't repeat it,” broke in Mrs. Ricketts, for certain + indications around Haggerstone's mouth showed the sense of ridicule that + was working within him. + </p> + <p> + “I suppose, madam, you feel somewhat like poor Pauline, when she said that + she was so beset with kings and kaisers she had never a moment left for + good society?” + </p> + <p> + “You must say positively, Scroope, that I admit no one this evening.” + </p> + <p> + “The Signor Morlache wishes to see you, madam,” said a servant. And close + behind him, as he spoke, followed that bland personage, bowing gracefully + to each as he entered. + </p> + <p> + “Sorry—most sorry—madam, to intrude upon your presence; but + the Prince Midchekoff desires to have a glance at the pictures and + decorations before he goes away from Florence.” + </p> + <p> + “Will you mention to him that to-morrow, in the afternoon, about five or——” + </p> + <p> + “He leaves this to-morrow morning, madam; and if you could—” + </p> + <p> + <a name="linkimage-0003" id="linkimage-0003"> + <!-- IMG --></a> <br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%;"> + <img src="images/00056.jpg" alt="00056" width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p> + But before the Jew could finish his request the door was flung wide, and + the great Midchekoff entered, with his hands in his coat-pockets, and his + glass in one eye. He sauntered into the room with a most profound + unconsciousness that there were people in it. Not a glance did he even + bestow on the living figures of the scene, nor did a trait of his manner + evince any knowledge of their presence. Ranging his eyes over the walls + and the ceilings, he neither noticed the martial attitude of Haggerstone, + nor the graceful undulations by which Mrs. Ricketts was, as it were, + rehearsing a courtesy before him. + </p> + <p> + “Originals, but all poor things, Morlache,” said the Prince. And really + the observation seemed as though uttered of the company rather than the + pictures. + </p> + <p> + “Mrs. Ricketts has been good enough, your Highness—” began the Jew. + </p> + <p> + “Give her a Napoleon,” said he, listlessly, and turned away. + </p> + <p> + “My sister, Mrs. Ricketts—Mrs. M-M-Montague Ricketts,” began + Scroope, whose habitual timidity gave way under the extremity of + provocation. And the Prince turned slowly round, and surveyed the speaker + and the imposing form that loomed behind him. + </p> + <p> + “Tell them that I don't mean to keep any establishment here, Morlache.” + And with this he strolled on, and passed into another room, while, like as + in a tableau, the others stood speechless with rage and indignation. + </p> + <p> + “He took you for the housekeeper, ma'am,” said Haggerstone, standing up + with his back to the fire——“and a housekeeper out of place!” + </p> + <p> + “Martha, where's the General? Where is he, I say?” cried Mrs. Ricketts, + furious with passion. + </p> + <p> + “He went to bed at nine,” whispered Martha. “He thought, by rising early + to-morrow, to finish the attack on Utrecht before night.” + </p> + <p> + “You are as great a fool as himself. Scroope, come here. You must follow + that Russian. You must tell him the gross rudeness—” + </p> + <p> + “I'll be ha-ha-hanged if I do. I 've had enough of rows, for one winter at + least. I 'll not get into another sc-scrape, if I can help it.” + </p> + <p> + “I 'm sorry, madam, that I cannot offer you my services,” said + Haggerstone, “but I never meddle in a quarrel which can be made a subject + of ridicule. Mr. Foglass, I 'm certain, has no such scruple.” + </p> + <p> + “The Prince appears a very agreeable man,” said the ex-Consul, who, not + having the slightest notion of what was passing, merely followed his + instincts of praising the person of high rank. + </p> + <p> + “De shains of my enslaved country is on my hands. I 'm tied like one + galérien!” said Petrolaffsky, in a voice guttural with emotion. + </p> + <p> + “Your pardon once more, madam,” said Morlache, slipping into the chamber, + and noiselessly approaching Mrs. Ricketts's chair. “The Prince will take + everything,——pictures, plate, china, and books. I hope + to-morrow, at noon, will not inconvenience you to leave this—” + </p> + <p> + “To-morrow! Impossible, sir. Perfectly impossible.” + </p> + <p> + “In that case, madam, we must make some arrangement as to rent. His + Highness leaves all to me, and I will endeavor to meet your wishes in + every respect. Shall we say two thousand francs a month for the present?” + Without waiting for any reply, he turned to the Pole, and whispered, “He + 'll take you back again. He wants a chasseur, to send to St. Petersburg. + Come over to me in the morning, about ten. Mr. Foglass,” cried he, in a + loud voice, “when you write to London, will you mention that the varnish + on the Prince's drosky doesn't stand the cold of Russia, and that they + must try some other plan with the barouche? Your brother is an ingenious + fellow, and he 'll hit upon something. Colonel Haggerstone, the Prince did + n't return your call. He says you will guess the reason when he says that + he was in Palermo in a certain year you know of. I wish the honorable + company good-night,” said he, bowing with a deference almost submissive, + and backing out of the room as he spoke. + </p> + <p> + And with him we also take our leave of them. They were like the chance + passengers we meet on the road of a journey, with whom we converse when + near, and forget when we separate from. Were we not more interested for + the actors than the scenes on which they “strut their hour,” we might yet + linger a few moments on the spot so bound up with our memory of Kate + Dalton,——the terrace where she sat, the little orangery where + she loitered of a morning, the window where she read, and dreamed of that + bright future, so much nearer to her grasp than she knew of! There they + were all!—destined to feel new influences and know other footsteps, + for she had left them forever, and gone forth upon her “Path” in life. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0004" id="link2HCH0004"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IV. A PACKAGE OF LETTERS + </h2> + <p> + It was a bright clear morning in May. A somewhat late spring had retarded + vegetation, and the blossoming fruit-trees now added their gorgeous beauty + to the warmer tints of coming summer. We are once more in Baden; but how + different is it from what we saw it last. The frozen fountains now plash, + and hiss, and sparkle in the sun. The trim alleys are flanked by the + yellow crocus and the daffodil; the spray-like foliage of the ash is + flecking the sunlight on the merry river, along whose banks the cheering + sound of pleasant voices mingles with the carol of a thousand birds. The + windows are open, and gay balconies are spreading, and orange-trees + unfolding their sweetness to the breezy air. All is life and motion and + joy, for the winter is past, and nothing remains of it save the snow-peaks + on some distant mountains, and even they are glowing in brilliant contrast + with the deep blue sky beyond them. + </p> + <p> + Lovely as the valley is in summer or autumn, it is only in spring its + perfect beauty appears. The sudden burst of vegetation—the rapid + transition from the frost-bound durance of winter to the life and + lightness of the young season, have a most exciting and exhilarating + effect. This seemed conspicuous enough in the inhabitants as they chatted + merrily in the streets, or met each other with pleasant greetings. It was + the hour of the post arriving, and around the little window of the office + were gathered the chief celebrities of the village,—the principal + hotel-keepers, curious to learn what tidings their correspondents gave of + the prospects of the coming summer. Everything appeared to smile on that + happy moment, for as the various letters were opened, each had some good + news to tell his neighbors,—now of some great English Lord, now of + some Hungarian magnate or Russian Prince that was to make Baden his + residence for the summer. “The Cour de Bade is all taken,” said one; + “There will not be a room free in all the Adler;” “The Swan must refuse + the Queen of Naples,”—such were the rumors that fell from lip to lip + as in hearty congratulation they talked over their good fortune. + </p> + <p> + One figure only of the assembled group seemed excepted from the general + Joy. He was a large elderly man, who, in a patched and threadbare surtout, + with a coarse scarlet muffler round his throat, appeared either + distrustful of the mild season or unprovided with any change of costume to + enjoy it. Seated on a stone bench in front of the window of the + post-office, with an arm on each knee, and his head bent heavily forward, + he never seemed to notice what went forward, nor hear one syllable of the + joyous recognitions about him. + </p> + <p> + The crowd at last dispersed, the happy recipients of good news were + turning homewards, and only one or two still lingered around the spot, + when the old man arose and approached the window. There was something + almost of shame in the way he slouched his hat over his eyes as he drew + nigh and knocked timidly at the closed pane. + </p> + <p> + His summons was unheard, and yet for some time he did not repeat it,—perhaps + he loved better to feed his hope even these short few moments than again + fall back into the dark gloom of his despair! At last, and with a deep, + hollow sigh, he tapped again. + </p> + <p> + “Have you anything for the name of Dalton,—Peter Dalton?” asked he, + in a voice wherein scarcely an accent revealed the once high-hearted + nature. + </p> + <p> + “Nothing,” was the curt rejoinder. And the window was slammed to with + impatience. + </p> + <p> + He grasped the iron railing with a convulsive grip, as though a sudden + pang had shot through him, and then, by a great effort, he drew himself up + to his full height; his pale and haggard face grew paler as he turned it + upwards, and his bloodless lips trembled as they muttered some indistinct + syllables; then turning about, he brushed abruptly past the few who stood + around, and walked away. + </p> + <p> + He had not gone many paces when a boy overtook him, saying, “Come back, + sir; the postmaster has two letters for you.” + </p> + <p> + Dalton looked stealthily at either side, to be sure that the speech was + addressed to him, and, with a fierceness that startled the boy, said, + “You're certain they're for me?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, yes; all right,—here they are,” cried the postmaster from the + window. “One, a soldier's letter from Munich, and free. The other is a + heavier packet, and costs four florins and twelve kreutzers.” + </p> + <p> + “I must be satisfied with this one, then,” said Dalton, “till I go back + for money. I brought no change out with me.” + </p> + <p> + “No matter: you can send it,” said the other. + </p> + <p> + “Maybe it's not so easy as you think,” muttered Dalton to himself; while + he added, aloud, “Very well, I'll do so, and thank you.” And he clutched + the two letters, and pressed them to his bosom. + </p> + <p> + With hurried steps he now paced homewards, but, stopping at every instant, + he drew forth the packets to gaze at them, and be certain that no + self-deception was over him, and that his possession was real and + tangible. His gait grew more firm, as he went, and his tread, as he + mounted the stairs, sounded assured and steady. + </p> + <p> + “You have a letter, father dearest,” cried Nelly, as she flung wide the + door. “I saw you crossing the Platz, and I know, from your walk, that + you've got one.” + </p> + <p> + “No, but better, Nelly—I 've two. That's from Frank; and here's + Kate's, and a bulky one—four florins twelve—devil a less.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, give it to me! Let me hear of her——let me feel beside her + once again!” cried Nelly. And with bursting eagerness she tore open the + envelope, from which two or three sealed notes fell out. “This is from + Lady 'Hester,” said she; “and this a hand I do not know, but addressed to + you; and here are bills or money-orders for a large sum. What can all this + mean?” + </p> + <p> + “Can't you read what she says?” said Dalton, reddening, and suddenly + remembering that Nelly was not aware of his having written to Kate. “Give + it to me; I 'll read it myself.” And he snatched the letter from her + fingers. “There's Frank's for you.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, father, father!” cried Nelly, in a burst of grief, as she tore open + Lady Hester's letter; “it is as I feared. Kate is about to be married—if + she be not already married.” + </p> + <p> + “Without my leave—without asking my consent!” cried Dalton, + passionately. “Am I nobody at all? Am I the head of the family, or am I + not? Is this the way to treat her father? May I never see light, if I + won't have him 'out,' if he was a Prince of the Blood! Oh, the ungrateful + girl! Leave off crying there, and tell me all about it. Read me her own + letter, I say——if God will give me patience to listen to it.” + </p> + <p> + With a bosom almost bursting, and a lip quivering with emotion, Ellen + began,— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “La Rocca, Lake of Como. + + Dearest Father and Sister,—Oh that I could throw myself at + your feet, and poor out all that my heart is full of—— + tell you what I feel and hope and fear, and ask your counsel + and your blessing. I know not if the last few days be real; + my poor head is turning amid the scenes I 've passed through + and the emotions I have felt. I had no friend but Lady + Hester—no adviser but she! She has been a mother to me—not + as you would have been, Nelly—not to warn and restrain, + when perhaps both were needed, but to encourage and feed my + hopes. I yielded to her counsels—” + </pre> + <p> + “I don't understand one word of this,” cried Dalton, impatiently. “What + did she do?” + </p> + <p> + Nelly's eyes ran rapidly over the lines without speaking; and then, in a + low but distinct voice, she said,—- + </p> + <p> + “It is as I said; she is betrothed to this great Russian Prince.” + </p> + <p> + “That fellow, they say, owns half Moscow. Fogles told us about him.” + </p> + <p> + “Prince Midchekoff.” + </p> + <p> + “That's the name. Well, it's a fine match,—there's no denying it. + How did it come about? and why didn't he come here and ask my consent? + What's the meaning of doing it all in this hurry?” + </p> + <p> + “The marriage can only take place in St. Petersburg, and in presence of + the Emperor; and she is merely betrothed, at present, to enable her to + accompany the lady, Madame de Heidendorf, to Russia, where the Prince will + follow in a few weeks.” + </p> + <p> + “That bangs Banagher! Why could n't they get a priest where they are? Be + gorra! they 've scruples about everything but <i>me!</i> <i>I</i> 'm the + only one that's not considered! What the devil is the Emperor to her,—sure + <i>he</i> is n't her father? Well, well, go on.” + </p> + <p> + “She would seem to have yielded to persuasion,” said Nelly, feelingly. + “The Prince, with all his greatness, appears not to have won her heart. + See how she dwells upon his immense wealth and the splendor of his + position.” + </p> + <p> + “Let us hear about that,” cried Dalton, eagerly. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “My heart is nigh to bursting when I think of you and + dearest Nelly living with me, in all the enjoyment that + riches can bestow, nothing denied you that you can fancy, + and free to indulge every taste and every wish. To know that + I can at last repay, in some sort, all your affection—that + poor worthless Kate can minister to your pleasure and your + comfort—would make me dare a rasher destiny than this. And + he is so generous, Nelly. The whole of yesterday is like a + page from the 'Arabian Nights,' as I sat surrounded with + gorgeous articles of gold and gems—diamonds such as a queen + might wear, and rubies larger than the glass-drops I used to + deck my hair with long ago! And yet they tell me I have seen + nothing as yet, and that the treasures of Vladovitch Palace + I hear of at every moment are greater than most royal + houses. Lady Hester is kinder than ever, and the Heidendorf + also; but she is cold and reserved—too stately for my + taste—and I cannot overcome my awe of her. Is not this like + a confession of my unfitness for the station I am to + occupy?—are not these signs of inferiority? How little Hans + would stare at the objects of taste and art by which I am + surrounded and of which I never tire in admiring! + + “There have been great changes in this family since I wrote, + and some mysterious circumstance is now hanging over them; + but Lady Hester has not told me anything, nor do I care to + repeat rumors which reach me through others. I only know + that Sir Stafford is about to proceed to England as soon as + Captain Onslow's health will permit; he, poor fellow, met + with an accident on the day we left Florence, and my maid, + who sat in the rumble, saw the mishap without knowing or + suspecting the victim! I have done everything to obtain + leave to visit you before I set out, or even to see you on + my way; but Madame de Heidendorf is absolute, and she has + so much important business in hand—such deep political + affairs to transact at Vienna and Dresden—that I find it is + impossible. + + “The Prince has promised to write at once about Frank. He + says it will be better to obtain his promotion in the + Austrian service before he enters the Russian, and that this + shall take place immediately. I could see that on this point + he was acutely alive to the fact of our humble position; + but he knows from Lady Hester all about our family, and that + the Daltons acknowledge nothing superior to them in birth. + This, however, is always a difficulty to a foreigner; they + have no idea of untitled nobility; and I saw his chagrin + the other day when I told him to address papa as plain + Monsieur. Since yesterday morning I am called Princess; and + I cannot conceal from you the throb of delight the sound + still gives me! I often stop to ask myself if this be all a + dream, and shall I wake beside the fire and see dearest + Nelly bending over some little group, and Hans with + wondering eyes staring over her shoulders. + + “The Prince only intends to spend one winter in Russia. + Madame de Heidendorf says that he will be named Ambassador + at Paris; but I hope and trust not: I feel too acutely my + inferiority for such a position. This she laughs at, and + merely says, 'Nous verrons.' Of course, wherever I am, you + will both be with me; meanwhile, what would you wish to do? + I told Monsieur Rubion, the Prince's secretary, that I + wanted money, and he gave me these bills, so he called them, + on Baden and Carlsruhe, as easily negotiable in that + neighborhood; pray, say if they be serviceable. The Prince + intends to visit you at Baden; and I suppose you will like + to see him. His manners are perfect, and except a degree of + constraint in first acquaintance, he is generally thought + very agreeable. Such preparations as they are making for my + journey, you 'd fancy I was a queen at the very least All my + <i>trousseau</i> is to come from Paris direct; and up to this I + have merely what Madame de H. calls the strictly + 'indispensable;' which, shall I own? contrives to fill two + large fourgons and a heavy travelling-carriage. Nina is in a + perfect ecstasy at everything, and is eternally 'draping' me + in Brussels lace and Chantilly; so that, even while I + write, these flimsy tissues are floating around me; while + caskets of jewels and precious gems dazzle my eyes wherever + I turn them. + + “The whole is like a gorgeous vision; would that it might + remain ever thus, for I almost tremble to take a step + further. Are these unworthy fears? I hope they are.” + </pre> + <p> + Nelly paused, and laid down the letter on her knee. “Well, may I never see + grace, if that letter isn't enough to confuse a bench of bishops!” cried + Dalton. “She's marrying the first man in Europe,—be the other who he + will,—and she has as many crotchets and misgivings about it as if it + was little Hans, there, below! And he a Prince! a real Prince!—devil + a doubt of it—that scatters the money about like chaff! Here's an + order at sight for nine hundred gulden; and here's a bill at ten days—a + nice date—for fourteen hundred and eighty-six Prussian dollars; and + this is nearly as much more. Kate, my beauty, I knew you 'd do it! I never + looked at you in your old clogs and the worsted cloak that I did n't think + of the day I 'd see you in satin and velvet! Faix, it's the best bottle of + claret in the Adler I 'll drink your health in this day! Nelly, who will + we ask in to dinner?” + </p> + <p> + “Don't you think, papa, it were better we should not speak of this—” + </p> + <p> + “Why, better? Are we ashamed of it?” + </p> + <p> + “I mean, more prudent as regards ourselves, and more respectful to the + Prince.” + </p> + <p> + “Respectful—to my son-in-law!—that's 'more of it.' Upon my + conscience, I'll have to go to school again in my old days. I know nothing + of life at all, at all! Respect, indeed!” + </p> + <p> + “I would but suggest, papa, that for Kate's sake—” + </p> + <p> + “There—there——don't provoke me. I never set my heart on + a thing yet—big or little—that I was n't met with a caution + about this, or a warning about that, till at last I got so tutored and + corrected and trained that, as Billy Morris used to say at whist, 'I dread + a good hand more than a bad one.'” + </p> + <p> + “Far be it from me, dearest father,” said Nelly, smiling, “to throw a + shadow over a bright moment. If it will give you pleasure—” + </p> + <p> + “Sure I said it would,—sure I told you 't is what I 'd like. A fine + dinner at the 'Schwan;' four gulden a head, without wine; a dozen of + champagne in ice, hock for them that can drink it, and port and Lafitte + for Peter Dalton and men of his own sentiments. There's the programme, + Nelly, and you'll see if I can't fill up the details.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, but we have yet much to do; here are several letters,—here is + Frank's. Let us learn how the dear fellow fares.” + </p> + <p> + Dalton sat down without speaking; there was, indeed, more of resignation + than curiosity in his features, as he crossed his arms and listened. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Dearest Nelly,——I only heard a few days ago that my last + two letters had been stopped; they were not, as they should + have been, submitted to my captain to read, and hence they + were arrested and suppressed. This goes by a private hand—a + friend of mine—a pedler from Donaueschingen—” + </pre> + <p> + “A what?—a pedler is it?” broke in Dalton, angrily. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, papa; remember that poor Frank is still in the ranks.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, God give me patience with you all!” burst out the old man, in a + torrent of passion. “Does he know that he's a Dalton?—does he feel + blood in his veins? Why the blazes must he seek out a thieving blaguard + with a pack full of damaged cambric to make a friend of? Is this the way + the family's getting up in the world?” + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Adolf Brawer, by name,” read on Nelly, in a low and subdued + voice. “You will be surprised when I tell you that I owe all + his kindness and good-nature to you,—yes, to your own dear + self. On his way through the Tyrol he had bought two wooden + statuettes,—one a young soldier asleep beside a well; the + other a girl leaning from a window to hear the bugles of a + departing regiment Can you guess whose they were? And when + he came to know that I was the brother of the little N. D. + that was sculptured, half hid in a corner, and that I was + the original of the tired, wayworn recruit on the roadside, + I thought he would have cried with enthusiasm.” + </pre> + <p> + “Didn't I often say it?” broke in Dalton, as, wringing his hands in + despair, he paced the room with hasty strides. “Did n't I warn you a + thousand times about them blasted images, and tell you that, sooner or + later, it would get about who made them? Didn't I caution you about the + disgrace you 'd bring on us? The fear of this was over me this many a day. + I had it like a dream on my mind, and I used to say to myself, 'It will + all come out yet.'” # + </p> + <p> + Nelly covered her face with her apron as these bitter words were spoken; + but not a syllable, nor a sigh, did she reply to them; still, the frail + garment shook with an emotion that showed how intensely she suffered. + </p> + <p> + “A Virgin sold here, an Angel Gabriel there; now it was Hamlet; another + time Gotz with the iron hand. All the balderdash that ever came into your + head scattered over the world to bring shame on us! And then to think of + Kate!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, dearest father, do think of her,” cried Nelly, passionately. “She + is, indeed, an honor and a credit to you.” + </p> + <p> + “And so might you have been, too, Nelly,” rejoined he, half sorry for his + burst of anger. “I 'm sure I never made any difference between you. I + treated you all alike, God knows.” And truly, if an indiscriminating + selfishness could plead for him, the apology was admirable. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, papa, but Nature was less generous,” said Nelly, smiling through her + tears; and she again turned to the letter before her. As if fearful to + revive the unhappy discussion, she passed rapidly over Frank's account of + his friend's ecstasy; nor did she read aloud till she came to the boy's + narrative of his own fortunes. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “You ask me about Count Stephen, and the answer is a short + one. I have seen him only once. Our battalion, which was + stationed at Laybach, only arrived in Vienna about three + weeks ago, but feeling it a duty to wait on our relative, I + obtained leave one evening to go and pay my respects. Adolf, + who knew of my connection with the Field-Marshal, had lent + me two hundred florins; and this, too, I was anxious to pay + off,—another reason for this visit. + + “Well, I dressed myself in my best cadet cloth, and silk + sword-knot, + + Nelly,—none of your 'commissaire' toggery, but all fine and + smart-looking, as a gentleman-cadet ought to be,—and then + calling a fiacre, I ordered the man to drive to the + 'Koertnor Thor,' to the Field-Marshal von Auersberg*s + quarters. I 'm not sure if I did n*t say to my uncle's. Away + we went gayly, and soon drew up in an old-fashioned + courtyard, from which a great stair led up four stories + high, at the top of which the 'Feld'—so they called him— + resided. This was somewhat of a come-down to my high-flown + expectations, but nothing to what I felt as the door was + opened by an old Jager with one leg, instead of, as I looked + for, a lackey in a grand livery. + + “'What is 't cadet?' said he, in a tone of the coolest + familiarity. + + “'The Field-Marshal von Auersberg lives here?' said I. + + “He nodded. + + “'I wish to see him.' + + “He shook his head gravely, and scanning me from head to + foot, said, 'Not at this hour, cadet,——not at this hour.' + + “'Let him see this card,' said I, giving one with my name. + 'I 'm certain he 'll receive me.' + + “I believe if I had presented a pistol at him, the old + fellow would have been less startled, as he exclaimed, 'A + cadet with a visiting-card! This would serve you little with + the Feld, younker,' cried he, handing it back to me; 'he + likes to see a soldier a soldier.' + + “'Tell him my name, then,' said I, angrily; 'say that his + grand-nephew, Frank Dalton, has been standing at his door in + full parley with a servant for ten minutes.' + + “The announcement created little of the astonishment I + calculated on, and the old soldier merely replied, 'All + under field-officer's rank come before eight of a morning. + you cannot expect to have the privilege of an archduke.' He + was about to close the door in my face as he spoke, but I + placed my shoulder against it and forced it back, thus + securing an entrance within the forbidden precincts. + + “'Right about, quick march!' cried he, pointing to the + door, while his whole frame trembled with passion. + + “'Not till you have delivered my message,' said I, calmly. + + “'Then Bey'm Blitzen I will deliver it, and see how you 'll + like it,' cried he, as he stumped away down a passage and + entered a room at the end of it. I could soon hear the sound + of voices, and for the moment I was almost determined to + beat a retreat, when suddenly the old Jager came out and + beckoned me forward. There was a grin of most diabolical + delight on the old fellow's features as I passed into the + room and closed the door behind me. + + “As well as I could see in the imperfect light, for it was + after sunset, the apartment was large and low-ceilinged, + with bookshelves round the walls, and stands for weapons and + military equipments here and there through it. At the stove, + and busily engaged in watching a coffee-pot, sat the Feld + himself, a loose gray overcoat covering his figure, and + concealing all of him but two immense jackboots that peeped + out beneath. He wore a Mütze, a kind of Hungarian cap, and a + long pipe depended from his mouth, the bowl resting on the + carpet. The most conspicuous feature of all was, however, + his enormous moustache, which, white as snow, touched his + collar-bone at either side. + + “He never spoke a word as I entered, but stared at me + steadfastly and sternly for full three or four minutes. Half + abashed by this scrutiny, and indignant besides at the + reception, I was about to— +</pre> + <p> + <a name="linkimage-0004" id="linkimage-0004"> + <!-- IMG --></a> <br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%;"> + <img src="images/00071.jpg" alt="00071" width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “'Franz Carl Infantry, third battalion,' said I, instantly + saluting with my hand. + + “'Your name?' + + “'Frank Dalton.' + + “'Your business?' + + “'To visit my grand-uncle, the Field-Marshal von Auersberg.' + + “'And is it thus, younker,' cried he, rising, and drawing + himself up to his full height, 'that you dare to present + yourself before a + + Feldzeugmeister of the Imperial Army? Have they not + taught you even the commonest rules of discipline? Have + they left you in the native barbarism of your own savage + country, that you dare, against my orders, present yourself + before me?' “'I thought the claim of kindred—' began + I. + + “'What know I of kindred, sirrah? What have kith and kin + availed <i>me?</i> I have stood alone in the world. It was not to + kindred I owed my life on the field of Rosbach; nor was it + a relative stanched my bleeding wounds at Wagram!' + + “'The name of Dalton—' + + “'I have won a prouder one, sir, and would not be reminded + by you from what I 've started. Where 's your character- + certificate?' + + “'I have not brought it with me, Herr General. I scarcely + thought it would be the first question my father's uncle would + put to me.' + + '“There was prudence in the omission, too, sir,' said he, + not heeding my remark. 'But I have it here.' And he drew + from a portfolio on the table a small slip of paper, and + read: '“Cadet Dalton, second company of the third + battalion, Franz Carl Regiment.——Smart on service, and + quick in discipline, but forward and petulant with those + above him in rank. Disposed to pride himself on birth and + fortune, and not sufficiently submissive to orders. Twice in + arrest, once, Kurzgeschlossen.” A creditable character, sir! + Twice in arrest and once in irons! And with this you claim + kindred with a count of the empire, and an imperial field- + marshal! On the fifth of last month you entertained a party + at dinner at the Wilde Man,—most of them men of high rank + and large fortune. On the eighteenth you drove through Maria + Tell with a team of four horses, and passed the drawbridge + and the moat in full gallop. So late as Wednesday last you + hoisted a green flag on the steeple of the village church, + on pretence of honoring your father's birthday. I know each + incident of your career, sir, and have watched you with + shame and regret. Tell your father, when you write to him, + that all the favor of my august master would not endure the + test of two such protégés. And now, back to your + quarters.' + + “He motioned me to retire with a gesture, and I fell back, + almost glad at any cost to escape. I had just reached the + stair, when the Jager called me back to his presence. + + “'Art an only son?' asked the Count, for the first time + addressing me in the second person. + + “I bowed. + + “'And hast three sisters?' + + “'Two, Herr General.' + + “'Older or younger than thyself?' + + '“Both older, sir.' + + '“How have they been brought up? Have they learned thrift + and housecraft, or are they wasteful and reckless, as their + native country and their name would bespeak them?' + + “'Our humble fortune is the best answer to that question, + sir.' + + '“It is not, sirrah!' cried he, angrily. 'The spendthrift + habit survives every remnant of the state that gave it + birth, and the beggar can be as improvident as the prince. + Go; thou hast as much to learn of the world as of thy duty. + Head erect, sir; shoulders back; the right thumb more + forwards. If the rest of the battalion be like thee, I'll + give them some work on the Prater ere long.' + + “A haughty wave of his hand now finished our interview, and, + once outside the door, I descended the stairs, a whole + flight at every bound, in terror lest anything should induce + him to recall me. + + “And this is Uncle Stephen, Nelly,—this the great protector + we used to build our hopes upon, and flatter ourselves would + be a second father to us! + + “When I came out into the street, I knew not which way to + turn. I dreaded the very sight of a comrade, lest he should + ask me about our meeting, what pocket-money he had given me, + and how soon I should be an officer. It was only when I saw + Adolf coming towards me that I remembered all about my debt + to him, of which I had not spoken one word to my uncle. I + ought to have told him so, frankly. Yes, Nelly, I can hear + the murmured displeasure with which you read my confession, + 'that I could n't do it.' I was unequal to the effort, and + could not bring myself to destroy that whole fabric of + fictitious interest in which I had wrapped myself. What + would Adolf have thought of me when I said, I have neither + wealth nor station nor prospect,—as humble a soldier as the + sentry you see yonder? What would become of that romance of + life in which we have so often spent hours revelling in a + brilliant future, every incident of which grew up in our + united fancies, and seemed to assume reality as we discussed + it? Where——oh, Nelly! to you I must reveal all——every + weakness, every littleness of my nature—where would be the + homage of respect the poor Bursche was wont to show the + nephew of a field-marshal? No, it was above my strength; + and so I took his arm, and talked away heedlessly about our + meeting, avoiding, where I could, all mention of my uncle, + and but jocularly affecting to think him an original, whose + strange, old-fashioned manners almost concealed the strong + traits of family affection. + + “'What of thy promotion, Frank?' asked Adolf. + + “'It will come in its own good time/ said I, carelessly. + 'Nothing causes more dissatisfaction than the rapid + advancement of cadets of noble family.' + + “'But they could make thee a corporal, at least?' + + “I laughed scornfully at the remark, and merely said, 'They + may skip over the whole sous-officier grade, and only + remember me when I'm to be made a lieutenant/ + + “'Thou hast grown haughtier, Frank,' said he, half + reproachfully, 'since thy meeting with the “Feld.” Mayhap in + a day or two thou wilt not like to be seen in company with a + “Wander-Bursche”?' + + “I was bursting to throw my arms round his neck, and say, + 'Never, whatever fortune have in store for me; thy + friendship is like a brother's, and can never be forgotten; + 'but Pride—yes, Nelly, the cursed pride against which you + used to warn me—sealed my lips; and when I spoke, it was + something so cold, so meaningless, and so unworthy that he + left me. I know not how! No sooner was I alone, Nelly, than + I burst into tears. I cried for very shame; and if agony + could expiate my fault, mine should have done so. What + humiliation before my friend could equal that I now felt + before my own heart! I thought of all your teachings, + dearest Nelly; of the lessons you gave me over and over + against this besetting sin of my nature! I thought of our + home, where poor Hanserl was treated by us as a friend! I + thought of our last parting, and the words you spoke to me + in warning against this very pride, ignoble and mean as it + is; and, oh! what would I have given to have thrown myself + into Adolfs arms, and told him everything! I have never seen + him since; he wrote to me a few lines, saying that he + should pass through Baden on his way to Frankfort, and + offering to carry a letter for me; but not once did he + allude to my debt, nor was there the slightest hint of its + existence. On this I wrote an acknowledgment of the loan, + and a pressing entreaty that he would come and see me; but + he pretended one thing and another, affected engagements at + the only hours I was free, and at last abruptly sent for my + letter just when I was writing it. I had much more to tell + you, Nelly, of myself, of the service, and of my daily life + here; but my thoughts are now disturbed and scattered; and + I feel, too, how your shame for my short-coming will take + away interest from what I say. You, Nelly, will have courage + to be just: tell him all that I have been weak enough to + conceal; let him know what suffering my unworthy shame has + cost me; and, above all, that I am not ungrateful. + + “It seems like a dream all that you tell me of Kate. Is she + still in Italy, and where? Would she write to me? I am + ashamed to ask the question of herself. They spoke of our + brigade being sent to Lombardy; but even there I might be + far away from her; and if near, in the very same city, our + stations would separate us still more widely. Oh, Nelly! is + it worth all the success ever ambition the most successful + won, thus to tear up the ties of family, and make brothers + and sisters strangers? Would that I were back again with + you, and dearest Kate, too! I see no future here; the dull + round of daily discipline, teaching nothing but obedience, + shuts out speculation and hope! Where are the glorious + enterprises, the splendid chances I often dreamed of? My + happiest moments now are recalling the past; the long winter + evenings beside the hearth, while Hans was reading out to + us. There are rumors of great changes in the world of Europe; + but to us they are only the thunderings of a distant + storm, to break out in what quarter we know not. Oh, Nelly! + if it should lead to war! if some glorious struggle were to + break in upon this sluggish apathy! + + “Adolf has sent again for this letter, so I must close it He + will not, he says, pass through Baden, but will post this in + Munich—so good-bye, dearest sister. Tell poor papa all that + you dare to tell of me, and farewell. + + “Frank Dalton. +</pre> + <p> + “When you write it must be under cover to the 'Herr Hauptman von Gauss, + 2ten Compagnie, 3 Linien Bataillon, Franz Carl Infanterie.' Don't forget + this long address, nor to add a line to the captain himself, who is a + good-looking fellow, but somewhat conceited. + </p> + <p> + “I have just heard old Auersberg is to have a command again. I 'm heartily + sorry for it. So much for family influence!” + </p> + <p> + If the reader's patience has lasted through this long letter of Frank's, + it was more than Peter Dalton's did. For what between his ecstasy at + Kate's good fortune, his own rambling speculations on all that should + follow from it, and, above all, what from the slurring monotonous tone in + which Nelly passed over such portions as she did not wish him to hear, he + grew gradually more abstracted and dreamy, and at last fell off into a + deep and most happy slumber. Not a syllable did he hear of the old Feld's + reception of Frank; nor did he even awake as little Hans stumped into the + room, with a staff in either hand,—aids that, since his accident, he + could never dispense with. + </p> + <p> + “I heard that you had letters, Fräulein,” said he. “Do they bring good + tidings?” + </p> + <p> + “Some would call them so, Hanserl,” said she, with a sigh. “Kate is about + to be married.” + </p> + <p> + Hanserl made no reply, but sat slowly down, and crossed his arms before + him. + </p> + <p> + “The great Russian Prince Midchekoff, of whom you may have heard.” + </p> + <p> + “I have seen him, Fräulein; he was here in Baden, three years ago.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, then, tell me, Hanserl, what is he like? Is he young and + frank-looking? Seems he one that should have won a maiden's heart so + suddenly, that——that—” + </p> + <p> + “No, not that she could n't have written to her sister and asked for + counsel, Fräulein,” said Hans, continuing her sentence. “The Prince is a + cold, austere man, proud to his equals, I believe, but familiar enough to + such as me. I remember how he asked me of my life, where I came from, and + how I lived. He seemed curious to hear about the train of thoughts + suggested by living amid objects of such childish interest, and asked me, + 'If I did not often fancy that this mock world around me was the real + one?' 'You are right, Herr Prints,' said I; 'but, after all, here, at + least, we are equals.' 'How so?' said he. 'That <i>your</i> real world is + as great a mockery as mine.' 'Thou are right, dwarf,' said he, + thoughtfully, and fell a-musing. He should not have called me dwarf, for + men know me as Hans Roëckle,—and this is your sister's husband!” + </p> + <p> + “Is he mild and gentle-mannered?” asked Nelly, eagerly. + </p> + <p> + “The great are always so, so far as I have seen; none but base metal rings + loudly, maiden. It is part of their pride to counterfeit humility.” + </p> + <p> + “And his features, Hans?” + </p> + <p> + “Like one of those portraits in the gallery at Wurtzburg. One who had + passions and a temper for a feudal age, and was condemned to the slavery + of our civilization.” + </p> + <p> + “He is much older than Kate?” asked she again. + </p> + <p> + “I have seen too few like him even to guess at his age; besides, men of + his stamp begin life with old temperaments, and time wears them but + little.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, Hanserl, this seems not to promise well. Kate's own nature is frank, + generous, and impulsive; how will it consort with the cold traits of his?” + </p> + <p> + “She marries not for happiness, but for ambition, maiden. They who ascend + the mountain-top to look down upon the scene below them, must not expect + the sheltering softness of the valley at their feet. The Fräulein Kate is + beautiful, and she would have the homage that is paid to beauty. She has + chosen her road in life; let us at least hope she knows how to tread it!” + </p> + <p> + There was a tone of almost sternness in Hanserl's manner that Nelly well + knew boded deep and intense feeling, and she forebore to question him + further for some time. + </p> + <p> + “You will leave this, then, Fräulein?” said he at last “You will quit the + humble valley for the great world?” + </p> + <p> + “I know not, Hanserl, what my father may decide. Kate speaks of our + joining her in Russia; but the long Journey in his infirm state, not to + speak of other reasons, may prevent this. Shall I tell you of Frank? Here + is a long letter from him.” And, almost without waiting for his reply, she + read out the greater portion of the epistle. + </p> + <p> + “I like the old Feld!” cried Hans, enthusiastically. “He would teach the + boy submission, and self-reliance, too,—lessons that, however wide + apart they seem, go ever hand in hand; an old warrior that has trained his + bold nature to habits of obedience in many a year of trial and injustice, + unfriended and alone, with nothing but his stout heart and good sword to + sustain him. I like that Feld, and would gladly pledge him in a glass of + Steinberger!” + </p> + <p> + “And you shall, my little man,” said Dalton, waking up, and catching the + last words of Hanserl's speech. “The old Count was kind to Frank, and I + 'll drink his health this night, with all the honors. Read him the letter, + Nelly. Show him how old Stephen received the boy. That's blood for you!—a + true Dalton!” + </p> + <p> + Hanserl stared from father to daughter, and back again, without speaking; + while Nelly, blushing deeply, held down her head, without a word. + </p> + <p> + “His letter to us was dry enough. But what matter for that? He never wrote + a line,—maybe, did n't speak a word of English for upwards of forty + years. You can't expect a man to have the 'elegant correspondent' at his + fingers' ends after that space of time. But the heart!—that's the + main point, Hans. The heart is in the right place. Read that bit over + again, Nelly; I forget the words he said.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, no, papa. Hans has Just beard it all, from beginning to end; and you + know we have so much to do. Here's Lady Hester's note, and here's one from + the Prince, still unopened.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, to be sure. I 'm certain you 'll excuse me, Hans,” said Dalton, + putting on his spectacles, while he assumed a manner of condescending + urbanity very puzzling to the poor dwarf. “Why, Nelly dear, this is + French. Give me that note of Lady Hester's, and do you take this. Oh, by + my conscience, I 'm no better off now! The devil such writing as this ever + I seen! It's all 'm's' and 'w's' every bit of it You'll keep them both for + the evening, my dear. Hans will dine with us, and I 'll go out to look for + a bit of fish, and see if I can find another pleasant fellow to round off + the table with us. God be with old Kilmurray M'Mahon, where I could have + had twenty as easy as two, and each of them a good warrant for four + bottles, besides! Is n't it a droll world?” muttered he, as he took down + his hat and descended the stairs. “A good dinner, and only a cripple for + company! Faix! I 'm like the chap in the Bible, that had to ask the + beggars and the blaguards when he could n't get better.” And with this + very wise reflection, Peter Dalton hummed a Jig to himself as he took his + way to the fish-market. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0005" id="link2HCH0005"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER V. A HAPPY DAY FOR PETER DALTON + </h2> + <p> + A youthful heir never experienced a more glorious burst of delight on the + morning of his twenty-first birthday, than did Peter Dalton feel as he + sauntered down the principal street of Baden. It was with a step almost + elastic, and his head high, that he went along; not humbly returning the + “Good-day” of the bowing shopkeeper, but condescendingly calling his + worthy creditors—for such nearly all of them were—by their + Christian names, he gave them to believe that he was still, as ever, their + kind and generous patron. + </p> + <p> + There was scarcely a shop or a stall he did not linger beside for a minute + or two. Everywhere there was something not only which he liked, but + actually needed. Never did wants accumulate so rapidly! With a + comprehensive grasp they extended to every branch of trade and + merchandise,—ranging from jewelry to gin, and taking in all, from + fur slippers to sausages. + </p> + <p> + His first visit was to Abel Kraus, the banker and moneylender,—a + little den, which often before he had entered with a craven heart and a + sinking spirit; for Abel was a shrewd old Israelite, and seemed to read + the very schedule of a man's debts, in the wrinkles around his mouth. + Dalton now unbarred the half door and stalked in, as if he would carry the + place by storm. + </p> + <p> + The man of money was munching his breakfast of hard eggs and black bread,—the + regulation full diet of misers in all Germany,—when Peter cavalierly + touched his hat and sat down. Not a word did Abel speak. No courtesies + about the season or the weather, the funds or the money-market, were worth + bestowing on so poor a client; and so he ate on, scarcely deigning even a + glance towards him. + </p> + <p> + “When you 've done with the garlic, old boy, I 've some work for you,” + said Dalton, crossing his arms pretentiously. + </p> + <p> + “But what if I do not accept your work? What if I tell you that we shall + have no more dealings together? The two last bills—” + </p> + <p> + “They'll be paid, Abel,—they'll be paid. Don't put yourself in a + passion. Times is improving,—Ireland 's looking up, man.” + </p> + <p> + “I think she is,” muttered the Jew, insolently; “she is looking up like + the beggar that asks for alms yonder.” + </p> + <p> + “Tear and ages!” cried Dalton, with a stroke of his fist upon the table + that made every wooden bowl of gold and silver coin jump and ring again,—“tear + and ages! take care what you say! By the soul in my body, if you say a + syllable against the old country, I 'll smash every stick in the place, + and your own bones, besides! Ye miserable ould heathen! that has n't a + thought above sweating a guinea,—how dare you do it?” + </p> + <p> + “Why do you come into my counting-house to insult me, saar? Why you come + where no one ask you?” + </p> + <p> + “Is it waiting for an invitation I'd be, Abel? Is it expecting a card with + ould Kraus's compliments?” said Dalton, laughing. “Sure, isn't the place + open like the fish-market, or the ball-room, or the chapel, or any place + of diversion? There, now; keep your temper, old boy. I tell ye, there's + luck before ye! What d'ye think of that?” And, as he spoke, he drew forth + one of the bills, and handed it across the counter; and then, after + gloating, as it were, over the changed expression of the Jew's features, + he handed a second, and a third. + </p> + <p> + “These are good papers, Herr von Dalton; no better! The exchange, too, is + in your favor; we are giving—let me see—ten and three-eighths + 'Convenzions-Gelt'.” + </p> + <p> + “To the devil I fling your three-eighths!” cried Dalton. “I never forgot + the old song at school that says, 'Fractions drives me mad.'” + </p> + <p> + “Ah, always droll,——always merry!” cackled out Abel. “How will + you have these moneys?” + </p> + <p> + “In a bag,——a good strong canvas-bag!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, to be sure, in a bag; but I was asking how you 'd have them. I mean, + in what coin,—in what for 'Gelt.'” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, that's it!” cried Dalton. “Well, give me a little of everything. Let + me have 'Louis' to spend, and 'Gros-chen' to give the beggars. Bank-notes, + too, I like; one feels no regretting parting with the dirty paper that + neither jingles nor shines: and a few crown pieces, Abel; the ring of them + on a table is like a brass band!” + </p> + <p> + “So you shall,—so you shall, Herr von Dalton. Ha, ha, ha! you are + the only man ever make me laugh!” + </p> + <p> + “By my conscience, then, it's more than you deserve, Abel; for you've very + often nearly made <i>me</i> cry,” said Dalton, with a little sigh over the + past, as he recalled it to his memory. + </p> + <p> + The Jew did not either heed or hear the remark; for, having put away the + remnant of his frugal breakfast, he now began a very intricate series of + calculations respecting interest and exchange and commission, at which + poor Dalton gazed in a most complete mystification. + </p> + <p> + “Fourteen hundred and sixty-three, at ten three-eighths,—less cost + of commission; I will not charge you the one per cent—” + </p> + <p> + “Charge all that's fair, and no favor, old boy.” + </p> + <p> + “I mean that I will not treat the Herr von Dalton like a stranger——” + </p> + <p> + “I was going to say, treat me like a Christian,” said Dalton, laughing; + “but maybe that's the most expensive thing going.” + </p> + <p> + “Always droll,—always have his jest,” cackled Abel. “Now there's an + agio on gold, you pay five kreutzers for every Louis.” + </p> + <p> + “By George! I 'll take a ship-load of them at the same price.” + </p> + <p> + “Ha! U mean you pay that over the value,” said the Jew. + </p> + <p> + “Faix! I often promised to pay more,” said Dalton, sighing; “and what's + worse, on stamped paper too!” + </p> + <p> + As the Jew grew deeper in his figures, Dalton rambled on about Ireland and + her prospects, for he wished it to be supposed that his present affluence + was the long-expected remittance from his estates. “We 'll get right yet,” + muttered he, “if they 'll only give us time; but ye see, this is the way + it is: we're like an overloaded beast that can't pull his cart through the + mud, and then the English comes up, and thrashes us. By course, we get + weaker and weaker—licking and abusing never made any one strong yet. + At last down we come on our knees with a smash. Well, ye 'd think, then, + that anybody with a grain of sense would say, 'Take some of the load off + the poor devil's back—ease him a bit tell he gets strength.' Nothing + of the kind. All they do is to tell us that we ought to be ashamed of + ourselves for falling—that every other people was doing well but + ourselves—that it's a way we have of lying down, just to get + somebody to pick us up, and such like. And the blaguard newspapers raises + the cry against us, and devil a thief or a housebreaker or a highway + robber they take, that they don't put him down in the police reports as a + 'hulking Irishman,' or a 'native of the Emerald Isle.' 'Paddy Fitzsimons, + or Peter O'Shea, was brought up this mornin' for cutting off his wife's + head with a trowel.' 'Molly Maguire was indicted for scraping her baby to + death with an oyster-shell.' That's the best word they have for us! 'Ain't + ye the plague of our lives?' they're always saying. 'Do ye ever give us a + moment's peace?' And why the blazes don't ye send us adrift, then? Why + don't ye let us take our own road? We don't want your company—faix! + we never found it too agreeable. It's come to that now, that it would + better be a Hottentot or a Chinese than an Irishman! Oh dear, oh dear, but + we 're hardly treated!” + </p> + <p> + “Will you run your eye over that paper, Herr von Dalton, and see if it be + all correct?” said Abel, handing him a very complex-looking array of + figures. + </p> + <p> + “'T is little the wiser I 'll be when I do,” muttered Dalton to himself, + as he put on his spectacles and affected to consider the statement. + “Fourteen hundred and sixty-three——I wish they were pounds, + but they 're only florins—and two thousand eight hundred and + twenty-one—five and two is seven and nine is fifteen. No, seven and + nine is—I wish Nelly was here. Bad luck to the multiplication-table. + I used to be licked for it every day when I was a boy, and it's been a + curse to me since I was a man. Seven and nine is fourteen, or thereabouts—a + figure would n't signify much, one way or f other. Interest at + three-quarters for twenty-one days—there I 'm done complete! Out of + the four first rules in Gough I'm a child, and indeed, to tell the truth, + I 'm no great things after subtraction.” + </p> + <p> + “You will perceive that I make the charges for postage, commission, and + other expenses in one sum. This little claim of fifty-eight florins covers + all.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, and reasonable it is, that I must say,” cried Dalton, who, looking + at the whole as a lucky windfall, was by no means indisposed to see others + share in the good fortune. “How much is coming to me, Abel?” + </p> + <p> + “Your total balance is four thousand two hundred and twenty-seven florins + eight kreutzers, Müntze,” said Abel, giving the sum a resonance of voice + highly imposing and impressive. + </p> + <p> + “How many pounds is that now?” asked Peter. + </p> + <p> + “Something over three hundred and fifty pounds sterling, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Is it? Faith! a neat little sum. Not but I often got rid of as much of an + evening at blind-hookey, with old Carters, of the 'Queen's Bays.' Ye don't + know Carters? Faix! and ye 'd be the very man he would know, if ye were in + the same neighborhood. I wish he was here to-day; and that reminds me that + I must go over to the market and see what's to be had. Ye don't happen to + know if there's any fish to-day?” + </p> + <p> + Abel could not answer this important question, but offered to send his + servant to inquire; but Dalton, declining the attention, strolled out into + the street, jingling his Napoleons in his pocket as he went, and feeling + all the importance and self-respect that a well-filled purse confers on + him who has long known the penniless straits of poverty. He owed something + on every side of him; but he could bear to face his creditors now; he was + neither obliged to be occupied with a letter, nor sunk in a fit of + abstraction as he passed them; nay, he was even jocular and familiar, and + ventured to criticise the wares for which, once, he was almost grateful. + </p> + <p> + “Send your boy down to the house for some money—ye need n't mind the + bill; but I 'll give you fifty florins. There's a trifle on account. Put + them ten Naps, to my credit; that will wipe off some of our scores; it's + good for forty crowns.” Such were the brief sentences that he addressed to + the amazed shopkeepers as he passed along; for Peter, like Louis Philippe, + couldn't bear the sight of an account, and always paid something in + liquidation. It was with great reluctance that he abstained from inviting + each of them to dinner; nothing but his fear of displeasing Nelly could + have restrained him. He would have asked the whole village if he dared, + ay, and made them drunk, too, if they 'd have let him. “She's so high in + her notions,” he kept muttering to himself: “that confounded pride about + family, and the like! Well, thank God! I never had that failing. If I knew + we were better than other people, it never made me unneighborly; I was + always free and affable; my worst enemy could n't say other of me. I 'd + like to have these poor devils to dinner, and give them a skinful for once + in their lives, just to drink Kate's health, and Frank's; they 'd think of + the Daltons for many a long year to come—the good old Dalton blood, + that never mixed with the puddle! What a heavenly day it is! and an + elegant fine market. There's a bit of roasting beef would feed a dozen; + and maybe that isn't a fine trout! Well, well, but them's cauliflowers!. + Chickens and ducks—chickens and ducks—a whole street of them! + And there's a wild turkey—mighty good eating, too! and venison!—ah! + but it has n't the flavor, nor the fat! Faix! and not bad either, a neck + of mutton with onions, if one had a tumbler of whiskey-punch afterwards.” + </p> + <p> + Thus communing with himself, he passed along, totally inattentive to the + solicitations of those who usually supplied the humble wants of his + household, and who now sought to tempt him by morsels whose merits lay + rather in frugality than good cheer. + </p> + <p> + As Dalton drew near his own door, he heard the sounds of a stranger's + voice from within. Many a time a similar warning had apprised him that + some troublesome dun had gained admittance, and was torturing poor Nelly + with his importunities; and on these occasions Peter was wont, with more + cunning than kindness, to steal noiselessly downstairs again, and wait + till the enemy had evacuated the fortress. Now, however, a change had come + over his fortunes, and with his hat set jauntily on one side, and his + hands stuck carelessly in his pockets, he kicked open the door with his + foot, and entered. + </p> + <p> + Nelly was seated near the stove, in conversation with a man who, in + evident respect, had taken his place near the door, and from which he rose + to salute Dalton as he came in. The traveller—for such his “blouse” + or travelling-frock showed him to be, as well as the knapsack and stick at + his feet——was a hale, fresh-looking man of about thirty; his + appearance denoting an humble walk in life, but with nothing that bordered + on poverty. + </p> + <p> + “Herr Brawer, papa,—Adolf Brawer,” said Nelly, whispering the last + words, to remind him more quickly of the name. + </p> + <p> + “Servant, sir,” said Dalton, condescendingly; for the profound deference + of the stranger's manner at once suggested to him their relative + conditions. + </p> + <p> + “I kiss your hand,” said Adolf, with the respectful salutation of a + thorough Austrian, while he bowed again with even deeper humility. + </p> + <p> + “The worthy man who was so kind to Frank, papa,” said Nelly, in deep + confusion, as she saw the scrutinizing and almost depreciating look with + which Dalton regarded him. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, the pedler!” said Dalton, at last, as the remembrance flashed on him. + “This is the pedler, then?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, papa. He came out of his way, from Durlach, Just to tell us about + Frank; to say how tall he had grown—taller than himself, he says—and + so good-looking, too. It was so kind in him.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, very kind, no doubt of it,——very kind indeed!” said + Dalton, with a laugh of most dubious expression. “Did he say nothing of + Frank's debt to him? Has n't that 'I O U' You were talking to me about + anything to say to this visit?” + </p> + <p> + “He never spoke of it, never alluded to it,” cried she, eagerly. + </p> + <p> + “Maybe he won't be so delicate with me,” said Dalton. “Sit down, Mr. + Brawer; make no ceremony here. We 're stopping in this little place till + our house is got ready for us. So you saw Frank, and he's looking well?” + </p> + <p> + “The finest youth in the regiment. They know him through all Vienna as the + 'Handsome Cadet.'” + </p> + <p> + “And so gentle-mannered and unaffected,” cried Nelly. + </p> + <p> + “Kind and civil to his inferiors?” said Dalton; “I hope he's that?” + </p> + <p> + “He condescended to know <i>me</i>,” said Brawer, “and call me his + friend.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, and maybe ye were,” said Peter, with a majestic wave of the hand. + “A real born gentleman, as Frank is, may take a beggar off the streets and + be intimate with him. Them's my sentiments. Mark what I say, Mr. Brawer, + and you 'll find, as you go through life, if it is n't true; good blood + may mix with the puddle every day of the year, and not be the worse of + it!” + </p> + <p> + “Frank is so grateful to you,” broke in Nelly, eagerly; “and we are so + grateful for all your kindness to him!” + </p> + <p> + “What an honor to <i>me!</i> that he should so speak of me!” said the + pedler, feelingly,—“I, who had no claim upon his memory.” + </p> + <p> + “There was a trifle of money between you, I think,” said Dalton, + ostentatiously; “have you any notion of what it is?” + </p> + <p> + “I came not here to collect a debt, Herr von Dalton,” said Adolf, rising, + and assuming a look of almost fierceness in his pride. + </p> + <p> + “Very well, very well; just as you please,” said Dalton, carelessly; “it + will come with his other accounts in the half-year; for, no matter how + liberal a man is to his boys, he'll be pestered with bills after all! + There's blaguards will be lending them money, and teachin' them + extravagance, just out of devilment, I believe. I know well how it used to + be with myself when I was in old 'Trinity,' long ago. There was a little + chap of the name of Foley, and, by the same token, a pedler, too——” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, papa, he's going away, and you have n't thanked him yet!” cried + Nelly, feelingly. + </p> + <p> + “What a hurry he's in!” said Dalton, as he watched the eager haste with + which the pedler was now arranging the straps of his knapsack. + </p> + <p> + “Would you not ask him to stay—to dine with us?” faltered Nelly, in + a low, faint whisper. + </p> + <p> + “The pedler—to dine?” asked Dalton, with a look of astonishment + </p> + <p> + “Frank's only friend!” sighed she, mournfully. + </p> + <p> + “By my conscience, sometimes I don't know if I 'm standing on my head or + my heels,” cried Dalton, as he wiped his brows, with a look of utter + bewilderment. “A pedler to dinner! There now—that's it—more + haste worse speed: he's broke that strap in his hurry!” + </p> + <p> + “Shall I sew it for you?” said Nelly, stooping down and taking out her + needle as she spoke. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, Fräulein, how good of you!” cried Adolf; and his whole face beamed + with an expression of delight. “How dearly shall I value this old pack + hereafter!” + </p> + <p> + These last words, scarcely muttered above his breath, were overheard by + Nelly, and a deep blush covered her cheeks as she bent over the work. + </p> + <p> + “Where's your own maid? Couldn't one of the women do it as well?” cried + Dalton, impatiently. “Ye'd not believe, Mr. Brawer, that we have the house + full of servants this minute; a set of devils feasting and fattening at + one's expense.” + </p> + <p> + “Thanks, Fräulein,” said the pedler, as she finished; “You little know how + I shall treasure this hereafter.” + </p> + <p> + “Ask him to stay, papa,” whispered Nelly once more. + </p> + <p> + “Sure he's a pedler!” muttered Dalton, indignantly. + </p> + <p> + “At least thank him. Tell him you are grateful to him.” + </p> + <p> + “He 'd rather I 'd buy ten yards of damaged calico,—that's the + flattery <i>he</i> 'd understand best,” said Dalton, with a grin. + </p> + <p> + “Farewell, Herr von Dalton. Farewell, Fräulein!” said Adolf. And with a + bow of deep respect he slowly retired from the room, while Nelly turned to + the window to conceal her shame and sorrow together. + </p> + <p> + “It was this very morning,” muttered Dalton, angrily, “when I spoke of + giving a little dinner-party, you did nothing but turn up your nose at + this, that, and t' other. There was nobody good enough, forsooth! There + was Monsieur Ratteau, the 'croupier' of the tables there, a very nice man, + with elegant manners and the finest shirt-studs ever I seen, and you would + n't hear of him.”' + </p> + <p> + Nelly heard little of this reproachful speech, for, sunk in the recess of + the window, she was following with her eyes the retiring figure of Adolf + Brawer. He had just crossed the “Plate,” and ere he turned into a side + street he stopped, wheeled round, and made a gesture of farewell towards + the spot where, unseen by him, Nelly was still standing. + </p> + <p> + “He is gone!” muttered she, half aloud. + </p> + <p> + “Well, God speed him!” rejoined Dalton, testily. “I never could abide a + pedler.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0006" id="link2HCH0006"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VI. MADAME DE HEIDENDORF + </h2> + <p> + Kate Dalton's was a heavy heart as, seated beside her new friend, she + whirled along the road to Vienna. The scenery possessed every attraction + of historic interest and beauty. The season was the glorious one of an + Italian spring. There were ancient cities, whose very names were like + spells to memory. There were the spots of earth that Genius has + consecrated to immortality. There were the scenes where Poetry caught its + inspiration, and around which, even yet, the mind-created images of fancy + seem to linger, all to interest, charm, and amuse her, and yet she passed + them without pleasure, almost without notice. + </p> + <p> + The splendid equipage in which she travelled, the hundred appliances of + ease and luxury around her, the obsequious, almost servile devotion of her + attendants, recalled but one stern fact,—that she had sold herself + for all these things; that for them she had bartered her warm affections,—her + love of father and sister and brother,—the ties of home and of + kindred, even to the Faith at whose altar she had bent her knees in + infancy. She had given all for greatness. + </p> + <p> + In all her castle-buildings of a future, her own family bad formed figures + in the picture. To render her poor father happy; to surround his old age + with the comforts he pined after; to open to dear Nelly sources of + enjoyment in the pursuit she loved; to afford Frank the means of + associating with his comrades of rank, to mix in that society for which he + longed,—these were her objects, and for them she was willing to pay + dearly. But now she was not to witness the happiness of those she loved. + Already the hard conditions of her contract were to be imposed. Banishment + first, then Isolation; who could say what after? + </p> + <p> + Her travelling-companion was scarcely well calculated to smooth down the + difficulties of this conflict in her mind. Madame de Heidendorf was the + very reverse of Lady Hester. Without the slightest pretension to good + looks herself, she assumed to despise everything like beauty in others, + constantly associating its possession with the vanity of weak intellects; + she threw a kind of ridicule over these “poor, pretty things,” as she + loved to call them, which actually seemed to make beauty and folly + convertible terms. Political intrigue, or, to speak more fairly, + mischief-making in state affairs, was her great and only passion. By dint + of time, patience, considerable cunning, and a very keen insight into + character, she had succeeded in obtaining the intimacy of many of the + first statesmen of Europe. Many had trusted her with the conduct of little + matters which the dignity of diplomacy could not stoop to. She had + negotiated several little transactions, opened the way to reconciliations, + smoothed the road to briberies, and allayed the petty qualms of struggling + morality, where any other than a feminine influence would have been coarse + and indelicate. + </p> + <p> + As a good monarchist, she was always well received at the Austrian Court, + and in St. Petersburg was accustomed to be treated with peculiar honor. + </p> + <p> + By what amount of compensation, or in what shape administered, Midchekoff + had secured her present services, this true history is unable to record; + but that Kate was eminently fortunate, drawing such a prize in the lottery + of life as to enter the world under <i>her</i> auspices, were facts that + she dwelt upon without ceasing. + </p> + <p> + Frankness and candor are very charming things. They are the very soul of + true friendship, and the spirit of all affectionate interest; but they can + be made very disagreeable elements of mere acquaintanceship. Such was + Madame de Heidendorf s. She freely told Kate, that of all the great + Midchekoff's unaccountable freaks, his intended marriage with herself was + the very strangest; and that to unite his vast fortune and high position + with mere beauty was something almost incredible. There was a landgravine + of Hohenhôckingen, an Archduchess, a <i>main gauche</i> of the Austrian + house itself; there was a granddaughter of the Empress Catherine, with any + of whom she could easily have opened negotiations for him,—all of + them alliances rich in political influences. Indeed, there was another + party,—she was not at liberty to mention the name; and though, to be + sure, she was “blind and almost idiotic,” a union with her would + eventually have made him a “Serene Highness.” “So you see, my dear,” said + she, in winding up, “what you have cost him! Not,” added she, after a few + seconds' pause,—“not but I have known such marriages turn out + remarkably well. There was that Prince Adalbert of Bohemia, who married + the singing woman,—what's her name?——that young creature + that made such a sensation at the 'Scala,'—' La Biondina' they + called her. Well, it is true, he only lived with her during the Carnival; + but there she is now, with her handsome house in the Bastey, and the + prettiest equipage in the Prater. I know several similar cases. The + Archduke Max and Prince Ravitzkay,—though, perhaps, not him; for I + believe he sent that poor thing away to the mines.” + </p> + <p> + “His wife——to the mines!” gasped Kate, in terror. + </p> + <p> + “Don't be frightened, my dear child,” said Madame, smiling; “be a good + girl, and you shall have everything you like. Meanwhile, try and unlearn + all those <i>gaucheries</i> you picked up with that strange Lady Hester. + It was a shocking school of manners,—all those eccentric, + out-of-the-way people, who lounged in and lounged out, talking of nothing + but each other, utterly ignorant of the great interests that are at stake + in Europe at this moment Try, therefore, and forget that silly coterie + altogether. When we arrive at Vienna, you will be presented to the + Archduchess Louisa.” + </p> + <p> + “And I shall see dear—dear Frank!” burst out Kate, with an + irrepressible delight. + </p> + <p> + “And who is Frank, Madame?” said the other, proudly drawing herself up. + </p> + <p> + “My brother,—my only brother,—who is in the Austrian service.” + </p> + <p> + “Is he on the Emperor's staff?” + </p> + <p> + “I know nothing of his position, only that he is a cadet.” + </p> + <p> + “A cadet, child! Why, do you know that that means a common soldier,—a + creature that mounts with a musket, or carries a bread-bag over its + shoulder through the streets in a fatigue-jacket?” + </p> + <p> + “I care nothing for all that. He may be all you say, and twice as humble, + but he is my brother Frank still,—the playfellow with whom I passed + the day when—when I was happy—as I shall never be again!—the + fond, kind brother, whom we were all so proud of.” + </p> + <p> + An expression of scornful compassion on Madame de Heidendorf 's features + at once stopped Kate, and she covered her face with her hands to hide her + shame. + </p> + <p> + “Madame la Princesse,” began the Countess,—for whenever she + peculiarly desired to impress Kate with her duties, she always prefaced + the lesson by her new title,——“the past must be forgotten, or + you will find yourself totally unable to compete with the difficulties of + your station. There is but one way to make the Prince's <i>mésalliance</i> + pardonable, which is by as seldom as possible parading its details. If, + then, you insist upon seeing your brother during our stay at Vienna, it + must be in secret you said something, I think, of an old field-marshal,—a + connection?” + </p> + <p> + “My father's uncle, Madame.” + </p> + <p> + “Very true. Well, your brother can come with some letter or message from + him; or if Nina, your maid, has no objection, he might pass for a lover of + hers.” + </p> + <p> + “Madame!” cried Kate, indignantly. + </p> + <p> + “I said, if Nina made no objection,” said Madame de Heidendorf, as though + answering the indignant exclamation. “But these are matters of <i>my</i> + consideration, Madame,—at least, if I understand the spirit of the + Prince's instructions.” + </p> + <p> + Some such scene as this, usually closing with a similar peroration, formed + the conversation of the road; and hour by hour Kate's courage fell lower, + as she contemplated all that her elevation had cost her. And what a + mockery was it, after all! It was true that she journeyed in a carriage + with all the emblazonry of royalty; that a group of uncovered lackeys + attended her as she descended; that she was ever addressed by a proud + title; a respectful, submissive devotion surrounding her at every instant + But, amid all this, there was not one look, one word of kindness; nothing + of interest or sympathy with her solitary grandeur. It mattered little + that the bars of her cell were of gold; it was a prison still. + </p> + <p> + With what eagerness did she turn from the present, with all its splendor, + to think of her former life, when, wandering among the hills of Baden she + had listened to little Hans, or watched dear Nelly, as the first gleams of + her intentions began to manifest themselves on a sculptured group. With + what rapture had she heard passages that seemed akin to something she had + felt but could not express! How had she loved the changeful effects of + light and shade on a landscape where every tree or rock or cliff was + familiar to her! Oh, if she could but be back again, hopeful, ardent, and + trusting, as she once was! Oh, if the brief past could be but a dream, and + she were once more beside her father and Nelly, knowing nothing of that + world which, in so short a space, had revealed so much before her! Even to + those who so lately had supplied the place of family to her, all were + gone, and she was utterly alone. + </p> + <p> + She did not dare to think of George Onslow. It seemed to her like a + treason to recall his memory; and if his image did rise at times before + her fancy, a burning blush would cover her cheek, and a sense of shame + would send a throb like agony through her heart. The plans and projects + for her future life she heard of without interest; a vague and confused + impression of a long journey, halting here and there to be presented to + certain great and distinguished persons, and finally of her arrival at St. + Petersburg, were all that she knew. That the Prince was to join her there, + and then, with the Emperor's permission, return with her to the south of + Europe,—such were the outlines of a career over which a sinking + heart threw a gloomy shadow. + </p> + <p> + Madame de Heidendorf was too occupied with her own thoughts to notice this + despondency; besides that, she was incessantly teaching Kate some one + requisite or other of that rigid etiquette which prevailed in the society + she was about to enter; the precise titles by which she was to address + this or that personage; how many courtesies to give here, how many + reverences there,—little educational exercises that were always + accompanied by some warning admonition of their importance to one who, + like herself, had never seen anything like good society, and whose + breaches of good breeding would be certain of being severely commented on. + </p> + <p> + “Think of the Prince, Madame,” she would say; “think of what he will + suffer when they repeat any of your transgressions. I am afraid there are + many humiliations in store for him. And what a step to take at such a + moment, with these horrible Socialist doctrines abroad,—these + levelling theories of equality, and so forth. I hope his Majesty the + Emperor will pardon him; I hope he will forgive you.” + </p> + <p> + This was a favorite speech of hers, and so often repeated that Kate at + last began to look on herself as a great criminal, and even speculated on + what destiny should befall her if the Emperor proved unmerciful. + </p> + <p> + These were sorry resources to shorten the weariness on a Journey, and Kate + felt a throb of pleasure—the first she had experienced—when + the towers of St. Stephen, in the far distance, announced the approach to + Vienna. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0007" id="link2HCH0007"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VII. AT VIENNA. + </h2> + <p> + The gossiping world of Vienna had a new subject for speculation and + interest, as a guard of honor was seen standing at a large palace near the + “Hoff;” and the only information to explain the mystery was that some + great diplomatist had arrived the evening before, and Heaven knew what + wonderful events were in his charge and keeping. A gigantic “Chasseur,” in + green and gold, who lounged about the portal, followed by a great dog,—a + “fanghund,” whose silver collar was embossed with many a quartering,—had + engaged the attention of a very considerable crowd, which opened from time + to time to permit the passage of some royal or princely equipage. As they + thus fell back, a chance look would be directed upwards to the windows of + the first floor, and there, passingly, they caught glimpses of one whose + beauty soon formed the theme of every tongue. This was Kate Dalton, who, + now rested from the fatigue of her journey, and dressed in the most + becoming fashion, walked up and down a splendid saloon, watching to catch + every sound, or gazing earnestly from the window to catch any sight that + might betoken her brother's coming. At Madame de Heidendorf's suggestion + she had written a few lines that morning early to the Field-Marshal von + Dalton, entreating, as a great favor, that he would procure leave for + Frank to come to her, and pass as much of his time as possible with her + during her stay in Vienna. The note, brief as it was, cost her some + trouble; she felt that much explanation might be necessary to state her + present position,—even who she was,—and yet this was a subject + she had no heart to enter into. Some expressions of affectionate interest + towards himself would also have been fitting, but she could not find time + for them. Frank, and Frank alone, was in her thoughts, and she left + everything to the old General's ingenuity, as she concluded her note by + subscribing herself, “Your affectionate niece, Kate Dal ton, Affianced + Princesse de Midchekoff.” + </p> + <p> + It was the first time that she had written the words,——the + first time that she had ever impressed that massive seal of many + quarterings, so royal-looking as it seemed. It was, also, the first time + she had ever given an order to one of her servants; and the obsequious + bows of the groom of the chamber, as he withdrew, were all separate and + distinct sensations,—low, but clear knockings of vanity at her + heart, to which every object around contributed its aid. The apartment was + splendid; not in that gorgeous taste of modern decoration of which she had + seen so much already, but in a more stately fashion, recalling the + grandeur of a past age, and exhibiting traces of a long line of princely + occupants. The very portraits along the walls had a proud and haughty + bearing, and the massive chairs glittered in all the blaze of heraldry. If + she looked out, it was the towers of the “Hoff Bourg”—the Home of + the Hapsburgs—met her eye. If she listened, it was the clank of a + soldier's salute broke the stillness; while the dull roll of wheels + beneath the arched gateway told of the tide of visitors who came to pay + their homage. + </p> + <p> + If Kate's heart had been less bound up with anxiety to see her brother, + the scene beneath her window would have afforded her some interest, as + equipage after equipage succeeded,—now the quiet splendor of a court + chariot, now the more glaring magnificence of a cardinal's carriage. Here + came the lumbering old vehicle of an archhishop, the reverential salute of + the crowd indicating the rank of its occupant Then the quick “present + arms” of the sentry told of some general officer; while, at intervals, the + “turn out” of the whole guard denoted the arrival of a royal prince. + Ambassadors and ministers, chamberlains and chancellors, the dignitaries + of the realm, the “Hautes Charges” of the Court,—all came in crowds + to present their respects to the Gräfin, for by this brief designation was + she known from one end of Europe to the other. + </p> + <p> + Madame de Heidendorf held a levée, and none would absent themselves from + so interesting an occasion. + </p> + <p> + It was the eve of a wonderful moment in Europe—it was the little + lull that preceded the most terrific storm that ever overturned thrones + and scattered dynasties—as these illustrious personages were met + together, to interchange compliments, to lisp soft phrases of flattery, + and discuss the high claims of some aspirant for a ribbon or a cross, a + “Red Eagle,” or a “Black” one. A few, more far-sighted than the rest, saw + the cloud, not bigger than a man's hand, in the distance. A few could hear + the low rumblings that denoted the brooding hurricane; but even they + thought “the thing would last their time.” And thus, with many a pleasant + jest, they chatted over the events of the hour, praised the wisdom of + kings, and laughed to scorn those vulgar teachers whose democratic + theories were just beginning to be whispered about. Some were young, + buoyant, and hopeful, ready to shed the last drop for the principles they + professed; others were old gray-headed men, tried servants of Monarchy for + half a century. But all were like-minded, and self-gratulation and + compliment was the order of the day. Leaving them thus to such pleasant + converse, where the clank of jewelled swords or the tap of a diamond + snuff-box formed the meet accompaniments of the themes, we turn once more + to her in whose fate we are more deeply interested. + </p> + <p> + Twice had she rung the bell to ask if the messenger had not returned. At + last he came; but there was “no answer to her note.” Her impatience became + extreme. She ordered the servant who carried the note to appear before + her; questioned him closely as to whether he had taken it, and the reply + he had received. A soldier had said, “Gut!” and shut the door. Poor Kate! + It was her first lesson in “soldier laconics,” and to say truly, she did + not take it well. The “Princesse de Midchekoff” might have been treated + with more deference. She was passing a mirror as the thought struck her, + and her mien and air gave support to the belief; nor could she restrain + the sense of admiration, half tinged with shame, her own beauty evoked. + </p> + <p> + “There is a soldier here, Madame,” said a servant, “who has a letter he + will not deliver except into your own hands.” + </p> + <p> + “Admit him—at once,” said she, impatiently; and as she spoke the + soldier stepped forward, and drawing himself up, carried his hand to the + salute, while, presenting a letter, he said, “From the Field-Marshal von + Auersberg.” + </p> + <p> + Kate scarcely looked at the bearer, but hastily tore open the + square-shaped epistle. + </p> + <p> + “You need not wait,” said she to the servant; and then turning to the + letter, read,—— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “'Madame la Princesse and beloved Niece,—It was with—to me + of late years——a rare satisfaction that I read the not the + less affectionate that they were polite lines you vouchsafed + to inscribe to me, an old and useless but not forgotten + servant of an Imperial master. Immediately on perusing the + aforesaid so-called note, I despatched my adjutant to the + head-quarters of the Franz Carl, to obtain——no service + rules to the contrary forbidding, nor any default's punition + in any wise preventing——a day's furlough for the Cadet von + Dalton—” + </pre> + <p> + “What regiment is yours?” said Kate, hastily, to the soldier. + </p> + <p> + “Franz Carl Infanterie, Highness,” said the youth, respectfully, using the + title he had heard assumed by the servant. + </p> + <p> + “Do you know many of your comrades,——among the cadets, I + mean?” + </p> + <p> + “There are but seven in the battalion, Highness, and I know them all.” + </p> + <p> + “Is Von Dalton an acquaintance of yours?” + </p> + <p> + “I am Von Dalton, Highness,” said the youth, while a flush of surprise and + pleasure lighted up his handsome features. + </p> + <p> + “Frank! Frank!” cried she, springing towards him with open arms; and ere + he could recognize her, clasping him round the neck. + </p> + <p> + “Is this real? Is this a dream? Are you my own sister Kate?” cried the + boy, almost choked with emotion. “And how are you here? and how thus?” and + he touched the robe of costly velvet as he spoke. + </p> + <p> + “You shall know all, dear, dear Frank. You shall hear everything when the + joy of this meeting will let me speak.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="linkimage-0005" id="linkimage-0005"> + <!-- IMG --></a> <br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%;"> + <img src="images/00099.jpg" alt="00099" width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p> + “They call you Highness; and how handsome you've grown!” + </p> + <p> + “Have I, Frank?” said she, pressing him down to a seat beside her, while, + with hands interclasped, they sat gazing on each other. + </p> + <p> + “I am only beginning to remember you,” said he, slowly. “You never used to + wear your hair in long ringlets thus. Even your figure is changed; you are + taller, Kate.” + </p> + <p> + “It is the mere difference of dress, Frank,” said she, blushing with + conscious pride. + </p> + <p> + “No, no; you are quite changed. Even as I sit here beside you, I feel I + know not what of shame at my daring to be so near——” + </p> + <p> + “So great a lady, you would say, dear Frank,” said she, laughing. “Poor + boy, if you knew—” She stopped, and then, throwing her arms around + his neck, went on rapidly: “But, my own dear brother, tell me of yourself: + are you happy; do you like the service; are they kind to you; is Uncle + Stephen as we hoped he should be?” + </p> + <p> + “My story is soon told, Kate,” said he; “I am where I was the day I + entered the army. I should have been made a corporal—” + </p> + <p> + “A corporal!” cried Kate, laughing. + </p> + <p> + “A good thing it is, too,” said the youth. “No guards to mount, no fatigue + duty, neither night patrol nor watch, and four kreutzers extra pay.” + </p> + <p> + “Poor dear boy!” cried she, kissing his forehead, while she gazed on him + with a compassionate affection that spoke a whole world of emotion. + </p> + <p> + “But tell me of yourself, Kate. Why do they call you the Princess?” + </p> + <p> + “Because I am married, Frank,——that is, I am betrothed, and + will soon be married.” + </p> + <p> + “And when did this occur? Tell me everything,” cried he, impatiently. + </p> + <p> + “You shall know all, dearest Frank. Yoo have heard how Lady Hester Onslow + carried me away with her to Italy. Nelly has told you how we were living + in Florence,—in what splendor and festivity; our palace frequented + by all the great and distinguished of every country,—French and + German, and Spanish and Russian.” + </p> + <p> + “I hate the Russians; but go on,” said the boy, hastily. + </p> + <p> + “But why hate the Russians, Frank?” asked she, reddening as she spoke. + </p> + <p> + “They are false-hearted and treacherous. See how they have driven the + Circassians into a war, to massacre them; look how they are goading on the + Poles to insurrection. Ay, they say that they have emissaries at this + moment in Hungary on the same errand. I detest them.” + </p> + <p> + “This may be their state policy, Frank; but individually——” + </p> + <p> + “They are no better; Walstein knows them well.” + </p> + <p> + “And who is Walstein, Frank?” + </p> + <p> + “The finest fellow in the service; the one I would have wished you married + to, Kate, above all the world. Think of a colonel of hussars at + eight-and-twenty, so handsome, so brave, and such a rider. You shall see + him, Kate!” + </p> + <p> + “But it's too late, Frank,” said she, laughing; “You forget it's too + late!” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! so it is,” sighed the boy, seriously. “I often feared this,” muttered + he, after a pause. “Nelly's letters told me as much, and I said to myself, + 'It will be too late.'” + </p> + <p> + “Then Nelly has told you all, perhaps?” said she. + </p> + <p> + “Not everything, nor, indeed, anything at all very distinctly. I could + only make out what seemed to be her own impressions, for they appeared + mere surmises.” + </p> + <p> + “And of what sort were they?” asked Kate, curiously. + </p> + <p> + “Just what you would suspect from her. Everlasting fears about temptations + and trials, and so forth, continually praying that your heart might resist + all the flatteries about you. The old story about humility. I thought to + myself, 'If the lesson be not more needful to Kate than to me, she runs no + great risk, after all!' for I was also warned about the seductions of the + world! a poor cadet, with a few kreutzers a day, told not to be a + Sybarite! Returning wet through from a five hours' patrol, to burnish + accoutrements in a cold, damp barrack, and then exhorted against the + contamination of low society, when all around me were cursing the + hardships they lived in, and execrating the slavery of the service!” + </p> + <p> + “Our dearest Nelly knows so little of the world,” said Kate, as she threw + a passing glance at herself in the mirror, and arranged the fall of a deep + fringe of gold lace which was fastened in her hair. + </p> + <p> + “She knows nothing of it,” said the boy, adjusting his sword-knot. “She + thought our hussars wore white dolmans, and carried straight swords like + the cuirassiers.” + </p> + <p> + “And the dear, simple creature asked me, in one of her letters, if I ever + wore wild-flowers in my hair now, as I used to do long ago,” said Kate, + stealing another glance at the glass. “Flowers are pretty things in the + head when rubies make the pinks, and the dewdrops are all diamonds.” + </p> + <p> + Frank looked at her as she said this, and for the first time saw the proud + elation her features assumed when excited by a theme of vanity. + </p> + <p> + “You are greatly changed, dearest Kate,” said he, thoughtfully. + </p> + <p> + “Is it for the worse, Frank?” said she, half coquettishly. + </p> + <p> + “Oh! as to beauty, you are a thousand times handsomer,” cried the boy, + with enthusiasm. “I know not how, but every expression seems heightened, + every feature more elevated; your air and gesture, your very voice, that + once I thought was music itself, is far sweeter and softer.” + </p> + <p> + “What a flatterer!” said she, patting his cheek. + </p> + <p> + “But then, Kate,” said he, more gravely, “have these fascinations cost + nothing? Is your heart as simple? Are your affections as pure? Ah! you + sigh—and what a heavy sigh, too! Poor, poor Kate!” + </p> + <p> + And she laid her head upon his shoulder, while the heaving swell of her + bosom told what sorrow the moment was costing her. + </p> + <p> + “Nelly, then, told you of my betrothal?” whispered she, in a weak, faint + voice. + </p> + <p> + “No; I knew nothing of that. She told me all about the life you were + leading; the great people with whom you were intimate; and bit by bit, a + hint, some little allusion, would creep out as to the state of your heart. + Perhaps she never meant it, or did not know it; but I remarked, in reading + her letters over and over,—they were the solace of many a weary + hour,—that one name recurred so often in connection with yours, you + must have frequently referred to him yourself, for in each extract from + your letters I saw the name.” + </p> + <p> + “This was strange. It must have been through inadvertence,” said she, + musingly. “I thought I had scarcely spoken of him.” + </p> + <p> + “See how your hand told truth, even against your consciousness,” said he, + smiling. + </p> + <p> + Kate made no reply, but sat deep in thought. + </p> + <p> + “And is he here? When shall I see him?” asked Frank, impatiently. + </p> + <p> + “No, Frank. He is in Italy; he was detained there by business of + importance. Besides, it is not etiquette that we should travel together. + When the Emperor's permission has been obtained—” + </p> + <p> + “What Emperor?” asked Frank, in astonishment. + </p> + <p> + “Our Emperor——the Czar.” + </p> + <p> + “What have you, an English girl born, to do with the Czar?” + </p> + <p> + “The Prince, my future husband, is his subject.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, there is no end to this mystification,” cried the boy, impatiently. + “How can an English soldier be a Russian Prince?” + </p> + <p> + “I don't understand you, Frank. Prince Midchekoff is a Russian by birth.” + </p> + <p> + “So that you are married to a Russian,” said he, in a voice of deep + emotion, “and all this time I have been fancying my brother-in-law an + Englishman. I thought it was this same George——George Onslow.” + </p> + <p> + A heavy, dull sound startled him as he said this. It was Kate, who had + fallen back, fainting, on the sofa. It was long before, with all Frank's + efforts at restoration, she came to herself; and even when consciousness + returned, tears flowed from her eyes and coursed down her cheeks + copiously, as she lay speechless and motionless. + </p> + <p> + “My own poor Kate, my poor, dear sister!” were all that Frank could say, + as he held her cold, clammy hand within his own; and, with an almost + breaking heart, gazed on her pale features. It was so like death! “And + might not death be better?” thought he, as he travelled over in his mind + the story, of whose secret he was now possessed. How differently did he + judge all Nelly's counsels <i>now!</i> In what a changed spirit did he + think of that wisdom which, but a few minutes back, he had sneered at! + “And so it is,” muttered he. “If we who are born to humble fortunes would + cherish ambition, we must pay for it with our hearts' blood. Nelly was + right; she often said so. Over and over again did she tell me, 'goodness + is the only safe road to greatness.' Oh that one so beautiful as this + should have missed the path!” And, sobbing violently, he kissed her hand, + and watered it with his tears. + </p> + <p> + “Frank, you are with me,——you 'll not leave me,” said she, + faintly, as she opened her eyes and stared in bewilderment around her. “I + remember everything now—everything,” said she, with an emphasis on + the last word. “This is Vienna: I recollect all. Ring that bell, Frank: + let Nina come to me, but don't go away; be sure not to go.” + </p> + <p> + Nina soon made her appearance, and with a look of half surprise, half + admiration at the handsome soldier, assisted Kate to arise. + </p> + <p> + “I'll be back presently, Frank,” said she, with a faint smile, and left + the room. And the youth, overcome by emotion, sat down and buried his face + in his hands. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0008" id="link2HCH0008"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VIII. PRIESTLY COUNSELS + </h2> + <p> + Frank was so full of his own reflections that he almost forgot his + sister's absence; nor did he notice how the time went oyer, when he heard + the sound of voices and the noise of a door closing; and, on looking up, + perceived a handsome man, something short of middle-aged, who, dressed in + the deep black of a priest, wore a species of blue silk collar, the mark + of a religious order. His features were perfectly regular, and their + expression the most bland and courteous it was possible to imagine. There + was a serene dignity, too, in his gait, as he came forward, that showed + how thoroughly at home he felt on the soft carpet, and in the perfumed + atmosphere of a drawing-room. + </p> + <p> + Bowing twice to Frank, he saluted him with a smile, so gentle and so + winning, that the boy almost felt as if they had been already acquainted. + </p> + <p> + “I have come,” said the priest, “to pay my respects to the Princesse de + Midchekoff, and, if my eyesight is not playing me false, I have the honor + to recognize her brother.” + </p> + <p> + Frank blushed with pleasure as he bowed an assent. + </p> + <p> + “May I anticipate the kindness—which your sister would not refuse + me,” continued he, “and introduce myself. You may, perhaps, have heard of + the Abbé D'Esmonde?” + </p> + <p> + “Repeatedly,” cried Frank, taking the proffered hand in his own. “Nelly + spoke of you in almost every letter. You were always so kind to Kate in + Italy.” + </p> + <p> + “How amply am I recompensed, were not the pleasure of knowing Miss Dalton + a sufficient reward in itself. It is rare to find that combination of + excellence which can command all the homage of fashion, and yet win the + approbation of a poor priest.” + </p> + <p> + There was a humility, deep enough to be almost painful, in the tone in + which these words were uttered; but Frank had little time to dwell on + them, for already the Abbé had taken a seat on the sofa beside him, and + was deep in the discussion of all Kate's attractions and merits. + </p> + <p> + There was a sincerity, an ardor of admiration, chastened only by the + temper of his sacred character, that delighted the boy. If allusion were + made to her beauty, it was only to heighten the praise he bestowed on her + for other gifts, and display the regulated action of a mind proof against + every access of vanity. Her correct judgment, her intuitive refinement, + the extreme delicacy of her sensibilities,—these were the themes he + dwelt upon, and Frank felt that they must be rare gifts indeed, when the + very description of them could be so pleasurable. + </p> + <p> + From what the Abbé said, so far from her marriage with the great Russian + being a piece of fortune, she had but to choose her position amid the + first houses of Europe. + </p> + <p> + “It was true,” he added, “that the 'Midchekoff's' wealth was like royalty, + and as he united to immense fortune great claims of personal merit, the + alliance had everything to recommend it.” + </p> + <p> + “And this is so?” cried Frank, eagerly. “The Prince is a fine fellow?” + </p> + <p> + “Generous and munificent to an extent almost fabulous,” said D'Esmonde, + who seemed rather to resume his own train of thought than reply to Frank's + question. “The splendor of his life has already canonized a proverb.” + </p> + <p> + “But his temper—his manner—his disposition?” + </p> + <p> + “Like all his countrymen, he is reserved, almost cold to strangers; his + intimates, however, talk of him as frankness and candor itself. Even on + political themes, where Russians are usually most guarded, he gives his + opinions freely and manfully, and, strange enough too, with a liberality + which, though common enough in our country, must be very rare indeed in + his.” + </p> + <p> + “That is strange!” said Frank, thoughtfully. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said D' Esmonde, dropping into the tone of one who insensibly + poured out his inmost thoughts in soliloquizing,——“Yes, he + feels, what we all do, that this state of things cannot last,—disparity + of condition may become too palpable and too striking. The contrast + between affluence and misery may display itself too offensively! Men may + one day or other refuse to sign a renewal of the bond of servitude, and + then—and then——” + </p> + <p> + “A civil war, I suppose,” cried Frank, quietly; “but the troops will + always give them a lesson.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you think so, my dear young friend?” said the Abbé, affectionately; + “do you not rather think that soldiers will begin to learn that they are + citizens, and that, when forging fetters for others, the metal can be + fashioned into chains for themselves?” + </p> + <p> + “But they have an oath,” said the boy; “they 've sworn to their + allegiance.” + </p> + <p> + “Very true, so they have; but what is the oath?—the one half of the + compact which cannot be supposed binding when the other half be broken. + Let the social policy of a government fail in its great object,——the + happiness of a people; let a whole nation gradually cease to enjoy the + advantages for the sake of which they assumed the responsibilities and + ties of family; let them day-by-day fall lower in the scale of + civilization and comfort, and after surrendering this privilege to-day, + and that to-morrow, at last take their stand on the very verge of the + precipice, with nothing but abject slavery beneath,—what would you + say of the order to charge them with the bayonet, even though the + formality of a recruiting oath should seem to warrant the obedience?” + </p> + <p> + “I 'd do it; if I was ordered,” said Frank, sternly. + </p> + <p> + “I don't think you would,” said D'Esmonde, smiling. “I read your nature + differently. I can trace, even in the flashing of your eye this instant, + the ambition of a bold and energetic spirit, and that when the moment came + you would embrace the losing cause, with all its perils, rather than stand + by tyranny, in all its strength. Besides, remember, this is not the + compact under which you entered the service, although it might, under + certain peculiar circumstances, appeal to your sense of duty. An army is + not—at least it ought not to be—a 'gendarmerie.' Go forth to + battle against the enemies of your country, carry the flag of your + Vaterland into the plains of France, plant the double eagle once more in + the Place da Carrousel,—even aggressive war has its glorious + compensations in deeds of chivalry and heroism——But here is + the Princesse,” said the Abbé, rising, and advancing courteously towards + her. + </p> + <p> + “The Abbé D'Esmonde!” cried Kate, with an expression of delight, as she + held ont her hand, which the priest pressed to his lips with all the + gallantry of a courtier. “How pleasant to see the face of a friend in this + strange land!” said she. “Abbé, this is my brother Frank, of whom you have + heard me talk so often.” + </p> + <p> + “We are acquaintances already,” said D'Esmonde, passing his arm within the + soldier's; “and albeit our coats are not of the same color, I think many + of our principles are.” + </p> + <p> + A few moments saw him seated between the brother and sister on the sofa, + recounting the circumstances of his journey, and detailing, for Kate's + amusement, the latest news of Florence. + </p> + <p> + “Lady Hester is much better in health and spirits, too,” said the Abbé; + “the disastrous circumstances of fortune would seem to have taken a better + turn; at least, it is probable that Sir Stafford's losses will be + comparatively slight. I believe her satisfaction on this head arises + entirely from feeling that no imputation of altered position can now be + alleged as the reason for her change of religion.” + </p> + <p> + “And has she done this?” asked Kate, with a degree of anxiety; for she + well knew on what feeble grounds Lady Hester's convictions were usually + built.. + </p> + <p> + “Not publicly; she waits for her arrival at Rome, to make her confession + at the shrine of St. John of Lateran. Her doubts, however, have all been + solved,—her reconciliation is perfect.” + </p> + <p> + “Is she happy? Has she found peace of mind at last?” asked Kate, timidly. + </p> + <p> + “On this point I can speak with confidence,” said D'Esmonde, warmly; and + at once entered into a description of the pleasurable impulse a new train + of thoughts and impressions had given to the exhausted energies of a “fine + lady's” life. It was so far true, indeed, that for some days back she had + never known a moment of <i>ennui</i>. Surrounded by sacred emblems and a + hundred devices of religious association, she appeared to herself as if + acting a little poem of life, wherein a mass of amiable qualities, of + which she knew nothing before, were all developing themselves before her. + And what between meritorious charities, saintly intercessions, visits to + shrines, and decorations of altars, she had not an instant unoccupied; it + was one unceasing round of employment; and with prayers, bouquets, lamps, + confessions, candles, and penances, the day was even too short for its + duties. + </p> + <p> + The little villa of La Rocca was now a holy edifice. The drawing-room had + become an oratory; a hollow-cheeked “Seminariste,” from Como, had taken + the place of the Maestro di Casa. The pages wore a robe like acolytes, and + even Albert Jekyl began to fear that a costume was in preparation for + himself, from certain measurements that he had observed taken with regard + to his figure. + </p> + <p> + “My time is up,” said Frank, hastily, as he arose to go away. + </p> + <p> + “You are not about to leave me, Frank?” said Kate. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I must; my leave was only till four o'clock, as the Field-Marshal's + note might have shown you; but I believe you threw it into the fire before + you finished it.” + </p> + <p> + “Did I, really? I remember nothing of that. But, stay, and I will write to + him. I 'll say that I have detained you.” + </p> + <p> + “But the service, Kate dearest! My sergeant—my over-lieutenant—my + captain—what will they say? I may have to pass three days in irons + for the disobedience.” + </p> + <p> + “Modern chivalry has a dash of the treadmill through it,” said D'Esmonde, + sarcastically; and the boy's cheek flushed as he heard it. The priest, + however, had already turned away, and, walking into the recess of a + window, left the brother and sister free to talk unmolested. + </p> + <p> + “I scarcely like him, Kate,” whispered Frank. + </p> + <p> + “You scarcely know him yet,” she said, with a smile. “But when can you + come again to me,—to-morrow^ early?” + </p> + <p> + “I fear not We have a parade and a field-inspection, and then 'rapport' at + noon.” + </p> + <p> + “Leave it to me, then, dear Frank,” said she, kissing him; “I must try if + I cannot succeed with the 'Field' better than you have done.” + </p> + <p> + “There's the recall-bugle,” cried the boy, in terror; and, snatching up + his cap, he bounded from the room at once. + </p> + <p> + “A severe service,—at least, one of rigid discipline,” said + D'Esmonde, with a compassionating expression of voice. “It is hard to say + whether it works for good or evil, repressing the development of every + generous impulse, as certainly as it restrains the impetuous passions of + youth.” + </p> + <p> + “True,” said Kate, pointedly; “there would seem something of priestcraft + in their <i>régime</i>. The individual is nothing, the service + everything.” + </p> + <p> + “Your simile lacks the great element,—force of resemblance, Madame,” + said D'Esmonde, with a half smile. “The soldier has not, like the priest, + a grand sustaining hope, a glorious object before him. He knows little or + nothing of the cause in which his sword is drawn; his sympathies may even + be against his duty. The very boy who has just left us,—noble-hearted + fellow that he is,—what strange wild notions of liberty has he + imbibed! how opposite are all his speculations to the stern calls of the + duty he has sworn to discharge!” + </p> + <p> + “And does he dare—” + </p> + <p> + “Nay, Madame, there was no indiscretion on his part; my humble walk in + life has taught me that if I am excluded from all participation in the + emotions which sway my fellow-men, I may at least study them as they + arise, watch them in their infancy, and trace them to their fruit of good + or evil. Do not fancy, dear lady, that it is behind the grating of the + confessional only that we read men's secrets. As the physician gains his + knowledge of anatomy from the lifeless body, so do we learn the complex + structure of the human heart in the deathlike stillness of the cell, with + the penitent before us. But yet all the knowledge thus gained is but a + step to something further. It is while reading the tangled story of the + heart,—its struggles, its efforts, the striving after good here, the + inevitable fall back to evil there, the poor, weak attempt at virtue, the + vigorous energy of vice,—it is hearing this sad tale from day to + day, learning, in what are called the purest natures, how deep the well of + corruption lies, and that not one generous thought, one noble aspiration, + or one holy desire rises unalloyed by some base admixture of worldly + motive. It is thus armed we go forth into the world, to fight against the + wiles and seductions of life. How can we be deceived by the blandishments + that seduce others? What avail to us those pretentious displays of + self-devotion, those sacrifices of wealth, those proud acts of munificence + which astonish the world, but of whose secret springs we are conversant? + What wonder, then, if I have read the artless nature of a boy like that, + or see in him the springs of an ambition he knows not of himself? Nay, it + would be no rash boast to say that I have deciphered more complicated + inscriptions than those upon his heart I have traced some upon his + sister's!” The last three words he uttered with a slow and deep + enunciation, leaving a pause between each, and bending on her a look of + intense meaning. + </p> + <p> + Kate's cheek became scarlet, then pale, and a second time she flushed, + till neck and shoulders grew crimson together. + </p> + <p> + “You have no confidences to make me, my dear, dear child,” said D'Esmonde, + as, taking her hand, he pressed her down on a sofa beside him. “Your + faltering lips have nothing to articulate,——no self-repinings, + no sorrows to utter; for I know them all!” He paused for a few seconds, + and then resumed: “Nor have you to fear me as a stern or a merciless + judge. Where there is a sacrifice, there is a blessing!” + </p> + <p> + Kate held down her head, but her bosom heaved, and her frame trembled with + emotion. + </p> + <p> + “Your motives,” resumed he, “would dignify even a rasher course. I know + the price at which you have bartered happiness,—not your own only, + but another's with it!” + </p> + <p> + She sobbed violently, and pressed her hands over her face. + </p> + <p> + “Poor, poor fellow!” cried he, as if borne away by an impulse of candor + that would brook no concealment, “how I grieved to see him, separated, as + we were, by the wide and yawning gulf between us, giving himself up to the + very recklessness of despair, now cursing the heartless dissipation in + which his life was lost, now accusing himself of golden opportunities + neglected, bright moments squandered, petty misunderstandings exaggerated + into dislikes, the passing coldness of the moment exalted into a studied + disdain! We were almost strangers to each other before,—nay, I half + fancied that he kept aloof from me. Probably,”—here D'Esmonde smiled + with a bland dignity,—“probably he called me a 'Jesuit,'—that + name so full of terror to good Protestant ears; but, on his sick-bed, as + he lay suffering and in solitude, his faculties threw off the deceptive + influences of prejudice; he read me then more justly; he saw that I was + his friend. Hours upon hours have we passed talking of you; the theme + seemed to give a spring to an existence from which, till then, all zest of + life had been withdrawn. I never before saw as much of passion, with a + temper so just and so forgiving. He needed no aid of mine to read your + motives truly. 'It is not for herself that she has done this,' were words + that he never ceased to utter. He knew well the claims that family would + make on you, the heartrending appeals from those you could not but listen + to! 'Oh! if I could but think that she will not forget me; that some + memory of me will still linger in her mind!'—this was his burning + prayer, syllabled by lips parched by the heat of fever; and when I told + him to write to you—” + </p> + <p> + “To write to me!” cried she, catching his arm, while her cheeks trembled + with intense agony; “You did not give such counsel?” + </p> + <p> + “Not alone that,” said D'Esmonde, calmly, “but promised that I would + myself deliver the letter into your hands. Is martyrdom less glorious that + a cry of agony escapes the victim, or that his limbs writhe as the flame + wraps round them? Is self-sacrifice to be denied the sorrowful + satisfaction to tell its woes? I bade him write because it would be good + for him and for you alike.” + </p> + <p> + She stared eagerly, as if to ask his meaning. + </p> + <p> + “Good for both,” repeated he, slowly. “Love will be, to him, a guide-star + through life, leading him by paths of high and honorable ambition; to you + it will be the consolation of hours that even splendor will not enliven. + Believe me,”——here he raised his voice to a tone of command + and authority,—“believe me that negation is the lot of all. Happiest + they who only suffer in their affections! And what is the purest of all + love? Is it not that the devotee feels for his protecting saint,—that + sense of ever-present care, that consciousness of a watching, unceasing + affection, that neither slumbers nor wearies, following us in our joy, + beside us in our afflictions? Some humble effigy, some frail + representation, is enough to embody this conception; but its essence lies + in the heart of hearts! Such a love as this—pure, truthful, and + enduring—may elevate the humblest life into heroism, and throw a + sun-gleam over the dreariest path of destiny. The holy bond that unites + the grovelling nature below with glory above, has its humble type on earth + in those who, separated by fate, are together in affection. I bade him + write to you a few lines; he was too weak for more; indeed, his emotion + almost made the last impossible. I pressed him, however, to do it, and + pledged myself to place them in your hands; my journey hither had no other + object.” As he spoke, he took forth a small sealed packet, and gave it to + Kate, whose hands trembled as she took it. + </p> + <p> + “I shall spend some days in Vienna,” said he, rising to take leave; “pray + let me have a part of each of them with you. I have much to say to you, + and of other matters than those we have now spoken.” And kissing her hand + with a respectful devotion, the Abbé withdrew, without ever once raising + his eyes towards her. + </p> + <p> + Sick with sorrow and humiliation,—for such she acutely felt,——Kate + Dalton rose and retired to her room. “Tell Madame de Heidendorf, Nina,” + said she, “that I feel tired to-day, and beg she will excuse my not + appearing at dinner.” + </p> + <p> + Nina courtesied her obedience, but it was easy to see that the explanation + by no means satisfied her, and that she was determined to know something + more of the origin of her young mistress's indisposition. + </p> + <p> + “Madame knows that the Archduke is to dine here.” + </p> + <p> + “I know it,” said Kate, peevishly, and as if desirous of being left in + quiet. + </p> + <p> + Nina again courtesied, but in the brilliant flashing of her dark eyes it + was plain to mark the consciousness that some secret was withheld from + her. The <i>soubrette</i> class are instinctive readers of motives; “their + only books are '<i>ladies</i>' looks,” but they con them to perfection. It + was, then, with a studied pertinacity that Nina proceeded to arrange + drawers and fold dresses, and fifty other similar duties, the discharge of + which she saw was torturing her mistress. + </p> + <p> + “I should wish to be alone, Nina, and undisturbed,” said Kate, at last, + her patience being entirely exhausted. + </p> + <p> + Nina made her very deepest reverence, and withdrew. + </p> + <p> + Kate waited for a few seconds, till all sound of her retiring steps had + died away, then arose, and locked the door. + </p> + <p> + She was alone; the packet which the Abbé had delivered lay on the table + before her; she bent down over it, and wept. The utter misery of sorrow is + only felt where self-reproach mingles with our regrets. All the pangs of + other misfortunes are light in comparison with this. The irrevocable past + was her own work; she knew it, and cried till her very heart seemed + bursting. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0009" id="link2HCH0009"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IX. SECRETS OF HEAD AND HEART + </h2> + <p> + I must ask of my reader to leave this chamber, where, overwhelmed by her + sorrows, poor Kate poured out her grief in tears, and follow me to a small + but brilliantly lighted apartment, in which a little party of four persons + was seated, discussing their wine, and enjoying the luxury of their + cigars. Be not surprised when we say that one of the number was a lady. + Madame de Heidendorf, however, puffed her weed with all the zest of a + smoker; the others were the Archduke Ernest, a plain, easy-tempered + looking man, in the gray undress of an Austrian General, the Foreign + Minister, Count Nõrinberg, and our old acquaintance, the Abbé D'Esmonde. + </p> + <p> + The table, besides the usual ornaments of a handsome dessert, was covered + with letters, journals, and pamphlets, with here and there a colored print + in caricature of some well-known political personage. Nothing could be + more easy and unconstrained than the air and bearing of the guests. The + Archduke sat with his uniform coat unbuttoned, and resting one leg upon a + chair before him. The Minister tossed over the books, and brushed off the + ashes of his cigar against the richly damasked table-cloth; while even the + Abbé seemed to have relaxed the smooth urbanity of his face into a look of + easy enjoyment Up to this moment the conversation had been general, the + principal topics being the incidents of the world of fashion, the flaws + and frivolities, the mishaps and misadventures of those whose names were + familiar to his Imperial Highness, and in whose vicissitudes he took the + most lively interest. These, and a stray anecdote of the turf in England, + were the only subjects he cared for, hating politics and State affairs + with a most cordial detestation. His presence, however, was a compliment + that the Court always paid “the Countess,” and he submitted to his torn of + duty manfully. + </p> + <p> + Deeply involved in the clouds of his cigar-smoke, and even more enveloped + in the misty regions of his own reveries, he sipped his wine in silence, + and heard nothing of the conversation about him. The Minister was then + perfectly free to discuss the themes most interesting to him, and learn + whatever he could of the state of public opinion in Italy. + </p> + <p> + “You are quite right, Abbé,” said he, with a sage shake of the head. + “Small concessions, petty glimpses of liberty, only give a zest for more + enlarged privileges. There is nothing like a good flood of popular anarchy + for creating a wholesome disgust to freedom. There must be excesses!” + </p> + <p> + “Precisely so, sir,” said the Abbé. “There can be no question of an + antidote if there has been no poisoning.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay; but may not this system be pushed too far? Is not his Holiness + already doing so?” + </p> + <p> + “Some are disposed to think so, but I am not of the number,” said + D'Esmonde. “It is necessary that he should himself be convinced that the + system is a bad one; and there is no mode of conviction so palpable as by + a personal experience. Now, this he will soon have. As yet, he does not + see that every step in political freedom is an advance towards the fatal + heresy that never ceases its persecutions of the Church. Not that our + Revolutionists care for Protestantism or the Bible either; but, by making + common cause with those who do, see what a large party in England becomes + interested for their success. The right of judgment conceded in religious + matters, how can you withhold it in political ones? The men who brave the + Church will not tremble before a cabinet. Now the Pope sees nothing of + this; he even mistakes the flatteries offered to himself for testimonies + of attachment to the Faith, and all those kneeling hypocrites who implore + his blessing he fancies are faithful children of Rome. He must be awakened + from this delusion; but yet none save himself can dispel it He is + obstinate and honest.” + </p> + <p> + “If the penalty were to be his own alone, it were not so much matter,” + said the Minister; “but it will cost a revolution.” + </p> + <p> + “Of course it will; but there is time enough to prepare for it.” + </p> + <p> + “The state of the Milanais is far from satisfactory,” said the Minister, + gravely. + </p> + <p> + “I know that; but a revolt of a prison always excuses double irons,” said + D'Esmonde, sarcastically. + </p> + <p> + “Tell him of Sardinia, Abbé,” said Madame de Heidendorf. + </p> + <p> + “Your real danger is from that quarter,” said D'Esmonde. “There is a + growing spirit of independence there,—a serious desire for free + institutions, wide apart from the wild democracy of the rest of Italy. + This is a spirit you cannot crush; but you can do better,—you can + corrupt it Genoa is a hotbed of Socialist doctrine; the wildest fanaticism + of the 'Reds' is there triumphant, and our priests are manfully aiding the + spread of such opinions. They have received orders to further these + notions; and it is thus, and by the excesses consequent on this, you will + succeed in trampling down that moderated liberty which is the curse that + England is destined to disseminate amongst us. It is easy enough to make + an excited people commit an act of indiscretion, and then, with public + opinion on your side—” + </p> + <p> + “How I detest that phrase!” said Madame de Heidendorf; “it is the lowest + cant of the day.” + </p> + <p> + “The thing it represents is not to be despised, Madame,” said the Abbé. + </p> + <p> + “These are English notions,” said she, sneeringly. + </p> + <p> + “They will be Russian ones yet, depend upon it, Madame.” + </p> + <p> + “I 'd rather know what a few men of vast fortune, like Midchekoff, for + instance, think, than have the suffrages of half the greasy mobs of + Europe.” + </p> + <p> + “By the way,” said the Minister, “what is he doing? Is it true that he is + coquetting with Liberals and Fourierists, and all that?” + </p> + <p> + “For the moment he is,” said Madame de Heidendorf; “and two or three of + the popularity-seeking sovereigns have sent him their decorations, and if + he does not behave better he will be ordered home.” + </p> + <p> + “He is of great use in Italy,” said the Minister. + </p> + <p> + “True; but he must not abuse his position.” + </p> + <p> + “He is just vain enough to lend himself to a movement,” said D'Esmonde; + “but he shall be watched.” + </p> + <p> + These last words were very significantly uttered. + </p> + <p> + “You know the Princess, Abbé?” asked the Minister, with a smile; and + another smile, as full of meaning, replied to the question. + </p> + <p> + “She's pretty, ain't she?” asked the Archduke. + </p> + <p> + “Beautiful is the word, sir; but if your Imperial Highness would like to + pass judgment personally, I 'll beg of her to come down to the + drawing-room.” + </p> + <p> + “Of all things, most kind of you to make the offer,” said he, rising and + arranging his coat and sword-knot into some semblance of propriety, while + Madame de Heidendorf rang the bell, and despatched a messenger to Kate + with the request. + </p> + <p> + Nina was overjoyed at the commission intrusted to her. Since Kate's + peremptory order, she had not ventured to intrude herself upon her; but + now, armed with a message, she never hesitated about invading the + precincts of that silent chamber, at whose door she often stood in doubt + and speculation. + </p> + <p> + She tapped gently at the door; there was no answer. A second summons was + alike unreplied to, and Nina bent down her head to listen. There were + long-drawn breathings, like sleep; but a heavy sigh told that the moments + were those of waking sorrow. Cautiously turning the handle of the door, + without noise, she opened it and passed in. The room was shrouded in a dim + half-light, and it was not till after the lapse of some seconds that Nina + could distinguish the form of her young mistress, as, with her head buried + in her hands, she sat before a table on which lay an open letter. + </p> + <p> + So absorbed was Kate in grief that she heard nothing, and Nina approached + her, slowly, till at last she stood directly behind her, fixedly regarding + the heaving figure, the dishevelled hair, and the trembling hands that + seemed to clutch with eagerness some object within their grasp. Kate + suddenly started, and pushing back her hair from her eyes, seemed as if + trying to collect her wandering thoughts. Then, unclasping a case, she + placed a miniature before her, and contemplated it attentively. Nina bent + over her till she almost touched her in her eagerness. Had any one been + there to have seen her features at the moment, they would have perceived + the traits of intense and varied passion, surprise, rage, and jealousy, + all struggling for the mastery. Her dark skin grew almost livid, and her + black eyes glowed with anger; while, with a force like convulsion, she + pressed her hands to her heart, as if to calm its beatings. A sea of + stormy passions was warring within her, and in her changeful expression + might be seen the conflict of her resolves. At last, she appeared to have + decided; for with noiseless steps she gradually retreated toward the door, + her eyes all the while steadily fixed on her mistress. + </p> + <p> + It seemed to require no slight effort to repress the torrent of rage + within her; for even at the door she stood irresolute for a moment, and + then, softly opening it, withdrew. Once outside, her pent-up passions + found vent, and she sobbed violently. Her mood was, however, more of anger + than of sorrow, and there was an air of almost insolent pride in the way + she now knocked, and then, without waiting for reply, entered the room. + </p> + <p> + “Madame de Heidendorf requests that the Princess will appear in the + drawing-room,” said she, abruptly, and confronting Kate's look of + confusion with a steadfast stare. + </p> + <p> + “Say that I am indisposed, Nina,——that I feel tired and + unwell,” said Kate, timidly. + </p> + <p> + “There is an Archduke, Madame.” + </p> + <p> + “What care I for an Archduke, Nina?” said Kate, trying to smile away the + awkwardness of her own disturbed manner. + </p> + <p> + “I have always believed that great folk liked each other,” said Nina, + sarcastically. + </p> + <p> + “Then I must lack one element of that condition, Nina,” said Kate, + good-humoredly; “but pray make my excuses,—say anything you like so + that I may be left in quiet.” + </p> + <p> + “How delightful Madame's reveries must be, when she attaches such value to + them!” + </p> + <p> + “Can you doubt it, Nina?” replied Kate, with a forced gayety. “A betrothed + bride ought to be happy; you are always telling me so. I hear of nothing + from morn till night but of rich caskets of gems and jewels; you seem to + think that diamonds would throw a lustre over any gloom.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="linkimage-0006" id="linkimage-0006"> + <!-- IMG --></a> <br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%;"> + <img src="images/00120.jpg" alt="00120" width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p> + “And would they not?” cried Nina, passionately “Has not the brow nobler + and higher thoughts when encircled by a coronet like this? Does not the + heart beat with greater transport beneath gems like these?” And she opened + case after case of sparkling jewels as she spoke, and spread them before + Kate, on the table. + </p> + <p> + “And yet I have learned to look on them calmly,” said Kate, with an + expression of proud indifference. + </p> + <p> + “Does not that dazzle you?” said Nina, holding up a cross of rose + diamonds. + </p> + <p> + “No!” said Kate, shaking her head. + </p> + <p> + “Nor that?” cried Nina, displaying a gorgeous necklace. + </p> + <p> + “Nor even that, Nina.” + </p> + <p> + “Is Madame's heart so steeled against womanly vanities,” said Nina, + quickly, while she threw masses of costly articles before her, “that not + one throb, not one flush of pleasure, is called up at sight of these?” + </p> + <p> + “You see, Nina, that I can look on them calmly.” + </p> + <p> + “Then this, perchance, may move you!” cried Nina; and with a bound she + sprang to the table at which Kate was seated, and, dashing the + handkerchief away, seized the miniature, and held it up. + </p> + <p> + Kate uttered a shrill cry and fell back fainting. Nina gazed at her for a + second or so with a look of haughty disdain, and sprinkling the pale + features with a few drops of water, she turned away. With calm composure + she replaced each precious gem within its case, laid the miniature once + more beneath the handkerchief, and then left the room. + </p> + <p> + “Your Princess will not honor us, it seems, with her company,” said the + Archduke, half in pique, as the messenger returned with Kate's excuses; + “and yet I looked for her coming to get rid of all the farrago of politics + that you wise folk will insist upon talking.” + </p> + <p> + The Countess and the Minister exchanged most significant glances at this + speech, while D'Esmonde politely assented to the remark, by adding + something about the relaxation necessary to overwrought minds, and the + need that princes should enjoy some repose as well as those of lower + degree. “I can, however, assure your Imperial Highness,” said he, “that + this is no caprice of the young Princess. She is really far from well, and + was even unable to receive her own relative this afternoon, the Count von + Dalton.” + </p> + <p> + “What, is old Auersberg a relative of hers?” + </p> + <p> + “An uncle, or a grand-uncle,—I forget which, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Then that wild youth in the Franz Carl must be a connection too?” + </p> + <p> + “The cadet is her brother, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed! What an extravagant fellow it is! They say that, counting on + being Auersberg's heir, he spends money in every possible fashion; and as + the tradespeople take the succession on trust, his debts are already + considerable. It was only yesterday his colonel spoke to me of sending him + to the Banat, or some such place. His family must be rich, I suppose?” + </p> + <p> + “I believe quite the reverse, sir. Poor to indigence. Their entire hope is + on the Count von Auersberg.” + </p> + <p> + “He held a frontier command for many years, and must have saved money. But + will he like to see it in hands like these?” + </p> + <p> + “I believe—at least so the story goes,” said D'Esmonde, dropping his + voice to a whisper, “that the boy's arguments have scarcely assisted his + object in that respect. They say that he told the Count that in times like + these no man's fortune was worth a year's purchase; that when monarchs + were tottering and thrones rocking, it were better to spend one's means + freely than to tempt pillage by hoarding it.” + </p> + <p> + “Are these his notions?” cried the Archduke, in amazement + </p> + <p> + “Yes; the wildest doctrines of Socialism are his creed,—opinions, I + grieve to say, more widely spread than any one supposes.” + </p> + <p> + “How is this, then? I see the private regimental reports of every corps, I + read the conduct-rolls of almost every company, and yet no hint of this + disaffection has reached me. + </p> + <p> + “A priest could reveal more than an adjutant, sir,” said the Abbé, + smiling. “These youths who fancy themselves neglected,—who think + their claims disregarded,—who, in a word, imagine that some small + pretension, on the score of family, should be the spring of their + promotion, are easily seduced into extravagant ideas about freedom and so + forth.” + </p> + <p> + “Austria is scarce the land for such fruit to ripen in,” said the + Archduke, laughing. “Let him try France, or the United States.” + </p> + <p> + “Very true, your Highness,” chimed in the Abbé; “but such boys ought to be + watched,—their conduct inquired strictly into.” + </p> + <p> + “Or better still, Monsieur l'Abbé,” said the Archduke, sternly, “dismissed + the service. I see no profit in retaining amongst us the seeds of this + French malady.” + </p> + <p> + “I believe your Highness takes the true view of the difficulty,” said + D'Esmonde, as though reflecting over it. “And yet you will be asked to + make an officer of him in a day or two.” + </p> + <p> + “An officer of this boy, and why, or by whom?” + </p> + <p> + “The Princess, his sister, will make the request; probably through Von + Auersberg.” + </p> + <p> + “But when I tell the Feld—” + </p> + <p> + “Ah, your Imperial Highness could not betray a confidence!” said + D'Esmonde. “I have ventured to disclose to you what has come to my + knowledge by means only accessible to myself; I therefore rely on your + Highness not to divulge, however you may use it.” + </p> + <p> + “He shall not continue to wear our cloth; that you may certainly rely on, + Monsieur l'Abbé,” said the Archduke, sternly. + </p> + <p> + “In any case, wait for his sister's departure, sir,” said D'Esmonde, + anxiously; “a few days or hours. As soon as this silly old lady has made + up that budget of gossip and scandal she fancies to be political news, we + 'll see her leave this, and then he can be dealt with as you think + proper.” + </p> + <p> + The Archduke made no reply,—not seeming either to assent to or + reject the counsel. “It would break the old Marshal's heart,” said he, at + last; “that gallant old soldier would never survive it.” + </p> + <p> + “A treason might, indeed, kill him,” said D'Esmonde. “But your Highness + will anticipate exposure by dismissal—dismissal, peremptory and + unexplained.” + </p> + <p> + Again the Archduke was silent, but his lowering brow and dark expression + told that the subject was giving him deep and serious thought. “I paid no + attention to your conversation this evening, Abbé,” said be, at last; “but + it struck me, from a chance word here and there, that you suspect these + same 'Liberal' notions are gaining ground.” + </p> + <p> + “Heresies against the Faith, sir, have begotten their natural offspring, + heresies against the State; and Governments do not yet awaken to the fact + that they who scorn the altar will not respect the throne. The whole force + of what are called Liberal institutions has been to weaken the influence + of the clergy; and yet it is precisely on that same influence you will + have to fall back. It is beneath the solemn shadow of the Church you'll + seek your refuge yet!” + </p> + <p> + “No, no, father,” said the Archduke, with a laugh; “we have another + remedy.” + </p> + <p> + “The mitre is stronger than the <i>mitraille</i>, after all,” said + D'Esmonde, boldly. “Believe me, sir, that the solemn knell that tolls an + excommunication will strike more terror through Christendom than all your + artillery.” + </p> + <p> + Either the remark or the tone in which it was uttered was unpleasing to + the Prince; indeed, all the Abbe's courtesy at times gave way to an almost + impetuous boldness, which royalty never brooks, for he turned away + haughtily, and joined the others at a distant part of the room. + </p> + <p> + There was something of scorn in the proud look which D'Esmonde gave after + him, and then slipped from the chamber with noiseless step and + disappeared. Inquiring the way to the Princess's apartment, the Abbé + slowly ascended the stairs, pondering deeply as he went. Nina was passing + the corridor at the moment, and, supposing that he had mistaken the + direction, politely asked if she could offer him any guidance. Scarcely + noticing the questioner, he replied,—— + </p> + <p> + “I was looking for the Princesse de Midchekoff's apartments.” + </p> + <p> + “It is here, sir; but she is indisposed.” + </p> + <p> + “If you would say that the Abbé D'Esmonde—” + </p> + <p> + He had got thus far when, lifting his eyes, his glance fell upon her + features; and then, as if spell-bound, he stood silently gazing at her. + Nina's cheek grew crimson under the stare; but her eyes met his with + unshaken firmness. + </p> + <p> + “If I were to disbelieve all probabilities,” said he, slowly, “I should + say that I see an old friend before me. Are you not the daughter of + Huertos, the Toridor of Seville?” + </p> + <p> + “Fra Eustace!” said Nina, stepping back and staring steadily at him. + </p> + <p> + “No longer so, Lola; I am the Abbé D'Esmonde now,” said he, while a faint + flush tinged his pale features. + </p> + <p> + “And I am Nina, the 'Cameriera,'” replied she, scornfully. “See how + unequally fortune has dealt with us!” + </p> + <p> + D'Esmonde made a sign towards the door, which she at once understood and + answered,—— + </p> + <p> + “Yes, in the service of the Princess.” + </p> + <p> + “This is indeed a strange meeting, Lola.” + </p> + <p> + “Call me Nina,” said the girl, flushing, “or I shall remember old times, + and my Spanish blood will little bear such memories.” + </p> + <p> + “Where can we talk together, Nina?” + </p> + <p> + “Come this way, holy father,” said she, with a half-sneering smile. “I + suppose a poor girl may receive her confessor in her chamber.” + </p> + <p> + D'Esmonde walked after her without speaking. While crossing a gallery, she + unlocked a door, and admitted him into a small but neatly furnished room. + </p> + <p> + “Dear Lola,” said the priest, as, taking her hand, he looked + affectionately at her,—“I must needs call you by the old name,—what + turn of fortune has brought you here?” + </p> + <p> + “It is a question well becomes you,” said the girl, releasing her hand + from his grasp, and drawing herself proudly up. “You cut the bark adrift, + and you wonder that it has become a wreck!” + </p> + <p> + “How this old warmth of temper recalls the past, and how I love you for + it, as I grieve over it, Lola; but be calm, and tell me everything, just + as you used to tell me years ago.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, if I had the same pure heart as then!” cried the girl, passionately. + “Oh, if I could but shed tears, as once I did, over each slight + transgression, and not have my spirit seared and hardened, as the world + has made it!” + </p> + <p> + “We cannot carry the genial freshness of youth into the ripe years of + judgment, Lola. Gifts decay, and others succeed them.” + </p> + <p> + “No more of this casuistry. <i>You</i> are, I see, the same, whatever + changes time may have made in <i>me</i>; but I have outlived these + trickeries. Tell me, frankly, what do you want with me?” + </p> + <p> + “Must there needs be some motive of self-interest in renewing an old but + interrupted friendship, Lola? You remember what we once were to each + other?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh that I could forget it!——oh that I could wash out the + thought, or even think it but a dream! But how can you recall these + memories? If the sorrow be mine, is not the shame all yours?” + </p> + <p> + “The shame and the sorrow are alike mine,” said D'Es-monde, in a voice of + deep dejection, “<i>You</i> alone, of all the world, were ever able to + shake within me the great resolves that in prayer and devotion I had + formed. For you, Lola, I was, for a space, willing to resign the greatest + cause that ever man engaged in. Ay, for love of <i>you</i>, I was ready to + peril everything—even to my soul! Is not this enough for shame and + sorrow too? Is not this humiliation for one who wears the robe that I do?” + </p> + <p> + “You were a student in those days,” said Nina, with a sneering smile; “and + I never heard you speak of all those dreadful sacrifices. You used to talk + of leaving the college with a light heart. You spoke of the world as if + you were impatient to mingle with it. You planned I know not how many + roads to fortune and advancement. Among other careers, I remember”—and + here she burst into a scornful laugh, that made the priest's cheek grow + crimson with passion——“I remember how you hit upon one which + speaks rather for your ardor than your prudence. Do you forget that you + would be a Toridor,—you whose cheek grew pale and whose heart + sickened as my father's horse lay embowelled in the ring, and who fainted + outright when the bull's horns were driven into the barricade near you. + You a Toridor! A Toridor should have courage!” And as she spoke, her eyes + flashed with the fire of passion. + </p> + <p> + “Courage!” said the priest, in a voice almost guttural from emotion; “and + is there no other courage than the vulgar defiance of personal danger,—the + quality of the veriest savage and the merest brute in creation? Is there + nothing more exalted in courage than to face bodily peril? Are all its + instincts selfishness? What think you of the courage of him who, in all + the conscious strength of intellect, with powers to win an upward way + amongst the greatest and the highest, can stoop to a life of poverty and + neglect, can give up all that men strive for,—home, affection, + family, citizenship,——content to toil apart and alone, ——to + watch, to fast, and pray, and think,——ay, think till the very + brain reels with labor,—and all this for a cause in which he is but + a unit! Courage! Tell me not of courage beside that of him who dares to + shake the strongest thrones, and convulses empires with his word, whose + counsels brave the might of armies, and dare even kings to controvert; + and, greatest of all, the courage that for a cause can risk salvation! + Yes, Lola, he who to save others hazards his own eternity! Have I not done + it?” cried he, carried away by an impetuous rush of feeling. “Have I not + overborne the truth and sustained the falsehood? Have I not warped the + judgments, and clouded the faculties, and misdirected the aspirations of + many who came to me for counsel, knowing that if there might be evil now + there would be good hereafter, and that for present and passing sorrow + there would be a glorious day of rejoicing? To this end have I spoke Peace + to the guilty man and Hope to the hardened! Not for him, nor for me, but + for the countless millions of the Church,—for the mighty hosts who + look to her for succor and consolation! This I call courage!” + </p> + <p> + And he drew himself proudly up, and folded his arms on his breast with an + air of haughty composure; while the girl, awed by his manner, and subdued + by the impetuosity of his speech, gazed at him in half fear and + wonderment. + </p> + <p> + “Tell me of your father, Lola,” said D'Esmonde, in a low, soft voice, as + he drew her low seat to his side. + </p> + <p> + “<i>He</i> was killed at Madrid; he died before the Queen!” said she, + proudly. + </p> + <p> + “The death of a Toridor!” muttered the priest, mournfully. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, and Pueblos too,—he is dead!” + </p> + <p> + “Not the little child that I remember—” + </p> + <p> + “The same. He grew up to be a fine man; some thought him handsomer than my + father. My mother's family would have made a priest of him, but he chose + the prouder destiny.” + </p> + <p> + “I cannot think of him but as the child,—the little fellow who + played about my knees; dressed like a matador, his long silky hair in a + net.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, do not——do not speak of him,” cried the girl, burying her + face between her hands; “my heart will not bear those memories.” + </p> + <p> + The priest's face was lighted up with a malevolent delight as he bent over + her, as if revelling in the thought the emotions could call up. + </p> + <p> + “Poor little fellow!” said he, as if to himself. “How I remember his + bolero that he danced for me.” He stopped, and she sobbed bitterly. “He + said that Lola taught him.” + </p> + <p> + She looked up; the tears were fast coursing along her cheeks, which were + pale as death. + </p> + <p> + “Eustace,” said she, tremulously, “these thoughts will drive me mad; my + brain is reeling even now.” + </p> + <p> + “Let us talk of something else, then,” said he. “When did you leave the + 'Opera'—and why?” + </p> + <p> + “How can you ask? you were at Seville at the time. Have you forgotten that + famous, marriage, to which, by your persuasion, I consented; was this + scheme only one of those unhappy events which are to be the seed of future + good?” + </p> + <p> + The sneer made no impression on the priest, who calmly answered, “Even so, + Lola.” + </p> + <p> + “What do you mean, sir?” cried she, angrily; “to what end am I thus? Was I + so base born and so low? Was my lot in life so ignominious that I should + not have raised my ambition above a fortune like this,—the + waiting-woman of one whose birth is not better than my own?” + </p> + <p> + “You are right, Lola,——perfectly right; and with patience and + prudence you will be her equal yet. Acton is an English noble—” + </p> + <p> + “What care I for that?” said she, passionately; “the marriage was a + counterfeit.” + </p> + <p> + “The marriage was a true and valid one.” + </p> + <p> + “And yet you yourself told me it was not binding.” + </p> + <p> + “I had my reasons for the deceit, Lola,” said he, persuasively. “You were + deserted and desolate; such widowhood would have brought you to the grave + with sorrow. It were better that you should strive against misery.” + </p> + <p> + “Even in shame?” asked she, scornfully. + </p> + <p> + “Even in shame, for the shame would be short-lived; but Lord Norwood is + alive, and you are his wife.” + </p> + <p> + “Lord Norwood! I have heard that name so often,” said she, musingly. + </p> + <p> + “At Florence, of course, he was every night at the Mazzarini Palace; the + same Gerald Acton you remember long ago.” + </p> + <p> + “And he is a lord,—an English noble?” + </p> + <p> + “And you are an English peeress, Lola. There is not a coronet more safe + upon a titled head than I can make yours,—can and will make,” added + he, slowly. “But you must be patient; I must now speak to you, Lola, of + themes in which you can take no interest, and subjects of which you know + nothing. But listen to me attentively, and hear me; for fortune has not + thus thrown us together without a meaning. + </p> + <p> + “The hour is come, Lola, when heretics and infidels have determined on an + attack of our faith; not as they have hitherto attempted, and with such + signal failure, by the weapons of controversy and discussion, but by brute + force; by the might of millions driven to madness from want and + misgovernment To avert this terrible calamity is now the unceasing thought + of the Church. Some have counselled one thing, some another; some would go + forth to the fight, trusting that, as of old, God would not forget his + people; there are others who deem this course presumptuous and unwise. The + hearts of kings are not as they once were,—in their confessors' + keeping. Our age and manners would send forth no crusade. The battle must + be otherwise contested. You could not follow me, Lola, were I to tell you + either of the perils or their antidotes. Enough that I say we must have + trusty and faithful agents in every land of Europe, and in every rank in + every people. From the secret whisperings of the Czar to the muttered + discontent of the Irish peasant, we must know them all. To this end have + we labored anxiously and eagerly for some time back, and already have we + made great progress. From every Court of Europe we now receive tidings, + and there is not a royal palace where our interests are unguarded. Some + serve us for the glorious cause itself, some have their own price, some + again are in our own hands from motives of self-interest or terror, but + all are alike true. This Princess—this Dalton—I destined for a + duty of the same nature. Married to a man of Midchekoff's wealth and + influence, she might have done good service, but I scarcely dare to trust + her; even at the sacrifice of herself she might fail me, and, although in + my power, I cannot count upon her. Think, then, of my joy at finding you, + one on whose fidelity I may hazard life itself. You can be all to me, and + a thousand times more than ever she could.” + </p> + <p> + “Your spy,” said the girl, steadily, but without the slightest semblance + of anger. + </p> + <p> + “My friend, my counsellor, my correspondent, Lola.” + </p> + <p> + “And the price?” + </p> + <p> + “You may name it. If your heart be set on mere worldly distinction, I will + prove your marriage, and although Norwood is not rich, his country never + neglects the class he belongs to. Would you break the tie, the bond is in + my keeping.” + </p> + <p> + “I never loved him,” cried she, passionately, “and you knew it. The + marriage was one of those snares on which your mind never ceases to dwell—” + </p> + <p> + “If you loved another, Lola—?” said he, interrupting, and then + waiting for her to finish her speech. + </p> + <p> + “And if I had,” burst she forth, “am I credulous enough to fancy that your + word can reconcile every difference of rank and fortune,—that you + can control destiny, and even coerce affection? No, no, Eustace; I have + outlived all that!” + </p> + <p> + “Then were you wiser when you believed it,” said he, gravely. “Now for his + name.” + </p> + <p> + There was a tone of almost commanding influence in which these last few + words were uttered, and his dark full eyes were steadily fixed on her as + he spoke them. + </p> + <p> + She hesitated to answer, and seemed to reflect. + </p> + <p> + “I ask no forced confession, Lola,” said he, proudly, and rising at the + same time from his seat “In all the unreserve of our old affection, I told + you <i>my</i> secret; <i>yours</i> is with yourself.” + </p> + <p> + “But can you—” She stopped. + </p> + <p> + “I can, and I will aid you,” said he, finishing her sentence. + </p> + <p> + “There is the name, then!” cried she, as, with a passionate gesture, she + drew a sealed letter from her bosom, and showed him the superscription. + </p> + <p> + D'Esmonde almost started; but, recovering himself in an instant, he said,—— + </p> + <p> + “The address is not correct, Lola. It should be thus—” And taking a + pen, he drew it across the last line on the cover, and wrote, instead, + “Dewanpore Barracks, Calcutta.” “We must talk together this evening,” said + he, restoring the letter, and, without more, withdrew. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0010" id="link2HCH0010"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER X. D'ESMONDE'S LETTER + </h2> + <p> + It will spare the reader a somewhat lengthy digression if we give him a + peep at an extract from a letter written at this period by the Abbé + D'Esmonde to a friend and fellow priest in Ireland. It was written on the + very evening whose events we have just mentioned, and when fresh from the + scenes of which he speaks. + </p> + <p> + The name or circumstances of the Abbe's confidant have no interest for us; + nor need we allude to him more particularly than by stating that he was + one who took a prominent part in his country's politics, and was a + well-known agitator, both in print and on the platform. The present moment + might not be inopportune to show the injustice of that sneer so often + passed upon men of this stamp, and which assumes that their whole lives + are spent in the agitation of small and irritating questions of mere local + interest,—the petty intrigues of a village or a hamlet,—and + without knowledge or interest for those greater themes which stir the + heart of all Europe. We must not, however, be led away from our purpose, + but, leaving these inferences to our reader's appreciation, keep to the + sober business of our task. + </p> + <p> + We have only to premise that D'Esmonde and his friend had been + schoolfellows and college companions, and that the revelations made were + in all the confidence of unbounded trust and security. Neither was the + hazard of a post-office incurred, for the document was forwarded, with + several letters from Rome, by a private hand,—a priest, who twice + each year performed the journey on a similar errand, and—shall we + startle our reader if we add, in a spirit apart from all the caprices of + fiction——still travels on the same mission. + </p> + <p> + After some apology for the time the epistle would be on the road, seeing + that it should first return to Rome ere it began its journey northward, + D'Ësmonde next alludes to some private and personal matters, and some + individuals of their acquaintance, and then proceeds:—— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “It is not without much inconvenience that I am here at this + moment, but my presence was necessary to neutralize the + influence of this troublesome old Countess, and who would + fain stop, if she could, all these liberal movements ere + they have developed their true meaning. You can have no idea + how difficult is this task, nor with what persistent folly + people go on repeating each other's 'platitudes' about + 'timely checks,' 'scotching the snake,' and so forth. It is + now upwards of half a century since Europe has seen a real + political convulsion. + + A new lesson is wanting. I often used to hope that you of + the West might be able to give it. I had great expectations + of Chartism at one time. It possessed the due elements of + mischief in abundance; it was infidel and hungry; but it + wanted the great requisites,—determination and courage. The + example must come from the Continent, and, in one respect, + it is so much the better. Your home disturbers would be + necessarily the enemies of the Anglican Church, whereas + <i>our</i> anarchists here are inseparably associated with + Protestantism. This <i>coup</i> required some cleverness, but we + at last accomplished it. Ronge's movement of secession gave + the first opportunity; the Swiss troubles offered the + second; a little more, and the <i>Bonnet rouge</i> will be the + symbol of the Protestant faith. Mark the advantage of this; + see the distrust with which every nation of the Continent + will regard England and her constitution mongering; look how + they will be induced to associate her printed cottons with + her Church, and connect the spread of her trade with the + treacherous dissemination of her doctrines. So far, so good. + And then, remember, that to all this anarchy and ruin the + Church of the true faith alone offers any effectual + opposition,—the 'Platoon' for the hour of conflict; but to + the priest must they come to consolidate the shattered + edifice,—to rebuild the tottering fabric of society. Men do + not see this yet; and there is but one way to teach it,—a + tremendous lesson of blood and anarchy. This is in store for + them, believe me. + + “My great difficulty is to persuade these people to + patience. They will not wait, as Napoleon did for the + Prussians, till they were <i>'en flagrant délit;</i>' and yet, if + they do not, the whole experiment goes for nothing. With all + their hordes of horse, foot, and dragoons, their grape and + canister, their grenades and rocket-batteries, they have not + the courage of a poor priest His Holiness is, however, + doing better. He has taken the whole <i>au sérieux</i>; he has + brought himself to believe that moderate reforms—what are + they?—will satisfy the wishes of demagogue ambition, and + that when he has lashed popular fury into full speed, he can + check it at will. Of course you guess what will follow, and + you already see what a busy time is before us. Oh, my dear + Michel, I can stop here, and, closing my eyes, revel in the + glorious future that must succeed! I see the struggle before + me; and know that some good men, mayhap some great ones, + will fall in it; but in the distance I see the dome of St. + Peter's rising majestically above the clouds of battle, and + the countless millions kneeling once more before its altars! + + “I do not clearly understand you about Ireland, although I + agree in the policy of putting the Protestant rebel in the + foreground. A conflict ever so brief with the Government + would be most useful. I have thought a good deal on the + subject, and am convinced that nothing would awe England + more than the impression of any foreign assistance being + given to Irish insurrection, while it would lend to <i>your</i> + loyalty the grand trait of nationality. This is a highly + important feature. Remark how they are taunting us with + being ultramontane just now, and think what an answer this + will be to the sarcasm! I am sure—that is, if you concurred + with me—I could easily persuade some young fellows in this + service to join the movement. As officers, and well + acquainted with military details, they would have a + formidable effect in English eyes. I have two or three in my + mind already; one, a brother of my young Princess, that fair + damsel of whom I spoke in my last letter as my destined + <i>chargé d'affaires</i> at St. Petersburg,—a very difficult + post to fill, and one for which I am by no means sure she + will be adequate. When I reflect on the difficulties + experienced by us in arriving at truth, we, who have the + hearts of men so open before us, I am astounded at any + success that attends a mere secular government. More than + two thirds of those with whom I live are, so to say, in my + power,—that is, their reputation and their fortunes; and + yet I must make them feel this ten times a day to turn them + to my account. Believe me the Holy Office was right: there + is an inseparable bond of union between truth and a thumb- + screw! + + “Tell me if you wish for military aid; substantially, I am + well aware, it would be worth nothing, but it might assist + in pushing your patriots, who, I must own, are a cautious + race, a step further. This Dalton boy is a thorough Austrian + up to this,—a regular 'God and the Emperor' soldier; but I + have thrown more stubborn metal into the crucible, and seen + it come out malleable. + + “You ask about the 'converts;' and I must own that their + defection is a greater slur on Protestantism than any matter + of glorification to us. They are unceasing in their + exactions, and all fancy that no price is too high for the + honor of their alliance; not a shovel-hat amongst them who + does not expect to be a 'monsignore' at least! + + “Some, however, like my friend Lady Hester, are wealthy, and + in this way reward the trouble they give us. On her security + I have obtained a loan, not of the sum you wished for, but + of a smaller amount, the particulars of which I enclose. I + know not if you will agree with me, but my opinion is, that + nothing should be expended on the Irish press. Its influence + is slight, and purely local; reserve all your seductions for + the heavier metal on the other side of the Channel, and who, + however ignorantly they talk, are always heard with respect + and attention. + + “I cannot go over as you propose, nor, if I could, should I + be of any use to you. You all understand your people, their + habits and modes of thought, far better than we do, who have + been fencing with cardinals, and sparring with the sacred + college, for the last ten or a dozen years. Above all + things, no precipitation; remember that your grand policy is + the maintenance of that feverish condition that paralyses + every effort of English policy. Parade all your grievances; + but rather to display the submission with which you bear + them than to pray for their relief. Be touchy only for + trifles; keep all your martyrdom for great occasions; never + forget that this time it is your loyalty! is to be rewarded. + Adieu, my dear Michel. Tell his Grace whatever you think fit + of these my opinions, and say, also, that he may rely on us + here for withdrawing or confirming, as he pleases, any + concessions he may deem proper to grant the English + Government. We know his difficulties, and will take care not + to augment them. As to the cardinal's hat, let him have no + doubts; only beg him to be circumspect, and that this is not + the time to assume it! If men would but see what a great + cause we have, and how it is to be won by waiting,—nothing + more, Michel,——nothing more, believe me, than mere + waiting! + + “All that you tell me, therefore, about titles and + dignities, and so forth, is premature. With patience you + will be enabled to assume all, from which a momentary + precipitation would infallibly see you repulsed. A few of + your leading men still cling to the ruinous notion of + elevating Ireland; for Heaven's sake cease not to combat + this. It is the Church—the Church alone—for which we + combat. Her difficulties are enough, without linking her + fortune to such a sinking destiny! you have many able men + amongst you, and they ought to see this proposition in its + true light. + + “You are right—though you only threw it out in jest—about + the interest I feel for my little Princess and her brother. + It was the charity of a relative of theirs—a certain Mr. + Godfrey—that first gave me the entrance into my career. + He sent me to Louvain as a boy, and thence to Salamanca, and + afterwards to Borne. He paid liberally for my education, and + I believe intended, had he lived, to have provided + handsomely for me. The story has an ugly ending; at least + the rumors are gloomy ones; and I would rather not revive + their memory. Here have I fallen into a sad track of + thought, dear Michel; and now it is past midnight, and all + is silent about me, and I feel half as if I ought to tell + you everything, and yet that everything resolves itself into + nothing; for of my actual knowledge, I possess not one + single fact + + “Can you conceive the position of a man with a great, a + glorious future before him,—rewards the very highest his + wildest ambition ever fancied,—a sphere to exercise powers + that he feels within, and but needing a field for their + display? Picture to yourself such a man, and then fancy him + tortured by one terrible suspicion, one damning doubt,—that + there is a flaw in his just title to all this; that some day + or other there may rise up against him—he knows not how or + whence or why—from the very earth as it were, a voice to + say, 'you are disowned, disgraced,—you are infamous before + men!' Such a terrible hell have I carried for years within + me! Yes, Michel, this ulcer is eating at my very heart, and + yet it is only like a vision of evil,—some mind-drawn + picture, carried up from infancy through boyhood, and + stealing on, year by year, into the prime of life, + strengthening its ties on me like a malady. + + “You will say this is a diseased imagination,—the fruits of + an overworked brain, or, not improbably, the result of an + overwrought vanity, that would seek consolation for failures + in the dim regions of superstition. It may be so; and yet I + have found this terror beset me more in the seasons of my + strength and activity than in those of sickness and + depression. Could I have given a shape and color to my + thoughts, I might have whispered them in the confessional, + and sought some remedy against their pain; but I could not. + They flash on my waking faculties like the memories of a + recent dream. I half doubt that they are not real, and look + around me for the evidences of some change in my condition. + I tremble at the first footstep that draws near my door, + lest the new-comer should bring the tidings of my downfall! + + “I was at Borne—a student of the Irish college—when this + cloud first broke over me. Some letter came from Ireland,— + some document containing a confession, I believe. I was + summoned before the superiors, and questioned as to my + family, of which I knew nothing; and as to my means, of + which I could tell as little. My attainments at the college + were inquired into, and a strict scrutiny aa to my conduct; + but though both were above reproach, not a word of + commendation escaped them; on the contrary, I overheard, + amid their whisperings, the terrible word 'degradato!' You + can fancy how my heart sank within me at a phrase so + significant of shame and debasement! + + “I was told the next morning that my patron was dead, and + that, having no longer the means to support the charges of a + student, I should become a 'laico;' in other words, a + species of servant in the college. These were dreadful + tidings; but they were short of what I feared. There was + nothing said of 'degradation.' I struggled, however, against + the hardship of the sentence,—I appealed to my proficiency + in study, the prizes I had won, the character I bore, and so + on; but although a few months more would have seen me + qualified for the priesthood, my prayer was rejected, and I + was made a 'laico.' Two months afterwards I was sent to the + convent of 'Espiazione,' at Ancona. Many of my early letters + have told you the sufferings of that life!—the awful + punishments of that gloomy prison, where all are + 'degradati,' and where none are to be found save men stained + with the foulest crimes. I was seventeen months there,——a + 'laico,'—a servant of the meanest class,—no consolation of + study, no momentary solace in tracing others' thoughts to + relieve the horrible solitude of my own. Labor—incessant + debasing labor—my lot from day till dawn. + + “I have no clew to the nature of my guilt I declare solemnly + before Heaven, as I write these lines, that I am not + conscious of a crime, save such as the confessional has + expiated; and yet the ritual of my daily life implied such. + The offices and litanies I had to repeat, the penances I + suffered, were those of the 'Espiazione!' I dare not trust + myself to recall this terrible period,——the only + rebellious sentiment my heart has ever known sprang from + that tortured existence. As an humble priest in the wildest + regions of Alpine snow, as a missionary among the most + barbarous tribes, I could have braved hardships, want, death + itself; but as the 'de-gradato,' dragging out life in + failing strength, with faculties each day weaker, watching + the ebb of intellect, and wondering how near I was to that + moping idiocy about me, and whether in that state suffering + and sorrow slept! Oh, Michel! my hands tremble, and the + tears blot the paper as I write. Can this ordeal ever work + for good? The mass sink into incurable insanity,—a few, + like myself, escape; and how do they come back into the + world? I speak not of other changes; but what hardness of + the heart is engendered by extreme suffering, what + indifference to the miseries of others I How compassionless + do we become to griefs that are nothing to those we have + ourselves endured! you know well that mine has not been a + life of indolence, that I have toiled hard and long in the + cause of our faith, and yet I have never been able to throw + off the dreary influence of that conventual existence. In + the excitement of political intrigue I remember it least; in + the whirlwind of passions by which men are moved, I can for + a time forget the cell, the penance, and the chain. I have + strong resentments, too, Michel. I would make them feel that + to him they sentenced once to 'degradation' must they now + come for advice and guidance,—that the poor 'laico' can now + sit at their councils and direct their acts. There is + something so glorious in the tyranny of Rome, so high above + the petty sovereignty of mere kings, soaring beyond the + bounds of realms and states, crossing Alps and oceans, + proclaiming its proud edicts in the great cities of Europe, + declaring its truths in the silent forests of the Far West, + stirring the heart of the monarch on his throne, thrilling + the rugged breast of the Indian in his wigwam, that even to + bear a banner in its ranks is a noble privilege. And now I + come back to these children, with whose fortunes I feel + myself—I know not how—bound up. They were related to this + Mr. Godfrey, and that, perchance, may be the secret link + which binds us. The girl might have won a grand destiny,— + she had beauty, grace, fascination, all that men prize in + these days of ours; but there was no high ambition,—nothing + beyond the thirst for personal admiration. I watched her + anxiously and long. There was a weak goodness about her + heart, too, that gave no promise of self-sacrifice. Such, + however, as she is, she is mine. As for the boy, I saw him + yesterday for the first time; but he cannot be a difficult + conquest. Again I hear you ask me, why can I turn from great + events and stirring themes to think of these? and again I + own that I cannot tell you. Power over every one, the + humblest as the highest, the weakest in purpose and the + strongest of heart,—power to send forth or to restrain, to + crush or to exalt,—this is the prize of those who, like you + and me, walk humbly, that we may reign proudly. + + “And now, dear Michel, good-bye. I have made you a + confession, and if I have told little, the fault is not + mine. You know all my sentiments on great events,—my hopes + and my anticipations. I must leave this to-morrow, or the + day after, for there is much to do beyond the Alps. If kings + and kaisers but knew as much as we poor priests, the coming + would scarce be a merry Christmas with them. + + “Yours, in all truth and brotherhood, + + “Mathew D'Esmonde. + + “Feast of St Pancratras, Hof Thor, Vienna.” + </pre> + <p> + It was already daybreak when D'Esmonde finished his letter; but, instead + of retiring to bed, he opened his window, and sat enjoying the fresh air + of the morning. Partly from habit, he opened his book of “offices;” but + his eyes wandered, even from the oft-repeated lines, to the scene before + him,——the spreading glacis,——where already the + troops were mustering for parade. “What a strange thing is courage!” + thought he. “I, who feel my spirit quail at the very rumbling sound of a + gun-carriage, haye a soul to see all Europe convulsed, and every nation in + arms, undismayed!” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0011" id="link2HCH0011"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XI. THE CADET VON DALTON + </h2> + <p> + As Madame de Heidendorf's mornings were always passed in receiving the + visits or answering the letters of her political acquaintances, Kate was + free to spend her hours with Frank, exchanging confidences, and talking of + that dear home from which they were more separated even by circumstance + than by space. + </p> + <p> + The cadet had obtained leave for the entire day,—an inconceivable + favor in his eyes,—and Kate was seated at her breakfast when he + appeared. When they met the day before, Frank's undivided attention had + been drawn to Kate herself,—the change in her whole air and manner, + that graceful dignity of mien which elevated his regard for her to a + species of worship. Now, however, he had time to be struck with the + accessories of her position,—the gorgeous chamber, the splendid + silver of the service, the rich liveries, everything which bespoke her + proud and affluent condition. + </p> + <p> + “I almost start back with shame, Kate,” said he, “if, in passing these + great mirrors, I catch a glimpse of my humble figure, so unsuited does it + seem to magnificence like this; nor can I help thinking that your + household agrees with me. With all their respectful courtesy, they must + wonder when they look on the brother of their Princess.” + </p> + <p> + “You know well, dearest Frank, that in your service the highest in the + land must pass the ordeal of cadetship.” + </p> + <p> + “Which means half an hour for an archduke, and a forenoon for a serene + highness. Even Walstein took but a week to spring from the ranks to a + lieutenancy; a month later saw him a rittmeister; and already he commands + a regiment.” + </p> + <p> + “What a young soldier to have caught up the complaining cant about slow + promotion!” said Kate, laughing. + </p> + <p> + “Ten months a cadet, and not even made corporal yet!” sighed Frank. “To be + sure, I might have been, had it not been for the 'stockhaus.'” + </p> + <p> + “And what may that be, dear Frank?” + </p> + <p> + “The prison; neither more nor less. When I came here, Kate, the nephew or + grand-nephew of the Feld-Marschall von Auersberg, I thought it became me + to assume something like style in my mode of life. My comrades told me as + much, too; and as I had no difficulty in obtaining credit, I ran in debt + everywhere. I lent to all who asked me, and gave away to many more. Every + one said the Feld would pay one day or other, and I never confessed how + poor we were at home. I know I was wrong there, dearest Kate; I feel that + acutely now; but somehow the deception I began with others gained even + more rapidly on myself. From continually talking of our Dalton blood, and + our high position in our own country, I grew to believe it all, and + fancied that some, at least, of these imaginings must be real. But, above + all, I cherished the hope that promotion would come at last, and that I + should live to be an honored soldier of the Kaiser. + </p> + <p> + “In the very midst of all this self-deception, the Feld returns to Vienna + from a tour of inspection, and, instead of sending to see me, orders my + Colonel to his presence. I know not, of course, what passed, but report + alleges that for an hour the old General harangued him in terms the most + bitter and insulting. Now, my dear sister, the wrath poured out upon a + commanding officer does not become diminished as it descends through the + successive grades of rank, and falls at last on the private. For <i>my</i> + misdemeanor the regiment was ordered away from Vienna, and sent to + Laybach, in the very depth of winter too. This could not help my + popularity much among my comrades; and as I was now as destitute of credit + as of means, you may fancy the alteration of my position,—the black + bread of the commissary instead of the refined cookery of the 'Schwan;' + the midnight patrol, in rain or snow-drift, in place of the Joyous carouse + of the supper-table; the rude tyranny of a vulgar sergeant, in lieu of the + friendly counsels of an equal; all that is menial and servile,—and + there is enough of both in the service,—heaped upon me day after + day; till, at last, my only hope was in the chance that I might ultimately + imbibe the rude feelings of the peasant-soldier, and drag out my existence + without a wish or a care for better. + </p> + <p> + “As if to make life less endurable to me, the officers were forbidden to + hold intercourse with me; even such of the cadets as were above the + humbler class were ordered not to associate with me; my turns of duty were + doubled; my punishments for each trifling offence increased; and there I + was, a soldier in dress, a convict in duty, left to think over all the + flattering illusions I had once conceived of the service, its chivalry, + and its fame. + </p> + <p> + “I wrote to Walstein, telling him that if I could not obtain my freedom + otherwise, I would desert. A copy of my letter, I know not how obtained, + was sent to my Colonel, and I was sentenced to a month's arrest, a week of + which I was to pass in irons. They now made me a rebel in earnest, and I + came out of the 'stockbaus' more insubordinate than I went in. It would + weary, and it would fret you, dearest sister, were I to tell all the petty + schemes I formed of resistance, and all the petty tyrannies they brought + down upon my head; the taunt of my 'gentle blood,' my 'noble origin,' my + 'high descent,' being added to every cruelty they practised, till I was + ready to curse the very name that associated me with this bitterness. They + told me that a second desertion was always punished with death, and that + even the attempt was accounted as the act. I resolved, then, to finish + with this dreary existence, and I wrote a farewell letter to poor Nelly, + telling her that, as I was certain of being taken, these were the last + lines I should ever write. In this I repeated all I have now told you, and + a vast deal more, of the hardships and indignities I had endured; and + this, like my former letter, was sent back to me. Then came three months + more of durance, after which I came out what they deemed a good soldier.” + </p> + <p> + “Subdued at last!” sighed Kate. + </p> + <p> + “Not a bit of it. Like a Banat charger I had a kick in me, after all their + teaching and training. I found out the lance-corporal of our company was + the man who had discovered my letters. I sent him a challenge, fought, and + wounded him. Here was another offence; and now the Minister of War was to + deal with me himself; and I half fancied they would be glad to get rid of + me. Far from it The 'stockhaus' again, and short fetters, my wrist to my + ankle, were the sovereign remedies for all misdeeds. In this plight I made + my entrance into Vienna.” + </p> + <p> + “Did you never think of Uncle Stephen all this while, Frank,——never + appeal to him?” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, Kate, and what was worse, <i>he</i> thought of <i>me</i>, for he had + my punishment-rolls brought to him; and although from some good-natured + interference they did not forward more than a fourth of my misdeeds, there + was enough to condemn me in his eyes, and he wrote, 'No favor to this + cadet,' on the back of my certificate.” + </p> + <p> + “Poor boy! so friendless and deserted.” + </p> + <p> + “Persecuted by creditors, too,” continued Frank, as, excited by the + recital of his sorrows, he paced the room in a transport of anger; + “fellows that never rested till they got me in their books, and now gave + me no peace for payment. Out of three kreutzers a day, Kate,—a penny + English,—I was to discharge all the debts of my extravagance, and + live in style! A Dalton, well born and nurtured, in a position of + ignominious poverty!” + </p> + <p> + “Not one to aid you?” + </p> + <p> + “Walstein was away in Bohemia with his regiment; and, perhaps, it were + better so, for I had told him such narratives of our family, such + high-flown stories of our princely possessions, that I could not have had + the courage to face him with an avowal of the opposite. At last I did make + a friend, Kate; at least one poor fellow took an interest in me, talked to + me of home, of you and Nelly; mostly of her, and of her curious carvings, + which he prized almost as much as little Hans used. He sat with me many an + hour under the trees of the Prater, or we strolled along in the shady + alleys of the 'Augarten;' and his companionship somehow always soothed and + comforted me, for he was so stored with book learning that he could ever + bring out something from Uhland or Richter or Wieland that suited the + moment, just as if the poet had one in his mind when he wrote it. How + often have I wished that I was like him, Kate, and had a mind like his, + teeming with its own resources against sorrow.” + </p> + <p> + “Tell me more of him, Frank dearest; I feel an interest in him already.” + </p> + <p> + “And yet you would scarcely have liked him, if you saw him,” said the boy, + with a bashful and hesitating manner. + </p> + <p> + “Why not, Frank? His appearance might have been little promising, his face + and figure commonplace—” + </p> + <p> + “No, no; not that,—not that Adolf was good-looking, with a fine, + clear brow, and a manly, honest face; nor was his manner vulgar,—at + least, for his station. He was a pedler.” + </p> + <p> + “A pedler, Frank,” cried Kate, growing scarlet as she spoke. + </p> + <p> + “Ay, I knew well how you would hear the word,” said the boy; “I often used + to fancy my high-bred sister's scorn if she could but have seen the + companion whose arm lay around my neck, and who spoke to me as 'thou.'” + </p> + <p> + Kate made no answer, but her cheek was crimson, and her lip trembled. + </p> + <p> + “You and Walstein were never out of my thoughts,” continued Frank; “for I + could fancy how each of you would look down upon him.” + </p> + <p> + “Not that, Frank,” said she, in confusion; “if he were indeed kind to you,—if + he were a true friend in that time of dreariness and gloom.” + </p> + <p> + “So was he,——with hand and heart and purse. And yet,—confound + that sense of pride, which poisons every generous movement of the heart + and will not let it throb in unison with one of humble fortune!—I + never could get the Dalton out of my head. There it was, with that + lumbering old fabric of an Irish house, our wasteful habits, and our idle + dependants, all going down to ruin together; and instead of despising + myself for this, I only was ashamed—at what, think you?—of my + friendship for a pedler! Many a holiday have I kept my barrack-room rather + than be seen with Adolf in the Volks Garten or the Graben. I liked to be + along with him in the solitude of the Prater, or in our country walks; but + when he asked me to accompany him to the <i>café</i> or the theatre, Kate, + to some ordinary in the Leopoldstadt, or some wine-cellar on the Danube, I + used to feign duty, or actually take a comrade's guard, to avoid it How + meanly you think of me for all this, Kate! I see, by the flush upon your + cheek, what shame the confession has given you.” + </p> + <p> + Kate's confusion grew almost intolerable; she twice tried to speak, but + the effort was above her strength, and Frank, who mistook her silence for + rebuke, at last went on,—— + </p> + <p> + “You may guess, Kate, from what I have now told you, how much soldiering + has realized all my early hopes and ambitions. I suppose times were + different long ago.” + </p> + <p> + “Of course they were, or Uncle Stephen would not now be a field-marshal.” + </p> + <p> + As if in echo to her words, at this moment a servant, throwing wide the + door, announced “The Feld” himself. Frank fell back as the old General + advanced into the room, bowing with a courtesy that would have done honor + to a courtier. He was dressed in the uniform of his rank, and wore all his + decorations,—a goodly mass, that covered one entire side of his + coat. + </p> + <p> + Approaching Kate with a manner of admirably blended affection and respect, + he kissed her hand, and then saluted her on either cheek. “Forgive me, my + dear niece,” said be, “if I have not been earlier to pay my respects, and + say welcome to Vienna; but my note will have told you that I was on duty + yesterday with the Emperor.” + </p> + <p> + Kate blushed and bowed, for unhappily she had not read the note through. + Frank's presence had made her forget all but himself. With all the + gallantry of his bygone school, the old Feld proceeded to compliment Kate + on her beauty and grace, expressing in proper phrase his pride at the + possession of such a relative. + </p> + <p> + “The Empress was the first to tell me of your arrival,” said he; “and + nothing could be more gracious than the terms in which she spoke of you.” + </p> + <p> + With a thrill of pleasure Kate heard these words, and greedily drank in + every syllable he uttered. Not alone her betrothal to the Prince, but all + the circumstances of her future destiny, seemed to be matters of deep + interest to the Court, and poor Kate listened with wonder to the Feld as + he recounted the various speculations her marriage had given rise to. She + little knew within what a narrow circle the sympathies of royalty are + forced to revolve, and how glad they are of anything to relieve the + tedious monotony of existence. One most important question had already + arisen, since the Empress had expressed a wish that the young Princess + should be presented to her; but Madame de Heidendorf refused her + permission, on the ground that she had not yet been presented at the Court + of the Czar. All the difficulties of the two cases, the arguments for + either course, the old General deployed with an earnestness that if it at + first amused, at last deeply interested Kate; the flattering sense of + self-importance giving a consequence to trifles which, if told of another, + she would have smiled at. + </p> + <p> + “I was desirous of gratifying the Empress before I saw you, my dear + niece,” said he, taking her hand; “but you may guess how much greater is + my anxiety now that I have learned to know you. It will be, indeed, a + proud day for the old Field-Marshal when he shall present one of his own + name and family, so gifted and so beautiful. A thorough Dalton!” added he, + gazing on her with rapture. + </p> + <p> + “How glad am I, sir, to see that all the distinctions your great career + has won have not effaced the memory of our old name and house.” + </p> + <p> + “I have but added to it another as noble as itself,” replied he, + haughtily. “Others have given their energies to degrade our ancient + lineage. It is to be your task and mine, Madame la Princesse, to replace + us in our rightful station.” + </p> + <p> + Kate instinctively sought out Frank with her eyes, but could barely catch + a glimpse of his figure within a recess of a window. More than once the + poor cadet had meditated an escape; but as the door was on the opposite + side of the room, he saw discovery would be inevitable. With a graceful + courtesy the old Feld asked after Father and Nelly, expressing his wish to + see and know them, in terms which plainly conveyed to Kate his utter + ignorance of their station and habits. + </p> + <p> + “As a younger son myself, without the ties of fortune, I may be permitted + to doubt how far the head of a distinguished house has a right, from any + considerations of personal gratification, to reside away from his country, + Madame. I must own that my nephew's conduct in this respect has not met my + approval. I have not felt free to tell him so, our intercourse being for + so many years interrupted; but you will say as much for me. Let him know + that the great names of a nation ought not to die out in people's + memories.” + </p> + <p> + “You are aware, sir,” said Kate, timidly, “that papa's means are not as + they once were; circumstances of economy first suggested his coming + abroad.” + </p> + <p> + “A reason that always has appeared to me insufficient,” said the other, + sternly. “He could have reduced his establishment at home—fewer + hunters—less splendid banquets.” + </p> + <p> + “Hunters and banquets!” sighed Kate; “how little he knows of us!” + </p> + <p> + “Here I see nothing but the best fruits of his system,” said he, kissing + her hand with gallantry; “no cost could be accounted too much that aided + the attainment of such perfection. I am too old a courtier not to + distinguish between mere native gracefulness and that more polished + elegance which comes of refined intercourse. My niece is worthy to be a + princess! But your brother—” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! what of dear Frank?” cried she, eagerly. + </p> + <p> + “Simply this, Madame: habits of wasteful expenditure have unsuited him to + the stern realities of a soldier's life. With his fortune and his tastes, + he should have sought service among those popinjays that English tailors + make lancers or hussars of. He might have won the laurels that are + gathered on Honnslow or St. James's Park; he might have been distinguished + in that barbaric warfare you call an Indian campaign; but here, in this + empire, where soldiering means discipline, self-denial, hardship, + endurance!—I was eight years a cadet, Madame, twelve a + sous-lieutenant. I saw the decoration I should have received given to + another. The Dienst Kreutz I had won was refused me, because I had not + served twenty years; and yet, by accepting these and hundreds like them as + the inevitable necessities of the service, I am what now you see me.” + </p> + <p> + “And if Frank will be but patient—” + </p> + <p> + “He may be a corporal within a year, Madame,” said the Feld, gravely, and + with the air of a man who had advanced a somewhat bold pledge. + </p> + <p> + “But he must be an officer within a week, sir,” said Kate, taking the + General's hand within her own. “I seldom ask favors, and as seldom are + they refused me. The chivalry of Austria will surely suffer no attaint + from one whose distinction it is to be <i>your</i> relative, and a Dalton. + Nay, dear uncle, this is the first, the very first request I have ever + made of you. It would not be meet for me to say, in <i>your</i> presence, + what a guerdon is his name for his good conduct.” + </p> + <p> + “You are too sanguine, Madame. You do not know this boy.” + </p> + <p> + “Every thought of his heart I know,—every hope that sustains him. He + himself has told me all his shortcomings.” + </p> + <p> + “His insubordination?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “Extravagance?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “His days of imprisonment?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “His arrests in irons?” + </p> + <p> + “All—everything; and what are they, save the boyish excesses of one + who, carried away by high spirits, and buoyed up by the flattering sense + of relationship to a great and distinguished name, has been led on to + follies by the mere native warmth of temperament? It is easy to see how + little he thought of himself, and how much of his uncle!” + </p> + <p> + The old General shook his head dubiously. + </p> + <p> + “There, dear uncle,” said she, pressing him into a seat before a table + with writing-materials, “take that pen and write.” + </p> + <p> + “Write what, dear child?” said he, with a softness very different from his + usual manner. + </p> + <p> + “I know nothing of the forms, nor the fitting phrases. All I want is that + Frank should have his sword-knot.” + </p> + <p> + “You have learned the proper word, I see,” said he, smiling, while he + balanced the pen doubtingly in his fingers “The Colonel of his regiment is + an imperial prince.” + </p> + <p> + “So much the better, uncle. A Hapsburg will know how to reward a Dalton.” + </p> + <p> + “So, then, we begin thus,” said the old General, whose half-suppressed + smile showed that he was merely jesting with her eagerness: “'Imperial + Highness,—the Cadet von Dalton, whose distinction it is to be the + grand-nephew of a very old soldier, and the brother of a very young + princess—'” + </p> + <p> + “Nay, surely, this will not do,” said Kate. + </p> + <p> + “'A very young princess,” resumed the Feld, as he continued to write, + “'who, confiding in her own captivations and your Highnesses gallantry—'” + </p> + <p> + “This is but jesting with me, uncle, and I am serious,” said she, + poutingly. + </p> + <p> + “And am not I serious, too, Madame?” cried he, laying down the pen. “If I + ask promotion for a boy whose whole career has been one infraction of + discipline, whose services are all inscribed in the Provost-Marshal's + return, is it not better that I should press his claims on the merits of + others than dwell upon his own misconduct? My dear child,” said he, + affectionately, “there are natures that cannot bear a too sudden + prosperity, as there are individuals who cannot endure too sudden changes + of climate. Our Dalton blood has a little of this same infirmity. Shall I + tell you how I won my first step in the service? I was at Hohenkirchen + when Morea began his celebrated retreat through the defiles of the + Schwartzwald. The company in which I served as a simple corporal occupied + a large farm-house, on an elevated plateau, above the road to Schweinfurt. + We could see for miles along the valley, and our position was taken up to + observe the movement of the enemy, and immediately report when his + advanced guard came in sight. Our orders also were to hold the place as + long as we were able, and delay as much as possible the enemy's advance; + in other words, if we could retard him by half a day, at the sacrifice of + our party, our duty would be well done. These unpleasant situations arise + now and then in war; but one comfort is, they seldom occur twice to the + same man!” + </p> + <p> + <a name="linkimage-0007" id="linkimage-0007"> + <!-- IMG --></a> <br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%;"> + <img src="images/00150.jpg" alt="00150" width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p> + “The captain who commanded us was an old officer, who had borne his slow + promotion with many a heart-burning, and now resolved, come what might, to + win his grade. + </p> + <p> + “Without waiting for the enemy, he took a patrol party, and set out to + meet them. We never saw them again! Our lieutenant, alike impatient, + determined on a <i>reconnaissance</i>, He had scarcely been gone half an + hour, when a quick rattling of fire-arms told us that he was engaged with + the enemy. One man alone returned to tell us that the rest had fallen, and + that the enemy was approaching in force. The command now devolved on me. I + had been four times passed over in promotion, distinct acts of service + left unnoticed, and my claims as much ignored as if I was the veriest + dolt. I will not pretend to say that I bore these disappointments without + pain; but they taught me one lesson at least, 'that duty is above all + consideration of self.' I well knew what was expected of us, and resolved, + if possible, to fulfil it. I prepared at once for a stout resistance,—a + hopeless, of course, but an obstinate one. Well, I will not imitate the + tardiness of the duty by a similar prolixity. We held the farm for two + hours, during which the roof was twice on fire from the enemy's shells; + and when, at length, they stormed the place, our defence was reduced to + eight men, commanded by a corporal with two shot-wounds in his chest. We + were made prisoners, and carried away to Strasburg, from whence I was + exchanged under a cartel, and came back to my regiment as a lieutenant. + Had I merely sought promotion, Madame, and followed the dictates of + ambition and not of duty, I had perhaps fallen like the others. It was in + the very forgetfulness of myself lay my prosperity and my reward.” + </p> + <p> + Kate's eyes sought out Frank, resolved on one effort more for her object, + but the boy was gone. He had contrived to slip away unseen during the + conversation, and was now waiting at the corner of the street, impatient + for the General's departure, to return to his sister. + </p> + <p> + “I am to have the honor of dining in your company to-day,” said the Feld, + rising to take leave. “Let me hope that my obduracy will not weaken your + regard for one so proud of being your uncle.” + </p> + <p> + “No, uncle,” said she, “and chiefly since I do not believe in the + obduracy, and have full faith in the affection.” + </p> + <p> + With every testimony of regard, they now took leave of each other, and the + General retired as Kate betook herself to her own room. + </p> + <p> + She had scarcely left the apartment when the Archduke entered it. Madame + de Heidendorf had told him that the Princess was there with her uncle, and + he came expressly to see her. “Gone again!” exclaimed he; “am I never to + see this mysterious beauty?” while he threw his eyes around the room. + “What's this addressed to myself here?” added he, as he caught sight of + the paper which the Feld had half written. “To his Imperial Highness the + Archduke Franz Albrecht, commanding the Eleventh Regiment of Infantry.” + Rapidly glancing over the few lines, he at once caught their meaning, and + detected the playful spirit in which they were conceived. “The fair + Princess must not be disappointed in her opinion,” said he, laughingly, as + he took up the pen and wrote: “Too happy to anticipate the unexpressed + wish, the Archduke appoints Cadet von Dalton to a lieutenancy in the + Hussars of the Wurtemberg Regiment,” and signing his well-known initials + at the foot, he sealed and addressed the paper to the Princesse de + Midchekoff. This done, he left the house, passing as he went a young + cadet, whose military salute he scarcely noticed, nor knew the anxious + heart for whose happiness he had just provided. + </p> + <p> + Young Frank stood respectfully at the salute as the Prince passed, and + then bounded away to rejoin his sister. The drawing-room, however, was + empty, and it was by mere chance that he saw the letter, on which the + address was scarcely dry. Taking this with him, he hastened to her room. + “A letter for you, Kate,” cried he, “and with a royal seal too!” + </p> + <p> + “Poor Frank!” said she, coming out to meet him. “That I should have such + tidings for you! The Feld is obdurate and unyielding. He fancies that + there is no road to honor save the old track he has trod himself.” + </p> + <p> + “I knew as much, Kate. Had I stayed longer in the room, I could not have + refrained from bursting out to say, 'Hold, sister dearest; not the best + grade in all the service is worth so much solicitation. I 'll carry the + musket while I must, and the day they make me an officer I 'll smash the + sword across my knee and leave them!'” + </p> + <p> + Kate broke the seal of the packet without answering this passionate + speech, and then, with a cry of joy, exclaimed, “Here it is, Frank! The + Prince himself has given you the rank, and in the hussars too!” + </p> + <p> + “Let me see it,” cried the boy,—“let me see it.” And tearing the + paper from her hand, he read it again and again. “I scarce know—I + can scarce believe this real; but a Prince's word—a royal promise, + Kate, is surely sacred.” + </p> + <p> + “Of that there can be no doubt, Frank.” + </p> + <p> + “And I am a hussar and an officer,” said he, with a burst of delight “I'd + not change with the kaiser this minute, Kate.” + </p> + <p> + “My dear, dear Frank!” said she, passing her arm around his neck. + </p> + <p> + “And to owe it all to you, my sweet Kate! If anything could enhance the + pleasure of this piece of fortune, it is this fact. And such a regiment, + Kate,—the Prince Paul's. The turappé all one mass of gold, and the + chako splendid, and their horses the true Hungarian breed,—the + native horse crossed with the Arab! I feel already as if I were in the + saddle, and careering wildly about. Oh, Kate, what glorious news!” + </p> + <p> + Again and again he embraced her in his ecstasy, and she, hiding her head + upon his shoulder, tried to suppress the burst of emotions which filled + her heart, for she thought at what a price she purchased the power she + wielded. + </p> + <p> + They sat long with hands close locked beside each other,—neither + speaking,——each travelling his own road of thought; and how + wide apart they lay! + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0012" id="link2HCH0012"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XII. VIENNA. + </h2> + <p> + We cannot afford to linger in Vienna, nor speak of the week—the most + brilliant of all her life—Kate passed there. It was the first burst + of that ambition which had so long taken possession of her, and she saw + herself, at length, in all the pride of her station, and her beauty the + object of a hundred flatteries. + </p> + <p> + Fêted at the Court, distinguished by the special attentions of the + Princes, most courteously received in all the society of the most + exclusive capital of Europe, the whirl of pleasure and excitement as + effectually precluded thought as it defied reflection. Hitherto she had + seen the world only as a dependant, or at least as something appertaining + to Lady Hester, in whose caprices she was bound to share, making partnery, + as it were, in all her likings and dislikings; but now she was become the + centre around which all these attentions revolved, and her own will was + the directing impulse of every action. + </p> + <p> + Of all the cities of the Continent, Vienna was most remarkable for almost + instinctively adopting the tone of its Court in respect to a distinguished + visitor. There was something like intuition in the way in which they + guessed the feeling of royalty, and as quickly made it their own. + </p> + <p> + The restricted limits of the first society, of course, made this + practicable, as well as the fact that all belonging to it were more or + less engaged in the service of the Emperor. Kate Dalton was now to enjoy + this flattery, and find herself, wherever she went, the special object of + attention. + </p> + <p> + At the Hof Theatre, where they played her favorite operas; at the great + reviews in the Prater, at the balls of the palace, or the <i>déjeûners</i> + of Schonbrunn, she seemed the occasion of the fête, and to do <i>her</i> + honor all appeared assembled. Carried away by the triumphant delight of + pleasure so associated with power, she either forgot at times the price at + which her greatness had been purchased, or was disposed to still the + beatings of her heart by the thought, “My destiny is chosen; it is too + late to look back.” To have grieved over her lot, besides, would have + seemed an utter selfishness, seeing that she was the means of dispensing + such happiness to all her family. Her poor father placed once more in + comfort; Nelly free to follow the dictates of her charming fancy, without + the alloying sense of toil; and dear Frank, in all the exuberant joy of + his promotion, eternally reminding her that she was his patroness. The + quick clatter of his charger's hoofs in the courtyard, the clank of his + sabre as he ran up the stairs, were but the glad prelude to his daily + outpouring of gratitude. Ay, “to be sorry now, would be but selfish.” + </p> + <p> + Such was the philosophy in which she wrapped herself; and day after day + the feeling gained strength within her. It was true there were moments + when all the sophistry gave way, and her affections flowed full and strong + in the deep channels of her heart. Then, indeed, she saw the emptiness of + all this gorgeous parade,—how little it gave of real happiness,—how + seldom it ever called forth one generous feeling, or one high desire, and + she wished the fates had dealt otherwise with her. At times she almost + longed for the humble home, in all its poverty, with nothing but Nelly's + bright smile and gentle voice to cheer its solitude! It may have been this + conflict——for conflict it was—that gave to her demeanor + a certain calm dignity, which, in the critical estimation of society, + elevated her high above any charge of frivolity or capriciousness. She was + a thought graver, perhaps, than her years; but the feeling imparted an + indescribable grace to one whose beauty was the very type of brilliancy. + After all, these were but passing clouds; nor did she ever suffer herself + to recur to the past, save when wayward memories would obtrude uncalled + for. + </p> + <p> + At last a letter came from Lady Hester; and although not a long one, it + called up thoughts that all her endeavors could not efface from + recollection. There were, once again, all the old familiar names with + which she used to be so conversant. + </p> + <p> + Lady Hester, however, was much changed: all the capricious irritability of + the fine lady had given place to a kind of importunate piety. She had + grown “devote,” and her life a string of religious observances. After + dwelling complacently on the self-imposed round of her mortifications and + penances, she went on:—— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “D'Esmonde has just returned, and delights me by saying that + you are quite free from any contagion as to the errors of + the Greek Church. Of course, outwardly, you must conform; + even if Midchekoff did not insist, his countrymen would; but + he says that St. Ursula is the sure resource in such cases, + and mentions the instance of a nun who took lessons in + Spanish from the Devil, and, by the aid of the blessed + Ursula, was nothing the worse. + + “I told Jekyl, who left this on Friday, to send me an image + of St. Ursula, that I might forward it to you; but the + careless wretch has sent me a statuette of Fanny Elssler by + mistake. He discovered his error, however, and has written + me a most humble letter, mentioning, by the way, that he was + doing a 'Novena' for penance, and danced the polka all the + preceding night with a sharp peg in the sole of his foot. + With all his oddity, there is a great deal to like in him. + + “I have only once heard from the Onslows; their conduct has + been too shocking; they are not ruined at all, but got up + the story, I verily believe, just to destroy my nerves. Sir + S. is living in Ireland, at that place with the horrid name + your father used to talk of, with Sydney; and George has + gone to India, a major, I think, in some cavalry regiment. + At Grounsell's kind suggestion, I have been cut off with a + miserable allowance of fifteen hundred a year; but even with + this I am content. St. Brigitta, of Cleves, lived on hard + peas, and never wore anything but an old sack for the last + seventeen years of her life; and Célestine has got a + charming pattern of a capote, <i>à la</i> Cistercine, which, when + made of white cashmere, will be perfectly simple and very + becoming. I wear my hair now always in bands, and very low + on the face. D'Esmonde says I 'm the image of the Madonna of + Domenichino, which you may remember, I always preferred to + Raphael's. + + “Cardinal Bruschetti has been spending a few days here, and + I cannot tell you the charm I have felt in his society, + contrasted with the frivolous dissipation I have been used + to. He is so suave, and so gentle, so persuasive, without + importunity, and so conciliating withal. Not the least + austerity about him; but at times actually gay! He quite + approves of my having kept Fripponi as my cook. 'A change of + cuisine,' said he, 'involves a change of digestion, a change + of temperament, and a moral change;' alterations far too + important to be incurred at once. This is so far pleasant as + certainly the man is an admirable artist. His Eminence said + yesterday that the salmi of ortolans was a dish fit for the + Pope. We drive out, or row, every day, on the lake, and I + shall be quite lonely when he leaves this. I am curious to + know if you remember a bust of him in the Vatican. He was, + and indeed is, a remarkably handsome man; and his leg has + been modelled I can't say how often. He asks me to whom I am + writing, and begs you will remember him in your prayers, how + touchingly simple, is it not? + + “I ventured last night on a bit of importunity, and asked + his Eminence a favor. That poor dear Jekyl, you know, is + miserably off. His family, all so wealthy, he says, only + allow him a few hundreds a year; and with his generous + habits and wastefulness this must be actual want. Well, I + asked the Cardinal if there might not be some way of sending + him out as a missionary—like St. Vincent de Paul. I 'm + certain he 'd not like the dress nor the bare feet, but he + 'd be so happy with those charming Tonga islanders, who, + such is their zeal, that they actually give four and five + scalps for a wax image of the Virgin. His Eminence hinted + that there might be difficulties, and he'd think of it I + + “Your Prince passed through here on Tuesday, on his way to + Naples; he wants to see 'La Giovina' dance in that new + ballet of 'Paradiso.' They say she is perfectly lovely. The + Prince asked after you, and said something about its not + being etiquette for him to write to you, or that you should + write first, or, I really forget what; you know the slurring + way he has of talking, and how he walks away before he has + finished. He's worse than ever, I think, or probably it is + <i>I</i> that have less patience with him now since you are gone! + + “Jekyl told me—in strict confidence, remember—that M. did + not stand well with his Court, and that there would be + nothing wonderful in the Czar's refusing his leave for the + marriage. What you ought to do in that case I cannot + conceive; a convent, I suppose, would be the only thing. + After all, it might probably have been as well if you had + taken poor George. The estate is still a good one, and he + has some amiable points in his character, and he certainly + loved you. I never told you the thousand confessions he made + me, nor his entreaties for my intercession, but there is no + harm now in letting you hear them. It is, however, + impossible to say with whom one could live happily! + George begged of me to send him every letter you wrote to + me, and of course you can use the knowledge of the fact at + your discretion. + + “Now, for two little commissions, my dear Kate, and I have + done. I want you to get me a case of Tokay from the Teleki + estate—mind, not Pain's, which, his Eminence says, wants + the oily flavor. Some of the archdukes will manage this for + you. I 'm certain your long eyelashes have got further than + this already. The second is to send me a haunch of Bohemian + venison,—Schwartenschild's, if possible. The Cardinal says + that fat is become as scarce as true piety, and that a well- + fed buck is as rare as a good Christian! + + “Are they wearing their corsages pointed at the back?——not + that I care, dearest, for I am above such vanities, but + Célestine wishes to know. When you receive the St. Ursula, + keep her in your own room, and with her face to the west; + and so good-by, and, with many prayers, believe me, + + “Affectionately yours, + + “THEODOSIA, + + “Late Hester Onslow. + + “Could you, by any chance, send me a good miniature of + yourself?——perhaps you guess for what purpose. + Haselquist's oil picture is too large for what I want; and, + besides, is really not like you. Even with all its + imperfections his Eminence sits looking at it for hours of + an evening, and says he can scarcely fancy anything + lovelier. I do not ask after Madame de H., for I hate the + woman. His Eminence has told me such things of her! But of + course you can only make the best of it for the present, and + get on as well as you can. + + “D'Esmonde tells me that Frank is a fine boy, and very good- + looking, but fearfully dissipated, but I suppose the service + is like the Life Guards with us—and what can one expect? <i>À + propos</i> to this, Norwood has written to me twice some + inexplicable nonsense about you, which I have not replied + to. What does he mean by 'treating a flirt like a flounce' + Jekyl says that the police have stopped his passport, or he + should have been after you to Vienna. This is quite + unintelligible to me, and I don't know why I repeat it.” + </pre> + <p> + Never did a frivolous letter give more serious thought, nor bring gloomier + reflections, than did this epistle to Kate Dalton. Her mind dwelt far less + on the paragraph which concerned her own future than on that which spoke + of George,—his devoted affection and his enduring sorrow! And so it + was true that he loved her! He had even confided the avowal to another, + and asked for aid and counsel. Why had he then concealed it from herself? + Was the fault hers? Had her own conduct been the reason? Had her + encouragement of any other estranged him, or was the teaching of the + society in which she moved the reason? Poor fellow! how unfairly had she + treated him,——even to that very last incident of their last + meeting!—and now they were to meet no more! No, death itself could + not more effectually separate them than did space and destiny. Even this + she felt to be better, far better, than the chances of renewed intimacy in + the world. Lady Hester had not told her why she had never divulged her + secret; still less to what end she revealed it now, when the knowledge + must be only misery. The mention of Norwood, and the vague half-threat + connected with his name, gave her but little uneasiness, since her mind + had but space for one absorbing thought,—George loved her! There was + the sum of every reflection; and all the world around her, in its splendor + or its brilliancy, the tortuous paths of political intrigue, the quiet + byways of home-affection, the present and the future, were all as nothing + when weighed against this one thought. + </p> + <p> + If her first impression had been to blame Lady Hester for revealing the + secret, her second was to thank her with her whole heart. She remembered + D'Esmonde, too, and the reasonings by which he accompanied the delivery of + the letter; and she felt that this consciousness was a blessing of which + no vicissitude could rob her,—that come what might of disappointment + or sorrow in life, here, at least, in her heart of hearts, was one hoarded + treasure to compensate for all. If there were but one to whom she could + confide her secret, with whom she could talk over her sorrow, she thought + that she would be contented. To Nelly she dared not; to Frank she could + not speak of it; what, then, of Nina? Alas! it was no longer a secret to + <i>her!</i> Nina had seen the picture, and although nothing in her manner + betrayed the slightest consciousness, Kate knew her too well not to feel + herself in her power. + </p> + <p> + Nina's demeanor, however, exhibited nothing of insolent triumph; on the + contrary, her manner was gentle, even to submissiveness, and something + almost affectionate seemed to mingle with the feeling in which she + fulfilled her duties. Kate remarked this, and only needed the courage to + take advantage of it At first the very idea of Nina's consciousness was + torture; but day by day this terror grew weaker, till at last she actually + wished that the moment of explanation was over, and that she could pour + out all her griefs before her. “She may have loved unhappily, herself; and + if so, will pity me. In any case, a frank avowal on my part will show that + I knew nothing of his heart, and but little of my own, till 'too late.' We + are never to meet again,” and so-and-so; in fact, with many a casuistry, + she satisfied herself that mere memory could never be a sin,—that + there could be nothing very wrong in looking back as often as the future + seemed lowering and gloomy. It is hard to say if there might not have been + some leaven of “pique” in these reasonings. The Prince, according to Lady + Hester, if he had not entirely forgotten, was already indifferent about + her. Some uncertainty of ceremonial prevented his writing or hearing from + her; and at this very moment he was following out the ordinary life of + dissipation which he led before. Why care for him,——why even + endeavor to nourish an affection that must be blighted in the end? + Besides, her marriage was never one of inclination; Lady Hester had been + most frank in explaining the Prince's appreciation of it As to her own + reasons for the step, she knew them too well. + </p> + <p> + All that Kate had seen of life in her Florence experiences told her that + such cases were the ordinary events of the world. Few were happily + married,—disparity of age, inequality of condition, incompatible + tempers, and a hundred other causes were ever at work. Lady Hester used to + tell her that nobody was ever satisfied with their “married lot: the good + and right-minded only pined under it; the less scrupulous proclaimed their + dissatisfaction to the world, and asked for sympathy.” These were the two + categories that comprehended all her theory. Now Kate was quite resolved + to be one of the former class; but she saw no reason why she ought not to + have one “confidante” of her cares. + </p> + <p> + With all the force of these persuasions she could not get over the + awkwardness of the confession, and would have given worlds that Nina + herself would take the first step. That simple-minded creature, however, + appeared dead to every hint or suggestion,—she could never see the + drift of any remark, save in its most obvious sense, and actually pushed + Kate's temper to the last entrenchment of patience by pure stupidity. “Is + it possible—can it be that I am deceived—that she has not + recognized the miniature?” thought Kate. “Is my secret still in my own + keeping?” + </p> + <p> + As this thought struck her, everything appeared to confirm it,—the + girl's manner, devoid of every trait of imperiousness, and actually humble + to servility. “Oh, if I could but be sure of this,—if I could know + that I could bury both my shame and my sorrow together!” In this + vacillating state of suspense—one day all hope and confidence, the + next, terror and dread—she lived on, till the period drew nigh for + their departure from Vienna. + </p> + <p> + Madame de Heidendorf had delayed beyond her intention, in the hope of + receiving some French news; and Kate eagerly watched the post for some + tidings from home,—for home it still was, in every feeling of her + heart + </p> + <p> + “No letters again, Nina?” said she, despondingly, as the maid entered the + room. + </p> + <p> + “None, Madame.” + </p> + <p> + “Have your friends forgotten you, Nina, as well as mine appear to have + done?” + </p> + <p> + “Nina has but few friends, Madame; and still fewer would think of writing + to her!” + </p> + <p> + “Poor Nina!” said Kate, affectionately; and the blood rushed to the girl's + face at the words, and her eyes flashed with an expression of sudden + passion. + </p> + <p> + “No pity, Madame,——no pity!” cried she, with a voice full of + emotion, “or I may forget myself,—forget myself and you also!” And + with these words she hurried from the room, without waiting for more. Kate + sat shocked and abashed by the girl's violence, and yet neither daring to + reprove her nor even remonstrate with her. What abject slavery was this to + feel! How mean did she seem to her own heart! What rottenness was within + that gilded splendor by which she was surrounded! Where was the ambitious + envy with which she once looked up to the rich and powerful now? Where + that intense desire to be among the great and the titled? and with whom + would she not have changed conditions, even to Nina herself? + </p> + <p> + It is not weak of heart and low of courage that one should face the great + journey of life. Its trials and crosses, even to the most fortunate, + demand all that we can summon of hope and of energy. And yet so was it + that she was about to begin the road—the long and dreary road—before + her! As she sat thus musing, a great noise was heard from the street + without. She arose and opened the window. The whole Platz was crammed with + people, eagerly talking and gesticulating. A surging, waving motion, too, + seemed to sway them, and at length she could detect that they were slowly + proceeding onward towards the gate of the city. The deep roll of a drum + then turned her attention, and, in the far distance, she saw the glancing + bayonets of an infantry column as they advanced. + </p> + <p> + Military spectacles are of too frequent recurrence in Vienna to create + much surprise or excitement; and yet, evidently, from the looks and + gestures of the people, they were both present here. The band of a + regiment struck up the national hymn of Austria; and as the proud notes + swelled into the air, a dark body of Tyrolese Jâgers poured into the + Platz. Still there was no enthusiasm of the people. They listened to the + loyal sounds in cold apathy. To the Tyrolese succeeded a Grenadier + battalion, after which came a long dense column of infantry of the line, + their knapsacks on their backs, and their bread rations strapped above + them. Behind these was the artillery, the long-tailed black horses giving + a solemn look to the procession, as its clanking sounds fell mournfully on + the ear. From the wide Platz they now moved on, and passing out of the + Körtner gate, defiled into the “Glacis.” But a moment before and that + immense space was empty; and now, from every avenue of the city, troops + came pouring in like rivers to the sea. The black-plumed hunters from + Tyrol, the gigantic Croat Grenadiers, the swarthy Bohemian Cuirassiers, + and the white-cloaked dragoons of Austria,—all were seen advancing + and forming as if in battle array. While Kate's eye ranged eagerly over + the field in search of the blue uniform of the Hungarians, Madame de + Heidendorf entered the room with an open letter in her hand. + </p> + <p> + “What can this mean?” asked Kate, anxiously. “It is surely not a mere + review?” + </p> + <p> + “Far from it, Madame,” said the Countess, imposingly. “The great drama is + about to begin. News has come that Italy is in open revolt, and fresh + troops are to be despatched thither with all speed. Twelve thousand are to + march today, eight more to-morrow.” + </p> + <p> + “And Frank—” + </p> + <p> + She stopped, abashed by the disdainful expression of Madame de Heidendorf + s face. + </p> + <p> + “Your brother's regiment, Madame, will form part of the force, and he + will, of course, contribute the importance of his presence. How happily + constituted must be the mind that can turn from the grand theme of a whole + nation's destiny to the petty fortunes of a corporal or a + sous-lieutenant!” + </p> + <p> + “And yet so it is,” replied Kate, boldly; “dear Frank is nearer to my + heart than all that I see yonder. Oh, yes, Madame,” cried she, replying to + the glance of scorn the Countess bestowed, “it is quite true. Mine is an + ignoble spirit. My affections are linked with lowly objects; would that my + ambitions had never risen above them!” + </p> + <p> + What reply Madame de Heidendorf might have given to this speech, so much + more daring than she had uttered before, there is no knowing, when Frank + burst into the room, and clasped his sister in his arms. + </p> + <p> + “I have but a moment, Kate, and we are off—off to Italy;” and then, + seeing the Countess, the boy bowed courteously, and apologized for his + abrupt entrance. “Count Stephen has got the command, and placed me on his + staff.” + </p> + <p> + “I hope you may merit this proof of his confidence, sir,” said Madame de + Heidendorf, haughtily. + </p> + <p> + “Frank will be a brave soldier, Madame,” broke in Kate. “He is a Dalton.” + </p> + <p> + “He must be true as well as brave. Fidelity is needed now as much as + valor.” + </p> + <p> + “And who will dare to question mine?” cried Frank; and then, as if + impatient that he should have been led away from a dearer theme, he placed + his arm within Kate's, and drew her towards the window. “I had so much to + say to you, my dearest sister. I have been thinking of nothing but you—and—and—what + you told me. I would break off this match——it is not too late—you + are only betrothed.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, no, no, Frank; do not give me such counsels. I am pledged in word and + bound in honor. I have taken a solemn vow.” + </p> + <p> + “But you have been deceived,—I know you have; enough that I see such + a woman as that your companion. I tell you again, you must break it off.” + </p> + <p> + “I cannot,—I cannot!” + </p> + <p> + “Then, by Heaven! I will do it myself. It surely is not for all the + glitter of this state and pomp that you would sell your affections? These + gauds have not corrupted you already? No, no, I read you better than that + Listen to my plan, then,—do not leave this till you hear from me. If + this lady—I do not know her name—insists on your departure, be + as peremptory, and say that you wish to see your family first. You are not + a slave, and cannot be coerced.” + </p> + <p> + “I will hear no more of this, Frank; the very thought is maddening. No, + no, Frank; if you would be my friend, teach me how to fulfil my duty, my + sworn, pledged allegiance; do not seek to shake my faith, nor make me less + resolute in honor.” + </p> + <p> + “It is, then, as I feared,” cried he, passionately; “these cursed bribes + <i>have</i> bought you. Oh, it is not thus Nelly would have been won!” + </p> + <p> + “I know it,—I know it well!” cried she, bursting into tears; “but I + never was like <i>her</i>.” + </p> + <p> + “But you were, and you are, dearest,” said he, kissing her forehead, “our + own sweet Kate, that we were all so proud of. Oh, forgive me if I said + what could hurt you, for I would pour out my heart's blood to serve or to + save you.” + </p> + <p> + There was a mournful emphasis on the last two words, which bespoke their + deep meaning; and now, locked in each other's arms, they wept bitterly. + </p> + <p> + “As the Field-Marshal von Auersberg has just ridden into the palace, his + aide-de-camp ought probably to dry his tears and receive him,” said Madame + de Heidendorf, as she sailed proudly out of the room. + </p> + <p> + “You heard that, Kate?——you heard what she said <i>to me?</i> + Think, then, what kindness and sympathy she will feel for <i>you!</i>” + said the boy, as he dashed his hand indignantly against his forehead. “Was + I not right about these Russians?” + </p> + <p> + “Come, Frank, let us go to Uncle Stephen,” said Kate, trying to smile and + seem at ease; and hand-in-hand they descended the stairs together. + </p> + <p> + The drawing-room into which they now entered was filled with officers of + different arms of the service, among whom Count Dalton stood conspicuous, + both from his size and the soldierlike character of a figure that not even + old age seemed able to impair. + </p> + <p> + “How provoking, my sweet niece,” said he, taking Kate's hand between both + his, “now to part, just as I was learning the happiness of knowing you. + Here are all these gentlemen grumbling and complaining about leaving their + homes and families, and yet I 'll wager there is not one amongst them + carries away a heavier heart than I do. Come into this room, my dear; let + us have five minutes together.” And Kate took his arm, while he led her + forward. Madame de Heidendorf, meanwhile, seated herself on a sofa, and + summoned the most distinguished officers of the party to inform her as to + all that was going forward. + </p> + <p> + It was one of her favorite affectations to be deeply versed in military + tactics; not that she acknowledged herself deficient in any art or + science, but soldiering was her strong point. She therefore questioned and + cross-questioned these unhappy gentlemen at great length. + </p> + <p> + “You have no mortars? Do I hear you aright. Colonel Rabowsky? No mortars?” + </p> + <p> + “None, Madame.” + </p> + <p> + “And how, may I ask, do you mean to reduce Milan to ashes?” + </p> + <p> + This was a very puzzling question; and she repeated it in a still more + commanding tone. + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps that may not be deemed desirable, Madame,” modestly insinuated + another officer. + </p> + <p> + “Not desirable, sir? you said not desirable. Why, really I shall begin to + fancy I ought to go to school again in military matters. Are you aware, + sir, it's the very centre of these wretches; that it is fed from + Switzerland and Piedmont with all that is infamous in political doctrine? + Milan must be bombarded, sir!” + </p> + <p> + <a name="linkimage-0008" id="linkimage-0008"> + <!-- IMG --></a> <br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%;"> + <img src="images/00166.jpg" alt="00166" width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p> + The Colonel bowed courteously to an opinion expressed with so much + authority. + </p> + <p> + “You 'll find, at least, that the Field-Marshal will be of my opinion,” + continued she. “As a military position, it is worth nothing.” + </p> + <p> + “But as a capital city, Madame?” mildly interposed the Colonel. + </p> + <p> + “The old story,” said she, contemptuously. “Women and children!” + </p> + <p> + “Most legitimate objects of protection, I trust, Madame.” + </p> + <p> + But she turned contemptuously away, as if controversy with such an + adversary was beneath her. + </p> + <p> + “We have three rocket-batteries, Madame,” interposed a staff officer, + desirous of offering himself to her notice. + </p> + <p> + “I hope you will use them with effect, sir. I envy you the pleasure of + seeing them plunging amidst that vile mob it is the fashion to call the + people nowadays.” + </p> + <p> + “I hope we shall do our duty, Madame,” said an old, stern-looking major, + who felt little flattered at this interference. + </p> + <p> + “I should like to see more chivalry,——more ardent devotion in + the defenders of a monarchy,” said the Countess. “I can understand + coldness in the lower classes, but that the well-born and the noble should + be apathetic and slow to move is beyond my comprehension.” + </p> + <p> + “Bey'm Blitzen,” retorted the Major, “that is not bad I Here we are going + to shed our blood for the Kaiser, and we are told that it is not enough, + without we are born counts and barons.” + </p> + <p> + “What is it, Heckenstein?” said Count Dalton, as he entered the room and + laid his hand familiarly on the other's shoulder. “I have seldom seen you + look so angry.” + </p> + <p> + But the old soldier turned away without a reply. + </p> + <p> + “Madame de Heidendorf,” said the old General, “I know not what you have + said to offend an old and tried servant of the Emperor,—a soldier of + Wagram and Auster-litz,—a faithful follower, when the fortunes of + this great Empire were at the lowest But, believe me, these are not times + to flout loyalty and despise fidelity.” + </p> + <p> + “The times are worse than I thought them,” said the Countess, “when these + principles have infected such men as Count Dalton. I had certainly hoped + that his young relative would have received a very different lesson at his + outset in life, nor can I wonder if such teachings end in evil. Here is + the Archduke. How I wish his Highness had come a little earlier!” + </p> + <p> + As she spoke, the Prince entered, with all the careless ease of his + ordinary manner. It was impossible to detect from his countenance whether + he regarded the event as a serious one, or simply one of those popular + commotions which are ever occurring in a large empire. + </p> + <p> + “I know you are discussing politics, or something akin to them,” said he, + laughingly. “Madame de Heidendorf has her 'cabinet countenance' on, and + Auersberg is looking as fierce as a field-marshal ought to do when + contradicted. Come, General, present me to the Princess. It is an honor I + have been long desiring. How tired you must be of all this, Madame!” said + he to Kate. “Such wise people as will not talk gossip,—such + high-minded souls as never will condescend to say a good thing, or hear + one, are insupportable.” And, seating himself beside her, he rattled on + about Vienna, its society, and its pleasures, with all the ease and + flippancy of a young fashionable of the day, while, in an attitude of deep + respect, not unmixed with a dash of impatience, stood the old Count before + him. + </p> + <p> + “What does Auersberg want to tell us?” said the Prince, at last, looking + up at the old General's face. + </p> + <p> + “To say adieu, your Royal Highness.” + </p> + <p> + “You don't go with the troops, surely?” said the Duke, laughing. + </p> + <p> + “At the head of my own regiment, your Royal Highness.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah, by the bye, the Auersbergs are in your brigade. Very proper that. And + is this my <i>protégé?</i>” said he, taking Frank's arm, and drawing him + forward. “There's your best example, sir. Be only as good a soldier, and + the name of Dalton will be a title of nobility amongst us. Good-bye, + Lieutenant General, farewell. Give that <i>canaille</i> a lesson quickly, + and come back to us as soon as you can.” + </p> + <p> + Kate rose and followed Frank out of the room. For a few seconds they were + closely locked in each other's arms, without speaking. “Oh, Frank dearest! + when are we to meet again,—and how?” cried she, passionately. + </p> + <p> + “In pride and happiness, too, Kate,” said the boy, joyfully. “I have no + fears for the future. But what is this, sister dearest,—gold?” + </p> + <p> + “Do not refuse me, Frank. It is the only happiness left me.” + </p> + <p> + “But this is the Russian's, Kate.” + </p> + <p> + “No, believe me, it is not Count Stephen has made me his heir; he has + given me all his fortune. Even good luck can come too late!” said she, + with a sigh. + </p> + <p> + “Do not leave this till I write to you, Kate. I will do so very soon,—that + is, if I can; but these are anxious times. You know, Kate,”—here the + boy whispered, in a voice low and tremulous from agitation,—“You + know, Kate, that I only left the ranks a couple of days ago. I can tell + then, better than all these great folk, what soldiers think and say; they + are not as they used to be. Lead them against the Frenchman, and they will + fight as they have ever fought; but if it be to fire on their own + townsfolk,—to charge through streets where they lounged along, + hand-in-hand with the people, like brothers,—they will not do it.” + </p> + <p> + “This is very alarming, Frank. Have you told the Count?” + </p> + <p> + “No; nor would I for worlds. What! betray my comrades, and be called on + before a court-martial to say who said this, and what man said t' other?” + </p> + <p> + “But could you not, at least, give him some warning?” + </p> + <p> + “And be ordered from his presence for the presumption, or told that I was + a rebel at heart, or such tidings had never been uttered by me. The old + Feld would as soon believe that this earth was cut adrift to wander at + hazard through all space, as that treason should lurk behind an Austrian + uniform. It would be an evil hour for him who should dare to tell him so.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, Frank, how terrible is all this!” + </p> + <p> + “And yet do I not despair; nay, Kate, but I am even more hopeful for it; + and, as Walstein says, if the Empire halt so long behind the rest of + Europe, she must one day or other take a race to come up with it.” + </p> + <p> + “And is Walstein a——a——” She stopped. + </p> + <p> + “No; he's very far from a Democrat or a Republican. He 's too well born + and too rich and too good-looking to be anything but a Monarchist. Oh, if + you but saw him! But, hark! there are the trumpets! Here come the + 'Wurtem-burgs;' and there's my charger, Kate. Is he not splendid? A Banat + horse, all bone and sinew.” + </p> + <p> + “How I should like to have been a man and a soldier!” said she, blushing + deeply. + </p> + <p> + “There, that's Walstein,——that's he with the scarlet dolman!” + cried Frank. “But he 's coming over,——he sees us. No, he's + passing on. Did you see him, Kate?—did you remark him?” + </p> + <p> + “No, Frank dearest; I see nothing but you, my own fond brother.” And she + fell upon his neck, weeping. + </p> + <p> + “Herr Lieutenant!” said a hussar, with his hand to his cap. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I 'm ready,—I 'm coming,” cried Frank. And with one long, last + embrace he tore himself away, springing down the stairs in mad haste. + </p> + <p> + “Madame de Heidendorf is good enough to say she will come and see the + troops defile from the Glacis,” said the Archduke to Kate, as, still + overwhelmed with sorrow, she stood where Frank had left her. “Perhaps you + would do us the honor to come also?” + </p> + <p> + Kate accepted the invitation at once, and hurried to her room for a + bonnet. + </p> + <p> + “Not that one, Madame la Princesse,” said Nina, eagerly; “the yellow with + black lace, rather. The national colors will be a flattery to his Royal + Highness.” + </p> + <p> + “What a coquette you are, Nina!” + </p> + <p> + “And how irresistible would Madame be were she to condescend to be even a + little of one!” said Nina, smiling. + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps I may yet,” said Kate, half sighing as she spoke; and Nina's dark + eyes sparkled as she heard her. “But what do you mean by coquetry, Nina?” + asked she, after a pause. + </p> + <p> + “It may mean much, Madame, or very little. With such as I am it may be a + rose-colored ribbon; with Madame la Princesse it may be the smile that + wins royalty. Coquetry, after all, is a mere recognition of admiration. An + old Spanish dramatist says, 'That a glance from bright eyes is like the + hoisting of an ensign to acknowledge a salute.'” + </p> + <p> + “How you run on, Nina, and how ashamed I feel when I catch myself + afterwards thinking over your words!” + </p> + <p> + Nina laughed merrily at this confession, while she opened the door for + Kate to pass out. In a moment after, Kate was seated beside the Archduke, + and Madame de Heidendorf followed in another carriage. + </p> + <p> + The Archduke was neither very good-looking nor agreeable. His manners were + not remarkable for any peculiar elegance, nor was there in his air and + bearing any of that special charm which very often seems the prerogative + of royal personages; and yet it would have been excessively difficult to + persuade Kate of all this as she drove along the streets crowded with + uncovered heads. The clank of the escort that rode at either side, the + quick roll of the drum and the rush out of the guard to salute as he + passed, created a sensation of pleasure in her mind like the enjoyment of + a delighted child. Oh, if Nelly could but see her now!