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diff --git a/old/35755-h.htm.2021-01-25 b/old/35755-h.htm.2021-01-25 new file mode 100644 index 0000000..5237420 --- /dev/null +++ b/old/35755-h.htm.2021-01-25 @@ -0,0 +1,19166 @@ +<?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> + <title> + The Knight of Gwynne, by Charles James 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"> + +The Project Gutenberg EBook of The Knight Of Gwynne, Vol. I (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 Knight Of Gwynne, Vol. I (of II) + +Author: Charles James Lever + +Illustrator: Phiz. + +Release Date: April 2, 2011 [EBook #35755] +Last Updated: February 28, 2018 + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: UTF-8 + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE KNIGHT OF GWYNNE, VOL. I *** + + + + +Produced by David Widger + + + + + +</pre> + + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <h1> + THE KNIGHT OF GWYNNE + </h1> + <h2> + By Charles James Lever + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h3> + With Illustrations By Phiz. + </h3> + <h4> + In Two Volumes + </h4> + <h3> + Vol. I. + </h3> + <h4> + Boston: Little, Brown, And Company <br /><br /> 1899. + </h4> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%;"> + <img alt="frontispiece (141K)" src="images/frontispiece.jpg" width="100%" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%;"> + <img alt="titlepage (29K)" src="images/titlepage.jpg" width="100%" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> TO ALEXANDER SPENCER, ESQ. + </p> + <p> + If the public would only prove as indulgent to the faults and demerits of + this volume as You have ever been to those of him who wrote it, I should + be as sanguine of its success as I am now happy in dedicating it to the + Oldest Friend I + </p> + <p> + HAVE IN THE WORLD. + </p> + <p> + Ever yours, most affectionately, + </p> + <p> + Charles Lever. + </p> + <p> + Schloss-Riedenburg, Tyrol, + </p> + <p> + June 20, 1847. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <blockquote> + <p class="toc"> + <big><b>CONTENTS</b></big> + </p> + <p> + <br /> <a href="#link2H_PREF"> PREFACE.</a> <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2H_4_0002"> <b>THE KNIGHT OF GWYNNE.</b></a> <br /> <br /> <a + href="#link2HCH0001"> CHAPTER I. </a> A FIRESIDE GROUP <br /><br /> + <a href="#link2HCH0002"> CHAPTER II. </a> A TRAVELLING + ACQUAINTANCE <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0003"> CHAPTER III. </a> GWYNNE + ABBEY <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0004"> CHAPTER IV. </a> THE + DINNER-PARTY <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0005"> CHAPTER V. </a> AN + AFTER-DINNER STORY <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0006"> CHAPTER VI. </a> A + MESSAGE <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0007"> CHAPTER VII. </a> A + MOTHER AND DAUGHTER <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0008"> CHAPTER VIII. + </a> THE “HEAD” OF A FAMILY <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0009"> + CHAPTER IX. </a> "DALY'S.” <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0010"> + CHAPTER X. </a> AN INTRIGUE DETECTED <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2HCH0011"> CHAPTER XI. </a> THE KNIGHT AND HIS + AGENT <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0012"> CHAPTER XII. </a> A + FIRST VISIT <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0013"> CHAPTER XIII. </a> A + TREATY REJECTED <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0014"> CHAPTER XIV. </a> "THE + MECHANISM OP CORRUPTION” <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0015"> CHAPTER XV. + </a> THE KNIGHT'S NOTIONS OF FINANCE <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2HCH0016"> CHAPTER XVI. </a> A HURRIED VISIT <br /><br /> + <a href="#link2HCH0017"> CHAPTER XVII. </a> BAGENAL DALY'S + JOURNEY TO DUBLIN <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0018"> CHAPTER XVIII. + </a> LORD CASTLEREAGH'S DINNER-PARTY <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2HCH0019"> CHAPTER XIX. </a> A DAY OF EXCITEMENT + <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0020"> CHAPTER XX. </a> THE + ADJOURNED DEBATE <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0021"> CHAPTER XXI. </a> TWO + OF A TRADE <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0022"> CHAPTER XXII. </a> "A + WARNING” AND “A PARTING.” <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0023"> CHAPTER + XXIII. </a> SOME SAD REVELATIONS <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2HCH0024"> CHAPTER XXIV. </a> A GLANCE AT “THE + FULL MOON.” <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0025"> CHAPTER XXV. </a> BAGENAL + DALY'S COUNSELS <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0026"> CHAPTER XXVI. </a> "THE + CORVY.” <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0027"> CHAPTER XXVII. </a> THE + KNIGHT'S RETURN <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0028"> CHAPTER XXVIIII. + </a> THE HUNT-BREAKFAST <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0029"> + CHAPTER XXIX. </a> THE HUNT <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0030"> + CHAPTER XXX. </a> BAGENAL DALY'S VISITORS <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2HCH0031"> CHAPTER XXXI. </a> "A LEAVE-TAKING.” + <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0032"> CHAPTER XXXII. </a> "SAD + DISCLOSURES.” <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0033"> CHAPTER XXXIII. </a> TATE + SULLIVAN'S FAREWELL <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0034"> CHAPTER XXXIV. + </a> A GLANCE AT PUBLIC OPINION IN THE YEAR 1800 <br /><br /> + <a href="#link2HCH0035"> CHAPTER XXXV. </a> BAGENAL DALY'S + RETURN <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0036"> CHAPTER XXXVI. </a> THE + LAW AND ITS CHANCES <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0037"> CHAPTER XXXVII. + </a> A SCENE OF HOME <br /><br /> + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="link2H_PREF" id="link2H_PREF"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + PREFACE. + </h2> + <p> + I wrote this story in the Tyrol. The accident of my residence there was in + this wise: I had travelled about the Continent for a considerable time in + company with my family with my own horses. Our carriage was a large and + comfortable calèche, and our team, four horses; the leaders of which, + well-bred and thriving-looking, served as saddle horses when needed. + </p> + <p> + There was something very gypsy-like in this roving, uncertain existence, + that had no positive bent or limit, and left every choice of place an open + question, that gave me intense enjoyment. It opened to me views of + Continental life, scenery, people and habits I should certainly never have + attained to by other modes of travel. + </p> + <p> + Not only were our journeys necessarily short each day, but we frequently + sojourned in little villages, and out-of-the-world spots, where, if + pleased by the place itself, and the accommodation afforded, we would + linger on for days, having at our disposal the total liberty of our time, + and all our nearest belongings around us. + </p> + <p> + In the course of these rambles we had arrived at the town of Bregenz, on + the Lake of Constance; where the innkeeper, to whom I was known, accosted + me with all the easy freedom of his calling, and half-jestingly alluded to + my mode of travelling as a most unsatisfactory and wasteful way of life, + which could never turn out profitably to myself or to mine. From the + window where we were standing as we talked, I could descry the tall summit + of an ancient castle, or schloss, about two miles away; and rather to + divert my antagonist from his argument than with any more serious purpose, + I laughingly told my host, if he could secure me such a fine old chateau + as that I then looked at, I should stable my nags and rest where I was. On + the following day, thinking of nothing less than my late conversation, the + host entered my room to assure me that he had been over to the castle, had + seen the baron, and learned that he would have no objection to lease me + his chateau, provided I took it for a fixed term, and with all its + accessories, not only of furniture but cows and farm requisites. One of my + horses, accidentally pricked in shoeing, had obliged me at the moment to + delay a day or two at the inn, and for want of better to do, though + without the most remote intention of becoming a tenant of the castle, I + yielded so far to my host's solicitation,— to walk over and see it. + </p> + <p> + If the building itself was far from faultless it was spacious and + convenient, and its position on a low hill in the middle of a lawn finer + than anything I can convey; the four sides of the schloss commanding four + distinct and perfectly dissimilar views. By the north it looked over a + wooded plain, on which stood the Convent of Mehreran; and beyond this, the + broad expanse of the Lake of Constance. The south opened a view towards + the Upper Rhine, and the valley that led to the Via Mala. On the east you + saw the Gebhardsberg and its chapel, and the lovely orchards that bordered + Bregenz; while to the west rose the magnificent Lenten and the range of + the Swiss Alps,—their summits lost in the clouds. + </p> + <p> + I was so enchanted by the glorious panorama around me, and so carried away + by the thought of a life of quiet labor and rest in such a spot, that + after hearing a very specious account of the varied economies I should + secure by this choice of a residence, and the resources I should have in + excursions on all sides, that I actually contracted to take the chateau, + and became master of the Rieden Schloss from that day. + </p> + <p> + Having thus explained by what chance I came to pitch my home in this + little-visited spot, I have no mind to dwell further on my Tyrol + experiences than as they concern the story which I wrote there. + </p> + <p> + If the scene in which I was living, the dress of the peasants, the daily + ways and interests had been my prompters, I could not have addressed + myself to an Irish theme; but long before I had come to settle at + Predeislarg, when wandering amongst the Rhine villages, on the vine-clad + slopes of the Bergstrasse, I had been turning over in my mind the Union + period of Ireland as the era for a story. It was a time essentially rich + in the men we are proud of as a people, and peculiarly abounding in traits + of self-denial and devotion which, in the corruption of a few, have been + totally lost sight of; the very patriotism of the time having been + stigmatized as factious opposition, or unreasoning resistance to wiser + counsels. That nearly every man of ability in the land was against the + Minister, that not only all the intellect of Ireland, but all the high + spirit of its squirearchy, and the generous impulses of its people, were + opposed to the Union,—there is no denying. If eloquent appeal and + powerful argument could have saved a nation, Henry Grattan or Plunkett + would not have spoken in vain; but the measure was decreed before it was + debated, and the annexation of Ireland was made a Cabinet decision before + it came to Irishmen to discuss it. + </p> + <p> + I had no presumption to imagine I could throw any new light on the history + of the period, or illustrate the story of the measure by any novel + details; but I thought it would not be uninteresting to sketch the era + itself; what aspect society presented; how the country gentleman of the + time bore himself in the midst of solicitations and temptings the most + urgent and insidious; what, in fact, was the character of that man whom no + national misfortunes could subdue, no Ministerial blandishments corrupt; + of him, in short, that an authority with little bias to the land of his + birth has called,—<i>The First Gentleman of Europe</i>. + </p> + <p> + I know well, I feel too acutely, how inadequately I have pictured what I + desired to paint; but even now, after the interval of years, I look back + on my poor attempt with the satisfaction of one whose aim was not ignoble. + A longer and deeper experience of life has succeeded to the time since I + wrote this story, but in no land nor amongst any people have I ever found + the type of what we love to emblematize by the word Gentleman, so + distinctly marked out as in the educated and travelled Irishman of that + period. The same unswerving fidelity of friendship, the same courageous + devotion to a cause, the same haughty contempt for all that was mean or + unworthy; these, with the lighter accessories of genial temperament, + joyous disposition, and a chivalrous respect for women, made up what I had + at least in my mind when I tried to present to my readers my Knight of + Gwynne. + </p> + <p> + That my character of him was not altogether ideal, I can give no better + proof than the fact that during the course of the publication I received + several letters from persons unknown to me, asking whether I had not drawn + my portrait from this or that original, several concurring in the belief + that I had taken as my model The Knight of Kerry, whose qualities, I am + well assured, fully warranted the suspicion. + </p> + <p> + For my attempt to paint the social habits of the period, I had but to draw + on my memory. In my boyish days I had heard much of that day, and was + familiar with most of the names of its distinguished men. Anecdotes of + Henry Grattan, Flood, Parsons, Ponsonby, and Curran jostled in my mind + with stories of their immediate successors, the Bushes and the Plunketts, + whose fame has come down to the very day we live in. As a boy, it was my + fortune to listen to the narratives of the men who had been actors in the + events of that exciting era, and who could even show me in modern Dublin + the scenes where memorable events occurred, and not unfrequently the very + houses where celebrated convivialities occurred. And thus from Drogheda + Street, the modern Sackville Street, where the beaux of the day lounged in + all their bravery, to the Circular road, where a long file of carriages, + six in hand, evidenced the luxury and tone of display of the capital. I + was deeply imbued with the features of the time, and ransacked the old + newspapers and magazines with a zest which only great familiarity with the + names of the leading characters could have inspired. + </p> + <p> + Though I have many regrets on the same score, there is no period of my + life in which I have the same sorrow for not having kept some sort of + note-book, instead of trusting to a memory most fatally unretentive and + uncertain. Through this omission I have lost traces of innumerable + epigrams, and <i>jeux d'esprit</i> of a time that abounded in such + effusions, and even where my memory has occasionally relieved the effort, + I have forgotten the author. To give an instance, the witty lines,— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “With a name that is borrowed, a title that 's bought, + Sir William would fain be a gentleman thought; + His wit is but cunning, his courage but vapor, + His pride is but money, his money but paper:”— +</pre> + <p> + which, wrongfully attributed to a political leader in the Irish house, + were in reality written by Lovel Edgeworth on the well-known Sir William + Gladowes, who became Lord Newcomen; and the verse was not only poetry but + prophecy, for in his bankruptcy some years afterwards the sarcasm became + fact,—“his money was but paper.” + </p> + <p> + This circumstance of the authorship was communicated to me by Miss Maria + Edgeworth, whose letter was my first step in acquaintance with her, and + gave me a pleasure and a pride which long years have not been able to + obliterate. + </p> + <p> + I remember in that letter her having told me how she was in the habit of + reading my story aloud to the audience of her nephews and nieces; a simple + announcement that imparted such a glow of proud delight to me, that I can + yet recall the courage with which I resumed the writing of my tale, and + the hope it suggested of my being able one day to win a place of honor + amongst those who, like herself, had selected Irish traits as the + characteristics to adorn fiction. + </p> + <p> + For Con Heffernan I had an original. For Bagenal Daly, too, I was not + without a model. His sister is purely imaginary, but that she is not + unreal I am bold enough to hope, since several have assured me that they + know where I found my type. In my brief sketch of Lord Castlereagh I was + not, I need scarcely say, much aided by the journals and pamphlets of the + time, where his character and conduct were ruthlessly and most falsely + assailed. It was my fortune, however, to have possessed the close intimacy + of one who had acted as his private secretary, and whose abilities have + since raised him to high station and great employment; and from him I came + to know the real nature of one of the ablest statesmen of his age, as he + was one of the most attractive companions, and most accomplished + gentlemen. I have no vain pretence to believe that by my weak and + unfinished sketch I have in any way vindicated the Minister who carried + the Union against the attacks of his opponents, but I have tried at least + to represent him such as he was in the society of his intimates; his gay + and cheerful temperament, his frank nature, and what least the world is + disposed to concede to him, his sincere belief in the honesty of men whose + convictions were adverse to him, and who could not be won over to his + opinions. + </p> + <p> + I have not tried to conceal the gross corruption of an era which remains + to us as a national shame, but I would wish to lay stress on the fact that + not a few resisted offers and temptations, which to men struggling with + humble fortune, and linked for life with the fate of the weaker country, + must redound to their high credit. All the nobler their conduct, as around + them on every side were the great names of the land trafficking for title + and place, and shamelessly demanding office for their friends and + relatives as the price of their own adhesion. + </p> + <p> + For that degree of intimacy which I have represented as existing between + Bagenal Daly and Freney the robber, I have been once or twice reprehended + as conveying a false and unreal view of the relations of the time; but the + knowledge I myself had of Freney, his habits and his exploits, were given + to me by a well-known and highly-connected Irish gentleman, who + represented a county in the Irish Parliament, and was a man of unblemished + honor, conspicuous alike in station and ability. And there is still, and + once the trait existed more remarkably in Ireland, a wonderful sympathy + between all classes and conditions of people: so that the old stories and + traditions that amuse the crouching listener round the hearth of the + cottage, find their way into luxurious drawing-rooms; and by their means a + brotherhood of sentiment was maintained between the highest class in the + land and the humblest peasant who labored for his daily bread. + </p> + <p> + I tried to display the effect of this strange teaching on the mind of a + cultivated gentleman when describing the Knight of Gwynne. I endeavored to + show the “Irishry” of his nature was no other than the play of those + qualities by which he appreciated his countrymen and was appreciated by + them. So powerful is this sympathy, and so strong the sense of national + humor through all classes of the people, that each is able to entertain a + topic from the same point of view as his neighbor, and the subtle <i>équivoque</i> + in the polished witticism that amuses the gentleman is never lost on the + untutored ear of the unlettered peasant. Is there any other land of which + one can say as much? + </p> + <p> + If this great feature of attractiveness pertains to the country and adds + to its adaptiveness as the subject of fiction, I cannot but feel that to + un-Irish ears it is necessary to make an explanation which will serve to + show that which would elsewhere imply a certain blending of station and + condition, is here but a proof of that widespread understanding by which, + however divided by race, tradition, and religion, we are always able to + appeal to certain sympathies and dispositions in common, and feel the tie + of a common country. + </p> + <p> + At the period in which I have placed this story the rivalry between the + two nations was, with all its violence, by no means ungenerous. No + contemptuous estimate of Irishmen formed the theme of English journalism; + and between the educated men of both countries there was scarcely a + jealousy that the character which political contest assumed later on, + changed much of this spirit and dyed nationalities with an amount of + virulence which, with all its faults and all its shortcomings, we do not + find in the times of the Knight of Gwynne. + </p> + <p> + CHARLES LEVER. + </p> + <p> + Trieste, 1872. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="link2H_4_0002" id="link2H_4_0002"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h1> + THE KNIGHT OF GWYNNE. + </h1> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0001" id="link2HCH0001"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER I. A FIRESIDE GROUP + </h2> + <p> + It was exactly forty-five years ago that a group, consisting of three + persons, drew their chairs around the fire of a handsome dinner-room in + Merrion Square, Dublin. The brilliantly lighted apartment, the table still + cumbered with decanters and dessert, and the sideboard resplendent with a + gorgeous service of plate, showed that the preparations had been made for + a much larger party, the last of whom had just taken his departure. + </p> + <p> + Of the three who now drew near the cheerful blaze, more intent, as it + seemed, on confidential intercourse than the pleasures of the table, he + who occupied the centre was a tall and singularly handsome man, of some + six or seven-and-twenty years of age. His features, perfectly classical in + their regularity, conveyed the impression of one of a cold and haughty + temperament, unmoved by sudden impulse, but animated by a spirit daringly + ambitious. His dress was in the height of the then mode, and he wore it + with the air of a man of fashion and elegance. + </p> + <p> + This was Lord Castlereagh, the youthful Secretary for Ireland, one whose + career was then opening with every promise of future distinction. + </p> + <p> + At his right hand sat, or rather lounged, in all the carelessness of + habitual indolence, a young man some years his junior, his dark complexion + and eyes, his aquiline features, and short, thin upper lip almost + resembling a Spanish face. + </p> + <p> + His dress was the uniform of the Foot Guards,—a costume which well + became him, and set off to the fullest advantage a figure of perfect + symmetry. A manner of careless inattention in which he indulged, + contrasted strongly with the quick impatience of his dark glances and the + eager rapidity of his utterance when momentarily excited; for the + Honorable Dick Forester was only cool by training, and not by temperament, + and, at the time we speak of, his worldly education was scarcely more than + well begun. + </p> + <p> + The third figure—strikingly unlike the other two—was a man of + fifty or thereabouts, short and plethoric. His features, rosy and sensual, + were lit up by two gray eyes whose twinkle was an incessant provocative to + laughter. The mouth was, however, the great index to his character. It was + large and full, the under lip slightly projecting,—a circumstance + perhaps acquired in the long habit of a life where the tasting function + had been actively employed; for Con Heffernan was a gourmand of the first + water, and the most critical judge of a vintage the island could boast. + Two fingers of either hand were inserted in the capacious pockets of a + white vest, while, his head jauntily leaning to one side, he sat the very + ideal of self-satisfied ease and contentment. The <i>aplomb</i>—why + should there be a French word for an English quality?—he possessed + was not the vulgar ease of a presuming or underbred man,—far from + it; it was the impress of certain gifts which gave him an acknowledged + superiority in the society he moved in. He was shrewd, without + over-caution; he was ready-witted, but never rash; he possessed that rare + combination of quick intelligence with strong powers of judgment; and, + above all, he knew men, or at least such specimens of the race as came + before him in a varied life, well and thoroughly. + </p> + <p> + If he had a weak point in his character, it was a love of popularity,—not + that vulgar mob-worship which some men court and seek after; no, it was + the estimation of his own class and set he desired to obtain. He was proud + of his social position, and nervously sensitive in whatever might + prejudice or endanger it. His enemies—and Con was too able a man not + to have made some—said that his low origin was the secret of his + nature; that his ambiguous position in society demanded exertions uncalled + for from others less equivocally circumstanced; and that Mr. Heffernan + was, in secret, very far from esteeming the high and titled associates + with whom his daily life brought him in contact. If this were the case, he + was assuredly a consummate actor. No man ever went through a longer or + more searching trial unscathed, nor could an expression be quoted, or an + act mentioned, in which he derogated, even for a moment, from the habits + of “his order.” + </p> + <p> + “You never did the thing better in your life, my Lord,” said Con, as the + door closed upon the last departing guest. “You hit off Jack Massy to + perfection; and as for Watson, though he said nothing at the time, I 'll + wager my roan cob against Deane Moore's hackney—long odds, I fancy—that + you find him at the Treasury to-morrow morning, with a sly request for + five minutes' private conversation.” + </p> + <p> + “I'm of your mind, Heffernan. I saw that he took the bait,—indeed, + to do the gentlemen justice, they are all open to conviction.” + </p> + <p> + “You surely cannot blame them,” said Con, “if they take a more + conciliating view of your Lordship's opinions when assisted by such claret + as this: this is old '72, if I mistake not.” + </p> + <p> + “They sold it to me as such; but I own to you I 'm the poorest connoisseur + in the world as regards wine. Some one remarked this evening that the '95 + was richer in bouquet.” + </p> + <p> + “It was Edward Harvey, my Lord. I heard him; but that was the year he got + his baronetcy, and he thinks the sun never shone so brightly before; his + father was selling Balbriggan stockings when this grape was ripening, and + now, the son has more than one foot on the steps of the peerage.” This was + said with a short, quick glance beneath the eyelids, and evidently more as + a feeler than with any strong conviction of its accuracy. + </p> + <p> + “No Government can afford to neglect its supporters, and the + acknowledgments must be proportioned to the sacrifices, as well as to the + abilities of the individuals who second it.” + </p> + <p> + “By Jove! if these gentlemen are in the market,” said Forester, who broke + silence for the first time, “I don't wonder at their price being a high + one; in consenting to the 'Union,' they are virtually voting their own + annihilation.” + </p> + <p> + “By no means,” said the Secretary, calmly; “the field open to their + ambition is imperial, and not provincial; the English Parliament will form + an arena for the display of ability as wide surely as this of Dublin. Men + of note and capacity will not be less rewarded: the losers will be the + small talkers, county squires of noisy politics, and crafty lawyers of no + principles; they will, perhaps, be obliged to remain at home and look + after their own affairs; but will the country be the worse for that, while + the advantages to trade and commerce are inconceivable?” + </p> + <p> + “I agree with you there,” said Con; “we are likely to increase our + exports, by sending every clever fellow out of the country.” + </p> + <p> + “Why not, if the market be a better one?” + </p> + <p> + “Would n't you spare us a few luxuries for home consumption?” said Con, as + he smacked his lips and looked at his glass through the candle. + </p> + <p> + His Lordship paid no attention to the remark, but, taking a small tablet + from his waistcoat-pocket, seemed to study its contents. “Are we certain + of Cuffe; is he pledged to us, Heffernan?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, my Lord, he has no help for it; we are sure of him; he owes the + Crown eleven thousand pounds, and says the only ambition he possesses is + to make the debt twelve, and never pay it.” + </p> + <p> + “What of that canting fellow from the North,—New-land?” + </p> + <p> + “He accepts your terms conditionally, my Lord,” said Con, with a sly roll + of his eye. “If the arguments are equal to your liberality, he will vote + for you; but as yet he does not <i>see</i> the advantages of a Union.” + </p> + <p> + “Not <i>see</i> them!” said Lord Castlereagh, with a look of irony; “why + did you not let him look at them from your own windows, Heffernan? The + view is enchanting for the Barrack Department.” + </p> + <p> + “The poor man is short-sighted,” said Con, with a sigh, “and never could + stretch his vision beyond the Custom House.” + </p> + <p> + “Be it so, in the devil's name; a commissioner more or less shall never, + stop us!” + </p> + <p> + “What a set of rascals,” muttered Forester between his teeth, as he tossed + off a bumper to swallow his indignation. + </p> + <p> + “Well, Forester, what of your mission? Have you heard from your friend + Darcy?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; I have his note here. He cannot come over just now, but he has given + me an introduction to his father, and pledges himself I shall be well + received.” + </p> + <p> + “What Darcy is that?” said Heffernan. + </p> + <p> + “The Knight of Gwynne,” said his Lordship; “do you know him?” + </p> + <p> + “I believe, my Lord, there is not a gentleman in Ireland who could not say + yes to that question; while west of the Shannon, Maurice Darcy is a name + to swear by.” + </p> + <p> + “We want such a man much,” said the Secretary, in a low, distinct + utterance; “some well-known leader of public opinion is of great value + just now. How does he vote usually? I don't see his name in the + divisions.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, he rarely comes up to town, never liked Parliament; but when he did + attend the House, he usually sat with the Opposition, but, without linking + himself to party, spoke and voted independently, and, strange to say, made + considerable impression by conduct which in any other man would have + proved an utter failure.” + </p> + <p> + “Did he speak well, then?” + </p> + <p> + “For the first five minutes you could think of nothing but his look and + appearance; he was the handsomest man in the House, a little too + particular, perhaps, in dress, but never finical; as he went on, however, + the easy fluency of his language, the grace and elegance of his style, and + the frank openness of his statements, carried his hearers with him; and + many who were guarded enough against the practised power of the great + speakers were entrapped by the unstudied, manly tone of the Knight of + Gwynne. You say truly, he would be a great card in your hands at this + time.” + </p> + <p> + “We must have him at his own price, if he has one. Is he rich?” + </p> + <p> + “He has an immense estate, but, as I hear, greatly encumbered; but don't + think of money with him, that will never do.” + </p> + <p> + “What's the bait, then? Does he care for rank? Has he any children grown + up?” + </p> + <p> + “One son and one daughter are all his family; and as for title, I don't + think that he 'd exchange that of Knight of Gwynne for a Dukedom. His son + is a lieutenant in the Guards.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; and the best fellow in the regiment,” broke in Forester. “In every + quality of a high-spirited gentleman, Lionel Darcy has no superior.” + </p> + <p> + “The better deserving of rapid promotion,” said his Lordship, smiling + significantly. + </p> + <p> + “I should be sorry to offer it to him at the expense of his father's + principles,” said Forester. + </p> + <p> + “Very little fear of your having to do so,” said Heffernan, quickly; “the + Knight would be no easy purchase.” + </p> + <p> + “You must see him, however, Dick.” said the Secretary; “there is no reason + why he should not be with us on grounds of conviction. He is a man of + enlightened and liberal mind, and surely will not think the worse of a + measure because its advocates are in a position to serve his son's + interests.” + </p> + <p> + “If that topic be kept very studiously out of sight, it were all the more + prudent,” said Con, dryly. + </p> + <p> + “Of course; Forester will pay his visit, and only advert to the matter + with caution and delicacy. To gain him to our side is a circumstance of so + much moment that I say <i>carte blanche</i> for the terms.” + </p> + <p> + “I knew the time that a foxhound would have been a higher bribe than a + blue ribbon with honest Maurice; but it's many years since we met, now, + and Heaven knows what changes time may have wrought in him. A smile and a + soft speech from a pretty woman, or a bold exploit of some hare-brained + fellow, were sure to find favor with him, when he would have heard + flattery from the lips of royalty without pride or emotion.” + </p> + <p> + “His colleague in the county is with us; has he any influence over the + Knight?” + </p> + <p> + “Far from it. Mr. Hickman O'Reilly is the last man in the world to have + weight with Maurice Darcy, and if it be your intention to make O'Reilly a + peer, you could have taken no readier method to arm the Knight against + you. No, no; if you really are bent on having him, leave all thought of a + purchase aside; let Forester, as the friend and brother officer of young + Darcy, go down to Gwynne, make himself as agreeable to the Knight as may + be, and when he has one foot on the carriage-step at his departure, turn + sharply round, and say, 'Won't you vote with us, Knight?' What between + surprise and courtesy, he may be taken too short for reflection, and if he + say but 'Yes,' ever so low, he's yours. That's <i>my</i> advice to you. It + may seem a poor chance, but I fairly own I see no better one.” + </p> + <p> + “I should have thought rank might be acceptable in such a quarter,” said + the Secretary, proudly. + </p> + <p> + “He has it, my Lord,—at least as much as would win all the respect + any rank could confer; and besides, these new peerages have no prestige in + their favor yet a while; we must wait for another generation. This claret + is perfect now, but I should not say it were quite so delicate in flavor + the first year it was bottled. The squibs and epigrams on the new + promotions are remembered where the blazons of the Heralds' College are + forgotten; that unlucky banker, for instance, that you made a Viscount the + other day, both his character and his credit have suffered for it.” + </p> + <p> + “What was that you allude to?—an epigram, was it?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, very short, but scarcely sweet. Here it is:— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “'With a name that is borrowed, a title that's bought,—' +</pre> + <p> + you, remember, my Lord, how true both allegations are,— + </p> + <p> + “'With a name that is borrow'd, a title that's bought, Sir William would + fain be a gentleman thought; While his Wit is mere cunning, his Courage + but vapor, His Pride is but money, his Money but paper.'” + </p> + <p> + “Very severe, certainly,” said his Lordship, in the same calm tone he ever + spoke. “Not your lines, Mr. Heffernan?” + </p> + <p> + “No, my Lord; a greater than Con Heffernan indited these,—one who + did not scruple to reply to yourself in the House in an imitation of your + own inimitable manner.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, I know whom you mean,—a very witty person indeed,” said the + Secretary, smiling; “and if we were to be laughed out of office, he might + lead the Opposition. But these are very business-like, matter-of-fact days + we 're fallen upon. The cabinet that can give away blue ribbons may afford + to be indifferent to small jokers. But to revert to matters more + immediate: you must start at once, Forester, for the West, see the Knight, + and do whatever you can to bring him towards us. I say <i>carte blanche</i> + for the terms; I only wish our other elevations to the peerage had half + the pretension he has; and, whatever our friend Mr. Heffernan may say, I + opine to the mere matter of compact, which says, so much for so much.” + </p> + <p> + “Here's success to the mission, however its negotiations incline,” said + Heffernan, as he drained off his glass and rose to depart. “We shall see + you again within ten days or a fortnight, I suppose?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, certainly; I'll not linger in that wild district an hour longer than + I must.” And so, with good night and good wishes, the party separated,—Forester + to make his preparations for a journey which, in those days, was looked on + as something formidable. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0002" id="link2HCH0002"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER II. A TRAVELLING ACQUAINTANCE. + </h2> + <p> + Whatever the merits or demerits of the great question, the legislative + union between England and Ireland,—and assuredly we have neither the + temptation of duty nor inclination to discuss such here,—the means + employed by Ministers to carry the measure through Parliament were in the + last degree disgraceful. Never was bribery practised with more open + effrontery, never did corruption display itself with more daring + indifference to public opinion; the Treasury office was an open mart, + where votes were purchased, and men sold their country, delighted, as a + candid member of the party confessed,—delighted “to have a country + to sell.” + </p> + <p> + The ardor of a political career, like the passion for the chase, would + seem in its high excitement to still many compunctious murmurings of + conscience which in calmer moments could not fail to be heard and + acknowledged: the desire to succeed, that ever-present impulse to win, + steels the heart against impressions which, under less pressing + excitements, had been most painful to endure; and, in this way, honorable + and high-minded men have often stooped to acts which, with calmer judgment + to guide them, they would have rejected with indignation. + </p> + <p> + Such was Dick Forester's position at the moment. An aide-de-camp on the + staff of the Viceroy, a near relative of the Secretary, he was intrusted + with many secret and delicate negotiations, affairs in which, had he been + a third party, he would have as scrupulously condemned the tempter as the + tempted; the active zeal of agency allayed, however, all such qualms of + conscience, and every momentary pang of remorse was swallowed up in the + ardor for success. + </p> + <p> + Few men will deny in the abstract the cruelty of many field-sports they + persist in following; fewer still abandon them on such scruples; and while + Forester felt half ashamed to himself of the functions committed to him, + he would have been sorely disappointed if he had been passed over in the + selection of his relative's political adherents. + </p> + <p> + Of this nature were some of Dick Forester's reflections as he posted along + towards the West; nor was the scene through which he journeyed suggestive + of pleasanter thoughts. If any of our readers should perchance be + acquainted with that dreary line of country which lies along the great + western road of Ireland, they will not feel surprised if the traveller's + impressions of the land were not of the brightest or fairest. The least + reflective of mortals cannot pass through a dreary and poverty-stricken + district without imbibing some of the melancholy which broods over the + place. Forester was by no means such, and felt deeply and sincerely for + the misery he witnessed on every hand, and was in the very crisis of some + most patriotic scheme of benevolence, when his carriage arrived in front + of the little inn of Kilbeggan. Resisting, without much violence to his + inclinations, the civil request of the landlord to alight, he leaned back + to resume the broken thread of his lucubrations, while fresh horses were + put to. How long he thus waited, or what progress his benign devices + accomplished in the mean while, this true history is unable to record; + enough if we say that when he next became aware of the incidents then + actually happening around him, he discovered that his carriage was + standing fast in the same place as at the moment of his arrival, and the + rain falling in torrents, as before. + </p> + <p> + To let down the glass and call out to the postilions was a very natural + act; to do so with the addition of certain expletives not commonly used in + good society, was not an extraordinary one. Forester did both; but he + might have spared his eloquence and his indignation, for the postilions + were both in the stable, and his servant agreeably occupied in the bar + over the comforts of a smoking tumbler of punch. The merciful schemes so + late the uppermost object of his thoughts were routed in a moment, and, + vowing intentions of a very different purport to the whole household, he + opened the door and sprang out. Dark as the night was, he could see that + there were no horses to the carriage, and, with redoubled anger at the + delay, he strode into the inn. + </p> + <p> + “Holloa, I say—house here! Linwood! Where the devil is the fellow?” + </p> + <p> + “Here, sir,” cried a smart-looking London servant, as he sprang from the + bar with his eyes bolting out of his head from the heat of the last + mouthful, swallowed in a second. “I've been a trying for horses, sir; but + they've never got 'em, though they 've been promising to let us have a + pair this half-hour.” + </p> + <p> + “No horses! Do you mean that they've not got a pair of posters in a town + like this?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, indeed, sir,” interposed a dirty waiter in a nankeen jacket; for the + landlord was too indignant at the rejection of his proposal to appear + again, “we've four pair, besides a mare in foal; but there's a deal of + business on the line this week past, and there's a gentleman in the parlor + now has taken four of them.” + </p> + <p> + “Taken four! Has he more than one carriage?” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir, a light chariot it is; but he likes to go fast.” + </p> + <p> + “And so do I—when I can,” muttered Forester, the last words being an + addition almost independent of him. “Could n't you tell him that there's a + gentleman here very much pressed to push on, and would take it as a great + favor if he'd divide the team?” + </p> + <p> + “To be sure, sir, I'll go and speak to him,” said the waiter, as he + hurried away on the errand. + </p> + <p> + “I see how it is, sir,” said Linwood, who, with true servant dexterity, + thought to turn his master's anger into any other channel than towards + himself, “they wants to get you to stop the night here.” + </p> + <p> + “Confound this trickery! I'll pay what they please for the horses, only + let us have them.—Well, waiter, what does he say?” + </p> + <p> + “He says, sir,” said the waiter, endeavoring to suppress a laugh, “if you + 'll come in and join him at supper, you shall have whatever you like.” + </p> + <p> + “Join him at supper! No, no; I'm hurried, I'm anxious to get forward, and + not the least hungry besides.” + </p> + <p> + “Hadn't you better speak a word to him, anyhow?” said the waiter, half + opening the parlor door. And Forester, accepting the suggestion, entered. + </p> + <p> + <a name="linkimage-0001" id="linkimage-0001"> + <!-- IMG --></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%;"> + <img src="images/041.jpg" width="100%" alt="041 " /> + </div> + <p> + In the little low-ceilinged apartment of the small inn, at a table very + amply and as temptingly covered, sat a large and, for his age, singularly + handsome man. A forehead both high and broad surmounted two clear blue + eyes, whose brilliancy seemed to defy the wear of time; regular and + handsome teeth; and a complexion the very type of health appeared to vouch + for a strength of constitution rare at his advanced age. His dress was the + green coat so commonly worn by country gentlemen, with leather breeches + and boots, nor, though the season was winter, did he appear to have any + great-coat, or other defence against the weather. He was heaping some turf + upon the fire as Forester entered, and, laughingly interrupting the + operation, he stood up and bowed courteously. + </p> + <p> + “I have taken a great liberty, sir, first, to suppose that any man at this + hour of the night is not the worse for something to eat and drink; and, + secondly, that he might have no objection to partake of either in my + company.” Forester was not exactly prepared for a manner so palpably that + of the best society, and, at once repressing every sign of his former + impatience, replied by apologizing for a request which might inconvenience + the granter. “Let me help you to this grouse-pie, and fill yourself a + glass of sherry; and by the time you have taken some refreshment, the + horses will be put to. I am most happy to offer you a seat.” + </p> + <p> + “I am afraid there is a mistake somewhere,” said Forester, half timidly. + “I heard you had engaged the only four horses here, and as my carriage is + without, my request was to obtain two if you—” + </p> + <p> + “But why not come with me? I 'm pressed, and must be up, if possible, + before morning. Remember, we are forty-eight miles from Dublin.” + </p> + <p> + “Dublin! But I'm going the very opposite road. I'm for Westport.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, by Jove! that is different. What a stupid fellow the waiter is! Never + mind; sit down. Let us have a glass of wine together. You shall have two + of the horses. Old Wilkins must only make his spurs supply the place of + the leaders.” + </p> + <p> + There was a hearty good-nature in every accent of the old man's voice, and + Forester drew his chair to the table, by no means sorry to spend some time + longer in his company. + </p> + <p> + There is a kind of conversation sacred to the occupations of the table,—a + mixture of the culinary and the social, the gustatory with the agreeable. + And the stranger led the way to this, with the art of an accomplished + proficient, and while recommending the good things to Forester's + attention, contrived to season their enjoyment by a tone at once pleasing + and cordial. + </p> + <p> + “I could have sworn you were hungry,” said he, laughing, as Forester + helped himself for the second time to the grouse-pie. “I know you did not + expect so appetizing a supper in such a place; but Rickards has always + something in the larder for an old acquaintance, and I have been + travelling this road close upon sixty years now.” + </p> + <p> + “And a dreary way it is,” said Forester, “except for this most agreeable + incident. I never came so many miles before with so little to interest + me.” + </p> + <p> + “Very true; it is a flat, monotonous-looking country, and poor besides; + but nothing like what I remember it as a boy.” + </p> + <p> + “You surely do not mean that the people were ever worse off than they seem + now to be?” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, a hundred times worse off. They may be rack-rented and over-taxed in + some instances now,—not as many as you would suppose, after all,—but + then, they were held in actual slavery, nearly famished, and all but + naked; no roads, no markets; subject to the caprice of the landowners on + every occasion in life, and the faction fights—those barbarous + vestiges of a rude time—kept up and encouraged by those who should + have set the better example of mutual charity and good feeling. These + unhappy practices have not disappeared, but they are far less frequent + than formerly; and however the confession may seem to you a sad one, to me + there is a pride in saying, Ireland is improving.” + </p> + <p> + “It is hard to conceive a people more miserably off than these,” said + Forester, with a sigh. + </p> + <p> + “So they seem to your eyes; but let me remark that there is a transition + state between rude barbarism and civilization which always appears more + miserable than either; habits of life which suggest wants that can rarely, + if ever, be supplied. The struggle between poverty and the desire for + better, is a bitter conflict, and such is the actual condition of this + people. You are young enough to witness the fruits of the reformation; I + am too old ever to hope to see them, but I feel assured that the day is + coming.” + </p> + <p> + “I like your theory well; it has Hope for its ally,” said Forester, as he + gazed on the benevolent features of the old squire. + </p> + <p> + “It has even better, sir, it has truth; and hence it is that the + peasantry, as they approach nearer to the capital,—the seat of + civilization,—have fewest of those traits that please or attract + strangers; they are in the transition state I speak of; while down in <i>my</i> + wild country, you can see them in their native freshness, reckless and + improvident, but light-hearted and happy.” + </p> + <p> + “Where may the country be you speak of, sir?” said Forester. + </p> + <p> + “The Far West, beside the Atlantic. You have heard of Mayo?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, that is my destination at this moment; I am going beyond Westport, to + visit one of the chieftains there. I have not the honor to know him, but I + conclude that his style of living and habits will not be a bad specimen of + the gentry customs generally.” + </p> + <p> + “I know that neighborhood tolerably well. May I ask the name of your + future host?” + </p> + <p> + “The Knight of Gwynne is his title—Mr. Darcy—” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! an old acquaintance,—I may almost say an old friend of mine,” + said the other, smiling. “And so you are going to pass some time at + Gywnne?” + </p> + <p> + “A week or so; I scarcely think I can spare more.” + </p> + <p> + “They 'll call that a very inhospitable visit at Gwynne, sir; the Knight's + guests rarely stay less than a month. I have just left it, and there were + some there who had been since the beginning of the partridge-shooting, and + not the least welcome of the party.” + </p> + <p> + “I am sorry I had not the good fortune to meet you there,” said Forester. + </p> + <p> + “Make your visit a fortnight, and I 'll join you, then,” said the old man, + gayly. “I 'm going up to town to settle a wager,—a foolish + excursion, you 'll say, at my time of life; but it's too late to mend.” + </p> + <p> + “The horses is put to, sir,” said the waiter, announcing the fact for + something like the fourth time, without being attended to. + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, it is time to start. Am I to take it as a pledge that I shall + find you at Gwynne this day fortnight?” + </p> + <p> + “I cannot answer for my host,” said Forester, laughing. + </p> + <p> + “Oh! old Darcy is sure to ask you to stay. By the way, would you permit me + to trouble you with five lines to a friend who is now stopping there?” + </p> + <p> + “Of course; I shall be but too happy to be of any service to you.” + </p> + <p> + The old gentleman sat down, and, tearing a leaf from a capacious + pocket-book, wrote a few hurried lines, which, having folded and sealed, + he addressed, “Bagenal Daly, Esquire, Gwynne Abbey.” + </p> + <p> + “There, that's my commission; pray add my service to the Knight himself, + when you see him.” + </p> + <p> + “Permit me to ask, how shall I designate his friend?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! I forgot, you don't know me,” said he, laughing. “I have half a mind + to leave the identification with your own descriptive powers.” + </p> + <p> + “I'd wager five guineas I could make the portrait a resemblance.” + </p> + <p> + “Done, then; I take the bet,” said the other; “and I promise you, on the + word of a gentleman, I am known to every visitor in the house.” + </p> + <p> + Each laughed heartily at the drollery of such a wager, and, with many a + profession of the pleasure a future meeting would afford to both, they + parted, less like casual acquaintances than as old and intimate friends. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0003" id="link2HCH0003"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER III. GWYNNE ABBEY + </h2> + <p> + When Forester parted with his chance companion at Kilbeggan, he pursued + his way without meeting a single incident worth recording; nor, although + he travelled with all the speed of posters, aided by the persuasive power + of additional half-crowns, shall we ask of our reader to accompany him, + but, at one bound, cross the whole island, and stand with us on the margin + of that glorious sheet of water which, begirt with mountains and studded + with its hundred islands, is known as Clue Bay. + </p> + <p> + At the southern extremity of the bay rises the great mountain of Croagh + Patrick, its summit nearly five thousand feet above the sea; on the side + next the ocean, it is bold and precipitous, crag rising above crag in + succession, and not even the track of a mountain goat visible on the + dangerous surface; landward, however, a gentle slope descends about the + lower third of the mountain, and imperceptibly is lost in the rich and + swelling landscape beneath. Here, sheltered from the western gales, and + favored by the fertility of the soil, the trees are seen to attain a girth + and height rarely met with elsewhere, while they preserve their foliage to + a much later period than in other parts of the country. + </p> + <p> + The ruins of an ancient church, whose very walls are washed by the + Atlantic, show that the luxuriant richness of the spot was known in times + past. They who founded these goodly edifices were no mean judges of the + resources of the land, and the rich woods and blossoming orchards that + still shelter their ruined shrines evidence with what correctness they + selected their resting-places. + </p> + <p> + The coast-road which leads from Westport skirts along the edge of the bay, + and is diversified by many a pretty cottage whose trellised walls and + rose-covered porches vouch for the mildness of the climate, and are in + summer resorted to as bathing-lodges by numbers from the inland counties. + The high-road has, however, a grander destiny than to such humble, though + picturesque, dwellings, for it suddenly ceases at the gate of an immense + demesne, whose boundary wall may be seen stretching away for miles, and at + last is traced high up the mountain side, where it forms the enclosure of + a deer park. + </p> + <p> + Two square and massive towers connected by an arch form the gateway, and + though ivy and honeysuckle have covered many an architectural device which + once were looked on with pride, a massive armorial escutcheon in yellow + stone forms the key of the arch, while two leopards supporting a crown, + with the motto, “Ne la touchez pas!” proclaim the territory of the Knight + of Gwynne. + </p> + <p> + Within, an avenue wide enough for a high-road led through a park of great + extent, dotted with trees single or in groups, and bounded by a vast wood, + whose waving tops were seen for miles of distance. If a landscape-gardener + would have deplored with uplifted hands the glorious opportunities of + embellishment which neglect or ignorance had suffered to lie undeveloped + within these grounds, a true lover of scenery would have felt delighted at + the wild and picturesque beauty around him, as, sometimes, the road would + dip into a deep glade, where the overhanging banks were clothed with the + dog-rose and the sweet-brier, still and hushed to every sound save the + song of the thrush or the not less sweet ripple of the little stream that + murmured past; and again, emerging from the shade, it wound along some + height whence the great mountain might be seen, or, between the dark + foliage, the blue surface of the sea, swelling and heaving with + ever-restless motion. All the elements of great picturesque beauty were + here, and in that glorious profusion with which nature alone diffuses her + wealth,—the mountain, the forest, and the ocean, the greensward, the + pebbly shore, the great rocks, the banks blue with the violet and the + veronica,—and all diversified and contrasted to produce effects the + most novel and enchanting. + </p> + <p> + Many a road and many a pathway led through these woods and valleys, some + grass-grown, as though disused, others bearing the track of recent wheels, + still, as you went, the hares and the rabbits felt no terror, the + wood-pigeon sat upon the branch above your head, nor was scared at your + approach; for though the Knight was a passionate lover of sport, it was + his fancy to preserve the demesne intact, nor would he suffer a shot to be + fired within its precincts. These may seem small and insignificant matters + to record, but they added indescribably to the charms of the spot, + completing, as they did, the ideas of tranquillity and peace suggested by + the scene. + </p> + <p> + The approach was of some miles in extent, not needlessly prolonged by + every device of sweep and winding, but in reality proceeding by its + nearest way to the house, which, for the advantage of a view over the sea, + was situated on the slope of the mountain. Nor was the building unworthy + of its proud position: originally an abbey, its architecture still + displayed the elaborate embellishment which characterized the erections of + the latter part of the sixteenth century. + </p> + <p> + A long façade, interrupted at intervals by square towers, formed the + front, the roof consisting of a succession of tall and pointed gables, in + each of which some good saint stood enshrined in stone; the windows, + throughout this long extent, were surmounted by pediments and figures not + rudely chiselled, but with high pretension as works of art, and evidencing + both taste and skill in the designer; while the great entrance was a + miracle of tracery and carving, the rich architraves retreating one within + another to the full depth of twelve feet, such being the thickness of the + external wall. + </p> + <p> + Spacious and imposing as this great mass of building appeared at first + sight, it formed but a fragment of the whole, and was in reality but the + side of a great quadrangle, the approach to which led through one of the + large towers, defended by fosse and drawbridge, while overhead the iron + spikes of a massive portcullis might be seen; for the Abbot of Gwynne had + been a “puissance” in days long past, and had his servitors in steel, as + well as his followers in sackcloth. This road, which was excessively steep + and difficult of access, was yet that by which carriages were accustomed + to approach the house; for the stables occupied one entire wing of the + quadrangle, the servants, of whom there were a goodly company, holding + possession of the suite of rooms overhead, once the ancient dormitory of + the monks of Gwynne. + </p> + <p> + In the middle of the courtyard was a large fountain, over which an effigy + of St. Francis had formerly stood; but the saint had unhappily been used + as a lay figure whereupon to brush hunting-coats and soiled leathers, and + gradually his proportions had suffered grievous injury, till at last + nothing remained of him save the legs, which were still profaned as a + saddle-tree; for grooms and stable-boys are irreverent in their notions, + and, probably, deemed it no disgrace for a saint to carry such honorable + trappings. + </p> + <p> + The appearance of the abbey from within was even more picturesque than + when seen from the outside, each side of the quadrangle displaying a + different era and style of architecture; for they had been built with long + intervals of time between them, and one wing, a low, two-storied range, + with jail-like windows and a small, narrow portal, bore, on a + three-cornered stone, the date 1304. + </p> + <p> + We shall not ask of our readers to accompany us further in our dry + description, nor even cast a glance up at that myriad of strange beasts + which, in dark gray stone, are frowning or grinning, or leaping or + rearing, from every angle and corner of the building,—a strange + company, whose representatives in real life it would puzzle the zoologist + to produce; but there they were, some with a coat-of-arms between their + paws, some supporting an ornamental capital, and others actually, as it + seemed, cutting their uncouth capers out of pure idleness. + </p> + <p> + At the back of the abbey, and terraced on the mountain side, lay a perfect + wilderness of flower-gardens and fishponds, amid which a taste more + profane than that of the founders had erected sundry summer-houses in + rockwork, hermitages without hermits, and shrines without worshippers, but + all moss-grown, and old enough to make them objects of curiosity, while + some afforded glorious points of view over the distant bay and the rich + valley where stands the picturesque town of Westport. + </p> + <p> + The interior of this noble edifice was worthy of its appearance from + without. Independent of the ample accommodation for a great household, + there was a suite of state apartments running along the entire front and + part of one wing, and these were fitted up and furnished with a luxury and + costliness that would not have disgraced a royal palace. Here were seen + velvet hangings and rich tapestries upon the walls, floors inlaid with + tulip and sandal-wood, windows of richly stained glass threw a mysterious + and mellow light over richly carved furniture, the triumphs of that art + which the Netherlands once boasted; cabinets, curiously inlaid with silver + and tortoiseshell, many of them gifts of distinguished donors, few without + their associations of story; while one chamber, the ancient hall of + audience, was hung round with armor and weapons, the trophies of + long-buried ancestors, the proud memorials of a noble line; dark suits of + Milan mail, or richly inlaid cuirasses of Spanish workmanship, with great + two-handed swords and battle-axes, and, stranger still, weapons of Eastern + mould and fashion, for more than one of the house had fought against the + Turks, and crossed his broadsword with the scimitar. + </p> + <p> + There were objects rare and curious enough within these walls to stay and + linger over; but even if we dared to take such a liberty with our reader, + our duty would not permit the dalliance, and it is to a very different + part of the building, and one destined for far other uses, that we must + now for a brief space conduct him. + </p> + <p> + In a small chamber of the ground-floor, whose curiously groined roof and + richly stained window showed that its occupancy had once been held by + those in station above the common, now sat two persons at a well-garnished + table, while before them, on the wide hearth, blazed a cheerful fire of + bog deal. On either side of the fireplace was a niche, in which formerly + some saintly effigy had stood, but now—such are Time's chances—an + earthenware pitcher, with a pewter lid, decorated each, of whose contents + the boon companions drank jovially to each other. One of these was a + short, fat old fellow of nigh eighty years; his bowed legs and wide round + shoulders the still surviving signs of great personal strength in days + gone by; his hair, white as snow, was carefully brushed back from his + forehead, and tied into “queue” behind. Old as he was, the features were + intelligent and pleasing, the hale and hearty expression of good health + and good temper animated them when he spoke, nor were the words the less + mellow to an Irish ear that they smacked of the “sweet south,” for Tate + Sullivan was a Kerry man, and possessed in full measure the attributes of + that pleasant kingdom; he was courteous and obliging, faithful in his + affections, and if a bit hasty in temper, the very first to discover and + correct it. His failing was the national one,—the proneness to + conceal a truth if its disclosure were disagreeable: he could not bring + himself to bear bad tidings; and this tendency had so grown with years + that few who knew his weakness could trust any version of a fact from his + lips without making due allowance for blarney. + </p> + <p> + <a name="linkimage-0002" id="linkimage-0002"> + <!-- IMG --></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%;"> + <img src="images/051.jpg" width="100%" alt="051 " /> + </div> + <p> + For eight-and-forty years he had been a butler in the Knight's family, and + his reverence for his master went on increasing with his years; in his + eyes he was the happy concentration of every good quality of humanity, nor + could he bring himself to believe that his like would ever come again. + </p> + <p> + Opposite to him sat one as unlike him in form and appearance as he was in + reality by character: a gaunt, thin, hollow-cheeked man of sixty-six or + seven, rueful and sad-looking, with a greenish gray complexion, and a head + of short, close gray hair, cut horseshoe fashion over the temples, his + long thin nose, pointed chin, and his cold green eye only wanted the + additional test of his accent to pronounce him from the North. So it was, + Sandy M'Grane was from Antrim, and a keener specimen of the “cold + countrie” need not have been looked for. + </p> + <p> + His dress was a wide-skirted, deep-cuffed brown coat, profusely studded + with large silver buttons richly crested, one sleeve of which, armless and + empty, was attached to his breast; a dark-crimson waistcoat, edged with + silver lace, descended below the hips; black leather breeches and high + black boots,—a strange costume, uniting in some respects the + attributes of in-door life and the road. On the high back of his oaken + chair hung a wide-brimmed felt hat and a black leather belt, from which a + short straight sword depended, the invariable companion of his journeys; + for Sandy had travelled in strange lands, where protective police were + unknown, and his master, Mr. Bagenal Daly, was one who ever preferred his + own administration of criminal law, when the occasion required such, to + the slower process of impartial justice. + </p> + <p> + Meagre and fleshless as he looked, he was possessed of great personal + strength, and it needed no acute physiognomist to pronounce, from the + character of his head and features, that courage had not been omitted + among the ingredients of his nature. + </p> + <p> + A word of explanation may be necessary as to how a western gentleman, as + Bagenal Daly was, should have attached to his person for some forty years + a native of a distant county, and one all whose habits and sympathies + seemed so little in unison with his own part of the country. Short as the + story is, we should not feel warranted in obtruding it on our readers if + it did not to a certain extent serve to illustrate the characters of both + master and man. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Daly when a very young man chanced to make an excursion to the + northern part of the island, the principal object of which was to see the + Giant's Causeway, and the scenery in the neighborhood. The visit was + undertaken with little foresight or precaution, and happened at the very + time of the year when severe gales from the north and west prevail, and a + heavy sea breaks along that iron-bound coast. Having come so far to see + the spot, he was unwilling to be baulked in his object; but still, the + guides and boatmen of the neighborhood refused to venture out, and, + notwithstanding the most tempting offers, would not risk their lives by an + enterprise so full of danger. + </p> + <p> + Daly's ardor for the expedition seemed to increase as the difficulty to + its accomplishment grew greater, and he endeavored, now by profuse offers + of money, now by taunting allusions to their want of courage, to stimulate + the men to accompany him; when, at last, a tall, hard-featured young + fellow stood forward and offered, if Daly himself would pull an oar, to go + along with him. Overjoyed at his success, Daly agreed to the proposal; and + although a heavy sea was then running, and the coast for miles was covered + with fragments of a wreck, the skiff was Boon launched, and stood out to + sea. + </p> + <p> + “I'll ga wi'ye to the twa caves and Dunluce; but I 'll no engage to ga to + Carrig-a-rede,” said Sandy, as the sea broke in masses on the bow, and + fell in torrents over them. + </p> + <p> + After about an hour's rowing, during which the boat several times narrowly + escaped being swamped, and was already more than half full of water, they + arrived off the great cave, and could see the boiling surf as, sent back + with force, it issued beneath the rock, with a music louder than thunder, + while from the great cliffs overhead the water poured in a thick shower, + as each receding wave left a part behind it. + </p> + <p> + “The cobble” (so is the boat termed there) “is aye drawing in to shore,” + said Sandy; “I trow we 'd better pull back, noo.” + </p> + <p> + “Not till we 've seen Carrig-a-rede, surely,” said Daly, on whom danger + acted like the most exciting of all stimulants. + </p> + <p> + “Ye may go there by yersel,” said Sandy, “when ye put me ashore; I tauld + you, I 'd no ga so far.” + </p> + <p> + “Come, come, it's no time to flinch now,” said Daly; “turn her head about, + and lean down to your oar.” + </p> + <p> + “I 'll no do it,” said Sandy, “nor will I let you either.” And as he + spoke, he leaned forward to take the oar from Daly's hand. The young man, + irritated at the attempt, rudely repulsed him, and Sandy, whose temper, if + not as violent, was at least as determined, grappled with him at once. + </p> + <p> + “You'll upset the boat—curse the fellow!” said Daly, who now found + that he had met his match in point of strength and daring. + </p> + <p> + “Let go the oar, man,” cried Sandy, savagely. + </p> + <p> + “Never,” said Daly, with a violent effort to free his hands. + </p> + <p> + “Then swim for it, if ye like better,” said Sandy; and, placing one foot + on the gunwale, he gave a tremendous push, and the next instant they were + both struggling in the sea. For a long time they continued, almost side by + side, to buffet the dark water; but at last Daly began to falter, his + efforts became more labored, and his strength seemed failing; Sandy turned + his head, and seized him in the very struggle that precedes sinking. They + were still far from shore, but the hardy Northern never hesitated; he held + him by the arm, and after a long and desperate effort succeeded in gaining + the land. + </p> + <p> + “Ye got a bra wetting for your pains, anyhow,” said Sandy; “but I 'm no + the best off either: I 'll never see the cobble mair.” + </p> + <p> + Such were the first words Bagenal Daly heard when consciousness returned + to him; the rest of the story is soon told. Daly took Sandy into his + service, not without all due thought and consideration on the latter's + part, for he owned a small fishing-hut, for which he expected and received + due compensation, as well as for the cobble and the damage to his + habiliments by salt water,—all matters of which, as they were left + to his own uncontrolled valuation, he was well satisfied with the + arrangement; and thus began a companionship which had lasted to the very + moment we have presented him to our readers. + </p> + <p> + It is but fair to say that in all this time no one had ever heard from + Sandy's lips one syllable of the adventure we have related, nor did he + ever, in the remotest degree, allude to it in intercourse with his master. + Sandy was little disposed to descant either on the life or the character + of his master; the Scotch element of caution was mingled strongly through + his nature, and he preferred any other topic of conversation than such as + led to domestic events. Whether that he was less on his guard on this + evening, or that, esteeming Tate's perceptions at no very high rate, so it + is, he talked more freely and unadvisedly than was his wont. + </p> + <p> + “Ye hae a bra berth o' it here, Maister Sullivan,” said he, as he smacked + his lips after the smoking compound, whose odor pronounced it mulled port; + “I maun say, that a man wha has seen a good deal of life might do far war' + than settle down in a snug little nook like this; maybe, ye hae no + journeyed far in your time either.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed, 'tis true for you, Mr. M'Grane, I had not the opportunities you + had of seeing the world, and the strange people in foreign parts; they + tell me you was in Jericho, and Jerusalem, and Gibraltar.” + </p> + <p> + “Further than that, Maister Sullivan. I hae been in very curious places + wi' Mr. Daly; this day nine years we were in the Rocky Mountains, among + the Red Indians.” + </p> + <p> + “The Red Indians! blood alive! them was dangerous neighbors.” + </p> + <p> + “Not in our case. My master was a chief among them, I was the doctor of + the tribe,—the 'Great Mystery Man,' they cau'd me; my master's name + was the 'Howling Wind.'” + </p> + <p> + “Sorra doubt, but it was not a bad one,—listen to him now;” and Tate + lifted his hand to enforce silence, while a cheer loud and sonorous rang + out, and floated in rich cadence along the arched corridors of the old + abbey; “'tis singing he is,” added Tate, lower, while he opened the door + to listen. + </p> + <p> + “That's no a sang, that's the war-cry of the Manhattas,” said Sandy, + gravely. + </p> + <p> + “The saints be praised it's no worse!” remarked Tate, with pious horror in + every feature. “I thought he was going to raise the divil. And who was the + man-haters, Mr. M'Grane?” added he, meekly. + </p> + <p> + “A vara fine set o' people; a leetle fond o' killing and eating their + neighbors, but friendly and ceevil to strangers; I hae a wife amang them + mysel.” + </p> + <p> + “A wife! Is she a Christian, then?” + </p> + <p> + “Nae muck le o' that, but a douce, good-humored lassie for a' that.” + </p> + <p> + “And she'sa black?” + </p> + <p> + “Na, na; she was a rich copper tint, something deeper than my waistcoat + here, but she had twa yellow streaks over her forehead, and the tip o' her + nose was blue.” + </p> + <p> + “The mother of Heaven be near us! she was a beauty, by all accounts.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, that she was; the best-looking squaw of the tribe, and rare handy wi' + a hatchet.” + </p> + <p> + “Divil fear her,” muttered Tate, between his teeth. “And what was her + name, now?” + </p> + <p> + “Her name was Orroawaccanaboo, the 'Jumping Wild Cat.'” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, holy Moses!” exclaimed Tate, unable any longer to subdue his + feelings, “I would n't be her husband for a mine of goold.” + </p> + <p> + “You are no sae far wrong there, my auld chap,” said Sandy, without + showing any displeasure at this burst of feeling. + </p> + <p> + “And Mr. Daly, had he another—of these craytures?” said Tate, who + felt scruples in applying the epithet of the Church in such a predicament. + </p> + <p> + “He had twa,” said Sandy, “forbye anein the mountains, that was too auld + to come down; puir lone body, she was unco' fond of a child's head and + shoulders wi' fish gravy!” + </p> + <p> + “To ate it! Do you mane for ating, Mr. M'Grane?” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, just so; butchers' shops is no sae plenty down in them parts. But + what's that! dinna ye hear a ringing o' the bell at the gate there?” + </p> + <p> + “I hear nothing, I can think of nothing! sorra bit! with the thought of + that ould baste in my head, bad luck to her!” exclaimed Tate, ruefully. “A + child's head and shoulders! Sure enough, that's the bell, and them that's + ringing it knows the way, too.” And with these words Tate lighted his + lantern and issued forth to the gate tower, the keys of which were each + night deposited in his care. + </p> + <p> + As the massive gates fell back, four splashed and heated horses drew + forward a calèche, from which, disengaging himself with speed, Dick + Forester descended, and endeavored, as well as the darkness would permit, + to survey the great pile of building around him. + </p> + <p> + “Coming to stop, yer honor?” said Tate, courteously uncovering his white + head. + </p> + <p> + “Yes. Will you present these letters and this card to your master?” + </p> + <p> + “I must show you your room first,—that's my orders always.—Tim, + bring up this luggage to 27.—Will yer honor have supper in the hall, + or in your own dressing-room?” + </p> + <p> + There is nothing more decisive as to the general tone of hospitality + pervading any house than the manner of the servants towards strangers; and + thus, few and simple as the old butler's words were, they were amply + sufficient to satisfy Forester that his reception would be a kindly one, + even though less ably accredited than by Lionel Darcy's introduction; and + he followed Tate Sullivan with the pleasant consciousness that he was to + lay his head beneath a friendly roof. + </p> + <p> + “Never mind the supper,” said he; “a good night's rest is what I stand + most in need of. Show me to my room, and to-morrow I 'll pay my respects + to the Knight.” + </p> + <p> + “This way then, sir,” said Tate, entering a large hall, and leading the + way up a wide oak staircase, at the top of which was a corridor of immense + extent. Turning short at the head of this, Tate opened a small empanelled + door, and with a gesture of caution moved forwards. Forester followed, not + a little curious to know the meaning of the precaution, and at the same + instant the loud sounds of merry voices laughing and talking reached him, + but from what quarter he could not guess, when, suddenly, his guide drew + back a heavy cloth curtain, and he perceived that they were traversing a + long gallery, which ran along the entire length of a great room, in the + lower part of which a large company was assembled. So sudden and + unexpected was the sight that Forester started with amazement, and stood + uncertain whether to advance or retire, while Tate Sullivan, as if + enjoying his surprise, leaned his hands on his knees and stared steadily + at him. + </p> + <p> + The scene below was indeed enough to warrant his astonishment. In the + great hail, which had once been the refectory of the abbey, a party of + about thirty gentlemen were now seated around a table covered with + drinking vessels of every shape and material, as the tastes of the guests + inclined their potations. Claret, in great glass jugs holding the quantity + of two or three ordinary bottles; port, in huge square decanters, both + being drunk from the wood, as was the fashion of the day; large china + bowls of mulled wine, in which the oranges and limes floated fragrantly; + and here and there a great measure made of wood and hooped with silver, + called the “mether,” contained the native beverage in all its simplicity, + and supplied the hard drinker with the liquor he preferred to all,—“poteen.” + The guests were no less various than the good things of which they + partook. Old, young, and middle-aged; some men stamped with the air and + seeming of the very highest class; others as undeniably drawn from the + ranks of the mere country squire; a few were dressed in all the accuracy + of dinner costume; some wore the well-known livery of Daly's Club, and + others were in the easy negligence of morning dress; while, scattered up + and down, could be seen the red coat of a hunter, whose splashed and + stained scarlet spoke rather for the daring than the dandyism of its + wearer. But conspicuous above all was a figure who, on an elevated seat, + sat at the head of the table and presided over the entertainment. He was a + tall—a very tall—and powerfully built man, whose age might + have been guessed at anything, from five-and-forty to seventy; for though + his frame and figure indicated few touches of time, his seared and + wrinkled forehead boded advanced life. His head was long and narrow, and + had been entirely bald, were it not for a single stripe of coal-black hair + which grew down the very middle of it, and came to a point on the + forehead, looking exactly like the scalplock of an Indian warrior. The + features were long and melancholy in expression,—a character + increased by a drooping moustache of black hair, the points of which + descended below the chin. His eyes were black as a raven's wing, and + glanced with all the brilliancy and quickness of youth, while the + incessant motion of his arched eyebrows gave to their expression a + character of almost demoniac intelligence. His voice was low and sonorous, + and, although unmistakably Irish in accent, occasionally lapsed into + traits which might be called foreign, for no one that knew him would have + accused him of the vice of affectation. His dress was a claret-colored + coat edged with narrow silver lace, and a vest of white satin, over which, + by a blue ribbon, hung the medal of a foreign order; white satin breeches + and silk stockings, with shoes fastened by large diamond buckles, + completed a costume which well became a figure that had lost nothing of + its pretension to shapeliness and symmetry. His hands, though remarkably + large and bony, were scrupulously white and cared for, and more than one + ring of great value ornamented his huge and massive fingers. Altogether, + he was one whom the least critical would have pronounced not of the common + herd of humanity, and yet whose character was by no means so easy to guess + at from external traits. + </p> + <p> + Amid all the tumult and confusion of the scene, his influence seemed felt + everywhere, and his rich, solemn tones could be heard high above the crash + and din around. As Forester stood and leaned over the balcony, the noise + seemed to have reached its utmost; one of the company—a short, + square, bull-faced little squire—being interrupted in a song by some + of the party, while others—the greater number—equally loud, + called on him to proceed. It was one of the slang ditties of the time,—a + lyric suggested by that topic which furnished matter for pamphlets and + speeches and songs, dinners, debates, and even duels,—the Union. + </p> + <p> + “Go on, Bodkin; go on, man! You never were in better voice in your life,” + mingled with, “No, no; why introduce any party topic here?”—with a + murmured remark: “It's unfair, too. Hickman O'Reilly is with the + Government.” + </p> + <p> + The tumult, which, without being angry, increased every moment, was at + last stilled by the voice of the chairman, saying,— + </p> + <p> + “If the song have a moral, Bodkin—” + </p> + <p> + “It has, I pledge my honor it has, your 'Grandeur.'” said Bodkin. + </p> + <p> + “Then finish it. Silence there, gentlemen.” And Bodkin resumed his chant:— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “'Trust me, Squire,' the dark man cried, + 'I 'll follow close and mind you, + Nor however high the fence you ride, + I 'll ever be far behind you.' + + “And true to his word, like a gentleman + He rode, there 'a no denying; + And though full twenty miles they ran, + He took all his ditches flying. + + “The night now came, and down they sat, + And the Squire drank while he was able; + But though glass for glass the dark man took, + He left him under the table. + + “When morning broke, the Squire's brains, + Though racking, were still much clearer. + 'I know you well,' said he to his guest, + 'Now that I see you nearer. + + “'You 've play'd me a d——d scurvy trick: + Come, what have I lost—don't tease me. + Is it my soul?' 'Not at all,' says Nick; + 'Just vote for the Union, to please me.'” + </pre> + <p> + Amid the loud hurrahs and the louder laughter that fol-lowed this rude + chant Forester hurried on to his room, fully convinced that his mission + was not altogether so promising as he anticipated. + </p> + <p> + Undeniable in every respect as was the accommodation of his bed-chamber, + Forester lay awake half the night, the singular circumstances in which he + found himself occupied his thoughts, while at intervals came the swelling + sounds of some loud cheers from the party below, whose boisterous gayety + seemed to continue without interruption. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0004" id="link2HCH0004"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IV. THE DINNER-PARTY + </h2> + <p> + It was late on the following day when Forester awoke, nor was it for some + time that he could satisfy himself how far he had been an actor, or a mere + spectator in the scene he had witnessed the preceding night. The room and + the guests were vividly impressed upon his memory, and the excitement of + the party, so different in its character from anything he had seen in his + own country, convinced him that the sea, narrow as it was, separated two + races very unlike in temperament. + </p> + <p> + What success should he have in this, his first, mission? was the question + ever rising to his mind; how should he acquit himself among persons to + whose habits of life, thought, and expression he felt himself an utter + stranger? Little as he had seen of the party, that little showed him that + the anti-Union feeling was in the ascendant, and that, if a stray convert + to the Ministerial doctrines was here and there to be found, he was rather + ashamed of his new convictions than resolute to uphold and defend them. + From these thoughts he wandered on to others, about the characters of the + party, and principally of the host himself, who in every respect was + unlike his anticipations. He opened his friend Lionel's letter, and was + surprised to find how filial affection had blinded his judgment,—keen + enough when exercised without the trammels of prejudice. “If this,” + thought he, “be a fair specimen of Lionel's portrait-painting, I must take + care to form no high-flown expectations of his mother and sister; and as + he calls one somewhat haughty and reserved in manner, and the other a + blending of maternal pride with a dash of his father's wilful but happy + temperament, I take it for granted that Lady Eleanor is a cold, + disagreeable old lady, and her daughter Helen a union of petted vanity and + capriciousness, pretty much what my good friend Lionel himself was when he + joined us, but what he had the good sense to cease to be very soon after.” + </p> + <p> + Having satisfied himself that he fairly estimated the ladies of the house, + he set himself, with all the ingenuity of true speculation, to account for + the traits of character he had so good-naturedly conferred on them. + “Living in a remote, half-civilized neighborhood,” thought he, “without + any intercourse save with some country squires and their wives and + daughters, they have learned, naturally enough, to feel their own + superiority to those about them; and possessing a place with such claims + to respect from association, as well as from its actual condition, they, + like all people who have few equals and no superiors, give themselves a + license to think and act independent of the world's prescription, and + become, consequently, very intolerable to every one unaccustomed to + acknowledge their sovereignty. I heartily wish Lionel had left these + worthy people to my own unassisted appreciation of them; his flourish of + trumpets has sadly spoiled the effect of the scene for me;” and with this + not over gracious reflection he proceeded to dress for the day. + </p> + <p> + “The squire has been twice at the door this morning, sir,” said Lin wood, + as he arranged the dressing apparatus on the table; “he would not let me + awake you, however, and at last said, 'Present my cordial respects to Mr. + Forester, and say, that if he should like to ride with the hounds, he'll + find a horse ready for him, and a servant who will show him the way.'” + </p> + <p> + “And are they out already?” said Forester. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir, gone two hours ago; they breakfasted at eight, and I heard a + whipper-in say they 'd twelve miles to go to the first cover.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, it appeared to me that they were up all night.” + </p> + <p> + “They broke up at four, sir, and except two gentlemen that are gone over + to Westport on business, but to be back for dinner, they're all mounted + to-day.” + </p> + <p> + “And what is the dinner-hour, Linwood?” + </p> + <p> + “Six, sir, to the minute.” + </p> + <p> + “And it's now only eleven,” said Forester to himself, with a wearied sigh; + “how am I to get through the rest of the day? Are the ladies in the + drawing-room, Linwood?” + </p> + <p> + “Ladies! no, sir; there are no ladies in the house as I hear of.” + </p> + <p> + “So much the better, then,” thought his master; “passive endurance is + better any day than active boredom, and with all respect for Lady Eleanor + and her daughter, I 'd rather believe them such as Lionel paints them, + than have the less flattering impression nearer acquaintance would as + certainly leave behind it.” + </p> + <p> + “The old butler wishes to know if you will breakfast in the library, sir?” + asked Linwood. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, that will do admirably; delighted I am to hear there is such a thing + here,” muttered he; for already he had suffered the disappointment the + host's appearance had caused him to tinge all his thoughts with + bitterness, and make him regard his visit as an act of purgatorial + endurance. + </p> + <p> + In a large and well-furnished library, with a projecting window offering a + view over the entire of Clue Bay, Forester found a small breakfast-table + laid beside the fireplace. From the aspect of comfort in everything + around, to the elegance of the little service of Dresden, with its + accompaniment of ancient silver, the most fastidious critic would not have + withheld his praise, and the young Englishman fell into a puzzled revery + how so much of taste for the refinements of daily life could consort with + the strange specimen of society he had witnessed the preceding evening. + The book-shelves, too, in all their later acquisitions, exhibited judgment + in the works selected, and as Forester ran his eye over the titles, he was + more than ever at fault to reconcile such readings with such habits. On + the tables lay scattered the latest of those political pamphlets which the + great contested question of the day evoked, many of them ably and + powerfully written, and abounding in strong sarcasm; of these, the greater + number were attacks on the meditated Union; some of them, too, bore + pencil-marks and annotations, from which Forester collected that the + Knight's party leanings were by no means to the Government side of the + question. + </p> + <p> + “It will be hard, however,” thought he, “but some inducement may be found + to tempt a man whose house and habits evidence such a taste for enjoyment; + he must have ambitions of one kind or other, and if not for himself, his + son, at least, must enter into his calculations. Your ascetic or your + anchorite may be difficult to treat with, but show me the man with a good + cook, a good stable, a good cellar, and the odds are there is a lurking + void somewhere in his heart, to discover which is to have the mastery over + him forever.” Such were the conclusions the young aide-de-camp came to + after long and mature thought, nor were they very unnatural in one whose + short experience of life had shown him few, if any, exceptions to his + theory. He deemed it possible, besides, that, although the Knight's + politics should incline to the side of Opposition, there might be no very + determined or decided objection to the plans of Government, and that, + while proof against the temptations of vulgar bribery, he might be won + over by the flatteries and seductions of which a Ministry can always be + the dispensers. To open the negotiation with this view was then the great + object with Forester, to sound the depth of the prejudices with which he + had to deal, to examine their bearings and importance, to avoid even to + ruffle the slightest of national susceptibilities, and to make it appear + that, while Government could have little doubt of the justice of their own + views, they would not permit a possibility of misconstruction to interfere + with the certainty of securing the adhesion of one so eminent and + influential as the Knight of Gwynne. + </p> + <p> + The old adage has commemorated the facility of that arithmetic which + consists in reckoning “without one's host,” and there are few men of warm + and generous temperament who have not fallen, some time or other, into the + error. Forester was certainly not the exception; and so thoroughly was he + imbued with the spirit of his mission, and so completely captivated by the + force of his own argument, that he walked up and down the ample apartment, + repeating aloud, in broken and disjointed sentences, some of those + irrefutable positions and plausible inducements by which he speculated on + success. It was already the dusk of the evening, the short hours of a + wintry day had hurried to a close, and, except where the bright glare of + the wood fire was reflected on the polished oaken floor, all was shrouded + in shadow within that spacious library. Now pushing aside some great + deep-cushioned chair, now removing from his path the projecting end of a + table, Forester succeeded in clearing a space in which, as he walked, he + occasionally gave vent to such reflections as these:— + </p> + <p> + “The necessities of the Empire, growing power and influence of England, + demand a consolidation of her interests and her efforts—this only to + be effected by the Act of Union—an English Parliament, the real seat + of legislation, and, as such, the suitable position for you, Sir Knight, + whose importance will now increase with the sphere in which you exercise + your abilities. I do not venture,” said he, aloud, and with a voice + attuned to its most persuasive accents,—“I do not venture to discuss + with you a question in which your opportunities and judgment have given + you every advantage over me; I would merely direct your attention to those + points on which my relative, Lord Castlereagh, founds the hopes of + obtaining your support, and those views by which, in the success of the + measure, a more extended field of utility will open before you. If I do + not speak more fully on the gratitude which the Ministry will feel for + your co-operation, and the pledges they are most ready and willing to + advance, it is because I know—that is, I am certain that you—in + fact, it is the conviction that—in short—” + </p> + <p> + “In short, it is because bribery is an ugly theme, sir, and, like a bad + picture, only comes out the worse the more varnish you lay on it.” These + words, uttered in a low, solemn voice from a corner of the apartment, + actually stunned Forester, who now stood peering through the gloom to + where the indistinct figure of a man was seen seated in the recess of a + large chair. + </p> + <p> + “Excuse me, Captain Forester,” said he, rising, and coming forward with + his hand out; “but it has so seldom been my fortune to hear any argument + in defence of this measure that I could not bring myself to interrupt you + before. Let me, however, perform a more pleasing task, in bidding you + welcome to Gwynne Abbey. You slept well, I trust, for I left you in a + happy unconsciousness of this world and its cares.” It required all + Forester's tact to subdue the uncomfortable sensations his surprise + excited, and receive the proffered welcome with becoming cordiality. But + in this he soon succeeded, not less from his own efforts than from the + easy and familiar tone of the speaker. “I have to thank you for a very + pleasant note you were kind enough to bring me,” continued he, as he + seated himself beside the fire. “And how have you left Dublin? Is the + popular excitement as great as some weeks ago? or are the people beginning + to see that they have nothing to say to a measure which, like venison and + turtle, is a luxury only to be discussed by their betters?” + </p> + <p> + “I should say that there is more of moderation in the tone of all parties + of late,” said Forester, diffidently, for he felt all the awkwardness of + alluding to a topic in which his own game had been so palpably discovered. + </p> + <p> + “In that case, your friends have gained the victory. Patriotism, as we + call it in Ireland, requires to be fed by mob adulation; and when the + 'canaille' get hoarse, their idols walk over to the Treasury benches.—But + there 's the bell to dress; and I may as well tell you that we are the + models of punctuality in this house, and you have only fifteen minutes for + your toilet.” With these words the old gentleman arose and strode out of + the room, while Forester hastened, on his side, to prepare for the + dinner-hour. + </p> + <p> + When the aide-de-camp had accomplished his dressing, he found the party at + table, where a vacant place was left for himself at the right hand of the + host. + </p> + <p> + “We gave you three minutes' grace, Captain Forester. I knew a candidate + lose his election in the county by very little more,”—and here he + dropped his voice to a whisper, only audible to Forester,—“and I'd + rather contract to keep the peace in a menagerie full of tigers than hold + in check the passions of twenty hungry fox-hunters while waiting for + dinner.” + </p> + <p> + Forester cast his eyes over the table, and thought he perceived that his + delay had not prepossessed the company in his favor. The glances which met + his own round the board bore an expression of very unmistakable + dissatisfaction, and although the conversation was free and unrestrained, + he felt all the awkwardness of his position. + </p> + <p> + There was at the time we speak of—has it quite disappeared even yet?—a + very prevalent notion in most Irish circles that Englishmen in general, + and English officials in particular, assumed airs of superiority over the + natives of the country, treating them as very subordinate persons in all + the relations in which good-breeding and social intercourse are concerned; + and this impression, whether well or ill founded, induced many to suspect + intentional insult in those chance occurrences which arise out of + thoughtlessness and want of memory. + </p> + <p> + If the party now assembled manifested any portion of this feeling, it was + not sufficient to interrupt the flow of conversation, which took its + course in channels the most various and dissimilar. The individuals were + intimate, or, at least, familiar with each other, and, through all the + topics of hunting, farming, politics, and horse-racing, ran a tone of free + and easy raillery that kept a laugh moving up and down the table, or + occasionally occupying it entirely. The little chill which marked + Forester's first entrance into the room wore off soon, and ere the dinner + was over he had drunk wine with nearly every man of the party, and + accepted invitations to hunt, course, and shoot in at least a dozen + different quarters. Lionel Darcy's friend, as he was soon known to be, was + speedily made the object of every attention and civility among the younger + members of the company, while even the older and less susceptible reserved + their judgments on one they had at first received with some distrust. + </p> + <p> + Forester had seen in the capital some specimens of those hard-drinking + habits which characterized the period, but was still unprepared for the + determined and resolute devotion to the bottle which at once succeeded to + the dinner. The claret-jugs coursed round the table with a rapidity that + seemed sleight of hand, and few refrained from filling a bumper every + time. With all his determination to preserve a cool head and a calm + judgment, Forester felt that, what between the noisy tumult of the scene, + the fumes of wine, and the still more intoxicating excitement of this + exaggerated conviviality, he could listen to tales of miraculous + performances in the hunting-field, or feats of strength and activity more + than mortal, with a degree of belief, or, at least, sufferance, he could + scarcely have summoned a few hours earlier. + </p> + <p> + If wine expands the heart, it has a similar influence on the credulity; + and belief, when divested of the trammels of cool judgment, takes a flight + which even imagination might envy. It was in a frame of mind reduced to + something like this, amid the loud voices of some, the louder laughter of + others, strange and absurd bets as eagerly accepted as proffered, that he + became suddenly mindful of his own wager made with the stranger at + Kilbeggan, and the result of which he had pledged himself to test at the + very first opportunity. + </p> + <p> + No sooner had he mentioned the fact than the interests of the company, + directed before into so many different channels, became centred upon the + circumstance, and questions and inquiries were rapidly poured in upon him + to explain the exact nature of the wager, which in the then hallucination + of the party was not an over-easy task. + </p> + <p> + “You are to describe the stranger, Captain Forester, and we are to guess + his name: that I take it is the substance of the bet,” said a thin-faced, + dark-eyed man, with a soft silkiness of accent very unlike the others. + This was Mr. Hickman O'Reilly, member for the county, and colleague of + “the Knight” himself. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, that is exactly what I mean. If my portrait be recognized, I 've won + my bet.” + </p> + <p> + “May I ask another question?” said Mr. O'Reilly. “Are we to pronounce only + from the evidence before us, or are we at liberty to guess the party from + other circumstances known to ourselves?” + </p> + <p> + “Of course, from the evidence only,” interrupted a red-faced man of about + five-and-thirty, with an air and manner which boded no small reliance on + his own opinion; then, mimicking the solemnity of a judge, he addressed + the assembled party thus: “The gentlemen of the jury will dismiss from + their minds everything they may hear touching the case outside this court, + and base their verdict solely on the testimony they shall now hear.” These + few words were delivered in a pompous and snuffling tone, and, it was easy + to see, from the laughter they excited, were an accurate imitation of some + one well known to the company. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Alexander MacDonough was, however, a tolerably successful mimic, and + had practised as an attorney until the death of an uncle enabled him to + exercise his abilities in the not less crafty calling of a squireen + gentleman; he was admitted by a kind of special favor into the best county + society, for no other reason, as it seemed, than that it never occurred to + any one to exclude him. He was a capital horseman, never turned from a + fence in his life, and a noted shot with the pistol, in which his prowess + had been more than once tried on “the ground.” Probably, however, these + qualities would scarcely have procured him acceptance where he now sat, if + it were not that he was looked upon as the necessary accompaniment of Mr. + Hickman O'Reilly and his son Beecham, not indeed to illustrate their + virtues and display their good gifts, but as a species of moral blister, + irritating and maddening them eternally. + </p> + <p> + They had both more money and ambition than MacDonough, had taken higher + and wider views of life, and were strenuously working up from the slough + of a plebeian origin to the high and dry soil of patrician security. To + them, MacDonough was a perfect curse; he was what sailors call “a point of + departure,” everlastingly reminding them of the spot from which they had + sailed, and tauntingly hinting how, with all their canvas spread, they had + scarcely gained blue water. + </p> + <p> + Of the O'Reillys a few words are necessary. Three generations were still + living, each depicting most strikingly the gradations by which successful + thrift and industry transmute the man of humble position into the + influential grade of an estated gentleman: the grandfather was an + apothecary of Loughrea; the son, an agent, a money-lender, and an M. P.; + and the grandson, an Etonian and a fellow-commoner of Balliol, emerging + into life with the prospect of a great estate, unencumbered with debt, + considerable county influence, and, not least of all, the <i>ricochet</i> + of that favor with which the Government regarded his pliant parent. + </p> + <p> + To all of these, MacDonough was insupportable, nor was there any visible + escape from the insolent familiarity of his manner. Flattery had been + tried in vain; all their blandishments could do nothing with one who well + knew that his own acceptance into society depended on his powers of + annoying; if not performing the part of torturer, he had no share in the + piece; a quarrel with him was equally out of the question, for even + supposing such an appeal safe,—which it was very far from being,—it + would have reflected most disadvantageously on the O'Reillys to have been + mixed up in altercation with a man so much beneath themselves as Alexander + MacDonough of “The Tenement;” for such, in slang phrase, did he designate + his country residence. + </p> + <p> + Let us now return from this long but indispensable digression to the + subject which suggested it. + </p> + <p> + So many questions were put, explanations demanded, doubts suggested, and + advices thrown out to Forester that it was not until after a considerable + lapse of time he was enabled to commence his description of the unknown + traveller, nor even then was he suffered to proceed without interruption, + a demand being made by MacDonough that the absent individual was entitled + to counsel, who should look after his interests, and, if necessary, + cross-examine the evidence. All this was done in that style of comic + seriousness to which Forester was so little accustomed that, what with the + effect of wine, heat, and noise, combined with the well-assumed gravity of + the party, he really forgot the absurdity of the whole affair, and became + as eager and attentive as though the event were one of deep importance. + </p> + <p> + It was at last decided that MacDonough should act as counsel for the + unknown, and the company should vote separately, each writing down on a + slip of paper their impression of the individual designated, the result + being tested by the majority in favor of any one person. + </p> + <p> + “Gentlemen of the jury,” said the host, in a voice of deep solemnity, “you + will hear and well weigh the evidence before you touching this case, and + decide with truth and conscience on its merits; so fill a bumper and let + us begin. Make your statement, Captain Forester.” + </p> + <p> + The sudden silence succeeding to the tumultuous uproar, the directed gaze + of so many eager faces, and the evident attention with which his statement + was awaited, conspired to make Forester nervous and uneasy; nor was it + without something of an effort that he began the recital of his adventure + at Kilbeggan. Warming as he proceeded, he told of the accident by which + his acquaintance with the unknown traveller was opened, and at length, + having given so much of preliminary, entered upon the description of the + individual. + </p> + <p> + Whatever Forester's own impression of the stranger, he soon felt how very + difficult a task portrait-painting was, and how very unlike was his + representation of the individual in question. The sure way to fail in any + untried career is to suspect a failure; this he soon discovered, and cut + short a most imperfect description by abruptly saying, “If you guess him + now, gentlemen, I acknowledge the merit is far more in <i>your</i> + perspicuity than in <i>my</i> powers of description.” + </p> + <p> + “Only a few questions before you leave the table, sir,” said MacDonough, + addressing him with the mock sternness of a cross-examining barrister. + “You said the unknown was gifted with a most courteous and prepossessing + manner: pray what is the exact meaning of your phrase? for we uncouth + inhabitants of a remote region have very imperfect notions on such + subjects. My friend Dan Mahon here would call any man agreeable who could + drink fourteen tumblers, and not forget the whiskey in mixing the + fifteenth; Tom Callaghan, on the other hand, would test his breeding by + what he knew of a wether or a 'short-horn;' Giles, my neighbor here, would + ask, Did he lend you any money? and Mr. Hickman O'Reilly would whisper a + hope that he came of an old family.” + </p> + <p> + The leer by which these words were accompanied gave them an impertinence + even greater than their simple signification; but however coarse the + sarcasm, it suited well the excited tone of the party, who laughed loud + and vociferously as he uttered it. + </p> + <p> + Strange as he was to the party, Forester saw that the allusion had a + personal application, and was very far from relishing a pleasantry whose + whole merit was its coarseness; he therefore answered in a tone of rather + haughty import, “The person I met, sir, was a gentleman; and the word, so + far as I know, has an easy signification, at least to all who have had + opportunities to learn it.” + </p> + <p> + “I have no doubt of that, Captain Forester,” replied MacDonough; “but if + we divided the house on it here, some of us might differ about the + definition. Your neighbor there, Mr. Beecham O'Reilly, thinks his own + countrymen very far down in the scale.” + </p> + <p> + “A low fellow,—nobody pays attention to him,” muttered young + O'Reilly in Forester's ear, as, with a cheek pale as death, he affected to + seem totally indifferent to the continued insolence of his tormentor. + </p> + <p> + “I beg your pardon, Mr. Beecham O'Reilly,” interposed MacDonough, with a + significant smile, “but your observation was, I think, meant to apply to + me.” + </p> + <p> + The young man made no answer, but proceeded to fill his glass with claret, + while his hand trembled so much that he spilled the wine about the table. + Forester stared at him, expecting each instant to hear his reply to this + appeal; but not a word escaped him, nor did he even look towards the + quarter from which the taunt proceeded. + </p> + <p> + “Didn't I tell you so, sir?” exclaimed MacDonough, with a triumphant + laugh. “There are various descriptions of gentlemen: some are contented + with qualities of home growth, and satisfied to act, think, and deport + themselves like their neighbors; others travel for this improvement, and + bring back habits and customs that seem strange in their own country; now, + I don't doubt but in England that young gentleman would be thought all + that was spirited and honorable.” + </p> + <p> + “I have nothing to say to that, sir!” replied Forester, sternly; “but if + you would like to hear the opinion my fellow-countrymen would have of + yourself, I could perhaps favor you.” + </p> + <p> + “Stop, stop! where are you hurrying to? No more of this nonsense,” cried + the host, who had suddenly caught the last few words, while conversing + with a person on his left. + </p> + <p> + “I beg your pardon most humbly, sir,” said MacDonough, whose faced was + flushed with passion, and whose lip trembled, notwithstanding all his + efforts to seem calm and collected, “but the gentleman was about to + communicate a trait of English society. I know you misunderstood him.” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps so,” said the host; “what was it, Captain Forester? I believe I + did not hear you quite accurately.” + </p> + <p> + “A very simple fact, sir,” said Forester, coolly, “and one that can + scarcely astonish Mr. MacDonough to hear.” + </p> + <p> + “And which is—?” said MacDonough, affecting a bland smile. + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps you 'd ask for a definition, if I employ a single word.” + </p> + <p> + “Not this time,” said MacDonough, still smiling in the same way. + </p> + <p> + “You are right, sir, it would be affectation to do so; for though you may + feel very natural doubts about what constitutes a gentleman, you ought to + be pretty sure what makes a blackguard.” + </p> + <p> + The words seemed to fall like a shell in the company; one burst of + tumultuous uproar broke forth, voices in every tone and accent of + eagerness and excitement, when suddenly the host cried out, “Lock the + doors; no man leaves the room till this matter is settled; there shall be + no quarrelling beneath this roof so long as Bagenal Daly sits here for his + friend.” + </p> + <p> + The caution came too late—MacDonough was gone. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0005" id="link2HCH0005"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER V. AN AFTER-DINNER STORY + </h2> + <p> + The unhappy event which so suddenly interrupted the conviviality of the + party scarcely made a more than momentary impression. Altercations which + ended most seriously were neither rare nor remarkable at the dinner-tables + of the country gentlemen, and if the present instance caused an unusual + interest, it was only because one of the parties was an Englishman. + </p> + <p> + As for Forester himself, his first burst of anger over, he forgot all in + his astonishment that the host was not “the Knight” himself, but only his + representative and friend, Bagenal Daly. + </p> + <p> + “Come, Captain Forester,” said he, “I owe you an <i>amende</i> for the + mystification I have practised upon you. You shall have it. Your + travelling acquaintance at Kilbeggan was the 'Knight of Gwynne;' and the + few lines he sent through your hands contained an earnest desire that your + stay here might be sufficiently prolonged to admit of his meeting you at + his return.” + </p> + <p> + “I shall be extremely sorry,” said Forester, in a low voice, “if anything + that has occurred to-night shall deprive me of that pleasure.” + </p> + <p> + “No, no—nothing of the kind,” said Daly, with a significant nod of + his head. “Leave that to me.” Then, raising his voice, he added: “What do + you say to that claret, Conolly?” + </p> + <p> + “I agree with you,” replied a rosy-cheeked old squire in a hunting-dress, + “it 's too old,—there's little spirit left in it.” + </p> + <p> + “Quite true, Tom. Wine has its dotage, like the rest of us. All that the + best can do is to keep longest; and, after all, we scarcely can complain + of the vintage that has a taste of its once flavor at our age. It's a long + time since we were schoolfellows.” + </p> + <p> + “It is not an hour less than—” + </p> + <p> + “Stop, Tom,—no more of that. Of all scores to go back upon, that of + years past is the saddest.” + </p> + <p> + “By Jove! I don't think so,” said the hearty old squire, as he tossed off + a bumper. “I never remember riding better than I did to-day. Ask Beecham + O'Reilly there which of us was first over the double ditch at the red + barn.” + </p> + <p> + “You forget, sir,” said the young gentleman referred to, “that I was on an + English-bred mare, and she doesn't understand these fences.” + </p> + <p> + “Faith, she wasn't worse off, in that respect, than the man on her back,” + said old Conolly, with a hearty chuckle. “If to look before you leap be + wisdom, you ought to be the shrewdest fellow in the country.” + </p> + <p> + “Beecham, I believe, keeps a good place in Northamptonshire,” said his + father, half proudly. + </p> + <p> + “Another argument in favor of the Union, I suppose,” whispered a guest in + Conolly's ear. + </p> + <p> + “Well, well,” sighed the old squire, “when I was a young man, we 'd have + thought of bringing over a dromedary from Asia as soon as an English horse + to cross the country with.” + </p> + <p> + “Dick French was the only one I ever heard of backing a dromedary,” said a + fat old farmer-like man, from the end of the table. + </p> + <p> + “How was that, Martin?” said Daly, with a look that showed he either knew + the story or anticipated something good. + </p> + <p> + “And by all accounts, it 's the devil to ride,” resumed the old fellow; + “now it's the head down and the loins up, and then a roll to one side, and + then to the other, and a twist in the small of your back, as if it were + coming in two. Oh, by the good day! Dick gave me as bad as a stitch in the + side just telling me about it.” + </p> + <p> + “But where did he get his experience, Martin? I never heard of it before,” + said Daly. + </p> + <p> + “He was a fortnight in Egypt, sir,” said the old farmer. “He was in a + frigate, or a man-of-war of one kind or another, off—the devil a one + o' me knows well where it was, but there was a consul there, a son of one + of his father's tenants—indeed, ould French got him the place from + the Government—and when he found out that Dick was on board the + ship, what does he do but writes him an invitation to pass a week or ten + days with him at his house, and that he 'd show him some sport. 'We 've + elegant hunting,' says he; 'not foxes or hares, but a big bird, bigger nor + a goose, they call—'By my conscience, I 'll forget my own name next, + for I heard Dick tell the story at least twenty times.” + </p> + <p> + “Was it an ostrich?” said Tom. + </p> + <p> + “No; nor an oyster either, Mr. Conolly,” said the old fellow, who thought + the question was meant to quiz him. + </p> + <p> + “'T was an ibis, Martin,” cried Daly,—“an ibis.” + </p> + <p> + “The devil a doubt of it,—that's the name. A crayture with legs as + long as Mr. Beecham O'Reilly's, and a way of going—half-flying, + half-walking—almost impossible to catch; and they hunt him on + dromedaries. Dick liked the notion well, and as he was a favorite on + board, he got lave for three days to go on shore and have his fun; though + the captain said, at parting, 'It's not many dromedaries you'll see, Dick, + for the Pasha has them all up the country at this time.' This was true + enough; sorra a bit of a camel or dromedary could be seen for miles round. + But however it was, the consul kept his word, and had one for Dick the + next morning,—a great strapping baste, all covered with trappings of + one kind or other; elegant shawls and little hearthrugs all over him. + </p> + <p> + “The others were mounted on mules or asses, any way they could, and away + they went to look after the goose—the 'ibis,' I mean. Well, to be + short with it, they came up with one on the bank of the river, and soon + gave chase; he was a fine strong fellow, and well able to run. I wish you + heard Dick tell this part of it; never was there such sport in the world, + blazing away all together as fast as they could prime and load, at one + time at the goose, more times at each other; the mules kicking, the asses + braying, and Dick cantering about on his dromedary, upsetting every one + near him, and shouting like mad. At last he pinned the goose up in a + narrow corner among some old walls, and Dick thought he 'd have the brush; + but sorra step the dromedary would stir; he spurred and kicked, and beat + away with a stick as hard as he could, but it was all no good,—it + was the carpets maybe, that saved him; for there he stood fast, just for + all the world as if he was made of stone. + </p> + <p> + <a name="linkimage-0003" id="linkimage-0003"> + <!-- IMG --></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%;"> + <img src="images/077.jpg" width="100%" alt="077 " /> + </div> + <p> + “Dick pulled out a pistol and fired a shot in his ear, but all to no use; + he minded it no more than before. 'Bad luck to you for a baste,' says + Dick, 'what ails you at all—are you going to die on me? Get along + now.' The divil receave the step I 'll go till I get some spirits and + wather!' says the dromedary, 'for I 'm clean smothered with them b———y + blankets;' and with them same words the head of the baste fell off, and + Dick saw the consul's own man wiping the perspiration off his face, and + blowing like a porpoise. 'How the divil the hind legs bears it I can't + think,' says he; 'for I 'm nigh dead, though I had a taste of fresh air.' + </p> + <p> + “The murther was out, gentlemen, for ye see the consul could n't get a + raal dromedary, and was obliged to make one out of a Christian and a black + fellow he had for a cook, and sure enough in the beginning of the day Dick + says he went like a clipper; 'twas doubling after the goose destroyed + him.” + </p> + <p> + Whether the true tale had or had not been familiar to most of the company + before, it produced the effect Bagenal Daly desired, by at first creating + a hearty roar of laughter, and then, as seems the consequence in all cases + of miraculous narrative, set several others upon recounting stories of + equal credibility. Daly encouraged this new turn of conversation with all + the art of one who knew how to lead men's thoughts into a particular + channel without exciting suspicion of his intentions by either abruptness + or over zeal: to any ordinary observer, indeed, he would have now appeared + a mere enjoyer of the scene, and not the spirit who gave it guidance and + direction. + </p> + <p> + In this way passed the hours long after midnight, when, one by one, the + guests retired to their rooms; Forester remaining at the table in + compliance with a signal which Daly had made him, until at length Hickman + O'Reilly stood up to go, the last of all, save Daly and the young + guardsman. + </p> + <p> + Passing round the table, he leaned over Forester's chair, and in a low, + cautious whisper, said, “You have put down the greatest bully in this + country, Captain Forester; do not spoil your victory by being drawn into a + disreputable quarrel! Good night, gentlemen both,” said he, aloud, and + with a polite bow left the room. + </p> + <p> + “What was that he whispered?” said Daly, as the door closed and they were + left alone together. + </p> + <p> + Forester repeated the words. + </p> + <p> + “Ah, I guessed why he sat so late; he sees the game clearly enough. You, + sir, have taken up the glaive that was thrown down for his son's + acceptance, and he knows the consequence—clever fellow that he is! + Had you been less prompt, Beecham's poltroonery might have escaped notice; + and even now, if you were to decline a meeting—” + </p> + <p> + “But I have no intention of doing any such thing.” + </p> + <p> + “Of course, I never supposed you had; but were you to be swayed by wrong + counsels and do so, Master Beecham would be saved even yet. Well, well, I + am sorry, Captain Forester, you should have met such a reception amongst + us, and my friend Darcy will be deeply grieved at it. However, we have + other occupation now than vain regret, so to bed as fast as you can, and + to sleep; the morning is not very far off, and we shall have some one from + MacDonough here by daybreak.” + </p> + <p> + With a cordial shake-hands, like men who already knew and felt kindly + towards each other, they separated for the night. + </p> + <p> + While Forester was thus sensible of the manliness and straightforward + resolution that marked Bagenal Daly's character, he was very far from + feeling satisfied with the position in which he found himself placed. A + duel under any circumstances is scarcely an agreeable incident in one's + life; but a meeting whose origin is at a drinking-bout, and where the + antagonist is a noted fire-eater, and by that very reputation + discreditable, is still a great aggravation of the evil. + </p> + <p> + To have embroiled himself in a quarrel of this kind would, he well knew, + greatly prejudice him in the estimation of his cold-tempered relative, + Lord Castlereagh, who would not readily forgive an indiscretion that + should mar his own political views. As he sat in his dressing-room + revolving such unpleasant reflections, there came a gentle tap at the + door; he had but time to say, “Come in,” when Mr. Hickman O'Reilly + entered. + </p> + <p> + “Will you excuse this intrusion, Captain Forester?” said he, with an + accent in which the blandest courtesy was mingled with a well-affected + cordiality; “but I really could not lay my head on a pillow in + tranquillity until I had seen and spoken to you in confidence. This + foolish altercation—” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, pray don't let that give you a moment's uneasiness! I believe I + understand the position the gentleman you allude to occupies in your + country society: that license is accorded him, and freedoms taken with + him, not habitually the case in the world at large.” + </p> + <p> + “You are quite right, your views are strictly accurate. MacDonough is a + low fellow of very small fortune, no family,—indeed, what pretension + he has to associate with the gentry I am unable to guess, nor would you + have ever seen him under this roof had the Knight been at home; Mr. Daly, + however, who, being an old schoolfellow and friend of Darcy's, does the + honors here in his absence, is rather indiscriminate in his hospitalities. + You may have remarked around the table some singular-looking guests,—in + fact, he not only invites the whole hunting-field, but half the farmers + over whose ground we 've ridden, and, were it not that they have sense and + shame enough to see their own place with truer eyes, we should have an + election mob here every day of the week; but this is not exactly the topic + which led to my intruding upon you. I wished, in the first place, to rest + assured that you had no intention of noticing the man's impertinence, or + of accepting any provocation on his part; in fact, were he admissible to + such a privilege, my son Beecham would have at once taken the whole upon + himself, it being more properly his quarrel than yours.” + </p> + <p> + Forester, with all his efforts, was unable to repress a slight smile at + these words. O'Reilly noticed it, and colored up, while he added: + “Beecham, however, knew the impossibility of such a course,—in fact, + Captain Forester, I may venture to say, without any danger of being + misunderstood by you, that my son has imbibed more correct notions of the + world and its habits at <i>your</i> side of St. George's Channel than + could have fallen to him had his education been merely Irish.” + </p> + <p> + This compliment, if well meant, was scarcely very successful, for Forester + bit his lip impatiently, but never made any answer. Whether O'Reilly + perceived the cause of this, or that, like a skilful painter, he knew when + to take his brush off the canvas, he arose at once and said, “I leave you, + then, with a mind much relieved. I feared that a mistaken estimate of + MacDonough's claims in society, and probably some hot-brained counsels of + Mr. Bagenal Daly—” + </p> + <p> + “You are quite in error there; let me assure you, sir, his view of the + matter is exactly my own,” interrupted Forester, calmly. + </p> + <p> + “I am delighted to hear it, and have now only one request: will you favor + us with a few days' visit at Mount O'Reilly? I may say, without vanity, + that my son is more likely to be a suitable companion to you than the + company here may afford; we 've some good shooting and—” + </p> + <p> + “I must not suffer you to finish the catalogue of temptations,” said + Forester, smiling courteously; “my hours are numbered already, and I must + be back in Dublin within a few days.” + </p> + <p> + “Beecham will be sorely disappointed; in fact, we came back here to-day + for no other reason than to meet you at dinner. Daly told us of your + arrival. May we hope to see you at another opportunity? are your + engagements formed for Christmas yet?” + </p> + <p> + “I believe so,—Dorsetshire, I think,” muttered Forester, with a tone + that plainly indicated a desire to cushion the subject at once; and Mr. + O'Reilly, with a ready tact, accepted the hint, and, wishing him a most + cordial goodnight, departed. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0006" id="link2HCH0006"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VI. A MESSAGE + </h2> + <p> + While Forester slept soundly and without a dream, his long, light + breathing scarce audible within the quiet chamber, a glance within the + room of Bagenal Daly would have shown that, whatever the consequences of + the past night's troubles, he, at least, was not likely to be taken + unprepared. On the table in the middle of the apartment two wax candles + burned, two others, as yet unlighted, stood ready on the chimney-piece, a + pistol case lay open, displaying the weapons, whose trim and orderly + appearance denoted recent care, a fact attested by certain cloths and + flannels which lay about; a mould for bullets, and about a dozen + newly-cast balls most carefully filed and rubbed smooth with sandpaper, + were flanked by a small case of surgical instruments, with an ample supply + of lint and ligatures such as are used to secure bleeding vessels, in the + use of which few unprofessional persons could vie with Bagenal Daly. A few + sheets of paper lay also there, on which appeared some recent writing; and + in a large, deep armchair, ready dressed for the day, sat Daly himself, + sound asleep; one arm hung listlessly over the chair, the other was + supported in the breast of his waistcoat. The strong, stern features, + unrelaxed by repose, had the same impassive expression of cold defiance as + when awake, and if his lips muttered, the accents were not less determined + and firm than in his moments of self-possession. He awoke from time to + time and looked at his watch, and once threw open the sash, and held out + his hand to ascertain if it were raining; but these interruptions did not + interfere with his rest, for, the minute after, he slept as soundly as + before. Nor was he the only one within that house who counted the hours + thus anxiously. A lantern in the stable beamed brightly, showing three + horses ready saddled, the bridles on the neck of each, and ready at a + moment's notice to be bitted; while pacing slowly to and fro, like a + sentinel on his post, was the tall figure of Sandy M'Grane, wrapped in a + long cloth cloak, and his head covered by a cap, whose shape and material + spoke of a far-off land and wild companionship; for it was the skin of a + black fox, and the workmanship the product of a squaw's fair fingers. + </p> + <p> + Sandy's patrol was occasionally extended to the gateway, where he usually + halted for a few seconds to listen, and then resumed his path as leisurely + as before. At last, he remained somewhat longer at the gate, and bent his + head more cautiously to hear; then, noiselessly unbarring and unlocking + the door, he leaned out. To an ear less practised than his own the silence + would have been complete. Not so with Sandy, whose perceptions had + received the last finish of an Indian education. He retired hastily, and, + approaching that part of the court beneath his master's window, gave a + long, low whistle. The next moment the casement was opened, and Daly's + head appeared. + </p> + <p> + “What now, Sandy? It is but a quarter past five.” + </p> + <p> + “It may be so; but there 's a horse coming fast up the lower road.” + </p> + <p> + “Listen again, and try if you hear it still.” + </p> + <p> + Sandy did so, and was back in a few moments. “He's crossing the bridge at + 'the elms' now, and will be here in less than three minutes more.” + </p> + <p> + “Watch the gate, then—let there be no noise—and come up by the + back stairs.” With these words Daly closed the sash, and Sandy returned to + his post. + </p> + <p> + Ere many minutes elapsed, the door of Mr. Daly's chamber was opened, and + Sandy announced Major Hackett of Brough. As Bagenal Daly rose to meet him, + an expression of more than ordinary sternness was stamped upon his bold + features. + </p> + <p> + “Your servant informed me that I should find you in readiness to receive + me, Mr. Bagenal Daly,” said the Major, a coarse-looking, carbuncled-face + man of about forty; “but perhaps the object of my visit would be better + accomplished if I could have a few minutes' conversation with a Captain + Forester who is here.” + </p> + <p> + “If you can show me no sufficient cause to the contrary, sir,” replied + Daly, proudly, “I shall act for him on this occasion.” + </p> + <p> + “I beg pardon,” said Hackett, smiling dubiously. “The business I came upon + induced me to suspect that, at your time of life—” + </p> + <p> + “Go on, sir,—finish your speech,” said Daly, with' a fixed and + steady stare which, very far from reassuring, seemed only to increase the + Major's confusion. + </p> + <p> + “After all, Mr. Daly,” resumed he, more hurriedly, “I have nothing + whatever to do with that. My duty is to convey a message from Mr. + Alexander MacDonough to a gentleman named Forester, here. If you will + accept the proposition, and assist in the necessary arrangements—” + </p> + <p> + “We are ready, sir,—quite ready. One of the consequences of + admitting dubious acquaintances to the intimacy of the table is such a + case as the present. I was guilty of one fault in this respect, but I + shall show you I was not unprepared for what might follow it.” And as he + spoke he threw open the window and called out, “Sandy! awaken Captain + Forester. I suppose you are ready, Major Hackett, with your friend?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir. Mr. MacDonough expects us at Cluan Point.” + </p> + <p> + “And bridle the horses, Sandy,” continued Daly, speaking from the window. + </p> + <p> + “I conclude, from what I see,” said Hackett, “that your friend is not only + decided against offering an apology for his offence, but desirous of a + meeting.” + </p> + <p> + “Who said so, sir?—or what right have you to suppose that any + gentleman of good family and good prospects should indulge such an + unnatural caprice as to wish to risk character and life in a quarrel with + Mr. Alexander MacDonough?” + </p> + <p> + “Circumstanced as that gentleman is at this moment, your observations are + unsuitable, sir,” replied the Major. + </p> + <p> + “So they are,” said Daly, hastily; “or, rather, so they would have been, + if not provoked by your remark. But, hang me! if I think it signifies + much; if it were not that some of our country neighbors were good-natured + enough to treat this same Mr. MacDonough on terms of equality before, I 'd + have advised Captain Forester not to mind him. <i>My</i> maxim is, there + are always low fellows enough to shoot one another, and never come + trespassing among the manors of their betters.” + </p> + <p> + “I must confess myself unprepared, sir, to hear language like this,” said + Hackett, sternly. + </p> + <p> + “Not a whit more than I feel at seeing myself negotiating a meeting with a + man turned out of the army with disgrace,” said Daly, as his face grew + purple with anger. “Were it not that I would not risk a hint of dishonor + on this young Englishman's fame, I 'd never interchange three words with + Major Hackett.” + </p> + <p> + “You shall answer for this, sir, and speedily too, by G——d!” + said Hackett, moving towards the door. + </p> + <p> + Daly burst into an insolent laugh, and said, “Your friend waits us at + Cluan?” The other bowed. “Well, within an hour we'll be there also,” + continued the old man; and Hackett retired without adding a syllable. + </p> + <p> + “We 've about five miles to ride, Captain Forester,” said Daly, as they + issued forth beneath the deeply arched gate of the abbey; “but the road is + a mountain one, and will not admit of fast riding. A fine old place it + is,” said he, as, halting his horse, he bestowed a gaze of admiration on + the venerable building, now dimly visible in the gray of the breaking + dawn. “The pious founders little dreamt of men leaving its portals on such + an errand as ours.” Then, suddenly, with a changed voice, he added, “Men + are the same in every age and country; what our ancestors did in steel + breastplates, we do now in broadcloth; the law, as they call it, must + always be subservient to human passions, and the judge and the jury come + too late, since their function is penalty, and not prevention.” + </p> + <p> + “But surely you do not think the world was better in the times when might + was right?” said Forester. + </p> + <p> + “The system worked better than we suspect,” said the old man, gravely; + “there was such a thing as public opinion among men in those days, + although its exponents were neither pamphlets nor scurrilous newspapers. + The unjust and the cruel were held in reprobation, and the good and the + charitable had a fame as pure, although their deeds were not trumpeted + aloud or graven on marble. Believe me, sir, we are not by any means so + much wiser or better than those who went before us, and even if we were + both, we certainly are not happier. This eternal warfare, this hand to + hand and foot to foot straggle for rank, apd wealth, and power, that goes + on amongst us now, had no existence then, when a man's destiny was carved + out for him, and he was all but powerless to alter or control it.” + </p> + <p> + “That alone was no small evil,” said Forester, interrupting him; “the + humbly born and the lowly were debarred from all the prizes of life, no + matter how great their deserts or how shining their abilities.” + </p> + <p> + “Every rank and class had wherewithal to supply its own requirements,” + answered Daly, proudly, “and the menial had more time to indulge affection + for his master, when removed from the temptation to rival him. That strong + bond of attachment has all but disappeared from amongst us.” As he spoke, + he turned in his saddle and called out, “Can we cross the sands now, or is + the tide making, Sandy?” + </p> + <p> + “It's no just making yet,” said the servant, cautiously; “but when the + breakers are so heavy off the Point, it's aye safer to keep the road.” + </p> + <p> + “The road be it, then,” muttered Daly to himself; “men never are so chary + of life as when about to risk it.” + </p> + <p> + The observation, although not intended, reached Forester's ears, and he + smiled and said, “Naturally enough, perhaps we ought not to be too + exacting with fortune.” + </p> + <p> + Daly turned suddenly round, and, after a brief pause, asked, “What skill + have you with the pistol?” + </p> + <p> + “When the mark is a shilling I can hit it, three times out of four, at + twenty paces; but I never fired at a man.” + </p> + <p> + “That does make a difference,” said Daly, musingly; “nothing short of an + arrant coward could look calmly on a fellow-creature while he pointed a + loaded pistol at his heart. A brave man will always have self-possession + enough to feel the misery of his position. Had the feat been one of + vengeance, and not of love, Tell had never hit the apple, sir. But there,—is + not that a fire yonder?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I see a red glare through the mist.” + </p> + <p> + “There's a fire on Cluan Point,” said Sandy, riding up to his master's + side; “I trow it's a signal.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! meant to quicken us, perhaps; some fear of being surprised,” said + Daly, hastily; “let us move on faster.” And they spurred their horses to a + sharp trot as they descended the gentle slope, which, projecting far out + to sea, formed the promontory of Cluan. + </p> + <p> + It was at this moment the glorious panorama of Clue Bay broke forth before + Forester's astonished eyes. He looked with rapture on that spacious sheet + of water, which, in all the majesty of the great ocean, came heaving and + swelling against the rocky coast, or pouring its flood of foam through the + narrow channels between the islands. Of these, the diversity seemed + endless, some rich and verdant, teeming with abundance and dotted with + cottages; others, less fertile, were covered with sheep or goats; while + some, rugged and barren, frowned gloomily amid the watery waste, and one, + far out to sea, a bold and lofty cliff, showed a faint twinkling star upon + its side, the light for the homeward-bound ships over the Atlantic. + </p> + <p> + “That's Clare Island yonder,” said Bagenal Daly, as he observed the + direction of Forester's gaze; “I must show you the great cliff there. What + say you if we go to-morrow?” + </p> + <p> + “To-morrow!” repeated Forester, smiling faintly; “perhaps so.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0007" id="link2HCH0007"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VII. A MOTHER AND DAUGHTER + </h2> + <p> + When speaking of Gwynne Abbey to our readers, we omitted to mention a very + beautiful portion of the structure,—a small building which adjoined + the chapel, and went, for some reason or other, by name of the + “Sub-Prior's house.” More recent in date than the other parts of the + abbey, it seemed as if here the architect had expended his skill in + showing of how much ornament and decoration the Gothic was capable. The + stone selected was of that pinkish hue that is seen in many of the + cathedrals in the North of England,—a material peculiarly favorable + to the labors of the chisel, and when protected from the rude influence of + weather possessing qualities of great endurance. This building was + surrounded on three sides by a flower-garden, which descended by + successive terraces to the edge of a small river pursuing its course to + the sea, into which it emerged about a mile distant. A very unmindful + observer would have been struck at once with the aspect of greater care + and cultivation bestowed here than on other portions of the abbey grounds. + The trim and orderly appearance of everything, from the flowering shrubs + that mingled their blossoms with the rich tracery of the architraves, to + the bright gravel of the walks, denoted attention, while flowers of rare + beauty, and plants of foreign growth, were seen blending their odors with + the wild heaths that shed their perfume from the mountain side. The + brilliant beauty of the spot was, indeed, heightened by the wild and + rugged grandeur of the scene, like a diamond glittering brighter amid the + dark dross of the mine. + </p> + <p> + On the side nearest to the bay, and with a view extending to the far-off + Island of Achill, an apartment opened by three large windows, the upper + compartments of which exhibited armorial bearings in stained glass. If the + view without presented a scene of the most grand and varied loveliness, + within this chamber art seemed to have vied in presenting objects the most + strange and beautiful. It was furnished in all the gorgeous taste of the + time of Louis XV. The ceiling, a deep mass of carving relieved by gold, + presented masses of fruit and flowers fantastically interwoven, and + hanging, as though suspended, above the head. The walls were covered with + cabinet pictures of great price, the very frames objects of wonder and + admiration. Large vases of Dresden and Sèvres porcelain stood on brackets + of massive silver, and one great cabinet of ebony, inlaid with gold and + tortoiseshell, displayed an inscription that showed it was a present from + the great Louis XIV. himself. + </p> + <p> + It is not, however, to linger over the objects of rare and costly + excellence which here abounded that we have conducted our reader to this + chamber, and whither we would beg of him to accompany us about two hours + later than the events we have narrated in our last chapter. + </p> + <p> + At a breakfast-table whose equipage was, in price and elegance, in exact + keeping with all around, were two ladies. The elder of the two was + advanced in life, and although her hair was perfectly white, her regular + features and finely pencilled brow bore, even yet, great marks of beauty. + If the expression of the face was haughty, it was so without anything of + severity; it was a look of pride that denoted rather a conscious sense of + position and its duties, than any selfish assumption of personal + importance. Habitual delicacy of health contributed to strengthen this + expression, lending to it a character which, to an incautious observer, + might convey the notion of weariness or ennui. The tones of her voice were + low and measured, and perfectly devoid of any peculiar accent. If to those + more familiar with the cordial familiarity of Irish manner, Lady Eleanor + Darcy might seem cold and frigid, such as knew more of the world at large, + and were more conversant with the general habits of society, could detect, + through all the seeming impassive-ness of her air, that desire to please, + that anxiety to make a favorable impression, which marked the character of + one who in early life had been the beauty of her circle. Even now, as she + lay back indolently within the deep recess of a cushioned chair, her + attitude evinced a gracefulness and ease which long habit seemed to have + identified with her nature. + </p> + <p> + At the opposite side of the table, and busy in the preparation of the + breakfast, stood a young girl whose age could not have been more than + eighteen. So striking was the resemblance between them that the least + acute of physiognomists must have pronounced her the daughter. She was + dressed with remarkable simplicity; but not all the absence of ornament + could detract from the first impression her appearance conveyed, that she + was one of birth and station. Her beauty was of that character which, + although attributed peculiarly to the Celtic race, seems strangely enough + to present its most striking examples among the Anglo-Irish. Rich auburn + hair, the color varying from dark brown to a deep golden hue as the light + falls more or less strongly on it, was braided over a brow of classic + beauty; her eyes were of blue, that deep color which, in speaking or in + moments of excitement, looks like dark hazel or even black; these were + fringed with long dark lashes which habitually hung heavily over the eyes, + giving them a character of sleepy, almost indolent, beauty. The rest of + her features, in unison with these, were of that Greek mould which our + historians attribute to the Phoenician origin of our people,—a + character by no means rare to be seen to this day among the peasantry. If + the mild and gentle indications of womanly delicacy were told in every + lineament of her face, there were traits of decision and determination + when she spoke not less evident. From her mother she inherited the placid + tenderness of English manner, while from her father her nature imbibed the + joyous animation and buoyant light-heartedness of the Irish character. + </p> + <p> + “And there are but two letters, Mamma,” said Helen, “in the bag this + morning?” + </p> + <p> + “But two,” said Lady Eleanor; “one of them from Lionel.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, from Lionel!” cried the young girl, eagerly; “let me see it.” + </p> + <p> + “Read this first,” said Lady Eleanor, as she handed across the table a + letter bearing a large seal impressed with an Earl's coronet; “if I + mistake not very much, Helen, that's my cousin Lord Netherby's writing; + but what eventful circumstance could have caused his affectionate + remembrance of me, after something nigh twenty years' silence, is beyond + my power of divination.” + </p> + <p> + Helen Darcy well knew that the theme on which her mother now touched was + the sorest subject on her mind, and, however anxiously she might, under + other circumstances, have pressed for a sight of her brother's letter, she + controlled all appearance of the wish, and opened the other without + speaking. + </p> + <p> + “It is dated from Carlton House, Mamma, the 2d———” + </p> + <p> + “He is in waiting, I suppose,” said Lady Eleanor, calmly; and Helen began. + </p> + <p> + “'My dear cousin—'” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! so he remembers the relationship at least,” muttered the old lady to + herself. + </p> + <p> + “'My dear cousin, it would be a sad abuse of the small space a letter + affords, to inquire into the cause of our long silence; faults on both + sides might explain much of it. I was never a brilliant correspondent, you + were always an indolent one; if I wrote stupid letters, you sent me very + brief answers; and if you at last grew weary of giving gold for brass, I + can scarcely reproach you for stopping the exchange. Still, at the risk of + remaining unanswered, once more—'” + </p> + <p> + “This is intolerable,” broke in Lady Eleanor; “he never replied to the + letter in which I asked him to be your godfather.” + </p> + <p> + “'Still, at the risk of remaining unanswered, once more I must throw + myself on your mercy. In the selfishness of age,—don't forget, my + dear coz, I am eleven years your senior,—in the selfishness of age—'” + </p> + <p> + The old lady smiled dubiously at these words, and Helen read on:— + </p> + <p> + “'I desire to draw closer around me those ties of kindred and family + which, however we may affect to think lightly of, all our experiences in + life tend to strengthen and support. Yes, my dear Eleanor, we are the only + two remaining of all those light-hearted boys and bright-eyed girls that + once played upon the terrace at Netherby. Poor Harry, your old sweetheart + at Eton, fell at Mysore. Dudley, with ability for anything, would not wait + patiently for the crowning honors of his career, took a judgeship in + Madras, and he, too, sleeps in the land of the stranger! And our sweet + Catherine! your only rival amongst us, how short-lived was her triumph!—for + so the world called her marriage with the Margrave: she died of a broken + heart at two-and-twenty! I know not why I have called up these sad + memories, except it be in the hope that, as desolation deals heavily + around us, we may draw more closely to each other.'” + </p> + <p> + Lady Eleanor concealed her face with her handkerchief, and Helen, who had + gradually dropped her voice as she read, stopped altogether at these + words. + </p> + <p> + “Read on, dear,” said the old lady, in a tone whose firmness was slightly + shaken. + </p> + <p> + “'A heart more worldly than yours, my dear Eleanor, would exclaim that the + <i>parti</i> was unequal,—that I, grown old and childless, with few + friends left, and no ambitions to strive for, stood in far more need of <i>your</i> + affectionate regard, than you, blessed with every tie to existence, did of + <i>mine</i>; and the verdict would be a just one, for, by the law of that + Nemesis we all feel more or less, even in this world, <i>you</i>, whom we + deemed rash and imprudent, have alone amongst us secured the prize of that + happiness we each sought by such different paths.'” + </p> + <p> + A heavy sigh that broke from her mother made Helen cease reading, but at a + motion of her hand she resumed: “'For all our sakes, then, my dear cousin, + only remember so much of the past as brings back pleasant memories. Make + my peace with your kind-hearted husband. If I can forgive <i>him</i> all + the pangs of jealousy he inflicted on <i>me, he</i> may well pardon any + slight transgressions on <i>my</i> part, and Lionel, too.—But, + first, tell me how have I offended my young kinsman? I have twice + endeavored to make his acquaintance, but in vain. Two very cold and + chilling answers to my invitations to Netherby are all I have been able to + obtain from him: the first was a plea of duty, which I could easily have + arranged; but the second note was too plain to be mistaken: “I'll none of + you,” was the tone of every line of it. But I will not be so easily + repulsed: I am determined to know him, and, more still, determined that he + shall know me. If you knew, my dear Eleanor, how proudly my heart beat at + hearing his Royal Highness speak of him!—he had seen him at Hounslow + at a review. It was a slight incident, but I am certain your son never + told it, and so I must. Lionel, in passing with his company, forgot to + lower the regimental flag before the Prince, on which Lord Maxwell, the + colonel, the most passionate man in England, rode up, and said something + in an angry tone. “I beg pardon, Colonel,” said the Prince, “if I + interfere with the details of duty, but I have remarked that young officer + before, and, trust me, he 'll come off 'with flying colors,' on more + occasions than the present.” The <i>mot</i> was slight, but the flattery + was perfect; indeed, there is not another man in the kingdom can compete + with his Royal Highness on this ground. Fascination is the only word that + can express the charm of his manner. To bring Lionel more particularly + under the Prince's notice, has long been a favorite scheme of mine; and I + may say, without arrogance, that my opportunities are not inferior to most + men's in this respect; I am an old courtier now,—no small boast for + one who still retains his share of favor. If the son have any of his + father's gifts, his success with the Prince is certain. The manner of the + highly-bred Irish gentleman has been already pronounced by his Royal + Highness as the type of what manner should be, and, with your assistance, + I have little doubt of seeing Lionel appointed on the staff, here. + </p> + <p> + “'Now, I must hazard my reputation a little, and ask what is the name of + your second boy, and what is he doing?'” + </p> + <p> + Helen burst into a fit of laughter at these words, nor could Lady + Eleanor's chagrin prevent her joining in the emotion. + </p> + <p> + “This, he shall certainly have an answer to,” said the old lady, + recovering her self-possession and her pride; “he shall hear that my + second boy is called Helen.” + </p> + <p> + “After all, Mamma, is it not very kind of him to remember even so much?” + </p> + <p> + “I remember even more, Helen,” interrupted Lady Eleanor; “and no great + kindness in the act either.” + </p> + <p> + “Shall I read all the possible and impossible chances of pushing my + fortune in the Army or Navy, Mamma?” said Helen, archly, “for I see that + his Lordship is most profuse in offers for my advancement,—nay, if I + have a clerical vocation, here is a living actually waiting my + acceptance.” + </p> + <p> + “Let us rather look for something that may explain the riddle, my dear,” + said Lady Eleanor, taking the letter in her own hand, while she lightly + skimmed over the last page. “No, I can find no clew to it here—Stay, + what have we in this corner?—'Politically speaking, there is no news + here; indeed, in that respect, <i>your</i> side of the Channel engrosses + all the interest; the great question of the “Union” still occupies all + attention. Virtually, <i>we</i> know the ministry have the majority, but + there will be still a very respectable fight, to amuse the world withal. + How does the Knight vote? With us, I hope and trust, for although I may + tell you, in confidence, the result is certain, his support would be very + grateful to the Government, and, while he himself can afford to smile at + ministerial flatteries, Lionel is a young fellow whom rapid promotion + would well become, and who would speedily distinguish himself, if the + occasion were favorable. At all events, let the Knight not vote <i>against</i> + the minister; this would be a crime never to be forgiven, and personally + offensive to his Royal Highness; and I trust Darcy is too good a sportsman + to prefer riding the last horse, even should he not wish to mount the + winner.'” + </p> + <p> + Here the letter concluded, amid protestations of regard most + affectionately worded, and warm wishes for a renewal of intimacy, only to + cease with life. Across this was written, with a different ink, and in a + hurried hand: “I have this moment seen Mr. Pitt; the Knight's vote is very + important. He may make any terms he pleases,—Pitt spoke of a + peerage; but I suppose that would not be thought advisable. Let me hear <i>your</i> + opinion. Lionel has been gazetted to a company this morning, <i>en + attendant</i> better.” + </p> + <p> + Lady Eleanor, who had read these last lines to herself, here laid down the + letter without speaking, while the slight flush of her cheek and the + increased brilliancy of her eyes showed that her feelings were deeply and + powerfully excited. + </p> + <p> + “Well, Mamma, have you found the solution to this mystery?” said Helen, as + she gazed with affectionate solicitude on her mother's features. + </p> + <p> + “How unchangeable a thing is nature!” muttered Lady Eleanor, + unconsciously, aloud; “that boy was a crafty tuft-hunter at Eton.” + </p> + <p> + “Of whom are you speaking, Mamma?” + </p> + <p> + “Lord Netherby, my dear, who would seem to have cultivated his natural + gift with great success; but,” added she, after a pause, and in a voice + scarcely above a whisper, “I am scarcely as easy a dupe now as when he + persuaded me to take ash-berries in exchange for cherries. Let us hear + what Lionel says.” + </p> + <p> + “As usual, Mamma, four lines in each page, and the last a blank,” said + Helen, laughing:—“'My dear mother, what blandishments have you been + throwing over the War Office? They have just given me my company, which, + by the ordinary rules of the service, I had no pretension to hope for, + these five years to come! Our colonel, too, a perfect Tartar, overwhelms + me with civilities, and promises me a leave of absence on the first + vacancy. Have you seen Forester, of ours? and how do you like him? A + little cold or so at first, but <i>you</i> will not dislike that. His + riding will please my father. Get him to sing, if you can; his taste and + voice are both first-rate. Your worthy relative, Lord Netherby, bores me + with invitations to his houses, town and country. I say “No;” but he won't + be denied. Was he not rude, or indifferent, or something or other, once + upon a time, to the ancient house of Darcy? Give me the <i>consigne</i>, I + pray you, for I hear he has the best cock-shooting in England; and let my + virtue, if possible, be rewarded by a little indulgence. Tell Helen they + are all giving up powder here, and wear their hair as she does; but not + one of them half as good-looking. + </p> + <p> + Yours, as ever, + </p> + <p> + Lionel Darcy. + </p> + <p> + Hounslow, January 1st, 1800'” + </p> + <p> + “Is that Sullivan, there?” said Lady Eleanor, as her daughter finished the + reading of this brief epistle. “What does he mean by staring so at the + window? The old man seems to have lost his senses!” + </p> + <p> + “Ochone arie! ochone! ochone!” cried Tate, wringing his hands with the + gestures of violent grief, as he moved up and down before the windows. + </p> + <p> + “What has happened, Tate?” said Helen, as she threw open the sash to + address him. + </p> + <p> + “Ochone! he's kilt—he's murthered—cut down like a daisy in a + May morning. And he, the iligant, fine young man!” + </p> + <p> + “Whom do you mean? Speak plainly, Sullivan,” said the commanding voice of + Lady Eleanor. “What is it?” + </p> + <p> + “'Tis the young officer from England, my lady, that came down the night + before last to see the master. Oh, murther! murther! if his honor was + here, the sorra bit of this grief we 'd have to-day—ochone!” + </p> + <p> + “Well, go on,” said his mistress, sternly. + </p> + <p> + “And if he came down for joy, 't is sorrow he supped for it,' the young + crayture! They soon finished him.” + </p> + <p> + “Once for all, sir, speak out plainly, and say what has occurred.” + </p> + <p> + “It's Mr. Bagenal Daly done it all, my lady,—divil a one of me cares + who hears me say it. He's a cruel man, ould as he is. He made him fight a + duel, the darling young man,—the 'moral' of Master Lionel himself; + and now he's kilt—ochone! ochone!” + </p> + <p> + “Can this dreadful story be true, Helen?” said Lady Eleanor, as the faint + color left her features. “Call Margaret; or, stay—Sullivan, is Mr. + Daly here?” + </p> + <p> + “That he is, never fear him. He's looking at his morning's work—he's + in the room where they carried the corpse; and the fine corpse it is.” + </p> + <p> + “Go tell Mr. Daly that Lady Eleanor desires to see him at once.” + </p> + <p> + “Go, and lose no time, Tate,” said Helen, as, almost fainting with terror, + she half pushed the old man on his errand. + </p> + <p> + The mother and daughter sat silently gazing on each other for several + minutes, terror and dismay depicted in the face of each, nor were they + conscious of the lapse of time, when the door opening presented Mr. + Bagenal Daly before them. He was dressed in his usual suit of dark brown, + and with all his accustomed neatness. His long cravat, which, edged with + deep lace, hung negligently over his waistcoat, was spotless in color and + accurate in every fold, while his massive features were devoid of the + slightest signs of emotion or excitement. + </p> + <p> + For an instant Lady Eleanor was deceived by all these evidences of + tranquillity, but a glance at old Tate's face, as he stood near the door, + assured her that from such signs she had nothing to hope. Twice had Mr. + Bagenal Daly performed his courteous salutations, which, in the etiquette + of a past time, he made separately to each lady, and still Lady Eleanor + had not summoned courage to address him. At last he said,— + </p> + <p> + “Have I been mistaken, and must I apologize for a visit at an hour so + unseemly? But I heard that your Ladyship wished to see me.” + </p> + <p> + “Quite true, Mr. Daly,” interrupted Lady Eleanor, her habitual tact + supplying a courage her heart was far from feeling. “Will you be seated? + Leave the room, Sullivan. My daughter and I,” continued she, speaking with + increased rapidity, to cover the emotion of the moment, “have just heard + something of a dreadful event which is said to have occurred this morning. + Old Sullivan so often exaggerates that we indulge the hope that there may + be little or no foundation for the story. Is it true, sir, there has been + a duel fought near this?” Her voice grew fainter as she spoke, and at last + became a mere whisper. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, madam,” replied Daly, with an air of perfect calmness. “Two + gentlemen met this morning at Cluan Point, and both were wounded.” + </p> + <p> + “Neither of them killed?” + </p> + <p> + “Wounded, madam,” reiterated Daly, as if correcting a misconstruction. + </p> + <p> + “Are the wounds deemed dangerous, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. MacDonough's, madam, is not so. The inconvenience of using his left + hand on any similar occasion, in future, will be probably the extent of + the mishap. The other gentleman has not been equally fortunate,—his + life is in peril.” Mr. Daly paused for a second, and then, perceiving that + Lady Eleanor still awaited a further explanation, added, with gravity, + “When taking his position on the ground, madam, instead of standing + half-front, as I took pains to point out to him, Captain Forester—” + </p> + <p> + “Forester!—is that his name, sir?” interrupted Helen, as, in a hand + trembling with terror, she held out Lionel's letter towards her mother. + </p> + <p> + “A friend of my son's,—is he in the same regiment with Lionel?” + asked Lady Eleanor, eagerly. + </p> + <p> + Daly bowed, and answered, “The same, madam.” + </p> + <p> + A low, faint sigh broke from Lady Eleanor, and, covering her eyes with her + hand, she sat for some moments without speaking. + </p> + <p> + “Has any one seen him, sir?” asked Helen, suddenly, and in a voice that + showed energy of character had the mastery over every feeling of grief,—“is + there a surgeon with him?” + </p> + <p> + “No, Miss Darcy,” said Daly, with a certain haughtiness of manner. “I + believe, however, that, although not a professional person, my knowledge + of a gunshot wound is scarcely inferior to most men's. I have sent in two + directions for a surgeon; meanwhile, with my servant's aid, I have + succeeded in extracting the ball—I beg pardon, ladies, I think I + heard the noise of wheels; it is probably the doctor.” And, with a deep + bow and a measured step, Mr. Bagenal Daly withdrew, leaving Lady Eleanor + and her daughter speechless, between grief and terror. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0008" id="link2HCH0008"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VIII. THE “HEAD” OF A FAMILY + </h2> + <p> + When Bagenal Daly reached the courtyard, he was disappointed at finding + that, instead of the surgeon whose arrival was so anxiously looked for, + the visitor was no other than old Dr. Hickman, the father of Hickman + O'Reilly, M. P. for the county, and grandfather of that very promising + young gentleman slightly presented to our reader in an early chapter. + </p> + <p> + If the acorn be a very humble origin for the stately oak of the forest, + assuredly Peter Hickman, formerly of Loughrea, “Apothecary and Surgeon,” + was the most unpretending source for the high and mighty house of + O'Reilly. More strictly speaking, the process was only a “graft,” and it + is but justice to him to say, that of this fact no one was more thoroughly + convinced than old Peter himself. Industry and thrift had combined to + render him tolerably well off in the world, when the death of a brother + who had sought his fortunes in the East—when fortunes were to be + found in that region—put him in possession of something above two + hundred thousand pounds. Even before this event, he had been known as a + shrewd contriver of small speculations, a safe investor of little capital, + was conversant, from the habits of his professional life, with the private + circumstances of every family of the country where money was wanting, and + where repayment was sure; the very temperament of his patients suggested + to him the knowledge by which he guided his operations, and he could bring + his skill as a medical man into his service, and study his creditors with + the eye of a physiologist. When this great accession of wealth so suddenly + occurred, far from communicating his good fortune to his friends and + neighbors, he merely gave out that poor Tom had left him “his little + savings,” “though God knows, in that faraway country, if he'd ever see any + of it.” His guarded caution on the subject, and the steady persistence + with which he maintained his former mode of life, gave credence to the + story, and the utmost estimate of his wealth would not have gone beyond + being a snug old fellow “that might give up his business any day.” This + was, however, the very last thing in his thoughts; the title of “Doctor,” + so courteously bestowed in Ireland on the humbler walks of medicine, was a + “letter of marque” enabling him to cruise in latitudes otherwise + inaccessible. Any moneyed embarrassment of the country gentry, any severe + pressure to be averted by an opportune loan or the sale of landed + property, was speedily made available by him as a call to see whether “the + cough was easier;” or “how was the gouty ankle;” if the “mistress was + getting better of the nerves,” “and the children gaining strength by the + camomile.” And in this way he made one species of gain subservient to + another, while his character for kindness and benevolence was the theme of + the whole neighborhood. + </p> + <p> + For several years long he pursued this course without deviating, and in + that space had become the owner of estated property to a very great + extent, not only in his own, but in three neighboring counties. How much + longer he might have persisted in growing rich by stealth it is difficult + to say, when accident compelled him to change his <i>tactique</i>. A very + large property had been twice put up for sale in the county Mayo, under + the will of its late owner, the trustees being empowered to make a great + reduction in the price to any purchaser of the whole,—a condition + which, from the great value of the estates, seemed of little avail, no + single individual being supposed able to make such a purchase. + </p> + <p> + At last, and as a final effort to comply with the wishes of the testator, + the estate was offered at ten thousand pounds below the original demand, + when a bidder made his appearance, the offer was accepted, and the + apothecary of Lough-rea became the owner of one of the most flourishing + properties of the West, with influence sufficient to return a member for + the county. + </p> + <p> + The murder was now out, and the next act was to build a handsome but + unpretentious dwelling-house on a part of the estate, to which he removed + with his son, a widower with one child. The ancient family of O'Reilly had + been the owners of the property, and the name was still retained to grace + the new demesne, which was called Mount O'Reilly, while Tom Hickman became + Hickman O'Reilly, under the plea of some relationship to the defunct,—a + point which gained little credence in the county, and drew from Bagenal + Daly the remark “that he trusted that they had a better title to the acres + than the arms of the O'Reillys.” When old Peter had made this great + spring, he would gladly have retired to Loughrea once more, and pursued + his old habits; but, like a blackleg who has accidentally discovered his + skill at the game, no one would play with him again, and so he was fain to + put up with his changed condition, and be a “gentleman,” as he called it, + in spite of himself. + </p> + <p> + He it was who, under the pretence of a friendly call to see the Knight, + now drove into the courtyard of Gwynne Abbey. His equipage was a small + four-wheeled chair close to the ground, and drawn by a rough mountain pony + which, in size and shape, closely resembled a water-dog. The owner of this + unpretending conveyance was a very diminutive, thin old man, with a long, + almost transparent nose, the tip of which was of a raspberry red; a stiff + queue, formed of his wiry gray hair carefully brushed back, even from the + temples, made a graceful curve on his back, or occasionally appeared in + front of his left shoulder. His voice was a feeble treble, with a + tremulous quiver through all he said, while he usually finished each + sentence with a faint effort content with his opinion; and this, on + remarkable occasions, at a laugh, a kind of acknowledgment to himself that + he was would be followed by the monosyllable “ay,”—a word which, + brief as it was, struck terror into many a heart, intimating, as it did, + that old Peter had just satisfied himself that he had made a good bargain, + and that the other party was “done.” + </p> + <p> + The most remarkable circumstance of his appearance was his mode of + walking, and even here was displayed his wonted ingenuity. A partial + paralysis had for some years affected his limbs, and particularly the + muscles which raise and flex the legs; to obviate this infirmity, he + fastened a cord with a loop to either foot, and by drawing them up + alternately he was enabled to move forward, at a slow pace, to be sure, + and in a manner it was rather difficult to witness for the first time with + becoming gravity. This was more remarkable when he endeavored to get on + faster, for then the flexion, a process which required a little time, was + either imperfectly performed or altogether omitted, and consequently he + remained stationary, and only hopped from one leg to the other after the + fashion of a stage procession. His dress was a rusty black coat with a + standing collar, black shorts, and white cotton stockings, over which the + short black gaiters reached half way up the leg; on the present occasion + he also wore a spencer of light gray cloth, as the day was cold and + frosty, and his hat was fastened under his chin by a ribbon. + </p> + <p> + “And so he is n't at home, Tate,” said he, as he sat whipping the pony + from habit,—a process which the beast seemed to regard with a + contemptuous indifference. + </p> + <p> + “No, Docther,” for by this title the old man was always addressed by + preference, “the Knight's up in Dublin; he went on Monday last.” + </p> + <p> + “And this is the seventh of the month,” muttered the other to himself. + “Faith, he takes it easy, anyhow! And you don't know when he'll be home?” + </p> + <p> + “The sorra know I know, Docther; 't is maybe to-night he 'd come—maybe + to-morrow—maybe it would be three weeks or a month; and it's not but + we want him badly this day, if it was God's will he was here!” These words + were uttered in a tone that Tate intended should provoke further + questioning, for he was most eager to tell of the duel and its + consequences; but the “doctor” never noticed them, but merely muttered a + short “Ay.” + </p> + <p> + “How do you do, Hickman?” cried out the deep voice of Bagenal Daly at the + same moment. “You did n't chance to see Mulville on the road, did you?” + </p> + <p> + “How d'ye do, Mister Daly? I hope I see you well. I did n't meet Dr. + Mulville this morning,—is there anything that's wrong here? Who is + it that's ill?” + </p> + <p> + “A young fellow, a stranger, who has been burning powder with Mr. + MacDonough up at Cluan, and has been hit under the rib here.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, well, what folly it is, and all about nothing, I 'll engage.” + </p> + <p> + “So your grandson would tell you,” said Daly, sternly; “for if he felt it + to be anything, this quarrel should have been his.” + </p> + <p> + “Faix, and I'm glad he left it alone,” said the other, complacently; “'t + is little good comes of the same fighting. I 'll be eighty-five if I live + to March next, and I never drew sword nor trigger yet against any man.” + </p> + <p> + “One reason for which forbearance is, sir, that you thereby escaped a + similar casualty to yourself. A laudable prudence, and likely to become a + family virtue.” + </p> + <p> + The old doctor felt all the severity of this taunt against his grandson, + but he merely gave one of his half-subdued laughs, and said, in a low + voice, “Did you get a note from me, about a fortnight ago? Ay!” + </p> + <p> + “I received one from your attorney,” said Daly, carelessly, “and I threw + it into the fire without reading it.” + </p> + <p> + “That was hasty, that was rash, Mr. Daly,” resumed the other, calmly; “it + was about the bond for the four thousand six hundred—” + </p> + <p> + “D——n me if I care what was the object of it! I happened to + have some weightier things to think of than usury and compound interest, + as I, indeed, have at this moment. By the by, if you have not forgotten + the old craft, come in and see this poor fellow. I 'm much mistaken, or + his time will be but short.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, ay, that's a debt there's no escaping!” muttered the old man, + combining his vein of moralizing with a sly sarcasm at Daly, while he + began the complicated series of manouvres by which he usually effected his + descent from the pony carriage. + </p> + <p> + In the large library, and on a bed hastily brought down for the purpose, + lay Forester, his dress disordered, and his features devoid of all color. + The glazed expression of his eye, and his pallid, half-parted lips showed + that he was suffering from great loss of blood, for, unhappily, Mr. Daly's + surgery had not succeeded in arresting this symptom. His breathing was + short and irregular, and in the convulsive movement of his fingers might + be seen the evidence of acute suffering. At the side of the bed, calm, + motionless, and self-possessed, with an air as stern as a soldier at his + post, stood Sandy M'Grane; he had been ordered by his master to maintain a + perfect silence, and to avoid, if possible, even a reply to Forester's + questions, should he speak to him. The failure of the first few efforts on + Forester's part to obtain an infraction of this rule ended in his + submitting to his destiny, and supplying by signs the want of speech; in + this way he had just succeeded in procuring a drink of water, when Daly + entered, followed by Hickman. As with slow and noiseless steps they came + forward, Forester turned his head, and, catching a glance of the mechanism + by which old Peter regulated his progression, he burst into a fit of + uncontrollable laughter. + </p> + <p> + “Ye mauna do it, ye mauna do it, sir,” said Sandy, sternly; “ye are lying + in a pool of blood this minute, and it's no time for a hearty laugh. Ech! + ech! sir,” continued he, turning towards his master, “if we had that salve + the Delawares used to put on their wounds, I wadna say but we 'd stap it + yet.” + </p> + <p> + By this time old Peter had laid his hand on the sick man's wrist, and, + with a large watch laid before him on the bed, was counting his pulse + aloud. + </p> + <p> + “It's a hundred and fifty,” said he, in a whisper, which, although + intended for Daly's ear, was overheard by Forester; “but it's thin as a + thread, and looks like inward bleeding.” + </p> + <p> + “What's to be done, then? have you anything to advise?” said Daly, almost + savagely. + </p> + <p> + “Very little,” said Hickman, with a malignant grin, “except writing to his + friends. I know nothing else to serve him.” + </p> + <p> + A brief shudder passed over Daly's stern features, rather like the + momentary sense of cold than proceeding from any mental emotion, and then + he said, “I spoke to you as a doctor, sir; and I ask you again, is there + nothing can be done for him?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, well, we might plug up the wound, to be sure, and give him a little + wine, for he's sinking fast. I 've got a case of instruments and some lint + in the gig—never go without the tools, Mr. Daly—there's no + knowing when one may meet a little accident like this.” + </p> + <p> + “In Heaven's name, then, lose no time!” said Daly. “Whatever you can do, + do it at once.” + </p> + <p> + The tone of command in which he spoke seemed to act like a charm on the + old doctor, for he turned at once to hobble from the room. + </p> + <p> + “My servant will bring what you want,” said Daly, impatiently. + </p> + <p> + “No, no,” said Peter, shaking his head, “I have them under lock and key in + the driving-box; there's no one opens that but myself.” + </p> + <p> + Daly turned away with a muttered execration at the miser's suspicions, and + then, fixing his eyes steadily on Sandy's face, he gave a short and + significant nod. The servant instinctively looked after the doctor; then, + slowly moving across the floor, the nod was repeated, and Sandy, wheeling + round, made three strides, and, catching the old man round the body with + his remaining arm, carried him out of the room with the same indifference + to his struggles or his cries as a nurse would bestow on a misbehaving + urchin. + </p> + <p> + <a name="linkimage-0004" id="linkimage-0004"> + <!-- IMG --></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%;"> + <img src="images/108.jpg" width="100%" alt="108 " /> + </div> + <p> + When Sandy deposited his burden beside the pony-carriage, old Peter's + passion had reached its climax, and assuredly, if the will could have + prompted the act, he would have stamped as roundly as he swore. + </p> + <p> + “It's an awfu' thing,” observed Sandy, quaintly, “to see an auld carle, + wi' his twa legs in the grave, blaspheming that gate; but come awa', tak' + your gimcracks, and let's get back again, or, by the saul of my body, I + 'll pit you in the fountain!” + </p> + <p> + Reasoning on that excellent principle of analogy, that what had happened + might happen again even in a worse form, old Hickman unlocked the box and + delivered into Sandy's hands a black leather case, bearing as many signs + of long years and service as his own. + </p> + <p> + “Let me walk I let me walk!” cried he, in a supplicating tone. + </p> + <p> + “Av you ca' it walking,” said Sandy, grimly; “but it's mair, far mair, + like the step o' a goose than a Christian man.” + </p> + <p> + What success might have attended Peter's request it is difficult to say, + for at this moment the noise of a horse was heard galloping up the avenue, + and, immediately after, Mulville, the surgeon sent for by Mr. Daly, + entered the courtyard. Without deigning a look towards Hickman, or paying + even the slightest attention to his urgent demands for the restoration of + his pocket-case, Sandy seized Mulville by the arm and hurried him away to + the house. + </p> + <p> + The newly arrived doctor was an army surgeon, and proceeded, with all the + readiness experience had taught him, to examine Forester's wound; while + Sandy, to save time, opened old Hickman's case on the bed, and arranged + the instruments. + </p> + <p> + “Look here, Mr. Daly,” said the doctor, as he drew some lint from the + antiquated leather pocket,—“look here, and see how our old friend + practises the art of medicine.” He took up, as he spoke, a roll of paper, + and held it towards Daly: it was a packet of bill stamps of various value, + for old Peter could never suffer himself to be taken short, and was always + provided with the ready means of transacting money affairs with his + patients. + </p> + <p> + “Here's my d——d old bond,” said Daly, laughing, as he drew + forth a much-crumpled and time-discolored parchment; “I'd venture to say + the man would deserve well of his country who would throw this confounded + pocket-book, and its whole contents, into that fire.” + </p> + <p> + “Ye maybe want some o' the tools yet,” said Sandy, dryly, for, taking his + master's observations in the light of a command, he was about to commit + the case and the paper to the flames. + </p> + <p> + “Take care! take care!” said Mulville, in a whisper; “it might be a + felony.” + </p> + <p> + “It's devilish little Sandy would care what name they would give it,” + replied Daly; “he 'd put the owner on the top of them, and burn all + together, on a very brief hint;” then, lowering his voice, he added, + “What's his chance?” + </p> + <p> + “The chance of every young fellow of two or three-and-twenty to live + through what would kill any man of my time of life. With good care and + quiet, but quiet above all, he may rub through it. We must leave him now.” + </p> + <p> + “You 'll remain here,” said Daly; “you 'll not quit this, I hope?” + </p> + <p> + “For a day or two at least, I 'll not leave him.” And with this + satisfactory assurance Daly closed the door, leaving Sandy on guard over + the patient. + </p> + <p> + “Here's your case of instruments, Hickman,” said Daly, as the old doctor + sat motionless in his gig, awaiting their reappearance; for, in his dread + of further violence, he had preferred thus patiently to await their + return, than venture once more into the company of Sandy M'Grane. “We 've + robbed you of nothing except some lint; and,” added he in a whisper to + Muiville, “I very much doubt if that case were ever opened and closed + before with so slight an offence against the laws of property.” + </p> + <p> + Old Hickman by this time had opened the pocket-book, and was busily + engaged inspecting its contents. + </p> + <p> + “Ay, that's the bond!” said Daly, laughing; “you may well think how small + the chance of repayment is, when I did not think it worth while burning + it.” + </p> + <p> + “It will be paid in good time,” said Hickman, in a low cackle, “and the + interest too, maybe—ay!” And with sundry admonitions from the whip, + and successive chucks of the rein, the old pony threw up his head, shook + his tail crossly, and, with a step almost as measured as that of his + master, moved slowly out of the courtyard. + </p> + <p> + “So much for our century and our civilization!” said Daly, as he looked + after him; “the old miser that goes there has more power over our country + and its gentry than ever a feudal chief wielded in the days of vassalage.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0009" id="link2HCH0009"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IX. “DALY'S.” + </h2> + <p> + It was upon one of the very coldest evenings of the memorably severe + January of 1800 that the doors of Daly's Club House were besieged by + carriages of every shape and description: some brilliant in all the lustre + of a perfect equipage; others more plainly denoting the country gentleman + or the professional man; and others, again, the chance occupants of the + various coach-stands, displayed every variety of that now extinct family + whose members went under the denominations of “whiskeys,” “jingles,” and + “noddies.” + </p> + <p> + A heavy fall of sleet, accompanied with a cutting north wind, did not + prevent the assemblage of a considerable crowd, who, by the strange + sympathy of gregarious curiosity, were drawn up in front of the building, + satisfied to think that something unusual, of what nature they knew not, + was going forward within, and content to gaze on the brilliant glare of + the lustres as seen through the drawn curtains, and mark the shadowy + outlines of figures as they passed and repassed continually. + </p> + <p> + Leaving the mob, for it was in reality such, to speculate on the cause of + this extraordinary gathering, we shall at once proceed up the ample stair + and enter the great saloon of the Club, which, opening by eight windows + upon College Green, formed the conversation-room of the members. + </p> + <p> + Here were now assembled between three and four hundred persons, gathered + in groups and knots, and talking with all the eagerness some engrossing + topic could suggest. In dress, air, and manner they seemed to represent + sections of every social circle of the capital: some, in full Castle + costume, had just escaped from the table of the Viceroy; others, in + military uniform or the dress of the Club, contrasted with coats of + country squires or the even more ungainly quaintness of the lawyers' + costume. They were of every age, from the young man emerging into life, to + the old frequenter of the Club, who had occupied his own place and chair + for half a century, and in manner and style as various, many preserving + the courteous observances of the old school in all its polished urbanity, + and the younger part of the company exhibiting the traits of a more + independent, but certainly less graceful, politeness. Happily for the + social enjoyments of the time, political leanings had not contributed + their bitterness to private life, and men of opinions the most opposite, + and party connections most antagonistic, were here met, willing to lay + aside for a season the arms of encounter, or to use them with only the + sportive pleasantry of a polished wit. If this manly spirit of mutual + forbearance did not characterize the very last debates of the Irish + Parliament, it may in a great measure be attributed to the nature of that + influence by which the measure of the Union was carried; for bribery not + only corrupted the venal, but it soured and irritated the men who rejected + its seductions; and in this wise a difference was created between the two + parties, wider and more irreconcilable than all which political animosity + or mere party dislike could effect. + </p> + <p> + On the present occasion, however, the animating spirit of the assemblage + seemed to partake of nothing less than a feature of political acrimony; + and amid the chance phrases which met the ear, and the hearty bursts of + laughter that every moment broke forth, it was easy to collect that no + question of a party nature occupied their attention. + </p> + <p> + At the end of the room a group of some twenty persons stood or sat around + a chair in which a thin elderly gentleman was seated, his fine and + delicately marked features far more unequivocally proclaiming rank than + even the glittering star he wore on his breast. Without being in reality + very old, Lord Drogheda seemed so, for, partly from delicacy of health, + and partly, as some affirmed, from an affectation of age (a more frequent + thing than is expected), he had contracted a stoop, and walked with every + sign of debility. + </p> + <p> + “Well, gentlemen, how does time go?” said he, with an easy smile. “Are we + not near the hour?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; it wants but eleven minutes of ten now, my Lord,” said one of the + group. “Do you mean to hold him sharp to time?” + </p> + <p> + “Egad, I should think so,” interrupted a red-whiskered squire, in splashed + top-boots. “I've ridden in from Kildare to-night to see the match, and I + protest against any put-off.” + </p> + <p> + Lord Drogheda turned his eyes towards the speaker with a look in which + mildness was so marked, it could not be called reproof, but it evidently + confused him, as he added, “Of course, if the gentlemen who have heavy + wagers on it are content I must be also.” + </p> + <p> + “I, for one, say 'sharp time,'” cried out a dapperly dressed young fellow, + with an open pocket-book in his hand; “play or pay is the only rule in + these cases.” + </p> + <p> + “I 've backed my Lord at eight to ten, in hundreds,” said another, “and + certainly I 'll claim my bet if the Knight is one minute late.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you have just three to decide that question,” said one at his side. + “My watch is with the Post-office.” + </p> + <p> + “Quite, time enough left to order my carriage,” said Lord Drogheda, rising + with an energy very different from his ordinary indolent habit. “If the + Knight of Gwynne should be accidentally delayed, gentlemen, I, for my + part, prefer being also absent. It will then be a matter of some + difficulty for the parties betting to say who is the delinquent.” He took + his hat as he spoke, and was moving through the crowd, when a sudden cheer + from without was heard, and then, almost the instant after, a confused + sound of acclamation as the Knight of Gwynne entered, leaning on the arm + of Con Heffernan. Making his way with difficulty through the crowd of + welcoming friends and acquaintances, the Knight approached the end of the + room where Lord Drogheda now awaited him, standing. + </p> + <p> + “Not late, my Lord, though very near it,” said he, extending his hand. “If + I should apologize, however, I have an excuse you will not reject,—Con + Heffernan's Burgundy is hard to part with.” + </p> + <p> + “Very true, Knight,” said his Lordship, smiling. “With a friend one sees + so seldom, a little dalliance is most pardonable.” + </p> + <p> + This sarcasm was met by a ready laugh, for Heffernan was better known as a + guest at other tables than a host at his own; nor did he, at whose expense + the jest was made, refrain from joining in the mirth, while he added,— + </p> + <p> + “The Burgundy, like one of your Lordship's <i>bons mots</i>, is perhaps + appreciated the more highly because of its rarity.” + </p> + <p> + “Very true, Heffernan,” replied Lord Drogheda; “we should keep our wit and + wine only for our best friends.” + </p> + <p> + “Faith, then,” whispered the red-whiskered squire who spoke before, “if + the liquor does not gain more by keeping than the wit, I'd recommend Con + to drink it off a little faster.” + </p> + <p> + “Or, better still,” interposed the Knight, “only give it to those who + understand its flavor. But we are, if I mistake not, losing very valuable + time. What say you to the small room off the library, or will your + Lordship remain here?” + </p> + <p> + “Here, if equally agreeable to you. We are both of us too old in the + harness to care much for being surrounded by spectators.” + </p> + <p> + “Is it true, Con,” said a friend in Heffernan's ear, “that Darcy has laid + fifty thousand on this party?” + </p> + <p> + “I believe you are rather under than over the mark,” whispered Heffernan. + “The wager has been off and on these last eight or ten years. It was made + at Hutchinson's one evening when we all had drunk a good deal of wine. At + first, whist was talked of; but Drogheda objected to Darcy's naming Vicars + as his partner.” + </p> + <p> + “More fool he! Vicars is a first-rate player, but confoundedly unlucky.” + </p> + <p> + “Be that as it may, they fixed on piquet as the game, and, if accounts be + true, all the better for Darcy. They say he has beaten the best players in + France.” + </p> + <p> + “And what is really the stake? One hears so many absurd versions of it.” + </p> + <p> + “The Ballydermot property.” + </p> + <p> + “The whole of it?” + </p> + <p> + “Every acre, with the demesne, house, plate, pictures, carriages, wine,—begad! + I 'm not sure if the livery servants are not included,—against fifty + thousand pounds. You know Drogheda has lent him a very large sum on a + mortgage of that property already, and this will make the thing about + double or quits.