—if dear old + papa were but there to look at her; and Hanserl—little Hans——that + loved the Hapsburg House as he loved the Patron Saint of his own village! + </p> + <p> + It was, indeed, worth something to taste of splendor like this! And now + she issued forth into the spacious Glacis, glittering with thousands of + bayonets, and trembling under the tramp of the moving squadrons. The whole + line saluted as he drove slowly past, band after band taking up the + sounds, till the proud hymn of Austria filled the whole air. The soldiers + cheered, too, loud and long, for his Imperial Highness was beloved by the + army, and, like all his house, was a thorough soldier. + </p> + <p> + “You have never seen our troops under arms before!” said he, with a proud + elation in his look. “They are fine fellows, and faithful as they are + brave.” He was about to say more, when the dull roll of a drum was heard + along the line, and the deep-voiced command from regiment to regiment ran, + “Alle nieder zum Gebet,” and, at the word, every weapon was lowered, and + every head drooped forward in prayer. Not a sound—not a whisper—was + heard in that mighty host, till, after the expiration of some minutes, the + command once more summoned them to arms. Then came the word “March!” and + with a cheer that made the very air vibrate, the troops set out for + “Italy.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0013" id="link2HCH0013"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIII. THE MARCH. + </h2> + <p> + Is there any enthusiasm like that of a young soldier setting forth on his + first campaign? High in heart and hope, what can equal the glorious + picture his fancy draws of fame and honor? Where will his imagination stop + in creating scenes of heroic daring or deeds of noble chivalry? In such a + mood Frank Dalton rode along amongst his comrades, with whom at once he + became the greatest favorite. Explain it how one will, or give up the + problem in despair, but there is no denying the fact, the Irish character + has more of high spirits, more buoyancy, than that of any continental + people. Deriving pleasure or amusement from incidents that others accept + as commonplace, making even the rubs and collisions of life subservient to + his playful humor, the Irishman has resources of ready wit and brilliant + fancy you may seek for in vain amongst Germans, or Italians, or even + Frenchmen. + </p> + <p> + The contrarieties of nature, the contradictions of character, that puzzle + politicians and drive political economists half crazy, are delightful + elements of social intercourse; and what makes the “nation” ungovernable + very frequently renders the “individual” the most easy-tempered and + manageable man of his set. What a boon was it, then, to the gloomy, + thoughtful Bohemian, to the dreary German, or the fitful, passionate + nature of the wild Hungarian, to chance upon one who had moods of mind to + suit them all, and stories of amusing thought that none of them possessed! + Frank was the delight of the regiment; and whether he rode in the front or + in the rear a group was sure to be gathered round him, listening with + eagerness to his stories, or enjoying the quaint drollery which every + passing object or event was sure to elicit. + </p> + <p> + Emerging at a bound from the petty annoyances and vexatious cares of his + humble position, with all its harassing of debt and poverty, the boy was + almost wild with delight at his newly won freedom. A thorough Dalton, he + forgot every strait and difficulty he had passed through, and thought only + of the present, or so much of the future as his hopes embellished. Kate's + generosity, too, made him feel rich, and he was not unwilling to be + thought so. That passion for ascendancy, that over-eagerness to make a + fair figure before the world, no matter at what material sacrifice or at + what heavy cost, was bred “in his very bone;” but so inveterately Irish is + it that if the nation should ever be visited by the income-tax, there is + not a man in the land who will not over-estimate his means for the sake of + the boast to the collector! + </p> + <p> + À wealthy comrade, if he be but free-handed, is sure to be popular on a + march. The fastidiousness that would stand aloof from more formal + attentions gives way here to the chances of the road; and civilities that + would elsewhere imply obligation are now the mere accidents of the way. + </p> + <p> + To the honor of the Austrian service be it said, “Tuft-hunting” is not to + be found there. The officers of a regiment embrace representatives of + every class of the Empire, from the haughtiest names of Europe down to the + sons of the humblest peasant; and yet the <i>camaraderie</i> is perfect. + Very probably there is nothing more contributes to this than the absence + of all secrecy as to each man's resources. The prince is known to be rich; + the son of the little burgher, or Amtmann, is equally known to be poor. + Nothing is expected from any above his means, and no disgrace attaches to + narrow fortune. If, therefore, Frank was not surrounded by shrewd-witted + adventurers, eager to make the most of his extravagance, he was not the + less exposed to the flattering acknowledgments his generous habits evoked, + and the vanity that comes of being distinguished amongst one's fellows. To + be sure, this was his father's failing, and his grandfather's before him! + Frank, then, entertained all the officers of his squadron on the march, + practising a hundred little devices and surprises for them. Now, it was a + cold luncheon, laid out in a wood at noonday; now, it was a smoking supper + in a village, where even the generals were fain to munch “commissary + rations.” Even the soldiers of his “Zug” participated in this liberality, + and many a flask of wine was pledged to the health of the young + lieutenant. As if to make him perfectly happy, the old Count, his uncle, + was obliged to hurry forward, and thus Frank was relieved from the + constraint of the only one whose presence could have imposed reserve. + </p> + <p> + It was in the boundless freedom of this liberty, unchecked by prudence, + unrestrained by fear of consequences, Frank's lavish nature knew no + bounds. He wrote to Vienna for horses of high price; he ordered carriages + and liveries to be sent after him. The very surprise his extravagance + excited was an incense that he gloried in. How many a generous nature has + been wrecked by stupid admiration! how many a true heart been corrupted by + the vulgarity of notoriety! + </p> + <p> + “What will the Dalton do next?——what has the fellow in his + head now?” were surmises that he never heard without delight, and + stimulated him to new efforts to create astonishment. Ireland, too, so + remote from all their knowledge,—that far-away island,—furnished + many a theme for wonder, and he repeated, with ecstasy, several of his + father's stories of their former greatness and the barbaric splendor in + which they lived. How easy is self-deception, and what a strange cheat is + that a man can practise on himself! But so was it; he actually forgot the + long years of their obscure poverty, all their hard trials and distresses, + the penury of their daily life,—everything!—and could only + think of Kate in all her splendor, and himself in every indulgence of his + fancy. And yet he loved his father and Nelly too,—loved them both + dearly. He would have given worlds that the old man could have seen him as + he rode at the head of his men. He often felt his eyes grow dim as he + fancied the burst of delight it would have caused him. And poor Nelly! how + he pictured her features glowing with admiration, and yet trembling from + agitation, for he thought of all her warnings. + </p> + <p> + It is a singular fact, that in the short interval before the tremendous + events of the last great European convulsion, the aristocratic influence + seemed at its very highest point. Never in each State of the Continent + were the claims of family more regarded, nor the sway of proud names more + submissively recognized. Like the fever-flush before death, it deceived + many who beheld it! In the eyes of his astonished comrades, young Dalton + perfectly represented this character. Rich, well born, brave, and + eccentric, his seemed indeed an enviable lot in life. Happy for him if the + deception had stopped short with them! Unluckily, however, it extended to + himself, and he at last believed every fiction that his own brain + suggested. + </p> + <p> + In this wild delirium of the day-dream he rode along through the deep + glens and valleys of the Tyrol, along the banks of the rapid Inn, through + the glorious vale of Meran, and at last gained the great road which, + through Trent and Rovoredo, debouches on the Lago di Guarda. Here a + despatch from Vienna overtook them, with orders that a small party should + be sent off under some officer of intelligence to examine the condition of + the Stelvio Pass, the highest of all the Alpine roads of Europe, and + which, crossing from the South Tyrol, descends directly into Italy by the + Lake of Como. + </p> + <p> + Although it was still early, fresh snows were said to have fallen on that + elevated road, and it was an important question whether it were longer + practicable for the transit of artillery. Frank was delighted to be + selected for this duty,—a separate command, no matter bow small or + insignificant, had something adventurous and independent about it that + pleased him. There was a dash of peril, too, in the enterprise; for + already the Valteline and the Brianza were said to be overrun by bands of + patriot troops, raising contributions for the war, and compelling others + to take up arms. + </p> + <p> + Frank's instructions were, however, to examine and report upon the road, + and, avoiding all possible collision with the enemy, either to unite with + any Austrian brigade he could reach, or, if compelled, to retire upon the + Tyrol. Some of his comrades pitied him for being selected for this lonely + duty, others envied; but all regretted his departure, and with many a warm + wish for a speedy meeting, and many a pledge of affection, they saw him + depart on his enterprise. + </p> + <p> + In the small “Zug” of twenty men under his command, there was a young + Hungarian cadet, who, although of good family and birth, Frank remarked + never to have seen by any chance in society with the officers. Ravitzky + was a handsome, daring-looking fellow, with that expression of mingled + sadness and intrepidity in his face so peculiarly Hungarian. He was the + best horseman in the regiment, and a thorough soldier in his look and + carriage. It had often puzzled Frank why a youth with such advantages had + not been promoted. On the one or two occasions, however, on which he asked + the question, he had received evasive or awkward replies, and saw that the + inquiry was at the least an unpleasant theme among his comrades. + </p> + <p> + Frank Dalton was well pleased at the opportunity now offered to know + something more of this young soldier, almost the only one under his + command who could speak any other language than Hungarian. Ravitzky, + however, although perfectly respectful in his manner, was cold and + reserved, showing no desire for an intimacy at which he might be supposed + to have felt proud. Without actually repelling, he seemed determined to + avoid nearer acquaintanceship, and appeared always happier when he “fell + back,” to exchange a few guttural words with his comrades, than when + called to “the front,” to converse with his officer. + </p> + <p> + Frank was piqued at all this; he saw that neither his rank, his supposed + wealth, nor his assumed position imposed upon the cadet; and yet these + were the very claims all his brother-officers had acknowledged. Amazed at + this wound to his self-love, he affected to forget him altogether, or only + remember him as one of the soldiers in his command. So far from seeming + displeased, Ravitzky appeared more at his ease than before, and as if + relieved from the worry of attentions that were distasteful to him. This + conduct completed the measure of Frank's indignation, and he now began + actually to hate the youth, on whom he practised all the possible + tyrannies of military discipline. These Ravitzky bore without seeming to + be aware of them, discharging every duty with an exactitude that made + punishment or even reproof impossible. + </p> + <p> + It is likely that if Frank had not been corrupted by all the adulation he + had so lately received,—if his self-esteem had not been stimulated + into an absurd and overweening vanity, he would have read this youth's + character aright, and have seen in him that very spirit of independence + which once he himself sought to display, albeit by a very different road! + Now, however, he received everything in a false light,—the reserve + was insolence, the coldness was disrespect, the punctuality in duty a kind + of defiance to him. How often he wished he had never taken him! The very + sight of him was now odious to his eyes. + </p> + <p> + Austrian troops enjoy so much of freedom on a march, that it is difficult + often for the most exacting martinet to seize opportunities for the small + tyrannies of discipline. Frank's ingenuity was now to be tried in this + way, and, it is but fair to confess, not unsuccessfully. He compelled the + men to appear each morning as smart as if on parade,—their carbines + in the bandoleers, and not slung at the saddle,—he inspected every + belt and strap and buckle, and visited even the slightest infraction with + a punishment Ravitzky accepted all this as the ordinary routine of + discipline, and never, even by a look, appeared to resent it. Tyranny + would seem to be one of the most insidious of all passions, and, if + indulged in little things, invariably goes on extending its influences to + greater ones. + </p> + <p> + At Maltz a new occasion arose for the tormenting influence of this power, + as the military post brought several letters from Vienna, one of which was + addressed to the cadet Ravitzky. It was about a week before Frank was + indignantly complaining to his sister of the shameless violation of all + feeling exhibited in opening and reading every soldier's letter. He was + eloquently warm in defending such humble rights, and declaimed on the + subject with all the impassioned fervor of an injured man, and yet so + corrupting is power, so subtle are the arguments by which one establishes + differences and distinctions, that now he himself saw nothing strange nor + severe in exercising this harsh rule towards another. + </p> + <p> + He was out of temper, too, that morning. The trim and orderly appearance + of the men gave no opportunity of a grumble, and he strutted along on foot + in front of his party, only anxious for something to catch at. On turning + suddenly around, he saw Ravitzky with his open letter before him, reading. + This was a slight breach of discipline on a march where infractions far + greater are every day permitted; but it offered another means of + persecution, and he called the cadet imperiously to the front, + </p> + <p> + “Are you aware, cadet,” said he, “of the general order regarding the + letters of all who serve in the ranks?” + </p> + <p> + “I am, Herr Lieutenant,” said the other, flushing deeply, as he saluted + him. + </p> + <p> + “Then you knew that you were committing a breach of discipline in opening + that letter?” + </p> + <p> + “As the letter is written in Hungarian, Herr Lieutenant, I felt that to + show it to you could be but a ceremony.” + </p> + <p> + “This explanation may satisfy you, sir; it does not suffice for me. Hand + me your letter.” + </p> + <p> + Ravitzky grew scarlet at the command, and for an instant he seemed as + though about to dispute it; but duty overcame every personal impulse, and + he gave it. + </p> + <p> + “I see my own name here,” cried Frank, as the one word legible to his eyes + caught him. “How is this?” + </p> + <p> + Ravitzky grew red and pale in a second, and then stood like one balancing + a difficulty in his own mind. + </p> + <p> + “I ask again, how comes a mention of me in this document?” cried Frank, + angrily. + </p> + <p> + “The letter, Herr Lieutenant, is from my cousin, who, aware that I was + serving in the same troop with you, offered to make me known to you.” + </p> + <p> + “And who is this cousin with whom I am so intimate?” said Frank, proudly. + </p> + <p> + “Count Ernest Walstein,” said the other, calmly. + </p> + <p> + “What, he is your cousin? Are you really related to Walstein?” + </p> + <p> + The other bowed slightly in assent + </p> + <p> + “Then how is it, with such family influence, that you remain a cadet? you + have been two years in the service?” + </p> + <p> + “Nearly four years, Heir Lieutenant,” was the quiet reply. + </p> + <p> + “Well, four years, and still unpromoted; how is that?” + </p> + <p> + Ravitzky looked as if unable to answer the question, and seemed confused + and uneasy. + </p> + <p> + “You have always been a good soldier. I see it in your 'character roll;' + there is not one punishment recorded against you.” + </p> + <p> + “Not one!” said the cadet, haughtily. + </p> + <p> + “There must, then, be some graver reason for passing you over?” + </p> + <p> + “There may be,” said the other, with a careless pride in his manner. + </p> + <p> + “Which you know?” said Frank, interrogatively. + </p> + <p> + “Which I guess at,” said Ravitzky. + </p> + <p> + “Here is your letter, cadet,” said Frank, banding it back to him. “I see + you will not make a confidant of me, and I will not force a confession.” + </p> + <p> + Ravitzky took the letter, and, saluting with respect, was about to fall + back, when Frank said,—— + </p> + <p> + “I wish you would be frank with me, and explain this mystery.” + </p> + <p> + “You call it mystery, sir?” said the other, in astonishment “You are an + Irishman born, and call this a mystery?” + </p> + <p> + “And why not? What has my birth to do with it?” + </p> + <p> + “Simply that it might have taught the explanation. Is it truth, or am I + deceived in believing that your nation is neither well received nor kindly + met by the prouder country with which you are united; and that, save when + you stoop to blush at your nationality, you are never recognized as + claimant for either office or advancement?” + </p> + <p> + “This may have been the case once to some extent,” said Frank, doubtingly, + “but I scarcely think such differences exist now.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you are more fortunate than we,” said Ravitzky. + </p> + <p> + “But I see men of your nation the very highest in military rank,—the + very nearest to the Sovereign?” + </p> + <p> + “Their's be the shame, then,” said Ravitzky. “There are false hearts in + every land.” + </p> + <p> + “This is a puzzle to me I cannot comprehend.” + </p> + <p> + “I 'll tell you how to understand it all, and easily, too, Herr + Lieutenant. Take this letter and forward it to the Council of War; declare + that Cadet Ravitzky acknowledged to yourself that he was a Hungarian, + heart and soul, and, save the eagle on his chako, had nothing of Austria + about him. Add, that a hundred thousand of his countrymen are ready to + assert the same; and see if they will not make <i>you</i> an + Ober-lieutenant, and send me to Moncacs for life.” He held out the letter, + as he spoke, for Frank to take, and looked as proudly defiant as if daring + him to the act. + </p> + <p> + “You cannot suppose I would do this?” + </p> + <p> + “And yet it is exactly your duty, and what you took a solemn oath to + perform not a week back.” + </p> + <p> + “And if there be such disaffection in the troops, how will they behave + before an enemy?” asked Frank, eagerly. + </p> + <p> + “As they have always done; ay, even in this very campaign that now + threatens us, where men are about to strike a blow for liberty, you 'll + see our fellows as foremost in the charge as though the cause at stake was + not their own.” + </p> + <p> + “Ravitzky, I wish you had told me nothing of all this.” + </p> + <p> + “And yet you forced the confession from me. I told Walstein, over and + over, that you were not suited for our plans. You rich men have too much + to lose to venture on so bold a game; he thought otherwise, and all + because you were an Irishman!” + </p> + <p> + “But I have scarcely ever seen Ireland. I know nothing of its grievances + or wrongs.” + </p> + <p> + “I believe they are like our own,” said Ravitzky. “They tell me that your + people, like ours, are warm, passionate, and impatient; generous in their + attachments, and terrible in their hatred. If it be so, and if England be + like Austria, there will be the same game to play out there as here.” + </p> + <p> + Frank grew thoughtful at these words. He recalled all that the Abbé + D'Esmonde had said to him about the rights of a free people and the duties + of citizenship, and canvassed within his own mind the devoirs of his + position; meanwhile Ravitzky had fallen back to the men and taken his + place in the ranks. + </p> + <p> + “They'll not compromise me before an enemy,” thought Frank; “that I may + rely on.” And with this trustful assurance he mounted and rode slowly + forward, deeply sunk in thought, and far less pleasantly than was his wont + to be. From all the excitement of his late life, with its flatteries and + fascinations, he now fell into a thoughtful mood, the deeper that it was + so strongly in contrast to what preceded it The greater interests that now + flashed across his mind made him feel the frivolity of the part he had + hitherto played. “Ravitzky is not older than I am, and yet how differently + does <i>he</i> speculate on the future! <i>His</i> ambitions are above the + narrow limits of selfish advancement, and the glory <i>he</i> aims at is + not a mere personal distinction.” + </p> + <p> + This was a dangerous theme, and the longer he dwelt upon it the more + perilous did it become. + </p> + <p> + The snow lay in deep drifts in many parts of the mountain, and the + progress of the little party became daily slower as they ascended. + Frequently they were obliged to dismount and lead their horses for miles, + and at these times Frank and Ravitzky were always together. It was + intimacy without any feeling of attachment on either side, and yet they + were drawn towards each other by some strange mysterious sympathy. Their + conversation ranged over every topic, from the great events which menaced + Europe to the smallest circumstances of personal history; and in all Frank + found the cadet his superior. It was not alone that his views were higher, + more disinterested, and less selfish, but his judgments were calmer and + better weighed. + </p> + <p> + “<i>You</i> want to be a count of the Empire, and a grand cross of every + order of Europe,” said Ravitzky one day to Frank, at the close of a rather + warm discussion. “<i>I</i> want to see my country free, and live an humble + soldier in the ranks.” This bold avowal seemed to separate them still more + widely, and it was plain that each regarded the other with distrust and + reserve. It was after some days of this distance that Frank endeavored to + restore their intimacy by leading Ravitzky to speak of himself, and at + last ventured to ask him how it came that he still remained a cadet, while + others, in every way inferior to him, were made officers. + </p> + <p> + “I have refused promotion some half-dozen times over,” said the other. “As + a kaiser-cadet, my time of service will expire in a few months hence; then + I shall be free to leave the service. Were I to accept my grade as an + officer, I should have to take an oath of fidelity to the Emperor, which I + would not, and pledge myself to a course that I could not do.” + </p> + <p> + “Then they probably know the reasons for which you have declined + promotion?” + </p> + <p> + “Assuredly they can guess them,” was the curt reply. + </p> + <p> + “You are a strange fellow, Ravitzky, and I scarcely understand you.” + </p> + <p> + “And yet there is nothing less a mystery than my conduct or my motives,” + rejoined he, proudly. “My father is a noble, high in the service and + confidence of the Emperor, and although a Magyar by birth, is Austrian by + choice and predilection. My sympathies are with my countrymen. In + obedience to his wishes I have entered this service; in justice to myself, + I mean to quit it when I can with honor.” + </p> + <p> + “And for what, or where?” asked Frank. + </p> + <p> + “Who knows?” said he, sorrowfully. “Many of our nation have gone over the + seas in search of a new land. Already we are almost as destitute of a home + as the Poles. But why talk of these things, Herr Lieutenant? I may be led + to say that which it would be your duty to report; you ought, perhaps, as + it is, to denounce me. Have no fears; my life would always be spared; my + family's fidelity would save <i>me</i>. This is one of the glorious + privileges of birth,” cried he, scornfully. “The 'fusillade' will be the + sentence for one of those poor fellows yonder; but you and I are too well + born for justice to reach.” + </p> + <p> + “Assuredly, I 'll not quarrel with the privilege!” said Frank, laughing. + </p> + <p> + “And yet, if I were as rich and as great as you are,” said Ravitzky, “it + is exactly what I should do! With your fortune and your rank you want + nothing from king or kaiser. Who, then, would not strive for the higher + rewards that only a whole nation can confer?” + </p> + <p> + Frank blushed deeply at the allusion to his supposed wealth, but had not + the courage to refute it. He, however, sought an opportunity to turn the + conversation to other channels, and avoided, for the future, all mention + of every theme of politics or party. The mischief, however, was done. He + brooded forever in secret over all the Hungarian had told him; while old + memories of fresh wrongs, as narrated by his father long ago, kept + recurring and mingling with them, till not only the themes excluded other + thoughts, but that he felt the character of his own ambition changing, and + new and very different hopes succeeding to his former ones. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0014" id="link2HCH0014"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIV. THE SKIRMISH. + </h2> + <p> + At last they reached the summit of the Stelvio, and began the descent of + the mountain; and what a glorious contrast does the southern aspect of an + Alpine range present to the cold barrenness of the north! From the dreary + regions of snow, they came at length to small patches of verdure, with + here and there a stunted pine-tree. Then the larches appeared, their + graceful feathery foliage checkering the sunlight into ten thousand + fanciful shapes; while streams and rivulets bubbled and rippled on every + side,—not icebound as before, but careering along in glad liberty, + and with the pleasant music of falling water. Lower down, the grass was + waving as the wind moved on, and cattle were seen in herds revelling in + the generous pasture, or seeking shelter beneath the deep chestnut-trees; + for, already, even here, the Italian sun was hot. Lower again came dark + groves of olives and trellised vines; long aisles of leafy shade + traversing the mountain in every direction, now curving in graceful bends, + now in bold zigzags, scaling the steep precipices, and sometimes hanging + over cliffs and crags, where not even the boldest hand would dare to pluck + the ruddy bunches. + </p> + <p> + Beneath them, as they went, the great plain of Lombardy opened to their + view,—that glorious expanse of wood and waving corn, with towns and + villages dotting the surface; while directly below, at their very feet, as + it were, stretched the Lake of Como, its wooded banks reflected in the + waveless water. What a scene of beauty was that fair lake, with its leafy + promontories, its palaces, and its Alpine background, all basking under + the deep blue of an Italian sky; while perfumes of orange groves, of + acacias and magnolias, rose like an incense in the air, and floated + upwards! + </p> + <p> + Even the hard nature of the wild Hungarian—the rude dweller beside + the dark-rolling Danube or the rapid Theiss—could not survey the + scene unmoved; and, dismounting from their saddles, the hussars moved + stealthily along, as if invading the precincts of some charmed region. + Frank was in no haste to leave so picturesque a spot, and resolved to halt + for the night beneath the shade of some tall chestnut-trees, where they + had sought shelter from the noonday sun. Como was at his feet, straight + down beneath him was the wooded promontory of Bellagio, and in the + distance rose the Swiss Alps, now tinged with the violet hue of sunset + Never was there a scene less likely to suggest thoughts of war or conflict + If the eye turned from the dark woods of the Brianza to the calm surface + of the lake, everything wore the same aspect of peaceful security. Figures + could be seen seated or walking on the terraces of the villas; gorgeously + decked gondolas stole over the bay, their gold-embroidered ensigns + trailing lazily in the water. Equipages and troops of horsemen wound their + way along the leafy lanes; not a sight nor sound that did not portend ease + and enjoyment. + </p> + <p> + With all Frank's ardor for adventure, he was not sorry at all this. His + orders to fall back, in case he saw signs of a formidable movement, were + too peremptory to be disobeyed, and he would have turned away with great + reluctance from a picture so temptingly inviting. Now there was no need to + think of this. The great dome of the Milan Cathedral showed on the horizon + that he was not thirty miles from the Austrian headquarters, while all + around and about him vouched for perfect quiet and tranquillity. + </p> + <p> + Tempted by a bright moonlight and the delicious freshness of the night, he + determined to push on as far as Lecco, where he could halt for the day, + and by another night-march reach Milan. Descending slowly, they gained the + plain before midnight, and now found themselves on that narrow strip of + road which, escarped from the rock, tracks the margin of the lake for + miles. Here Frank learned from a peasant that Lecco was much too distant + to reach before daybreak, and determined to halt at Varenna, only a few + miles off. + </p> + <p> + This man was the only one they had come up with for several hours, and + both Frank and Ravitzky remarked the alarm and terror he exhibited as he + suddenly found himself in the midst of them. + </p> + <p> + “Our cloth here,” said the cadet, bitterly, “is so allied to thoughts of + tyranny and cruelty, one is not to wonder at the terror of that poor + peasant.” + </p> + <p> + “He said Varenna was about five miles off,” said Frank, who did not like + the spirit of the last remark, and wished to change the topic. + </p> + <p> + “Scarcely so much; but that as the road was newly mended, we should be + obliged to walk our cattle.” + </p> + <p> + “Did you remark the fellow while we were talking,—how his eye + wandered over our party? I could almost swear that I saw him counting our + numbers.” + </p> + <p> + “I did not notice that,” said the cadet, with an almost sneering tone. “I + saw that the poor fellow looked stealthily about from side to side, and + seemed most impatient to be off.” + </p> + <p> + “And when he did go,” cried Frank, “I could not see what way he took. His + 'Felice notte, Signori,' was scarce uttered when he disappeared.” + </p> + <p> + “He took us for a patrol,” remarked the other, carelessly; and whether it + was this tone, or that Frank was piqued at the assumed coolness of the + cadet, he made no further remark, but rode on to the front of the party. + Shortly after this the moon disappeared; and as the road occasionally + passed through long tunnellings in the rock, the way became totally + obscured, so that in places they were obliged to leave the horses entirely + to their own guidance. + </p> + <p> + “There 's Varenna at last!” said Frank, pointing out some lights, which, + glittering afar off, were reflected in long columns in the water. + </p> + <p> + “That may still be a couple of miles off,” said Ravitzky, “for the shores + of the lake wind greatly hereabouts. But, there! did you not see a light + yonder?—<i>that</i> may be the village.” But as he spoke the light + was gone; and although they continued to look towards the spot for several + minutes, it never reappeared. + </p> + <p> + “They fish by torchlight here,” said Ravitzky, “and that may have been the + light; and, by the way, there goes a skiff over the water at a furious + rate!—hear how the fellows ply their oars.” + </p> + <p> + The dark object which now skimmed the waters must have been close under + the rocks while they were speaking; for she suddenly shot out, and in a + few minutes was lost to view. + </p> + <p> + “Apparently the clink of our sabres has frightened those fellows, too,” + said Frank, laughing, “for they pull like men in haste.” + </p> + <p> + “It's well if it be no worse,” said the cadet. + </p> + <p> + “Partly what I was thinking, myself,” said Frank. “We may as well be + cautious here.” And he ordered Ravitzky, with two men, to ride forty paces + in advance, while four others, with carbines cocked, were to drop a + similar distance to the rear. + </p> + <p> + The consciousness that he was assuming a responsibility made Frank feel + anxious and excited, and at the same time he was not without the + irritating sense that attaches to preparations of needless precaution. + From this, however, he was rallied by remarking that Ravitzky seemed more + grave and watchful than usual, carefully examining the road as he went + along, and halting his party at the slightest noise. + </p> + <p> + “Did you hear or see anything in front?” asked Frank, as he rode up beside + them. + </p> + <p> + “I have just perceived,” said the cadet, “that the boat which half an hour + ago shot ahead and left us, has now returned, and persists in keeping a + little in advance of us. There! you can see her yonder. They make no noise + with their oars, but are evidently bent on watching our movements.” + </p> + <p> + “We 'll soon see if that be their 'tactic,'” said Frank, and gave the word + to his men “To trot.” + </p> + <p> + For about half a mile the little party rode sharply forwards, the very + pace and the merry clink of the accoutrements seeming to shake off that + suspectful anxiety a slower advance suggests. The men were now ordered to + walk their horses; and just as they obeyed the word, Ravitzky called out, + “See! there she is again. The winding of the bay has given them the + advantage of us, and there they are still in front!” + </p> + <p> + “After all,” rejoined Frank, “it may be mere curiosity. Cavalry, I + suppose, are seldom seen in these parts.” + </p> + <p> + “So much the better,” said Ravitzky, “for there is no ground for them to + manouvre, with a mountain on one hand, and a lake on the other. There! did + you see that light? It was a signal of some kind. It was shown twice; and + mark, now! it is acknowledged yonder.” + </p> + <p> + “And where is the boat?” + </p> + <p> + “Gone.” + </p> + <p> + “Let us push on to Varenna; there must be some open ground near the + village!” cried Frank. “Trot!” + </p> + <p> + An older soldier than Frank might have felt some anxiety at the position + of a party so utterly defenceless if attacked; perhaps, indeed, his + inexperience was not his worst ally at this moment, and he rode on boldly, + only eager to know what and where was the peril he was called on to + confront Suddenly Ravitzky halted, and called out, “There's a tree across + the road.” + </p> + <p> + Frank rode up, and perceived that a young larch-tree had been placed + across the way, half carelessly, as it seemed, and without any object of + determined opposition. + </p> + <p> + Two men dismounted by his orders to remove it, and in doing so, discovered + that a number of poles and branches were concealed beside the rocks, where + they lay evidently ready for use. + </p> + <p> + “They've had a Tyroler at work here,” cried an old Corporal of the + Hussars; “they mean to stop us higher up the road, and if we fall back we + 'll find a barricade here in our rear.” + </p> + <p> + “Over with them into the lake,” said Frank, “and then forward at once.” + </p> + <p> + Both orders were speedily obeyed, and the party now advanced at a rapid + trot. + </p> + <p> + They were close to Varenna, and at a spot where the road is closely hemmed + in by rocks on either side, when the sharp bang of a rifle was heard, and + a shrill cry shouted something from the hillside, and was answered from + the lake. Ravitzky had but time to give the word “Forwards!” when a + tremendous fire opened from the vineyards, the roadside, and the boat. The + red flashes showed a numerous enemy; but, except these, nothing was to be + seen. “Forwards, and reserve your fire, men!” he cried. And they dashed + on; but a few paces more found them breasted against a strong barricade of + timber and country carts, piled up across the way; a little distance + behind which rose another barricade; and here the enemy was thickly + posted, as the shattering volley soon proved. + </p> + <p> + As Frank stood irresolute what course to take, the Corporal, who commanded + the rear, galloped up to say that all retreat was cut off in that + direction, two heavy wagons being thrown across the road, and crowds of + people occupying every spot to fire from. + </p> + <p> + “Dismount, and storm the barricade!” cried Frank; and, setting the + example, he sprang from his saddle, and rushed forwards. + </p> + <p> + There is no peril a Hungarian will not dare if his officer but lead the + way; and now, in face of a tremendous fire at pistol-range, they clambered + up the steep sides, while the balls were rattling like hail around them. + </p> + <p> + The Italians, evidently unprepared for this attack, poured in a volley and + fled to the cliffs above the road. Advancing to the second barricade, + Frank quickly gained the top, and sprang down into the road. Ravitzky, who + was ever close behind him, had scarcely gained the height, when, struck in + the shoulder by a ball, he dropped heavily down upon the ground. The + attack had now begun from front, flanks, and rear together, and a deadly + fire poured down upon the hussars without ceasing, while all attempt at + defence was hopeless. + </p> + <p> + “Open a pass through the barricade,” shouted Frank, “and bring up the + horses!” And while some hastened to obey the order, a few others grouped + themselves around Ravitzky, and tried to shelter him as he lay. + </p> + <p> + “Don't leave me to these fellows, Dalton,” cried he, passionately; “heave + me over into the lake rather.” + </p> + <p> + Frank now saw that the poor fellow's cheek was torn with a shot, and that + his left hand was also shattered. + </p> + <p> + “The fire is too heavy, Herr Lieutenant; the men cannot open a way for the + cattle,” whispered the old Corporal. + </p> + <p> + “What's to be done then?” asked Frank; but the poor Corporal fell dead at + his side as he spoke. The brunt of the conflict was, however, at the + barricades; for, despairing of any prospect of removing the obstacles, + many of the hussars had ridden recklessly at them, and there, entangled or + falling, were shot down remorselessly by the enemy. One alone forced his + way, and with his uniform bloody and in rags dashed up to Frank. + </p> + <p> + <a name="linkimage-0009" id="linkimage-0009"> + <!-- IMG --></a> <br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%;"> + <img src="images/00190.jpg" alt="00190" width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p> + “Get the cadet up in front of you,” whispered Frank; and Ravitzky, who was + now unconscious, was lifted into the saddle; while the hussar, grasping + him with his strong arms, held him against his chest. + </p> + <p> + “Forward, now,” said Frank; on, to the first village, “and see him cared + for.” + </p> + <p> + “But you, Herr Lieutenant,—what's to become of you?” + </p> + <p> + “I 'll not leave my poor wounded comrades.” + </p> + <p> + “There 's not a living man amongst them,” cried the hussar. “Come along + with us, Herr Lieutenant; we may want your help too.” + </p> + <p> + The firing ceased at this moment; and to the wild shouts and din of + conflict there succeeded a dead silence. + </p> + <p> + “Keep quiet—keep quiet—stand close beneath the rock,” + whispered Frank; “here comes the boat.” And, with slow and measured + stroke, the skiff neared the shore, about twenty paces from where they + stood. + </p> + <p> + “Pull in boldly,” cried a gruff voice, in Italian; “there's nothing to + fear now: neither man nor horse could survive that fire.” + </p> + <p> + “Would that the great struggle could be accomplished so easily!” said a + softer tone, which Frank almost fancied he had heard before. + </p> + <p> + Lanterns were now seen moving in the space between the barricades; and + crowds pressed down to examine and pillage the dead. + </p> + <p> + “Have you found the officer's body?” asked he of the soft voice. + </p> + <p> + “I suspect the party was under a sergeant's command,” said another. + </p> + <p> + “No, no,” rejoined the other; “Giuseppe was positive that he saw an + officer.” + </p> + <p> + “See that he has not escaped, then,” said the other, eagerly. “The tale of + this night's adventure might be told in two ways at Milan.” + </p> + <p> + “The cadet is dying, sir; his head has fallen back,” whispered the hussar + to Frank. + </p> + <p> + “The lake, Dalton, the lake!” muttered the dying man, as he threw his arms + around Frank's neck. Frank caught him while he was falling, but, overborne + by the weight, reeled back against the rock. + </p> + <p> + “How many are in the boat?” whispered Frank. + </p> + <p> + “I see but one man, sir,” said the hussar. + </p> + <p> + “Now for it, then,” said Frank; “place him between us on a carbine, and + make for the boat.” + </p> + <p> + With the energy of a newly inspired hope, the men obeyed in an instant; + and, carrying their wounded comrade, moved stealthily along beneath the + shadow of the rock. It was only as they emerged from this, and gained the + little gravelly beach, that their figures could be seen. + </p> + <p> + “Be quiet now, men, and leave that fellow to me,” said Frank, as he cocked + his pistol. The clank of the sabres, however, seemed warning enough for + the crafty Italian, who jumped at once into the lake. With a rush, the + Hungarians sprang into the skiff, while Frank, seizing it by the prow, + pushed boldly out. The plunge and the splash had, meanwhile, attracted + notice, and several hurried down to the beach. Frank had but time to order + his men to lie down, when a crashing volley flew over them. “Now, to your + oars, boys, before they can load again.” The light skiff almost rose out + of the water to their vigorous stroke: and although the balls tore + incessantly amongst them, they continued to row on. Sheets of bright flame + flashed across the water, as volley after volley followed; but the + Hungarians were soon out of the reach of the fire, with no other loss than + some slight wounds. + </p> + <p> + At first it seemed as if some pursuit were intended; but this was soon + abandoned, and the noise of horses and wheels on the road showed that the + multitude were departing land-wise. Frank now bethought him what was best + to be done. If the country were really in open revolt, the only chance of + safety lay in surrendering to something like authority; if this were a + mere partial outbreak, in all likelihood the opposite shores of the lake + would offer a refuge. A single light, like a star, shone in the far + distance, and thither Frank now steered the boat. Ravitsky lay against his + knees, his head on Frank's lap, breathing heavily, and occasionally + muttering to himself, while the men kept time to the oars with a low, + mournful chant, which sounded at least like a death-wail over their + comrade. + </p> + <p> + The lake opposite Varenna is nearly at its widest part; and it was full + three hours after the occurrence of the skirmish that they drew near to + the light, which they now saw proceeded from a little boat-house belonging + to a villa a short distance from shore. A small harbor, with several boats + at anchor in it, opened on the water's edge, and a great flight of marble + steps led up to a terraced garden, adorned with fountains and groups of + statuary. + </p> + <p> + Frank saw at once that he had invaded the precincts of one of those + princely villas which the Milanese nobility possess on the lake, and was + uncertain which course to take. His Austrian uniform, he well knew, would + prove a sorry recommendation to their kind offices. For some time back the + breech between the Austrians and the Lombards had gone on widening, till + at length every intercourse had ceased between them; and even the public + places resorted to by the one were sure to be avoided on that account by + the other. Scarcely a day passed without Milan witnessing some passages of + hostility or insolence, and more than one fatal duel showed how far + political dislike had descended into personal hatred. + </p> + <p> + To ask for aid and assistance under circumstances such as these, would + have been, as Frank felt, a meanness; to demand it as a right would have + been as insolent a pretension; and yet what was to be done? Ravitzky's + life was in peril; should he, from any scruple whatever, hazard the + chances of saving his poor comrade? “Come what may,” thought he, “I'll + claim their succor—theirs be the shame if they refuse it!” + </p> + <p> + The approach was longer than he suspected, and, as he went along, Frank + had occasion to remark the tasteful elegance of the grounds, and the + costly character of all the embellishments. He saw that he was about to + present himself before one of the “magnates” of the land, and half + prepared himself for a haughty reception. Crossing a little bridge, he + found himself on a grassy plateau, on which a number of windows looked + out; and these now all lay open, while seated within were several persons + enjoying the Italian luxury of a “bel fresco,” as the air of the lake + gently stirred the leaves, and carried some faint traces of Alpine + freshness into the plains beneath. A large lamp, covered with a deep + shade, threw a dubious light through the chamber, and gave to the group + all the effect and coloring of a picture. + </p> + <p> + On an ottoman, supported by pillows, and in an attitude of almost + theatrical elegance, lay a lady, dressed in white, a black veil fastened + in her hair behind, being half drawn across her face. At her feet sat a + young man, with an air of respectful attention; and a little further off, + in an easy-chair, reclined the massive proportions of a priest, fanning + himself with his skull-cap, and seemingly gasping for air. Behind all, + again, was another figure,—a tall man, who, with a cigar in his + mouth, slowly paced the chamber up and down, stopping occasionally to hear + the conversation, but rarely mingling in it. + </p> + <p> + There was that air of indolent enjoyment and lassitude, that mingled + aspect of splendor and neglect, so characteristically Italian in the + scene, that Frank forgot himself, as he stood still and gazed on the + group, and even listened to the words. + </p> + <p> + “After all,” said the young man, in Italian, “it is better to let them do + the thing in their own way! Catting off a patrol here, shooting a sentry + there, stabbing a general to-day, poisoning a field-marshal to-morrow, + seems to our notions a very petty war, but it makes a country very + untenable in the end!” + </p> + <p> + “Fuori i barbari! over the Alps with them at any cost!” growled the + priest. + </p> + <p> + “I agree with you,” said the tall man, stopping to brush the cinder from + his cigar, “if you can drive them away in a stand-up fight; and I don't + see why you could not! Numerically, you are about five hundred to one; + physically, you look their equals. You have arms in abundance; you know + the country; you have the wishes of the people—” + </p> + <p> + “The prayers of the Church,” interposed the lady. + </p> + <p> + “Beati sunt illi qui moriuntur pro patriâ,” muttered the padre. + </p> + <p> + “You and I, father,” said the young man, “would like a little of that + beatitude in this world too.” + </p> + <p> + Frank had now heard more than he had desired to hear; and, unhooking his + sabre, he suffered it to clink at his heels as he boldly advanced towards + the windows. + </p> + <p> + “Who have we there?” cried the tall man, advancing to the terrace, and + challenging the stranger. + </p> + <p> + Frank replied, in French, that he was an Austrian officer, whose party had + been waylaid near Varenna, and who had made his escape with a wounded + comrade and a few others. + </p> + <p> + “So the shots we heard came from that quarter?” whispered the youth to the + lady. + </p> + <p> + She signed to him to be cautious, and the tall man resumed,—— + </p> + <p> + “This is a private villa, sir; and as yet, at least, neither an Austrian + barrack nor an hospital.” + </p> + <p> + “When I tell you, sir,” said Frank, with difficulty restraining his + passion, “that my comrade is dying, it may, perhaps, excite other feelings + than those of national animosity.” + </p> + <p> + “You are a Hungarian?” asked the youth. + </p> + <p> + “What of that?” broke in the padre. “Tutti barbari! tutti barbari!” + </p> + <p> + Meanwhile the tall man leaned over where the lady sat, and conversed + eagerly with her. + </p> + <p> + “You have to think how it will look, and how it will tell abroad,” said + he, in English. “How shall we persuade the people that we are in their + cause if you make this villa an Austrian refuge?” + </p> + <p> + She whispered something low in reply, and he rejoined impatiently,—— + </p> + <p> + “These are small considerations; and if we are to be always thinking of + humanity, let us give up the game at once.” + </p> + <p> + “You 'll not refuse my comrade the consolations of his Church, at least?” + said Frank. “I see a reverend father here—” + </p> + <p> + “And you 'll never see him follow you one step out of this chamber,” broke + in the priest “Ego autem tanquam Burdus, non audiebam,” muttered he, with + a wave of his hand. + </p> + <p> + “But if he be a good Catholic,” interposed the youth, half slyly. + </p> + <p> + “Let them be confounded who seek to do me evil!” said the priest, with a + solemnity that said how deeply he felt for his own safety. + </p> + <p> + “This discussion is lasting too long,” said Frank, impatiently. “I cannot + coerce your humanity, but I can demand as a right that a soldier of your + Emperor shall receive shelter and succor.” + </p> + <p> + “I told you so,” said the tall man, still addressing the lady in English; + “first the entreaty,——then the menace.” + </p> + <p> + “And what are we to do?” asked she, anxiously. + </p> + <p> + “Let them occupy the boat-house; there are beds in the lofts. Jekyl will + see that they have whatever is necessary; and perhaps by to-morrow we + shall get rid of them.” Turning towards the youth, he spoke to him for a + few minutes rapidly, and the other replied, “You are right I 'll look to + it.” He arose as he spoke, and bowing politely to Frank, pronounced + himself ready to accompany him. + </p> + <p> + With a few words of apology for his intrusion, as awkwardly uttered as + they were ungraciously received, Frank retired from the chamber, to + retrace his steps to the harbor. + </p> + <p> + Little as he was disposed to be communicative, Albert Jekyl—for it + was our old acquaintance—contrived to learn, as they went along, + every circumstance of the late encounter. + </p> + <p> + The pliant Jekyl fully concurred in the indignant epithets of cowards and + assassins bestowed by Frank upon his late assailants, deplored with him + the miserable and mistaken policy of revolt among the people, and + regretted that, as foreigners themselves, they could not offer the + hospitality of the villa to the wounded man without exposing their lives + and fortunes to an Infuriated peasantry. + </p> + <p> + “What nation do you then belong to?” asked Frank, shrewdly concealing his + knowledge of English. + </p> + <p> + “We are, so to say, of different countries,” said Jekyl, smiling, and + evading the question. “The padre is a Florentine—” + </p> + <p> + “And the lady?” + </p> + <p> + “She is a very charming person, and if it were not that she is a little + over-devout, a shade too good, would be the most delightful creature in + existence.” + </p> + <p> + “The tall man is her husband, I conclude.” + </p> + <p> + “No,——not her husband,” smiled Jekyl again; “a person you 'll + like much when you see more of him. Short and abrupt, perhaps, at first, + but so kind-hearted and so generous.” + </p> + <p> + “And has the villa got a name?” asked Frank, in a voice of some impatience + at finding how little his companion repaid his frankness. + </p> + <p> + “It is called La Rocca,” said Jekyl. “Had you not been a stranger in + Italy, you would scarcely have asked. It is the most celebrated on the + whole lake.” + </p> + <p> + Frank thought he had heard the name before; but when, where, or how, he + could not remember. Other cares were, besides, too pressing upon him to + make him dwell on the subject, and he willingly addressed himself to the + more urgent duties of the moment. + </p> + <p> + The boat-house stood in no need of all Jekyl's apologies. Frank had lodged + in many inferior quarters since he had begun soldiering; there were + several excellent bedrooms, and a delightful little <i>salon</i> which + looked directly out upon the lake. Ravitzky, too, had rallied + considerably, and his wounds, although formidable from the loss of blood, + showed nothing likely to prove fatal. Jekyl pledged himself to send a + surgeon at once to him; and, adding all kinds of civil speeches and offers + of personal services, at last left the friends together to exchange + confidences. + </p> + <p> + “What are our hosts like, Dalton?” said the cadet + </p> + <p> + “<i>You</i> would call them most patriotic, Ravitzky, for they would + scarcely give us shelter. Their only regret seemed that our friends yonder + had not done the work better, and finished off the rest of us.” + </p> + <p> + “It is not pleasant to accept of an ungracious hospitality; but I suppose + that I, at least, shall not trouble them long. There 's something hot goes + on ebbing here that tells of internal bleeding; and if so, a few hours + ought to suffice.” + </p> + <p> + Frank did his best to rally his poor comrade; but the task is a difficult + one with those whose fear of death is small. + </p> + <p> + “You'll have to write to Milan, Dalton,” said he, suddenly. + </p> + <p> + “I should rather say, to hasten thither at once,” said Frank. “I ought to + report myself as soon as possible.” + </p> + <p> + “But you mustn't leave me, Dalton; I cannot part with you. À few hours is + not much to you; to me it is a life long. I want you also to write to + Walstein for me; he 'll take care to tell my mother.” + </p> + <p> + Frank knew well the breach of discipline this compliance would entail, and + that he could scarcely be guilty of a graver offence against duty; but + Ravitzky clung to his wish with such pertinacity, throwing into the + entreaty all the eagerness of a last request, that Frank was obliged to + promise he would remain, and let the result take what shape it might. + While he, therefore, gave orders to his only unwounded comrade to hold + himself in readiness to set out for Milan by daybreak, he proceeded to + write the brief despatch which was to record his disaster. There are few + sadder passages in the life of a young soldier than that in which he has + to convey tidings of his own defeat. Want of success is so linked and + bound up with want of merit, that every line, every word, seems a + self-accusation. + </p> + <p> + However inevitable a mishap might appear to any witnessing it, a mere + reader of the account might suggest fifty expedients to escape it. He + knew, besides, the soldierlike contempt entertained in the service for all + attacks of undisciplined forces, and how no party, however small, of + “regulars” was esteemed insufficient to cope with a mob of peasants or + villagers. Any contradiction to so acknowledged a theory would be received + with loud reprobation, and, whatever came of it, the most inevitable + result would be the professional ruin of him unlucky enough to incur such + a failure. + </p> + <p> + “There's an end of the career of the Lieutenant von Dalton,” said Frank, + as he concluded the paper. “Neither his uncle, the Field-Marshal, nor his + sister, the Princess, will have favor enough to cover delinquency like + this.” It did, indeed, seem a most humiliating avowal, and probably his + own depressed state gave even a sadder coloring to the narrative. He + accompanied this despatch by a few lines to the Count, his grand-uncle, + which, if apologetic, were manly and straightforward; and, while bearing a + high testimony to Ravitzky's conduct, took all the blame of failure to + himself alone. + </p> + <p> + He would gladly have lain down to rest when this last was completed, but + the cadet pressed eagerly for his services, and the letter to Walstein + must be written at once. + </p> + <p> + “The surgeon tells me that there is internal bleeding,” said he, “and + that, should it return with any degree of violence, all chance of recovery + is hopeless. Let us look the danger boldly in the face, then, Dalton; and, + while I have the time, let me tell Walstein all that I have learned since + we parted. The letter I will confide to your safe keeping till such time + as it can be forwarded without risk of discovery.” + </p> + <p> + “Is there necessity for such precaution?” asked Frank. + </p> + <p> + “Can you ask me the question?” + </p> + <p> + “Then how am I to write it?” said he. + </p> + <p> + “Simply from my dictation,” replied the other, calmly. “The sentiments + will not be yours, but mine. The mere act of the pen, for which these + fingers are too weak, can never wound the susceptibility of even <i>your</i> + loyalty. You are not satisfied with this?” + </p> + <p> + Frank shook his head dubiously. + </p> + <p> + “Then leave me where I am. I ask no companionship, nor friendship either,—or, + if you prefer it, hasten to Milan and denounce me as a traitor. My + character is well enough known not to need corroboration to your charge; + the allegation will never hurt me, and it may serve <i>you</i>, Ay, Herr + Lieutenant, it will prove an opportune escape for the disgrace of this + unlucky night. They will forgive you much for such a disclosure.” + </p> + <p> + Frank's temper would have been insufficient to bear such an insult as + this, had not the words been spoken by one already excited to the madness + of fever, and whose eye now flashed with the wild glare of mania. + </p> + <p> + It was long before Frank could calm down the passionate excitement of the + sick man, and fit him for the task he wished to execute; and even then + Ravitzky undertook it in a sullen, resentful spirit that seemed to say + that nothing short of the necessity would have reduced him to such a + confidence. Nor was this all. Pain and nervous irritability together made + him difficult, and occasionally impossible, to understand. The names of + people and places of Hungarian origin Frank in vain endeavored to spell; + the very utmost he could do being to follow the rapid utterance with which + the other at times spoke, and impart something like consistency to his + wild, unconnected story. + </p> + <p> + That Ravitzky had been employed in secret communications with some of the + Hungarian leaders was plain enough, and that he had held intercourse with + many not yet decided how to act was also apparent. The tangled web of + intrigue was, however, too intricate for faculties laboring as his were; + and what between his own wanderings and Frank's misconceptions, the + document became as mysterious as an oracle. Perhaps Frank was not sorry + for this obscurity; or, perhaps, like the lady who consoled herself for + the indiscretion of keeping a lover's picture by the assurance that “it + was not like him,” he felt an equal satisfaction in thinking that the + subject of his manuscript could never throw any light upon any scheme that + ever existed. Now it ran on about the feelings of the Banat population, + and their readiness to take up arms; now it discussed the fordage #of + rivers in Transylvania. Here was an account of the arms in the arsenal of + Arad; there a suggestion how to cut off Nugent's corps on the Platen See. + At times it seemed as if a great Sclav revolt were in contemplation; at + others the cause appeared that of the Hungarian nobles alone, anxious to + regain all the privileges of the old feudalism. “At all events, it is + rebellion,” thought Frank; and heartily glad was he when the task was + completed, and everything save the address appended. It was now sealed, + and by Ravitzky's advice deposited within the linings of Frank's pelisse, + till such time as a safe opportunity might offer of forwarding it to + Walstein. + </p> + <p> + The task occupied some hours; and when it was completed, so tired was + Frank by former exertion and excitement, that he lay down on the floor, + and with his head on the sick man's bed, fell fast asleep. Such had been + his eagerness to finish this lengthy document, that he had never perceived + that he was watched as he wrote, and that from the little copse beside the + window a man had keenly observed him for several hours long. + </p> + <p> + Ravitzky, too, fell into a heavy slumber; and now, as both slept, a + noiseless foot crossed the floor, and a man in the dark dress of a priest + drew nigh the bedside. Waiting for some seconds as if to assure himself of + the soundness of their sleep, he bent down and examined their features. Of + the cadet he took little notice; but when his eyes fell upon Frank's face, + pale and exhausted as he lay, he almost started back with astonishment, + and for several minutes he seemed as if trying to disabuse himself of an + illusion. Even the uniform appeared to surprise him, for he examined its + details with the greatest care. As he stood thus, with the pelisse in his + hand, he seemed suddenly to remember the letter he had seen placed within + the lining; and then, as suddenly drawing out his penknife, he made a + small aperture In the seam, and withdrew the paper. He was about to + replace the pelisse upon the bed, when, by a second thought, as it were, + he tore off the envelope of the letter, and reinserted it within the + lining. + </p> + <p> + A single glance at it appeared to convey the whole tenor of its contents, + and his dark eyes ran over the words with eager haste; then, turning away, + he moved cautiously from the room. Once in the free air again, he reopened + the paper, his sallow features seeming to light up with a kind of + passionate lustre as he traced the lines. “It is not—it cannot be + without a meaning that we are thus forever meeting in life!” cried he; + “these are the secrets by which destiny works its purpose, and we blindly + call them accident! Even the savage knows better, and deems him an enemy + who crosses his path too frequently. Ay, and it will come to this one + day,” muttered he, slowly; “he or I,——he or I.” Repeating this + over and over, he slowly returned to the villa. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0015" id="link2HCH0015"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XV. A VILLA AND ITS COMPANY + </h2> + <p> + Having told our readers that the villa was called La Rocca, it is perhaps + needless that we should say that the lady was our old friend Lady Hester, + who, under the spiritual guidance of the Canon of the Duomo, was now + completing her religious education, while Lord Norwood was fain to escape + the importunity of duns and the impertinence of creditors by a few weeks' + retirement in this secluded region. Not that this was his only inducement. + For some time back he had pressed his claim on various members of his + Government for place or employment. He had in vain represented the + indignity of a peer reduced to beggary, or the scarcely better alternative + of play for support He had tried—unsuccessfully, however—every + sort of cajolery, menace, and flattery, to obtain something; and after + successively offering his services for or against Carlism in Spain, with + Russia or against her in the Caucasus, with twenty minor schemes in + Mexico, Sicily, Greece, and Cuba, he at last determined on making Northern + Italy the sphere of his abilities, wisely calculating that before the game + was played out he should see enough to know what would be the winning + side. + </p> + <p> + An accidental meeting with D'Esmonde, which renewed this old intimacy, had + decided him on taking this step. The Abbé had told him that the English + Government of the day was secretly favorable to the movement; and + although, from the necessities of State policy and the requirements of + treaties, unable to afford any open or avowed assistance, would still + gladly recognize his participation in the struggle, and, in the event of + success, liberally reward him. + </p> + <p> + “A new kingdom of Upper Italy, with Milan for the capital, and Viscount + Norwood the resident minister plenipotentiary,” there was the whole + episode, in three volumes, with its “plot,” “catastrophe,” and “virtue + rewarded,” in appropriate fashion; and as times were bad, neither racing + nor cards profitable, patriotism was the only unexplored resource he could + think of. + </p> + <p> + Not that my Lord had much faith in the Abbé. Far from it. He thought all + priests were knaves; but he also thought “that he 'll not cheat <i>me</i>. + No, no; too wide awake for that He 'll not try that dodge. Knows where I + 've graduated. Remembers too well what school I come of.” He was perfectly + candid, too, in this mode of reasoning, calmly telling D'Esmonde his + opinions of himself, and frankly showing that any attempt at a “jockey” of + him must inevitably fail. The Abbé, to do him justice, took all this + candor well,—affected to deem it the mere ebullition of honest John + Bullism; and so they were well met. At times, indeed, the priest's + enthusiasm carried him a little away, and he ventured to speculate on the + glorious career that conversion would open to the noble Viscount, and the + splendid fruits such a change would be certain to produce. Norwood was, + however, too practical for such remote benefits; and if the Abbé couldn't + “make the thing safe,” as he styled it, would not listen to this + suggestion. A rich Italian princess,—there were two or three such + prizes in the wheel,—or an infanta of Spain, might solace many a + theological doubt; but Norwood said there was no use in quoting the + “fathers” when he was thinking only of the “daughters.” + </p> + <p> + And the priest wisely seemed to take him at his word. As for Lady Hester, + political intrigue was quite new to her, and, consequently, very + delightful. Since the Cardinal's departure for Rome, she had begun to + weary somehow of the ordinances of her new faith. The canonico but ill + replaced his Eminence. He had none of that velvety smoothness of manner, + that soft and gentle persuasiveness of the dignitary He could neither + smile away a doubt nor resolve a difficulty by a “bon mot” It is but fair + to say that he was no ascetic, that he loved good cheer and pleasant + converse, and was free to let others participate in the enjoyment. Lady + Hester, was, however, too much habituated to such indulgences to reckon + them other than necessaries. D'Esmonde, if he had had time, might have + compensated for all these deficiencies, but he was far too deeply engaged + with other cares, and his air of grave preoccupation was more suited to + awe her Ladyship than suggest ease in his presence. And now we come to + Albert Jekyl,—the last member of this incongruous family. Nothing + was less to his taste than any fanaticism, whether it took the form of + religion or politics. All such extravagances were sure to interfere with + society, impede intercourse, and disturb that delightful calm of existence + wherein vices ripen, and where men of his stamp gather the harvest. + </p> + <p> + To overthrow a Government, to disturb the settled foundations of a State, + were, to his thinking, a species of <i>inconvenance</i> that savored of + intense vulgarity; and he classified such anarchists with men who would + like to smash the lamps, tear down the hangings, and destroy the + decorations of a <i>salon</i> in which they were asked to pass the + evening, preferring to sit down amid ruin and wreck rather than eat their + supper at a well-ordered and well-furnished board. + </p> + <p> + To Jekyl's eyes it was a very nice world as it was, if people would only + let it alone. “A world of bright eyes and soft tresses and white + shoulders, with Donizetti's music and Moët's champagne, was not to be + despised, after all.” He had no sympathies, therefore, with these + disturbers; but he was too well bred ever to oppose himself to the wishes + of the company, and so he seemed to concur with what he could not prevent. + He could have wished that the Italians would take a lesson from the Swiss, + who only revolt when there is nothing else to do, and never take to + cutting each other's throats during the season when there are travellers + to be cheated; “but, perhaps,” said he, “they will soon get enough of it, + and learn that their genius lies more in ballets and bonbons than in bombs + and rockets.” + </p> + <p> + Of such various hopes and feelings were the party made up who now awaited + D'Esmonde's presence at the supper-table. It was past midnight, and they + had been expecting him with impatience for above an hour back. Twice had + the canonico fallen asleep, and started up with terror at what he called a + “fantasma di fame.” Jekyl had eaten sardines and oysters till he was + actually starving. Lady Hester was fidgety and fretful, as waiting always + made her; while Norwood walked from the room to the terrace, and out upon + the grass to listen, uneasy lest any mischance should have befallen one + who was so deeply involved in their confidences. + </p> + <p> + “It is but three or four and twenty miles to Milan,” muttered Norwood; “he + might easily have been here by this.” + </p> + <p> + “The road is infested with banditti,” growled out the padre. + </p> + <p> + “Banditti!” said Norwood, contemptuously. But whether the sneer was + intended for the cut-throats' courage, or the folly of men who would + expect any booty from a priest, is hard to say; clearly the padre took it + in the latter sense, for he rejoined,—— + </p> + <p> + “Even so, Milordo. When I was curé of Bergamo, they stopped me one night + on the Lecco road. A bishop was on a visit with me, and I had gone up to + Milan to procure some fish for our Friday's dinner. Oimè! what a turbot it + was, and how deliciously it looked at the bottom of the calessino, with + the lobsters keeping guard at either side of it, and a small basket of + Genoa oysters,—those rock beauties that melt in the mouth like a + ripe strawberry! There they were, and I had fallen asleep, and was + dreaming pleasantly. I thought I saw St Cecilia dressing 'filets de sole + aux fines herbes,' and that she was asking me for sweet marjoram, when + suddenly I felt a sharp stick, as it were, in my side; and starting up, I + felt the point—the very point—of a thin stiletto between my + ribs. + </p> + <p> + “'Scusi, padre mio,' said a whining voice, and a great black-bearded + rascal touched his cap to me with one hand, while with the other he held + the dagger close to my side, a comrade all the time covering me with a + blunderbuss on the opposite side of the cart,—'scusi, padre mio, but + we want your pursel' 'Maladetto sia—' 'Don't curse,' said he, + beggingly,—'don't curse, padre, we shall only have to spend more + money in masses; but be quick, out with the “quattrini.”' + </p> + <p> + “'I have nothing but the Church fund for the poor.' said I, angrily. + </p> + <p> + “'We are the poor, holy father,' whined the rogue. + </p> + <p> + “'I mean the poor who hate to do evil,' said I. + </p> + <p> + “'It grieves us to the soul when we are driven to it!' sighed the + scoundrel; and he gave me a gentle touch with the point of the stiletto. + Dark as it was, I could see the wretch grin as I screamed out. + </p> + <p> + “'Be quick,' growled out the other, roughly, as he brought the wide mouth + of the trombone close to my face. There was no help for it I had to give + up my little leathern pouch with all my quarter's gatherings. Many a + warning did I give the villains of the ill-luck that followed sacrilege,—how + palsies and blindness and lameness came upon the limbs of those who robbed + the Church. They went on counting the coins without so much as minding me. + At last, when they had fairly divided the booty, the first fellow said, + 'One favor more, holy father, before we part.' + </p> + <p> + “'Would you take my coat or my cassock?' said I, indignantly. + </p> + <p> + “'Heaven forbid it!' said he, piously; 'we want only your blessing, padre + mio.' + </p> + <p> + “'My blessing on thieves and robbers!' + </p> + <p> + “'Who need it more, holy father?' said he, with another stick of the + point,——'who need it more?' + </p> + <p> + “I screamed aloud, and the wretches this time laughed outright at my + misery. Meanwhile they both uncovered and knelt down in the road before + me. Oimè! oimè! There was no help for it I had to descend from the + calessino!” + </p> + <p> + <a name="linkimage-0010" id="linkimage-0010"> + <!-- IMG --></a> <br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%;"> + <img src="images/00208.jpg" alt="00208" width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p> + “And did you bless them, father?” asked Jekyl. + </p> + <p> + “That did I! for when I tried in the middle of the benediction to slip in + a muttering of 'Confundite ipsos qui quaerunt animam meam,' the whining + rogue popped out his accursed weapon, and cried, 'Take care, holy father! + We only bargain for the blessing.'” + </p> + <p> + “They left you the fish, however?” said Norwood. + </p> + <p> + “Not an oyster!” sighed the priest. + </p> + <p> + “'You would not have us eat flesh on the fast, padre mio!' said the + hypocritical knave. 'Poor fellows like us have no dispensation, nor the + money to buy it' And so they packed up everything, and then, helping me to + my seat, wished me a pleasant journey, and departed.” + </p> + <p> + “I am curious to know if you really forgave them, padre?” said Jekyl, with + an air of serious inquiry. + </p> + <p> + “Have I not said so!” rejoined the priest, testily. + </p> + <p> + “Why, you tried to insinuate something that surely was not a blessing, + father.” + </p> + <p> + “And if I did, the fellow detected it. Ah, that rogue must have served + Mass once on a time, or his ears had never been so sharp!” + </p> + <p> + “Are yours quick enough to say if that be the tramp of a horse?” asked + Norwood, as he listened to the sounds. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, that is a horse,” cried Jekyl. + </p> + <p> + “Now, then, for the soup,” exclaimed the canon. “Ah, yes!” added he, with + a sigh, as he turned to Lady Hester, “these are the crosses,——these + are the trials of life; but they are good for us,—they are good for + us! Poor mortals that we are! Non est sanitas in carne meâ. Oimè! oimè!” + And so moralizing, he gave her his arm as he reentered the house. In less + than a minute later, D'Esmonde galloped up to the door, and dismounted. + </p> + <p> + “Has anything occurred?—you are late to-night,” asked Norwood, + hastily. + </p> + <p> + “Nothing. The city, however, was in great alarm, and the tocsin was twice + sounded in the churches when I left at ten o'clock; the guards were + doubled at the gates, and mounted patrols making the rounds in every + quarter.” + </p> + <p> + “What was this for?” asked Norwood. + </p> + <p> + “A mere false alarm,——nothing more. The Austrians are harassed + beyond measure by these frequent calls to arms; and men grumble that they + are mustered twice or thrice during the night without any cause. A petard + exploded in the street, or a church bell rung, is sure to call out the + whole garrison.” + </p> + <p> + “I begin to suspect that our Italian friends will be satisfied with this, + and never go further,” said Norwood, contemptuously. + </p> + <p> + “You are wrong there. It is by the frequency and impunity of these + demonstrations, that they are working up courage for an overt movement By + the time that the Austrians have grown indifferent to such nightly + disturbances, the others will have gained hardihood for a real outbreak.” + </p> + <p> + “If they only be persuaded that war is assassination on a grand scale, + they might make excellent soldiers,” simpered Jekyl; but the others seemed + to take no heed of his pleasantry. + </p> + <p> + “Have they not fixed a time?” asked Norwood, eagerly; “or is it all left + vague and uncertain as ever?” + </p> + <p> + “The Swiss are quite ready; we only wait now for the Piedmontese. Genoa is + with us at a word; so are Leghorn and the towns of the Romagna. The signal + once given, there will be such a rising as Italy has not seen for + centuries. England will supply arms, ammunition—” + </p> + <p> + “All but men,” sighed Norwood; “and it is exactly what are wanting.” + </p> + <p> + “And France—” + </p> + <p> + “Will give her sympathies,” broke in Jekyl. “That dear France! that always + says God speed to disturbance and trouble wherever it be.” + </p> + <p> + “What of that Austrian soldier?” said D'Esmonde, who did not quite like + the tone of either of his companions,—“is he better?” + </p> + <p> + “The surgeon says that he cannot recover,” replied Jekyl; “and for that + reason I suspect that he 's in no danger.” + </p> + <p> + “Have you seen the officer to-day?” asked the priest again. + </p> + <p> + “No,” replied Norwood. “Jekyl and I twice endeavored to speak with him; + but he slept half the forenoon, and since that he has been writing + innumerable despatches to headquarters.” + </p> + <p> + “They say at Milan that he 'll be shot for this misadventure,” said + D'Esmonde; “that he acted in contravention to his orders, or did + something, I know not what, which will be treated as a grave military + offence.” + </p> + <p> + “The canonico is furious with us for this delay,” said Jekyl, laughing, as + he returned from a peep into the <i>salon</i>. + </p> + <p> + The Abbé was, meanwhile, deep in a whispered conversation with Norwood. + “Ay,” said the latter, doubtingly, “but it's a serious thing to tamper + with a soldier's fidelity. The Austrians are not the people to suffer this + with impunity.” + </p> + <p> + “How are they to know it?” + </p> + <p> + “If it fail,—if this young fellow reject our offers, which, as a + Hungarian, it is just as likely that he will do?” + </p> + <p> + “But he is not a Hungarian. I know him, and all about him.” + </p> + <p> + “And can you answer for his readiness to join us?” + </p> + <p> + “I cannot go that far; but seeing the position he stands in, what can be + more probable? And, take the worst case: suppose that he refuses, I have + him still!” + </p> + <p> + “How do you mean?” + </p> + <p> + “Simply that I have in my hands the means to destroy all his credit, and + peril his very life!” The sudden energy of passion in which he delivered + these words appeared to have escaped him unawares; for, as quickly + recovering his wonted smoothness of tone, he said, “Not that anything + short of the last necessity would drive me to such an alternative.” + </p> + <p> + “May I never have to trust to your tender mercies, Abbé!” said Norwood, + with a laugh, in which there was far more of earnest than of jesting; “but + let us talk of these things after supper.” And with the careless ease of a + mere idler, he lounged into the house, followed by the others. + </p> + <p> + Once seated at supper, the conversation took a general turn, requiring all + the Abbé's skill and Jekyl's tact at times to cover from the servants who + waited the secret meaning of many of those allusions to politics and party + which Lady Hester uttered, in the perfect conviction that she was talking + in riddles. Her indiscretion rendered her, indeed, a most perilous + associate; and in spite of hints, warnings, and signs, she would rattle on + upon the dangerous theme of revolt and insurrection; the poor devices of + deception she employed being but sorry blinds to the native quickness of + Italian shrewdness. + </p> + <p> + This little fire of cross-purposes sadly perplexed the canonico, who + looked up now and then from his plate with a face of stupid astonishment + at all that went forward. + </p> + <p> + “You have heard, I suppose, canon,” said the Abbé, adroitly addressing + him, “that the city authorities have only granted twelve thousand crowns + for the festival of San Giovanni?” + </p> + <p> + “Twelve thousand crowns! It will not pay for the throne of the Virgin,” + growled out the canon, “not to speak of the twenty-six angels in sprigged + muslin!” + </p> + <p> + “There are to be no angels this time. The priests of the Santa Croce are + to walk behind the canopy.” + </p> + <p> + “It will ruin the procession,” muttered the canon. + </p> + <p> + “They certainly look as little like angels as need be,” interposed Jekyl, + slyly. + </p> + <p> + “Sixty lamps and two hundred tapers are a scant allowance,” continued + D'Esmonde. + </p> + <p> + “Darkness,—positive darkness!” ejaculated the canon; “ubi evasit + pietas nostra?—what has become of our ancient faith?” + </p> + <p> + “The soldier, your reverence, wishes to see you immediately,” said a + servant, entering in haste; “he fears that he is sinking fast.” + </p> + <p> + “The heavy dews of the morning are falling—can he not wait till the + sun rises, Giuseppe?” + </p> + <p> + “You had better see him at once, canon,” whispered the Abbé. + </p> + <p> + “Oimè! oimè!” sighed the priest, “mine is a weary road—'potum meum + cum fletu miscebam,'” added he, finishing off his champagne, “is it far + from this?” + </p> + <p> + “Only to the boat-house, father,” said Lady Hester. + </p> + <p> + “Per mares et ignos! it's a good half-hour's walk,” growled he. + </p> + <p> + “You can have the pony carriage, father,” interposed she. + </p> + <p> + “He starts at everything by night—don't trust the pony,” said Jekyl. + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, be carried in my chair, father.” + </p> + <p> + “Be it so,—be it so,” muttered he. “I yield myself to anything,—'sicut + passer sub tecto,'—I have no will of my own.” + </p> + <p> + “Go along with him, my Lord,” whispered D'Esmonde: “the opportunity will + be a good one to see the young officer. While the father talks with the + sick man, you can converse with the friend. See in what frame of mind he + is.” + </p> + <p> + “Does he speak French? for I am but an indifferent German,” said Norwood. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, French will do,” said D'Esmonde, who, after a moment's hesitation as + to whether he should reveal the secret of Frank's country, seemed to + decide on still reserving the knowledge. + </p> + <p> + “But this could be better done to-morrow,” said Norwood. + </p> + <p> + “To-morrow will be too late,” whispered D'Esmonde. “Go now; you shall know + my reasons at your return.” + </p> + <p> + Norwood took little heed of the canonico's attempts at conversation as + they went along. His mind was occupied with other thoughts. The moment of + open revolt was drawing nigh, and now came doubts of D'Esmonde's sincerity + and good faith. It was true that many of the priests were disposed to the + wildest theories of democracy,—they were men of more than ordinary + capacity, with far less than the ordinary share of worldly advantages. + D'Esmonde, however, was not one of these; there was no limit to which his + ambition might not reasonably aspire,—no dignity in his Church above + his legitimate hopes. What benefit could accrue to him from a great + political convulsion? “He'll not be nearer to the Popedom when the cannon + are shaking the Vatican!” Such were the puzzling considerations that + worked within him as he drew near the boat-house. + </p> + <p> + A figure was seated on the door-sill, with the head buried beneath his + hands, but on hearing the approach of the others be quickly arose and drew + himself up. “You are too late, sir,” said he, addressing the priest + sternly; “my poor comrade is no more!” + </p> + <p> + “Ah me! and they would drag me out in the chill night air,” groaned the + canonico. + </p> + <p> + The cruelty of that must have weighed heavily on his heart. + </p> + <p> + Frank turned away, and re-entered the house without speaking, while + Norwood followed him in silence. On a low truckle-bed lay the dead + soldier, his manly face calm and tranquil as the cold heart within his + breast. A weather-beaten, bronzed soldier sat at the foot of the bed, the + tears slowly flowing along his cheeks, as his bloodshot eyes were fixed + upon his comrade. It was the first blood that had been shed in the cause + of Italian independence, and Norwood stood thoughtfully staring at the + victim. + </p> + <p> + “Poor fellow!” said he; “they who gave his death-wound little knew what + sympathy for liberty that jacket covered, nor how truly the Hun is the + brother of the Italian.” + </p> + <p> + “They were assassins and murderers,” cried Frank, passionately; “fellows + who attacked us from behind walls and barricades.” + </p> + <p> + “Your reproach only means that they were not soldiers.” + </p> + <p> + “That they were cowards, rather,——rank cowards. The liberty + that such fellows strive for will be well worthy of them! But no more of + this,” cried be, impatiently; “is there a church near, where I can lay his + body,—he was a Catholic?” + </p> + <p> + “There is a chapel attached to the villa; I will ask permission for what + you require.” + </p> + <p> + “You will confer a favor on me,” said Frank, “for I am desirous of + hastening on to Milan at once.” + </p> + <p> + “You will scarcely find your comrades there,” said Norwood. + </p> + <p> + Frank started with surprise, and the other went on,—— + </p> + <p> + “There are rumors of a serious revolt in the city, and some say that the + Imperial troops have retired on the Mantua road.” + </p> + <p> + “They know nothing of Austrian soldiers who say these things,” said Frank, + haughtily; “but there is the more need that I should lose no time here.” + </p> + <p> + “Come, then, I will show you the way to the chapel,” said Norwood, who + could not divest himself of a feeling of interest for the young soldier. + </p> + <p> + Frank spoke a few words in Hungarian to his men, and hastily wrapping the + dead man in his cloak, they placed him on a door, his chako and his sword + at either side of him. + </p> + <p> + “You will see that he is buried as becomes a brave and a true soldier,” + said Frank, with a faltering accent, as they went along. “This will defray + the cost.” + </p> + <p> + “No, no; there is no need of that,” said Norwood, pushing away the + proffered purse. “We'll look to it ourselves.” + </p> + <p> + “Let there be some record of him preserved, too, for his friends' sake. + His name was 'Stanislas Ravitsky.'” + </p> + <p> + “And may I ask yours?” said Norwood. + </p> + <p> + “You'll hear of it in the first court-martial return for Milan,” said + Frank, bitterly. + </p> + <p> + “Then why go there?—why hasten to certain ruin?” + </p> + <p> + “You would say, why not desert?——why not forfeit my honor and + my oath? Because I am a gentleman, sir; and if the explanation be not + intelligible, so much the worse for you.” + </p> + <p> + “I have left him in the chapel,” said Norwood to D'Esmonde, a few minutes + after this conversation; “he is kneeling beside the corpse, and praying. + There is nothing to be done with him. It is but time lost to attempt it.” + </p> + <p> + “So much the worse for <i>him,</i>” said D'Esmonde, significantly + repeating the words that Norwood related, while he hastily left the spot + and walked towards the high-road, where now an Austrian picket was + standing beside the horses. + </p> + <p> + “This is your warrant, sir,” said D'Esmonde to the officer, handing him a + paper; “You 'll find the person you seek for in the chapel yonder.” + </p> + <p> + The officer saluted in reply, and ordered his men to mount; while + D'Esmonde, passing into a thick part of the copse, was out of sight in a + moment. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0016" id="link2HCH0016"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVI. PETER DALTON ON POLITICS, LAW, AND SOCIALITIES. + </h2> + <p> + We have seen Baden in the dark winter of its discontent—in the + spring-time of its promise—and now we come back to it once more, in + the fall blaze of its noonday splendor. It was the height of the season! + And what a world of dissipation does that phrase embody! What reckless + extravagance, what thoughtless profusion, what systematic vice glossed + over by the lacquer of polished breeding, what beauty which lacks but + innocence to be almost divine! All the attractions of a lovely country, + all the blandishments of wealth, the aids of music and painting, the odor + of flowers, the songs of birds,—all pressed into the service of + voluptuous dissipation, and made to throw a false lustre over a scene + where vice alone predominates. + </p> + <p> + It was the camp of pleasure, to which all rallied who loved to fight + beneath that banner. And there they were, a mingled host of princes, + ministers, and generals. The spoiled children of fashion, the reckless + adventurer, the bankrupt speculator, the nattered beauty in all the pride + of her loveliness, the tarnished virtue in all the effrontery of conquest! + Strange and incongruous elements of good and evil,—of all that is + honored in heroism, and all that men shrink from with shame,—there + they were met as equals. + </p> + <p> + As if by some conventional relaxation of all the habits which rule + society, men admitted to their intimacy here those they would have + strenuously avoided elsewhere. Vice, like poverty, seemed to have + annihilated all the distinctions of rank, and the “decorated” noble and + the branded felon sat down to the same board like brethren. + </p> + <p> + Amid all the gay company of the Cursaal none appeared to have a greater + relish for the glittering pleasures of the scene than a large elderly man, + who, in a coat of jockey cut and a showy waistcoat, sat at the end of one + of the tables,—a post which the obsequious attention of the waiters + proclaimed to be his own distinctively. Within a kind of ring-fence of + bottles and decanters of every shape and size, he looked the genius of + hospitality and dissipation; and it was only necessary to mark how many a + smile was turned on him, how many a soft glance was directed towards him, + to see that he was the centre of all designing flattery. There was a + reckless, unsuspecting jollity in his look that could not be mistaken; and + his loud, hearty laugh bespoke the easy self-satisfaction of his nature. + Like “special envoys,” <i>his</i> champagne bottles were sent hither and + thither down the table, and at each instant a friendly nod or a courteous + bow acknowledged his hospitable attention. At either side of him were + seated a knot of his peculiar parasites, and neither was wit nor beauty + wanting to make their society agreeable. There is a species of mock + affection, a false air of attachment in the homage rendered to such a man + as this, that makes the flattery infinitely more seductive than all the + respectful devotion that ever surrounded a monarch. And so our old friend + Peter Dalton—need we to name him?—felt it. “Barring the + glorious burst of a fox-hunting chorus, or the wild 'hip, hip' of a + favorite toast, it was almost as good as Ireland.” Indeed, in some + respects, it had rather the advantage over the dear island. + </p> + <p> + Peter was intensely Irish, and had all the native relish for high company, + and it was no mean enjoyment that he felt in seeing royal and serene + highnesses at every side of him, and knowing that some of the great names + of Europe were waiting for the very dish that was served first in honor to + himself. There was a glittering splendor, too, in the gorgeously decorated + “Saal,” with its frescos, its mirrors, its lustres, and its bouquets, that + captivated him. The very associations which a more refined critic would + have cavilled at had their attractions for <i>him</i>, and he gloried in + the noise and uproar. The clink of glasses and the crash of plates were to + his ears the pleasant harmony of a convivial meeting. + </p> + <p> + He was in the very height of enjoyment. A few days back he had received a + large remittance from Kate. It came in a letter to Nelly, which he had not + read, nor cared to read. He only knew that she was at St. Petersburg + waiting for Midchekoffs arrival. The money had driven all other thoughts + out of his head, and before Nelly had glanced her eye over half the first + page, he was already away to negotiate the bills with Abel Kraus, the + moneychanger. As for Frank, they had not heard of him for several months + back. Nelly, indeed, had received a few lines from Count Stephen, but they + did not appear to contain anything very interesting, for she went to her + room soon after reading them, and Dalton forgot to ask more on the + subject. His was not a mind to conjure up possible misfortunes. Always too + ready to believe the best, he took the world ever on its sunniest side, + and never would acknowledge a calamity while there was a loophole of + escape from it. + </p> + <p> + “Why wouldn't she be happy?—What the devil could ail her?——Why + oughtn't he to be well?——Wasn't he as strong as a bull, and + not twenty yet!” Such were the consolations of his philosophy, and he + needed no better. + </p> + <p> + His flatterers, too, used to insinuate little fragments of news about the + “Princess” and the “Young Count,” as they styled Frank, which he eagerly + devoured, and as well as his memory served him, tried to repeat to Nelly + when he returned home of a night. These were enough for him; and the + little sigh with which he tossed off his champagne to their health was the + extent of sorrow the separation cost him. + </p> + <p> + Now and then, it is true, he wished they were with him; he'd have liked to + show the foreigners “what an Irish girl was;” he would have been pleased, + too, that his handsome boy should have been seen amongst “them grinning + baboons, with hair all over them.” He desired this the more, that Nelly + would never venture into public with him, or, if she did, it was with such + evident shame and repugnance that even his selfishness could not exact the + sacrifice. “'T is, maybe, the sight of the dancing grieves her, and-she + lame,” was the explanation he gave himself of this strange turn of mind; + and whenever honest Peter had hit upon what he thought was a reason for + anything, he dismissed all further thought about the matter forever. It + was a debt paid, and he felt as if he had the receipt on his file. + </p> + <p> + On the day we now speak of he was supremely happy. An Irish peer had come + into the Saal leaning on his arm, and twice called him “Dalton” across the + table. The waiter had apologized to a royal highness for not having better + Johannisberg, as the “Schloss” wine had all been reserved for the “Count,” + as Peter was styled. He had won four hundred Napoleons at roulette before + dinner; and a bracelet, that cost a hundred and twenty, was glittering on + a fair wrist beside him, while a murmur of his name in tones of + unquestionable adulation, from all parts of the table, seemed to fill up + the measure of his delight. + </p> + <p> + “What's them places vacant there?” called he out to the waiter, and + pointing to five chairs turned back to the table in token of being + reserved. + </p> + <p> + “It was an English family had arrived that morning who bespoke them.” + </p> + <p> + “Faix! then, they 're likely to lose soup and fish,” said Peter; “the + 'coorses' here wait for no man.” And as he spoke the party made their + appearance. + </p> + <p> + A large elderly lady of imposing mien and stately presence led the way, + followed by a younger and slighter figure; after whom walked a very feeble + old man, of a spare and stooping form; the end being brought up by a + little rosy man, with a twinkling eye and a short jerking limp, that made + him seem rather to dance than walk forward. + </p> + <p> + “They've ca-ca-carried off the soup already,” cried the last-mentioned + personage, as he arranged his napkin before him, “and—and—and, + I fa-fancy, the fish, too.” + </p> + <p> + “Be quiet, Scroope,” called out the fat lady; “do be quiet.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, but we shall have to p-p-pay all the same,” cried Scroope. + </p> + <p> + “There 's good sense in that, anyway,” broke in Dalton; “will you take a + glass of champagne with me, sir? you 'll find it cool, and not bad of its + kind.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Purvis acknowledged the courtesy gracefully, and bowed as he drank. + </p> + <p> + “Take the ortolans to that lady, Fritz,” said Dalton to the waiter; and + Mrs. Ricketts smiled her sweetest gratitude. + </p> + <p> + “We are dreadfully late,” sighed she; “but the dear Princess of + Stauffenschwillingen passed all the morning with us, and we could n't get + away.” + </p> + <p> + “I thought it was the woman about the ro-rope dancing detained you.” + </p> + <p> + “Hush, Scroope—will you be quiet? Martha, dearest, don't venture on + those truffles. My poor child, they would be the death of you.” And, so + saying, she drew her companion's plate before herself. “A most agreeable, + gentlemanlike person,” muttered she, in a whisper, evidently intended for + Peter's ears. “We must find out who he is. I suppose you know the + Princess, sir? Don't you love her?” said she, addressing Dalton. + </p> + <p> + “Faix! if you mean the old lady covered with snuff that comes here to have + her dogs washed at the well, without intending any offence to you, I do + not. To tell you the truth, ma'am, when I was in the habit of fallin' in + love, it was a very different kind of creature that did it! Ay, ay, 'the + days is gone when beauty bright my heart's ease spoilt.'” + </p> + <p> + “My heart's chain wove,'” smiled and whispered Mrs. Ricketts. + </p> + <p> + “Just so. It comes to the same thing. Give me the wine, Fritz. Will you + drink a glass of wine with me, sir?” + </p> + <p> + The invitation was addressed to General Ricketts, who, by dint of several + shoves, pokings, and admonitions, was at last made aware of the + proposition. + </p> + <p> + “Your father's getting a little the worse for wear, miss,” said Dalton to + Martha, who blushed at even the small flattery of the observation. + </p> + <p> + “The General's services have impaired his constitution,” remarked Mrs. + Ricketts, proudly. + </p> + <p> + “Ay, and to all appearance it was nothing to boast of in the beginning,” + replied Peter, as he surveyed with self-satisfaction his own portly form. + </p> + <p> + “Fourteen years in the Hima-Hima-Hima—” + </p> + <p> + “Himalaya, Scroope,——the Himalaya.” + </p> + <p> + “The highest mountains in the world!” continued Purvis. + </p> + <p> + “For wet under foot, and a spongy soil that never dries, I'll back the + Galtees against them any day. See, now, you can walk from morning to + night, and be over your head at every step you go.” + </p> + <p> + “Where are they?” inquired Scroope. + </p> + <p> + “Why, where would they be? In Ireland, to be sure; and here's prosperity + to her, and bad luck to Process-servers, 'Polis,' and Poor-Law + Commissioners!” Dalton drained his glass with solemn energy to his toast, + and looked as though his heart was relieved of a weight by this outburst + of indignation. + </p> + <p> + “You Irish are so patriotic!” exclaimed Mrs. Ricketts, enthusiastically. + </p> + <p> + “I believe we are,” replied Dalton. “'T is only we 've an odd way of + showing it.” + </p> + <p> + “I remark that they ne-never live in Ireland when they can li-live out of + it,” cackled Purvis. + </p> + <p> + “Well, and why not? Is it by staying at home in the one place people + learns improvements? you might drink whiskey-punch for forty years and + never know the taste of champagne. Potatoes wouldn't teach you the flavor + of truffles. There's nothing like travellin'!” + </p> + <p> + “Very true,” sighed Mrs. Ricketts; “but, as the poet says, 'Where'er I go, + whatever realms I see—“' + </p> + <p> + “The devil a one you 'll meet as poor as Ireland,” broke in Dalton, who + now had thrown himself headlong into a favorite theme. “Other countries + get better, but she gets worse.” + </p> + <p> + “They say it's the po-po——” screamed Scroope. + </p> + <p> + “The Pope, is it?” + </p> + <p> + “No; the po-potatoes is the cause of everything.” + </p> + <p> + “They might as well hould their prate, then,” broke in Peter, whose + dialect always grew broader when he was excited. “Why don't they tell me + that if I was too poor to buy broadcloth, it would be better for me to go + naked than wear corduroy breeches? Not that I'd mind them, miss!” said be, + turning to Martha, who already was blushing at his illustration. + </p> + <p> + “I fear that the evil lies deeper,” sighed Mrs. Ricketts. + </p> + <p> + “You mean the bogs?” asked Dal ton. + </p> + <p> + “Not exactly, sir; but I allude to those drearier swamps of superstition + and ignorance that overlay the land.” + </p> + <p> + Peter was puzzled, and scratched his ear like a man at a nonplus. + </p> + <p> + “My sister means the pr-pr-pr—” + </p> + <p> + “The process-servers?” + </p> + <p> + “No; the pr-priests—the priests,” screamed Purvis. + </p> + <p> + “Bother!” exclaimed Dalton, with an accent of ineffable disdain. “'T is + much you know about Ireland!” + </p> + <p> + “You don't agree with me then?” sighed Mrs. Ricketts. + </p> + <p> + “Indeed I do not. Would you take away the little bit of education out of a + country where there's nothing but ignorance? Would you extinguish the + hopes of heaven amongst them that has nothing but starvation and misery + here? Try it,—just try it. I put humanity out of the question; but + just try it, for the safety's sake! Pat is n't very orderly now, but, + faix! you 'd make a raal devil of him then, entirely!” + </p> + <p> + “But popery, my dear sir—the confessional—” + </p> + <p> + “Bother!” said Dalton, with a wave of his hand. “How much you know about + it! 'T is just as they used to talk long ago about drunkenness. Sure, I + remember well when there was all that hue and cry about Irish gentlemen's + habits of dissipation, and the whole time nobody took anything to hurt his + constitution. Well, it's just the same with confession,—everybody + uses his discretion about it. <i>You</i> have your peccadilloes, and <i>I</i> + have my peccadilloes, and that young lady there has her—Well, I did + n't mean to make you blush, miss, but 'tis what I'm saying, that nobody, + barrin' a fool, would be too hard upon himself!” + </p> + <p> + “So that it ain't con-confession at all,” exclaimed Purvis. + </p> + <p> + “Who told you that?” said Peter, sternly. “Is it nothing to pay + two-and-sixpence in the pound if you were bankrupt to-morrow? Does n't it + show an honest intention, any way?” said he, with a wink. + </p> + <p> + “Then what are the evils of Ireland?” asked Mrs. Ricketts, with an air of + inquiring interest. + </p> + <p> + “I 'll tell you, then,” said Dalton, slowly, as he filled a capacious + glass with champagne. “It is n't the priests, nor it isn't the potatoes, + nor it isn't the Protestants either, though many respectable people think + so; for you see we had always priests and potatoes, and a sprinkling of + Protestants besides; but the real evil of Ireland—and there's no man + living knows it better than I do—is quite another thing, and here's + what it is.” And he stooped down and dropped his voice to a whisper. “'Tis + this: 'tis paying money when you have n't it!” The grave solemnity of this + enunciation did not seem to make it a whit more intelligible to Mrs. + Ricketts, who certainly looked the very type of amazement. “That's what it + is,” reiterated Dalton, “paying money when you have n't it! There's the + ruin of Ireland; and, as I said before, who ought to know better? For you + see, when you owe money, and you have n't it, you must get it how you can. + You know what that means; and if you don't, I 'll tell you. It means + mortgages and bond debts; rack-renting and renewals; breaking up an + elegant establishment; selling your horses at Dycer's; going to the devil + entirely; and not only yourself, but all belonging to you. The tradesmen + you dealt with, the country shop where you bought everything, the tithes, + the priests' dues,—not a farthing left for them.” + </p> + <p> + “But you don't mean to say that people shouldn't p-p-pay their debts?” + screamed Purvis. + </p> + <p> + “There's a time for everything,” replied Dalton. “Shaving oneself is a + mighty useful process, but you wouldn't have a man get up out of his bed + at night to do it? I never was for keeping money,—the worst enemy + would n't say that of me. Spend it freely when you have it; but sure it's + not spending to be paying debts due thirty or forty years back, made by + your great-grandfather?” + </p> + <p> + “One should be just before being ge-gen-gene-gene——” + </p> + <p> + “Faix! I'd be both,” said Dalton, who with native casuistry only + maintained a discussion for the sake of baffling or mystifying an + adversary. “I'd be just to myself and generous to my friends, them's my + sentiments; and it 's Peter Dalton that says it!” + </p> + <p> + “Dalton!” repeated Mrs. Ricketts, in a low voice,——“did n't he + say Dalton, Martha?” + </p> + <p> + “Yea, sister; it was Dalton.” + </p> + <p> + “Did n't you say your name was Da-Da-a-a——” + </p> + <p> + “No, I didn't!” cried Peter, laughing. “I said Peter Dalton as plain as a + man could speak; and if ever you were in Ireland, you may have heard the + name before now.” + </p> + <p> + “We knew a young lady of that name at Florence.” + </p> + <p> + “Is it Kate,—my daughter Kate?” cried the old man, in ecstasy. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, she was called Kate,” replied Mrs. Ricketts, whose strategic sight + foresaw a world of consequences from the recognition. “What a lovely + creature she was!” + </p> + <p> + “And you knew Kate?” cried Dalton again, gazing on the group with intense + interest. “But was it my Kate? Perhaps it was n't mine!” + </p> + <p> + “She was living in the Mazzarini Palace with Lady Hester Onslow.” + </p> + <p> + “That's her,—that's her! Oh, tell me everything you know,—tell + me all you can think of her. She was the light of my eyes for many a year! + Is the old lady sick?” cried he, suddenly; for Mrs. Ricketts had leaned + back in her chair, and covered her face with her handkerchief. + </p> + <p> + “She 's only overcome,” said Martha, as she threw back her own shawl and + prepared for active service; while Scroope, in a burst of generous + anxiety, seized the first decanter near him and filled out a bumper. + </p> + <p> + “She and yonr da-daughter were like sisters,” whispered Scroope to Dalton. + </p> + <p> + “The devil they were!” exclaimed Peter, who thought their looks must have + belied the relationship. “Isn't she getting worse?—she's trembling + all over her.” + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Ricketts's state now warranted the most acute sympathy; for she threw + her eyes wildly about, and seemed like one gasping for life. + </p> + <p> + “Is she here, Martha? Is she near me——can I see her—can + I touch her?” cried she, in accents almost heartrending. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, yes; you shall see her; she 'll not leave you,” said Martha, as if + caressing a child. “We must remove her; we must get her out of this.” + </p> + <p> + “To be sure; yes, of course!” cried Dalton. “There's a room here empty. + It's a tender heart she has, any way;” and, so saying, he arose, and with + the aid of some half-dozen waiters transported the now unconscious Zoe, + chair and all, into a small chamber adjoining the Saal. + </p> + <p> + “This is her father's hand,” murmured Mrs. Ricketts, as she pressed + Dalton's in her own,——“her father's hand.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, my dear!” said Dalton, returning the pressure, and feeling a strong + desire to blubber, just for sociality's sake. + </p> + <p> + “If you knew how they loved each other,” whispered Martha, while she + busied herself pinning cap-ribbons out of the way of cold applications, + and covering up lace from the damaging influence of restoratives. + </p> + <p> + “It 's wonderful,—it's wonderful!” exclaimed Peter, whose faculties + were actually confounded by such a rush of sensations and emotions. + </p> + <p> + “Make him go back to his dinner, Martha; make him go back,” sighed the + sick lady, in a half-dreamy voice. + </p> + <p> + “I couldn't eat a bit; a morsel would choke me this minute,” said Dalton, + who could n't bear to be outdone in the refinements of excited + sensibility. + </p> + <p> + “She must never be contradicted while in this state,” said Martha, + confidingly. “All depends on indulgence.” + </p> + <p> + “It's wonderful!” exclaimed Dalton, again,——“downright + wonderful!” + </p> + <p> + “Then, pray go back; she'll be quite well presently,” rejoined Martha, who + already, from the contents of a reticule like a carpet-bag, had + metamorphosed the fair Zoe's appearance into all the semblance of a + patient. + </p> + <p> + “It's wonderful; it beats Banagher!” muttered Peter, as he returned to the + Saal, and resumed his place at the table. The company had already taken + their departure, and except Purvis and the General, only a few stragglers + remained behind. + </p> + <p> + “Does she often get them?” asked Peter of Purvis. + </p> + <p> + “Only when her fee-fee-feelings are worked upon; she's so se-sensitive!” + </p> + <p> + “Too tender a heart,” sighed Peter, as he filled his glass, and sighed + over an infirmity that he thought he well knew all the miseries of. “And + her name, if I might make bould?” + </p> + <p> + “Ricketts,——Mrs. Montague Ricketts. This is Ge-Ge-General + Ricketts.” At these words the old man looked op, smiled blandly, and + lifted his glass to his lips. + </p> + <p> + <a name="linkimage-0011" id="linkimage-0011"> + <!-- IMG --></a> <br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%;"> + <img src="images/00228.jpg" alt="00228" width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p> + “Your good health, and many happy returns to yoo,” said Peter, in reply to + the courtesy. “Ricketts,——Ricketts. Well, I 'm sure I heard + the name before.” + </p> + <p> + “In the D-D-Duke's despatches you may have seen it.” “No, no, no. I never + read one of them. I heard it here in Baden. Wait, now, and I'll remember + how.” Neither the effort at recollection nor the aid of a bumper seemed + satisfactory, for Dalton sat musingly for several minutes together. “Well, + I thought I knew the name,” exclaimed he, at last, with a deep sigh of + discomfiture; “'t is runnin' in my head yet; something about chilblains,——chilblains.” + </p> + <p> + “But the name is R-R-Ricketts,” screamed Purvis. + </p> + <p> + “And so it is,” sighed Peter. “My brain is woolgathering. By my + conscience, I have it now, though!” cried he, in wild delight. “I knew I + 'd scent it out. It was one Fogles that was here,——a chap with + a red wig, and deaf as a door-nail.” + </p> + <p> + “Foglass, you mean,—Fo-Foglass,——don't you?” + </p> + <p> + “I always called him Fogies; and I 'm sure it's as good a name as the + other, any day.” + </p> + <p> + “He's so pl-pleasant,” chimed in Scroope, who, under the influence of + Dalton's champagne, was now growing convivial,——“he's so + agreeable; always in the highest cir-circles, and dining with no-no-no——” + </p> + <p> + “With nobs,” suggested Peter. “He might do better, and he might do worse. + I 've seen lords that was as great rapscallions as you 'd meet from this + to Kilrush.” + </p> + <p> + “But Foglass was always so excl-exclusive, and held himself so high.” + </p> + <p> + “The higher the better,” rejoined Dalton, “even if it was out of one's + reach altogether; for a more tiresome ould crayture I never forgathered + with; and such a bag of stories he had, without a bit of drollery or fun + in one of them. You may think that kind of fellow good company in England; + but, in my poor country, a red herring and a pint of beer would get you + one he could n't howld a candle to. See now, Mister—” + </p> + <p> + “P-P-Purvis,” screamed the other. + </p> + <p> + “Mister Purvis,—if that's the name,—see, now, 't is n't + boasting I am, for the condition we 're in would n't let any man boast,—but + it's what I 'm saying, the English is a mighty stupid people. They have + their London jokes, and, like London porter, mighty heavy they are, and + bitter, besides; and they have two or three play-actors that makes them + die laughing at the same comicalities every day of the year. They get used + to them as they do the smoke and the noise and the Thames water; and + nothing would persuade them that, because they 're rich, they 're not + agreeable and social and witty. And may I never leave this, but you 'd + find cuter notions of life, droller stories, and more fun, under a dry + arch of the Aqueduct of Stoney Batter than if you had the run of + Westminster Hall. Look at the shouts of laughter in the Law Coorts; look + at the loud laughter in the House of Commons! Oh dear! oh dear! it makes + me quite melancholy just to think of it I won't talk of the Parliament, + because it's gone; but take an Irish Coort in Dublin or on the Assizes, at + any trial,—murder, if you like,——and see the fun that + goes on: the judge quizzing the jury, and the counsel quizzing the judge, + and the prisoner quizzing all three. There was poor ould Nor-bury,—rest + his soul!—I remember well how he could n't put on the black cap for + laughing.” + </p> + <p> + “And is ju-justice better administered for all that?” cried Purvis. + </p> + <p> + “To be sure it is. Isn't the laws made to expose villany, and not let + people be imposed upon? Sure it's not to hang Paddy Blake you want, but to + keep others from following his example. And many 's the time in Ireland + when, what between the blunderin' of the Crown lawyers, the flaws of the + indictment, the conscientious scruples of the jury,—you know what + that means,—and the hurry of the judge to be away to Harrogate or + Tunbridge, a villain gets off. But, instead of going out with an elegant + bran-new character, a bit of a joke—a droll word spoken during the + trial—sticks to him all his life after, till it would be just as + well for him to be hanged at once as be laughed at, from Pill-Lane to the + Lakes of Killarney. Don't I remember well when one of the Regans—Tim, + I think it was—was tried for murder at Tralee; there was a something + or other they could n't convict upon. 'T was his grandfather's age was put + down wrong, or the color of his stepmother's hair, or the nails in his + shoes wasn't described right,——whatever it was, it was a flaw, + as they called it; and a flaw in a brief, like one in a boiler, leaves + everybody in hot water. “Not Guilty,” says the jury, 'for we can't agree.' + </p> + <p> + “''Tis a droll verdict,' says O'Grady, for he was the judge. 'What d' ye + mean?' + </p> + <p> + “'Most of us is for hanging, my Lord; but more of us would let him off.' + </p> + <p> + “'What will you do, Mr. Attorney?' says the judge. 'Have you any other + evidence to bring forward?' And the Attorney-General stooped down and + began whispering with the bench. 'Very well,' says the judge, at last, 'we + 'll discharge him by proclamation.' + </p> + <p> + “'Wait a minute, my Lord,' says ould Blethers, who got five guineas for + the defence, and had n't yet opened his mouth. 'Before my respected but + injured client leaves that dock, I call to your Lordship, in the name and + on behalf of British justice,—I appeal to you, by the eternal + principles of our glorious Constitution, that he may go forth into the + world with a reputation unstained and a character unblemished.' + </p> + <p> + “'Not so fast, Mister Blethers,' says old Grady,——'not so fast + I 'm going over Thieve-na-muck Mountain tonight, and, with the blessing of + God, I 'll keep your unblemished friend where he is till morning.' Now you + see the meaning of what I was telling you. 'T is like tying a kettle to a + dog's tail.” + </p> + <p> + It is not quite clear to us whether Purvis comprehended the story or + appreciated the illustration; but he smiled, and smirked, and looked + satisfied, for Peter's wine was admirable, and iced to perfection. Indeed, + the worthy Scroope, like his sister, was already calculating how to + “improve the occasion,” and further cultivate the esteem of one whose + hospitable dispositions were so excellent. It was just at this moment that + Martha glided behind Purvis's chair, and whispered a word in his ear. + Whatever the announcement, it required some repetition before it became + quite palpable to his faculties, and it was only after about five minutes + that his mind seemed to take in all the bearings of the case. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, I ha-have it!” cried he. “That's it, eh?” And he winked with a degree + of cunning that showed the most timely appreciation of the news. + </p> + <p> + “Would n't the young lady sit down and take something?” said Dalton, + offering a seat “A glass of sweet wine? They 've elegant Tokay here.” + </p> + <p> + “Thanks, thanks,” said Scroope, apologizing for the bashful Martha; “but + she's in a bit of a quandary just now. My sister wishes to return home, + and we cannot remember the name of the hotel.” + </p> + <p> + Dalton took a hearty fit of laughing at the absurdity of the dilemma. + </p> + <p> + “'T is well,” said he, “You were n't Irish. By my conscience! they'd call + that a bull;” and he shook his sides with merriment. “How did you get + here?” + </p> + <p> + “We walked,” said Martha. + </p> + <p> + “And which way did you come?” + </p> + <p> + “Can you remember, Scroope?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I can re-re-member that we crossed a little Plate, with a fountain, + and came oyer a wooden bridge, and then down an alley of + li-li-linden-trees.” + </p> + <p> + “To be sure ye did,” broke in Dalton; “and the devil a walk of five + minutes ye could take in any direction here without seeing a fountain, a + wooden bridge, and a green lane. 'T is the same whichever way you turn, + whether you were going to church or the gambling-house. Would you know the + name, if you hear it? Was it the Schwan?” Purvis shook his head. “Nor the + Black Eagle?—nor the Cour de Londres?—nor the Russie?