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, Heffernan,” cried the Knight, “are you making your book there? When + you've quite finished, let me have a pinch of that excellent snuff of + yours.” + </p> + <p> + “Why not try mine?” said Lord Drogheda, pushing a magnificently jewelled + box, containing a miniature, across the table. + </p> + <p> + “'T would be a bad augury, my Lord,” said Darcy, laughing. “If I remember + aright, you won this handsome box from the Duke de Richelieu.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! you know that story, then?” + </p> + <p> + “I was present at the time, and remember the circumstance perfectly. The + King was leaning over the Duke's chair, watching the game—” + </p> + <p> + “Quite true. The Duke affected not to know that his Majesty was there, and + when he placed the box on the table, cried, 'A thousand louis against the + portrait of the King!' There was no declining such a wager at such a + moment, although, intrinsically, the box was not worth half the sum. I + accepted, and won it.” + </p> + <p> + “And the Duke then offered to give you twice the money for it back again?” + </p> + <p> + “He did so, and I refused. I shall not readily forget the sweet, sad smile + of the King as he tapped the wily courtier on the shoulder, and said, 'Ah! + Monsieur le Duc, do you only value your King when you've lost him?' They + were prophetic words! Well, well! we 've got upon a sorrowful theme; let's + change it.” + </p> + <p> + “Here are the cards, at last,” said the Knight, taking a sealed packet + from the waiter's hand, and breaking it open on the table. “Now, + Heffernan, order me a glass of claret negus, and take care that no one + comes to worry us with news of the House.” + </p> + <p> + “It's a sugar bill, or a new clause in the Corporation Act, or something + of that kind, they 're working at,” said Lord Drogheda, negligently. + </p> + <p> + “No, my Lord,” interposed Heffernan, slyly, “it's a bill to permit your + Lordship's nephew to hold the living of Ardragh with his deanery.” + </p> + <p> + “All right and proper,” said his Lordship, endeavoring to hide a rising + flush on his cheek by an opportune laugh. “Tom is a capital fellow, and a + good parson too.” + </p> + <p> + “And ought never to omit the prayer for the Parliament!” muttered + Heffernan, loud enough to be heard by the bystanders, who relished the + allusion heartily. + </p> + <p> + “The deal is with you, Knight,” said Lord Drogheda, pushing the cards + across the table. + </p> + <p> + The moment afterwards, a pin could not have fallen unheard in that crowded + assembly. Even they who were not themselves bettors felt the deepest + interest in the game where the stake was so great, and all who could set + value on skill and address were curious to watch the progress of the + contest. Not a word was spoken on either side as the cards fell upon the + table, and although many of the bystanders displayed looks of more eager + anxiety, the players showed by their intentness how strenuously each + struggled for the victory. + </p> + <p> + After the lapse of about half an hour, a low, murmuring noise spread + through the room, and the news was circulated that the first game was + over, and the Knight was the winner. The players, however, were silent as + before, and the deal went over without a word. + </p> + <p> + “One moment, my Lord,” said Darcy, as he gently interposed his hand to + prevent Lord Drogheda taking up his cards,—“a single moment. You + will call me faint-hearted for it, but I do not care. I beseech you, let + the party cease here. It is a great favor; but as I could not ask it if I + had lost the game, give me, I pray, so much of advantage for my good + luck.” + </p> + <p> + “You forget, Knight, that I, as a loser, could not accede to your + proposal; what would be said of any man who, with such a stake at issue, + accepted an offer like this?” + </p> + <p> + “My dear Lord, don't you think that you and I might afford to have our + actions canvassed, and yet be very little afraid of criticism?” said + Darcy, proudly. + </p> + <p> + “No, no, my dear Darcy, I really could not do this; besides, you must + concede something to mortified vanity. Now, I am anxious to have my + revenge.” + </p> + <p> + “Be it so, my Lord,” said the Knight, with a sigh, and the game began. + </p> + <p> + The looks and glances which were interchanged by those about during this + brief colloquy showed how little sympathy there was felt with the + generosity of either side. The bettors had set their hearts on gain, and + cared little for the feelings of the players. + </p> + <p> + “You see he was right,” whispered the red-whiskered squire to his + neighbor; “my Lord has won the game in one hand.” And so it was; in less + than five minutes the party was over. + </p> + <p> + “Now for the conqueror,” cried the Knight of Gwynne, who, somewhat nettled + at a success which seemed to lessen the generous character of his own + proposal, dealt the cards hastily, as if anxious to conclude. + </p> + <p> + “Now, Darcy, we have a better opportunity,” said Lord Drogheda, smiling; + “what say you to draw stakes as we stand?” + </p> + <p> + “Willingly, most willingly, my Lord. If a bad cause saps courage, I have + reason to be low at heart. This foolish wager has cost me the loss of + three nights' sleep, and if you are content—” + </p> + <p> + “But are these gentlemen here satisfied?” said Lord Drogheda; and an + almost universal cry of “No” was the reply. + </p> + <p> + “Then if we are to play for the bystanders, my Lord, let us not delay + them,” said the Knight, as he took up his cards and began to arrange them. + </p> + <p> + “Darcy has it, by Jove!—the game is his,” was muttered from one to + another in the crowd behind his chair, and the report, gaining currency, + was soon circulated in the larger room without. + </p> + <p> + “Have you anything heavy on it, Con?” said a fashionably dressed man to + Heffernan, who endeavored to force his way through the crowd to where the + Knight sat. + </p> + <p> + “Look at Heffernan!” said another. “They say he never bets; but mark the + excitement of his face now!” + </p> + <p> + “What is it, Heffernan?” said the Knight, as the other leaned over his + chair and tried to whisper something in his ear. “Is that a queen, my + Lord? In that case I believe the game is mine.—What is it, + Heffernan?” and he bent his ear to listen; then, suddenly dashing the + cards upon the table, cried out, “Great Heaven! is this true?—the + young fellow I met at Kilbeggan?” + </p> + <p> + “The same,” whispered Heffernan, rapidly; “a brother officer of your son + Lionel's—a cousin of Lord Castle-reagh's—a fine, dashing + fellow, too.” + </p> + <p> + “Where is he wounded?” asked Darcy, eagerly. + </p> + <p> + “Finish your game—I must tell you all about it,” said Heffernan, + folding up a letter which he had taken from his pocket a few minutes + before. + </p> + <p> + “Your pardon, my Lord,” said Darcy, with a look full of agitation; “I have + just heard very bad news.—I play the knave.” A murmur ran through + the crowd behind him. + </p> + <p> + “You meant the king, I know, Knight,” said Lord Drogheda, restoring the + card to his hand as he spoke, but a loud expression of dissatisfaction + arose from those at his side. + </p> + <p> + “You are right, my Lord, I did intend the king,” said the Knight; “but + these gentlemen insist upon the knave, and, if you 'll permit me, I 'll + play it.” + </p> + <p> + The whole fortune of the game hung upon the card, and, after a brief + struggle, the Knight was beaten. + </p> + <p> + “Even so, my Lord,” said the Knight, smiling calmly, “you have beaten me + against luck; Fortune will not do everything. The Roman satirist goes even + further, and says she can do nothing.” He rose as he said these words, and + looked around for Heffernan. + </p> + <p> + “If you want Con Heffernan, Knight,” said one of the party, “I think he + has gone down to the House.” + </p> + <p> + “The very man,” said Darcy. “Good-night, my Lord,—good-night, + gentlemen all.” + </p> + <p> + “I did not believe that anything could shake Darcy's nerve, but he + certainly played that game ill,” said a bystander. + </p> + <p> + “Heffernan could tell us more about it,” said another; “rely on it, Master + Con and the devil knew why that knave was played.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0010" id="link2HCH0010"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER X. AN INTRIGUE DETECTED + </h2> + <p> + Of all the evil influences which swayed the destinies of Ireland in latter + days, none can compare, in extent of importance, with the fatal taste for + prodigality that characterized the habits of the gentry. Reckless, + wasteful extravagance, in every detail of life, suggested modes of acting + and thinking at variance with all individual and, consequently, all + national prosperity. Hospitality was pushed to profusion, liberality + became a spendthrift habit. The good and the bad qualities of the Irish + temperament alike contributed to this passion; there was the wish to + please, the desire to receive courteously, and entertain with splendor + within doors, and to appear with proportionate magnificence without. + </p> + <p> + A proud sense of what they deemed befitting their station induced the + gentry to vie in expenditure with the richly endowed officials of the + Government, and the very thought of prudence or foresight in matters of + expense would have been stigmatized as a meanness by those who believed + they were sustaining the honor of their country while sapping the + foundation of its prosperity. + </p> + <p> + If we have little to plead in defence or in palliation of such habits, we + can at least affirm that in many cases they were practised with a taste + and elegance that shed lustre over the period. Unlike the vulgar displays + of newly acquired wealth, they exhibited in a striking light the generous + and high-spirited features of the native character, which deemed that + nothing could be too good for the guest, nor any expenditure for his + entertainment either too costly or too difficult. The fatal facility of + Irish nature, and the still more ruinous influence of example, hurried men + along on this road to ruin; and as political prospects grew darker, a + reckless indifference to the future succeeded, in which little care was + taken for the morrow, until, at last, thoughtless extravagance became a + habit, and moneyed difficulties the lot of almost every family of Ireland. + </p> + <p> + That a gentry so embarrassed, and with such prospects of ruin before them, + should have been easy victims to Ministerial seduction, is far less + surprising than that so many were to be seen who could prefer their + integrity to the rich bribes of Government patronage; and it is a + redeeming feature of the day that amid all the lavish and heedless course + of prodigality and excess there were some who could face poverty with + stouter hearts than they could endure the stigma of gilded corruption: nor + is it the history of every Parliament that can say as much. + </p> + <p> + Let us leave this theme, even at the hazard of being misunderstood, for + the moment, by our reader, and turn to the Knight of Gwynne, who now was + seated at his breakfast in a large parlor of his house in Henrietta + Street. Sad and deserted as it seems now, this was in those days the + choice residence of Irish aristocracy, and the names of peers and baronets + on every door told of a class which, now, should be sought for in + scattered fragments among the distant cities of the Continent. + </p> + <p> + The Knight was reading the morning papers, in which, amid the fashionable + news, was an account of his own wager with Lord Drogheda, when a carriage + drove up hastily to the door, and, immediately after, the loud summons of + a footman resounded through the street. + </p> + <p> + While the Knight was yet wondering who this early visitor should prove, + the servant announced Mr. Con Heffernan. + </p> + <p> + “The very man I wished to see,” cried Darcy, eagerly; “tell me all about + this unfortunate business. But, first of all, is he out of danger?” + </p> + <p> + “Quite safe. I understand, for a time, it was a very doubtful thing; + Daly's surgery, it would seem, rather increased the hazard. He began + searching for the ball regardless of the bleeding, and the young fellow + was very near sinking under loss of blood.” + </p> + <p> + “The whole affair was his doing!” said the Knight, impatiently. “How Mr. + MacDonough could have found himself at <i>my</i> table is more than I can + well imagine; that when he got there, something like this would follow, + does not surprise me. Daly is really too bad. Well, well, I hoped to have + set off for the abbey to-day, but I must stay here, I find; Drogheda is + kind enough to let me redeem Ballydermot, and I must see Gleeson about it. + It's rather a heavy blow just now.” + </p> + <p> + “I am afraid I am not altogether blameless,” said Heffernan, timidly. “I + ought not to have mentioned that unlucky business till the game was over; + but I thought your nerve was proof against anything.” + </p> + <p> + “So it was, Heffernan,” said the Knight, laughing, “some five-and-twenty + years ago; but this shattered wreck has little remains of the old + three-decker. I should have won that game.” + </p> + <p> + “It's all past and over now, so never think more about it.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I should have won the game. Drogheda saw my advantage: he went on + with the very suit in my hand, and when he reached over for his snuff-box, + his hand trembled like in an ague-fit.” + </p> + <p> + “Come, don't let the thing dwell in your mind. There is another and a + heavier game to play, and you 're certain to win there, if you do but like + it.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't clearly understand you,” said Darcy, doubtingly. + </p> + <p> + “I'll be explicit enough, then,” said Heffernan, taking a chair and + seating himself directly in front of the Knight. “You know the position of + the Government at this moment. They have secured a safe and certain + majority,—the 'Union' is carried. When I say 'carried,' I mean that + there is not a doubt on any reasonable mind but that the bill will pass. + The lists show a majority of seven, perhaps eight, for the Ministry; and + if they had but one in their favor, Pitt is determined to go through with + it. Now, we all very well know how this has been done. Our people have + behaved infamously, disgracefully,—there's no mincing the matter. + You heard of Fox—?” + </p> + <p> + “No. What of him?” + </p> + <p> + “He has just accepted the escheatorship of—I forget what or where, + but he vacates his seat to make room for Courtenay.” + </p> + <p> + “Sam Courtenay?—Scrub, as we used to call him?” + </p> + <p> + “Scrub,—exactly so. Well, he comes in for Roscommon, and is to have + a place under the new commission of twelve hundred a year. But to go back + to what I was saying: Castlereagh has bought these fellows at his price or + their own; some were dear enough, some were cheap. Barton, for instance, + takes it out in Castle dinners, and has sold his birthright for the + Viceroy's venison.” + </p> + <p> + “May good digestion wait on appetite!” repeated Darcy, laughing. + </p> + <p> + “Well, let's not waste more time on them, but come to what I mean. + Castlereagh wants to know how you mean to vote: some have told him you + would be on his side; others, myself among the number, say the reverse. In + fact, little as you may think about the matter, heavy bets are laid at + this moment on the question, and—But I won't mention names; enough + if I say a friend of ours—an old friend, too—has a thousand on + it.” + </p> + <p> + The Knight tapped his snuff-box calmly, and with his blandest smile begged + Heffernan to proceed. + </p> + <p> + “Faith! I 've nearly told all I had to say. Every one well knows that, + whatever decision you come to, it will be unbiassed by everything save + your own conscientious sense of right; and as arguments are pretty nearly + equal on the question,—for, in truth, after having heard and read + most of what has been written or spoken on the point,—I 'm regularly + nonplussed on which side to see the advantage. The real question seems to + be, Can we go on as we are?” + </p> + <p> + “I think not,” observed the Knight, gravely. “A Parliament which has + exhibited its venality so openly can have little pretension to public + confidence.” + </p> + <p> + “The very remark I made myself,” cried Heffernan, triumphantly. + </p> + <p> + “The men who sell themselves to-day to the Crown will, if need be, sell + themselves to-morrow to the mob.” + </p> + <p> + “My own words, by Jove!—my very words.” + </p> + <p> + “A dependent Parliament, attempting separate and independent legislation, + means an absurdity.” + </p> + <p> + “There is no other name for it,” cried Heffernan, in ecstasy. + </p> + <p> + “I have known Ireland for something more than half a century now,” said + the Knight, with a touch of melancholy in his voice, “and yet never before + saw so much of social disorder as at present, and perhaps we are only at + the beginning of it. The scenes we have witnessed in France have been more + bloody and more cruel, but they will leave less permanent results behind + them than our own revolution; for such, after all, it is. The property of + the country is changing hands, the old aristocracy are dying out, if not + dead; their new successors have neither any hold on the affection of the + people, nor a bond of union with each other. See what will come of it; the + old game of feudalism will be tried by these men of yesterday, and the + peasantry, whose reverence for birth is a religion, will turn on them, and + the time is not very distant, perhaps, when the men who would not harm the + landlord's dog will have little reverence for the landlord's self.” + </p> + <p> + “You have drawn a sad picture,” said Heffernan, either feeling or + affecting to feel the truthfulness of the Knight's delineation. + </p> + <p> + “Our share in the ruin,” said the Knight, rising, and pacing the room with + rapid strides,—“our share is not undeserved. We had a distinct and + defined duty to perform, and we neglected it; instead of extending + civilization, we were the messengers of barbarism among the people.” + </p> + <p> + “Your own estates, I have heard, are a refutation of your theory,” + interposed Heffernan, insinuatingly. + </p> + <p> + “My estates—” repeated the Knight; and then, stopping suddenly, with + a changed voice, he said, “Heffernan, we have got into a long and very + unprofitable theme; let us try back, if we can, and see whence we started: + we were talking of the Union.” + </p> + <p> + “Just so,” said Heffernan, not sorry to resume the subject which induced + his visit. + </p> + <p> + “I have determined not to vote on the measure,” said the Knight, solemnly; + “my reasons for the course I adopt I hope to be able to justify when the + proper time arrives; meanwhile, it will prevent unnecessary speculation, + and equally unnecessary solicitation, if I tell you frankly what I mean to + do. Such is my present resolve.” + </p> + <p> + The word “solicitation” fell from the Knight's lips with such a peculiar + expression that Heffernan at once saw his own game was detected, and, like + a clever tactician, resolved to make the best of his forced position. + </p> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%;"> + <img alt="125 (99K)" src="images/125.jpg" width="100%" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p> + “You have been frank with me, Knight; I'll not be less candid with <i>you</i>, + I came here to convey to you a distinct offer from the Government,—not + of any personal favor or advantage, <i>that</i>, they well knew, you would + reject,—but, in the event of your support, to take any suggestion + you might make on the new Bill into their serious and favorable + consideration; to advise with you how, in short, the measure might be made + to meet your views, and, so to say, admit you into conclave with the + Cabinet.” + </p> + <p> + “All this is very flattering,” said the Knight, with a smile of evident + satisfaction, “but I scarcely see how the opinions of a very humble + country gentleman can weigh in the grave councils of a Government.” + </p> + <p> + “The best proof is the fact itself,” replied Heffernan, artfully. “Were I + to tell you of other reasons, you might suspect me of an intention to + canvass your support on very different grounds.” + </p> + <p> + “I confess I'm in the dark; explain yourself more fully.” + </p> + <p> + “This is a day for sincerity,” said Heffernan, smiling, “and so, here it + is: the Prince has taken a special liking to your son Lionel, and has + given him his company.” + </p> + <p> + “His company! I never heard of it.” + </p> + <p> + “Strange enough that he should not have written to you on the subject, but + the fact is unquestionable; and, as I was saying, he is a frequent guest + at Carlton House, and admitted into the choice circle of his Royal + Highness's parties: if, in the freedom of that intimacy with which he is + honored by the Prince, the question should have arisen, how his father + meant to vote, the fact was not surprising, no more than that Captain + Darcy should have replied—” + </p> + <p> + “Lionel never pledged himself to control <i>my</i> vote, depend upon that, + Mr. Heffernan,” said the Knight, reddening. + </p> + <p> + “Nor did I say so,” interposed Heffernan. “Hear me out: your son is + reported to have answered, 'My father's family have been too trained in + loyalty, sire, not to give their voice for what they believe the best + interests of the empire: your Royal Highness may doubt his judgment, his + honor will, I am certain, never be called in question.' The Prince laughed + good-naturedly, and said, 'Enough, Darcy,—quite enough; it will give + me great satisfaction to think as highly of the father as I do of the son; + there is a vacancy on the staff, and I can offer you the post of an extra + aide-de-camp.'” + </p> + <p> + “This is very good news,—the best I 've heard for many a day, + Heffernan; and for its accuracy—” + </p> + <p> + “Lord Castlereagh is the guarantee,” added Heffernan, hastily; “I had it + from his own lips.” + </p> + <p> + “I 'll wait on him this morning. I can at least express my gratitude for + his Royal Highness's kindness to my boy.” + </p> + <p> + “You 'll not have far to go,” said Heffernan, smiling. + </p> + <p> + “How so?—what do you mean?” + </p> + <p> + “Lord Castlereagh is at the door this moment in that carriage;” and + Hefifernan pointed to the chariot which, with its blinds closely drawn, + stood before the street door. + </p> + <p> + The Knight moved hastily towards the door, and then, turning suddenly, + burst into a hearty laugh,—a laugh so racy and full of enjoyment + that Heffernan himself joined in it, without knowing wherefore. + </p> + <p> + “You are a clever fellow, Hefifernan!” said the Knight, as he lay back in + a deep-cushioned chair, and wiped his eyes, now streaming with tears of + laughter,—“a devilish clever fellow! The whole affair reminds me of + poor Jack Morris.” + </p> + <p> + “Faith! I don't see your meaning,” said Hefifernan, half fearful that all + was not right. + </p> + <p> + “You knew Jack,—we all knew him. Well, poor Morris was going home + one night,—from the theatre, I believe it was,—but, just as he + reached Ely Place, he saw, by the light of a lamp, a gentlemanlike fellow + trying to make out an address on a letter, and endeavoring, as well as he + could, to spell out the words by the uncertain light. 'Devilish + provoking!' said the stranger, half aloud; 'I wrote it myself, and yet + cannot read a word of it.' 'Can I be of any service?' said Jack. Poor + fellow! he was always ready for anything kind or good-natured. 'Thank + you,' said the other; 'but I 'm a stranger in Dublin,—only arrived + this evening from Liverpool,—and cannot remember the name or the + street of my hotel, although I noted both down on this letter.' 'Show it + to me,' said Jack, taking the document. But although he held it every way, + and tried all manner of guesses, he never could hit on the name the + stranger wanted. 'Never mind,' said Jack; 'don't bother yourself about it. + Come home with, me and have an oyster,—I 'll give you a bed; 't will + be time enough after breakfast to-morrow to hunt out the hotel.' To make + short of it, the stranger complied; after all the natural expressions of + gratitude and shame, home they went, supped, finished two bottles of + claret, and chatted away till past two o'clock. 'You 'd like to get to + bed, I see,' said Jack, as the stranger seemed growing somewhat drowsy, + and so he rang the bell and ordered the servant to show the gentleman to + his room. 'And, Martin,' said he, 'take care that everything is + comfortable, and be sure you have a nightcap.' 'Oh! I 've a nightcap + myself,' said the stranger, pulling one, neatly folded, out of his coat + pocket. 'Have you, by G—d!' said Jack. 'If you have, then, you 'll + not sleep here. A man that's so ready for a contingency has generally some + hand in contriving it.' And so he put him out of doors, and never saw more + of him. Eh, Heffernan, was Jack right?” And again the old man broke into a + hearty laugh, in which Heffernan, notwithstanding his discomfiture, could + not refrain from participating. + </p> + <p> + “Well,” said he, as he arose to leave the room, “I feel twenty years + younger for that hearty laugh. It reminds me of the jolly days we used to + have long ago, with Price Godfrey and Bagenal Daly. By the way, where is + Bagenal now, and what is he doing?” + </p> + <p> + “Pretty much what he always was doing,—mischief and devilment,” said + the Knight, half angrily. + </p> + <p> + “Is he still the member for Old-Castle? I forget what fate the petition + had.” + </p> + <p> + “The fate of the counsel that undertook it is easily remembered,” said the + Knight. “Bagenal called him out for daring to take such a liberty with a + man who had represented the borough for thirty years, and shot him in the + hip. 'You shall have a plumper, by Jove,' said Bagenal; and he gave him + one. Men grew shy of the case afterwards, and it was dropped, and so + Bagenal still represents the place. Good-by, Heffernan; don't forget Jack + Morris.” And so saying, the Knight took leave of his visitor, and returned + to his chair at the breakfast-table. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0011" id="link2HCH0011"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XI. THE KNIGHT AND HIS AGENT. + </h2> + <p> + The news of Lionel's promotion, and the flattering notice which the Prince + had taken of him, made the Knight very indifferent about his heavy loss of + the preceding evening. It was, to be sure, an immense sum; but as Gleeson + was arranging his affairs, it was only “raising” so much more, and thus + preventing the estate from leaving the family. Such was his own very mode + of settling the matter in his own mind, nor did he bestow more time on the + consideration than enabled him to arrive at this satisfactory conclusion. + </p> + <p> + If ever there was an agent designed to compensate for the easy, careless + habits of such a principal, it was Mr. Gleeson, or, as he was universally + known in the world of that day, “Honest Tom Gleeson.” In him seemed + concentrated all those peculiar gifts which made up the perfect man of + business. He was cautious, painstaking, and methodical; of a temper which + nothing could ruffle, and with a patience no provocation could exhaust; + punctual as a clock, neither precipitate nor dilatory, he appeared prompt + to the slow, and seemed almost tardy to the hasty man. + </p> + <p> + In the management of several large estates—he might have had many + more if he would have accepted the charge—Mr. Gleeson had amassed a + considerable fortune; but so devotedly did he attach himself to the + interests of his employers, so thoroughly identify their fortunes with his + own, that he gave little time to the cares of his immediate property. By + his skill and intelligence many country gentlemen had emerged from + embarrassments that threatened to engulf their entire fortunes; and his + aid in a difficulty was looked upon as a certain guarantee of success. It + was not very surprising if a man endowed with qualities like these should + have usurped something of ascendency over his employers. To a certain + extent their destiny lay in his hands. Of the difficulties by which they + were pressed he alone knew either the nature or amount, while by what + straits these should be overcome none but himself could offer a + suggestion. If in all his dealings the most strict regard to honor was + observable, so did he seem also inexhaustible in his contrivances to + rescue an embarrassed or encumbered estate. There was often the greatest + difficulty in securing his services, solicitation and interest were even + required to engage him; but once retained, he applied his energies to the + task, and with such zeal and acuteness that it was said no case, however + desperate, had yet failed in his hands. + </p> + <p> + For several years past he had managed all the Knight's estates; and such + was the complication and entanglement of the property, loaded with + mortgages and rent-charges, embarrassed with dowries and annuities, that + nothing short of his admirable skill could have supported the means of + that expensive and wasteful mode of life which the Knight insisted on + pursuing, and all restriction on which he deemed unfitting his station. If + Gleeson represented the urgent necessity of retrenchment, the very word + was enough to cut short the negotiation; until, at last, the agent was + fain to rest content with the fruits of good management, and merely + venture from time to time on a cautious suggestion regarding the immense + expense of the Knight's household. + </p> + <p> + With all his guardedness and care, these representations were not always + safe; for though the Knight would sometimes meet them with some jocular or + witty reply, or some bantering allusion to the agent's taste for + money-getting, at other times he would receive the advice with impatience + or ill-humor, so that, at last, Gleeson limited all complaints on this + score to his letters to Lady Eleanor, with whom he maintained a close and + confidential correspondence. + </p> + <p> + This reserve on Gleeson's part had its effects on the Knight, who felt a + proportionate delicacy in avowing any act of extravagance that should + demand a fresh call for money, and thus embarrass the negotiation by which + the agent was endeavoring to extricate the property. + </p> + <p> + If Darcy felt the loss of the preceding night, it was far more from the + necessity of avowing it to Gleeson than from the amount of the money, + considerable as it was; and he, therefore, set out to call upon him, in a + frame of mind far less at ease than he desired to persuade himself he + enjoyed. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Gleeson lived about three miles from Dublin, so that the Knight had + abundant time to meditate as he went along, and think over the interview + that awaited him. His revery was only broken by a sudden change from the + high-road to the noiseless quiet of the neat avenue which led up to the + house. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Gleeson's abode had been an ancient manor-house in the Gwynne family, + a building of such antiquity as to date from the time of the Knights + Templars; and though once a favored residence of the Darcys, had, from the + circumstances of a dreadful crime committed beneath its roof,—the + murder of a servant by his master,—been at first deserted, and + subsequently utterly neglected by the owners, so that at last it fell into + ruin and decay. The roof was partly fallen in, the windows shattered and + broken, the rich ceilings rotten and discolored with damp; it presented an + aspect of desolation, when Mr. Gleeson proposed to take it on lease. Nor + was the ruin only within doors, but without; the ornamental planting had + been torn up, or used as firewood; the gardens pillaged and overrun with + cattle; and the large trees—among which were some rare and + remarkable ones—were lopped and torn by the country people, who + trespassed and committed their depredations without fear or impediment. + Now, however, the whole aspect was changed; the same spirit of order that + exercised its happy influence in the management of distant properties had + arrested the progress of destruction here, and, happily, in sufficient + time to preserve some of the features which, in days past, had made this + the most beautiful seat in the county. + </p> + <p> + It was not without a feeling of astonishment that the Knight surveyed the + change. An interval of twelve years—for such had been the length of + time since he was last there—had worked magic in all around. Clumps + had sprung up into ornamental groups, saplings become graceful trees, + sickly evergreens that leaned their frail stems against a stake were now + richly leaved hollies or fragrant laurustinas; and the marshy pond, that + seemed stagnant with rank grass and duckweed, was a clear lake fed by a + silvery cascade which descended in quaint but graceful terraces from the + very end of the neat lawn. + </p> + <p> + In Darcy's eyes, the only fault was the excessive neatness perceptible in + everything; the very gravel seemed to shine with a peculiar lustre, the + alleys were swept clean, not even a withered leaf was suffered to + disfigure them, while the shrubs had an air of trim propriety, like the + self-satisfied air of a Sunday citizen. + </p> + <p> + The brilliant lustre of the heavy brass knocker, the white and spotless + flags of the stone hall, and the immaculate accuracy of the staid footman + who opened the door, were types of the prevailing tastes and habits of the + proprietor. A mere glance at the orderly arrangement of Mr. Gleeson's + study would have confirmed the impression of his strict notions and + regularity of discipline: not a book was out of place; the boxes, labelled + with high and titled names, were ranged with a drill-like precision upon + the shelves; the very letters that lay in the baskets beside the table + fell with an attention to staid decorum becoming the rigid habits of the + place. + </p> + <p> + The Knight had some minutes to bestow in contemplation of these objects + before Gleeson entered; he had only that morning arrived from a distant + journey, and was dressing when the Knight was announced. With a bland, + soft manner, and an air compounded of diffidence and self-importance, Mr. + Gleeson made his approaches. + </p> + <p> + “You have anticipated me, sir,” said he, placing a chair for the Knight; + “I had ordered the carriage to call upon you. May I beg you to excuse the + question, but my anxiety will not permit me to defer it: there is no + truth, or very little, I trust, in the paragraph I 've just read in + Carrick's paper—” + </p> + <p> + “About a party at piquet with Lord Drogheda?” interrupted Darcy. + </p> + <p> + “The same.” + </p> + <p> + “Every word of it correct, Gleeson,” said the Knight, who, notwithstanding + the occasion, could not control the temptation to laugh at the terrified + expression of the agent's face. + </p> + <p> + “But surely the sum was exaggerated; the paper says, the lands and demesne + of Ballydermot, with the house, furniture, plate, wine, equipage, garden + utensils—” + </p> + <p> + “I 'm not sure that we mentioned the watering-pots,” said Darcy, smiling; + “but the wine hogsheads are certainly included.” + </p> + <p> + “A rental of clear three thousand four hundred and seventy-eight pounds, + odd shillings, on a lease of lives renewable forever—pepercorn + fine!” exclaimed Gleeson, closing his eyes, and folding his hands upon his + breast, like a martyr resigning himself to the torture. + </p> + <p> + “So much for going on spades without the head of the suit!” observed the + Knight; “and yet any man might have made the same blunder; and then, + Heffernan, with his interruption,—altogether, Gleeson, the whole was + mismanaged sadly.” + </p> + <p> + “The greater, part of the land tithe free,” moaned Gleeson to himself; “it + was a grant from the Crown to your ancestor, Everard Darcy.” + </p> + <p> + “If it was the king gave it, Gleeson, it was the queen lost it.” + </p> + <p> + “The lands of Corrabeg, Dunragheedaghan, and Muscarooney, let at fifteen + shillings an acre, with a right to cut turf on the Derryslattery bog! not + to speak of Knocksadowd! lost, and no redemption!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, Gleeson, that's the point I'm coming to; there is a proviso in favor + of redemption, whenever your grief will permit you to hear it.” + </p> + <p> + Gleeson gave a brief cough, blew his nose with considerable energy, and + with an air of submissive sorrow apologized for yielding to his feelings. + “I have been so many years, sir, the guardian—if I may so say—of + that property that I cannot think of being severed from its interests + without deep, very deep, regret.” + </p> + <p> + “By Jove! Gleeson, so do I! you have no monopoly of the sorrow, believe + me. I acknowledge, readily, the full extent of my culpability. This + foolish bet came to pass at a dinner at Hutchison's,—it was the + crowning point of a bragging conversation about play,—and Drogheda, + it seems, booked it, though I totally forgot all about it. I'm certain he + never intended to push the wager on me, but when reminded of it, of course + I had nothing else for it but to express my readiness to meet him. I must + say he behaved nobly all through; and even when Heffer-nan's stupid + interruption had somewhat ruffled my nerves, he begged I would reconsider + the card—he saw I had made a mistake—very handsome that!—his + backers, I assure you, did not seem as much disposed to extend the + courtesy. I relieved their minds, however, I stood by my play, and—” + </p> + <p> + “And lost an estate of three thousand—” + </p> + <p> + “Quite correct; I'm sure no man knows the rental better. And now, let us + see how to keep it in the family.” + </p> + <p> + The stare of amazement with which Gleeson heard these words might have met + a proposition far more extravagant still, and he repeated the speech to + himself, as if weighing every syllable in a balance. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, Gleeson, that was exactly what I said; now that we are engaged in + liquidating, let us proceed with the good work. If I have given you + enlarged occasion for the exercise of your abilities, I 'm only acting + like Peter Henessy,—old Peter, that held the mill at Brown's Barn.” + </p> + <p> + The agent looked up with an expression in which all interest to learn the + precedent alluded to was lost in astonishment at the levity of a man who + could jest at such a moment. + </p> + <p> + “I see you never heard it, and, as the lawyers say, the rule will apply. I + 'll tell it to you. When Peter was dying, he sent for old Rush of the + Priory to give him absolution; he would not have the parish priest, for he + was a 'hard man,' as Peter said, with little compassion for human + weakness, never loved pork nor 'poteen,' but seemed to have a relish for + fasts and vigils. 'Rush will do,' said he to all the family applications + in favor of the other,—'I 'll have Father Rush;' and so he had, and + Rush came, and they were four hours at it, for Peter had a long score of + reminiscences to bring up, and it was not without considerable difficulty, + it is said, that Rush could apply the remedies of the Church to the + various infractions of the old sinner. At last, however, it was arranged, + and Peter lay back in bed very tired and fatigued; for, I assure you, + Gleeson, whatever you may think of it, confessing one's iniquities is + excessively wearying to the spirits. 'Is it all right, Father?' said he, + as the good priest counted over the roll of ragged bank-notes that were to + be devoted to the purchase of different masses and offerings. 'It will do + well,' said Rush; 'make your mind easy, your peace is made now.' 'And are + you sure it's quite safe?' said Peter; 'a pound more or less is nothing + now compared to—what you know,'—for Peter was polite, and + followed the poet's counsel. ''Tis safe and sure both,' said Rush; 'I have + the whole of the sins under my thumb now, and don't fret yourself.' 'Take + another thirty shillings then, Father,' said he, pushing the note over to + him, 'and let Whaley have the two barrels of seed oats—the smut is + in them, and they 're not worth sixpence; but, when we are at it, Father, + dear, let us do the thing complete: what signifies a trifle like that + among the rest?' Such was Peter's philosophy, Gleeson, and, if not very + laudable as he applied it, it would seem to suit our present emergency + remarkably well.” + </p> + <p> + Gleeson vouchsafed but a very sickly smile as the Knight finished, and, + taking up a bundle of papers from the table, proceeded to search for + something amongst them. + </p> + <p> + “This loss was most inopportune, sir—” + </p> + <p> + “No doubt of it, Gleeson; it were far better had I won my wager,” said the + Knight, half testily; but the agent, scarce noticing the interruption, + went on:— + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Lionel has drawn on me for seven hundred, and so late as Wednesday + last I was obliged to meet a bill of his amounting to twelve hundred and + eighty pounds. Thus, you will perceive that he has this year overdrawn his + allowance considerably. He seems to have been as unlucky as yourself, + sir.” + </p> + <p> + Soft and silky as the accents were, there was a tincture of sarcasm in the + way these words were uttered that did not escape Darcy's notice; but he + made no reply, and appeared to listen attentively as the other resumed:— + </p> + <p> + “Then, the expenses of the abbey have been enormous this year; you would + scarcely credit the outlay for the hunting establishment; and, as I learn + from Lady Eleanor that you rarely, if ever, take the field yourself—” + </p> + <p> + “Never mind that, Gleeson,” broke in the Knight, suddenly. “I 'll not sell + a horse or part with a dog amongst them. My income must well be able to + afford me the luxuries I have always been used to. I 'm not to be told + that, with a rental of eighteen thousand a year—” + </p> + <p> + “A rental, sir, I grant you,” said Gleeson, interrupting him; “you said + quite correctly,—the rental is even more than you stated; but + consider the charges on that rental,—the heavy sums raised on + mortgages, the debt incurred by building, the two contested elections, + your losses on the turf: these make sad inroads in the amount of your + income.” + </p> + <p> + “I tell you frankly, Gleeson,” said the Knight, starting up and pacing the + room with hasty steps, “I 've neither head nor patience for details of + this kind. I was induced to believe that my embarrassments, such as they + are, were in course of liquidation; that by raising two hundred and fifty + thousand pounds at four-and-a-half, or even five per cent, we should be + enabled to clear off the heavy debts, for which we are paying ten, twelve,—ay, + by Jove! I believe fifteen per cent.” + </p> + <p> + “Upon my word, I believe you do not exaggerate,” said Gleeson, in a + conciliating accent. “Hickman's bond, though nominally bearing six per + cent, is actually treble that sum. He holds 'The Grove' at the rent of a + cottier's tenure, and with the right of cutting timber in Clon-a-gauve + wood,—a right he is by no means chary of exercising.” + </p> + <p> + “That must be stopped, and at once,” broke in Darcy, with a heightened + color. “The old man is actually making a clearing of the whole mountain + side; the last time I was up there, Lionel and I counted two hundred and + eighteen trees marked for the hatchet. I ordered Finn not to permit one of + them to be touched; to go with a message from me to Hickman, saying that + there was a wide difference between cutting timber for farm purposes and + carrying on a trade in rivalry with the Baltic. Oaks of twenty, eighty, + ay, a hundred and fifty years' growth, the finest trees on the property, + were among those I counted.” + </p> + <p> + “And did he desist, sir?” asked Gleeson, with a half cunning look. + </p> + <p> + “Did he?—what a question you ask me! By Heavens! if he barked a + sapling in that wood after my warning, I 'd have sent the Derrahinchy boys + down to his place, and they would not have left a twig standing on his + cockney territory. Devilish lucky he 'd be if they stopped there, and left + him a house to shelter him.” + </p> + <p> + “He's a very unsafe enemy, sir,” observed Gleeson, timidly. + </p> + <p> + “By Jove! Gleeson, I think you are bent on driving me distracted this + morning. You have hit upon perhaps the only theme on which I cannot + control my irritability, and I beg of you, once and for all, to change + it.” + </p> + <p> + “I should never have alluded to Mr. Hickman, sir, but that I wished to + remark to you that he is in a position which requires all our + watchfulness; he has within the last three weeks bought up Drake's + mortgage, and also Belson's bond for seventeen thousand, and, I know from + a source of unquestionable accuracy, is at this moment negotiating for the + purchase of Martin Hamilton's bond, amounting to twenty-one thousand more; + so that, in fact, with the exception of that small debt to Batty and Rowe, + he will remain the sole creditor.” + </p> + <p> + “The sole creditor!” exclaimed Darcy, growing pale as marble,—“Peter + Hickman the sole creditor!” + </p> + <p> + “To be sure, this privilege he will not long enjoy,” said Gleeson, with a + degree of alacrity he had not assumed before; “when our arrangements are + perfected with the London house of Bicknell and Jervis, we can pay off + Hickman at once; he shall have a check for the whole amount the very same + day.” + </p> + <p> + “And how soon may we hope for this happy event, Gleeson?” cried the + Knight, recovering his wonted voice and manner. + </p> + <p> + “It will not be distant now, sir; one of the deeds is ready at this + moment, or at least will be to-morrow. On your signing it, we shall have + some very trifling delays, and the money can be forthcoming by the end of + the next week. The other will be perfected and compared by Wednesday + week.” + </p> + <p> + “So that within three weeks, or a month at furthest, Gieeson, we shall + have cut the cable with the old pirate?” + </p> + <p> + “Three weeks, I trust, will see all finished; that is, if this affair of + Ballydermot does not interfere.” + </p> + <p> + “It shall not do so,” cried the Knight, resolutely; “let it go. Drogheda + is a gentleman at least, and if our old acres are to fall into other + hands, let their possessor have blood in his veins, and he will not + tyrannize over the people; but Hickman—” + </p> + <p> + “Very right, sir, Hickman might foreclose on the 24th of this month.” + </p> + <p> + “Gieeson, no more of this; I 'm not equal to it,” said the Knight, + faintly; and he sat down with a wearied sigh, and covered his face with + his hands. The emotion, painful as it was, passed over soon, and the + Knight, with a voice calm and measured as before, said, “You will take + care, Gieeson, that my son's bills are provided for; London is an + expensive place, and particularly for a young fellow situated like Lionel; + you may venture on a gentle—mind, a very gentle—remonstrance + respecting his repeated calls for money; hint something about arrangements + just pending, which require a little more prudence than usual. Do it + cautiously, Gieeson; be very guarded. I remember when I was a young fellow + being driven to the Jews by an old agent of my grandfather's; he wrote me + a regular homily on thrift and economy, and to show I had benefited by the + lesson, I went straightway and raised a loan at something very like sixty + per cent.” + </p> + <p> + “You may rely upon my prudence, sir,” said Gieeson. “I think I can promise + that Mr. Lionel will not take offence at my freedom. May I say Tuesday to + wait on you with the deeds,—Tuesday morning?” + </p> + <p> + “Of course, whenever you appoint, I 'll be ready. I hoped to have left + town this week; but these are too important matters to bear postponement. + Tuesday, then, be it.” And with a friendly shake-hands, they parted,—Gleeson, + to the duties of his laborious life; the Knight, with a mind less at ease + than was his wont, but still bearing no trace of discomposure on his manly + and handsome countenance. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0012" id="link2HCH0012"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XII. A FIRST VISIT + </h2> + <p> + “Whenever Captain Forester is quite able to bear the fatigue, Sullivan,—mind + that you say 'quite able,'—it will give me much pleasure to receive + him.” + </p> + <p> + Such was the answer Lady Eleanor Darcy returned to a polite message from + the young officer, expressing his desire to visit Lady Eleanor and thank + her for the unwearied kindness she had bestowed on him during his illness. + </p> + <p> + Lady Eleanor and her daughter were seated in the same chamber in which + they have already been introduced to the reader. It was towards the close + of a dark and gloomy day, the air heavy and overcast towards the land, + while, over the sea, masses of black, misshapen cloud were drifted along + hurriedly, the presage of a coming storm. The pine wood blazed brightly on + the wide hearth, and threw its mellow lustre over the antique carvings and + the porcelain ornaments of the chamber, contrasting the glow of in-door + comfort with the bleak and cheerless look of all without, where the + crashing noise of breaking branches mingled with the yet sadder sound of + the swollen torrent from the mountain. + </p> + <p> + It may be remarked that persons who have lived much on the seaside, and + near a coast abounding in difficulties or dangers, are far more + susceptible of the influences of weather than those who pass their lives + inland. Storm and shipwreck become, in a measure, inseparably associated. + The loud beating of the waves upon the rocky shore, the deafening thunder + of the swollen breakers, speak with a voice to <i>their</i> hearts, full + of most meaning terror. The moaning accents of the spent wind, and the + wailing cry of the petrel, awake thoughts of those who journey over “the + great waters,” amid perils more dreadful than all of man's devising. + </p> + <p> + Partly from these causes, partly from influences of a different kind, both + mother and daughter felt unusually sad and depressed, and had sat for a + long interval without speaking, when Forester's message was delivered, + requesting leave to pay his personal respects. + </p> + <p> + Had the visit been one of mere ceremony, Lady Eleanor would have declined + it at once; her thoughts were wandering far away, engrossed by topics of + dear and painful interest, and she would not have constrained herself to + change their current and direction for an ordinary matter of conventional + intercourse. But this was a different case; it was her son Lionel's + friend, his chosen companion among his brother officers, the guest, too, + who, wounded and almost dying beneath her roof, had been a charge of + intense anxiety to her for weeks past. + </p> + <p> + “There is something strange, Helen, is there not, in this notion of + acquaintanceship with one we have never seen; but now, after weeks of + watching and inquiry, after nights of anxiety and days of care, I feel as + if I ought to be very intimate with this same friend of Lionel's.” + </p> + <p> + “It is more for that very reason, Mamma, and simply because he is Lionel's + friend.” + </p> + <p> + “No, my dear child, not so; it is the tie that binds us to all for whom we + have felt interested, and in whose sorrows we have taken a share. Lionel + has doubtless many friends in his regiment, and yet it is very unlikely + any of them would cause me even a momentary impatience to see and know + what they are like.” + </p> + <p> + “And do you confess to such in the present case?” said Helen, smiling. + </p> + <p> + “I own it, I have a strange feeling of half curiosity, and should be + disappointed if the real Captain Forester does not come up to the standard + of the ideal one.” + </p> + <p> + “Captain Forester, my Lady,” said Sullivan, as he threw open the door of + the apartment, and, with a step which all his efforts could not render + firm, and a frame greatly reduced by suffering, he entered. So little was + he prepared for the appearance of the ladies who now stood to receive him, + that, despite his habitual tact, a slight expression of surprise marked + his features, and a heightened color dyed his cheek as he saluted them in + turn. + </p> + <p> + With an air which perfectly blended kindliness and grace, Lady Eleanor + held out her hand, and said, “My daughter, Captain Forester;” and then, + pointing to a chair beside her own, begged of him to be seated. The + unaccustomed exertion, the feeling of surprise, and the nervous + irritability of convalescence, all conspired to make Forester ill at ease, + and it was with a low, faint sigh he sank into the chair. + </p> + <p> + “I had hoped, madam,” said he, in a weak and tremulous accent,—“I + had hoped to be able to speak my gratitude to you,—to express at + least some portion of what I feel for kindness to which I owe my life; but + the greatness of the obligation would seem too much for such strength as + mine. I must leave it to my mother to say how deeply your kindness has + affected us.” + </p> + <p> + The accents in which these few words were uttered, particularly that which + marked the mention of his mother, seemed to strike a chord in Lady + Eleanor's heart, and her hand trembled as she took from Forester a sealed + letter which he withdrew from another. + </p> + <p> + “Julia Wallincourt,” said Lady Eleanor, unconsciously reading half aloud + the signature on the envelope of the letter. + </p> + <p> + “My mother, madam,” said Forester, bowing. + </p> + <p> + “The Countess of Wallincourt!” exclaimed Lady Eleanor, with a heightened + color and a look of excited and even anxious import. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, madam, the widowed Countess of the Earl of Wallincourt, late + Ambassador at Madrid; am I to have the happiness of hearing that my mother + is known to you?” + </p> + <p> + “I had, sir, the pleasure,—the honor of meeting Lady Julia + D'Esterre; to have enjoyed that pleasure, even once, is quite enough never + to forget it.” Then, turning to her daughter, she added: “You have often + heard me speak of Lady Julia's beauty, Helen; she was certainly the most + lovely person I ever saw, but the charm of her appearance was even + inferior to the fascination of her manner.” + </p> + <p> + “She retains it all, madam,” cried Forester, as his eyes sparkled with + enthusiastic delight; “she has lost nothing of that power of captivating; + and as for beauty, I confess I know nothing higher in that quality than + what conveys elevation of sentiment, with purity and tenderness of heart: + this she possesses still.” + </p> + <p> + “And your elder brother, Captain Forester?” inquired Lady Eleanor, with a + manner intended to express interest, but in reality meant to direct the + conversation into another channel. + </p> + <p> + “He is in Spain still, madam; he was Secretary of the Embassy when my + father died, and replaced him in the mission.” + </p> + <p> + There was a pause, a long and chilling silence, after these words, that + each party felt embarrassing, and yet were unable to break; at last + Forester, turning towards Helen, asked “when she had heard from her + brother?” + </p> + <p> + “Not for some days past,” replied she; “but Lionel is such an irregular + correspondent, we think nothing of his long intervals of silence. You have + heard of his promotion, perhaps?” + </p> + <p> + “No; pray let me learn the good news.” + </p> + <p> + “He has got his company. Some very unexpected—I might say, from + Lionel's account, some very inexplicable—piece of good fortune has + aided his advancement, and he now writes himself, greatly to his own + delight, it would appear, Captain Darcy.” + </p> + <p> + “His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales,” said Lady Eleanor, with a look + of pride, “has been pleased to notice my son, and has appointed him an + extra aide-de-camp.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed!” cried Forester; “I am rejoiced at it, with all my heart. I + always thought, if the Prince were to know him, he 'd be charmed with his + agreeability. Lionel has the very qualities that win their way at Carlton + House: buoyant spirit, courtly address, tact equal to any emergency,—all + these are his; and the Prince likes to see handsome fellows about his + Court. I am overjoyed at this piece of intelligence.” + </p> + <p> + There was a hearty frankness with which he spoke this that captivated both + mother and daughter. + </p> + <p> + There are few more winning traits of human nature than the unaffected, + heartfelt admiration of one young man for the qualities and endowments of + another, and never are they more likely to meet appreciation than when + exhibited in presence of the mother of the lauded one. And thus the simple + expression of Forester's delight at his friend's advancement went further + to exalt himself in the good graces of Lady Eleanor than the display of + any powers of pleasing, however ingeniously or artfully exercised. + </p> + <p> + As through the openings of a dense wood we come unexpectedly upon a view + of a wide tract of country, unfolding features of landscape unthought of + and unlooked for, so occasionally doth it happen that, in conversation, a + chance allusion, a mere word, will develop sources of interest buried up + to that very moment, and display themes of mutual enjoyment which were + unknown before. This was now the case. Lionel's name, which evoked the + mother's pride and the sister's affection, called also into play the + generous warmth of Forester's attachment to him. + </p> + <p> + Thus pleasantly glided on the hours, and none remarked how time was + passing, or even heeded the howling storm that raged without, while + anecdotes and traits of Lionel were recorded, and comments passed upon his + character and temper such as a friend might utter and a mother love to + hear. + </p> + <p> + At last Forester rose. More than once during the interview a consciousness + crossed his mind that he was outstaying the ordinary limits of a visit; + but at each moment some observation of Lady Eleanor or her daughter, or + some newly remembered incident in Lionel's career, would occur, and delay + his departure. At last he stood up, and, warned by the thickening darkness + of how time had sped, was endeavoring to mutter some words of apology, + when Lady Eleanor interrupted him with,— + </p> + <p> + “Pray do not let us suppose you felt the hours too long, Captain Forester; + the theme you selected will always make my daughter and myself insensible + to the lapse of time. If I did not fear we should be trespassing on both + your kindness and health together, I should venture to request you would + dine with us.” + </p> + <p> + Forester's sparkling eyes and flushed cheek replied to the invitation + before he had words to say how gladly he accepted it. + </p> + <p> + “I feel more reconciled to making this request, sir,” said Lady Eleanor, + “because in your present state of weakness you cannot enjoy the society of + a pleasanter party, and it is a fortunate thing that you can combine a + prudent action with a kind one.” + </p> + <p> + Forester appreciated the flattery of the remark, and, with a broken + acknowledgment of its import, moved towards the door. + </p> + <p> + “No, no,” said Lady Eleanor, “pray don't think of dressing; you have all + the privilege of an invalid, and a—friend also.” + </p> + <p> + The pause which preceded the word brought a slight blush into her cheek, + but when it was uttered, she seemed to have resumed her self-possession. + </p> + <p> + “We shall leave you now with the newspapers, which I suppose you are + longing to look at, and join you at the dinner-table.” And as she spoke, + she took her daughter's arm and passed into an adjoining room, leaving + Forester in one of those pleasant reveries which so often break in upon + the hours of returning health, and compensate for all the sufferings of a + sick-bed. + </p> + <p> + “How strange and how unceasing are the anomalies of Irish life!” thought + he, as he sat alone, ruminating on the past. “Splendor, poverty, elevation + of sentiment, savage ferocity, delicacy the most refined, barbarism the + most revolting, pass before the mind's eye in the quick succession of the + objects in a magic lantern. Here, in these few weeks, what characters and + incidents have been revealed to me! and how invariably have I found myself + wrong in every effort to decipher them! Nor are the indications of mind + and temper in themselves so very singular, as the fact of meeting them + under circumstances and in situations so unlikely. For instance, who would + have expected to see a Lady Eleanor Darcy here, in this wild region, with + all the polished grace and dignity of manner the best circles alone + possess; and her daughter, haughtier, perhaps, than the mother, more + reserved, more timid it may be, and yet with all the elegance of a Court + in every gesture and every movement. Lionel told me she was handsome,—he + might have said downright beautiful. Where were these, fascinations + nurtured and cultivated? Is it here, on the margin of this lonely bay, + amid scenes of reckless dissipation?” + </p> + <p> + Of this kind were his musings; nor, amid them all, did one thought obtrude + of the cause which threw him first into such companionship, nor of that + mission, to discharge which was the end and object of his coming. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0013" id="link2HCH0013"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIII. A TREATY REJECTED + </h2> + <p> + Forester's recovery was slow, at least so his friends in the capital + thought it, for to each letter requiring to know when he might be expected + back again, the one reply forever was returned, “As soon as he felt able + to leave Gwynne Abbey.” Nor was the answer, perhaps, injudiciously + couched. + </p> + <p> + From the evening of his first introduction to Lady Eleanor and her + daughter, his visits were frequent, sometimes occupying the entire + morning, and always prolonged far into the night. Never did an intimacy + make more rapid progress; so many tastes and so many topics were in common + to all, for while the ladies had profited by reading and study in matters + which he had little cultivated, yet the groundwork of an early good + education enabled him to join in discussions, and take part in + conversation which both interested at the time, and suggested improvement + afterward; and if Lady Eleanor knew less of the late events which formed + the staple of London small-talk, she was well informed on the characters + and passages of the early portion of the reign, which gave all the charm + of a history to reminiscences purely personal. + </p> + <p> + With the wits and distinguished men of that day she had lived in great + intimacy, and felt a pride in contrasting the displays of intellectual + wealth, so common then, with the flatter and more prosaic habita since + introduced into society. “Eccentricities and absurdities,” she would say, + “have replaced in the world the more brilliant exhibitions of cultivated + and gifted minds, and I must confess to preferring the social qualities of + Horace Walpole to the exaggerations of Bagenal Daly, or the ludicrous + caprices of Buck Whaley.” + </p> + <p> + “I think Mr. Daly charming, for my part,” said Helen, laughing. “I'm + certain that he is a miracle of truth, as he is of adventure; if + everything he relates is not strictly accurate and matter of fact, it is + because the real is always inferior to the ideal. The things <i>ought</i> + to have happened as he states.” + </p> + <p> + “It is, at least, <i>ben trovato</i>,” broke in Forester; “yet I go + further, and place perfect confidence in his narratives, and truly I have + heard some strange ones in our morning rides together.” + </p> + <p> + “I suspected as much,” said Lady Eleanor, “a new listener is such a boon + to him; so, then, you have heard how he carried away the Infanta of Spain, + compelled the Elector of Saxony to take off his boots, made the Doge of + Venice drunk, and instructed the Pasha of Trebizond in the mysteries of an + Irish jig.” + </p> + <p> + “Not a word of these have I heard as yet.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed! then what, in all mercy, has he been talking of,—India, + China, or North America, perhaps?” + </p> + <p> + “Still less; he has never wandered from Ireland and Irish life, and I must + say, as far as adventure and incident are concerned, it would have been + quite unnecessary for him to have strayed beyond it.” + </p> + <p> + “You are perfectly right there,” said Lady Eleanor, with some seriousness + in the tone; “our home anomalies may shame all foreign wonders: he himself + could scarcely find his parallel in any land.” + </p> + <p> + “He has a sincere affection for Lionel, Mamma,” said Helen, in an accent + of deprecating meaning. + </p> + <p> + “And that very same regard gave the bias to Lionel's taste for every + species of absurdity! Believe me, Helen, Irish blood is too stimulating an + ingredient to enter into a family oftener than once in four generations. + Mr. Daly's has been unadulterated for centuries, and the consequence is, + that, although neither deficient in strong sense or quick perception, he + acts always on the impulse that precedes judgment, and both his generosity + and his injustice outrun the mark.” + </p> + <p> + “I love that same rash temperament,” said Helen, flushing as she spoke; + “it is a fine thing to see so much of warm and generous nature survive all + that he must have seen of the littleness of mankind.” + </p> + <p> + “There! Captain Forester, there! Have I not reason on my side? You thought + me very unjust towards poor Mr. Daly,—I know you did; but it demands + all my watchfulness to prevent him being equally the model for my + daughter, as he is for my son's imitation.” + </p> + <p> + “There are traits in his character any might well be proud to imitate,” + said Helen, warmly; “his life has been a series of generous, single-minded + actions; and,” added she, archly “if Mamma thinks it prudent and safe to + warn her children against some of Mr. Daly's eccentricities, no one is + more ready to acknowledge his real worth than she is.” + </p> + <p> + “Helen is right,” said Lady Eleanor; “if we could always be certain that + Mr. Daly's imitators would copy the truly great features of his character, + we might forgive them falling into his weaknesses; and now, can any one + tell me why we have not seen him for some days past? He is in the Abbey?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, we rode out together yesterday morning to look at the wreck near the + Sound of Achill; strange enough, I only learned from a chance remark of + one of the sailors that Daly had been in the boat, the night before, that + took the people off the wreck.” + </p> + <p> + “So like him!” exclaimed Helen, with enthusiasm. + </p> + <p> + “He is angry with me, I know he is,” said Lady Eleanor, musingly. “I asked + his advice respecting the answer I should send to a certain letter, and + then rejected the counsel. He would have forgiven me had I run counter to + his opinions without asking; but when I called him into consultation, the + offence became a grave one.” + </p> + <p> + “I declare, Mamma, I side with him; his arguments were clear, strong, and + unanswerable, and the best proof of it is, you have never had the courage + to follow your own determination since you listened to him.” + </p> + <p> + “I have a great mind to choose an umpire between us. What say you, Captain + Forester, will you hear the case? Helen shall take Mr. Daly's side; I will + make my own statement.” + </p> + <p> + “It's a novel idea,” said Helen, laughing, “that the umpire should be + selected by one of the litigating parties.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you doubt my impartiality, Miss Darcy?” + </p> + <p> + “If I am to accept you as a judge, I 'll not prejudice the Court against + myself, by avowing my opinions of it,” said she, archly. + </p> + <p> + “When I spoke of your arbitration, Captain Forester,” said Lady Eleanor, + “I really meant fairly, for upon all the topics we have discussed + together, politics, or anything bordering on political opinions, have + never come uppermost; and, up to this moment, I have not the slightest + notion what are your political leanings, Whig or Tory.” + </p> + <p> + “So the point in dispute is a political one?” asked Forester, cautiously. + </p> + <p> + “Not exactly,” interposed Helen; “the policy of a certain reply to a + certain demand is the question at issue; but the advice of any party in + the matter might be tinged by his party leanings, if he have any.” + </p> + <p> + “If I judge Captain Forester aright, he has troubled his head very little + about party squabbles,” said Lady Eleanor; “and in any case, he can + scarcely take a deep interest in a question which is almost peculiarly + Irish.” + </p> + <p> + Forester bowed,—partly in pretended acquiescence of this speech, + partly to conceal a deep flush that mounted suddenly to his cheek; for he + felt by no means pleased at a remark that might be held to reflect on his + political knowledge. + </p> + <p> + “Be thou the judge, then,” said Lady Eleanor. “And, first of all, read + that letter.” And she took from her work-box her cousin Lord Netherby's + letter, and handed it to Forester. + </p> + <p> + “I reserve my right to dispute that document being evidence,” said Helen, + laughing; “nor is there any proof of the handwriting being Lord + Netherby's. Mamma herself acknowledges she has not heard from him for + nearly twenty years.” + </p> + <p> + This cunning speech, meant to intimate the precise relation of the two + parties, was understood at once by Forester, who could with difficulty + control a smile, although Lady Eleanor looked far from pleased. + </p> + <p> + There was now a pause, while Forester read over the long letter with due + attention, somewhat puzzled to conceive to what particular portion of it + the matter in dispute referred. + </p> + <p> + “You have not read the postscript,” said Helen, as she saw him folding the + letter, without remarking the few concluding lines. + </p> + <p> + Forester twice read over the passage alluded to, and at once whatever had + been mysterious or difficult was revealed before him. Lord Netherby's wily + temptation was made manifest, not the less palpably, perhaps, because the + reader was himself involved in the very same scheme. + </p> + <p> + “You have now seen my cousin's letter,” said Lady Eleanor, “and the whole + question is whether the reply should be limited to a suitable + acknowledgment of its kind expressions, and a grateful sense of the + Prince's condescension, or should convey—” + </p> + <p> + “Mamma means,” interrupted Helen, laughingly,—“Mamma means, that we + might also avow our sincere gratitude for the rich temptation offered in + requital of my father's vote on the 'nion.'” + </p> + <p> + “No minister would dare to make such a proposition to the Knight of + Gwynne,” said Lady Eleanor, haughtily. + </p> + <p> + “Ministers are very enterprising nowadays, Mamma,” rejoined Helen; “I have + never heard any one speak of Mr. Pitt's cowardice, and Lord Castlereagh + has had courage to invite old Mr. Hickman to dinner!” + </p> + <p> + Forester would gladly have acknowledged his relationship to the Secretary, + but the moment seemed unpropitious, and the avowal would have had the + semblance of a rebuke; so he covered his confusion by a laugh, and said + nothing. + </p> + <p> + “We can scarcely contemn the hardihood of a Government that has made + Crofton a bishop, and Hawes a general,” said Helen, with a flashing eye + and a lip curled in superciliousness. “Nothing short of a profound + reliance on the piety of the Church and the bravery of the Army would + support such a policy as that!” + </p> + <p> + Lady Eleanor seemed provoked at the hardy tone of Helen's speech; but the + mother's look was proud, as she gazed on the brilliant expression of her + daughter's beauty, now heightened by the excitement of the moment. + </p> + <p> + “Is it not possible, Miss Darcy,” said Forester, in a voice at once timid + and insinuating,—“is it not possible that the measure contemplated + by the Government may have results so beneficial as to more than + compensate for evils like these?” + </p> + <p> + “A Jesuit, or a Tory, or both,” cried Helen. “Mamma, you have chosen your + umpire most judiciously; his is exactly the impartiality needed.” + </p> + <p> + “Nay, but hear me out,” cried the young officer, whose cheek was crimsoned + with shame. “If the measure be a good one,—well, let me beg the + question, if it be a good one—and yet, the time for propounding it + is either inopportune or unfortunate, and, consequently, the support it + might claim on its own merits be withheld either from prejudice, party + connection, or any similar cause,—you would not call a ministry + culpable who should anticipate the happy working of a judicious Act, by + securing the assistance of those whose convictions are easily won over, in + preference to the slower process of convincing the men of more upright and + honest intentions.” + </p> + <p> + “You have begged so much in the commencement, and assumed so much in the + conclusion, sir, that I am at a loss to which end of your speech to + address my answer; but I will say this much: it is but sorry evidence of a + measure's goodness when it can only meet with the approval of the venal. I + don't prize the beauty so highly that is only recognized by the blind + man.” + </p> + <p> + “Distorted vision, Miss Darcy, may lead to impressions more erroneous than + even blindness.” + </p> + <p> + “I may have the infirmity you speak of,” said she, quickly, “but assuredly + I'll not wear Government spectacles to correct it.” + </p> + <p> + If Forester was surprised at finding a young lady so deeply interested in + a political question, he was still more so on hearing the tone of + determination she spoke in, and would gladly, had he known how, have given + the conversation a less serious turn. + </p> + <p> + “We have been all the time forgetting the real question at issue,” said + Lady Eleanor. “I 'm sure I never intended to listen to a discussion on the + merits or demerits of the Union, on which you both grow so eloquent; will + you then kindly return to whence we started, and advise me as to the reply + to this letter.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="linkimage-0005" id="linkimage-0005"> + <!-- IMG --></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%;"> + <img src="images/152.jpg" width="100%" alt="152 " /> + </div> + <p> + “I do not perceive any remarkable difficulty, madam,” said Forester, + addressing himself exclusively to Lady Eleanor. “The Knight of Gwynne has + doubtless strong opinions on this question; they are either in favor of, + or adverse to, the Government views: if the former, your reply is easy and + most satisfactory; if the latter, perhaps he would condescend to explain + the nature of his objections, to state whether it be to anything in the + detail of the measure he is adverse to, or to the principle of the Bill + itself. A declaration like this will open a door to negotiation, without + the slightest imputation on either side. A minister may well afford to + offer his reasons for any line of policy to one as eminent in station and + ability as the Knight of Gwynne, and I trust I am not indiscreet in + assuming that the Knight would not be derogating from that station in + listening to, and canvassing, such explanations.” + </p> + <p> + “Lord Castlereagh, 'aut—-,'” said Helen, starting up from her seat, + and making a low courtesy before Forester, who, feeling himself in a + measure detected, blushed till his face became scarlet. + </p> + <p> + “My dear Helen, at this rate we shall never—But what is this?—who + have we here?” + </p> + <p> + This sudden exclamation was caused by the appearance of a small + four-wheeled carriage drawn up at the gate of the flower-garden, from + which old Hickman's voice could now be heard, inquiring if Lady Eleanor + were at home. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, Sullivan,” said she, with a sigh, “and order luncheon.” Then, as the + servant left the room, she added, “I am always better pleased when the + visits of that family are paid by the old gentleman, whom I prefer to the + son or the grandson. They are better performers, I admit, but he is an + actor of nature's own making.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you know him, Captain Forester?” asked Helen. + </p> + <p> + But, before he could reply, the door was opened, and Sullivan announced, + by his ancient title, “Doctor Hickman.” + </p> + <p> + Strange and grotesque as in every respect he looked, the venerable + character of old age secured him a respectful, almost a cordial, + reception; and as Lady Eleanor advanced to him, there was that urbanity + and courtesy in her manner which are so nearly allied to the expression of + actual esteem. It was true, there was little in the old man's nature to + elicit such feelings towards him; he was a grasping miser, covetousness + and money-getting filled up his heart, and every avenue leading to it. The + passion for gain had alone given the interest to his life, and developed + into activity any intelligence he possessed. While his son valued wealth + as the only stepping-stone to a position of eminence and rank, old Hickman + loved riches for their own sake. The bank was, in his estimation, the + fountain of all honor, and a strong credit there better than all the + reputation the world could confer. These were harsh traits. But then he + was old; long years of infirmity were bringing him each hour closer to the + time when the passion of his existence must be abandoned; and a feeling of + pity was excited at the sight of that withered, careworn face, to which + the insensate cravings of avarice lent an unnatural look of shrewdness and + intelligence. + </p> + <p> + “What a cold morning for your drive, Mr. Hickman,” said Lady Eleanor, + kindly. “Captain Forester, may I ask you to stir the fire? Mr. Hickman—Captain + Forester.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah, Miss Helen, beautiful as ever!” exclaimed the old man, as, with a + look of real admiration, he gazed on Miss Darcy. “I don't know how it is, + Lady Eleanor, but the young ladies never dressed so becomingly formerly. + Captain Forester, your humble servant; I'm glad to see you about again,—indeed, + I did n't think it very likely once that you'd ever leave the library on + your own feet; Mac-Donough 's a dead shot they tell me—ay, ay!” + </p> + <p> + “I hope your friends at 'The Grove' are well, sir?” said Lady Eleanor, + desirous of interrupting a topic she saw to be particularly distressing to + Forester. + </p> + <p> + “No, indeed, my Lady; my son Bob—Mr. Hickman O'Reilly, I mean—God + forgive me, I'm sure they take trouble enough to teach me that name—he's + got a kind of a water-brash, what we call a pyrosis. I tell him it's the + French dishes he eats for dinner, things he never was brought op to, + concoctions of lemon juice, and cloves, and saffron, and garlic, in meat + roasted—no, but stewed into chips.” + </p> + <p> + “You prefer our national cookery, Mr. Hickman?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, my Lady, with the gravy in it; the crag-end,—if your Ladyship + knows what's the crag-end of a—” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed, Mr. Hickman,” said Lady Eleanor, smiling, “I'm deplorably + ignorant about everything that concerns the household. Helen affects to be + very deep in these matters; but I suspect it is only a superficial + knowledge, got up to amuse the Knight.” + </p> + <p> + “I beg, Mamma, you will not infer any such reproach on my skill in <i>menage</i>. + Papa called my <i>omelette à la curé</i> perfect.” + </p> + <p> + “I should like to hear Mr. Hickman's judgment on it,” said Lady Eleanor, + with a sly smile. + </p> + <p> + “If it's a plain joint, my Lady, boiled or roasted, without spices or + devilment in it, but just the way Providence intended—” + </p> + <p> + “May I ask, sir, how you suppose Providence intended to recommend any + particular kind of cookery?” said Helen, seriously. + </p> + <p> + “Whatever is most natural, most simple, the easiest to do,” stammered out + Hickman, not over pleased at being asked for an explanation. + </p> + <p> + “Then the Cossack ranks first in the art,” exclaimed Forester; “for + nothing can be more simple or easier than to take a slice of a live ox and + hang it up in the sun for ten or fifteen minutes.” + </p> + <p> + “Them's barbarians,” said Hickman, with an emphasis that made the + listeners find it no easy task to keep down a laugh. + </p> + <p> + “Luncheon, my Lady,” said old Tate Sullivan, as with a reverential bow he + opened the folding-doors into a small breakfast parlor, where an + exquisitely served table was laid out. + </p> + <p> + “Practice before precept, Mr. Hickman,” said Lady Eleanor; “will you join + us at luncheon, where I hope you may find something to your liking?” + </p> + <p> + As the old man seated himself at the table, his eye ranged over the + cabinet pictures that covered the walls, the richly chased silver on the + table, and the massive wine-coolers that stood on the sideboard, with an + eye whose brilliancy betokened far more the covetous taste of the miser + than the pleased expression of mere connoisseurship; nor could he recall + himself from their admiration to hear Forester's twice-repeated question + as to what he would eat. + </p> + <p> + “'T is elegant fine plate, no doubt of it,” muttered he, below his breath; + “and the pictures may be worth as much more—ay!” + </p> + <p> + The last monosyllable was the only part of his speech audible, and being + interpreted by Forester as a reply to his request, he at once helped the + old gentleman to a very highly seasoned French dish before him. + </p> + <p> + “Eh! what's this?” said Hickman, as he surveyed his plate with unfeigned + astonishment; “if I did n't see it laid down on your Ladyship's table, I + 'd swear it was a bit of Gal way marble.” + </p> + <p> + “It's a <i>gélatine truffée</i>, Mr. Hickman,” said Forester, who was well + aware of its merits. + </p> + <p> + “Be it so, in the name of God!” said Hickman, with resignation, as though + to say that any one who could eat it might take the trouble to learn the + name. “Ay, my Lady, that 's what I like, a slice of Kerry beef,—a + beast made for man's eating.” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Hickman's pony is more of an epicure than his master,” said Forester, + as he arose from his chair and moved towards the glass-door that opened on + the garden; “he has just eaten the top of your lemon-tree.” + </p> + <p> + “And by way of dessert, he is now cropping my japonica,” cried Helen, as + she sprang from the room to rescue her favorite plant. Forester followed + her, and Lady Eleanor was left alone with the doctor. + </p> + <p> + “Now, my Lady, that I have the opportunity,—and sure it was luck + gave it to me,—would you give me the favor of a little private + conversation?” + </p> + <p> + “If the matter be on business, Mr. Hickman, I must frankly own I should + prefer your addressing yourself to the Knight; he will be home early next + week.” + </p> + <p> + “It is—and it is not, my Lady—but, there! they're coming back, + now, and it is too late;” and so he heaved a heavy sigh, and lay back in + his chair, as though worn out and disappointed. + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, in the library, Mr. Hickman,” said Lady Eleanor, + compassionately, “when you've eaten some luncheon.” + </p> + <p> + “No more, my Lady; 'tis elegant fine beef as ever I tasted, and the gravy + in it, but I'm not hungry now.” + </p> + <p> + Lady Eleanor, without a guess as to what might form the subject of his + communication, perceived that he was agitated and anxious; and so, + requesting Forester and her daughter to continue their luncheon, she + added: “And I have something to tell Mr. Hickman, if he will give five + minutes of his company in the next room.” + </p> + <p> + Taking a chair near the fire, Lady Eleanor motioned to the doctor to be + seated; but the old man was so engaged in admiring the room and its + furniture that he seemed insensible to all else. As his eye wandered over + the many objects of taste and luxury on every side, his lips muttered + unceasingly, but the sound was inarticulate. + </p> + <p> + “I cannot pledge myself that we shall remain long uninterrupted, Mr. + Hickman,” said Lady Eleanor, “so pray lose no time in the communication + you have to make.” + </p> + <p> + “I humbly ask pardon, my Lady,” said the old man, in a voice of deep + humility; “I'm old and feeble now, and my senses none of the clearest,—but + sure it's time for them to be worn out; ninety-one I 'll be, if I live to + Lady-day.” It was his habit to exaggerate his age; besides, there was a + tremulous pathos in his accents to which Lady Eleanor was far from feeling + insensible, and she awaited in silence what was to follow. + </p> + <p> + “Well, well,” sighed the old man, “if I succeed in this, the last act of + my long life, I 'm well content to go whenever the Lord pleases.” And so + saying, he took from his coat-pocket the ominous-looking old leather case + to which we have already alluded, and searched for some time amid its + contents. “Ay! here it is—that is it—it is only a memorandum, + my Lady, but it will show what I mean.” And he handed the paper to Lady + Eleanor. + </p> + <p> + It was some time before she had arranged her spectacles and adjusted + herself to peruse the document; but before she had concluded, her hand + trembled violently, and all color forsook her cheek. Meanwhile; the doctor + sat with his filmy eyes directed towards her, as if watching the working + of his spell; and when the paper fell from her fingers, he uttered a low + “Ay,” as though to say his success was certain. + </p> + <p> + “Two hundred thousand pounds!” exclaimed she, with a shudder; “this cannot + be true.” + </p> + <p> + “It is all true, my Lady, and so is this too;” and he took from his hat a + newspaper and presented it to her. + </p> + <p> + “The Ballydermot property! The whole estate lost at cards! This is a + calumny, sir,—the libellous impertinence of a newspaper + paragraphist. I'll not believe it.” + </p> + <p> + “'T 's true, notwithstanding, my Lady. Harvey Dawson was there himself, + and saw it all; and as for the other, the deeds and mortgages are at this + moment in the hands of my son's solicitor.” + </p> + <p> + “And this may be foreclosed—” + </p> + <p> + “On the 24th, at noon, my Lady,” continued Hickman, as he folded the + memorandum and replaced it in his pocket-book. + </p> + <p> + “Well, sir,” said she, as, with a great effort to master her emotion, she + addressed him in a steady and even commanding voice, “the next thing is to + learn what are your intentions respecting this debt? You have not + purchased all these various liabilities of my husband's without some + definite object. Speak it out—what is it? Has Mr. Hickman O'Reilly's + ambition increased so rapidly that he desires to date his letters from + Gwynne Abbey?” + </p> + <p> + “The Saints forbid it, my Lady,” said the old man, with a pious horror. “I + 'd never come here this day on such an errand as that. If it was not to + propose what was agreeable, you 'd not see me here—” + </p> + <p> + “Well, sir, what is the proposition? Let me hear it at once, for my + patience never bears much dallying with.” + </p> + <p> + “I am coming to it, my Lady,” muttered Hickman, who already felt really + ashamed at the deep emotion his news evoked. “There are two ways of doing + it—” A gesture of impatience from Lady Eleanor stopped him, but, + after a brief pause, he resumed: “Bear with me, my Lady. Old age and + infirmity are always prolix; but I'll do my best.” + </p> + <p> + It would be as unfair a trial of the reader's endurance as it proved to + Lady Eleanor's, were we to relate the slow steps by which Mr. Hickman + announced his plan, the substance of which, divested of all his own + circumlocution and occasional interruptions, was simply this: a promise + had been made by Lord Castlereagh to Hickman O'Reilly that if, through his + influence, exercised by means of moneyed arrangements or otherwise, the + Knight of Gwynne would vote with the Government on the “Union,” he should + be elevated to the Peerage, an object which, however inconsiderable in the + old man's esteem, both his son and grandson had set their hearts upon. For + this service they, in requital, would extend the loan to another period of + seven years, stipulating only for some trifling advantages regarding the + right of cutting timber, some coast fisheries, and other matters to be + mentioned afterwards,—points which, although evidently of minor + importance, were recapitulated by the old man with a circumstantial + minuteness. + </p> + <p> + It was only by a powerful effort that Lady Eleanor could control her + rising indignation at this proposal, while the very thought of Hickman + O'Reilly as a Peer, and member of that proud “Order” of which her own + haughty family formed a part, was an insult almost beyond endurance. + </p> + <p> + “Go on, sir,” said she, with a forced composure which deceived old Hickman + completely, and made him suppose that his negotiation was proceeding + favorably. + </p> + <p> + “I 'm sure, my Lady, it 's little satisfaction all this grandeur would + give me. I 'd rather be twenty years younger, and in the back parlor of my + old shop at Loughrea than the first peer in the kingdom.” + </p> + <p> + “Ambition is not your failing, then, sir,” said she, with a glance which, + to one more quick-sighted, would have conveyed the full measure of her + scorn. + </p> + <p> + “That it is n't, my Lady; but they insist upon it.” + </p> + <p> + “And is the Peerage to be enriched by the enrolment of your name among its + members? I thought, sir, it was your son.” + </p> + <p> + “Bob—Mr. Hickman, I mean—suggests that I should be the first + lord in the family, my Lady, because then Beecham's title won't seem so + new when it comes to him. 'T is the only use they can make of me now—ay!” + and the word was accented with a venomous sharpness that told the secret + anger he had himself awakened by his remark. + </p> + <p> + “The Knight of Gwynne,” said Lady Eleanor, proudly, “has often regretted + to me the few opportunities he had embraced through life of serving his + country; I have no doubt, sir, when he hears your proposal, that he will + rejoice at this occasion of making an <i>amende</i>. I will write to him + by this post. Is there anything more you wish to add, Mr. Hickman?” said + she, as, having risen from her chair, she perceived that the old man + remained seated. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, indeed, my Lady, there is, and I don't think I 'd have the heart for + it, if it was n't your Ladyship's kindness about the other business; and + even now, maybe, it would take you by surprise.” + </p> + <p> + “You can scarcely do that, sir, after what I have just listened to,” said + she, with a smile. + </p> + <p> + “Well, there 's no use in going round about the bush, and this is what I + mean. We thought there might be a difficulty, perhaps, about the vote; + that the Knight might have promised his friends, or said something or + other how he 'd go, and would n't be able to get out of it so easily, so + we saw another way of serving his views about the money. You see, my Lady, + we considered it all well amongst us.” + </p> + <p> + “We should feel deeply grateful, sir, to know how far this family has + occupied your kind solicitude. But proceed.” + </p> + <p> + “If the Knight does n't like to vote with the Government, of course there + is no use in Bob doing it; so he 'll be a Patriot, my Lady,—and why + not? Ha! ha! ha! they 'll be breaking the windows all over Dublin, and he + may as well save the glass!—ay!” + </p> + <p> + “Forgive me, sir, if I cannot see how this has any reference to my + family.” + </p> + <p> + “I'm coming to it—coming fast, my Lady. We were thinking then how we + could help the Knight, and do a good turn to ourselves; and the way we hit + upon was this: to reduce the interest on the whole debt to five per cent, + make a settlement of half the amount on Miss Darcy, and then, if the young + lady had no objection to my grandson, Beecham—” + </p> + <p> + “Stop, sir,” said Lady Eleanor; “I never could suppose you meant to offend + me intentionally,—I cannot permit of your doing so through + inadvertence or ignorance. I will therefore request that this conversation + may cease. Age has many privileges, Mr. Hickman, but there are some it can + never confer: one of these is the right to insult a lady and—a + mother.” + </p> + <p> + The last words were sobbed rather than spoken: affection and pride, both + outraged together, almost choked her utterance, and Lady Eleanor sat down + trembling in every limb, while the old man, only half conscious of the + emotion he had evoked, peered at her in stolid amazement through his + spectacles. + </p> + <p> + Any one who knew nothing of old Hickman's character might well have pitied + his perplexity at that moment; doubts of every kind and sort passed + through his mind as rapidly as his timeworn faculties permitted, and at + last he settled down into the conviction that Lady Eleanor might have + thought his demand respecting fortune too exorbitant, although not deeming + the proposition, in other respects, ineligible. To this conclusion the + habits of his own mind insensibly disposed him. + </p> + <p> + “Ay, my Lady,” said he, after a pause, “'tis a deal of money, no doubt; + but it won't be going out of the family, and that's more than could be + said if you refuse the offer.” + </p> + <p> + “Sir!” exclaimed Lady Eleanor, in a tone that to any one less obtusely + endowed would have been an appeal not requiring repetition; but the old + man had only senses for his own views, and went on:— + </p> + <p> + “They tell me that Mr. Lionel is just as free with his money as his + father; throws it out with both hands, horse-racing and high play, and + every extravagance he can think of. Well, and if that's true, my Lady, + sure it 's well worth while to think that you 'll have a decent house to + put your head under when your daughter's married to Beecham. He has no + wasteful ways, but can look after the main chance as well as any boy ever + I seen. This notion about Miss Helen is the only thing like expense I ever + knew him take up, and sure”—here he dropped his voice to soliloquy—“sure, + maybe, that same will pay well, after all—ay!” + </p> + <p> + “My head! my head is bursting with blood,” sighed Lady Eleanor; but the + last words alone reached Hickman's ears. + </p> + <p> + “Ay! blood's a fine thing, no doubt of it, but, faith, it won't pay + interest on a mortgage; nor I never heard of it staying the execution of a + writ! 'T is little good blood I had in my veins, and yet I contrived to + scrape a trifle together notwithstanding—ay!” + </p> + <p> + “I do not feel myself very well, Mr. Hickman,” said Lady Eleanor; “may I + request you will send my daughter to me, and excuse me if I wish you a + good morning.” + </p> + <p> + “Shall I hint anything to the young lady about what we were saying?” said + he, in a tone of most confidential import. + </p> + <p> + “At your peril, sir!” said Lady Eleanor, with a look that at once seemed + to transfix him; and the old man, muttering his adieu, hobbled from the + room, while Lady Eleanor leaned back in her chair, overcome by the + conflict of her emotions. + </p> + <p> + “Is he gone?” said Lady Eleanor, faintly, as her daughter entered. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, Mamma; but are you ill? You look dreadfully pale and agitated.” + </p> + <p> + “Wearied—fatigued, my dear, nothing more. Tell Captain Forester I + must release him from his engagement to us to-day; I cannot come to + dinner.” And, so saying, she covered her eyes with her hand, and seemed + lost in deep thought. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0014" id="link2HCH0014"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIV. “THE MECHANISM OP CORRUPTION” + </h2> + <p> + “Well, Heffernan,” said Lord Castlereagh, as they sat over their wine + alone in a small dining-room of the Secretary's Lodge,—“well, even + with Hackett, we shall be run close. I don't fancy the thought of another + division so nearly matched; our fellows don't see the honor of a + Thermopylae.” + </p> + <p> + “Very true, my Lord; and the desertions are numerous, as they always will + be when men receive the bounty before they are enlisted.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; but what would you do? We make a man a Commissioner or a sinecurist + for his vote,—he vacates his seat on taking office; and, instead of + standing the brunt of another election, coolly says, 'That, differing as + he must do from his constituents on an important measure, he restores the + trust they had committed into his hands—'” + </p> + <p> + “'He hopes unsullied,'—don't forget that, my Lord.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,—'he hopes unsullied,—and prefers to retire from the + active career of politics, carrying with him the esteem and regard of his + former friends, rather than endanger their good opinion by supporting + measures to which they are conscientiously opposed.'” + </p> + <p> + “Felicitous conjuncture, that unites patriotism and profit!” exclaimed + Heffernan. “Happy man, that can draw tears from the Mob, and two thousand + a year from the Treasury!” + </p> + <p> + “And yet I see no remedy for it,” sighed the Secretary. + </p> + <p> + “There is one, notwithstanding; but it demands considerable address and + skill. You have always been too solicitous about the estimation of the men + you bought were held in,—always thinking of what would be said and + thought of them. You pushed the system so far that the fellows themselves + caught up the delusion, and began to fancy they had characters to lose. + All this was wrong,—radically, thoroughly wrong. When the butcher + smears a red streak round a lamb's neck,—we call it 'raddling' in + Ireland, my Lord,—any child knows he 's destined for the knife; now, + when you 'raddled' your flock, you wanted the world to believe you were + going to make pets of them, and you said as much, and so often that the + beasts themselves believed it, and began cutting their gambols + accordingly. Why not have paraded them openly to the shambles? It was + their bleating you wanted, and nothing else.” + </p> + <p> + “You forget, Heffernan, how many men would have refused our offers if we + had not made a show, at least, of respect for their scruples.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't think so, my Lord; you offered a bonus on prudery, and hence you + met nothing but coyness. I'd have taken another line with them.” + </p> + <p> + “And what might that be?” asked Lord Castlereagh, eagerly. + </p> + <p> + “Compromise them,” said Heffernan, sternly. “I never knew the man yet, nor + woman either, that you could n't place in such a position of entanglement + that every effort to go right should seem a struggle to do wrong; and <i>vice + versa</i>. You don't agree with me! Well, my Lord, I ask you if, in your + experience of public men, you have ever met one less likely to be captured + in this way than my friend Darcy?” + </p> + <p> + “From what I have seen and heard of the Knight of Gwynne, I acknowledge + his character has all those elements of frankness and candor which should + except him from such an embarrassment.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, he 's in the net already,” said Heffernan, rubbing his hands + gleefully. + </p> + <p> + “Why, you told me he refused to join us, and actually saw through your + negotiation.” + </p> + <p> + “So he did, and, in return for his keen-sightedness, I 've compromised him + with his party,—you did n't perceive it, but the trick succeeded to + perfection. When the Knight told me that he would not vote on the Union, + or any measure pertaining to it, I waited for Ponsonby's motion, and made + Holmes and Dawson spread the rumor at Daly's and through town that Darcy + was to speak on the division, well knowing he would not rise. About eleven + o'clock, just as Toler sat down, Prendergast got up to reply, but there + was a shout of 'Darcy! Darcy!' and Prendergast resumed his seat amid great + confusion. At that moment I left the bench beside you, and walked over to + Darcy's side of the House, and whispered a few words in his ear—an + invitation to sup, I believe it was; but while he was answering me, I + nodded towards you, and, as I went down the steps, muttered loud enough to + be heard, 'All right!' Every eye was turned at once towards him, and he, + having no intention of speaking, nor having made any preparation, felt + both confused and amazed, and left the House about five minutes + afterwards, while Prendergast was bungling out his tiresome reply. Before + Darcy reached the Club House, the report was current that he was bought, + and old Gillespie was circumstantially recounting how that his title was + 'Lord Darcy in England,'—'Baron Gwynne in that part of the United + Kingdom called Ireland.'” + </p> + <p> + “Not even success, Heffernan,” said the Secretary, with an air of + severity,—“not even success will excuse a trick of this kind.” + </p> + <p> + Heffernan looked steadily towards him, as if he half doubted the sincerity + of the speech; it seemed something above or beyond his comprehension. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said Lord Castlereagh, “you heard me quite correctly. I repeat it, + advantages obtained in this fashion are too dearly purchased.” + </p> + <p> + “What an admirable actor John Kemble is, my Lord,” said Heffernan, with a + quiet smile; “don't you think so?” + </p> + <p> + Lord Castlereagh nodded his assent: the transition was too abrupt to + please him, and he appeared to suspect that it concealed some other object + than that of changing the topic. + </p> + <p> + “Kemble,” continued Heffernan, while he sipped his wine carelessly,—” + Kemble is, I suspect strongly, the greatest actor we have ever had on the + English stage. Have you seen him in 'Macbeth'?” + </p> + <p> + “Several times, and always with renewed pleasure,” said the Secretary, + gradually recovering from his reserve. + </p> + <p> + “What a force of passion he throws into the part! How terrible he makes + the conflict between a great purpose and a weak nature! Do you remember + his horror at the murderers who come to tell of Banquo's death? The sight + of their bloody hands shocks him as though they were not the evidences of + his own success.” + </p> + <p> + Lord Castlereagh's calm countenance became for a second crimson, and his + lip trembled with struggling indignation; and then, as if subduing the + temptation of anger, he broke into a low, easy laugh, and with an + imitation at Kemble's manner, called out, “There 's blood upon thy face!” + </p> + <p> + “Talking of a bloody hand, my Lord,” said Heffernan, at once resuming his + former easy jocularity, “reminds me of that Mr. Hickman, or Hickman + O'Reilly, as the fashion is to call him: is he to have the baronetcy?” + </p> + <p> + “Not, certainly, if we can secure him without it.” + </p> + <p> + “And I think we ought. It should be quite sufficient remuneration for a + man like him to vote with the Government; his father became a Protestant + because it was the gentlemanly faith; and I don't see why the son should + not choose his politics on the same principle. Have you ever asked him to + dinner, my Lord?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, and his father, too. I have had the three generations, but I rather + fear the party did not go off well. I had not in those days, Heffernan, + the benefit of your admirable counsels, and picked my company unwisely.” + </p> + <p> + “A great mistake with such men as these,” said Heffernan, oracularly; “the + guests should have been the cream of your Lordship's noble acquaintance. I + 'd have had an Earl and a Marquis at either side of each of them; I 'd + have turned their heads with noble names, and pelted them with the Peerage + the whole time of dinner; when he had taken wine with a chamberlain and + some lords-in-waiting, if your Lordship would only address him, in a voice + loud enough to be heard, as 'O'Reilly,' referring to him on a point of + sporting etiquette or country gentleman's life, I think you might spare + the baronetage the honor of his alliance. Do you think, on a proper + representation, and with due securities against the repetition of the + offence, the chancellor would let himself be called 'Clare'? only for + once, remember,—because I 'm satisfied, if this could be arranged, + O'Reilly is yours.” + </p> + <p> + “I 'd rather depute you to ask the question,” said Lord Castlereagh, + laughing; “assuredly I 'll not do so myself. But when do these people come + to town?—to-morrow or next day, I suppose.” + </p> + <p> + “On Friday next they will all be here. Old Hickman comes up to receive + something like two hundred and twenty thousand pounds,—for Darcy has + raised the money to pay off the incumbrances,—the son is coming for + the debate, and the grandson is to be balloted for at Daly's.” + </p> + <p> + “You have made yourself master of all their arrangements, Heffernan: may I + ask if they afford you any clew to assisting us in our object?” + </p> + <p> + “When can you give a dinner, my Lord?” said the other. + </p> + <p> + “Any day after Wednesday,—nay, Wednesday itself; I might easily get + off Brooke's dinner for that day.” + </p> + <p> + “The sooner the better; time is of great consequence now. Shall we say + Wednesday?” + </p> + <p> + “Be it so; now for the party.” + </p> + <p> + “A small one: selectness is the type of cordiality. The invitation must be + verbal, done in your own admirable way: 'Don't be late, gentlemen, for + Beerhaven and Drogheda are to meet you, and you know they scold if the + soup suffers,'—something in that style. Now let us see who are our + men.” + </p> + <p> + “Begin with Beerhaven and Drogheda, they are sure cards.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, Massey Hamilton,—but he's only a commoner,—to be + sure his uncle's a Duke, but, confound him, he never talks of him! I might + draw him out about the Highlands and deer-stalking, and the Christmas + revels at Clanchattagan; he 's three—Kilgoff four; he 's first-rate, + and will discuss his noble descent till his carriage is announced. + Loughdooner, five—” + </p> + <p> + “He's another bore, Heffernan.” + </p> + <p> + “I know he is, my Lord; but he has seven daughters, and will consequently + make up to young Beecham, who is a great prize in the wheel matrimonial. + We shall want a Bishop to say grace; I think Dunmore is the man: he is the + last of your Lordship's making, and can't refuse a short invitation.” + </p> + <p> + “Six, and the three Hickmans nine, and ourselves eleven; now for the + twelfth—” + </p> + <p> + “Darcy, of course,” said Heffernan; “he must be asked, and, if possible, + induced to come; Hickman O'Reilly will be far more easily managed if we + make him suppose that we have already secured Darcy ourselves.” + </p> + <p> + “He'll decline, Heffernan; depend upon it, he'll not come.” + </p> + <p> + “You think he saw through my <i>ruse</i> in the House,—not a bit of + it; he is the least suspecting man in Ireland, and I 'll make that very + circumstance the reason of his coming. Hint to him that rumor says he is + coquetting with the Government, and he 'll go any lengths to brave public + opinion by confronting it,—that's Darcy, or I 'm much mistaken in my + man; and, to say truth, my Lord, it's an error I rarely fall into.” A + smile of self-satisfaction lit up Heffernan's features as he spoke; for, + like many cunning people, his weak point was vanity. + </p> + <p> + “You may call me as a witness to character whenever you please,” said Lord + Castlereagh, who, in indulging the self-glorification of the other, was + now taking his own revenge; “you certainly knew Upton better than I did.” + </p> + <p> + “Depend upon it,” said Heffernan, as he leaned back in his chair and + delivered his words in a tone of authority,—“depend upon it, the + great events of life never betray the man, it is the small, every-day + dropping occurrences both make and mar him. I made Upton my friend for + life by missing a woodcock he aimed at; <i>he</i> brought down the bird, + and I bagged the sportsman. Ah, my Lord, the real science of life is + knowing how to be gracefully in the wrong; how to make those slips that + reflect on your own prudence, by exhibiting the superior wisdom of your + acquaintances. Of the men who compassionate your folly or deplore your + weakness, you may borrow money, from the fellows who envy your abilities + and extol your capacity, you 'll never get sixpence.” + </p> + <p> + “How came it, Heffernan, that you never took office?” said Lord + Castlereagh, suddenly, as if the idea forced itself abruptly upon him. + </p> + <p> + “I'll tell you, my Lord,” replied Heffernan, speaking in a lower tone, and + as if imparting a deep secret, “they could not spare me—that's the + real fact—they could not spare me. Reflect, for a moment, what kind + of thing the Government of Ireland is; see the difficulty, nay, the + impossibility, of any set of men arriving here fresh from England being + able to find out their way, or make any guess at the leading characters + about them: every retiring official likes to embarrass his successor,—that's + all natural and fair; then, what a mass of blunders and mistakes await the + newly come Viceroy or Secretary! In the midst of the bleak expanse of + pathless waste I was the sign-post. The new players, who took up the cards + when the game was half over, could know nothing of what trumps were in, or + what tricks were taken. I was there to tell them all; they soon saw that I + could do this; and they also saw that I wanted nothing from any party.” + </p> + <p> + “That must be confessed on every hand, Heffernan. Never was support more + generous and independent than yours! and the subject reminds me of a + namesake, and, as I hear, a nephew of yours, the Reverend Joshua + Heffernan,—is not that the name?” + </p> + <p> + “It is, my Lord, my nephew; but I'm not aware of having asked anything for + him; I never—” + </p> + <p> + “But I did, Heffernan, and I do. He shall have the living of Drumslade; I + spoke to the Lord-Lieutenant about it yesterday. There is a hitch + somewhere, but we'll get over it.” + </p> + <p> + “What may be the obstacle you allude to?” said Heffernan, with more + anxiety than he wished to evince. + </p> + <p> + “Lord Killgobbin says the presentation was promised to his brother, for + his influence over Rochfort.” + </p> + <p> + “Not a bit of it, my Lord. It was I secured Rochfort. The case was this. + He is separated from his wife, Lady Mary, who had a life annuity + chargeable on Rochfort's pension from the Ordnance. Cook enabled me to get + him twelve thousand pounds on the secret service list, provided he + surrendered the pension. Rochfort was only too happy to do so, because it + would spite his wife; and the next Gazette announced 'that the member for + Dun raven had declared his intention of voting with the Government, but, + to prevent even the breath of slander on his motives, had surrendered his + retiring pension as a Store-keeper-General.' There never was a finer theme + for editorial panegyric, and in good sooth your Lordship's press made the + most of it. What a patriot!” + </p> + <p> + “What a scoundrel!” muttered Lord Castlereagh; and it would have puzzled a + listener, had there been one, to say on whom the epithet was conferred. + </p> + <p> + “As for Killgobbin or his brother having influence over Rochfort, it's all + absurd. Why, my Lord, it was that same brother married Rochfort to Lady + Mary.” + </p> + <p> + “That is conclusive,” said Lord Castlereagh, laughing. + </p> + <p> + “Faith, I think so,” rejoined Heffernan; “if you do recover after being + hanged, I don't see that you want to make a friend of the fellow that + pinioned your hands in the 'press-room.' If there's no other reason + against Jos's promotion than this—” + </p> + <p> + “If there were, I 'd endeavor to overcome it,” said Lord Castlereagh. + “Won't you take more wine? Pray let's have another bottle.” + </p> + <p> + “No more, my Lord; it's only in such safe company I ever drink so freely,” + said Heffernan, laughing, as he rose to say, “Good-night.” + </p> + <p> + “You 'll take measures for Wednesday, then; that is agreed upon?” + </p> + <p> + “All settled,” said Heffernan, as he left the room. “Good-bye.” + </p> + <p> + “There's a building debt on that same living of seventeen hundred pounds,” + said Lord Castlereagh, musing; “I'll easily satisfy Killgobbin that we + mean to do better for his brother.” + </p> + <p> + “Take office, indeed!” muttered Heffernan, as he lay back in his carriage; + “there 's something better than that,—governing the men that hold + office, holding the reins, pocketing the fare, and never paying the + breakage when the coach upsets. No, no, my Lord, you are a clever fellow + for your years, but you must live longer before you measure Con + Heffernan.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0015" id="link2HCH0015"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XV. THE KNIGHT'S NOTIONS OF FINANCE + </h2> + <p> + Heffernan's calculations were all correct, and the Knight accepted Lord + Castlereagh's invitation, simply because rumor attributed to him an + alliance with the Government “It is a pity,” said he, laughing, “so much + good calumny should have so little to feed upon; so here goes to give it + something.” + </p> + <p> + Darcy had as little time as inclination to waste on the topic, as the + whole interval was occupied in law business with Gleeson, who arrived each + morning with a chariot full of parchments, and almost worried the Knight + to death by reciting deeds and indentures, to one word of which throughout + he could not pay the least attention. He affected to listen, however, as + he saw how much Gleeson desired it, and he wrote his name everywhere and + to everything he was asked. + </p> + <p> + “By Jove!” cried he, at last, “I could have run through the whole estate + with less fatigue of mind or body than it has cost me to keep a hold of + it.” + </p> + <p> + Through all the arrangements, there was but one point on which he felt + anxious, and the same question recurred at every moment, “This cannot + compromise Lionel in any way?—this will lead to no future charge + upon the estate after my death?” Indeed, he would not consent to any plan + which in the slightest degree affected his son's interests, being + determined that whatever his extravagances, the penalty should end with + himself. + </p> + <p> + While these matters were progressing, old Hickman studiously avoided + meeting the Knight; a sense of his discomfiture at the abbey—a fact + he supposed must have reached Darcy's ears—and the conviction that + his long-cherished game to obtain the property was seen through, abashed + the old man, and led him to affect illness when the Knight called. + </p> + <p> + A pleasant letter which the post had brought from Lionel routed every + other consideration from Darcy's mind. His son was coming over to see him, + and bringing three or four of his brother officers to have a peep at “the + West,” and a few days' hunting with the Knight's pack. Every line of this + letter glowed with buoyancy and high spirits; schemes for amusement + alternating with the anticipated amazement of his English friends at the + style of living they were to witness at Gwynne Abbey. + </p> + <p> + “We shall have but eight days with you, my leave from the Prince will go + no further,” wrote he; “but I know well how much may be done in that short + space. Above all, secure Daly; I wish our fellows to see him particularly. + I do not ask about the stable, because I know the horses are always in + condition; but let Dan give the black horse plenty of work every day; and + if the brown mare we got from Mulloch can be ridden by any one, she must + have a saddle on her now. We hope to have four days' hunting; and let the + woodcocks take care of themselves in the intervals, for we are bent on + massacre.” + </p> + <p> + The postscript was brief, but it surprised Darcy more than all the rest. + </p> + <p> + “Only think of my spending four days last week down in Essex with a worthy + kinsman of my mother's, Lord Netherby: a splendid place, glorious + shooting, and the best greyhounds I ever saw run. He understands + everything but horses; but I have taken on me to enlighten him a little, + and have sent down four grays from Guildfords' yesterday,—better + than any we have in the Prince's stables; he is a fine fellow, though I + did n't like him at first; a great courtier in his way, but <i>au fond</i> + warm-hearted and generous. Keep my secret from my mother, but he intends + coming over with us. Adieu! dear father. Look to Forester, don't let him + run away before we arrive. Cut Dublin and its confounded politics. + Netherby says the ministers have an immense majority,—the less + reason for swelling or decreasing it. + </p> + <p> + “Yours ever, + </p> + <p> + “Lionel Darcy.” + </p> + <p> + “And so our trusty and well-beloved cousin of Netherby is coming to visit + us,” said the Knight, musing. “Well, Lionel, I confess myself half of your + mind. I did not like him at first: the better impression is yet to come. + In any case, let us receive him suitably; and, fortunately, here's Gleeson + to help the arrangement—Well, Gleeson, I hope matters are making + some progress. Are we to see the last of these parchments soon? Here's a + letter from my son. Read it, and you 'll see I must get back to 'the West' + at once.” + </p> + <p> + Gleeson perused the letter, and when he had finished, returned it into the + Knight's hand without speaking. + </p> + <p> + “Can we conclude this week?” asked Darcy. + </p> + <p> + “There are several points yet, sir, of great difficulty. Some I have + already submitted for counsel's opinion; one in particular, as regards the + serving the notice of repayment: there would appear to be a doubt on this + head.” + </p> + <p> + “There can be none in reality,” said Darcy, hastily. “I have Hickman's + letter, in his own handwriting, averring his readiness to release the + mortgage at any day.” + </p> + <p> + “Is the document witnessed, and on a stamp?” asked Gleeson, cautiously. + </p> + <p> + “Of course it is not. Those are scarcely the forms of a note between two + private gentlemen.” + </p> + <p> + “It might be of use in equity, no doubt,” muttered Gleeson, “or before a + jury; but we have no time for these considerations now. The + Attorney-General thinks—” + </p> + <p> + “Never mind the Attorney-General. Have we the money to repay? Well, does + Hickman refuse to accept it?” + </p> + <p> + “He has not been asked as yet, sir,” said Gleeson, whose business notions + were not a little ruffled by this abrupt mode of procedure. + </p> + <p> + “And, in Heaven's name, Gleeson! why pester yourself and me with + overcoming obstacles that may never arise? Wait on Hickman at once,—to-day. + Tell him we are prepared, and desirous of paying off these incumbrances. + If he objects, hear his objection.” + </p> + <p> + “He will refer me to his solicitor, sir,—Mr. Kennedy, of Hume + Street,—a very respectable man, no higher in the profession, but I + may remark, in confidence, one who has no objection to a suit in equity or + a trial at bar. It is not money Hickman wants, sir. He is perfectly + satisfied with his security.” + </p> + <p> + “What the devil is it, then? He's not Shylock, is he?” said Darcy, + laughing. + </p> + <p> + “Not very unlike, perhaps, sir; but in the present instance, it is your + influence with the Government he desires.” + </p> + <p> + “But I have none, Gleeson,—actually none. No man knows that better + than you do. I could not make a gauger or a tide-waiter to-morrow.” + </p> + <p> + “But you might, sir,—you might make a peer of the realm if you + wished it. Hickman knows this; and whatever scruples <i>you</i> might have + in adopting the necessary steps, <i>his</i> conscience could never + recognize them as worthy a moment's consideration.” + </p> + <p> + “This is a topic I 'll scarcely discuss with him,” said the Knight, + proudly. “I never, so far as I know, promised to pay a percentage in my + principles as well as in my gold. Mr. Hickman has a fair claim on the one; + on the other, neither he nor any other man shall make an unjust demand. I + am not of Christie Ford's mind,” added he, laughingly. “He says, Gleeson, + that if the English are bent on taking away <i>our</i> Parliament, the + only revenge we have left is to spoil <i>their</i> peerage. This is but a + sorry theme to joke upon, after all; and, to come back, what say you to + trying my plan? I am to meet the old fellow at dinner, on Wednesday next, + at Lord Castlereagh's.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed, sir!” said Gleeson, with a mixture of surprise and agitation + greatly disproportioned to the intelligence. + </p> + <p> + “Yes. Why does that astonish you? The Secretary is too shrewd to neglect + such men as these; they are the rising influences of Ireland.” + </p> + <p> + Gleeson muttered a half assent; but evidently too much occupied with his + own reflections to pay due attention to the Knight's remark, continued to + himself, “on Wednesday!” then added aloud, “On Monday he is to be in + Kildare. He told me he would remain there to receive his rents, and on + Wednesday return to town. I believe, sir, there may be good counsel in + your words. I 'll try on Monday. I 'll follow him down to Kildare, and as + the papers relative to the abbey property are all in readiness, I'll + endeavor to conclude that at once. So you are to meet at dinner?” + </p> + <p> + “That same dinner-party seems to puzzle you,” said the Knight, smiling. + </p> + <p> + “No, not at all, sir,” replied Gleeson, hurriedly. “You were desirous of + getting home next week to meet Mr. Lionel—Captain Darcy I must call + him; if this arrangement can be made, there will be no difficulty in your + return. But of course you will not leave town before it is completed.” + </p> + <p> + The Knight pledged himself to be guided by his man of business in all + respects; but when they parted, he could not conceal from himself that + Gleeson's agitated and troubled manner, so very unlike his usual calm + deportment, boded difficulties and embarrassments which to his own eyes + were invisible. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0016" id="link2HCH0016"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVI. A HURRIED VISIT + </h2> + <p> + It was on a severe night, with frequent gusts of stormy wind shaking the + doors and window-frames, or carrying along the drifted flakes of snow with + which the air was charged, that Lady Eleanor, her daughter, and Forester, + were seated round the fire. All the appliances of indoor comfort by which + they were surrounded seemed insufficient to dispel a sense of sadness that + pervaded the little party. Conversation flowed not as it was wont, in its + pleasant current, diverging here and there as fancy or caprice suggested; + the sentences were few and brief, the pauses between them long and + frequent; a feeling of awkwardness, too, mingled with the gloom, for, at + intervals, each would make an endeavor to relieve the weariness of time, + and in the effort show a consciousness of constraint. + </p> + <p> + Lady Eleanor lay back in her deep chair, and, with half-closed lids, + seemed lost in thought. Helen was working at her embroidery, and, + apparently, diligently too, although a shrewd observer might have remarked + on the slow progress the work was making, and how inevitably her balls of + colored worsted seemed bent on entanglement; while Forester sat silently + gazing on the wood fire, and watching the bright sparks as they flitted + and danced above the red flame; his brow was clouded, and his look + sorrowful; not without reason, perhaps: it was to be his last evening at + the abbey; the last of those hours of happiness which seemed all the + fairer when about to part with them forever. + </p> + <p> + Lady Eleanor seemed grieved at his approaching departure. From the habit + of his mind, and the nature of his education, he was more companionable to + her than Lionel. + </p> + <p> + She saw in him many qualities of high and sterling value, and even in his + prejudices she could trace back several of those traits which marked her + own youth, when, in the pride of her English breeding, she would tolerate + no deviation from the habits of her own country. It was true, many of + these notions had given way since his residence at the abbey; many of his + opinions had undergone modification or change, but still he was + distinctively English. + </p> + <p> + Helen, who possessed no standard by which to measure such prejudices, was + far less indulgent towards them; her joyous, happy nature—the + heirloom of her father's house—led her rather to jest than argue on + these topics, and she contrasted the less apt and ready apprehension of + Forester with the native quickness of her brother Lionel, disadvantageous + to the former. She was sorry, too, that he was going; more so, because his + society was so pleasing to her mother, and that before him, Lady Eleanor + exerted herself in a way which eventually reacted favorably on her own + health and spirits. Further than this, her interest in him was weak. + </p> + <p> + Not so Forester: he was hopelessly, inextricably, in love, not the less so + that he would not acknowledge it to himself; far more so because he had + made no impression on the object of his passion. There is a period in + every story of affection when the flame grows the brighter because + unreflected, and seems the more concentrated because unreturned. Forester + was in this precise stage of the malady; he was as much piqued by the + indifference as fascinated by the charms of Helen Darcy. The very + exertions he made for victory stimulated his own passion; while, in her + efforts to interest or amuse him, he could not help feeling the evidence + of her indifference to him. + </p> + <p> + We have said that the conversation was broken and interrupted; at length + it almost ceased altogether, a stray remark of Lady Eleanor's, followed by + a short reply from Forester, alone breaking the silence. Nor were these + always very pertinent, inasmuch as the young aide-de-camp occasionally + answered his own reflections, and not the queries of his hostess. + </p> + <p> + “An interesting time in Dublin, no doubt,” said Lady Eleanor, half talking + to herself; “for though the forces are unequal, and victory and defeat + predestined, there will be a struggle still.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, madam, a brief one,” answered Forester, dreamily, comprehending only + a part of her remark. + </p> + <p> + “A brief and a vain one,” echoed Lady Eleanor. + </p> + <p> + “Say, rather, a glorious one,” interposed Helen; “the last cheer of a + sinking crew!” + </p> + <p> + Forester looked up, startled into attention by the energy of these few + words. + </p> + <p> + “I should say so too, Helen,” remarked her mother, “if they were not + accessory to their own misfortunes.” + </p> + <p> + “Nay, nay, Mamma, you must not remember their failings in their hour of + distress; there is a noble-hearted minority untainted yet.” + </p> + <p> + “There will be a majority of eighteen,” said Forester, whose thoughts were + wandering away, while he endeavored to address himself to what he believed + they were saying; nor was he aware of his error till aroused by the + laughter of Lady Eleanor and her daughter. + </p> + <p> + “Eighteen!” reiterated he, solemnly. + </p> + <p> + “How few!” remarked Lady Eleanor, almost scornfully. + </p> + <p> + “You should say, how costly, Mamma!” exclaimed Helen. “These gentlemen are + as precious from their price as their rarity!” + </p> + <p> + “That is scarcely fair, Miss Darcy,” said Forester, at once recalled to + himself by the tone of mockery she spoke in; “many adopted the views of + Government, after duly weighing every consideration of the measure: some, + to my own knowledge, resisted offers of great personal advantage, and Lord + Castlereagh was not aware of their adhesion—” + </p> + <p> + “Till he had them <i>en poche</i>, I suppose,” said Helen, sarcastically; + “just as you have been pleased to do with my ball of yellow worsted, and + for which I shall be thankful if you will restore it to me.” + </p> + <p> + Forester blushed deeply, as he drew from his coat-pocket the worsted, + which in a moment of abstraction he had lifted from the ground, and thrust + into his pocket, without knowing. + </p> + <p> + Had any moderately shrewd observer witnessed his confusion, and her + enjoyment of it, he would easily have understood the precise relation of + the two parties to each other. Forester's absence of mind betrayed his + engaged affection as palpably as Helen's laughter did her own + indifference. + </p> + <p> + Lady Eleanor did not remark either; her thoughts still rested on the topic + of which they had spoken, for it was a subject of no inconsiderable + difficulty to her. Whatever her sense of indignant contempt for the bribed + adherents of the Ministry, her convictions always inclined to these + measures, whose origin was from her native country; her predilections were + strongly English; not only her happiest days had been passed there, but + she was constantly contrasting the position they would have occupied and + sustained in that favored land, against the wasteful and purposeless + extravagance of their life in Ireland. + </p> + <p> + Was it too late to amend? was the question ever rising to her mind, now if + even yet the Knight should be induced to adopt the more ambitious course? + Every accidental circumstance seemed favorable to the notion: the + Government craving his support; her own relatives, influential as they + were from rank and station, soliciting it; the Prince himself according + favors which could no more be rejected than acknowledged ungraciously. + </p> + <p> + “What a career for Lionel! What a future for Helen!” such were reflections + that would press themselves upon her, but to whose disentanglement her + mind suggested no remedy. + </p> + <p> + “'Tis Mr. Daly, my Lady,” said Tate, for something like the fourth time, + without being attended to. “'T is Mr. Daly wants leave to visit you.” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Bagenal Daly, Mamma, wishes to know if you'll receive him?” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Daly is exactly the kind of person to suggest this impracticable line + of policy,” said Lady Eleanor, with half-closed eyes; for the name alone + had struck her, and she had not heard what was said. + </p> + <p> + “My dear Mamma,” said Helen, rising, and leaning over her chair, “it is a + visit he proposes; nothing so very impracticable in that, I hope!” and + then, at a gesture from her mother, continued to Tate, “Lady Eleanor will + be very happy to see Mr. Daly.” + </p> + <p> + Lady Eleanor had scarcely aroused herself from her revery when Bagenal + Daly entered. His manner was stately, perhaps somewhat colder than usual, + and he took his seat with an air of formal politeness. + </p> + <p> + “I have come, my Lady,” said he, slowly, “to learn if I can be of any + service in the capital; unexpected news has just reached me, requiring my + immediate departure for Dublin.” + </p> + <p> + “Not to-night, sir, I hope; it is very severe, and likely, I fear, to + continue so.” + </p> + <p> + “To-night, madam, within an hour, I expect to be on the road.” + </p> + <p> + “Could you defer a little longer, and we may be fellow-travellers,” said + Forester; “I was to start to-morrow morning, but my packing can soon be + made.” + </p> + <p> + “I should hope,” said Lady Eleanor, smiling, “that you will not leave us + unprotected, gentlemen, and that one, at least, will remain here.” This + speech, apparently addressed to both, was specially intended for Forester, + whose cheek tingled with a flush of pleasure as he heard it. + </p> + <p> + “I have no doubt, madam, that Captain Forester, whose age and profession + are more in accordance with gallantry, will respond to your desire.” + </p> + <p> + “If I could really fancy that I was not yielding to my own wishes only,” + stammered out Forester. + </p> + <p> + “Nay, I make it a request.” + </p> + <p> + “There, sir, how happy to be entreated to what one's wishes incline them,” + added Daly; “you may go through a deal of life without being twice so + fortunate. I should apologize for so brief a notice of my departure, Lady + Eleanor, but the intelligence I have received is pressing.” Here he + dropped his voice to a whisper. “The Ministers have hurried forward their + bill, and I shall scarcely be in time for the second reading.” + </p> + <p> + “All accounts agree in saying that the Government majority is certain,” + observed Lady Eleanor, calmly. + </p> + <p> + “It is to be feared, madam, that such rumors are well founded, but the + party who form the forlorn hope have their devoirs also.” + </p> + <p> + “I am a very indifferent politician, Mr. Daly, but it strikes me that a + body so manifestly corrupt, give the strongest possible reasons for their + own destruction.” + </p> + <p> + “Were they all so, madam, I should join in the sentiment as freely as you + utter it,” replied Daly, proudly; “but it is a heavy sentence that would + condemn the whole crew because there was a mutiny in the steerage; + besides, these rights and privileges are held only in trust; no man can in + honor or justice vote away that of which he is only the temporary + occupant; forgive me, I beg, for daring to discuss the topic, but I + thought the Knight had made you a convert to his own opinions.” + </p> + <p> + “We have never spoken on the subject, Mr. Daly,” replied Lady Eleanor, + coldly; “the Knight dislikes the intrusion of a political matter within + the circle of his family, and for that reason, perhaps,” added she, with a + smile, “my daughter and myself feel for it all the temptation of a + forbidden pleasure.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, yes!” exclaimed Helen, who heard the last few words of her mother's + speech, “I am as violent a partisan as Mr. Daly could ask for; indeed, I + am not certain if all my doctrines are not of his own teaching; I fear the + Premier, distrust the Cabinet, and put no faith in the Secretary for + Ireland; is not that the first article of our creed?—nay, nay, fear + was no part of your instruction.” + </p> + <p> + “And yet I have fears, my dear Helen, and very great fears just now,” said + Daly in a low whisper, only audible by herself, and she turned her full + and beaming eyes upon him for an explanation. As if anxious to escape the + interrogatory, Daly arose hastily. “I must crave your indulgence for an + abrupt leave-taking, Lady Eleanor,” said he, approaching, as he kissed the + hand held out to him; “I shall be able to tell the Knight that I left you + both well, and under safe protection. Captain Forester, adieu; you need no + admonition of mine respecting your charge;” and, with a low and courtly + salute, he departed. + </p> + <p> + “Rely upon it, Captain Forester, he's bent on mischief now. I never saw + him particularly mild and quiet in his manner that it was not the prelude + to some desperate ebullition,” said Lady Eleanor. + </p> + <p> + “He is the very strangest of all mortals.” + </p> + <p> + “Say, the most single-minded and straightforward,” interposed Helen, “and + I 'll agree with you.” + </p> + <p> + “When men of strong minds and ambitious views are curbed and held in + within the petty sphere of a small social circle, they are, to my + thinking, intolerable. It is making a drawing-room pet of a tiger; every + step he takes upsets a vase or smashes a jar. You smile at my simile.” + </p> + <p> + “I 'm sure it's a most happy one,” said Forester, continuing. + </p> + <p> + “I enter a dissent,” cried Helen, playfully. “He's a tiger, if you will, + with his foes, but in all the relations of private life, gentleness + itself; for my part, I can imagine no more pleasing contrast to the modern + code of manners than Mr. Bagenal Daly.” + </p> + <p> + “There, Captain Forester, if you would win Miss Darcy's favor, you have + now the model for your imitation.” + </p> + <p> + Forester's face flushed, and he appeared overwhelmed with confusion, while + Helen went on with her embroidery, tranquil as before. + </p> + <p> + “I believe,” resumed Lady Eleanor,—“I believe, after all, I am + unjust to him; but much may be forgiven me for being so; he has made my + son a wild, thoughtless boy, and my daughter—” + </p> + <p> + “No indiscretions, Mamma,” cried Helen, holding up her hand. + </p> + <p> + “Well, he has made my daughter <i>telle que vous la voyez</i>.” + </p> + <p> + Forester was too well bred to venture on a word of flattery or compliment, + but his glowing color and sparkling eyes spoke his admiration. + </p> + <p> + Lady Eleanor's quick glance remarked this; and, as if the thought had + never occurred before, she seemed amazed, either at the fact or at her own + previous inattention. + </p> + <p> + “Let us finish that second volume you were reading, Captain Forester,” + said she, glad to cut short the discussion. And, without a word, he took + the book and began to read. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0017" id="link2HCH0017"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVII. BAGENAL DALY'S JOURNEY TO DUBLIN + </h2> + <p> + It is not our desire to practise any mystery with our reader, nor would + the present occasion warrant such. Mr. Daly's hurried departure for Dublin + was caused by the receipt of tidings which had that morning reached him, + conveying the startling intelligence that his friend the Knight had + accepted terms from the Government, and pledged himself to support their + favored measure. + </p> + <p> + It was a time when men were accustomed to witness the most flagrant + breaches of honor and good faith. No station was too high to be above the + reach of this reproach, no position too humble not to make its possessor a + mark for corruption. It was an epidemic of dishonesty, and people ceased + to wonder as they heard of each new victim to the malady. + </p> + <p> + Bagenal Daly well knew that no man could be more exempt from an imputation + of this nature than the Knight of Gwynne: every act of his life, every + sentiment he professed, every trait of his character, flatly contradicted + the supposition. But he also knew that though Darcy was unassailable by + all the temptations of bribery, come in what shape they might, that his + frank and generous spirit would expose him to the stratagems and devices + of a wily and insidious party, and that if, by any accident, an expression + should fall from him in all the freedom of convivial enjoyment that could + be tortured into even the resemblance of a pledge, he well knew that his + friend would deem any sacrifice of personal feeling light in the balance, + rather than not adhere to it. + </p> + <p> + Resolved not to lose a moment, he despatched Sandy to order horses along + the line, and having passed the remainder of the day in the preparations + for his departure, he left the abbey before midnight. A less determined + traveller might have hesitated on setting out on such a night: the long + menacing storm had at length burst forth, and the air resounded with a + chaos of noise, amid which the roaring breakers and the crash of falling + trees were uppermost; with difficulty the horses were enabled to keep + their feet, as the sea washed heavily over the wall and deluged the road, + while at intervals the fallen timber obstructed the way and delayed his + progress. Difficulty was, however, the most enjoyable stimulant to Daly's + nature; he loved an obstacle as other men enjoy a pleasure, and, as he + grew older, so far from yielding to the indolence of years, his hardy + spirit seemed to revel in the thought that amid dangers and perils his + whole life had been passed, yet never had he suffered himself to be a + beaten enemy. + </p> + <p> + The whole of that night, and all the following day, the violence of the + storm was unabated; uprooted trees and wrecked villages met his eye as he + passed, while, in the larger towns, the houses were strongly barred and + shuttered, and scarcely one living thing to be seen through the streets. + Nothing short of the united influence of bribery and intimidation could + procure horses in such a season, and had any messenger of less sturdy + pretensions than honest Sandy been despatched to order them, they would + have been flatly refused. Bagenal Daly and his man were, however, too well + known in that part of Ireland to make such a course advisable, and though + postboys and ostlers condoled together, the signal of Daly's appearance + silenced every thought of opposition, and the words, “I 'm ready!” were an + order to dash forward none dared to disobey. + </p> + <p> + So had it continued until he reached Moate, where he found a message from + Sandy, informing him that no horses could be procured, and that he must + bring on those from Athlone the entire way to Kilbeggan. + </p> + <p> + “You hear me,” cried Daly to the astonished postboy, who for the last two + miles had spared neither whip nor spur, in the glad anticipation of a + speedy shelter,—“you hear me. To Kilbeggan.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, begorra! that's impossible, yer honor. If it was the month of May, + and the road was a bowling-green, the bastes couldn't do it.” + </p> + <p> + “Go on!” cried Daly, shutting up the glass, and throwing himself back in + the chaise. + </p> + <p> + <a name="linkimage-0006" id="linkimage-0006"> + <!-- IMG --></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%;"> + <img src="images/185.jpg" width="100%" alt="185 " /> + </div> + <p> + But the postboy only buttoned up the collar of his coat around his face, + thrust his whip into his boot, and, drawing his sleeves over his hands, + sat a perfect picture of fatalism. + </p> + <p> + “I say, go on!” shouted Daly, as he lowered the front window of the + chaise. + </p> + <p> + A low muttering from the driver, still impassive as before, was all the + reply, and at the same instant a sharp report was heard, and a pistol + bullet whizzed beside his hat. + </p> + <p> + “Will you go <i>now?</i>” cried Bagenal Daly, as he levelled another + weapon on the window; but no second entreaty was necessary, and, with his + bead bent down almost to the mane, and with a mingled cry for mercy and + imprecation together, he drove the spurs into his jaded beast, and whipped + with all his might through the almost deserted town. With the despairing + energy of one who felt his life was in peril, the wretched postboy hurried + madly forward, urging the tired animals up the hills, and caring neither + for rut nor hollow on his onward course, till at length, blown and + exhausted, the animals came to a dead stand, and, with heaving flanks and + outstretched forelegs, refused to budge a step farther. + </p> + <p> + “There!” cried the postboy, as, dropping from the saddle, he fell on his + knees upon the road, “shoot, and be d———d to you; I can + do no more.” + </p> + <p> + The terrified expression of the fellow's face as the lamp of the chaise + threw its light upon him, seemed to change the current of Daly's thoughts, + for he laughed loud and heartily as he looked upon him. + </p> + <p> + “Come, come,” said he, good-humoredly, “is not that Kilbeggan where I see + the lights yonder?” + </p> + <p> + “Sorra bit of it,” sighed the other, “it is only Horseleap.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, push on to Horseleap; perhaps they 've horses there.” + </p> + <p> + “Begorra! you might as well look for black tay in a bog-hole; 't is a poor + 'shebeen' is the only thing in the village;” and, so saying, he took the + bridle on his arm, and walked along before the horses, who, with drooping + heads, tottered after at a foot pace. + </p> + <p> + About half an hour of such travelling brought Daly in front of a miserable + cabin, over the door of which a creaking sign proclaimed accommodation for + man and beast. To the partial truth of this statement the bright glare of + a fire that shone between the chinks of the shutters bore witness, and, + disengaging himself from the chaise, Daly knocked loudly for admission. + There are few less conciliating sounds to the ears of a hot-tempered man + than those hesitating whispers which, while exposed to a storm himself, he + hears deliberating on the question of his admission. Such were the + mutterings Daly now listened to, and to which he was about to reply by + forcing his entrance, when the door was opened by a man in the dress of a + peasant, who somewhat sulkily demanded what he wanted. + </p> + <p> + “Horses, if you have them, to reach Kilbeggan,” said Daly, “and if you + have not, a good fire and shelter until they can be procured;” and as he + spoke, he pushed past the man, and entered the room from which the blazing + light proceeded. + </p> + <p> + With his back to the fire, and hands thrust carelessly into the pockets of + his coat, stood a man of eight-and-thirty or forty years of age; in dress, + air, and appearance he might have been taken for a country horse-dealer; + and so, indeed, his well-worn top-boots and green coat, cut in jockey + fashion, seemed to bespeak him. He was rather under the middle size, but + powerfully built, his wide chest, long arms, and bowed legs all indicating + the possession of that strength which is never the accompaniment of more + perfect symmetry. + </p> + <p> + Although Daly's appearance unquestionably proclaimed his class in life, + the other exhibited no mark of deference or respect to him as he entered, + but maintained his position with the same easy indifference as at first. + </p> + <p> + “You make yourself at home here, good friend, if one might judge from the + way you knocked at the door,” said he, addressing Daly with a look whose + easy familiarity was itself an impertinence. + </p> + <p> + “I have yet to learn,” said Daly, sternly, “that a gentleman must practise + any peculiar ceremony when seeking the shelter of a 'shebeen,' not to + speak of the right by which such as you address me as your good friend.” + </p> + <p> + An insolent laugh, that Daly fancied was re-echoed by some one without, + was the first reply to this speech; when, after a few minutes, the man + added, “I see you 're a stranger in these parts.” + </p> + <p> + “If I had not been so, the chance is I should have taught you somewhat + better manners before this time. Move aside, sir, and let me see the + fire.” + </p> + <p> + But the other never budged in the slightest, standing in the same easy + posture as before. + </p> + <p> + Daly's dark face grew darker, and his heavy brows met in a deep frown, + while, with a spring that showed no touch of time in his strong frame, he + bounded forward and seized the man by the collar. Few men were Daly's + equals in point of strength; but although he with whom he now grappled + made no resistance whatever, Daly never stirred him from the spot, to + which he seemed fast and firmly rooted. + </p> + <p> + “Well, that's enough of it!” said the fellow, as with a rough jerk he + freed himself from the grasp, and sent Daly several paces back into the + room. + </p> + <p> + “Not so!” cried Daly, whose passion now boiled over, and, drawing a pistol + from his bosom, he levelled it at him. Quick as the motion was, the other + was equally ready, for his hand now presented a similar weapon at Daly's + head. + </p> + <p> + “Move aside, or—” + </p> + <p> + A coarse, insulting laugh drowned Daly's words, and he pulled the trigger; + but the pistol snapped without exploding. + </p> + <p> + “There it is, now,” cried the fellow, rudely; “luck's against you, old + boy, so you 'd better keep yourself cool and easy;” and with these words + he uncocked the weapon and replaced it in his bosom. Daly watched the + moment, and with a bound placed himself beside him, when, bringing his leg + in front, he caught the man round the middle, and hurled him headlong on + the ground. + </p> + <p> + He fell as if he had been shot; but, rolling over, he leaned upon his + elbow and looked up, without the slightest sign of passion or even + excitement on his features. + </p> + <p> + “I 'd know that trip in a thousand; begad, you 're Bagenal Daly, and + nobody else!” + </p> + <p> + Although not a little surprised at the recognition, Daly suffered no sign + of astonishment to escape him, but drew his chair to the fire, and + stretched out his legs before the blaze. Meanwhile, the other, having + arisen, leaned over the back of a chair, and stared at him steadfastly. + </p> + <p> + “I am as glad as a hundred-pound note, now, you did n't provoke me to lay + a hand on you, Mr. Daly,” said he, slowly, and in a voice not devoid of a + touch of feeling; “'t is n't often I bear malice, but I 'd never forgive + myself the longest day I 'd live.” + </p> + <p> + Daly turned his eyes towards him, and, for some minutes, they continued to + look at each other without speaking. + </p> + <p> + “I see you don't remember me, sir,” said the stranger, at length; “but I + 've a better memory, and a better reason to have it besides: you saved my + life once.” + </p> + <p> + “Saved your life!” repeated Daly, thoughtfully; “I 've not the slightest + recollection of ever having seen you before.” + </p> + <p> + “It's all true I 'm telling, for all that,” replied the other; “and + although it happened above five-and-twenty years since, I'm not much + changed, they tell me, in look or appearance.” He paused at these words, + as if to give Daly time to recognize him; but the effort seemed in vain, + as, after along and patient scrutiny, Daly said, “No, I cannot remember + you.” + </p> + <p> + “Let me see, then,” said the man, “if I can't refresh your memory. Were + you in Dublin in the winter of '75?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; I had a house in Stephen's Green—” + </p> + <p> + “And used to drive four black thoroughbreds without winkers?” + </p> + <p> + “It's clear that <i>you</i> know me, at least,” said Daly; “go on.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, sir, do you remember, it was about a week before Christmas, that + Captain Burke Fitzsimon was robbed of a pair of pistols in the guard-room + of the Upper Castle Yard, in noonday, ay, and tied with his own sash to + the guard-bed?” + </p> + <p> + “By Jove! I do. He was regularly laughed out of the regiment.” + </p> + <p> + “Faix, and many that laughed at him mightn't have behaved a deal better + than he did,” replied the other, with a dogged sternness in his manner. He + became silent after these words, and appeared deeply sunk in meditation, + when suddenly he drew two splendidly chased pistols from his bosom, and + held them out to Daly as he said, “There they are, and as good as they are + handsome, true at thirty paces, and never fail.” + </p> + <p> + Daly gazed alternately from the pistols to their owner, but never uttered + a word. + </p> + <p> + “That same day,” resumed the man, “you were walking down the quay near the + end of Watling Street, when there was a cry of 'Stop thief!—stop + him!—a hundred guineas to the man that takes him!' and shortly after + a man crossed the quay, pursued closely by several people, one of them, + and the foremost, being Tom Lambert, the constable, the strongest man, + they said, of his day, in Ireland. The fellow that ran could beat them + all, and was doing it too, when, just as he had gained Bloody Bridge, he + saw a child on the pathway all covered with blood, and a bulldog standing + over him, worrying him—” + </p> + <p> + “I have it all,” said Daly, interrupting him; “'tis as fresh before me as + if it happened yesterday. The robber stopped to save the child, and, + seizing the bulldog by the throat, hurled him over the wall into the + Liffey. Lambert, as you call him, had by this time come close up, and was + within two yards of the man, when I, feeling compassion for a fellow that + could be generous at such a moment, laid my hand on the constable's arm to + stop him; he struck me; but if he did, he had his reward, for I threw him + over the hip on the crown of his head, and he had a brain fever after it + that almost brought him to death's door. And where were you all this time, + and what were you doing?” + </p> + <p> + “I was down Barrack Street, across the park, and near Knockmaroon Gate, + before they could find a door to stretch Tom Lambert on.” + </p> + <p> + “You!” said Daly, staring at him; “why, it was Freney, they told me, + performed that exploit for a wager.” + </p> + <p> + “So it was, sir,” said the man, standing up and crossing his arms, not + without something of pride in his look,—“I'm Freney.” + </p> + <p> + Daly arose and gazed at the man with all that curious scrutiny one bestows + upon some remarkable object, measuring his strong, athletic frame with the + eye of a connoisseur, and, as it were, calculating the physical resources + of so powerful a figure. + </p> + <p> + “You see, sir,” said the robber, at last, “I was right when I told you + that you saved my life: there were thirteen indictments hanging over my + head that day, and if I 'd been taken they 'd have hanged me as round as a + turnip.” + </p> + <p> + “You owe it to yourself,” said Daly; “had you not stopped for the child, + it was just as likely that I 'd have tripped you up myself.” + </p> + <p> + “'Tis a feeling I never could get over,” said the robber; “'twas a little + boy, about the same age as that, that saved the Kells coach the night I + stopped it near Dangan. And now, sir, let me ask you what in the world + brought you into the village of Horseleap? For I am sure,” added he with a + laugh, “it was never to look after me.” + </p> + <p> + “You are right there, friend; I'm on my way up to town to be present at + the debate in Parliament on the Union,—a question that has its + interest for yourself too.” + </p> + <p> + “How so, sir?” said the other, curiously. + </p> + <p> + “Plainly enough, man; if they carry the Union, they'll not leave a man + worth robbing in the island. You 'll have to take to an honest calling, + Freney,—turn cattle-drover. By the way, they tell me you 're a good + judge of a horse.” + </p> + <p> + “Except yourself, there's not a better in the island; and if you 've no + objection, I 'll mount and keep you company as far as Maynooth, where you + 'll easily get horses—and it will be broad daylight by that time—to + bring you into Dublin.” + </p> + <p> + “I accept the offer willingly. I'll venture to say we shall not be robbed + on the journey.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, sir, the horses won't be here for an hour yet, and if you 'll join + me in a bit of supper I was going to have when you came in, it will help + to pass the time till we are ready to start.” + </p> + <p> + Daly assented, not the less readily that he had not eaten anything since + morning, and Freney left the room to hasten the preparations for the meal. + </p> + <p> + “Come, Freney,” said Daly, as the other entered the room a few moments + after, “was it the strength of conscious rectitude that made you stand my + fire as you did a while ago, or did you think me so bad a marksman at four + paces?” + </p> + <p> + “Neither, sir,” replied the robber, laughing; “I saw the pan of the lock + half open as you drew it from your pocket, and I knew the priming must + have fallen out; but for that—” + </p> + <p> + “You had probably fired, yourself?” + </p> + <p> + “Just so,” rejoined he, with a short nod. “I could have shot you before + you levelled at me. Now, sir, here's something far better than burning + powder. I am sure you are too old a traveller not to be able to eat a + rasher of bacon.” + </p> + <p> + “And this I take to be as free of any allegiance to the king as yourself,” + said Daly, as he poured out a wineglass-ful of “poteen” from a short black + bottle. + </p> + <p> + “You 're right, sir,” said Freney, with a laugh. “We 're both duty free. + Let me help you to an egg.” + </p> + <p> + “I never ate better bacon in my life,” said Daly, who seemed to relish his + supper with considerable gusto. + </p> + <p> + “I'm glad you like it, sir. It is a notion of mine that Costy Moore of + Kilcock cures a pig better than any man in this part of Ireland; and + though his shop is next the police-barracks, I went in there myself to buy + this.” + </p> + <p> + Daly stared, with something of admiration in his look, at the man whose + epicurism was indulged at the hazard of his neck; and he pledged the + robber with a motion of the head that betokened a high sense of his + daring. “I've heard you have had some close escapes, Freney.” + </p> + <p> + “I was never taken but once, sir. A woman hid my shoes when I was asleep. + I was at the foot of the Galtee mountains: the ground is hard and full of + sharp shingle, and I could n't run. They brought me into Clonmel, and I + was in the heaviest irons in the jail before two hours were over. That's + the strong jail, Mr. Daly; they 've the best walls and the thickest doors + there I have ever seen in any jail in Ireland. For,” added he, with a sly + laugh, “I went over them all, in a friendly sort of a way.” + </p> + <p> + “A kind of professional tour, Freney?” + </p> + <p> + “Just so, sir; taking a bird's-eye view of the country from the drop, + because, maybe, I would n't have time for it at another opportunity.” + </p> + <p> + “You 're a hardened villain!” said Daly, looking at him with an expression + the robber felt to be a finished compliment. + </p> + <p> + “That's no lie, Mr. Daly; and if I wasn't, could I go on for twenty years, + hunted down like a wild beast, with fellows tracking me all day, and lying + in watch for me all night? Where we are sitting now is the only spot in + the whole island where I can say I 'm safe. This is my brother's cabin.” + </p> + <p> + “Your brother is the same man that opened the door for me?” + </p> + <p> + Freney nodded, and went on: “He's a poor laboring man, with four acres of + wet bog for a farm, and a young woman, in the ague, for a wife, and if it + was n't for myself he 'd be starving; and would you believe it, now, he 'd + not take to the road for one night—just one single night—to be + as rich as the Duke of Leinster; and here am I”—and, as he spoke, + his chest expanded, and his dark eyes flashed wildly—“here am I, + that would rather be on my black mare's back, with my holsters at the + saddle, watching the sounds of wheels on a lonely road, than I 'd be any + gentleman in the land, barring your own self.” + </p> + <p> + “And why me?” said Daly, in a voice whose melancholy cadence made it + solemn as a death-bell. + </p> + <p> + “Just because you 're the only man I ever heard tell of that was fond of + danger for the fun of it. Did n't I see the leap you took at the Black + Lough, just to show the English Lord-Lieutenant how an Irish gentleman + rides, with the rein in your mouth, and your hands behind your back? Isn't + that true?” + </p> + <p> + Daly nodded, and muttered, “I have the old horse still.” + </p> + <p> + “By the good day! I 'd spend a week in Newgate to see you on his back.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, Freney,” said Daly, who seemed not disposed to encourage a + conversation so personal in its allusions, “where have you been lately?—in + the South?” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir; I spent the last fortnight watching an old fox that doubled on + me at last,—old Hickman, of Loughrea, that used to be.” + </p> + <p> + “Old Hickman!—what of him?” cried Daly, whose interest became at + once excited by the mention of the name. + </p> + <p> + “I found out, sir, that he was to be down here at Kildare to receive his + rents,—for he owns a fine estate here,—and that, besides, Tom + Gleeson, the great agent from Dublin, was to meet him, as some said, to + pay him a large sum of money for the Knight of Gwynne,—some heavy + debt, I believe, owing for many a year.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, go on. What then?” + </p> + <p> + “Well. I knew the reason Hickman wanted the money here: Lord Tyrawley was + going to sell him a part of Gore's Wood, for hard cash—d 'ye mind, + sir, hard cash—down on the nail, for my Lord likes high play at + Daly's—” + </p> + <p> + “D——n Lord Tyrawley!” said Daly, impatiently. “What of + Hickman?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, d——n him too! He's a shabby negur. I stopped 'him at + Ball's Bridge once, and got but three guineas and some shillings for my + pains. But to come back to old Hickman: I found he had arrived at the + 'Black Dog,' and that Gleeson had come the same evening, and so I + disguised myself like an old farmer the next morning, and pretended I + wanted his advice about an asthma that I had, just to see the lie of the + old premises, and whether he was alone, or had the two bailiffs with him, + as usual. There they were, sir, sure enough, and well armed too, and fresh + hasps on the door, to lock it inside, all secure as a bank. I saw these + things while the old doctor was writing the prescription, for he tore a + leaf out of his pocket-book to order me some stuff for the cough,—faith, + 't is pills of another kind they 'd have given me if they found me out. + That was all I got for my guinea in goold, not to speak of the danger;” + and, so saying, he pulled a crumpled piece of paper from his pocket, and + held it out towards Daly. “That's not it, sir; 't is the other side the + writing is on.” + </p> + <p> + But Daly's eyes were fixed upon the paper, which he held firmly between + both hands. + </p> + <p> + “Ay, I see what you are looking at,” said Freney; “that was a kind of + memorandum the old fellow made of the money Gleeson paid him the day + before.” + </p> + <p> + Daly paid no attention to the remark, but muttered half aloud the contents + of the document before him: “Check on Ball for eighteen thousand, payable + at sight,—thirty-six thousand eight hundred and ten pounds in notes + of the Bank of England,—gold, seventeen hundred guineas.” + </p> + <p> + “There was a lob,” cried Freney, as he rubbed his hands together. “I was + set up for life if I got half of it! And now, Mr. Daly, just tell me one + thing: isn't Mr. Darcy there as bad as myself, to take all this money for + his vote?” + </p> + <p> + “How do you mean?” said Daly, sternly. + </p> + <p> + “I mean that a gentleman born and bred as he is, oughtn't to sell his + country for goold; that if a blackguard like myself takes to the road, + it's all natural and reasonable, and the world's little worse off when + they hang half a dozen of my kind; but for a real born gentleman of the + old stock of the land to go and take money for his vote in Parliament!” + </p> + <p> + “And who dares to say he did so?” cried Daly, indignantly. + </p> + <p> + “Faix, that's the story up in Dublin; they say he 'd no other way of + clearing off the debts on his property. Bad cess to me if I 'd do it! Here + I am, a robber and a highwayman, I don't deny it, but may I wear hemp for + a handkerchief if I 'd sell my country. Bad luck to the Union, and all + that votes for it,” said he, as, filling a bumper of whiskey, he tossed it + off to this laudable sentiment. + </p> + <p> + “If you had n't wronged my friend the Knight of Gwynne, I'm not certain + that I wouldn't have pledged your toast myself.” + </p> + <p> + “If he 's a friend of yours I say nothing against him; but sure when he—” + </p> + <p> + “Once for all,” said Daly, sternly, “this story is false;” while he added, + in a low muttering to himself, “corruption must needs have spread widely + when such a calumny was even ventured on.—And so, Freney, Hickman + escaped you?” + </p> + <p> + “He did, sir,” said Freney, sighing; “he made a lodgment in Kildare next + day, and more of the money he carried up to town, guarded all the way by + the two fellows I told you. Ah! Mr. Daly, if all the world was as cunning + as old Peter, I might give up the road as a bad job. There! do you hear + that? Listen, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “What is it?” said Daly, after a moment's silence. + </p> + <p> + “They're my nags, sir, coming up the road. I'd know their trot if I heard + it among a troop of dragoons. 'T is clippers they are.” + </p> + <p> + As he spoke he arose from the table, and, lighting a small lantern he + always carried with him, hastened to the door, where already the two + horses were standing, a bare-legged “gossoon” holding the bridles. + </p> + <p> + <a name="linkimage-0007" id="linkimage-0007"> + <!-- IMG --></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%;"> + <img src="images/197.jpg" width="100%" alt="197 " /> + </div> + <p> + “Well, Jemmy, what 's the news to-night?” said Freney. + </p> + <p> + “Nothing, sir, at all. I passed the down mail at Seery's Mill, and when + the coachman heard the step of the horses, he laid on the wheelers wid all + his might, and sat down on the footboard, and the two outside passengers + lay flat as a pancake on the top when I passed. I could n't help giving a + screech out of me for fun, and the old guard let fly, and sent a ball + through my 'caubeen;'” and as he said these words he exhibited his ragged + felt hat, which, in addition to its other injuries, now displayed a round + bullet-hole through either side. + </p> + <p> + “Serve you right,” said Freney, harshly; “I wish he'd levelled three + inches lower. That young rascal, sir, keeps the whole road in a state of + alarm that stops all business on it.” Then he added, in a whisper, “but he + never failed me in his life. I 've only to say when and where I want the + horses, and I 'd lay my neck on it he's there.” + </p> + <p> + Daly, who had been for some minutes examining the two horses by the + lantern with all the skill of an adept, now turned the light full upon the + figure of the boy whose encomium was thus pronounced. The urchin, as if + conscious that he was passing an inspection, set his tattered hat jauntily + on one side, and with one arm a-kimbo, and a leg advanced, stood the very + perfection of ragged, self-sufficient rascality. Though at most not above + fourteen years of age, and short in size even for that, his features had + the shrewd intelligence of manhood; a round, wide head, covered with dark + red hair, projected over two eyes set wide apart, whose bad expression was + ingeniously improved by a habit of squinting at pleasure,—a practice + with which he now amused himself, as Mr. Daly continued to stare at him. + His nose, which a wound had partly separated from the forehead, was short + and wide, leaving an unnatural length to the lower part of the face, where + an enormous mouth, garnished with large and regular teeth, was seen,—a + feature that actually gave a look of ferocity even to a face so young. + </p> + <p> + “It's plain to see what destiny awaits that young scoundrel,” said Daly, + as he gazed almost sadly at the assemblage of bad passions so palpably + displayed in his countenance. + </p> + <p> + “I 'd wager the young devil knows it himself, and can see the gallows even + now before him.” + </p> + <p> + A wild burst of frantic laughter broke from the urchin as, in the + exuberance of his merriment, he capered round Daly with gambols the most + strange and uncouth, and then, mimicking an air of self-admiration, he + strutted past, while he broke into one of the slang ditties of the day:— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “With beauty and manners to plaze, + I 'll seek a rich wife, and I 'll find her, + And live like a Lord all my days, + And sing, Tally-high-ho the Grinder!” + </pre> + <p> + Freney actually screamed with laughter as he watched the mingled + astonishment and horror depicted in Daly's face. + </p> + <p> + “That fellow's fate will lie heavily on your heart yet,” said Daly, in a + voice whose solemn tones at once arrested Freney's merriment, while the + “gossoon,” with increased animation and in a wilder strain, burst forth,— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “My Lord cheats at play like a rogue, + And my Lady flings honor behind her; + And why wold n't I be in vogue, + And sing, Tally-high-ho the Grinder!” + </pre> + <p> + “Come,” said Daly, turning away, for, amid all his disgust, a sense of the + ludicrous was stealing over him, and the temptation to laugh was + struggling in him,—“come, let us be off; you have nothing to wait + for, I suppose?” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing, sir; I'm ready this instant. Here, Jemmy, take this portmanteau, + and meet us outside of Maynooth, under the old castle wall.” + </p> + <p> + “Stay,” cried Daly, whose misgivings about the safe arrival of his luggage + would have made him prefer any other mode of transmission; “he 'll + scarcely be in time.” + </p> + <p> + “Not in time! I wish I'd a bet of fifty guineas on it that he would not + visit every stable on the road, and know every traveller's name and + business, and yet be a good half hour before us. Off with you! Away!” + </p> + <p> + Diving under the two horses, the “gossoon” appeared at the other side of + the road, and then, with a wild spring in the air, and an unearthly shout + of laughter, he cleared the fence before him and disappeared, while as he + went the strain of his slang song still floated in the air, and the + refrain, “Tally-high-ho the Grinder,” could be heard through the stillness + of the night. + </p> + <p> + “Take the dark horse, sir; you 're heavier than me,” said Freney, as he + held the stirrup. + </p> + <p> + “A clever hack, faith,” said Daly, as he seated himself in the saddle, and + gathered up the reins. + </p> + <p> + “And mounts you well,” cried Freney, admiring both horse and rider once + more by the light before he extinguished the lantern. + </p> + <p> + The storm had now considerably abated, and they rode on at a brisk pace, + nor did they draw rein till the tall ruined castle of Maynooth could be + seen, rearing its dark head against the murky sky. + </p> + <p> + “We part here,” said Daly, who for some time had been lost in thought, + “and I have nothing but thanks to offer you for this night's service, + Freney; but if the time should come that I can do you a good turn—” + </p> + <p> + “I 'll never ask it, sir,” said Freney, interrupting him. + </p> + <p> + “And why not? Are you too proud?” + </p> + <p> + “Not too proud to be under any obligation to you,” said the robber, + stopping him, “but too proud of the honor you did me this night by keeping + my company, ever to hurt your fame by letting the world know it. No, Mr. + Daly, I knew your courage well; but this was the bravest thing ever you + did.” + </p> + <p> + He sprang from his horse as he spoke, and gave a long, shrill whistle. A + deep silence followed, and he repeated the signal, and, soon after, the + tramp of naked feet was heard on the road, and Jemmy advanced towards them + at his ordinary sling trot. + </p> + <p> + “Take the trunk up to the town.” + </p> + <p> + “No, no,” said Daly, “I'll do that myself;” and he relieved the urchin of + his burden, taking the opportunity to slip some crown-pieces into his + willing hand while he did so. + </p> + <p> + “Good-bye, sir,” said Freney, taking off his hat with courteous deference. + </p> + <p> + “Good-bye, Freney,” said Daly, as he seized the robber's hand and shook it + warmly. “I 'll soon be shaking hands with twenty fellows not a whit more + honest,” said Daly, as he looked after him through the gloom. “Hang me if + I don't think he's better company, too!” and with this very flattering + reflection on some parties unknown, he plodded along towards the town. + </p> + <p> + Here, again, new disappointment awaited him: a sudden summons had called + the members of both political parties to the capital, and horses were not + to be had at any price. + </p> + <p> + “'T is the Lord's marciful providence left him only the one arm,” said a + waiter, as he ushered Daly into a sitting-room, and cast a glance of most + meaning terror at the retiring figure of Sandy. + </p> + <p> + “What do you mean?” asked Daly, hastily. + </p> + <p> + “It's what he smashed the best chaise in the yard, as if it was a taycup, + this morning. Mr. Tisdal ordered it to be ready at seven o'clock, to take + him up to town, and, when it came to the door, up comes that long fellow + with his one arm, and says, 'This will do for my master,' says he, and + cool and aisy he gets up into the chaise, and sits down, and when he was + once there, by my conscience you might as well try to drain the canal with + a cullender as get him out again! We had a fight that lasted nigh an hour, + and signs on it, there's many a black eye in the stable-yard to show for + it; but he beat them all off, and kept his ground. 'Never mind,' said Mr. + Tisdal, and he whispered a word to the master; and what did they do, sir, + but nailed him up fast in the chaise, and unharnessed the horses, put them + to a jaunting-car, and started with Mr. Tisdal before you could turn + round.” + </p> + <p> + “And Sandy,” cried Daly, “what did he do?” + </p> + <p> + “Sandy?—av it's that you call him,—a divil a doubt but he's + sandy and stony too,—he made a drive at the front panel wid one leg, + and away it went; and he smashed open the door with his fist; and put that + short stump of an arm through the wood as if it was cheese. 'T is a holy + show, the same chaise now! And when he got out, may I never spread a + tablecloth if you'd see a crayture in the street: they run in every + direction, as if it was the duke's bull was out of the paddock, and it's + only a while ago he grew raysonable.” + </p> + <p> + However little satisfactory the exploit was to the innkeeper and his + household, it seemed to sharpen Daly's enjoyment of his breakfast, and + compensate him for the delay to which he was condemned. The messenger sent + to seek for horses returned at last without them, and there was now no + alternative but to await, with such patience as he could muster, some + chaise for town, and thus reach Dublin before nightfall. + </p> + <p> + A return chaise from Kilcock was at last secured, and Daly, with his + servant on the box, proceeded towards Dublin. + </p> + <p> + It was dark when they reached the capital, and drove with all the speed + they could accomplish to the Knight's house in Henrietta Street. Great was + Daly's discomfort to learn that his friend Darcy had just driven from the + door. + </p> + <p> + “Where to?” said he, as he held his watch in his hand, as if considering + the chances of still overtaking him. + </p> + <p> + “To a dinner-party, sir, at Lord Castlereagh's,” said the servant. + </p> + <p> + “At Lord Castlereagh's!” And nothing but the presence of the man repressed + the passionate exclamation that quivered on his lip. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir, his Lordship and Mr. Heffernan called here—” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Heffernan,—Mr. Con Heffernan do you mean?” interrupted he, + quickly. “Ah! I have it now. And when was this visit?” + </p> + <p> + “On Monday last, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “On Monday,” said Daly to himself. “The very day the letter was written to + me: there's something in it, after all. Drive to Kildare Place, and as + fast as you can,” said he, aloud, as he sprang into the chaise. + </p> + <p> + The steps were up, the door banged to, the horses lashed into a gallop, + and the next moment saw the chaise at the end of the street. + </p> + <p> + Short as the distance was,—scarcely a mile to Heffer-nan's house,—Daly's + impatient anxiety made him think it an eternity. His object was to reach + the house before Heffernan started; for he judged rightly that not only + was the Secretary's dinner planned by that astute gentleman, but that its + whole conduct and machinery rested on his dexterity. + </p> + <p> + “I know the fellow well,” muttered Daly,—“ay, and, by Heaven! he + knows <i>me</i>. His mock candor and his counterfeit generosity have but a + bad chance with such men as myself; but Darcy's open, unsuspecting + temperament is the very metal he can weld and fashion to his liking.” + </p> + <p> + It was in the midst of reflections like these, mingled with passionate + bursts of impatience at the pace, which was, notwithstanding, a sharp + gallop, that they dashed up to Heffer-nan's door. To make way for them, a + chariot that stood there was obliged to move on. + </p> + <p> + “Whose carriage is this?” said Daly, as, without waiting for the steps to + be lowered, he sprang to the ground. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Heffernan's, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “He is at home, then?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir; but just about to leave for a dinner-party.” + </p> + <p> + “Stand by that chariot, Sandy, and take care that no one enters it till I + come back,” whispered Daly in his servant's ear. And Sandy took up bis + post at the door like a sentinel on duty. “Tell your master,” said Daly to + the servant, who stood at the open hall-door, “that a gentleman desires to + speak with him.” + </p> + <p> + “He's just going out, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Give my message,” said Daly, sternly. + </p> + <p> + “With what name, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “Repeat the words as I have given them to you, and don't dictate to me how + I am to announce myself,” said he, harshly, as he opened the door and + walked into the parlor. + </p> + <p> + Scarcely had he reached the fireplace when a bustle without proclaimed + that Heffernan was passing downstairs, and the confused sound of voices + was heard as he and his servant spoke together. “Ah! very well,” said + Heffernan, aloud; “you may tell the gentleman, John, that I can't see him + at present. I 've no notion of keeping dinner waiting half an hour.” And + so saying, he passed out to enter the carriage. + </p> + <p> + “Na, na,” said Sandy, as the footman offered his arm to assist his master + to mount the steps; “ye maun wait a wee. I trow ye hae no seen my master + yet.” + </p> + <p> + “What means this insolence? Who is this fellow?—push him aside.” + </p> + <p> + “That's na sae easy to do,” replied Sandy, gravely; “and though I hae but + one arm, ye 'll no be proud of yer-sel 'gin you try the game.” + </p> + <p> + “Who are you? By what right do you stop me here?” said Heffernan, who, + contrary to his wont, was already in a passion. + </p> + <p> + “I'm Bagenal Daly's man; and there's himsel in the parlor, and he'll tell + you mair, maybe.” + </p> + <p> + The mention of that name seemed to act like a spell upon Heffernan, and, + without waiting for another word, he turned back hastily, and re-entered + the house. He stopped as he laid his hand on the handle of the door, and + his face, when the light fell on it, was pale as death; and although no + other sign of agitation was perceptible, the expression of his features + was very different from ordinary. The pause, brief as it was, seemed + sufficient to rally him, for, opening the door with an appearance of + haste, he advanced towards Daly, and, with an outstretched hand, + exclaimed,— + </p> + <p> + “My dear Mr. Daly, I little knew who it was I declined to see. They gave + me no name, and I was just stepping into my carriage when your servant + told me you were here. I need not tell you that I would not deny myself to + <i>you</i>.” + </p> + <p> + “I believe not, sir,” said Daly, with a strong emphasis on the words. “I + have come a long journey to see and speak with you.” + </p> + <p> + “May I ask it, as a great favor, that you will let our interview be for + to-morrow morning? You may name your hour, or as many of them as you like—or + will you dine with me?” + </p> + <p> + “We 'll dine together to-day, sir,” said Daly. + </p> + <p> + “That's impossible,” said Heffernan, with a smile which all his tact could + not make an easy one. “I have been engaged for four days to Lord + Castlereagh,—a party which I had some share in assembling together,—and, + indeed, already I am five-and-twenty minutes late.” + </p> + <p> + “I regret deeply, sir,” said Daly, as, crossing his hands behind his back, + he slowly walked up and down the room,—“I regret deeply that I must + deprive the noble Secretary's dinner-party of so very gifted a guest. I + know something of Mr. Heffernan's entertaining powers, and I have heard + even more of them; but for all that, I must be unrelenting, and—” + </p> + <p> + “The thing is really impossible.” + </p> + <p> + “You will dine with me to-day,” was the cool answer of Daly, as, fixing + his eyes steadily on him, he uttered the words in a low, determined tone. + </p> + <p> + “Once for all, sir—” said Heffernan, as he moved towards the door. + </p> + <p> + “Once for all,” repeated Daly, “I will have my way. This is no piece of + caprice,—no sudden outbreak of that eccentricity which you and + others affect to fasten on me. No, Mr. Heffernan; I have come a hundred + and fifty miles with an object, and not all the wily dexterity of even you + shall balk me. To be plain, sir, there are reports current in the clubs + and society generally that you have been the means of securing the Knight + of Gwynne to the side of Government. I know—ay, and you know—how + many of these rumors originate on the shallow foundation of men being seen + together in public, and cultivating an intimacy on purely social grounds. + Now, Mr. Heffernan, Darcy's opinions, it is well known, are not those of + the Ministry, and the only result of such calumnies will be that he, the + head of a family, and a country gentleman of the highest rank, will be + drawn into a dangerous altercation with some of those lounging puppies + that circulate such slanders. I am his friend, and, as it happens, with no + such ties to life and station as he possesses. I will, if possible, place + myself in a similar position, and, to do so, I know no readier road than + by keeping your company. I will give the gentlemen every pretext to talk + of me as they have done of him; and if I hear a mutter, or if I see a + signal that the most suspicious nature can torture into an affront, I will + teach the parties that if they let their tongues run glibly, they at least + shall keep their hair-triggers in order. Now, sir, you 'll not only dine + with me to-day, but you 'll do so in the large room of the Club. I 've + given you my reasons, and I tell you flatly that I will hear nothing in + opposition to them; for I am quite ready to open the ball with Mr. Con + Heffernan.” + </p> + <p> + Heffernan's courage had been proved on more than one occasion; but, + somehow, he had his own reasons, it would seem, for declining the gage of + battle here. That they were valid ones would appear from the evident + struggle compliance cost him, as, with a quivering lip and whisper, he + said: + </p> + <p> + “There may be much force in what you say, Mr. Daly,—your motives, at + least, are unquestionable. I will offer, therefore, no further + opposition.” So saying, he opened the door to permit Daly to pass out. “To + the Club,” said he to the footman, as they both seated themselves in the + chariot. + </p> + <p> + “The Club, sir!” repeated the astonished servant. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, to Daly's Club,” said Bagenal himself. And they drove off. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0018" id="link2HCH0018"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVIII. LORD CASTLEREAGH'S DINNER-PARTY. + </h2> + <p> + The day of Lord Castlereagh's dinner-party had arrived, and the guests, + all save Mr. Heffernan, were assembled in the drawing-room. The party was + small and select, and his Lordship had gone through the usual routine of + introducings, when Hamilton asked if he still expected any one. + </p> + <p> + “Yes; Mr. Heffernan promised to make one of our twelve; he is generally + punctuality itself, and I cannot understand what detains him.” + </p> + <p> + “He said he 'd call for me on his way,” said Lord Beerhaven, “and I waited + some time for him; but as I would not risk spoiling your Lordship's <i>entrées</i>, + I came away at last.” + </p> + <p> + This speech was made by one who felt no small uneasiness on his own part + respecting the cookery, and took the occasion of suggesting his fears, as + a hint to order dinner. + </p> + <p> + “Shall we vote him present, then?” said Lord Castle-reagh, who saw the + look of dismay the further prospect of waiting threw over the party. + </p> + <p> + “By all means,” said Lord Beerhaven; “Heffernan never eats soup.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't think he cares much for fish, either,” said Hamilton. + </p> + <p> + “I think our friend Con is fond of walnuts,” said the Knight, dryly. + </p> + <p> + “Them 's the unwholesomest things he could eat,” muttered old Hickman, + who, although seated in a corner of the room, and partly masked by his son + and grandson, could not be altogether secluded from earshot. + </p> + <p> + “Are they indeed?” said the bishop, turning sharply round; for the theme + of health was one that engaged all his sympathies; and although his short + apron covered a goodly rotundity of form, eating exacted to the full as + many pains as it afforded pleasures to the Churchman. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, my Lord,” said Hickman, highly gratified to obtain such exalted + notice; “there's an essential oil in them that destroys the mucous + membrane—” + </p> + <p> + “Destroys the mucous membrane!” said the bishop, interrupting him. + </p> + <p> + “Mine is pretty much in that way already,” said Lord Beerhaven, + querulously; “five-and-twenty minutes past six.” + </p> + <p> + “No, no, my dear Darcy,” said Lord Drogheda, who, having drawn the Knight + aside, was speaking in an earnest but low tone, “I never was easier in my + life, on the score of money; don't let the thing give you any trouble; + consult Gleeson about it, he's a clever fellow, and take your own time for + the payment.” + </p> + <p> + “Gleeson is a clever fellow, my Lord, but there are straits that prove too + much even for his ingenuity.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! I know what you mean,” said Lord Drogheda, secretly, “you 've heard + of that Spanish-American affair,—yes, he made a bad hit there; some + say he'll lose fifty thousand by it.” + </p> + <p> + Dinner was at this moment announced, and the Knight was unable to learn + further on a subject the little he had heard of which gave him great + sorrow. Unfortunately, too, his position at table was opposite, not next, + to Lord Drogheda, and he was thus compelled to wait for another + opportunity of interrogating him. + </p> + <p> + Lord Castlereagh has left behind him one reputation which no political or + party animosity has ever availed to detract from, that of being the most + perfect host that ever dispensed the honors of a table. Whatever seeming + reserve or coldness he maintained at other times, here he was courteous to + cordiality; his manner, the happy union of thorough good-breeding and + friendly ease. Gifted with a most retentive memory, and well versed on + almost every topic that could arise, he possessed that most difficult art, + the power of developing the resources and information of others, without + ever making any parade of his own acquirements; or, what is still harder, + without betraying the effort which, in hands less adroit, becomes the most + vulgar of all tricks, called “drawing out.” + </p> + <p> + With all these advantages, and well suited as he was to meet every + emergency of a social meeting, he felt on the present occasion far less at + ease than was his wont. The party was one of Heffernan's contriving,—the + elements were such as he himself would never have dreamed of collecting + together,—and he relied upon his “ancient” to conduct the plan he + had so skilfully laid down. It was, as he muttered to himself, + “Heffernan's Bill,” and he was not coming forward to explain its + provisions or state its object. + </p> + <p> + Happily for the success of such meetings in general, the adjuncts + contribute almost equally with the intellectual resources of the party; + and here Heffernan, although absent, had left a trace of his skill. The + dinner was admirable. Lord Castlereagh knew nothing of such matters; the + most simple, nay, the most ill-dressed, meats would have met equal + approval from him with the greatest triumphs of the art; and as to wine, + he mixed up his madeira, his claret, and his burgundy together in a + fashion which sadly deteriorated him in the estimation of many of his more + cultivated acquaintances. + </p> + <p> + All the detail of the dinner was perfect, and Lord Beer-haven, his fears + on that score allayed, emerged from the cloud of his own dreary + anticipations, and became one of the pleasantest of the party. And thus + the influence of good cheer and easy converse extended its happy sway + until even Mr. Hickman O'Reilly began to suffer less anxiety respecting + his father's presence, and felt relieved at the preoccupation the good + things of the table exacted from the old doctor. + </p> + <p> + The party was of that magnitude which, while enabling the guests to form + into the twos and threes of conversational intimacy, yet affords, from + time to time, the opportunity of generalizing the subject discussed, and + drawing, as it were, into a common centre the social abilities of each. + And there Lord Castlereagh shone conspicuously, for at the same time that + he called forth all the anecdotic stores of Lord Beerhaven, and the witty + repartee for which Hamilton was noted, he shrouded the obtrusive old + Hickman, or gave a character of quaint originality to remarks which, with + less flattering introduction, had been deemed low-lived and vulgar. + </p> + <p> + The wine went freely round, and claret, whose flavor might have found + acceptance with the most critical, began to work its influence upon the + party, producing that pleasant amalgamation in which individual + peculiarities are felt to be the attractive, and not the repelling, + properties of social intercourse. + </p> + <p> + “What splendid action that horse you drive has, Mr. Beecham O'Reilly,” + said Lord Loughdooner, who had paid the most marked attention to him + during dinner. “That's the style of moving they 're so mad after in + London,—high and fast at the same time.” + </p> + <p> + “I gave three hundred and fifty for him,” lisped out the youth, + carelessly, “and think him cheap.” + </p> + <p> + “Cheap at three hundred and fifty!” exclaimed old Hickman, who had heard + the fact for the first time. “May I never stir from the spot, but you told + me forty pounds.” + </p> + <p> + “When you can pick up another at that price let me know, I beg you,” said + Lord Loughdooner, coming to the rescue, and with a smile that seemed to + say, “How well you quizzed the old gentleman! I say, Hamilton, who bought + your gray?” + </p> + <p> + “Ecclesmere bought him for his uncle.