—nor + the Zaringer? Nor, in fact, any of the cognate hotels of Baden. Was n't + there a great hall when you entered, with orange-trees all round it, and + little couriers, in goold-lace jackets, smoking and drinking beer?” + Scroope thought he had seen something of that sort “Of course ye did,” + said Dalton, with another burst of laughter. “'Tis the same in every hotel + of the town. There 's a clock that never goes, too, and a weather-glass + always at 'set fair,' and pictures round the walls of all the wonderful + inns in Germany and Switzerland, with coaches-and-four driving in at full + gallop, and ladies on the balconies, and saddle-horses waiting, and every + diversion in life going on, while, maybe, all the time, the place is dead + as Darmstadt.” + </p> + <p> + Scroope recognized the description perfectly, but could give no clew to + its whereabouts. + </p> + <p> + “Maybe 't is Kaufmayer's. Was it painted yellow outside?” + </p> + <p> + Scroope thought not. “It hadn't a garden in front?” He couldn't say + positively; but, if so, it was a small garden. “He did n't remark two dogs + in stone beside the door?” No, he had not seen them. + </p> + <p> + “Then, by the powers!” exclaimed Peter, “I give it up. Nelly's the only + body can make anything out of it.” + </p> + <p> + “And who's Ne-Ne-Nelly?” screamed Purvis. + </p> + <p> + “My daughter, Miss Dalton,” said Peter, haughtily, And as if rebuking the + liberty of the question. + </p> + <p> + Scroope hastened to apologize, and suddenly remembered how frequently he + had heard of the young lady from her sister, and how eager Mrs. Ricketts + would be to make her Acquaintance. + </p> + <p> + “There's nothing easier than that same,” said Dalton. “Just come with me + to my little place, and take tea with us. Nelly will be right glad to see + them that was kind to her sister, and then we'll try if we can't find out + your inn.” + </p> + <p> + “Can we do this, Martha?” cried Scroope, in seeming Agitation. + </p> + <p> + “I 'll speak to my sister,” mildly replied she. + </p> + <p> + “Do, then, Miss,” said Dalton. “Say 'tis just alone, and in the family + way, and that we have n't more than ten minutes' walk from this; or, we + 'll get a coach if she likes.” + </p> + <p> + The very thought of practising hospitality was ecstasy to honest Peter, + who, while Martha retired to consult her sister, ordered in a relay of + bottles to beguile the time. + </p> + <p> + “I like that little ould man,” said he, confidingly, to Purvis, while he + bent a kindly glance on the General. “He doesn't say much, and, maybe, he + hears less; but he takes his glass pleasantly, and he lays it down when + it's empty, with a little sigh. I never knew a bad fellow had that habit.” + </p> + <p> + Scroope hinted that the General was one of the bright stars of the British + army. + </p> + <p> + “I did n't care that he took Tippoo Saib, or Bergen-op-Zoom, and that's a + big word,—for a wickeder pair of devils, by all accounts, never + lived,—if he's all right here.” And Peter touched the left region of + his brawny chest “If he's good and generous, kind to the poor, and steady + to his friends, I'd be prouder to know him than if he was 'Bony' or Brian + Maguire!” + </p> + <p> + Scroope assured him that the General's greatness took nothing from the + kindly qualities of his heart; and, indeed, the mild looks of the old man + well corroborated the eulogy; and he and Dalton nodded and drank to each + other with all the signs of a most amicable understanding. + </p> + <p> + Martha was not long absent. She returned with all manner of + acknowledgments on the part of her sister; but gratitude was so + counterbalanced by delicacy, fears of intrusion were so coupled with + enthusiastic delight, that poor Dalton was quite unable to unravel the + web, and satisfy himself what were her real intentions. + </p> + <p> + “Is it that she won't come?” said he, in a state of bewilderment. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, no,” said Martha; “she did not mean that.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, she is coming,” said he, more contentedly. + </p> + <p> + “She only fears the inconvenience,——the trouble she may give + Miss Dalton,—not to speak of the abruptness of such a visit.” + </p> + <p> + “She does n't know Nelly,—tell her that. She doesn't know Nelly + Dalton,” said Peter. “'T is the same girl does n't care for trouble or + inconvenience; just talk to her about Kate and you 'll pay her well for + all she could do for you.” + </p> + <p> + “My sister thinks a carriage would be better, she is so very weak,” mildly + observed Martha. + </p> + <p> + “Well, we 'll get one in a jiffy. Fritz, my man, send down to the Platz + for a shandradan,—a wagon, I mean. 'T is a droll name for a coach.” + And he laughed heartily at the conceit “And now, Mr. Purvis, let us finish + them before we go. The Gen'ral is doing his part like a man. It's + wonderful the nourishment would n't put flesh on him; you could shave him + with his shin bone!” and Dalton stared at the frail figure before him with + all the astonishment a great natural curiosity would create. + </p> + <p> + “What a kind creature! what a really Irish heart!” sighed Mrs. Ricketts, + as she slowly sailed into the room, and sank into a chair beside Dalton. + “It is like a dream, a delicious dream,—all this is. To be here in + Baden, with my dear Miss Kate Dalton's father,—actually going to + drink tea.——What a thought, Martha! to drink tea with dearest + Nelly!” + </p> + <p> + Peter began to fear that the prospect of such happiness was about to + overwhelm her sensibilities once more; but fortunately, this time, she + became more composed, and discussed the visit with wonderful calm and + self-possession. + </p> + <p> + The carriage now drove up; and although Dalton would greatly have + preferred a little longer dalliance over the bottle, he politely gave one + arm to Mrs. Ricketts and the other to Martha, issuing forth from the + Cursaal in all the pride of a conqueror. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0017" id="link2HCH0017"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVII. NELLY'S TRIALS + </h2> + <p> + While Mr. Dalton is accompanying his guests along the Lichtenthal Alley, + and describing the various objects of interest on either hand, we will + take the opportunity of explaining to our reader why it happened that + honest Peter no longer inhabited the little quiet quarters above the + toyshop. + </p> + <p> + By Kate's liberality, for some time back he had been most freely supplied + with money. Scarcely a week passed over without a line from Abel Kraus to + say that such or such a sum was placed to his credit; and Dalton once more + revelled in those spendthrift habits that he loved. At moments, little + flashes of prudential resolve would break upon him. Thoughts of Ireland + and of the “old place” would arise, and he would half determine on some + course of economy which might again restore him to his home and country. + But the slightest prospect of immediate pleasure was sufficient to rout + these wise resolves, and Baden was precisely the spot to suggest such + “distractions.” There was nothing Peter so much liked in the life of this + watering-place as the facility with which acquaintance was formed. The + stately reserve of English people was his antipathy, and here he saw that + all this was laid aside, and that people conversed freely with the + neighbor that chance had given, and that even intimacies grew up between + those who scarcely knew each other's names. + </p> + <p> + Whatever might be thought of these practices by more fastidious critics, + to Peter Dalton they appeared admirable. In his estimation the world was a + great Donnybrook Fair, where everybody came to amuse and be amused. Grave + faces and careworn looks, he thought, should stay at home, and not disturb + the harmony of what he deemed a great convivial gathering. + </p> + <p> + It may easily be guessed from this what class of persons found access to + his intimacy, and how every smooth-tongued adventurer, every well-dressed + and plausible-looking pretender to fashion, became his companion. Nothing + but honest Peter's ignorance of foreign languages set any limit to his + acquaintance; and, even with this, he had a shake-hands intimacy with + every Chevalier d'Industrie of France and Germany, and a + cigar-lending-and-lighting treaty with every long-haired Pole in Baden. + </p> + <p> + As he dined every day at the Cursaal, he seldom returned home of an + evening without some three or four chance acquaintances, whom he presented + to Nelly without knowing their names. But they were sure to be “tip-top + chaps,” and “up to everything.” Not that the latter eulogy was much of an + exaggeration; the majority of them, indeed, well deserving such a + panegyric. If Dalton's long stories about Ireland and its joys or + grievances were very uninteresting to these gentlemen, they found some + compensation in the goodness of his wine and the abundance of his cigars; + and hock and tobacco digested many a story which, without such adjuncts, + would never have found a listener. Play is, however, so paramount to all + else at Baden, that, as the season advanced, even a hot supper from the + “Russie” and an ice-pail full of champagne-flasks could not attract the + company from the fascinations of the gaming-table, and Peter saw that his + choice spirits were deserting him. + </p> + <p> + “You live so far away,” cried one. “Your house is full a mile from the + Cursaal.” + </p> + <p> + “There is such a climb-up to that crib of yours, Dalton,” cried another. + “One can't manage it in this hot weather. Why won't you pitch your tent in + the plain? It's like going up the Righi to try and reach your quarters.” + </p> + <p> + Such and such like were the polite admonitions administered by those who + wanted a convenient lounge for their spare half-hours, and who, while + affecting to think of their friend, were simply consulting what suited + themselves. And is this philosophy confined only to Baden? Is not the + world full of friendships that, like cab-fares, are regulated by the mile? + The man who is half a brother to you while you live on the Boulevard de + Gand, becomes estranged from your bosom when you remove to the Champs + Élysées; and in these days of rapid transport, ten minutes' walk would + separate the most devoted attachments. + </p> + <p> + Dalton's pride was at first wounded by these remonstrances; but his second + thoughts led him to think them more reasonable, and even elevated the + grumblers in his esteem. “Sure, ain't they the height of the fashion? + Sure, is n't everybody trying to get them? Is it any wonder they would n't + scale a mountain for the sake of a glass of wine?” The quiet home, so dear + to him by many an association; the little window that looked out upon the + Alten Schloss, and beside which Nelly sat with him each evening; the small + garden underneath, where Hans cultivated his beautiful carnations, and + where many a little figure by Nelly's hand graced some bed or alley,—all + became now distasteful. “The stairs creaked dreadfully; he did n't think + they were quite safe. The ceilings were so low, there was no breathing in + the rooms. The hill would be the death of him; he had pains in his knees + for half the night after he climbed it.” Even the bracing air of the + mountain, that was his once boast and pride, was now a “searching, cutting + wind, that went through you like a knife.” It was a mean-looking little + place, too, over a toy-shop, “and Hans himself was n't what he used to + be.” + </p> + <p> + Alas! there was some truth in this last complaint He was more silent and + more absent in manner than ever; sometimes would pass whole days without a + word, or remain seated in his little garden absorbed in deep thought. The + frequenters of his shop would seek in vain for him; and were it not for + Nelly, who in her father's absence would steal down the stairs and speak + to them, the place would have seemed deserted. On one or two occasions she + had gone so far as to be his deputy, and sold little articles for him; but + her dread of her father's knowing it had made her ill for half the day + after. + </p> + <p> + It was, then, a dreadful blow to Nelly when her father decided on leaving + the place. Not alone that it was dear by so many memories, but that its + seclusion enabled her to saunter out at will under the shade of the + forest-trees, and roam for hours along the little lanes of the deep wood. + In Hans, too, she took the liveliest interest He had been their friend + when the world went worst with them; his kindness had lightened many a + weary burden, and his wise counsels relieved many a gloomy hour. It was + true that of late he was greatly altered. His books, his favorite volumes + of Uhland and Tieck, were never opened. He never sat, as of yore, in the + garden, burnishing up his quaint old fragments of armor, or gazing with + rapture on his strange amulets against evil. Even to the little ballads + that she sang he seemed inattentive and indifferent, and would not stop to + listen beneath the window as he once did. + </p> + <p> + His worldly circumstances, too, were declining. He neglected his shop + altogether; he made no excursions, as of old, to Worms or Nuremberg for + new toys. The young generation of purchasers found little they cared for + in his antiquated stores, and, after laughing at the quaint old devices by + which a past age were amused, they left him. It was in vain that Nelly + tried to infuse some interest into the pursuit which once had been his + passion. All the little histories he used to weave around his toys, the + delusions of fancy in which he revelled, were dissipated and gone, and he + seemed like one suddenly awakened from a delicious dream to the + consciousness of some afflicting fact He strenuously avoided the Daltons, + too, and even watched eagerly for moments of their absence to steal out + and walk in the garden. When by chance they did meet, his manner, instead + of its old cordiality, was cold and respectful; and he, whose eyes once + sparkled with delight when spoken to, now stood uncovered, and with + downcast looks, till they went by him. + </p> + <p> + No wonder, then, if Dalton thought him changed. + </p> + <p> + “'T is nothing but envy 's killing him, Nelly,” said he. “As long as we + were poor like himself, he was happy. It gratified the creature's pride + that we were behind with the rent; and while he was buying them images, he + was a kind of a patron to you; but he can't bear to see us well off,——that's + the secret of it all. 'Tis our prosperity is poison to him.” + </p> + <p> + To no end did Nelly try to undeceive her father on this head. It was a + corollary to his old theory about “the 'bad dhrop' that was always in low + people.” In vain did she remind him of poor Hanserl's well-tried + friendship, and the delicacy of a kindness that in no rank of life could + have been surpassed. Dalton was rooted in his opinion, and opposition only + rendered him more unforgiving. + </p> + <p> + Quite forgetting the relations which once subsisted between them, he saw + nothing in Hanserl's conduct but black ingratitude. “The little chap,” he + would say, “was never out of the house; we treated him like one of the + family, and look at him now! + </p> + <p> + “You saw him yourself, Nelly,——you saw him shed tears the + other day when you spoke of the Princess. Was that spite, or not,—tell + me that? He could n't speak for anger when you told him Frank was an + officer.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, how you mistake these signs of emotion, dearest father.” + </p> + <p> + “Of course I do. I know nothing,—I 'm too old; I 'm in my dotage. + 'Tis my daughter Nelly understands the world, and is able to teach me.” + </p> + <p> + “Would that I knew even less of it! Would that I could fall back to the + ignorance of those days when all our world was within these walls!” + </p> + <p> + “And be cutting the images, I hope, again!” said he, scornfully; “why + don't you wish for that? It was an elegant trade for a young lady of your + name and family! Well, if there's anything drives me mad, it's to think + that all them blasted figures is scattered about the world, and one does + n't know at what minute they 'll turn up against you!” + </p> + <p> + “Nay, father,” said she, smiling sadly; “You once took an interest in them + great as my own.” + </p> + <p> + “It only shows, then, how poverty can break a man's spirit.” + </p> + <p> + Discussions like these, once or twice a week, only confirmed Dalton in his + dislike to his old abode, and Nelly at last saw that all resistance to his + will was hopeless. At last he peremptorily ordered her to give Hans notice + of their intended removal; for he had fixed upon a house in the + Lichtenthal Alley to suit them exactly. It was a villa which had a few + months before been purchased and fitted up by a young French count, whose + gains at the gaming table had been enormous. Scarcely, however, had he + taken possession of his sumptuous abode, than “luck” turned; he lost + everything in the world, and finished his career by suicide. In a colony + of gamblers, where superstition has an overweening influence, none could + be found rash enough to succeed to so ill-omened a possession; and thus, + for nigh half the season, the house continued shut up and unoccupied. + Dalton, whose mind was strongly tinctured with fears of this kind, yet + felt a species of heroism in showing that he was not to be deterred by the + dangers that others avoided; and as Abel Kraus, to whom the property now + belonged, continually assured him “it was just the house for him,” Peter + overcame his scruples, and went to see it. + </p> + <p> + Although of small extent, it was princely in its arrangements. Nothing + that French taste and elegance could supply was wanting, and it was a + perfect specimen of that costly splendor which in our own day rivals all + the gorgeous magnificence of “the Regency.” Indeed, it must be owned that + honest Peter thought it far too fine to live in; he trod the carpets with + a nervous fear of crushing the embroidery, and he sat down on the brocaded + sofa with as much terror as though it were glass. How he was ever to go + asleep in a bed where Cupid and angels were sculptured in such endless + profusion, he couldn't imagine; and he actually shrank back with shame + from his own face, as he surveyed it within the silver frame of a costly + toilet-glass. + </p> + <p> + Such were his impressions as he walked through the rooms with Abel, and + saw, as the covers were removed from lustres and mirrors, some new and + more dazzling object at each moment reveal itself. He listened with + astonishment to the account of the enormous sums lavished on these + sumptuous articles, and heard how twenty, or thirty, or forty thousand + francs had been given for this or that piece of luxury. + </p> + <p> + What was forty Napoleons a month for such splendor! Kraus was actually + lending him the villa at such a price; and what a surprise for Nelly, when + he should show her the little drawing-room in rose-damask he meant for + herself; and then there was a delightful arbor in the garden to smoke in; + and the whole distance from the Cursaal was not above ten minutes' walk. + Peter's fancy ran over rapidly all the jollifications such a possession + would entail; and if he wished, for his own sake, that there were less + magnificence, he consoled himself by thinking of the effect it would have + upon others. As he remarked to himself, “There 's many thinks more of the + gilding than the gingerbread!” + </p> + <p> + If Nelly's sorrow at leaving Hanserl's house was deep and sincere, it + became downright misery when she learned to what they were about to + remove. She foresaw the impulse his extravagance would receive from such a + residence, and how all the costliness of decoration would suggest wasteful + outlay. Her father had not of late confided to her the circumstances of + his income. He who once could not change a crown without consulting her, + and calling in her aid to count the pieces and test their genuineness, + would now negotiate the most important dealings without her knowledge. + From his former distrust of Kraus he grew to believe him the perfection of + honesty. There is something so captivating to a wasteful man in being + freely supplied with money,—with receiving his advances in a spirit + of apparent frankness,——that he would find it impossible to + connect such liberality with a mean or interested motive. Kraus's little + back room was then a kind of California, where he could dig at discretion; + and if in an unusual access of prudence honest Peter would ask, “How do we + stand, Abel?” Kraus was sure to be too busy to look at the books, and + would simply reply, “What does it matter? How much do you want?” From such + a dialogue as this Dalton would issue forth the happiest of men, muttering + to himself, how differently the world would have gone with him if he “had + known that little chap thirty or forty years ago.” + </p> + <p> + Without one gleam of comfort,—with terror on every side,—poor + Nelly took possession of her splendor to pass days of unbroken sorrow. + Gloomy as the unknown future seemed, the tidings she received of Kate and + Frank were still sadder. + </p> + <p> + From her sister she never heard directly. A few lines from Madame de + Heidendorf, from a country house near St. Petersburg, told her that the + Prince had not succeeded in obtaining the Imperial permission, and that + the marriage was deferred indefinitely. Meanwhile the betrothed Princess + lived a life of strict seclusion as the etiquette required, seeing none + but such members of the royal family as deigned to visit her. Poor Nelly's + heart was nigh to bursting as she thought over her dear Kate,—the + gay and brilliant child, the happy, joyous girl, now pining away in dreary + imprisonment. This image was never out of her mind, and she would sit hour + after hour in tears for her poor sister. What future happiness, however + great it might be, could repay a youth passed in misery like this? What + splendor could efface the impression of this dreary solitude, away from + all who loved and cared for her? + </p> + <p> + Of Frank, the tidings were worse again. A short and scarcely intelligible + note from Count Stephen informed her that, “although the court-martial had + pronounced a sentence of death, the Emperor, rather than stain a name + distinguished by so many traits of devotion to his house, had commuted the + punishment to imprisonment for life at Moncacs. There was,” he added, “a + slight hope that, after some years, even this might be relaxed, and + banishment from the Imperial dominions substituted. Meanwhile,” said the + old soldier, “I have retired forever from a career where, up to this hour, + no stain of dishonor attached to me. The name which I bore so long with + distinction is now branded with shame, and I leave the service to pass the + few remaining days of my life wherever obscurity can best hide my sorrow + and my ignominy.” + </p> + <p> + Although Nelly at once answered this afflicting letter, and wrote again + and again to Vienna, to Milan, and to Prague, she never received any + reply, nor could obtain the slightest clew to what the sentence on Frank + referred. To conceal these terrible events from her father was her first + impulse; and although she often accused herself of duplicity for so doing, + she invariably came round to her early determination. To what end embitter + the few moments of ease he had enjoyed for years past? Why trouble him + about what is irremediable, and make him miserable about those from whom + his careless indifference asks nothing and requires nothing? Time enough + when the future looks brighter to speak of the sorrows of the past! + </p> + <p> + This task of secrecy was not a difficult one. Dalton's was not a nature to + speculate on possible mischances so much as to hope for impossible good + turns of fortune; and when he knew that Kate had sent him money, and Frank + did not ask for any, the measure of his contentment was filled. Kate was a + Princess, and Frank an officer of hussars; and that they were as happy as + the day was long he would have taken an oath before any “justice of the + quorum,” simply because he saw no reason why they ought not to be so; and + when he drank their healths every day after dinner, and finished a bumper + of champagne to their memory, he perfectly satisfied his conscience that + he had discharged every parental duty in their behalf. His “God bless you, + my darling child!” was the extent of his piety as of his affection; and so + he lived in the firm belief that he had a heart overflowing with good and + kind and generous sentiments. The only unpleasant feelings he had arose + for Nelly. Her eyes, that in spite of all her efforts showed recent tears; + her pale face; her anxious, nervous manner worried and amazed him. “There + 's something strange about that girl,” he would say to himself; “she would + sing the whole day long when we hadn't a shilling beyond the price of our + dinner; she was as merry as a lark, cutting out them images till two or + three o'clock of a morning; and now that we have lashings and leavings of + everything, with all manner of diversions about us, there she sits moping + and fretting the whole day.” His ingenuity could detect no explanation for + this. “To be sure, she was lame, and it might grieve her to look at + dancing, in which she could take no part But when did she ever show signs + of an envious nature? She was growing old, too,——at least, she + was six or seven-and-twenty,—and no prospect of being married; but + was Nelly the girl to grieve over this? Were not all her affections and + all her hopes home-bound? 'T was n't fretting to be back in Ireland that + she could be!—she knew little of it before she left it.” And thus he + was at the end of all his surmises without being nearer the solution. + </p> + <p> + We have said enough to show that Nelly's sorrow was not causeless, and + that she had good reason to regret the days of even their hardest fortune. + </p> + <p> + “Had we been but contented as we were!” cried she; “had we resisted + ambitions for which we were unfitted, and turned away from 'paths in life' + too steep and too arduous for our strength, we might have been happy now! + Who can say, too, what development of mind and intelligence should not + have come of this life of daily effort and exertion? Frank would have + grown manly, patient, and self-relying; Kate would have been, as she ever + was, the light of our home, making us sharers in all those gifts of her + own bright and happy nature; while even I might have risen to worthier + efforts of skill than those poor failures I have now to blush for.” + </p> + <p> + Such were the regrets which filled her heart, as she sat many an hour in + solitude, grieving over the past, and yet afraid to face the future. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0018" id="link2HCH0018"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVIII. AN ACT OF SETTLEMENT. + </h2> + <p> + Were we disposed to heroics, we might compare Mrs. Ricketts's sensations, + on entering the grounds of the villa, to the feelings experienced by the + ancient Gauls when, from the heights of the Alps, they gazed down on the + fertile plains of Italy. If less colored by the glorious hues of + conquering ambition, they were not the less practical. She saw that, with + her habitual good fortune, she had piloted the Rickettses' barque into a + safe and pleasant anchorage, where she might at her leisure refit and lay + in stores for future voyaging. Already she knew poor Dalton, as she + herself said, from “cover to cover,”—she had sounded all the + shallows and shoals of his nature, and read his vanity, his vainglorious + importance, and his selfish pride, as though they were printed on his + forehead. Were Nelly to be like Kate, the victory, she thought, could not + be very difficult. “Let her have but one predominant passion, and be it + love of admiration, avarice, a taste for dress, for scandal, or for grand + society, it matters not, I'll soon make her my own.” + </p> + <p> + “This will do, Martha!” whispered she, in Miss Ricketts's ear, as they + drove up the approach. + </p> + <p> + “I think so,” was the low-uttered reply. + </p> + <p> + “Tell Scroope to be cautious,—very cautious,” whispered she once + more; and then turned to Dalton, to expatiate on the beauty of the + grounds, and the exquisite taste displayed in their arrangement. + </p> + <p> + “It has cost me a mint of money,” said Dalton, giving way irresistibly to + his instinct of boastfulness. “Many of those trees you see there came from + Spain and Portugal; and not only the trees, but the earth that's round + them.” + </p> + <p> + “Did you hear that, Martha?” interposed Mrs. Rick-etts. “Mr. Dalton very + wisely remarks that man is of all lands, while the inferior productions of + nature require their native soils as a condition of existence.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, indeed,” said Dalton, fathering the sentiment at once; “'tis only + the blacks that can't bear the cowld. But, after all, maybe they 're not + the same as ourselves.” + </p> + <p> + “I own I never could think them so,” smiled Mrs. Rick-etts, as though the + very appearance of Peter Dalton had confirmed the prejudice. + </p> + <p> + “Faix! I'm glad to hear you say that,” said he, delightedly. “Tis many's + the battle Nelly and me has about that very thing. There's the villa, now—what + d' ye think of it?” + </p> + <p> + “Charming—beautiful—a paradise!” + </p> + <p> + “Quite a paradise!” echoed Martha. + </p> + <p> + “'T is a mighty expensive paradise, let me tell you,” broke in Peter. + “I've a gardener, and four chaps under him, and sorrow a thing I ever see + them do but cut nosegays and stick little bits of wood in the ground, with + hard names writ on them; that's what they call gardening here. As for a + spade or a hoe, there's not one in the country; they do everything with a + case-knife and watering-pot.” + </p> + <p> + “You amaze me,” said Mrs. Ricketts, who was determined on being instructed + in horticulture. + </p> + <p> + “There's a fellow now, with a bundle of moss-roses for Nelly, and there's + another putting out the parrot's cage under a tree,——that's + the day's work for both of them.” + </p> + <p> + “Are you not happy to think how your ample means diffuse ease and + enjoyment on all round you? Don't tell me that the pleasure you feel is + not perfect ecstasy.” + </p> + <p> + “That's one way of considering it,” said Dalton, dubiously, for he was not + quite sure whether he could or could not yield his concurrence. + </p> + <p> + “But if people did n't la-la-la—” + </p> + <p> + “Lay abed, you mean,” cried Dalton; “that's just what they do; a German + wouldn't ask to awake at all, if it wasn't to light his pipe.” + </p> + <p> + “I meant la-la-labor; if they did n't la-labor the ground, we should all + be starved.” + </p> + <p> + “No political economy, Scroope,” cried Mrs. Ricketts; “I will not permit + it. That dreadful science is a passion with him, Mr. Dal ton.” + </p> + <p> + “Is it?” said Peter, confusedly, to whose ears the word “economy” only + suggested notions of saving and sparing. “I can only say,” added he, after + a pause, “tastes differ, and I never could abide it at all.” + </p> + <p> + “I was certain of it,” resumed Mrs. Ricketts; “but here comes a young lady + towards us,—Miss Dalton, I feel it must be.” + </p> + <p> + The surmise was quite correct. It was Nelly, who, in expectation of + meeting her father, had walked down from the house, and now, seeing a + carriage, stood half irresolute what to do. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, that's Nelly,” cried Dalton, springing down to the ground; “she'll + be off now, for she thinks it's visitors come to see the place.” + </p> + <p> + While Dalton hastened to overtake his daughter, Mrs. Ricketts had time to + descend and shake out all her plumage,—a proceeding of manual + dexterity to which Martha mainly contributed; indeed, it was almost + artistic in its way, for while feathers were disposed to droop here, and + lace taught to fall gracefully there, the fair Zoe assumed the peculiar + mood in which she determined on conquest. + </p> + <p> + “How do I look, Martha?” said she, bridling up, and then smiling. + </p> + <p> + “Very sweetly,—quite charming,” replied Martha. + </p> + <p> + “I know that,” said the other, pettishly; “but am I maternal,—am I + affectionate?” + </p> + <p> + “Very maternal,——most affectionate,” was the answer. + </p> + <p> + “You're a fool!” said Mrs. Ricketts, contemptuously; but had barely time + to restore her features to their original blandness, when Nelly came up. + The few words in which her father had announced Mrs. Ricketts spoke of her + as one who had known and been kind to Kate, and Nelly wanted no stronger + recommendation to her esteem. + </p> + <p> + The quiet, gentle manner of the young girl, the almost humble simplicity + of her dress, at once suggested to Mrs. Ricketts the tone proper for the + occasion, and she decided on being natural; which, to say truth, was the + most remote thing from nature it is well possible to conceive. Poor Nelly + was not, however, a very shrewd critic, and she felt quite happy to be so + much at her ease as they walked along to the house together. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Ricketts saw that Kate was the key-note to all her sister's + affection, and therefore talked away of her unceasingly. To have heard + her, one would have thought they had been inseparable, and that Kate had + confided to the dear old lady the most secret thoughts of her heart. The + amiable Zoe did, indeed, contrive to effect this rather by the aid of an + occasional sigh, a tone of lamentation and sorrow, than by direct + assertion; all conveying the impression that she was cut to the heart + about something, but would rather be “brayed in a mortar” than tell it. + Martha's mild and submissive manner won rapidly on Nelly, and she wondered + whether Kate had liked her. In fact, the visitors were all so very unlike + the usual company her father presented to her, she felt disposed to think + the best of them; and even Scroope came in for a share of her good + opinion. + </p> + <p> + The interior of the villa changed the current of conversation, and now + Mrs. Ricketts felt herself at home examining the rich brocade of the + hangings, the bronzes, and the inlaid tables. + </p> + <p> + “Lyons silk,——twenty-four francs a metre!” whispered she to + Scroope. + </p> + <p> + “I thought they had n't a s-s-sixpence,” observed the other. + </p> + <p> + “And these things are new, Scroope!—all new!” + </p> + <p> + “I—I—I was observing that, sister.” + </p> + <p> + “What a creature he is, Scroope!—what a creature!” + </p> + <p> + “And the daughter, I suspect, is only ha-ha-half-witted.” + </p> + <p> + “Humph!” ejaculated Zoe, as though she did not quite coincide with that + opinion. + </p> + <p> + The confidential dialogue was broken in upon by Dalton, who, having + dragged the poor General over the terrace and the flower-garden, was now + showing him the inside of the dwelling. + </p> + <p> + “If I could but see dear Kate here!” sighed Mrs. Ricketts, as she slowly + sank into a downy chair, “I'd fancy this was home. It's all so like + herself,—such graceful elegance, such tasteful splendor.” + </p> + <p> + “It's neat,——I think it's neat,” said Dalton, almost bursting + with the effort to repress his delight. + </p> + <p> + <a name="linkimage-0012" id="linkimage-0012"> + <!-- IMG --></a> <br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%;"> + <img src="images/00250.jpg" alt="00250" width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p> + “Oh, sir, it's princely! It's worthy the great name of its possessor. Dear + Kate often told me of her beautiful home.” + </p> + <p> + “I thought you li-li-lived over a toy-shop? Foglass said you li-lived—” + </p> + <p> + “So we did while the place was getting ready,” said Dalton, flushing. + </p> + <p> + “Just let me sit here, and watch the rippling of that shining river!” + sighed Mrs. Ricketts, laying her hand on Dalton's, and, by a melting look, + withdrawing him from Scroope's unlucky reminiscence. “If I could but pass + the night here, I feel it would be ecstasy.” + </p> + <p> + “What easier, if it's in earnest you are?” cried Dalton. “We never make + use of this little drawing-room. Nelly will get you a bed put up in five + minutes.” + </p> + <p> + “Is n't that Irish, Scroope?—is n't that what I often told you of + Ireland?” cried Zoe, as her eyes glistened. + </p> + <p> + “Well, but I'm not joking,” resumed Dalton; “small as the place is, we can + make room for you all. We 'll put Miss Martha in Nelly's room, and the + General can have mine; and there's a mighty snug tittle place for you in + the garden.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, dear, dear, dear Ireland, how I love you!” said Mrs. Ricketts, + closing her eyes, and affecting to talk in her sleep. + </p> + <p> + “There's worse places,” murmured Dalton, who drank in national flattery as + the pleasantest “tipple” after personal. “But say the word, now, and see + if we won't make you comfortable.” + </p> + <p> + “Comfortable!——you mean happy, supremely happy,” ejaculated + Zoe. + </p> + <p> + “And there's no inconvenience in it, none whatever,” continued Dalton, who + now was breast-high in his plot. “That's a fine thing in this little town + of Baden; you can have everything at a moment's warning, from a sirloin of + beef to a strait-waistcoat.” + </p> + <p> + Now Mrs. Ricketts laughed till her eyes overflowed with tears, at Dalton's + drollery; and Scroope, too, cackled his own peculiar cry; and the old + General chimed in with a faint wheezing sound,—a cross between the + wail of an infant and a death-rattle; in the midst of which Dalton hurried + away to seek Nelly, who was showing the garden to Martha. + </p> + <p> + “Now, mind me, Scroope,” cried Mrs. Ricketts, as soon as they were alone; + “no selfishness, no eternal trouble about your own comfort. We may + probably pass the summer here, and—” + </p> + <p> + “But I—I——I won't sleep under the stairs, I—I——I + promise you,” cried he, angrily. + </p> + <p> + “You had a dear little room, with a lovely view, at Noëringen. You are + most ungrateful.” + </p> + <p> + “It was a d-d ear little room, six feet sqnare, and looked ont on a + tannery. My skin would have been leather if I had st-st-stayed another + week in it.” + </p> + <p> + “Martha slept in a wardrobe, and never complained.” + </p> + <p> + “For that matter, I passed two months in a sh-shower-bath,” cried Scroope; + “but I—I won't do it a-any more.” + </p> + <p> + To what excesses his rebellious spirit might have carried him it is hard + to say, for Dalton now came up with Nelly, who was no less eager than her + father to offer the hospitalities of the villa. At the hazard of + detracting in the reader's esteem from all this generous liberality, we + feel bound to add that neither Dalton nor his daughter ever speculated on + the lengthened sojourn which Mrs. Ricketts's more prophetic spirit + foreshadowed. + </p> + <p> + The accidental mistake about the hotel first suggested the offer, which of + course the next day was sure to obviate. And now, as it has so often been + an unpleasant task to record little flaws and frailties of the Rickettses' + nature, let us take the opportunity of mentioning some traits of an + opposite kind, which, even as a “set-off,” are not valueless. Nothing + could be more truly amiable than the conduct of the whole family when the + question of their stay had been resolved upon. Had Scroope been bred a + cabinet-maker, he could n't have been handier with bed-screws, laths, and + curtain-rods. Martha, divested of shawl and bonnet, arranged toilet-tables + and looking-glasses like the most accomplished housemaid; while, reclining + in her easy-chair, the fair Zoe vouchsafed praises on all the efforts + around her, and nodded, as Jove might, on mortal endeavors to conciliate + him. + </p> + <p> + Poor Nelly was in ecstasy at all this goodness; such a united family was a + perfect picture. Nothing seemed to inconvenience them,—nothing went + wrong. There was a delightfully playful spirit in the way they met and + conquered little difficulties, and whenever hard pushed by fate there was + a wonderful reticule of Mrs. Ricketts's which was sure to contain + something to extricate them at once. Since Aladdin's lamp, there never was + such a magical contrivance as that bag; and the Wizard of the North, who + makes pancakes in a gentleman's hat and restores it unstained, and who, + from the narrow limits of a snuff-box, takes out feathers enough to stuff + a pillow-case, would have paled before the less surprising but more + practical resources of the “Rickettses' sack.” + </p> + <p> + Various articles of toilet necessity, from objects peculiar to the lady's + own, down to the General's razors, made their appearance. An impertinent + curiosity might have asked why a lady going to dine at a public ordinary + should have carried about with her such an array of flannel jackets, + cordials, lotions, slippers, hair-brashes, and nightcaps; but it is more + than likely that Mrs. Ricketts would have smiled at the short-sighted + simplicity of the questioner, as she certainly did at poor Nelly's face of + quiet astonishment. + </p> + <p> + It was a downright pleasure to make sacrifices for people so ready to + accommodate themselves to circumstances, and who seemed to possess a + physical pliancy not inferior to the mental one. The General wanted no + window to shave at. Martha could bestow herself within limits that seemed + impossible to humanity. As for Scroope, he was what French dramatists call + a “grand utility,”—now climbing up ladders to arrange curtain-rods, + now descending to the cellars in search of unknown and nameless + requisites. A shrewd observer might have wondered that such extensive + changes in the economy of a household were effected for the sake of one + night's accommodation; but this thought neither occurred to Dalton nor his + daughter, who were, indeed, too full of admiration for their guests' + ingenuity and readiness, to think of anything else. + </p> + <p> + As for honest Peter, a house full of company was his delight. As he took + his place that evening at the supper-table, he was supremely happy. Nor + was it wonderful, considering the pleased looks and bland faces that he + saw on each side of him. All his stories were new to his present audience. + Mount Dalton and its doings were an anecdotic mine, of which they had + never explored a single “shaft.” The grandeur of his family was a theme + all listened to with interest and respect; and as Mrs. Ricketts's flattery + was well-timed and cleverly administered, and Scroope's blunders fewer and + less impertinent than usual, the evening was altogether a very pleasant + one, and, as the cant is, went off admirably. + </p> + <p> + If Nelly had now and then little misgivings about the over-anxiety to + please displayed by Mrs. Ricketts, and a certain exaggerated appreciation + she occasionally bestowed upon her father's “Irishism,” she was far too + distrustful of her own judgment not to set down her fears to ignorance of + life and its conventionalities. “It would ill become <i>her</i>,” she + thought, “to criticise people so well-bred and so well-mannered.” And this + modest depreciation of herself saved the others. + </p> + <p> + It was thus that the hosts felt towards their guests as they wished them + good-night, and cordially shook hands at parting. + </p> + <p> + “As agreeable an old lady as ever I met,” said Dalton to his daughter; + “and not wanting in good sense either.” + </p> + <p> + “I like Miss Martha greatly,” said Nelly. “She is so gently mannered and + so mild, I'm sure Kate was fond of her.” + </p> + <p> + “I like them all but the little chap with the stutter. He seems so curious + about everything.” + </p> + <p> + “They are all so pleased—so satisfied with everything,” said Nelly, + enthusiastically. + </p> + <p> + “And why wouldn't they? There's worse quarters, let me tell you, than + this! It is n't under Peter Dalton's roof that people go to bed hungry. I + wouldn't wonder if they'd pass a day or two with us.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you think so?” said Nelly, scarcely knowing whether to be pleased or + the reverse. + </p> + <p> + “Well see to-morrow,” said Dalton, as he took his candle and began to + climb up the stairs to the room which he was now to occupy instead of his + own chamber, singing, as he went, an old ballad,—— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “The whole Balrothery hunt was there, + And welcome were they all! + With two in a bed, and four on the stairs, + And twelve in the Bachelor's hall!” + </pre> + <p> + Leaving Dalton to con over the stray verses of his once favorite ballad as + he dropped off to sleep, we turn for a moment to the chamber which, by + right of conquest, was held by the fair Zoe, and where, before a large + mirror, she was now seated; while Martha was engaged upon that wonderful + head, whose external machinery was almost as complex as its internal. Mrs. + Ricketts had resolved upon adopting a kind of materno-protective tone + towards Nelly; and the difficulty now was to hit off a coiffure to sustain + that new character. It should combine the bland with the dignified, and be + simple without being severe. There was something Memnonic in that large + old head, from which the gray hair descended in massive falls, that seemed + worthy of better things than a life of petty schemes and small intrigues; + and the patient Martha looked like one whose submissive nature should have + been bent to less ignoble burdens than the capricious fretfulness of a + tiresome old woman. But so is it every day in life; qualities are but what + circumstances make them, and even great gifts become but sorry aids when + put to base uses! + </p> + <p> + There was another figure in the group, and for him no regrets arise as to + talents misapplied and tastes perverted. Nature had created Scroope Purvis + for one line of character, and he never ventured to walk out of it. In a + large and showy dressing-gown belonging to his host, and a pair of most + capacious slippers from the same wardrobe, Scroope had come down to assist + at a Cabinet Council. He had just performed a voyage of discovery round + the house, having visited every available nook, from the garret to the + cellars, and not omitting the narrow chamber to which Nelly herself had + retired, with whom he kept up an amicable conversation for several + minutes, under pretence of having mistaken his room. Thence he had paid a + visit to old Andy's den; and, after a close scrutiny of the larder and a + peep between the bars at the dairy, came back with the honest conviction + that he had done his duty. + </p> + <p> + “It's sm-small, sister——it's very small,” said he, entering + her chamber. + </p> + <p> + “It's not smaller than Mrs. Balfour's cottage at the Lakes, and you know + we spent a summer there,” said the lady, rebukingly. + </p> + <p> + “But we had it all to—to ourselves, sister.” + </p> + <p> + “So much the worse. A cook and a cellar are admirable fixtures.—The + curls lower down on the sides, Martha. I don't want to look like Grisi.” + There was something comforting in the last assurance, for it would have + sorely tested poor Martha's skill had the wish been the reverse. + </p> + <p> + “They don't seem to ha-have been long here, sister. The knif eboard in the + scullery has n't been used above a—a few times. I should n't wonder + if old Da-Da-Dalton won the villa at play.” + </p> + <p> + “Fudge!—Fuller on the brow, Martha—more expansive there.” + </p> + <p> + “Is n't the girl vulgar, sister?” asked Scroope. + </p> + <p> + “Decidedly vulgar, and dressed like a fright!—I thought it was only + you, Martha, that rolled up the back hair like a snail's shell.” Martha + blushed, but never spoke. “I suppose she's the same that used to cut the + pipe-heads and the umbrella tops. I remarked that her fingers were all + knotted and hard.” + </p> + <p> + “Her smile is very pleasing,” submitted Martha, diffidently. + </p> + <p> + “It's like her father's laugh,—far too natural for my taste! There's + no refinement, no elegance, in one of your sweet, unmeaning smiles. I + thought I had told you that at least twenty times, Martha. But you have + grown self-willed and self-opinionated of late, and I must say, you + couldn't have a graver fault! Correct it in time, I beseech you.” + </p> + <p> + “I 'll try,” said Martha, in a very faint voice. + </p> + <p> + “If you try, you 'll succeed. Look at your brother. See what he has + become. There's an example might stimulate you.” + </p> + <p> + Another and a far deeper sigh was all Martha's acknowledgment of this + speech. + </p> + <p> + “He was the same violent, impetuous creature that you are. There, you need + n't tear my hair out by the roots to prove it! He wouldn't brook the very + mildest remonstrance; he was passionate and irrestrainable, and what I + have made him. Oh, you spiteful creature, how you hurt me!” + </p> + <p> + This cry of pain was not quite causeless, for Martha was trembling from + head to foot, and actually only saved herself from falling by a mechanical + clutch at something like a horse's tail. With many excuses, and in a voice + broken by regrets, she resumed her task with a vigorous effort for + success, while Mrs. Ricketts and Purvis exchanged glances of supreme + contempt. + </p> + <p> + “I speak to you, Martha,” resumed she, “for your own sake. You cannot see + what all the world sees,—the sinful selfishness of your nature,——a + vice, I must say, the less pardonable that you live beneath the shadow of + my counsels!—Scroope, don't creak that chair,—sit upon that + stool there.—Now that we shall probably spend two months here—” + </p> + <p> + “Here! Do—do you m-mean here?” cried Purvis. + </p> + <p> + “Of course I mean here, sir. There's nothing in the shape of a lodging to + be had under three or four hundred francs a month. This is a very sweet + place; and when the old gentleman can be induced to take a room in the + town for himself, and that his daughter learns, as she will,—though + certainly not from Martha,—what is due to <i>me,</i> it will be + comfortable and convenient. We'll ask the Princess, too, to spend a week + with us; for who knows, in the present state of politics, to what corner + of Germany we may yet be reduced to fly!” + </p> + <p> + “How will you m-m-manage with Haggerstone and the rest, when they arrive, + sister?” + </p> + <p> + “Easily enough. I 'll show them that it's for their advantage that we are + here. It is true that we agreed to take a house together; but every plan + is modified by the events of the campaign. Petrolaffsky will be content if + Mr. Dalton plays piquet; the Colonel will like his claret and Burgundy; + and Foglass will be pleased with the retirement that permits him to + prosecute his attentions to Martha.” + </p> + <p> + Poor Martha blushed crimson at the tone rather, even than the words of the + speech; for, when nothing else offered, it was the practice of Mrs. + Ricketts to insinuate coquetry as among her sister's defects. + </p> + <p> + “You needn't look so much confused, my dear,” resumed the torturer; “I 'm + certain it's not the first affair of the kind you've known.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, sister!” cried Martha, in a voice of almost entreaty. + </p> + <p> + “Not that I think there would be anything unsuitable in the match; he is + probably fifty-eight or nine,—sixty at most,——and, + excepting deafness and the prosy tendency natural to his time of life, + pretty much like everybody else.” + </p> + <p> + “You know, sister, that <i>he</i> never thought of <i>me</i>, nor <i>I + </i>of <i>him</i>.” + </p> + <p> + “I know that I am not in the confidence of either party,” said Mrs. + Ricketts, bridling; “and I also know I am sincerely happy that my head is + not crammed with such fiddle-faddle. Before the great event comes off, + however, you will have time to attend to something else, and therefore I + beg you will keep in mind what I am about to say to you. We are here, + Martha,” resumed she, with all the solemnity of a judicial charge,—“we + are here by no claims of relationship or previous friendship. No secret + ties of congenial tastes bind us up together. No common attachment to some + other dear creature forms a link between us. We are here as much by chance + as one can venture to call anything in this unhappy world. Let us, then, + show Fortune that we are not unworthy of her goodness, by neglecting + nothing which may strengthen our position and secure our permanence. In a + word, Martha, throw over all your selfishness'——forget the + miserable egotism that besets you, and study that young girl's character + and wishes. She has never been courted in life—flatter her; she has + never been even thought of——show her every consideration; she + is evidently of a thoughtful turn, and nobody can mope better than + yourself. Insinuate yourself day by day into little household affairs, + mingling counsels here and warnings there,—always on the side of + economy,—so that while affecting only to play with the reins, you'll + end by driving the coach.” + </p> + <p> + “I 'm afraid I 've no head for all this, sister.” + </p> + <p> + “Of course you have n't, nor for anything else without <i>me</i> to guide + you. I 'm perfectly aware of that. But you can learn. You can at least + obey!” + </p> + <p> + “My sister means that you can st-st-struggle against the natural + w-w-wilfulness of your d-disposition,” cackled in Purvis. + </p> + <p> + “I'll do my best,” murmured Martha, in a voice of humility. + </p> + <p> + “Women are so fond of sa-saving,” cried Scroope, “You'll always be safe + when you c-c-cut down the estimates.” + </p> + <p> + “Attend to that, Martha,” remarked Mrs. Ricketts. + </p> + <p> + “Find out the price of ch-chickens, and always buy them a kreutzer cheaper + than she has done.” + </p> + <p> + “There is nothing gives such an ascendency in a house as showing that you + can maintain the establishment for fourpence less per quarter,” said Zoe, + gravely. “I have known connubial happiness, that has stood the test of + temper and illness for years, wrecked on the small rock of a cook's bill. + Like all wasteful men, you may be sure that this Dalton has many miserly + habits. Learn these, and indulge them. There was that poor Marquis of + Binchley, that never dined without a hundred wax candles in the room, left + all his fortune to a nephew he once found collecting the sealing-wax from + old letters and making it up for fresh use. Reflect upon this, Martha; and + always bear in mind that the vices of mankind are comparatively + uninstructive. It is their foibles, their small weaknesses, that teach + everything.” + </p> + <p> + “When Ha-Ha-Haggerstone comes, and finds no room for him, you 'll + ha-ha-have the devil to pay.” + </p> + <p> + “He shall take it out in dinners, Scroope; and what between drinking + Dalton's wine with him, and abusing him behind his back, you 'll see he + 'll be perfectly happy.” + </p> + <p> + “How long do you purpose to st-stay here, sister?” asked Scroope. + </p> + <p> + “Ask the butterfly how long the rose and the hyacinth will bloom,” said + Mrs. Ricketts, pensively; for, by dint of smiling at herself in the + looking-glass, she had come round to that mock poetical vein which ran + through her strange incongruous nature. “And now good-night, dears,” + sighed she. “These are sweet moments, but they are paid for at a price. + Exhausted energies will have repose.” She held out her hand to Martha, who + kissed it respectfully, and then waived a graceful adieu to Purvis, as he + retired. + </p> + <p> + “Sister Zoe has a head for everything,” muttered Purvis to Martha. + “There's nothing she's not up to.” + </p> + <p> + “She's very clever indeed!” sighed Martha. + </p> + <p> + “And this is n't the worst h-hit she has ever made. It was d-deucedly well + done to get in here.” + </p> + <p> + Either Martha did n't concur in the sentiment, or Scroope's satisfaction + did not need any backing, for she made no reply. + </p> + <p> + “They 've given me a capital room; I fa-fancy Dalton's own, for I found a + heap of old bills and letters in a table-drawer, and something like a—like + a——like a writ”—here he laughed till the tears came at + the drollery of the thought,—“in the pocket of his dressing-gown.” + </p> + <p> + “Good-night,” said Martha, softly, as she glided into the little chamber + allotted to her. Poor Martha! Save Nelly's, hers was the saddest heart + beneath that roof. For the first time in all her long years of trial, a + ray of doubt, a flash of infidelity had broken upon her mind, and the + thought of her sister-in-law's infallibility became for a moment + suspected. It was not that abused and outraged submission was goaded into + rebellion; it was dormant reason that was suddenly startled into a passing + wakefulness. It was like one of those fitful gleams of intelligence which + now and then dart across the vacuity of dulled intellects, and, like such, + it was only a meteor-flash, and left no trace of light behind it. Even in + all its briefness the anguish it gave was intense; it was the delusion of + a whole life rent asunder at once, and the same shock which should + convulse the moral world of her thoughts would rob her of all the + pleasantest fancies of her existence. If Zoe were not all goodness and all + genius, what was to become of all the household gods of the Villino? + Titians would moulder away into stained and smoked panels; “Sèvres” and + “Saxe” would fall down to pasteboard and starch; carved oak and ebony + would resolve themselves into leather; and even the friendship of princes + and the devotion of philosophers be only a mockery, a sham, and a snare! + </p> + <p> + Poor Martha! Deprived of these illusions, life was but one unceasing round + of toil; while, aided by imagination, she could labor on unwearied. + Without a thought of deception, she gloried in the harmless frauds to + which she contributed, but could n't resist the contagion of credulity + around her. How easily could such a spirit have been moulded to every good + gift, and qualities like these have been made to minister to comfort and + happiness, and the faith that was given to gilt paper, and glue, and + varnish, elevated to all that is highest in the moral and material world! + </p> + <p> + And now they were all in slumber beneath that roof,—all save one. + Poor Nelly sat at her window, tearful and sad. In the momentary excitement + of receiving her guests she had forgotten her cares; but now they came + back upon her, coupled with all the fears their wasteful habits could + suggest At times she blamed herself for the tame cowardice which beset + her, and restrained her from every effort to avert the coming evil; and at + times she resigned herself to the gloomy future, with the stern patience + of the Indian who saw his canoe swept along into the rapids above the + cataract. There was not one to turn to for advice or counsel, and the + strength that would have sustained her in any other trial was here sapped + by the dread of giving pain to her father. “It would ill become <i>me</i> + to give him cause for sorrow,—I, that of all his children have + ministered nothing to his pride nor his happiness!” Such was the estimate + she held of herself, and such the reasoning that flowed from it. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0019" id="link2HCH0019"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIX. THE CURSAAL. + </h2> + <p> + The attempt to accommodate a company to which the house was unsuited would + have been a source of painful annoyance to most men. To Peter Dalton it + was unqualified pleasure. The subversion of all previous arrangements, the + total change in the whole order of domesticity, were his delight The + changing of rooms, the being sent to sleep in strange and inconvenient + corners, the hurry-scurry endeavors to find a substitute for this or a + representative for that, the ingenious devices to conceal a want or to + supply a deficiency, afforded him the most lively amusement; and he went + about rubbing his hands, and muttering that it did his heart good. It was + “so like Mount Dalton when he was a boy.” + </p> + <p> + All Mrs. Ricketts's softest blandishments were so many charms clean thrown + away. His thoughts were centred on himself and his own amiable qualities, + and he revelled in the notion that the world did not contain another as + truly generous and hospitable as Peter Dalton. In accordance with the + singular contradictions of which his character was made up, he was willing + to incur every sacrifice of personal inconvenience, if it only served to + astonish some one, or excite a sensation of surprise at his good-nature; + and while all Nelly's efforts were to conceal the inconveniences these + hospitalities inflicted, Peter was never satisfied except when the display + could reflect honor on himself, and exact a tribute of flattery from his + guests. Nor was he all this time in ignorance of Mrs. Ricketts's + character. With native shrewdness be had at once detected her as an “old + soldier.” He saw the practised readiness of her compliance with + everything; he saw the spirit of accommodation in which she met every plan + or project. He knew the precise value of her softest look or her sweetest + smile; and yet he was quite content with possessing the knowledge, without + any desire to profit by it. Like one who sits down to play with sharpers, + and resolves that either the stake shall be a trifle or the roguery be + very limited, he surrendered himself to the fair Zoe's seductions with + this sort of a reservation to guide him. + </p> + <p> + If Mrs. Ricketts did not cheat him by her goodness, she took her revenge + by the claims of her grandeur. Her intimacy with great people—the + very greatest—exalted her to the highest place in Dalton's esteem. + Honest Peter knew nothing of the years of toil and pain, the subtle arts, + the deep devices, the slights, the affronts, the stern rebuffs here, the + insolent denials there, by which these acquisitions, precarious as they + were, had been won. He did not know how much of the royalty was + left-handed, nor how much of the nobility was factitious. All he could see + was the gracious salutes wafted to her from coroneted carriages, the soft + smiles wafted from high places, the recognitions bestowed on her in the + promenade, and the gracious nods that met her in the Cursaal. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Ricketts was perfect in all the skill of this peculiar game, and knew + how, by the most ostentatious display of respect in public, not only to + exalt the illustrious person—age who deigned to acknowledge her, but + also to attach notice to herself as the individual so highly favored. What + reverential courtesies would she drop before the presence of some small + German “Hochheit,” with a gambling-house for a palace, and a + roulette-table for an exchequer! What devotional observances would she + perform in front of the chair of some snuffy old Dowager “Herzogin,” of an + unknown or forgotten principality! How pertinaciously would she remain + standing till some “Durchlaut” was “out of the horizon;” or how studiously + would she retire before the advancing step of some puny potentate,—a + monarch of three huesars and thirty chamberlains! Poor Peter was but a + sorry pupil in this “School of Design.” He found it difficult to associate + rank with unwashed faces and unbrushed clothes; and although he <i>did</i> + bow, and flourish his hat, and perform all the other semblances of + respect, he always gave one the idea of an irreverential Acolyte at the + back of a profoundly impressed and dignified high-priest. + </p> + <p> + Dalton was far more at his ease when he paraded the rooms with Mrs. + Ricketts on one arm, and Martha on the other, enjoying heartily all the + notice they elicited, and accepting, as honest admiration, the staring + wonderment and surprise their appearance was sure to excite. Mrs. + Ricketts, who had always something geographical about her taste in dress, + had this year leaned towards the Oriental, and accordingly presented + herself before the admiring world of Baden in a richly spangled muslin + turban, and the very shortest of petticoats, beneath which appeared a pair + of ample trousers, whose deep lace frills covered the feet, and even swept + the floor. A paper-knife of silver gilt, made to resemble a yataghan, and + a smelling-bottle, in the counterfeit of a pistol, glittered at her + girdle, which, with the aid of a very well arched pair of painted + eyebrows, made up as presentable a Sultana as one usually sees in a + second-rate theatre. If Dalton's blue coat and tight nankeen pantaloons——his + favorite full-dress costume—did somewhat destroy the “Bosphorean + illusion,” as Zoe herself called it, still more did Martha's plain black + silk and straw bonnet,—both types of the strictly useful, without + the slightest taint of extraneous ornament. + </p> + <p> + Purvis and the General, as they brought up the rear, came also in for + their meed of surprise,—the one lost under a mass of cloaks, shawls, + scarfs, and carpets, and the other moving listlessly along through the + crowded rooms, heedless of the mob and the music, and seeming to follow + his leader with a kind of fatuous instinct utterly destitute of volition + or even of thought A group so singularly costumed, seen every day dining + at the most costly table, ordering whatever was most expensive; the + patrons of the band, and the numerous flower-girls, whose bouquets were + actually strewed beneath their feet, were sure to attract the notice of + the company,—a tribute, it must be owned, which invariably contains + a strong alloy of all that is ill-natured, sarcastic, and depreciating. + Zoe was a European celebrity, known and recognized by every one. The only + difficulty was to learn who the new “victim” was, whence he came, and what + means he possessed. There are few places where inventive genius more + predominates than at Baden, and Dalton was alternately a successful + speculator in railroads, a South American adventurer, a slaver, and a + Carlist agent,——characters for which honest Peter had about as + many requisites as he possessed for Hamlet or Cardinal Wolsey. He seemed + to have abundance of money, however, and played high,—two qualities + of no small request in this favored region. Dalton's gambling tastes were + all originally associated with the turf and its followers. A race in his + eyes was the legitimate subject of a bet; and if anything else could rival + it in interest, it was some piece of personal prowess or skill, some manly + game of strength or activity. To men of this stamp the wager is merely a + pledge to record the sentiments they entertain upon a particular event. It + is not, as gamesters understand it, the whole sum and substance of the + interest. Personal pride, the vainglory of' success, is the triumph in one + case; in the other there is no question of anything save gain. To this + difference may be traced the wide disparity of feeling exhibited by both + in moments of failing fortune. To one loss comes with all the harassing + sensations of defeat; wounded self-esteem and baffled hope giving + poignancy to the failure. To the other it is a pure question of a moneyed + forfeiture, unaccompanied with a single thought that can hurt the pride of + the player. Hence the wild transports of passion in the one case, and the + calm, cold self-possession in the other. + </p> + <p> + We need scarcely say to which class Dalton belonged; indeed, so far as the + public play at Baden was concerned, it was the notoriety that pleased him + most. The invariable falling back to make way for him as he came up; the + murmur of his name as he passed on; the comments on what he would probably + do; and, not least of all, the buzz of admiring astonishment that was sure + to arise as he plumped down before him the great canvas bag full of gold, + which the banker's porter had just handed him! + </p> + <p> + All the little courtesies of the croupiers, those little official + flatteries which mean so much and so little, were especially reserved for + <i>him</i>; and the unlucky player who watched his solitary Napoleon + “raked in” by a yawning, listless croupier, became suddenly aware, by the + increased alacrity of look around him, that a higher interest was awakened + as Peter drew nigh. + </p> + <p> + The “Count's” chair was ostentatiously placed next the banker's; a store + of cards to mark the chances laid before him. The grave croupier——he + looked like an archdeacon—passed his gold snuff-box across the + table; the smartly wigged and waistcoated one at his side presented the + cards to cut, with some whispered remark that was sure to make Dalton + laugh heartily. The sensation of this <i>entrée</i> was certain to last + some minutes; and even the impatience of the players to resume the game + was a tribute that Dalton accepted as complimentary to the bustle of his + approach. + </p> + <p> + In accordance with the popular superstition of the play-table, Dalton's + luck was an overmatch for all the skill of more accomplished gamblers; + knowing nothing whatever of the game, only aware when he had won or lost, + by seeing that his stake had doubled or disappeared, he was an immense + winner. Night after night the same fortune attended him, and so unerringly + seemed all his calculations made, that the very caprices of his play + looked like well-studied and deep combinations. If many of the bystanders + were disposed to this opinion, the “bankers” thought otherwise; they knew + that,-in the end, the hour of retribution must come, and, through all + their losses, not only observed every mark of courteous deference towards + him, but by many a bland smile and many a polite gesture seemed to + intimate the pleasure they felt in his good fortune. This was all that was + wanting to fill up the measure of Dalton's delight. + </p> + <p> + “There isn't a bit of envy or bad feeling about them chaps,” he would + often say; “whether I carry away forty Naps, or four hundred of a night, + they 're just as civil. Faix! he knew many a born gentleman might take a + lesson from them.” + </p> + <p> + So long as he continued to win, Dalton felt comparatively little interest + in play, beyond the notice his presence and his large stakes were sure to + excite. As a game it possessed no hold upon him; and when he had changed + his heaps of glittering gold for notes, he arose to leave the table, and + to forget all that had occurred there as matters of no possible interest + to remember. + </p> + <p> + Such was no longer the case when fortune turned. Then, and for the first + time, the gambler's passion awoke in his heart, and the sting of defeat + sent its pangs through him. The prying, searching looks of the + by-standers, too, were a dreadful ordeal; for all were curious to see how + he bore his losses, and Dalton was no accomplished gamester who could lose + with all the impassive gravity of seeming indifference. Still less was he + gifted with that philosophy of the play-table that teaches a timely + retreat before adverse fortune. He knew nothing of those sage maxims by + which the regular gambler controls his temper and regulates his conduct; + nor had he learned the art by which good and sterling qualities, the gifts + of noble natures, can be brought into the service of a low and degrading + vice! Dalton, it must be owned, was what is called “a bad loser,”—that + is, he lost his temper with his money; and the more steadily luck seemed + against him the more determinedly did he “back his fortune.” Now doubling, + now trebling his stake, he lost considerable sums; till at last, as the + hand of the clock stood within a few minutes of the closing hour, he + emptied the remainder of his bag upon the table, and, without counting, + set it all upon a card. + </p> + <p> + “Rouge perd et couleur!” cried the banker, and raked in the glittering + heap; and, amid a murmur of half-compassionate astonishment, Peter arose + from the table. Mrs. Ricketts and her suite were all in the ball-room, but + Dalton only remembered them when he had gained the open air. The terrible + shock of his reverse had overwhelmed all his faculties, and almost stunned + him to unconsciousness. At last he bethought him of his guests; but it was + some time before he could summon sufficient composure of look to go in + search of them. He had been so accustomed—to use his own phrase—“to + ride the winner,” that he did n't know how to face the company as a beaten + man. He thought of all the glances of impertinent pity his presence would + call forth, and imagined the buzz of remark and comment every line of his + features would give rise to. Poor Peter!—little knew he that such + signs of sympathy are never given to the very saddest of misfortunes, and + that, in such a society, no one wastes a thought upon his neighbor's + reverses, except when they serve as a guide to himself. + </p> + <p> + He did, indeed, overhear from time to time little broken sentences like + these: “The old fellow with the white moustache has had a squeeze + 'to-night.'” “He caught it heavy and thick.” “Must have lost close on a + thousand Naps.” “Bank walked into him;” and so on,——comments + as free from any tone of sympathy as the proudest heart could possibly + have asked for. But even these were easier to bear than the little playful + cajoleries of Mrs. Ricketts on his supposed successes. + </p> + <p> + Knowing him to be a frequent winner, and hearing from Scroope the large + sums he occasionally carried away, she invariably accosted him with some + little jesting rebuke on his “dreadful luck”—that “wicked good + fortune”—that would follow him in everything and everywhere. + </p> + <p> + Purvis had been a close spectator of all that went on this unlucky + evening, and was actually occupied with his pencil in calculating the + losses when Peter entered the room. + </p> + <p> + “He had above eighteen or twenty bank-notes of a th-thousand francs,” + cried he, “when he be-be-began the evening. They are all gone now. He + played at least a dozen 'rouleaux' of fifty Naps.; and as to the bag, I + can m-make no guess how m-m-much it held.” + </p> + <p> + “I 'll tell you then, sir,” said Peter, good-humoredly, as he just + overheard the last remark. “The bag held three hundred and eighty + Napoleons; and as you 're pretty correct in the other items, you 'll not + be far from the mark by adding about fifty or sixty Naps, for little bets + here and there.” + </p> + <p> + “What coolness, what stoical indifference!” whispered Mrs. Ricketts to + Martha, but loud enough for Dalton to hear. “That is so perfectly Irish; + they can be as impetuous as the Italian, and possess all the + self-restraint and impassive bearing of the Indian warrior.” + </p> + <p> + “But w-w-why did you go on, when luck was a-a-gainst you?” + </p> + <p> + “Who told me it was against me till I lost all my money?” cried Dalton. + “If the first reverse was to make a man feel beat, it would be a very + cowardly world, Mr. Purvis.” + </p> + <p> + “Intensely Irish!” sighed Mrs. Ricketts. + </p> + <p> + “Well, maybe it is,” broke in Peter, who was not in a mood to accept + anything in a complimentary sense. “Irish it may be; and as you remarked a + minute ago, we're little better than savages—” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, Mr. Dalton,——dear Mr. Dalton!” + </p> + <p> + “No matter; I'm not angry, ma'am. The newspapers says as bad,—ay, + worse, every day of the week. But what I 'm observing is, that the man + that could teach me how to keep my money could never have taught me how to + win it You know the old proverb about the 'faint heart, 'Mr. Purvis?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; but I——I——I don't want a f-f-fair lady!” + </p> + <p> + “Faix! I believe you're right there, my little chap,” said Peter, laughing + heartily, and at once recovering all his wonted good-humor at the sound of + his own mellow-toned mirth; and in this pleasant mood he gave an arm to + each of his fair companions, and led them into the supper-room. There was + an ostentatious desire for display in the order Dalton gave that evening + to the waiter. It seemed as if he wished to appear perfectly indifferent + about his losses. The table was covered with a costly profusion that + attracted general notice. Wines of the rarest and most precious vintages + stood on the sideboard. Dalton did the honors with even more than his + accustomed gayety. There was a stimulant in that place at the head of the + table; there was some magical influence in the duty of host that never + failed with him. The sense of sway and power that ambitious minds feel in + high and pre-eminent stations were all his, as he sat at the top of his + board; and it must be owned that with many faults of manner, and many + shortcomings on the score of taste, yet Peter did the honors of his table + well and gracefully. + </p> + <p> + Certain is it Mrs. Ricketts and her friends thought so. Zoe was in perfect + ecstasies at the readiness of his repartees and the endless variety of his + anecdotes. He reminded her at once of Sheridan and “poor dear Mirabeau,” + and various other “beaux esprits” she used to live with. Martha listened + to him with sincere pleasure. Purvis grew very tipsy in the process of his + admiration, and the old General, suddenly brought back to life and memory + under the influence of champagne, thought him so like Jack Trevor, of the + Engineers, that he blubbered out, “I think I 'm listening to Jack. It's + poor Trevor over again.” + </p> + <p> + Was it any wonder if in such intoxications Peter forgot all his late + reverses, nor ever remembered them till he had wished his company + good-night, and found himself alone in his own chamber? Pecuniary + difficulties were no new thing to Dalton, and it would not have interfered + with his pleasant dreams that night had the question been one of those + ordinary demands which he well knew how to resist or evade by many a legal + sleight and many an illegal artifice; but here was a debt of honor. He had + given his name, three or four times during the evening, for large sums, + lost on the very instant they were borrowed. These must be repaid on the + next day; but how, he knew not. How he “stood” in Abel Kraus's books he + had not the remotest idea. It might be with a balance, or it might be with + a deficit All he really knew was that he had latterly drawn largely, and + spent freely; and as Abel always smiled and seemed satisfied, Peter + concluded that his affairs needed no surer or safer evidences of + prosperity. To have examined ledgers and day-books with such palpable + proofs of solvency would have been, in his eyes, an act of as great + absurdity as that of a man who would not believe in the sunshine till he + had first consulted the thermometer. + </p> + <p> + “I must see Abel early to-morrow. Abel will set it all right,” were the + conclusions to which he always came back; and if not very clearly evident + how, why, or by what means, still he was quite satisfied that honest Kraus + would extricate him from every difficulty. “The devil go with it for black + and red,” said he, as he lay down in his bed. “I 'd have plenty of cash in + my pocket for everything this night, if it was n't for that same table; + and an ugly game it is as ever a man played. Shuffle and cut; faites your + 'jeu'; thirty-four—thirty-three; red wins—black loses; there's + the whole of it; sorrow more on 't except the sad heart that comes + afterwards!” These last words he uttered with a deep sigh, and then turned + his face to the pillow. + </p> + <p> + He passed a restless, feverish night; the sleep being more harassing than + even his waking moments, disturbed, as it was, by thoughts of all he had + lately gone through. All the tremendous excitement of the play-table, + heightened by the effect of wine, made up a wild chaotic confusion in his + brain, that was almost madness. He awoke repeatedly, too, eager for + daylight, and the time to call upon honest Abel. At these times he would + pace his room up and down, framing the speeches by which he meant to open + the interview. Kraus was familiar with his usual “pleas.” With Ireland and + her stereotyped distresses he was thoroughly conversant. Famine, fever, + potato-rot, poor-rates, emigration, and eviction were themes he could have + almost discussed himself; but all he recognized in them was an urgent + demand for money, and an occasion for driving the very hardest of + bargains. The Russian remittances had been less regular of late; so at + least Abel averred, for Dalton neither knew nor tried to know any details. + The dates were frequently inconvenient, and the places of payment + oftentimes remote. Still, Abel was civil,—nay, almost cordial; and + what can any man ask for more than a smile from his banker! + </p> + <p> + Dalton was quite at ease upon one point,—Kraus was sure to know + nothing of his late losses at play; in fact, out of his little den wherein + he sat he seemed to be aware of nothing in the whole wide world. A small + “slip,” which arrived each morning from Frankfort, told him the current + exchanges of the day. The faces of his clients revealed all the rest But + Dalton was greatly deceived on this point There was not the slightest + incident of Baden with which he was not familiar, nor any occurrence in + its life of dissipation on which he was uninformed. His knowledge was not + the offspring of any taste for scandal, or any liking for the secret + gossiping of society. No; his was a purely practical and professional + information. The archduke who had lost so heavily at “roulette” would need + a loan on the morrow; the count who was about to elope with the + marchioness must have bills on Paris; the colonel who had shot the baron + in a duel could n't escape over the frontier without money. In a word, + every vice and iniquity seemed the tributaries of his trade; and whether + to consummate their wickedness or escape its penalty, men must first come + to Abel Kraus. + </p> + <p> + To see him crouching behind his little desk, poring over the scattered + fragments of dirty papers, which were his only books, you would never have + suspected that he had a thought above the mystic calculations before him. + Watch him more narrowly, however, and you will perceive that not a figure + can cross the street and approach his door without meeting a shrewd, quick + glance from those dark eyes; while a faint muttering sound betrays his + detection of the visitor's object. + </p> + <p> + Long, then, before Dalton swaggered up to the moneychanger's den, Abel + knew every circumstance of the previous night, and had actually before + him, on his desk, a correct account of all the sums he had lost at play. + Abel was not unprepared for such tidings. Dalton was precisely the man to + rush headlong into play the moment fortune turned with him, and the pang + of defeat was added to the bitterness of a loss; Abel only wondered that + the reverse had not come earlier. And so he mumbled below his breath, as + with his hat set jauntily on one side, and his hands stuck carelessly + beneath his coat-tails, Dalton came forward. + </p> + <p> + Peter had so far “got up” his air of easy indifference as to whistle a + tune; but, somehow, as he drew nearer to the door, the sounds waxed + fainter and fainter, and, before he had crossed the threshold, bad sunk + away into the cadence of a heavy sigh. Abel never looked up as the other + entered, but, affecting the deepest preoccupation, went on with his + figures. + </p> + <p> + “Morrow, Abel,” said Dalton, as he threw himself into a chair, and, + removing his hat, began to wipe his forehead with his handkerchief. “This + is a murdering hot day. It's not ten yet, and the sun's roasting!” + </p> + <p> + “Fine weather for de harvest, Herr von Dalton, but a leetle rain do no + harm.” + </p> + <p> + “Faix! I think not; neither to man nor beast.” + </p> + <p> + Abel grinned at the brawny throat and massive proportions that seemed so + unequal to sustain the heat, but said nothing. + </p> + <p> + “How's the exchange, Abel?” said Peter; “how's the exchange?” + </p> + <p> + Now, in justice to our worthy friend Dalton, we must own that he put this + question without having the very remotest idea of its meaning. An + inscription from the tomb of the Pharaohs would have been to the full as + intelligible to him as an abstract from the “City Article.” He asked it as + certain “charming women” inquire about the compass on board ship,—something, + in fact, suitable to the time and place, and proper to be done on like + occasions. + </p> + <p> + “De exchange is very uncertain; de market is up and down,” said Abel, + dryly. + </p> + <p> + “That's bad,” said Dalton, gravely,——“that's very bad!” + </p> + <p> + “De Mongolian loan is de reason,” rejoined Abel. + </p> + <p> + Dalton gave a grunt, that might mean assent or displeasure with that view + of the case, but did not trust himself with more. + </p> + <p> + “Dey will not take de scrip at eighty-two, and I tink dey are right.” + </p> + <p> + “Faix! I don't doubt but that they are!” chimed in Peter. + </p> + <p> + “Dey are right, if all be true we hear of de security. It is de mines of + de State dat are hypotheked,—how you call it,—what you say, + 'hypotheked'?” + </p> + <p> + Dalton was completely puzzled now, and could only scratch his ear,—his + invariable symptom of utter discomfiture. + </p> + <p> + “Tis no matter,” cried Abel, with a grating, harsh laugh. “Dey promise, + and no pay; and dat is very bad—ha! ha! ha!” + </p> + <p> + Now Dalton joined in the laugh, but with as ill a grace as needs be. + </p> + <p> + “Dey promise, and dey no pay, Herr von Dalton!” repeated the Jew, with + another laugh, as though he could not tear himself away from so excellent + a jest. “Dey borrow, dat dey may make explorations—how you call dem—wit + oder men's money. If dey de win, well! if dey lose—bah! dey are + bankrupt!” + </p> + <p> + Now, all these allusions were of the most provoking character to poor + Dalton, who could not help feeling a very different sympathy for the + Mongolians from that expressed by Abel Kraus. “Who knows what difficulties + they are in?—maybe they'd pay it if they could,” muttered he, as he + slapped his boot with his cane, and fell into a musing fit. + </p> + <p> + “Dey shall not have one kreutzer of my moneys; I can tell dem dat!” said + Kraus, as he buttoned up the keys of his strong-box, as though suiting the + action to his words. + </p> + <p> + “Don't put up the keys so soon, Abel!” said Dalton, with an effort at a + laugh. “I want to see the inside of that little iron trunk there.” + </p> + <p> + “You no want money, Herr von Dalton!” exclaimed the other, in amazement. + “You no want money! you draw eight hundred florin on Tuesday; you have + four hundred on Wednesday evening, and seven rouleaux of Napoleons; on + Saturday again I send you twenty thousand franc!” + </p> + <p> + “All true,—every word of it,” said Dalton; “but there's no use + telling a hungry man about the elegant dinner he ate last week! The short + of the matter is, I want cash now.” + </p> + <p> + Kraus appeared to reflect for a few minutes, and then said, “If a leetle + sum will do—” + </p> + <p> + “Faix! it will not. I want five hundred Naps., at the very least.” + </p> + <p> + Kraus threw down his pen, and stared at him without speaking. + </p> + <p> + “One would think from your face, Abel, that I was asking for a loan of the + National Debt. I said five hundred Naps.!” + </p> + <p> + Abel shook his head mournfully, and merely muttered “Ja! ja!” to himself. + “We will look over de account, Herr von Dalton,” said he, at last; + “perhaps I am wrong, I no say, I am sure; but I tink—dat is, I + believe—you overdraw very much your credit.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, supposing I did; is it the first time?” said Dalton, angrily. + “Ain't I as good a man now as I was before?” + </p> + <p> + “You are a very goot man, I know well; a very goot and a very pleasant + man; but you know de old German proverb, 'Das Gut ist nicht Gelt.'” + </p> + <p> + “I never heard it till now,” muttered Peter, sulkily; “but if a robber in + this country put a pistol to your head, he 'd be sure to have a proverb to + justify him! But to come to the point,——can I have the money?” + </p> + <p> + “I fear very mush—No!” was the dry response. + </p> + <p> + “No,—is it?” cried Dalton, starting up from his seat; “did you say + no?” + </p> + <p> + Kraus nodded twice, slowly and deliberately. + </p> + <p> + “Then bad luck to the rap ever you'll see more of <i>my</i> money,” cried + Peter, passionately. “You old Jewish thief, I ought to have known you long + ago; fifty, sixty, seventy per cent I was paying for the use of my own + cash, and every bill I gave as good as the bank paper! Ain't you ashamed + of yourself, tell me that,—ain't you downright ashamed of yourself?” + </p> + <p> + “I tink not; I have no occasions for shame,” said the other, calmly. + </p> + <p> + “Faix! I believe you there,” retorted Dalton. “Your line of life doesn't + offer many opportunities of blushing. But if I can't bring you to know + shame, maybe I can teach you to feel sorrow. Our dealing is ended from + this day out. Peter Dalton does n't know you more! He never saw you! he + never heard of your name! D'ye mind me now? None of your boasting among + the English here that you have Mr. Dalton's business. If I hear of your + saying it, it's not a contradiction will satisfy me. Understand me well—it's + not to leave a mark of friendship that I 'll come in here again!” + </p> + <p> + The fierce tone in which Dalton said these words, and the gesture he made + with a tremendous walking-stick, were certainly well calculated to excite + Abel's terrors, who, opening a little movable pane of the window, looked + out into the street, to assure himself of succor in case of need. + </p> + <p> + “What's the use of family, rank, or fortune,” cried Dalton, indignantly, + as he paced up and down the little shop, in a perfect frenzy of passion, + “if a little dirty Jew, with a face like a rat-terrier, can insult you? My + uncle is one of the first men in Austria, and my daughter's a Princess; + and there's a creature you would't touch with the tongs has the impudence + to—to—to—” Evidently the precise offence did not at once + occur to Dalton's memory, for after several efforts to round off his + phrase—“to outrage me——to outrage me!” he cried, with + the satisfaction of one who had found a missing object. + </p> + <p> + Meanwhile Abel, who had gradually resumed his courage, was busily engaged + in some deep and intricate calculations, frequently referring to a number + of ill-scrawled scraps of paper on a file before him, not heeding, if he + heard, the storm around him. + </p> + <p> + “Dere, saar,” said he at length, as he pushed a slip of paper towards + Dalton,—“dere, saar; our affairs is closed, as you say. Dere is your + debit,—eighteen hundred and seventy-three florins, 'convenzion + money.' Dere may be leetle charges to be added for commissions and oder + tings; but dat is de chief sum, which you pay now.” + </p> + <p> + There was a sharp emphasis on the last monosyllable that made Dalton + start. + </p> + <p> + “I'll look over it; I'll compare it with my books at home,” said he, + haughtily, as he stuffed the slip of paper into his waistcoat-pocket. + </p> + <p> + “Den you no pay to-day?” asked Abel. + </p> + <p> + “Nor to-morrow, nor the day after, nor, maybe, awhile longer,” said + Dalton, with a composure he well knew how to feel in like circumstances. + </p> + <p> + “Very well, den; I will have securities. I will have bail for my moneys + before tree o'clock this day. Dere is de sommation before de Tribunal, + Herr von Dalton.” Aud he handed a printed document, stamped with the + official seal of a law court, across the table. “You will see,” added the + Jew, with a malicious grin, “dat I was not unprepared for all dis. Abel + Kraus is only an old Jew, but he no let de Gentile cheat him!” + </p> + <p> + Dalton was stunned by the suddenness of this attack. The coolly planned + game of the other so overmatched all the passionate outbreak of his own + temper that he felt himself mastered at once by his wily antagonist. + </p> + <p> + “To the devil I fling your summons!” cried he, savagely. “I can't even + read it.” + </p> + <p> + “Your avocat will explain it all. He will tell you dat if you no pay de + moneys herein charged, nor give a goot and sufficient surety dereof before + de Civil Grericht, dis day, dat you will be consign to de prison of de + State at Carlsruhe, dere to remain your 'leben lang,' if so be you never + pay.” + </p> + <p> + “Arrest me for debt the day it's demanded!” cried Dalton, whose notions of + the law's delay were not a little shocked by such peremptory proceedings. + </p> + <p> + “It is in criminal as well as in civil Grericht to draw on a banker beyond + your moneys, and no pay, on demand.” + </p> + <p> + “There's justice for you!” cried Dalton, passionately. “Highway robbery, + housebreaking, is decenter. There's some courage, at least, in <i>them!</i> + But I wouldn't believe you if you were on your oath. There is n't such a + law in Europe, nor in the East'Ingies'!” + </p> + <p> + Abel grinned, but never uttered a word. + </p> + <p> + “So any ould thief, then, can trump up a charge against a man——can + send him off to jail—before he can look around him!” + </p> + <p> + “If he do make false charge, he can be condem to de galleys,” was the calm + reply. + </p> + <p> + “And what's the use of that?” cried Dalton, in a transport of rage. “Is + n't the galleys as good a life as sitting there? Is n't it as manly a + thing to strain at an oar as to sweat a guinea?” + </p> + <p> + “I am a burgher of the Grand Duchy,” said Abel, boldly; “and if you defame + me, it shall be before witnesses!” And as he spoke he threw wide the + window, so that the passers-by might hear what took place. + </p> + <p> + Dalton's face became purple; the veins in his forehead swelled like a + thick cordage, and he seemed almost bursting with suppressed passion. For + an instant it was even doubtful if he could master his struggling wrath. + At last he grasped the heavy chair he had been sitting on, and dashing it + down on the ground, broke it into atoms; and then, with an execration in + Irish, the very sound of which rang like a curse, he strode out of the + shop, and hastened down the street. + </p> + <p> + <a name="linkimage-0013" id="linkimage-0013"> + <!-- IMG --></a> <br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%;"> + <img src="images/00278.jpg" alt="00278" width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p> + Many a group of merry children, many a morning excursionist returning from + his donkey-ride, remarked the large old man, who, muttering and + gesticulating, as he went, strode along the causeway, not heeding nor + noticing those around him. Others made way for him as for one it were not + safe to obstruct, and none ventured a word as he passed by. On he went, + careless of the burning heat and the hot rays of the sun,—against + which already many a jalousie was closed, and many an awning spread,—up + the main street of the town, across the “Plate,” and then took his way up + one of the steep and narrow lanes which led towards the upper town. To see + him, nothing could look more purpose-like than his pace and the manner of + his going; and yet he knew nothing of where he walked nor whither the path + led him. A kind of instinct directed his steps into an old and + oft-followed track, but his thoughts were bent on other objects. He + neither saw the half-terrified glances that were turned on him, nor marked + how they who were washing at the fountain ceased their work, as he passed, + to stare at him. + </p> + <p> + At last he reached the upper town; emerging from which by a steep flight + of narrow stone steps, he gained a little terraced spot of ground, crossed + by two rows of linden-trees, under whose shade he had often sat of an + evening to watch the sunset over the plain. He did not halt here, but + passing across the grassy sward, made for a small low house which stood at + the angle of the terrace. The shutters of the shop-window were closed, but + a low half-door permitted a view of the interior; leaning over which + Dalton remained for several minutes, as if lost in deep revery. + </p> + <p> + The silent loneliness of the little shop at first appeared to engross all + his attention, but after a while other thoughts came slowly flittering + through his muddy faculties, and with a deep-drawn sigh he said,—— + </p> + <p> + “Dear me! but I thought we were living here still! It's droll enough how + one can forget himself! Hans, Hans Roëckle, my man!” cried he, beating + with his stick against the doors as he called out. “Hanserl! Hans, I say! + Well, it's a fine way to keep a shop! How does the creature know but I'm a + lady that would buy half the gimcracks in the place, and he's not to be + found! That's what makes these devils so poor,—they never mind their + business. 'Tis nothing but fun and diversion they think of the whole day + long. There's no teaching them that there's nothing like indhustry! What + makes us the finest people under the sun? Work—nothing but work! I + 'm sure I 'm tired of telling him so! Hans, are you asleep, Hans Roëckle?” + No answer followed this summons, and now Dalton, after some vain efforts + to unbolt the door, strode over it into the shop. “Faix! I don't wonder + that you had n't a lively business,” said he, as he looked around at the + half-stocked shelves, over which dust and cobwebs were spread like a veil. + “Sorrow a thing I don't know as well as I do my gaiters! There's the same + soldiers, and that's the woodcutter with the matches on his back, and + there's the little cart Frank mended for him! Poor Frank, where is he now, + I wonder?” Dalton sighed heavily as he continued to run his eye over the + various articles all familiar to him long ago. “What's become of Hans?” + cried he at last, aloud; “if it was n't an honest place, he would n't have + a stick left! To go away and leave everything at sixes and sevens—well, + well, it's wonderful!” + </p> + <p> + Dalton ascended the stairs—every step of which was well known to him—to + the upper story where he used to live. The door was unfastened, and the + rooms were just as he had left them—even to the little table at + which Nelly used to sit beside the window. Nothing was changed; a bouquet + of faded flowers—the last, perhaps, she had ever plucked in that + garden—stood in a glass in the window-sill; and so like was all to + the well-remembered past, that Dalton almost thought he heard her footstep + on the floor. + </p> + <p> + “Well, it was a nice little quiet spot, any way!” said he, as he sank into + a chair, and a heavy tear stole slowly along his cheek. “Maybe it would + have been well for me if I never left it! With all our poverty we spent + many a pleasant night beside that hearth, and many's the happy day we + passed in that wood there. To be sure, we were all together, then! that + makes a difference! instead of one here, another there, God knows when to + meet, if ever! + </p> + <p> + “I used to fret many a time about our being so poor, but I was wrong, + after all, for we divided our troubles amongst us, and that left a small + share for each; but there's Nelly now, pining away—I don't know for + what, but I see it plain enough; and here am I myself with a heavy heart + this day; and sure, who can tell if Kate, great as she is, has n't her + sorrows; and poor Frank, 't is many a hard thing, perhaps, he has to bear. + I believe in reality we were better then!” + </p> + <p> + He arose, and walked about the room, now stopping before each + well-remembered object, now shaking his head in mournful acquiescence with + some unspoken regret; he went in turn through each chamber, and then, + passing from the room that had been Nelly's, he descended a little zigzag, + rickety stair, by which Hans had contrived to avoid injuring the gnarled + branches of a fig-tree that grew beneath. Dalton now found himself in the + garden; but how unlike what it had been! Once the perfection of blooming + richness and taste,—the beds without a weed, the gravel trimly raked + and shining, bright channels of limpid water running amid the flowers, and + beautiful birds of gay plumage caged beneath the shady shrubs,—now + all was overrun with rank grass and tall weeds; the fountains were dried + up, the flowers trodden down,—even the stately yew hedge, the + massive growth of a century, was broken by the depredations of the + mountain cattle. All was waste, neglect, and desolation. + </p> + <p> + “I 'd not know the place,—it is not like itself,” muttered Dalton, + sorrowfully. “I never saw the like of this before. There's the elegant + fine plants dying for want of care! and the rose-trees rotting just for + want of a little water! To think of how he labored late and early here, + and to see it now! He used to call them carnations his children: there was + one Agnes, and there was another Undine—indeed, I believe that was a + lily; and I think there was a Nelly, too; droll enough to make out they + were Christians! but sure, they did as well; and he watched after them as + close! and ay, and stranger than all, he'd sit and talk to them for hours. + It's a quare world altogether; but maybe it's our own fault that it's not + better; and perhaps we ought to give in more to each other's notions, and + not sneer at whims and fancies when they don't please ourselves.” + </p> + <p> + It was while thus ruminating, Dalton entered a little arbor, whose + trellised walls and roofs had been one of the triumphs of Hanserl's skill. + Ruin, however, had now fallen on it, and the drooping branches and + straggling tendrils hung mournfully down on all sides, covering the stone + table, and even the floor, with their vegetation. As Dalton stood, sad and + sorrow-struck at this desolation, he perceived the figure of Hans himself, + as, half-hidden by the leaves, he sat in his accustomed seat. His head was + uncovered, but his hair fell in great masses on either side, and with his + long beard, now neglected and untrimmed, gave him an unusually wild and + savage look. A book lay open on his knees, but his hands were crossed over + it, and his eyes were upturned as if in revery. + </p> + <p> + Dalton felt half ashamed at accosting him; there was something ungracious + in the way he had quitted the poor dwarfs dwelling; there had been a + degree of estrangement for weeks before between them, and altogether he + knew that he had ill-requited all the unselfish kindness of the little + toy-seller; so that he would gladly have retired without being noticed, + when Hans suddenly turned and saw him. + </p> + <p> + It was almost with a cry of surprise Hans called out his name. + </p> + <p> + “This is kind of you, Herr von Dalton. Is the Fräulein—” He stopped + and looked eagerly around. + </p> + <p> + “No, Hanserl,” said Dalton, answering to the half-expressed question, + “Nelly is n't with me; I came up alone. Indeed, to tell the truth, I found + myself here without well knowing why or how. Old habit, I suppose, led me, + for I was thinking of something else.” + </p> + <p> + “They were kind thoughts that guided your steps,” said the dwarf, in + accents of deep gratitude, “for I have been lonely of late.” + </p> + <p> + “Why don't you come down and see us, Hanserl? It's not so far off, and you + know Nelly is always glad to see you.” + </p> + <p> + “It is true,” said the dwarf, mournfully. + </p> + <p> + “You were always a good friend to us, Hanserl,” said Dalton, taking the + other's hand and pressing it cordially; “and faix! as the world goes,” + added he, sighing, “there 's many a thing easier found than a friend.” + </p> + <p> + “The rich can have all,—even friendship,” muttered Hans, slowly. + </p> + <p> + “I don't know that, Hans; I 'm not so sure you 're right there.” + </p> + <p> + “They buy it,” said the dwarf, with a fierce energy, “as they can buy + everything,—the pearl for which the diver hazards life, the gem that + the polisher has grown blind over, the fur for which the hunter has shed + his heart's blood. And yet when they 've got them they have not got + content.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, that's true,” sighed Dalton. “I suppose nobody is satisfied in this + world.” + </p> + <p> + “But they can be if they will but look upward,” cried Hans, + enthusiastically; “if they will learn to think humbly of themselves, and + on how slight a claim they possess all the blessings of their lot; if they + will but bethink them that the sun and the flowers, the ever-rolling sea, + and the leafy forest are all their inheritance,—that for them, as + for all, the organ peals through the dim-vaulted aisle with promises of + eternal happiness,—and lastly, that, with all the wild contentions + of men's passions, there is ever gushing up in the human heart a well of + kind and affectionate thoughts; like those springs we read of, of pure + water amid the salt ocean, and which, taken at the source, are sweet and + good to drink from. Men are not so bad by nature; it is the prizes for + which they struggle, the goals they strive for, corrupt them! Make of this + fair earth a gaming-table, and you will have all the base passions of the + gamester around it.” + </p> + <p> + “Bad luck to it for gambling,” said Dalton, whose intelligence was just + able to grasp at the illustration; “I wish I 'd never seen a card; and + that reminds me, Hans, that maybe you 'd give me a bit of advice. There + was a run against me last night in that thieving place. The 'red' came up + fourteen times, and I, backing against it every time, sometimes ten, + sometimes twenty,——ay, faix! as high as fifty 'Naps.' you may + think what a squeeze I got! And when I went to old Kraus this morning, + this is what he sticks in my hand instead of a roll of banknotes.” With + these words Dalton presented to Hans the printed summons of the + “Tribunal.” + </p> + <p> + “A Gerichts-Ruf!” said Hans, with a voice of deep reverence; for he + entertained a most German terror for the law and its authority. “This is a + serious affair.” + </p> + <p> + “I suppose it is,” sighed Dalton; “but I hope we 're in a Christian + country, where the law is open?” + </p> + <p> + Hans nodded, and Peter went on:—— + </p> + <p> + “What I mean is, that nothing can be done in a hurry; that when we have a + man on our side, he can oppose and obstruct, and give delays, picking a + hole here and finding a flaw there; asking for vouchers for this and + proofs for that, and then waiting for witnesses that never come, and + looking for papers that never existed; making Chancery of it, Hans, my + boy,—making Chancery of it.” + </p> + <p> + “Not here,—not with us!” said Hans, gravely. “You must answer to + this charge to-day, and before four o'clock too, or to-morrow there will + be writ of 'contumacy' against you. You have n't got the money?” + </p> + <p> + “Of course I haven't, nor a ten-pound note towards it.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you must provide security.” + </p> + <p> + “'T is easy said, my little man, but it is not so easy dealing with human + beings as with the little wooden figures in your shop beyond.” + </p> + <p> + “There must be 'good and substantial bail,' as the summons declares; such + as will satisfy the Court,” said Hans, who seemed at once to have become a + man of acute worldly perception at sight of this printed document. + </p> + <p> + “Security—bail!” exclaimed Dalton. “You might as well ask Robinson + Crusoe who 'd be godfather to his child on the desert island. There's not + a man, woman, or child in the place would give me a meal's meat There's + not a house I could shelter my head in for one night; and see now,” cried + he, carried away by an impulse of passionate excitement, “it is n't by way + of disparagement I say it to this little town,—for the world all + over is the same,—the more you give the less you get! Treat them + with champagne and venison; send money to this one, make presents to that, + and the day luck turns with you, the best word they 'll have for you is, + 'He was a wasteful, careless devil; could n't keep it when he had it; + lived always above his means; all hand and mouth.' It's a kind friend that + will vouchsafe as much as 'Poor fellow! I 'm sorry for him.'” + </p> + <p> + “And to what end is wealth,” cried Hans, boldly, “if it but conduce to + this? Are the friends well chosen who can behave thus? Are the + hospitalities well bestowed that meet such return? or is it not rather + selfishness is paid back in the same base coin that it uttered?” + </p> + <p> + “For the matter of that,” said Dalton, angrily, “I never found that vulgar + people was a bit more grateful than their betters, nor low manners any + warranty for high principles; and when one is to be shipwrecked it's + better to go down in a 'seventy-four' than be drowned out of a punt in a + mill-pond.” + </p> + <p> + “It's past noon already,” said Hans, pointing to the son-dial on his + house. “There 's little time to be lost.” + </p> + <p> + “And as little to be gained,” muttered Dalton, moodily, as he strolled out + into the garden. + </p> + <p> + “Let me have this paper,” said Hans; “I will see the Herr Kraus myself, + and try if something cannot be done. With time, I suppose, you could meet + this claim?” + </p> + <p> + “To be sure I could, when my remittances arrive,——when my + instalments are paid up, when my rents come in, when—” He was about + to add, “when luck changes,” but he stopped himself just in time. + </p> + <p> + “There need be no difficulty if you can be certain,” said Hans, slowly. + </p> + <p> + “Certain!—and of what is a man certain in this life?” said Dalton, + in his tone of moralizing. “Was n't I certain of the Corrig-O'Neal estate? + Wasn't I certain of Miles Dalton's property in the funds? Wasn't I certain + that if the Parliament was n't taken away from us that I 'd have my own + price for the boroagh of Knocknascanelera?—and sorrow one of the + three ever came to me. Ay, no later than last night, was n't I certain + that black would come up—” + </p> + <p> + “When I said certain,” broke in Hans, “I meant so far as human foresight + could pledge itself; but I did not speak of the chances of the play-table. + If your expectations of payment rest on these, do not talk of them as + certainties.” + </p> + <p> + “What's my estates for? Where's my landed property?” cried Dalton, + indignantly. “To hear you talk, one would think I was a chevalier of + indhustry, as they call them.” + </p> + <p> + “I ask your pardon, Herr,” said Hans, humbly. “It is in no spirit of idle + curiosity that I speak; less still, with any wish to offend you. I will + now see what is best to do. You may leave all in my hands, and by four + o'clock, or five at furthest, you shall hear from me.” + </p> + <p> + “That's sensible,——that's friendly,” cried Dalton, shaking the + other's hand warmly, and really feeling the most sincere gratitude for the + kindness. + </p> + <p> + If there was any act of friendship he particularly prized, it was the + intervention that should relieve him of the anxiety and trouble of a + difficult negotiation, and leave him, thoughtless and careless, to stroll + about, neither thinking of the present nor uneasy for the future. The + moment such an office had devolved upon another, Dalton felt relieved of + all sense of responsibility before his own conscience; and although the + question at issue were his own welfare or ruin, he ceased to think of it + as a personal matter. Like his countryman, who consoled himself when the + house was in flames by thinking “he was only a lodger,” he actually forgot + his own share of peril by reflecting on the other interests that were at + stake. And the same theory that taught him to leave his soul to his + priest's care, and his health to his doctor's, made him quite satisfied + when a friend had charge of his honor or his fortune. + </p> + <p> + It was as comfortable a kind of fatalism as need be; and, assuredly, to + have seen Peter's face as he now descended the steps to the lower town, it + would be rash to deny that he was not a sincere believer in his + philosophy. No longer absent in air and clouded in look, he had a smile + and a pleasant word for all who passed him; and now, with a jest for this + one, and a kreutzer for that, he held on his way, with a tail of beggars + and children after him, all attracted by that singular mesmerism which + draws around certain men everything that is vagrant and idle,—from + the cripple at the crossing to the half-starved cur-dog without an owner. + </p> + <p> + This gift was, indeed, his; and whatever was penniless and friendless and + houseless seemed to feel they had a claim on Peter Dalton. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0020" id="link2HCH0020"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XX. THE LAST STAKE OF ALL. + </h2> + <p> + Dalton found his little household on the alert at his return home; for + Mrs. Ricketts had just received an express to inform her that her “two + dearest friends on earth” were to arrive that evening in Baden, and she + was busily engaged in arranging a little fête for their reception. All + that poor Nelly knew of the expected guests was that one was a + distinguished soldier, and the other a no less illustrious diplomatist; + claims which, for the reader's illumination, we beg to remark were + embodied in the persons of Colonel Haggerstone and Mr. Foglass. Most + persons in Mrs. Ricketts's position would have entertained some scruples + about introducing a reinforcement to the already strong garrison of the + villa, and would have been disposed to the more humble but safe policy + enshrined in the adage of “letting well alone.” But she had a spirit far + above such small ambitions, and saw that the Dalton hospitalities were + capable of what, in parliamentary phrase, is called a “most extended + application.” + </p> + <p> + By the awestruck air of Nelly, and the overweening delight manifested by + her father, Zoe perceived the imposing effect of great names upon both, + and so successfully did she mystify the description of her two coming + friends, that an uninterested listener might readily have set them down + for the Duke and Prince Metternich, unless, indeed, that the praises she + lavished on them would have seemed even excessive for such greatness. A + triumphal arch was erected half-way up the avenue, over which, in flowery + initials, were to be seen the letters “B.” and “P.,” symbols to represent + “Bayard” and “Puffendorf;” under which guise Haggerstone and the Consul + were to be represented. Strings of colored lamps were to be festooned + along the approach, over which an Irish harp was to be exhibited in a + transparency, with the very original inscription of “Caed Mille failtha,” + in Celtic letters beneath. + </p> + <p> + The banquet—the word “dinner” was strictly proscribed for that day—was + to be arrayed in the hall, where Dalton was to preside, if possible, with + an Irish crown upon his head, supported by Nelly as the genius of Irish + music; and Zoe herself in a composite character,—half empress, half + prophetess,—a something between Sappho and the Queen of Sheba; + Martha, for the convenience of her various household cares, was to be + costumed as a Tyrolese hostess; and Purvis, in a dress of flesh-colored + web, was to represent Mercury, sent on purpose from above to deliver a + message of welcome to the arriving guests. As for the General, there was a + great doubt whether he ought to be Belisarius or Suwarrow; for, being + nearly as blind as the one and as deaf as the other, his qualifications + were about evenly balanced. + </p> + <p> + If not insensible to some of the absurdities of this notable project, + Dalton forgot the ridicule in the pleasanter occupation of the bustle, the + movement, and the tumult it occasioned. It did his heart good to see the + lavish waste and profusion that went forward. The kitchen-table, as it lay + spread with fruit, fish, and game, might have made a study for Schneiders; + and honest Peter's face glowed with delight as he surveyed a scene so + suggestive of convivial thoughts and dissipation. + </p> + <p> + “No doubt of it, Nelly,” said he; “but Mother Ricketts has grand notions! + She does the thing like a princess!” The praise was so far well bestowed + that there was something royal in dispensing hospitality without regarding + the cost; while, at the same time, she never entertained the slightest + sentiment of esteem for those in whose favor it was to be exercised. Among + the very few things she feared in this world was Haggerstone's “tongue,” + which she herself averred was best conciliated by giving “occupation to + his teeth.” The banquet was “got up” with that object, while it also gave + a favorable opportunity of assuming that unbounded sway in Dalton's + household which should set the question of her supremacy at rest forever. + </p> + <p> + To this end was poor Martha engaged with puff-paste and jellies and + whip-cream, with wreaths of roses and pyramids of fruit, from dawn till + dusk. To this end was Purvis nearly driven out of his mind by endeavoring + to get off by heart an address in rhyme, the very first line of which + almost carried him off in a fit of coughing,—the word “Puffendorf” + being found nearly as unmanageable to voice as it was unsuited to verse. + While poor Belisarius, stripped of rule and compass, denied access to + water-colors, Indian-ink, or charcoal, spent a most woful day of weary + expectancy. + </p> + <p> + It was, indeed, an awful scene of trouble, fatigue, and exertion on every + side, adding one more to those million instances where the preparation for + the guest has no possible relation to the degree of esteem he is held in. + For so is it in the world: our best receptions are decreed to those we + care least for; our “friend” is condemned to the family dinner, while we + lavish our fortune on mere acquaintances. In these days the fatted calf + would not have been killed to commemorate the return of the prodigal, but + have been melted down into mock-turtle, to feast “my Lord” or “Your + Grace.” + </p> + <p> + The day wore on, and as the arrangements drew nearer to completion, the + anxieties were turned towards the guests themselves, who were to have + arrived at five o'clock. It was now six, and yet no sign of their coming! + Fully a dozen times had Mrs. Ricketts called Martha from some household + cares by the adjuration, “Sister Anne, sister Anne, seest thou nobody + coming?” Mercury had twice ventured out on the high-road, from which he + was driven back by a posse of hooting and laughing children; and Dalton + himself paced up and down the terrace in a state of nervous impatience, + not a little stimulated by hunger and certain flying visits he paid to the + iced punch, to see if it was keeping cool. + </p> + <p> + There is, assuredly, little mesmeric relation between the expecting host + and the lingering guest, or we should not witness all that we do of our + friends' unpunctuality in this life. What a want of sympathy between the + feverish impatience of the one and the careless dalliance of the other! + Not that we intend this censure to apply to the case before us, for + Haggerstone had not the very remotest conception of the honors that + awaited him, and jogged along his dusty road with no greater desire to be + at the end of the journey than was fairly justifiable in one who travelled + with German post-horses and Foglass for a companion. + </p> + <p> + Six o'clock came, and, after another hour of fretful anxiety, it struck + seven. By this time beef had become carbon, and fowls were like specimens + of lava; the fish was reduced to the state of a “purée,” while everything + meant to assume the flinty resistance of ice was calmly settling down into + a fluid existence. Many an architectural device of poor Martha's genius + was doomed to the fate of her other “castles,” and towers and minarets of + skilful shape dropped off one by one, like the hopes of her childhood. All + the telegraphic announcements from the kitchen were of disasters, but Mrs. + Ricketts received the tidings with a Napoleonic calmness; and it was only + when warned by the gathering darkness over Dalton* s brow that she thought + it wiser to “give in.” + </p> + <p> + Dalton's ill-humor had, however, a different source from that which she + suspected. It proceeded from the quiet but steady importunity with which + little Hans paced up and down before the door, now appearing before one + window, now before another, totally insensible to the cold discouragement + of Dalton's looks, and evidently bent on paying no attention to all the + signs and signals intended for his guidance. + </p> + <p> + “Doesn't he see we've company in the house? Has n't the little creature + the sense to know that this is no time to be bothering and teasing about + money? Has he no decency? Has he no respect for his superiors?” Such were + the deep mutterings with which Dalton tried to “blow off the steam” of his + indignation, while with many a gesture and motion he intimated his anger + and impatience. “Faix! he 's like a bailiff out there,” cried he at last, + as he issued forth to meet him. Whatever might have been the first angry + impulses of his heart, his second thoughts were far more gentle and well + disposed as he drew near to Hansèrl, who stood cap in hand, in an attitude + of deep and respectful attention. + </p> + <p> + “They have accepted the bail, Herr von Dalton, and this bond needs but + your signature,” said Hans, mildly, as he held forth a paper towards him. + </p> + <p> + “Who's the bail? Give me the bond,” said Dalton, rapidly; and not waiting + for the answer to his question, “Where's the name to be, Hanserl?” + </p> + <p> + “Here, in the space,” said the dwarf, dryly. + </p> + <p> + “That 's soon done, if there's no more wanting,” rejoined Peter, with a + laugh. “'T is seldom that writing the same two words cost me so little. + Won't you step in a minute, into the house? I 'd ask you to stop and eat + your dinner, but I know you don't like strangers, and we have company + to-day. Well, well, no offence; another time, maybe, when we 're alone. He + 's as proud as the devil, that little chap,” muttered he, as he turned + back within the house; “I never saw one of his kind that was n't 'T is + only creatures with humpbacks and bent shins that never believes they can + be wrong in this world; they have a conceit in themselves that's + wonderful! Not that there isn't good in him, too; he's a friendly soul as + ever I seen! There it is, now. Peter Dalton's hand and deed;” and he + surveyed the superscription with considerable satisfaction. “There it is, + Hans, and much good may it do you!” said he, as he delivered the document + with an air of a prince conferring a favor on a subject. + </p> + <p> + “You will bear in mind that Abel Kraus is a hard creditor!” said Hans, who + could not help feeling shocked at the easy indifference Dalton exhibited. + </p> + <p> + “Well, but haven't we settled with him?” cried Peter, half impatiently. + </p> + <p> + “So far as surety for his claim goes—” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, that's what I mean,——he's sure of his money; that's all + he wants. I 'd be the well-off man to-day if <i>I</i> was sure of getting + back all ever I lent! But nobody does, and, what's more, nobody expects + it.” + </p> + <p> + “This bond expires in twelve days,” added Hans, more than commonly anxious + to suggest some prudential thoughts. + </p> + <p> + “Twelve days!” exclaimed Peter, who, instead of feeling alarmed at the + shortness of the period, regarded it as so many centuries. “Many's the + change one sees in the world in twelve days. Would n't you take something,—a + glass of Marcobrunner, or a little plain Nantz?” + </p> + <p> + Hans made no reply, for, with bent-down head and hands crossed on his + bosom, he was deep in thought. + </p> + <p> + “I 'm saying, that maybe you'd drink a glass of wine, Hans?” repeated + Dalton; but still no answer came. “What dreamy creatures them Germans + are!” muttered Peter. + </p> + <p> + “And then,” exclaimed Hanserl, as if speaking to himself, “it is but + beginning life anew. Good-bye—farewell.” And so saying, he touched + his cap courteously, and moved hastily away, while Dalton continued to + look after him with compassionate sorrow, for one so little capable of + directing his path in life. As he re-entered the house, he found Mrs. + Ricketts, abandoning all hopes of her distinguished guests, had just + ordered the dinner; and honest Peter consoled himself for their absence by + observing that they should be twice as jolly by themselves! Had it + depended on himself alone, the sentiment might have had some foundation, + for there was something of almost wild gayety in his manner. All the + vicissitudes of the morning, the painful alternations of hope and fear,—hope + so faint as to be a torture, and fear so dark as to be almost despair,—had + worked him up to a state of extreme excitement. + </p> + <p> + To add to this, he drank deeply, quaffing off whole goblets of wine, and + seeming to exult in the mad whirlwind of his own reckless jollity. If the + jests he uttered on Scroope's costume, or the other allegorical fancies of + Zoe's brain, were not of the most refined taste, they were at least + heartily applauded by the indulgent public around his board. Mrs. Ricketts + was in perfect ecstasies at the flashes of his “Irish wit;” and even + Martha, fain to take on credit what was so worthily endorsed, laughed her + own meek laugh of approval. As for Purvis, champagne completed what nature + had but begun, and he became perfectly unintelligible ere dinner was over. + </p> + <p> + All this while poor Nelly's sufferings were extreme; she saw the + unblushing, shameless adulation of the parasites, and she saw, too, the + more than commonly excited glare in her father's eyes,——the + wildness of fever rather than the passing excitation of wine. In vain, her + imploring, beseeching glances were turned towards him; in vain she sought, + by all her little devices, to withdraw him from the scene of riotous + debauch, or recall him from the excesses of a revel which was an orgie. In + his wild and boastful vein he raved about “home,” as he still called it, + and of his family possessions,——at times vaunting of his + wealth and greatness, and then, as suddenly breaking into mad invectives + against the Jews and money-lenders, to whom his necessities had reduced + him. + </p> + <p> + “A good run of luck over there!” cried he, frantically, and pointing to + the blaze of lamps which now sparkled through the trees before the + Cursaal. “One good night yonder, and Peter Dalton would defy the world. If + you 're a lucky hand, Miss Martha, come over and bet for me. I 'll make + the bank jump for it before I go to bed! I know the secret of it now. It's + changing from color to color ruins everybody. You must be steady to one,—black + or red, whichever it is; stick fast to it. You lose two, three, maybe six + or seven times running; never mind, go on still. 'T is the same with play + as with women, as the old song says,—— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + If they're coy, and won't hear when you say you adore, + Just squeeze them the tighter and press them the more.” + </pre> + <p> + “Isn't that it, Mrs. Ricketts? Ah, baithershin! you never knew that song. + Miss Martha's blushing; and just for that I 'll back 'red' all the + evening; and there's the music beginning already. Here's success to us + all! and, faix! it's a pleasant way to deserve it.” + </p> + <p> + Nelly drew near him as they were leaving the room, and, passing her arm + fondly about him, whispered a few words in his ear. + </p> + <p> + “And why not this evening?” said he, aloud, and in a rude voice. “Is it + Friday, that it ought to bring bad luck? Why should n't I go this evening? + I can't hear you; speak louder. Ha! ha! ha! Listen to that, Miss Martha. + There's the sensible Nelly for you! She says she had a dhrame about me + last night.” + </p> + <p> + “No, dearest papa; but that it was like a dream to me. All the narrative + seemed so natural,—all the events followed so regularly, and yet I + was awake just as I am now.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="linkimage-0014" id="linkimage-0014"> + <!-- IMG --></a> <br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%;"> + <img src="images/00294.jpg" alt="00294" width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p> + “More shame for you, then. We can't help ourselves what nonsense we think + in our sleep.” + </p> + <p> + “But you'll not go, dearest papa. You'll indulge me for this once, and I + 'll promise never to tease you by such follies again.” + </p> + <p> + “Faix! I'll go, sure enough; and, what's more, I'll win five thousand + pounds this night, as sure as my name's Peter. I saw a black cat shaving + himself before a new tin saucepan; and if that isn't luck, I'd like to + know what is. A black cat won the Curragh Stakes for Tom Molly; and it was + an egg saucepan made Dr. Groves gain the twenty thousand pounds in the + lottery. And so, now, may I never leave this room if I'd take two thousand + pounds down for my chances to-night!” + </p> + <p> + And in all the force of this confidence in fortune, Dalton sallied forth + to the Cursaal. The rooms were more than usually crowded, and it was with + difficulty that, with Mrs. Ricketts on one arm and Martha on the other, he + could force his way to the tables. Once there, however, a courteous + reception awaited him, and the urbane croupier moved his own august chair + to make room for the honored guest. Although the company was very + numerous, the play was as yet but trifling; a stray gold piece here or + there glittered on the board, and in the careless languor of the bankers, + and the unexcited looks of the bystanders, might be read the fact that + none of the well-known frequenters of the place were betting. Dalton's + appearance immediately created a sensation of curiosity. Several of those + present had witnessed his losses on the preceding night, and were eager to + see what course he would now pursue. It was remarked that he was not + accompanied, as heretofore, by that formidable money-bag which, with + ostentatious noise, he used to fling down on the table before him. Nor did + he now produce that worn old leather pocket-book, whose bursting clasp + could scarce contain the roll of bank-notes within it. He sat with his + hands crossed before him, staring at the table, but to all seeming not + noticing the game. At length, suddenly rousing himself, he leant over and + said a few words, in a whisper, to the croupier, who, in an equally low + tone, communicated with his colleague across the table. A nod and a smile + gave the quiet reply; and Dalton, taking a piece of paper, scrawled a few + figures on it with a pencil, and with a motion so rapid as to be unseen by + many of the bystanders, the banker pushed several “rouleaux” of gold + before Dalton, and went on with the game. + </p> + <p> + Dalton broke one of the envelopes, and as the glittering pieces fell out, + he moved his fingers through them, as though their very touch was + pleasure. At last, with a kind of nervous impatience, he gathered up a + handful, and without counting, threw them on the table. + </p> + <p> + “How much?” said the croupier. + </p> + <p> + “The whole of it!” cried Dalton; and scarcely had he spoken, when he won. + </p> + <p> + A murmur of astonishment ran through the room as he suffered the double + stake to remain on the board; which speedily grew into a loader ham of + voices, as the banker proceeded to count out the gains of a second + victory. Affecting an insight into the game and its chances which he did + not possess, Dalton now hesitated and pondered over his bets, increasing + his stake at one moment, diminishing it at another, and assuming all the + practised airs of old and tried gamblers. As though in obedience to every + caprice, the fortune of the game followed him unerringly. If he lost, it + was some mere trifle; when he won, the stake was sure to be a large one. + At length even this affected prudence—this mock skill—became + too slow for him, and he launched out into all his accustomed + recklessness. Not waiting to take in his winnings, he threw fresh handfuls + of gold amongst them, till the bank, trembling for its safety, more than + once had to reduce the stakes he wished to venture. + </p> + <p> + “They'd give him five hundred Naps, this moment if he 'd cease to play,” + said some one behind Dalton's chair. “There 's nothing the bank dreads so + much as a man with courage to back his luck.” + </p> + <p> + “I 'd wish them a good-night,” said another, “if I 'd have made so good + a-thing of it as that old fellow; he has won some thousand Napoleons, I 'm + certain.” + </p> + <p> + “<i>He</i> knows better than that,” said the former. “This is a 'run' with + him, and he feels it is. He 'll 'break' them before the night's over.” + </p> + <p> + Dalton heard every word of this colloquy, and drank in the surmise as + greedily as did Macbeth the Witches' prophecy. + </p> + <p> + “He deserves to win, too,” resumed the last speaker, “for I never saw a + man play more boldly.” + </p> + <p> + “So much for boldness,” cried the other; “he has just risked a fifth time + on the red and lost. See if it be not two hundred 'Naps.'” + </p> + <p> + The defeat did not dishearten him, for again Dalton covered the board with + gold. As if that moment had been the turning-point of his destiny, his + losses now began, and with all the rapidity of his previous gains. At + first he bore the reverse calmly and patiently; after a while a slight + gesture of impatience, a half-muttered exclamation would escape him; but + when loss followed loss unceasingly, and one immense stake disappeared + after another, Dalton's fingers trembled, and his cheeks shook like one in + ague. His straining bloodshot eyes were fixed on the play with the + intensity of passion, and a convulsive shudder would shake his massive + frame at each new tidings of loss. “Am I never to have luck again? Is it + only to lead me on that I won? Can this go on forever?” were the + low-muttered words which now he syllabled with difficulty, for already his + utterance was thick, and his swollen tongue and flattened cheeks seemed + threatened with paralysis. + </p> + <p> + His last stake was swept away before him, and Dalton, unable to speak, + stretched forth his arms across the table to arrest the banker's hand. “A + hundred 'Naps,' on the red,” cried he, wildly; “no—two hundred—neck + or nothing, I 'll go five—d' ye hear me?—five hundred on the + red!” + </p> + <p> + A short conversation in whispers ensued between the croupiers, after which + one of them spoke a few words to Dalton in a low voice. + </p> + <p> + “You never said so when I was losing,” cried Peter, savagely. “I heard + nothing about the rules of the tables <i>then</i>.” + </p> + <p> + “The stake is above our limit, sir; above the limit laid down by law,” + said the chief banker, mildly. + </p> + <p> + “I don't care for your laws. I lost my money, and I 'll have my revenge.” + </p> + <p> + “You can make half de stakes in my name, saar,” said a long-moustached and + not over-clean-looking personage beside Dalton's chair. + </p> + <p> + “That will do——thank you,” cried Dalton. “Bet two hundred and + fifty for me and I'll stake the rest.” + </p> + <p> + A moment more, and the low voice of the croupier proclaimed that red had + lost! + </p> + <p> + “What does he say—why won't he speak plainly?” cried Dalton, in a + voice of passionate energy. + </p> + <p> + “You lose de stake,” muttered the man behind him. + </p> + <p> + “Of course I do; what other luck could I have? Lose—lose—lose!” + said he to himself, in a low, moaning voice. “There they go—the + fools!——betting away as fresh as ever. Why won't they take + warning by <i>me?</i> beggared, rained as it has left me. May I never! if + the red isn't winning every time now!” And, as he spoke, his eyes followed + a great heap of gold which some fortunate gambler just drew in before him. + “How much did he win, then?” cried Dalton; but none replied to a question + so contrary to every etiquette of the table. + </p> + <p> + “He never counts it,” muttered Peter, as he continued to gaze on the lucky + player with a kind of envious admiration. “They say it's best not to count + one's winnings. I don't know what's best; I believe 't is only the devil + knows—for it was <i>he</i> invented the game.—Red, again, the + winner!” + </p> + <p> + “Why you no back de red?” whispered the man behind his chair. + </p> + <p> + Dalton started, and was about to give an angry reply, but corrected + himself, and merely stared stupidly at him. + </p> + <p> + “You win eleven hundred Napoleons if you do go on,” said the other, + showing in proof of his assertion the card on which he had marked all the + chances. + </p> + <p> + “And where 's the money?” cried Dalton, as, with a hissing utterance, he + spoke, and he pointed to the table before him. “Have I Coutts's bank at my + back, or is all Lombard Street in my pocket? 'T is easy to say, go on! Red + again, by Jingo!” + </p> + <p> + “I tell you dat!” said the other, gravely. + </p> + <p> + Dalton turned round in his chair, and stared steadfastly at the speaker. + His mind was in that state of wild confusion when every conception, + however vague and fanciful, assumes a certain degree of reality, and + superstitions take on them all the force of warnings. What if his prompter + were the devil himself! was it not exactly what he had often heard of? He + never saw him there before, and certainly appearances were not much + against the hypothesis. He was tall and spare, with a high, narrow + forehead, and a pair of most treacherous-looking black eyes, that seemed + to let nothing escape their vigilance. Unabashed by or indifferent to + Dalton's scrutiny, he went on with his chronicle of the game, noting down + the chances, and only muttering a few words to himself. + </p> + <p> + “Nine times red,” said he, as he counted the scores. + </p> + <p> + “Will it go ten?” asked Dalton, with a purposelike energy that showed his + faith in the oracle; but the other never heeded the question. + </p> + <p> + “Back de red, I say; back de red dis time,” whispered he in Dalton's ear. + </p> + <p> + “Don't you see that I have no money?” said Dalton, angrily. + </p> + <p> + “Dey will lend on your name; ask for a hundred Naps. Be quick, be quick.” + </p> + <p> + Dalton stooped across the table, and whispered the croupier, who returned + a look of doubt and uncertainty. Peter grew more pressing, and the other + bent over, and spoke to his colleague. This time the request was not met + with a smile and a bland bow, and Dalton watched with angry impatience all + the signs of hesitation and deliberation between them. + </p> + <p> + “Say your banker is closed,—that you must have de moneys,” whispered + the dark man. + </p> + <p> + “Must I wait till the bank is open to-morrow morning,” said Dalton, “or do + you mean to give me this trifle?” + </p> + <p> + “Our rules are strictly opposed to the practice of lending, Count,” + whispered the croupier at his side; “we have already transgressed them in + your favor, and—” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, don't inconvenience the Count,” interposed his colleague. “How much + is it?” + </p> + <p> + “Say two hundred,—two!” muttered the unknown. + </p> + <p> + “Two hundred Naps.,” cried Dalton, resolutely. + </p> + <p> + “This will make five hundred and forty to-night, Count.” + </p> + <p> + “And if it was five thousand,” said Peter, running his fingers through the + gold with ecstasy, “what matter? There goes fifty on the red.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah, you play too rash,” whispered the dark man. + </p> + <p> + “What business is it of yours? am I your ward?” cried Dalton, + passionately, for the stake was lost in the instant. “Bed, again fifty. + May I never! if I don't believe 'tis <i>you</i> brings me the bad luck,” + said Dalton, darting a savage glance at the other, whose impassive face + never betrayed the slightest emotion. + </p> + <p> + “I no wish to disturb your game, saar,” was the meek reply of the dark + man; and with a bow of meek humility he backed through the crowd and + disappeared. + </p> + <p> + In a moment Dalton felt shocked at his own rudeness, and would have given + worlds to have recalled his words, or even apologized for them; but other + thoughts soon supplanted these, and again his whole heart was in the game. + </p> + <p> + “You did n't bet last time,” remarked some one near him, “and your + favorite color won.” + </p> + <p> + “No, I was looking about me. I was thinking of something else,” replied + he; and he sat fingering the gold pieces as though unwilling to part with + them. + </p> + <p> + The game went on; luck came and went; the gold glittered and clinked; the + same endless “refrain”——“Faîtes votre jeu, Messieurs,” + followed by the same sing-song phrases, continued to roll on, and Dalton + sat, now counting his money, and piling up the pieces into tens or + twenties; or, with his head resting on his hand, deep in serious thought. + Twice he placed a heavy stake upon the table, and recalled it at the very + moment of the game's beginning. Every gesture and action showed the + terrible struggle between hope and fear that went on within him. A red + spot glowed on one cheek, while the other was pale as death, and his lips + from time to time were moved with a short spasmodic jerk, as if some + sudden pain shot through him. At last, with a great effort, he pushed all + the gold into the centre of the table, and cried out, but in a voice so + strange and inarticulate that the words could not be distinguished. + </p> + <p> + “You said 'rouge,' Count, I think?” asked the croupier. + </p> + <p> + “I fancy the gentleman said 'noir,'” remarked a bystander. + </p> + <p> + “Let him declare for himself,” observed another. + </p> + <p> + “But the game has already begun,” said the banker. + </p> + <p> + “So much the worse for the bank,” remarked another, laughing, “for it's + easy to see what will win.” + </p> + <p> + “Pray declare your color, sir,” said an impatient gambler at Dalton's + side; “the whole table is waiting for you.” + </p> + <p> + Dalton started, and, darting an angry look at the speaker, made an effort + to rise from the table. He failed at first, but grasping the shoulder of + the croupier, he arose to his full height, and stared around him. All was + hushed and still, not a sound was heard, as in that assembly, torn with so + many passions, every eye was turned towards the gigantic old man, who, + with red eyeballs and outstretched hands, seemed to hurl defiance at them. + Backwards and forwards he swayed for a second or two, and then, with a + low, faint cry,—the last wail of a broken heart,—he fell with + a crash upon the table. There he lay, his white hairs streaming over the + gold and silver pieces, and his bony fingers flattened upon the cards. “A + fit!——he's in a fit!” cried some, as they endeavored to raise + him.—“Worse still!” remarked another, and he passed his hand from + the pulse to the heart, “he is dead!” + </p> + <p> + The hero of a hundred fights, he who has seen death in every shape and on + every field, must yield the palm of indifference to its terrors to the + gambler. All the glorious insanity of a battle, all the reckless + enthusiasm of a storm, even the headlong impetuosity of a charge, cannot + supply the cold apathy of the gambler's heart; and so was it that they saw + in that lifeless form nothing beyond a disagreeable interruption to their + game, and muttered their impatience at the delay in its removal. + </p> + <p> + “Well,” said Mrs. Ricketts, as she sat in an adjoining apartment, “have + you any tidings of our dear 'Amphytrion?'——is he winning + to-night?” The question was addressed to the tall, dark man, who so lately + had been standing behind Dalton's chair, and was our old acquaintance, + Count Petrolaffsky. + </p> + <p> + “He no win no more, Madame,” replied he, solemnly. + </p> + <p> + “Has he gone away, then?—has he gone home without us?” + </p> + <p> + “He has gone home, indeed——into the other world,” said he, + shaking his head. + </p> + <p> + “What do you mean, Count? For Heaven's sake, speak intelligibly.” + </p> + <p> + “I mean as I do say, Madame. He play a game as would ruin Rothschild; + always change, and always at de wrong time, and never know when to make + his 'paroli.' Ah, dat is de gran' secret of all play; when you know when + to make your 'paroli' you win de whole world! Well, he is gone now; poor + man, he cannot play no more!” + </p> + <p> + “Martha—Scroope, do go—learn something—see what has + happened.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, here's the Colonel. Colonel Haggerstone, what is this dreadful news I + hear?” + </p> + <p> + “Your accomplished friend has taken French leave of you, Madame, and was + in such a hurry to go that he wouldn't wait for another turn of the + cards.” + </p> + <p> + “He ain't d-d-dead?” screamed Purvis. + </p> + <p> + “I'm very much afraid they insist on burying him tomorrow or next day, + under that impression, sir,” said Haggerstone. + </p> + <p> + “What a terrible event!—how dreadful!” said Martha, feelingly; “and + his poor daughter, who loved him so ardently!” + </p> + <p> + “That must be thought of,” interrupted Mrs. Ricketts, at once roused to + activity by thoughts of self-interest. “Scroope, order the carriage at + once. I must break it to her myself. Have you any particulars for me, + Colonel?” + </p> + <p> + “None, Madame! If coroners were the fashion here, thay 'd bring in a + verdict of died from backing the wrong color, with a deodand against the + rake!'” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, it is ver' true, he always play bad,” muttered the Pole. + </p> + <p> + And now the room began to fill with people discussing the late incident in + every possible mood and with every imaginable shade of sentiment. A few—a + very few—dropped some expressions of pity and compassion. Many + preferred to make a display of their own courage by a bantering, scornful + tone, and some only saw in the event how unsuited certain natures were to + contend with the changeful fortunes of high play. These were, for the most + part, Dalton's acquaintances, and who had often told him—at least, + so they now took credit for—that “he had no head for play.” + Interspersed with these were little discussions as to the immediate cause + of death, as full of ignorance and as ingenious as such explanations + usually are, all being contemptuously wound up by Haggerstone's remark, + “That death was like matrimony,—very difficult when wanted, but + impossible to escape when you sought to avoid it!” As this remark had the + benefit of causing a blush to poor Martha, he gave his arm to the ladies, + with a sense of gratification that came as near happiness as anything he + could imagine. + </p> + <p> + “Is Miss Dalton in the drawing-room?” said Mrs. Rick-etts, as with an air + of deep importance she swept through the hall of the villa. + </p> + <p> + “She's in her room, Madame,” said the maid. + </p> + <p> + “Ask if she will receive me,—if I may speak to her.” + </p> + <p> + The maid went out, and returned with the answer that Miss Dalton was + sleeping. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, let her sleep!” cried Martha. “Who knows when she will taste such + rest again?” + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Ricketts bestowed a glance of withering scorn on her sister, and + pushed roughly past her, towards Nelly's chamber. A few minutes after a + wild, shrill shriek was heard through the house, and then all was still. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0021" id="link2HCH0021"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXI. NELLY'S SORROWS + </h2> + <p> + Stunned, but not overcome, by the terrible shock, Nelly Dalton sat beside + the bed where the dead man lay in all that stern mockery of calm so + dreadful to look upon. Some candles burned on either side, and threw a + yellowish glare over the bold strong features on which her tears had + fallen, as, with a cold hand clasped in his, she sat and watched him. + </p> + <p> + With all its frequency, Death never loses its terrors for us! Let a man be + callous as a hard world and a gloomy road in it can make him; let him drug + his mind with every anodyne of infidelity; let him be bereft of all + affection, and walk alone on his life road; there is yet that which can + thrill his heart in the aspect of the lips that are never to move more, + and the eyes that are fixed forever. But what agony of suffering is it + when the lost one has been the link that tied us to life,—the daily + object of our care, the motive of every thought and every action! Such had + been her father to poor Nelly. His wayward, capricious humors, all his + infirmities of temper and body, had called forth those exertions which + made the business of her life, and gave a purpose and direction to her + existence; now repaid by some passing expression of thankfulness or + affection, or, better still, by some transient gleam of hope that he was + stronger in health or better in spirits than his wont; now rallied by that + sense of duty which can ennoble the humblest as it can the greatest of + human efforts, she watched over him as might a mother over an ailing + child. Catching at his allusions to “home,” as he still called it, she + used to feed her hopes with thinking that at some distant day they were to + return to their own land again, and pass their last years in tranquil + retirement together; and now hope and duty were alike extinguished. “The + fount that fed the river of her thoughts” was dry, and she was alone—utterly + alone—in the world! + </p> + <p> + Old Andy, recalled by some curious instinct to a momentary activity, + shuffled about the room, snuffing the candles, or muttering a faint prayer + at the bedside; but she did not notice him any more than the figure who, + in an attitude of deep devotion, knelt at the foot of the bed. This was + Hanserl, who, book in hand, recited the offices with all the fervent + rapidity of a true Catholic. Twice he started and looked up from his task, + disturbed by some noise without; but when it occurred a third time, he + laid his book gently down and stole noiselessly from the room. Passing + rapidly through the little chamber which used to be called Nelly's + drawing-room, he entered the larger dining-room, in which now three or + four ill-dressed men were standing, in the midst of whom was Abel Kraus in + active colloquy with Mr. Purvis. Hanserl made a gesture to enforce + silence, and pointed to the room from whence he had just come. + </p> + <p> + “Ah!” cried Scroope, eagerly, “You 're a kind of co-co-connection, or + friend, at least, of these people, ain't you? Well, then, speak to this + wo-worthy man, and tell him that he mustn't detain our things here; we + were merely on a visit.” + </p> + <p> + “I will suffer nothing to leave the house till I am paid to the last + kreutzer,” said Kraus, sternly; “the law is with me, and I know it.” + </p> + <p> + “Be patient; but, above all, respect the dead,” said Hans, solemnly. “It + is not here nor at this time these things should be discussed.” + </p> + <p> + “But we wa-want to go; we have ta-ta-taken our apartments at the 'Russie.' + The sight of a funeral and a—a—a hearse, and all that, would + kill my sister.” + </p> + <p> + “Let her pay these moneys, then, and go in peace,” said Kraus, holding + forth a handful of papers. + </p> + <p> + “Not a gr-groschen, not a kreutzer will we pay. It's an infamy, it's a + sh-sh-shameful attempt at robbery. It's as bad as st-stopping a man on the + highway.” + </p> + <p> + “Go on, sir,—go on. You never made a speech which cost you dearer,” + said Kraus, as he took down the words in his pocket-book. + </p> + <p> + “I—I—I did n't mean that; I did n't say you were a + housebreaker.” + </p> + <p> + “Speak lower,” said Hans, sternly. “And you, sir; what is this demand?” + </p> + <p> + “Two thousand francs,——rent of this house; which, with damage + to the furniture and other charges, will make two thousand eight hundred.” + </p> + <p> + “I will pay it,” said Hans, stopping him. + </p> + <p> + “Your credit would be somewhat better, Master Hans, had you not given a + certain bail bond that you know of,” said Kraus, sneeringly. + </p> + <p> + “I have wherewith to meet my debts,” said Hans, calmly. + </p> + <p> + “I will claim my bond within a week; I give you notice of it,” said Kraus. + </p> + <p> + “You shall be paid to-morrow. Let us be in peace to-night; bethink you + what that room contains.” + </p> + <p> + “He ain't black, is he? I—I would n't look at him for a thousand + pounds,” said Purvis, with a shudder. + </p> + <p> + “If she remain here after noon, to-morrow,” said Kraus, in a low voice, “a + new month will have begun.” + </p> + <p> + “To-morrow afternoon; Lord! how close he r-ran it,” exclaimed Purvis. + </p> + <p> + “Once more, I say, be patient,” said Hans. “Let these good people go, you + shall lose nothing; I pledge the word of a man who never told a falsehood. + I will pay all. Have some pity, however, for this orphan,—one who + has now neither a home nor a country.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, yes, he 'll have p-pity; he 's an excellent man is Mr. Kraus. I + shouldn't wonder if we'd come to terms about this vi-villa for ourselves.” + </p> + <p> + Hans turned a look of anger towards him, and then said: “Go, sir, and take + those that belong to you away also. This place no longer can suit you nor + them. He who lies yonder can be flattered and fawned on no more; and, as + for her, she is above your compassion, if it even lay in your heart to + offer it.” + </p> + <p> + “He ain't quite right here,” whispered Purvis to Kraus, as he tapped his + forehead significantly. “They told me that in the town.” Kraus moved away + without reply, and Purvis followed him. “He's rich, too, they say,” added + he, in a whisper. + </p> + <p> + “They'll scarcely say as much this day week,” said Kraus, sneeringly; + while, beckoning his people to follow him, he left the house. + </p> + <p> + No sooner did Mrs. Ricketts learn that her worldly possessions were safe, + and that the harpy clutches of the law could make no seizure among those + curious turbans and wonderful tunics which composed her wardrobe, than she + immediately addressed herself to the active duties of the hour with a mind + at ease, and, while packing her trunks, inadvertently stowed away such + little stray articles as might not be immediately missed, and might serve + hereafter to recall thoughts of “poor dear Miss Dalton,” for so she now + preferred to name her. + </p> + <p> + “Those little box figures, Martha, don't forget them. They of course don't + belong to the house; and Scroope suspects that the bracket for the hall + lamp must have been her carving also.” + </p> + <p> + “I 've p-put away two pencil drawings marked 'N. D.,' and a little sketch + in oil of the Alten Schloss; and I 've my pockets stuffed with the tulip + roots.” + </p> + <p> + “Well thought of, Scroope; and there's a beautiful paper-knife,—poor + thing, she's not likely to want it now. What a sad bereavement! And are + his affairs really so bad?” + </p> + <p> + “Ov-over head and ears in debt There ain't enough to bury him if the dwarf + does not shell out,—but he will. They say he's in love with Nelly,—he, + he, he!” + </p> + <p> + “Shocking, quite shocking. Yes, Martha, that telescope is a very good one. + What improvidence, what culpable improvidence!” + </p> + <p> + “And is she quite friendless?” asked Martha, feelingly. + </p> + <p> + “Not while she has <i>our</i> protection,” said Mrs. Rickett», grandly. “I + 've determined 'to take her up.'” + </p> + <p> + Martha reddened slightly at the phrase, for she knew of some others who + had been so “taken up,” and with what small profit to their prosperity. + </p> + <p> + “Her talents, when aided by <i>our</i> patronage, will always support + her,” said Mrs. Ricketts; “and I mean, when the shock of this calamity is + past, to employ her on a little group for a centrepiece for our + dinner-table. She will, of course, be charmed to have her genius displayed + to such advantage. It will afford us a suitable opportunity of introducing + her name.” + </p> + <p> + “And we shall have the piece of carving for nothing,” said Martha, who + innocently believed that she was supplying another argument of equal + delicacy and force. + </p> + <p> + “You 're an idiot!” said Mrs. Ricketts, angrily; “and I begin to fear you + will never be anything else.” + </p> + <p> + “I 'm quite sure I shall not,” muttered the other, with a faint + submissiveness, and continued the task of packing the trunks. + </p> + <p> + “Take care that you find out her sister's address, Martha. I 'm sadly in + want of some furs; that tippet, I suppose, is only fit for <i>you</i> now, + and my sable muff is like a dog in the mange. The opportunity is a most + favorable one; for when the Princess, as they persist in calling her, + knows that her sister is our dependant, we may make our own terms. It + would be the very ruin of her in St Petersburg to publish such a fact.” + </p> + <p> + “But Miss Dalton will surely write to her herself.” + </p> + <p> + “She can be persuaded, I trust, to the contrary,” said Mrs. Ricketts, + knowingly. “She can be shown that such an appeal would, in all likelihood, + wreck her sister's fortunes, that the confession of such a relationship + would utterly destroy her position in that proud capital; and if she prove + obstinate, the letter need not go; you understand that, at least,” added + she, with a contemptuous glance that made poor Martha tremble. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Ricketts was now silent, and sat revelling in the various thoughts + that her active mind suggested. Upon the whole, although Dalton's dying + was an inconvenience, there were some compensating circumstances. She had + gained a most useful <i>protégée</i> in Nelly,——one whose + talents might be made of excellent use, and whose humble, unpretending + nature would exact no requital. Again, the season at Baden was nearly + over; a week or two more, at most, was all that remained. The “Villino,” + which she had left for the summer to some confiding family, who believed + that Florence was a paradise in July and August, would again be at her + disposal; and, in fact, as she phrased it, “the conjunctures were all + felicitous,” and her campaign had not been unfruitful. This latter fact + attested itself in the aspect of her travelling-carriage, with its + “spolia” on the roof, and its various acquired objects under the body. + Pictures, china, plate, coins, brocades, old lace, books, prints, + manuscripts, armor, stained glass, trinkets, and relics of all kinds, + showed that travel with her was no unprofitable occupation, and that she + had realized the grand desideratum of combining pleasure with solid + advantage. + </p> + <p> + Meanwhile, so ingenious is thorough selfishness, she fancied herself a + benefactor of the whole human race. All the cajoleries she used to + practise, she thought were the amiable overflowings of a kindly nature; + her coarse flatteries she deemed irresistible fascinations; her duperies + even seemed only the triumphs of a mind transcendently rich in resources, + and never for a moment suspected that the false coin she was uttering + could be called in question, though the metal was too base for imposition. + There is no supply without demand, and if the world did not like such + characters there would be none of them. The Rickettses are, however, a + large and an increasing class of society, and, to our national shame be it + said, they are distinctively English in origin. And now we leave her, + little regretting if it be forever; and if we turn to a darker page in our + story, it is, at least, to one wherein our sympathies are more fairly + enlisted. + </p> + <p> + That long night passed over like a dreary dream, and morning was now + mingling its beams with the glare of the tapers, as Nelly sat beside the + death-bed. + </p> + <p> + “Come with me, Fräulein! come away from this,” said Hanserl, as with a + tearful eye and quivering lip he stood before her. + </p> + <p> + Nelly shook her head slowly, and for answer turned her gaze on the dead + man. + </p> + <p> + “You shall come back again; I promise you, you shall come back again,” + said he, softly. + </p> + <p> + She arose without a word and followed him. They passed through an outer + room, and entered the garden, where Hans, taking her hand, led her to a + seat. + </p> + <p> + “You will be better here, Fräulein,” said he, respectfully; “the air is + fresh and balmy.” + </p> + <p> + “He sat beside me on this bench three nights ago,” said she, as if talking + to herself, “and said how he wished I could be with Kate, but that he + could not part with me; and see,—we are parted, and for a longer + separation! Oh, Hanserl! what we would give to recall some of the past, + when death has closed it forever against us!” + </p> + <p> + “Remember Wieland, Fräulein; he tells us that 'the Impossible is a tree + without fruit or flowers.'” + </p> + <p> + “And yet my mind will dwell on nothing else. The little thwartings of his + will, the cold compliance which should have been yielded in a better + spirit, the counsels that often only irritated,—how they rise up + now, like stern accusers, before me, and tell me that I failed in my + duty.” + </p> + <p> + “Not so, Fräulein, not so,” said Hans, reverently. + </p> + <p> + “But there is worse than that, Hanserl, far worse,” said she, trembling. + “To smooth the rough path of life, I descended to deception. I told him + the best when my heart felt the worst. Had he known of Kate's real life, + and had he sorrowed over <i>her</i> fortunes, might not such grief have + been hallowed to him! To have wept over Frank—the poor boy in prison—might + have raised his thoughts to other themes than the dissipation that + surrounded him. All this was <i>my</i> fault I would have his love, and + see the price it has cost me!” She hid her face between her hands, and + never spoke for a long time. And at length she lifted up her eyes, red as + they were with weeping, and with a heavy sigh said, “How far is it to + Vienna, Hanserl?” + </p> + <p> + “To Vienna, Fräulein! It is a long journey,——more than four + hundred miles. But why do you ask?” + </p> + <p> + “I was thinking that if I saw Count Stephen—if I could but tell him + our sad story myself—he might intercede for poor Frank, and perhaps + obtain his freedom. His crime can scarcely be beyond the reach of mercy, + and his youth will plead for him. And is it so far away, Hanserl?” + </p> + <p> + “At the very least; and a costly journey, too.” + </p> + <p> + “But I would go on foot, Hans. Lame as I am, I can walk for miles without + fatigue, and I feel as if the exertion would be a solace to me, and that + my mind, bent upon a good object, could the more easily turn away from my + own desolation. Oh, Hans, think me not selfish that I speak thus; but + thoughts of my own loneliness are so linked with all I have lost, I cannot + separate them. Even the humble duty that I filled gave a value to my life, + without which my worthlessness would have crushed me; for what could poor + lame Nelly be,—I, that had no buoyancy for the young, no ripe + judgment for the old? And yet, in caring for him that is gone, I found a + taste of love and happiness.” + </p> + <p> + “I will go with you, Fräulein; you shall not take this weary road alone. + Heaven knows that, without you, this place would be too dreary for me.” + </p> + <p> + “But your house, Hanserl,—all that you possess,—the fruits of + all your hard industry—” + </p> + <p> + “Speak not of them,” said Hans, reddening. “They who deem me rich are + mistaken. I have speculated ill, I have made bad ventures, and what I have + will but pay my debts, and I will be glad to quit this spot.” + </p> + <p> + “And I,” said Nelly, with a voice of deep emotion,—“I cannot say + that I can help you. I know nothing of what may remain to me in this + world; my father never spoke to me latterly of his means, and I may be, + for aught I know, a beggar. Will you see his banker and speak with him?” + </p> + <p> + “I have done so,” said Hans, slowly. “He claims some small sum as due to + him.” + </p> + <p> + “And how am I to pay it?” said Nelly, growing pale. “It is true, I can + labor—” + </p> + <p> + “Have no care for this, Fräulein. It shall be looked to, and you shall + repay it hereafter.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, Hanserl, beware!” said she, solemnly; “we are an unfortunate race to + those who help us; my poor father often said so, and even his + superstitions are hallowed to me now.” + </p> + <p> + A gesture from some one within the house called Hans away, and Nelly was + left alone. She sat with her eyes closed and her arms firmly clasped, deep + in her own sad thoughts, when she heard a footstep close by. It was only + Andy, who, with a piece of ragged crape fastened round his arm, was slowly + tottering towards her. His face was flushed, and his eyes wild and + excited, as he continued to mutter and reply to himself,—— + </p> + <p> + “A Dalton; one of the ould stock, and maybe the last of them, too.” + </p> + <p> + “And what is it, Andy?——tell me, what is it?” said she, + kindly. + </p> + <p> + “There's no wake,—there is n't as much as a tenant's child would + have!” + </p> + <p> + “We are almost friendless here, Andy. It is not our own country.” + </p> + <p> + “Ain't they Christians, though? Could n't they keep the corpse company? Is + it four candles and a deal coffin ought to be at a Dalton's burial?” + </p> + <p> + “And we are poor also,” said she, meekly. + </p> + <p> + “And has n't the poorest respect for the dead?” said he, sternly. + “Wouldn't they sell the cow, or the last pig, out of honor to him that's + gone to glory? I 'll not stay longer in the place; I 'll have my + discharge; I 'll go back to Ireland.” + </p> + <p> + “Poor fellow,” said Nelly, taking his hand kindly, and seating him beside + her. “You loved him so! and he loved you, Andy. He loved to hear you sing + your old songs, and tell over the names of his favorite hounds.” + </p> + <p> + “Bessy and Countess were the sweetest among them,” said the old man, + wandering away to old memories of the past, “but Nora was truer than + either.” And so he fell into a low mumbling to himself, endeavoring, as it + seemed, to recall the forgotten line of some hunting chant, while Nelly + returned to the house to take her last farewell ere the coffin lid was + closed. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0022" id="link2HCH0022"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXII. A LAST ADIEU + </h2> + <p> + The pleasure-seekers of Baden were not likely to be diverted from their + pursuits by such humble calamities as Nelly Dalton's, and the gay world + went on its gay road as merrily as though death or ruin could have no + concern for them. Already the happy groups were gathering before the + Cur-saal. The sounds of music filled the air. Wealth was displaying its + gorgeous attractions, beauty her fascinations, and wit its brilliancy; and + none had a thought for that sad episode which a few hours had half + obliterated from every mind. Under a spreading chestnut-tree, and around a + table sumptuously spread for breakfast, a large party was assembled, + discussing the news of the morning and the plans of pleasure for the day. + Some had but thoughts for the play-table, and could attune their ears to + no other sounds than the clink of the gold and the rake of the croupier; + others chatted of the world of politics and fashion; and a few, with that + love of the picturesque the taste for painting engenders, were admiring + the changeful effects of passing clouds on the landscape, and pointing out + spots of peculiar beauty and sublimity. + </p> + <p> + “How well the Alten Schloss looks, with that mass of shadow on it,” + remarked a young man to a fair and delicate-looking girl beside him; “and + see how the weeping ash waves over the old walls, like a banner.” + </p> + <p> + “And look!” cried she, “mark that little procession that is slowly winding + up the pathway,—what effect a few figures give to the scene, as they + appear and disappear with each turning of the road. Some pilgrimage to a + holy shrine, I fancy.” + </p> + <p> + “No; it is a funeral. I can mark what Shelley calls the step of the + bearers 'heavy and slow;' and if you listen, you'll catch the sound of the + death-bell.” + </p> + <p> + “It's quite a picture, I declare,” said she. “I wish I had brought my + sketch-book.” + </p> + <p> + And so it is ever! The sorrows that are rending some hearts in twain are + but as objects of picturesque effect to others. And even the young and the + tender-minded learn to look on the calamities that touch them not, as + things of mere artistic meaning. + </p> + <p> + Up that steep road, over rock and rugged stone, brushing between the + tangled briers, or with difficulty being turned around some sharp angle, + was now borne the corpse of him who had so often wended the same path on + his homeward way. Four peasants carried the coffin, which was followed by + Nelly and old Andy; Hans, from a sense of respect, walking behind them. It + was a long and arduous ascent, and they were often obliged to halt and + take breath; and at such times Nelly would kneel down beside the coffin + and pray. The sufferings of the last two days had left deep traces on her + features, which had lost every tinge of color. Her eyes, too, were + deep-set and heavy; but in the elevated expression of her brow at moments, + and the compression of her lips, might be seen the energy of one who had a + firm purpose, and was resolved to carry it through. + </p> + <p> + “Sit down and rest yourself, Fräulein,” said Hans, as he saw that she + faltered in her step. “We are yet far from the top.” + </p> + <p> + “I will rest at the fountain,” said she, faintly. “It was a favorite spot + of his.” And they moved slowly on once more. + </p> + <p> + The fountain was a little well, carved in the native rock, around which + some rude seats were also fashioned, the whole sheltered by a thick roof + of foliage, which, even in noonday, cast a deep shadow around, and + effectually screened it from the path that wound along beside it. + </p> + <p> + Scarcely had the bearers deposited the coffin beside the well, when the + sound of voices was heard as a considerable number of persons descended + the path. Words in French, German, and English showed that the party + consisted of representatives of these nations; but one voice, if once + heard not readily forgotten, towered high above all the rest. + </p> + <p> + “I cannot offer my arm, madam,” cried a sharp, ringing accent, “as the + infernal road will not admit of two abreast; but I can go before and pilot + you.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, thanks, sir,” replied a mild, meek tone; “I can get on very well + indeed. I am only uneasy about my sister.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't suspect that she incurs either much risk or fatigue, madam,” + rejoined the other, “seeing that she is seated in an armchair, and carried + by two of the stoutest fellows in Baden.” + </p> + <p> + “But the exertion, in her weak state—” + </p> + <p> + “She might make the ascent of Mont Blanc, madam, with the same appliances; + and if you only told her that there were bargains to be had at the top, I + verily believe she would do so.” + </p> + <p> + “You don't think the things were cheap here, Colonel?” said Miss Martha, + who thought by a diversion to draw Haggerstone away from so dangerous a + discussion. + </p> + <p> + “I am no connoisseur in Dutch dolls, nor Noah's arks, madam, although + modern society presents us with something very like both; but I concluded + that the prices were not exorbitant. I went there myself from a sense of + equity. I once put a bullet into the little rascal's skin, and I have + bought a salad-fork and a nut-crackers in requital.” + </p> + <p> + “It was kindly thought of,” sighed Martha, gently. + </p> + <p> + “They only cost me nine kreutzers, madam,” rejoined Haggerstone, who was + more afraid of being thought a dupe than ill-natured, “so that my sense of + generosity did not make a fool of me, as it did with the dwarf himself.” + </p> + <p> + “How so?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, in going security for that old Irishman, Dalton. It is to pay this + debt that he has been sold out to-day, and I fancy that Swiss cottages and + barking poodles will realize a very small dividend.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, Hanserl!” said Nelly, “what do I hear?” + </p> + <p> + “Hush, Fräulein!” said he, with a gesture to enforce silence. “I will tell + you of these things hereafter.” + </p> + <p> + And now the others passed, and were soon out of hearing. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, Hanserl!” cried Nelly, bitterly, “how misfortunes crowd upon me! It + was but a moment back I was feeding my mind with the sad consolation that + my griefs were all my own,—that the gloom of my dreary fortune cast + no shadow on another; and now I see that I was wrong. <i>You</i> must pay + the dear penalty of having befriended us!—the fruits of all your + hard years of industry!” + </p> + <p> + “And you would rob me of their best reward,—the glorious sense of a + generous action?” broke in Hans. “They <i>were</i> years of toil and + privation, and they might have been years of pleasure if avarice and greed + had grown upon me; but I could not become a miser.” + </p> + <p> + “The home you had made your own, lost to you forever!” sighed Nelly. + </p> + <p> + “It was no longer a home when you left it.” + </p> + <p> + “The well-won provision for old age, Hanserl.” + </p> + <p> + “And has not this event made me young again, and able to brave the world, + were it twice as adverse as ever I found it? Oh, Fräulein, you know not + the heart-bounding ecstasy of him who, from the depths of an humble + station, can rise to do a service to those he looks up to! And yet it is + that thought which now warms my blood, and gives an energy to my nature + that, even in youth, I never felt.” + </p> + <p> + Nelly was silent; and now neither spoke a word, but sat with bent-down + heads, deep sunk in their own reveries. At last she arose, and once more + the sad procession resumed its way. They toiled slowly along till they + reached the little level table-land, where the church stood,—a + little chapel, scarcely larger than a shrine, but long venerated as a holy + spot. Poor Dalton had often spent hours here, gazing on the wide expanse + of plain and mountain and forest that stretched away beneath; and it was + in one of his evening rambles that he had fixed upon the spot where they + should lay him, if he could not “rest his bones with his forefathers.” + </p> + <p> + “Sixty-eight!” muttered the old priest, as he read the inscription on the + coffin-lid; “in the pride and vigor of manhood! Was he noble, that I see + these quarterings painted here?” + </p> + <p> + “Hush! that is his daughter,” whispered Hanserl. + </p> + <p> + “If he were of noble blood, he should have lain in the chapel and on a + catafalque,” muttered the priest. + </p> + <p> + “The family is noble, but poor,” said Hans, in a low whisper. + </p> + <p> + “A low Mass, without the choir, would not ruin the poorest,” said the + priest, who sprinkled the coffin with half impatience, and, mumbling a few + prayers, retired. And now the body was committed to the earth, and the + grave was filled. The last sod was patted down with the shovel; and Nelly, + unable to bear her grief any longer in silence, threw herself on the spot, + and wept bitterly. Hans withdrew, and motioned to the others to follow + him; and none remained but old Andy, who, on his knees and with clasped + hands, seemed to think that he was praying, although all his attention was + directed to a little group of children who stood near, and whom he awed + into reverence by many a threatening gesture. + </p> + <p> + And thus the long day stole over; and it was only as evening drew nigh + that Nelly could be induced to take her last farewell, and breathe her + last prayer over the grave of her father. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0023" id="link2HCH0023"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXIII. THE TYROL JOURNEY. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%;"> + <img src="images/frontispiece.jpg" alt="frontispiece" width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p> + If our task as story-teller had not other claims on us, we would gladly + linger with Nelly Dalton, as, in company with Hanserl and old Andy, she + wended her slow way through the deep valleys of the Schwartz wald. The + little party might have created astonishment in even more frequented + districts than the primitive tract in which they journeyed, and have + suggested many a puzzling doubt as to what rank or condition they belonged + to. For Andy's convenience Hans had purchased an ass and a small cart, + such as are sometimes used by the travelling beggars of every land. Seated + in this, and in his old hunting-cap and scarlet coat, the old man fancied + it was some pleasure excursion, or that he was “trundling along” to + “cover,” as he used to do sixty years ago. Nelly walked at his side, now + roused from her deep musings to reply to some meaningless question of the + old man, or now feeding her sad memories as she listened to the little + snatches of song which occasionally broke from him. Hanserl formed the + rear-guard, making with his redoubted battle-axe and a most formidable old + Turkish pistol, not the least singular figure in the procession. Their + very baggage too had something strange and incomprehensible to common + eyes; for, amidst stray scraps of old armor, the little remnants of + Hanserl's collection, were to be seen an unfinished figure by Nelly's + hand, or the rude beginning of some new group. Along with these were books + and tools, and an infinity of queer costumes, of the dwarfs own designing, + for various seasons of the year. + </p> + <p> + Still, there was no impertinence in the curiosity that met them. If Andy's + strange equipage and stranger dress might have raised a smile, Nelly's + gentle look and modest air as rapidly checked it, and they who would have + laughed outright at Hanserl's mock-chieftainship were subdued to a + respectful deference by the placid dignity of her who walked before him. + It was in that memorable year whose doings are recorded in our memory with + all the solemn force of History, and all the distinct and vivid effect of + events passing before our own eyes; that era, when Thrones rocked and + tottered, and kings, who seemed destined to transmit their crowns to + unborn generations, became exiles, and cast away, their state a mockery, + and their princely homes given up to pillage; when the brightest + day-dreams of good men became bound up with the wildest imaginings of the + bold and the bad, and the word Freedom comprehended all that was most + glorious in self-devotion, and all that was most relentless in hate,——in + that troubled time, Hanserl wisely sought out the districts of mountain + and crag—the homes of the hunter—in preference to the more + travelled roads, and prudently preferred even the devious windings of the + solitary glens to the thronged and peopled highways that connected great + cities. + </p> + <p> + His plan was to direct their steps through the Vorarlberg into the Tyrol, + where, in a small village near Meran, his mother still lived. There, in + case of need, Nelly would find a refuge, and, at all events, could halt + while he explored the way to Vienna, and examined how far it might be safe + for her to proceed thither. Even in all her affliction, out of the depths + of a sorrow so devoid of hope, Nelly felt the glorious influence of the + grand scenery through which they travelled. The giant mountains, + snow-capped in early autumn; the boundless forests that stretched along + their sides; the foaming cataracts as they fell in sheets of hissing + water; the tranquil lakes that reflected tower and cliff and spire; the + picturesque village, where life seemed to ripple on as peacefully as the + clear stream before the peasant's door; the song of the birds, the tolling + of the bells, the laugh of the children; the Alp horn answered from cliff + to cliff, and dying away in distant echo,—all these were + realizations of many a girlish hope, when she wished her father to seek + out some secluded village, and pass a life of obscure but united labor. + There was no Quixotism in the fancy. She knew well what it was to toil and + work; to rise early, and go late to rest; to feed on coarse fare, and be + clad in mean attire. All that poverty can inflict of privation she had + tasted, but fearlessly and with a bold heart; self-reliance elevating her + thoughts above every little adverse incident, and giving to her struggle + that character of a task, a holy and a righteous task, which made at once + her life's purpose and reward. + </p> + <p> + Scarcely a village at which they halted that did not strike her as like + what her mind had often pictured for “their own,” and many a quaint old + house, with its carved galleries and latticed porch, she stood to gaze on, + fancying it their home and peopling every spot with the forms of those she + loved. Oh! why had they not chosen this humble road?—why had their + “Paths in Life” separated?—were the bitter reflections which now + filled her eyes with tears and made her bosom heave almost to bursting. + She did not foolishly suppose that the peasant can claim exemption from + the trials and crosses of life, and that sorrow finds no entrance into + remote and unfrequented tracts, but she knew that such burdens would not + be too heavy for their strength, and that, while living a life of + unpretending poverty, they should be free from the slavery of an assumed + position, and able to combat the world fairly and honestly. + </p> + <p> + Of all lands the Tyrol is best suited to foster such feelings as these. + There is a harmony and a keeping about it that is rarely found elsewhere. + The dwellings of the people, so according with the character of the + scenery; the costumes, the greetings, the songs of the peasantry; their + simple and touching piety; their manners, so happily blending independence + with courtesy, are felt at once as a charm, and give a color to the + enjoyment of every one who sojourns amongst them. These were the sights + and sounds which, better than all the blandishments of wealth, could + soothe poor Nelly's sorrow, and make her thankful in the midst of her + afflictions even to have witnessed them. As for Hanserl, his excitement + grew daily higher as he passed the Arlberg and drew near the spots he had + seen in childhood. Now preparing some little surprise for Nelly, as they + turned the angle of a cliff and gazed down upon a terrible gorge beneath; + now apprising her of some little shrine where pious wayfarers were wont to + halt and pray; now speculating if the old host of the village inn would be + alive, or still remember him, he went along merrily, occasionally singing + some “Alp Lied,” or calling to mind some ancient legend of the scene + through which they journeyed. Above all, however, was his delight at the + thought of seeing his old mother again. No sense of disappointment dashed + this pleasure because he was returning poor and penniless. Home and the + “Frau Mutter,” as he reverently called her, had their hold upon his heart + quite distinct from every accident of fortune. To tell her of all he had + seen in far-away lands,—for Hanserl thought himself a great + traveller; to describe the great Cathedral of Worms, its vaulted aisles + and painted windows, its saintly effigies and deep-toned organ, and the + thousands who could kneel before the high altar! Then, what marvellous + relics were there to describe!—not to speak of the memorable valley + at Eschgau, where “Siegfried slew the Dragon.” Poor Hans! the scenes of + his youth had made him young again, and it was the very triumph of his joy + when he could interest Nelly in some story, or make her listen with + attention to the rude verses of some “Tyroler” poem. + </p> + <p> + Gladly would we linger with them as they went slowly along through the + deep valley of Landech, and, halting a day at the Pontlatzer Brücke, that + Hans might describe the heroic defence of his countrymen against the + French and Bavarian forces, and then, skirting along the Engadine, came in + sight of the great Orteler Spitze,—the highest of the Tyrol Alps. + And now they reached Nauders, and traversing a wild and dreary mountain + tract, where even in autumn the snow is seen in clefts and crevices of the + rock, they gradually gain the crest of the ridge, and look down at length + on glorious Meran with the devotion of the pilgrim in sight of the Holy + City. Hans knelt down and prayed fervently as his eyes beheld that garden + valley with its vine-clad slopes and waving woods; its silvery river + gliding along beneath bright villages and feudal castles. But soon he saw + them no longer, for his eyes swam over with tears, and he sobbed like a + child. + </p> + <p> + “There, Fräulein, yonder, where you see the river winding to the + southward, you see an old tower,—'the Passayer Turm,' it is called; + the 'Fräu Mutter' lives there. I see some one in the garden.” And, + overcome by emotion, he hid his face and wept. + </p> + <p> + Near as they seemed to the end of their journey, it was night ere they + gained the valley at the foot of the mountain. The cottages were closed, + and, except in the town—still about a mile distant—not a light + was to be seen. The Tyrolers are an early race, and retire to rest soon + after dusk. Hanserl, however, wanted no guidance to the way, and trudged + along in front of the cart, following each winding of the track as though + he had gone it but the day before. Except a chance caution about the road, + he never spoke,—his heart was full of “home.” The fatigue of a long + day's journey, and the cold of the night air, had made Andy querulous and + discontented, and it was all Nelly could do to answer the fretful + questions and soothe down the irritation of the old man; but Hans heard + nothing of either. At last they reached a little open space formed by a + bend in the river, and came in sight of the old tower, at the foot of + which, and abutting against it, stood a small cottage. A light gleamed + from a little window, and no sooner had Hans seen it than he exclaimed,—— + </p> + <p> + “Gott sey dank! Fräulein, she is well. That is the Fräu Mutter.” + </p> + <p> + Poor Nelly's lip quivered as she tried to speak, for, humble as it was, + what would she have given to have had even such a “home”? And now, passing + through a little garden, Hans halted, and assisted Andy from the cart. + </p> + <p> + “Where are we, at all? Sure this is n't a place to stop the night in!” + cried the old man, querulously. + </p> + <p> + “Hush, Andy, hush!” whispered Nelly. + </p> + <p> + “'Tis thieves and vagabonds, maybe, lives here, Miss Nelly,” said he, in a + low voice. + </p> + <p> + “No, Andy, no; it is a kind welcome that awaits us.” + </p> + <p> + “Ayeh!” exclaimed he, “I know betther than that!” + </p> + <p> + Hans by this time had approached the door and raised the latch,—for + in the Tyrol the night rarely calls for other fastening. Nelly heard the + sharp, clear sound of an old woman's voice above the hum of a + spinning-wheel, and then the glad burst of joy as the mother recognized + her son. Unwilling to interrupt their happiness, Nelly moved away out of + hearing, when Hanserl came running out, followed by the old woman. + </p> + <p> + “This is the Fräulein, mother,” cried he, with a burst of delight; and the + old woman, taking Nelly's hand, kissed it with deep respect. + </p> + <p> + With native courtesy she welcomed Nelly, and, as she entered her house, + pointed with pride to a Madonna of Nelly's own carving, which stood on a + bracket against the wall. + </p> + <p> + “You see, Fräulein,” said she, “how I have known you for many a day back; + and there is your Saint Christopher, and there the 'Blessed Agnes at the + Well.'” And so was it. The groups and figures which she believed to have + been sold by Hanserl, were all stored up here and treasured like household + gods. “Many a traveller has come here just to see these,” continued the + old peasant-woman, “and many a tempting sum have they offered if I would + sell them, but in all my poverty I did not stoop to this.” + </p> + <p> + “Frau Mutter, Fräu Mutter,” said Hans, rebukingly, and trying to cut short + what he feared might offend Nelly. + </p> + <p> + “Nay, Hanserl, it is but the truth,” said she, firmly; “I will not say + that I did not do more wisely too, for they who came left me always some + little present. Even the poor gave me their blessing, and said that they + were happier when they had prayed before the blessed Agnes.” While thus + running on in all the garrulity of old age, she never neglected the care + of receiving her guests with suitable hospitality. Old Andy was + accommodated with a deep straw chair near the stove. The little chamber, + which, for its view upon the Passayer Thai, had been specially devoted to + receive travellers, was got ready for Nelly; and Hans, once more at home, + busied himself in arranging the household and preparing supper. + </p> + <p> + “You are wondering at all the comforts you find here, Hanserl,” said the + old woman, “but see here, this will tell you whence they came;” and, + opening an old ebony cabinet, she took out a large square letter with a + heavy seal. “That reached me on a Christmas-day, Hanserl; the paper was + from the Imperial Chancellerie of Vienna, setting forth that, as the widow + of Hans Roeckle, of Meran, born of Tyrol parents, and married to a + Tyroler, had attained the age of eighty years, and never asked alms, nor + sought for other aid than her own industry, she was now entitled to the + Maria Teresa pension of twelve kreutzers a day for the rest of her life. I + told them,” said the old woman, proudly, “that my son had always taken + care to provide for me, and that there were others that might want it more + than I, but the kreis-hauptman said that my refusal would be an offence to + the Kaiser, who had heard of my name from one of the archduchesses who + travelled this way, and who had seen these blessed images and wished to + buy them; so that I was fain to yield, and take, in thankfulness, what was + offered in generosity. You see, Hanserl, how true is it, the Fräulein has + been our good angel; we have never had bad luck since the Madonna came + here!” + </p> + <p> + Nelly slept soundly that night, and, for the first time since her + calamities, her dreams were happy ones. Lulled by the ripple of the river + beside her window, and the ceaseless murmuring of the old woman's voice as + she sat up talking with her son the whole night long, she tasted at length + the sweets of deep and refreshing sleep. And what a gorgeous scene burst + upon her waking eyes! Around, on every side of the little plain, rose the + great mountains of the Tyrol; some green and tree-clad to their summits, + others snow-capped or hid in the azure-colored clouds above them. Ancient + castles crowned the crags, and foaming cataracts leaped from each fissured + gorge; while below, in the valley, there lay a garden of rich profusion,—the + vine, the olive, and the waving corn,—with villages and + peasant-houses half hid in the luxuriant verdure. From the lowing cattle + beside the river to the re-echoing horn upon the mountains, there seemed + to come greeting and answer. All was grandeur and sublimity in the scene; + but, more striking than these, was the perfect repose, the deep + tranquillity of the picture. The sounds were all those of peasant labor, + the song of the vine-dresser, the rustling noise of the loaded wagon as it + moved through some narrow and leafy road, the hissing of the sickle + through the ripe corn. + </p> + <p> + “And yet,” said Hanserl, as Nelly stood in silent enjoyment at the little + porch,—“and yet, Fräulein, beyond those great mountains yonder, + there is strife and carnage. Here all is peaceful and happy; but the whole + world of Europe is tempest-torn. Italy is up,—all her people are in + wild revolt; Hungary is in open insurrection. I speak not of other lands, + whose fortunes affect us not, but the great empire of our Kaiser is + convulsed to its very centre. I have just been at Meran, troops are + marching in every hour, and every hour come new messengers to bid them + hasten southward. Over the Stelvio, where you see that dark line yonder, + near the summit of the mountains, on they pour! They say, too, that Upper + Austria is in rebellion, and that the roads from Innspruck are unsafe to + travel. We are safe here, Fräulein, but you must not venture further. We + will try, from some of the officers who pass through, to glean tidings of + the Count, your grand-uncle, and where a letter may reach him; but bear + with this humble shelter for a while, and think it a home.” + </p> + <p> + If Nelly was disappointed and baffled by this impediment to her journey, + she was not one to pass her time in vague regrets, but at once addressed + herself to the call of new duties with a willing mind and a cheerful + spirit. + </p> + <p> + Resuming her long-neglected tools, she set to work once more, stimulated + by the new scenes and subjects around her. To the little children who + often formed her “studies,” she became the schoolmistress. To the old who + were stricken with sickness or the helplessness of age she used to read + for hours together. Every little pathway led her to some office of charity + or kindness, till the “good Fräulein” became a village byword, and her + name was treasured and her footstep welcomed in every cottage around. + </p> + <p> + Her humble dress, her more humble manner, took nothing from the deference + they yielded her. They felt too intensely the inborn superiority of her + nature to think of any equality between them, and they venerated her with + something like devotion. A physician to the sick, a nurse to the + bedridden, a teacher to the ignorant, a blessing and an example to all, + Nelly's hours were but too short for the calls of her duties, and, in her + care for others, she had no time to bestow on her own sorrows. + </p> + <p> + As for Hanserl, he worked from daylight to dusk. Already the little + garden, weed-grown and uncared-for before, was as blooming as his former + one at the Alten Schloss. Under Nelly's guidance many a device was + executed that seemed almost miraculous to the simple neighbors; and the + lichen-clad rocks, the waving water-lilies or trellised creepers, which, + in the wild wantonness of nature they had never noticed, now struck them + as the very creations of genius. Even old Andy was not forgotten in their + schemes of happiness; and the old huntsman used to spend hours in the + effort to tame a young fox a peasant had brought him,—a labor not + the less interesting that its progress suffered many a check, and that + many a laugh arose at the backslidings of the pupil. + </p> + <p> + And now we leave them for a brief season, all occupied and all happy; nor + do we like the fate that calls us away to other and very different + associates. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0024" id="link2HCH0024"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXIV. FLORENCE. + </h2> + <p> + It was of a calm but starless night in winter that Florence was + illuminated in honor of a victory over the Austrian troops at Goito. Never + was patriotic ardor higher,—never were stronger the hopes of Italian + independence. From the hour of their retreat from Milan, the imperial + forces had met with little but reverses, and, as day by day they fell back + towards the Tyrol Alps, the hosts of their enemies swelled and increased + around them; and from Genoa to the Adriatic all Italy was in march to + battle. It is not to speculate on the passable current of events, nor yet + to dwell on the causes of that memorable failure, by which dissentient + councils and false faith—the weakness of good men and the ambition + of bad ones—brought rain when there might have been victory, still + less is it to gaze upon the brilliant spectacle of the rejoicing city, + that we are now wending our way along the Arno, scarcely stopping to + notice the thousand stars that glitter on the Duomo, nor the flickering + lines of light which trace out the gigantic tower of the Palazzo Vecchio. + Our theme is more humble than the former, and far too serious for such + dalliance as the latter. + </p> + <p> + Leaving the crowded streets, resounding with the wild acclamations and + wilder songs of the people, we pass over the Ponte Vecchio, and enter once + again the dark abode of Racca Morlache. Whether from any suspicion of his + unpopularity with the people, or from some secret necessity for + precaution, the door is fastened by many an extra bolt, and more than one + massive chain retains the iron shutters of the window. Perhaps there is + something in this conscious security that has made him so sparing in his + display of external joy, for two dim, discolored lamps were all that + appeared above the door, and these were soon hurled down in contemptuous + anger by the populace, leaving the little building in total darkness. + </p> + <p> + In easy indifference to such harmless insult, and not heeding the loud + knock which, from stick or stone, the iron shutters resounded under, the + Jew sat at his table in that little chamber beside the Arno, of which the + reader already knows the secret. Several decanters of wine are before him, + and as he sips his glass and smashes his filbert, his air is that of the + very easiest unconcern. + </p> + <p> + Attempting, but with inferior success, an equal degree of calm, sits the + Abbé D'Esmonde on the opposite side of the table. With all his training, + his calm features betray at moments certain signs of anxiety, and, while + he speaks, you can see that he is listening to the noises in the street + without. + </p> + <p> + “How I detest that song!” said Morlache, as the full swell of a + deep-voiced chorus filled the air. “I verily believe the Revolution has + not inflicted us with anything more outraging to good taste than the air + of 'Viva Pio Nono.'” + </p> + <p> + “Always excepting Pio Nono himself,” said D'Esmonde, “who is far more the + child than the father of this movement.” + </p> + <p> + “Not bad for a priest to renounce allegiance to his holy master!” said + Racca, laughing. + </p> + <p> + “You mistake me, Signor Morlache,” said D'Esmonde, eagerly. “I spoke of + Pio Nono, the politician,—the rash innovator of time-honored + institutions, the foolish donor of concessions that must be won back at + the price of blood, the man who has been weak enough to head a movement + which he ought to have controlled in secret. How the people shout! I hear + many a voice in accents of no Italian origin.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, the city is full of Poles and Hungarians.” + </p> + <p> + “It will soon be time to drop the curtain on this act of the drama, + Morlache; enough has been done to show the world the dangerous doctrines + of these fanatics. They who cry 'No property in France,' shout 'No King in + Germany,' 'No Pope in Rome.' The peaceful or well-ordered must be taught + to see in us their safeguard against these men. They must learn to think + the Church the sanctuary it was of old. From all these convulsions which + shatter empires, we are the refuge!” + </p> + <p> + “But you yourself gave the first impulse to this very movement, Abbé?” + </p> + <p> + “And wisely and well we did it! Should we have stood passive to watch the + gradual growth of that cursed spirit they miscall independent judgment,—that + rankest heresy that ever corrupted the human heart? Should we have waited + till Protestantism with its Bible had sowed the seeds of that right of + judgment which they proclaim is inherent in all men? Would it have been + safe policy to admit of discussing what was obligatory to obey, and look + on while this enlightenment—as they blasphemously term it—was + arraigning the dogma of the Church as unblushingly as they questioned the + decree of a minister?” + </p> + <p> + “I perceive,” said the Jew, laughing, “You great politicians are not above + taking a lesson from the 'Bourse,' and know the trick of puffing up a bad + scheme to a high premium, prepared to sell out the day before 'the fall.'” + </p> + <p> + “We had higher and nobler views,” said D'Esmonde, proudly. “The men who + will not come to the altars of the Church must be taught her doctrines + before the portals. Our task is to proclaim Rome——eternal Rome—to + Europe!” + </p> + <p> + “Up to this your success has not been signal,” said Morlache, with a + sneer. “This victory at Goito has given fresh vigor to the Republicans. + The Austrians once driven beyond the Alps, Monarchy wilt be short-lived in + Italy.” + </p> + <p> + “And who says that they will be so driven? Who ever dreams of such a + result, save some wild fanatic of Genoa, or some half-informed minister at + London? The King of Naples only waits for the excuse of a Calabrian + disturbance to recall his contingent. The Pope has already issued an order + to Durando not to pass the Po. The Piedmontese themselves are on the verge + of an irreparable quarrel,—the men of Savoy and the north for + Monarchy; the Genoese, wild with their own ancient ideas of a Ligurian + Republic. Is it the Lombards, think you, will conquer Lombardy? or do you + fancy that Florence and Pisa are the nurseries of heroes? No, Morlache, + the game of revolt is played out in Italy; the last trump is Goito.” + </p> + <p> + “But if, flushed with conquest, the Piedmontese press on to greater + successes?” + </p> + <p> + “They cannot,—they would not, even if they could,” broke in + D'Esmonde. “Is it the Republicans will shed their blood to conquer a + kingdom of Upper Italy for Carlo Alberto? Is it the interest of Rome or + Naples to see such a power in the Peninsula? Will the troops of the + Monarchy, on the other hand, fight for a cause that is to obliterate the + throne? No; believe me, their mutual grudges have been well weighed and + estimated. We never dared this bold policy without seeing clearly that + their interests could never be reconciled.—I think I hear the sound + of oars; yes, he must be coming at last!” D'Esmonde opened the window as + he spoke, and looked out upon the river, which, reflecting along the sides + the gorgeous pageantry of the illumination, was dark as ink in the middle + of the stream. “Not a word of this, Morlache, when he joins us,” added + D'Esmonde. + </p> + <p> + “<i>He</i> is not in your confidence, then?” asked the other. + </p> + <p> + “<i>He?</i> Of course he is not! If for no weightier reasons than that he + is English and a Protestant,—two things which, however weak they may + prove either in patriotism or religion, never fail in their hatred of the + Church and her cause. Like one of the Condottieri of old, he has joined + the quarrel because hard knocks are usually associated with booty. + Whenever he finds that he has no stake on the table, he 'll throw down his + cards.” + </p> + <p> + “And the other,—the Russian?” + </p> + <p> + “He is more difficult to understand; but I hope to know him yet Hush, the + boat is close in; be cautious!” And, so saying, he filled his glass, and + reseated himself in all the seeming ease of careless dalliance. In a few + minutes after, the prow of a light skiff touched the terrace, and a man + stepped out and knocked at the shutter. + </p> + <p> + “Welcome at last,” said D'Esmonde, shaking hands with him. “We had almost + despaired of seeing you to-night you appear to have been favored with a + long audience!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, confound it!” cried the other, who, throwing off his + travelling-cloak, showed the figure of Lord Norwood. “We were kept + dangling in an antechamber for nigh an hour. Midchekoff's fault, for he + would not give his name, nor say anything more than that we were two + officers with secret despatches from the camp. The people in waiting + appeared to think the claim a poor one, and came and went, and looked at + us, splashed and dirty as we were; but not, even out of curiosity, did one + ask us what tidings we brought. We might have stayed till now, I believe, + if I had not taken the resolution to follow an old priest—a bishop, + I fancy—who seemed to have the <i>entrée</i> everywhere; and pushing + vigorously after him, I passed through half a dozen ill-lighted rooms, and + at last entered a small drawing-room, where the great man was seated at + piquet with old Cassandroni, the minister. I must say that, considering + the unauthorized style of my approach, nothing could be more well-bred and + urbane than his reception of me. I was blundering out some kind of apology + for my appearance, when he pointed to a chair, and begged me to be seated. + Then, recognizing Midchekoff, who had just come in, he held out his hand + to him. I gave him the despatches, which he pushed across the table to + Cassandroni, as if it were more <i>his</i> 'affair;' and then turning to + Midchekoff, conversed with him for some time in a low voice. As it would + not have been etiquette to observe him too closely, I kept my eyes on the + minister; and, faith, I must say that he could scarcely have looked more + blank and out of sorts had the news reported a defeat. I suppose these + fellows have a kind of official reserve which represses every show of + feeling; but I own that he folded up the paper with a degree of composure + that quite piqued me. + </p> + <p> + “'Well, Cassandroni,' said his master, 'what's your news?' + </p> + <p> + “'Very good news, sir,' said the other, calmly. 'His Majesty has obtained + a signal victory near Goito against a considerable force of the Imperial + army, under the command of Radetzky. The action was long and fiercely + contested; but a successful advance of artillery to the side of a river, + and a most intrepid series of cavalry charges turned the flank of the + enemy, and gained the day. The results do not, however, appear equal to + the moral effect upon the army, for there were few prisoners, and no guns + taken.' + </p> + <p> + “'That may perhaps be explained,' said I, interrupting; 'for when the + Austrians commenced their movement in retreat—' Just as I got thus + far, I stopped; for I found that the distinguished personage I was + addressing had once more turned to Midchekoff, and was in deep + conversation with him, totally regardless of me and my explanation. + </p> + <p> + “'You have been wounded, my Lord?' said he, after a moment. + </p> + <p> + “'A mere scratch, sir,—a poke of a lance,' said I, smarting under + the cool indifference of his manner. + </p> + <p> + “'I hope you 're not too much fatigued to stop to supper,' said he; but I + arose at the instant, and pleading the excuse of exhaustion and want of + rest, begged to be permitted to retire; and here I am, not having tasted + anything since I left Padua, and not in the very blandest of tempers, + either, at the graciousness of my reception. As for Midchekoff, he kept + his seat as coolly as if he meant to pass his life there. I hesitated for + a second or two, expecting that he would join me; but not a bit of it He + smiled his little quiet smile, as much as to say, 'Good-night,' and so I + left him.” + </p> + <p> + “He is probably detained to give some particulars of the engagement,” said + D'Esmonde. + </p> + <p> + “How can he?—he was never in it; he was writing letters all day at + headquarters, and never came up till seven in the evening, when he rode + down with a smart groom after him, and gave the Duke of Savoy a sandwich + out of a silver case. That will be the only memorable fact he can retail + of the day's fortune.” + </p> + <p> + “The cause looks well, however,” said D'Esmonde, endeavoring to divert his + thoughts into a more agreeable direction. + </p> + <p> + “Tell me what is the cause, and I will answer you,” said Norwood, sternly. + “So far as <i>I</i> see, we are dividing the spoils before we have hunted + down the game.” + </p> + <p> + “You surely have no doubt of the result, my Lord?” replied the other, + eagerly. “The Austrians must relinquish Italy.” + </p> + <p> + “Then who is to take it,—that's the question? Is Lorn-bardy to + become Piedmont, or a Red Republic? or are your brethren of the slouched + hat to step in and portion out the land into snug nurseries for + Franciscans and Ursulines? Egad, I 'd as soon give it up to old Morlache + yonder, and make it a New Jerusalem to educate a young race of + moneylenders and usurers!” + </p> + <p> + “I wish we had even as much security for our loans,” said Morlache, + smiling. + </p> + <p> + “I hear of nothing but money,——great loans here, immense sums + raised there,” cried Norwood; “and yet what becomes of it? The army + certainly has seen none of it. Large arrears of pay are due; and as for us + who serve on the staff, we are actually supporting the very force we + command.” + </p> + <p> + “We are told that large sums have found their way into Austria in shape of + secret service,” said D'Esmonde, “and with good result too.” + </p> + <p> + “The very worst of bad policy,” broke in Norwood. “Pay your friends and + thrash your enemies. Deserters are bad allies at the best, but are utterly + worthless if they must be paid for desertion. Let them go over like those + Hungarian fellows,—a whole regiment at a time, and bring both + courage and discipline to our ranks! but your rabble of student + sympathizers are good for nothing.” + </p> + <p> + “Success has not made you sanguine, my Lord,” said Morlache, smiling. + </p> + <p> + “I have little to be sanguine about,” replied he, roughly. “They have not + spoiled me with good fortune; and even on this very mission that I have + come now, you 'll see it is that Russian fellow will receive all the + reward; and if there be a decoration conferred, it is he, not I, will + obtain it.” + </p> + <p> + “And do you care for such baubles, my Lord?” asked D'Esmonde, in affected + surprise. + </p> + <p> + “We soldiers like these vanities as women do a new shawl, or your priests + admire a smart new vestment, in which I have seen a fellow strut as + proudly as any coxcomb in the ballet when he had completed his pirouette. + As for myself,” continued he, proudly, “I hold these stars and crosses + cheaply enough. I 'd mortgage my 'San Giuseppe' to-morrow if Morlache + would give me twenty Naps, on it.” + </p> + <p> + “The day of richer rewards is not distant, my Lord,” said D'Esmonde. + “Lombardy will be our own ere the autumn closes, and then—and then—” + </p> + <p> + “And then we 'll cut each other's throats for the booty, you were going to + say,” burst in Norwood; “but I 'm not one of those who think so, Abbé. My + notion is that Austria is making a waiting race, and quietly leaving + dissension to do amongst <i>us</i> what the snow did for the French at + Moscow.” + </p> + <p> + D'Esmonde's cheek grew pale at this shrewd surmise; but he quickly said, + —— + </p> + <p> + “You mistake them, my Lord. The interests at stake are too heavy for such + a critical policy; Austria dare not risk so hazardous a game.” + </p> + <p> + “The wiseheads are beginning to suspect as much,” said Norwood; “and + certainly amongst the prisoners we have taken there is not a trait of + despondency nor even a doubt as to the result of the campaign. The + invariable reply to every question is, the Kaiser will have his own again,—ay, + and this even from the Hungarians. We captured a young fellow on the + afternoon of Goito, who had escaped from prison, and actually broke his + arrest to take his share in the battle. He was in what Austrians call + Stockhaus arrest, and under sentence either of death or imprisonment for + life, for treason. Well, he got out somehow, and followed his regiment on + foot till such time as one of his comrades was knocked over; then he + mounted, and I promise you he knew his work in the saddle. Twice he + charged a half-battery of twelves, and sabred our gunners where they + stood; and when at last we pushed the Austrian column across the bridge, + instead of retreating, as he might, he trusted to saving himself by the + river. It was then his horse was shot under him, as he descended the bank, + and over they both rolled into the stream. I assure you it was no easy + matter to capture him even then, and we took him under a shower of balls + from his comrades, that showed how little his life was deemed, in + comparison with the opportunity of damaging us. When he was brought in, he + was a pitiable object; his forehead was laid open from a sabre cut, his + collar-bone and left arm broken by the fall, and a gunshot wound in the + thigh, which the surgeon affirmed had every appearance of being received + early in the action. He would n't tell us his name, or anything about his + friends, for he wished to have written to them; the only words he ever + uttered were a faint attempt at 'Hurrah for the Emperor!'” + </p> + <p> + “And this a Hungarian?” said D'Esmonde, in surprise. + </p> + <p> + “He might have been a Pole, or a Wallach, for anything I know; but he was + a hussar, and as gallant a fellow as ever I saw.” + </p> + <p> + “What was the uniform, my Lord?” asked the Abbé. + </p> + <p> + “Light blue, with a green chako,—they call them the regiment of + Prince Paul of Wurtemberg.” + </p> + <p> + “Tell me his probable age, my Lord; and something of his appearance + generally,” said D'Esmonde, with increasing earnestness. + </p> + <p> + “His age I should guess to be two or three and twenty,—not more, + certainly, and possibly even less than that In height he is taller than I, + but slighter. As to face, even with all his scars and bruises, he looked a + handsome fellow, and had a clear blue eye that might have become an + Englishman.” + </p> + <p> + “You did not hear him speak?” asked the priest, with heightening + curiosity. + </p> + <p> + “Except the few words I have mentioned, he never uttered a syllable. We + learned that he had broken his arrest from one of his comrades; but the + fellow, seeing our anxiety to hear more, immediately grew reserved, and + would tell us nothing. I merely allude to the circumstance to show that + the disaffection we trust to amongst the Hungarians is not universal; and + even when they falter in their allegiance to the State, by some strange + contradiction they preserve their loyalty to the 'Kaiser.'” + </p> + <p> + “I wish I could learn more about your prisoner, my Lord,” said the Abbé, + thoughtfully. “The story has interested me deeply.” + </p> + <p> + “Midchekoff can, perhaps, tell you something, then, for he saw him later + than I did. He accompanied the Duke of Genoa in an inspection of the + prisoners just before we left the camp.” + </p> + <p> + “And you said that he had a fair and Saxon-looking face?” said the Abbé. + </p> + <p> + “Faith, I 've told you all that I know of him,” said Norwood, impatiently. + “He was a brave soldier, and with ten thousand like him on our side I 'd + feel far more at my ease for the result of this campaign than with the aid + of those splendid squadrons they call the 'Speranza d' Italia'.” + </p> + <p> + “And the Crociati, my Lord, what are <i>they</i> like?” said Morlache, + smiling. + </p> + <p> + “A horde of robbers; a set of cowardly rascals who have only courage for + cruelty; the outpourings of jails and offcasts of convents; degraded + friars and escaped galley-slaves.” + </p> + <p> + “My Lord, my Lord!” interrupted Morlache, suppressing his laughter with + difficulty, and enjoying to the full this torrent of indignant anger. “You + are surely not describing faithfully the soldiers of the Pope,—the + warriors whose banners have been blessed by the Holy Father?” + </p> + <p> + “Ask their General, Ferrari, whom they have three times attempted to murder. + Ask <i>him</i> their character,” said Norwood, passionately, “if D'Esmonde + himself will not tell you.” + </p> + <p> + “Has it not been the same in every land that ever struck a blow for + liberty?” said the Abbé. “Is it the statesman or the philosopher who have + racked their brains and wasted their faculties in thought for the good of + their fellow-men that have gone forth to battle? or is it not rather the + host of unquiet spirits who infest every country, and who seek in change + the prosperity that others pursue in patient industry? Some are + enthusiastic for freedom, some seek a field of personal distinction, some + are mere freebooters; but whatever they be, the cause remains the same.” + </p> + <p> + “You may be right,——for all I know you <i>are</i> right,” said + Norwood, doggedly; “but, for my own part, I have no fancy to fight + shoulder to shoulder with cut-throats and housebreakers, even though the + Church should have hallowed them with its blessing.” Norwood arose as he + said this, And walked impatiently up and down the chamber. + </p> + <p> + “When do you propose to return to the army, my Lord?” said D'Esmonde, + after a pause. + </p> + <p> + “I'm not sure; I don't even know if I shall return at all!” said Norwood, + hastily. “I see little profit and less glory in the service! What say you, + Morlache? Have they the kind of credit you would like to accept for a + loan?” + </p> + <p> + “No, my Lord,” said the Jew, laughing; “Lombardy scrip would stand low in + our market. I 'd rather advance my moneys on the faith of your good friend + the Lady Hester Onslow.” + </p> + <p> + Norwood bit his lip and colored, but made no reply. + </p> + <p> + “She has crossed into Switzerland, has she not?” asked D'Esmonde, + carelessly. + </p> + <p> + “Gone to England!” said the Viscount, briefly. + </p> + <p> + “When——how? I never heard of that,” said the Abbé. “I have put + off writing to her from day to day, never suspecting that she was about to + quit the Continent.” + </p> + <p> + “Nor did she herself till about a week ago, when Sir Stafford took an + equally unexpected departure for the other world—” + </p> + <p> + “Sir Stafford dead! Lady Hester a widow!” + </p> + <p> + “Such is, I believe, the natural course of things for a woman to be when + her husband dies.” + </p> + <p> + “A rich widow, too, I presume, my Lord?” said the Abbé, with a quiet but + subtle glance at Norwood. + </p> + <p> + “That is more than she knows herself at this moment, I fancy; for they say + that Sir Stafford has involved his bequests with so many difficulties, and + hampered them with such a mass of conditions, that whether she will be a + millionnaire or be actually poor must depend upon the future. I can answer + for one point, however, Abbé,” said he, sarcastically; “neither the Sacred + College nor the blessed brethren of the 'Pace' are like to profit by the + banker's economies.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed, my Lord,” said the Abbé, slowly, while a sickly pallor came over + his countenance. + </p> + <p> + “He has left a certain Dr. Grounsell his executor,” continued Norwood; + “and, from all that I can learn, no-man has less taste for painted + windows, stoles, or saints' shin-bones.” + </p> + <p> + “Probably there may be other questions upon which he will prove equally + obdurate,” said the Abbé, in a voice only audible to the Viscount “Is her + Ladyship at liberty to marry again?” + </p> + <p> + “I cannot, I grieve to say, give you any information on that point,” said + Norwood, growing deep red as he spoke. + </p> + <p> + “As your Lordship is going to England—” + </p> + <p> + “I didn't say so. I don't remember that I told you that!” cried he, + hastily. + </p> + <p> + “Pardon me if I made such a palpable mistake; but it ran in my head that + you said something to that purport.” + </p> + <p> + “It won't do, Abbé! it won't do,” said Norwood, in a low whisper. “We, who + have graduated at the 'Red House' are just as wide awake as you of Louvain + and St. Omer.” + </p> + <p> + D'Esmonde looked at him with an expression of blank astonishment, and + seemed as if he had not the most vague suspicion as to what the sarcasm + referred. + </p> + <p> + “When can I have half an hour with you, Morlache?” said the Viscount + </p> + <p> + “Whenever it suits you, my Lord. What say you to to-morrow morning at + eleven?” + </p> + <p> + “No, no! let it be later; I must have a ten hours' sleep after all this + fatigue, and the sooner I begin the better.” + </p> + <p> + “Where do you put up, my Lord,—at the Hôtel de l'Arno?” asked the + Abbé. + </p> + <p> + “No; I wish we were there with all my heart; but, to do us honor, they + have given us quarters at the 'Crocetto,' that dreary asylum for stray + archdukes and vagabond grand-duchesses, in the farthest end of the city. + We are surrounded with chamberlains, aides-de-camp, and guards of honor. + The only thing they have forgotten is a cook. So I 'll come and dine here + to-morrow.” + </p> + <p> + “You do me great honor, my Lord. I 'm sure the Abbé D'Esmonde will favor + us with his company also.” + </p> + <p> + “If it be possible, I will,” said the Abbé. “Nothing but necessity would + make me relinquish so agreeable a prospect.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, till our next meeting,” said the Viscount, yawning, as he put on + his hat “It's too late to expect Midchekoff here to-night, and so + good-bye. The streets are clear by this time, I trust.” + </p> + <p> + “A shrewd fellow, too,” said Morlache, looking after him. + </p> + <p> + “No, Morlache, not a bit of it!” said D'Esmonde. “Such intellects bear + about the same proportion to really clever men as a good swordsman does to + a first-rate operator in surgery. They handle a coarse weapon, and they + deal with coarse antagonists. Employ them in a subtle negotiation or a + knotty problem, and you might as well ask a sergeant of the Blues to take + up the femoral artery. Did you not remark awhile ago that, for the sake of + a sneer, he actually betrayed a secret about Sir Stafford Onslow's will?” + </p> + <p> + “And you believe all that to be true?” + </p> + <p> + “Of course I do. The only question is whether the Irish property, which, + if I remember aright, was settled on Lady Hester at her marriage, can be + fettered by any of these conditions? That alone amounts to some thousands + a year, and would be a most grateful accession to those much-despised + brethren his Lordship alluded to.” + </p> + <p> + “You can learn something about that point to-morrow, when he dines here.” + </p> + <p> + “He'll not be our guest to-morrow, Morlache. I must continue to occupy him + for a day or two. He shall be invited to dine at court to-morrow,—the + request is a command,—so that you will not see him. Receive + Midchekoff if he calls, for I want to hear what he is about here; his + money requirements will soon give us the clew. And I, too,” said he, + stretching and speaking languidly,—“I, too, would be the better of + some repose; it is now thirty-six hours, Morlache, since I closed my eyes + in sleep. During that space I have written and dictated and talked and + argued, urging on the lukewarm, restraining the rash, giving confidence to + this one, preaching caution to that; and here I am, at the end of all, + with my task as far as ever from completion. Events march faster than we, + do what we will; and as the child never comes up with the hoop he has set + in motion till it has fallen, so we rarely overtake the circumstances we + have created till they have ceased to be of any value to us. Now, at this + precise moment I want to be in the Vatican, at the camp of Goito, in the + council-chamber at Schönbrunn,—not to speak of a certain humble + homestead in a far-away Irish county; and yet I have nothing for it but to + go quietly off to bed, leaving to fortune—I believe that is as good + a name for it as any other—the course of events which, were I + present, I could direct at will. Napoleon left a great example behind him; + he beat his enemies always by rapidity. Believe me, Morlache, men think + very much upon a par in this same world of ours; the great difference + being that some take five minutes where others take five weeks: the man of + minutes is sure to win.” + </p> + <p> + Just as the Abbé had spoken, Norwood returned, saying,—— + </p> + <p> + “By the way, can either of you tell me if Jekyl is here now?” + </p> + <p> + “I have not seen him,” said Morlache, “which is almost proof that he is + not His first visit is usually to me.” + </p> + <p> + The streets were silent. A few stray lamps yet flickered over the spacious + cupola of the Duomo, and a broken line of light faintly tracked one angle + of the tower of the Piazza Vecchia; but except these last lingering signs + of the late rejoicings, all Florence lay in darkness. + </p> + <p> + “How quiet is everything!” said Morlache, as he took leave of his guests + at his door.' “The streets are empty already.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay,” muttered the Abbé, “the rejoicing, like the victory, was but + short-lived. Do our roads lie the same way, my Lord?” asked he of Norwood. + </p> + <p> + “Very seldom, I suspect,” replied the Viscount, with a laugh. “<i>Mine</i> + is in this direction.” + </p> + <p> + “And <i>mine</i> lies this way,” said D'Esmonde, bowing coldly, but + courteously, as he passed on, and entered the narrow street beyond the + bridge. “You are quite right, my Lord,” muttered he to himself; “our paths + in life are very different. <i>Yours</i> may be wider and pleasanter, but + mine, with all its turnings, goes straighter.” He paused and listened for + some seconds, till Norwood's steps had died away in the distance, and then + turning back, he followed in the direction the other had taken. + </p> + <p> + Norwood walked rapidly along till he came to that small house on the Arno + where Jekyl lived, and stopping in front of it, he threw a handful of sand + against the window. To this signal, twice repeated, no reply was given to + the Viscount He waited a few seconds, and then moved on. The Abbé stood + under the shadow of the tall palaces till the other was out of sight, and + then, approaching the door, gave a long, low whistle. Within a few seconds + the sash was opened, and Jekyl's voice heard,—— + </p> + <p> + “It's you, Abbé. There 's the key. Will you excuse ceremony, and let + yourself in?” + </p> + <p> + D'Esmonde opened the door at once, and, mounting the stairs, entered the + little chamber in which now Jekyl stood in his dressing-gown and slippers; + and although suddenly roused from sleep, with a smile of courteous welcome + on his diminutive features,—— + </p> + <p> + “I paid no attention to your first signal, Abbé,” said he, “scarcely + thinking it could be you.” + </p> + <p> + “Nor was it,” said D'Esmonde, seating himself. “It was Lord Norwood, who + doubtless must have had some important reason for disturbing you at this + hour. I waited till he went off before I whistled. When did you arrive?” + </p> + <p> + “About three hours ago. I came from Lucerne, and was obliged to take such + a zig-zag course, the roads being all blocked up by marching soldiers, + guns, and wagons, that I have been eight days making the journey of + three.” + </p> + <p> + “So, Lady Hester is a widow! Strange, I only heard it an hour ago.” + </p> + <p> + “The post has been interrupted, or you would have known it a week back. I + wrote to you from Zurich. I accompanied her so far on her way to England, + and was to have gone the whole way, too, but she determined to send me + back here.” + </p> + <p> + “Not to settle her affairs in Florence,” said D'Esmonde, with a quiet + slyness. + </p> + <p> + “Rather to look after Lord Norwood's,” said Jekyl. “I never could exactly + get to the bottom of the affair; but I suppose there must be some pledge + or promise which, in a rash moment, she has made him, and that already she + repents of.” + </p> + <p> + “How has she been left in the will?” asked D'Esmonde, abruptly. + </p> + <p> + “Her own words are, 'Infamously treated.' Except a bequest of ten thousand + pounds, nothing beyond the Irish estate settled at the time of her + marriage.” + </p> + <p> + “She will easily get rid of Norwood, then,” rejoined the Abbé, with a + smile. “His price is higher.” + </p> + <p> + “I'm not so sure of that,” broke in Jekyl; “the noble Viscount's late + speculations have all proved unfortunate, even to his book on Carlo + Alberto. He thinks he has gone wrong in not hedging on Radetzky.” + </p> + <p> + “What does he know of the changes of politics?” said D'Esmonde, + contemptuously. “Let him stick to his stablemen and the crafty youths of + Newmarket, but leave state affairs for other and very different + capacities. Does she care for him, Jekyl? Does she love him?” + </p> + <p> + “She does, and she does not,” said Jekyl, with a languishing air, which he + sometimes assumed when asked for an opinion. “She likes his fashionable + exterior, his easy kind of drawing-room assurance, and, perhaps not least + of all, the tone of impertinent superiority he displays towards all other + men; but she is afraid of him,——afraid of his temper and his + tyrannical humor, and terribly afraid of his extravagance.” + </p> + <p> + “How amusing it is!” said D'Esmonde, with a yawn. “A minister quits the + cabinet in disgust, and retires into private life forever, when his first + step is to plot his return to power. So your widow is invariably found + weighing the thoughts of her mourning with speculations on a second + husband. Why need she marry again; tell me that?” + </p> + <p> + “Because she is a widow, perhaps. I know no other reason,” lisped out + Jekyl. + </p> + <p> + “I cannot conceive a greater folly than that of these women, with ample + fortune, sacrificing their independence by marriage. The whole world is + their own, if they but knew it. They command every source of enjoyment + while young, and have all the stereotyped solaces of old age when it comes + upon them; and with poodles, parrots, and parasites, mornings of scandal + and evenings of whist, eke out a very pretty existence.” + </p> + <p> + “Dash the whole with a little religion, Abbé,” cried Jekyl, laughing, “and + the picture will be tolerably correct.” + </p> + <p> + “She shall not marry Lord Norwood; that, at least, I can answer for,” said + D'Esmonde, not heeding the other. + </p> + <p> + “It will be difficult to prevent it, Abbé,” said the other, dryly. + </p> + <p> + “Easier than you think for. Come, Master Jekyl, assume a serious mood for + once, and pay attention to what I am about to say. This line of life you + lead cannot go on forever. Even were your own great gifts to resist time + and its influences, a new generation will spring up with other wants and + requirements, and another race will come who knew not Joseph. With all + your versatility it will be late to study new models, and acquire a new + tongue. Have you speculated, then, I ask you, on this contingency?” + </p> + <p> + “I 've some thoughts of a 'monkery,'” lisped out Jekyl; “if the good folk + could only be persuaded to adopt a little cleanliness.” + </p> + <p> + “Would not marriage suit you better; a rich widow, titled, well-connected, + and good-looking, of fashionable habits, and tastes that resemble your + own?” + </p> + <p> + “There are difficulties in the case,” said Jekyl, calmly. + </p> + <p> + “State them,” rejoined the Abbé. + </p> + <p> + “To begin. There is Lady Hester herself,—for, of course, you mean <i>her.</i>” + </p> + <p> + “I engage to solve all on that head.” + </p> + <p> + “Then there is the Viscount.” + </p> + <p> + “For him, too, I hold myself responsible.” + </p> + <p> + “Lastly, there is Albert Jekyl, who, however admirably he understands + garçon life, might discover that the husband was not among the range of + his characters. As it is, my dear Abbé, I lead a very pretty existence. I + am neither bored nor tormented, I never quarrel with anybody, nor is the + rudest man ever discourteous to me. I possess nothing that any one envies, + except that heaven-born disposition to be pleased, of which nothing can + rob me. I dine well, drive in rich equipages, and, if I liked, might ride + the best horses; have at least a dozen Opera-boxes ready to receive me, + and sweeter smiles to welcome me than would become me to boast of.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, my proposal is to give you all these on a life interest + instead of being a tenant-at-will,” broke in D'Esmonde. + </p> + <p> + “And all this out of pure regard for me?” asked Jekyl, with a sly look. + </p> + <p> + “As a pure matter of bargain,” replied D'Esmonde. “Lady Hester has + advanced large sams to the cause in which I am interested. It would be + difficult, perhaps impossible, to repay them. We still want means, and + that ten thousand pounds' legacy would render us immense service at this + moment. Her income can well spare the sacrifice.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, yes,” said Jekyl, musingly; and then looking fondly at his own image + in the glass, he said, “I shall be a dead bargain, after all.” + </p> + <p> + D'Esmonde bit his lip to repress some movement of impatience, and after a + pause said,—— + </p> + <p> + “This matter does not admit of delay. Circumstances will soon require my + presence in England, and with a strong sum at my command; besides—” + </p> + <p> + “If I understand you aright,” said Jekyl, “You are to conduct the whole + negotiations to a successful end, and that I shall have neither a bill to + endorse, nor a duel to fight, throughout the affair.” + </p> + <p> + “You shall be scathless.” + </p> + <p> + “There is another point,” said Jekyl, quickly. “How shall I figure in the + newspapers,—Albert Jekyl, Esquire, of where? Have you thought of + that? I wish I had even an uncle a baronet.” + </p> + <p> + “Pooh, pooh!” said D'Esmonde, impatiently. “You marry into the peerage; + that's quite enough.” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps you 're right,” said Jekyl. “All that enumeration of family + connection——'niece to the Chief Justice of Rembouk,' or + 'cousin-german to the Vice-Consul at Gumdalloo'—smacks terribly of + 'Moses and Son.'” + </p> + <p> + “We are agreed, then,” said the Abbé, rising. + </p> + <p> + “I swear,” said Jekyl, rising, and throwing out his hand in the attitude + of the well-known picture of the “Marshals.” “The step that I am about to + take will throw its gloom over many a dinner-party, and bring sadness into + many a <i>salon</i>; but I 'll retire at least with dignity, and, like + Napoleon, I'll write my memoirs.” + </p> + <p> + “So far, then, so good,” said D'Esmonde; “now, with your leave, I throw + myself on this sofa and snatch an hour's sleep.” And ere Jekyl had + arranged the folds of what he called his “sable pelisse” as a covering, + the Abbé was in deep slumber. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0025" id="link2HCH0025"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXV. PRIESTCRAFT. + </h2> + <p> + With less than two hours of sleep, D'Esmonde arose refreshed and ready for + the day. Jekyl was not awake as the priest quitted his quarters, and, + repairing to his own lodgings, dressed himself with more than usual care. + Without any of the foppery of the Abbé, there was a studied elegance in + every detail of his costume, and as he stepped into the carriage which + awaited him, many turned their looks of admiration at the handsome priest. + </p> + <p> + “To the Crocetto,” said he, and away they went. + </p> + <p> + It was already so early that few persons were about as they drove into the + court of the palace, and drew up at a private door. Here D'Esmonde got out + and ascended the stairs. + </p> + <p> + “Ah, Monsignore!” said a young man, somewhat smartly Attired in a + dressing-gown and velvet cap. “He did not return here last night.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed!” said the Abbé, pondering. + </p> + <p> + “He dismissed the carriage at the Pitti, so that in all likelihood he + passed the night at the palace.” + </p> + <p> + “Most probably,” said D'Esmonde, with a bland smile; And then, with a + courteous “Good-morning,” he returned to his carriage. + </p> + <p> + “Where to, Signore?” asked the driver. + </p> + <p> + “Towards the Duomo,” said he. But scarcely had the man turned the second + corner, than he said, “To the 'Moskova,' Prince Midchekoffs villa.” + </p> + <p> + “We 're turning our back to it, Signore. It's on the hill of Fiesole.” + </p> + <p> + D'Esmonde nodded, but said no more. Although scarcely a league from the + city, the way occupied a considerable time, being one continued and steep + ascent. The Abbé was, however, too deeply engaged with his own thoughts to + bestow attention on the pace they journeyed, or the scene around. He was + far from being insensible to the influence of the picturesque or the + beautiful; but now other and weightier considerations completely engrossed + his mind, nor was he aware how the moments passed till the carriage came + to a stop. + </p> + <p> + “The Prince is absent, sir, in Lombardy,” said a gruff-looking porter from + within the gate. + </p> + <p> + D'Esmonde descended, and whispered some words between the bars. + </p> + <p> + “But my orders——my orders!” said the man, in a tone of + deference. + </p> + <p> + “They would be peremptory against any other than <i>me</i>,” said + D'Esmonde, calmly; and, after a few seconds' pause, the man unlocked the + gate, and the carriage passed in. + </p> + <p> + “To the back entrance,” called out D'Esmonde. And they drove into a + spacious courtyard, where a number of men were engaged in washing + carriages, cleaning horses, and all the other duties of the stable. One + large and cumbrous vehicle, loaded with all the varied “accessories” of + the road, and fortified by many a precaution against the accidents of the + way, stood prominent. It was covered with stains and splashes, and bore + unmistakable evidence of a long Journey. A courier, with a red-brown beard + descending to his breast, was busy in locking and unlocking the boxes, as + if in search of some missing article. + </p> + <p> + “How heavy the roads are in the north!” said D'Esmonde, addressing him in + German. + </p> + <p> + The man touched his cap in a half-sullen civility, and muttered an assent. + </p> + <p> + “I once made the same journey myself, in winter,” resumed the Abbé, “and I + remembered thinking that no man undergoes such real hardship as a courier. + Sixteen, seventeen, ay, twenty days and nights of continued exposure to + cold and snows, and yet obliged to have all his faculties on full stretch + the whole time, to remember every post station, every bridge and ferry,—the + steep mountain passes, where oxen must be hired,—the frontiers of + provinces, where passports are vised.