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, he starts, or shies, or something of that sort, don't he?” + </p> + <p> + “No, my Lord, he 'comes down,' which is what the uncle does not; and as he + stands between Ecclesmere and the Marquisate—” + </p> + <p> + “That's what I've always maintained,” said the bishop to Lord Castlereagh. + “The potato disposes to acidity. I know the poor people correct that by + avoiding animal food,—a most invaluable fact.” + </p> + <p> + “There are good grounds for your remark,” said Lord Castlereagh to the + Knight, while he smiled an easy assent to the bishop, without attending to + him, “and the social relations of the country will demand the earliest + care of the Government whenever measures of immediate importance permit + this consideration. We have been unfortunate in not drawing closer to us + men who, like yourself, are thoroughly acquainted with the condition of + the people generally. It is not too late—” + </p> + <p> + “Too late for what?” interrupted Lord Drogheda. “Not too late for more + claret, I trust; and the decanter has been standing opposite to me these + ten minutes.” + </p> + <p> + “A thousand pardons!—O'Reilly, will you touch that bell? Thanks.” + </p> + <p> + The tone of easy familiarity with which he spoke covered Hickman with a + flush of ecstatic pleasure. + </p> + <p> + “They ginger them up so, nowadays,” said Lord Loughdooner to Beecham + O'Reilly. + </p> + <p> + “Ginger!” chimed in Hickman,—“the devil a finer thing for the + stomach. I ask your pardon, my Lord, for saying his name, but I 'll give + you a receipt for the windy bile worth a guinea-note.” + </p> + <p> + “Take a pinch of snuff, Dr. Hickman,” said Lord Castle-reagh, who saw the + mortification of the two generations at the old man's vulgarity. + </p> + <p> + “Thank you, my Lord. 'Tis blackguard I like best: them brown snuffs ruins + the nose entirely.—I was saying about the mixture,” said he, + addressing the bishop. “Take a pint of infusion of gentian, and put a + pinch of coriander seeds, and the peel of a Chaney orange—” + </p> + <p> + “I recommend a bumper of that claret, my Lord,” said Lord Castlereagh, + determined to cut short the prescription, which now was being listened to + by the whole board; “and when I add the health of the primate, I 'm sure + you 'll not refuse me.” The toast was drunk with all suitable honors, and + the Secretary resumed in a whisper: “He wants our best wishes on that + score, poor fellow, if they could serve him. He's not long to be with us, + I fear.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed, my Lord!” said the bishop, eagerly. + </p> + <p> + “Alas! too true,” sighed Lord Castlereagh; “he 'll be a severe loss, too. + I wanted to have some minutes' talk with you on the matter. These are + times of no common emergency, and the men we promote are of great + consequence at this moment. Say to-morrow, about one.” + </p> + <p> + “I 'll be punctual,” said the bishop, taking out his tablets to make a + note of what his memory would retain to the end of his life. + </p> + <p> + Lord Castlereagh caught the Knight's eye at the instant, and they both + smiled, without being able to control their emotion. + </p> + <p> + “And so,” said Lord Castlereagh, hastening to conceal his laugh, “my young + relation continues to enjoy the hospitalities of your house. I don't doubt + in the least that he reckons that wound the luckiest incident of his + life.” + </p> + <p> + “My friend Darcy paid even more dearly for it,” said Lord Drogheda, + overhearing the remark; “but for Heffernan's tidings, I should certainly + have lost my wager.” + </p> + <p> + “I assure you, Knight,” broke in Hickman O'Reilly, “it was through no + fault of mine that the altercation ended so seriously. I visited Captain + Forester in his room, and thought I obtained his pledge to take no further + notice of the affair.” + </p> + <p> + “And I, too, told him the style of fellow MacDonough was,” said Beecham, + affectedly. + </p> + <p> + “I have heard honorable mention of both facts, gentlemen,” said Darcy, + dryly; “that nothing could have less contributed to a breach of the peace + than Mr. Beecham O'Reilly's conduct, my friend Daly is willing to vouch + for.” + </p> + <p> + “I wish his own had been equally prudent and pacific,” said Hickman + O'Reilly, reddening at the taunt conveyed in the Knight's speech. + </p> + <p> + “Daly is unquestionably the best friend on the ground—” + </p> + <p> + “On or off the ground, my Lord Loughdooner,” interrupted the Knight, + warmly; “he may be, now and then, somewhat hasty or rash; but rich as our + country is in men of generous natures, Bagenal Daly is second to none.” + </p> + <p> + “I protest, gentlemen,” said the bishop, gravely; “I wish I could hear a + better reason for the panegyric than his skill as a duellist.” + </p> + <p> + “True for you, my Lord,” muttered old Hickman, in a whisper; “he's readier + with a pistol-bullet than with the interest on his bond.” + </p> + <p> + “He 'd favor you with a discharge in full, sir, if he heard the + observation,” said Hamilton, laughing. + </p> + <p> + “A letter, my Lord,” said a servant, presenting a sealed epistle to the + Secretary. + </p> + <p> + “Heffernan's writing, gentlemen, so I shall, with your permission, read + it.” He broke the seal, and read aloud: “'My dear Lord,—An + adventure, which would be laughable if it were not so provoking, prevents + my coming to dinner, so I must leave the menagerie—'” Here he + dropped his voice, and, crumpling up the letter, laughingly remarked, “Oh, + we shall hear it all later on, I 've no doubt.” + </p> + <p> + “By the by, my Lord, there's a House to-night, is there not?” + </p> + <p> + “No, bishop; we moved an adjournment for to-morrow evening. You 'll come + down for the debate, won't you?” + </p> + <p> + The bishop nodded significantly, and sipped his wine. There was now a + pause. This was the great topic of the day, and yet, up to this moment, + not even a chance allusion to politics had been dropped, and all recoiled + from adventuring, even by a word, on a theme which might lead to + disagreement or discordance. Old Hickman, however, dated his origin in + life too far back for such scruples, and, leaning across the table, said, + with an accent to which wine imparted a tone of peculiar cunning, “I wish + you well through it, my Lord; for, by all accounts, it is dirty work.” + </p> + <p> + The roar of laughter that followed the speech actually shook the table, + Lord Castlereagh giving way to it with as much zest as the guests + themselves. Twice he essayed to speak, but each time a fresh burst of + mirth interrupted him, while old Hickman, unable to divine the source of + the merriment, stared at each person in turn, and at last muttered his + consolatory “Ay,” but with a voice that showed he was far from feeling + satisfied. + </p> + <p> + “I wish you'd made that speech in the House, Mr. Hickman,” said Lord + Drogheda; “I do believe you'd have been the most popular man in Ireland.” + </p> + <p> + “I confess,” said Lord Castlereagh, wiping his eyes, “I cannot conceive a + more dangerous opponent to the Bill.” + </p> + <p> + “If he held your own bill, with a protest on it,” whispered Hamilton, + “your opinion would not be easily gainsaid.” + </p> + <p> + “May I ask for a cup of coffee?” said the bishop, rising, for he saw that + although as yet no untoward results had followed, at any moment something + unpleasant might occur. The party rose with him, and adjourned to the + drawing-room. + </p> + <p> + “Singular old man!” said Lord Castlereagh, in a whisper to the Knight. + “Shrewd and cunning, no doubt, but scarcely calculated, as our friend + Drogheda thinks, to distinguish himself in the House of Commons.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you think the Upper House would suit him better, my Lord?” said Darcy, + slyly. + </p> + <p> + “I see, Knight,” said Lord Castlereagh, laughing, “you have caught up the + popular joke of the day.” + </p> + <p> + “I trust, my Lord, it may be no more than a joke.” + </p> + <p> + “Can you doubt it?” + </p> + <p> + “At the present moment,” said the Knight, gravely, “I see no reason for + doubting anything merely on the score of its unlikelihood; your Lordship's + colleagues have given us some sharp lessons on the subject of credulity, + and we should be more unteachable than the savage if we had not learnt + something by this time.” + </p> + <p> + Lord Castlereagh was about to answer, when Lord Drogheda came forward to + say “Good night.” The others were going too, and in the bustle of + leave-taking some moments were passed. + </p> + <p> + “Your carriage has not come yet, sir,” replied a servant to the Knight. + </p> + <p> + “Shall we take you home, Darcy,” said Lord Drogheda; “or are you going to + the Club?” + </p> + <p> + “Let me say no to that offer, Knight,” interposed Lord Castlereagh, “and + give me the pleasure of your company till the carriage arrives.” + </p> + <p> + Darcy acceded to a request, the courteous mode of making which had already + secured its acceptance, and the Knight sat down at the fire <i>tête-à-tête</i> + with the Secretary. + </p> + <p> + “I was most anxious for a moment like this,” said Lord Castlereagh, with + the air of one abandoning himself to the full liberty of sincerity. “It + very seldom happens to men placed like myself to have even a few brief + minutes' intercourse with any out of the rank of partisans or opponents. + </p> + <p> + “I will not disguise from you how highly I should value the alliance of + yourself to our party; I place the greatest price upon such support, but + there is something better and more valuable than even a vote in a strong + division, and that is, the candid judgment of a man who has enjoyed your + opportunities and your powers of forming an opinion. Tell me now, frankly,—for + we are here in all freedom of intercourse,—what do you object to? + What do you fear from this contemplated enactment?” + </p> + <p> + “Let me rather hear,” said the Knight, smiling, “what do you hope from it,—how + you propose it to become the remedy of our existing evils? Because I shall + thereby see whether your Lordship and myself are like-minded on the score + of the disease, before we begin to discuss the remedy.” + </p> + <p> + “Be it so, then,” said the Secretary, gayly; and at once, without + hesitation, he commenced a short and most explicit statement of the + Government intentions. Arguments that formed the staple of long + Parliamentary harangues he condensed into a sentence or two; views that, + dilated upon, sufficed to fill the columns of a newspaper, he displayed + palpably and boldly, exhibiting powers of clear and rapid eloquence for + which so few gave him credit in public life. Not an epithet nor an + expression could have been retrenched from a detail which denoted + faculties of admirable training, assisted by a memory almost miraculous. + Stating in order the various objections to the measure, he answered each + in turn; and wherever the reply was not sufficiently ample and conclusive, + he adroitly took occasion to undervalue either the opinion or the source + from which it originated, exhibiting, while restraining, considerable + powers of sarcasm, and a thorough insight into the character of the public + men of the period. + </p> + <p> + If the Knight was unconvinced by the arguments, he was no less astonished + by the abilities of the Secretary. Up to that hour he had been a follower + of the popular notion of the Opposition party, which agreed in decrying + his talents, and making his displays as a speaker the touchstone of his + capacity. Darcy was too clever himself to linger longer in this delusion. + He saw the great and varied resources of the youthful statesman tested by + a question of no common difficulty, and he could not control the + temptation of telling him, as he concluded,— + </p> + <p> + “You have made me a convert to the union—” + </p> + <p> + “Have I, indeed?” cried the Secretary, in an ecstasy of pleasure. + </p> + <p> + “Hear me out, my Lord,—to the union of great political abilities + with the most captivating powers of conversation. Yes, my Lord, I am old + enough to make such a remark without the hazard of being deemed + impertinent or a flatterer,—<i>your</i> success in life is certain.” + </p> + <p> + “But the Bill!” cried Lord Castlereagh, while his handsome face was + flushed between delight and eagerness,—“the Bill!” + </p> + <p> + “Is an admirable Bill for England, my Lord, and were there not two sides + to a contract, would be perfect,—indeed, until I heard the lucid + statement you have just made, I never saw one-tenth part of the advantages + it must render to your country, nor, consequently,—for we move not + in parallel lines,—the great danger with which it is fraught to + mine. Let me now explain more fully.” + </p> + <p> + With these words the Knight entered upon the question of the Union in all + its relations to Ireland; and while never conceding, nor even extenuating, + the difficulties attendant upon a double legislature, he proceeded to show + the probable train of events that must result on the passing of the + measure, strengthening his anticipations by facts derived from deep + knowledge of the country. + </p> + <p> + Far be it from us to endeavor to recapitulate his arguments: some of them, + now forgotten, were difficult enough to answer; others, treasured up, have + been fashionable fallacies in our own day. Such as they were, they were + the reasons why an Irish gentleman demurred to surrendering privileges + that gave his own country rank, place, and preeminence, without the + evidence of any certain or adequate compensation. + </p> + <p> + “Do not tell me, my Lord, that we shall hold our influence and our station + in the Imperial Parliament. There are many reasons against such a belief. + We shall be in the minority, a great minority; a minority branded with + provincialism as our badge, and accused of prejudice and + narrow-sightedness, from the very fact of our nationality. No, no; we + shall occupy a very different position in your country: and who will take + our places here? That's a point your Lordship has not touched upon, but I + 'll tell you. The demagogue, the public disturber, the licensed hawker of + small grievances, every briefless lawyer of bad fortune and worse + language, every mendicant patriot that can minister to the passions of a + people deserted by their natural protectors,—the day will come, my + Lord, when these men will grow ambitious, their aspirings may become + troublesome; if you coerce them, they are martyrs,—conciliate them, + and they are privileged. What will happen then? You will be asked to + repeal the Union, you will be charged with all the venality by which you + carried your Bill, every injustice with which it is chargeable, and with a + hundred other faults and crimes with which it is unconnected. You will be + asked, I say, to repeal the Union, and make of this miserable rabble, + these dregs and sweepings of party, a Parliament. You shake your head. No, + no, it is by no means impossible,—nay, I don't think it even remote. + I speak as an old man, and age, if it have many deficiencies as regards + the past, has at least some prophetic foresight for the future. You will + be asked to repeal the Union, to give a Parliament to a country which you + have drained of its wealth, from which you have seduced the aristocracy; + to restore a deliberative body to a land whose resources for + self-legislation you have studiously and industriously ruined. Think, + then, twice of a measure from which, if it fail, there is no retreat, and + the opposition to which may come in a worse form than a vote in the House + of Commons. I see you deem my anticipations have more gloom than + truthfulness; I hope it may be so.” + </p> + <p> + “The Knight of Gwynne's carriage,” cried a servant, throwing wide the + door. + </p> + <p> + “How opportune!” said Darcy, laughing; “it is so satisfactory to have the + last shot at the enemy.” + </p> + <p> + “Pray don't go yet,—a few moments more.” + </p> + <p> + “Not a second, my Lord; I dare not. The fact is, I have strenuously + avoided this subject; an old friend of mine, Bagenal Daly, has wearied me + of it,—he is an Anti-Unionist, but on grounds I scarcely concur in. + Your Lordship's defence of the measure I also demur to. I am like poor old + Murray, the Chief Justice of the Common Pleas, who, when called on for his + opinion in a case where Judge Wallace was in favor of a rule, and Judge + Mayne against it, he said, 'I agree with my brother Mayne for the cogent + reasons laid down by my brother Wallace.'” + </p> + <p> + “So,” said the Secretary, laughing heartily, “I have convinced you against + myself.” + </p> + <p> + “Exactly, my Lord. I came here this evening intending not to vote on the + Bill,—indeed, I accepted your Lordship's hospitality without a + thought upon a party question; I am equally certain you will acquit me of + being a spy in the camp. To-morrow I intend to vote against you.” + </p> + <p> + “I wish I could have the same esteem for my friends that I now pledge for + my—” + </p> + <p> + “Don't say 'enemy,' my Lord; we both aspire to the same end,—our + country's good. If we take different roads, it is because each thinks his + own path the shortest. Good night.” + </p> + <p> + Lord Castlereagh accompanied the Knight to his carriage, and again shook + his hand cordially as they parted. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0019" id="link2HCH0019"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIX. A DAY OF EXCITEMENT + </h2> + <p> + Great was the Knight's astonishment, and not less his satisfaction, as he + entered the breakfast-room the morning after his dinner with the + Secretary, to find Bagenal Daly there before him. They met with all the + cordial warmth of men whose friendship had continued without interruption + for nigh half a century; each well disposed to prize good faith and + integrity at a time when so many lapsed from the path of honor and + principle. + </p> + <p> + “Well, Darcy,” cried Daly, the first greetings over, “there is little hope + left us; that rascally newspaper already proclaims the triumph,—a + majority of twenty-eight.” + </p> + <p> + “They calculate on many more; you remember what old Hayes, of the + Recruiting Staff, used to say: 'There was no getting fellows to enlist + when the bounty was high; make it half-a-crown,' said he, 'and I 'll raise + a battalion in a fortnight.'” + </p> + <p> + “Is Castlereagh adopting the policy?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, and with infinite success! Some that held out for English Peerages + are fain to take Irish Baronetcies, expectant Bishops put up with + Deaneries, and an acquaintance of ours, that would take nothing below a + separate command, is now satisfied to make his son a clerk in the War + Office.” + </p> + <p> + “I 'm sorry for it,” said Daly, as he arose and paced the room backwards + and forwards, “sincerely sorry. I had fostered the hope that if they + succeeded in corrupting <i>our</i> gentry, they had polluted <i>their own</i> + Peerage. I wish every fellow had been bought by an Earldom at least. I + would like to think that this Judas Peerage might become a jest and a + scoff among their order.” + </p> + <p> + “Have no such expectation, Bagenal,” said the Knight, reflectively; “their + origin will be forgiven before the first generation dies out. To all + purposes of worldly respect and esteem, they 'll be as high and mighty + Lords as the best blood of all the Howards. The penalty will fall upon + England in another form.” + </p> + <p> + “How? Where?” + </p> + <p> + “In the Lower House, politics will become a trade to live by, and the + Irish party, with such an admirable market for grievances, will be a + strong and compact body in Parliament, too numerous to be bought by + anything save great concessions. Englishmen will never understand the + truth of the condition of the country from these men, nor how little + personal importance they possess at home. They will be regarded as the + exponents of Irish opinion; they will browbeat, denounce, threaten, fawn, + and flatter by turns; and Ireland, instead of being easier to govern, will + be rendered ten times more difficult, by all the obscuring influences of + falsehood and misrepresentation. But let us quit the theme. How have you + left all at the Abbey?” + </p> + <p> + “Well and happy; here are my despatches.” And he laid on the table several + letters, the first the Knight had received since his arrival, save a few + hurried lines from Lady Eleanor. Darcy broke the envelopes, and skimmed + the contents of each. + </p> + <p> + “How good!” cried he, handing Lord Netherby's letter across the table; + “this is really amusing!” + </p> + <p> + “I have seen it,” said Daly, dryly. “Lady Eleanor asked my opinion as to + what answer she should make.” + </p> + <p> + “Insolent old miser!” broke in Darcy, who, without attending to Daly's + remark, had been reading Lady Eleanor's account of Dr. Hickman's proposal. + “I say, Bagenal, you 'll not believe this. What social earthquakes are we + to look for next? Read that.” And with a trembling hand he presented the + letter to Daly. + </p> + <p> + If the Knight's passion had been more openly displayed, Daly's indignation + seemed to evoke deeper emotion, for his brows met, and his stern lips were + clenched, as he perused the lines. + </p> + <p> + “Darcy,” said he, at length, “O'Reilly must apologize for this; he must be + made to disavow any share in the old man's impertinence—” + </p> + <p> + “No, no,” interrupted Darcy, “never speak of it again; rest assured that + Lady Eleanor received the offer suitably. The best thing we can do is to + forget it. If,” added he, after a pause, “the daring that prompted such a + proposition has not a deeper foundation than mere presumption. You know + these Hickmans have purchased up my bonds and other securities?” + </p> + <p> + “I heard as much.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, Gleeson is making arrangements for the payment. One large sum, + something like £20,000—” + </p> + <p> + “Was paid the day before yesterday,” said Daly; “here is a memorandum of + the moneys.” + </p> + <p> + “How the deuce came you by the information? I have heard nothing of it + yet.” + </p> + <p> + “That entails somewhat of a story,” said Daly; “but I 'll be brief with + it.” And in a few words he narrated his meeting with the robber Freney, + and how he had availed himself of his hospitality and safe convoy as far + as Maynooth. + </p> + <p> + “Ireland forever!” said the Knight, in a burst of happy laughter; “for + every species of incongruity, where was ever its equal? An independent + member of the Legislature sups with a highwayman, and takes a loan of his + hackney!” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, faith,” said Daly, joining in the laugh; “and had I not been one of + the Opposition, I had been worth robbing, and consequently not so civilly + treated. By Jove! Darcy, I felt an evening with Freney to be a devilish + good preparation for the company I should be keeping up in town.” + </p> + <p> + “I'll wager ten pounds you talked politics together.” + </p> + <p> + “That we did, and he is as stout an Anti-Unionist as the best of us, + though he told me he signed a petition in favor of the Bill when confined + in Clonmel jail.” + </p> + <p> + “Is that true, Bagenal? did they hawk a petition for signature among the + prisoners of a jail?” + </p> + <p> + “He took his oath of it to me, and I intend to declare it in the House.” + </p> + <p> + “What if asked for your authority?” + </p> + <p> + “I 'll give it,” said Daly, determinedly. “Ay, faith, and if I catch a + sneer or a scoff amongst them, I 'll tell them that a highwayman is about + as respectable and somewhat more courageous than a bribed representative.” + </p> + <p> + If the Knight enjoyed the absurdity of Daly's supper with the noted + Freney, he laughed till the tears came at the account of his dining with + Con Heffernan. Darcy could appreciate the dismay of Heffernan, and the + cool, imperturbable tyranny of Daly's manner throughout, and would have + given largely to have witnessed the <i>tête-à-tête</i>. + </p> + <p> + “I will do him the justice to say,” said Daly, “that when he found escape + impossible, he behaved as well as any man, his conversation was easy and + unaffected, and his manner perfectly well-bred. Freney was more anecdotic, + but Heffernan saw deeper into mankind.” + </p> + <p> + “I hope you hinted the comparison?” said Darcy, slyly. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I observed upon the superiority practical men possess in all the + relations of social intercourse, and quoted Freney and himself as + instances!” + </p> + <p> + “And he took it well?” + </p> + <p> + “Admirably. Once, and only once, did he show a little disposition to turn + restive; it was when I remarked upon the discrepancy in point of destiny, + the one being employed to empty, the other to fill, the pockets of his + Majesty's lieges. He winced, but it was over in a second. His time was up + at ten o'clock, but we sat chatting till near twelve, and we parted with + what the French term a 'sense of the most distinguished consideration' on + each side.” + </p> + <p> + “By Jove! I envy the fellows who sat at the other tables and saw you.” + </p> + <p> + “They were most discreet in their observations,” remarked Daly, + significantly. “One young fellow, it is true, coughed twice or thrice as a + signal to a friend across the room, but I ordered the waiter to bring me a + plate, and, taking three or four bullets out of my pocket, sent them over + to him, with my respectful compliments, as 'admirable pills for a cough.' + The cure was miraculous.” + </p> + <p> + “Excellent! Men have taken out a patent for a poorer remedy. And now, + Bagenal, for the reason of your journey. What, in the name of everything + strange and eccentric, brought you up to town? Don't affect to tell me you + came for the debate.” + </p> + <p> + “And why not?” said Daly, who, unwilling to reveal the true cause, + preferred to do battle on this pretence. “I admit as freely as ever I did, + I'm no lover of Parliament. I have slight respect or esteem for + deliberative assemblies split up into factions and parties. A Government, + to my thinking, should represent unity as the chief element of strength; + but such as it is,—bad enough and base enough, in all conscience,—yet + it is the last remnant of national power left, the frail barrier between + us and downright provincialism. But I had another reason for coming up,—half-a-dozen + other reasons, for that matter,—one of them was, to see your + invaluable business man, Gleeson, who, from some caprice or other about a + higher rate of interest, has withdrawn my sister's fortune from the funds + to invest it in some confounded mortgage. I suppose it's all right, and + judicious to boot; but Maria, like every other Daly I ever heard of, has a + will of her own, and has commissioned me to have the money restored to its + former destination. I verily believe, Darcy, the most troublesome animal + on the face of the globe is an old maid with a small funded capital. At + one moment deploring the low rate of interest and dying for a more + profitable use of the money; at another, decrying all deposit save the + Bank, she inveighs against public theft and private credit, and takes off + three-and-a-half per cent of her happiness in pure fretting.” + </p> + <p> + “Is she quite well?” said the Knight, in an accent which a more shrewd + observer than Daly might have perceived was marked by some agitation. + </p> + <p> + “I never knew her better; as fearless as we both remember her at sixteen; + and, save those strange intervals of depression she has labored under all + through her life, the same gay-hearted spirit she was when the flattered + heiress and beauty long, long years ago.” + </p> + <p> + The Knight heaved a sigh. It might have been for the years thus passed, + the pleasant days of early youth and manhood so suddenly called up before + him; it might have been that other and more tender memories were crowding + on his mind; but he turned away, and leaned on the chimney-piece, lost in + deep thought. + </p> + <p> + “Poor girl,” said Daly, “there is no question of it, Darcy, but she must + have formed some unfortunate attachment; she had pride enough always to + rescue her from the dangers of an unsuitable marriage, but her heart, I + feel convinced, was touched, and yet I never could find a clew to it. I + suspected something of the kind when she refused Donington,—a + handsome fellow, and an old title. I pressed her myself on the subject,—it + was the only time I did so,—and I guessed at once, from a chance + phrase she dropped, that there had been an old attachment somewhere. Well, + well, what a lesson might be read from both our fortunes! The beauty—and + you remember how handsome she was—the beauty with a splendid + fortune, a reduced maiden lady; and myself”—he heaved a heavy sigh, + and, with clasped hands, sat back in the chair, as he added—“the + shattered wreck of every hope I once set out with.” + </p> + <p> + The two old men's eyes met, and, although undesignedly, exchanged looks of + deepest, most affectionate interest. Daly was the first to rally from his + brief access of despondency, and he did so with the physical effort he + would have used to shake a load from his shoulders. + </p> + <p> + “Well, Darcy, let us be up and stirring; there's a meeting at Barrington's + at two: we must not fail to be there.” + </p> + <p> + “I wish to see Gleeson in the mean while,” said the Knight; “I am uneasy + to learn what has been done with Hickman, and what day I can leave town.” + </p> + <p> + “Send Sandy out with a note, and tell him to come to dinner here at six.” + </p> + <p> + “Agreed; nothing could be better; we can talk over our business matters + comfortably, and be down at the House by nine or ten.” + </p> + <p> + The note was soon written, and Sandy despatched, with orders to wait for + Gleeson's return, in case he should be absent when he arrived. + </p> + <p> + The day for the evening of which was fixed the second reading of the Bill + of Union, was a busy one in Dublin. Accounts the most opposite and + contradictory were everywhere in circulation: some asserting that the + Ministerial majority was certain; others, equally positive, alleging that + many of their supposed supporters had lapsed in their allegiance, and that + the most enormous offers had been made, without success, to parties + hitherto believed amongst the ranks of the Government. The streets were + crowded, not by persons engaged in the usual affairs of trade and traffic, + but by groups and knots talking eagerly over the coming event, and + discussing every rumor that chance or scandal suggested. + </p> + <p> + Various meetings were held in different parts of the town: at some, the + Government party were canvassing the modes of reaching the House in + safety, and how best they might escape the violence of the mob; at others, + the Opposition deliberated on the prospects before them, and by what + stratagems the debate might be prolonged till the period when, the Wicklow + election over, Mr. Grattan might be expected to take his seat in the + House, since, by a trick of “the Castle party,” the writ had been delayed + to that very morning. + </p> + <p> + Con Heffernan's carriage was seen everywhere, and some avowed that at five + o'clock he was driving with the third pair of posters he had that day + employed. Bagenal Daly was also a conspicuous character “on town;” on foot + and alone, he was at once recognized by the mob, who cheered him as an old + but long-lost-sight-of acquaintance. The densest crowd made way for him as + he came, and every mark of respect was shown him by those who set a higher + price on his eccentricity and daring than even upon his patriotism; and a + murmuring commentary on his character followed him as he went. + </p> + <p> + “By my conscience! it 's well for them they have n't to fight for the + Union, or they would n't like old Bagenal Daly agin them!” + </p> + <p> + “He looks as fresh and bould as ever he did,” said another; “sorra a day + oulder than he was twenty-eight years ago, when I seen him tried for his + life at Newgate.” + </p> + <p> + “Was you there, Mickey?” cried two or three in a breath. + </p> + <p> + “Faix was I, as near as I am to you. 'Twas a coal-heaver he kilt, a chap + that was called Big Sam; and they say he was bribed by some of the + gentlemen at Daly's Club House to come up to Bagenal Daly in the street + and insult him about the beard he wears on his upper lip, and sure enough + so he did,—it was Ash Wednesday mor by token,—and Sam had a + smut on his face just to imitat(e) Mr. Daly's. 'We are a purty pair, ain't + we?' says Sam, grinning at him, when they met on Essex Bridge. And wid + that he slips his arm inside Mr. Daly's to hook wid his.” + </p> + <p> + “To walk beside him, is't?” + </p> + <p> + “Just so, divil a less. 'Come round to the other side of me,' says Daly, + 'for I want to step into Kertland's shop.' And in they went together, and + Daly asks for a pound of strong white soap, and pays down + one-and-eight-pence for it, and out they comes again quite friendly as + before. 'Where to now?' says Sam, for he held a grip of him like a + bailiff. 'Across the bridge,' says Daly; and so it was. When they reached + the middle arch of the bridge, Daly made a spring and got himself free, + and then, stooping down, caught Sam by the knees, and before you could say + 'Jack Robinson,' hurled him over the battlements into the Liffey. 'You can + wash your face now,' says he, and he threw the soap after him; divil a + word more he said, but walked on, as cool as you saw him there.” + </p> + <p> + “And Sam?” said several together. + </p> + <p> + “Sam was drowned; there came a fresh in the river, and they took him up + beyond the North Wall—a corpse.” + </p> + <p> + “Millia murther! what did Daly do?” + </p> + <p> + “He took his trial for it, and sorra excuse he gave one way or other, but + that he 'did n't know the blackguard couldn't swim.'” + </p> + <p> + “And they let him off?” + </p> + <p> + “Let him off? Arrah, is it hang a gentleman?” + </p> + <p> + “True for you,” chimed in the bystanders; “them that makes the laws knows + better than that!” + </p> + <p> + Such was one of the narratives his reappearance in Dublin again brought + up; and, singular enough, by the respect shown him by the mob, derived + much of its source in that same feeling of awe and dread they manifested + towards one they believed privileged to do whatever he pleased. Alas for + human nature! the qualities which find favor with the multitude are never + the finer and better traits of the heart, but rather the sterner features + that emanate from a strong will and firm purpose. + </p> + <p> + <a name="linkimage-0008" id="linkimage-0008"> + <!-- IMG --></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%;"> + <img src="images/229.jpg" width="100%" alt="229 " /> + </div> + <p> + If the voices of the closely compacted mass which filled the streets and + avenues of Dublin on that day could have been taken, it would have been + found that Bagenal Daly had an overwhelming majority; while, on a converse + scrutiny, it would appear that not a gentleman in Ireland entertained for + that mob sentiments of such thorough contempt as he did. Nor was the + sentiment concealed by him. The crowd which, growing as it went, followed + him from place to place throughout the city, would break forth at + intervals into some spontaneous shout of admiration, and a cheer for + Bagenal Daly, commanded by some deep throat, would be answered in a + deafening roar of voices. Then would Daly turn, and, as the moving mass + fell back, scowl upon their unwashed faces with such a look of scorn that + even they half felt the insult. In such wise was his progress through the + streets of Dublin, now moving slowly onward, now turning to confront the + mob that in slavish adulation still tracked his steps. + </p> + <p> + It was at a moment like this, when, standing at bay, he scowled upon the + dense throng, Heffernan's carriage drove slowly past, and Con, leaning + from the window, called out in a dramatic tone, “Thy friends, Siccius + Dentatus, thy friends!” + </p> + <p> + Daly started, and as his cheek reddened, answered, “Ay, and by my soul, + for the turning of a straw, I 'd make them your enemies.” And as if + responsive to the threat, a groan for “the Castle hack, three groans for + Con Heffernan,” were shouted out in tones that shook the street. For a + second or two Daly's face brightened, and his eyes sparkled with the fire + of enterprise, and he gazed on the countless mass with a look of + indecision; but, suddenly folding his arms, he dropped his head, and + muttered, “No, no, it would n't do; robbery and pillage would be the whole + of it;” and, without raising his eyes again, walked slowly homewards. + </p> + <p> + The hours wore on, and six o'clock came, but no sign of Gleeson, nor had + Sandy returned with any answer. + </p> + <p> + “And yet I am positive he is not from home,” said Darcy. “He pledged + himself not to leave this until the whole business was completed. Honest + Tom Gleeson is a man to keep to the strictest letter of his word.” + </p> + <p> + “I 'd not think that less likely,” said Daly, sententiously, “if the world + had spared him the epithet. I hate the cant of calling a man by some title + that should be common to all men,—at least, to all gentlemen.” + </p> + <p> + “I cannot agree with you,” said Darcy. “I deem it a proud thing for any + one so to have impressed his reputation for honorable dealing on society + that the very mention of his name suggests his character.” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps I am soured by what we have seen around us,” said Daly; “but the + mention of every virtue latterly has been generally followed by the + announcement of the purchase of its possessor. I never hear of a good + character that I don't think it is a puffing advertisement of 'a + high-priced article to be had cheap for cash.'” + </p> + <p> + “You'll think better of the world after a glass or two of Madeira,” said + Darcy, laughing; “and rather than hear you inveigh against mankind, I'll + let Gleeson eat his soup cold.” And, so saying, he rang the bell and + ordered dinner. + </p> + <p> + The two friends dined pleasantly, and although, from time to time, some + stray thought of Gleeson's absence would obtrude, they chatted away + agreeably till past nine o'clock. + </p> + <p> + “I begin to suspect that Sandy may have met some acquaintance, and + lingered to pledge 'old times' with him,” said Darcy, looking at his + watch. “It is now nearly twenty minutes past nine.” + </p> + <p> + “I'll stake my life on it, Sandy is true to his mission. He'd not turn + from the duty intrusted to him to hobnob with a Prince of the Blood. Here + he comes, however; there was a knock at the door.” + </p> + <p> + But no; it was a few hurried lines in pencil from the House, begging of + them to come up at once, as the Ministerial party was mustering in + strength, and the Opposition benches filling but slowly. While + deliberating on what course to take, a second summons came from one of the + leading men of the party. It was brief, but significant: “Come up quickly. + They are evidently pushed hard. Toler has sent a message to O'Donnell, and + they are gone out, and Harvey says Castlereagh has six of his fellows + ready to provoke us.—W. T.” + </p> + <p> + “That looks like business, Darcy,” cried Daly, in a transport of delight. + “Let us lose no time; there's no knowing how soon so much good valor may + ooze out.” + </p> + <p> + “But Gleeson—” + </p> + <p> + “If he comes, let him follow us to the House. We can walk; there's no use + waiting for the carriage.” Then added, in a mutter to himself, “I 'd give + a hundred down to have a shot at the Attorney-General. There, that 's + Sandy's voice in the hall;” and at the same instant the trusty servant + entered. + </p> + <p> + “Well, have you seen him?” + </p> + <p> + “Is he at home?” + </p> + <p> + “No, sirs, he's no at hame, that's clear. When I asked for him, they told + me he was in bed, asleep, for that he was just arrived after a long + journey; and so I waited a bit, and gaed out for a walk into the + shrubberies, where I could have a look at his chamber windows, and sure + enough they were a' closed. I waited a while longer, but he was still + sleeping, and they dared na wake him; and so it came to nigh five o'clock, + and then I was fain to send up the bit letter by the flunkie, and ask for + the answer; but none came.” + </p> + <p> + “Did you say that the letter was from me?” said the Knight, hastily. + </p> + <p> + “Na, sir; but I tauld them what most people mind as well, that Mister + Bagenal Daly sent me. It's a name few folk are fond to trifle wi'.” + </p> + <p> + “Go on, Sandy,” said Daly, “What then?” + </p> + <p> + “Weel, sir, I sat down on the stair at the foot of the big clock, and said + to mysel, 'I 'll gie ye ten minutes mair, but not a second after.' And + sure enough ye might hear every tick of her through the house, a' was so + still and silent. Short as the time was, I thought it wad never gae past, + for I did no tak my eyes aff o' her face. When the ten minutes was up, I + stole gently up the stair, and opened the door. A was dark inside, so I + opened the window, and there was the bed—empty; nobody had lain in + it syne it was made. There was a bit ashes in the grate, and some burned + paper on the hearth, but na other sign that onybody was there at a', sae I + crept back again, and met the flunkie as he was coming up, for he had just + missed me, and was in a real fright where I was gone to. I saw by his face + that he was found out, and so I laid my hand on his shoulder, and said, + 'Ye ha tauld me ane lee; ye maun tak care no to tell me anither. Where is + yer maister?' Then came out the truth. Mr. Gleeson was gane awa to + England. He sailed for Liverpool in the 'Shamrock.'” + </p> + <p> + “Impossible!” said Darcy. “He could not be away from Dublin at this + moment.” + </p> + <p> + “It's even sae,” replied Sandy, gravely; “for when I heard a' that I could + from the flunkie, I put him into the library, and locked the door on him, + and then went round to the stable-yard, where the coachman was sitting in + the harness-room, smoking. 'And so he's off to England,' said I to him, as + if I kenned it a'. + </p> + <p> + “'Just sae,' said he, wi' the pipe in his mouth. “'And he's nae to be back + for some time,' said I, speerin' at him. + </p> + <p> + “'On Friday,' said he; and he smoked away, and never a word mair could I + get out o' him.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, Sandy,” said the Knight, laughing, “they'd make you a prefect of + police if they had you in France.” + </p> + <p> + “I dinna ken, sir,” said Sandy, not exactly appreciating what the nature + of the appointment might portend. + </p> + <p> + “I only hope Gleeson may not hear of the perquisition on his return,” said + the Knight, in a whisper to Daly. “Our friend Sandy pushes his spirit of + inquiry somewhat far.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't know that,” said Daly, thoughtfully; “he's a shrewd fellow, and + rarely makes a mistake of that kind. But come, let us lose no more time.” + </p> + <p> + “I half suspect the reason of this mystery about Gleeson,” said the + Knight, who stood musing deeply on the event; “a few words Drogheda let + fall yesterday, going in to dinner,—some unfortunate speculation in + South America: this may require his keeping out of the way for a little + time. But why not say so, manfully?—I'm sure I'm ready to assist + him.” + </p> + <p> + “Come along, Darcy, we must walk; they say no carriage can get through the + mob.” And, with these words, he took the Knight's arm and sallied forth, + while Sandy followed, conveying a large cloth cloak over his arm, which + only partially concealed an ominous-looking box of mahogany wood, strapped + with brass. + </p> + <p> + A crowd awaited them as they reached the street, by which they were + escorted through the denser mass that thronged the great thoroughfare, the + mere mention of their names being sufficient to force a passage even where + the mob stood thickest. + </p> + <p> + The space in front of the Parliament House and before the College was + filled with soldiers; while patrols of cavalry traversed every avenue + leading to it, for information had reached the Government that violence + might be apprehended from a mob whose force and numbers were alluded to by + members within the House in terms meant to intimidate, while the presence + of the soldiery was retorted by the Opposition as a measure of tyranny and + oppression of the Castle party. Brushing somewhat roughly through the + armed line, Daly, with the Knight beside him, entered the space, and was + passing onward, when a bustle and a confused uproar behind him arrested + his steps. Believing that it might be to Sandy's progress some objection + was offered, Daly wheeled round, when he saw two policemen in the act of + dragging away a boy, whose loud cries for help from the mob were + incessant, while he mingled the name of Mr. Daly through his entreaties. + </p> + <p> + “What is it?” said Daly. “Does the fellow want me?” + </p> + <p> + <a name="linkimage-0009" id="linkimage-0009"> + <!-- IMG --></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%;"> + <img src="images/234.jpg" width="100%" alt="234 " /> + </div> + <p> + “Never mind him,” said Darcy; “the boy has caught up your name, and that's + all.” + </p> + <p> + But the urchin struggled and kicked with all his might; and, although + overpowered by superior strength, gave battle to the last, screaming at + the top of his voice, “One word with Mr. Daly,—just one word!” + </p> + <p> + Bagenal Daly turned back, and, approaching the scene of contest, said, + “Have you anything to say to me? I am Mr. Daly.” + </p> + <p> + “If they 'd let me go my hands, I 've something to give you,” said the + boy, who, although sorely bruised and beaten, seemed to care less for his + own troubles than for the object of his enterprise. + </p> + <p> + At a word from Daly, the policemen relinquished their hold, and stood + guard on either side, while the boy, giving himself a shake, leered up in + Daly's face with an expression he could not fail to recognize. + </p> + <p> + “There's a way to treat a young gentleman at home for the Christmas + holidays!” said the imp, with a compassionate glance at his torn and + tattered garments, while the words and the tone they were uttered in sent + a shout of laughter through the mob. + </p> + <p> + “What, Jemmy!” said Daly, stooping down and accosting him in a whisper, + for it was no other than that reputable youth himself, “you here?” + </p> + <p> + “Just so, sir. Ain't I in a nice way to appear at the Privy Council?” + </p> + <p> + The police were growing impatient at the continued insolence of the + fellow, and were about to lay hold on him once more, when Daly interposed, + and said, in a still lower voice, “Have you anything to tell me?” + </p> + <p> + “I 've a bit of paper for you somewhere, from one you know, if them + blackguards the 'polis' has not made me lose it.” + </p> + <p> + “Be quick, then,” said Daly, “and see after it.” For Darcy was chafed at a + delay he could not see any reason for. + </p> + <p> + “Here it is,” said the imp, taking a piece of dirty and crumpled paper + from the lining of his hat; “there, you have it now safe and sure. Give my + best respects to Alderman Darby,” added he to the police; “say I was too + hurried to call;” and with that he dived between the legs of one of them, + dashed through the line of soldiers, and was speedily concealed among the + dense crowd outside, where shouts of approving laughter welcomed him. + </p> + <p> + “A rendezvous or a challenge, Bagenal,—which?” said the Knight, + laughing, as Daly stood endeavoring, by the light of a lamp in the + corridor, to decipher the torn scrawl. + </p> + <p> + The other made no reply, but, holding the paper close to his eyes, stood + silent and motionless. At last an expression of impatient anger burst from + him: “That imp of h—ll has almost effaced the words,—I cannot + make them out!” Then he added, in a low muttering, “I trust in Heaven I + have not read them aright. Come here, Darcy.” And, so saying, he grasped + the Knight's hand, and led him along to one of the many small chambers + used as offices of the House. + </p> + <p> + “Ah! they're looking anxiously out for you, sir,” said a young man who + stood with his back to the fire, reading a paper. “Mr. Ponsonby has just + been here.” + </p> + <p> + “Leave us together here for a few minutes,” said Daly, “and let there be + no interruption.” And as he spoke, he motioned to the door with a gesture + there was no mistaking. The clerk left the room, and they were alone. + </p> + <p> + “Maurice Darcy,” said Daly, as he turned the key in the lock, “you have a + stout heart and a courage I never saw fail, and you need both at this + moment.” + </p> + <p> + “What is it, Bagenal?” gasped the Knight, as a most deadly pallor covered + his face. “Is my wife—are my children—” + </p> + <p> + “No, no; be calm, Darcy, they are all well.” + </p> + <p> + “Go on, then,” cried he, with a firmer voice; “I'll listen to you + patiently.” + </p> + <p> + “Read that,” said Daly, as he held the paper near the candle; and the + Knight read aloud: “'Honored Sir,—I saw the other night you were + troubled when I spoke of Gleeson, and I take the occasion of—'” + “'warning you,' I think the words are,” broke in Daly. + </p> + <p> + “So it is:—'warning you honest Tom is away to America!'” The paper + fell from Darcy's hand, and he staggered back into a seat. + </p> + <p> + “With they say above a hundred thousand pounds, Darcy,” continued Daly, + taking up the fragment. “If the news be true—” + </p> + <p> + “If so, I'm ruined; he received the whole loan on Saturday last,—he + could not delay Hickman's payment beyond Wednesday without suspicion.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! I see it all, and the American packet does not sail till to-morrow + morning from Liverpool.” + </p> + <p> + “But it may all be false,” said Darcy. “Who writes you this story?” + </p> + <p> + “It is signed 'F.,' and Freney is the man; I know the fellow that brought + it.” + </p> + <p> + “I 'll not believe a word of it, Bagenal,” said the Knight, impetuously. + “I 'll not credit the calumny of a highwayman against the honor of one I + have known and respected for years. It is false, depend upon it.” + </p> + <p> + “Yet how it tallies with Sandy's tidings; there is something in it. Hush! + Darcy, don't speak; there is some one passing.” + </p> + <p> + The sounds of feet and voices were heard at the same instant without, and + among them the clear, distinctive accents of Hickman O'Reilly. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said he, “if the news had come a little earlier, Lord Castlereagh, + would have found some of our patriots less stern in virtue. Gleeson will + have carried away half a province with him.” + </p> + <p> + “There,” whispered Daly, “you heard that,—the news is about + already.” + </p> + <p> + But Darcy was now totally overcome, and, with his head resting on the + table, neither spoke nor stirred. “Bagenal,” said he, at length, but in a + voice faint as a whisper, “I am too ill to face the House; let us turn + homewards.” + </p> + <p> + “I 'll see for a carriage,” said Daly, who issued forth to take the first + he could find. + </p> + <p> + “I say, Hamilton,” cried a member, as he alighted from his chariot, + “there's the Knight of Gwynne and Bagenal Daly in Castlereagh's carriage.” + </p> + <p> + “Daly said he could drive a coach-and-six through the Bill!” replied the + other; “perhaps he's gone to practise with a pair first.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0020" id="link2HCH0020"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XX. THE ADJOURNED DEBATE + </h2> + <p> + Although the debate had commenced at seven o'clock, none of the great + speakers on either side arose before eleven. Some fierce skirmishes had, + indeed, occurred; personalities and sarcasms the most cutting had been + interchanged with a freedom that showed that if shame were in a great + measure departed, personal daring and intrepidity were qualities still in + repute. The Ministerial party, no longer timid or wavering, took no pains + to conceal their sense of coming victory, and even Lord Castlereagh, + usually so guarded on every outward observance, entered the House and took + his seat with a smile of conscious triumph that did not escape observation + from either friends or opponents. + </p> + <p> + The tactics of the Treasury benches, too, seemed changed: not waiting, as + hitherto, to receive and repel the attack of the Opposition, they now + became themselves the assailants, and evinced, by the readiness and + frequency of their assaults, the perfect organization they had attained. + The Opposition members, who opened the debate, were suffered to proceed + without any attempt at reply, an ironical cheer, a well-put question, some + home-thrust as to former opinions, alone breaking the thread of an + argument which, even from its monotony, was becoming less effective. + </p> + <p> + Sir Henry Parnell, the late Chancellor of the Exchequer, and who had been + dismissed from office for his opinions on the Union, was the first + speaker; with a moderation, in part the result of his former position with + regard to those who had been his colleagues, he limited himself to a + strict examination of the measure in its bearings and consequences, and + never, even for a moment, digressed into anything like reflection on the + motives of its advocates. His speech was able and argumentative, but + evidently unsatisfactory to his party, who seemed impatient and uneasy + till he concluded, and hailed Ponsonby, who rose after him, with cheers + that showed their expectations were now, at least, more likely to be + realized. + </p> + <p> + Whether the occasion alone was the cause, or that catching the excitement + of his supporters, Ponsonby deviated from the usually calm and temperate + character he was accustomed to assume in the House, and became warm and + impassioned. Disdaining to examine the relative merits or demerits of the + proposed Bill, he boldly pronounced Parliament incompetent to decide it, + and concluded by declaring that, if carried, the measure might endanger + not only the ties of amity between the two nations, but dissolve those of + allegiance also. A loud burst of mingled indignation and irony broke from + the Treasury benches at this daring flight, when the speaker, at once + collecting himself, turned the whole force of his attack on the Secretary. + With slow and measured intonation, he depicted the various stages of his + political career, recalling to memory the liberal pledges he had once + contracted, and the various shades of defection by which he had at last + reached the position in which he could “betray Ireland.” + </p> + <p> + None were prepared for the degree of eloquent power Ponsonby displayed on + this occasion; and the effect of such a speech from one habitually calm, + even to coldness, was overwhelming. It was not Lord Castlereagh's + intention to have spoken at this early hour of the debate; but, + apologizing for occupying the time of the House by a personality, he + arose, not self-possessed and at ease, but flushed and excited. + </p> + <p> + Without adverting for a second to the measure in debate, he launched forth + into a most violent invective on his adversary. With a vehement passion + that only his nearest friends knew him to possess, he exposed every act of + his political life; taunted him with holding opinions liberal enough to be + a patriot, but sufficiently plastic to be marketable; he accused his very + calmness as being a hypocritical affectation of fairness, while in reality + it was but the tacit admission of his readiness to be bought; and at + length pushed his violent sarcasm so far that a loud cry of “Order!” burst + forth from the Opposition, while cheers of defiance were heard along the + densely crowded ranks of the Ministerial party. + </p> + <p> + From this moment the discussion assumed a most bitter character; + assertions and denials, uttered in language the most insulting, were heard + at every moment, and no speaker could proceed without some interruption + which demanded several minutes to subdue. More than one member was seen to + cross the floor and interchange a few words with an adversary, the import + of which, as he returned to his place, no physiognomist need have doubted. + It was not debate or discussion, it was the vehement outpouring of + personal and political hatred, by men whose passions were no longer + restrainable, and many of whom saw in this the last occasion of their ever + being able to confront their enemies. Language that could not be uttered + with impunity elsewhere, was heard at every moment; open declarations were + made that, the Bill once carried, allegiance and loyalty were dissolved; + and Sir Neil O'Donnell went so far as to say that he regarded the measure + as an act of treason, and would place himself at the head of his regiment + to oppose and annul it. + </p> + <p> + It was in a momentary pause of this bitter conflict that rumor announced + the arrival of the Knight of Gwynne and Bagenal Daly at the House. Never + were reinforcements more gladly hailed by a weakened and disabled army; + cheers of triumphant delight broke from the Opposition benches, answered + by others, not less loud and taunting, from the Ministerial side, and + every eye was turned eagerly towards the door by which they were expected + to enter. + </p> + <p> + To such a pitch of violence had partisanship carried the members on both + sides, expressions of open defiance and insult were exchanged in the midst + of this scene of tumult, nor was the authority of the Speaker able to + restore order for several minutes; when at last the doors were thrown + open, and Hickman O'Reilly entered, and walked up the body of the House. + Shouts of loud laughter now resounded from either side; such an apparition + at the moment was the most ludicrous contrast to that expected, and a + boisterous gayety succeeded to the late scene of acrimony and + intemperance. + </p> + <p> + The individual himself seemed somewhat puzzled at these unlooked-for marks + of public notice, and stared around him in astonishment, till his eyes + rested on the spot where Lord Castlereagh sat whispering with Mr. Corry. + Brief as was the glance, it seemed to have conveyed some momentous + intelligence to the gazer, for he became at first scarlet, and then pale + as death; he looked again, but the Secretary had turned his head away, and + Corry was coolly unfolding the plaits of a white cambric handkerchief, and + apparently only occupied with that object. At this moment Hickman was + standing with one foot upon the steps which led towards the Treasury + benches: he wheeled abruptly round, and walked over to the other side of + the House, where he sat down between Egan and Ponsonby. + </p> + <p> + The cheers of the Opposition now burst forth anew, and with a deafening + clamor, while from back and cross benches, and everywhere within reach, + hands were eagerly stretched forth to grasp O'Reilly's. Never was support + less expected, never an alliance less speculated on, and the cries of + exultation were almost maddening. How long the scene of tumultuous + excitement might have lasted, it is difficult to say, when Lord + Castlereagh rose, with a calm dignity of manner that never in the most + trying moments forsook him. “He begged to remind the gentlemen opposite + that if these triumphant expressions were not indecorous, they were at + least premature; that the momentous occasion on which they were met + demanded all the temperate and calm consideration which they could bestow + upon it; that the time for the adoption of any course would not be + distant, and would sufficiently show to which side, with most propriety, + the expression of triumph belonged.” + </p> + <p> + The hint was significant; the foreshadowed victory was too plainly and too + palpably predicted to admit of a doubt, and a chilling silence succeeded + to the former uproar. The individual whose address this long scene of + tumult had interrupted was now suffered to proceed. He was a law-serjeant, + a man of inferior capacity and small professional repute, whose advocacy + of the Government plan had raised him to an unbecoming and dangerous + eminence at the Bar. Without the slightest pretensions as a speaker, or + one quality that should adorn a statesman, he possessed other gifts + scarcely less valuable at that day: he was a ready pistol; he came of a + fighting family, not one of whom did not owe some advancement in life to a + cool hand and a steady eye; and he occupied his place in the Ministerial + van by virtue of this signal accomplishment. As incapable of feeling the + keen sarcasm of his opponents as he was of using a similar weapon, he was + yet irascible from temperament, and overbearing in manner, and was used by + his party as men employ a fire-ship,—with a strong conviction that + it may damage more than the enemy. + </p> + <p> + To cover the deficiencies of his oratory, as well as to add poignancy to + his personalities, it was the invariable custom of his friends to cheer + him vociferously at the end of every sentence which contained anything + like attack on the Opposition; and to this species of backing he was + indebted for the courage that made him assail men incomparably above him + in every quality of intellect. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Plunkett was now the object of his invective, nor was the boldness of + such a daring its least recommendation. Few of the Government side of the + House would have adventured to cross weapons with this master of sarcasm + and irony; none but the Serjeant Nickolls could have done so without a + strong fear of consequences. He, however, was unconcerned for the result + as it affected himself personally; and as for the withering storm that + awaited him, the triple hide of his native dulness was an armor of proof + that nothing could penetrate. From Plunkett he passed on to Bushe, from + Bushe to Grattan; no game flew too high for his shafts, nor was any + invective coarse enough to level at the great leaders of the Opposition. + If the overbearing insolence of his harangue delighted his own party, it + called down peals of laughter from his opponents, who cheered every + figurative absurdity and every illogical conclusion with shouts of + ironical admiration. + </p> + <p> + Lord Castlereagh saw the mischief, and would gladly have cut short the + oration; but the speaker was revelling in an imaginary victory, and would + listen to no suggestions whatever. Passing from the great names of the + Irish party, he launched forth in terms of insult towards the county + members, whom he openly accused of holding their opinions under a mistaken + hope that they were a marketable commodity, and that as some stanch + adherents of the Crown had reaped the honors due to “their loyalty,” these + quasi-patriots were only waiting for their price. The allusion was so + palpable that every eye was turned to where Hickman O'Reilly sat, and + whose confusion was now overwhelming. + </p> + <p> + “Ay,” continued the speaker, now carried beyond all self-restraint by the + evident sensation he had caused, “there are gentlemen opposite whose + confessions would reveal much of this kind of independence. I have my eye + on some of them,—men who will be Patriots if they cannot be Peers, + ready to put on the cap of liberty for the Mob if they cannot get the + coronet from the Crown. Many, too, are absent from this debate: they stand + out, perhaps, for high terms; they have got Peerages for their wives, and + now, like a hackney-coachman, not content with their fare, they want + 'something for themselves.' I heard of two such a while ago; they even + came as far as the lobby of this House, where they halted and hesitated: a + mitre or a regiment, a blue ribbon or a red one, would have turned the + scale, perhaps. Why are they not here now? I ask, what has become of + them?” + </p> + <p> + “Name! name!” screamed the Opposition, in a torrent of mad excitement, + while the Government party, outrageous at the blundering folly of the + whole harangue, endeavored to pull the speaker back into his seat. Never + was such a scene: one party lashed to madness by suspected treachery and + open insult; the other indignant at the stupidity of a man who, in his + attempts at attack, had raked up every calumny against his own friends. + Already, more than one hand was laid on his arms to press him down into + his seat, when he, with the obstinacy of thorough dullness, shook himself + free, and called out, “I 'm ready to name.” + </p> + <p> + Again the cries of “Name!” were shouted, mingled with no less vociferous + cries of “No, no!” and the struggle now had every appearance of a personal + one, when the Speaker, calling to order, asked if it was the sense of the + House that the Serjeant should gives the names he alluded to. + </p> + <p> + “I 'll soon cut the matter short,” called out the Serjeant, in a voice + that resounded through every corridor of the House. “I mean the Knight of + Gwynne and Bagenal Daly.” + </p> + <p> + A cry of “Order! order!” now arose from all parts of the House, the direct + mention of any member by name being a liberty unprecedented. + </p> + <p> + “I beg to correct myself,” said the Serjeant. “I should have said the + honorable members for Mayo and Old Castle. I ask again, why are they not + here?” + </p> + <p> + “Better you had never put the question,” said a deep, low voice from + beneath the gallery; and at the same instant Bagenal Daly advanced along + one of the passages, and took his place at the table directly in front of + the Serjeant. A tremendous cheer now broke from the Opposition benches, + which the Ministerial party in vain essayed to return. + </p> + <p> + “I perceive, sir,” said the Serjeant, with an effort to resume his former + ease,—“I perceive I have succeeded in conjuring up one at least of + these truant spirits, and I cannot do better than leave him to make his + explanations to the House.” + </p> + <p> + With this lame, disjointed conclusion the learned Serjeant sat down; and + although the greatest exertions were made by his friends to cover this + palpable failure, the cries of derision drowned all other sounds, and + before they were silenced, a shout of “Daly! Daly!—Bagenal Daly!” + resounded through the building. + </p> + <p> + Daly arose slowly, and saluted the Speaker with a most deferential + courtesy. It was several minutes before the tumult had sufficiently + subsided to make his words audible; but when silence prevailed, he was + heard to regret, in terms of unaffected ease, that any circumstance might + occur which should occupy the time of the House by observations from one + so rude and unlettered as himself, nor would he now venture on the + trespass, were the occasion merely a personal one. From this he proceeded + to state that great emergencies were always occurring, in which even the + humblest opinions should be made known as evidencing the probable + impressions upon others as lowly circumstanced as he who now addressed + them. + </p> + <p> + “Such is the present one,” said he, raising his voice, and looking around + him with a glance of bold defiance. “You are about to take away the right + of self-government from a nation, and every man in the land, not only such + as sit here, sir, but every man to whose future ambition a seat in this + House may form a goal, every man has a deep interest in your proceedings. + It is a grave and weighty question, whose conditions impose the conviction + that we are unfit to legislate for ourselves,—that we are too weak, + or too venal, or too ignorant, or too dishonest. To that conclusion you + must come, or no other. Absence from Ireland must suggest enlightenment on + her interests; distance must lend knowledge as well as enchantment, or an + English Parliament cannot be better than our own. I have listened + attentively, but unconvinced, to all arguments on this head; I have heard + over and over again the long catalogue of benefits to accrue to this + country when the power of realizing them herself has been wrested from + her, and I have thought of Lear and his daughters! It would seem to me, + however, that the social welfare and the commercial prosperity of a people + are themes too vulgar for the high consideration of our times. The real + question at issue is not whether a Parliament should or should not + continue to sit here, but what shall I, and others like me, benefit by + voting it away forever?” + </p> + <p> + “Order! order!” called out several voices. + </p> + <p> + But Daly resumed: “I ask pardon. It is more parliamentary to put the case + differently, and I shall, under correction, do so. Well, sir, we may + benefit largely. I trust I am not disorderly in saying that peerages, + bishoprics, regiments, frigates, commissionerships, and Heaven knows what + more, will reward us when our utility to the State has met the approval of + an Imperial Parliament. I can well credit every promise of such gratitude, + and have only to ask in turn, Are these the arguments that should sway us + now? Is it because we are bungling legislators that they wish for us in + London?—is it because we are venal they seek our company, because we + are inefficient they ask for our cooperation? Are they so supremely + right-minded, honorable, and far-seeing that they need the alloy of our + dulness to make them mortal? And suppose such the case, will it be + gratifying to us to become the helots to this people? Will our national + pride be flattered because our eloquence is sneered at, our law derided, + our political knowledge a scoff, and our very accent a joke? Do not tell + me such things are unlikely; we are far weaker on the point than we like + to confess. For myself, I can imagine the sense of shame—of deep, + heartfelt, abasing shame—I should feel at seeing some of those I see + here rise in a British House of Commons to address that body, while the + rumor should run, 'He is the member for Meath or for Wicklow.' I can + picture to myself such a man: a man of low origin and mean capacity; a man + who carves his path in life less from his own keen abilities than that + others shrink from his contact, and leave him unopposed in every struggle; + a pettifogger at the Bar; a place-hunter at the Parliament; half beggar, + half bravo, with a petition for the Minister, and a pistol for the + Opposition. Imagine a man like this, and reflect upon the feeling of every + gentleman at hearing the rumor announce, 'Ay, that's a learned Serjeant, a + leader at the Bar of Ireland.'” + </p> + <p> + The last words were delivered in a tone of direct personality, as, turning + towards where Nickolls sat, Daly threw at him a look of defiance. The + whole House arose as if one man, with cheers and counter-cheers, and loud + yells of insult, mingled with cries of “Order!” Nor was it till after a + long and desperate wordy altercation that the clamor was subdued, and + decorum at length restored. Then it was remarked that Nickolls had left + the House. + </p> + <p> + The Speaker immediately ordered the Serjeant of the House to place Daly + under arrest,—a measure which, however dictated by propriety, seemed + to call forth a burst of indignation from the Opposition benches. + </p> + <p> + “I hope, sir,” said Daly, rising with an air of most admirably feigned + humility,—“I hope, sir, you will not execute this threat,—the + inconvenience to me will be very great: I was about to pair off with the + honorable and learned member for Newry.” + </p> + <p> + The mention of the town for which the Serjeant sat in Parliament renewed + the laughter which now prevailed on both sides of the House. + </p> + <p> + “I cannot understand the mirth of the gentlemen opposite,” said Daly, with + affected simplicity, “without it be from their astonishment that the + Government can spare so able and so eloquent an advocate as the honorable + and learned gentleman; but let them reassure themselves and look around, + and, believe me, they'll find the Treasury benches filled by gentlemen as + like him as possible.” + </p> + <p> + The Speaker reissued the order to the Serjeant-at-Arms, and Daly now came + forward to the table and begged in all form to know the reason of such + severity. “If, sir,” said he, in conclusion,—“if I could believe it + possible that you anticipate any personal collision between myself and any + member of this House, I have only to say that I am bound over in the sum + of two thousand pounds to keep the peace within the limits of this + kingdom. I take out a license at two pounds fifteen to kill game, it is + true; but I 'd not pay sixpence for the privilege to shoot a lawyer.” + </p> + <p> + The fact of the heavy recognizances to which Daly alluded was at once + confirmed by several members, and after a brief conversation with the + Speaker the matter was dropped. + </p> + <p> + It was, as may be supposed, a considerable time before the debate could + assume its due decorum and solemnity after an incident like this; for + although hostile collisions were neither few nor unfrequent, an insult of + so violent a character had never before been witnessed. + </p> + <p> + At length, however, order was restored, and another speaker addressed the + House. All had assumed its wonted propriety, when a messenger delivered + into Daly's hands a small sealed note; he glanced at the contents and rose + immediately. Lord Castlereagh's quick eye caught the motion, and he at + once called on the Speaker to interfere. “I have myself seen a letter + conveyed to the honorable member's hands,” said he; “it requires no + peculiar gift of divination to guess the object.” + </p> + <p> + “I will satisfy the noble lord at once,” said Daly; “there is the letter I + have received: I pledge my word of honor the subject is purely a private + one, having no reference whatever to anything that has passed here.” He + held out the letter as he spoke, but Lord Castlereagh declined to peruse + it, and expressed his regret at having made the remark. Daly bowed + courteously to him, and left the House. + </p> + <p> + “Well, Sandy,” said he, as soon as he reached the corridor, where his + faithful follower stood waiting his coming, “what success?” + </p> + <p> + “No sae bad,” said Sandy. “I 've got a wherry, ane of them Wicklow craft; + she's only half-decked, but she's a stout-looking sea-boat, and broad in + the beam.” + </p> + <p> + “And the wind, how's that?” + </p> + <p> + “As it should be,—west, or west wi' a point north.” + </p> + <p> + “Is there enough of it?” + </p> + <p> + “Enough! I trow there is,” said Sanders, with a grin; “if there be no a + blast too much. Hear till it now.” And, as if waiting for the remark, a + tremendous gust of wind shook the strong building, while the clanking + sound of falling slates and chimney-pots resounded through the street. + </p> + <p> + “There's music for ye,” said Sandy; “there came a clap like that when I + had a'maist made the bargain, and the carles would no budge without ten + guineas mair. I promised them fifty, and the handsel whatever your honor + liked after.” + </p> + <p> + “It's all right,—quite right,” said Daly, wishing to stop details he + never listened to with patience. + </p> + <p> + “It's a' right, I know weel enough,” said Sandy, querulously; “but it wad + no be a' right av ye went yersel'; they 'd have a gude penny, forbye what + I say.” + </p> + <p> + “And what say the fellows of this wind,—is it like to last?” + </p> + <p> + “It will blow hard from the west for three or four days mair, and then + draw round to the north.” + </p> + <p> + “But we shall get to Liverpool before noon to-morrow.” + </p> + <p> + “Maybe,” said Sandy, with a low, dry laugh. + </p> + <p> + “Well, I mean if we do get there. You told them I 'd double the pay if we + catch the American ship in the Mersey. I'd triple it; let them know that.” + </p> + <p> + “They canna do mair than they can do: ten pounds is as good as ten + hundred.” + </p> + <p> + While this conversation was going forward, they had walked on together, + and were now at the entrance door of the House, where a group of four + persons stood under the shadow of the portico. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Daly, I presume,” said one, advancing, and touching his hat in + salutation. “We have waited somewhat impatiently for your coming.” + </p> + <p> + “I should regret it, sir, if I was aware you did me the honor to expect + me.” + </p> + <p> + “I am the friend of Serjeant Nickolls, sir,” said the other, in a voice + meant to be eloquently meaning. + </p> + <p> + “For your sake, the fact is to be deplored,” answered Daly, calmly. “But + proceed.” + </p> + <p> + With a great effort to subdue his passion, the other resumed: “It does not + require your experience in such matters to know that the insult you have + passed upon a high-minded and honorable gentleman—the gross and + outrageous insult—should be atoned for by a meeting. We are here for + this purpose, ready to accompany you, as soon as you have provided + yourself with a friend, to wherever you appoint.” + </p> + <p> + “Are you aware,” said Daly, in a whisper, “that I am bound over in heavy + recognizances—” + </p> + <p> + “Ah, indeed!” interrupted the other; “that, perhaps, may explain—” + </p> + <p> + “Explain what, sir?” said Daly, as he grasped the formidable weapon which, + more club than walking-stick, he invariably carried. + </p> + <p> + “I meant nothing; I would only observe—” + </p> + <p> + “Never observe, sir, when there's nothing to be remarked. I was informing + you that I am bound over to keep the peace in this same kingdom of + Ireland; circumstances compel me to be in England to-morrow morning,—circumstances + of such moment that I have myself hired a vessel to convey me thither,—and + although the object of my journey is far from agreeable, I shall deem it + one of the happiest coincidences of my life if it can accommodate your + friend's wishes. Nothing prevents my giving him the satisfaction he + desires on English ground. I have sincere pleasure in offering him, and + every gentleman of his party, a passage over—the tide serves in half + an hour. Eh, Sandy?” + </p> + <p> + “At a quarter to twelve, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “The wind is fair.” + </p> + <p> + “It is a hurricane,” replied the other, almost shuddering. + </p> + <p> + “It blows fresh,” was Daly's cool remark. + </p> + <p> + For a moment or two the stranger returned to his party, with whom he + talked eagerly, and the voices of the others were also heard, speaking in + evident excitement. + </p> + <p> + “You have the pistols safe, Sandy?” whispered Daly. + </p> + <p> + “They 're a' safe, and in the wherry; but you 'll no want them this time, + I trow,” said Sandy, with a shrug of his shoulders; “yon folk would rather + bide where they are the night, than tak' a bit o' pleasure in the + Channel.” + </p> + <p> + Daly smiled, and turned away to hide it, when the stranger again came + forward. “I have consulted with my friends, Mr. Daly, who are also the + friends of Serjeant Nickolls; they are of opinion that, under the + circumstances of your being bound over, this affair cannot with propriety + go further, although it might not, perhaps, be unreasonable to expect that + you, feeling the peculiar situation in which you stand, might express some + portion of regret at the utterance of this most severe attack.” + </p> + <p> + “You are really misinformed on the whole of the business,” said Daly. “In + the few words I offered to the House, I was but responding to the question + of your friend, who asked, I think somewhat needlessly, 'Where was Bagenal + Daly?' I have no regrets to express for any terms I applied to him, though + I may feel sorry that the forms of the House prevented my saying more. I + am ready to meet him now; or, as he seems to dislike a breeze, when the + weather is calmer. Tell him so; but tell him besides, that if he utters + one syllable in my absence that the most malevolent gossip of a club-room + can construe into an imputation on me, by G—d I'll break every bone + in his cowardly carcass! Come, Sandy, lead on. Good evening, sir. I wish + you a bolder friend, or better weather.” So saying, he moved forward, and + was soon hastening towards the North Wall, where the wherry was moored. + </p> + <p> + “It's unco like the night we were wrecked in the Gulf,” said Sandy. “I + mind the moon had that same blue color, and the clouds were a' below, and + none above her.” + </p> + <p> + “So it is, Sandy,—there 's a heavy sea outside, I 'm sure. How many + men have we?” + </p> + <p> + “Four, and a bit o' a lad that's as gude as anither. Lord save us! there + was a flash! I wish it wud come to rain, and beat down the sea; we 'd have + aye wind enough after.” + </p> + <p> + “Where does she lie?” + </p> + <p> + “Yonder, sir, where you see the light bobbing. By my certie, but the + chiels were no far wrang. A bit fighting 's hard bought by a trip to sea + on such a night as this.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0021" id="link2HCH0021"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXI. TWO OF A TRADE + </h2> + <p> + When the newspapers announced the division on the adjourned debate, they + also proclaimed the flight of the defaulter; and, wide as was the + disparity between the two events in point of importance, it would be + difficult to say which more engaged the attention of the Dublin public on + that morning, the majority for the Minister, or the published perfidy of + “Honest Tom Gleeson.” + </p> + <p> + Such is, however, the all-engrossing interest of a local topic, aided, as + in the present case, by almost incredulous amazement, the agent's flight + was talked of and discussed in circles where the great political event was + heard as a matter of course. Where had he fled to? What sum had he carried + away with him? Who would be the principal losers? were all the questions + eagerly discussed, but none of which excited so much diversity of opinion + as the single one: What was the cause of his defalcation? His agencies + were numerous and profitable, his mode of life neither extravagant nor + ostentatious; how could a man with so few habits of expense have + contracted debts of any considerable amount, or what circumstances could + induce him to relinquish a station of respectability and competence for a + life-long of dishonorable exile? + </p> + <p> + Such has been our progress of late years in the art of revealing to the + world at large the hidden springs of every action and event around us that + a secret is in reality the only thing now impossible. Forty-five years + ago, this wonderful exercise of knowledge was in a great measure unknown; + the guessers were then a large and respectable class in society, and men + were content with what mathematicians call approximation. In our own more + accurate days, what between the newspaper, the club-room, and “'Change,” + such mystery is no longer practicable. One day, or two at furthest, would + now proclaim every item in a man's schedule, and afford that most + sympathetic of all bodies, the world, the fruitful theme of expatiating on + his folly or his criminality. In the times we refer to, however, it was + only the “Con Heffermans” of society that ventured even to speculate on + the secret causes of these events. + </p> + <p> + Although the debate had lasted from eight o'clock in the evening to past + eleven on the following morning, before twelve Mr. Heffernan's carriage + was at the door, and the owner, without any trace of fatigue, set off to + ascertain so much as might be learned of this strange and unexpected + catastrophe. It was no mere passion to know the current gossip of the day, + no prying taste for the last piece of scandal in circulation,—Con + Heffernan was above such weaknesses; but he had a habit—one which + some men practise even yet with success—of whenever the game was + safe, taking credit to himself for casualties in which he had no possible + connection, and attributing events in which he had no share to his own + direct influence. After all, he was in this only imitating the great + navigators of the globe, who have established the rule that discovery + gives a right only second to actual creation. + </p> + <p> + This was, however, a really provoking case; no one knew anything of + Gleeson's embarrassments. Several of those for whom he acted as agent were + in Dublin, but they were more amazed than all others at his flight; most + of them had settled accounts with him very lately, some men owed him small + sums. “Darcy perhaps knows something about him,” was a speech Heffernan + heard more than once repeated; but Darcy's house was shut up, and the + servant announced “he had left town that morning.” Hickman O'Reilly was + the next chance; not that he had any direct intercourse with Gleeson, but + his general acquaintanceship with moneyed men and matters made him a + likely source of information; while a small sealed note addressed to Dr. + Hickman was in possession of a banker with whom Gleeson had transacted + business the day before his departure. But O'Reilly had left town with his + son. “The doctor, sir, is here still; he does not go before to-morrow,” + said the servant, who, knowing that Heffernan was a person of some + consequence in the Dublin world, thought proper to give this piece of + unasked news. + </p> + <p> + “Will you give Mr. Con Heffernan's compliments, and say he would be glad + to have the opportunity of a few minutes' conversation?” The servant + returned immediately, and showed him upstairs into a back drawing-room, + where, before a table covered with law papers and parchments, sat the + venerable doctor. He had not as yet performed the usual offices of a + toilet, and, with unshaven chin and uncombed hair, looked the most + melancholy contrast of age, neglect, and misery, with the gorgeous + furniture of a most splendid apartment. + </p> + <p> + He lifted his head as the door opened, and stared fixedly at the + new-comer, with an expression at once fierce and anxious, so that + Heffernan, when speaking of him afterwards, said that, “Dressed as he was, + in an old flannel morning-gown, dotted with black tufts, he looked for all + the world like a sick tiger making his will.” + </p> + <p> + “Your humble servant, sir,” said he, coldly, as Heffernan advanced with an + air of cordiality; nor were the words and the accents they were uttered in + lost upon the man they were addressed to. He saw how the land lay, in a + second, and said eagerly, “He has not left town, I trust, sir; I sincerely + hope your son has not gone.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir, he's off; I'm sure I don't know what he'd wait for.” + </p> + <p> + “Too precipitate,—too rash by far, Mr. Hickman,” said Heffernan, + seating himself, and wiping his forehead with an air of well-assumed + chagrin. + </p> + <p> + “Maybe so,” repeated the old man two or three times over, while he lowered + his spectacles to his nose, and began hunting among his papers, as though + he had other occupation in hand of more moment than the present topic. + </p> + <p> + “Are you aware, sir,” said Heffernan, drawing his chair close up, and + speaking in a most confidential whisper,—“are you aware, sir, that + your son mistook the signal,—that when Mr. Corry took out his + handkerchief and opened it on his knee, that it was in token of Lord + Castlereagh's acquiescence of Mr. O'Reilly's demand,—that, in short, + the peerage was at that moment his own if he wished it?” + </p> + <p> + The look of dogged incredulity in the old man's face would have silenced a + more sensitive advocate than Heffer-nan; but he went on: “If any one + should feel angry at what has occurred, I am the person; I was the + guarantee for your son's vote, and I have now to meet Lord Castle-reagh + without one word of possible explanation.” + </p> + <p> + “Hickman told me,” said the old man, with a voice steady and composed, + “that if Mr. Corry did not raise the handkerchief to his mouth, the terms + were not agreed upon; that opening it before him only meant the bargain + was not quite off: more delay, more talk, Mr. Heffernan; and I think there + was enough of that already.” + </p> + <p> + “A complete mistake, sir,—a total misconception on his part.” + </p> + <p> + “Just like Beecham being blackballed at the club,” said the doctor, with a + sarcastic bitterness all his own. + </p> + <p> + “With that, of course, we cannot be charged,” said Heffernan. “Why was he + put up without our being apprised of it? The blackballing was Bagenal + Daly's doing—” + </p> + <p> + “So I heard,” interrupted the other; “they told me that; and here, look + here, here's Daly's bond for four thousand six hundred. Maybe he won't be + so ready with his bank-notes as he was with his black ball—ay!” + </p> + <p> + “But, to go back to the affair of the House—” + </p> + <p> + “We won't go back to it, sir, if it's the same to you. I 'm glad, with all + my heart, the folly is over,—sorra use I could see in it, except the + expense, and there's plenty of that. The old families, as they call them, + can't last forever, no more than old houses and old castles; there's an + end of everything in time, and if Hickman waits, maybe his turn will come + as others' did before him. Where 's the Darcys now, I 'd like to know?—” + Here he paused and stammered, and at last stopped dead short, an + expression of as much confusion as age and wrinkles would permit covering + his hard, contracted features. + </p> + <p> + “You say truly,” said Heffernan, finishing what he guessed to be the + sentiment,—“you say truly, the Darcys have run their race; when + men's incumbrances have reached the point that his have, family influence + soon decays. Now, this business of Gleeson's—” Had he fired a shot + close to the old man's ear he could not have startled him more effectually + than by the mention of this name. + </p> + <p> + “What of Gleeson?” said he, drawing in his breath, and holding on the + chair with both hands. + </p> + <p> + “You know that he is gone,—fled away no one knows where?” + </p> + <p> + “Gleeson! Honest Tom Gleeson ran away!” exclaimed Hickman; “no, no, that's + impossible,—I'd never believe that.” + </p> + <p> + “Strange enough, sir, that the paragraphs here have not convinced you,” + said Heffernan, taking up the newspaper which lay on the table, and where + the mark of snuffy fingers denoted the very passage in question. + </p> + <p> + “Ay! I did n't notice it before,” muttered the doctor, as he took up the + paper, affecting to read, but in reality to conceal his own confusion. + </p> + <p> + “They say the news nearly killed Darcy; he only heard it when going into + the House last night, and was seized with an apoplectic fit, and carried + home insensible.” This latter was, it is perhaps needless to say, pure + invention of Heffernan, who found it necessary to continue talking as a + means of detecting old Hickman's game. “Total ruin to that family of + course results. Gleeson had raised immense sums to pay off the debts, and + carried all away with him.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay!” muttered the doctor, as he seemed greatly occupied in arranging his + papers on the table. + </p> + <p> + “You 'll be a loser too, sir, by all accounts,” added Heffernan. + </p> + <p> + “Not much,—a mere trifle,” said the doctor, without looking up from + the papers. “But maybe he's not gone, after all; I won't believe it yet.” + </p> + <p> + “There seems little doubt on that head,” said Heffernan; “he changed three + thousand pounds in notes for gold at Ball's after the bank was closed on + Tuesday, and then went over to Finlay's, where he said he had a lodgment + to make. He left his great-coat behind him, and never came back for it. I + found that paper—it was the only one—in the breast pocket.” + </p> + <p> + “What is it? what is it?” repeated the old man, clutching eagerly at it. + </p> + <p> + “Nothing of any consequence,” said Heffernan, smiling; and he handed him a + printed notice, setting forth that the United States barque, the + “Congress,” of five hundred tons burden, would sail for New York on + Wednesday, the 16th instant, at an hour before high water. “That looked + suspicious, didn't it?” said Heffernan; “and on inquiry I found he had + drawn largely out of, not only the banks in town, but from the provincial + ones also. Now, that note addressed to yourself, for instance—” + </p> + <p> + “What note?” said Hickman, starting round as his face became pale as + ashes; “give it to me—give it at once!” + </p> + <p> + But Heffernan held it firmly between his fingers, and merely shook his + head, while, with a gentle smile, he said, “The banker who intrusted this + letter to my hands was well aware of what importance it might prove in a + court of justice, should this disastrous event demand a legal + investigation.” + </p> + <p> + The old doctor listened with breathless interest to every word of this + speech, and merely muttered at the close the words, “The note, the note!” + </p> + <p> + “I have promised to restore the paper to the banker,” said Heffernan. + </p> + <p> + “So you shall,—let me read it,” cried Hickman, eagerly; and he + clutched from Heffernan's fingers the document, before the other had + seemingly determined whether he would yield to his demand. + </p> + <p> + “There it is for you, sir,” said the doctor; “make what you can of it;” + and he threw the paper across the table. + </p> + <p> + The note contained merely the words, “Ten thousand pounds.” There was no + signature or any date, but the handwriting was Gleeson's. + </p> + <p> + “Ten thousand pounds,” repeated Heffernan, slowly; “a large sum!” + </p> + <p> + “So it is,” chimed in Hickman, with a grin of self-satisfaction, while a + consciousness that the mystery, whatever it might be, was beyond the reach + of Heffernan's skill, gave him a look of excessive cunning, which sat + strangely on features so old and time-worn. + </p> + <p> + “Well, Mr. Hickman,” said Heffernan, as he arose to take leave, “I have + neither the right nor the inclination to pry into any man's secrets. This + affair of Gleeson's will be sifted to the bottom one day or other, and + that small transaction of the ten thousand pounds as well as the rest. It + was not to discuss him or his fortunes I came here. I hoped to have seen + Mr. O'Reilly, and explained away a very serious misconception. Lord + Castlereagh regrets it, not for the sake of the loss of Mr. O'Reilly's + support, valuable as that unquestionably is, but because a wrong + interpretation would seem to infer that the conduct of the Treasury bench + was disingenuous. You will, I trust, make this explanation for me, and in + the name of his Lordship.” + </p> + <p> + “Faith, I won't promise it,” said old Hickman, looking up from a long + column of figures which he was for some minutes poring over; “I don't + understand them things at all; if Bob wanted to be a lord, 't is more than + ever I did,—I don't see much pleasure there is in being a gentleman. + I know, for my part, I 'd rather sit in the back parlor of my little shop + in Loughrea, where I could have a chat over a tumbler of punch with a + neighbor, than all the grandeur in life.” + </p> + <p> + “These simple, unostentatious tastes do you credit before the world, sir,” + said Heffernan, with a well put-on look of admiration. + </p> + <p> + “I don't know whether they do or not,” said Hickman, “but I know they help + to make a good credit with the bank, and that's better—ay!” + </p> + <p> + Heffernan affected to relish the joke, and descended the stairs, laughing + as he went; but scarcely had he reached his carriage, however, than he + muttered a heavy malediction on the sordid old miser whose iniquities were + not less glaring because Con had utterly failed to unravel anything of his + mystery. + </p> + <p> + “To Lord Castlereagh's,” said he to the footman, and then lay back to + ponder over his late interview. + </p> + <p> + The noble Secretary was not up when Con arrived, but had left orders that + Mr. Heffernan should be shown up to his room whenever he came. It was now + about five o'clock in the afternoon, and Lord Castlereagh, wrapped up in a + loose morning-gown, lay on the bed where he had thrown himself, without + undressing, on reaching home. A debate of more than fifteen hours, with + all its strong and exciting passages, had completely exhausted his + strength, while the short and disturbed sleep had wearied rather than + refreshed him. The bed and the table beside it were covered with the + morning papers and open letters and despatches, for, tired as he was, he + could not refrain from learning the news of the day. + </p> + <p> + “Well, my Lord,” said Heffernan, with his habitual smile, as he stepped + noiselessly across the floor, “I believe I may wish you joy at last,—the + battle is gained now.” + </p> + <p> + “Heigho!” was the reply of the Secretary, while he extended two fingers of + his hand in salutation. “What hour is it, Heffernan?” + </p> + <p> + “It is near five; but really there 's not a creature to be seen in the + streets, and, except old Killgobbin airing his pocket-handkerchief at the + fire, not a soul at the Club. Last night's struggle has nearly killed + every one.” + </p> + <p> + “Who is this Mr. Gleeson that has run off with so much money,—did + you know him?