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, and when the lazy officials will keep you standing in the deep snow a + full hoar at midnight, while they ring every copeck to see it be good + money.” + </p> + <p> + “That's the true and only metal for a coinage,” said D'Esmonde, as he drew + forth a gold Napoleon, and placed it in the other's hand. “Take it, my + worthy fellow,” said he; “it's part of a debt I owe to every man who wears + the courier's jacket. Had it not been for one of <i>your</i> cloth, I 'd + have been drowned at the ford of Ostrovitsch.” + </p> + <p> + “It's the worst ferry in the Empire,” said the courier. “The Emperor + himself had a narrow escape there. The raft is one half too small.” + </p> + <p> + “How many days have you taken on the way?” asked D'Esmonde, carelessly + </p> + <p> + “Twenty-eight—yesterday would have made the twenty-ninth—but + we arrived before noon.” + </p> + <p> + “Twenty-eight days!” repeated D'Esmonde, pondering. + </p> + <p> + “Ay, and nights too! But remember that Vradskoi Noteki is three hundred + and eighty versts below St. Petersburg.” + </p> + <p> + “I know it well,” said D'Esmonde, “and with a heavily loaded carriage it's + a weary road. How did she bear the journey?” said he, in a low, scarcely + uttered whisper. + </p> + <p> + “Bear it I——better than I did; and, except when scolding the + postilions for not going twelve versts an hour, in deep snow, she enjoyed + herself the entire way.” + </p> + <p> + D'Esmonde gave a knowing look and a smile, as though to say that he + recognized her thoroughly in the description. + </p> + <p> + “You know her, then?” asked the courier. + </p> + <p> + “This many a year,” replied the Abbé, with a faint sigh. + </p> + <p> + “She's a rare one,” said the man, who grew at each instant more + confidential, “and thinks no more of a gold rouble than many another would + of a copeck. Is it true, as they say, she was once an actress?” + </p> + <p> + “There are stranger stories than that about her,” said D'Esmonde. “But why + has she come alone? How happens it that she is here?” + </p> + <p> + “That is the secret that none of us can fathom,” said the courier. “We + thought there was to have been another, and I believe there is another in + the passport, but it was no affair of mine. I had my orders from the + Prince's own 'intendant,' who bespoke all the relays for the road, and + here we are.” + </p> + <p> + “I will explain all the mystery to you at another time, courier,” said + D'Esmonde; “meanwhile, let nothing of what we have been saying escape you. + By the way,” added he, half carelessly, “what name did she travel under?” + </p> + <p> + “The passport was made out 'Die Gräfin von Dalton;' but she has a Spanish + name, for I heard it once from the intendant.” + </p> + <p> + “Was it Lola de Seviglia?” + </p> + <p> + “That was it. I remember it well.” + </p> + <p> + “We are very old friends indeed!” said the Abbé; “and now be cautious; let + none know that we have spoken together, and I can serve your fortune + hereafter.” + </p> + <p> + The German scarcely looked quite satisfied with himself for the confidence + he had been unwittingly led into; “but, after all,” thought he, “the + priest knew more than I could tell him;” and so he resumed his search + without further thought of the matter. + </p> + <p> + As for D'Esmonde, his first care was to inquire for Monsieur de Grasse, + the Prince's chief secretary, with whom he remained closeted for nigh an + hour. It will not be necessary to inflict all the detail of that interview + on the reader; enough that we state its substance to have been a pressing + entreaty on the part of D'Esmonde to be admitted to an audience of the + Prince, as firmly resisted by the secretary, whose orders were not to + admit any one, nor, indeed, acknowledge that his Highness was then there. + </p> + <p> + “You must wait upon him at the Crocetto, Monsignore,” said De Grasse. + “Your presence here will simply cause the dismissal of those who have + admitted you, and yet never advance your own wishes in the least.” + </p> + <p> + “My business is too urgent, sir, to be combated by reasons so weak as + these,” replied D'Esmonde; “nor am I much accustomed to the air of an + antechamber.” + </p> + <p> + “You must yet be aware, Monsignore, that the orders of Prince Midchekoff + are absolute in his own house.” The secretary dropped his voice almost to + a whisper as he finished this sentence, for he had just overheard the + Prince speaking to some one without, and could detect his step as he came + along the corridor. + </p> + <p> + With a look of most meaning entreaty he besought the Abbé to keep silence, + while he crept noiselessly over and turned the key. D'Esmonde uttered an + exclamation of anger, and, sweeping past a window, within which stood a + magnificent vase of malachite, he caught the costly object in the wide + folds of his gown, and dashed it to the ground in a thousand pieces. De + Grasse gave a sudden cry of horror, and at the same instant Midchekoff + knocked at the door, and demanded admittance. With faltering hand the + secretary turned the key, and the Prince entered the room, casting his + eyes from D'Esmonde to the floor, where the fragments lay, and back again + to the priest, with a significance that showed how he interpreted the + whole incident. As for the Abbé, he looked as coldly indifferent to the + accident as though it were the veriest trifle he had destroyed. + </p> + <p> + “I came to have a few moments' interview with you, Prince,” said he, + calmly; “can you so far oblige me?” + </p> + <p> + “I am entirely at your orders, Monsignore,” said the Russian, with a faint + smile. “Allow me to conduct you to a chamber in less disorder than this + one.” + </p> + <p> + The Abbé bowed, and followed him, not seeming to hear the allusion. And + now, passing through a number of rooms, whose gorgeous furniture was + carefully covered, they reached a small chamber opening upon a + conservatory, where a breakfast-table was already spread. + </p> + <p> + “I will waste neither your time nor my own, Prince, by an apology for the + hour of this visit, nor the place; my business did not admit of delay—that + will excuse me in your eyes.” + </p> + <p> + The Prince gave a cold bow, but never spoke. + </p> + <p> + D'Esmonde resumed. “I have heard the news from the camp: Lord Norwood + tells me that the Austrians have fallen back, and with a heavy loss too.” + </p> + <p> + “Not heavy!” said the Russian, with a smile. + </p> + <p> + “Enough, however, to raise the hopes and strengthen the courage of the + others. Goito was, at least, a victory.” A faint shrug of the shoulders + was the only reply the Prince made, and the Abbé went on: “Things are too + critical, Prince, to treat the event slightingly. We cannot answer either + for France or England; still less can we rely on the politicians of + Vienna. A second or a third reverse, and who can say that they will not + treat for a peace, at the cost of half the States of Lombardy. Nay, sir, I + am not speaking without book,” added he, more warmly; “I know—I + repeat it——I know that such a negotiation has been + entertained, and that at this moment the Cabinet of England has the matter + in its consideration.” + </p> + <p> + “It may be so,” said the Prince, carelessly, as he poured out his coffee. + </p> + <p> + “Then there is not a moment to be lost,” cried the Abbé, impetuously. “A + cession of the Milanais means a Republic of Upper Italy,—the + downfall of the Popedom,—the rule of infidelity over the Peninsula. + Are <i>we</i>—are <i>you</i> prepared for this? Enough has been done + to show that Italian 'unity' is a fiction. Let us complete the lesson by + proving that they cannot meet the Austrian in arms. The present + generation, at least, will not forget the chastisement, if it be but heavy + enough.” + </p> + <p> + “We may leave that task to the Imperialists,” said the Prince, with a cold + smile. + </p> + <p> + “I do not think so. I know too much of German sluggishness and apathy. The + reinforcements, that should pour in like a flood, creep lazily along. The + dread of France—the old terror of those wars that once crushed them—is + still uppermost. They know not how far Europe will permit them to punish a + rebellious province; and while they hesitate, they give time for the + growth of that public opinion that will condemn them.” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps you are right,” said the Russian, as he sipped his coffee + carelessly. + </p> + <p> + “And if I be,” cried D'Esmonde, passionately, “are we to sit tranquilly + here till the ruin overtake us? Will Russia wait till the flame of a red + republic throws its lurid glare over Europe, and even gleam over the cold + waters of the Neva? Is it her wish, or to her benefit, that the flag of + the democrat and the infidel is to float over the Continent?” + </p> + <p> + “You conjured up the monster yourself, Monsignore. It is for you to order + him back to the depths he came from.” + </p> + <p> + “And we are ready for the task,” said the priest. “We fostered this + revolt, because we saw it was better to lop off a diseased limb than to + suffer the gangrene to spread over the entire body; better to cast down + into utter perdition the wild democrats, who but half believed us, than + peril the countless millions of true Catholics. Nay, more, we acted with + your counsel and concurrence. That revolt has already borne its fruits. + Men see no issue to the struggle they are engaged in. The men of + moderation are overborne by the wild clamor of the factionist. Anarchy is + amongst them, and now is our moment to bid the contest cease, and earn + from mankind the glorious epithet of 'peacemaker.' The tide of victory + once turned, see how the mind of Europe will turn with it. Good wishes are + prone to go with the battalions that advance!” + </p> + <p> + “Good wishes are not too costly a sympathy,” said the Russian, coolly. + </p> + <p> + “It is to that point I am coming, Prince,” said the Abbé; “nor have I + intruded myself on your privacy to-day merely to discuss the public + opinion of Europe. The whole of this question lies in a narrow compass. It + is time that this struggle should cease,—it is, at least, time that + the tide of conquest should turn. Were Austria free to use her strength, + we might trust the issue to herself; but she is not, and we must help her. + I hold here the means,” said he, placing on the table a heavy pocket-book + crammed with letters. “This,” said he, taking up one large sealed packet, + “is an autograph from his Holiness, commanding Durando to halt at the Po, + and under no circumstances to cross the frontier. This,” continued he, + showing another, “is to Ghirardi, to grant leave of absence to all + officers who desire to return to their homes. This is to Krasaletzki, to + provide for the disbandment of his legion. The King of Naples waits but + for the signal to recall General Pepe and his contingent, fifteen thousand + strong. And now, Prince, there is but one other voice in Europe we wait + for—the Czar's!” + </p> + <p> + “His Imperial Majesty has ever wished well to the cause of order,” said + the Russian, with a studied calm of manner. + </p> + <p> + “Away with such trifling as this!” said D'Esmonde, passionately; “nor do + not try to impose on me by those courteous generalities that amuse + cabinets. Russia speaks to Western Europe best by her gold. The 'rouble' + can come where the 'Cossack' cannot! There are men with those armies that + comprehend no other argument——whose swords have their price. + Our treasures are exhausted; the sacred vessels of our altars—the + golden ornaments of our shrines—are gone. You alone can aid us at + this moment. It is no barren generosity, Prince! you are combating your + Poles more cheaply beside the Po and the Adige than on the banks of the + Vistula! you are doing more! you are breaking up those ancient alliances + of Europe whose existence excluded you from continental power! you are + buying your freedom to sit down among the rulers of the Old World, and + accustoming the nations of the West to the voice of the Boyard in their + councils! And, greatest of all, you are crushing into annihilation that + spirit of revolt that now rages like a pestilence. But why do I speak of + these things to one like you? you know full well the terms of the compact + Your own handwriting has confessed it.” + </p> + <p> + Midchekoff gave a slight—a very slight—movement of surprise, + but never spoke. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” continued D'Esmonde, “I have within that pocket-book at this moment + the receipt of Count Grünenburg, the Austrian Secretary-at-War, for the + second instalment of a loan advanced by Prince Midchekoff to the Imperial + Government. I have a copy of the order in council acknowledging in terms + of gratitude the aid, and recommending that the cross of St. Stephen + should be conferred on the illustrious lender. And, less gracious than + these,” added he, with sarcastic bitterness, “I have the record of the + Emperor's scruples about according the first-class order of the Empire to + one whose nobility was but left-handed. Were these to appear to-morrow in + the <i>Razionale</i>, is it only your pride as a prince that would be + humbled? Or think you that a single stone would rest upon another in this + gorgeous edifice where we are standing? Who or what could restrain an + infuriated populace from wreaking their vengeance on the traitor? Who + would lift a hand against the pillage of this splendor, and the + desecration of this magnificence? It is not willingly that I tell you + these things, nor had I ever spoken of them if you had but heard me with + fitting attention. I know, too, the price at which they are uttered. We + never can be friends; but that is of small moment Our cause—ours, I + say, for it is yours no less than mine—is above such consideration.” + </p> + <p> + “How much do you require?” said Midchekoff, as he leaned his arm on the + chimney-piece, and stared calmly at the Abbé. + </p> + <p> + “Ghirardi and his staff demand two hundred thousand francs; Albizi will be + a cheaper bargain. Marionetti and his force will be surrounded, and retire + from Lombardy on parole of not serving during the campaign,——he + only asks enough to emigrate with. Then, there is the Commissary of the + Crociati,—he is quite ready to become his own paymaster. There are + others of inferior rank and pretensions, with whom I shall treat + personally. The press, particularly of England, will be the difficulty; + but its importance is above all price. The public mind must be brought + back, from its sympathy for a people, to regard the rulers more favorably. + Anarchy and misrule must be displayed in their most glaring colors. The + Crociati will do us good service here; their crimes would sully a holier + crusade than this! But I weary you, sir,” said the Abbé, stopping + suddenly, and observing that Midchekoff, instead of seeming to listen, was + busily occupied in writing. + </p> + <p> + “Morlache holds bills of mine to this amount,” said the Prince, showing a + list of several large sums; “he will place them at your disposal on your + giving a receipt for them. This is an order, also, regarding certain + emeralds I have commissioned him to have mounted in gold. He need not do + so, but will dispose of the gems, as I shall not want them.” A very slight + flush here colored his cheek, and he paused as if some bitter thought had + crossed his mind. + </p> + <p> + D'Esmonde's quick eye read the meaning of the expression, and he said, “Am + I to congratulate your Highness on the approach of a certain happy event?” + </p> + <p> + “His Majesty has not deigned to accord me the necessary permission,” was + the reply. + </p> + <p> + “Then I will be bold enough to say I congratulate you,” cried D'Esmonde. + “Your alliance should be with a royal house, Prince. <i>Your</i> position + in Europe is exceptional; such should be <i>your</i> marriage. Besides, + the day is not very distant when there must come another dissection of the + map of Europe. There will be new principalities, but wanting heads to rule + them. The world is tired of Coburgs, and would gladly see another name + amongst its royalties.” + </p> + <p> + “I am at the disposal of my Emperor,” said Midchekoff, coldly; for + whatever effect the flatteries might produce within, neither his words nor + his looks would betray it, and now by his manner he showed that he wished + the interview over. + </p> + <p> + “Mademoiselle, then, returns to her family?” asked D'Esmonde. + </p> + <p> + “To the care of the Count von Auersberg.” + </p> + <p> + “The reputation of having attracted your Highness will be a fortune to + her.” + </p> + <p> + “She has refused a settlement of eighty thousand roubles a year.” + </p> + <p> + “A most princely offer!” cried D'Esmonde. + </p> + <p> + “His Majesty fixed the sum,” said Midchekoff, as coolly as though talking + of an indifferent matter. + </p> + <p> + D'Esmonde now rose to take his leave, but there was a reluctance in his + manner that showed he was unwilling to go. At last he said, “Does your + Highness intend to return to the camp?” + </p> + <p> + “The day after to-morrow.” + </p> + <p> + “I ask,” said the Abbé, “inasmuch as I am hourly in expectation of hearing + from Cardinal Maraffa with reference to a certain decoration which you + should long since have received——” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed! has his Holiness been pleased to consider me amongst his most + ardent well-wishers?” cried the Prince, interrupting. + </p> + <p> + “I may be in a position to assure your Highness on that score before + another day elapses. May I hope that you will receive me, even at some + inconvenience, for my time is much occupied just now?” + </p> + <p> + “Whenever you call, Monsieur l'Abbé,” was the prompt reply. “If you will + deign to accept this ring as a souvenir of me, it will also serve to admit + you at all hours and in all places to me.” + </p> + <p> + “Your costly gift, Prince,” said D'Esmonde, flushing, “has a greater value + in my eyes than all its lustre can express.” And with a most affectionate + leave-taking they parted. + </p> + <p> + “At what hour is the Prince's carriage ordered?” said the Abbé, as he + passed through the hall. + </p> + <p> + “For two o'clock precisely, Monsignore. He is to have an audience at the + Pitti.” + </p> + <p> + “To Florence——and with speed!” said D'Esmonde to his coachman; + and away they drove. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0026" id="link2HCH0026"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXVI. THE “MOSKOVA.” + </h2> + <p> + The Abbé D'Esmonde passed a busy morning. Twice was he closeted with the + President of the Ministry, and once was he received in a lengthy audience + at the “Pitti;” after which he repaired to the house of Morlache, where he + remained till after two o'clock. + </p> + <p> + “There goes Midchekoff to the Palace,” said the Jew, as a handsome + equipage drove past. + </p> + <p> + “Then it is time for me to be away,” said D'Esmonde, rising. “I have + received orders to meet him there. Remember, Morlache, I must have this + sum in gold, ready by the evening; the bills on London can reach me by + post.” + </p> + <p> + “All shall be attended to,” said Morlache; and the Abbé entered his + carriage once more, giving orders for the Pitti. + </p> + <p> + When the carriage had passed the first turning, however, D'Esmonde + appeared to have remembered something that till then had escaped him, and + he desired the man to drive round to the San Gallo gate; thence he + directed his way to the narrow road which traverses the valley of the + Mugello, and winds along for miles at the foot of the hill of Fiesole. + Once outside the city, D'Esmonde urged the man to speed, and they drove + for nigh an hour at a rapid pace. + </p> + <p> + “There is a footpath somewhere hereabouts leads to Fiesole,” said + D'Esmonde, springing out, and casting his eyes around. “I have it Remain + here till I come down. I may be absent for an hour or more; but be sure to + wait for me.” And so saying, he passed into a vineyard beside the road, + and was soon lost to view. + </p> + <p> + The pathway was steep and rugged; but D'Esmonde traversed it with an + active step, scarcely seeming to bestow a thought upon its difficulties, + in the deeper preoccupation of his mind. As little did he notice the + peasant greetings that met him, or hear the kindly accents that bade him + “good-day” as he went. If at intervals he stopped in his career, it was + rather to take breath and to recruit vigor for new efforts, than to look + down upon the gorgeous scene that now lay beneath him. For an instant, + however, his thoughts did stray to the objects in view; and as he beheld + the dark towers of a gloomy castellated building, half hid amongst tall + yew-trees, he muttered,—— + </p> + <p> + “Deeper and darker schemes than mine were once enacted there!—and + what fruits have they borne after all? They who convulsed the age they + lived in have never left an impress to ruffle the future, and, for aught + that we know or feel, the Medici might never have lived. And this,” cried + he, aloud, “because theirs was a selfish ambition. There is but one cause + whose interests are eternal,—the Church; that glorious creation + which combines power here with triumph hereafter!” His face, as he uttered + the words, was no bad emblem of the nature within,——a high and + noble brow, lit up by the impress of a great ambition, and, beneath, eyes + of changeful and treacherous meaning; while, lower down again, in the + compressed lips and projecting chin might be read the signs of an + unrelenting spirit. Passing along through many a tortuous path, he at last + reached a small private gate which led into the grounds of the “Moskova.” + He had to bethink him for a moment of the way which conducted to the + gardens, but he soon remembered the direction, and walked on. It was the + hour when in Italy the whole face of a country, the busiest streets of a + thronged city, are deserted, and a stillness far more unbroken than that + of midnight prevails. The glowing hours of noonday had brought the + “siesta,” and not a laborer was to be seen in the fields. + </p> + <p> + D'Esmonde found the garden unlocked, and entered. He knew that by passing + directly onward to the “orangery” he could enter the villa by a small + door, which led into the private apartments of the Prince. This was, + however, locked; but the window lay open, and with a spring he gained the + sill and entered the chamber. He knew it well; it was the little room + appropriated by Midchekoff as his private library, simply furnished, and + connected with a still smaller chamber, where, in an alcove, a species of + divan stood, on which it was the rich man's caprice at times to pass the + night Although certain traces showed that the Prince had been recently + there, no letters nor papers lay about; there was no sign of haste or + negligence, nor was anything left to the accidents of prying eyes or + meddling fingers. D'Esmonde opened the door which conducted into the + corridor, and listened; but all was silent He then sat down to think. The + palace—for such, under the name of villa, it was—was of + immense extent, and he could not expect to ramble many minutes without + chancing upon some of the household. His color came and went, as, in deep + agitation, he conceived in turn every possible project, for he was one + whose mind worked with all the violent throes of some mighty engine; and + even when taking counsel with himself, the alternate impulses of his + reason became painful efforts. At last he made up his resolve, and, + entering the inner chamber, he closed the shutters and drew the curtains; + and then, throwing around his shoulders a richly lined cloak of sable, he + rang the bell loudly and violently. This done, he lay down upon the divan, + which, in the darkness of the recess, was in complete obscurity. He had + barely time to draw the folds of the mantle about him, when a servant + entered, with noiseless step, and stood at a respectful distance, awaiting + what he believed to be his master's orders. + </p> + <p> + “Send the Sigñora,” muttered D'Esmonde, with the cloak folded across his + mouth, and then turned on his side. The servant bowed and retired. + </p> + <p> + D'Esmonde started up, and listened to the retiring footfalls, till they + were lost in distance, and then the strong pulsations of his own heart + seemed to mock their measured pace. “Would the stratagem succeed?” “Would + she come, and come alone?” were the questions which he asked himself, as + his clasped hands were clinched, and his lips quivered in strong emotion. + An unbroken stillness succeeded, so long that, to his aching senses, it + seemed like hours of time. At last a heavy door was heard to bang; + another, too,—now voices might be detected in the distance; then + came footsteps, it seemed, as of several people; and, lastly, these died + away, and he could mark the sweeping sounds of a female dress coming + rapidly along the corridor. The door opened and closed; she was in the + library, and appeared to be waiting. D'Esmonde gave a low, faint cough; + and now, hastily passing on, she entered the inner chamber, and, with + cautious steps traversing the darkened space, she knelt down beside the + couch. D'Esmonde's hand lay half uncovered, and on this now another hand + was gently laid. Not a word was uttered by either; indeed, their very + breathings seemed hushed into stillness. + </p> + <p> + If the secrets of hearts were open to us, what a history, what a life-long + experience lay in those brief moments! and what a conflict of passion + might be read in those two natures! A slight shudder shook D'Esmonde's + frame at the touch of that hand which so often had been clasped within his + own, long, long ago, and he raised it tenderly, and pressed it to his + lips. Then, passing his other arm around her, so as to prevent escape, he + said, but in a voice barely audible, the one word, “Lola!” + </p> + <p> + With a violent effort she tried to disengage herself from his grasp; and + although her struggles were great, not a cry, not a syllable escaped her. + “Hear me, Lola,” said D'Esmonde; “hear me with patience and with calm, if + not for my sake, for your own.” + </p> + <p> + “Unhand me, then,” said she, in a voice which, though low, was uttered + with all the vehemence of strong emotion. “I am not a prisoner beneath + this roof.” + </p> + <p> + “Not a prisoner, say you?” said D'Esmonde, as he locked the door, and + advanced towards her. “Can there be any bondage compared to this? Does the + world know of any slavery so debasing?” + </p> + <p> + “Dare to utter such words again, and I will call to my aid those who will + hurl you from that window,” said she, in the same subdued accents. “That + priestly robe will be but a poor defence here.” + </p> + <p> + “You'd scarcely benefit by the call, Lola,” said D'Esmonde, as he stole + one hand within the folds of his robe. + </p> + <p> + “Would you kill me?” cried she, growing deathly pale. + </p> + <p> + “Be calm, and hear me,” said the priest, as he pressed her down upon a + seat, and took one directly opposite to her. “It never could be my + purpose, Lola, to have come here either to injure or revile you. I may, + indeed, sorrow over the fall of one whose honorable ambitions might have + soared so high; I may grieve for a ruin that was so causeless; but, save + when anguish may wring from me a word of bitterness, I will not hurt your + ears, Lola. I know everything,—all that has happened; yet have I to + learn who counselled you to this flight.” + </p> + <p> + “Here was my adviser,——here!” said she, pressing her hand + firmly against her side. “My heart, bursting and indignant,——my + slighted affection,——my rejected love! you ask me this,——you, + who knew how I loved him.” + </p> + <p> + For some seconds her emotion overcame her, and, as she covered her face + with her hands, she swayed and rocked from side to side, like one in acute + bodily pain. + </p> + <p> + “I stooped to tell him all,—how I had thought and dreamed of him; + how followed his footsteps; sought out the haunts that he frequented, and + loved to linger in the places where he had been. I told him, too, of one + night when I had even ventured to seek him in his own chamber, and was + nearly detected by another who chanced to be there; my very dress was torn + in my flight. There was no confession too humiliating for my lips to + utter, nor my pen to trace; and what has been the return? But why do I + speak of these things to one whose heart is sealed against affection, and + whose nature rejects the very name of love? you will be a merciless judge, + Eustace!” + </p> + <p> + <a name="linkimage-0015" id="linkimage-0015"> + <!-- IMG --></a> <br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%;"> + <img src="images/00362.jpg" alt="00362" width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p> + “Go on; let me hear you out, Lola,” said the priest, gently. + </p> + <p> + “The tale is soon told,” rejoined she, hurriedly. “My letter reached him + on the eve of a great battle. The army, it appears, had been marching for + weeks, and suddenly came upon the enemy without expecting it. He told me + so much in about as many words, and said that he was passing what might, + perhaps, prove his last hours of life in replying to me. 'Outnumbered and + outmanoeuvred, nothing remains but to sell our lives dearly, and even in + our defeat make the name of Englishmen one of terror to our enemies.' So + he wrote, and so I could have read, with a swelling but not a breaking + heart, had he not added that, for my warm affection, my whole soul's + devotion, he had nothing but his friendship to give in return; that his + heart had long since been another's, and that, although she never could be + his, never in all likelihood know of his affection, he would die with her + name upon his lips, her image in his heart. 'It matters little,' added he, + 'in what channel flow the feelings of one, where to-morrow, in all + likelihood, the course will be dried up forever. Let me, however, with + what may be the last lines I shall ever write, thank you—nay, bless + you—for one passage of your letter, and the thought of which will + nerve my heart in the conflict now so near, and make me meet my last hour + with an unbroken spirit.' The mystery of these words I never could + penetrate, nor have I the slightest clew to their meaning. But why should + I care for them? Enough that I am slighted, despised, and rejected! This + letter came to my hands six weeks ago. I at once wrote to the Prince + Midchekoff, telling him that the woman he was about to marry loved, and + was loved, by another; that she entertained no feeling towards himself but + of dread and terror. I told him, too, that her very beauty would not + withstand the inroads of a sorrow that was corroding her heart He replied + to me, and I wrote again. I was now his confidante, and he told me all,——how + that he had addressed a formal demand to the Emperor for leave to marry, + and how he had taken safe measures to have his prayer rejected. Then came + the tidings of the Czar's refusal to Madame de Heidendorf, and <i>my</i> + triumph; for I told her, and to her face, that once more we were equals. + It was then, stung by this taunt, that she refused to travel with me, + refused to accept the splendid dowry to which her betrothal entitled her, + and demanded to be restored to her family and friends, poor as she had + left them. It was then that I resolved on this bold step. I had long been + learning the falsehood of what are called friends, and how he who would + achieve fortune must trust to himself alone. Midchekoff might not love me, + but there was much in my power to secure his esteem. My head could be as + fertile in schemes as his own. I had seen much and heard more. The petty + plottings of the Heidendorf and the darker counsels of the Abbé D'Esmonde + were all known to me—” + </p> + <p> + “You did not dare to write my name?” asked the priest, in a slow, + deliberate voice. + </p> + <p> + “And why should I not?” cried she, haughtily. “Is it fear, or is it + gratitude should hold my hand?” + </p> + <p> + “You forget the past, Lola, or you had never said these words.” + </p> + <p> + “I remember it but as a troubled dream, which I will not suffer to darken + my waking hours. At last I begin to live, and never till now have I known + the sensation of being above fear.” + </p> + <p> + “You told the Prince, then, of our relations together? You showed him my + letters and your own replies?” said D'Esmonde, as he fixed his dark eyes + upon her. + </p> + <p> + “All,—all!” said she, with a haughty smile. + </p> + <p> + “You, perhaps, told him that I had engaged you to write to me of all you + heard or saw at St Petersburg?” + </p> + <p> + “I said so, in a most unpolished phrase: I called myself a spy.” + </p> + <p> + “You were probably not less candid when designating your friends, Lola,” + said D'Esmonde, with a faint smile. “How, pray, did you name <i>me</i>?” + </p> + <p> + “It was a better word,——one of cutting reproach, believe me,” + said she. “I called you a 'priest,' sir; do you think there is another + epithet that can contain as much?” + </p> + <p> + “In the overflowing of those frank impulses, Lola, of course you spoke of + Norwood,—of Gerald Acton, I mean, as you may remember him better by + that name. You told the Prince of your marriage to this Englishman,—a + marriage solemnized by myself, and of which I retain the written + evidence.” + </p> + <p> + “With the falsehood that for a brief moment imposed upon myself, I would + not stoop to cheat another! No, Eustace, this may be priestcraft. To + outlive a deception, and then employ it; to tremble at a fallacy first, + and to terrorize by means of it after, is excellent Popery, but most sorry + womanhood!” + </p> + <p> + “Unhappy, wretched creature!” cried D'Esmonde; “where have you learned + these lessons?—who could have taught you this?” + </p> + <p> + “You,—and you alone, Eustace. In reading <i>your</i> nature I unread + my own faith. In seeing your falsehood, I learned to believe there was no + truth anywhere. I asked myself, what must be the religion if this man be + its interpreter?” + </p> + <p> + “Hold,——hold!” cried D'Esmonde, passionately. “It is not to + such as you I can render account of my actions, nor lay bare the secret + workings of my heart. Know this much, however, woman, and ponder over it + well; that if a man like me can make shipwreck of his whole nature, crush + his hopes, and blast his budding affections, the cause that exacts the + sacrifice must needs be holy. Bethink you that my goal is not like <i>yours</i>. + I have not plotted for a life of inglorious ease. I have not schemed to + win a pampered and voluptuous existence. It is not in a whirlwind of + passionate enjoyment I have placed the haven of my hopes. you see me—as + I have ever been—poor, meanly housed, and meanly fed; not repining + at my lot either, not deeming my condition a hard one. Why am I thus, + then? Are the prizes that worldly men contend for above <i>my</i> reach? + Am I the inferior of those who are carrying away the great rewards of + life? Where is the stain of falsehood in all this?” + </p> + <p> + “Were I to copy the picture and paint myself in the same colors,” said + Lola,——“were I to show what I have stooped to,—a scoff + and a shame!—how I neither faltered at a crime nor trembled before + exposure——all that I might be—what I now am—” + </p> + <p> + “The mistress of a Prince!” said D'Esmonde, with a contemptuous smile. + </p> + <p> + “Was it a prouder fortune when my lover was the serge-clad seminarist of + Salamanca?” said she, laughing scornfully. + </p> + <p> + “I linked you with a higher destiny, Lola,” said D'Esmonde, deliberately. + </p> + <p> + “Again you refer to this pretended marriage. But I put no faith in your + words; nor, were they even true, should they turn me from my path.” + </p> + <p> + “At least you should confirm your claim to his name and title,” said + D'Esmonde. “The rank you will thus attain will but strengthen your + position in the world; and they who would treat contemptuously the + Toridor's daughter will show every courtesy and deference to the English + peeress.” + </p> + <p> + “I will hazard nothing on your advice, priest!” said she, proudly. “I know + you as one who never counselled without a scheme of personal advantage. + This Acton has injured you. You desire his ruin; or, perhaps, some deep + intrigue awaits myself. It matters not; I will not aid you.” + </p> + <p> + “How you misjudge me, Lola!” said he, sorrowfully. “I meant by this act to + have repaired many an unconscious wrong, and to have vindicated an + affection which the troubled years of life have never been able to efface. + Amidst all the cares of great events, when moments are precious as days of + ordinary existence, I have come to offer you this last reparation. Think + well ere you reject it.” + </p> + <p> + “Not for an instant!” cried she, passionately. “Make weaker minds the + tools of your subtle artifices, and leave <i>me</i> to follow my own + career.” + </p> + <p> + “I will obey you,” said D'Esmonde, with an air of deep humility. “I ask + but one favor. As this meeting is unknown to all, never speak of it to + Midchekoff. My name need never pass your lips, nor shall my presence again + offend you. Adieu forever!” + </p> + <p> + Whether some passing pang of remorse shot through her heart, or that a + sudden sense of dread came across her, Lola stood unable to reply; and it + was only as he moved away towards the door that she found strength to say, + “Goodbye.” + </p> + <p> + “Let me touch that hand for the last time, Lola,” said he, advancing + towards her. + </p> + <p> + “No, no,—leave me!” cried she, with a sick shudder, and as though + his very approach suggested peril. + </p> + <p> + D'Esmonde bowed submissively, and passed out. With slow and measured steps + he traversed the alleys of the garden; but once outside the walls, he + hastened his pace. Descending the mountain with rapid strides, he gained + the road where the carriage waited in less than half an hour. + </p> + <p> + “To the city!” said he; and, throwing himself back in his seat, drew down + the blinds, while, with folded arms and closed eyes, he tasted of what + habit enabled him at any moment to command,—a refreshing sleep. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0027" id="link2HCH0027"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXVII. VALEGGIO. + </h2> + <p> + The little village of Valeggio, near the Lago di Guarda, was fixed upon as + the spot where the commissaries of both armies should meet to arrange on + the exchange of prisoners. It stood at about an equal distance from their + headquarters, and, although a poor and insignificant hamlet, was + conveniently situated for the purpose in hand. Soon after daybreak, the + stirring sounds of marching troops awoke the inhabitants, and a + half-squadron of Piedmontese lancers were seen to ride up the narrow + street, and, dismounting, to picket their horses in the little Piazza of + the market. Shortly after these came an equal number of Hungarian hussars, + “Radetzky's Own,” who drew up in the square before the church; each party + seeming carefully to avoid even a momentary contact with the other. + Several country carts and wagons lined the street, for a number of + prisoners had arrived the preceding evening, and taken up their quarters + in the village, who might now be seen projecting their pale faces and + bandaged heads from many a casement, and watching with eager curiosity all + that was going forward. About an hour later, an Austrian General, with his + staff, rode in from the Peschiera road, while, almost at the very instant, + a calèche with four horses dashed up from the opposite direction, + conveying the Piedmontese “Commissary.” + </p> + <p> + So accurately timed was the arrival, that they both drew up at the door of + the little inn together, and as the one dismounted, the other alighted + from his carriage. + </p> + <p> + The etiquette of precedence, so easily settled in the ordinary course of + events, becomes a matter of some difficulty at certain moments, and so the + two Generals seemed to feel it, as, while desirous of showing courtesy, + each scrupled at what might seem a compromise of his country's dignity. + </p> + <p> + The Austrian officer was a very old man, whose soldierlike air and + dignified deportment recalled the warriors of a past century. The other, + who was slighter and younger, exhibited an air of easy unconcern, rather + smacking of courts than camps, and vouching for a greater familiarity with + <i>salons</i> than with soldier life. + </p> + <p> + They uncovered and bowed respectfully to each other, and then stood, each + waiting, as it were, for the initiative of the other. + </p> + <p> + “After you, General,” said the younger, at length, and with a manner which + most courteously expressed the deference he felt for age. + </p> + <p> + “I must beg <i>you</i> to go first, sir,” replied the Austrian. “I stand + here on the territory of my master, and I see in you all that demands the + deference due to a guest.” + </p> + <p> + The other smiled slightly, but obeyed without a word; and, ascending the + stairs, was followed by the old General into the little chamber destined + for their conference. Slight and trivial as this incident was, it is worth + mention, as indicating the whole tone of the interview,—one + characterized by a proud insistence on one side, and a certain plastic + deference on the other. The Austrian spoke like one who felt authorized to + dictate his terms; while the Piedmontese seemed ready to acquiesce in and + accept whatever was proffered. The letters which accredited them to each + other lay open on the table; but as this preliminary conversation had not + assumed the formal tone of business, neither seemed to know the name or + title of the other. In fact, it appeared like a part of the necessary + etiquette that they were simply to regard each other as representatives of + two powers, neither caring to know or recognize any personal claims. + </p> + <p> + Lists of names were produced on both sides. Master-rolls of regiments, + showing the precise ranks of individuals, and their standing in the + service, all arranged with such care and accuracy as to show that the + conference itself was little more than a formality. A case of brevet-rank, + or the accident of a staff appointment, might now and then call for a + remark or an explanation, but, except at these times, the matter went on + in a mere routine fashion; a mark of a pencil sufficing to break a + captivity, and change the whole fate of a fellow-man! + </p> + <p> + “Our task is soon ended, sir,” said the Austrian, rising at last. “It + would seem that officers on both sides prefer death to captivity in this + war.” + </p> + <p> + “The loss has been very great indeed,” said the other. “The peculiar + uniform of your officers, so distinct from their men, has much exposed + them.” + </p> + <p> + “They met their fate honorably, at least, sir; they wore the colors of + their Emperor.” + </p> + <p> + “Very true, General,” replied the other, “and I will own to you our + surprise at the fact that there have been no desertions, except from the + ranks. The popular impression was, that many of the Hungarians would have + joined the Italian cause. It was even said whole regiments would have gone + over.” + </p> + <p> + “It was a base calumny upon a faithful people and a brave soldiery,” said + the other. “I will not say that such a falsehood may not have blinded + their eyes against their truth in their national struggle,—the love + of country might easily have been used to a base and treacherous purpose,—but + here, in this conflict, not a man will desert the cause of the Emperor!” + The emotion in which he spoke these words was such that he was obliged to + turn away his face to conceal it. + </p> + <p> + “Your words have found an illustration amongst the number of our wounded + prisoners, General,” said the other—“a young fellow who, it was + said, broke his arrest to join the struggle at Goito, but whose name or + rank we never could find out, for, before being taken, he had torn every + mark of his grade from cuff and collar!” + </p> + <p> + “You know his regiment, perhaps?” + </p> + <p> + “It is said to be Prince Paul of Würtemberg's.” + </p> + <p> + “What is he like,—what may be his age?” asked the General, hastily. + </p> + <p> + “To pronounce from appearance, he is a mere boy,—brown-haired and + blue-eyed, and wears no moustache.” + </p> + <p> + “Where is he, sir?” asked the old man, with a suppressed emotion. + </p> + <p> + “In this very village. He was forwarded here last night by a special order + of the Duke of Savoy, who has taken a deep interest in his fate, and + requested that I should take measures, while restoring him, without + exchange, to mention the signal bravery of his conduct.” + </p> + <p> + “The Duke's conduct is worthy of a soldier Prince!” said the General, with + feeling, “and, in my master's name, I beg to thank him.” + </p> + <p> + “The youth is at the temporary hospital, but knows nothing of these + arrangements for his release. Perhaps the tidings will come more + gratefully to his ears from his own countryman.” + </p> + <p> + “It is kindly spoken, sir. May I have the honor of knowing the name of one + who has made this interview so agreeable by his courtesy?” + </p> + <p> + “My name at this side of the Alps, General, is Count de Valetta; but I + have another and better known designation, before I pronounce which, I + would gladly enlist in my favor whatever I might of yonr good opinion.” + </p> + <p> + “All this sounds like a riddle to me, Signor Conte,” said the General, + “and I am but a plain man, little skilled at unravelling a difficulty.” + </p> + <p> + “I am addressing the General Count von Auersberg,” said the other. “Well, + sir, it was hearing that you were the officer selected for this duty that + induced me to ask I might be appointed also. I have been most anxious to + meet you, and, in the accidents of a state of war, knew not how to compass + my object.” + </p> + <p> + The old General bowed politely, and waited, with all patience, for further + enlightenment. + </p> + <p> + “My desire for this meeting. General, proceeds from my wish to exculpate + myself from what may seem to have been an unqualified wrong done to a + member of your family. I am Prince Alexis Midchekoff.” + </p> + <p> + Auersberg started from his chair at the words, and bent a look of angry + indignation at the speaker,—an expression which the Russian bore + with the very calmest unconcern. + </p> + <p> + “If I am to resume this explanation,” said he, coldly, “it must be when + you have reseated yourself, and will condescend to hear me suitably.” + </p> + <p> + “And who is to be my guarantee, sir, that I am not to listen to an + insult?” cried the old General, passionately. “I see before me the man who + has outraged the honor of my house. You know well, sir, the customs of + your nation, and that you had no right to accept a lady's hand in + betrothal without the permission of your Emperor.” + </p> + <p> + “I was certain to obtain it,” was the calm answer. + </p> + <p> + “So certain that it has been refused,——peremptorily, flatly + refused.” + </p> + <p> + “Very true, General. The refusal came at my own especial request. Nay, + sir, I need not tell you these words convey no insulting meaning,—but + hear me patiently, before you pronounce. The facts are briefly these. It + came to my knowledge that this young lady's acceptance of me proceeded + entirely from considerations of fortune,—that she had been greatly + influenced by others, and strongly urged to do that which might, at the + sacrifice of herself, benefit her family. These considerations were not + very flattering to me personally; but I should have overlooked them, + trusting to time and fortune for the result, had I not also learnt that + her affections were bestowed upon another,——a young + Englishman, with whom she had been for some time domesticated, whose + picture she possessed, and from whom she had received letters.” + </p> + <p> + “Am I to take this assertion on trust?” cried the General. + </p> + <p> + “By no means, sir. This is the picture, and here is one of the letters. I + know not if there have been many others, nor can I say whether she has + replied to them. It was enough for me that I discovered I had no claim on + her affection, and that our marriage would bring only misery on both + sides. To have disclosed these facts before the world would of course have + exculpated me, but have injured <i>her</i>. I therefore took what I deemed + a more delicate course, and, by providing for the Imperial refusal, I + solved a difficulty that must otherwise have involved her in deep + reproach.” The Prince waited some seconds for the General to speak; but + the old man stood like one stunned and stupefied, unable to utter a word. + At last Midchekoff resumed: “My master fixed a sum of eighty thousand + roubles to which I at once assented, as a settlement on Mademoiselle de + Dalton; but this, I grieve to say, she has peremptorily rejected.” + </p> + <p> + “Has she——has she done this?” cried the old Count. “Then, by + St. Stephen! she is my own dear child forever; come what may, there is no + disgrace can attach to her.” + </p> + <p> + “I had hoped, sir,” said Midchekoff, “that you might have seen this matter + as I did, and that I might have counted on your advocating what is simply + a measure of justice.” + </p> + <p> + “I know little of the extent to which money reparations can atone for + injured feelings or wounded honor. My life has never supplied even a + single lesson on that score. All I see here is, an injury on either side. + <i>Your</i> fault, I think, has been properly expiated; and as for <i>hers</i>, + I want no other justification than what you have told me. Now, where is + she? When may I see her?” + </p> + <p> + “I had given orders for her return to Vienna, with the intention of + placing her under your charge; but some mistake has occurred, and her + departure has been delayed. A second courier has, however, been + despatched, and ere this she will have left St. Petersburg.” + </p> + <p> + “You have acted well throughout, Prince,” said the old General, “and I + shall owe you my gratitude for the remainder of my life; not for the + delicacy of your reserve, still less for the generous character of your + intentions, but because you have shown me that this girl has a highhearted + sense of honor, and is a thorough Dalton.” The old man's eyes filled up + with tears, and he had to turn away to hide his emotion. + </p> + <p> + Midchekoff rose to withdraw, affecting to busy himself with the papers on + the table, while Auersberg was recovering his self-possession. This did + not, however, seem an easy task; for the old General, forgetting + everything save Kate, leaned his head on his hands, and was lost in + thought. + </p> + <p> + The Prince respected his emotion, and withdrew in silence. + </p> + <p> + So much was the old General von Auersberg absorbed in his interest for + Kate, that he had not a thought to bestow upon the immediate affairs + before him. It was scarcely a few weeks since he had received a few lines + from herself, telling of the Emperor's refusal, and asking for his advice. + It needed all his long-pledged devotion to monarchy to enable him to read + the lines without an outbreak of passion; and his first impulse was to + seek out the man who had so grossly insulted his house, and challenge him + to single combat. Later reflection showed him that this would be to + arraign the conduct of the Emperor, and to call in question the judgment + of a crowned head. While agitated by these opposite considerations, there + came another and scarcely less sad epistle to his hand; and if the writer + was wanting in those claims to station and rank which had such hold upon + his heart, her touching words and simple style moved him to emotions that + for many a year seemed to have slept within him. + </p> + <p> + It was Nelly's account of her father's death, told in her own unpretending + words, and addressed to one whom she recognized as the head of her house. + She dwelt with gratitude on the old Count's kindness, and said how often + her father had recurred to the thought of his protection and guidance to + Frank, when the time should come that would leave him fatherless. It + seemed as if up to this point she had written calmly and collectedly, + expressing herself in respectful distance to one so much above her. No + sooner, however, had she penned Frank's name, than all this reserve gave + way before the gushing torrent of her feelings, and she proceeded:—— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “And oh! sir, is not the hour come when that protection is + needed? Is not my poor brother a prisoner, charged with a + terrible offence—no less than treason to his Emperor? You, + who are yourself a great soldier, can say if such is like to + be the crime of one well born, generous, and noble as Frank, + whose heart ever overflowed to all who served him, and who, + in all the reckless buoyancy of youth, never forgot his + honor. Crafty and designing men—if such there may have been + around him—might possibly have thrown their snares over + him; but no persuasion nor seductions could have made him a + traitor. 'See what the Kaiser has made Count Stephen!' were + some of the last lines he ever wrote to me, 'and, perhaps, + one day, another Dalton will stand as high in the favor of + his master.' His whole heart and soul were in his soldier + life. You, sir, were his guide-star, and, thinking of you, + how could he have dreamed of disloyalty? They tell me that + in troubled times like these, when many have faltered in + their allegiance, such accusations are rarely well inquired + into, and that courts-martial deal peremptorily with the + prisoners; but you will not suffer mv brother to be thus + tried and judged. You will remember that he is a stranger + in that land, an orphan, a mere boy, too; friendless,—no, + no, not friendless, forgive me the ungracious word; he who + bears your name, and carries in his veins your blood, cannot + be called friendless.. you will say, perhaps, how defend + him?—how reply to charges which will be made with all the + force of witness and circumstance? I answer, hear his own + story of himself; he never told a lie—remember that, Count- + -from his infancy upwards! we, who lived with and about him, + know that he never told a lie! If the accusation be just— + and oh! may God avert this calamity—Frank will say so. He + will tell how and when and why this poison of disaffection + entered his heart; he will trace out his days of temptation + and struggle and fall, without a shadow of concealment; and + if this sad time is to come, even then do not desert him. + Bethink you of his boyhood, his warm, ardent nature, burning + for some field of glorious enterprise, and dazzled by + visions of personal distinction. How could he judge the + knotted questions which agitate the deepest minds of great + thinkers? A mere pretence, a well-painted scene of + oppression or sufferance, might easily enlist the sympathies + of a boy whose impulses have more than once made him bestow + on the passing beggar the little hoardings of weeks. And + yet, with all these, he is not guilty,—I never can believe + that he could be! Oh, sir, you know not, as I know, how + treason in him would be like a living falsehood; how the act + of disloyalty would be the utter denial of all those dreams + of future greatness which, over our humble fireside, were + his world! To serve the Kaiser,—the same gracious master + who had rewarded and ennobled our great kinsman,—to win + honors and distinctions that should rival his; to make our + ancient name hold a high place in the catalogue of + chivalrous soldiers,—these were Frank's ambitions. If you + but knew how we, his sisters, weak and timid girls, seeking + the quiet paths of life, where our insignificance might + easiest be shrouded,—if you knew how we grew to feel the + ardor that glowed in his heart, and actually caught up the + enthusiasm that swelled the young soldier's bosom! you have + seen the world well and long; and, I ask, is this the clay + of which traitors are fashioned? Be a father to him, then, + who has none; and may God let you feel all the happiness a + child's affection can bestow in return! “We are a sad + heritage, Sir Count! for I now must plead for another, not + less a prisoner than my poor brother. Kate is in a durance + which, if more splendid, is sad as his. The ceremony of + betrothal—which, if I am rightly told, is a mere + ceremonial—has consigned her to a distant land and a life + of dreary seclusion. There is no longer a reason for this. + The sacrifice that she was willing to make can now confer no + benefit on him who sleeps in the churchyard. The Prince has + shown towards her a degree of indifference which will well + warrant this breach. There was no affection on either + side, and it would be but to ratify a falsehood to pledge + fidelity. You alone have influence to effect this. She will + hear your counsels, and follow them with respect, and the + Prince will scarcely oppose what his conduct seems to favor. + This done, Sir Count, let Kate be your daughter; and oh! in + all the glory of your great successes, what have you gained + to compare with this? She loves you already—she has told me + of the affectionate gentleness of your manner, the charm of + your chivalrous sentiments, and a nobility marked by every + word and every gesture. Think, then, of the untaught + devotion of such a child—your own by blood and adoption— + loving, tending, and ministering to you. Think of the proud + beating of your heart as she leans upon your arm, and think + of the happiness, as she throws around your solitary + fireside all the charm of a home! How seldom is it that + generosity doubles itself in its reward, but here it will be + so. You will be loved, and you will be happy. With two such + children, guided by your influence and elevated by your + example, what would be your happiness, and what their + fortune?” + </pre> + <p> + In all these pleadings for those she loved so dearly, no allusion ever was + made by her to her own condition. A few lines at the very end of the + letter were all that referred to herself. They were couched in words of + much humility, excusing herself for the boldness of the appeal she had + made, and apologizing for the hardihood with which it might be said she + had urged her request. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “But you will forgive—you have already forgiven me, Sir + Count,” wrote she; “my unlettered style and my trembling + fingers have shown you that this task must have lain near to + my heart, or I had not dared to undertake it. My life has + been spent in a sphere of humble duties and humble + companionship. How easily, then, may I have transgressed the + limits of the deference that should separate us! I can but + answer for my own heart, within which there exists towards + you but the one feeling of devotion—deep and hopeful. + + “If in your kindness you should ever bestow a thought upon + me, you will like to know that I am well and happy. Too + lowly in condition, too rude in manners, to share the + fortune of those I love so dearly, I would yet delight to + hear of and from them, to know that they still bear me in + their affection, and think with fondness on poor lame Nelly. + Even the blessing of their presence would not repay me for + the wrong I should do them by my companionship, for I am a + peasant girl as much from choice as nature. Still, the + sister's heart throbs strongly within the coarse bodice, + and, as I sit at my work, Frank and Kate will bear me + company and cheer my solitary hours. + + “My humble skill is amply sufficient to supply all my wants, + were they far greater than habit has made them. I live in a + land dear to me by associations of thought and feeling, + surrounded by those of a condition like my own, and who love + and regard me. I am not without my share of duties, too,—— + your kindness would not wish more for me. Farewell, then, + Sir Count. Your high-hearted nature has taught you to tread + a lofty path in life, and strive—and with great success— + for the great rewards of merit. It will be a pleasure to you + yet to know that in this country of your adoption there are + humble prizes for humble aspirants, and that one of these + has fallen to the lot of + + “Nelly Dalton. + + “Any letter addressed 'To the care of Andreas Brennen, Juden + Gasse, Innspruck,' will reach me safely. I need not say with + what gratitude I should receive it.” + </pre> + <p> + Such were the lines which reached the old Count's hand on the very day he + set out with his detachment for Vienna. Overcome by shame and sorrow at + what he believed to be Frank Dalton's treason, he had demanded of the + Minister of War his own act of retirement from the army, and for some + months had passed a life of privacy in a little village on the Styrian + frontier. The wide-spread disaffection of the Austrian provinces, the open + revolt of Prague, the more than threatening aspect of Hungary, and the + formidable struggle then going on in Lombardy, had called back into active + life almost all the retired servants of the monarchy. To give way to + private grief at such a moment seemed like an act of disloyalty, and, + throwing off every mere personal consideration, the old soldier repaired + to the capital, and presented himself at the levée of the Archduke Joseph. + He was received with enthusiasm. Covered with years as he was, no man + enjoyed more of the confidence and respect of the soldiery, who regarded + him as one tried and proved by the great wars of the Empire,—a + Colonel of Wagram was both a patriarch and a hero. It was of great + consequence, too, at that precise conjuncture, to rally round the throne + all that were distinguished for fealty and devotion. He was immediately + appointed to the command of a division of the army, and ordered to set out + for Italy. + </p> + <p> + The complicated nature of the politics of the period, the mixture of just + demand and armed menace, the blending up of fair and reasonable + expectations with impracticable or impossible concessions, had so + disturbed the minds of men that few were able, by their own unaided + judgment, to distinguish on which side lay right and justice; nor was it + easy, from the changeful councils of the monarch, to know whether the + loyalty of to-day might not be pronounced treason to-morrow. Many of the + minor movements of the time—even the great struggle of the + Hungarians—originated in a spontaneous burst of devotion to the + Emperor,—to be afterwards converted by the dark and wily policy of + an unscrupulous leader into open rebellion. No wonder, then, if in such + difficult and embarrassing circumstances, many strayed unconsciously from + the paths of duty,—some misled by specious dreams of nationality, + others from sympathy with what they thought the weaker party; and others, + again, by the force of mere companionship or contact. In this way few + families were to be found where one or more had not joined the patriotic + party, and all the ties of affection were weak in comparison with the + headlong force of popular enthusiasm. The old General von Auersberg knew + nothing of these great changes; no news of them had reached his + retirement; so that when he rejoined the army he was shocked to see how + many had fallen away and deserted from the ancient standard of the Kaiser. + Many a high name and many an ancient title were more than suspected + amongst the Hungarian nobility; while in Italy they who most largely + enjoyed the confidence of the Government were to be found in the ranks of + the insurgents. + </p> + <p> + It might be supposed that these things would have in some degree + reconciled the old Count to the imputed treason of his nephew, and that he + would have found some consolation at least in the generality of the + misfortune. Not so, however. His mind viewed the matter in a different + light. He was willing to concede much to mistaken feelings of nationality, + and to associations with a time of former independence; but these motives + could have no relation to one who came into the service as he himself and + Frank did,—soldiers by the grace and favor of the Emperor. + </p> + <p> + The blot this treason left upon his name was then a sore affliction to one + whose whole aim in life had been to transmit an honorable reputation and + an unshaken fidelity behind him. His reasoning was thus: “<i>We</i> have + no claims of ancient services to the monarchy to adduce,——<i>our</i> + ancestors never proved their devotion to the House of Hapsburg in times + past,—we must be taken for what our own deeds stamp us.” With this + decisive judgment he was ready to see Frank delivered before a court, + tried and sentenced, without offering one word in his behalf. “This done,” + thought he, “it remains but for me to show that I have made the only + expiation in my power, and paid with my heart's blood for another's + fault.” + </p> + <p> + Such was the resolve with which he crossed the Alps,—a resolve + defeated for the moment by discovering that Frank was no longer a + prisoner, but had made his escape in some unexplained manner on the + eventful day of Goito. + </p> + <p> + This disappointment, and the still sadder tidings of the Emperor's + withheld permission to Kate's marriage, came to his ears the same day,—the + most sorrowful, perhaps, of his whole life. His honorable fame as a + soldier tarnished, his high ambition for a great alliance dashed by + disappointment, he fell back for consolation upon poor Nelly's letter. The + weak point of his character had ever been a dread of what he called his + Irish cousins; the notion that his successes and supposed wealth would + draw upon him a host of hungry and importunate relatives, eager to profit + by the hard-won honors of his unaided career. And although year after year + rolled on, and no sign was made, nor any token given, that he was + remembered in the land of his forefathers, the terror was still fresh in + his mind; and when at last Peter Dalton's letter reached him, he read the + lines in a torrent of anger,—the accumulation of long years of + anticipation. Nelly's epistle was a complete enigma to him. She was + evidently unprotected, and yet not selfish; she was in the very humblest + circumstances, and never asked for assistance; she was feelingly alive to + every sorrow of her brother and sister, and had not one thought for her + own calamities. What could all this mean?—was it any new phase or + form of supplication, or was it really that there did exist one in the + world whose poverty was above wealth, and whose simple nature was more + exalted than rank or station? + </p> + <p> + With all these conflicting thoughts, and all the emotions which succeeded + to the various tidings he had heard, the old Count sat overwhelmed by the + cares that pressed upon him; nor was it for some hours after Midchekoff's + departure that he could rally his faculties to be “up and doing.” + </p> + <p> + The buzz and murmur of voices in an outer room first recalled him to + active thought, and he learned that several officers, recently exchanged, + had come to offer their thanks for his kind intervention. The duty, which + was a mere ceremony, passed over rapidly, and he was once more alone, when + he heard the slow and heavy tread of a foot ascending the stairs, one by + one, stopping at intervals, too, as though the effort was one of great + labor. Like the loud ticking of a clock to the watchful ears of sickness, + there was something in the measured monotony of the sounds that grated and + jarred his irritated nerves, and he called out harshly: + </p> + <p> + “Who comes there?” + </p> + <p> + No answer was returned; and, after a pause of a few seconds, the same + sound recurred. + </p> + <p> + “Who's there?” cried the old man, louder; and a faint, inaudible attempt + at reply followed. + </p> + <p> + And now, provoked by the interruption, he arose to see the cause; when the + door slowly opened, and Frank stood before him, pale and bloodless, with + one arm in a sling, and supporting himself on a stick with the other. His + wasted limbs but half filled his clothes; while in his lustreless eye and + quivering lip there seemed the signs of coming death. + </p> + <p> + With an instinct of kindness, the old General drew out a chair and pressed + the poor boy down upon it. The youth kissed the hand as it touched him, + and then heaved a heavy sigh. + </p> + <p> + “This exertion was unfit for you, my poor boy,” said the Count, kindly. + “They should not have permitted you to leave your bed.” + </p> + <p> + “It was my fault, not theirs, General. I heard that you were about to + leave the village without coming to the hospital, and I thought, as + perhaps——,” here his voice faltered, and a gulping fulness of + the throat seemed almost to choke him—“that as, perhaps, we might + never meet again in this world, I ought to make one effort to see you, and + tell you that I am not, nor ever was, a traitor!” + </p> + <p> + <a name="linkimage-0016" id="linkimage-0016"> + <!-- IMG --></a> <br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%;"> + <img src="images/00380.jpg" alt="00380" width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p> + As though the effort had exhausted all “his strength, his arms dropped as + he said the words; his head fell forward, and he would have fallen to the + ground had not the old General caught him in his arms. + </p> + <p> + “You are too weak, too ill for all this, my poor fellow.” said the Count, + as he held the boy's hand in his own, and gazed affectionately at him. + </p> + <p> + “True, ever true,” muttered the youth, with half-closed lids. + </p> + <p> + “I will hear all this when you are better, Frank; when you are strong, and + able to declare it manfully and openly. I will bless you, with my heart's + warmest blessing, for the words that restore us both to fair fame and + honor; but you must not speak more now.” + </p> + <p> + The boy bent his head in token of submission, but never spoke. + </p> + <p> + “It will be the proudest hour of my life, Frank, when you can throw off + this reproach, and stand forth a thorough Dalton, unshaken in truth and + honor. But, to do this, you must be calm and quiet now,—not speak, + nor even think of these things. You shall remain with me.” + </p> + <p> + Here the boy's tears fell upon the old man's hand. For a second or two not + a word was spoken. At last he went on,—— + </p> + <p> + “Yes; you shall not leave me from this hour. Our fortunes are the same. + With you it remains to show that we are worthy soldiers of our Kaiser.” + </p> + <p> + Frank pressed the old Count's hand upon his heart, as though to call its + very pulses to bear witness to his fealty. This simple action seemed to + have exhausted his last energy, for he now sank back in his chair and + fainted. + </p> + <p> + The excitement he had gone through appeared to have utterly prostrated + him, for he now lay for hours motionless and unconscious. Except a heavy + sigh at long intervals, he gave no sign of life; and the surgeons, having + exhausted all their resources to stimulate him, gave but faint hope of his + recovery. They who only knew the old Count as the stern soldier, bold, + abrupt, and peremptory, could not conceive by what magic he had been + changed into a mould of almost womanly tenderness. There was no care he + did not bestow on the sick youth. The first surgeons of the Staff were + sent for, and all that skill and affection could suggest were enlisted in + his service. The case, however, was of gloomy presage. It was the relapse + fever after a wound, aggravated by mental causes of deep influence. + </p> + <p> + The greatest sympathy was felt for the old Count's position. His comrades + came or sent frequently to him. Kind messages reached him from quarters + wherein once lay all his pride and glory; and a young archduke came + himself to offer his new litter to convey Frank to Verona, where the + Imperial headquarters were stationed. These were the very flatteries which + once Von Auersberg would have prized above all that wealth could give; + these were the kind of recognitions by which he measured his own career in + life, making him to feel where he stood; but now one grief had so absorbed + him he scarcely noticed them. He could not divest his mind, either, of the + thought that the boy's fate was intended as a judgment on himself for his + own cold and ungenerous treatment of him. “I forgot,” would he say to + himself,——“I forgot that he was not a castaway like myself. I + forgot that the youth had been trained up amidst the flow of affectionate + intercourse, loving and beloved, and I compared his position with my own.” + </p> + <p> + And such was in reality the very error he committed. He believed that by + subjecting Frank to all the hard rubs which once had been his own fate he + was securing the boy's future success; forgetting the while how widely + different were their two natures, and that the affections which are + moulded by habits of family association are very unlike the temperament of + one unfriended and unaided, seeking his fortune with no other guidance + than a bold heart and strong will. The old Count was not the only one, nor + will he be the last, to fall into this mistake; and it may be as well to + take a warning from his error, and learn that for success in the remote + and less trodden paths of life the warm affections that attach to home and + family are sad obstacles. + </p> + <p> + It was ten days before Frank could be removed, and then he was carried in + a litter, arriving in Verona on the fourth day. From his watchful cares + beside the sick-bed, the old General was now summoned to take part in the + eventful councils of the period. A great and momentous crisis had arrived, + and the whole fate, not only of Austria, but of Europe, depended on the + issue. The successes of the Italian arms had been, up to this point, if + not decisive, at least sufficiently important to make the result a + question of doubt. If the levies contributed by the States of the Church + and Tuscany were insignificant in a warlike point of view, they were most + expressive signs of popular feeling at least. Austria, besides, was + assailed on every flank, with open treason in her capital; and the troops + which might have conquered Lombardy were marching northward on Prague, or + turning eastward towards Hungary. It then became a grave question whether, + even at the cost of the whole Milanais, a peace should not be at once + concluded, and Austria merely stipulate for certain commercial advantages, + and the undisturbed possession of the Venetian States. If the more + dispassionate heads that rule cabinets saw wisdom in this plan, the warmer + and less calculating hearts of soldiers deemed it a base humiliation. Long + accustomed to treat the Italians with a haughty contempt, they could not + endure the thought of recognizing them as equals, not to say superiors. + There were thus two parties in the Council,——the one eager for + a speedy termination of the war, and the other burning to erase the memory + of late defeats, and win back the fair provinces of their Emperor. To such + an extent had this spirit of discordance at last gone, that the cabinet + orders of Vienna were more than once overruled at headquarters, and the + very decrees of the Government slighted by the commander-in-chief. It was + a time of independent will and personal responsibility; and probably to + this accident is owing the salvation of the Imperial House. + </p> + <p> + At last, when the sympathies of France and England with the cause of Italy + became more than a mere suspicion, when troops marched southward towards + the Alps, and diplomatic messages traversed Europe, counselling, in all + the ambiguous courtesy of red tape, “wise and reasonable concessions to + the fair demands of a people,” the cabinet of Vienna hastily despatched an + envoy to Lombardy, with orders to concert with the generals, and treat for + a peace. + </p> + <p> + Had a squadron of the enemy dashed through the streets of Verona, they + could not have created one half the dismay that did the arrival of the + calèche which conveyed the Imperial Commissioner. The old Field-Marshal + had just returned from a review of the troops, who, as usual when he + appeared, were wild with enthusiasm, when an officer of his staff + announced the presence of the envoy, and in a low whisper added the object + of his mission. A council was speedily called, and Von Auersberg specially + invited to be present and assist in its deliberations. + </p> + <p> + The discussion lasted several hours; and, however unshaken in hope and + resolute in will the old Marshals of the Empire, they found themselves no + match in argument for the wily civilian, who, displaying before them the + financial embarrassments of the State, showed that war implied bankruptcy, + and that even victory might mean ruin. The great questions of Imperial + policy, which in their zeal they had overlooked, were strongly pressed + upon them; and that public opinion of Europe, which they had only fancied + a bugbear and a mockery, was represented as the formidable expression of + the great family of mankind, on the conduct of one of its own members. + With all this it was no easy task to reconcile a bold soldier, at the head + of a splendid army, to retire from the field, to confess himself beaten, + and to acknowledge defeat, with an assured sense of victory in his heart + The evening closed in, and still they sat in debate. Some had exchanged + opposition for a dogged and cold silence; others had modified their views + to a kind of half-concession; while a few rallied round their old chief, + with a mistaken determination to have one more dash at the enemy should + the peace be ratified on the day after. It would seem as if the + Commissioner had been fully prepared for every phase of this opposition. + He combated every argument in turn, and addressed himself with readiness + to every objection that was offered. At last, when in a burst of + mortification and anger the old Field-Marshal arose from the table, and + declared that, come what might, it should never be said that <i>he</i> had + lost the provinces of his master, the other stole close beside him, and + whispered a few words in his ear. The old man started; his rugged, + weather-beaten face twitched with a short, convulsive movement, and he + threw himself down into a chair, with a muttered oath on his lips. + </p> + <p> + There was now a dead silence in the chamber. Every eye was turned + stealthily towards the old General, by whose counsels they were wont to be + guided; but he never spoke a word, and sat with his hands resting on his + sword-hilt, the rattle of the scabbard against the belt, as it shook + beneath his hand, being the only sound heard. + </p> + <p> + They are dreadful moments in life when men of high and daring courage see + the trust they have long reposed in bold and vigorous measures rejected, + and in its stead wily and crafty counsels adopted and followed. This was + such a moment; and the old warriors, tried in many a battle-field, + scarcely dared to meet each other's eyes, from very shame and sorrow. It + was just then that the sharp, quick trot of horses was heard from without, + and the jingling sound of bells announced a post-carriage. Scarcely had it + stopped, when an aide-de-camp entered, and whispered a few words to the + Field-Marshal. + </p> + <p> + “No, no,” said the old man, peevishly; “we are marching on to dishonor + fast enough. We want no priestly aid to hasten our steps.” + </p> + <p> + The young officer appeared to hesitate, and still lingered in the chamber. + </p> + <p> + “It is your friend, the Abbé, has arrived,” said the General, addressing + the Commissioner; “and I have said we can dispense with his arguments. He + can add little to what you have so ably spoken; and if we are to depose + our arms, let it be at the bidding of our Emperor, and not at the beck of + a priest.” + </p> + <p> + “But D'Esmonde must have come from the south,” interposed the civilian; + “he may have some tidings worth hearing.” + </p> + <p> + “Let him come in, then,” said the Field-Marshal, abruptly; and the officer + retired. + </p> + <p> + D'Esmonde had scarcely passed the threshold when his quick, keen glance + around the room revealed to him the nature of their gloomy counsels. A + dogged look of submission sat on every face, and the wily priest read in + their fallen countenances all the bitterness of defeat. + </p> + <p> + The stern coldness of the reception that met him never abashed the Abbé in + the least; and he made his compliments to the principal personages of the + council with a <i>suave</i> dignity the very opposite to their uncourteous + manner. Even when he had completed the little circle of his attentions, + and stood in expectation of a request to be seated, his air was calm and + unembarrassed, although not a word, or even a gesture, gave the + invitation. All felt that this should come from the Field-Marshal himself, + and none dared to usurp the prerogative of his rank. Too deeply lost in + his own brooding thoughts to attend to anything else, the old General sat + still, with his head bent down over the hilt of his sabre. + </p> + <p> + “His Holiness commissions me to greet you, Herr Feld-Marshal,” said the + Abbé, in a low, soft voice, “and to say that those ancient medals you once + spoke of shall be speedily transmitted to your palace at Milan.” + </p> + <p> + “My palace at Milan, sir!” exclaimed the old man, fiercely. “When shall I + see that city again? Ask that gentleman yonder, who has just arrived from + Vienna, what the cabinet counsels are; he will tell you the glorious + tidings that the army will read to-morrow in a general order!” + </p> + <p> + “I have later news than even <i>his</i>!” said the Abbé, coolly seating + himself at the table, and placing a roll of papers before him. “Baron + Brockhausen,” said he, addressing the Commissioner, “if I mistake not, + left Vienna on the ninth, reached Innspruck the eleventh, stayed there + till the evening of the thirteenth, and only reached here some hours ago. + The Prime Minister, consequently, was unaware that, on the tenth, General + Durando was recalled by the Pope; that on the evening of the same day Pepe + received a similar order from the King of Naples; that the Tuscan levies + and the Polish legion have been remanded; and that Piedmont stands alone + in the contest, with a disorganized army and divided counsels. These,” + said he, pointing to the letters before him,—“these are copies of + the documents I refer to, you will see from these that the right flank of + the Piedmontese army is open and unprotected; that, except the banditti of + Rome and Tuscany, there are no troops between this and Ferrara; and if the + reinforcements that are now halted in the Tyrol be but hurried down, a + great and decisive blow may be dealt at once.” + </p> + <p> + “Bey'm Blitzen! you ought to have been a general of brigade, priest!” + cried the old Field-Marshal, as he clasped his hand in both his own, and + pressed it with delight. “These are the noblest words I have heard to-day. + Gentlemen,” said he, rising, “there is little more for a council to do. + You will return at once to your several brigades. Schrann's eight + battalions of infantry, with two of Feld-Jagers, to hold themselves in + readiness to march to-morrow; the Reuse Hussars to form escort to the + light artillery on the Vicenza road; all the other cavalry to take up + position to the right, towards Peschiera.” + </p> + <p> + “This means a renewal of hostilities, then?” said the Commissioner. + </p> + <p> + “It means that I will win back the provinces of my Emperor. Let him + dispose of them after as he pleases.” And so saying, he left the room, + followed by the other officers. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0028" id="link2HCH0028"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXVIII. PLOTS, POLITICS, AND PRIESTCRAFT. + </h2> + <p> + It would conduce but little to the business of our story were we to follow + the changeful fortunes of the war, and trace the current of events which + marked that important campaign. The struggle itself is already well known; + the secret history of the contest has yet to be written. We have hinted at + some of the machinations which provoked the conflict; we have shown the + deep game by which Democracy was urged on to its own destruction; and, by + the triumph of Absolutism, the return of the Church to her ancient rule + provided and secured; we have vaguely shadowed out the dark wiles by which + freedom and anarchy were inseparably confounded, and the cause of liberty + was made to seem the denial of all religion. It would take us too far away + from the humble track of our tale were we to dwell on this theme, or stop + to adduce the various evidences of the truth of our assumption. We pass + on, therefore, and leave D'Esmonde the task of chronicling some of the + results of that memorable period. + </p> + <p> + The letter, from which we propose to make some extracts was addressed, + like his former one, to his Irish correspondent, and opened with a kind of + thanksgiving over the glorious events of the preceding few weeks, wherein + victory succeeded victory, and the Austrians once again became the masters + of haughty Milan. We pass over the exulting description the Abbé gave of + the discord and dissension in the Patriotic ranks; the reckless charges of + treachery made against Carlo Alberto himself, for not undertaking the + defence of a city destitute of everything; and the violent insubordination + of the Lombards as the terrible hour of their retribution drew nigh. We + have not space for his graphic narrative of the King's escape from Milan, + protected by an Austrian escort, against the murderous assaults of + fellow-patriots. These facts are all before the world; nor would it + contribute to their better understanding were we to adduce the partisan + zeal with which the priest detailed them. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “The struggle, you will thus see,” wrote he, “is over. The + blasphemer and the democrat have fallen together, and it + will take full a century to rally from the humiliation of + such a defeat. Bethink you, my dear Michel, what that same + century may make the Church, and how, if we be but vigorous + and watchful, every breach in the glorious fortress may be + repaired, every outwork strengthened, every bastion newly + mounted, and her whole garrison refreshed and invigorated. + Without a great convulsion like this we were lost! The + torpor of peace brought with it those habits of thought and + reflection—the sworn enemies of all faith! As governments + grew more popular they learned to rely less on <i>our</i> aid. + The glorious sway of Belief was superseded by direct appeals + to what they called common sense, and imperceptibly, but + irrevocably, the world was being Protestantized. Do not + fancy that my fears have exaggerated this evil. I speak of + what I know thoroughly and well. Above all, do not mistake + me, as though I confounded this wide-spread heresy with what + you see around you in Ireland, those backslidings which you + so aptly called 'soup conversions.' + + “By Protestantism, I mean something more dangerous than + Anglicanism, which, by the way, has latterly shown itself + the very reverse of an enemy. The peril I dread is that + spirit of examination and inquiry which, emboldened by the + detection of some trumpery trick, goes on to question the + great dogma of our religion. And here I must say, that these + miracles—as they will call them——have been most ill- + judged and ill-timed. Well adapted as they are to stimulate + faith and warm zeal in remote and unvisited villages, they + are serious errors when they aspire to publicity and + challenge detection. I have done all I could to + discountenance them; but even in the Vatican, my dear + Michel, there are men who fancy we are living in the + sixteenth century. What are you to do with a deafness that + cannot be aroused by the blast of a steam-engine, and which + can sleep undisturbed by the thunder of railroads? Well, let + us be thankful for a little breathing time; the danger from + these heretics is over for the present. And here I would ask + of you to mark how the very same result has taken place + wherever the battle was fought. The Church has been + triumphant everywhere. Is this accident, my dear friend? + Was it mere chance that confounded counsels here, and dealt + out ruin to Ireland also? Why did our policy come to a + successful issue, here, by a dangerous conflict; and, with + you, by abstaining from one? Why, because it was truth— + eternal, immutable truth—for which we struggled. I must say + that if <i>our</i> game called for more active exertions, and + perhaps more personal hazards, <i>yours</i> in Ireland was + admirably devised. There never was a more complete + catastrophe than that into which you betrayed your Mitchells + and Meaghers; and does not the blind credulity of such men + strike you as a special and Divine infliction? I own I think + so. They were, with all their hot blood, and all the glow of + their youth, serious thinkers and calm reasoners. They could + detect the finger of <i>England</i> in every tangled scheme, and + yet they never saw the shadow of <i>your</i> hand as it shook in + derision over them. Yes, Michel, the game was most skilfully + played, and I anticipate largely from it. The curtain thus + falls upon the first act of the drama; let us set about to + prepare for its rising. I am far from saying that many + errors—some of the gravest kind—have not been committed in + the conduct of this affair. More than one grand opportunity + has gone by without profit; and even my suggestion about the + restoration of the States of the Church to their ancient + limits within the Venetian provinces—a demand which Rome + has formerly renewed every year since the treaty of Campo + Formio, and which might now have been pressed with success— + even this was neglected! But what could be done with a + runaway Pope and a scattered Consistory? Your letter, my + dear Michel, is a perfect catechism—all questions! I must + try a reply to some, at least, of its inquiries. You are + anxious about the endowment of the Ursulines, and so am I; + but unfortunately I can tell you little of my progress in + that direction. Lady Hester Onslow would appear to have + fallen into an entanglement of some sort with Lord Norwood; + and although I have in my possession the means of preventing + a marriage with him, or annulling it, if it should take + place, yet the very exercise of this power, on my part, + would as inevitably destroy all my influence over her, and + be thus a mere piece of profitless malice. This, therefore, + is a matter of some difficulty, increased, too, by his hasty + departure from Florence—they say for England; but I have no + clew to his destination, for he left this on the very day I + last wrote to you—the day of my visit to the Moskova—in + which you seem to be so much interested. Strangely enough, + Michel, both this man and the Russian seemed to feel that + they were in the toils, and broke away, rather than hazard + an encounter with me. And they were right, too! For the deep + game of life, there is no teaching like that of the + cloister; and if we be not omnipotent, it is owing to our + weakness of purpose. Hildebrand knew this—Boniface knew it + also; but we have fallen upon poor successors of these great + men! What might not a great Pope be in the age we live + in!—one whose ambition was commensurate with his mission, + and who had energy and courage for the task before him! Oh! + how I felt this, some nights ago, as I sat closeted with our + present ruler—would you believe it, Michel, he has no + higher guide or example than the weak and kind-hearted Pius + the Seventh? To imitate <i>him</i> is the whole rule of his + faith, and to resemble him, even in his misfortunes, has + become an ambition. How he strung for me the commonplaces of + that good man, as though they had been the distilled + essences of wisdom! Alas! alas! the great heritage of the + Church has not been won by Quaker Popes. + + “You ask about myself. All goes well. The die is cast; and + so far, at least, a great point gained. The Austrians saw + the matter in its true light, and with justice perceived + that diplomacy is a war of reprisals. How I glory in the + anticipation of this vengeance upon England, the encourager + and abettor of all the treason against our Faith! How little + do they suspect the storm that is gathering around them; how + tranquilly are they walking over the ground that is to be + earthquaken! The letters and diplomas are all prepared. The + Bull itself is ready; to-morrow, if it were opportune, I + might be proclaimed a prince of the Church and an Archhishop + of an English see! As in every great event of life the + moment is everything, the question is now one of time. + Guardoni—and I look upon him as the shrewdest of the + cardinals—says, 'Wait! our cause is advancing every day in + England; every post brings us tidings of desertions to our + army,—men distinguished in rank, station, or intellect. In + our controversies we have suffered no defeats, while our + moderation has gained us many well-wishers; we have a tone + of general liberality to work upon that is eminently + favorable to a policy meek, lowly, and unpretending. + Therefore, I say, Wait; and do not forfeit such advantages + for the glory of a pageant' Against this it might be urged, + that the hour is come to proclaim our victory; and that it + would be a craven policy not to unfurl our banner above the + walls we have won! I repose less trust in the force of this + reasoning than in another view of the subject; and it is to + the ricochet of our shot, Michel, that I look for the damage + of our enemy. My calculation is this: the bold pretensions + we advance will arouse the passions of the whole island; + meetings and addresses and petitions will abound. All the + rampant insolence of outraged bigotry, all the blatant + denunciations of insulted protestantism, will burst forth + like a torrent. We shall be assailed in pamphlets and + papers; caricatured, hooted, burned in effigy. A wily and + well-conducted opposition on our part will fan and feed this + flame. Some amongst us will assume the moderate tone: invoke + the equality that pertains to every born Briton, and ask for + the mere undisturbed exercise of our faith. Others, with + greater boldness, will adventure sorties against the enemy, + and thus provoke reply and discussion. To each will be + assigned his suited task. A laboring for the one great + object,—to maintain the national fever at a white heat, to + suffer no interval of calm reflection to come, and to force + upon the Parliament, by the pressure of outward opinion, + some severe or at least some galling act of legislation. + This once accomplished, our game is won, and the great + schism we have so long worked for effected! It will then be + the Government on one side and the Church on the other. + Could you wish for anything better? For myself, I care + little how the campaign be then conducted; the victory must + be our own. I have told you again and again there is no such + policy against England as that of hampering the course of + her justice. It was O'Connell's secret; he had no other; and + he never failed till he attempted something higher. First, + provoke a rash legislation, and then wait for the + discomfiture that will follow it! With all the boasted + working of the great constitution, what a mere trifle + disturbs and disjoints it! Ay, Michel, a rusty nail in the + cylinder will spoil the play of the piston, although the + engine be rated at a thousand horse-power. Such a conflict + with Protestantism is exactly like the effect of a highly + disciplined army taking the field against a mob. With <i>us</i> + all is preconcerted, prearranged, and planned; with <i>them</i> + everything is impulsive, rash, and ill-advised. This + glorious prerogative of private judgment becomes a capital + snare, when measures should be combined and united. Fancy, I + ask of you,—fancy all the splendid errors of their hot + enthusiasm; think of the blunders they will commit on + platform or pulpit; reflect upon the folly and absurdity + that will fill the columns of the public journals, and all + the bigoted balderdash the press will groan under! What + coarse irony, what Billingsgate shall we hear of our Holy + Church,——her saints, her miracles, and her dogmas,—what + foul invectives against her pious women and their lives of + sanctity! And then think of the glorious harvest that will + follow, as we reply to insult by calm reasonings, to bigotry + by words of charity and enlightenment, appealing to the + nation at large for their judgment on which side truth + should lie,—with intolerance, or with Christian meekness + and submission? + + “Prepare, then, I say, for the coming day; the great + campaign is about to open, and neither you nor I, Michel, + will live to see the end of the battle. On this side the + Alps, all has happened as we wished. Italian Liberalism is + crushed and defeated. The Piedmontese are driven back within + their frontier, their army beaten, and their finances all + but exhausted, and Austria is again at the head of Northern + Italy. Rome will now be grander and more glorious than ever. + No more truckling to Liberalism, no more faith in the false + prophets of Freedom. Our gorgeous 'Despotism' will arise + reinvigorated by its trials, and the Church will proclaim + herself the Queen of Europe! + + “It is an inestimable advantage to have convinced these meek + and good men here that there is but one road to victory, and + that all alliance with what are called politicians is but a + snare and a delusion. + + “The Pope sees this at last, but nothing short of wounded + pride could have taught him the lesson. + + “Now to your last query, my dear Michel, and I feel all + gratitude for the warm interest with which you make it. + What is to be done I know not. I am utterly ignorant of my + parentage, even of my birthplace. In the admission-book of + Salamanca I stand thus: + + 'Samuel Eustace, native of Ireland, aged thirteen years and + seven months; stipendiary of the second class.' There lies + my whole history. A certain Mr. Godfrey had paid all the + expenses of my journey from Louvain, and, up to the period + of his death, continued to maintain me. From Louvain I can + learn nothing. I was a 'Laic' they believed,——perhaps + No. 134 or 137—they do not know which; and these are but + sorry facts from which to derive the baptismal registry of a + future cardinal. And yet something must be done, and + speedily too. On the question of birth the Sacred College is + peremptory. You will say that there ought to be no + difficulty in devising a genealogy where there are no + adverse claims to conflict; and if I could go over to + Ireland, perhaps the matter might be easy enough. At this + moment, however, my presence here is all-essential, while I + am not without a hope that accident may afford me a clew to + what I seek. A few days ago I was sent for from Malgherra to + attend the dying bed of a young officer, whose illness had + so completely disordered his brain that he forgot every word + of the foreign language he was accustomed to speak, and + could only understand or reply in his native English. + Although I had other and more pressing cases to attend to, + the order coming from an archduke made obedience imperative, + and so I hastened over to Verona, where the sick youth lay. + Conceive my surprise, Michel, to discover that he was the + same Dalton,—the boy whom I have so often adverted to, as + eternally crossing my path in life,—the relative of that + Godfrey who was my early patron. I have already confessed to + you, Michel, that I felt towards this youth in a way for + which my calmest reason could render no account. Gamblers + have often told me of certain antipathies they have + experienced, and that the mere presence of an individual— + one totally unknown to them, perhaps—has been so ominous of + ill-luck that they dare not risk a bet while he remained in + the room. I know you will say that men who pass their lives + in the alternation of hope and fear become the slaves of + every shadow that crosses the imagination, and that they are + sorry pilots to trust to. So they are, Michel; they art + meanly minded, they are sordid, and they are low; their + thoughts never soar above the card or the hazard table; they + are dead to all emotions of family and affection; the very + events that are convulsing the world are less audible to + their ears than the ring of the dice-box; and yet, with all + this—would you believe it?—they are deep in the mysteries + of portents. Their intense study of what we call chance has + taught them to combine and arrange and discipline every atom + and accident that can influence an event. They have their + days of good and evil fortune, and they have their agencies + that sway them to this side or to that. Chemistry shows us + that substances that resemble metals are decomposed by the + influence of light alone,—do not, then, despise the working + of that gleam that darts from a human eye and penetrates + within the very recesses of your brain. + + “Be the theory true or false, the phenomena exercise a deep + influence over me, and I have never ceased to regard this + boy as one inextricably interwoven with myself and my own + fortunes; I felt a degree of dread at his contact, which all + my conscious superiority of mind and intellect could not + allay. In vain have I endeavored to reason myself out of + these delusions, but in the realm of imagination reason is + inoperative; as well might a painter try to commit to his + palette the fleeting colors of the rainbow. Shall I own to + you that in moments of illness or depression this terror + magnified itself to giant proportions, and a thousand wild + and incongruous fancies would fill my mind? I bethought me + of involving him in such difficulty that he would no longer + be at large; as a prisoner or an exile, I should never see + him more. Every snare I tried was a failure; the temptations + that were most adapted to his nature he resisted; the wiles + I threw around him he escaped from. Was there not a fate in + all this? Assuredly there was and is, Michel. I cannot tell + you the relief of mind I should feel if this boy had shared + the fate of your patriots, and that the great sea was to + roll between him and Europe forever. Twenty times a day I + think of Dirk Hatteraick's expression with respect to Brown: + 'That boy has been a rock ahead of me all through life;' and + be assured that the characters of fiction are often powerful + teachers. + + “And now to my narrative. The same note which requested my + visit at Verona begged of me, if I possibly could accomplish + it, to provide some English person who should sit up with + the sick youth and nurse him. I was not sorry to receive + this commission; I wished to learn more about this boy than + the confessional at such a time could teach; and could I + only find a suitable agent, this would not be difficult. + Chance favored me strangely enough. Amongst the prisoners + taken at Ancona I found an Irish fellow, who, it appears, + had taken service in the Piedmontese navy. He had been some + years in America and the West Indies, and from the scattered + remarks that he let fall, I perceived that he was a man of + shrewd and not over-scrupulous nature. He comprehended me in + an instant; and, although I was most guarded in giving my + instructions, the fellow read my intentions at once. This + shrewdness might, in other circumstances, have its + inconveniences, but here it gave me no alarm. I was the + means of his liberation, and were he troublesome, I could + consign him to the prison again,—to the galleys, if needed. + In company with this respectable ally, I set out for the + headquarters. On my arrival I waited on the Count von + Auersberg, in whose house the sick boy lay. This old man, + who is Irish by birth, is more Austrian in nature than the + members of the House of Hapsburg. + + I found him fully convinced that the white-coated legions + had reconquered Lombardy by their own unaided valor, and I + left him in the same pleasant delusion. It appeared that a + certain Count von Walstein was enabled to clear young + Dalton's character from all taint of treason, by exhibiting, + in his own correspondence, some letters and documents that + related to the events detailed in Frank's writing, and of + which he could have had no possible knowledge. This avowal + may be a serious thing for Walstein, but rescues the young + Dalton at once, and proves that he was merely the writer of + Ravitzky's sentiments; so that here, again, Michel, he + escapes. Is not this more than strange? + + “It was not without anxiety that I passed the threshold of + the sick-chamber; but happily it was darkened, and I soon + saw that the sick youth could never recognize me, were his + senses even unclouded. He lay motionless, and I thought + insensible; but after I spoke to him he rallied a little, + and asked after his father and his sisters. He had not yet + heard that his father was dead; and it was affecting to hear + the attempt he made to vindicate his honor, and show that he + had never been disloyal. By degrees I brought him to talk of + himself. He saw that he was dying, and had no fears of + death; but there seemed as if his conscience was burdened by + some heavy weight, less like guilt than the clew to some + strange and dark affair. The revelation—if it deserved the + name, for it was made in broken sentences—now uttered with + rapid vehemence, now scarcely audible——was of the vaguest + kind. You may imagine, however, the interest I felt in the + narrative as the name Godfrey passed his lips. To know my + anxiety to trace some tie of family to these Godfreys. They + were gentry of ancient blood and good name, and would amply + satisfy the demands of the Sacred College; so that when the + boy spoke of Godfrey, I listened with intense curiosity; + but—shall I own it?—all my practised skill, all my science + of the sick-bed, was unable to tell me what were the + utterings of an unclouded intellect, and what the wild + fitful fancies of fever. I know, for I have repeatedly heard + it from his sister's lips, that this youth has never been in + Ireland, and yet he spoke of the peculiar scenery of a + certain spot just as if he had traversed it yesterday. Mind, + that I am carefully distinguishing between what might be the + impression left by often hearing of a scene from others, and + that which results from personal observation. His was + altogether of the latter kind. As, for instance, when + describing a garden, he mentioned how the wind wafted the + branches of a weeping ash across a window, so as to confuse + the scene that went on within; and then he shuddered + terribly, and, with a low sigh, exclaimed, 'The light went + out <i>after</i> that.' These are not ravings, Michel. This boy + knows something of that dark mystery I have more than once + alluded to in my letters. Could it be that his own father + was in some way implicated in the affair? Bear in mind how + he came to live abroad, and never returned to Ireland. From + all I can learn, the old Dalton was a bold and reckless + character, that would scarcely have stopped at anything. + Assuredly, the son's conscience is heavily burdened! Now, + there is an easy way to test the truth or fallacy of all + this; and herein you must aid me, Michel. I have carefully + noted every word the boy spoke; I have treasured every + syllable that fell from him. If his description of the scene + be correct, the mystery may be unravelled. This you can + speedily ascertain by visiting the spot. It is not more than + twenty miles from you, and about three or four, I believe, + from the little village of Inistioge; it is called Corrig- + O'Neal,—a place of some importance once, but now, as I + hear, a ruin. Go thither, Michel, and tell me correctly all + these several points. First, does the character of the river + scenery suddenly change at this spot, and, from an aspect of + rich and leafy beauty, exhibit only dark and barren + mountains without a tree or a shrub? Is the old manor-house + itself only a short distance from the stream, and backed by + these same gloomy mountains? The house itself, if unaltered, + should be high-peaked in roof, with tall, narrow windows, + and a long terrace in front; an imitation, in fact, of an + old French château. These, as you will see, are such facts + as might have been heard from another; but now I come to + some less likely to have been so learned. + + “From this boy's wanderings, I collect that there is a + woodland path through these grounds, skirting the river in + some places, and carried along the mountain-side by a track + escarped in the rock itself. If this ever existed, its + traces will still be visible. I am most curious to know this + fact. I can see the profound impression it has made on the + youth's mind, by the various ways in which he recurs to it, + and the deep emotion it always evokes. At times, indeed, his + revelations grow into something like actual descriptions of + an event he had witnessed; as, for instance, last night he + started from his sleep, his brow all covered with + perspiration, and his eyes glaring wildly. 'Hush!' he cried; + 'hush! He is crossing the garden, now; there he is at the + door; lie still—lie still.' I tried to induce him to talk + on, but he shuddered timidly, and merely said, 'It's all + over, he has strewn leaves over the spot, let us go away.' + you will perhaps say that I attach undue importance to what + may be the mere outpourings of a fevered intellect, but + there is an intensity in the feeling which accompanies them, + and, moreover, there is a persistence in the way he always + comes back to them, that are not like the transient terrors + that haunt distracted minds. No, Michel, there is a mystery, + and a dreadful one, connected with this vision. Remember! + that the secret of Godfrey's death has never been cleared + up; the breach which separated him from these Daltons was + then at its widest. Dalton's character you are familiar + with; and, although abroad at that time, who can say what + agencies may not have worked for him? Give your serious + consideration to these facts, and tell me what you think. + You know me too well and too long to suppose that I am + actuated by motives of mere curiosity, or simply the desire + to trace the history of a crime. I own to you, that with all + my horror of blood, I scarcely grieve as I witness the + fruitless attempts of English justice to search out the + story of a murder. I feel a sort of satisfaction at the + combat between Saxon dulness and Celtic craft—between the + brute force of the conqueror and the subtle intelligence of + the conquered—that tells me of a time to come when these + relations shall be reversed. Acquit me, therefore, of any + undue zeal for the observance of laws that only remind me of + our slavery. However clear and limpid the stream may look, I + never forget that its source was in foulness! I am impelled + here by a force that my reason cannot account for. My + boyhood was, in some manner, bound up with this Godfrey's + fate. I was fatherless when he died! could he have been my + father? This thought continually recurs to me! Such a + discovery would be of great value to me just now; the + question of legitimacy would be easily got over, as I seek + for none of the benefits of succession. I only want what + will satisfy the Sacred College. My dear Michel, I commit + all this to your care and industry; give me your aid and + your advice. Should it happen that Dalton was involved in + the affair, the secret might have its value. This old field- + marshal's pride of name and family could be turned to good + account. + + “I must tell you that since I have overheard this boy's + ravings, I have studiously avoided introducing my Irish + <i>protégé</i> into the sickroom. My friend, Paul Meekins, might + be a most inconvenient confidant, and so I shall keep him + under my own eye till some opportunity occurs to dispose of + him. He tells me that his present tastes are all + ecclesiastical. Do you want a sacristan? if so, he would + be your man. There is no such trusty subordinate as the + fellow with what the French call 'a dark antecedent;' and + this I suspect to be his case. + + “I have well wearied you, my dear friend, and yet have I not + told you half of what I feel on this strange matter. I am + little given to tremble at shadows, and still there are + terrors over me that I cannot shake off. Write to me, then, + at once; tell me all that you see, all that you can hear. + Observe well the localities; it will be curious if the boy + be correct. Mark particularly if there be a spot of rising + ground from which the garden is visible, and the windows + that look into it, and see if there be a door out of the + garden at this point. I could almost map out the scene + from his description. + + “I have done, and now, I scarcely know whether I should feel + more relief of heart to know that all this youth has said + were fever wanderings, or words of solemn meaning. It is + strange how tranquilly I can move through the great events + of life, and yet how much a thing like this can shake my + nerve; but I suppose it is ever so, and that we are great or + little as the occasion makes us. + + “I have just heard that Lady Hester Onslow has gone over to + Ireland. She will probably be at Corrig-O'Neal. If so, you + can present yourself to her as my old and intimate friend, + and this will afford you an opportunity of examining the + scene at leisure. I enclose you a few lines to serve as an + introduction. Adieu, my dear friend. + + “You have often sighed over the obscurity of your position, + and the unambitious life of a parish priest. Believe me, and + from my heart I say it, I would willingly exchange all the + rewards I have won, all that I could ever hope to win, for + one week—one short week—of such calm quiet as breathes + under the thatched roof of your little cottage. + + “I leave this for Vienna to-morrow, to thank the minister; + and with good reason, too, since without his assistance the + Pope would have shrunk from the bold policy. Thence I go to + Rome; but within a fortnight I shall be back in Florence, + where I hope to hear from you. If all goes well, we shall + meet soon.—Yours, in much affection, + + Mathew D'Esmonde.” + </pre> + <p> + As the Abbé finished this letter, he turned to look at a short note, + which, having opened and scanned over, he had thrown on the table beside + him. It was from Albert Jekyl, who wrote to inform him that Lord Norwood + had just arrived in Florence from Ireland, where he had left Lady Hester; + that so far as he, Jekyl, could make out, the Viscount had made an offer + of marriage, and been accepted. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “It will be for you, my dear Abbé,” added he, “to ascertain + this fact positively, as, independently of the long journey + at this inclement season, it would be a very serious injury + to me were it known that I advanced pretensions that were + not responded to. He who has never failed must not risk a + defeat. Pray lose no time in investigating this affair, for + Florence is filling fast, and my future plans will depend on + your reply.” + </pre> + <p> + The priest bestowed little attention on the small gossipry that filled up + the page. His eye, however, caught the name of Midchekoff, and he read,—— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “The Prince returned last Tuesday to the Moskova, but no one + has seen him, nor has any one been admitted within the + gates. Of course there are a hundred rumors as to the why + and the wherefore,——some alleging that he has received + orders of 'réclusion,' as they call it, from home, the + Emperor not being quite satisfied with his political + campaign; some, that he has taken up a grudge against the + court here, and shows his spleen in this fashion. But what + shallow reason would this be for a hermit life? and what + legitimate ground of complaint have not we, who, so to say, + possess a vested interest in his truffles and ortolans and + dry champagne? I assure you that such conduct rouses all the + democracy of my nature, and I write these lines with a red + silk cap on my head. After all, the real good he effected + was a kind of reflected light. He crushed little people, and + ground down all their puny efforts at balls, dinners, and + <i>déjeuners</i>. He shamed into modest insignificance such a + world of snobbery, and threw an air of ridicule over 'small + early partyism' and 'family dinners.' What a world of + dyspepsia has he thus averted,——what heartburns and + heartburnings! Oh, little people! little people! ye are a + very dreadful generation, for ye muddy the waters of + society, so that no man can drink thereof. + + “Politically, we are calm and reactionary; and whether it be + thrashing has done it, I know not, but some of the Tuscans + are 'Black and Yellow' already. Not that the dear Austrians + promise to make Florence better or pleasanter. They mix + badly with our population. It is as if you threw a spoonful + of 'sauerkraut' into your 'potage à la reine!' Besides, the + Italians are like the Chinese,——unchanged and + unchangeable,—and they detest the advent of all strangers + who would interfere with their own little, soft, sleepy, and + enervating code of wickedness. + + “Pray send me three lines, just to say——Is it to be or + not to be? Rose, the tailor, is persecuting me about a + mocha-brown, for a wedding garment, which certainly would + harmonize well with the prevailing tints of my hair and + eyebrows, but I am too prudent a diplomatist to incur + 'extraordinaires' till I be sure of 'my mission.' Therefore + write at once, for such is my confidence in your skill and + ability that I only wait your mandate to launch into kid + gloves and lacquered leather, quite regardless of expense. + + “Yours, most devotedly, + + “Albert JEKYL. +</pre> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “I open this to say that Morlache was seen going to the + Moskora last night with two caskets of jewels. Will this + fact throw any light on the mysterious seclusion?” + </pre> + <p> + These last two lines D'Esmonde read over several times; and then, crashing + the note in his hand, he threw it into the fire. Within an hour after he + was on his way to Florence. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0029" id="link2HCH0029"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXIX. A SECRET AND A SNARE. + </h2> + <p> + As we draw near to the end of our voyage, we feel all the difficulty of + collecting the scattered vessels of our convoy; and while signalizing the + “clippers” to shorten sail, we are calling on the heavy sailers to crowd + “all their canvas.” + </p> + <p> + The main interest of our story would keep us beside Frank Dalton, whose + fate seemed daily to vacillate,——now threatening gloomily, now + rallying into all the brightness of hope. By slow and cautious journeys + the old Count proceeded to remove him to Vienna, where he expected soon + to-be joined by Kate. Leaving them, then, to pursue their road by steps + far too slow for our impatience, we hasten along with D'Esmonde, as, with + all the speed he could accomplish, he made for Florence. + </p> + <p> + Occasionally he tried to amuse himself and divert his thoughts by + conversing with Meekins, who accompanied him; but although the man's + shrewdness was above the common, and his knowledge of the world very + considerable, D'Esmonde quickly saw that a thick cloak of reserve covered + the real man on all occasions, and that his true nature lay many a fathom + deep below that smooth surface. The devout respect which he felt for the + Abbé might, perhaps, have increased this reserve; for Meekins was an Irish + peasant, and never forgot the deference due to a priest. + </p> + <p> + Accustomed to read men at sight, D'Esmonde would give himself no trouble + in deciphering a page which promised little to reward the labor; and so, + after a while, he left his companion to occupy the “box,” while he himself + followed his own thoughts alone and undisturbed. Now and then he would be + aroused from his deep reveries by remarking the reverential piety of the + peasants as they passed some holy shrine or some consecrated altar. Then, + indeed, Meekins displayed a fervor so unlike the careless indifference of + the native, that D'Esmonde was led to reflect upon the difference of their + natures, and speculate on how far this devotion of character was innate in + the Irishman, or merely the result of circumstances. + </p> + <p> + There was an expression of eager, almost painful meaning, too, in the + man's face as he muttered his prayers, that struck the keen eyes of the + Abbé; and he could not avoid saying to himself, “That fellow has a load + upon his heart. Fear, and not hope, is the mainspring of his devotions.” + At another moment D'Esmonde might have studied the case as a philosopher + studies a problem,—merely for the exercise it may give his + faculties,—but his own cares were too pressing and too numerous for + more than a passing notice. + </p> + <p> + The night was falling as they gained the crest of the mountain over + Florence; D'Esmonde stopped the carriage on the hill above the “Moskova,” + and gazed steadily for some moments on the spot. The villa, partly + shrouded in trees, was brilliantly illuminated; the lights gleamed and + sparkled through the foliage, and, as he listened, the sound of rich music + came floating on the air. + </p> + <p> + “This looks little like seclusion,” thought he. “These are signs of some + great festivity.” As he drew up to the gate, however, he found it closed + and locked. Not a carriage was to be seen. Even the usual lamps were + unlighted, and all appeared deserted and unoccupied. D'Esmonde stood for a + few seconds buried in thought; his emotion was deep and heartfelt; for, as + he grasped the iron bars of the gate, his strong frame shook and trembled. + “True—true!” muttered he to himself in an accent of almost bursting + agony,—“I could not have given thee this, Lola, and for this alone + hadst thou any heart!” He leaned his face against the gate, and sobbed + heavily. “What poison,” cried he, in a voice of bitterness,—“what + poison there must be in unholy passion, when it can move a heart like + mine, after years and years of time! To think that not all the glory of a + great cause, all the pride of successful ambition, striving for rewards + the very highest,—all that I possess of power and influence,—all, + all should give way to the grief for a half-forgotten, unreturned love! + How poor a thing the heart is, when we fancy its desires to be noblest and + highest!” + </p> + <p> + This burst of passionate grief over, he slowly returned to the carriage + and pursued his way to Florence; and, entering the city, he drove for the + house of Racca Morlache. The Jew was not at home, but was to return by + eleven o'clock, at which hour he had ordered supper for a guest and + himself. D'Esmonde lay down on a sofa, and fell asleep. Wearied as he was, + his watchfulness soon detected the approach of footsteps; and, as he + listened, he heard the voice of a stranger in colloquy with the servant. + The door opened at the same time, and Lord Norwood entered. D'Esmonde only + waited for the servant to retire, when he sprang forward to salute him. + </p> + <p> + “Oh! I thought you were at the camp, or at Vienna, or somewhere to the + north'ard,” said the Viscount, coolly. + </p> + <p> + “I was so, my Lord; and there I should have remained, if a pressing duty + had not recalled me to Florence.” + </p> + <p> + “You have always so many irons in the fire, Abbé, that it requires some + skill to keep them all hot.” + </p> + <p> + “You are right, my Lord; some skill, and some practice too.” + </p> + <p> + “And do you never burn your fingers?” said the other, sarcastically. + </p> + <p> + “Very rarely, my Lord; for when I meddle with fire, I generally make use + of my friends' hands.” + </p> + <p> + “By Jove, it's not a bad plan!” cried the Viscount, laughing; for, as the + priest well knew, he had a most lively appreciation for every species of + knavery, and entertained real respect for all who practised it. “You <i>are</i> + a very downy cove, Master D'Esmonde,” said he, gazing at him; “and you 'd + have made a very shining figure on the Turf, had your fortune thrown you + in that direction.” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps so, my Lord,” said the Abbé, carelessly. “My own notion is, that + fair natural gifts are equal to any exigencies ever demanded of us; and + that the man of average talent, if he have only energy and a strong will, + has no superior to dread.” + </p> + <p> + “That may do well enough,” said Norwood, rising and pacing the room,—“that + may do well enough in the common occurrences of life, but it won't do on + the Turf, Abbé. The fellows are too artful for you there. There are too + many dodges and tricks and windings. No, no, believe me; nothing has a + chance in racing matters, without perfect and safe 'information;' you know + what that means.” + </p> + <p> + “It is precisely the same thing in the world at large,” said D'Esmonde. + “The very cleverest men rush into embarrassments and involve themselves in + difficulties for which there is no issue, simply for want of what you call + 'information.' Even yourself, my Lord,” said he, dropping his voice to a + low and distinct whisper,—“even yourself may discover that you owe + safety to a Popish priest.” + </p> + <p> + “How do you mean? What do you allude to?” cried Norwood, eagerly. + </p> + <p> + “Sit down here, my Lord. Give me a patient hearing for a few minutes. We + have fortunately a moment of unbroken confidence now; let us profit by + it.” + </p> + <p> + Norwood seated himself beside the priest, without speaking, and, folding + his arms, prepared to hear him calmly. + </p> + <p> + “My Lord Norwood,” said the Abbé, “I will not torture you by any + prolixity, nor will I waste your time by any appeal to your forgiveness. + If my own conduct in the affair I am about to relate should not meet your + approval, it is enough that I have satisfied my own conscience.” + </p> + <p> + “Go on—go on,” said Norwood, in a tone of almost sarcasm; “I see + that you have injured me, let me hear how and where.” + </p> + <p> + “You shall hear both, my Lord, and briefly too. I have only to invoke your + memory, and the story is told. You remember being at Salamanca, in the + year 18——? you remember, too, a certain ballerina of the Grand + Opera? You had seen her first at Seville—” + </p> + <p> + “Yes——; yes,” broke in Norwood, reddening deeply; “I know what + you mean—the girl was my mistress.” + </p> + <p> + “Stay, my Lord. Do not dishonor yourself; she was your wife,—legally + and formally married to you,—the registry of the act is in + existence, and the priest who performed the ceremony now stands before + you.” + </p> + <p> + “By Heaven!” said Norwood, springing to his feet, + </p> + <p> + “You are a bold fellow to dare this game with <i>me!</i> and to try it in + such a place as this!” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, my Lord, the river rolls dark and silently beside us,” said + D'Esmonde, calmly; “and the Arno has covered up many a more dreadful deed; + but I have no fears,—not one. I am unarmed, in strength I am + certainly not your equal, and yet, I repeat it, my heart assures me that I + stand in no peril.” + </p> + <p> + For an instant Norwood seemed to hesitate how to act. The great veins of + his face and forehead became swollen and knotted, and he breathed with the + rushing sound of severe, restrained passion. At last, as if to guard + himself against any sudden impulse of anger, he walked round and seated + himself at the opposite side of the table. + </p> + <p> + D'Esmonde resumed as calmly as before: “Yes, my Lord, Lola took care that + everything should be regular and in form; and the names of Gerald Acton + and Lola de Seviglia are inscribed on the records of the Collegiate + Chapel. Two of the witnesses are still living; one of them, then a poor + boy carrying messages for the convent, is now captain in the Pope's + Guard.” + </p> + <p> + “Come, come,——enough of this,” cried Norwood, impatiently. “I + see the drift of it all. When the Church interposes her kind offices, the + question resolves itself always into money. How much—how much?” + </p> + <p> + “You mistake greatly, my Lord; but your error does not offend me. I know + too well how men of <i>your</i> form of belief regard men of <i>mine!</i> + I am not here either to combat a prejudice, or assert a right. I tell you, + therefore, calmly and dispassionately, that no demand is made upon you. + There is no siege laid against you, in person or in purse.” + </p> + <p> + “Then how does the matter concern me, if this girl be alive?—and + even of that I have my doubts—” + </p> + <p> + “You need have none,” said D'Esmonde, interruptingly. “Lady Norwood——-” + </p> + <p> + “Stop! By Heaven! if you dare to give her that name, I'll not answer for + myself.” + </p> + <p> + “I call her as she styles herself,——as she is called by all + around her. Yes, my Lord, the shame is as open as gossip and malevolence + can make it. The foreigner is but too glad when he can involve an English + name and title in a reproach that we are prone to cast upon him. A peeress + is a high mark for scandal! Who stoops to ask how or when or where she + became this? Who interposes a charitable word of explanation or of + incredulity? From what you know of life, on what side, think you, will lie + the ingenuity and craft? Whether will the evidence preponderate to prove + her your wife or to exonerate <i>you?</i> At all events, how will the + matter read in England? I speak not of your ruined hopes of an alliance + befitting your high station. <i>This</i> is beyond repairing! But are you + ready to meet the shame and ignominy of the story? Nothing is too base, + nothing too infamous, for an imputation. Will any one, I ask of you—will + any one assert that you are ignorant of all this? Would any one believe + who heard it? Will not the tale be rather circulated with all its notes + and comments? Will not men fill up every blank by the devices of their own + bad ingenuity? Will not some assert that you are a partner in your own + infamy, and that your fingers have touched the price of your shame?” + </p> + <p> + “Stop!” cried Norwood. “Another word—one syllable more like this—and, + by the Heaven above us, your lips will never move again!” + </p> + <p> + “It would be a sorry recompense for my devotion to you, my Lord,” said the + Abbé, with a profound sigh. + </p> + <p> + “Devotion!” repeated Norwood, in a voice of insulting sarcasm; “as if I + were to be tricked by this! Keep these artifices for some trembling + devotee, some bedridden or palsied worshipper of saintly relics and holy + legerdemain; I 'm not the stuff for such deceptions!” + </p> + <p> + “And yet, my Lord, what possible benefit can accrue to myself from this + ungracious task? With all your ingenuity, what personal gain can result to + me?” + </p> + <p> + “What care I for your motives, sir?” responded Norwood, fiercely. “I only + know that you had never incurred so critical a hazard without an object. + You either seek to exert a menace over me, or to be revenged on <i>her</i>.” + </p> + <p> + “Alas, my Lord, I see how little hope I should have of vindicating myself + before you. Your estimate of the Papists suggests nothing above craft and + dishonesty. You will not believe that human affections, love of country, + and all the other associations of a home, are strong in hearts that beat + beneath the serge frock of the priest. Still less do you know the great + working principle of our Faith,—the law which binds us, for every + unjust act we have done in life, to make an expiation in this world. For + many a year has my conscience been burdened with this offence. But for my + weak compliance with your request, I should never have performed this + ceremony. Had <i>I</i> been firm, <i>you</i> had been saved. Nay, in my + eagerness to serve you, I only worked your ruin; for, on confessing to my + Superior what I had done, he at once took measures to ratify the act of + marriage, and my rank as a deacon took date from the day before the + ceremony.” D'Esmonde seemed not to notice the gesture of indignation with + which Norwood heard these words, but he went on: “It is, then, to make + some requital for this wrong, that I now risk all that your anger may + inflict upon me.” + </p> + <p> + “Where is this woman?” cried Norwood, savagely, and as if impatient at a + vindication for which he felt no interest. “Where is she?” + </p> + <p> + “She is here, my Lord,” said the other, meekly. + </p> + <p> + “Here? How do you mean? Not in this house?” + </p> + <p> + “I mean that she is now in Florence.” + </p> + <p> + “What, living openly here?—calling herself by my name?” + </p> + <p> + “She lives in all the splendor of immense wealth, and as openly as the + protection of Prince Midchekoff——” + </p> + <p> + “Midchekoff——Midchekoff, did you say?” cried Norwood, in a + burst of passion. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, my Lord. The haughty Russian exults in the insult that this offers + to the proudest aristocracy of Europe. This is the vengeance he exacts for + the cold disdain he experienced in London, and all that reserve that met + his attempts in English society.” + </p> + <p> + “How came she here?—who sent for her?—who devised this scheme? + Tell me the whole truth, for, by Heaven, if I see you equivocate, you'll + never quit this chamber living!” + </p> + <p> + “I' ll tell you everything, truthfully and fairly,” said the Abbé, with + calm dignity; and now in a few words he traced Nina's life, from the time + of her residence under Lady Hester's roof, to the moment of her return to + Florence. He omitted nothing; neither her intimacy with Jekyl nor her + passion for George Onslow. Even to the incident of the torn dress on the + night of the flight, he told all. + </p> + <p> + Norwood listened with the stern collectedness of one who had nerved + himself for a great effort. Although the blood spurted from his compressed + lips, and the nails of his fingers were buried in his hands, he uttered + never a word. At last, when D'Esmonde paused, he said,—— + </p> + <p> + “And <i>you</i> knew all this?” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing whatever of it I never chanced to see her at Florence, nor had I + the slightest suspicion of her presence there.” + </p> + <p> + “Lady Hester knew it? Miss Dalton knew it?” + </p> + <p> + “I suspect not at that time.” + </p> + <p> + “They know it <i>now</i>, then?” + </p> + <p> + “Who does not? Is not Florence ringing with the story? When has scandal + fallen upon such material for its malevolence? Such <i>dramatis personæ</i> + as a prince, an English peer, and his peeress, are not of every day's good + fortune!” + </p> + <p> + “Be cautious how you harp on this theme, priest. In your good zeal to + hammer the metal soft you may chance to crush your own finger.” + </p> + <p> + “I must be frank with you, my Lord, whatever the hazard. He would be a + sorry surgeon who, after giving his patient all the agony of the knife, + stopped short, and left the malady unextirpated.” + </p> + <p> + “Come now, D'Esmonde,” said Norwood, as with a strong grasp he drew the + other down on the sofa beside him, “<i>You</i> have your debt to acquit in + this matter as well as myself. I do not seek to know how or why or upon + whom. Your priestly craft need not be called into exercise. I want nothing + of your secrets; I only ask your counsel. That much in our common cause + you cannot refuse me. What shall I do in this affair? No cant, no + hypocritical affectation of Christian forgiveness, none of that hackneyed + advice that you dole out to your devotees; speak freely, and like a man of + the world. What is to be done here?” + </p> + <p> + “If the marriage admitted of dispute or denial, I should say disavow it,” + said the priest “It is too late for this.” + </p> + <p> + “Go on. What next?” + </p> + <p> + “Then comes the difficulty. To assert your own honor, you must begin by a + recognition of her as your wife. This looks rash, but I see no other + course. You cannot call Midchekoff to a reckoning on any other grounds. + Then comes the question, is such a woman worth fighting for? or must the + only consideration be the fact that she bears your name, and that she is + the Viscountess Norwood in every society she can enter? How is this to be + borne? The stricter code of England rejects such claimants altogether from + its circle; but on the Continent they are everywhere. Will it be possible + for you to live under this open shame?” + </p> + <p> + “Your advice is, then,——shoot him!” said Norwood; and he bent + his eyes fixedly on the priest as he spoke. “It is my own notion, also. If + the choice were open to me, D'Esmonde, I 'd rather have exacted the + payment of this debt from Onslow; I hated the fellow from my very heart. + Not that I owe this Russian any good will. We have more than once been on + the verge of a quarrel. It was not my fault if it went no further. They + say, too, that he has no taste for these things. If so, one must stimulate + his appetite, that's all!—eh, D'Esmonde? <i>Your</i> countrymen + seldom need such provocations?” + </p> + <p> + “We have our faults, my Lord; but this is scarcely amongst their number.” + </p> + <p> + “You're right, D'Esmonde,” said the other, pursuing his former line of + thought. “It's no petty penalty to exact from a fellow with fifty thousand + a year! I almost fancy I should have been a coward myself at such a + price!” + </p> + <p> + “You 'll have some difficulty in obtaining access to him, my Lord,” + remarked the Abbé. “He lives in strict privacy, and refuses admission to + every one.” + </p> + <p> + “But a letter will reach him?” + </p> + <p> + “It may, or it may not; besides, it may come to hand, and yet never be + acknowledged.” + </p> + <p> + “What is to be done, then?” + </p> + <p> + “I 'll think over it, before we separate. I 'll try and suggest something. + But here comes Morlache; and now be cautious. Not a word to show that you + are ill at ease.” The warning was scarcely spoken, when the Jew entered. + </p> + <p> + Morlache knew D'Esmonde too well to be surprised at seeing him anywhere or + at any moment He saluted him, therefore, as though they had met the very + day before, and the party sat down to supper, in all the seeming ease of + unburdened minds. + </p> + <p> + They chatted over the politics of Italy, and the change that had come over + Florence since the last time they had sat together in that chamber. + </p> + <p> + “It was a noisy scene, that night,” said Morlache; “but the streets are + quiet enough now.” + </p> + <p> + “Quiet as a corpse,” said Norwood, sternly. “You had no other nostrum for + tranquillity but to extinguish life.” + </p> + <p> + “What you regard as death, my Lord,” said the Abbé, “is only a trance. + Italy will rise grander and more powerful than ever. One element alone has + survived through all the convulsive throes, and all the changing fortunes + of this land,—the Papacy. The terrible wars of rival cities and + states, the more bloody conquests of ambitious houses, leave not a trace + behind them; but Rome holds on her proud way, and, like the great river of + the poet, 'Labitur et labetur in omne volubilis oevum. '” + </p> + <p> + “To which I beg, in a less classical quotation, to rejoin, 'Confound your + politics,'” cried Norwood, laughing. “Come, Morlache, let us turn to a + humbler theme. Who have you got here; who are coming for the winter?” + </p> + <p> + “Say, rather, my Lord, who are going away; for there is a general flight + from Florence. All what hotel folk call good families are hastening off to + Rome and Naples.” + </p> + <p> + “What's the meaning of this, then?” + </p> + <p> + “It is not very difficult, perhaps, to explain,” said the Jew; “luxuries + are only the creations of mere circumstance. The rarity of one land may be + the very satiety of another; and the iced-punch that tastes so exquisite + at Calcutta would be but sorry tipple at Coppermine River. Hence you will + see, my Lord, that the English who come here for wickedness find the place + too bad for them. There is no zest to their vice; they shock nobody, they + outrage nothing,—in fact, they are only as bad as their neighbors.” + </p> + <p> + “I suppose it's neither better nor worse than I remember it these dozen + years and more?” said Norwood. + </p> + <p> + “Probably not, my Lord, in fact; but, in outward appearance, it has + assuredly degenerated. People behave badly everywhere, but this is the + only city in Europe where it is deemed right to do so.” + </p> + <p> + “Since when have you taken up the trade of moralist, Master Morlache?” + said Norwood, with a sneer. + </p> + <p> + “I 'll answer that question,” broke in D'Esmonde. “Since the exchange on + England has fallen to forty-three and a half, Morlache sees his clients + diminish, and is consequently as angry with vice as he had been with its + opposite, if the same result had come to pass.” + </p> + <p> + “I own,” said the Jew, with a sneer, “the present order of things is far + more profitable to the confessional than to the <i>comptoir</i>.” + </p> + <p> + “That's the truth, I've no doubt of it,” broke in Norwood, laughing. “A + low tariff has given a great impulse to the trade of wickedness.” + </p> + <p> + “Taking your own illustration, my Lord, we are 'Protectionists,'” said + D'Esmonde; “whereas you Protestants are the 'Free-traders' in vice.” + </p> + <p> + “A plague on both your houses, say I,” cried Norwood, yawning. “So, then, + Morlache, neither you nor I would find this a desirable residence?” + </p> + <p> + “I fear it will not repay either of us, my Lord,” said the Jew, with a sly + look. + </p> + <p> + “The world is growing wonderfully wide awake,” said Norwood. “When I + entered life, any fellow with a neat hand at billiards, a fair knowledge + of <i>écarté</i> or short whist, good whiskers, and a well-cut waistcoat, + might have eked out a pretty existence without any risk, and very little + exertion. But see what the march of intelligence has done! There 's not an + Eton boy, not an unfledged 'sub' in a marching regiment, not an unpaid + attaché at a small court could n't compete with you now in any of these + high acquirements. I do not fret myself usually about what is to come + after <i>my</i> time; but I really wonder how the next generation will get + on at all.” + </p> + <p> + “Civilization moves like the pendulum, my Lord,” said D'Esmonde; “the next + swing will be retrograde. And, by the way, that reminds me of Russia, and + Russia of Prince Midchekoff. Is it true that he is recalled, Morlache?” + </p> + <p> + “Not that I know. That report is always circulated when there are no + dinners at the villa. Just as Marshal Soult is said to have won or lost + the battle of Toulouse according to the momentary estimation he is held + in.” + </p> + <p> + “You'll hear for certain, my Lord,” said D'Esmonde, addressing Norwood; + “You are going up there to-night?” + </p> + <p> + Norwood muttered an assent, and waited to see how this sally was to end. + </p> + <p> + “Ah! you are going there to-night,” repeated Morlache, in some surprise. + “Are <i>you</i> one of the privileged, then?” + </p> + <p> + “Of course he is,” interposed D'Esmonde, authoritatively. + </p> + <p> + “Will you do me a very great favor, then, my Lord?” said Morlache, ——“which + is to take charge of this small casket. I promised to take it myself; but + it is so late now, and I am so wearied, that I shall feel much bound to + you for the service.” + </p> + <p> + “You can easily acquit the debt of obligation, Morlache,” said D'Esmonde; + “for my Lord was just asking me, before you came in, if he could take the + liberty of begging the loan of your carriage to take him up to the + Moskova. You are aware that it would not be quite proper to take a hired + carriage, just now, up to the villa; that, as the Prince affects to be + absent——” + </p> + <p> + “To be sure,” broke in Morlache. “I am but too happy to accommodate your + Lordship. Your precaution was both delicate and well thought of. Indeed, I + greatly doubt that they would admit a fiacre at all.” + </p> + <p> + “I suppose I should have had to walk from the gate,” said Norwood, who now + saw the gist of the Abbé's stratagem. + </p> + <p> + “Morlache's old gray is a passport that requires no <i>visa</i>,” said + D'Esmonde. “You 'll meet neither let nor hindrance with him in front of + you. You may parody the great statesman's peroration, and say, 'Where the + King cannot enter, he can.' Such is it to be a banker's horse!” + </p> + <p> + Norwood heard little or nothing of this remark. Deeply sunk in his own + thoughts, he arose abruptly from the table. + </p> + <p> + “You are not going away, my Lord? You are surely not deserting that flask + of Marcobrunner that we have only tasted?” + </p> + <p> + But Norwood never heard the words, and continued to follow his own train + of reflection. Then, bending over D'Esmonde, he said, “In case we should + require to cross the frontier at Lavenza, must we have passports?” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing of the kind. There is no police, no inquiry whatever.” + </p> + <p> + “Good-bye, then. If you should not hear <i>from</i>, you will hear <i>of</i> + me, Abbé. There are a few things which, in the event of accident, I will + jot down in writing. You 'll look to them for me. Good-evening, or + good-morning,—I scarcely know which.” And, with all the habitual + indolence of his lounging manner, he departed. + </p> + <p> + D'Esmonde stood for a few seconds silent, and then said, “Is the noble + Viscount deep in your books?” + </p> + <p> + “Deeper than I wish him to be,” said the Jew. + </p> + <p> + “Have no fears on that account. He 'll soon acquit all his debts,” said + the other. “Good-night, Morlache.” And with this abrupt leave-taking he + withdrew. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0030" id="link2HCH0030"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXX. A SAD EXIT. + </h2> + <p> + The French Secretary of Legation was just going to bed as his servant + handed him a card from Lord Norwood, with a few words scribbled in pencil. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, by all means. Tell my Lord to come in,” said he; and Norwood + entered. + </p> + <p> + “You remember an old pledge you once made me,” said the Viscount, smiling. + “I have come to claim it.” + </p> + <p> + “<i>Diantre!</i> the case must be pressing that would not wait till + daylight.” + </p> + <p> + “So it is; and so you will agree with me in thinking it when I tell you + all,” said Norwood. “The first point is, may I reckon upon you?” + </p> + <p> + “Of course; my word is sacred.” + </p> + <p> + “Secondly, have you pistols that you can depend upon? Mine have been + stopped at Milan by the police.” + </p> + <p> + “They are Jacquard's best,” said the Frenchman; “and in <i>your</i> hand + ought not to disgrace their maker.” + </p> + <p> + “Dress, then, and come along with me. This affair must be disposed of + quickly.” + </p> + <p> + “I'm at your orders,” said the Frenchman, gayly. “I suppose you will be + kind enough to tell me something more as we go along.” + </p> + <p> + Norwood nodded an assent, and sat down before the fire and crossed his + arms on his breast. + </p> + <p> + “Was it a quarrel at play?” asked the Frenchman, after an interval of + silence. + </p> + <p> + “No!” was the abrupt reply. + </p> + <p> + “All the better. It is the only affair of this kind I cannot endure. Is + there a woman in it?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! I perceive,” said the other, with a laugh. “A married woman?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “And who is this happy husband, this time?” asked he, flippantly. + </p> + <p> + “I am,” replied Norwood, in a low and solemn voice. + </p> + <p> + “<i>You! you!</i> I never thought—never suspected <i>you</i> of + being married, Norwood. Pray be a little more explicit. Let me hear the + whole story.” + </p> + <p> + “Later on, not now. I want to think of something else at this moment Are + your pistols fine in the trigger?” + </p> + <p> + “Excessively so; a fly would almost suffice to move them. Is he English?” + </p> + <p> + “No.” + </p> + <p> + “Not a countryman of my own, I hope?” + </p> + <p> + “No. It is Midchekoff, the Russian.” + </p> + <p> + “<i>Diantre!</i> what a mark to shoot at! But they tell me that he never + does go out,—that he refuses this kind of thing.” + </p> + <p> + “He shall not do so this time,” said Norwood, with a vehement energy of + manner. + </p> + <p> + “Well, I 'm ready now; but I must say that I should like to hear something + of what we are about.” + </p> + <p> + “There will be ample time for all as we go along. We shall drive to the + villa. It is necessary to obtain an interview with himself. This done, I + will give the provocation, showing that you are ready and in waiting; + there can be no delay.” + </p> + <p> + “But he will need a friend?” + </p> + <p> + “He must take one of his secretaries,——his valet if he prefer + it I 'll give no time for evasive negotiation.” + </p> + <p> + “I cannot be a party to an affair like this, Norwood. Whatever the wrong + you seek to avenge, this is not the mode to do it.” + </p> + <p> + “Say so at once, then,” said Norwood, rising. “Tell me that you gave a + rash promise, and are sorry for it Better the refusal now than when it be + too late to retract.” + </p> + <p> + “You mistake me; I have no wish to unsay one single word I ever spoke to + you. I only ask for such an explanation as I have a right to demand.” + </p> + <p> + “You shall know everything; pray spare me telling it twice over. There is + no use in opening one's wound till he comes to the surgeon. Enough now, + that I tell you this man owes me a full and fair reparation for a great + wrong; I am equally determined on exacting it. If this does not satisfy + you, step into the carriage and you shall hear the whole story. I can tell + it, perhaps, when we are rattling along over the stones in the dark.” And + so saying, he sat down and leaned his head on the table, as though he + would not be disturbed. The Frenchman went on with his dressing, rapidly; + and at last, pronouncing himself ready, they descended the stairs together + in silence, and entered the carriage. + </p> + <p> + As they drove on, Norwood never spoke; and his companion, respecting + perhaps the occasion of his silence, did not utter a word. At last they + arrived at the summit of the hill, and looked down upon the city, over + which the gray tints of coming day were breaking. The great Duomo and the + Palazzo Vecchio lay in massive shadow, and it was only at intervals along + the Arno that a flickering gleam of cold light fell. The scene, in all its + calm and stillness, was grand and solemn. + </p> + <p> + “How unlike the Florence of sun and bright sky, how unlike the brilliant + city of dissipation and pleasure!” said Norwood; “and so it is with + individuals: we are just what light and shadow make us! Now listen to me.” + He then related the whole story of his first meeting with Lola, down to + the moment of D'Esmonde's revelation. “I know well,” said he, “there may + be a dozen ways to look on the affair besides that which I have chosen. I + might dispute the marriage; I might disavow the whole proceeding; I might, + naturally enough, leave such a woman to her fate,—she never could be + anything to <i>me</i>; but I cannot relinquish the opportunity of a + reckoning with this Russian. The insolence of his wealth gives all the + venom to this outrage, and I 'll shoot him! All the splendor of his riches + can avail him but little now. And, except some more gold upon his coffin, + and a richer pall to cover it, he has no advantage over me, ruined and + beggared as I am. As to my scores with the world at large, I am about + quits. <i>They</i> cheated <i>me</i> when I was a young, unsuspecting boy, + trusting and believing every one. <i>I</i> repaid <i>them</i>, as my own + time came. Men understand this thoroughly, but women never do. The moment + you cease to be <i>their</i> dupe, they hate you. As to my debts, they + gave me little trouble when living, they 're not likely to disturb my rest + in the churchyard; and as for friends, there is not one alive to whom I + could send a last word of affection; and yet—you'll scarcely believe + it—with all this I 'd like to live; although if you ask me why, I + couldn't tell it Perhaps it is this,” cried he, after a pause; “the + yelping pack that cried me down in my absence will do so now without fear + or restraint The stories of me that once were whispered will now be told + aloud. Slander and calumny can go abroad without a dread of consequences. + But even that is a poor thing to live for!” + </p> + <p> + The Frenchman's philosophy had taught him but few sympathies with such + gloomy ideas, and he tried in every way to rally his friend; but Norwood's + mind was full of very different sorrows from those he had dwelt upon. It + was the canker of a disappointed, abortive life was eating into his heart + A fair fortune squandered, a noble name tarnished, a high position + sacrificed, and now an ignominious quarrel to close his career,—these + were the reflections which, far more embittering than all his words, now + tortured and agonized him. + </p> + <p> + “Come,” said he, suddenly, “we had better move forward. It is getting nigh + daybreak, and our Prince will soon be retiring to his room.” + </p> + <p> + They now drove rapidly on for some time, and at last reached the gate, + where the porter, at once recognizing Mor-lache's carriage and livery, + admitted them without a word. + </p> + <p> + “You 'll have to wait for me here, Count,” said Norwood, when they stopped + at the door. “I 'll contrive not to keep you long; but this part of the + matter I must do alone.” The bell had scarcely done ringing when the door + was opened. “The Prince is still at table?” said Norwood, half in + assertion, half in inquiry; and then, with a gesture to the servant to + show the way, he overawed all scruples about admitting him. “Is he alone?” + said the Viscount, as they went along. + </p> + <p> + “No, sir. The Countess is with him.” + </p> + <p> + “Say that a person on most pressing business is here, and must speak with + him at once.” + </p> + <p> + “The Prince always requires the name, sir. I dare not address him without + it.” + </p> + <p> + “Say that I am come from Morlache's,——that I have something to + deliver into his own hands.” + </p> + <p> + Norwood placed the casket on the table as he spoke. The servant retired, + and speedily returned, requesting Norwood to follow him. As the door was + flung open, Norwood heard voices; he stopped and hesitated. Either an + impulse of passion or some change of purpose worked within him; for, as he + stood, he grasped the edge of the door, and swayed to and fro for some + seconds. + </p> + <p> + “Let him come out,—let him come here,” cried he, in a loud voice. + </p> + <p> + A low murmur of persons speaking was heard within, and suddenly the + rustling sound of a female dress was followed by the bang of a door; and + then Norwood entered, and, closing the door, locked it behind him. + </p> + <p> + The grating sound of the key made the Russian turn his head suddenly + around, and his eyes met Norwood's. + </p> + <p> + “What! my Lord Norwood!” cried he, in amazement. “They never told me—” + </p> + <p> + “If they had, in all likelihood I should not have been admitted,” was the + stern reply. + </p> + <p> + “I must own it is an honor for which I was scarcely prepared, my Lord,” + said the other. + </p> + <p> + “You never spoke more truly, sir,” said Norwood. “Men like yourself fancy + that their solvency in matters of money implies as much in all the various + relations of life, and that, as they know not what a dun means, they are + to enjoy an equal immunity from every demand of honor.” + </p> + <p> + “As you are evidently speaking under some strange misapprehension, my + Lord, I hesitate about accepting your words in any offensive sense.” + </p> + <p> + “You said you were unprepared for my visit, sir, and I believe you, as you + will be, doubtless, unprepared for the object of it Prince Midchekoff, I + have come here to request your company across the Tuscan frontier; the + matter is of sufficient importance to warrant the inconvenience. You will + take any or as many of your household as you please, but you shall + accompany me from this spot Come, sir, your air of easy indifference is + for once mistimed. You see before you a man whose utmost effort can + scarcely repress the passion that stirs within him. Neither your coolness + nor your cowardice—for the quality goes by either name—can + avail you here. I must and I will have reparation.” + </p> + <p> + “Until I am aware of the injury,—until you tell me how or in what I + have wronged you—” + </p> + <p> + “How shall I teach you a lesson of honor; sir,” cried Norwood, boiling + over with rage, “so that you may comprehend, even for a moment, the + feeling of a gentleman? You cannot affect ignorance as to who and what is + the woman that sat there. You need not drive me to the indignity of + calling her my wife! You know it well, and you knew all the disgrace you + were heaping on a class who rejected your intimacy. None of this mock + surprise, sir! If you compel me to it, I 'll fling open that door, call + all your household around you, and before them I 'll insult you, so that + even your serf-blood will rebel against the outrage.” + </p> + <p> + “This is madness,——downright insanity, my Lord,” said + Midchekoff, rising and moving towards the bell. + </p> + <p> + “Not so, sir,” said Norwood, interposing. “My passion is now mastered. You + shall not escape on that pretence. There are my pistols; only one of them + is loaded; take your choice, for I see that outside of this room I shall + seek in vain for satisfaction.” + </p> + <p> + “This would be a murder.” + </p> + <p> + “It shall be, by Heaven, if you delay!” cried Norwood. “I have the right + and the will to shoot you like a dog. If there be no honor, is there not + even some manhood in your heart? Take your weapon; you hesitate still,—take + that, then!” And he struck him with his open hand across the face. + </p> + <p> + <a name="linkimage-0017" id="linkimage-0017"> + <!-- IMG --></a> <br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%;"> + <img src="images/00419.jpg" alt="00419" width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p> + Midchekoff snatched the pistol convulsively, and, placing the muzzle on + Norwood's breast, fired. With a wild cry he staggered and fell dead upon + the floor. The Prince flung open the door, and rang the bell violently. In + a moment the room was filled with servants. “Send Jocasse here,” said + Midchekoff; and his chief secretary entered in all haste and trepidation. + “This is an affair for the police, Jocasse,” said the Prince, coolly. + “Send for the brigadier, and let him come to my room.” + </p> + <p> + “Suicide shows a great <i>manque de savoir vivre</i>,” said Haggerstone, + as the news of the event was circulated through Florence. And the <i>mot</i> + survived the memory of its victim. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0031" id="link2HCH0031"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXI. THE SUMMONS. + </h2> + <p> + They who only knew Vienna in its days of splendor and magnificence could + scarcely have recognized that city as it appeared on the conclusion of the + great revolt which had just convulsed the Empire. The great walls were + riddled with shot and shell; vast breaches in them opened out a view of + even more dreadful ruin within; streets choked up with fallen houses, and + wide squares encumbered with blocks of masonry and blackened timbers. The + terrible traces of barricade struggles still remained; but more + significant than all these was the downcast, sorrow-struck look of a + population once known as the gayest and most light-hearted of Europe. + </p> + <p> + The air of suffering and poverty extended to everything. No signs of the + once luxury and wealth of that rich nobility. Not an equipage was to be + seen! The passing and repassing of troops gave the only movement + observable in the streets. Strong guards and patrols marched past, with + all the precaution and preparation of a state of war. The dragoons sat in + their saddles, carbine in hand, as if but waiting for a signal to engage; + while, in the half-defiant stare of the populace might be read the spirit + of men who had not yet resigned themselves to defeat. + </p> + <p> + Most of the shops were closed, and, even of those still open, the display + of wares was scanty and miserable; rather seeming as if the effort were + made to conciliate the favor of the Government than with any hope of gain. + The cafés were deserted, except by the military; and they—far from + indulging the jocund mirth and laughter which was their wont—were + now serious and anxious-looking, regarding the passers-by with a + distrustful glance, and seeming as though they felt that the interval was + less peace than an armistice. + </p> + <p> + Cannon were in position on the Stephan's Platz and the Graben, and the + gunners stood ready, as if on parade. Officers of the staff, too, and + orderlies rode hastily to and fro, showing that no rash reliance was + placed on the quietude of the capital, and that the hour of conflict, if + it were to come, should not find them unprepared. In vain the stranger + might have sought for that more than feudal splendor which once was the + type of this brilliant city! The gorgeous liveries of the Bohemian, or the + more tasteful grandeur of the Magyar noble were no longer to be seen. The + varied costumes of the Banat and the Wallach, which gave such character to + many a rude equipage, the barbaric finery, which recalled the old + struggles with the Crescent, which marked the rank of some border + chieftain, was gone. Vienna presented nothing but its troops of soldiers, + and its mournful, sad-looking population, moving listlessly about, or + standing in groups to gaze on the disastrous ruins of their once proud + city. + </p> + <p> + The “Ambassador Street,” where formerly the armorial shields of every + reigning house of Europe were wont to be displayed, was now almost + untenanted. + </p> + <p> + With some the Imperial Government was at open war; with others + estrangement and coldness prevailed; while some, again, were represented + by officials of inferior rank,—all signs of troubled and precarious + times, when kings no longer knew what future awaited them! + </p> + <p> + It was here, formerly, that the most brilliant society of the capital was + to be found; here, every night, the carriages were seen to throng, and the + whole street glow with the glare of light from brilliant <i>salons</i>, or + the red flame of the torches borne by the running footmen. The proud + aristocracy of every land here met; and names that recalled the great + achievements of generals and statesmen were heard in every announcement + that resounded along those corridors. But a few of these palaces were now + occupied; and for the most part were the quarters of the generals of the + army. In front of one of the largest, at whose gate two sentinels stood, + the street was littered with straw; while the closed shutters and drawn + curtains showed that sickness and suffering were busy within. The frequent + arrivals, and the passing and repassing of messengers evinced the interest + the sufferer's fate excited; and amongst those who dismounted at the + corner of the street, and with cautious steps approached the door, more + than one member of the Imperial house was to be seen. He whose fortune + inspired all these tokens of regard was no great or illustrious general, + no proud and distinguished statesman; he was simply a young officer of + hussars,—a gallant soldier, whose fidelity had been proved under the + most trying circumstances,——our old acquaintance, Frank + Dalton. Relapse after relapse had reduced his strength to the very verge + of debility, and each day threatened to be his last Worn down by pain and + suffering, the young soldier bore a look of calm and even happy meaning. + His character for loyalty had been not only vindicated by his blood; but, + through the aid of Walstein, it was shown that he could have known nothing + of the conspiracy with which he was charged. Thus re-established in fair + fame, he saw himself the object of every care that affection could bestow. + The old Count seldom quitted him; Kate never left his bedside. Every + attention of kindness, every suggestion of love was bestowed upon him; and + a sick-bed was made the scene of more touching happiness than he had ever + known in the proudest hours of his health and vigor. Could he have seen + his dear Nelly beside him, he had no more to wish for! To die without + pressing her to his heart, without acknowledging all that he owed to her + good counsels, was now his only sorrow; and if in the stillness of the + sick-room tears would flow heavily along his cheek, and drop, one by one, + on his pillow, this was their secret source. + </p> + <p> + The Count had himself written to Nelly. Kate, too, had despatched a + letter, telling of Frank's dangerous condition, and entreating her + presence; but no reply had been returned, and they already began to fear + that some mishap had occurred, and were obliged to frame all manner of + excuses for her absence. Meanwhile, as his strength declined, his + impatience increased; and his first question, as day broke, and his last + at night, were, “What tidings of Nelly?” All his faults and errors lay + like a load upon his heart, till he could pour out the confession to his + dear sister. The post-hour of each morning was a moment of intense anxiety + to him; and the blank look which met his eager glance was the signal for a + depression that weighed down his heart during the day. From long dwelling + on this source of sorrow, his mind grew painfully acute as to all that + bore upon it; and sometimes he fancied that his uncle and Kate knew some + dreadful fact of poor Nelly, and feared to communicate it. More than once + had it occurred to him that she was dead,—that she had sunk, + broken-hearted and deserted. He did not dare to whisper this suspicion, + but he tried to insinuate his fears about her in a hundred ways. To his + sickly fancy their frankness seemed dissimulation, and the very grief they + displayed he read as the misery of an unrevealed calamity. + </p> + <p> + Kate, with all a woman's quickness, saw what was passing in his mind, and + tried her utmost to combat it; but all in vain. To no purpose did she open + her whole heart before him, telling of her own sad history and its + disappointments. In vain did she point to a bright future, when, strong + and in spirits, Frank should accompany her in search of Nelly, through + every glen and valley of the Tyrol. The impression of some concealment was + more powerful than all these, and he but heard them as tales invented to + amuse a sick-bed. The morbid sensibility of illness gave a significance to + every trivial incident, and Kate dared not whisper in his presence, nor + even exchange a look with another, without exciting a whole flood of doubt + and suspicion in his mind. + </p> + <p> + To allay, so far as might be, these disordered terrors, they assumed the + utmost frankness in all intercourse with him, and even took pains to + exhibit an undisguised freedom on every occasion. + </p> + <p> + The letters which arrived by each morning's post were always opened in his + presence, and his prying, eager glances showed that the precaution was not + unneeded. + </p> + <p> + “What is that?” cried he, suddenly, as Kate, after reading the address of + a letter, hastily threw it on the table, and covered it with others. “Let + me see that, Kate. Who is it for?” + </p> + <p> + “It bears your name,” said she, anxiously, “and has an Irish postmark; but + the hand is not known to me.” + </p> + <p> + The youth took the letter in his hand, and sat gazing on it for some + minutes together. + </p> + <p> + “No,” said he, at length, “I do not remember to have seen the writing + before. Read it, Kate.” + </p> + <p> + She broke the seal, and at once exclaimed, “It is from Dr. Grounsell, + Frank,—a very dear and kind friend.” + </p> + <p> + She ran her eyes rapidly over the lines as she spoke, and twice her color + came and went, and her hand trembled as it held the paper. + </p> + <p> + “You have bad news for me?” said the boy, with a slow, but firm utterance; + “but so that it be not of Nelly, I can bear anything!” + </p> + <p> + “It is not of Nelly,” said Kate, in a tremulous voice. + </p> + <p> + “Then let me hear it,” said he, calmly. + </p> + <p> + She tried to read, but the effort was beyond her strength; and although + her lips moved, no sound issued from them. At last she gained sufficient + strength to say, “It would agitate you too much, my dear brother, to hear + this now. Let us wait for a day or two, till you are stronger, and better + able to think about it.” + </p> + <p> + “I have told you already, that if it be not of Nelly, I can hear it with + indifference. Read on, then, Kate.” + </p> + <p> + “The meaning of it is this, Frank,” cried she, hastily. “There was a + fearful crime committed some years back in Ireland,—a relative of + ours, named Godfrey, was murdered.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes—yes—I know it. Go on,” said he, eagerly. + </p> + <p> + “The circumstances have never come to light, and now, it would appear, + some efforts are being made to connect our name with this dreadful act; + and—and—in fact, Frank, Dr. Grounsell wishes to learn from you + where we were residing at the period in question; and if you be possessed + of any letters or papers which could show the relations existing between + our family and Mr. Godfrey.” + </p> + <p> + “You must let me read this for myself, Kate,” said Frank, calmly, taking + the letter from her hands; “and now leave me for a while.” + </p> + <p> + With trembling steps and a sinking heart the young girl retired, to pass + hours of intense anxiety in her chamber. At last came a servant to say + that her brother desired to see her. + </p> + <p> + “I must set out for Ireland, Kate,” said the sick youth, as he arose from + his chair. + </p> + <p> + “For Ireland!” cried she, gazing with terror at his wasted and worn + figure. + </p> + <p> + “A long journey, dearest, but I shall have strength for it, if you 'll be + my companion!” + </p> + <p> + “Never to leave you, Frank,” cried she; and fell sobbing into his arms. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0032" id="link2HCH0032"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXII. INISTIOGE. + </h2> + <p> + Rich as Ireland is in picturesque river scenery, we know nothing more + beautiful than the valley through which the Nore flows between Thomastown + and New Ross. The gently sloping meadows, backed by deep woods, and dotted + with cheerful farm-houses, gradually give way to a bolder landscape as you + descend the stream and enter a dark gorge, whose high beetling sides throw + their solemn shade over the river, receding at last to form a kind of + amphitheatre wherein stands the little village of Inistioge. + </p> + <p> + More like a continental than an Irish hamlet, the cottages are built + around a wide open space planted with tall elms and traversed by many a + footpath; and here, of a summer night, are to be seen the villagers seated + or strolling about in pleasant converse,—a scene of rural peace and + happiness such as rarely is to be met with in our land of trial and + struggle. Did our time or space admit of it, we would gladly loiter in + that pleasant spot, gazing from that graceful bridge on the ivy-clad + towers, the tall and stately abbey, or the rich woods of that proud + demesne, which in every tint of foliage encircles the picture. + </p> + <p> + That “vale and winding river” were scenes of some of our boyhood's + happiest hours, and even years—those stern teachers—have not + obliterated the memory! Our task is not, however, with these + recollections, and we would now ask our reader to stand with us beneath + the shadow of the tall elms, while the little village is locked in + slumber. + </p> + <p> + It is past midnight,——all is still and tranquil; a faint + moonlight flickers through the leaves, and plays a fitful gleam upon the + river. One man alone is abroad, and he is seen to traverse the bridge with + uncertain steps, stopping at moments as if to listen, and then resuming + his solitary watch. A light, the only one in the village, twinkles from a + window of the little inn, and the door lies open, for in his impatience he + has quitted his chamber to walk abroad in the night air. As the hours wear + on, his anxiety seems to increase, and he starts and pauses at every sound + of the wind through the trees, and every cadence of the rushing river. At + last he hears the tramp of a horse,—he bends down to listen,—it + comes nearer and nearer, and in his feverish impatience he hastens in the + direction of the coming noise. + </p> + <p> + “Is that you, Michel?” he cries, in an eager accent. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, D'Esmonde, it is!” replies a voice; and the next moment the horseman + has dismounted at his side. + </p> + <p> + “What have I not suffered since you left this, Michel!” said D'Esmonde, as + he rested his forehead on the other's shoulder. “There is not an image of + terror my mind has not conjured up. Shame, ignominy, ruin, were all before + me; and had you stayed much longer away, my brain could not have borne + it.” + </p> + <p> + “But, D'Esmonde, my friend—” + </p> + <p> + “Nay, nay, do not reason with me; what I feel—what I suffer—has + no relation to the calm influences of reason. I alone can pilot myself + through the rocks and quicksands of this channel. Tell me of your mission—how + has it fared?” + </p> + <p> + “Less well than I hoped for,” said the other, slowly. + </p> + <p> + “I thought as much,” replied D'Esmonde, in a tone of deep dejection. “You + saw him?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, our interview lasted nigh an hour. He received me coldly, but + courteously, and entered into the question with a kind of calm + acquiescence that at first gave me good encouragement.” + </p> + <p> + “To end in disappointment!” cried D'Esmonde, bitterly; and the other made + no reply. “Go on, Michel,” said the Abbé, after a pause; “tell me all.” + </p> + <p> + “I began,” resumed the other, “by a brief reference to Godfrey's murder, + and the impenetrable mystery in which, up to this hour, it would appear to + be veiled. I related all that you had told me of the relationship between + him and the Daltons, and the causes which had broken off their friendship. + With these he seemed conversant, though I am unable to say whether he knew + more or less than what I was communicating. I dwelt as long and as + forcibly as I deemed safe on the character and habits of old Dalton, + hinting at his reckless, unprincipled career, and the wild and lawless + notions he entertained on every subject. To my great surprise, and I + confess to my discomfiture, he stopped me short by saying,—— + </p> + <p> + “'You would imply, then, that he was the guilty man.' + </p> + <p> + “'You go too fast, Mr. Grounsell,' said I, calmly; 'I have come to confer + and take counsel with you, not to form rash or hasty notions on a matter + of such deep gravity. If the circumstances I shall lay before you possess + the same importance in your eyes that they do in mine, it may be that your + own conclusions will be even more than suspicious.' I then entered upon + the story of Meekins, and how a comrade of his, an Irishman, called + Noonan, confessed to him that he was the murderer of Mr. Godfrey; that he + had never known him, nor had any intercourse with him; but was employed + for the act by old Dalton, who was then residing at Bruges. This Noonan, + who was possessed of several letters of Dalton's, had joined a Genoese + vessel, fitted out for the slave-trade, and was killed in action. Meekins + had frequent conversations with him on the subject of the murder, and, + although a stranger from another country, knew every detail of the scene + and locality perfectly from description. + </p> + <p> + “'Meekins is still living?' asked Dr. Grounsell. + </p> + <p> + “'Living, and now here,' replied I; at which he gave a start of surprise, + and, I think, of alarm. + </p> + <p> + “'Is he ready to substantiate his statement on oath?' said he. + </p> + <p> + “'That he could do so, I have no doubt,' replied I; 'that he will, or that + he ought, is perhaps a matter for calm reflection.' + </p> + <p> + “'How do you mean?' said he, hastily. 'If what he alleges be true, can + there be any hesitation as to its publicity?' + </p> + <p> + “'On that there may be grave doubts, sir,' said I. 'They whom the law + could have held responsible are already gone before another judgment seat. + Their guilt or innocence has been proven where deception or error exist + not! It is only their blameless descendants that could now pay the penalty + of their crime; and it may well be matter for consideration whether they + should be exposed to the world's shame, to expiate that wherein they had + no share——' + </p> + <p> + “'Do you yourself believe this man's story?' asked he, abruptly. + </p> + <p> + “'I see no reason to discredit it,' was my answer. 'There are moments when + doubt is more difficult than belief, and this is one of them. He has never + varied in his narrative,—he tells it to-day as he told it yesterday,—he + details family circumstances that defy invention, and mentions events and + incidents that all tally with facts.' + </p> + <p> + “'Where was he himself at the time of the murder?' + </p> + <p> + “'In South America,' he says. 'He had joined one of those patriot + expeditions which sailed from Ireland to join Bolivar.' + </p> + <p> + “'This he can prove, of course?' observed he, shrewdly. + </p> + <p> + “'I conclude he can,' replied I; 'it never occurred to me to question it.' + </p> + <p> + “There was an interval after this, in which neither of us spoke; at last + he said, 'May I ask how you became acquainted with this man—Meekins?' + </p> + <p> + “'Through a brother clergyman, who was the means of saving his life + abroad.' + </p> + <p> + “'And the intention is,' rejoined he, in a slow and deliberate voice, + 'that we should, while believing this man's statement, keep it secret? + Would not that amount to a very grave offence,—the compromise of a + felony?' + </p> + <p> + “I hesitated as he said this, not knowing well which way the discussion + might turn; at last I replied, 'Meekins might refuse his evidence,—he + might deny that he had ever made these revelations.' + </p> + <p> + “'In other words,' said he, 'he prefers to sell his testimony for a better + price than a court of justice would pay for it.' + </p> + <p> + “'You do not suppose that I could be a party to——' + </p> + <p> + “'Nay, nay,' cried he, interrupting me, 'not on such grounds as these; but + I can well conceive your feeling strongly interested for the blameless and + unhappy children. The only question is, how far such sympathies can be + indulged against the direct claims of justice.' + </p> + <p> + “There was a dispassionate calmness in the tone he spoke this, that + disarmed my suspicions, D'Esmonde; and it was only when I had left him and + was on my way back here, that I perceived what may, perhaps, have been a + very great error; for I at once proceeded to lay before him the course I + would counsel, and how, by the employment of a very moderate sum, this + fellow could be induced to emigrate to America, never to return. After + pushing this view with all the force I could, I at last avowed, as if + driven to the confession, that another motive had also its weight with me, + which was, that my friend and brother priest—the same who rescued + Meekins from his fate—was the natural son of Mr. Godfrey, educated + and brought up at his cost, and maintained till the period of his death + with every requisite of rank and station; that Meekins knew this fact, and + would publish it to the world, if provoked to it, and that thus my + friend's position at the court of Rome would be utterly ruined. + </p> + <p> + “'He is a Monsignore, then?” asked Grounsell. + </p> + <p> + '“He is,' replied I, 'and may even yet be more than that.'” + </p> + <p> + “This was rash, Michel,—this was all imprudence,” said D'Esmonde, + with a heavy sigh. “Go on; what said he then?” + </p> + <p> + “He waited while I told him that we sought for no advantages on the score + of this relationship; that we preferred no claims whatever against the + estate of Mr. Godfrey; that we only sought to bury in oblivion a great + crime, and to prevent the publicity of a great shame. + </p> + <p> + “'It is your belief, then,' said he, staring me fully in the face, 'that + Dalton was guilty?' + </p> + <p> + “'From what is before me,' replied I, 'it is hard to reject that + conclusion.' + </p> + <p> + “'And that this was an act of pure revenge?' + </p> + <p> + “'Less that, perhaps, than the hope of succeeding to the property by some + will of early date; at least, such is the version Meekins's informant gave + him.' + </p> + <p> + “'Ay, ay,' said he, 'that would constitute a motive, of course. Your + advice is, then, that we should make terms with this fellow? Is this also + your friend's counsel?' + </p> + <p> + “'I scarcely can tell you,' replied I 'My friend is not in any sense a + worldly man. His whole thoughts are centred in the cause he serves, and he + could only see good or evil in its working on the Church. If his cousins—' + </p> + <p> + “'His cousins!' + </p> + <p> + “'Yes, the Daltons—for they are such——deem this the + fitting course, he is ready to adopt it. If they counsel differently, I + can almost answer for his compliance.' + </p> + <p> + “'You can give me time to communicate with Dalton? He is at Vienna.' + </p> + <p> + “'Yes, if you agree with me in this view of the case, and think that such + will be Dalton's opinion also; otherwise it will be difficult to secure + this fellow's secrecy much longer. He knows that he is in possession of a + deeply important fact; he feels the impunity of his own position; and + to-morrow or next day he may threaten this, that, or other. In fact, he + believes that Lady Hester Onslow herself has no title to the estate, if he + were disposed to reveal all he knows.' + </p> + <p> + “'Can I see him?' asked Grounsell. + </p> + <p> + “' Of course you can; but it would be useless. He would affect an utter + ignorance of everything, and deny all knowledge of what we have been + talking.' + </p> + <p> + “'You will give me some hours to think over this?' asked he, after a + pause. + </p> + <p> + “'I had rather that you could come to a quicker resolve,' said I; 'the + fellow's manner is menacing and obtrusive. I have perhaps too long delayed + this visit to you; and should he suspect that we are hesitating, he may go + before a magistrate, and make his deposition before we are aware of it.' + </p> + <p> + “'You shall hear from me this evening, sir. Where shall I address my + note?' + </p> + <p> + “'The Rev. Michel Cahill—the Inn, at Inistioge,' replied I. And so + we parted.” + </p> + <p> + “We must leave this at once, Michel,” said D'Esmonde, after a brief + interval of silence. “Grounsell may possibly come over here himself. He + must not see me; still less must he meet with Meekins. We have gone too + fast here,—much too fast.” + </p> + <p> + “But you told me that we had not a moment to lose.” + </p> + <p> + “Nor have we, Michel; but it is as great an error to overrun your game as + to lag behind the scent. I distrust this doctor.” + </p> + <p> + “So do I, D'Esmonde. But what can he do?” + </p> + <p> + “We must quit this place,” said the other, not heeding the question. + “There is a small wayside public, called the 'Rore,' about five miles + away. We can wait there for a day, at least I almost wish that we had + never embarked in this, Michel,” said he, thoughtfully. “I am seldom + faint-hearted, but I feel I know not what of coming peril. You know well + that this fellow Meekins is not to be depended on. When he drinks, he + would reveal any and everything. I myself cannot determine whether to + credit or reject his testimony. His insolence at one moment, his slavish, + abject terror at another, puzzle and confound me.” + </p> + <p> + “You have been too long an absentee from Ireland, D'Esmonde, or they would + present no difficulties to your judgment. At every visit I make to our + county jail I meet with the self-same natures, torn, as it were, by + opposite influences,—the passions of this world, and the terrors of + that to come.” + </p> + <p> + “Without the confessional, who could read them!” exclaimed D'Esmonde. + </p> + <p> + “How true that is!” cried the other. “What false interpretations, what + mistaken views, are taken of them! And so is it,—we, who alone know + the channel, are never to be the pilots!” + </p> + <p> + “Say not so,” broke in D'Esmonde, proudly. “We are, and we shall be! Ours + will be the guidance, not alone of them, but of those who rule them. + Distrust what you will, Michel, be faint-hearted how you may, but never + despair of the glorious Church. Her triumph is already assured. Look at + Austria, at Spain, at all Northern Italy. Look at Protestant Prussia, + trembling for the fate of her Rhine provinces. Look at England herself, + vacillating between the game of conciliation and the perils of her + unlimited bigotry. Where are we not victorious? Ours is the only despotism + that ever smote two-handed,—crushing a monarchy here, and a people + there,—proclaiming divine right, or asserting the human inheritance + of freedom! Whose banner but ours ever bore the double insignia of rule + and obedience?—ours, the great Faith, equal to every condition of + mankind and to every age and every people? Never, never despair of it!” + </p> + <p> + D'Esmonde sat down, and covered his face with his hands; and when he + arose, his pale features and bloodless lips showed the strong reaction + from a paroxysm of intense passion. + </p> + <p> + “Let us leave this, Michel,” said he, in a broken voice. “The little inn I + speak of is not too distant for a walk, and if we start at once we shall + reach it before daybreak. While you awake Meekins, and arrange all within, + I will stroll slowly on before.” And, thus saying, D'Esmonde moved away, + leaving the others to follow. + </p> + <p> + D'Esmonde was more than commonly thoughtful, even to depression. He had + been but a few days in Ireland, but every hour of that time had revealed + some new disappointment to him. There was all that he could wish of + religious zeal, there was devotion and faith without limit amongst the + people; but there was no unity of action, no combination of purpose, + amongst those who led them. Discursive and rash efforts of individuals + were suffered to disturb well-laid measures and reveal long-meditated + plans. Vain and frivolous controversies in newspapers, petty wars of petty + localities, wasted energies, and distracted counsels. There was none of + that organization, that stern discipline, which at Rome regulated every + step, and ordained every movement of their mighty host. “This,” muttered + he to himself, “is an army without field-officers. Their guerilla notions + must be henceforth exchanged for habits of military obedience. Little + think they that their future General is now the solitary pedestrian of a + lonely road at midnight.” The recurrence to himself and his own fortunes + was one of those spells which seemed to possess an almost magical + influence over him. From long dwelling on the theme, he had grown to + believe that he was destined by Heaven for the advancement, if not the + actual triumph, of the great cause of the Church; and that he, whose + origin was obscure and ignoble, could now sit down at the council of the + Princes of the Faith, and be heard, as one whose words were commands, was + always sufficient evidence that he was reserved by fate for high + achievements. Under the spell of this conviction he soon rallied from his + late dejection, and his uplifted head and proud gait now showed the + ambitious workings of his heart. “Ay,” cried he, aloud, “the first Prince + of the Church who for above a century has dared them to defiance! <i>That</i> + is a proud thought, and well may nerve the spirit that conceives it to + courageous action.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0033" id="link2HCH0033"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXIII. THE MANOR-HOUSE OF CORRIG-O'NEAL. + </h2> + <p> + While we leave, for a brief space, the Abbé D'Esmonde to pursue his road, + we turn once more to the peaceful scene wherein we found him. Mayhap there + be in this dalliance something of that fond regret, that sorrowful + lingering with which a traveller halts to look down upon a view he may + never see again! Yes, dear reader, we already feel that the hour of our + separation draws nigh, when we shall no more be fellow-journeyers, and we + would fain loiter on this pleasant spot, to tarry even a few moments + longer in your company. + </p> + <p> + Passing downwards beneath that graceful bridge, which with a rare felicity + seems to heighten, and not to impair, the effect of the scene, the river + glides along between the rich wooded hills of a handsome demesne, and + where, with the most consummate taste, every tint of foliage and every + character of verdure has been cultivated to heighten the charm of the + landscape. The spray-like larch, the wide-leaved sycamore, the solemn + pine, the silver-trunked birch, all blending their various hues into one + harmonious whole,—the very perfection of a woodland picture. As if + reluctant to leave so fair a scene, the stream winds and turns in a + hundred bendings—now forming little embayments among the jutting + rocks, and now, listlessly loitering, it dallies with the gnarled trunks + of some giant beech that bends into the flood. + </p> + <p> + Emerging from these embowering woods, the river enters a new and totally + different tract of country,—the hills, bare of trees, are higher, + almost mountainous in character, with outlines fantastic and rugged. + These, it is said, were once wooded too; they present, however, little + remains of forest, save here and there a low oak scrub. The sudden change + from the leafy groves, ringing with many a “wood note wild,” to the dreary + silence of the dark region, is complete as you approach the foot of a tall + mountain, at whose base the river seems arrested, and is in reality + obliged by a sudden bend to seek another channel. This is Corrig-O'Neal; + and here, in a little amphitheatre, surrounded by mountains of lesser + size, stood the ancient manor of which mention has been more than once + made in these pages. + </p> + <p> + It is but a short time back and there stood there an ancient house, whose + character, half quaint, half noble, might have made it seem a French + château; the tall, high-pitched roof, pierced with many a window; the + richly ornamented chimneys, the long terrace, with its grotesque statues, + and the intricate traceries of the old gate itself, all evidencing a taste + not native to our land. The very stiff and formal avenue of lime-trees + that led direct to the door had reference to a style of + landscape-gardening more consonant with foreign notions, even without the + fountains, which, with various strange groups of allegorical meaning, + threw their tiny jets among the drooping flowers. At the back of the house + lay a large garden, or rather what constituted both garden and orchard; + for although near the windows trim flower-beds and neatly gravelled walks + were seen, with rare and blossoming plants, as you advanced, the turf + usurped the place of the cultivated ground, and the apple, the pear, and + the damson formed a dense, almost impenetrable shade. + </p> + <p> + Even on the brightest day in spring, when the light played and danced upon + the shining river, with blossoming cherry-trees, and yellow crocuses in + the grass, and fair soft daffodils along the water's edge, smiling like + timid beauties, when the gay May-fly skimmed the rippling stream, and the + strong trout splashed up to seize him,—even then, with life and + light and motion all around, there was an air of sadness on this spot,—a + dreary gloom, that fell upon the spirits less like sudden grief than as + the memory of some old and almost forgotten sorrow. The frowning aspect of + that stern mountain, which gave its name to the place, and which, in its + rugged front, showed little touch of time or season, seemed to impress a + mournful character on the scene. However it was, few passed the spot + without feeling its influence, nor is it likely that now, when scarcely a + trace of its once inhabited home remains, its aspect is more cheering. + </p> + <p> + In a dark wainscoted room of this gloomy abode, and on a raw and dreary + day, our old acquaintance, Lady Hester, sat, vainly endeavoring between + the fire and the screen to keep herself warm, while shawls, muffs, and + mantles were heaped in most picturesque confusion around her. A French + novel and a Blenheim spaniel lay at her feet, a scarce-begun piece of + embroidery stood at one side of her, and an untasted cup of coffee on a + small table at the other. Pale, and perhaps seeming still more so from the + effect of her deep mourning, she lay back in her chair, and, with + half-closed lids and folded arms, appeared as if courting sleep—or + at least unconsciousness. + </p> + <p> + She had lain thus for above half an hour, when a slight rustling noise—a + sound so slight as to be scarcely audible——caught her + attention, and, without raising her head, she asked in a faint tone,—— + </p> + <p> + “Is there any one there?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, my Lady. It is Lisa,” replied her maid, coming stealthily forward, + till she stood close behind her chair. “Put some of that thing——peat, + turf, or whatever it is——on the fire, child. Has the post + arrived?” + </p> + <p> + “No, my Lady; they say that the floods have detained the mails, and that + they will be fully twelve hours late.” + </p> + <p> + “Of course they will,” sighed she; “and if there should be anything for <i>me</i>, + they will be carried away.” + </p> + <p> + “I hope not, my Lady.” + </p> + <p> + “What's the use of your hoping about it, child? or, if you must hope, let + it be for something worth while. Hope that we may get away from this + miserable place,——that we may once more visit a land where + there are sunshine and flowers, and live where it repays one for the bore + of life.” + </p> + <p> + “I 'm sure I do hope it with all my heart, my Lady.” + </p> + <p> + “Of course you do, child. Even you must feel the barbarism of this + wretched country. Have those things arrived from Dublin yet?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, my Lady; but you never could wear them. The bonnet is a great + unwieldy thing, nearly as big and quite as heavy as a Life-Guardsman's + helmet; and the mantle is precisely like a hearth-rug with sleeves to it. + They are specially commended to your Ladyship's notice, as being all of + Irish manufacture.” + </p> + <p> + “What need to say so?” sighed Lady Hester. “Does not every lock on every + door, every scissors that will not cut, every tongs that will not hold, + every parasol that turns upside down, every carriage that jolts, and every + shoe that pinches you, proclaim its nationality?” + </p> + <p> + “Dr. Grounsell says, my Lady, that all the fault lies in the wealthier + classes, who prefer everything to native industry.” + </p> + <p> + “Dr. Grounsell's a fool, Lisa. Nothing shall ever persuade me that + Valenciennes and Brussels are not preferable to that ornament for + fireplaces and fauteuils called Limerick lace, and Genoa velvet a more + becoming wear than the O'Connell frieze. But have done with this + discussion; you have already put me out of temper by the mention of that + odious man's name.” + </p> + <p> + “I at least saved your Ladyship from seeing him this morning.” + </p> + <p> + “How so? Has he been here?” + </p> + <p> + “Twice already, my Lady; and threatens another visit He says that he has + something very important to communicate, and his pockets were stuffed with + papers.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, dear me! how I dread him and his parchments! Those terrible details + by which people discover how little is bequeathed to them, and how + securely it is tied up against every possibility of enjoying it. I 'd + rather be a negro slave on a coffee plantation than a widow with what is + called a 'high-principled trustee' over my fortune.” + </p> + <p> + “There he comes again, my Lady; see how fast he is galloping up the + avenue.” + </p> + <p> + “Why will that pony never stumble? Amiable and worthy folk break their + necks every day of the week,—fathers of families and unbeneficed + clergymen. Assurance companies should certainly deal lightly with crusty + old bachelors and disagreeable people, for they bear charmed lives.” + </p> + <p> + “Am I to admit him, my Lady?” asked the maid, moving towards the door. + </p> + <p> + “Yes—no—I really cannot—but perhaps I must. It is only + putting off the evil day. Yes, Lisa, let him come in; but mind that you + tell him I am very poorly—that I have had a wretched night, and am + quite unfit for any unpleasant news, or, indeed, for anything like what he + calls business. Oh dear! oh dear! the very thought of parchment will make + me hate sheep to the last hour of my life; and I have come to detest the + very sight of my own name, from signing 'Hester Onslow' so often.” + </p> + <p> + It must be said, there was at least no hypocrisy in her Ladyship's + lamentations; if the cause of them was not all-sufficient, the effects + were to the full what she averred, and she was, or believed herself to be, + the most miserable of women. Sir Stafford's will had bequeathed to her his + Irish property, on the condition of her residing upon it at least six + months every two years, a clause whose cruelty she—with or without + reason we know not—attributed to the suggestion of Dr. Grounsell. To + secure eighteen months of unlimited liberty, she was undergoing her + captivity in what, it must be acknowledged, was a spirit the reverse of + that the testator intended. So far from taking any interest in the + country, its people, or its prospects, she only saw in it a dreary + imprisonment, saddened by bad weather, bad spirits, and solitude. Nor were + her griefs all causeless. Her position was greatly fallen from the + possession of a fortune almost without bounds to the changeful + vicissitudes of an Irish property. Norwood's dreadful death, wrapped in + all the mystery which involved it, shocked her deeply, although, in + reality, the event relieved her from a bondage she had long felt to be + insupportable; and lastly, the Romanism in which she had, so to say, + invested all her “loose capital” of zeal and enthusiasm, had become a + terrible disappointment. The gorgeous splendor of Italian Popery found a + miserable representative in Irish Catholicism. The meanly built Irish + chapel, with its humble congregation, was a sorry exchange for the + architectural grandeur and costly assemblage gathered within the Duomo of + Florence, or beneath the fretted roof of “St. John of Lateran.” + </p> + <p> + In all the sublimity of pealing music, of full-toned choirs, of incense + floating up into realms of dim distance, there were but the nasal + sing-song of a parish priest, and the discordant twang of a dirty acolyte! + And what an interval separated their vulgar manners of the village curate + from the polished addresses of the Roman cardinal! How unlike the blended + pretension and cringing slavery of the one was to the high-bred bearing + and courtly urbanity of the other. A visit from “Father John” was an + actual infliction. To receive his Eminence was not only an honor but a + sincere pleasure. Who, like him, to discuss every topic of the world and + its fashionable inhabitants, touching every incident with a suave + mellowness of remark that, like the light through a stained-glass window, + warmed, while it softened, that which it fell upon? Who could throw over + the frailties of fashion such a graceful cloak of meek forgiveness, that + it seemed actually worth while to sin to be pardoned with such affection? + All the pomp and circumstance of Romanism, as seen in its own capital, + associated with rank, splendor, high dignity, and names illustrious in + story, form a strong contrast to its vulgar pretensions in Ireland. It is + so essentially allied to ceremonial and display, that when these + degenerate into poverty and meanness, the effect produced is always + bordering on the ludicrous. Such, at least, became the feeling of Lady + Hester as she witnessed those travesties of grandeur, the originals of + which had left her awe-stricken and amazed. + </p> + <p> + Shorn of fortune, deprived of all the illusions which her newly adopted + creed had thrown around her, uncheered by that crowd of flatterers which + used to form her circle, is it any wonder if her spirits and her temper + gave way, and that she fancied herself the very type of misery and + desertion? The last solace of such minds is in the pity they bestow upon + themselves; and here she certainly excelled, and upon no occasion more + forcibly than when receiving a visit from Dr. Grounsell. + </p> + <p> + “Dr. Grounsell, my Lady,” said a servant; and, at the words, that + gentleman entered. + </p> + <p> + A heavy greatcoat, with numerous capes, a low-crowned glazed hat, and a + pair of old-fashioned “Hessians,” into which his trousers were tucked, + showed that he had not stooped to any artifices of toilet to win favor + with her Ladyship. As she bowed slightly to him, she lifted her glass to + her eye, and then dropped it suddenly with a gentle simper, as though to + say that another glance would have perilled her gravity. + </p> + <p> + “Winter has set in early, madam,” said he, approaching the fire, “and with + unusual severity. The poor are great sufferers this year.” + </p> + <p> + “I 'm sure I agree with you,” sighed Lady Hester. “I never endured such + cold before!” + </p> + <p> + “I spoke of the 'poor,' madam,” retorted he, abruptly. + </p> + <p> + “Well, sir, has any one a better right to respond in their name than I + have? Look around you, see where I am living, and how, and then answer + me!” + </p> + <p> + “Madam,” said Grounsell, sternly, and fixing his eyes steadily on her as + he spoke, “I have ridden for two hours of this morning over part of that + tract which is your estate. I have visited more than a dozen—I will + not call them houses, but hovels. There was fever in some, ague in others, + and want, utter want, in all; and yet I never heard one of the sufferers + select himself as the special mark of misfortune, but rather allude to his + misery as part of that common calamity to which flesh is heir. 'God help + the poor!' was the prayer, and they would have felt ashamed to have + invoked the blessing on themselves alone.” + </p> + <p> + “I must say that if you have been to see people with typhus, and perhaps + small-pox, it shows very little consideration to come and visit <i>me</i> + immediately after, sir.” + </p> + <p> + Grounsell's face grew purple, but with a great effort he repressed the + reply that was on his lips, and was silent. + </p> + <p> + “Of course, then, these poor creatures can pay nothing, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing, madam.” + </p> + <p> + “Che bella cosa! an Irish property!” cried she, with a scornful laugh; + “and if I mistake not, sir, it was to your kind intervention and influence + that I am indebted for this singular mark of my husband's affection?” + </p> + <p> + “Quite true, madam. I had supposed it to be possible——Just + possible—that, by connecting your personal interest with duties, you + might be reclaimed from a life of frivolity and idleness to an existence + of active and happy utility, and this without any flattering estimate of + your qualities, madam.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, sir, this is a very needless protest,” said she, bowing and smiling. + </p> + <p> + “I repeat, madam, that, without any flattering estimate of your qualities, + I saw quite enough to convince me that kindness and benevolence were just + as easy to you as their opposites.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, you have become a courtier, sir,” said she, with a smile of sly + malice. + </p> + <p> + “I 'm sorry for it, madam; I 'd as soon be mistaken for a hairdresser or a + dancing-master. But to return. Whether I was correct or not in my theory + would appear to be of little moment; another, and more pressing view of + the case, usurping all our interests, which is no less, madam, than your + actual right and title to this estate at all.” + </p> + <p> + Lady Hester leaned forward in her chair as he said this, and in a low but + unshaken voice replied, “Do I understand you aright, sir, that the title + to this property is contested?” + </p> + <p> + “Not yet, madam; there is no claim set up as yet; but there is every + likelihood that there will be such. Rumors have gradually grown into open + discussions; threatening notices have been sent to me by post, and stories + which at first I had deemed vague and valueless have assumed a degree of + importance from the details by which they were accompanied. In fact, + madam, without any clew to the nature or direct drift of the plot, I can + yet see that a formidable scheme is being contrived, the great agent of + which is to be menace.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh dear, what a relief it would be to me were I quite certain of all + this!” exclaimed Lady Hester, with a deep sigh. + </p> + <p> + “What a relief? Did you say what a relief, madam?” cried Grounsell, in + amazement. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir, that was precisely the word I used.” + </p> + <p> + “Then I must have blundered most confoundedly, madam, in my effort to + explain myself. I was endeavoring to show you that your claim to the + estate might be disputed!” + </p> + <p> + “Very well, sir, I perfectly understood you.” + </p> + <p> + “You did, eh? you perceive that you might possibly lose the property, and + you acquiesce calmly—” + </p> + <p> + “Nay, more, sir; I rejoice sincerely at the very thought of it.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, upon my——eh? May the devil—I beg pardon, + madam, but this is really such a riddle to me that I must confess my + inability to unravel it.” + </p> + <p> + “Shall I aid you, sir?” said Lady Hester, with an easy smile on her + features. “When bequeathing this estate to me, Sir Stafford expressly + provided, that if from any political convulsion Ireland should be + separated from her union with Great Britain, or if by course of law a + substantial claim was established to the property by another, that I + should be recompensed for the loss by an income of equal amount derived + from the estate of his son, George Onslow, at whose discretion it lay to + allocate any portion of his inheritance he deemed suitable for the + purpose.” + </p> + <p> + “All true, madam, quite true,” broke in Grounsell; “and the + Solicitor-General's opinion is that the provision is perfectly nugatory,—not + worth sixpence. It has not one single tie of obligation, and, from its + vagueness, is totally inoperative.” + </p> + <p> + “In law, sir, it may be all that you say,” replied Lady Hester, calmly; + “but I have yet to learn that this is the appeal to which Captain Onslow + would submit it.” + </p> + <p> + Grounsell stared at her; and for the first time in all his life he thought + her handsome. That his own features revealed the admiration he felt was + also plain enough, and Lady Hester was very far from being insensible to + the tribute. + </p> + <p> + “So that, madam,” cried he, at length, “You prefer insecurity to + certainty.” + </p> + <p> + “Say rather, sir, that I have more confidence in the honorable sentiments + of an English gentleman than I have in the solvency of a poor and wretched + peasantry. Up to this very hour I have known nothing except the claims + upon myself. I don't like the climate; and I am certain the neighbors do + not like me,—in fact, I have neither the youth nor the enterprise + suited to a new country.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, good heavens, madam, it isn't New Zealand we're in!” cried + Grounsell, angrily. + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps not,” sighed she, languidly; “but it is just as strange to <i>me</i>.” + </p> + <p> + “I see, madam,” said Grounsell, rising, “my plan was a bad one. A wing in + the Borghese Palace, a spacious apartment of the Corsini, on the Arno, or + even the first floor of the Moncenigo, at Venice, would have been a + happier choice than a gloomy old mansion on the banks of an Irish river.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, do not speak of it, sir!” cried she, enthusiastically. “Do not remind + me of starry skies and the deep blue Adriatic in this land of cloud and + fog, where even the rain is 'dirty water.' Pray make the very weakest + defence of my claim to this inheritance. I only ask to march out with my + baggage, and do not even stipulate for the honors of war. Let me have + George's address.” + </p> + <p> + “You 'll not need it, madam; he will be here within a few days. He has + been promoted to a majority for his conduct in the field, and returns to + England covered with praise and honors.” + </p> + <p> + “What delightful news, Dr. Grounsell; you are actually charming this + morning!” The doctor bowed stiffly at the compliment, and she went on: “I + often thought that you could be amiable if you would only let yourself; + but, like the Cardinal Gualterino, you took up the character of Bear, and + 'Bear' you would be at all times and seasons; and then those horrid coats, + that you would persist in wearing,—how you ever got them of that + odious brown, I can't think; they must have dyed the wool to order,—not + but that I think your shoes were worst of all.” + </p> + <p> + Grounsell understood too well the wordy absurdity with which her Ladyship, + on the least excitement, was accustomed to launch forth, quite forgetful + of all the impertinence into which it betrayed her. He therefore neither + interposed a remark, nor seemed in any way conscious of her observation; + but coldly waiting till she had concluded, he said, —— + </p> + <p> + “Some other of your Ladyship's friends are also expected in this + neighborhood,—the Daltons!” + </p> + <p> + “What—my dear Kate?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; Miss Kate Dalton, accompanied by her brother and uncle. I have just + been to order apartments for them in the hotel at Kilkenny.” + </p> + <p> + “But they must come here. I shall insist upon it, doctor. This is a point + on which I will accept no refusal.” + </p> + <p> + “The occasion which calls them to Ireland, madam, and of which you shall + hear all, hereafter, would totally preclude such an arrangement.” + </p> + <p> + “More mystery, sir?” exclaimed she. + </p> + <p> + “Another side of the same one, madam,” rejoined he, dryly. + </p> + <p> + “What delightful news, to think I shall see my dearest Kate again! I am + dying to know all about Russia, and if the ladies do wear pearls in + morning toilette, and whether turquoises are only seen in fans and parasol + handles. What splendor she must have seen!” + </p> + <p> + “Humph!” said Grounsell, with a short shrug of the shoulders. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, I know you despise all these things, and you hate caviare. Then I + want to know about the Prince; why the match was broken off; and from what + cause she refused that great settlement,—some thousand roubles. How + much is a rouble, by the way, doctor?” + </p> + <p> + “I really cannot tell you, madam,” said he, bluntly, who saw that she was + once more “wide a-field.” + </p> + <p> + “She'll tell me all herself, and everything about Russia. I want to hear + about the knout, and the malachite, and that queer habit of gambling + before dinner is announced. I 'm sure I should like St Petersburg. And the + brother, what is he like?” + </p> + <p> + “I only know, madam, that he is a great invalid, not yet recovered from + his wounds!” + </p> + <p> + “How interesting! He was in the patriot army, was he not?” + </p> + <p> + “He fought for the Emperor, madam; pray make no mistake in that sense.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh dear! how difficult it is to remember all these things; and yet I knew + it perfectly when I was at Florence,—all about the Kaiser-Jagers, + and the Crociati, and the Croats, and the rest of them. It was the + Crociati, or the Croats—I forget which—eat little children. It + 's perfectly true; Guardarelli, when he was a prisoner, saw an infant + roasting for Radetzky's own table.” + </p> + <p> + “I would beg of you, madam, not to mention this fact to the Field-Marshal, + Miss Kate Dalton's uncle.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, of course not; and I trust he will not expect that we could provide + him with such delicacies here. Now, doctor, how shall we amuse these + people? what can we do?” + </p> + <p> + “Remember, first of all, madam, that their visit to Ireland is not an + excursion of pleasure——” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, I can perfectly conceive <i>that!</i>” interrupted she, with a look + of irony. + </p> + <p> + “I was about to remark that an affair of deep importance was the cause of + their journey—” + </p> + <p> + “More business!” broke she in again. “After all, then, I suppose I am not + much more miserable than the rest of the world. Everybody would seem to + have what you call 'affairs of importance.'” + </p> + <p> + “Upon my word, madam, you have made me totally forget <i>mine</i>, then,” + said Grounsell, jumping up from his seat, and looking at his watch. “I + came here prepared to make certain explanations, and ask your opinion on + certain points. It is now two o'clock, and I have not even opened the + matter in hand.” + </p> + <p> + Lady Hester laughed heartily at his distress, and continued to enjoy her + mirth as he packed up his scattered papers, buttoned his greatcoat, and + hurried away, without even the ceremony of a leave-taking. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0034" id="link2HCH0034"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXIV. “THE RORE.” + </h2> + <p> + D'Esmonde and his friend Michel sat beside the fire in a small parlor of + the wayside public-house called “The Rore.” They were both thoughtful and + silent, and in their moody looks might be read the signs of brooding care. + As for the Abbé, anxiety seemed to have worn him like sickness; for his + jaws were sunk and hollow, while around his eyes deep circles of a dusky + purple were strongly marked. + </p> + <p> + It was not without reason that they were thus moved; since Meekins, who + hitherto rarely or never ventured abroad, had, on that morning, gone to + the fair of Graigue, a village some few miles away, where he was + recognized by a farmer——an old man named Lenahan—as the + steward of the late Mr. Godfrey. It was to no purpose that he assumed all + the airs of a stranger to the country, and asked various questions about + the gentry and the people. The old farmer watched him long and closely, + and went home fully satisfied that he had seen Black Sam,—the + popular name by which he was known on the estate. In his capacity of + bailiff, Black Sam had been most unpopular in the country. Many hardships + were traced to his counsels; and it was currently believed that Mr. + Godfrey would never have proceeded harshly against a tenant except under + his advice. This character, together with his mysterious disappearance + after the murder, were quite sufficient, in peasant estimation, to connect + him with the crime; and no sooner had Lenahan communicated his discovery + to his friends, than they, one and all, counselled him to go up to the + doctor—as Grounsell was called on the property—and ask his + advice. + </p> + <p> + The moment Grounsell heard that the suspected man called himself Meekins, + he issued a warrant for his arrest; and so promptly was it executed that + he was taken on that very evening as he was returning to “The Rore.” The + tidings only reached the little inn after nightfall, and it was in gloomy + confabulation over them that the two priests were now seated. The + countryman who had brought the news was present when the police arrested + Sam, and was twice called back into the parlor as D'Esmonde questioned him + on the circumstance. + </p> + <p> + It was after a long interval of silence that the Abbé for the third time + summoned the peasant before him. + </p> + <p> + “You have not told me under what name they arrested him. Was it Meekins?” + </p> + <p> + “The Sergeant said, 'you call yourself Meekins, my good man?' and the + other said, 'Why not?' 'Oh, no reason in life,' says the Sergeant; 'but + you must come with us,—that 's all.' 'Have you a warrant for what + you 're doing?' says he. 'Ay,' says the polis; 'you broke yer bail——'” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, yes,” broke in D'Esmonde, “You mentioned all that already. And + Meekins showed no fear on being taken?” + </p> + <p> + “No more than your Reverence does this minute. Indeed, I never see a man + take it so easy. 'Mind what you 're doing,' says he; 'for, though I 'm a + poor man, I have strong friends that won't see me wronged.' And then he + said something about one 'Father Matthew;' but whether it was you, or that + other clergyman there, I don't know.” + </p> + <p> + “They took him to Thomastown?” + </p> + <p> + “No, your Reverence,—to Kilkenny.” + </p> + <p> + “That will do, my good man,” said D'Esmonde, with a nod of his head; and + then, as the door closed behind him, added, “You see, Michel, I was right + in my fears of this doctor. The evasive terms of his note, too, confirmed + my suspicions,—that 'desire for further time in a matter of such + great difficulty.' We have thrown him on the scent, and he is now in full + cry after the game. Shame upon us!—shame! that such as he can foil + us at our own weapons. I see his plan clearly enough. He is either in + possession of some secret fact of this man's early life, which can be + employed as a menace to extort a confession from him, or he is about to + work on him by bribery. Now, as to the former, I am perfectly at ease. + What I, with every agency of the Church, have failed to elicit, I can + safely defy the layman's craft to detect. As to the effect of a bribe, I + am far from being so certain.” + </p> + <p> + “And in either case the result concerns you but little,” said Cahill. “The + fellow has nothing in his power against <i>you</i>.” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing,” said D'Esmonde. “I never left myself in the hands of such as + he! It will, of course, be disagreeable to me that our intercourse should + be made public. The Orange press will know how to connect our intimacy + with a thousand schemes and subtleties that I never dreamed of; and, more + offensive still, the assumed relationship to Mr. Godfrey will afford a + fruitful theme for sneer and sarcasm. I foresee it all, my good Michel; + and, worst of all, I perceive how this publicity will mar higher and + nobler objects. The Sacred College will never make a prince of the Church + of one whose name has been sullied by the slang of journalism. These are + the dangers to be averted here. You must contrive to see this man at once,—to + assure him of our interest and protection, if he be but discreet and + careful. He may safely deny all knowledge of the circumstances to which we + alluded. We are the only persons to whom he made these revelations. He has + only to assume an ignorance of everything. Impress this upon him, Michel; + for if they can involve him in a narrative, be it ever so slight or vague, + these lawyers exercise a kind of magic power in what is called + cross-examination, and can detect a secret fact by tests as fine as those + by which the chemist discovers a grain of poison. Would that I could see + him myself! but this might be imprudent.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="linkimage-0018" id="linkimage-0018"> + <!-- IMG --></a> <br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%;"> + <img src="images/00452.jpg" alt="00452" width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p> + “Trust all to me, D'Esmonde; and believe me, that with men like him habit + has taught me better how to deal than you, with all your higher skill, + could accomplish. I will contrive to see him to-night, or early to-morrow. + The under-turnkey was from my own parish, and I can make my visit as if to + <i>him.</i>” + </p> + <p> + “How humiliating is it,” cried D'Esmonde, rising and pacing the room,—“how + humiliating to think that incidents like these are to sway and influence + us in our road through life; but so it is, the great faults that men + commit are less dangerous than are imprudent intimacies and ill-judged + associations. It is not on the high bluff or the bold headland that the + craft is shipwrecked, but on some small sunken rock,—some miserable + reef beneath the waves! Could we but be 'penny wise' in morals, Michel, + how rich we should be in knowledge of life! I never needed this fellow,—never + wanted his aid in any way! The unhappy mention of Godfrey's name—the + spell that in some shape or other has worked on my heart through life—first + gave him an interest in my eyes; and so, bit by bit, I have come to be + associated with him, till—would you believe it?—I cannot + separate myself from him. Has it ever occurred to you, Michel, that the + Evil One sometimes works his ends by infusing into the nature of some + chance intimate that species of temptation by which courageous men are so + easily seduced,—I mean that love of hazard, that playing with fire, + so intoxicating in its excitement? I am convinced that to <i>me</i> no + bait could be so irresistible. Tell me that the earth is mined, and you + invest it with a charm that all the verdure of 'Araby the Blest' could + never give it! I love to handle steel when the lightning is playing; not, + mark me, from any contempt of life, far less in any spirit of blasphemous + defiance, but simply for the glorious sentiment of peril. Be assured that + when all other excitements pall upon the mind, this one survives in all + its plenitude, and, as the poet says of avarice, becomes a good 'old + gentlemanly vice.'” + </p> + <p> + “You will come along with me, D'Esmonde?” said the other, whose thoughts + were concentrated on the business before him. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, Michel, I am as yet unknown here; and it may be, too, that this + Meekins might wish to see me. We must take good care, while we avoid any + public notice, that this fellow should not think himself deserted by us.” + </p> + <p> + “The very point on which I was reflecting, D'Esmonde. We can talk over + this as we go along.” + </p> + <p> + As the two priests affected to be engaged on a kind of mission to collect + subscriptions for some sacred purpose, their appearance or departure + excited no feeling of astonishment, and the landlord of “The Bore” saw + them prepare to set out without expressing the least surprise. The little + “low-backed car,” the common conveyance of the people at fair and market, + was soon at the door; and, seated in this, and well protected against the + weather by rugs and blankets, they began their journey. + </p> + <p> + “This is but a sorry substitute for the scarlet-panelled coach of the + Cardinal, D'Esmonde,” said his companion, smiling. + </p> + <p> + A low, faint sigh was all the answer the other made, and so they went + their way in silence. + </p> + <p> + The day broke drearily and sad-looking; a thin, cold rain was falling, + and, from the leaden sky above to the damp earth beneath, all was gloomy + and depressing. The peasantry they passed on the road were poor-looking + and meanly clad; the houses on the wayside were all miserable to a degree; + and while his companion slept, D'Esmonde was deep in his contemplation of + these signs of poverty. + </p> + <p> + “No,” said he, at last, as if summing up the passing reflections in his + own mind, “this country is not ripe for the great changes we are + preparing. The gorgeous splendor of the Church would but mock this misery. + The rich robe of the Cardinal would be but an insult to the ragged coat of + the peasant. England must be our field. Ireland must be content with a + missionary priesthood. Italy, indeed, has poverty, but there is an + intoxication in the life of that land which defies it. The sun, the sky, + the blue water, the vineyards, the groves of olive, and the fig—the + lightheadedness that comes of an existence where no fears invade—no + gloomy to-morrow has ever threatened. These are the elements to baffle all + the cares of narrow fortune, and hence the gifts which make men true + believers! In climates such as this men brood and think and ponder. + Uncheered from without, they turn within, and then come doubts and + hesitations,—the fatal craving to know that which they may not! Of a + truth these regions of the north are but ill suited to our glorious faith, + and Protestantism must shun the sun as she does the light of reason + itself.” + </p> + <p> + “What! are you preaching, D'Esmonde?” cried his friend, waking up at the + energetic tone of the Abbe's voice. “Do you fancy yourself in the pulpit? + But here we are, close to the town. We had better dismount now, and + proceed on foot.” + </p> + <p> + Having dismissed their humble equipage, the two friends walked briskly + along, and entered the city, which, even at this early hour, was filling + for its weekly market. + </p> + <p> + D'Esmonde took up his quarters at once at a small inn close by the castle + gate, and the priest Cahill immediately proceeded to the jail. He found no + difficulty in obtaining access to his acquaintance the under-turnkey, but, + to his disappointment, all approach to Meekins was strictly interdicted. + “The magistrates were here,” said the turnkey, “till past midnight with + him, and that English agent of the Corrig-O'Neal estate was along with + them. What took place, I cannot even guess, for it was done in secret. I + only overheard one of the gentlemen remark, as he passed out, 'That fellow + is too deep for us all; we 'll make nothing of him.'” + </p> + <p> + Cahill questioned the man closely as to what the arrest related, and + whether he had heard of any allegation against Meekins; but he knew + nothing whatever, save that he had broken his bail some years before. The + strictest watch was enjoined over the prisoner, and all intercourse from + without rigidly denied. To the priest's inquiries about Meekins himself, + the turnkey replied by saying that he had never seen any man with fewer + signs of fear or trepidation. “Whatever they have against him,” added he, + “he's either innocent, or he defies them to prove him guilty.” + </p> + <p> + Cahill's entreaties were all insufficient to make the turnkey disobey his + orders. Indeed, he showed that the matter was one of as much difficulty as + danger, the chief jailer being specially interested in the case by some + observation of one of the justices. + </p> + <p> + “You can at least carry a message for me?” said the priest, at last. + </p> + <p> + “It's just as much as I dare do,” replied the other. + </p> + <p> + “You incur no risk whatever so far,” continued Cahill “The poor man is my + sacristan, and I am deeply interested for him. I only heard of his being + arrested last night, and you see I 've lost no time in coming to see after + him. Tell him this. Tell him that I was here at daybreak, and that I 'll + do my best to get leave to speak with him daring the day. Tell him, + moreover, that, if I shouldn't succeed in this, not to be down-hearted, + for that we—a friend of mine and myself——will not desert + him nor see him wronged. And, above all, tell him to say nothing whatever + to the magistrates. Mind me well,—not a syllable of any kind.” + </p> + <p> + “I mistake him greatly,” said the turnkey, “or he 's the man to take a + hint quick enough, particularly if it's for his own benefit.” + </p> + <p> + “And so it is,—his own, and no other's,” rejoined the priest. “If he + but follow this advice, I 'll answer for his being liberated before the + week ends. Say, also, that I 'd send him some money, but that it might + draw suspicion on him; and for the present it is better to be cautious.” + </p> + <p> + Before Cahill left the prison, he reiterated all his injunctions as to + caution, and the turnkey faithfully pledged himself to enforce them on the + prisoner. + </p> + <p> + “I will come again this evening,” said the priest, “and you can tell me + what he says; for, as he has no friend but myself, I must not forsake + him.” + </p> + <p> + As Cahill gained the street, a heavy travelling-carriage, whose lumbering + build bespoke a foreign origin, passed by with four posters, and, sweeping + across the market-place, drew up at the chief inn of the town. The priest, + in idle curiosity, mingled with the lounging crowd that immediately + gathered around the strange-looking equipage, where appliances for + strength and comfort seemed blended, in total disregard to all facilities + for motion. A bustling courier, with all the officiousness of his craft, + speedily opened the door and banged down the steps, and a very tall old + man, in what appeared to be an undress military frock, descended, and then + assisted a young lady to alight. This done, they both gave their arm to a + young man, whose wasted form and uncertain step bespoke long and severe + illness. Supporting him at either side, they assisted him up the steps + into the hall, while the bystanders amused themselves in criticising the + foreigners, for such their look and dress declared them. + </p> + <p> + “The ould fellow with a white beard over his lip is a Roosian or a + Proosian,” cried one, who aspired to no small skill in continental + nationalities. + </p> + <p> + “Faix! the daughter takes the shine out of them all,” cried another. + “She's a fine crayture!” + </p> + <p> + “The brother was a handsome man before he had that sickness,” observed a + third. “'Tis no use of his legs he has!” + </p> + <p> + <a name="linkimage-0019" id="linkimage-0019"> + <!-- IMG --></a> <br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%;"> + <img src="images/00459.jpg" alt="00459" width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p> + These frank commentaries on the new arrivals were suddenly interrupted by + the appearance of the old man on the steps of the hall door, where he + stood gazing down the street, and totally unconscious of the notice he was + attracting. + </p> + <p> + “What's that building yonder?” cried he, to the waiter at his side, and + his accent, as he spoke, betrayed a foreign tongue. “The Town Hall!—ah, + to be sure, I remember it now; and, if I be not much mistaken, there is——at + least there was—an old rickety stair to a great loft overhead, where + a strange fellow lived, who made masks for the theatre—what's this + his name was?” The bystanders listened to these reminiscences in silent + astonishment, but unable to supply the missing clew to memory. “Are none + of you old enough to remember Jack Ruth, the huntsman?” cried he, aloud. + </p> + <p> + “I have heard my father talk of him,” said a middle-aged man, “if it was + the same that galloped down the mountain of Corrig-O'Neal and swam the + river at the foot of it.” + </p> + <p> + “The very man,” broke in the stranger. “Two of the dogs, but not a man, + dared to follow! I have seen some bold feats since that day, but I + scarcely think I have ever witnessed a more dashing exploit. If old Jack + has left any of his name and race behind him,” said he, turning to the + waiter, “say that there's one here would like to see him;” and with this + he re-entered the inn. + </p> + <p> + “Who is this gentleman that knows the country so well?” asked the priest.. + </p> + <p> + “Count Dalton von Auersberg, sir,” replied the courier. “His whole + thoughts are about Ireland now, though I believe he has not been here for + upwards of sixty years.” + </p> + <p> + “Dalton!” muttered the priest to himself; “what can have brought them to + Ireland? D'Esmonde must be told of this at once!” And he pushed through + the crowd and hastened back to the little inn. + </p> + <p> + The Abbé was engaged in writing as Cahill entered the room. + </p> + <p> + “Have you seen him, Michel?” cried he, eagerly, as he raised his head' + from the table. + </p> + <p> + “No. Admission is strictly denied—” + </p> + <p> + “I thought it would be so—I suspected what the game would be. This + Grounsell means to turn the tables, and practise upon <i>us</i> the menace + that was meant for <i>him</i>. I foresee all that he intends, but I'll + foil him! I have written here to Wallace, the Queen's Counsel, to come + down here at once. This charge against old Dalton, in hands like his, may + become a most formidable accusation.” + </p> + <p> + “I have not told you that these Daltons have arrived here—” + </p> + <p> + “What! Of whom do you speak?” + </p> + <p> + “The old Count von Dalton, with a niece and nephew.” + </p> + <p> + D'Esmonde sprang from his seat, stood for some seconds, stood still and + silent. + </p> + <p> + “This is certain, Michel? you know this to be true?” + </p> + <p> + “I saw the old General myself, and heard him talk with the waiter.” + </p> + <p> + “The combat will, then, be a close one,” muttered D'Esmonde. “Grounsell + has done this, and it shall cost them dearly. Mark me, Michel—all + that the rack and the thumb-screw were to our ancestors, the system of a + modern trial realizes in our day. There never was a torture, the invention + of man's cruelty, as terrible as cross-examination! I care not that this + Dalton should have been as innocent as you are of this crime,—it + matters little if his guiltlessness appear from the very outset. Give me + but two days of searching inquiry into his life, his habits, and his ways. + Let me follow him to his fireside, in his poverty, and lay bare all the + little straits and contrivances by which he eked out existence, and + maintained a fair exterior. Let me show them to the world, as I can show + them, with penury within, and pretension without These disclosures cannot + be suppressed as irrelevant,—they are the alleged motives of the + crime. The family that sacrifices a child to a hateful alliance——that + sells to Austrian bondage the blood of an only son—and consigns to + menial labor a maimed and sickly girl, might well have gone a step further + in crime.” + </p> + <p> + “D'Esmonde! D'Esmonde!” cried the other, as he pressed him down into a + seat, and took his hand between his own, “these are not words of calm + reason, but the outpourings of passion.” The Abbé made no answer, but his + chest heaved and fell, and his breath came with a rushing sound, while his + eyes glared like the orbs of a wild animal. + </p> + <p> + “You are right, Michel,” said he at last, with a faint sigh. “This was a + paroxysm of that hate which, stronger than all my reason, has actuated me + through life. Again and again have I told you that towards these Daltons I + bear a kind of instinctive aversion. These antipathies are not to be + combated,—there are brave men who will shudder if they see a spider. + I have seen a courageous spirit quail before a worm. These are not + caprices, to be laughed at,—they are indications full of pregnant + meaning, could we but read them aright. How my temples throb!—my + head seems splitting. Now leave me, Michel, for a while, and I will try to + take some rest.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0035" id="link2HCH0035"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXV. A TALK OVER BYGONES + </h2> + <p> + It was with a burst of joy that Lady Hester heard the Daltons had arrived. + In the wearisome monotony of her daily life, anything to do, anywhere to + go, any one to see, would have been esteemed boons of great price; what + delight, then, was it to meet those with whom she could converse of + “bygone times” and other lands!—“that dear Kate,” whom she really + liked as well as it was in her nature to love anything, from whom she now + anticipated so much of that gossip, technically called “news,” and into + whose confiding heart she longed to pour out her own private woes! + </p> + <p> + The meeting was indeed affectionate on both sides; and, as Lady Hester was + in her most gracious of moods, Frank thought her the very type of + amiability, and the old Count pronounced her manners fit for the high + ordeal of Vienna itself. Perhaps our reader will be grateful if we leave + to his imagination all the changeful moods of grief and joy, surprise, + regret, and ecstasy, with which her Ladyship questioned and listened to + Kate Dalton's stories; throwing out, from time to time, little reflections + of her own, as though incidentally, to show how much wiser years had made + her. There are people who ever regard the misfortunes of others as mere + key-notes to elicit their own sufferings; and thus, when Kate spoke of + Russia, Lady Hester quoted Ireland. Frank's sufferings reminded her of her + own “nerves;” and poor Nelly's unknown fate was precisely “the condition + of obscurity to which Sir Stafford's cruel will had consigned herself.” + </p> + <p> + Kate's mind was very far from being at ease, and yet it was with no mean + pleasure she found herself seated beside Lady Hester, talking over the + past with all that varying emotion which themes of pleasure and sadness + call up. Who has not enjoyed the delight of such moments, when, living + again bygone days, we laugh or sigh over incidents wherein once as actors + we had moved and felt? If time has dimmed our perceptions of pleasure, it + has also softened down resentments and allayed asperities. We can afford + to forgive so much, and we feel, also, so confident of others' + forgiveness, and if regrets do steal over us that these things have passed + away forever, there yet lurks the flattering thought that we have grown + wiser than we then were. So is it the autobiographies of the fireside are + pleasant histories, whose vanities are all pardonable, and whose trifling + is never ungraceful! Memory throws such a softened light on the picture, + that even bores become sufferable, and we extract a passing laugh from the + most tiresome of our quondam “afflictives.” + </p> + <p> + Had her Ladyship been less occupied with herself and her own emotions, she + could not have failed to notice the agitation under which Kate suffered at + many of her chance remarks. The levity, too, with which she discussed her + betrothal to Midchekoff almost offended her. The truth was, Kate had half + forgotten the reckless, unthinking style of her friend's conversation, and + it required a little practice and training to grow accustomed to it again. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, my dear,” she went on, “I have had such trouble to persuade people + that it was no marriage at all, but a kind of engagement; and when that + horrid Emperor would n't give his consent, of course there was an end of + it you may be sure, my sweet child, I never believed one syllable of that + vile creature's story about George's picture; but somehow it has got + abroad, and that odious Heidendorf goes about repeating it everywhere. I + knew well that you never cared for poor dear George! Indeed, I told him as + much when he was quite full of admiration for you. It is so stupid in men! + their vanity makes them always believe that, if they persist—just + persevere—in their attachment, the woman will at last succumb. Now, + <i>we</i> have a better sense of these things, and actually adore the man + that shows indifference to us,—at least, I am sure that I do. Such + letters as the poor boy keeps writing about you! And about five months + ago, when he was so badly wounded, and did not expect to recover, he + actually made his will, and left you all he had in the world. Oh dear!” + said she, with a heavy sigh, “they have generous moments, these men, but + they never last; and, by the way, I must ask your advice—though I + already guess what it will be—about a certain friend of ours, who + has had what I really must call the presumption—for, after all, + Kate, I think you 'll agree with me it is a very great presumption,——is + it not, dear?” + </p> + <p> + “Until you tell me a little more,” replied Kate, with a sigh, “I can + scarcely answer.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, it's Mr. Jekyl—you remember, that little man that used to be + so useful at Florence; not but he has very pretty manners, and a great + deal of tact in society. His letters, too, are inimitably droll. I'll show + you some of them.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! then you are in correspondence with him?” said Kate, slyly. + </p> + <p> + “Yes; that is, he writes <i>to me</i>—and I—I sometimes send + <i>him</i> a short note. In fact, it was the Abbé D'Esmonde induced me to + think of it at all; and I was bored here, and so unhappy, and so lonely.” + </p> + <p> + “I perceive,” said Kate; “but I trust that there is nothing positive,——nothing + like an engagement?” + </p> + <p> + “And why, dear?—whence these cautious scruples?” said Lady Hester, + almost peevishly. + </p> + <p> + “Simply because he is very unworthy of you,” said Kate, bluntly, and + blushing deep at her own hardihood. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, I'm quite sure of that,” said Lady Hester, casting down her eyes. “I + know—I feel that I am mistaken and misunderstood. The world has + always judged me unfairly! you alone, dearest, ever comprehended me; and + even you could not guess of what I am capable! If you were to read my + journal—if you were just to see what sufferings I have gone through! + And then that terrible shock! though, I must say, D'Esmonde's mode of + communicating it was delicacy itself. A very strange man that Abbé is, + Kate. He now and then talks in a way that makes one suspect his affections + are or have been engaged.” + </p> + <p> + “I always believed him too deeply immersed in other cares.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, what a short-sighted judgment, child! These are the minds that always + feel most! I know this by myself—daring the last two years + especially! When I think what I have gone through! The fate, not alone of + Italy, but of Europe, of the world, I may say, discussed and determined at + our fireside! Yes, Kate, I assure you, so it was. D'Esmonde referred many + points to me, saying 'that the keener perception of a female mind must be + our pilot here.' Of course, I felt all the responsibility, but never, + never was I agitated. How often have I held the destiny of the Imperial + House in my hands! How little do they suspect what they owe to my + forbearance! But these are not themes to interest you, dearest, and, of + course, your prejudices are all Austrian. I must say, Kate, 'the uncle' is + charming! Just that kind of dear old creature so graceful for a young + woman to lean upon; and I love his long white moustache! His French, too, + is admirable,——that Madame de Sévigné turn of expression, so + unlike modern flippancy, and so respectful to women!” + </p> + <p> + “I hope you like Frank!” said Kate, with artless eagerness in her look. + </p> + <p> + “He 's wonderfully good-looking without seeming to know it; but, of + course, one cannot expect that to last, Kate.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! you cannot think how handsome he was before this illness; and then he + is so gentle and affectionate.” + </p> + <p> + “There—there, child, you must not make me fall in love with him, for + you know all my sympathies are Italian; and, having embroidered that + beautiful banner for the 'Legion of Hope'—pretty name, is it not?—I + never could tolerate the 'Barbari.'” + </p> + <p> + “Pray do not call them such to my uncle,” said Kate, smiling. + </p> + <p> + “Never fear, dearest. I 'm in the habit of meeting all kinds of horrid + people without ever offending a prejudice; and, besides, I am bent on + making a conquest of 'Mon Oncle;' he is precisely the species of adorer I + like best. I hope he does not take snuff.” + </p> + <p> + Kate laughed, as she shook her head in sign of negative. + </p> + <p> + From this Lady Hester diverged to all manner of reflections about the + future,—as to whether she ought or ought not to know Midchekoff when + she met him; if the villa of La Rocca were really Kate's, or hers, or the + property of somebody else; who was Jekyl's father, or if he ever had such + an appendage; in what part of the Tyrol Nelly was then sojourning; was it + possible she was married to the dwarf, and ashamed to confess it?—and + a vast variety of similar speculations, equally marked by a bold + indifference as to probability, and a total disregard to the feelings of + her companion. Kate was, then, far from displeased when a messenger came + to say that the General was alone in the drawing-room, and would esteem it + a favor if the ladies would join him. + </p> + <p> + “How do you mean, alone?” asked Lady Hester. “Where is Mr. Dalton?” + </p> + <p> + “Dr. Grounsell came for him, my Lady, and took him away in a carriage.” + </p> + <p> + “Poor Frank, he is quite unequal to such fatigue,” exclaimed Kate. + </p> + <p> + “It is like that horrid doctor. His cruelties to me have been something + incredible; at the same time, there's not a creature on my estate he does + not sympathize with! you 'll see how it will be, dearest; he'll take your + dear brother somewhere where there's a fever, or perhaps the plague—for + I believe they have it here; and in his delicate state he's sure to catch + it and die! Mark my words, dearest Kate, and see if they'll not come + true.” And with this reassuring speech she slipped her arm within her + companion's and moved out of the room. + </p> + <p> + It may be conjectured that it was not without weighty reasons Grounsell + induced Frank, weary and exhausted as he was, to leave his home and + accompany him on a cold and dreary night to the city jail. Although + declining to enter upon the question before a third party, no sooner were + they alone together than the doctor proceeded to an explanation. Meekins, + who it appeared showed the greatest indifference at first, had, as the day + wore on, grown restless and impatient. This irritability was increased by + the want of his accustomed stimulant of drink, in which, latterly, he had + indulged freely, and it was in such a mood he asked for pen and paper, and + wrote a few lines to request that young Mr. Dalton would visit him. + Grounsell, who made a point to watch the prisoner from hour to hour, no + sooner heard this, than he hastened off to the inn with the intelligence. + </p> + <p> + “There is not a moment to be lost,” said he. “This fellow, from all that I + can learn, is but the tool of others, who are bent on bringing before the + world the whole story of this terrible crime. A priest, named Cahill, and + who for some time back has been loitering about the neighborhood, was at + the jail this morning before daybreak. Later on, he posted a letter for + Dublin, the address of which I was enabled to see. It was to the eminent + lawyer in criminal cases, Mr. Wallace. + </p> + <p> + “That some great attack is in preparation, I have, then, no doubt; the + only question is, whether the object be to extort money by threats of + publicity, or is there some deep feeling of revenge against your name and + family? + </p> + <p> + “The jailer, who is in my interest, gives me the most accurate detail of + the prisoner's conduct, and, although I am fully prepared to expect every + species of duplicity and deceit from a fellow of this stamp, yet it is not + impossible that, seeing himself to a certain extent in our power, he may + be disposed to desert to our ranks. + </p> + <p> + “He asks you to come alone, and of course you must comply. Whatever be the + subject of his revelations, be most guarded in the way you receive them. + Avow utter ignorance of everything, and give him reasons to suppose that + your great object here is to prevent the exposure and disgrace of a public + trial. This may make him demand higher terms; but at the same time he will + be thrown upon fuller explanations to warrant them. In fact, you must + temper your manner between a conscious power over the fellow, and an + amicable desire to treat with him. + </p> + <p> + “He has heard, within the last half-hour, that he has been recognized here + by a former acquaintance, whose account of him includes many circumstances + of deep suspicion. It may have been this fact has induced him to write to + you. This you will easily discover in his manner. But here we are at the + gates, and once more, I say, be cautions and guarded in everything. + </p> + <p> + “Well, Mr. Gray,” said Grounsell to the jailer, “You see we have not + delayed very long. Ill as he is, Mr. Dalton has accepted this invitation.” + </p> + <p> + “And he has done well, sir,” replied the Jailer. “The man's bearing is + greatly changed since morning; some panic has evidently seized him. + There's no saying how long this temper may last; but you are quite right + to profit by it while there is yet time.” + </p> + <p> + “Is he low and depressed, then?” + </p> + <p> + “Terribly so, sir. He asked a while ago if any one had called to see him. + Of course we guessed whom he meant, and said that a priest had been at the + jail that morning, but only to learn the charge under which he was + apprehended. He was much mortified on being told that the priest neither + expressed a wish to see nor speak with him.” + </p> + <p> + Grounsell gave a significant glance towards Frank, who now followed the + jailer to the prisoner's cell. + </p> + <p> + “He's crying, sir; don't you hear him?” whispered the jailer to Frank, as + they stood outside the door. “You could n't have a more favorable moment.” + And, thus saying, he rattled the heavy bunch of keys, in order to give the + prisoner token of his approach; and then, throwing open the door, called + out, “Here's the gentleman you asked for, Meekins; see that you don't keep + him long in this cold place, for he is not very well.” + </p> + <p> + Frank had but time to reach the little settle on which he sat down, when + the door was closed, and he was alone with the prisoner. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0036" id="link2HCH0036"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXVI. THE JAIL. + </h2> + <p> + Frank Dalton was in no wise prepared for the quiet and easy + self-possession with which Meekins, after asking pardon for the liberty of + his note, took a seat in front of him. Smoothing down his short and glossy + black hair with his hand, he seemed to wait for Frank to open the + conversation; and while there was nothing of insolence in his manner, + there was an assured calmness, far more distressing to a young and nervous + invalid. + </p> + <p> + “You wished to see me, Meekins,” said Frank, at last. “What can I do for + you?” + </p> + <p> + The man bent slightly forward on his chair, and, fixing his keen and + penetrating eyes, continued steadily to stare at him for several seconds. + </p> + <p> + “You 're too young and too generous to have a double in you,” said he, + after a long pause, in which it seemed as if he were scanning the other's + nature; “and before we say any more, just tell me one thing. Did any one + advise you to come here to-night?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said Frank, boldly. + </p> + <p> + “It was that doctor; the man they call the agent,—wasn't it?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” replied the youth, in the same tone. + </p> + <p> + “Now, what has he against <i>me?</i>—what charge does he lay to me?” + </p> + <p> + “I know nothing about it,” said Frank; “but if our interview is only to + consist in an examination of myself, the sooner it ends the better.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't you see what I'm at, sir?—don't you perceive that I only want + to know your honor's feeling towards me, and whether what I 'm to say is + to be laid up in your heart, or taken down in writing and made into an + indictment.” + </p> + <p> + “My feeling towards you is easily told. If you be an honest man, and have + any need of me, I 'll stand by you; if you be not an honest man, but the + dishonesty only affects myself and my interests, show me anything that can + warrant it, and I 'm ready to forgive you.” + </p> + <p> + The prisoner hung down his head, and for some minutes seemed deeply + immersed in reflection. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Dalton,” said he, drawing his chair closer to the bed, “I 'll make + this business very short, and we need n't be wasting our time talking over + what is honesty and what is roguery,—things every man has his own + notions about, and that depend far more upon what he has in his pocket + than what he feels in his heart I can do <i>you</i> a good turn; <i>you</i> + can do <i>me</i> another. The service I can render you will make you a + rich man, and put you at the head of your family, where you ought to be. + All I ask in return is a free discharge from this jail, and money enough + to go to America. There never was a better bargain for you! As for myself, + I could make more of my secret if I liked; more, both in money—and—and + in other ways.” + </p> + <p> + As he said these last few words, his cheek grew scarlet and his eyes + seemed to glisten. + </p> + <p> + “I scarcely understand you,” said Frank. “Do you mean—” + </p> + <p> + “I 'll tell you what I mean, and so plainly that you can't mistake me. I + 'll make you what you have good right to be,——the 'Dalton of + Corrig-O'Neal,' the ould place, that was in your mother's family for + hundreds of years back. It is n't taking service in a foreign land you + need be, but an Irish gentleman, living on his own lawful estate.” + </p> + <p> + “And for this you ask—” + </p> + <p> + “Just what I told you,—an open door and two hundred pounds down,” + said the fellow, with a rough boldness that was close on insolence. “I've + told you already that if I only wanted a good bargain there 's others + would give more; but that's not what I 'm looking for. I 'm an old man,” + added he, in a softened voice, “and who knows when I may be called away to + the long account!” Then suddenly, as it were correcting himself for a weak + admission, he went on, more firmly, “That's neither here nor there; the + matter is just this: Will you pay the trifle I ask, for three thousand a + year, if it is n't more?” + </p> + <p> + “I must first of all consult with some friend—” + </p> + <p> + “There! that's enough. You 've said it now! Mr. Dalton, I 've done with + you forever,” said the fellow, rising and walking to the window. + </p> + <p> + “You have not heard me out,” said Frank, calmly. “It may be that I have no + right to make such a compact; it may be that by such a bargain I should be + compromising the just claims of the law, not to vindicate my own rights + alone, but to seek an expiation for a dreadful murder!” + </p> + <p> + “I tell you again, sir,” said the fellow, with the same sternness as + before,——“I tell you again, sir, that I've done with you + forever. The devil a day you 'll ever pass under that same roof of + Corrig-O'Neal as the master of it; and if you wish me to swear it, by the + great——” + </p> + <p> + “Stop!” cried Frank, authoritatively. “You have either told me too much or + too little, my good man; do not let your passion hurry you into greater + peril.” + </p> + <p> + “What do you mean by that?” cried the other, turning fiercely round, and + bending over the back of the chair, with a look of menace. “What do you + mean by too much or too little?” + </p> + <p> + “This has lasted quite long enough,” said Frank, rising slowly from the + bed. “I foresee little benefit to either of us from protracting it + further.” + </p> + <p> + “You think you have me now, Mr. Dalton,” said Meekins, with a sardonic + grin, as he placed his back against the door of the cell. “You think you + know enough, now, as if I wasn't joking all the while. Sure what do I know + of your family or your estate except what another man told me? Sure I've + no power to get back your property for you. I 'm a poor man, without a + friend in the world,”—here his voice trembled and his cheek grew + paler; “it is n't thinking of this life I am at all, but what's before me + in the next!” + </p> + <p> + “Let me pass out,” said Frank, calmly. + </p> + <p> + “Of course I will, sir; I won't hinder you,” said the other, but still not + moving from the spot. “You said awhile ago that I told you too much or too + little. Just tell me what that means before you go.” + </p> + <p> + “Move aside, sir,” said Frank, sternly. + </p> + <p> + “Not till you answer my question. Don't think you're back with your + white-coated slaves again, where a man can be flogged to death for a look! + I 'm your equal here, though I am in prison. Maybe, if you provoke me to + it, I 'd show myself more than your equal!” There was a menace in the tone + of these last words that could not be mistaken, and Frank quickly lifted + his hand to his breast; but, quick as was the gesture, the other was too + speedy for him, and caught his arm before he could seize the pistol. Just + at this critical moment the key was heard to turn in the lock, and the + heavy door was slowly opened. “There, take my arm, sir,” said Meekins, + slipping his hand beneath Frank's; “You 're far too weak to walk alone.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0037" id="link2HCH0037"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXVII. A FENCING-MATCH. + </h2> + <p> + “You came in time,—in the very nick, Mr. Gray,” said Frank, with a + quiet smile. “My friend here and I had said all that we had to say to each + other.” + </p> + <p> + “Maybe you'd come again; maybe you'd give me five minutes another time?” + whispered Meekins, submissively, in Frank's ear. + </p> + <p> + “I think not,” said Frank, with an easy significance in his look; + “perhaps, on reflection, you'll find that I have come once too often!” And + with these words he left the cell, and, in silent meditation, returned to + his companion. + </p> + <p> + “The fellow's voice was loud and menacing when I came to the door,” said + Gray, as they walked along. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, he grew excited just at that moment; he is evidently a passionate + man,” was Frank's reply; and he relapsed into his former reserve. + </p> + <p> + Grounsell, who at first waited with most exemplary patience for Frank to + narrate the substance of his interview, at last grew weary of his reserve, + and asked him what had occurred between them. + </p> + <p> + Frank paid no attention to the question, but sat with his head resting on + his hand, and evidently deep in thought. At last he said slowly,—— + </p> + <p> + “Can you tell me the exact date of Mr. Godfrey's murder?” + </p> + <p> + “To the day,—almost to the hour,” replied Grounsell. Taking out his + pocket-book, he read, “It was on a Friday, the 11th of November, in the + year 18——.” + </p> + <p> + “Great God!” cried Frank, grasping the other's arm, while his whole frame + shook with a strong convulsion. “Was it, then, on that night?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said the other, “the murder took place at night. The body, when + discovered the next morning, was perfectly cold.” + </p> + <p> + “Then that was it!” cried Frank, wildly. “It was then——when + the light was put out——when he crossed the garden——when + he opened the wicket—” + </p> + <p> + A burst of hysteric laughter broke from him, and muttering, “I saw it, + ——I saw it all,” he fell back fainting into Grounsell's arms. + </p> + <p> + All the doctor's care and judicious treatment were insufficient to recall + the youth to himself. His nervous system, shattered and broken by long + illness, was evidently unequal to the burden of the emotions he was + suffering under, and before he reached the hotel his mind was wandering + away in all the incoherency of actual madness. + </p> + <p> + Next to the unhappy youth himself, Grounsell's case was the most pitiable. + Unable to account for the terrible consequences of the scene whose events + were a secret to himself, he felt all the responsibility of a calamity he + had been instrumental in producing. From Frank it was utterly hopeless to + look for any explanation; already his brain was filled with wild images of + war and battle, mingled with broken memories of a scene which none around + his bed could recognize. In his distraction Grounsell hurried to the jail + to see and interrogate Meekins. Agitated and distracted as he was, all his + prudent reserve and calm forethought were completely forgotten. He saw + himself the cause of a dreadful affliction, and already cured in his heart + the wiles and snares in which he was engaged. “If this boy's reason be + lost forever, I, and I only, am in fault,” he went on repeating as he + drove in mad haste back to the prison. + </p> + <p> + In a few and scarcely coherent words he explained to Gray his wish to see + the prisoner, and although apprised that he had already gone to rest, he + persisted strongly, and was at length admitted into his cell. + </p> + <p> + Meekins started at the sound of the opening door, and called out gruffly, + “Who's there?” + </p> + <p> + “It's your friend,” said Grounsell, who had already determined on any + sacrifice of his policy which should give him the hope of aiding Frank. + </p> + <p> + “My friend!” said Meekins, with a dry laugh. “Since when, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “Since I have begun to believe I may have wronged you, Meekins,” said + Grounsell, seating himself at the bedside. + </p> + <p> + “I see, sir,” rejoined the other, slowly; “I see it all. Mr. Dalton has + told you what passed between us, and you are wiser than he was.” + </p> + <p> + “He has not told me everything, Meekins,—at least, not so fully and + clearly as I wish. I want you, therefore, to go over it all again for me, + omitting nothing that was said on either side.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay,” said the prisoner, dryly, “I see. Now, what did Mr. Dalton say to + you? I 'm curious to know; I 'd like to hear how he spoke of me.” + </p> + <p> + “As of one who was well disposed to serve him, Meekins,” said Grounsell, + hesitatingly, and in some confusion. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, to be sure,” said the fellow, with a keen glance beneath his + gathering brows. “And he told you, too, that we parted good friends,—at + least, as much so as a poor man like myself could be to a born gentleman + like him.” + </p> + <p> + “That he did,” cried Grounsell, eagerly; “and young Mr. Dalton is not the + man to think the worse of your friendship because you are not his equal in + rank.” + </p> + <p> + “I see,—I believe I see it all,” said Meekins, with the same + sententious slowness as before. “Now look, doctor,” added he, fixing a + cold and steady stare on the other's features, “it is late in the night,—not + far from twelve o'clock,—and I ask you, would n't it be better for + you to be asleep in your bed, and leave me to rest quietly in mine, rather + than be fencing—ay, fencing here—with one another, trying who + is the deepest? Just answer me that, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “You want to offend me,” said Grounsell, rising. + </p> + <p> + “No, sir; but it would be offending yourself to suppose that it was worth + your while to deceive the like of me,—a poor, helpless man, without + a friend in the world.” + </p> + <p> + “I own I don't understand you, Meekins,” said Grounsell, reseating + himself. + </p> + <p> + “There's nothing so easy, sir, if you want to do it If Mr. Dalton told you + what passed between us to-night, you know what advice you gave him; and if + he did not tell you, faix! neither will I—that's all. <i>He</i> + knows what I have in my power. He was fool enough not to take me at my + word. Maybe I would n't be in the same mind again.” + </p> + <p> + “Come, come,” said Grounsell, good-humoredly, “this is not spoken like + yourself. It can be no object with you to injure a young gentleman who + never harmed you; and if, in serving him, you can serve yourself, the part + will be both more sensible and more honorable.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then,” said Meekins, calmly, “I <i>can</i> serve him; and now comes + the other question, 'What will he do for <i>me?</i>'” + </p> + <p> + “What do you require from him?” + </p> + <p> + “To leave this place at once,—before morning,” said the other, + earnestly. “I don't want to see them that might make me change my mind; to + be on board of a ship at Waterford, and away out of Ireland forever, with + three hundred pounds,—I said two, but I 'll want three,—and + for that—for that “—here he hesitated some seconds,—“for + that I 'll do what I promised.” + </p> + <p> + “And this business will never be spoken of more.” + </p> + <p> + “Eh! what?” cried Meekins, starting. + </p> + <p> + “I mean that when your terms are complied with, what security have we that + you 'll not disclose this secret hereafter?” + </p> + <p> + Meekins slowly repeated the other's words twice over to himself, as if to + weigh every syllable of them, and then a sudden flashing of his dark eyes + showed that he had caught what he suspected was their meaning. + </p> + <p> + “Exactly so; I was coming to that,” cried he. “We 'll take an oath on the + Gospel,—Mr. Frank Dalton and myself,—that never, while there's + breath in our bodies, will we ever speak to man or mortal about this + matter. I know a born gentleman would n't perjure himself, and, as for me, + I 'll swear in any way, and before any one, that your two selves appoint.” + </p> + <p> + “Then there's this priest,” said Grounsell, doubtingly. “You have already + told him a great deal about this business.” + </p> + <p> + “If he has n't me to the fore to prove what I said, <i>he</i> can do + nothing; and as to the will, he never heard of it.” + </p> + <p> + “The will!” exclaimed Grounsell, with an involuntary burst of surprise; + and, brief as it was, it yet revealed a whole world of dissimulation to + the acute mind of the prisoner. + </p> + <p> + “So, doctor,” said the fellow, slowly, “I was right after all. You <i>were</i> + only fencing with me.” + </p> + <p> + “What do you mean?” cried Grounsell. + </p> + <p> + “I mean just this: that young Dalton never told you one word that passed + between us; that you came here to pump me, and find out all I knew; that, + cute as you are, there 's them that's equal to you, and that you 'll go + back as wise as you came.” + </p> + <p> + “What's the meaning of this change, Meekins?” + </p> + <p> + “It well becomes you, a gentleman, and a justice of the peace, to come to + the cell of a prisoner, in the dead of the night, and try to worm out of + him what you want for evidence. Won't it be a fine thing to tell before a + jury the offers you made me this night! Now, mind me, doctor, and pay + attention to my words. This is twice you tried to trick me, for it was you + sent that young man here. We 've done with each other now; and may the + flesh rot off my bones, like a bit of burned leather, if I ever trust you + again!” + </p> + <p> + There was an insolent defiance in the way these words were uttered, that + told Grounsell all hope of negotiation was gone; and the unhappy doctor + sat overwhelmed by the weight of his own incapacity and unskilfulness. + </p> + <p> + “There, now, sir, leave me alone. To-morrow I 'll find out if a man is to + be treated in this way. If I 'm not discharged out of this jail before + nine o'clock, <i>I</i> 'll know why, and <i>you 'll</i> never forget it, + the longest day you live.” + </p> + <p> + Crestfallen and dispirited, Grounsell retired from the cell and returned + to the inn. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0038" id="link2HCH0038"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXVIII. A STEP IN VAIN. + </h2> + <p> + Grounsell lost no time in summoning to his aid Mr. Hipsley, one of the + leading members of the Irish bar; but while he awaited his coming, + difficulties gathered around him from every side. Lenahan, the old farmer, + who was at first so positive about the identity of the prisoner, began to + express some doubts and hesitations on the subject “It was so many years + back since he had seen him, that it was possible he might be mistaken;” + and, in fact, he laid far more stress on the fashion of a certain fustian + jacket that the man used to wear than on any marks and signs of personal + resemblance. + </p> + <p> + The bold defiance of Meekins, and his insolent threats to expose the + Daltons to the world, assailed the poor doctor in various ways; and + although far from feeling insensible to the shame of figuring on a trial, + as having terrorized over a prisoner, the greater ruin that impended on + his friends absorbed all his sorrows. + </p> + <p> + Had he been the evil genius of the family, he could scarcely have attained + a greater degree of unpopularity. Frank's illness—for since the + night at the jail his mind had not ceased to wander—was, in Kate's + estimation, solely attributable to Grounsell's interference, all the more + unpardonable because inexplicable. Lady Hester regarded him as the + disturber of all social relations, who, for some private ends, was + involving everybody in lawsuits; and the old Count had most natural + misgivings about a man who, having assumed the sole direction of a + delicate affair, now confessed himself utterly unable to see the way + before him. + </p> + <p> + To such an extent had mortification and defeat reduced the unhappy doctor, + that when Hipsley arrived he was quite unable to give anything like a + coherent statement of the case, or lay before the astute lawyer the points + whereon he desired guidance and direction. Meanwhile the enemy were in a + state of active and most menacing preparation. Meekins, discharged from + jail, was living at an inn in the town, surrounded by a strong staff of + barristers, whose rank and standing plainly showed that abundant pecuniary + resources supplied every agency of battle. + </p> + <p> + Numerous witnesses were said to have been summoned to give their evidence, + and the rumor ran that the most ardent votary of private scandal would be + satiated with the tales and traits of domestic life the investigation + would expose to the world. + </p> + <p> + Hipsley, who with practised tact soon saw the game about to be played, in + vain asked Grounsell for some explanation of its meaning. There was a + degree of malignity in all the proceedings which could only be accounted + for on the supposition of a long-nourished revenge. How was he to + understand this? Alas! poor Grounsell knew nothing, and remembered + nothing. Stray fragments of conversation and scattered passages of bygone + scenes were jumbled up incoherently in his brain, and it was easy to + perceive that a very little was wanting to reduce his mind to the helpless + condition of Frank Dalton's. + </p> + <p> + The charge of a conspiracy to murder his relative, brought against a + gentleman of fortune and position, was an accusation well calculated to + excite the most painful feelings of public curiosity, and such was now + openly avowed to be the allegation about to be brought to issue; and, + however repugnant to credulity the bare assertion might appear at first, + the rumor was artfully associated with a strong array of threatening + circumstances. Every trivial coldness or misunderstanding between Dalton + and his brother-in-law, Godfrey, were now remembered and revived. All the + harsh phrases by which old Peter used to speak of the other's character + and conduct—Dalton's constant use of the expression, “What's the use + of his money; will he ever enjoy it?”—was now cited as but too + significant of a dreadful purpose; and, in a word, the public, with a + casuistry which we often see, was rather pleased to credit what it + flattered its own ingenuity to combine and arrange. Dalton was well known + to have been a passionate, headstrong man, violent in his resentments, + although ready to forgive and forget injuries the moment after. This + temper, and his departure for the Continent, from which he never returned, + were all the substantial facts on which the whole superstructure was + raised. + </p> + <p> + If Hipsley saw that the array of evidence was far from bringing guilt home + to Dalton, he also perceived that the exposure alone would be a terrible + blow to the suffering family. The very nature of the attack evinced a deep + and hidden vengeance. To avert this dreadful infliction seemed, then, his + first duty, and he endeavored by every means in his power to ascertain who + was the great instigator of the proceeding, in which it was easy to see + Meekins was but a subordinate. The name of Father Cahill had twice or + thrice been mentioned by Grounsell, but with a vagueness of which little + advantage could be taken. Still, even with so faint a clew, Hipsley was + fain to be content, and after several days' ineffectual search, he at last + discovered that this priest, in company with another, was residing at the + little inn of “The Rore.” + </p> + <p> + Having communicated his plan to the old General, who but half assented to + the idea of negotiating with the enemy, Hipsley set out for “The Rore,” + after a long day of fatiguing labor. “An inaccurate and insufficient + indictment,” repeated the lawyer to himself; “the old and hackneyed + resource to balk the prurient curiosity of the public, and cut off the + scent when the gossiping pack are in full cry,—this is all that we + have now left to us. We must go into court; the only thing is to leave it + as soon as we are able.” + </p> + <p> + It was not till he was within half a mile of the little inn that Hipsley + saw all the difficulty of what he was engaged in; for in what way or on + what pretext was he to address Cahill in the matter, or by what right + connect him with the proceedings? The hardihood by which he had often + suggested to a witness what he wanted to elicit, stood his part now, and + he boldly passed the threshold, and asked for Father Cahill. Mistaking him + for the chief counsel on the other side, the landlord bowed obsequiously, + and, without further parley, introduced him into the room where D'Esmonde + and Cahill were then sitting. + </p> + <p> + “I see, gentlemen,” said Hipsley, bowing politely to each, “that I am not + the person you expected; but may I be permitted to enjoy an advantage + which good fortune has given me, and ask of you a few moments' + conversation? I am the counsel engaged by Mr. Dalton, in the case which on + Tuesday next is to be brought to trial; and having learned from Mr. + Grounsell that I might communicate with you in all freedom and candor, I + have come to see if something cannot be done to rescue the honor of a + family from the shame of publicity, and the obloquy that attends the + exposure of a criminal court.” + </p> + <p> + D'Esmonde took up a book as Hipsley began this address, and affected to be + too deeply engaged in his reading to pay the least attention to what went + forward; while Cahill remained standing, as if to intimate to the stranger + the propriety of a very brief interruption. + </p> + <p> + “You must have mistaken the person you are addressing, sir,” said the + priest, calmly. “My name is Cahill.” + </p> + <p> + “Precisely, sir; and to the Reverend Mr. Cahill I desire to speak. It is + about ten days or a fortnight since you called on Dr. Grounsell with a + proposition for the settlement of this affair. I am not sufficiently + conversant with the details of what passed to say on which side the + obstacle stood,—whether <i>he</i> was indisposed to concede enough, + or that <i>you</i> demanded too much. I only know that the negotiation was + abortive, and it is now with the hope of resuming the discussion—” + </p> + <p> + “Too late, sir,—too late,” said the priest, peremptorily, while a + very slight but decisive motion of D'Esmonde's brows gave him + encouragement to be bold. “I did, it is true, take the step you allude to; + a variety of considerations had their influence over me. I felt interested + about the poor man Meekins, and was naturally anxious to screen from the + consequences of shame a very old and honored family of the country—” + Here he hesitated, for a warning glance from the Abbé recalled him to + caution. + </p> + <p> + “And you were about to allude to that more delicate part of the affair + which relates to Mr. Godfrey's son, sir?” interposed Hipsley, while by an + unmistakable gesture he showed his consciousness of D'Esmonde's presence. + </p> + <p> + “I find, sir,” said Cahill, coldly, “that we are gradually involving + ourselves in the very discussion I have already declined to engage in. It + is not here, nor by us, this cause must be determined. It would be hard to + persuade me that you should even counsel an interference with the course + of public justice.” + </p> + <p> + “You are quite right, sir, in your estimate of me,” said Hipsley, bowing; + “nor should I do so if I saw anything in this case but needless exposure + and great cruelty towards those who must necessarily be guiltless, without + one single good end obtained, except you could so deem the gratification + of public scandal by the harrowing tale of family misfortune. Bear with me + one moment more,” said he, as a gesture of impatience from Cahill showed + that he wished an end of the interview. “I will concede what I have no + right to concede, and what I am in a position to refute thoroughly,——the + guilt of the party implicated; upon whom will the punishment fall? on the + aged uncle, a brave and honored soldier, without the shadow of stain on + his fair fame; on a young and beautiful girl, whose life has already + compassed more real sorrow than old men like myself have ever known in all + their career; and on a youth, now stretched upon his sick-bed, and for + whom humanity would rather wish death itself than to come back into a + world he must shrink from with shame.” + </p> + <p> + “'<i>Filius peccatoris exardebit in crimine patris</i>,'——the + son of the sinful man shall burn out in his father's shame! “—said + D'Esmonde, reading aloud from the volume in his hand. + </p> + <p> + Hipsley almost started at the solemnity with which these awful words were + uttered, and stood for a few seconds gazing on the pale and thoughtful + face which was still bent over the book. + </p> + <p> + “My mission has then failed!” said the lawyer, regretfully. “I am sorry it + should be so.” + </p> + <p> + A cold bow was the only reply Cahill returned to this speech, and the + other slowly withdrew, and took his way back to Kilkenny, the solemn and + terrible denunciation still ringing in his ears as he went. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0039" id="link2HCH0039"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXIX. THE COURT-HOUSE OF KILKENNY. + </h2> + <p> + The character of crime in Ireland has preserved for some years back a most + terrible consistency. The story of every murder is the same. The same + secret vengeance; the same imputed wrong; the same dreadful sentence + issued from a dark and bloody tribunal; the victim alone is changed, but + all the rest is unaltered; and we read, over and over again, of the last + agonies on the high-road and in the noonday, till, sated and wearied, we + grow into a terrible indifference as to guilt, and talk of the “wild + justice of the people” as though amongst the natural causes which shorten + human life. If this be so, and to its truth we call to witness those who + in every neighborhood have seen some fearful event—happening, as it + were, at their very doors—deplored today, almost forgotten + to-morrow; and while such is the case, the public mind is painfully + sensitive as to the details of any guilt attended with new and + unaccustomed agencies. In fact, with all the terrible catalogue before + us,' we should be far from inferring a great degree of guiltiness to a + people in whom we see infinitely more of misguided energies and depraved + passions than of that nature whose sordid incentives to crime constitute + the bad of other countries. We are not, in this, the apologist for murder. + God forbid that we should ever be supposed to palliate, by even a word, + those brutal assassinations which make every man blush to call himself an + Irishman! We would only be understood as saying that these crimes, dark, + fearful, and frequent as they are, do not argue the same hopeless + debasement of our population as the less organized guilt of other + countries; and inasmuch as the vengeance even of the savage is a nobler + instinct than the highwayman's passion for gain, so we cherish a hope that + the time is not distant when the peasant shall tear out of his heart the + damnable delusion of vindication by blood, when he will learn a manly + fortitude under calamity, a generous trust in those above him, and, better + again, a freeman's consciousness that the law will vindicate him against + injury, and that we live in an age when the great are powerless to do + wrong, unless when their inhumanity be screened behind the darker shadow + of the murder that avenges it! Then, indeed, we have no sympathy for all + the sufferings of want, or all the miseries of fever; then, we forget the + dreary hovel, the famished children, the palsy of age, and the hopeless + cry of starving infancy,—we have neither eyes nor ears but for the + sights and sounds of murder! + </p> + <p> + We have said that amidst all the frequency of crime there is no country of + Europe where any case of guilt accompanied by new agencies or attended by + any unusual circumstances is sure to excite so great and widespread + interest. The very fact of an accusation involving any one in rank above + the starving cottier is looked upon as almost incredible, and far from + feeling sensibility dulled by the ordinary recurrence of bloodshed, the + crime becomes associated in our minds with but one class, and as + originating in one theme. + </p> + <p> + We have gradually been led away by these thoughts from the remark which + first suggested them, and now we turn again to the fact, that the city of + Kilkenny became a scene of the most intense anxiety as the morning of that + eventful trial dawned. Visitors poured in from the neighboring counties, + and even from Dublin. The case had been widely commented on by the press; + and although with every reserve as regarded the accused, a most painful + impression against old Mr. Dalton had spread on all sides. Most of his own + contemporaries had died; of the few who remained, they were very old men, + fast sinking into imbecility, and only vaguely recollecting “Wild Peter” + as one who would have stopped at nothing. The new generation, then, + received the impressions of the man thus unjustly; nor were their opinions + more lenient that they lived in an age which no longer tolerated the + excesses of the one that preceded it. Gossip, too, had circulated its + innumerable incidents on all the personages of this strange drama; and + from the venerable Count Stephen down to the informer Meekins, every + character was now before the world. + </p> + <p> + That the Daltons had come hundreds of miles, and had offered immense sums + of money to suppress the exposure, was among the commonest rumors of the + time, and that the failure of this attempt was now the cause of the young + man's illness and probable death. Meekins's character received many + commentaries and explanations. Some alleged that he was animated by an old + grudge against the family, never to be forgiven. Others said that it was + to some incident of the war abroad that he owed his hatred to young + Dalton; and, lastly, it was rumored that, having some connection with the + conspiracy, he was anxious to wipe his conscience of the guilt before he + took on him the orders of some lay society, whose vows he professed. All + these mysterious and shadowy circumstances tended to heighten the interest + of the coming event, and the city was crowded in every part by strangers, + who not only filled the Court-house, but thronged the street in front, and + even occupied the windows and roofs of the opposite houses. + </p> + <p> + From daylight the seats were taken in the galleries of the Court; the most + distinguished of the neighboring gentry were all gathered there, while in + the seats behind the bench were ranged several members of the peerage, who + had travelled long distances to be present. To the left of the presiding + judge sat Count Stephen, calm, stern, and motionless, as if on parade. If + many of the ceremonials of the court and the general aspect of the + assemblage were new and strange to his eyes, nothing in his bearing or + manner bespoke surprise or astonishment. As little, too, did he seem aware + of the gaze of that crowded assembly, who, until the interest of the trial + called their attention away, never ceased to stare steadfastly at him. + </p> + <p> + At the corner of the gallery facing the jury-box D'Esmonde and Cahill were + seated. The Abbé, dressed with peculiar care, and wearing the blue silk + collar of an order over his white cravat, was recognized by the crowd + beneath as a personage of rank and consideration, which, indeed, his + exalted and handsome features appeared well to corroborate. He sustained + the strong stare of the assemblage with a calm but haughty + self-possession, like one well accustomed to the public eye, and who felt + no shrinking from the gaze of a multitude. Already the rumor ran that he + was an official high in the household of the Pope, and many strange + conjectures were hazarded on the meaning of his presence at the trial. + </p> + <p> + To all the buzz of voices, and the swaying, surging motion of a vast + crowd, there succeeded a dead silence and tranquillity, when the judges + took their seats on the bench. The ordinary details were all gone through + with accustomed formality, the jury sworn, and the indictment read aloud + by the clerk of the crown, whose rapid enunciation and monotonous voice + took nothing from the novelty of the statement that was yet to be made by + counsel. At length Mr. Wallace rose, and now curiosity was excited to the + utmost. In slow and measured phrase he began by bespeaking the patient and + careful attention of the jury to the case before them. He told them that + it was a rare event in the annals of criminal law to arraign one who was + already gone before the greatest of all tribunals; but that such cases had + occurred, and it was deemed of great importance, not alone to the cause of + truth and justice, that these investigations should be made, but that a + strong moral might be read, in the remarkable train of incidents by which + these discoveries were elicited, and men were taught to see the hand of + Providence in events which, to unthinking minds, had seemed purely + accidental and fortuitous. After dwelling for some time on this theme, he + went on to state the great difficulty and embarrassment of his own + position, called upon as he was to arraign less the guilty man than his + blameless and innocent descendants, and to ask for the penalties of the + law on those who had not themselves transgressed it. + </p> + <p> + “I do not merely speak here,” said he, “of the open shame and disgrace the + course of this trial will proclaim—I do not simply allude to the + painful exposure you will be obliged to witness—I speak of the heavy + condemnation with which the law of public opinion visits the family of a + felon, making all contact with them a reproach, and denying them even its + sympathy. These would be weighty considerations if the course of justice + had not far higher and more important claims, not the least among which is + the assertion to the world at large that guilt is never expiated without + punishment, and that the law is inflexible in its denunciation of crime.” + </p> + <p> + He then entered upon a narrative of the case, beginning with an account of + the Dalton family, and the marriage which connected them with the + Godfreys. He described most minutely the traits of character which + separated the two men and rendered them uncompanionable one to the other. + Of Godfrey he spoke calmly and without exaggeration; but when his task + concerned Peter Dalton, he drew the picture of a reckless, passionate, and + unprincipled man, in the strongest colors, reminding the jury that it was + all-important to carry with them through the case this view of his + character, as explaining and even justifying many of the acts he was + charged with. “You will,” said he, “perceive much to blame in him, but + also much to pity, and even where you condemn deeply, you will deplore the + unhappy combination of events which perverted what may have been a noble + nature, and degraded by crime what was meant to have adorned virtue! From + the evidence I shall produce before you will be seen the nature of the + intimacy between these two men, so strikingly unlike in every trait of + character, and although this be but the testimony of one who heard it + himself from another, we shall find a strong corroboration of all in the + consistency of the narrative and the occasional allusion to facts provable + from other sources. We shall then show you how the inordinate demands of + Dalton, stimulated by the necessity of his circumstances, led to a breach + with his brother-in-law, and subsequently to his departure for the + Continent; and, lastly, we mean to place before you the extraordinary + revelation made to the witness Meekins, by his comrade William Noonan, + who, while incriminating himself, exhibited Dalton as the contriver of the + scheme by which the murder was effected. + </p> + <p> + “It would be manifestly impossible, in a case like this, when from the + very outset the greatest secrecy was observed and over whose mystery years + have accumulated clouds of difficulty, to afford that clear and precise + line of evidence which in a recent event might naturally be looked for. + But you will learn enough, and more than enough, to satisfy your minds on + every point Meekins shall be subjected to any cross-examination my learned + brother may desire, and I only ask for him so much of your confidence as a + plain unvarying statement warrants. He is a stranger in this country; and + although it has been rumored, from his resemblance to a man formerly known + here, that he has been recognized, we shall show you that for upwards of + thirty years he has been in foreign countries, and while he understands + that his parents were originally from the south of Ireland, he believes + himself to have been born in America. These facts will at once disabuse + your minds of the suspicion that he can have been actuated by any + malicious or revengeful feelings towards the Daltons. We shall, also, show + that the most strenuous efforts have been made to suppress his testimony; + and while it may be painful to exhibit one charged with the administration + of justice as having plotted to subvert or distort it, we shall produce on + the witness-table the individual who himself made these very overtures of + corruption.” + </p> + <p> + A long and minute narrative followed—every step of the conspiracy + was detailed—from the first communication of Dalton with Noonan, to + the fatal moment of the murder. Noonan's own subsequent confession to + Meekins was then related, and lastly the singular accident by which + Meekins came in contact with the Abbé d'Esmonde, and was led to a + revelation of the whole occurrence. The lawyer at last sat down, and as he + did so, a low murmuring sound ran through the crowded assemblage, whose + mournful cadence bespoke the painful acquiescence in the statement they + had heard. More than one eager and sympathizing look was turned to where + the old Count sat; but his calm, stern features were passive and immovable + as ever; and although he listened with attention to the address of the + advocate, not a semblance of emotion could be detected in his manner. + </p> + <p> + Meekins was now called to the witness-box, and as he made his way through + the crowd, and ascended the table, the most intense curiosity to see him + was displayed. Well dressed, and with a manner of decent and respectful + quietude, he slowly mounted the stairs, and saluted the bench and jury. + Although an old man, he was hale and stout-looking, his massive broad + forehead and clear gray eye showing a character of temperament well able + to offer resistance to time. + </p> + <p> + There was an apparent frankness and simplicity about him that favorably + impressed the court, and he gave his evidence with that blended confidence + and caution which never fails to have its effect on a jury. He owned, too, + that he once speculated on using the secret for his own advantage, and + extorting a considerable sum from old Dalton's fears, but that on second + thoughts he had decided on abandoning this notion, and resolved to let the + mystery die with him. The accidental circumstance of meeting with the Abbé + D'Esmonde, at Venice, changed this determination, and it was while under + the religious teachings of this good priest that he came to the conviction + of his sad duty. His evidence occupied several hours, and it was late in + the afternoon when the cross-examination began. + </p> + <p> + Nothing within the reach of a crafty lawyer was left undone. All that + practised skill and penetration could accomplish was exhibited, but the + testimony was unshaken in every important point; and save when pushing the + witness as to his own early life and habits, not a single admission could + be extorted to his discredit. But even here his careless easy manner + rescued him; and when he alleged that he never very well knew where he was + born, or who were his parents, nor had he any very great misgivings about + having served on board a slaver, and “even worse,” the jury only smiled at + what seemed the frank indifference of an old sailor. Noonan had given him + a few scraps of Mr. Dalton's writing. He had lost most of them, he said; + but of those which remained, although unsigned, the authenticity was + easily established. Old Peter's handwriting was familiar to many, and + several witnesses swore to their being genuine. In other respects, they + were of little importance. One alone bore any real significance, and it + was the concluding passage of a letter, and ran thus: “So that if I 'm + driven to it at last, Godfrey himself is more to blame than <i>me</i>.” + Vague as this menacing sentence was, it bore too home upon the allegations + of the witness not to produce a strong effect, nor could any dexterity of + the counsel succeed in obliterating its impression. + </p> + <p> + Seeing that the counsel for the prosecution had not elicited the testimony + he promised, respecting the attempted subornation of Meekins, the defence + rashly adventured upon that dangerous ground, and too late discovered his + error, for the witness detailed various conversations between Grounsell + and himself, and gave with terrible effect a scene that he swore had + occurred between young Dalton and him in the jail. It was in vain to + remind the jury that he who alone could refute this evidence was stretched + on a bed of sickness. The effect was already made. + </p> + <p> + When questioned as to the reasons Dalton might have had for conspiring + against his brother-in-law, he confessed that Noonan only knew that + Godfrey had refused him all assistance, and that he believed that after + his death he, Dalton, would inherit the property. His own impression was, + however, that it was more vengeance than anything else. The Daltons were + living in great poverty abroad; there was scarcely a privation which they + had not experienced; and the embittering stings of their misery were + adduced as the mainspring of old Peter's guilt. This allusion to the + private life of the Dalton family was eagerly seized on by Mr. Wallace, + who now “begged to ascertain certain facts on a subject which, but for his + learned brother's initiative, he would have shrunk from exhibiting in open + court.” Meekins could, of course, but give such details as he had learned + from Noonan, but they all described a life of suffering and meanness,—their + contrivances and their straits; their frequent change of place, as debt + accumulated over them; their borrowings and their bills; and, lastly, the + boastful pretexts they constantly brought forward on the rank of their + uncle, Count Dalton, as a guarantee of their solvency and respectability. + So unexpected was the transition to the mention of this name, that the + whole assembly suddenly turned their eyes to where the old General sat, + mute and stern; but the look he returned might well have abashed them, so + haughty and daring was its insolence. + </p> + <p> + Apparently to show the knowledge possessed by the witness on matters of + private detail,—but, in reality, to afford an occasion for dilating + on a painful subject,—the whole history of the family was raked up, + and all the sad story of Nelly's toil and Kate's menial duties paraded in + open court, wound up, at last, with what was called young Frank's + enlistment “as a common soldier of the Austrian army.” + </p> + <p> + The greater interests of the trial were all forgotten in these materials + for gossip, and the curiosity of the listeners was excited to its highest + pitch when he came to tell of that mingled misery and ambition, that pride + of name, and shameless disregard of duty, which he described as + characterizing them; nor was the craving appetite for scandal half + appeased when the court interrupted the examination, and declared that it + was irrelevant and purposeless. + </p> + <p> + Meekins at last descended from the table, and Michel Lenahan was called + up. The important fact he had so resolutely sworn to some weeks before he + had already shown a disinclination to confirm, and all that he could now + be brought to admit was, that he had believed Meekins was his old + acquaintance, Black Sam; but the years that had elapsed since he saw him + before, change of dress, and the effect of time on each of them, might + well shake a better memory than his own. + </p> + <p> + “Jimmy Morris might know him again, my Lord,” said he, “for he never + forgot anybody,——but <i>he</i> is n't to the fore.” + </p> + <p> + “I have the happiness to say that he is,” said Hipeley. “He has arrived + from Cove, here, this morning. Call James Morris, crier;” and soon after, + a very diminutive old man, with a contracted leg, mounted the table. He + was speedily sworn, and his examination commenced. After a few questions + as to his trade,—he was a tailor,—and where he had lived + latterly, he was asked whether he remembered, amongst his former + acquaintance, a certain bailiff on the Corrig-O'Neal estate, commonly + called Black Sam? + </p> + <p> + “By coorse I do,” said he; “he was always making mischief between Mr. + Godfrey and ould Peter.” + </p> + <p> + “You have not been asked that question, sir.” interposed Wallace. + </p> + <p> + “No, but he shall be by-and-by,” cried Hipsley. “Tell me, now, what kind + of a man was this same Black Sam?” + </p> + <p> + “As cruel a man as ever you seen.” + </p> + <p> + “That is not exactly what I am asking. I want to hear what he was like.” + </p> + <p> + “He was like the greatest villain—” + </p> + <p> + “I mean, was he short or tall; was he a big man and a strong man, or was + he a little fellow like you or <i>me?</i>” + </p> + <p> + “Devil a bit like either of us. He 'd bate us both with one hand,—ay, + and that fellow there with the wig that's laughing at us, into the + bargain.” + </p> + <p> + “So, then, he was large and powerful?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, that he was.” + </p> + <p> + “Had he anything remarkable about his appearance,——anything + that might easily distinguish him from other men?” + </p> + <p> + “Tis, maybe, his eyes you mane?” + </p> + <p> + “What about his eyes, then?” + </p> + <p> + “They could be lookin' at ye when ye 'd aware they were only lookin' at + the ground; and he 'd a thrick of stopping himself when he was laughing + hearty by drawing the back of his hand over his mouth, this way.” + </p> + <p> + As the witness accompanied these words by a gesture, a low murmur of + astonishment ran through the court, for more than once during the morning + Meekins had been seen to perform the very act described. + </p> + <p> + “You would probably be able to know him again if you saw him.” + </p> + <p> + “That I would.” + </p> + <p> + “Look around you, now, and tell me if you see him here. No, no, he's not + in the jury-box; still less likely it is that you 'd find him on the + bench.” + </p> + <p> + The witness, neither heeding the remark nor the laughter which followed + it, slowly rose and looked around him. + </p> + <p> + “Move a little to one side, if ye plase,” said he to a member of the inner + bar. “Yes, that's him.” And he pointed to Meekins, who, with crossed arms + and lowering frown, stood still and immovable. + </p> + <p> + The bystanders all fell back at the same instant, and now he remained + isolated in the midst of that crowded scene, every eye bent upon him. + </p> + <p> + “You 're wearing well, Sam,” said the witness, addressing him familiarly. + “Maybe it's the black wig you 'ye on; but you don't look a day oulder than + when I seen you last.” + </p> + <p> + This speech excited the most intense astonishment in the court, and many + now perceived, for the first time, that Meekins did not wear his own hair. + </p> + <p> + “Are you positive, then, that this man is Black Sam?” + </p> + <p> + “I am.” + </p> + <p> + “Are you prepared to swear to it on your solemn oath, taking all the + consequences false evidence will bring down upon you?” + </p> + <p> + “I am.” + </p> + <p> + “You are quite certain that it's no accidental resemblance, but that this + is the very identical man you knew long ago?” + </p> + <p> + “I'm certain sure. I'd know him among a thousand; and, be the same token, + he has a mark of a cut on the crown of his head, three inches long. See, + now, if I 'm not right.” + </p> + <p> + Meekins was now ordered to mount the witness-table, and remove his wig. He + was about to say something, but Wallace stopped him and whispered a few + words in his ear. + </p> + <p> + “I would beg to observe,” said the lawyer, “that if an old cicatrix is to + be the essential token of recognition, few men who have lived the + adventurous life of Meekins will escape calumny.” + </p> + <p> + “'T is a mark like the letter V,” said Jimmy; “for it was ould Peter + himself gave it him, one night, with a brass candlestick. There it is!” + cried he, triumphantly; “did n't I tell true?” + </p> + <p> + The crowded galleries creaked under the pressure of the eager spectators, + who now bent forward and gazed on this strong proof of identification. + </p> + <p> + “Is there any other mark by which you could remember him?” + </p> + <p> + “Sure, I know every fayture in his face,—what more d'ye want?” + </p> + <p> + “Now, when did you see him last,—I mean before this day?” + </p> + <p> + “The last time I seen him was the mornin' he was taken up.” + </p> + <p> + “How do you mean' taken up'?” + </p> + <p> + “Taken up by the polis.” + </p> + <p> + “Taken by the police,——for what?” + </p> + <p> + “About the murder, to be sure.” + </p> + <p> + A thrill of horror pervaded the court as these words were spoken, and + Meekins, whose impassive face had never changed before, became now pale as + death. + </p> + <p> + “Tell the jury what you saw on the morning you speak of.” + </p> + <p> + “I was at home, work in', when the polis passed by. They asked me where + Black Sam lived; 'Up the road,' says I.” + </p> + <p> + “How far is your house from his?” + </p> + <p> + “About fifty perches, your honor, in the same boreen, but higher up.” + </p> + <p> + “So that, in going from Mr. Godfrey's to his own home, Sam must have + passed your door?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “This he did every day,—two or three times,—did n't he?” + </p> + <p> + “He did, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Did you usually speak to each other as he went by?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir; we always would say, 'God save you,' or the like.” + </p> + <p> + “How was he dressed on these occasions?” + </p> + <p> + “The way he was always dressed,——how would he be?” + </p> + <p> + “That's exactly what I 'm asking you.” + </p> + <p> + “Faix! he had his coat and breeches, like any other man.” + </p> + <p> + “I see. He had his coat and breeches, like any other man; now, what color + was his coat?” + </p> + <p> + “It was gray, sir,——blue-gray. I know it well.” + </p> + <p> + “How do you come to know it well?” + </p> + <p> + “Bekase my own boy, Ned, sir, bought one off the same piece before he + 'listed, and I couldn't forget it.” + </p> + <p> + “Where were you the day after the murder, when the policemen came to take + Sam Eustace?” + </p> + <p> + “I was sitting at my own door, smoking a pipe, and I see the polis comin', + and so I went in and shut the door.” + </p> + <p> + “What was that for? You had no reason to fear them.” + </p> + <p> + “Ayeh!—who knows?—the polis is terrible!” + </p> + <p> + “Well, after that?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, when I heard them pass, I opened the door, and then I saw enough. + They were standing at Sam's house; one of them talking to Sam, and the + other two rummaging about, sticking poles into the thatch, and tumbling + oyer the turf in the stack. + </p> + <p> + “'Isn't this a pretty business?' says Sam, calling out to me. 'The polis + is come to take me off to prison because some one murdered the master.' + 'Well, his soul's in glory, anyhow,' says I, and I shut the doore.” + </p> + <p> + “And saw nothing more?” + </p> + <p> + “Only the polis lading Sam down the boreen betune them.” + </p> + <p> + “He made no resistance, then?” + </p> + <p> + “Not a bit; he went as quiet as a child. When he was going by the doore, I + remember he said to one of the polis, 'Would it be plazing to ye to help + me wid my coat; for I cut my finger yesterday?'” + </p> + <p> + “Did n't I say it was with a reaping-hook?” cried Meekins, who, in all the + earnestness of anxiety, followed every word that fell from the witness. + </p> + <p> + His counsel sprang to his feet, and pulled him back by the arm; but not + before the unguarded syllables had been heard by every one around. Such + was the sensation now produced, that for several minutes the proceedings + were interrupted, while the counsel conferred in low whispers together, + and all seemed thunderstruck and amazed. Twice Meekins stood forward to + address the court, but on each occasion he was restrained by the counsel + beside him; and it was only by the use of menaces that Wallace succeeded + in enforcing silence on him. “When the moment of cross-examination + arrives,” said he to the jury, “I hope to explain every portion of this + seeming difficulty. Have you any further questions to ask the witness?” + </p> + <p> + “A great many more,” said Hipsley. “Now, Morris, attend to me. Sam asked + the police to assist him, as he had cut his hand with a reaping-hook?” + </p> + <p> + “He did, indeed, sir,” said the witness; “and a dreadful cut it was. It + was hard for him to get his hand into the sleeve of the jacket.” + </p> + <p> + “I perceive; he had difficulty in putting on the jacket, but the policemen + helped him?” + </p> + <p> + “They did, sir; and one of them was hurting him, and Sam called out, 'Take + care, take care. It's better to cut the ould sleeve; it's not worth much, + now.'” + </p> + <p> + “And did they cut it?” + </p> + <p> + “They did, sir; they ripped it up all the way to the elbow.” + </p> + <p> + “That was a pity, was n't it, to rip up a fine frieze coat like that?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, it was n't his coat at all, sir. It was only a flannel jacket he had + for working in.” + </p> + <p> + “So, then, he did not wear the blue-gray frieze like your son's when he + went to jail?” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir. He wore a jacket.” + </p> + <p> + “Now, why was that?” + </p> + <p> + “Sorry one o' me knows; but I remember he didn't wear it.” + </p> + <p> + “Did n't I say that I left my coat at the bog, and that I was ashamed to + go in the ould jacket?” screamed out Meekins, whose earnestness was above + all control. + </p> + <p> + “If this go on, it is impossible that I can continue to conduct this case, + my Lord,” said Wallace. “While no attempt has been made to refute one + tittle of the great facts I have mentioned, a system of trick has been + resorted to, by which my client's credit is sought to be impugned. What + care I if he was known by a hundred nicknames? He has told the court + already that he has lived a life of reckless adventure; that he has sailed + under every flag and in every kind of enterprise. Mayhap, amid his varied + characters, he has played that of a land bailiff; nor is it very strange + that he should not wish to parade before the world the fact of his being + arrested, even under a false accusation; for he was discharged, as he has + just told you, two days after.” + </p> + <p> + A large bundle, carefully sealed, was now carried into the court, and + deposited before Mr. Hipsley, who, after a few seconds' consultation with + Grounsell, rose, and addressed the court,—— + </p> + <p> + “My learned friend complains of being surprised; he will, perhaps, have a + better right to be so in a few moments hence. I now demand that this man + be consigned to the dock. These affidavits are all regular, my Lord, and + the evidence I purpose to lay before you will very soon confirm them.” + </p> + <p> + The judge briefly scanned the papers before him; and, by a gesture, the + command was issued, and Meekins, who never uttered a word, was conducted + within the dock. + </p> + <p> + “I will merely ask the witness two or three questions more,” added + Hipsley, turning towards the jailer, who alone, of all the assembly, + looked on without any wonderment. + </p> + <p> + “Now, witness, when did you see the prisoner wear the blue-gray coat? + After the death of Mr. Godfrey, I mean.” + </p> + <p> + “I never seen him wear it again,” was the answer. + </p> + <p> + “How could ye?” cried Meekins, in a hoarse voice. “How could ye? I sailed + for America the day after I was set at liberty.” + </p> + <p> + “Be silent, sir,” said the prisoner's counsel, who, suffering greatly from + the injury of these interruptions, now assumed a look of angry impatience; + while, with the craft of his calling, he began already to suspect that a + mine was about to be sprung beneath him. + </p> + <p> + “You have told us,” said Hipsley,—and, as he spoke, his words came + with an impressive slowness that made them fall deep into every heart + around,—“You have told us that the coat worn habitually by the + prisoner, up to the day of Mr. Godfrey's murder, you never saw on him + after that day. Is that true?” + </p> + <p> + “It is, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “You have also said that this coat——part of a piece from which + your son had a coat——was of a peculiar color?” + </p> + <p> + “It was, sir; and more than that, they had both the same cut, only Sam's + had horn buttons, and my son's was metal.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you think, then, from the circumstances you have just mentioned, that + you could know that coat if you were to see it again?” + </p> + <p> + A pause followed, and the witness, instead of answering, sat with his eyes + fixed upon the dock, where the prisoner, with both hands grasping the iron + spikes, stood, his glaring eyeballs riveted upon the old man's face, with + an expression of earnestness and terror actually horrible to witness. + </p> + <p> + “Look at me, Morris,” said Hipsley, “and answer my question. Would you + know this coat again?” + </p> + <p> + “That is, would you swear to it?” interposed the opposite counsel. + </p> + <p> + “I believe I would, sir,” was the answer. + </p> + <p> + “You must be sure, my good man. Belief is too vague for us here,” said the + prisoner's lawyer. + </p> + <p> + <a name="linkimage-0020" id="linkimage-0020"> + <!-- IMG --></a> <br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%;"> + <img src="images/00498.jpg" alt="00498" width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p> + “Is this it?” said the solicitor, as, breaking the seals of the parcel + before him, he held up a coat, which, ragged and eaten by worms, seemed of + a far darker color than that described by witness. + </p> + <p> + The old man took it in his hands and examined it over carefully, + inspecting with all the minute curiosity of age every portion of the + garment The suspense at this moment was terrible; not a syllable was + spoken; not a breath stirred; nothing but the long-drawn respirations of + the prisoner, who, still leaning on the iron railing of the dock, watched + the old man's motions with the most harrowing intensity. + </p> + <p> + “Let me see it on him,” said the witness, at last + </p> + <p> + “Prisoner, put on that coat,” said the judge. + </p> + <p> + Meekins tried to smile as he proceeded to obey; but the effort was too + much, and the features became fixed into one rigid expression, resembling + the look of hysteric laughter. + </p> + <p> + “Well, do you know me now?” cried he, in a voice whose every accent rang + with a tone of intimidation and defiance. + </p> + <p> + “I do,” said the witness, boldly. “I 'll swear to that coat, my Lord, and + I 'll prove I 'm right. It was the same stuffing put into both collars; + and if I 'm telling you the truth, it 's a piece of ould corduroy is in + that one there.” + </p> + <p> + The very grave was not more still than the court as the officer of the + jail, taking off the coat, ripped up the collar, and held up in his hand a + small piece of tarnished corduroy. + </p> + <p> + “My Lord! my Lord! will you let a poor man's life be swore away—” + </p> + <p> + “Silence, sir,—be still, I say,” cried the prisoner's counsel, who + saw the irremediable injury of these passionate appeals. “I am here to + conduct your defence, and I will not be interfered with. Your Lordship + will admit that this proceeding has all the character of surprise. We were + perfectly unprepared for the line my learned friend has taken—” + </p> + <p> + “Permit me to interrupt the counsel, my Lord. I need scarcely appeal to + this court to vindicate me against any imputation such as the learned + gentleman opposite would apply to me. Your Lordship's venerable + predecessors on that bench have more than once borne witness to the + fairness and even the lenity of the manner in which the crown prosecutions + have been conducted. Any attempt to surprise, any effort to entrap a + prisoner, would be as unworthy of us as it would be impossible in a court + over which you preside. The testimony which the witness has just given, + the extraordinary light his evidence has just shown, was only made + available to ourselves by one of those circumstances in which we see a + manifestation of the terrible judgment of God upon him who sheds the blood + of his fellow-man. Yes, my Lord, if any case can merit the designation of + Providential intervention, it is this one. Every step of this singular + history is marked by this awful characteristic. It is the nephew of the + murdered man by whom the first trace of crime has been detected. It is by + him that we have been enabled to bring the prisoner into that dock. It is + by him that a revelation has been made which, had it not occurred in our + own day and under our own eyes, we should be disposed to class amongst the + creations of fiction. The learned counsel has told you that these articles + of clothing have been produced here by surprise. This affidavit is the + shortest answer to that suspicion. From this you will see that, early this + morning, young Mr. Dalton requested that two magistrates of the city + should be brought to his bedside, to take down the details of an important + declaration. The fever which for several days back had oppressed him, had + abated for the time, and he was, although weak and low, calm and collected + in all his faculties. It was then, with remarkable accuracy, and in a + manner totally free from agitation, that he made the following singular + revelation.” The counsel then recited, at more length than would suit our + reader's patience to follow, the story of Frank's visit to Ireland when a + boy, and his accidental presence in the grounds of Corrig-O'Neal on the + very night of the murder. “At first the magistrates were disposed to + regard this revelation as the mere dream of an erring intellect; but when + he described every feature of the locality, and the most intricate details + of scenery, their opinion was changed; and when at last he designated the + exact spot where he had seen a large bundle buried, it only needed that + this should be confirmed to establish the strict truth of all he alleged. + With every care and precaution Against deception, the magistrates + proceeded to visit the place. They were accompanied by several persons of + character and station, in presence of whom the examination was made. So + accurate was the narrative, that they found the spot without difficulty, + and, on digging down about two feet, they came upon the articles which you + now see before you. These, without any examination, they at once sealed up + in presence of the witnesses, and here for the first time have they been + displayed to view.” + </p> + <p> + As the counsel had reached thus far, the fall of a heavy body resounded + through the court, and the cry was raised that the prisoner had been + seized with a fit. + </p> + <p> + “No, my Lord,” exclaimed the lawyer; “fatigue and weariness alone have + produced this effect. My unhappy client is no more proof against + exhaustion than against slander.” + </p> + <p> + “My Lord! my Lord!” cried the prisoner, as, holding by the spikes of the + dock, he leaned forwards over it, “can't I get justice? Is it my coat—” + </p> + <p> + “Sit down, sir,” said his counsel, angrily; “leave this to <i>me</i>.” + </p> + <p> + “What do you care what becomes of me?” cried the other, rudely. “Where's + Father Cahill? Where's——” At this instant his eyes met those + of D'Esmonde, as, seated in the gallery immediately above him, he watched + the proceedings with an agonizing interest only second to the prisoner's + own. “Oh, look what you've brought me to!” cried he, in an accent of + heart-broken misery; “oh, see where I'm standing now!” + </p> + <p> + The utterance of these words sent a thrill through the court, and the + judge was obliged to remind the prisoner that he was but endangering his + own safety by these rash interruptions. + </p> + <p> + “Sure I know it, my Lord; sure I feel it,” cried he, sobbing; “but what + help have I? Is there no one to stand by me? You're looking for marks of + blood, ain't ye?” screamed he to the jury, who were now examining the coat + and cap with great attention. “And there it is now,—there it is!” + cried he, wildly, as his eyes detected a folded paper that one of the + jurymen had just taken from the coat-pocket “What could I get by it?—sure + the will could n't do me any harm.” + </p> + <p> + “This <i>is</i> a will, my Lord,” said the foreman, handing the document + down to the bench. “It is dated, too, on the very-night before Mr. + Godfrey's death.” + </p> + <p> + The judge quickly scanned the contents, and then passed it over to Mr. + Hipsley, who, glancing his eyes over it, exclaimed, “If we wanted any + further evidence to exculpate the memory of Mr. Dalton, it is here. By + this will, signed, sealed, and witnessed in all form, Mr. Godfrey + bequeathed to his brother-in-law his whole estate of Corrig-O'Neal, and, + with the exception of some trifling legacies, names him heir to all he is + possessed of.” + </p> + <p> + “Let me out of this,—leave me free!” shouted the prisoner, whose + eyeballs now glared with the red glow of madness. “What brought me into + your schemes and plots?—why did I ever come here? Oh, my Lord, don't + see a poor man come to harm that has no friends. Bad luck to them here and + hereafter, the same Daltons! It was ould Peter turned me out upon the + world, and Godfrey was no better. Oh, my Lord! oh, gentlemen! if ye knew + what druv me to it,—but I did n't do it,—I never said I did. + I'll die innocent!” + </p> + <p> + These words were uttered with a wild volubility, and, when over, the + prisoner crouched down in the dock, and buried his face in his hands. From + that instant he never spoke a word. The trial was prolonged till late into + the night; a commission was sworn and sent to the inn, to examine young + Dalton and interrogate him on every point. All that skill and address + could do were exerted by the counsel for the defence; but, as the case + proceeded, the various facts only tended to strengthen and corroborate + each other, and long before the jury retired their verdict was certain. + </p> + <p> + “Guilty, my Lord!” And, well known and anticipated as the words were, they + were heard in all that solemn awe their terrible import conveys. + </p> + <p> + The words seemed to rouse the prisoner from his state; for, as if with a + convulsive effort, he sprang to his legs, and advanced to the front of the + dock. To the dreadful question of the Judge, as to what he had to say, why + sentence of death should not be pronounced upon him, he made no answer; + and his wild gaze and astonished features showed an almost unconsciousness + of all around him. From this state of stupor he soon rallied, and, + grasping the iron spikes with his hands, he protruded his head and + shoulders over the dock, while he carried his eyes over the assembled + crowd, till at last they lighted on the spot where Cahill and D'Esmonde + were seated,—the former pale and anxious-looking, the latter with + his head buried in his hands. The prisoner nodded with an insolent air of + familiarity to the priest, and muttered a few broken words in Irish. Again + was the terrible demand made by the Judge; and now the prisoner turned his + face towards the bench, and stood as if reflecting on his reply. + </p> + <p> + “Go on,” cried he at last, in a tone of rude defiance; and the judge, in + all the passionless dignity of his high station, calmly reviewed the + evidence in the case, and gave his full concurrence to the verdict of the + jury. + </p> + <p> + “I cannot conclude,” said he, solemnly, “without adverting to that + extraordinary combination of events by which this crime, after a long + lapse of years, has been brought home to its guilty author. The evidence + you have heard to-day from Mr. Dalton—the singular corroboration of + each particular stated by him in the very existence of the will, which so + strongly refutes the motive alleged against the late Mr. Dalton—were + all necessary links of the great chain of proof; and yet all these might + have existed in vain were it not for another agency, too eventful to be + called an accident; I allude to the circumstance by which this man became + acquainted with one who was himself peculiarly interested in an fathoming + the mystery of this murder; I mean the Abbé D'Esmonde. The name of this + gentleman has been more than once alluded to in this trial; but he has not + been brought before you, nor was there any need that he should be. Now the + Abbé, so far from connecting the prisoner with the crime, believed him to + be the agency by which it might have been fastened on others; and to this + end he devoted himself with every zeal to the inquiry. Here, then, amidst + all the remarkable coincidences of this case, we find the very strangest + of all; for this same Abbé,—the accidental means of rescuing the + prisoner from death at Venice, and who is the chief agent in now bringing + him to punishment here,—this Abbé is himself the natural son of the + late Mr. Godfrey. Sent when a mere boy to St. Omer and Louvain to be + educated for the Roman Catholic priesthood, he was afterwards transferred + to Salamanca, where he graduated, and took deacon's orders. Without any + other clew to his parentage than the vague lines of admission in the + conventual registry, the checks for money signed and forwarded by Mr. + Godfrey, this gentleman had risen by his great talents to a high and + conspicuous station before he addressed himself to the search after his + family. I have no right to pursue this theme further; nor had I alluded to + it at all, save as illustrating in so remarkable a manner that direct and + unmistakable impress of the working of Providence in this case, showing + how, amidst all the strange chaos of a time of revolution and anarchy, + when governments were crumbling, and nations rending asunder, this one + blood-spot—the foul deed of murder——should cry aloud for + retribution, and, by a succession of the least likely incidents, bring the + guilty man to justice.” + </p> + <p> + After a careful review of all the testimony against the prisoner, the + conclusiveness of which left no room for a doubt, he told him to abandon + all hope of a pardon in this world, concluding, in the terrible words of + the law, by the sentence of death,—— + </p> + <p> + “You, Samuel Eustace, will be taken from the bar of this court to the + place from whence you came, the jail, and thence to the place of + execution, there to be hung by the neck till you are dead—” + </p> + <p> + “Can I see my priest,——may the priest come to me?” cried the + prisoner, fiercely; for not even the appalling solemnity of the moment + could repress the savage energy of his nature. + </p> + <p> + “Miserable man,” said the judge, in a faltering accent, “I beseech you to + employ well the few minutes that remain to you in this world, and carry + not into the next that spirit of defiance by which you would brave an + earthly judgment-seat. And may God have mercy on your soul!” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0040" id="link2HCH0040"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XL. THE RETRIBUTION. + </h2> + <p> + The sudden flash of intelligence by which young Frank was enabled to + connect the almost forgotten incidents of boyhood with the date and the + other circumstances of the murder, had very nearly proved fatal to + himself. His brain was little able to resist the influence of all these + conflicting emotions; and for some days his faculties wandered away in the + wildest and most incoherent fancies. It was only on the very morning of + the trial that he became self-possessed and collected. Then it was that he + could calmly remember every detail of that fatal night, and see their + bearing on the mysterious subject of the trial. At first Grounsell + listened to his story as a mere raving; but when Frank described with + minute accuracy the appearance of the spot—the old orchard, the + stone stair that descended into the garden, and the little door which + opened into the wood,—he became eagerly excited; and, anxious to + proceed with every guarantee of caution, he summoned two other magistrates + to the bedside to hear the narrative. We have already seen the event which + followed that revelation, and by which the guilt of the murderer was + established. + </p> + <p> + From hour to hour, as the trial proceeded, Frank received tidings from the + court-house. The excitement, far from injuring, seemed to rally and + re-invigorate him; and although the painful exposure of their domestic + circumstances was cautiously slurred over to his ears, it was plain to see + the indignant passion with which he heard of Nelly and Kate being dragged + before the public eye. It was, indeed, a day of deep and terrible emotion, + and when evening came he sank into the heavy sleep of actual exhaustion. + While nothing was heard in the sick-room save the long-drawn breathings of + the sleeper, the drawing-rooms of the hotel were crowded with the gentry + of the neighborhood, all eager to see and welcome the Dalton's home again. + If the old were pleased to meet with the veteran Count Stephen, the + younger were no less delighted with even such casual glimpses as they + caught of Kate, in the few moments she could spare from her brother's + bedside. As for Lady Hester, such a torrent of sensations, such a perfect + avalanche of emotion, was perfect ecstasy; perhaps not the least agreeable + feeling being the assurance that she no longer possessed any right or + title to Corrig-O'Neal, and was literally unprovided for in the world. + </p> + <p> + “One detests things by halves,” said she; “but to be utterly ruined is + quite charming.” + </p> + <p> + The country visitors were not a little surprised at the unfeigned + sincerity of her enjoyment, and still more, perhaps, at the warm + cordiality of her manner towards them,—she who, till now, had + declined all proffers of acquaintanceship, and seemed determined to shun + them. + </p> + <p> + Consigning to her care all the duties of receiving the crowd of visitors, + which old Count Stephen was but too happy to see, Kate only ventured for a + few minutes at a time to enter the drawing-room. It was while hastening + back from one of these brief intervals that she heard her name spoken in a + low but distinct voice. She turned round, and saw a man, closely enveloped + in a large cloak, beside her. + </p> + <p> + “It is I, Miss Dalton,—the Abbé D'Esmonde,” said he. “May I speak + with your brother?” + </p> + <p> + Kate could hardly answer him from terror. All the scenes in which she had + seen him figure rose before her view, and the man was, to her eyes, the + very embodiment of peril. + </p> + <p> + “My brother is too ill, sir, to receive you,” said she. “In a few days + hence—” + </p> + <p> + “It will then be too late, Miss Dalton,” said he, mournfully. “The very + seconds as they pass, now, are as days to one who stands on the brink of + eternity.” + </p> + <p> + “Is there anything which I could communicate to him myself? for I am + fearful of what might agitate or excite him.” + </p> + <p> + “If it most be so,” said he, sighing, and as if speaking to himself. “But + could you not trust me to say a few words? I will be most cautious.” + </p> + <p> + “If, then,' to-morrow—” + </p> + <p> + “To-morrow! It must be now,—at this very instant!” cried he, + eagerly. “The life of one who is unfit to go hence depends upon it.” Then, + taking her hand, he continued: “I have drawn up a few lines, in shape of a + petition for mercy to this wretched man. They must be in London by + to-morrow night, to permit of a reprieve before Saturday. Your brother's + signature is all-essential. For this I wished to see him, and to know if + he has any acquaintanceship with persons in power which could aid the + project. You see how short the time is; all depends upon minutes. The + Secretary of State can suspend the execution, and in the delay a + commutation of the sentence may be obtained.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, give it to me!” cried she, eagerly. And, snatching the paper from his + hands, she hurried into the chamber. + </p> + <p> + Frank Dalton was awake, but in all the languor of great debility. He + scarcely listened to his sister, till he heard her pronounce the name of + the Abbé D'Esmonde. + </p> + <p> + “Is he here, Kate?—is he here?” cried he, eagerly. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, and most anxious to see and speak with you.” + </p> + <p> + “Then let him come in, Kate. Nay, nay, it will not agitate me.” + </p> + <p> + Kate noiselessly retired, and, beckoning the Abbé to come forward, she + left the room, and closed the door. + </p> + <p> + D'Esmonde approached the sick-bed with a cautious, almost timid air, and + seated himself on a chair, without speaking. + </p> + <p> + “So, then, we are cousins, I find,” said Frank, stretching out his wasted + hand towards him. “They tell me you are a Godfrey, Abbé?” + </p> + <p> + D'Esmonde pressed his hand in token of assent, but did not utter a word. + </p> + <p> + “I have no wish—I do not know if I have the right——to + stand between you and your father's inheritance. If I am destined to arise + from this sick-bed, the world is open to me, and I am not afraid to + encounter it. Let us be friends, then, D'Esmonde, in all candor and + frankness.” + </p> + <p> + “Willingly,—most willingly. There need be but one rivalry between + us,” said D*Esmonde, with a voice of deep feeling,—“in the struggle + who shall best serve the other. Had we known of this before; had I + suspected how our efforts might have been combined and united; had I but + imagined you as my ally, and not my—But these are too exciting + themes to talk upon. You are not equal to them.” + </p> + <p> + “Not so; it is in such moments that I feel a touch of health and vigor + once again. Go on, I beseech you.” + </p> + <p> + “I will speak of that which more immediately concerns us,” said the Abbé. + “This wretched man stands for execution on Saturday. Let us try to save + him. His guilt must have already had its expiation in years of remorse and + suffering. Here is a petition I have drawn up to the Secretary of State. + It has been signed by several of the jury who tried the cause. We want + your name also to it Such a commutation as may sentence him to exile is + all that we pray for.” + </p> + <p> + “Give me the pen; I 'll sign it at once.” + </p> + <p> + “There,—in that space,” said the' Abbé, pointing with his finger. + “How your hand trembles! This cannot be like your usual writing.” + </p> + <p> + “Let me confirm it by my seal, then. You'll find it on the table yonder.” + </p> + <p> + D'Esmonde melted the wax, and stood beside him, while the youth pressed + down the seal. + </p> + <p> + “Even that,” said the Abbé, “might be disputed. There 's some one passing + in the corridor; let him hear you acknowledge it as your act and hand.” + And, so saying, he hastened to the door, and made a sign to the waiter to + come in. “Mr. Dalton desires you to witness his signature,” said he to the + man. + </p> + <p> + “I acknowledge this as mine,” said Frank, already half exhausted by the + unaccustomed exertion. + </p> + <p> + “Your name, there, as witnessing it,” whispered D'Esmonde; and the waiter + added his signature. + </p> + <p> + “Have you hope of success, Abbé?” said Frank, faintly. + </p> + <p> + “Hope never fails me,” replied D'Esmonde, in a voice of bold and assured + tone. “It is the only capital that humble men like myself possess; but we + can draw upon it without limit. The fate of riches is often ruins, but + there is no bankruptcy in hope. Time presses now,” said he, as if suddenly + remembering himself; “I must see to this at once. When may I come again?” + </p> + <p> + “Whenever you like. I have much to say to you. I cannot tell you now how + strangely you are mixed up in my fancy—it is but fancy, after all—with + several scenes of terrible interest.” + </p> + <p> + “What!—how do you mean?” said D'Esmonde, turning hastily about + </p> + <p> + “I scarcely know where to begin, or how to separate truth from its + counterfeit Your image is before me, at times and in places where you + could not have been. Ay, even in the very crash and tumult of battle, as I + remember once at Varenna, beside the Lake of Como. I could have sworn to + have seen you cheering on the peasants to the attack.” + </p> + <p> + “What strange tricks imagination will play upon us!” broke in D'Ësmonde; + but his voice faltered, and his pale cheek grew paler as he said the + words. + </p> + <p> + “Then, again, in the Babli Palace at Milan, where I was brought as a + prisoner, I saw you leave the council-chamber arm-in-arm with an Austrian + Archduke. When I say I saw you, I mean as I now see you here,—more + palpable to my eyes than when you sat beside my sick-bed at Verona.” + </p> + <p> + “Dreams,——dreams,” said D'Esmonde. “Such illusions bespeak a + mind broken by sickness. Forget them, Dalton, if you would train your + thoughts to higher uses.” And, so saying, in a tone of pride, the Abbé + bowed, and passed out. + </p> + <p> + As D'Esmonde passed out into the street, Cahill joined him. + </p> + <p> + “Well,” cried the latter, “is it done?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, Michel,” was the answer; “signed, and sealed, and witnessed in all + form. By this document I am recognized as a member of his family, + inheriting that which I shall never claim. No,” cried he, with exultation + of voice and manner, “I want none of their possessions; I ask but to be + accounted of their race and name; and yet the time may come when these + conditions shall be reversed, and they who would scarcely own me to-day + may plot and scheme to trace our relationship. Now for Rome. To-night—this + very night—I set out. With this evidence of my station and fortune + there can be no longer any obstacle. The struggle is past; now to enjoy + the victory!” + </p> + <p> + “You will see him before you go, D'Esmonde? A few minutes is all he asks.” + </p> + <p> + “Why should I? What bond is there between us now? The tie is loosened + forever; besides, he deceived us, Michel,——deceived us in + everything.” + </p> + <p> + “Be it so,” said the other; “but remember that it is the last prayer of + one under sentence of death,—the last wish of one who will soon have + passed away hence.” + </p> + <p> + “Why should I go to hear the agonizing entreaties for a mercy that cannot + be granted,—the harrowing remorse of a guilty nature?” + </p> + <p> + “Do not refuse him, D'Esmonde. He clings to this object with a fixed + purpose that turns his mind from every thought that should become the + hour. In vain I speak to him of the short interval between him and the + grave. He neither hears nor heeds me. His only question is, 'Is he coming,——will + he come tome?'” + </p> + <p> + “To lose minutes, when every one of them is priceless, to waste emotions + when my heart is already racked and tortured,——why should I do + this?” cried D'Esmonde, peevishly. + </p> + <p> + “Do not refuse me, D'Esmonde,” said Cahill, passionately. “I despair of + recalling the miserable man to the thought of his eternal peril till this + wish be satisfied.” + </p> + <p> + “Be it so, then,” said the Abbé, proudly; and he walked along beside his + friend in silence. + </p> + <p> + They traversed the streets without a word spoken. Already D'Esmonde had + assumed an air of reserve which seemed to mark the distance between + himself and his companion; the thoughtful gravity of his look savored no + less of pride than reflection. In such wise did Cahill read his manner, + and by a cautious deference appear to accept the new conditions of their + intimacy. + </p> + <p> + “The prisoner has not uttered a word since you were here, sir,” said the + jailer, as they entered the gate. “He shows the greatest anxiety whenever + the door opens; but, as if disappointed at not seeing whom he expected, + relapses at once into his silent reserve.” + </p> + <p> + “You see that he still expects you,” whispered Cahill to the Abbé; and the + other assented with a faint nod of the head. + </p> + <p> + “No, sir; this way,” said the jailer; “he is now in the condemned cell.” + And, so saying, he led the way along the corridor. + </p> + <p> + By the faint light of a small lamp, fixed high up in the wall, they could + just detect the figure of a man, as he sat crouched on the low settle-bed, + his head resting on his arms as they were crossed over his knees. He never + moved as the grating sound of the heavy door jarred on the stillness, but + sat still and motionless. + </p> + <p> + “The Abbé D'Esmonde has come to see you, Eustace,” said the jailer, + tapping him on the shoulder. “Wake up, man, and speak to him.” + </p> + <p> + The prisoner lifted his head and made an effort to say something; but + though his lips moved, there came no sounds from them. At last, with an + effort that was almost convulsive, he pointed to the door, and said, + “Alone—alone!” + </p> + <p> + “He wants to speak with you alone, sir,” whispered the jailer, “and so we + will retire.” + </p> + <p> + D'Esmonde could not see them leave the cell without a sense of fear,—less + the dread of any personal injury than the strange terror so inseparable to + any close communion with one convicted of a dreadful crime,—and he + actually shuddered as the massive door was banged to. + </p> + <p> + “You are cold, sir!” said the prisoner, in a hollow, sepulchral voice. + </p> + <p> + “No, it was not cold!” replied D'Esmonde. + </p> + <p> + “I can guess what it was, then!” said the other, with an energy to which + passion seemed to contribute. “But I 'll not keep you long here. Sit down, + sir. You must sit beside me, for there is no other seat than the + settle-bed. But there is nobody here to see the great Abbé D'Esmonde side + by side with a murderer.” + </p> + <p> + “Wretched man,” said D'Esmonde, passionately, “by what fatality did you + rush upon your fate? Why did you ever return to this country?” + </p> + <p> + “It is to tell you that—ay, that very thing—I asked you to + come here to-night,” said the prisoner, with a firm, full voice. “I came + here for <i>you</i>—just so—for <i>you yourself</i>, There, + there,” continued he, naughtily, “don't look as if I wanted to trick you. + Is it here. Is it now, that a lie would sarve me? Listen to me, and don't + stop me, for I want to turn my thoughts to something else when this is off + my heart. Listen to me. Very soon after you saved me at Venice, I knew all + about you; who you were, and what you were planning,—ay, deep as you + thought yourself, I read every scheme in you, and opened every letter you + wrote or received. You don't believe me. Shall I give you a proof? Did you + accept eight bills for money Morlache the Jew sent you, from Florence, in + March last? Did Cardinal Antinori write to say that the Bull that named + you cardinal must have your birth set forth as noble? Did the Austrian + Field-Marshal send you the cross of St. Joseph, and did you not return it, + as to wear it would unmask you to the Italians?” + </p> + <p> + “What if all this were true?” said D'Esmonde, proudly. “Is it to one like + you I am to render account for my actions? What is it to you if—” + </p> + <p> + “What is it to <i>me?</i>” cried the other, fiercely,——“what + is it to me? Isn't it everything? Isn't it what brought me here, and what + in three days more will bring me to the gallows? I tell you again, I saw + what you were bent on, and I knew you 'd succeed,—ay, that I did. If + it was good blood you wanted to be a cardinal, I was the only one could + help you.” + </p> + <p> + “You knew the secret of my birth, then?” cried D'Esmonde, in deep + earnestness. “You could prove my descent from the Godfreys?” + </p> + <p> + “No! but I could destroy the only evidence against it,” said the other, in + a deep, guttural voice. “I could tear out of the parish registry the only + leaf that could betray you; and it was for that I came back here; and it + was for that I 'm now here. And I did do it. I broke into the vestry of + the chapel at midnight, and I tore out the page, and I have it here, in my + hand, this minute. There was a copy of this same paper at the college at + Louvain, but I stole that, too; for I went as porter there, just to get an + opportunity to take it,—that one I destroyed.” + </p> + <p> + “But whence this interest in my fortunes?” said D'Esmonde, half proudly, + for he was still slow to believe all that he heard. + </p> + <p> + “The paper will tell you that,” said the other, slowly unfolding it, and + flattening it out on his knee. “This is the certificate of your baptism! + Wait—stop a minute,” cried he, catching D'Esmonde's arm, as, in his + impatience, he tried to seize the paper. “This piece of paper is the proof + of who you are, and, moreover, the only proof that will soon exist to show + it.” + </p> + <p> + “Give it to me—let me see it!” cried D'Esmonde, eagerly. “Why have + you withheld till this time what might have spared me anxious days and + weary nights; and by what right have you mixed yourself up with my + fortunes?” + </p> + <p> + “By what right is it—by what right?” cried the other, in a voice + which passion rendered harsh and discordant. “Is that what you want to + know?” And, as he spoke, he bent down and fixed his eyes on the Abbé with + a stern stare. “You want to know what right I have,” said he, and his face + became almost convulsed with passion. “There's my right—read that!” + cried he, holding out the paper before D'Esmonde's eyes. “There's your + birth proved and certified: 'Matthew, son of Samuel and Mary Eustace, of + Ballykinnon, baptized by me this 10th day of April, 18——. + Joseph Barry, P.P.' There's the copy of your admission into the convent, + and here's the superior's receipt for the first quarter's payment as a + probationer. Do you know who you are now? or do you still ask me what + right I have to meddle in your affairs?” + </p> + <p> + “And you—and you—you—” cried D'Esmonde, gasping. + </p> + <p> + “I am your father. Ay, you can hear the words here, and needn't start at + the sound of them. We're in the condemned cell of a jail, and nobody near + us. You are my son. Mr. Godfrey paid for you as a student till—till—But + it's all over now. I never meant you to know the truth; but a lie would + n't serve you any longer. Oh, Matthew, Matthew!” cried he—and of a + sudden his voice changed, and softened to accents of almost choking sorrow—“haven't + you one word for me?—one word of affection for him that you brought + to this, and who forgives you for it?—one word, even to call me your + own father?” He fell at the other's feet, and clasped his arms around his + knees as he spoke, but the appeal was unheard. + </p> + <p> + <a name="linkimage-0021" id="linkimage-0021"> + <!-- IMG --></a> <br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%;"> + <img src="images/00514.jpg" alt="00514" width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p> + Pale as a corpse, with his head slightly thrown forward, and his eyes + wildly staring before him, D'Esmonde sat, perfectly motionless. At last + the muscles of his mouth fashioned themselves into a ghastly smile, a look + of mockery so dreadful to gaze upon that the prisoner, terror-stricken at + the sight, rushed to the door, and beat loudly against it, as he screamed + for help. It was opened on the instant, and the Jailer, followed by two + others, entered. + </p> + <p> + “He's ill; his reverence is taken bad,” said the old man, while he + trembled from head to foot with agitation. + </p> + <p> + “What's this paper? What is he clutching in his hands?” cried the jailer. + </p> + <p> + D'Esmonde started at the words. For the first time a gleam of intelligence + shot over his features, and as suddenly he bent a look of withering hate + on the speaker; and then, with a passionate vehemence that told of a + frantic brain, he tore the paper into fragments, and, with a wild yell, as + if of triumph, he fell senseless on the ground. When they lifted him up, + his features were calm, but passionless, his eye was vacant, and his lips + slightly parted. An expression of weariness and exhaustion, rather than of + actual pain, pervaded the face. He never spoke again. The lamp of + intellect was extinguished forever, and not even a flicker or a spark + remained to cheer the darkness within him. Hopeless and helpless idiotcy + was ever after the lot of one whose mind, once stored with the most lofty + ambitions, never scrupled, at any cost, to attain its object. And he whose + proud aspirings soared to the very grandest of earthly prizes, who gave + his counsel among princes, now lives on, bereft of mind and intelligence, + without consciousness of the past, or a hope for the future. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0041" id="link2HCH0041"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XLI. THE END + </h2> + <p> + With the sad episode which closes our last chapter we would fain let fall + the curtain on this history. Very few words will now suffice to complete + the narrative of those with whom we have so long sojourned. The discovery + which revealed the murder of Mr. Godfrey restored Frank Dalton to the home + and fortune of his family; and although the trying scenes through which he + had passed made deep and dangerous inroads on his health, youth and hope, + and the watchful care of Kate, restored him; and, after the lapse of some + weeks, he was enabled to be about once more, recalling to the recollection + of many the handsome figure and manly bearing of his father. + </p> + <p> + For many a year before, Corrig-O'Neal had not seen such a party beneath + its roof, nor had those gloomy old walls echoed to such sounds as now were + heard within them. In addition to Lady Hester, George Onslow, now a + colonel, was the guest of the Daltons. Scarcely arrived in England, he + quitted London at the moment when the tidings of his gallant achievements + had made him the hero of the day, and hurried to see <i>her</i> who, + through every change of his fortunes, had been the dearest object of his + heart. + </p> + <p> + What tender reproaches, what heart-warm confessions, did those old woods + hear, as, side by side, the lovers walked along, revealing the secret + sorrows of the past, and recalling each incident which once had cheered + with hope or shadowed with despair. But it is not in such company we would + play the “eavesdropper,” nor watch for the changeful blushes of that soft + cheek where tears of joy and grief are mingled. Neither would we care to + accompany Grounsell, as with deeds and bonds, codicils and conveyances, he + actually hunted poor Frank from place to place, urgently impressing on him + the necessity for those “business habits,” the sad neglect of which had + been the ruin of all the Daltons. As little inducement is there to follow + Lady Hester, whose restless activity was interfering with every one and + everything, taking the most lively Interest in the property the very + moment it ceased to be her own, and devoted to all the charities which no + longer could lay claim to being duties. + </p> + <p> + Pleasanter, perhaps, would it be to follow the old Count, as he sauntered + alone for hours, trying to trace out in the long-forgotten scenes the + stories of his boyhood. What pleasant reveries they were!—what + glorious compensations for all the tumultuous passages of an eventful + life! And so he felt them! And so he recognized with grateful heart the + happy destiny which had befallen him, to close his days where he had begun + them—in the midst of his own—loving and beloved. + </p> + <p> + And yet with such scenes and emotions we must not dally. Story-tellers, + like Mother Carey's chickens, have no sympathies with sunny skies and soft + airs,—their province is amidst the hurricane and the storm. In + truth, too, it is the very essence of tranquil enjoyment that it must be + left to the imagination of each to conceive. + </p> + <p> + But one care weighed on all, and that was the absence of poor Nelly. Why + was she not amongst them, to see their happiness, and heighten its + enjoyment by all the benevolence of her kindly nature? It was true they + were relieved of all anxiety regarding her by a letter which had followed + them from Vienna, and which told how she had arrived in that city a few + days after they had left it. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “I stood,” she said, “looking at the great palace where they + told me Count Stephen lived, and could not bring myself to + think it was not a dream that such as <i>I</i> should have + business there! + + “I sat down on the steps of a church in front of it, and + gazed for hours long at the great door through which you + must have passed so often, and the windows which doubtless + you stood at—perhaps thinking of poor Nelly! At last came + Hanserl to say that he had obtained leave to see the palace; + and oh, how my heart beat at the words,—for there was pride + as well as humiliation in the thought,—and so we went in, + and, crossing the great court, ascended the wide staircase. + How beautiful it all was, those marble statues,—the rich + frescos of the ceilings,—the gorgeous lamps, all emblazoned + with armorial emblems; and yet I thought less of these than + the polished steps which your feet had trodden, and which I + could have kissed for your sake. + + “I had not imagined so much magnificence. You will smile, + perhaps, at my simplicity, but so did not that kind old + soldier with the wooden leg, who took such pains to show us + everything. He was evidently pleased to witness our admiring + wonder, and actually laughed at Hanserl's enthusiasm for all + those bright scimitars and shields of Turkish make, the + horse-tailed banners, and other emblems of Austrian victory; + while I stole away silently into a little chamber all hung + with blue damask, over the mantelpiece of which was a + portrait of our own dear Frank. How I felt that the room was + yours, Kate,—how my heart told me each object you had + touched,—and how they all became to my delighted senses + like precious relics, revealing stores of affection laid up + in your bosom, and showing a wealth of love I was not + conscious of till then. Oh, no, dearest sister, I never + knew, till then, how things without life themselves can be + the links between beating hearts! I looked everywhere for a + portrait of yourself, and it was only by asking the old + corporal that I succeeded in finding it. 'The Gräfin's + picture is in the Field-Marshal's own room,' said he, with + pride, and led the way towards it. Oh, Kate, how beautiful— + nay, it is Nelly, your own stern Nelly, who never flattered + you herself nor could bear others to do so—it is Nelly, the + same Nelly, unchanged, save in being less trustful, less + impulsive, less forgiving than you knew her, and <i>she</i> tells + you that at sight of such loveliness she stood wonderstruck + and fascinated. Had you been really then before me, such as + the picture represented, I had not dared to approach you; + there was that of nobility and grandeur that had appalled my + poor peasant heart, unused to the glitter of diamonds and + the queenly air of high-born beauty; but, as I gazed on the + likeness, long and steadily, this expression faded away, + and, as though the lineaments were changing, I thought the + eyes grew softer; they seemed to moisten, the lips trembled, + the bosom heaved and fell, and it was you——-you! as I + had pressed you to my heart a thousand times—my own! my + own! I know not what foolish words I may have uttered, nor + to what excess my rapture carried me, but I was weeping + bitterly as they led me away,—ay, bitterly, Kate; for such + ecstasy as I felt finds its true vent in sorrow! But now I + am happy once more,—happy that I have seen you and dear + Frank,—happy that each of us in life has trodden the path + that best became him! and so I came away, with many a + lingering look, and many a backward glance, at what I was + never to see again. + + “Here, in my mountain home, once more I can sit, alone, + and think of you for days. You wander through all my + thoughts, the characters of endless stories, in every + imaginable vicissitude, and with every change of fortune; + but throughout all, Kate—good and beautiful—truthful too, + as you ever were. There, my tears have blotted out what I + tried to say, nor dare I trust myself with more. My school + children are already coming through the vineyard; I hear + their song,—it was your own long ago:—— + + 'Da sind die Täge lang gennch, Da sind die Nachte milde.' + + “Good-bye, good-bye, my sister—my dear sister. + + “N. D. Meran.” + </pre> + <p> + “Oh, let us hasten thither at once!” cried Kate, in rapture. “Oh, dear + uncle, let us away to Meran.” + </p> + <p> + “Not till after Tuesday, Kate,” whispered George, passionately; and the + words covered her cheeks with blushes as she heard them. + </p> + <p> + The reader knows now all that we care to tell him. Time was when + story-tellers wound up with a kind wish that, “if they were not happy, + that you and I may be.” Nor am I quite certain that we are wiser in our + vocation than when those words were in vogue. + </p> + <p> + We are not vain enough to suppose that we have inspired an interest for + any of those characters who have supported the minor parts of our drama. + Should such good fortune have happily attended us, let us say, once for + all, that Messrs. Haggerstone, Jekyl, and Purvis yet survive; that the + Ricketts family are in excellent health, autograph gathering and duke + courting, poetizing and painting, and pilfering, with all the ardor of + youth, untouched by years and unrestrained by conscience. Lady Hester, + too, is again living abroad, and, after trying three new changes of + religion, is in treaty with a Heidelberg professor for a “spick-and-span” + new faith, which will transcend everything hitherto known, and make even + Mormonism ashamed of itself. + </p> + <p> + As for Prince Midchekoff, he and my Lady Norwood are the delight of a + foreign city which shall be nameless, and their receptions nightly crowded + by all the fashionable celebrities and distinguished visitors of that + favored region. + </p> + <p> + THE END. <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + + + + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of The Daltons, Volume II (of II), by +Charles James Lever + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE DALTONS, VOLUME II (OF II) *** + +***** This file should be named 32062-h.htm or 32062-h.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + http://www.gutenberg.org/3/2/0/6/32062/ + +Produced by David Widger + +Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions +will be renamed. + +Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no +one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation +(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without +permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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