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, yes, we all knew 'honest Tom Gleeson.'” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! that was his sobriquet, was it?” said the Secretary, smiling. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, my Lord, such was he,—or such, at least, was he believed to + be, till yesterday evening. You know it's the last glass of wine always + makes a man tipsy.” + </p> + <p> + “And who is ruined, Heffernan,—any of our friends?” + </p> + <p> + “As yet there's no saying. Drogheda will lose something considerable, I + believe; but at the banks the opinion is that Darcy will be the heaviest + loser of any.” + </p> + <p> + “The Knight?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, the Knight of Gwynne.” + </p> + <p> + “I am sincerely sorry to hear it,” said Lord Castlereagh, with an energy + of tone he had not displayed before; “if I had met half-a-dozen such men + as he is, I should have had some scruples—” He paused, and at the + instant caught sight of a very peculiar smile on Heffernan's features; + then, suddenly changing the topic, he said, “What of Nickolls,—is he + shot?” + </p> + <p> + “No, my Lord, there was no meeting. Bagenal Daly, so goes the story, + proposed going over to the Isle of Man in a row-boat.” + </p> + <p> + “What, last night!” said the Secretary, laughing. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, when it was blowing the roof off the Custom House; he offered him + his choice of weapons, from a blunderbuss to a harpoon, and his own + distance, over a handkerchief, or fifty yards with a rifle.” + </p> + <p> + “And was Nickolls deaf to all such seductions?” + </p> + <p> + “Quite so, my Lord; even when Daly said to him, 'I think it a public duty + to shoot a fellow like you, for, if you are suffered to live, the + Government will make a judge of you one of these days.'” + </p> + <p> + “What profound solicitude for the purity of the judgment seat!” + </p> + <p> + “Daly has reason to think of these things; he has been in the dock + already, and perhaps suspects he may be again.” + </p> + <p> + “Poor Darcy!” said Lord Castlereagh to himself, in a half whisper, “I wish + I knew you were not a sufferer by this fellow's flight. By the bye, + Heffernan, sit down and write a few lines to Forester; say that Lord + Cornwallis is greatly displeased at his protracted absence. I am tired of + making excuses for him, and as I dine there to-day, I shall be tormented + all the evening.” + </p> + <p> + “Darcy's daughter is very good-looking, I hear,” said Heffernan, smiling + slyly, “and should have a large fortune if matters go right.” + </p> + <p> + “Very possibly; but old Lady Wallincourt is the proudest dowager in + England, and looks to the blood-royal for alliances. Forester is entirely + dependent on her; and that reminds me of a most solemn pledge I made her + to look after her 'dear Dick,' and prevent any entanglement in this + barbarous land,—as if I had nothing else to think of! Write at once, + Heffernan, and order him up; say he 'll lose his appointment by any + further delay, and that I am much annoyed at his absence.” + </p> + <p> + While Heffernan descended to the library to write, Lord Castlereagh turned + once more to sleep until it was time to dress for the Viceroy's dinner. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0022" id="link2HCH0022"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXII. “A WARNING” AND “A PARTING.” + </h2> + <p> + If we wanted any evidence of how little avail all worldly wisdom is, we + might take it from the fact that our severest calamities are often + impending us at the moments we deem ourselves most secure from misfortune. + Thus was it that while the events were happening whose influence was to + shadow over all the sunshine of her life, Lady Eleanor Darcy never felt + more at ease. That same morning the post had brought her a letter from the + Knight,—only a few lines, hastily written, but enough to allay all + her anxiety. He spoke of law arrangements, then almost completed, by which + any immediate pressure regarding money might be at once obviated, and + promised, for the very first time in his life, to submit to any plan of + retrenchment she desired to adopt. Had it been in her power, she could not + have dictated lines more full of pleasant anticipation. The only drawback + on the happiness of her lot in life was the wasteful extravagance of a + mode of living which savored far more of feudal barbarism than of modern + luxury. + </p> + <p> + Partly from long habit and association, partly from indolence of + character, but more than either from a compassionate consideration of + those whose livelihood might be impaired by any change in his + establishment, the Knight had resisted all suggestion of alteration. He + viewed the very peculations around him as vested rights, and the most he + could pledge himself to was, that when the present race died out he would + not appoint any successors. + </p> + <p> + The same post that brought this pleasant letter, conveyed one of far less + grateful import to Forester. It was a long epistle from his mother, + carefully worded, and so characteristic withal, that if it were any part + of our object to introduce that lady to our readers, we could not more + easily do so than through her own letter. Such is not, however, our + intention; enough if we say that it was a species of domestic homily, + where moral principles and worldly wisdom found themselves so inextricably + interwoven, no mean skill could have disentangled them. She had learned, + as careful mothers somehow always contrive to learn, that her son was + domesticated in the house with a very charming and beautiful girl, and the + occasion seemed suitable to enforce some of those excellent precepts which + hitherto had been deficient in force for want of a practical example. + </p> + <p> + Had Lady Wallincourt limited herself to cautious counsels about falling in + love with some rustic beauty in a remote region, Forester might have + treated the advice as one of those matter-of-course events which cause no + more surprise than the receipt of a printed circular; but she went + further. She deemed this a fitting occasion to instruct her son into the + mystery of that craft, which, in her own experience of life, she had seen + make more than one man's fortune, and by being adepts in which many of her + own family had attained to high and lasting honors. This science was + neither more nor less than success in female society. “I will not insult + either your good taste or your understanding,” wrote she, “by any warning + against falling in love in Ireland. Beauty is—France excepted—pretty + equally distributed through the world; neither is there any nationality in + good looks, for, nowadays, admixture of race has obliterated every + peculiarity of origin. In all, then, that concerns manner, tone, and + breeding, your own country possesses the true standard: every deviation + from this is a fault. What is conventional must be right, because it is + the exponent of general opinion on those topics for which each feels + interested. Now, the Irish, my dear boy, the Irish are never conventional; + they are clannish, provincial, peculiar, but never conventional. Their + pride would seem to be rather to ruffle than fall in with the general + sympathies of society. They forget that the social world is a great + compact, and they are always striving for individual successes by personal + distinction: this is the very acme of vulgarity. + </p> + <p> + “If they, however, are very indifferent models for imitation, they afford + an excellent school for your own training; they are a shrewd, + quick-sighted race, with a strong sense of the ludicrous, and are what the + French call <i>malin</i> to a degree. To win favor among them without any + subservient imitation of their own habits, which would be contemptible, is + not over easy. + </p> + <p> + “If I am rightly informed, you are at present well circumstanced to profit + by my counsels. I am told of a very agreeable and very pretty girl with + whom you ride and walk out constantly, and, far from feeling any maternal + uneasiness,—for I trust I know my son,—I am rejoiced at the + circumstance. Make the most of such an advantage by exercising your own + abilities and powers of pleasing, give yourself the habit of talking your + very best on every topic, without pedantry or any sign of premeditation. + Practise that blending of courteous deference to a woman's opinions with a + subdued consciousness of your own powers, which I have spoken to you of in + your dear father's character. Seldom venture on an axiom, never tell an + anecdote; be most guarded in any indulgence of humor: a laugh is the most + dangerous of all triumphs. It is the habit to reproach us with our + frigidity,—I believe not without reason; cultivate, then, a certain + amount of warmth which may suggest the idea of earnestness, apart from all + suspicion of enthusiasm, which I have often told you is low-lived. Watch + carefully by what qualities your success is more advanced; examine + yourself as to what defects you experience in your own character; make + yourself esteemed as a means of being estimable; win regard, and the habit + of pleasing will give a charm to your manner, even when you are not + desirous to secure affection. Your poor dear father often confessed the + inestimable advantages of his first affairs of the heart, and used to say, + whenever by any adroit exercise of his captivation he had gained over an + adverse Maid of Honor, I owe that to Louisa, for such was the name of the + young lady,—I forget now who she was. The mechanism of the heart is + alike in all lands; the means of success in Ireland will win victory where + the prize is higher. In all this, remember, I by no means advise you to + sport with any young lady's feelings, nor to win more of her affection + than may assure you that the entire could also become yours: a polite + chess-player will rest satisfied to say, 'check,' without pushing the + adversary to 'mate.' + </p> + <p> + “It will soon be time you should leave the army, and I hope to find you + have acquired some other education by the pursuit than mere knowledge of + dress.” + </p> + <p> + This is a short specimen of the maternal Machiavelism by which “the most + fascinating woman of her set” hoped to instruct her son, and teach him the + road to fortune. + </p> + <p> + Such is the fatal depravity of every human heart that any subtle appeal to + selfishness, if it fail to flex the victim to the will, at least shakes + the strong sense of conscious rectitude, and makes our very worthiness + seem weakness. + </p> + <p> + Forester's first impression was almost anger as he read these lines, the + second time he perused them he was far less shocked, and at last was + puzzled whether more to wonder at the keen worldly knowledge they + betrayed, or the solicitude of that affection which consented to unveil so + much of life for his guidance. The result of all these conflicting + emotions was depression of spirits, and a discontent with himself and all + the world; nor could the fascinations of that little circle in which he + lived so intimately, subdue the feeling. + </p> + <p> + Lady Eleanor saw this, and exerted herself with all her wonted powers to + amuse and interest him; Helen, too, delighted at the favorable change in + her mother's spirits, contributed to sustain the tone of light-hearted + pleasantry, while she could not restrain a jest upon Forester's unusual + gloominess. + </p> + <p> + The manner whose fascinations had hitherto so many charms, now almost + irritated him; the poison of suspicion had been imbibed, and he + continually asked himself, what if the very subtlety his mother's letter + spoke of was now practised by her? If all the varied hues of captivation + her changing humor wore were but the deep practised lures of coquetry? His + self-love was piqued by the thought, as well as his perceptive shrewdness, + and he set himself, as he believed, to decipher her real nature; but, such + is the blindness of mere egotism, in reality to misunderstand and mistake + her. + </p> + <p> + How often it happens in life that the moment a doubt prevails as to some + trait or feature of our character, we should exactly seize upon that very + instant to indulge in some weakness or passing levity that may strengthen + a mere suspicion, or make it a certainty. + </p> + <p> + Helen never seemed gayer than on this evening, scarcely noticing Forester, + save when to jest upon his morose and silent mood; she talked, and + laughed, and sang in all the free joyousness of a happy heart, + unconsciously displaying powers of mind and feeling which, in calmer + moments, lay dormant and concealed. + </p> + <p> + The evening wore on, and Helen had just risen from her harp,—where + she was playing one of those wild, half-sad, half-playful melodies of her + country,—when a gentle tap came to the door, and, without waiting + for leave to enter, old Tate appeared. + </p> + <p> + The old man was pale, and his features wore an expression of extreme + terror; but he was doing his very utmost, as it seemed, to struggle + against some inward fear, as, with a smile of far more melancholy than + mirth, he said, “Did ye hear it, my Lady? I 'm sure ye heerd it.” + </p> + <p> + “Heard what, Tate?” said Lady Eleanor. + </p> + <p> + “The—but I see Miss Helen's laughing at me. Ah! don't then, Miss, + darlin',—don't laugh.” + </p> + <p> + “What was it, Tate? Tell us what you heard.” + </p> + <p> + “The Banshee, my Lady! Ay, there 's the way,—I knew how 't would be; + you 'd only laugh when I tould you.” + </p> + <p> + “Where was it you heard it?” said Lady Eleanor, affecting seriousness to + gratify the old man's superstition. + </p> + <p> + “Under the east window, my Lady; then it moved across the flower-garden, + and down to the shore beneath the big rocks.” + </p> + <p> + “What was it like, Tate?” + </p> + <p> + “'T was like a funeral 'coyne' first, Miss, when ye heerd it far away in + the mountain; and then it rose, and swelled fuller and stronger, till it + swam all round me, and at last died away to the light, soft cry of an + infant.” + </p> + <p> + “Exactly, Tate; it was Captain Forester sighing. I never heard a better + description in my life.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! don't laugh, my Lady,—don't now, Miss Helen, dear. I never knew + luck nor grace come of laughing when the warnin' was come. 'T is the + Captain, there, looks sad and thoughtful,—the Heavens bless him for + it! He knows 'tis no time for laughing.” + </p> + <p> + Forester might have accepted the eulogy in better part, perhaps, had he + understood it; but as it was, he turned abruptly about, and asked Lady + Eleanor for an explanation of the whole mystery. + </p> + <p> + “Tate thinks he has heard—” + </p> + <p> + “Thinks!” interrupted the old man, with a sorrowful gesture of both hands. + “Musha! I'd take the Gospel on it; I heard it as plain as I hear your + Ladyship now.” + </p> + <p> + Lady Eleanor smiled, and went on—“the cry of the Banshee, that + dreadful warning which, in the superstition of the country, always + betokens death, or at least some great calamity, to the house it is heard + to wail over.” + </p> + <p> + “A polite attention, to say the least,” said Forester, smiling + sarcastically, “of the witch or fairy or whatever it is, to announce to + people an approaching misfortune. And has every cabin got its own Ban—what + do you call it?” + </p> + <p> + “The cabins has none,” said Tate, with a loot of severe reproach, the most + remote possible from his habitual air of deference; “'tis only the ouldest + and most ancient families, like his honor the Knight's, has a Banshee. But + it's no use talking; I see nobody believes me.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, Tate, I do,” cried Helen, with an earnestness of manner, either + really felt, or assumed to gratify the poor old man's superstitious + veneration; “just tell me how you heard it first.” + </p> + <p> + “Like that!” whispered Tate, as he held up his hand to enforce silence; + and at the same instant a low, plaintive cry was heard, as if beneath the + very window. The accent was not of pain or suffering, but of melancholy so + soft, so touching, and yet so intense, that it stilled every voice within + the room, where now each long-drawn breath was audible. + </p> + <p> + There is a lurking trait of superstition in every human heart, which will + resist, at some one moment or other, every effort of reason and every + scoff of irony. An instant before, and Forester was ready to jest with the + old man's terrors, and now his own spirit was not all devoid of them. The + feeling was, however, but of a moment's duration; suspicion again assumed + its sway, and, seizing his hat, he rushed from the room, to search the + flower-garden and examine every spot where any one might lie concealed. + </p> + <p> + “There he goes now, as if he could see <i>her</i>; and maybe 't would be + as well for him he did n't,” said Tate, as, in contempt of the English + incredulity, he gazed after the eager youth. “Is his honor well, my Lady?—when + did you hear from him?” + </p> + <p> + “We heard this very day, Tate; he is perfectly well.” + </p> + <p> + “And Master Lionel—the captain, I mane—but I only think he's a + child still.” + </p> + <p> + “Quite well, too,” said Helen. “Don't alarm yourself, Tate; you know how + sadly the wind can sigh through these old walls at times, and under the + yew-trees, too, it sounds drearily; I 've shuddered to myself often, as I + 've heard it.” + </p> + <p> + “God grant it!” said old Tate, piously; but the shake of his head and the + muttering sounds between his teeth attested that he laid no such + flattering unction to his heart as mere disbelief might offer. “'T is n't + a death-cry, anyhow, Miss Helen,” whispered he to Miss Darcy, as he moved + towards the door; “for I went down to the back of the abbey, where Sir + Everard was buried, and all was still there.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, go to bed now, Tate, and don't think more about it; if the wind—” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! the wind! the wind!” said he, querulously; “that's the way it always + is,—as if God Almighty had no other way of talking to our hearts + than the cry of the night-wind.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, Captain Forester, what success? Have you confronted the spectre?” + said Lady Eleanor, as he re-entered the apartment. + </p> + <p> + “Except having fallen into a holly-bush, where I rivalled the complaining + accents of the old witch, I have no adventure to recount; all is perfectly + still and tranquil without.” + </p> + <p> + “You have got your cheek scratched for following the siren,” said Lady + Eleanor, laughing; “pray put another log on the fire, it is fearfully + chilly here.” + </p> + <p> + Old Tate withdrew slowly and unwillingly; he saw that his intelligence had + failed to produce a proper sense of terror on their minds; and his own + load of anxiety was heavier, from want of participation. + </p> + <p> + The conversation, by that strange instinct which influences the least as + well as the most credulous people, now turned on the superstitions of the + peasantry, and many a legend and story were remembered by Lady Eleanor and + her daughter, in which these popular beliefs formed a chief feature. + </p> + <p> + “It is unfair and unwise,” said Lady Eleanor, at the conclusion of one of + these stories, “to undervalue such influences; the sailor, who passes his + life in dangers, watches the elements with an eye and an air that training + have rendered almost preternaturally observant, and he sees the sign of + storm where others would but mark the glow of a red sunset; so among a + primitive people communing much with their own hearts in solitary, + unfrequented places, imagination becomes developed in undue proportion, + and the mind seeks relief in creative efforts from the wearying sense of + loneliness; but even these are less idle fancies than conclusions come to + from long and deep thought. Some strange process of analogy would seem the + parent of superstitions which we know to be common to all lands.” + </p> + <p> + “Which means, that you half believe in a Banshee!” said Forester, smiling. + </p> + <p> + “Not so; but that I cannot consent to despise the frame of mind which + suggests these beliefs, although I have no faith in the apparitions. Poor + Tate, there, had never dreamed of hearing the Banshee cry if some painful + thought of impending misfortune had not suggested her presence; his fears + may not be unfounded, although the form they take be preternatural.” + </p> + <p> + “I protest against all such plausibilities,” said Helen. “I 'm for the + Banshee, as the Republicans say in France, 'one and indivisible.' I 'll + not accept of natural explanations. Mr. Bagenal Daly says, we may well + believe in spirits, when we put faith in the mere ghost of a Parliament.” + </p> + <p> + “Helen is throwing out a bait for a political discussion,” said Lady + Eleanor, laughing, “and so I 'll even say good night, Captain Forester, + and pleasant dreams of the Banshee.” + </p> + <p> + Forester rose and took his leave, which, somehow, was colder than usual. + His mother's counsels had got possession of his mind, and distrust + perverted every former source of pleasure. + </p> + <p> + “Her manner is all coquetry,” said he, angrily, to himself, as he walked + towards his room. + </p> + <p> + Poor fellow! and what if it were? Coquetry is but a gilding, to be sure; + but it can never be well laid on if the substance beneath is not a + precious metal. + </p> + <p> + There was, at the place where the river opened into the sea, a small inlet + of the bay guarded by two bold and rocky headlands, between which the tide + swept with uncommon violence, accumulating in time a kind of bar, over + which, even in calm weather, the waves were lashed into breakers, while + the waters within were still as a mountain lake. The ancient ruin we have + already alluded to passingly, stood on a little eminence fronting this + small creek, and although unmarked by any architectural beauty, or any + pretensions, save the humble possession of four rude walls pierced by + narrow windows, and a low doorway formed of three large stones, was yet, + in the eyes of the country people, endowed with some superior holiness,—so + it is certain the little churchyard around bespoke. It was crowded with + graves, whose humble monuments consisted in wooden crosses, decorated in + recent cases with little garlands of paper or wild flowers, as piety or + affection suggested. The fragments of ship-timber around showed that they + who slept beneath had been mostly fishermen, for the chapel was peculiarly + esteemed by them; and at the opening of the fishing season a mass was + invariably offered here for the success of the herring-fishery, by a + priest from a neighboring parish, whose expenses were willingly and + liberally rewarded by the fishermen. + </p> + <p> + In exact proportion with the reverence in which this spot was regarded by + day was the fear and dread entertained of it by night. Stories of ghosts + and evil spirits were rife far and near of that lonely ruin, and the + hardiest seamen, who would brave the wild waves of the Atlantic, would not + venture alone within these deserted walls after dark. Helen remembered, as + a child, having been once there after sunset, induced by an intense + curiosity to hear or see something of those sounds and shapes her nurse + had told of, and what alarm her absence created among the household + increased when it was discovered where she had been. + </p> + <p> + The same strange desire to hear if it might be that sad and wailing voice + which all had so distinctly heard in the drawing-room, led her, when she + had wished her mother good-night, to leave her chamber, and, crossing the + flower-garden, to descend to the beach by a small door which opened to a + little pathway down to the sea. When the superstitions whose terrors have + affrighted childhood are either conquered by reason or uprooted by worldly + influence, they still leave behind them a strange passion for the + marvellous, which in imaginative temperaments is frequently greatly + developed, and becomes a great source of enjoyment or suffering to its + possessor. Helen Darcy's nature was of this kind, and she would gladly + have accepted all the tremors and terrors of her nursery days to feel once + again that intense awe, that anxious heart-beating expectancy, a ghost + story used to create within her. + </p> + <p> + The night was calm and starlit, the sea was tranquil and unruffled, except + where the bar broke the flow of the tide, and marked by a long line of + foam the struggling breakers, whose hoarse plash was heard above the + rippling on the strand. Even in the rocky caves all was still, not an echo + resounded within those dreary caverns where at times the thunder's self + was not louder. Helen reached the little churchyard; she knew every path + and foot-track through it, and at last, strolling leisurely onward, + entered the ruin and sat down within the deep window that looked over the + sea. + </p> + <p> + For some time her attention was directed seaward, watching the waves as + they reflected back the spangled heaven, or sank again in dark shadow, + when suddenly she perceived the figure of a man, who appeared slowly + pacing the beach immediately beneath where she sat. + </p> + <p> + What could have brought any one there at such an hour she could not + imagine; and however few her terrors of the world of spirits, she would + gladly at this moment have been safe within the abbey. While she debated + with herself how to act—whether to remain in her present + concealment, or venture on a sudden flight—the figure halted exactly + under the window. Her doubts and fears were now speedily resolved, for she + perceived it was Forester, who, induced by the beauty of the night, had + thus strolled out upon the shore. “What if I should put his courageous + incredulity to the test?” thought Helen; “the moment is propitious now. I + could easily imitate the cry of the Banshee!” The temptation was too + strong to be resisted, and without further thought she uttered a low, + thrilling wail, in an accent of most touching sorrow. Forester started and + looked up, but the dark walls were in deep shadow; whatever his real + feelings at the moment, he lost no time in clambering up the bank on which + the ruin stood, and from which he rightly judged the sound proceeded. + Helen was yet uncertain whether to attribute this step to terror or the + opposite, when she heard his foot as he traversed the thickly-studded + graveyard,—a moment more, and he would be in the church itself, + where he could not fail to discover her by her white dress. But one chance + offered of escape, which was to leap from the window down upon the strand: + it was deeper than she fancied, nearly twice her own height; but then + detection, for more than one good reason, was not to be thought of. + </p> + <p> + Helen was not one of those who long hesitate when their minds are to be + made up; she slipped noiselessly between the stone mullion and the side of + the window, and sprang out; unfortunately one foot turned on a small + stone, and she fell on the sand, while a slight accent of pain + unconsciously broke from her. Before she could rise, Forester was beside + her; with one arm round her waist, he half pressed, as he assisted her to + recover her feet. + </p> + <p> + “So, fair spirit,” said he, jocularly, “I have tracked you, it would + seem;” then, for the first time discovering it was Helen, he muttered in a + different tone, “I ask pardon, Miss Darcy; I really did not know—” + </p> + <p> + “I am sure of that, Captain Forester,” said she, disengaging herself from + his aid. “I certainly deserve a lesson for my silly attempt to frighten + you, and I believe I have sprained my ankle. Will you kindly send Florence + to me?” + </p> + <p> + “I cannot leave you here alone, Miss Darcy; pray take my arm, and let me + assist you back to the abbey.” + </p> + <p> + The tone of deference he now spoke in, and the increasing pain, concurred + to persuade her, and she accepted the proffered assistance. + </p> + <p> + “The absurdity of this adventure is not repaid by the pleasure of having + frightened you,” said she, laughing; “if I could only say how terrified + you were—” + </p> + <p> + “You might indeed have said so,” interrupted Forester, “had I guessed the + figure I saw leap out was yours.” + </p> + <p> + “It was even higher than I thought,” said she, avoiding to remark the + fervent accents in which these words were spoken. + </p> + <p> + Forester was silent; his heart was full to bursting; the passion so lately + dashed by doubts and suspicions returned with tenfold force now that he + felt her arm within his own as step by step they moved along. + </p> + <p> + “You are in great pain, I fear,” said he, tremulously. + </p> + <p> + “No, not now. I am so much more ashamed of my folly than a sufferer from + it that I could forgive the sprain if I could the silly notion that caused + it. 'Twas an unlucky fancy, to say the least of it.” + </p> + <p> + Again there was a pause, and although they walked but slowly, they were + fast approaching the little gate that opened into the flower-garden. + Forester was silent. “Was it from this cause, or by some secret + freemasonry of the female heart that she suspected what was passing in his + mind, and exerted herself to move on more rapidly? + </p> + <p> + “Take time, Miss Darcy; not so fast; if not for your sake, for mine at + least.” + </p> + <p> + The last few words were scarcely above a whisper, but every one of them + reached her to whom they were addressed; whether affecting not to hear + them, or preferring to mistake their meaning, Helen made no answer. + </p> + <p> + “I said for <i>my</i> sake,” resumed he, with a courage that demanded all + his energy, “because on these few moments the whole fortune of my future + life is placed. I love you.” + </p> + <p> + “Nay, Captain Forester,” said she, smiling, “this is not quite fair; I + failed in my attempt to terrify you, and have paid the penalty: let there + not be a further one of my listening to what I should not hear.” + </p> + <p> + “And why not hear it, Helen? Is the devotion of one even humble as I am, a + thing to offend? Is it the less sincere that I feel how much you are above + me in every way? Will not my very presumption prove how fervent is the + passion that has made me forget all save itself,—all save you?” + </p> + <p> + Truth has its own accents, however weak the words it syllables. Helen + laughed not now, but walked on with quicker steps; while the youth, the + barrier once passed, poured forth with heartfelt eloquence his tale of + love, recalling to her mind by many a slight, unnoticed trait, his + long-pledged devotion; how he had watched and worshipped her, seeking to + win favor in her eyes, and seem not all unworthy of her heart. + </p> + <p> + “It is true,” said he, “I cannot, dare not, ask in return for an affection + which should repay my own; but let me hope that what I now speak, the + devotion I pledge, is no rejected offering; that although you care not for + me, you will not crush forever one who lives but in your smile, that you + will give me time to show myself more worthy of the prize I strive for. + There is no trial I would not dare—” + </p> + <p> + “I must interrupt you, Captain Forester,” said Helen, with a voice that + all her efforts had not rendered quite steady; “it would be an ungenerous + requital for the sentiments you say you feel—” + </p> + <p> + “Say!—nay, Helen, I swear it, by every hope that now thrills within + me—” + </p> + <p> + “It would be,” resumed she, tremulously, “an ungenerous requital for this, + were I to practise any deception on you. I am sincerely, deeply sorry to + hear you speak as you have done. I had long since learned to regard you as + the friend of Lionel, almost like a brother. The pleasure your society + afforded one I am most attached to increased the feeling; and as intimacy + increased between us, I thought how happy were it if the ambitions of life + did not withdraw from home the sons whose kindness can be as thoughtful + and as tender as that of the daughters of the house. Shall I confess it? I + almost wished my brother like you; but yet all this was not love,—nay, + for I will be frank, at whatever cost,—I had never felt this towards + you, if I suspected your sentiments towards me—” + </p> + <p> + “But, dearest Helen—” + </p> + <p> + “Hear me out. There is but one way in which the impropriety of such a + meeting as this can be obviated, chance though it be, and that is, by + perfect candor. I have told you the simple truth, not with any + undervaluing sense of the affection you proffer, still less with any + coquetry of reserve. I should be unworthy of the heart you offer me, since + I could not give my own in exchange.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you deny me all hope?” said he, in an accent almost bursting with + grief. + </p> + <p> + “I am not arrogant enough to say I shall never change; but I am honest + enough to tell you that I do not expect it.” + </p> + <p> + “Farewell, then, Helen! I do not love you less that you have taught me to + think more humbly of myself. Good-by—forever!” + </p> + <p> + “It is better it should come to this,” said Helen, faintly; and she held + out her hand towards him. “Good-by, Forester!” + </p> + <p> + He pressed one long and burning kiss upon her hand, and turned away, while + she, pushing open the door, entered the little garden. Scarcely, however, + was the door closed behind her, when the calm courage in which she spoke + forsook her, and she burst into tears. + </p> + <p> + So is it, the heart can be moved, even its most tender chords, when the + touch that stirs it is less of love than sorrow. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0023" id="link2HCH0023"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXIII. SOME SAD REVELATIONS + </h2> + <p> + It was on the fourth day after the memorable debate we have briefly + alluded to, that the Knight of Gwynne was sitting alone in one of the + large rooms of his Dublin mansion. Although his servants had strict orders + to say he had left town, he had not quitted the capital, but passed each + day, from sunrise till late at night, in examining his various accounts, + and endeavoring with what slight business knowledge he possessed, to + ascertain the situation in which he stood, and how far Gleeson's flight + had compromised him. There is no such chaotic confusion to the + unaccustomed mind as the entangled web of long-standing moneyed + embarrassments, and so Darcy found it. Bills for large sums had been + passed, to provide for which, renewals had been granted, and this for a + succession of years, until the debt accumulating had been met by a + mortgage or a bond: many of these bills were missing—where were + they? was the question, and what liability might yet attach to them? + </p> + <p> + Again, loans had been raised more than once to pay off these encumbrances, + the interest on which was duly charged in his account, and yet there was + no evidence of these payments having been made; nor among the very last + sent papers from Gleeson was there any trace of that bond, to release + which the enormous sum of seventy thousand pounds had been raised. That + the money was handed to Hickman, Bagenal Daly was convinced; the + memorandum given him by Freney was a corroboration of the probability at + least, but still there was no evidence of the transaction here. Even this + was not the worst, for the Knight now discovered that the rental charged + in his accounts was more than double the reality, Gleeson having for many + years back practised the fraud of granting leases at a low, sometimes a + merely nominal, rent, while he accepted renewal fines from the tenants, + which he applied to his own purposes. In fact, it at length became + manifest to Darcy's reluctant belief that his trusted agent had for years + long pursued a systematic course of perfidy, merely providing money + sufficient for the exigencies of the time, while he was, in reality, + selling every acre of his estate. + </p> + <p> + The Knight's last hope was in the entail. “I am ruined—I am a + beggar, it is true!” muttered he, as each new discovery broke upon him, + “but my boy, my dear Lionel, at my death will have his own again.” This + cherished dream was not of long duration, for to his horror he discovered + a sale of a considerable part of the estate in which Lionel's name was + signed as a concurring party. This was the crowning point of his + affliction; the ruin was now utter, without one gleam of hope remaining. + </p> + <p> + The property thus sold was that in the possession of the O'Reillys, and + the sale was dated the very day Lionel came of age. Darcy remembered well + having signed his name to several papers on that morning. Gleeson had + followed him from place to place, through the crowds of happy and + rejoicing people assembled by the event, and at last, half vexed at the + importunity, he actually put his name to several papers as he sat on + horseback on the lawn: this very identical deed was thus signed; the + writing was straggling and irregular as the motion of the horse shook his + hand. So much for his own inconsiderate rashness, but how, or by what + artifice was Lionel's signature obtained? + </p> + <p> + Never had Lionel Darcy practised the slightest deception on his father; + never concealed from him any difficulty or any embarrassment, but frankly + confided to him his cares, as he would to one of his own age. How, then, + had he been drawn into a step of this magnitude without apprising him? + There was one explanation, and this was, that Glee-son persuaded the young + man, that by thus sacrificing his own future rights he would be assisting + his father, who, from motives of delicacy, could not admit of any + negotiation in the matter, and that by ceding so much of his own property, + he should relieve his father from present embarrassment. + </p> + <p> + Through all the revelation of the agent's guilt now opening before him, + not one word of anger, one expression of passion, escaped the Knight till + his eyes fell upon this paper; but then, grasping it in both hands, he + shook in every limb with indignant rage, and in accents of bitterest hate + invoked a curse upon his betrayer. The very sound of his own voice in that + sileut chamber startled him, while a sick tremor crept through his frame + at the unhallowed wish he uttered. “No, no,” said he, with clasped hands, + “it is not for one like me, whose sensual carelessness has brought my own + to ruin, to speak thus of another; may Heaven assist me, and pardon him + that injured me!” + </p> + <p> + The stunning effects of heavy calamity are destined in all likelihood to + give time to rally against the blow—to permit exhausted Nature to + fortify herself by even a brief repose against the harassing influences of + deep sorrow. One who saw far into the human heart tells us that it is not + the strongest natures are the first to recover from the shock of great + misfortunes, but that “light and frivolous spirits regain their elasticity + sooner than those of loftier character.” + </p> + <p> + The whole extent of his ruin unfolded itself gradually before Darcy's + eyes, until at length the accumulated load became too great to bear, and + he sat in almost total unconsciousness gazing at the mass of law papers + and accounts before him, only remembering at intervals, and then faintly, + the nature of the investigation he was engaged in, and by an effort + recalling himself again to the task: in this way passed the entire day we + speak of. Brief struggles to exert himself in examining the various papers + and letters on the table were succeeded by long pauses of apparent apathy, + until, as evening drew near, these intervals of indifference grew longer, + and he sat for hours in this scarce-waking condition. + </p> + <p> + It was long past midnight as a loud knocking was heard at the street door, + and ere Darcy could sufficiently recall his wandering faculties from their + revery, he felt a hand grasp his own—he looked up, and saw Bagenal + Daly. + </p> + <p> + “Well, Darcy,” said he, in a low whisper, “how stand matters here?” + </p> + <p> + “Ruined!” said he, in an accent hardly audible, but with a look that + thrilled through the stern heart of Daly. + </p> + <p> + “Come, come, there must be a long space between <i>your</i> fortune and + ruin yet. Have you seen any legal adviser?” + </p> + <p> + “What of Gleeson, Bagenal, has he been heard of?” said the Knight, not + attending to Daly's question. + </p> + <p> + “He has had the fitting end of a scoundrel. He leaped overboard in the + Channel—” + </p> + <p> + “Poor fellow!” said Darcy, while he passed his hand across his eyes; “his + spirit was not all corrupted, Bagenal; he dared not to face the world.” + </p> + <p> + “Face the world! the villain, it was the gallows he had not courage to + face. Don't speak one word of compassion about a wretch like him, or you + 'll drive me mad. There's no iniquity in the greatest crimes to compare + with the slow, dastardly scoundrelism of your fair-faced swindler. It + seems so, at least. The sailors told us that he went below immediately on + their leaving the river, and, having locked the cabin door, spent his time + in writing till they were in sight of the Holyhead light, when a sudden + splash was heard, and a cry of 'A man overboard!' called every one to the + deck; then it was discovered that the fellow had opened one of the + stern-windows and thrown himself into the sea. They brought me this open + letter, the last, it is said, he ever wrote, and, though unaddressed, + evidently meant for you. You need not read it; it contains nothing but the + whining excuses of a scoundrel who bases his virtue on the fact that he + was more coward than cheat. Strangest thing of all, he had no property + with him beyond some few clothes, a watch, and about three hundred guineas + in a purse. This was deposited by the skipper with the authorities in + Liverpool; not a paper, not a document of any kind. Don't read that puling + scrawl, Darcy; I have no patience with your pity!” + </p> + <p> + “I wish he had escaped with life, Bagenal,” said Darcy, feelingly; “it is + a sad aggravation of all my sorrow to think of this man's suicide.” + </p> + <p> + “And so he might, had he had the courage to take his chance. The + 'Congress' passed us as we went up the river; she had her studding-sails + set, and, with the strong tide in her favor, was cutting through the water + as fast as ever a runaway scoundrel could wish or ask for. Gleeson's + servant contrived to reach her in time, and got away safe, not improbably + with a heavy booty, if the truth were known.” + </p> + <p> + Daly continued to dwell on the theme, repeating circumstantially the whole + of the examination before the Liverpool Justices, where the depositions of + the case were taken, and the investigation conducted with strict accuracy; + but Darcy paid little attention. The sad end of one for whom through years + long he had entertained feelings of respect and friendship, seemed to + obliterate all memory of his crime, and he had no other feelings in his + heart than those of sincere grief for the suicide. + </p> + <p> + “There is but one circumstance in the whole I cannot understand,” said + Daly, “and that is why Gleeson paid off Hickman's bond last week, when he + had evidently made up his mind to fly,—seventy thousand was such a + sum to carry away with him, all safe and sound as he had it.” + </p> + <p> + “But where's the evidence of such a payment?” said Darcy, sorrowfully; + “the bond is not to be found, nor is it among the papers discovered at + Gleeson's house.” + </p> + <p> + “It may be found yet,” said Daly, confidently. “That the money was paid I + have not a particle of doubt on my mind; Freney's information, and the + memorandum I showed you, are strong in corroborating the fact; old Hickman + dared not deny it, if the bond never were to turn up.” + </p> + <p> + “Heaven grant it!” said Darcy, fervently; “that will at least save the + abbey, and rescue our old house from the pollution I dreaded.” + </p> + <p> + “All that, however, does not explain the difficulty,” said Daly, + thoughtfully; “I wish some shrewder head than mine had the matter before + him. But now that I have told you so much, let me have some supper, Darcy, + for we forgot to victual our sloop, and had no sea-store but whiskey on + either voyage.” + </p> + <p> + Though this was perfectly true, Daly's proposition was made rather to + induce the Knight to take some refreshment, which it was so evident he + needed, than from any personal motive. + </p> + <p> + “They carried the second reading by a large majority; I read it in + Liverpool,” said Daly, as the servant laid the table for supper. + </p> + <p> + The Knight nodded an assent, and Daly resumed: “I saw also that an address + was voted by the patriotic members of Daly's to Hickman O'Reilly, Esquire, + M.P., for his manly and independent conduct in the debate, when he taunted + the Government with their ineffectual attempts at corruption, and spurned + indignantly every offer of their patronage.” + </p> + <p> + “Is that the case?” said the Knight, smiling faintly. + </p> + <p> + “'All fact; while the mob drew his carriage home, and nearly smoked the + entire of Merrion Square into blackness with burning tar-barrels.” + </p> + <p> + “He has improved on Johnson's definition, Bagenal, and made patriotism the + first as well as the last refuge of a scoundrel.” + </p> + <p> + “I looked out in the House that evening, but could not see him, for I + wanted him to second a motion for me.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed! of what nature?” + </p> + <p> + “A most patriotic one, to this effect: that all bribes to members of + either House should be in money, that we might have at least the benefit + of introducing so much capital into Ireland.” + </p> + <p> + “You forget, Bagenal, how it would spoil old Hickman's market: loans would + then be had for less than ten per cent.” + </p> + <p> + “So it would, by Jove! That shows the difficulty of legislating for + conflicting interests.” + </p> + <p> + This conversation was destined only to occupy the time the servant was + engaged about the table, but when he had withdrawn, the Knight and his + friend at once returned to the eventful theme that engaged all their + anxieties, and where the altered tones of their voices and eager looks + betokened the deepest interest. + </p> + <p> + It would have been difficult to find two men more generally well informed, + and less capable of comprehending or unravelling the complicated tissue of + a business matter. At the same time, by dint of much mutual inquiry and + discussion, they attained to that first and greatest of discoveries, + namely, their own insufficiency to conduct the investigation, and the + urgent necessity of employing some able man of law to go through all + Gleeson's accounts, and ascertain the real condition of Darcy's fortune. + With this prudent resolve, they parted: Darcy to his room, where he sat + with unclosed eyes till morning; while Daly, who had disciplined his + temperament more rigidly, soon fell fast asleep, and never awoke till + roused by the voice of his servant Sandy. + </p> + <p> + “You must find out the fellow that brought the note from Freney,” said + Daly, the moment he opened his eyes. + </p> + <p> + “I was thinking so,” said Sandy, sententiously. + </p> + <p> + “You'd know him again?” + </p> + <p> + “I 'd ken his twa eyes amang a thousand.” + </p> + <p> + “Very well, then, set off after breakfast and search for him; you used to + know where devils of this kind were to be found.” + </p> + <p> + “Maybe I havna quite forgot it yet,” replied he, dryly; “but it winna do + to gae there before nightfall.” + </p> + <p> + “Lose no more time than you can help about it,” said Daly; “bring him here + if you can find him.” + </p> + <p> + We have not the necessity, and more certainly it is far from our + inclination, to dwell upon the accumulated calamities of the Knight, nor + recount more particularly the sad disclosures which the few succeeding + days made regarding his fortunes. His own words were correct; he was + utterly ruined. Every species of iniquity which perfidy could practise + upon unbounded confidence had been effected. His property subdivided and + leased at nominal rents, debts long supposed to have been paid yet + outstanding; mortgages alleged to have been redeemed still impending; + while of the large sums raised to meet these encumbrances not one shilling + had been paid by Gleeson, save perhaps the bond for seventy thousand; but + even of this there was no evidence, except the vague assertion of one + whose testimony the law would reject. + </p> + <p> + Such, in brief, were the sad results of that investigation to which the + Knight's affairs were submitted, nor could all the practised subtlety of + the lawyer suggest one reasonable chance of extrication from the + difficulty. + </p> + <p> + “Your friend is a ruined man, sir,” said he to Daly, as they both arose + after a seven hours' examination of the various documents; “there is a + strong presumption that many of these signatures are forged, and that the + Knight of Gwynne never even saw the papers; but he appears to have written + his name so carelessly, and in so many ways, as to have no clear + recollection of what he did sign, and what he did not. It would be very + difficult to submit a good case for a jury.” + </p> + <p> + That the payment of the seventy thousand had been made he regarded as more + than doubtful, coupling the fact of Gleeson's immediate flight with the + temptation of so large a sum, while nothing could be less accurate than + the robber's testimony. “We must watch the enemy closely on this point,” + said he; “we must exhibit not the slightest apparent doubt upon it. They + must not be led to suspect that we have not the bond in our possession. + This question will admit of a long contest, and does not press like the + others. As to young Darcy's concurrence in the sale—” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, that is the great matter in my friend's eyes.” + </p> + <p> + “He must be written to at once,—let him come over here without loss + of time, and if it can be shown that this signature is a forgery, we might + make it the ground of a compromise with the O'Reillys, who, to obtain a + good title, would be glad to admit us to liberal terms.” + </p> + <p> + “Darcy will never listen to that, depend upon it,” said Daly; “his + greatest affliction is for his son's ruin.” + </p> + <p> + “We 'll see, we 'll see—the game shall open its own combinations as + we go on; for the present, all the task of your friend the Knight is to + carry a bold face to the world, let no rumor get abroad that matters are + in their real condition. Our chance of extrication lies in the front we + can show to the enemy.” + </p> + <p> + “You are making a heavier demand than you are aware of,—Darcy + detests anything like concealment. I don't believe he would practise the + slightest mystery that would involve insincerity for twelve hours to free + the whole estate.” + </p> + <p> + “Very honorable indeed; but at this moment we must waive a punctilio.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't give it that name to him,—that's all,” said Daly, sternly. “I + am as little for subterfuge as any man, and yet I did my best to prevent + him resigning his seat in the House; this morning he would send a request + to Lord Castlereagh, begging he might be permitted to accept an + escheatorship; I need not say how willingly the proposal was accepted, and + his name will appear in the 'Gazette' to-morrow morning.” + </p> + <p> + “This conduct, if persisted in, will ruin our case,” said the lawyer, + despondingly. “I cannot comprehend his reasons for it.” + </p> + <p> + “They are simple enough: his own words were, 'I can never continue to be a + member of the legislature when the only privilege it would confer is + freedom from arrest.'” + </p> + <p> + “A very valuable one at this crisis, if he knew but all,” muttered the + other. “You will write to young Darcy at once.” + </p> + <p> + “That he has done already, and to Lady Eleanor also; and as he expects me + at seven, I 'll take my leave of you till to-morrow.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, Daly,” said the Knight, as his friend entered the drawing-room + before dinner, “how do you like the lawyer?” + </p> + <p> + “He's a shrewd fellow, and I suppose, for his calling, an honest one; but + the habit of making the wrong seem right leads to a very great inclination + to reverse the theorem, and make the right seem wrong.” + </p> + <p> + “He thinks badly of our case, is n't that so?” + </p> + <p> + “He 'd think much better of it, and of us too, I believe, if both were + worse.” + </p> + <p> + “I am just as well pleased that it is not so,” said Darcy, smiling; “a bad + case is far more endurable than a bad conscience. But here comes dinner, + and I have got my appetite back again.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0024" id="link2HCH0024"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXIV. A GLANCE AT “THE FULL MOON.” + </h2> + <p> + To rescue our friend Bagenal Daly from any imputation the circumstance + might suggest, it is as well to observe here, that when he issued the + order to his servant to seek out the boy who brought the intelligence of + Gleeson's flight, he was merely relying on that knowledge of the obscure + recesses of Old Dublin which Sandy possessed, and not by any means upon a + distinct acquaintance with gentlemen of the same rank and station as + Jemmy. + </p> + <p> + When Daly first took up his residence in the capital, many, many years + before, he was an object of mob worship. He had every quality necessary + for such. He was immensely rich, profusely spendthrift, and eccentric to + an extent that some characterized as insanity. His dress, his equipage, + his liveries, his whole retinue and style of living were strange and + unlike other men's, while his habits of life bid utter defiance to every + ordinance of society. + </p> + <p> + In the course of several years' foreign travel he had made acquaintances + the most extraordinary and dissimilar, and many of these were led to visit + him in his own country. Dublin being less resorted to by strangers than + most cities, the surprise of its inhabitants was proportionably great as + they beheld, not only Hungarians and Russian nobles, with gorgeous + equipages and splendid retinues, driving through the streets, but Turks, + Armenians, and Greeks, in full costume; and, on one occasion, Daly's + companion on a public promenade was no less remarkable a person than a + North American chief, in all the barbaric magnificence of his native + dress. To obviate the inconvenience of that mob accompaniment such + spectacles would naturally attract, Daly entered into a compact with the + leaders of the varions sets or parties of low Dublin, by which, on payment + of a certain sum, he was guaranteed in the enjoyment of appearing in + public without a following of several hundred ragged wretches in full cry + after him. Nothing could be more honorable and fair than the conduct of + both parties in this singular treaty; the subsidy was regularly paid + through the hands of Sandy M'Grane, while the subsidized literally + observed every article of the contract, and not only avoided any + molestation on their own parts, but were a formidable protective force in + the event of any annoyance from others of a superior rank in society. + </p> + <p> + The hawkers of the various newspapers were the deputies with whom Sandy + negotiated this treaty, they being recognized as the legitimate + interpreters of mob opinion through the capital; men who combined an + insight into local grievances with a corresponding knowledge of general + politics; and certain it is, their sway must have been both respected and + well protected, for a single transgression of the compact with Daly never + occurred. + </p> + <p> + Bagenal Daly troubled his head very little in the matter, it is true; for + his own sake he would never have thought of such a bargain, but he + detested the thought of foreigners carrying away with them from Ireland + any unpleasant memories of mob outrage or insult; and desired that the + only remembrance they should preserve of his native country should be of + its cordial and hospitable reception. A great many years had now elapsed + since these pleasant times, and Daly's name was scarcely more than a + tradition among those who now lounged in rags and idleness through the + capital,—a fact of which he could have had little doubt himself, if + he had reflected on that crowd which followed his own steps but a few days + before. Of this circumstance, however, he took little or no notice, and + gave his orders to Sandy with the same conscious power he had wielded + nearly fifty years back. + </p> + <p> + A small public-house, called the Moon, in Duck Alley, a narrow lane off + the Cross Poddle, was the resort of this Rump Parliament, and thither + Sandy betook himself on a Saturday evening, the usual night of meeting, + as, there being no issue of newspapers the next morning, nothing + interfered with a prolonged conviviality. Often and often had he taken the + same journey at the same hour; but now, such is the effect of a long + interval of years, the way seemed narrower and more crooked than ever, + while as he went not one familiar face welcomed him as he passed; nor + could he recognize, as of yore, his acquaintances amid the various + disguises of black eyes and smashed noses, which were frequent on every + side. It was the hour when crime and guilt, drunken rage and grief, + mingled together their fearful agencies; and every street and alley was + crowded by half-naked wretches quarrelling and singing: some screaming in + accents of heartbroken anguish; others shouting their blasphemies with + voices hoarse from passion; age and infancy, manhood in its prime, the + mother and the young girl, were all there, reeling from drunkenness, or + faint from famine; some struggling in deadly conflict, others bathing the + lips and temples of ebbing life. + </p> + <p> + Through this human hell Sandy wended his way, occasionally followed by the + taunting ribaldry of such as remarked him: such testimonies were very + unlike his former welcomes in these regions; but for this honest Sandy + cared little; his real regret was to see so much more evidence of + depravity and misery than before. Drunkenness and its attendant vices were + no new evils, it is true; but he thought all these were fearfully + aggravated by what he now witnessed: loud and violent denunciations + against every rank above their own, imprecations on the Parliament and the + gentry that “sowld Ireland:” as if any political perfidy could be the + origin of their own degraded and revolting condition! Such is, however, + the very essence of that spirit that germinates amid destitution and + crime, and it is a dangerous social crisis when the masses begin to + attribute their own demoralization to the vices of their betters. It well + behooves those in high places to make their actions and opinions conform + to their great destinies. + </p> + <p> + Sandy's Northern blood revolted at these brutal excesses, and the savage + menaces he heard on every side; but perhaps his susceptibilities were more + outraged by one trail of popular injustice than all the rest, and that was + to hear Hickman O'Reilly extolled by the mob for his patriotic rejection + of bribery, while the Knight of Gwynne was held up to execration by every + epithet of infamy; ribald jests and low ballads conveying the theme of + attack upon his spotless character. + </p> + <p> + The street lyrics of the day were divided in interest between the late + rebellion and the act of Union; the former being, however, the favorite + theme, from a species of irony peculiar to this class of poetry, in which + certain living characters were held up to derision or execration. The + chief chorist appeared to be a fiend-like old woman, with one eye, and a + voice like a cracked bassoon: she was dressed in a cast-off soldier's coat + and a man's hat, and neither from face nor costume had few feminine + traits. This fair personage, known by the name of Rhoudlum, was, on her + appearing, closely followed by a mob of admiring amateurs, who seemed to + form both her body-guard and her chorus. When Sandy found himself fast + wedged up in this procession, the enthusiasm was at its height, in honor + of an elegant new ballad called “The Two Majors.” The air, should our + reader be musically given, was the well-known one, “There was a Miller had + Three Sons:”— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Says Major Sirr to Major Swan, + You have two rebels, give me one; + They pay the same for one as two, + I 'll get five pounds, and I 'll share with you. + Toi! loi! loi! lay.” + </pre> + <p> + “That's the way the blackguards sowld yer blood, boys!” said the hag, in + recitative; “pitch caps, the ridin' house, and the gallows was iligant + tratement for wearin' the green.” + </p> + <p> + “Go on, Rhoudlum, go on wid the song,” chimed in her followers, who cared + more for the original text than prose vulgate. + </p> + <p> + “Arn't I goin' on wid it?” said the hag, as fire flashed in her eye; “is + it the likes of you is to tache me how to modulate a strain?” And she + resumed:— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Says Major Swan to Major Sirr, + One man's a woman! ye may take her. + 'T is little we gets for them at all— + Oh! the curse of Cromwell be an ye all! + Toi! loi! loll lay.” + </pre> + <p> + The grand Demosthenic abruptness of the last line was the signal for an + applauding burst of voices, whose sincerity it would be unfair to + question. + </p> + <p> + <a name="linkimage-0010" id="linkimage-0010"> + <!-- IMG --></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%;"> + <img src="images/288.jpg" width="100%" alt="288 " /> + </div> + <p> + “Where are you pushin' to! bad scran to ye! ye ugly varmint!” said the + lady, as Sandy endeavored to force his passage through the crowd. + </p> + <p> + “Hurroo! by the mortial, it's Daly's man!” screamed she, in transport, as + the accidental light of a window showed Sandy's features. + </p> + <p> + Few, if any, of those around had ever seen him; but his name and his + master's were among the favored traditions of the place, and however + unwilling to acknowledge the acquaintance, Sandy had no help for it but to + exchange greetings and ask the way to “the Moon,” which he found he had + forgotten. + </p> + <p> + “There it is fornint ye, Mr. M'Granes,” said the lady, in the most dulcet + tones; “and if it's thinking of trating me ye are, 't is a 'crapper' in a + pint of porter I 'd take; nothing stronger would sit on my heart now.” + </p> + <p> + “Ye shall hae it,” said Sandy; “but come into the house.” + </p> + <p> + “I darn't do it, sir; the committee is sittin'—don't ye see, + besides, the moon lookin' at you?” And she pointed to a rude + representation of a crescent moon, formed by a kind of transparency in the + middle of a large window, a signal which Sandy well knew portended that + the council were assembled within. + </p> + <p> + “Wha's the man, noo?” said Sandy, with one foot on the threshold. + </p> + <p> + “The ould stock still, darlint,” said Rhoudlum,—“don't ye know his + voice?” + </p> + <p> + “That's Paul Donellan,—I ken him noo.” + </p> + <p> + “Be my conscience! there's no mistake. Ye can hear his screech from the + Poddle to the Pigeon House when the wind's fair.” + </p> + <p> + Sandy put a shilling into the hag's hand, and, without waiting for further + parley, entered the little dark hall, and turning a corner he well + remembered, pressed a button and opened the door into the room where the + party were assembled. + </p> + <p> + “Who the blazes are you? What brings you here?” burst from a score of rude + voices together, while every hand grasped some projectile to hurl at the + devoted intruder. + </p> + <p> + “Ask Paul Donellan who I am, and he'll tell ye,” said Sandy, sternly, + while, with a bold contempt for the hostile demonstrations, he walked + straight up to the head of the room. + </p> + <p> + The recognition on which he reckoned so confidently was not forthcoming, + for the old decrepit creature who, cowering beneath the wig of some + defunct chancellor, presided, stared at him with eyes bleared with age and + intemperance, but seemed unable to detect him as an acquaintance. + </p> + <p> + “Holy Paul does n't know him!” said half-a-dozen together, as, in + passionate indignation, they arose to resent the intrusion. + </p> + <p> + “He may remember this better,” said Sandy, as, seizing a full bumper of + whiskey from the board, he threw it into the lamp beneath the + transparency, and in a moment the moon flashed forth, and displayed its + face at the full. The spell was magical, and a burst of savage welcome + broke from every mouth, while Donellan, as if recalled to consciousness, + put his hand trumpet-fashion to his lips, and gave a shout that made the + very glasses ring upon the board. Place was now made for Sandy at the + table, and a wooden vessel called “a noggin” set before him, whose + contents he speedily tested by a long draught. + </p> + <p> + “I may as weel tell you,” said Sandy, “that I am Bagenal Daly's man. I + mind the time it wad na hae been needful to say so much,—my master's + picture used to hang upon that wall.” + </p> + <p> + Had Sandy proclaimed himself the Prince of Wales the announcement could + not have met with more honor, and many a coarse and rugged grasp of the + hand attested the pleasure his presence there afforded. + </p> + <p> + “We have the picture still,” said a young fellow, whose frank, + good-humored face contrasted strongly with many of those around him; “but + that old divil, Paul, always told us it was a likeness of himself when he + was young.” + </p> + <p> + “Confound the scoundrel!” said Sandy, indignantly; “he was no mair like my + maister than a Dutch skipper is like a chief of the Delawares. Has the + creature lost his senses a'togither?” + </p> + <p> + “By no manner of manes. He wakes up every now and then wid a speech, or a + bit of poethry, or a sentiment.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay,” said another, “or if a couple came in to be married, see how the old + chap's eyes would brighten, and how he would turn the other side of his + wig round before you could say 'Jack Robinson.'” + </p> + <p> + This was literally correct, and was the simple manouvre by which Holy Paul + converted himself into a clerical character, the back of his wig being cut + in horse-shoe fashion, in rude imitation of that worn by several of the + bishops. + </p> + <p> + “Watch him now—watch him now!” said one in Sandy's ears; and the old + fellow passed his hand across his eyes as if to dispel some painful + thought, while his careworn features were lit up with a momentary flash of + sardonic drollery. + </p> + <p> + “Your health, sir,” said he to Sandy; “or, as Terence has it, 'Hic tibi, + Dave'—here 's to you, Davy.” + </p> + <p> + “A toast, Paul! a toast! Something agin the Union,—something agin + old Darcy.” + </p> + <p> + “Fill up, gentlemen,” said Paul, in a clear and distinct voice. “I beg to + propose a sentiment which you will drink with a bumper. Are you ready?” + </p> + <p> + “Ready!” screamed all together. + </p> + <p> + “Here, then,—repeat after me:— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Whether he's out, or whether he's in, + It does n't signify one pin; + Here's every curse of every sin + On Maurice Darcy, Knight of Gwynne.” + </pre> + <p> + “Hold!” shouted Sandy, as he drew a double-barrelled pistol from his + bosom. “By the saul o' my body the man that drinks that toast shall hae + mair in his waim than hot water and whiskey. Maurice Darcy is my maister's + friend, and a better gentleman never stepped in leather: who dar say no?” + </p> + <p> + “Are we to drink it, Paul?” + </p> + <p> + “As I live by drink,” cried Paul, stretching out both hands, “this is my + <i>alter ego</i>, my duplicate self, Sanders M'Grane's, 'revisiting the + glimpses of the moon,' <i>post totidem annos!</i>” And a cordial embrace + now followed, which at once dispelled the threatened storm. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. M'Grane's health in three times three, gentlemen;” and, rising, Paul + gave the signal for each cheer as he alone could give it. + </p> + <p> + Sandy had now time to throw a glance around the table, where, however, not + one familiar face met his own; that they were of the same calling and + order as his quondam associates in the same place he could have little + doubt, even had that fact not been proclaimed by the names of various + popular journals affixed to their hats, and by whose titles they were + themselves addressed. The conversation, too, had the same sprinkling of + politics, town gossip, and late calamities he well remembered of yore, + interspersed with lively commentaries on public men which, if printed, + would have been suggestive of libel. + </p> + <p> + <a name="linkimage-0011" id="linkimage-0011"> + <!-- IMG --></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%;"> + <img src="images/292.jpg" width="100%" alt="292 " /> + </div> + <p> + The new guest soon made himself free of the guild by a proposal to treat + the company, on the condition that he might be permitted to have five + minutes' conversation with their president in an adjoining room. He might + have asked much more in requital for his liberality, and without a + moment's delay, or even apprising Paul of what was intended, the “Dublin + Journal” and the “Free Press” took him boldly between them and carried him + into a closet off the room where the carouse was held. + </p> + <p> + “I know what you are at,” said Paul, as soon as the door closed. “Daly + wants a rising of the Liberty boys for the next debate,—don't deny + it, it's no use. Well, now, listen, and don't interrupt me. Tom Conolly + came down from the Castle yesterday and offered me five pounds for a good + mob to rack a house, and two-ten if they'd draw Lord Clare home; but I + refused,—I did, on the virtue of my oath. There's patriotism for ye!—yer + soul, where 's the man wid only one shirt and a supplement to his back + would do the same?” + </p> + <p> + “You 're wrang,—we dinna want them devils at a'; it 's a sma' matter + of inquiry I cam about. Ye ken Freney?” + </p> + <p> + “Is it the Captain? Whew!” said Paul, with a long whistle. + </p> + <p> + “It's no him,” resumed Sandy, “but a wee bit of a callant they ca' Jamie.” + </p> + <p> + “Jemmy the diver,—the divil's own grandson, that he is.” + </p> + <p> + “Where can I find him?” said Sandy, impatiently. + </p> + <p> + “Wait a bit, and you'll be sure to see him at home in his lodgings in + Newgate.” + </p> + <p> + “I must find him out at once; put me on his track, and I 'll gie a goold + guinea in yer hand, mon. I mean the young rascal no harm; it's a question + I want him to answer me, that's all.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I'll do my best to find him for you, but I must send down to the + country. I'll have to get a man to go beyond Kilcullen.” + </p> + <p> + “We 'll pay any expense.” + </p> + <p> + “Sure I know that.” And here Paul began a calculation to himself of + distances and charges only audible to Sandy's ears at intervals: “Two and + four, and six, with a glass of punch at Naas—half an hour at Tims'—the + coach at Athy—ay, that will do it. Have ye the likes of a pair of + ould boots or shoes? I 've nothing but them, and the soles is made out of + two pamphlets of Roger Connor's, and them's the driest things I could + get.” + </p> + <p> + “I'll gie ye a new pair.” + </p> + <p> + “You 're the son of Fingal of the Hills, divil a less. And now if ye had a + cast-off waistcoat—I don't care for the color—orange or green, + blue or yellow, <i>Tros Tyriusve mihiy</i> as we said in Trinity.” + </p> + <p> + “Ye shall hae a coat to cover your old bones. But let us hae nae mair o' + this—when may I expect to see the boy?” + </p> + <p> + “The evening after next, at eight o'clock, at the corner of Essex Bridge, + Capel Street—'on the Rialto'—eh? that's the cue. And now let + us join the revellers—<i>per Jove</i>, but I'm dry.” And so saying, + the miserable old creature broke from Sandy, and, assisted by the wall, + tottered back to the room to his drunken companions, where his voice was + soon heard high above the discord and din around him. + </p> + <p> + And yet this man, so debased and degraded, had been once a scholar of the + University, and carried off its prizes from men whose names stood high + among the great and valued of the land. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0025" id="link2HCH0025"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXV. BAGENAL DALY'S COUNSELS + </h2> + <p> + Every hour seemed to complicate the Knight of Gwynne's difficulties, and + to increase that intricacy by which he already was so much embarrassed. + The forms of law, never grateful to him, became now perfectly odious, + obscuring instead of explaining the questions on which he desired + information. He hated, besides, the small and narrow expedients so + constantly suggested in cases where his own sense of right convinced him + of the justice of his cause, nor could he listen with common patience to + the detail of all those legal subtleties by which an adverse claim might + be, if not resisted, at least protracted indefinitely. + </p> + <p> + His presence, far from affording any assistance, was, therefore, only an + embarrassment both to Daly and the lawyer, and they heard with unmixed + satisfaction of his determination to hasten down to the West, and + communicate more freely with his family, for as yet his letter to Lady + Eleanor, far from disclosing the impending ruin, merely mentioned + Gleeson's flight as a disastrous event in the life of a man esteemed and + respected, and adverting but slightly to his own difficulties in + consequence. + </p> + <p> + “We must leave the abbey, Bagenal, I foresee that,” said Darcy, as he took + his friend aside a few minutes before starting. + </p> + <p> + Daly made no reply, for already his own convictions pointed the same way. + </p> + <p> + “I could not live there with crippled means and broken fortune; 'twould + kill me in a month, by Jove, to see the poor fellows wandering about idle + and unemployed, the stables nailed up, the avenue grass-grown, and not + hear the cry of a hound when I crossed the courtyard. But what is to be + done? Humbled as I am, I cannot think of letting it to some Hickman + O'Reilly or other, some vulgar upstart, feasting his low companions in + those old halls, or plotting our utter ruin at our own hearthstone; could + we not make some other arrangement?” + </p> + <p> + “I have thought of one,” said Daly, calmly; “my only fear is how to ask + Lady Eleanor's concurrence to a plan which must necessarily press most + heavily on her.” + </p> + <p> + “What is it?” said Darcy, hastily. + </p> + <p> + “Of course, your inclination would be, for a time at least, perfect + seclusion.” + </p> + <p> + “That, above all and everything.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, what say you to taking up your abode in a little cottage of + mine on the Antrim coast? It is a wild and lonely spot, it's true, but you + may live there without attracting notice or observation. I see you are + surprised at my having such a possession. I believe I never told you, + Darcy, that I bought Sandy's cabin from him the day he entered my service, + and fitted it up, and intended it as an asylum for the poor fellow if he + should grow weary of my fortunes, or happily survive me. By degrees, I + have added a room here and a closet there, till it has grown into a + dwelling that any one, as fond of salmon-fishing as you and I were, would + not despise; come, will you have it?” Darcy grasped his friend's hand + without speaking, and Daly went on: “That's right; I'll give orders to + have everything in readiness at once; I'll go down, too, and induct you. + Ay, Darcy, and if the fellows could take a peep at us over our lobster and + a glass of Isla whiskey, they 'd stare to think those two jovial old + fellows, so merry and contented, started, the day they came of age, with + the two best estates in Ireland.” + </p> + <p> + “If I had not brought ruin on others, Bagenal—” + </p> + <p> + “No more of that, Darcy; the most scandal-loving gossip of the Club will + never impute, for he dare not, more than carelessness to your conduct, and + I promise you, if you 'll only fall back on a good conscience, you 'll not + be unhappy under the thatched roof of my poor shieling. My sincerest + regards to Lady Eleanor and Helen. I see there is a crowd collecting at + the sight of the four posters, so don't delay.” + </p> + <p> + Darcy could do no more than squeeze the cordial hand that held his own, + and, passing hastily out, he stepped into the travelling-carriage at the + door, not unobserved, indeed, for about a hundred ragged creatures had now + assembled, who saluted his appearance with groans and hisses, accompanied + with ruffianly taunts about bribery and corruption; while one, more daring + than the rest, mounted on the step, and with his face to the window, cried + out: “My Lord, my Lord, won't you give us a trifle to drown your new + coronet?” + </p> + <p> + The words were scarcely out, when, seizing him by the neck with one hand, + and taking a leg in the other, Daly hurled the fellow into the middle of + the mob, who, such is their consistency, laughed loud and heartily at the + fellow's misfortunes; meanwhile, the postilions plied whip and spur, and + ere the laughter had subsided, the carriage was out of sight. + </p> + <p> + “There is a gentleman in the drawing-room wishes to speak to you, sir,” + said a servant to Daly, who had just sat down to a conference with the + lawyer. + </p> + <p> + “Present my respectful compliments, and say that I am engaged on most + important and pressing business.” + </p> + <p> + “Had you not better ask his name?” said the lawyer. + </p> + <p> + “No, no, there is nothing but interruptions here; at one moment it is + Heffernan, with a polite message from Lord Castlereagh; then some one from + the Club, to know if I have any objection to waive a standing order, and + have that young O'Reilly balloted for once more; and here was George + Falkner himself a while ago, asking if the Knight had really taken office, + with a seat in the Cabinet. I said it was perfectly correct, and that he + was at liberty to state it in his paper.” + </p> + <p> + “You did!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; and that he might add that I myself had refused the see of Llandaff, + preferring the command of the West India Squadron. But, what's this? What + do you want now, Richard?” + </p> + <p> + “The gentleman upstairs, sir, insists on my presenting his card.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, indeed!—Captain Forester!—I 'll see him at once.” And, so + saying, Daly hastened upstairs to the drawing-room, where the young + officer awaited him. + </p> + <p> + Daly was not in a mood to scrutinize very closely the appearance of his + visitor, but he could not fail to feel struck at the alteration in his + looks since last they met; his features were paler and marked by sorrow, + so much so that Daly's first question was, “Have you been ill?” and as + Forester answered in the negative, the old man fixed his eyes steadily on + him, and said, “You have heard of our misfortune, then?” + </p> + <p> + “Misfortune! no. What do you mean?” + </p> + <p> + Daly hesitated, uncertain how to reply, whether to leave to time and some + other channel to announce the Knight's ruin, or at once communicate it + with his own lips. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, it is the better way,” said he, half aloud, while, taking Forester's + hand, he led him over to a sofa, and pressed him down beside him. “I + seldom have made an error in guessing a man's character, throughout a long + and somewhat remarkable life. I think I am safe in saying that you feel a + warm interest in my friend Darcy's family?” + </p> + <p> + “You do me but justice; gratitude alone, if I had no stronger motive, + secures them every good wish of mine.” + </p> + <p> + “But you have stronger motives, young man,” said Daly, looking at him with + a piercing glance; “if you had not, I 'd think but meanly of you, nor did + I want that blush to tell me so.” + </p> + <p> + Forester looked down in confusion. The abruptness of the address so + completely unmanned him that he could make no answer. While Daly went on: + “I force no confidences, young man, nor have I any right to ask them; + enough for my present purpose that I know you care deeply for this family; + now, sir, but a week back the ambition to be allied with them had + satisfied the proudest wish of the proudest house—to-day they are + ruined.” + </p> + <p> + Overwhelmed with surprise and sorrow, Forester sat silently, while Daly + rapidly, but circumstantially, narrated the story of the Knight's + calamity, and the total wreck of his once princely fortune. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said Daly, as with flashing eyes he arose and uttered aloud,—“yes, + the broad acres won by many a valiant deed, the lands which his ancestors + watered with their blood, lost forever; not by great crimes, not forfeited + by any bold but luckless venture, for there is something glorious in that,—but + stolen, filched away by theft. By Heaven! our laws and liberties do but + hedge round crime with so many defences that honesty has nothing left but + to stand shivering outside. Better were the days when the strong hand + avenged the deep wrong, or, if the courage were weak, there was the Throne + to appeal to against oppression. Forester, I see how this news afflicts + you; I judged you too well to think that your own dashed hopes entered + into your sorrow. No, no, I know you better. But come, we have other + duties than to mourn over the past. Has Lord Castlereagh received Darcy's + note, resigning his seat in Parliament?” + </p> + <p> + “He has; a new writ is preparing for Mayo.” “Sharp practice; I think I can + detect the fair round hand of Mr. Heffernan there,—no matter, a few + days more and the world will know all; ay, the world, so full of honorable + sentiments and noble aspirations, will smile and jest on Darcy's ruin, + that they may with better grace taunt the vulgar assumption of Hickman + O'Reilly. I know it well,—some would say I bought the knowledge + dearly. When I set out in life, my fortune was nearly equal to the + Knight's, my ideas of living and expenditure based on the same views as + his own,—that same barbaric taste for profusion which has been + transmitted to us from father to son. Ay, we retained everything of + feudalism save its chivalry! Well, I never knew a day nor an hour of + independence till the last acre of that great estate was sold, and gone + from me forever. Fawning flattery, intrigue, and trickery beset me + wherever I went; ruined gamblers, match-making mothers, bankrupt + speculators, plotting political adventurers, dogged me at every step; nor + could I break through the trammels by which they fettered me, except at + the price of my ruin; when there was no longer a stake to play for, they + left the table. Poor Darcy, however, is not a lonely stem, like me, riven + and lightning-struck; he has a wife and children; but for that, I would + not fear to grasp his stout hand and say, 'Come on to fortune.' Poor + Maurice, whose heart could never stand the slightest wrong done the + humblest cottier on his land, how will he bear up now? Forester, you can + do me a great service. Could you obtain leave for a day or two?” + </p> + <p> + “Command me how and in what way you please,” said the youth, eagerly. + </p> + <p> + “I understand that proffer, and accept it as freely as it is given.” + </p> + <p> + “Nay, you are mistaken,” said Forester, faltering. “I will be candid with + you; you have a right to all my confidence, for you have trusted in me. + Your suspicions are only correct in part; my affection is indeed engaged, + but I have received none in return: Miss Darcy has rejected me.” + </p> + <p> + “But not without hope?” + </p> + <p> + “Without the slightest hope.” + </p> + <p> + “By Heaven, it is the only gleam of light in all the gloomy business,” + said Daly, energetically; “had Helen's love been yours, this calamity had + been ten thousand times worse. Nay, nay, this is not the sentiment of cold + and selfish old age; you wrong me, Forester, but the hour is come when + every feeling within that noble girl's heart is due to those who have + loved and cherished her from childhood. Now is the time to repay the + watchful care of infancy, and recompense the anxious fears that spring + from parental affection; not a sentiment, not a thought, should be turned + from that channel now. It would be treason to win one smile, one passing + look of kind meaning from those eyes, every beam of which is claimed by + 'Home.' Helen is equal to her destiny,—that I know well; and you, if + you would strive to be worthy of her, do not endeavor to make her falter + in her duty. Trust me, there is but one road to a heart like hers,—the + path of high and honorable ambition.” + </p> + <p> + “You are right,” said Forester, in a sad and humble voice,—“you are + right; I offered her a heart before it was worthy of her acceptance.” + </p> + <p> + “That avowal is the first step towards rendering it such one day,” said + Daly, grasping his hand in both his own. “Now to my request: you can + obtain this leave, can you?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, yes; how can I make it of any service to you?” + </p> + <p> + “Simply thus: I have offered, and Darcy has accepted, a humble cottage on + the northern coast, as a present asylum for the family. The remote and + secluded nature of the place will at least withdraw them from the + impertinence of curiosity, or the greater impertinence of vulgar sympathy. + A maiden sister of mine is the present occupant, and I wish to communicate + the intelligence to her, that she may make any preparations which may be + necessary for their coming, and also provide herself with some other + shelter. Maria is as great a Bedouin as myself, and with as strong a taste + for vagabondage; she 'll have no difficulty in housing herself, that's + certain. The only puzzle is how to apprise her of the intended change: + there is not a post-office within eight or ten miles of the place, nor, if + there were, would she think of sending to look for a letter; there 's + nothing for it but a special envoy: will you be the man?” + </p> + <p> + “Most willingly; only give me the route, and my instructions.” + </p> + <p> + “You shall have both. Come and dine with me here at five—order + horses to your carriage for eight o'clock, and I'll take care of the + rest.” + </p> + <p> + “Agreed,” said Forester; “I'll lose no time in getting ready for the road—the + first thing is my leave.” + </p> + <p> + “Is there a difficulty there?” + </p> + <p> + “There shall be none,” said Forester, hurriedly, as he seized his hat, + and, bidding Daly good-bye, hastened downstairs and into the street. “They + 'll refuse me, I know that,” muttered he, as he went along; “and if they + do, I'll pitch up the appointment on the spot; this slight service over, + I'm ready to join my regiment.” And so saying, he turned his steps towards + the Castle, resolved on the course to follow. + </p> + <p> + Meanwhile Daly, after a brief consultation with the lawyer, sat down to + write to his sister. Simple and easy as the act is to many—far too + much so, as most men's correspondence would testify—letter-writing, + to some people, is an affair of no common difficulty. Perhaps every one in + this world has some stumbling-block of this kind ever before him: some men + cannot learn chess, some never can be taught to ride, others, if they were + to get the world for it, could not carve a hare. It would be unfair to + quote newly introduced difficulties, such as how to bray in the House of + Commons, the back step in the polka, and so on; the original evils are + enough for our illustration. + </p> + <p> + Bagenal Daly's literary difficulties were manifold; he was a discursive + thinker, passionate and vehement whenever the occasion prompted, and as + unable to control such influences when writing as speaking; and, with very + liberal ideas on the score of spelling, he wrote a hand which, if only + examined upside down, might have passed for Hebrew, with an undue + proportion of points; besides these defects, he entertained a thorough + contempt for all writing as an exponent of men's sentiments. His opinion + was, that speech was the great prerogative of living men, all other modes + of expression being feeble and miserable expedients; and, to do him + justice, he conformed, as far as in him lay, to his own theory, and made + his writing as like his speaking as could be. Brevity was the great + quality he studied, and for this reason we venture to present the epistle + to our readers:— + </p> + <p> + Dear Molly,— + </p> + <p> + The bill is carried—or, what comes to the same, the third reading + comes on next Tuesday, and they 'll have a majority—d——n + their majority, I forget the number. I was told that bribes were plenty as + blackberries. I wish they 'd leave as many stains after them. They offered + me nothing—they were right there. There is a kind of bottle-nosed + whale the Indians never harpoon; they call him “Hik-na-critchka,”—more + bone than blubber. Darcy might have been an Earl, or a Marquis, or a Duke, + perhaps; they wanted one gentleman so much, they 'd have bid high for him. + Poor fellow, he is ruined now! that scoundrel Gleeson has run away with + everything, forged, falsified, and thieved to any extent. Your unlucky + four thousand, of course, is gone to the devil with the rest. I 'm sick of + cant. People talk of badgers and such like, and yet no one says a word + about exterminating attorneys! The rascal jumped over in the Channel, and + was drowned—the shark got a bitter pill that swallowed him. I have + told Darcy he might have “the Corvy;” you can easily find a wigwam down + the coast. Forester, who brings this, knows all. We must all economize, I + suppose. I 've given up Maccabaw already, and taken to Blackguard, in + compliment to the Secretary. I must sell or shoot old Drummer at last, he + can't draw his breath, and won't draw the gig. I only remain here till the + House is up, when I must be up too and stirring—there is a + confounded bond—no matter, more at another time. + </p> + <p> + Yours ever, + </p> + <p> + Bagenal Daly. + </p> + <p> + St. George is to be the Chief Baron—an improvement of the allegory, + “Justice will be deaf as well as blind.” Devil take them all! + </p> + <p> + The chorus of a Greek play, so seemingly abstruse and incoherent to our + present thinking, was, we are told, made easily comprehensible by the aid + of gesture and pantomime; and in the same way, by supplying the fancied + accompaniment of her brother's voice and action, Miss Daly was enabled to + read and understand this strange epistle. Bagenal gave himself little + trouble in examining how far it conveyed his meaning; but, like a careless + traveller who huddles his clothes into his portmanteau, and is only + anxious to make the lock meet, his greatest care was to fold up the + document and inclose it within an envelope; that done, he hoped it was all + right,—in any case, his functions were concluded regarding it, for, + as he muttered to himself, he only contracted to write, not to read, his + own letter. + </p> + <p> + Forester was punctual to the hour appointed; and if not really less + depressed than before, the stimulating sense of having a service to + perform made him seem less so. His self-esteem was flattered, too, by his + own bold line of acting, for he had just resigned his appointment on the + Staff, his application for leave having been unsuccessful. The fact that + his rash conduct might involve him in trouble or difficulty was not + without its own sense of pleasure, for, so is it in all rebellion, the + great prompter is personal pride. He would gladly have told Daly what had + happened; but a delicate fear of increasing the apparent load of + obligation prevented him, and he consequently confined his remarks on the + matter to bis being free, and at liberty to go wherever his friend + pleased. + </p> + <p> + “Here, then,” said Daly, leading him across the room to a table, on which + a large map of Ireland lay open, “I have marked your route the entire way. + Follow that dark line with your eye northwards to Coleraine,—so far + you can travel with your carriage and post-horses; how to cross this bit + of desert here I must leave to yourself: there may be a road for a wheeled + carriage or not, in my day there was none; that is, however, a good many + years back; the point to strive for should be somewhere hereabouts. This + is Dunluce Castle—well, if I remember aright, the spot is here: you + must ask for 'the Corvy,'—the fishermen all know the cabin by that + name; it was originally built out of the wreck of a French vessel that was + lost there, and the word Corvy is a Northern version of Corvette. Once + there,—and I know you 'll not find any difficulty in reaching it,—my + sister will be glad to receive you; I need not say the accommodation does + not rival Gwynne Abbey, no more than poor Molly does Helen Darcy; you will + be right welcome, however,—so much I can pledge myself, not the less + so that your journey was undertaken from a motive of true kindness. I + don't well know how much or how little I have said in that letter; you can + explain all I may have omitted,—the chief thing is to get the cabin + ready for the Darcys as soon as may be. Give her this pocket-book,—I + was too much hurried to-day to transact business at the bank; but the + north road is a safe one, and you 'll not incur any risk. And now one + glass to the success of the enterprise, and I 'll not detain you longer; I + 'll give you old Martin's toast:— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “May better days soon be our lot, + Or better courage, if we have them not.” + </pre> + <p> + Forester pledged the sentiment in a bumper, and they parted. + </p> + <p> + “Good stuff in that young fellow,” muttered Daly, as he looked after him; + “I wish he had some Irish blood, though; these Saxons require a deal of + the hammer to warm them, and never come to a white heat after all.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0026" id="link2HCH0026"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXVI. “THE CORVY.” + </h2> + <p> + If the painter's license enables him to arrange the elements of scenery + into new combinations, disposing and grouping anew, as taste or fancy may + dictate, the novelist enjoys the lesser privilege of conveying his reader + at will from place to place, and thus, by varying the point of view, + procuring new aspects to his picture; less in virtue of this privilege + than from sheer necessity, we will now ask our readers to accompany us on + our journey northward. + </p> + <p> + Whether it be the necessary condition of that profusion of nature's gifts, + so evident in certain places, or a mere accident, certain it is there is + scarcely any one spot remarkable for great picturesque beauty to arrive at + which some bleak and uninteresting tract must not be traversed. To this + rule, if it be such, the northern coast of Ireland offers no exception. + </p> + <p> + The country, as you approach “the Causeway,” has an aspect of dreary + desolation that only needs the leaden sky and the drifting storm of winter + to make it the most melancholy of all landscapes. A slightly undulating + surface extends for miles on every side, scarcely a house to be seen, and + save where the dip of the ground affords shelter, not a tree of any kind. + A small isolated spot of oats, green even in the late autumn, is here and + there to be descried, or a flock of black sheep wandering half wild o'er + these savage wastes; vast masses of cloud, dark and lowering as rain and + thunder can make them, hang gloomily overhead, for the tableland is still + a lofty one, and the horizon is formed by the edge of those giant cliffs + that stand the barriers of the western ocean, and against whose rocky + sides the waves beat with the booming of distant artillery. + </p> + <p> + It was in one of those natural hollows of the soil, whose frequency seems + to acknowledge a diluvian origin, that the little cottage which Sandy once + owned stood. Sheltered on the south and east by rising banks, it was open + on the other sides, and afforded a view seaward which extended from the + rocky promontory of Port Rush to the great bluff of Fairhead, whose summit + is nigh one thousand seven hundred feet above the sea. + </p> + <p> + Perhaps in all the sea-board of the empire, nothing of the same extent can + vie in awful sublimity with this iron-bound coast. Gigantic cliffs of four + and five hundred feet, straight as a wall, are seen perforated beneath by + lofty tunnels, through which the wild waters plunge madly. Fragments of + basalt, large enough to be called islands, are studded along the shore, + the outlines fanciful and strange as beating waves and winds can make + them, while, here and there, in some deep-creviced bay, the water flows in + with long and measured sweep, and, at each moment retiring, leaves a trace + upon the strand, fleeting as the blush upon the cheek of beauty; and here + a little group of fisher children may be seen at play, while the nets are + drying on the beach, the only sight or sound of human life, save that dark + moving speck, alternately seen as the great waves roll on, be such, and, + while tossing to and fro, seems by some charmed influence fettered to the + spot. Yes, it is a fishing-boat that has ventured out at the half ebb, + with the wind off shore,—hazardous exploit, that only poverty + suggests the courage to encounter! + </p> + <p> + In front of one of these little natural bays stood “the Corvy;” and the + situation might have been chosen by a painter, for, while combining every + grand feature of the nearer landscape, the Scottish coast and even Staffa + might be seen of a clear evening; while westward, the rich sunsets were + descried in all their golden glory, tipping the rolling waves with + freckled lustre, and throwing a haze of violet-colored light over the + white rocks. And who is to say that, while the great gifts of the artist + are not his who dwells in some rude cot like this, yet the heart is not + sensitively alive to all the influences of such a scene,—its lonely + grandeur, its tranquil beauty, or its fearful sublimity,—and that + the peasant, whose associations from infancy to age are linked with every + barren rock and fissured crag around, has not created for himself his own + store of fancied images, whose power is not less deeply felt that it has + asked for no voice to tell its workings. + </p> + <p> + “The Corvy” was a strange specimen of architecture, and scarcely capable + of being classified in any of the existing orders. Originally, the hut was + formed of the stern of the corvette, which, built of timbers of great size + and strength, alone of all the vessel resisted the waves. This, being + placed keel uppermost, as most consisting with terrestrial notions of + building, and accommodated with a door and two windows, the latter being + filled with two ship-lenses, comprised the entire edifice. Rude and + uncouth as it unquestionably was, it was regarded with mingled feelings of + envy and admiration by all the fishermen for miles round, for while they + had contributed their tackle and their personal aid to place the mass + where it stood, they never contemplated its becoming the comfortable + dwelling they soon beheld, nor were these jealous murmurings allayed by + the assumption of a lofty flagstaff, which, in the pride of conquest, old + M'Grane displayed above his castle, little wotting that the banner that + floated overhead waved with the lilies of France, and not the Union Jack + of England. + </p> + <p> + Sandy's father, however, possessed those traits of character which confer + ascendency, whether a man's lot be cast among the great or the humble; and + he soon not only subdued those ungenerous sentiments, but even induced his + neighbors to assist him in placing a small brass carronade on the keel, + or, as he now termed it, the ridge of his dwelling, where, however little + serviceable for warlike purposes, it made a very specious and imposing + ornament. + </p> + <p> + Such was the inheritance to which Sandy succeeded, and such the possession + he ceded for a consideration to Bagenal Daly, on that eventful morning + their acquaintance began. In course of time, however, it fell to ruin, and + lay untenanted and uncared for, when Miss Daly, in one of her rambling + excursions, chanced to hear of it, and, being struck by the beauty of the + situation, resolved to refit it as a summer residence. Her first + intentions on this head were humble enough; two small chambers at either + side of the original edifice—now converted into a species of hall + and a kitchen—comprised the whole, and thither she betook herself, + with that strange secret pleasure a life of perfect solitude possesses for + certain minds. For a year she endured the inconveniences of her narrow + dwelling tolerably well; but as she grew more attached to the spot, she + determined on making it more comfortable; and, communicating the resolve + to her brother, he not only concurred in the notion, but half anticipated + his assent by despatching an architect to the spot, under whose direction + a cottage containing several comfortable rooms was added, and with such + attention to the circumstances of the ground, and such regard for the + ancient character of the building, that the traces of its origin could + still be discovered, and its old name of “the Corvy,” be, even yet, not + altogether inapplicable. The rude hulk was now, however, the centre of a + long cottage, the timbers, partly covered by the small-leaved ivy, partly + concealed by a rustic porch, displaying overhead the great keel and the + flagstaff,—an ornament which no remonstrance of the unhappy + architect could succeed in removing. As a sort of compromise, indeed, the + carronade was dismounted, and placed beside the hall-door. This was the + extreme stretch of compliance to which Daly assented. + </p> + <p> + The hall, which was spacious and lofty in proportion with other parts of + the building, was fitted with weapons of war and the chase, brought from + many a far-off land, and assembled with an incongruity that was no mean + type of the owner. Turkish scimitars and lances, yataghans, and Malay + creeses were grouped with Indian bows, tomahawks, and whale harpoons, + while richly embroidered pelisses hung beside coats of Esquimaux seal, of + boots made from the dried skin of the sun-fish. A long Swiss rifle was + suspended by a blue silk scarf from one wall, and, over it, a damp, + discolored parchment bore testimony, to its being won as a prize in the + great shooting match of the Oberland, nearly forty years before. Beneath + these, and stretching away into a nook contrived for the purpose, was the + bark canoe in which Daly and Sandy made their escape from the tribe of the + Sioux, by whom they were held in captivity for six years. Two very + unprepossessing figures, costumed as savages, sat in this frail bark, + paddle in hand, and to all seeming resolutely intent on their purpose of + evasion. It would have been pardonable, however, for the observer not to + have identified in these tattooed and wild-looking personages a member of + Parliament and his valet, even though assisted to the discovery by their + Indian names, which, with a laudable care for public convenience, had been + written on a card, and suspended round the neck of each. Opposite to them, + and in the corner of the hall, stood a large black bear, with fiery + eyeballs and snow-white teeth, so admirably counterfeiting life as almost + to startle the beholder; while over his head was a fearful, misshapen + figure, whose malignant look and distorted proportions at once proclaimed + it an Indian idol. But why enumerate the strange and curious objects + which, notwithstanding their seeming incongruity, were yet all connected + with Daly's history, and formed, in fact, a kind of pictorial narrative of + his life? Here stood the cup,—a splendid specimen of Benvenuto's + chisel, given him by the Doge of Venice,—and there was the embossed + dagger presented by a King of Spain, with a patent of Grandee of the first + class; while in a small glass case, covered with dust, and scarce + noticeable, was a small and beautifully shaped satin slipper, with a + rosette of now faded silver. But of this only one knew the story, and <i>he</i> + never revealed it. + </p> + <p> + If we have taken an unwarrantable liberty with our reader by this too + prolix description, our excuse is, that we might have been far more + tiresome had we been so disposed, leaving, as we have, the greater part of + this singular chamber unnoticed; while our <i>amende</i> is ready, and we + will spare any further detail of the rest of the cottage, merely observing + that it was both commodious and well arranged, and furnished not only with + taste, but even elegance. And now to resume our long-neglected story. + </p> + <p> + It was about eight o'clock of a cold, raw February night, with occasional + showers of sleet and sudden gusts of fitful wind,—that happy + combination which makes up the climate of the north of Ireland, and, with + a trifling abatement of severity, constitutes its summer as well as its + winter,—that Miss Daly sat reading in that strange apartment we have + just mentioned, and which, from motives of economy, she occupied + frequently during the rainy season, as the necessity of keeping it aired + required constant fires, not so necessary in the other chambers. + </p> + <p> + A large hearth displayed the cheerful blaze of burning bog-deal, and an + old Roman lamp, an ancient patern, threw its lustre on the many curious + and uncouth objects on every side. If the flashing jets of light that + broke from the dry wood gave at times a false air of vitality to the + stuffed figures around, in compensation it made the only living thing + there seem as unreal as the rest. + </p> + <p> + Wrapped up in the great folds of a wide Greek capote she had taken from + the wall, and the hood of which she had drawn over her head, Miss Daly + bent over the yellow pages of an old quarto volume. Of her figure no trace + could be marked, nor any guess concerning it, save that she was extremely + tall. Her features were bold and commanding, and in youth must have been + eminently handsome. The eyebrows were large and arched, the eyes dark and + piercing, and the whole contour of the face had that character of + thoughtful beauty so often seen in the Jewish race. Age and solitude, + perhaps, had deepened the lines around the angles of the mouth and brought + down the brows, so as to give a look of severity to features which, from + this cause, became strikingly resembling her brother's. If time had made + its sad inroad on those lineaments once so lovely, it seemed to spare even + the slightest touch to that small white hand, which, escaping from the + folds of her mantle, was laid upon the volume before her. The taper + fingers were covered with rings, and more than one bracelet of great price + glittered upon her wrist; nor did this taste seem limited to these + displays, for in the gold combs that fastened, on either temple, her + masses of gray hair, rich gems were set profusely, forming the strangest + contrast to the coarse folds of that red-brown cloak in which she was + enveloped. + </p> + <p> + However disposed to profit by her studies, Miss Daly was occasionally + broken in upon by the sound of voices from the kitchen, which, by an + unlucky arrangement of the architect, was merely separated from the hall + by a narrow corridor. Sometimes the sound was of laughter and merriment; + far oftener, however, the noises betokened strife; for so it is, in the + very smallest household—there were but two in the present case—unanimity + will not always prevail. The contention was no less a one than that great + national dispute which has separated the island into two wide and opposing + parties; Miss Daly's butler, or man of all work, being a stout + representative of southern Ireland; her cook an equally rigid upholder of + the northern province. If little Dan Nelligan had the broader cause, he + was the smaller advocate, being scarcely four feet in height; while Mrs. + M'Kerrigan was fifteen stone of honest weight, and with a <i>torso</i> to + rival the Farnese Hercules. Their altercations were daily, almost hourly; + for, living in a remote, unvisited spot, they seemed to console themselves + for want of collision with the world by mutual disputes and disagreements. + </p> + <p> + To these family jars, habit had so reconciled Miss Daly that she seldom + noticed them; indeed, the probability is that, like the miller who wakes + up when the mill ceases its clamors, she might have felt a kind of shock + had matters taken a quieter course. People who employ precisely the same + weapons cannot long continue a warfare without the superiority of one or + the other being sure to evince itself. The diversity of the forces, on the + contrary, suggests new combinations, and with dissimilar armor the combat + may be prolonged to any extent. Thus was it here; Dan's forte was + aggravation,—that peculiarly Irish talent which makes much out of + little, and, when cultivated with the advantages of natural gifts, enables + a man to assume the proud political position of an Agitator, and in time a + Liberator. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. M'Kerrigan, slow of thought, and slower of speech, was ill-suited to + repel the assaults of so wily and constant a foe; she consequently fell + back on the prerogatives of her office in the household, and repaid all + Dan's declamation by changes in his diet,—a species of retribution + the heaviest she could have hit upon. + </p> + <p> + Such was the present cause of disturbance, and such the reason for Dan's + loud denunciations on the “black north,” uttered with a volubility and + vehemence that pertain to a very different portion of the empire. Twice + had Miss Daly rung the little hand-bell that stood beside her to enforce + order, but it was unnoticed in the clamor of the fray, while louder and + louder grew the angry voice of Dan Nelligan, which at length was plainly + audible in the hall. + </p> + <p> + “Look now, see then, may the divil howld a looking-glass to your sins, but + I 'll show it to the mistress! I may, may I? That 's what you 're + grumbling, ye ould black-mouthed Prasbytarien! 'T is the fine supper to + put before a crayture wet to the skin!” + </p> + <p> + “Dinna ye hear the bell, Nelly?” This was an epithet of insult the little + man could not endure. “Ye 'd ken the tinkle o' that, av ye heard it at the + mass.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, listen to the ould heretic! Oh, holy Joseph! there 's the way to talk + of the blessed ould ancient religion! Give me the dish; I 'll bring it + into the parlor this minit, I will. I 'll lave the place,—my time's + up in March. I would n't live in the house wid you for a mine of goold!” + </p> + <p> + “Are ye no goin' to show the fish to the leddy?” growled out the cook, in + her quiet barytone. + </p> + <p> + At this moment Miss Daly's bell announced that endurance had reached its + limit, and Dan, without waiting to return the fire, hastened to the hall, + muttering as he went, loud enough to be heard, “There, now, that's the + mistress ringing, I 'm sure; but sorra bit one can hear wid your noise and + ballyragging!” + </p> + <p> + “What is the meaning of this uproar?” said Miss Daly, as the little man + entered, with a very different aspect from what he wore in the kitchen. + </p> + <p> + “'Tis Mrs. M'Kerrigan, my Lady; she was abusin' the ould families in the + county Mayo, and I could n't bear it; and because I would n't hear the + master trated that way, she gives me nothing but fish the day after a + black fast, though she does be ating beef under my nose when I darn't + touch meat, and it's what, she put an ould baste of a cod before me this + evening for my supper, and here 's Lent will be on us in a few days more.” + </p> + <p> + “How often have I told you,” said Miss Daly, sternly, “that I 'll not + suffer these petty, miserable squabbles to reach me? Go back to the + kitchen; and, mark me, if I hear a whisper, or muttering ever so low in + your voice, I 'll put you to spend the night upon the rocks.” + </p> + <p> + Dan skulked from the room like a culprit remanded to jail; but no sooner + had he reached the kitchen than, assuming a martial air and bearing, he + strutted up to the fire and turned his back to it. + </p> + <p> + “Ay,” said he, in a stage soliloquy, “it was what it must come to sooner + or later; and now she may go on her knees, and divil a foot I 'll stay! + It's not like the last time, sorra bit! I know what she 's at—' 'T + is my way, Danny, you must have a pound at Avster '—bother! I 'm + used to that now.” + </p> + <p> + “There's the bell again, ye auld blethering deevil.” + </p> + <p> + But Mrs. M'Kerrigan ran no risk of a reply now, for at the first tinkle + Dan was back in the hall. + </p> + <p> + “There is some one knocking at the wicket without; see who it may be at + this late hour of the night,” said Miss Daly, without raising her head + from the book, for, strange as were such sounds in that solitary place, + her attention was too deeply fixed on the page before her to admit of even + a momentary distraction of thought. Dan left the room with becoming + alacrity, but in reality bent on anything rather than the performance of + his errand. Of all the traits of his southern origin, none had the same + predominance in his nature as a superstitious fear of spirits and goblins,—a + circumstance not likely to be mitigated by his present lonely abode, + independently of the fact that more than one popular belief attributed + certain unearthly sights and sounds to the old timbers of “the Corvy,” + whose wreck was associated with tales of horror sufficient to shake + stouter nerves than “Danny's.” + </p> + <p> + When he received this order from his mistress, he heard it pretty much as + a command to lead a forlorn hope, and sat himself down at the outside of + the door to consider what course to take. While he was thus meditating, + the sounds became plainly audible, a loud and distinct knocking was heard + high above the whistling wind and drifting rain, accompanied from time to + time by a kind of shout, or, as it seemed to Dan's ears, a scream like the + cry of a drowning man. + </p> + <p> + “Dinna ye hear that, ye auld daft body?” said Nancy, as, pale with fear, + and trembling in every limb, Dan entered the kitchen. + </p> + <p> + “I do indeed, Mrs. Mac,”—this was the peace appellation he always + conferred on Nancy,—“I hear it, and my heart 's beatin' for every + stroke I listen to; 't is n't afeard I am, but a kind of a notion I have, + like a dhrame, you know “—(here he gave a sort of hysterical giggle)—“as + if the ould French Captain was coming to look after his hand, that was + chopped off with the hatchet when he grasped hold of the rock.” + </p> + <p> + “He canna hae muckle use for it noo,” responded Nancy, dryly, as she + smoked away as unconcerned as possible. + </p> + <p> + “Or the mate!” said Dan, giving full vent to his store of horrors; “they + say, when he got hold of the rope, that they gave it out so fast as he + hauled on it, till he grew faint, and sank under the waves.” + </p> + <p> + “He's no likely to want a piece of spunyarn at this time o' day,” rejoined + Nancy again. “He's knocking brawly, whoever he be; had ye no better do the + leddy's bidding, and see who 's there?” + </p> + <p> + “Would it be plazing to you, Mrs. Mac,” said Dan, in his most melting + accents, “to come as far as the little grass-plot, just out of curiosity, + ye know, to say ye seen it?” + </p> + <p> + “Na, na, my bra' wee mon, ye maun ee'n gae by your-sel'; I dinna ken + mickle about sperits and ghaists, but I hae a gude knowledge of the + rheumatiz without seekin' it on a night like this. There's the leddy's + bell again, she 's no pleased wi' yer delay.” + </p> + <p> + “Say I was puttin' on my shoes, Nancy,” said Dan, as his teeth chattered + with fear, while he took down an old blunderbuss from its place above the + fire, and which had never been stirred for years past. + </p> + <p> + “Lay her back agen where ye found her,” said Nancy, dryly; “is na every + fule kens the like o' them! Take your mass-book, and the gimcracks ye hae + ower your bed, but dinna try mortal weapons with them creatures.” + </p> + <p> + Ironical as the tone of this counsel unquestionably was, Dan was in no + mood to reject it altogether, and he slipped from its place within his + breast to a more ostensible position a small blessed token, or “gospel,” + as it is called, which he always wore round his neck. By this time the + clank of the bell kept pace with the knocking sounds without, and poor Dan + was fairly at his wits' end which enemy to face. Some vague philosophy + about the “devil you know, and the devil you don't,” seemed to decide his + course, for he rushed from the kitchen in a state of frenzied desperation, + and, with the blunderbuss at full cock, took the way towards the gate. + </p> + <p> + The wicket, as it was termed, was in reality a strong oak gate, garnished + at top with a row of very formidable iron spikes, and as it was hung + between two jagged and abrupt masses of rock, formed a very sufficient + outwork, though a very needless one, since the slightest turn to either + side would have led to the cottage without any intervening barrier to + pass. This fact it was which now increased Dan Nelligan's terrors, as he + reasoned that nobody but a ghost or evil spirit would be bothering himself + at the wicket, when there was a neat footpath close by. + </p> + <p> + “Who's there?” cried Dan, with a voice that all his efforts could not + render steady. + </p> + <p> + “Come out and open the gate,” shouted a deep voice in return. + </p> + <p> + “Not till you tell me where you come from, and who you are, if you are + 'lucky.'” + </p> + <p> + “That I 'm not,” cried the other, with something very like a deep groan; + “if I were, I 'd scarce be here now.” + </p> + <p> + “That's honest? anyhow,” muttered Dan, who interpreted the phrase in its + popular acceptation among the southern peasantry. “And what are you come + back for, alanah?” continued he, in a most conciliating tone. + </p> + <p> + “Open the gate, and don't keep me here answering your stupid questions.” + </p> + <p> + Though these words were uttered with a round, strong intonation that + sounded very like the present world, Dan made no other reply than an + endeavor to repeat a Latin prayer against evil spirits, when suddenly, and + with a loud malediction on his obstinacy, Dan saw “the thing,” as he + afterwards described it, take a flying leap over the gate, at least ten + feet high, and come with a bang on the grass, not far from where he stood. + To fire off his blunderbuss straight at the drifting clouds over his head, + and to take to flight was Dan's only impulse, screaming out, “the Captain + 's come! he's come!” at the very top of his lungs. The little strength he + possessed only carried him to the kitchen door, where, completely overcome + with terror, he dropped senseless on the ground. + </p> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%;"> + <img alt="frontispiece (141K)" src="images/frontispiece.jpg" width="100%" /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p> + While this was occurring, Miss Daly, alarmed by the report of fire-arms, + but without any personal fears of danger, threw open the hall door and + called out, “Who is there?” and as the dark shadow of a figure came + nearer, “Who are you, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “My name is Forester, madam,—a friend of your brother's; for I + perceive I have the honor to address Miss Daly.” + </p> + <p> + By this time the stranger had advanced into the full light of the lamp + within, where his appearance, tired and travel-stained as he was, + corroborated his words. + </p> + <p> + “You have had a very uncourteous welcome, sir,” said Miss Daly, extending + her hand and leading him within the cottage. + </p> + <p> + “The reception was near being a warm one, I fear,” said Forester, smiling; + “for as I unfortunately, growing rather impatient, threw my carpet bag + over the gate, intending to climb it afterwards, some one fired at me,—not + with a good aim, however; for I heard the slugs rattling on a high cliff + behind me.” + </p> + <p> + “Old Dan, I am certain, mistook you for a ghost or a goblin,” said Miss + Daly, laughing, as if the affair were an excellent joke devoid of all + hazard; “we have few visitors down here from either world.” + </p> + <p> + “Really, madam, I will confess it, if the roads are only as impassable for + ghosts as for men of mortal mould, I 'm not surprised at it. I left + Coleraine at three o'clock to-day, where I was obliged to exchange my + travelling carriage for a car, and I have been travelling ever since, + sometimes on what seemed a highway, far oftener, however, across fields + with now and then an intervening wall to throw down,—which we did, I + own, unceremoniously; while lifting the horse twice out of deep holes, + mending a shaft, and splicing the traces, lost some time. The driver, too, + was once missing,—a fact I only discovered after leaving him half a + mile behind. In fact, the whole journey was full of small adventures up to + the moment when we came to a dead stand at the foot of a high cliff, where + the driver told me the road stopped, and that the rest of my way must be + accomplished on foot; and on my asking what direction to take, he brought + me some distance off to the top of a rock, whence I could perceive the + twinkling of a light, and said, 'That's the Corvy.' I did my best to + secure his services as a guide, but no offer of money nor persuasions + could induce him to leave his horse and come any further; and now, + perhaps, I can guess the reason,—there is some superstition about + the place at nightfall.” + </p> + <p> + “No, no, you 're mistaken there, sir; few of these people, however they + may credit such tales, are terrified by them. It was the northern spirit + dictated the refusal: his contract was to go so far, it would have 'put + him out of his way' to go further, and his calculation was that all the + profit he could fairly derive—and he never speculated on anything + unfair—would not repay him. Such are the people of this province.” + </p> + <p> + “The trait is honest, I 've no doubt, but it can scarcely be the source of + many amiable ones,” said Forester, smarting under the recent + inconvenience. + </p> + <p> + “We 'll talk of that after supper,” said Miss Daly, rising, “and I leave + you to make a good fire while I go to give some orders.” + </p> + <p> + “May I not have the honor to present my credentials first?” said Forester, + handing Bagenal Daly's letter to her. + </p> + <p> + “My brother is quite well, is he not?” + </p> + <p> + “In excellent health; I left him but two days since.” + </p> + <p> + “The despatch will keep, then,” said she, thrusting it into a letter-rack + over the chimney-piece, while she left the room to make the arrangement + she spoke of. + </p> + <p> + Miss Daly's absence was not of long duration, but, brief as it was, it + afforded Forester time enough to look around at the many strange and + incongruous decorations of the apartment, nor had he ceased his wonderment + when Dan, pale and trembling in every limb, entered, tray in hand, to lay + the supper-table. + </p> + <p> + With many a sidelong, stealthy look, Dan performed his duties, as it was + easy to see that however disposed to regard the individual before him as + of this world's company, “the thing that jumped out of the sky,” as he + called it, was yet an unexplained phenomenon. + </p> + <p> + “I see you are surprised by the motley companionship that surrounds me,” + said Miss Daly; “but, as a friend of Bagenal's, and acquainted, doubtless, + with his eccentric habits, they will astonish you less. Come, let me hear + about him,—is he going to pay me a visit down here?” + </p> + <p> + “I fear not, at this moment,” said Forester, with an accent of melancholy; + “his friendship is heavily taxed at the present juncture. You have heard, + perhaps, of the unhappy event which has spread such dismay in Dublin?” + </p> + <p> + “No! what is it? I hear of nothing, and see nobody here.” + </p> + <p> + “A certain Mr. Gleeson, the trusted agent of many country gentlemen, has + suddenly fled—” + </p> + <p> + Before Forester could continue, Miss Daly arose, and tore open her + brother's letter. For a few seconds Forester was struck with the wonderful + resemblance to her brother, as, with indrawn breath and compressed lips, + she read; but gradually her color faded away, her hands trembled, and the + paper fell from them, while, with a voice scarcely audible, she whispered: + “And it has come to this!” Covering her face with the folds of her cloak, + she sat for some minutes buried in deep sorrow; and when she again looked + up, years seemed to have passed over, and left their trace upon her + countenance: it was pale and haggard, and a braid of gray hair, escaping + beneath her cap, had fallen across her cheek, and increased the sad + expression. + </p> + <p> + “So is it,” said she, aloud, but speaking as though to herself,—“so + is it: the heavy hand is laid on all in turn; happier they who meet + misfortune early in life, when the courage is high and the heart + unshrinking: if the struggle be life-long, the victory is certain; but + after years of all the world can give of enjoyment—You know Maurice?—you + know the Knight, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, madam, slightly; but with Lady Eleanor and her daughter I have the + honor of intimate acquaintance.” + </p> + <p> + “I will not ask how he bears up against a blow like this. If his own fate + only hung in the balance, I could tell that myself; but for his wife, to + whom they say he is so devotedly attached—you know it was a + love-match, so they called it in England, because the daughter of an Earl + married the first Commoner in Ireland. And Bagenal advises their coming + here! Well, perhaps he is right; they will at least escape the insolence + of pity in this lonely spot. Oh! sir, believe me, there is a weighty load + of responsibility on those who rule us; these things are less the faults + of individuals than of a system. You began here by confiscation, you would + finish by corruption. Stimulating to excesses of every kind a people ten + times more excitable than your own,—now flattering, now goading,—teaching + them to vie with you in display while you mocked the recklessness of their + living, you chafed them into excesses of alternate loyalty or rebellion.” + </p> + <p> + However satisfied of its injustice, Forester made no reply to this burst + of passion, but sat without speaking as she resumed:— + </p> + <p> + “You will say there are knaves in every country, and that this Gleeson was + of our rearing; but I deny it, sir. I tell you he was a base counterfeit + we have borrowed from yourselves. That meek, submissive manner, that + patient drudgery of office, that painstaking, petty rectitude, make up + 'your respectable men;' and in this garb of character the business of life + goes on with you. And why? Because you take it at its worth. But here, in + Ireland, we go faster; trust means full confidence,—confidence + without limit or bound; and then, too often, ruin without redemption. + Forgive me, sir; age and sorrow both have privileges, and I perhaps have + more cause than most others to speak warmly on this theme. Now, let me + escape my egotism by asking you to eat, for I see we have forgotten our + supper all this time.” + </p> + <p> + From that moment Miss Daly never adverted further to the burden of her + brother's letter, but led Forester to converse about his journey and the + people whom, even in his brief experience, he perceived to be so unlike + the peasantry of the West. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said she, in reply to an observation of his, “these diversities of + character observable in different places are doubtless intended, like the + interminable varieties of natural productions, to increase our interest in + life, and, while extending the sphere of speculation, to contribute to our + own advancement. Few people, perhaps not any, are to be found without some + traits of amiability; here there is much to be respected, and, when habit + has dulled the susceptibility of first impressions, much also to be liked. + But shall I not have the pleasure of showing you my neighbors and my + neighborhood?” + </p> + <p> + “My visit must be of the shortest; I rather took than obtained my leave of + absence.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, even a brief visit will do something; for my neighbors all dwell in + cottages, and my neighborhood comprises the narrow strip of coast between + this hut and the sea, whose plash you hear this minute. To-morrow you will + be rested from your journey, and if the day permits we 'll try the + Causeway.” + </p> + <p> + Forester accepted the invitation so frankly proffered, and went to his + room not sorry to lay his head upon a pillow after two weary nights upon + the road. + </p> + <p> + Forester was almost shocked as he entered the breakfast-room on the + following morning to see the alteration in Miss Daly's appearance. She had + evidently passed a night of great sorrow, and seemed with difficulty to + bear up against the calamitous tidings of which he was the bearer. She + endeavored, it is true, to converse on matters of indifference,—the + road he had travelled, the objects he had seen, and so on; but the effort + was ever interrupted by broken snatches of reflection that would vent + themselves in words, and all of which bore on the Knight and his fortunes. + </p> + <p> + To Forester's account of her brother Bagenal's devotion to his friend she + listened with eager interest, asking again and again what part he had + taken, whether his counsels were deemed wise ones, and if he still enjoyed + to the fullest extent the confidence of his old friend. + </p> + <p> + “It is no friendship of yesterday, sir,” said she, with a heightened color + and a flashing eye; “they knew each other as boys, they walked the + mountains together as young men, speculated on the future paths fate might + open before them, and the various ambitions which, even then, stirred + within them. Bagenal was ever rash, headstrong, and impetuous, rarely firm + in purpose till some obstacle seemed to defy its accomplishment. Maurice—the + Knight, I mean—was not less resolute when roused, but more often so + much disposed to concede to others that he would postpone his wishes to + their own; and once believing himself in any way pledged to a course, + would forget all, save the fulfilment of the implied promise. Such were + the two dispositions, which, acting and reacting on each other, effected + the ruin of both: the one wasted in eccentricity what the other squandered + in listless indifference; and with abilities enough to have won + distinction for humble men, they have earned no other reputation than that + of singularity or convivialism. + </p> + <p> + “As for Bagenal,” she said, after a pause, “wealth was never but an + incumbrance to him; he was one of those persons who never saw any use for + money, save in the indulgence of mere caprice; he treated his great + fortune as a spoiled child will do a toy, and never rested till he had + pulled it to pieces, and perhaps derived the same moral lesson too,—astonishment + at the mere trifle which once amused him. But Maurice Darcy,—whose + tastes were ever costly and cultivated, who regarded splendor not as the + means of vulgar display, but as the fitting accompaniment of a house + illustrious by descent and deeds, and deemed that all about and around him + should bear the impress of himself, generous and liberal as he was,—how + is he to bear this reverse? Tell me of Lady Eleanor; and Miss Darcy, is + she like the Knight, or has her English blood given the character to her + beauty?” + </p> + <p> + “She is very like her father,” said Forester, “but more so even in + disposition than in features.” + </p> + <p> + “How happy I am to hear it,” said Miss Daly, hastily; “and she is, then, + high-spirited and buoyant? What gifts in an hour like this!” + </p> + <p> + “You say truly, madam, she will not sink beneath the stroke, believe me.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, this news has reconciled me to much of your gloomier tidings,” said + Miss Daly; “and now let us wander out upon the hills; I feel as if we + could talk more freely as we stroll along the beach.” + </p> + <p> + Miss Daly arose as she spoke, and led the way through the little garden + wicket, which opened on a steep pathway down to the shore. + </p> + <p> + “This will be a favorite walk with Helen, I'm certain,” said she. “The + caves are all accessible at low water, and the view of Fairhead finer than + from any other point. I must instruct you to be a good and a safe guide. I + must teach you all the art and mystery of the science, make you learned in + the chronicles of Dunluce, and rake up for you legends of ghostcraft and + shipwreck enough to make the fortunes of a romancer.” + </p> + <p> + “I thank you heartily,” said Forester; “but I cannot remain here to meet + my friends.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, I understand you,” said Miss Daly, who in reality put a wrong + interpretation on his words; “but you shall be my guest. There is a little + village about four miles from this, where I intend to take up my abode. I + hope you will not decline hospitality which, if humble, is at least freely + proffered.” + </p> + <p> + “I regret deeply,” said Forester, and he spoke in a tone of sorrow, “that + I cannot accept your kindness. I stand in a position of no common + difficulty at this moment.” He hesitated, as if doubting whether to + proceed or not, and then, in a more hurried voice, resumed: “There is no + reason why I should obtrude my own petty cares and trials where greater + misfortunes are impending; but I cannot help telling you that I have been + rash enough, in a moment of impatience, to throw up an appointment I held + on the Viceroy's Staff, and I know not how far the step may yet involve me + with my relatives.” + </p> + <p> + “Tell me how came you first acquainted with the Darcys?” said Miss Daly, + as if following out in her own mind a train of thought. + </p> + <p> + “I will be frank with you,” said Forester, “for I cannot help being so; + there are cases where confidence is not a virtue, but a necessity. Every + word you speak, every tone of your voice, is so much your brother's that I + feel as if I were confiding to him in another form. I learned to know the + Knight of Gwynne in a manner which you may deem, perhaps, little + creditable to myself, though I trust you will see that I neither abused + the knowledge nor perverted the honor of the acquaintanceship. It was in + this wise.” + </p> + <p> + Briefly, but without reserve, Forester narrated the origin of his first + journey to the West, and, without implicating the honor of his relative, + Lord Castlereagh, explained the nature of his mission, to ascertain the + sentiments of the Knight, and the possibility of winning him to the side + of the Government. His own personal adventures could not, of course, be + omitted, in such a narrative; but he touched on the theme as slightly as + he could, and only dwelt on the kindness he had experienced in his long + and dangerous illness, and the long debt of gratitude which bound him to + the family. + </p> + <p> + Of the intimacy that succeeded he could not help speaking, and, whether + from his studied avoidance of her name, or that, when replying to any + question of Miss Daly's concerning Helen Darcy, his manner betrayed + agitation, certain it is that when he concluded, Miss Daly's eyes were + turned towards him with an expression of deep significance that called the + color to his cheek. + </p> + <p> + “And so, sir,” said she, in a slow and measured voice, “you went down to + play the tempter, and were captured yourself. Come, come, I know your + secret; you have told it by signs less treacherous than words; and Helen,—for + I tell you freely my interest is stronger for her,—how is she + disposed towards you?” + </p> + <p> + Forester never spoke, but hung his head abashed and dejected. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, yes, I see it all,” said Miss Daly, hurriedly; “you would win the + affection of a generous and high-souled girl by the arts which find favor + in your more polished world, and you have found that the fascinations of + manner and the glittering <i>éclat</i> of an aide-de-camp have failed. + Now, take my counsel. But first let me ask, is this affection the mere + prompting of an idle or capricious moment, or do you love her with a + passion round which the other objects of your life are to revolve and + depend? I understand that pressure of the hand; it is enough. My advice is + simple. You belong to a profession second to none in its high and great + rewards: do not waste its glorious opportunities by the life of a + courtier; be a soldier in feeling as well as in garb; let her whose heart + you would win, feel that in loving you she is paying the tribute to + qualities that make men esteem and respect you; that she is not bestowing + her hand upon the mere favorite of a Court, but on one whose ambitions are + high, and whose darings are generous. Oh! leave nothing, or as little as + you may, to mere influence; let your boast be, and it will be a proud one, + that with high blood and a noble name you have started fairly in the race, + and distanced your competitors. This is my counsel. What think you of it?” + </p> + <p> + “I will follow it,” said Forester, firmly; “I will follow it, though, I + own it to you, it suggests no hope, where hope would be happiness.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then,” said Miss Daly, “you shall spend this day with me, and I + will not keep you another; you have made me your friend by this + confidence, and I will use the trust with delicacy and with fidelity.” + </p> + <p> + “May I write to you?” said Forester, “and will you let me hear from you + again?” + </p> + <p> + “With pleasure; I should have asked it myself had you not done so. Now, + let us talk of the first steps to be taken in this affair; and here is a + bench where we can rest ourselves while we chat.” + </p> + <p> + Forester sat down beside her, and, in the freedom of one to whom fortune + had so unexpectedly presented a confidante, opened all the secret store of + his cares and hopes and fears. It was late when they turned again towards + “the Corvy,” but the youth's step was lighter, and his brow more open, + while his heart was higher than many a previous day had found him. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0027" id="link2HCH0027"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXVII. THE KNIGHT'S RETURN + </h2> + <p> + We must now for a brief space, return to the Knight, as with a heavy heart + he journeyed homeward. Never did the long miles seem so wearisome before, + often and often as he had travelled them. The little accidental delays, + which once he had met with a ready jest, and in a spirit of kindly + indulgence, he now resented as so many intentional insults upon his + changed and ruined fortune. The gossiping landlords, to whom he had ever + extended so much of freedom, he either acknowledged coldly, or repelled + with distance; their liberties were now construed into want of deference + and respect; the very jestings of the postboys to each other seemed so + many covert impertinences, and equivocal allusions to himself; for even so + much will the stroke of sudden misfortune change the nature, and convert + the contented and happy spirit into a temperament of gloomy sorrow and + suspicion. + </p> + <p> + Unconscious of his own altered feelings, and looking at every object + through the dim light of his own calamity, he hurried along, not, as of + old, recognizing each well-known face, saluting this one, inquiring after + that; he sat back in his carriage, and, with his hat drawn almost over his + eyes, neither noticed the way nor the wayfarers. + </p> + <p> + In this mood it was he entered Castlebar. The sight of his well-remembered + carriage drew crowds of beggars to the door of the inn, every one of whom + had some special prayer for aid, or some narrative of sickness for his + hearing. By the time the horses drew up, the crowd numbered some hundreds + of every variety, not only in age, but in raggedness, all eagerly calling + on him by name, and imploring his protection on grounds the most strange + and dissimilar. + </p> + <p> + “I knew the sound of the wheels; ax Biddy if I did n't say it was his + honor was coming!” cried one, in a sort of aside intended for the Knight + himself. + </p> + <p> + “Ye 're welcome home, sir; long may you reign over us,” said an old fellow + with a beard like a pilgrim. “I dreamed I seen you last night standing at + the door there, wid a half-crown in your fingers. 'Ouid Luke,' says you, + 'come here!——'” + </p> + <p> + A burst of rude laughter drowned this sage parable, while a good-looking + young woman, with an expression of softness in features degraded by + poverty and its consequences, courtesied low, and tried to attract his + notice, as she held up a miserable-looking infant to the carriage window. + “Clap them, acushla! 't is proud he is to see you back again, sir; he + never forgets the goold guinea ye gave him on New Year's Day! Don't be + pushin' that way, you rude cray-tures; you want to hurt the child, and + it's the image of his honor.” + </p> + <p> + “Many returns of the blessed sason to you,” growled out a creature in a + bonnet, but in face and figure far more like a man than a woman; “throw us + out a fippenny to buy two ounces of tay. Asy, asy; don't be drivin' me + under the wheels—ugh! it's no place for a faymale, among such + rapscallions.” + </p> + <p> + “What did they give you, Maurice? how much did you get, honey?” cried a + tall and almost naked fellow, that leaned over the heads of several + others, and put his face close to the glass of the carriage, which, for + safety's sake, the Knight now let down, while he called aloud to the + postboys to make haste and bring out the horses. + </p> + <p> + “Tell us all about it, Maurice, my boy,—are you a lord, or a + bishop?” cried the tall fellow, with an eagerness of face that told his + own sad bereavement, for he was deranged in intellect from a fall from one + of the cliffs on the coast. “By my conscience, I think I must change my + politics myself soon; my best pantaloons is like Nat Fitzgibbon,—it + has resigned its sate! Out with a bit of silver here!—quick, I + didn't kiss the King's face this ten days.” + </p> + <p> + To all these entreaties Darcy seemed perfectly deaf; if his eyes wandered + over the crowd, they noticed nothing there, nor did he appear to listen to + a word around him, while he again asked why the horses were not coming. + </p> + <p> + “We're doing our best, your honor,” cried a postboy, “but it's mighty hard + to get through these divils; they won't stir till the beasts is trampling + them down.” + </p> + <p> + “Drive on, then, and let them take care of themselves,” said the Knight, + sternly. + </p> + <p> + “O blessed Father! there's a way to talk of the poor! O heavenly Vargin! + but you are come back cruel to us, after all!” + </p> + <p> + “Drive on!” shouted out Darcy, in a voice of angry impatience. + </p> + <p> + The postboys sprang into their saddles, cracked their whips, and dashed + forward, while the mob, rent in a hundred channels, fled on every side, + with cries of terror and shouts of laughter, according as the distance + suggested danger or security. All escaped safely, except the poor idiot, + Flury, who, having one foot on the step when the carriage started, was + thrown backward, when, to save himself, he grasped the spring, and was + thus half dragged, half carried along to the end of the street, and there, + failing strength and fear combining, he relinquished his hold and fell + senseless to the ground, where the wheel grazed but did not injure him as + he lay. + </p> + <p> + With a cry of terror, the Knight called out “Stop!” and, flinging wide the + door, sprang out. To lift the poor fellow up to a sitting posture was the + work of a second, while he asked, in accents the very kindest, if he were + hurt. + </p> + <p> + “Sorra bit, Maurice,” said the fellow, whose faculties sooner rallied than + if they were habitually under better control. “I was on the wrong side of + the coach, that's all; 't is safer to be within. The clothes is not the + better of it,” said he, looking at his sleeve, now hanging in stripes. + </p> + <p> + “Never mind that, Flury; we'll soon repair that misfortune; it does not + signify much.” + </p> + <p> + “Does n't it, faith?” said the other, shaking his head dubiously; “'tis + asy talking, but I can't turn my coat without showing the hole in it. 'T + is only the rich can do that.” + </p> + <p> + The Knight bit his lip; for even from the fool's sarcasm he could gather + the imputations already rife upon his conduct. Another and a very + different thought succeeded to this, and he blushed with shame to think + how far his sense of his own misfortune had rendered him indifferent, not + only to the kindly feelings, but the actual misery, of others. The right + impulses of high-minded men are generally rapid in their action, like the + spring of the bent bow when the cord is cut asunder. It did not cost Darcy + many minutes to be again the warm-hearted, generous soul nature had made + him. + </p> + <p> + “Come, Flury,” said he to the poor fellow, as he stood ruefully surveying + his damaged drapery, “give that among the people there in the town, and + keep this for yourself.” + </p> + <p> + “This is goold, Maurice,—yellow goold!” + </p> + <p> + “So it is; but you're not the less welcome to it; tell them, too, that I + have had troubles of my own lately; and that's the reason I hurried on + without exchanging a word with them.” + </p> + <p> + “How do you know, Maurice, but I'll keep it all to myself?”. + </p> + <p> + “I'd trust you with a heavier sum,” said the Knight, smiling. + </p> + <p> + “I know why,—I know why, well enough,—because I'm a fool. + Never mind, there's greater fools nor me going. What did they give you up + there for your vote, Maurice,—tell me, how much was it?” + </p> + <p> + The Knight shook his head, and Flury resumed: “Didn't I say it? Wasn't I + right? By my ould hat! there's two fools in the country now;—Maurice + Darcy and Red Flury; and Maurice the biggest of the two! Whoop, the more + the merrier; there 's room for us all!” And with this wise reflection, + Flury gave a very wild caper and a wilder shout, and set off at the speed + of a hare towards Castlebar. + </p> + <p> + The Knight resumed his journey, and in a more contented mood. The little + incident had called on him for an exertion, and his faculties only needed + the demand to respond to the call. He summoned to his aid, besides, every + comforting reflection in his power; he persuaded himself that there were + some hopes remaining still, and tried to believe the evil not beyond + remedy. “After all,” thought he, “we are together; it is not death has + been dealing with us, nor is there any stain upon our fair fame; and, save + these, all ills are light, and can be borne.” + </p> + <p> + From thoughts like these he was aroused by the heavy clank of the iron + gate, as it fell back to admit the carriage within the park, while a + thousand welcomes saluted him. + </p> + <p> + “Thank you, Darby!—thank you, Mary! All well up at the abbey?” + </p> + <p> + But the carriage dashed past at full speed, and the answer was drowned in + the tumult. The postboys, true to the etiquette of their calling, had + reserved their best pace for the finish, and it was at the stride of a + hunting gallop they now tore along. + </p> + <p> + It was a calm night, with a young faint moon and a starry sky, which, + without displaying in bright light the details of the scenery, yet + exhibited them in strong, bold masses, making all seem even more imposing + and grander than in reality; the lofty mountain appeared higher, the dark + woods vaster, and the wide-spreading lawn seemed to stretch away into + immense plains. Darcy's heart swelled with pride as he looked, while a + pang shot through him as he thought, if even at that hour he could call + them his own. + </p> + <p> + They had now reached a little glen, where the postboys were obliged to + walk their blown cattle; emerging from this, they passed a thick grove of + beech, and at once came in sight of the abbey. Darcy leaned anxiously from + the window to catch the first sight of home, when what was his amazement + to perceive that the whole was lighted up from end to end. The great suite + of state rooms were a blaze of lustres, which even at that distance + glittered in their starry brilliancy, and showed the shadows of figures + moving within. He well knew that Lady Eleanor never saw company in his + absence,—what could this mean? Tortured with doubts that in his then + state of mind took every painful form, he ordered the postilions to get on + faster, and at the very top of their speed they tore along, over the wide + lawn, across the terrace drive, up the steep ascent to the gate tower into + the courtyard. + </p> + <p> + This was also brilliantly lighted by lamps from the walls, and also by the + lights of numerous carriage lamps which crowded the ample space. + </p> + <p> + “What is this? Can no one tell me?” muttered the Knight, as he leaped from + the carriage, and, seizing a livery servant who was passing, said, “What + is going on here? What company has the abbey?” + </p> + <p> + “Full of company,” said the man, in an English accent; “there 's my Lord—” + </p> + <p> + “Who do you mean?” + </p> + <p> + “The Earl of Netherby, sir, and Sir Harry Beauclerk, and Colonel Crofton, + and—” + </p> + <p> + “When did they arrive?” said the Knight, interrupting a catalogue, every + name of which, although unknown, sent a feeling like a stab through his + heart. + </p> + <p> + “They came the evening before last, sir; Mr. Lionel Darcy, who arrived the + same morning—” + </p> + <p> + “Is he here?” cried the Knight; and, without waiting for more, hastened + forward. + </p> + <p> + The servants, of whom there seemed a great number about, were in strange + liveries, and unknown to the Knight; nor was it without undergoing a very + cool scrutiny from them that Darcy succeeded in gaining admittance to his + own house. At last he reached the foot of the great stair, whence the + sounds of music and the din of voices filled the air; servants hurried + along with refreshments, or carried orders to others in waiting; all was + bustle and excitement, in the midst of which Darcy stood only half + conscious of the reality of what he saw, and endeavoring to reason himself + into a conviction of what he heard. It was at this moment that several + officers of a newly quartered regiment passed up, admiring, as they went, + the splendor of the house, and the magnificent preparations they witnessed + on every side. + </p> + <p> + <a name="linkimage-0012" id="linkimage-0012"> + <!-- IMG --></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%;"> + <img src="images/330.jpg" width="100%" alt="330 " /> + </div> + <p> + “I say, Dallas,” cried one, “you're always talking of your uncle Beverley: + does he do the thing in this style, eh?” + </p> + <p> + “By Jove!” interposed a short, thick-set major, with a bushy beard and + eyebrows, “this is what I call going the pace: do they give dinners here?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, that they do,” said a white-faced, ghostly looking ensign; “I heard + all about this place from Giles of the 40th; he was quartered six months + in this county, and used to grub here half the week. The old fellow is n't + at home now, but they say he's a trump.” + </p> + <p> + “Let's drink his health, Watkins,” cried the first speaker, “here's + champagne going up;” and so saying, the party gathered around two + servants, one of whom carried an ice-pail with some bottles, and the other + a tray of glasses. + </p> + <p> + “Does any one know his name, though?” said the major, as he held his glass + to be filled. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, it's something like—Oh, you know that fellow that joined us at + Coventry?” + </p> + <p> + “Brereton, is it?” + </p> + <p> + “No, hang it! I mean the fellow that had the crop-eared cob with the white + legs. Never mind, here he goes, anyhow.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, I know who you mean,—it was Jack Quin.” + </p> + <p> + “That's the name; and your friend here is called 'Gwynne,' I think. Here, + gentlemen, I give you Gwynne's health, and all the honors; may he live a + few centuries more—” + </p> + <p> + “With a warm heart and a cool cellar,” added one. + </p> + <p> + “Pink champagne, and red-coats to drink it,” chimed in the ensign. + </p> + <p> + “May I join you in that pleasant sentiment, gentlemen?” said the Knight, + bowing courteously, as he took a glass from the tray and held it towards + the servant. + </p> + <p> + “Make no apology, sir,” said the major, eying him rather superciliously, + for the travelling dress concealed the Knight's appearance, and + distinguished him but slightly from many of those lounging around the + doors. + </p> + <p> + “Capital ginger-beer that! eh?” said the ensign, as, winking at his + companions, he proceeded to quiz the stranger. + </p> + <p> + “I have certainly drunk worse,” said the Knight, gravely,—“at an + infantry mess.” + </p> + <p> + There was a pause before he uttered the last three words, which gave them + a more direct application; a stare, half stupid, half impertinent, was, + however, all they elicited, and the group moved on, while the Knight, + disencumbering himself of his travelling gear, slowly followed them. + </p> + <p> + “Grim old gentlemen these, ain't they?” said the major, gazing at the long + line of family portraits that covered the walls; “that fellow with the + truncheon does not seem to like the look of us.” + </p> + <p> + “Here's a bishop, I take it, with the great wig.” + </p> + <p> + “That's a chancellor, man; don't you see the mace? But he's not a whit + more civil-looking than the other; commend me to the shepherdess yonder, + in blue satin. But come on, we 're losing time; I hear the flourish of a + new dance. I say,” said he, in a whisper, “do you see who we've got behind + us?” And they turned and saw the Knight as he mounted the stairs behind + them. + </p> + <p> + “A friend of the family, sir?” asked the major, in a voice that might bear + the equivocal meaning of either impertinence or mere inquiry. + </p> + <p> + The Knight seemed to prefer taking it in the latter acceptation, as he + answered mildly, “I have that honor.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! indeed; well, we 've the misfortune to be strangers in these parts; + only arrived in the neighborhood last week, and were invited here through + our colonel. Would you have any objection to present us?—Major + Hopecot of the 5th, Captain Mills, Mr. Dallas, Mr. Fothergill, Mr. + Watkins.” + </p> + <p> + “How the major <i>is</i> going it!” lisped the ensign, while his goggle + eyes rolled fearfully, and the others seemed struggling to control their + enjoyment of such drollery. + </p> + <p> + “It will afford me much pleasure, sir, to do your bidding,” said the + Knight, calmly. + </p> + <p> + “Take the head of the column, then,” resumed the major, making way for him + to pass; and the Knight entered, with the others after him. + </p> + <p> + “My father—my dearest father!” cried a voice at the moment, and, + escaping from her partner, Helen was in a moment in bis arms. The next + instant Lionel was also at his side. + </p> + <p> + “My dear children!—my sweet Helen!—and Lionel, how well you + 're looking, boy! Ah! Eleanor, what a pleasant surprise you have managed + for me.” + </p> + <p> + “Then perhaps you never got our letter,” said Lady Eleanor, as she took + his arm and walked forward. “I wrote the moment I heard from Lionel.” + </p> + <p> + “And I, too, wrote you a long letter from London,” said Lionel. + </p> + <p> + “Neither reached me; but the last few days I have been so busy, and so + much occupied.—How are you, Conolly? Delighted to see you, Martin.—And + Lady Julia, is she here? I must take a tour and see all my friends. First + of all, I have a duty to perform; let me introduce these gentlemen. But + where are they? Oh, I see them yonder.” And, as he spoke, he led Lady + Eleanor across the room to the group of officers, who, overwhelmed with + shame at their discovery, stood uncertain whether they should remain or + retire. + </p> + <p> + “Let me introduce Major Hopecot and the officers of the 5th,” said he, + bowing courteously. “These gentlemen are strangers, Lady Eleanor; will you + take care that they find partners.” + </p> + <p> + While the abashed subalterns left their major to make his speeches to Lady + Eleanor, the Knight moved round the room with Helen still leaning on his + arm. By this time Darcy's arrival was generally known, and all his old + friends came pressing forward to see and speak to him. + </p> + <p> + “Lord Netherby,” whispered Helen in the Knight's ear, as a tall and very + thin old man, with an excessive affectation of youthfulness, tripped + forward to meet him. + </p> + <p> + “My dear Lord,” exclaimed Darcy, “what a pleasure, and what an honor to + see you here!” + </p> + <p> + “You would not come to me, Knight, so there was nothing else for it,” + replied the other, laughing, as he shook hands with a great display of + cordiality. “And you were quite right,” continued he; “I could not have + received you like this. There 's not so splendid a place in England, nor + has it ever been my fortune to witness so much beauty.” A half bow + accompanied the last words, as he turned towards Helen. + </p> + <p> + “Take care, my Lord,” said the Knight, smiling; “the flatteries of a + courtier are very dangerous things when heard out of the atmosphere that + makes them commonplace. We may take you literally, and have our heads + turned by them.” + </p> + <p> + At this moment Lionel joined them, to introduce several of his friends and + brother officers who accompanied him from England, all of whom were + received by the Knight with that winning courtesy of manner of which he + was a perfect master; for, not affecting either the vices or frivolities + of youth as a claim to the consideration of younger men, the Knight + possessed the happy temper that can concede indulgence without asking to + partake of it, and, while losing nothing of the relish for wit and humor, + chasten both by the fruits of a life's experience. + </p> + <p> + “Now, Helen, you must go back to your partner; that young guardsman looks + very sulkily at me for having taken you off—yes, I insist on it. + Lionel, look to your friends, and I 'll join Lord Netherby's whist-table, + and talk whenever permitted. Where 's poor Tate?” whispered he in Lady + Eleanor's ear, as she just came up. + </p> + <p> + “Poor fellow! he has been ill for some days back; you know what a + superstitious creature he is; and about a week since he got a fright,—some + warning of a Banshee, I think; but it shook his nerves greatly, and he has + kept his bed almost ever since. Lionel brought over some of these servants + with him; but Lord Netherby's people are Legion, and the servants' hall + now numbers something like seventy, I hear.” + </p> + <p> + The Knight heaved a sigh; but, catching himself, tried to conceal it by a + cough. Lady Eleanor had heard it, however, and stole a quick glance + towards him, to evade which he turned abruptly round and spoke to some one + near. + </p> + <p> + “Seventy, my dear Eleanor!” said he, after a pause, and as if he had been + reflecting over his last observation; “and what a Babel, too, it must be! + I heard French, German, and Italian in the hall; I think we can promise + Irish ourselves.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said Lionel, “it is the most amusing scene in the world. They had a + ball last night in the lower gallery, where boleros and jigs succeeded + each other, while the refreshments ranged from iced lemonade to burnt + whiskey.” + </p> + <p> + “And what did our worthy folk think of their visitors?” said Darcy, + smiling. + </p> + <p> + “Not over much. Paddy Lennan looked with great contempt at the men sipping + <i>orgeat</i>, and when he saw the waltzing, merely remarked, 'We've a + betther way of getting round the girls in Ireland;' while old Pierre + Dulange, Netherby's valet, persists in addressing the native company as + 'Messieurs les Sauvages.'” + </p> + <p> + “I hope, for the sake of the public peace, they 've not got an interpreter + among them.” + </p> + <p> + “No, no, all's safe on that score, and freedom of speech has suggested the + most perfect code of good manners; for it would seem, as they can indulge + themselves in the most liberal reflections on each other, they have no + necessity of proceeding to overt acts.” + </p> + <p> + “Now,” said the Knight, “let me not interrupt the revelry longer. To your + place, Lionel, and leave me to pay my devoirs to my friends and kind + neighbors.” + </p> + <p> + The Knight's presence seemed alone wanting to fill up the measure of + enjoyment. Most of those present were his old familiar friends, glad to + see once more amongst them the great promoter of kind feeling and + hospitality, while from such as were strangers he easily won golden + opinions, the charm of courtesy being with him like a well-fitting + garment, which graced, but did not impede, the wearer's motions. + </p> + <p> + He had a hundred questions to ask and to answer. The news of the capital + travelled in those days by slow and easy stages, and the moment was + sufficiently eventful to warrant curiosity; and so, as he passed from + group to group, he gave the current gossip of the time as each in turn + asked after this circumstance or that. + </p> + <p> + At length he took his place beside Lord Netherby, as he sat engaged at a + whist-table, where the gathering crowd that gradually collected soon + converted the game into a social circle of eager talkers. + </p> + <p> + Who could have suspected that easy, unconstrained manner, that winning + smile, that ready laugh, the ever-present jest, to cover the working of a + heart so nigh to breaking? And yet he talked pleasantly and freely, + narrating with all his accustomed humor the chit-chat of the time; and + while of course, the great question of the hour occupied every tongue and + ear, all Lord Netherby's practised shrewdness could not enable him to + detect the exact part the Knight himself had taken. + </p> + <p> + “And so they have carried the bill,” said Conolly, with a sigh, as he + listened to Darcy's account of the second reading. “Well, though I never + was a Parliament man, nor expected to be one, I'm sorry for it. You think + that strange, my Lord?” + </p> + <p> + “By no means, sir. A man may love monarchy without being the heir + apparent.” + </p> + <p> + “Quite true,” chimed in the Knight. “I would even go further, and say + that, without any warm devotion to a king, a man may hate a regicide.” + </p> + <p> + Lord Netherby's eyes met Darcy's, and the wily peer smiled with a + significance that seemed to say, “I know you <i>now</i>.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0028" id="link2HCH0028"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXVIIII. THE HUNT-BREAKFAST + </h2> + <p> + The ball lasted till nigh daybreak; and while the greater number of the + guests departed, some few remained, by special invitation, at the abbey, + to join a hunting party on the following day. For this Lionel had made + every possible preparation, desiring to let his English friends witness a + favorable specimen of Irish sport and horsemanship. The stud and kennel + were both in high condition, the weather favorable, and, as the old + huntsman said, “'It would be hard if a fox would n't be agreeable enough + to give the strange gentlemen a run.” + </p> + <p> + In high anticipation of the coming morning, and with many a prayer against + a frost, they separated for the night. All within the abbey were soon + sound asleep,—all save the Knight himself, who, the restraint of an + assumed part withdrawn, threw himself on a sofa in his dressing-room, worn + out and exhausted by his struggle. Ruin was inevitable,—that he well + knew; but as yet the world knew it not, and for Lionel's sake he resolved + to keep his own secret a few days longer. The visit was to last but eight + days; two were already over; for the remaining six, then, he determined—whatever + it might cost him—to preserve all the appearances of his former + estate, to wear the garb and seeming of prosperity, and do the princely + honors of a house that was never again to be his home. + </p> + <p> + “Poor Lionel!” thought he; “'twould break the boy's heart if such a + disclosure should be made now; the high and daring promptings of his bold + spirit would not quail before misfortune, although his courage might not + sustain him in the very moment of the reverse. I will not risk the whole + fortune of his future happiness in such a trial; he shall know nothing + till they are gone; one week of triumphant pleasure he shall have, and + then let him brace himself to the struggle, and breast the current + manfully.” + </p> + <p> + While endeavoring to persuade himself that Lionel's lot was uppermost in + his mind, his heart would force the truth upon him that Lady Eleanor and + Helen's fate was, in reality, a heavier stroke of fortune. Lionel was a + soldier, ardent and daring, fond of his profession, and far more ambitious + of distinction than attached to the life of pleasure a court and a great + capital suggested; but they who had never known the want of every luxury + that can embellish life, whose whole existence had been like some fairy + dream of pleasure, how were they to bear up against the dreadful shock? + Lady Eleanor's health was frail and delicate in the extreme; Helen's + attachment to her mother such that any impression on her would invariably + recoil upon herself. What might be the consequences of the disclosure to + them Darcy could not, dared not, contemplate. + </p> + <p> + As he revolved all these things in his mind, and thought upon the + difficulties that beset him, he was at a loss whether to deplore the + necessity of wearing a false face of pleasure a few days longer, or + rejoice at the occasion of even this brief reprieve from ruin. Thus passed + the weary hours that preceded daybreak, and while others slept soundly, or + reviewed in their dreams the pleasures of the past night, Darcy's gloomy + thoughts were fixed upon the inevitable calamity of his fate, and the + years, few but sad, that in all likelihood were now before him. + </p> + <p> + The stir and bustle of the servants preparing breakfast for the hunting + party broke in upon his dreary revery, and he suddenly bethought him of + the part he had assigned himself to play. He dreaded the possibility of an + interview with Lady Eleanor, in which she would inevitably advert to + Gleeson, and the circumstances of his flight; this could not be avoided, + however, were he to pass the day at home, and so he resolved to join the + hunting-field, where perhaps some lingering trace of his old enthusiasm + for the sport might lead him to hope for a momentary relief of mind. + </p> + <p> + “Lionel, too, will be glad to see me in the saddle—it's some years + since I crossed the sward at a gallop—and I am curious to know if a + man's nerve is stouter when the world looks fair before him, or when the + night of calamity is lowering above his head.” Muttering these words to + himself, he passed out into the hall, and crossing which, entered the + courtyard, and took his way towards the stables. It was still dark, but + many lights were moving to and fro, and the groom population were all + about and stirring. Darcy opened the door and looked down the long range + of stalls, where above twenty saddle-horses were now standing, the greater + number of them highly bred and valuable animals, and all in the highest + possible condition. Great was the astonishment of the stablemen as the + Knight moved along, throwing a glance as he went at each stall, while a + muttered “Welcome home to yer honor” ran from mouth to mouth. + </p> + <p> + “The bastes is looking finely, sir,” said Bob Carney, who, as stud-groom + and huntsman, had long presided over his department. + </p> + <p> + “So they are, Bob, but I don't know half of them; where did this strong + brown horse come from?” + </p> + <p> + “That's Clipper, yer honor; I knew you wouldn't know him. He took up + finely after his run last winter.” + </p> + <p> + “And the fore leg, is it strong again?” + </p> + <p> + “As stout as a bar of iron; one of the boys had him out two days ago, and + he took the yellow ditch flying: we measured nineteen feet between the + mark of his hoofs.” + </p> + <p> + “He ought to be strong enough to carry me, Bob.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't ride him, sir, he's an uncertain divil; and though he 'll go + straight over everything for maybe twenty minutes or half an hour, he 'll + stop short at a drain not wider than a potato furrow, and the power of man + would n't get him over it.” + </p> + <p> + “That's a smart gray yonder,—what is she?” + </p> + <p> + “She's the one we tried as a leader one day; yer honor remembers you bid + me shoot her, or get rid of her, for she kicked the traces, and nearly the + wheel-horse, all to smash; and now she's the sweetest tiling to ride, for + eleven stone, in the whole country. There's an English colonel to try her + to-day; my only advice to him is, let her have her own way of it, for, if + he begins pulling at her, 't is maybe in Donegal he 'll be before + evening.” + </p> + <p> + “And what have you for me?” said the Knight; “for I scarcely know any of + my old friends here.” + </p> + <p> + “There's the mouse-colored cob——” + </p> + <p> + “No, no,” said the Knight, laughing; “I want to keep my place, Bob. You + must give me something better than that.” + </p> + <p> + “Faith, an' your honor might have worse; but if it's for riding you are, + take Black Peter, and you 'll never find the fence too big, or the ground + too heavy for him. I was going to give him to the English lord; I suppose, + after all, he 'll be better pleased with the cob.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, Peter for me. And now let's see what Mr. Lionel has to ride.” + </p> + <p> + “There she is, and a beauty!” said Bob, as, with a dexterous jerk, he + chucked a sheet off her haunches, and displayed the shining flanks and + splendid proportions of a thoroughbred mare. “That's Cushleen,” said he, + as he fixed his eyes on the Knight's face to enjoy the reflection of his + own delight. “That's the darlin' can do it!—a child can hould her, + but it takes a man to sit on her back—racing speed over a flat, and + a jump!—'t is more like the bound of a football than anything else.” + </p> + <p> + “She has the eye of a hot one, Bob.” + </p> + <p> + “And why would n't she? But she knows when to be so. Let her take her + place at the head of the whole field, with a light finger to guide and a + stout heart to direct her, and she's a kitten; but the divil a tiger was + ever as fierce if another passes her, or a cowardly hand would try to hold + her back. And there 's a nate tool, that black horse,—that 's for + another of the English gentlemen. Master Lionel calls him Sir Harry. They + tell me he 's a fine rider, and has a pack of hounds himself in his own + place, and I am mistaken if he has the baste in his stable will give him a + betther day's sport. The chestnut here is for Miss Helen, for she's coming + to see them throw off, and it'll be a fine sight; we 'll be thirty-six out + of your honor's stables, Mr. Conolly is bringing nine more, and all the + Martins, and the Lynches, and Dalys, and Mr. Hickman O'Reilly and his son,—though, + to be sure, <i>they</i> won't do much for the honor of ould Ireland.” + </p> + <p> + The Knight turned away laughing, and re-entered the house. + </p> + <p> + Early as it yet was, the inmates of the abbey were stirring, and a great + breakfast, laid for above thirty, was prepared in the library, for the + supper-tables occupied the dining-rooms, and the débris of the magnificent + entertainment of the night before still lingered there. Two cheerful fires + blazed on the ample hearths, and threw a mellow lustre over that spacious + room, where old Tate now busied himself in those little harmless duties he + fancied indispensable to the Knight's comfort, for the poor fellow, on + hearing of his master's return, had once more resumed his office. + </p> + <p> + The Knight's meeting with him was one of true friendship; difference of + station interposed no barrier to affection, and Darcy shook the old man's + hand as cordially as though they were brothers. Yet each was sad with a + secret sorrow, which all their efforts could scarce conceal from the + other. In vain the Knight endeavored to turn away old Tate's attention by + inquiries after his health, questions about home, or little flatteries + about his preparations, Tate's filmy eyes were fixed upon his master with + a keenness that age could not dim. + </p> + <p> + “'T is maybe tired your honor is,” said he, in a voice half meant as + inquiry, half insinuation; “the Parliament, they tell me, destroys the + health entirely.” + </p> + <p> + “Very true, Tate; late hours, heated rooms, and some fatigue will not + serve a man of my age; but I am tolerably well for all that.” + </p> + <p> + “God be praised for it!” said Tate, piously, but in a voice that showed it + was rather a wish he expressed than a conviction, when, suspecting that he + had suffered some portion of his fears to escape, he added more + cheerfully, “And is n't Master Lionel grown an iligant, fine young man! + When I seen him comin' up the stairs, it was just as if the forty-eight + years that's gone over was only a dhrame, and I was looking at your honor + the day you came home from college; he has the same way with bis arms, and + carries his head like you, and the same light step. Musha!” muttered he, + below his breath, “the ould families never die out, but keep their looks + to the last.” + </p> + <p> + “He's a fine fellow, Tate!” said the Knight, turning towards the window, + for, while flattered by the old man's praises of his son, a deep pang shot + through his heart at the wide disparity of fortune with which life opened + for both of them. At the instant an arm was drawn round him, and Helen + stood at his side: she was in her riding-habit, and looking in perfect + beauty. Darcy gazed at her for a few seconds, and with such evident + admiration that she, as if accepting the compliment, drew herself up, and, + smiling, said, “Yes, nothing short of conquest. Lionel told his friends to + expect a very unformed country girl; they shall see at least she can + ride.” + </p> + <p> + “No harebrained risks, Helen, dearest. I'm to take the field to-day, and + you must n't shake my nerve; for I want to bring no disgrace on my + county.” + </p> + <p> + “I was but jesting, my own dear papa,” said she, drawing closer to him; + “but I really felt so curious to see these English horsemen's performance + that I asked Lionel to train Alice for me.” + </p> + <p> + “And Lionel, of course, but too happy to show his pretty sister—” + </p> + <p> + “Nay, nay, if you will quiz, I must only confess that my head is quite + turned already; our noble cousin overwhelms me with flatteries which, upon + the principle the Indian accepts glass beads and spangles as gems, and + gold, I take as real value. But here he comes.” + </p> + <p> + And Lord Netherby, attired for the field in all the accuracy of costume, + slipped towards them. After came Colonel Crofton, a well-known fashionable + of the clubs and a hanger-on of the peer; then Sir Harry Beauclerk, a + young baronet of vast fortune, gay, good-tempered, and extravagant; while + several others of lesser note, brother officers of Lionel's and men about + town, brought up the rear, one only deserving remark, a certain Captain, + or, as he was better known, Tom Nolan,—a strange, ambiguous kind of + fellow, always seen in the world, constantly met at the best houses, and + yet nobody being able to explain why he was asked, nor—as it very + often happened—who asked him. + </p> + <p> + Lady Eleanor never appeared early in the day, but there was a sprinkling + of lady-visitors through the room, guests at the abbey: a very pretty, but + not over-afflicted widow, a Mrs. Somerville, with several Mrs. and Miss + Lynches, Brownes, and Martins, comprising the beauties of the + neighborhood. Lionel was the last to make his appearance, so many + directions had he to give about earth-stoppers and cover-hacks, drags, + phaetons, fresh horses, and all the contingent requirements of a day's + sport. Besides, he had pledged himself most faithfully to give Mrs. + Somerville's horse, a very magnificent barb, a training canter himself, + with a horse-sheet round his legs, for she was a timid rider,—on + some occasions,—though certain calumnious people averred that, when + alone, she would take any fence in the whole barony. + </p> + <p> + At length they were seated, and such a merry, happy party! There was but + one sad heart in the company, and that none could guess at. And what a + running fire of pleasant raillery rattled round the table! How brimful of + wit and good-humor were they all! How ready each to take the jest against + himself, and even heighten its flavor by some new touch of drollery. + Harmless wagers respecting the places they would occupy at the finish, + gentle quiz-zings about safe riding through the gaps, and joking counsels + as to the peculiar difficulties of an Irish country, were heard on all + sides; while the Knight recounted the Galway anecdote of Dick Perse taking + an immense leap and disappearing afterwards. “'Call the ground, Dick!' + cried Lord Clanricarde, who was charging up at top speed—'call the + ground! What's at the other side?' + </p> + <p> + “'I <i>am</i>, thank God!' was the short reply, and the words came from + the depth of a gravel-pit.” + </p> + <p> + At last, venison pasties and steaks, rolls and coffee, with their due + accompaniment of liqueurs, came to an end, and a very sufficient uproar + without, of men, dogs, and horses commingled, bespoke the activity of + preparation there, while old Bob Carney's voice topped every other, as he + swore at or commended men and beasts indiscriminately. + </p> + <p> + “What a glorious morning for our sport!” said the Knight, as he threw open + the sash, and let into the room the heavy perfume of the earth, borne on a + southerly wind. The sea was calm as an inland lake, and the dark clouds + over it were equally motionless. “We shall be unlucky, my Lord, if we do + not show you some sport on such a day. Ah, there go the dogs!” And, as he + spoke, the hounds issued from beneath the deep arch of the gateway, and + with Bob and the whipper-in at their head, took their way across the lawn. + </p> + <p> + “To horse! to horse!” shouted Lionel, gayly, from the courtyard, for the + riding party were not to proceed to the cover by the short path the hounds + were gone, but to follow by a more picturesque and circuitous route. + </p> + <p> + “I hope sincerely that beast is not intended for me,” said Lord Netherby, + as a powerful black horse crossed the courtyard, in a series of bounds, + and finished by landing the groom over his head. + </p> + <p> + “Never fear, my Lord,” said Lionel, laughing; “Billy Pitt is meant for + Beauclerk.” + </p> + <p> + “You surely never named that animal after the minister, Knight?” said his + Lordship. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, my Lord,” said Darcy, with a smile; “it's just as unsafe to back one + as the other. But here comes the heavy brigade. Which is your choice,—Black + Peter, or Mouse?” + </p> + <p> + “If I may choose, I will confess this is more to my liking than anything I + have seen yet. You know that I don't mean to take any part in the debate, + so I may as well secure a quiet seat under the gallery. But, my dear Miss + Darcy, what a mettlesome thing you 've got there!” + </p> + <p> + “She's only fidgety; if I can hold her when they throw off, I 'll have no + trouble afterwards.” And the graceful girl sat back easily in her saddle + as the animal bounded and swerved with every stroke of her long + riding-habit. + </p> + <p> + “There goes Beauclerk!” cried Lionel, as the young baronet shot like an + arrow through the archway on the back of Billy Pitt; for no sooner had he + touched the saddle than the unmanageable animal broke away from the + groom's hands, and set off at full speed down the lawn. + </p> + <p> + “I say, Darcy,” cried Colonel Crofton, “is n't Beauclerk a step over you + in the 'Army List'?” + </p> + <p> + But Lionel never heard the question, for he was most busily occupied about + Mrs. Somerville and her horse. + </p> + <p> + “Who drives the phaeton?—where's a safe whip to be found for Mrs. + Martin?” said the Knight; and, seizing on a young Guardsman, he promoted + him to the box, with a very pretty girl beside him. A drag, with four + grays, was filling at the same instant, with a mixed population of + horsemen and spectators, among whom Captain Nolan seemed the presiding + spirit, as, seated beside a brother officer of Lionel's on the box, he + introduced the several parties to each other, and did “the honors” of the + conveyance. + </p> + <p> + Troops of horses, sheeted and hooded, now passed out with a number of + grooms and stable-boys, on their way to cover; and at last the great + cavalcade moved forward, the Knight, his daughter, and Lord Netherby gayly + cantering on the grass, to permit the carriages to take the road. The drag + came last; and although but newly met, the company were already in the + full enjoyment of that intimacy which high spirits and pleasure beget, + while Tom Nolan contributed his utmost to the merriment by jests which + lost nothing of their poignancy from any scruples of their maker. + </p> + <p> + “There they go at last,” said he, as Lionel and Mrs. Somerville cantered + forth, followed by two grooms. “I never heard of a stirrup so hard to + arrange as that, in all my life!” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0029" id="link2HCH0029"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXIX. THE HUNT + </h2> + <p> + The cover lay in a small valley, almost deep enough to be called a glen, + watered by a stream which in winter and summer took the alternate + character of torrent or rivulet; gently sloping hills rose on either side, + their banks clad with low furze and fern, and behind them a wide plain + extended to the foot of the great mountains of Connemara. + </p> + <p> + Both sides of the little glen were now occupied by groups on foot or + horseback, as each calculated on the likelihood of the fox taking this + direction or that. On the narrow road which led along the crest of the + lower hill were many equipages to be seen, some of which were filled with + ladies, whose waving feathers and gay colors served to heighten the effect + of the landscape. The horsemen were dotted about, some on the ridge of the + rising ground, some lower down on the sloping sides, and others walked + their horses through the dense cover, watching as the dogs sprang and + bounded from copse to copse, and made the air vibrate with their deep + voices. + </p> + <p> + The arrival of the Knight's party created no slight sensation as carriages + and horsemen came dashing up the hill, and took their station on an + eminence, from whence all who were not mounted might have a view of the + field. No sooner was he recognized, than such as had the honor of personal + acquaintance moved forward to pay their respects and welcome him home + again; among whom Beecham O'Reilly appeared, but with such evident + diffidence of manner and reserve that Darcy, from motives of delicacy, was + forced to take a more than ordinary notice of him. + </p> + <p> + “We were sorry not to have your company at the abbey last night; you 've + had a cold, I hear,” said the Knight. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir; this is the first day I've ventured out.” + </p> + <p> + “Let me introduce you to Lord Netherby. One of our foremost riders, my + Lord, Mr. Beecham O'Reilly. You may see that the merit is not altogether + his own,—splendid horse you have there.” + </p> + <p> + “He's very powerful,” said the young man, accepting the praise with an air + of easy indifference. + </p> + <p> + “In my country,” interposed Lord Netherby, “we should value him at three + hundred guineas, if his performance equal his appearance.” + </p> + <p> + “I say, Lionel, come here a moment,” cried the Knight. “What do you think + of that horse?—but don't you know your old playfellow, Beecham? Have + you both forgotten each other?” + </p> + <p> + “How are you, Beecham? I'd never have guessed you. To be sure, it is six + years since we met. You were in Dublin, I think, when I was over on leave + last?” + </p> + <p> + “No, at Oxford,” said Beecham, with a slight flush as he spoke; for + although he accepted the warm shake-hands Lionel proffered, his manner was + one of constraint all through. Young Darcy was, however, too much occupied + in admiring the horse to bestow much attention on the rider. + </p> + <p> + “He 'd carry you well,” said Beecham, as if interpreting what was passing + in his mind, “and as I have no fancy for him,—a worse horse will + carry my weight as well,—I 'd sell him.” + </p> + <p> + “At what price?” + </p> + <p> + “Lord Netherby has valued him at three hundred,” said the young man. “I + gave nearly as much myself.” + </p> + <p> + The Knight, who heard this conversation, without being able to interrupt + it, was in perfect misery. The full measure of his ruin rushed suddenly on + his mind, and the thought that, at the very moment his son was meditating + this piece of extravagance, he was himself actually a beggar, sickened him + to the heart. Meanwhile, Lionel walked his horse slowly round, the better + to observe the animal he coveted, and then cantered back to his place at + Mrs. Somerville's side. + </p> + <p> + Beecham seemed to hesitate for a second or two, then, riding forward, he + approached Lionel: “Perhaps you would try him to-day, Captain Darcy?” The + words came hesitatingly and with difficulty. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, no! he 's beyond my reach,” said Lionel, laughing. + </p> + <p> + “I'd really take it as a favor if you would ride him; I 'm not strong + enough to hold him, consequently cannot do him justice.” + </p> + <p> + “Take the offer, Darcy,” said Lord Netherby, in a whisper, as he rode up + to his side; “I have a great liking for that horse myself, and will buy + him if you report favorably.” + </p> + <p> + “In that case, my Lord, I'll do it with pleasure. I accept your kind + proposal, and will change nags if you agree.” + </p> + <p> + Beecham at once dismounted, and, beckoning to his servant, ordered him to + change the saddles. + </p> + <p> + While this little scene was enacting, old Conolly rode up to the Knight, + with a warning to keep the ladies in the road. “The fox will take the + country towards Burnadarig,” said he; “the start's with the wind; and as + the fences are large and the ground heavy, they had better not attempt to + follow the run.” + </p> + <p> + “We will take your advice, Tom,” said the Knight. “Come here, Helen—Colonel + Crofton, will you kindly bring Mrs. Somerville up here, and tell Lord + Netherby to join us—the day will be for the fast ones only. There + they go,—are they off?” + </p> + <p> + “Not yet, not yet,” said Conolly, as, standing in his stirrups, he looked + down into the glen; “they're hunting him through the furze cover this half + hour. I know that fox well; he never breaks till the dogs are actually on + him.” + </p> + <p> + By this time the scene in the valley was becoming highly exciting; the + hounds, yelping and barking, bounded hither and thither; some, with + uplifted throats, bayed deeply a long, protracted note; others, with noses + to the earth, ran swiftly along, and then, stopping, burst into a sharp + cry, as if of pain, while old Bob Carney's voice, encouraging this one, + and cursing that, was high above the tumult. + </p> + <p> + “Tiresome work, this is,” said Sir Harry Beauclerk; for his horse, mad + with impatience, was white with sweat, and trembled in every limb. + </p> + <p> + “You'll have it very soon, sir,” said old Conolly; “the dogs are together + now. I wish that young gentleman there would move a little up the hill.” + This was said of a young officer who took his station at the exit of the + cover. “There they go, now! Tally-ho!” cried he, in ecstasy, and the shout + re-echoed from a hundred voices, as the hounds, in full cry, burst from + the cover, and were seen, in one compact mass, rising the opposite hill. + </p> + <p> + In a second every horse was away, save that little group around the + Knight, and which, notwithstanding all the efforts of the servants, + bounded and plunged in mad impatience. Beauclerk was the first down the + hill, and over the brook, which he cleared gallantly. Conolly followed + close; and then came Crofton in a group of others, among whom rode + O'Reilly, all riding well and safely; and last of all was Lionel, mounted + on the brown thoroughbred, and holding him together, in spite of all his + eagerness to get on. + </p> + <p> + The Knight forgot everything that lay heavily on his heart as he watched + his son nearing the brook, which he took flying. “He knows his horse; now! + see!” cried Darcy, as his whole face beamed with enthusiastic delight; + “look a little this way, my dear Mrs. Somerville, Lionel's gaining on + them!” + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Somerville scarcely needed the direction, for, notwithstanding her + horse's plunging, she had never taken her glass from her eye. + </p> + <p> + “Is that a wall on the side of the hill? I really believe it is!” said + Lord Netherby, with an accent of amazement and horror. + </p> + <p> + “A stone wall, and a stout one. I know it well,” said Darcy. “There goes + Sir Harry Beauclerk at it. Too fast, sir! too fast!” screamed out the + Knight, as if his advice could be heard and followed at that distance. + </p> + <p> + “He's down! he's down!” cried several voices together, as horse and rider + balanced for a second on the top, and rolled headlong on the opposite + side, while Helen grasped her father's arm, but never uttered a word. + </p> + <p> + “His horse is away—there he goes!—but the young man is on his + legs again!” called out the Knight; “see how the rest are scattering now—they + 've no fancy for it;” for so it was, Beauclerk's catastrophe, mounted, as + they knew him to be, on one of the most perfect of hunters, had terrified + the field, and they broke up into different groups, searching an exit + where they could. + </p> + <p> + “There he goes,—that's the way to take it!” cried Darcy, as Lionel, + emerging from the little valley, was seen ascending the hill in a sharp + canter; “see, my Lord! Do you mark how he holds his horse together? The + hind legs are well forward—beautifully done!” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, beautifully done!” re-echoed Mrs. Somerville, as the young man, with + one cut of his whip, rose the horse to the wall, topped, poised for an + instant on its summit, and bounded down with the seeming lightness of a + bird. + </p> + <p> + “They're all together again,” said Helen. “Mr. Conolly has found a gap, + and there they go.” + </p> + <p> + For a few moments the whole field were in sight, as they rode in a waving + line, only a few stragglers in their rear; but the gradual dip of the + ground soon hid them from view, and nothing remained save the occasional + glance of a red coat as some rider, “thrown out” for a moment, sought to + recover his place by an adroit “cast.” + </p> + <p> + “I suppose we are not destined to see much more of the day's sport?” said + Mrs. Somerville, with a pouting look; for she would infinitely rather have + braved all the hazards of the field than have remained behind with the + spectators. + </p> + <p> + “I trust we shall have another peep at them,” said the Knight. “By + following this by-road to Burris Hill, the chances are that we see them + winding along at our feet; the fox generally runs from this cover to the + scrub beneath Nephin. We may go slowly, for if I be right in my + calculation, they have a wide circuit to make yet.” + </p> + <p> + The Knight, after a few words to the parties in the carriage, took the + lead with Lord Netherby, while Mrs. Somerville and Helen followed, an + indiscriminate crowd of carriages and horsemen bringing up the rear. + </p> + <p> + This was an arrangement artfully accomplished by the Earl, who had been + most impatiently awaiting some opportunity of conferring with the Knight + on the question of politics, and ascertaining how far he himself might + adventure on claiming the merit of converting him, when he returned to + England. He had already remarked that Darcy's name did not appear in the + division on the second reading of the Bill of Union, and the fact seemed + so far indicative of a disposition not to oppose the Government. The + subject was one to be approached with skill, and it was at last by an + adroit congratulation on the pleasant contrast of a country life with the + fatigues of Parliament, that he opened the discussion. + </p> + <p> + “I believe, my Lord,” said the Knight, laughing, “that Irish gentlemen are + very likely to enjoy in future a fair proportion of that agreeable + retirement you have so justly lauded. The wisdom of our rulers has thought + fit to relieve us of the burden of self-government in Parliament, and left + us, if we can succeed in effecting it, to govern ourselves at home.” + </p> + <p> + “That will be unquestionably the lot of many, Knight. I am quite aware + that men of second-rate importance will no longer possess any at all; but + estated gentlemen, of high position and liberal fortunes, like yourself, + for instance, will not lose their influence by the greater extent of the + field in which it is exercised.” + </p> + <p> + Darcy sighed, but made no reply; the thought of his utter ruin came too + painfully across him to permit of an answer. Lord Netherby interpreted his + silence as doubt, and continued: “You are unjust, not only to yourself, + but to us, by any discredit of this point. Men of real knowledge about + Ireland and her interests will have a greater position than ever they + enjoyed before; no longer buried and lost among the impracticable horde of + theorists and false patriots of a Dublin Parliament, they will be known + and appreciated by a deliberative assembly where the greatest men of the + empire hold council.” + </p> + <p> + “I am forced to differ with you on every point, my Lord,” said the Knight, + calmly; “we are united to England, not that we may make an integral + portion of your empire, but simply that we may be more easily governed. Up + to this hour, you have ruled this country through the instrumentality of + certain deputed individuals here amongst us; your system has had but + indifferent success. You are now about to try another method, and govern + us through the means of Party. Into the subdivisions of these parties + Irishmen will fall,—with such success, personally, as their + abilities and weight may obtain for them; but Party, I assert, will now + rule Ireland, not with any regard to Irish interests or objects, but + simply to put this man into power, and to put that man out. Now I, my + Lord, humble as my station is, have no fancy for such contests as these,—contests + in which the advantages of my country will always be subordinate to some + Cabinet intrigue or Ministerial stratagem. To-day, the Government may find + it suit their views to administer the affairs of Ireland ably, justly, and + fearlessly; to-morrow, a powerful faction may spring up here, who, by + intimidation without, and by votes within the House, shall be able to + thwart the administration in their Home measures. What will happen then? + This faction will be bought off. By concessions to them <i>in Ireland</i>, + they will obtain all their demands, for the sake of pliancy about + interests of which they care little, and know nothing. This will succeed + for a time; the 'King's Government' will go well and flippantly on; you + may tax the people, promote your followers, and bully your opponents to + your heart's content: but, meanwhile, Ireland will be gaining on you; your + allies, grown exacting by triumph, will ask more than you dare, or even + have, to give; and the question will then arise, that the party who + aspires to power must bid for it by further concession; and who is to + vouch for the moderation of such demands, or what limit will there be to + them? I see a train of such evils in the vista; and although I neither + pretend to think our domestic legislature safe nor faultless, I think the + dangers we have before us are even greater than such as would spring from + an Irish Parliament.” + </p> + <p> + Lord Netherby listened with great impatience—as perhaps the reader + may have done also—to this declaration of the Knight's views, and + was about to reply, when suddenly a cheer from some country people, + stationed on a rocky height at a short distance, drew all eyes towards the + valley, where now the hounds were seen in full cry, three horsemen alone + following. One of these was the huntsman; Lionel another; the third was in + plain clothes, and not known to any of the party. He was mounted on a + powerful horse, and even at that distance could be seen to manage him with + the address of a perfect rider. The rest of the field were far behind, + some still standing on the verge of a mountain torrent, which appeared to + have formed the obstacle to the run, and into which more than one seemed + to have fallen. + </p> + <p> + Groups were gathered here and there along the bank, and dismounted horses + galloped wildly to and fro, showing that the catastrophes had been + numerous. While Lord Netherby looked with some alarm at the fearful chasm + which had arrested all but three out of the entire field, the Knight + followed Lionel with anxious eyes, as he led over the most desperate line + of country in the West. + </p> + <p> + “I never knew a fox take that line but once,” said Darcy, pointing to a + wide expanse of bleak country, which stretched away to the base of the + great mountain of Nephin. “I was a child at the time, but I remember the + occurrence well; horse, men, and hounds tailed off one by one, some sorely + injured, others dead beat, for the fellow was a most powerful dog-fox, and + ran straight ahead for thirty-four miles of a desperate country. The + following morning, at a little after daybreak, the fox was seen in a half + trot near Ballycroy, still followed by two of the dogs, and he lived many + years afterwards as a pensioner at the abbey; the dogs were never worth + anything from that day.” + </p> + <p> + While the Knight related this anecdote, the hounds and the hunters were + gradually receding from view; and although at intervals some thought they + could catch glimpses of them, at last they disappeared altogether. + </p> + <p> + “I am sorry, Helen,” said the Knight, “that our visitors should have been + so unfortunate in their sport.” + </p> + <p> + “I am more grieved to think that Lionel should follow over such a + country,” said Lord Netherby. + </p> + <p> + “He's well mounted, my Lord; and though many would call him a reckless + rider, he has as much judgment as he has daring. I am tolerably easy about + him.” + </p> + <p> + Helen did not seem so confident as her father; and as for Mrs. Somerville, + she was considerably paler than usual, and managed her mettlesome horse + with far less than her customary address. + </p> + <p> + As well to meet their friends who were thrown out, as to show some of the + scenery of the coast, the Knight proposed they should retrace their steps + for a short distance, and take a view of the bay on their way back to the + abbey. Leaving them, therefore, to follow their route, and not delaying + our reader by an account of the various excuses of the discomfited, or the + banterings of Tom Nolan, we will turn to the wide plain, where, still in + full cry, the dogs pursued their game. + </p> + <p> + The Knight had not exaggerated when calling it a dreadful country to ride + over; yawning trenches, deep enough to engulf horse and rider, were cut in + the bog, and frequently so close together that, in clearing one, a few + strides more presented another; the ground itself, only in part reclaimed, + was deep and heavy, demanding great strength both of horse and horseman. + Through this dangerous and intricate track the fox serpentined and wound + his way with practised cunning, while at every turning some unlucky hound + would miss his spring, or lose his footing in the slippery soil, and their + cries could be heard far over the plain, as they struggled in vain to + escape from a deep trench. It was in such an endeavor that a hound was + catching at the bank with his fore-legs, as the huntsman dashed forward to + take the leap; the horse, suddenly taking fright, swerved, and, before he + could recover, the frail ground gave way, and the animal plunged headlong + down, fortunately flinging bis rider over the head on the opposite bank. + </p> + <p> + “All safe, Bob?” cried Lionel, as he turned in his saddle. But he had no + time for more, for the strange rider was fast nearing on him, and the + chase had now become a trial of speed and skill. By degrees they emerged + from this unsafe tract and gained the grass country, where high ditches + and stone walls presented a more fair, but scarcely less dangerous, kind + of fencing. Here the stranger made an effort to pass Lionel and take the + lead, and more than once they took their leaps exactly side by side. + </p> + <p> + As they rode along close to each other, Lionel from time to time caught + glimpses of his companion, who was a strong-built man of five-and-thirty, + frank and fresh-looking, but clearly not of the rank of gentleman. His + horse was a powerful thoroughbred, with more bone than is usually found in + Irish breeding, and trained to perfection. + </p> + <p> + “Now, sir,” said the stranger, “we're coming near the Crumpawn river; that + line of mist yonder is over the torrent. I warn you, the leap is a big + one.” + </p> + <p> + Lionel turned a haughty glance towards the man, for there was a tone of + assumed superiority in the words he could ill brook. That instant, + however, his eyes were directed to the front, where the roaring of a + mountain stream mingled with the sharp cry of the hounds as they struggled + in the torrent, or fell back in their efforts to climb the steep bank. + </p> + <p> + “Ride him fairly at it,—no flinching; and d——me if I + care what your father was, I'll say you're a gentleman.” + </p> + <p> + Lionel bit his lip almost through with passion; and, had the occasion + permitted, the heavy stroke of his whip had fallen on a very different + quarter from his horse's flank; but he never uttered a word. + </p> + <p> + “Badly done! Never punish your horse at the stride!” said the fellow, who + seemed bent on provoking him. + </p> + <p> + Lionel bounded in his saddle at this taunt on his riding; but there was no + time for bandying words of anger; the roar of rushing water, and the misty + foam, proclaimed the torrent near. + </p> + <p> + “The best man is first over!” shouted the stranger, as he rushed at the + terrific chasm. Lionel dashed forward; so close were they, they could have + touched; when, with a wild cheer, the stranger gave his horse a tremendous + cut, and the animal bounded from the earth like a stag, and, soaring over + the mad torrent, descended lightly on the sward beyond. + </p> + <p> + Lionel had lifted his horse at the very same instant; but the treacherous + bank gave way beneath the animal's forelegs: he struggled dreadfully to + regain his footing, and, half rearing and half backing, tried to retire; + but the effort was in vain, the slippery earth carried him with it, and + down both horse and rider came into the stream. + </p> + <p> + “Keep his head to the current, and sit steady!” shouted the stranger, who + now watched the struggle with breathless eagerness. “Well done! well done!—don't + press him, he 'll do it himself.” + </p> + <p> + The counsel was wise, for the noble animal needed neither spur nor whip, + but breasted the white torrent with vigorous effort, sometimes plunging + madly above, and again sinking, all save the head, beneath the flood. At + last they reached the side, and the strong beast, with one bold spring, + placed his fore-legs on the high bank. This was the most dangerous moment, + for, unable to follow with his hind-legs, he stood opposed to the whole + force of the current, that threatened every instant to engulf him. + Lionel's efforts were tremendous; he lifted, he spurred, he strained, he + shouted, but all in vain: the animal, worn out by exertion, faltered, and + would have fallen back, when the stranger, springing from his saddle, + leaned over the bank, and, seizing Lionel by the collar, jerked him from + his horse. The beast, relieved of the weight, at once rallied and bounded + up the bank, where Lionel now found himself, stunned, but not senseless. + </p> + <p> + “Let them say what they like,” muttered the stranger, as he stood over + him, “you 're a devilish fine young fellow! D——me if I'll ever + think so much about good blood again!” + </p> + <p> + Lionel was too weak and too much exhausted to reply, and even his fingers + could scarcely close upon the whip he tried to grasp; yet, for all that, + the stranger's insolence sickened him to the very heart. Pride of race was + the strongest feeling of his nature, and this fellow seemed determined to + outrage it at every turn. + </p> + <p> + “Here, take a pull at this; you 'll be all right presently,” said the man, + as he presented a little leather flask to the youth's lips. But Lionel + repulsed the offer rudely, and turned his head away. “The more fool you!” + said he, coarsely; “your grandfather mixed many a worse-flavored one, and + charged more for it;” and, so saying, he emptied the measure at a draught. + </p> + <p> + Lionel pondered on the words for some seconds, and suddenly the thought + occurred to him that the stranger had mistaken him for another. “Ah! I see + it all now!” thought he, and he turned his head to undeceive him; when, + what was his surprise, as he looked up, to see that the fellow was gone. + Mounted on his own horse, he was leading Lionel's by the bridle, and, at a + smart trot, moving down the glen. + </p> + <p> + The young man sprang to his feet and shouted aloud; he even tried to + follow him; but both efforts were fruitless. At the turn of the road the + man halted, and, looking round, waved his hat as in sign of adieu; then, + moving forward, disappeared, while Lionel, his passion giving way to his + sense of the absurdity of the whole adventure, burst into a fit of hearty + laughter. + </p> + <p> + “I 'll be laughed at to the day of my death about this,” thought he, as he + turned his steps to seek the path homeward on foot. + </p> + <p> + It was late in the evening when Lionel reached the abbey. The guests had + for the most part left the dinner-room, and were dropping by twos and + threes into the drawing-room, when he made his appearance in the midst of + them, splashed and travel-stained from head to foot. + </p> + <p> + A burst of merry laughter rang out as they beheld his torn habiliments and + mud-colored dress, in which none joined more heartily than the Knight + himself, as he called aloud, “Well, Lionel, did you kill him, boy, or run + him to earth below Nephin?” + </p> + <p> + “By Jove, sir! if old Carney is safe, I think nobody has been killed + to-day.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, Bob is all right; he came back three hours ago. He has lamed + Scaltheen; but she 'll get over it.” + </p> + <p> + “But your own adventures,” interposed Lord Netherby; “for so they ought to + be, judging from the state of your toilet. Let us hear them.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, by all means,” added Beauclerk; “the huntsman says that the last he + saw of you was riding by the side of some one in green, with three of the + pack in front, the rest tailed off, and himself in a bog-hole.” + </p> + <p> + “But there was no one in green in the field,” said Crofton; “at least I + did not see any one riding, except the red coats.” + </p> + <p> + “Let us not be too critical about the color of the dress,” said Lord + Netherby; “I am sure it would puzzle any of us to pronounce on the exact + hue of Lionel's at this moment.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, Lionel, will you decide it?” said the Knight; “is the green man + apocryphal, or not?” + </p> + <p> + “I 'll decide nothing,” said Lionel, “till I get something to eat. Any one + that wishes to hear my exploits must come into the dinner-room;” and, so + saying, he arose, and walked into the parlor, where, under Tate's + superintendence, a little table was already spread for him beside the + fire. To the tempting fare before him the young man devoted all the energy + of a hunter's appetite, regardless of the crowd who had followed him from + the drawing-room, and stood in a circle around him. + </p> + <p> + Many were the jests, and sharp the raillery, on his singular appearance, + and certainly it presented a most ludicrous contrast with the massive + decorations of the table at which he sat, and the full dress of the party + around him. + </p> + <p> + “I remember,” said Lord Netherby, “seeing the King of France—when + such a functionary existed—eat his dinner in public on the terrace + of Versailles; but I confess, great as was my admiration of the monarch's + powers, I think Lionel exceeds them.” + </p> + <p> + “Another leg?” said Beauclerk, who, with knife and fork in hand, performed + the duty of carver. + </p> + <p> + “Why don't you say another turkey?” said Nolan; then, turning to Mrs. + Somerville, he added, “I am sure that negus is perfect.” + </p> + <p> + The pretty widow, who had been contributing, as she thought unobserved, to + Lionel's comfort, blushed deeply; and Lionel, at last roused from his + apathy, said, “I am ready now, ladies and gentlemen all, to satisfy every + reasonable demand upon your curiosity. But first, where is Mr. Beecham + O'Reilly?” + </p> + <p> + “He went home,” said the Knight; “he resisted all my efforts to detain him + to dinner.” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps he only came over to sell that horse,” said Nolan, in a half + whisper. + </p> + <p> + “I wish I had bought him, with all my heart,” said Lionel. + </p> + <p> + “Do you like him so much,” said the Knight, with a meaning smile. + </p> + <p> + “I sincerely hope you do,” said Lord Netherby, “for he is yours already,—at + least, if you will do me the honor to accept him; I often hoped to have + mounted you one day—” + </p> + <p> + “I accept him, my Lord,” interposed Lionel, “most willingly and most + gratefully. You have, literally speaking, mounted me 'one day,' and I very + much doubt if I ever mount the same animal another.” + </p> + <p> + “What! is he lame?—or staked?—did he break down?—is he a + devil to ride?” broke from several of the party. + </p> + <p> + “Not one of all these; but if you'll bestow five minutes' patience on me I + 'll perhaps inform you of a mode of being unhorsed, novel at least to most + fox-hunters.” With this, Lionel narrated the conclusion of the run, the + leap of the Crumpawn river, and the singular departure of his companion at + the end. + </p> + <p> + “Is this a practical joke, Knight?” said Lord Netherby. + </p> + <p> + “I think so, my Lord; one of those admirable jests which the statutes + record among their own Joe Millers.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you suspect he was a robber?” + </p> + <p> + “I confess it looks very like it.” + </p> + <p> + “I read the riddle otherwise,” said Lionel; “the fellow, whoever he was, + mistook me for somebody else, and there was evidently something more like + a reprisal than a theft in the whole transaction.” + </p> + <p> + “But you have really lost him?” said Beanclerk. + </p> + <p> + “When I assure you that I came home on foot, I hope that question is + answered.” + </p> + <p> + “By Jove! you have most singular ways of doing matters in this country,” + cried the colonel; “but I suppose when a man is used to Ireland, he gets + pretty much accustomed to hear of his horse being stolen away as well as + the fox.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! we'll chance upon him one of these days yet,” said the Knight; “I am + half of Lionel's mind myself now,—the thing does not look like a + robbery.” + </p> + <p> + “There's no end of the eccentricity of these people,” muttered Lord + Netherby to himself; “they can get into a towering passion and become half + mad about trifles, but they take a serious loss as coolly as possible.” + And with this reflection on national character he moved into the + drawing-room, where soon afterwards the party repaired to talk over + Lionel's adventure, with every turn that fancy or raillery could give it. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0030" id="link2HCH0030"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXX. BAGENAL DALY'S VISITORS + </h2> + <p> + It was at a late hour of a night, some days after this event occurred, + that Bagenal Daly sat closeted with Darcy's lawyer, endeavoring, by deep + and long thought, to rescue him from some at least of the perils that + threatened him. Each day, since the Knight's departure, had added to the + evil tidings of his fortune. While Gleeson had employed his powers of + attorney to withdraw large sums from the banker's hands, no information + could be had concerning the great loan he had raised from the London + company, nor was there to be found among the papers left behind him the + bond passed to Hickman, and which he should have received had the money + been paid. That such was the case, Bagenal Daly firmly believed; the + memorandum given him by Freney was corroborated by the testimony of the + clerks in two separate banking-houses, who both declared that Gleeson drew + these sums on the morning before he started for Kildare, and to one of + Daly's rapid habits of judgment such evidence was quite conclusive. This + view of the subject was, unhappily, not destined to continue undisturbed, + for, on the very morning after the Knight's departure from Dublin, came a + formal letter from Hickman's solicitor, demanding payment of the interest + on the sum of seventy-four thousand eight hundred and twenty pounds, odd + shillings, at five per cent, owing by seven weeks, and accompanying which + was a notice of foreclosure of the mortgage on the ensuing 17th of March, + in case the full sum aforesaid were not duly paid. + </p> + <p> + To meet these demands Daly well knew Darcy had no disposable property; the + large sums raised by Gleeson, at a lower rate of interest, were intended + for that purpose; and although he persisted in believing that this debt, + at least, was satisfied, the lawyer's opinion was strongly opposed to that + notion. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Bicknell was a shrewd man, deep not only in the lore of his + professional knowledge, but a keen scrutinizer of motives, and a + far-seeing observer of the world. He argued thus: Gleeson would never have + parted with such a sum on the eve of his own flight; a day was of no + consequence, he could easily have put off the payment to Hickman to the + time of the American ship's sailing—why, then, hand over so large an + amount, all in his possession? It was strange, of course, what had become + of the money; but then they heard that his servant had made his escape. + Why might not he have possessed himself of it after his master's suicide? + Who was to interfere or prevent it? Besides, if he had paid Hickman, the + bond would, in all likelihood, be forthcoming; to retain possession of it + could have been no object with Gleeson; he had met with nothing but kind + and friendly treatment from Darcy, and was not likely to repay him by an + act of useless, gratuitous cruelty. + </p> + <p> + As to the testimony of the bank clerks, it was as applicable to one view + of the case as the other. Gleeson would, of course, draw out everything at + his disposal; and although the sums tallied with those in the memorandum, + that signified little, as they were the full amount in each banker's hands + to the Knight's credit. Lastly, as to the memorandum, it was the only real + difficulty in the case; but that paper might have been in Gleeson's + possession, and in the course of business discussion either might have + been dropped inadvertently, or have been given to Hickman as explaining + the moneys already prepared for his acceptance. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Bicknell's reasonings were confirmed by the application of Hickman's + solicitors, who were men of considerable skill and great reputed caution. + “Harris and Long make no such mistakes as this, depend upon that, sir; + they see their case very clearly, or would never adventure on such an + application.” + </p> + <p> + “D——n their caution! The question is not of their shrewdness.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, but it is, though; we are weighing probabilities: let us see to + which side the balance inclines. Would they serve notice of foreclosure, + not knowing whether or not we had the receipt in our possession? That is + the whole matter.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't pretend to say what they would do, but I know well what I + should.” + </p> + <p> + “And pray what may that be?” + </p> + <p> + “Hold possession of the abbey, stand fast by the old walls, call in the + tenantry,—and they are ready to answer such a call at a moment, if + need be,—and while I proclaimed to the wide world by what right I + resisted, I 'd keep the place against any force they dared to bring. These + are ticklish times, Bicknell; the Government have just cheated this + country,—they 'd scarcely risk the hazard of a civil war for an old + usurer,—old Hickman would be left to his remedies in Banco or + Equity; and who knows what might turn up one day or other to strengthen + the honest cause?” + </p> + <p> + “I scarcely concur in your suggestion, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “How the devil should you? There are neither declarations to draw, nor + affidavits to swear, no motions, nor rules, nor replies, no declarations, + no special juries! No, Bicknell, I never suspected your approval of my + plan. It would not cost a single skin of parchment.” + </p> + <p> + Though Daly spoke this sarcasm bitterly, it produced no semblance of + irritation in the man of law, who was composedly occupied in perusing a + document before him. + </p> + <p> + “I have made memoranda,” said Bicknell, “of certain points for counsel's + opinion, and as soon as we can obtain some information as to the + authenticity of young Darcy's signature, we shall see our way more + clearly. The case is not only a complicated but a gloomy one; our + antagonists are acute and wealthy, and I own to you the prospect is far + from good.” + </p> + <p> + “The better counsel mine,” said Daly, sternly; “I have little faith in the + justice that hangs upon the intelligence of what you facetiously call + twelve honest men; methinks the world is scarcely so well supplied with + the commodity that they are sure to answer the call of the sheriff. It is + probable, however,—nay, it is more than probable,—Darcy will + be of your mind, and reject my advice; if so, there is nothing for it but + the judge and jury, and he will be despoiled of his property by the law of + the land.” + </p> + <p> + Bicknell knew too well the eccentric nature of Daly's character, in which + no feature was more prominent than his hatred of everything like the + recognized administration of the law, to offer him any opposition, and + merely repeating his previous determination to seek the advice of able + counsel, he took his leave. + </p> + <p> + “There is some deep mystery in this business,” said Daly to himself, as he + paced the room alone; “Bicknell is right in saying that Gleeson would not + have committed an act of unnecessary cruelty, nor, if he had paid the + money, would he have failed to leave the bond among his papers. Every + circumstance of this fellow's flight is enveloped in doubt, and Freney, + the only man who appears to have suspected his intention, by some + mischance is not now to be found; Sandy has not succeeded in meeting with + the boy, notwithstanding all his efforts. What can this be owing to? What + machinery is at work here? Have the Hick-mans their share in this?” Such + were the broken sentences he muttered, as, in turn, suspicions tracked + each other in his mind. + </p> + <p> + Daly was far too rash, and too impetuous in temper, to be well qualified + for an investigation of so much difficulty. Unable to weigh probabilities + with calmness, he was always the victim of his own prejudices in favor of + certain things and people; and to escape from the chaotic trouble of his + own harassed thoughts, he was ever ready to adopt some headlong and + desperate expedient, in preference to the quieter policy of more patient + minds. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, faith,” said he, “my plan is the best after all; and who knows but + by showing the bold front we may reduce old Hickman's pretensions, or at + least make a compromise with him. There are plenty of arms and ammunition,—eight + stout fellows would hold the inner gate tower against a battalion,—we + could raise the country from Mur-risk to Killery Harbor; and one gun fired + from the Boat Quay would bring the fishermen from Clare Island and Achill + to the rescue,—we 'd soon make a signal they 'd recognize; old + Hickman's house, with all its porticos and verandas, would burn like + tinder. If they are for law, let them begin, then.” + </p> + <p> + The door opened as he spoke these words, and Sandy entered cautiously. + “There is a countryman without wha says he's come a long way to see your + honor, and maun see you this night.” + </p> + <p> + “Where from?” + </p> + <p> + “Fra' the West, I think, for he said the roads were heavy down in them + parts.” + </p> + <p> + “Let him come in,” said Daly; and, with his hands crossed behind his back, + he continued to walk the room. “Some poor fellow for a renewal of his + lease, or an abatement, or something of that kind,—they 'll never + learn that I 'm no longer the owner of that estate that still bears my + name, and they cling to me as though I had the power to assist them, when + I'm defenceless for myself. Well, what is it? Speak out, man,—what + do you want with me?” + </p> + <p> + The individual to whom this question was addressed stood with his back to + the door, which he had cautiously shut close on entering, but, instead of + returning an answer to the question, he cast a long and searching glance + around the room, as if to ascertain whether any other person was in it. + The apartment was large, and, being dimly lighted, it took some time to + assure him that they were alone; but when he had so satisfied himself-, he + walked slowly forward into the light, and, throwing open his loose coat of + gray frieze, exhibited the well-known figure of Freney the robber. + </p> + <p> + “What, Freney!—the man of all Ireland I wish to see.” + </p> + <p> + “I thought so, sir,” said the other, wiping his forehead with his hand, + for he was flushed and heated, and seemed to have come off a long journey. + “I know you sent for me, but I was unable to meet your messenger, and I + can seldom venture to send that young villain Jemmy into the capital,—the + police are beginning to know him, and he 'll be caught one of these days.” + </p> + <p> + “You were n't in Kildare, then?” said Daly. + </p> + <p> + “No, sir, I was in the far West,—down in Mayo. I had a little + business in Ballina a short time back, and some fellow who knew me, and + thought the game a safe one, stole my brown horse out of the inn-stable, + in the broad noon-day, and sold him at the fair green at Ballinasloe. When + I tell you that he was the best animal I ever crossed, I need n't say what + the loss was to me; the nags you saw were broken-down hackneys in + comparison. He was strong in bone and untiring, and I kept him for the + heavy country around Boyle and down by Longford. It is not once, nor + twice, but a dozen times, Matchlock has saved me from a loop and a leap in + the air; but the rascal that took him well knew the theft was safe,—Freney, + the highwayman, could scarcely lodge informations with a magistrate.” + </p> + <p> + “And you never could hear traces of him?” “Yes, that I did, but it cost me + time and trouble too. I found that he was twice sold within one week. Dean + Harris bought him, and sold him the day after.” Here Freney gave a low + cunning laugh, while his eyes twinkled with malignant drollery. + </p> + <p> + “He did n't think as highly of him as you did, Freney?” “Perhaps he had + n't as good reason,” said the robber, laughing. “He was riding home from + an early dinner with the bishop, and as he was cantering along the side of + the road, a chaise with four horses came tearing past. Matchlock, true to + his old instinct, but not knowing who was on his back, broke into a + gallop, and in half a dozen strides brought the dean close up to the + chaise window, when the traveller inside sent a bullet past his ear that + very nearly made a vacancy in the best living of the diocese. As I said, + sir, the dean had had enough of him; he sold him the next morning, and + that day week he was bought by a young fellow in the West whom I found out + to be a grandson of old Hickman.” + </p> + <p> + “Was he able to ride a horse like this?” said Daly, doubtfully. + </p> + <p> + “Ride him?—ay; and never a man in the province brought a beast to a + leap with a lighter hand and a closer seat in the saddle. We were side by + side for three miles of a stiff country, and I don't believe I 'm much of + a coward,—at any rate, I set very little value on my neck; but, I + 'll tell you what, sir, he pushed me hard.” + </p> + <p> + “How was this, then? Had you a race together?” “It was something very like + it, sir,” said Freney, laughing; “for when I reached Westport, I heard + that young O'Reilly was to ride a new brown horse that day with the + hounds, and a great hunt was expected, to show some English gentlemen who + were staying at Gwynne Abbey. So I went off early to Hooley's forge, near + the cross-roads, to see the meet, and look out for my man. I did n't want + any one to tell me which he was, for I 'd know Matchlock at half a mile + distance. There he was, in splendid condition too, and looking as I never + saw him look before; by my conscience, Mr. Daly, there's a wide difference + between the life of a beast in the stables of a county member, and one + that has to stretch his bones in the shealing of such as myself. My plan + was to go down to the cover, and the moment the fox broke away, to drive a + bullet through my horse's head, and be off as hard as I could; for, to + tell you the truth, it was spite more than the value of him was grieving + me; so I took my own horse by the bridle, and walked down to where they + were all gathered. I was scarcely there when the dogs gave tongue, and + away they went,—a grand sight it was, more than a hundred red-coats, + and riding close every man of them. Just then, up comes Matchlock, and + takes the fence into the field where I was standing, a stone wall and a + ditch, his rider handling him elegantly, and with an easy smile, sitting + down in his saddle as if it was child's play. Faith, I could n't bring + myself to fire the shot, partly for the sake of the horse, more too, + maybe, for the sake of the rider. 'I 'll go a bit beside him,' said I to + myself; for it was a real pleasure to me to watch the way how both knew + their business well. I 'm making a long story of it, but the end of it was + this: I took the Crumpawn river just to dare him, and divil a bit but he + fell in,—no fault of his, but the bank was rotten, and down they + went; the young fellow had a narrow escape of it, but he got through it at + last, and, as he lay on the grass more dead than alive, I saw Matchlock + grazing just close to me. Temptations are bad things, Mr. Daly, + particularly when a man has never trained himself off them; so I slipped + the bridle over his head, and rode away with him beside me.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="linkimage-0013" id="linkimage-0013"> + <!-- IMG --></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%;"> + <img src="images/368.jpg" width="100%" alt="368 " /> + </div> + <p> + “Carried him off?” + </p> + <p> + “Clean and clever; he's at the hall-door this minute: and, by the same + token, sixty-four miles he has covered this day.” + </p> + <p> + “There's only one part of the whole story surprises me; it is that this + fellow should have ridden so boldly and so well. I know such courage is + often no more than habit: yet even that lower quality of daring I never + should have given him credit for. Was he hurt by his fall?” + </p> + <p> + “Stunned, perhaps, but nothing the worse.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, well, enough of him. I wanted to see you, Freney, to learn anything + you may know of this fellow Gleeson's flight. It's a sad affair for my + friend the Knight of Gwynne.” + </p> + <p> + “So I've heard, sir. It's bad enough for myself, too.” + </p> + <p> + “For you! He was not your man of business, was he?” said Daly, with a sly + laugh. + </p> + <p> + “No, sir, I generally manage my money matters myself; but he happened to + have a butler, one Garrett by name, who betted smartly on the turf, and + played a little with the bones besides. He was a steady-going chap that + knew a thing or two, but honest enough in booking up when he lost; he + borrowed two hundred from me on the very day they started; he owed me + nearly three besides, and I never saw him since. They say that when his + master jumped overboard, Jack Garrett laid hands on all his property, and + sailed for America; but I don't believe it, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, but, Freney, you may believe it, for I was the means of an + investigation at Liverpool in which the fact transpired, and the name of + John Garrett was entered in the ship-agent's books; I read it there + myself.” + </p> + <p> + “No matter for that, he dared not venture into the States. I know + something of Jack's doings among the Yankees, and depend upon it, Mr. + Daly, he's not gone; it's only a blind to stop pursuit.” + </p> + <p> + Daly shook his head dubiously, for, having satisfied himself of Garrett's + escape when at Liverpool, he felt annoyed at any discredit attaching to + what he deemed his own discovery. + </p> + <p> + “Take my word for it, Mr. Daly, I 'm right this time; you cannot think + what an advantage a man like me possesses in guessing at the way another + rogue would play his game. Why, sir, I know every turn and double such a + fellow as Garrett would make. Now, I 'd wager Matchlock against a + car-horse that he has not left England, and I 'd take an even bet he 'll + be at the Spring Meeting at Doncaster.” + </p> + <p> + “This may be all as you say, Freney,” said Daly, after a pause, “and yet I + see no reason to suppose it can interest me, or my friend either. He might + know something of Gleeson's affairs; he might, perhaps, be able to tell + something of the payment of that sum at Kildare; if so—” + </p> + <p> + “If so,” interrupted Freney, “money would buy the secret; at all events, + I'm determined he shall not escape me so easily. I 'll follow the fellow + to the very threshold of Newgate but I 'll have my own,—it is for + that purpose I 'm on my way now. A fishing-boat will sail from Howth by + to-morrow's tide, and land me somewhere on the Welsh coast, and, if I can + serve you, why, it's only doing two jobs at the same time. What are the + points you are anxious to discover?” + </p> + <p> + Daly reflected for a few moments, and then with distinctness detailed the + several matters on which he desired information, not only regarding the + reasons of Gleeson's embarrassments, but the nature of his intimacy with + old Hickman, of which he entertained deep suspicions. + </p> + <p> + “I see it all,” said Freney. “You think that Gleeson was in league with + the doctor?” + </p> + <p> + Daly nodded. + </p> + <p> + “That was my own notion, too. Ah, sir, if I 'd only the King's pardon in + my pocket this night, and the power of an honest man for one month, I 'd + stake my head on it, but I would have the whole mystery as clear as + water.” + </p> + <p> + “You 'll want some money, Freney,” said Daly, as he turned to the table, + and, taking up a key, unlocked the writing-case. “I 'm not as rich just + now as a Member of Parliament might be after such a Bill as the Union, but + I hope this may be of some service;” and he took a fifty-pound note from + the desk to hand it to him, but Freney was gone. He had slipped + noiselessly from the room; the bang of the hall-door was heard at the + instant, and immediately after the tramp of a horse as he trotted down the + street. + </p> + <p> + “The world all over!” said Daly to himself. “If the man of honor and + integrity has his flaws and defects, even fellows like that have their + notions of principle and delicacy too. Confound it! mankind will never let + me love or hate them.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0031" id="link2HCH0031"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXI. “A LEAVE-TAKING.” + </h2> + <p> + At Gwynne Abbey, time sped fast and pleasantly; each day brought its own + enjoyments, and of the Knight's guests there was not one who did not in + his heart believe that Maurice Darcy was the very happiest man in the + kingdom. + </p> + <p> + Lord Netherby, the frigid courtier, felt, for the first time, perhaps, in + his life, how much cordiality can heighten the pleasures of social + intercourse, and how the courtesy of kind feeling can add to the + enjoyments of refined and cultivated tastes. Lady Eleanor had lost nothing + of the powers of fascination for which her youth had been celebrated, and + there was, in the very seclusion of her life, that which gave the charm of + novelty to her remarks on people and events. The Knight himself, abounding + in resources of every kind, was a companion the most fastidious or + exacting could not weary of; and as for Helen, her captivations were + acknowledged by those who, but a week before, would not have admitted the + possibility of any excellence that had not received the stamp of London + approval. + </p> + <p> + Crofton could never expatiate sufficiently on the delights of an + establishment which, with the best cook, the best cellar, and the best + stable, called not upon him for the exercise of the small talents and + petty attentions by which his invitations to great houses were usually + purchased; while the younger men of the party agreed in regarding their + friend Lionel as the most to be envied of all their acquaintance. + </p> + <p> + Happiness, perhaps, shines more brightly by reflected light; certainly + Lionel Darcy never felt more disposed to be content with the world, and, + although not devoid of a natural pride at exhibiting to his English + friends the style of his father's house and habits, yet was he far more + delighted at the praises he heard on every side of the Knight himself. + Maurice Darcy possessed that rarest of all gifts, the power of being a + delightful companion to younger men, without ever detracting in the + slightest degree from the most rigid tone of good taste and good + principle. The observation may seem an illiberal one, but it is unhappily + too true, that even among those who from right feeling would be incapable + of anything mean or sordid, there often prevails a laxity in expression + and a libertinism of sentiment very far remote from their real opinions, + and, consequently, such as flatter this tendency are frequently the + greatest favorites among them. The Knight, not less from high principle + than pride, rejected every such claim; his manly, joyous temperament + needed no aids to its powers of interesting and amusing; his sympathies + went with young men in all their enthusiasm for sport; he gloried in the + exuberance of their high spirits, and felt his own youth come back in the + eager pleasure with which he listened to their plans of amusement. + </p> + <p> + It may well be believed with what sorrow to each the morning dawned that + was to be the last of their visit. These last times are sad things! They + are the deaths of our affections and attachments; for assuredly the memory + we retain of past pleasures is only the unreal spirit of a world we are to + know of no more,—not alone the records of friends lost or dead, but + of ourselves, such as we once were, and can never again be; of a time when + hope was fed by credulity, and could not be exhausted by disappointment. + They must have had but a brief experience of life who do not see in every + separation from friends the many chances against their meeting again, + least of all, of meeting unchanged, with all around them as they parted. + </p> + <p> + These thoughts, and others like them, weighed heavily on the hearts of + those who now assembled for the last time beneath the roof of Gwynne + Abbey. + </p> + <p> + It was in vain that Lionel suggested various schemes of pleasure for the + day; the remembrance that it was the last was ever present, and while + every moment seemed precious, there was a fidgety impatience to be about + and stirring, mingled with a desire to loiter and linger over the spot so + associated with pleasant memories. + </p> + <p> + A boating party to Clare Island, long planned and talked over, could find + now no advocates. All Lionel's descriptions of the shooting along the + rocky shores of the bay were heard unheeded; every one clung to the abbey, + as if to enjoy to the very last the sense of home happiness they had known + there. Even those less likely to indulge feelings of attachment were not + free from the depressing influence of a last day. Nor were these + sentiments confined to the visitors only. Lady Eleanor experienced a + return of her former spirits in her intercourse with those whose habits + and opinions all reminded her of the past, and would gladly have prolonged + a visit so full of pleasant recollections. The request was, however, in + vain; the Earl was to be in waiting early in the following week, Lionel's + leave was only regimental, and equally limited, and each of the others had + engagements and projects no less fixed and immutable. + </p> + <p> + In little knots of two and three they spent the day wandering about from + place to place, to take a last look of the great cliff, to visit for the + last time the little wood path, whose every turning presented some new + aspect of the bay and the shore. Lord Netherby attached himself to the + Knight, devoting himself with a most laudable martyrdom to a morning in + the farm-yard and the stable, where, notwithstanding all his efforts, his + blunders betrayed how ill-suited were his habits to country life and its + interests. He bore all, however, well and heroically, for he had an object + in view, and that, with him, was always sufficient to induce any degree of + endurance. Up to this moment he had scarcely enjoyed an opportunity of + conversing with the Knight on the subject of politics. The few words they + had exchanged at the cover side were all that passed between them, and + although they conveyed sentiments very remote from his own, he did not + entirely despair of gaining over one who evidently was less actuated by + party motives than impressed by the force of strong personal convictions. + </p> + <p> + “Such a man will, of course,” thought the Earl, “be in the Imperial + Parliament, and carry with him great influence on every question connected + with Ireland; his support of the Ministry will be all the more valuable + that his reputation is intact from every stain of corruption. To withdraw + him from his own country by the seductions of London life would not be + easy, but he may be attached to England by ties still more binding.” Such + were some of the reasonings which the wily peer revolved in his mind, and + to whose aid a fortunate accident had in some measure contributed. + </p> + <p> + “I believe I have never shown you our garden, my Lord,” said the Knight, + who, at last taking compassion on the suffering complaisance of the Earl, + proposed this change. “The season is scarcely the most flattering, but we + are early in this part of Ireland. What say you if we walk thither?” + </p> + <p> + The plan was at once approved of, and after a short circuit through a + shrubbery, they crossed a large orchard, and, ascending a gentle slope, + they entered the garden, which rose in successive terraces behind the + abbey, and commanded a wide prospect over the bay and the sea beyond it. + Lord Netherby's admiration was not feigned, as he turned his eyes around + and beheld the extent and beauty of that cultivated scene, which, in the + brightness of a spring morning, glittered like a gem on the mountain's + side. The taste alone was not the engrossing thought of his mind, but he + reflected on the immense expenditure such a caprice must have cost, + terraced as the ground was into the very granite rock, and the earth all + supplied artificially. The very keeping these parterres in order was a + thing of no mean cost. Not all the terrors of his own approaching fate + could deprive Darcy of a sense of pride as he watched the expression of + the Earl's features, surprise and wonder depicted in every lineament. + </p> + <p> + “How extensive the park is,” said the courtier, at length, half ashamed, + as it seemed, of giving way to his amazement; “are those trees yonder + within your grounds?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, my Lord: the wood at that point where you see the foam splashing up + is our limit in that direction; on this side we stretch away somewhat + further.” + </p> + <p> + “Whose property, then, have we yonder, where I see the village?” + </p> + <p> + “It is all the Gwynne estate,” said the Knight, with difficulty repressing + the sigh that rose as he spoke. + </p> + <p> + “And the town?” + </p> + <p> + “The town also. The worthy monks took a wide circuit, and, by all + accounts, did not misuse their wealth. I sadly fear, my Lord, their + successors were not as blameless.” + </p> + <p> + “A noble possession, indeed!” said the Earl, half aloud, and not attending + to Darcy's remark. “Are you certain, my dear Knight, that you have made + your political influence at all commensurate with the amount of either + your property or your talents? An English gentleman with an estate like + this, and ability such as yours, might command any position he pleased.” + </p> + <p> + “In other words, my Lord, he might barter his independence for the + exercise of a precarious power, and, in ceasing to dispense the duties of + a landed proprietor, he might become a very considerable ingredient in a + party.” + </p> + <p> + “I hope you do not deem the devoir of a country gentleman incompatible + with the duties of a statesman?” + </p> + <p> + “By no means; but I greatly regret the gradual desertion of social + influence in the search after political ascendency. I am not for the + working of a system that spoils the gentry, and yet does not make them + statesmen.” + </p> + <p> + “And yet the very essence of our Constitution is to connect the power of + Government with the possession of landed property.” + </p> + <p> + “And justly so, too; none other offers so little in return as a mere + speculation. None is so little exposed to the casualties which affect + every other kind of wealth. The legitimate influence of the landed gentry + is the safeguard of the State; but if, by the attractions of power, the + flatteries of a Court, or the seductions of Party, you withdraw them from + the rightful sphere of its exercise, you reduce them to the level of the + Borough members, without, perhaps, their technical knowledge or + professional acquirements. I am for giving them a higher position,—the + heritage of the bold barons, from whom they are descended: but to maintain + this, they must live on their own estates, dispense the influences of + their wealth and their morals in their own native districts, be the friend + of the poor man, the counsellor of the misguided, the encourager of the + weak; know and be known to all around, not as the corrupt dispensers of + Government patronage, but the guardians of those whose rights are in their + keeping for defence and protection. I would have them with their rightful + influence in the Senate; an influence which should preponderate in both + Houses. Their rank and education would be the best guarantee for the + safety and wisdom of their counsels, their property the best surety for + the permanence of the institutions of the State. Suddenly acquired wealth + can scarcely be intrusted with political power; it lacks the element of + prudent caution, by which property is maintained as well as accumulated; + it wants also the prestige of antiquity as a claim to respect; and, + legislate as you will, men will look back as well as forward.” + </p> + <p> + Lord Netherby made no reply; he thought the Knight, perhaps, was venting + his own regrets at the downfall of a political ascendency he wished to see + vested in men of his own station,—a position they had long enjoyed, + and which, in some respects, had placed them above the law. + </p> + <p> + “You lay more store by such ties, Knight,” said the Earl, in a low, + insinuating voice, “than we are accustomed to do. Blood and birth have + suffered less admixture with mere wealth here than with us.” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps we do, my Lord,” said Darcy, smiling; “it is the compensation for + our poverty. Unmixed descent is the boast of many who have retained + nothing of their ancestors save the name.” + </p> + <p> + “But you yourself can scarcely be an advocate for the maintenance of these + opinions: this spirit of clan and chieftainship is opposed, not only to + progress, but to liberty.” + </p> + <p> + “I have given the best proof of the contrary,” said Darcy, laughing, “by + marrying an Englishwoman,—a dereliction, I assure you, that cost me + many a warm supporter in this very country.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed! By the way, I am reminded of a subject I wished to speak of to + you, and which I have been hesitating whether I should open with my cousin + Eleanor or yourself; the moment seems, however, propitious,—may I + broach it?” + </p> + <p> + Darcy bowed courteously, and the other resumed:— + </p> + <p> + “I will be brief, then. Young Beauclerk, a friend of your son Lionel, has + been, as every one younger and older than himself must be, greatly taken + by the charms of Miss Darcy. Brief as the acquaintance here has been, the + poor fellow is desperately in love, and, while feeling how such an + acknowledgment might prejudice his chance of success on so short an + intimacy, he cannot leave this without the effort to secure for his + pretensions a favorable hearing hereafter. In fact, my dear Knight, he has + asked of me to be his intercessor with you,—not to receive him as a + son-in-law, but to permit him to pay such attentions as, in the event of + your daughter's acceptance, may enable him to make the offer of his hand + and fortune. I need not tell you that in point of position and means he is + unexceptionable; a very old Baronetcy,—not one of these yesterday + creations made up of State Physicians and Surgeons in Ordinary,—an + estate of above twelve thousand a year. Such are claims to look high with; + but I confess I think he could not lay them at the feet of one more + captivating than my fair Helen.” + </p> + <p> + Darcy made no reply for several minutes; he pressed his hand across his + eyes, and turned his head away, as if to escape observation; then, with an + effort that seemed to demand all his strength, he said,— + </p> + <p> + “This is impossible, my Lord. There are reasons—there are + circumstances why I cannot entertain this proposition. I am not able to + explain them; a few days more, and I need not trouble myself on that + subject.” + </p> + <p> + The evident agitation of manner the Knight displayed astonished his + companion, who, while he forebore to ask more directly for its reason, yet + gently hinted that the obstacles alluded to might be less stringent than + Darcy deemed them. + </p> + <p> + Darcy shook his head mournfully, and Lord Netherby, though most anxious to + divine the secret of his thoughts, had too much breeding to continue the + subject. + </p> + <p> + Without any abruptness, which might have left an unpleasant impression + after it, the polished courtier once more adverted to Beauclerk, but + rather in a tone of regret for the youth's own sake than with any + reference to the Knight's refusal. + </p> + <p> + “There was a kind of selfishness in my advocacy, Knight,” said he, + smiling. “I was—I am—very much depressed at quitting a spot + where I have tasted more true happiness than it has been my fortune for + many years to know, and I wish to carry away with me the reflection that I + had left the germ of even greater happiness behind me; if Helen, however—” + </p> + <p> + “Hush!” said Darcy; “here she comes, with her mother.” + </p> + <p> + “My dear Lady Eleanor,” said Lord Netherby, “you have come to see me + forget all the worldliness it has cost me a life to learn, and actually + confess that I cannot tear myself away from the abbey.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, my Lord,” interposed Tom Nolan, who had just come up with a large + walking party, “I suppose it's only ordering away the posters, and staying + another day.” + </p> + <p> + “No, no, by Jove!” cried Crofton; “my Lord is in waiting, and I'm on + duty.” + </p> + <p> + While the groups now gathered together from the different parts of the + garden, Lord Netherby joined Beauclerk, who awaited him in a distant + alley, and soon after the youth was seen returning alone to the abbey. + </p> + <p> + The time of bustle and leave-taking—that moment when many a false + smile and merry speech ill conceals the secret sorrow—was come, and + each after each spoke his farewell; and Lord Netherby, kindly pledging + himself to make Lionel's peace at the Horse Guards for an extended absence + of some days, thus conferred upon Lady Eleanor the very greatest of + favors. + </p> + <p> + “Our next meeting is to be in London, remember,” said the peer, in his + blandest accents. “I stand pledged to show my countrymen that I have + nothing extenuated in speaking of Irish beauty;—nay, Helen, it is my + last time, forgive it.” + </p> + <p> + “There they go,” said Darcy, as he looked after the retiring equipages. + “Now, Eleanor, and my dear children, come along with me into the library. + I have long been struggling against a secret sorrow; another moment would + be more than I could bear.” + </p> + <p> + They turned silently towards the abbey, none daring, even by a look, to + interrogate him whose sad accents foreboded so much evil; yet as they + walked they drew closer around him, and seemed even by that gesture to + show that, come what might, they would meet their fortune boldly. + </p> + <p> + Darcy moved on for some minutes sunk in thought; but as he ascended the + wide steps of the terrace, appearing to read the motives of those who + clung so closely to his side, he smiled sadly, and said, “Ay! I knew it + well,—in weal or woe—together!” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0032" id="link2HCH0032"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXII. “SAD DISCLOSURES.” + </h2> + <p> + The vicissitudes of life are never more palpably displayed before us than + when the space of a few brief hours has converted the scene of festivity + and pleasure into one of gloom and sorrow, when the same silent witnesses + of our joy should be present at our affliction. Thus was it now in the + richly adorned chambers of Gwynne Abbey, so lately filled with happy faces + and resounding with pleasant voices,—all was silent. Iu the + courtyard, but a day before crowded with brilliant equipages and gay + horsemen, the long shadows lay dark and unbroken, and the plash of the + fountain was the only sound in the stillness. Over that wide lawn no + groups on foot or horseback were to be seen; the landscape was fair and + soft to look upon; the mild radiance of a spring morning beamed on the + water and the shore, the fresh budding trees, and the tall towers; and the + passing traveller who might have stopped to gaze upon that princely + dwelling and its swelling woods, might have thought it an earthly + paradise, and that they who owned it must needs be above worldly cares and + afflictions. + </p> + <p> + The scene within the walls was very unlike this impression. In a darkened + room, where the close-drawn curtains excluded every ray of sunshine, sat + Helen Darcy by the bedside of her mother. Lady Eleanor had fallen asleep + after a night of intense suffering, both of mind and body, and her repose + even yet exhibited, in short and fitful starts, the terrible traces of an + agony not yet subdued. Helen was pale as death; two dark circles of almost + purple hue surrounded her eyes, and her cheeks seemed wasted: yet she had + not wept. The overwhelming amount of misfortune had stunned her for a + moment or two, but, recalled to active exertion by her mother's illness, + she addressed herself to her task, and seemed to have no thought or care + save to watch and tend her. It was only at last when, wearied out by + suffering, Lady Eleanor fell into a slumber that Helen's feelings found + their vent, and the tears rolled heavily along her cheek, and dropped one + by one upon her neck. + </p> + <p> + Her sorrow was indeed great, for it was unalloyed by one selfish feeling; + her grief was for those a thousand times more dear to her than herself, + nor through all her affliction did a single thought intrude of how this + ruin was also her own. + </p> + <p> + The Knight was in the library, where he had passed the night, lying down + at short intervals to catch some moments' rest, and again rising to walk + the room and reflect upon the coming stroke of fortune. Lionel had parted + from him at a late hour, promising to go to bed; but, unable to endure the + gloom of his own thoughts in his chamber, he wandered out into the woods, + and strolled on without knowing or caring whither, till day broke. The + bodily exertion at length induced sleep, and after a few hours' deep + repose he joined his father, with few traces of weariness or even sorrow. + </p> + <p> + It was not without a struggle on either side that they met on that + morning, and as Darcy grasped his son's hand in both his own, his lip + trembled, and his strong frame shook with agitation. Lionel's ruddy cheek + and clear blue eye seemed to reassure the old man's courage; and after + gazing on him steadfastly with a look where fatherly love and pride were + blended, he said, “I see, my boy, the old blood of a Darcy has not + degenerated—you are well to-day?” + </p> + <p> + “Never was better in my life,” said Lionel, boldly; “and if I could only + think that you, my mother, and Helen had no cause for sorrow, I 'd almost + say I never felt my spirits higher.” + </p> + <p> + “My own brave-hearted boy,” said Darcy, throwing his arms around the + youth's neck, while the tears gushed from his eyes and a choking stopped + his utterance. + </p> + <p> + “I see your letters have come,” said Lionel, gently disengaging himself, + and affecting a degree of calmness his heart was very far from feeling. + “Do they bring us any news?” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing to hope from,” said Darcy, sorrowfully. “Daly has seen Hickman's + solicitors, and the matter is as I expected: Gleeson did not pay the bond + debt; his journey to Kildare was, probably, undertaken to gain time until + the moment of the American ship's sailing. He must have meditated this + step for a considerable time, for it now appears that his losses in South + America occurred several years back, though carefully screened from public + knowledge. The man was a cold, calculating scoundrel, who practised + peculation systematically and slowly; his resolve to escape was not a + sudden notion,—these are Bagenal Daly's impressions at least, and I + begin to feel their force myself.” + </p> + <p> + “Does Daly offer any suggestion for our guidance, or say how we should + act?” said Lionel, far more eager to meet the present than speculate on + either the past or the future. + </p> + <p> + “Yes; he gives us a choice of counsels, honestly confessing that his own + advice meets little support or sympathy with the lawyers. It is to hold + forcible possession of the abbey, to leave Hickman to his remedy by law, + and to defy him when he has even got a verdict; he enumerates very + circumstantially all our means of defence, and exhibits a very hopeful + array of lawless probabilities in our favor. But this is a counsel I would + never follow; it would not become one who has in a long life endeavored to + set the example among the people of obedience and observance to law, to + obliterate by one act of rashness and folly the whole force of his + teaching. No, Lionel, we are cleanhanded on this score, and if the lesson, + be a heavy one for ourselves, let it not be profitless for our poor + neighbors. This is your own feeling too, my boy, I'm certain.” + </p> + <p> + Lionel bit his lip, and his cheek grew scarlet; when, after a pause, he + said, “And the other plan, what is that?” + </p> + <p> + “The renewed offer of his cottage on the northern coast, a lonely and + secluded spot, where we can remain at least until we determine on + something better.” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps that may be a wiser course,” muttered the youth, half aloud; “my + mother and Helen are to be thought of first. And yet, father, I. cannot + help thinking Daly's first counsel has something in it.” + </p> + <p> + “Something in it! ay, Lionel, that it has,—the whole story of our + country's misery and degradation. The owner of the soil has diffused + little else among the people than the licentious terror of his own + unbridled passion; he has taught lawless outrage, when he should have + inculcated obedience and submission. The corruption of our people has come + from above downwards; the heavy retribution will come one day; and when + the vices of the peasant shall ascend to the master, the social ruin will + be complete. To this dreadful consummation let us lend no aid. No, no, + Lionel, sorrow may be lessened by time; but remorse is undying and + eternal.” + </p> + <p> + “I must leave the Guards at once,” said the young man, pacing the room + slowly, and endeavoring to speak with an air of calm composure, while + every feature of his face betrayed the agitation he suffered; “an exchange + will not be difficult to manage.” + </p> + <p> + “You have some debts, too, in London: they must be cared for immediately.” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing of any large amount; my horses and carriages when sold will more + than meet all I owe. Have you formed any guess as to what income will be + left you to live on?” said he, in a voice which anxiety made weak and + tremulous. + </p> + <p> + “Without Daly's assistance, I cannot answer that point; the extent of this + fellow Gleeson's iniquity seems but half explored. The likelihood is, that + your mother's jointure will be the utmost we can save from the wreck. Even + that, however, will be enough for all we need, although, from motives of + delicacy on her part, it was originally set down at a very small sum,—not + more than a thousand per annum.” + </p> + <p> + A long silence now ensued. The Knight, buried in thought, sat with his + arms crossed, and his eyes bent upon the ground. Lionel leaned on the + window-frame and looked out upon the lawn; nothing stirred, no sound was + heard save the sharp ticking of the clock upon the mantelpiece, which + marked with distinctness every second, as if reminding them of the + fleeting moments that were to be their last beneath that roof. + </p> + <p> + “This is the 24th, if I remember aright,” said Darcy, looking up at the + dial; “at noon, to-day, we are no longer masters here.” + </p> + <p> + “The Hickmans will scarcely venture to push matters to such extremities; + an assurance that we are willing to surrender peaceable possession will, I + trust, be sufficient to prevent the indecency of a rapid flight from our + own house and home.” + </p> + <p> + “There are legal forms of possession to be gone through, I believe,” said + the Knight, sorrowfully; “certain observances the law exacts, which would + be no less painful for us to witness than the actual presence of our + successors.” + </p> + <p> + “Who can this be? I saw a carriage disappear behind the copse yonder. + There it is again, coming along by the lake.” + </p> + <p> + “Daly—Bagenal Daly, I hope and trust!” exclaimed Darcy, as he stood + straining his eyes to catch the moving object. + </p> + <p> + “I think not; the horses do not look like posters. Heaven grant we have no + visitors at such a time as this!” + </p> + <p> + The carriage, although clearly visible the moment before, was now + concealed from view by an angle of the wood, nor would it again be in + sight before reaching the abbey. + </p> + <p> + “Your mother's indisposition is reason sufficient not to receive them,” + said Darcy, almost sternly. “I would not continue the part I have played + during the last week, no, not for an hour longer, to be assured of rescue + from every difficulty. The duplicity went nigh to break my heart; ay, and + it would have done so, or driven me mad, had the effort been sustained any + further.” + </p> + <p> + “You did not expect any one, did you?” asked Lionel, eagerly. + </p> + <p> + “Not one; there's a mass of letters, with invitations and civil messages, + there on the table, but no proffered visits among them.” + </p> + <p> + Lionel walked to the table and turned over the various notes which lay + along with newspapers and pamphlets scattered about. + </p> + <p> + “Ay,” muttered the Knight, in a low tone, “they read strangely now, these + plans of pleasure and festivity, when ruin is so near us; the kind + pressings to spend a week here, and a fortnight there. It reminds me, + Lionel,”—and here a smile of sad but sweet melancholy passed across + his features,—“it reminds me of the old story they tell of my + grand-uncle Robert. He commanded the 'Dreadnought,' under Drake, at Cape + St. Vincent, and at the close of a very sharp action was signalled to come + on board the admiral's vessel to dinner. The poor 'Dreadnought' was like a + sieve, the sea running in and out through her shot-holes, and her sails + hanging like rags around her, her deck covered with wounded, and slippery + with gore. Captain Darcy, however, hastened to obey the command of his + superior, changed his dress and ordered his boat to be manned; but this + was no easy matter, there was scarcely a boat's crew to be had without + taking away the men necessary to work the ship. The difficulty soon became + more pressing, for a plank had suddenly sprung from a double-headed shot, + and all the efforts of the pumps could not keep the vessel afloat, with a + heavy sea rolling at the same time. + </p> + <p> + “'The admiral's signal is repeated, sir,' said the lieutenant on duty. + </p> + <p> + “'Very well, Mr. Hay; keep her before the wind,' was the answer. + </p> + <p> + “'The ship is settling fast, sir,' said the master; 'no boat could live in + that sea; they 're all damaged by shot.' + </p> + <p> + “'Signal the flag-ship,' cried out Darcy; 'signal the admiral that I am + ready to obey him, but we 're sinking.' + </p> + <p> + “The bunting floated at the mast-head for a moment or two, but the waves + were soon many fathoms over it, and the 'Dreadnought' was never seen + more.” + </p> + <p> + “So it would seem,” said Lionel, with a half-bitter laugh, “we are not the + first of the family who went down head foremost. But I hear a voice + without. Surely old Tate is not fool enough to admit any one.” + </p> + <p> + “Is it possible—” But before the Knight could finish, the old butler + entered to announce Mr. Hickman O'Reilly. Advancing towards the Knight + with a most cordial air, he seemed bent on anticipating any possible + expression of displeasure at his unexpected appearance. + </p> + <p> + “I am aware, Knight,” said he, in an accent the most soft and + conciliating, “how indelicate a visit from me at such a moment may seem; + but if you accord me a few moments of private interview, I hope to dispel + the unpleasant impression.” He looked towards Lionel as he spoke, and + though he smiled his blandest of all smiles, evidently hinted at the + possibility of his leaving them alone together. + </p> + <p> + “I have no confidences apart from my son, sir,” said Darcy, coldly. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, of course not—perfectly natural at Captain Darcy's age—such + a thought would be absurd; still, there are circumstances which might + possibly excuse my request—I mean—” + </p> + <p> + Lionel did not suffer him to finish the sentence, but, turning abruptly + round, left the room, saying as he went, “I have some orders to give in + the stable, but I'll not go further away if you want me.” + </p> + <p> + “Now, sir,” said the Knight, haughtily, “we are alone, and not likely to + be interrupted; may I ask, as a great favor, that in any communication you + may have to make, you will be as brief as consists with your object; for, + to say truth, I have many things on my mind, and many important calls to + attend to.” + </p> + <p> + “In the first place, then,” said Hickman, assuming a manner intended to + convey the impression of perfect frankness and candor, “let me make a + confession, which, however humiliating to avow, would be still more + injurious to hold in reserve. I have neither act nor part in the + proceedings my father has lately taken respecting your mutual dealings. + Not only that he has not consulted me, but every attempt on my part to + ascertain the course of events, or mitigate their rigor, has been met by a + direct, not unfrequently a rude, repulse.” He waited at this pause for the + Knight to speak, but a cold and dignified bow was all the acknowledgment + returned. “This may appear strange and inexplicable in your eyes,” said + O'Reilly, who mistook the Knight's indifference for incredulity, “but + perhaps I can explain.” + </p> + <p> + “There is not the slightest necessity to do so, Mr. O'Reilly; I have no + reason to doubt one word you have stated; for not only am I ignorant of + what the nature and extent of the proceedings you allude to may be, but I + am equally indifferent as to the spirit that dictates or the number of + advisers that suggest them; pardon me if I seem rude or uncourteous, but + there are circumstances in life in which not to be selfish would be to + become insensible; my present condition is, perhaps, one of them. A breach + of trust on the part of one who possessed my fullest confidence has + involved all, or nearly all, I had in the world. The steps by which I am + to be deprived of what was once my own are, as regards myself, matters of + comparative indifference; with respect to others”—here he almost + faltered—“I hope they may be dictated by proper feeling and + consideration.” + </p> + <p> + “Be assured they shall, sir,” said Mr. O'Reilly; and then, as if + correcting a too hasty avowal, added, “but I have the strongest hopes that + the matters are not yet in such an extremity as you speak of. It is true, + sir, I will not conceal from you, my father is not free from the faults of + age; his passion for money-getting has absorbed his whole heart, to the + exclusion of many amiable and estimable traits; to enforce a legal right + with him seems a duty, and not an option; and I may mention here that your + friend, Mr. Daly, has not taken any particular pains towards conciliating + him; indeed, he has scarcely acted a prudent part as regards you, by the + unceasing rancor he has exhibited towards our family.” + </p> + <p> + “I must interrupt you, sir,” said the Knight, “and assure you that, while + there are unfortunately but too many topics which could pain me at this + moment, there is not one more certain to offend me than any reflection, + even the slightest, on the oldest friend I have in the world.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. O'Reilly denied the most remote intention of giving pain, and + proceeded. “I was speaking of my father,” said he, “and however unpleasant + the confession from a son's lips, I must say that the legality of his acts + is the extent to which they claim his observance. When his solicitors + informed him that the interest was unpaid on your bond, he directed the + steps to enforce the payment, and subsequently to foreclose the deed. + These are, after all, mere preliminary proceedings, and in no way preclude + an arrangement for a renewal.” + </p> + <p> + “Such a proposition—let me interrupt you—such a proposition is + wholly out of the question; the ruin that has cost us our house and home + has spared nothing. I have no means by which I could anticipate the + payment of so large a sum, nor is it either my intention or my wish to + reside longer beneath this roof.” + </p> + <p> + “I hope, sir, your determination is not unalterable; it would be the + greatest affliction of my life to think that the loss to this county of + its oldest family was even in the remotest degree ascribed to us. The + Darcys have been the boast and pride of western Ireland for centuries; our + county would be robbed of its fairest ornament by the departure of those + who hold a princely state and derive a more than princely devotion among + us.” + </p> + <p> + “If our claims had no other foundation, Mr. O'Reilly, our altered + circumstances would now obliterate them. To live here with diminished + fortune—But I ask pardon for being led away in this manner; may I + beg that you will now inform me to what peculiar circumstances I owe the + honor of your visit?” + </p> + <p> + “I thought,” said O'Reilly, insinuatingly, “that I had mentioned the + difference of feeling entertained by my father and myself respecting + certain proceedings at law.” + </p> + <p> + “You are quite correct, you did so; but I may observe, without incivility, + that however complimentary to your own sense of delicacy such a difference + is, for me the matter has no immediate interest.” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps, with your kind permission, I can give it some,” replied + O'Reilly, drawing his chair close, and speaking in a low and confidential + voice; “but in order to let my communication have the value I would wish + it, may I bespeak for myself a favorable hearing and a kind construction + on what I shall say? If by an error of judgment—” + </p> + <p> + “Ah!” said Darcy, sighing, while a sad smile dimpled his mouth—“ah! + no man should be more lenient to such than myself.” + </p> + <p> + As if reassured by the kindly tone of these few words, O'Reilly resumed:— + </p> + <p> + “Some weeks ago my father waited upon Lady Eleanor Darcy with a + proposition which, whether on its own merits, or from want of proper tact + in his advocacy of it, met with a most unfavorable reception. It is not + because circumstances have greatly altered in that brief interval—which + I deeply regret to say is the case—that I dare to augur a more + propitious hearing, but simply because I hope to show that in making it we + were actuated by a spirit of honorable, if not of laudable, ambition. The + rank and position my son will enjoy in this county, his fortune and + estate, are such as to make any alliance, save with your family, a + question of no possible pretension. I am well aware, sir, of the great + disparity between a new house and one ennobled by centuries of descent. I + have thought long and deeply on the interval that separates the rank of + the mere country gentleman from the position of him who claims even higher + station than nobility itself; but we live in changeful times: the Peerage + has its daily accessions of rank as humble as my own; its new creations + are the conscripts drawn from wealth as well as distinction in arms or + learning, and in every case the new generation obliterates the memory of + its immediate origin. I see you agree with me; I rejoice to find it.” + </p> + <p> + “Your observations are quite just,” said Darcy, calmly, and O'Reilly went + on:— + </p> + <p> + “Now, sir, I would not only reiterate my father's proposal, but I would + add to it what I hope and trust will be deemed no ungenerous offer, which + is, that the young lady's fortune should be this estate of Gwynne Abbey, + not to be endowed by her future husband, but settled on her by her father + as her marriage portion. I see your meaning,—it is no longer his to + give: but we are ready to make it so; the bond we hold shall be thrown + into the fire the moment your consent is uttered. We prefer a thousand + times it should be thus, than that the ancient acres of this noble + heritage should even for a moment cease to be the property of your house. + Let me recapitulate a little—” + </p> + <p> + “I think that is unnecessary,” said Darcy, calmly; “I have bestowed the + most patient attention to your remarks, and have no difficulty in + comprehending them. Have you anything to add?” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing of much consequence,” said O'Reilly, not a little pleased by the + favorable tone of the Knight's manner; “what I should suggest in addition + is that my son should assume the name and arms of Darcy—” + </p> + <p> + The noise of footsteps and voices without at this moment interrupted the + speaker, the door suddenly opened, and Bagenal Daly entered. He was + splashed from head to foot, his high riding-boots stained with the saddle + and the road, and his appearance vouching for a long and wearisome + journey. + </p> + <p> + “Good morrow, Darcy,” said he, grasping the Knight's hand with the grip of + his iron fingers.—“Your servant, sir; I scarcely expected to see you + here <i>so soon</i>.” + </p> + <p> + The emphasis with which he spoke the last words brought the color to + O'Reilly's cheek, who seemed very miserable at the interruption. + </p> + <p> + “You came to take possession,” continued Daly, fixing his eyes on him with + a steadfast stare. + </p> + <p> + “You mistake, Bagenal,” said the Knight, gently; “Mr. O'Reilly is come + with a very different object,—one which I trust he will deem it no + breach of confidence or propriety in me if I mention it to you.” + </p> + <p> + “I regret to say, sir,” said O'Reilly, hastily, “that I cannot give my + permission in this instance. Whatever the fate of the proposal I have made + to you, I beg it to be understood as made under the seal of honorable + secrecy.” + </p> + <p> + Darcy bowed deeply, but made no reply. + </p> + <p> + “Confound me,” cried Daly, “if I understand any compact between two such + men as you to require all this privacy, unless you were hardy enough to + renew your old father's proposal for my friend's daughter, and now had + modesty enough to feel ashamed of your own impudence.” + </p> + <p> + “I am no stranger, sir, to the indecent liberties you permit your tongue + to take,” said Hickman, moving towards the door; “but this is neither the + time nor place to notice them.” + </p> + <p> + “So then I was right,” cried Daly; “I guessed well the game you would play—” + </p> + <p> + “Bagenal,” interposed the Knight, “I must atop this. Mr. Hickman is now + beneath my roof—” + </p> + <p> + “Is he, faith?—not in his own estimation then. Why, his fellows are + taking an inventory of the furniture at this very moment.” + </p> + <p> + “Is this true, sir?” said Darcy, turning a fierce look towards O'Reilly, + whose face became suddenly of an ashy paleness. + </p> + <p> + “If so,” muttered he, “I can only assure you that it is without any orders + of mine.” + </p> + <p> + “How good!” said Daly, bursting into an insolent laugh; “why, Darcy, when + you meet with a fellow in your plantations with a gun in his hand and a + lurcher at his heels, are you disposed to regard him as one in search of + the picturesque, or a poacher? So, when a gentleman travels about the + country with a sub-sheriff in his carriage and two bailiffs in the rumble, + does it seem exactly the guise of one paying morning calls to his + neighbors?” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. O'Reilly, I ask you to explain this proceeding.” + </p> + <p> + “I confess, sir,” stammered out the other, “I came accompanied by certain + persons in authority, but who have acted in this matter entirely without + my permission. The proposal I have made this day was the cause of my + visit.” + </p> + <p> + “It is a subject on which I can no longer hold any secrecy,” said the + Knight, haughtily. “Bagenal, you were quite correct in your surmise. Mr. + O'Reilly not only intended us the honor of an alliance, but offered to + merge the ancient glories of his house by assuming the more humble name + and shield of Darcy.” + </p> + <p> + “What! eh! did I hear aright?” said Daly, with a broken voice; while, + walking to the window, he looked down into the lawn beneath, as if + calculating the height from the ground. “By Heaven, Darcy, you 're the + best-tempered fellow in Europe—that 's all,” he muttered, as he + walked away. + </p> + <p> + The door opened at this moment, and the shock bullet head of a bailiff + appeared. + </p> + <p> + “That's Mr. Daly! there he is!” cried out O'Reilly, who, pale with passion + and trembling all over, supported himself against the back of a chair with + one hand, while with the other he pointed to where Daly stood. + </p> + <p> + “In that case,” said the fellow, entering, while he drew a slip of paper + from his breast, “I 'll take the opportunity of sarvin' him where he + stands.” + </p> + <p> + “One step nearer! one step!” said Daly, as he took a pistol from the + pocket of his coat. + </p> + <p> + The man hesitated and looked at O'Reilly, as if for advice or + encouragement; but terror and rage had now deprived him of all + self-possession, and he neither spoke nor signed to him. + </p> + <p> + “Leave the room, sir,” said the Knight, with a motion of his hand to the + bailiff; and the ruffian, whose office had familiarized him long with + scenes of outrage and violence, shrank back ashamed and abashed, and + slipped from the room without a word. + </p> + <p> + “I believe, Mr. O'Reilly,” continued Darcy, with an accent calm and + unmoved,—“I believe our conference is now concluded. I will not + insult your own acuteness by saying how unnecessary I feel any reply to + your demand.” + </p> + <p> + “In that case,” said O'Reilly, “may I presume that there is no objection + to proceed with those legal formalities which, although begun without my + knowledge, may be effected now as well as at any other period?” + </p> + <p> + “Darcy, there is but one way of dealing with that gentleman—” + </p> + <p> + “Bagenal, I must insist upon your leaving this matter solely with me.” + </p> + <p> + “Depend upon it, sir, your interests will not gain by your friend's + counsels,” said O'Reilly, with an insolent sneer. + </p> + <p> + “Such another remark from your lips,” said Darcy, sternly, “would make me + follow them, if they went so far as—” + </p> + <p> + “Throwing him neck and heels out of that window,” broke in Daly; “for I + own to you it's the course I 'd have taken half an hour ago.” + </p> + <p> + “I wish you good morning, Mr. Darcy,” said O'Reilly, addressing him for + the first time by the name of his family instead of his usual designation; + and without vouchsafing a word to Daly, he retired from the room. + </p> + <p> + It was not until O'Reilly's carriage drove past the window that either + Darcy or his friend uttered a syllable; they stood apparently lost in + thought up to that moment, when the noise of wheels and the tramp of + horses aroused them. + </p> + <p> + “We must lose no time, Bagenal,” said the Knight, hastily; “I cannot count + very far on that gentleman's delicacy or forbearance. Lady Eleanor must + not be exposed to the indignities the law will permit him to practise + towards us; we must, if possible, leave this to-night;” and so saying, he + left the room to make arrangements in accordance with his resolve. + </p> + <p> + Bagenal Daly looked after him for a moment. “Poor fellow!” muttered he, + “how manfully he bears it!” When a sudden flush that covered his cheek + bespoke a rapid change of sentiment, and at the same instant he left the + room, and, crossing the hall and the courtyard, walked hastily towards the + stables. + </p> + <p> + “Saddle a horse for me, Carney, and as fast as may be.” + </p> + <p> + “Here's a mare ready this minute, sir; she was going out to take her + gallop.” + </p> + <p> + “I'll give it, then,” said Daly, as he buttoned up his coat; and then, + breaking off a branch of the old willow that hung over the fountain, + sprang in the saddle with an alertness that would not have disgraced a + youth of twenty. + </p> + <p> + “There he goes,” muttered the old huntsman, as he looked after him, “and + there is n't the man between this and Killy-begs can take as much out of a + baste as himself. 'T is quiet enough the mare will be when he turns her + head into this yard again.” + </p> + <p> + Whatever Daly's purpose, it seemed one which brooked little delay, for no + sooner was he on the sward than he pushed the mare to a fast gallop, and + was seen sweeping along the lawn at a tremendous pace. In less than ten + minutes he saw O'Reilly's carriage, as, in a rapid trot, the horses + advanced along the level avenue, and almost the moment after, he had + stationed himself in the road, so as to prevent their proceeding further. + The coachman, who knew him well, came to a stop at his signal, and before + his master could ask the reason, Daly was beside the window of the + chariot. + </p> + <p> + “I would wish a word with you, Mr. O'Reilly,” said he, in a low, subdued + voice, so as to be inaudible to the sub-sheriff, who was seated beside + him. “You made use of an expression a few moments ago, which, if I + understood aright, convinces me I have unwittingly done you great + injustice.” + </p> + <p> + O'Reilly, whose ashy cheek and affrighted air bespoke a heart but ill at + ease, made no reply, and Daly went on,— + </p> + <p> + “You said, sir, that neither the time nor the place suited the notice you + felt called upon to take of my remarks on your conduct. May I ask, as a + very great favor, what time and what place will be more convenient to you? + And I cannot better express my own sense of regret for a hasty expression + than by assuring you that I shall hold myself bound to be at your service + in both respects.” + </p> + <p> + “A hostile meeting, sir, is that your proposition?” said O'Reilly, aloud. + </p> + <p> + “How admirably you read a riddle!” said Daly, laughing. + </p> + <p> + “There, Mr. Jones!” cried O'Reilly, turning to his companion, “I call on + you to witness the words,—a provocation to a duel offered by this + gentleman.” + </p> + <p> + “Not at all,” rejoined Daly; “the provocation came from yourself,—at + least, you used a phrase which men with blood in their veins understand + but one way. My error—and I 'll not forgive myself in haste for it—was + the belief that an upstart need not of necessity be a poltroon.—Drive + on,” cried he to the coachman, with a sneering laugh; “your master is + looking pale.” And, with these words, he turned his horse's head, and + cantered slowly back towards the abbey. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0033" id="link2HCH0033"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXIII. TATE SULLIVAN'S FAREWELL + </h2> + <p> + The sorrows and sufferings of noble minds are melancholy themes to dwell + upon; they may “point a moral,” but they scarcely “adorn a tale,” least of + all such a tale as ours is intended to be. While, therefore, we would + spare our readers and ourselves the pain of this narration, we cannot + leave that old abbey, which we remember so full of happiness, without one + parting look at it, in company with those about to quit it forever. + </p> + <p> + From the time of Mr. O'Reilly's leave-taking, the day, notwithstanding its + gloomy presage, went over rapidly. The Knight busied himself with internal + arrangements, while Lionel took into his charge all the preparations for + their departure on the morrow, Bagenal Daly assisting each in turn, and + displaying an amount of calm foresight and circumspection in details which + few would have given him credit for. Meanwhile, Lady Eleanor slept long + and heavily, and awoke, not only refreshed in body, but with an appearance + of quiet energy and determination she had not shown for years past. Great + indeed was the Knight's astonishment on hearing that she intended joining + them at dinner; in her usual habit she dined early, and with Helen alone + for her companion, so that her present resolve created the more surprise. + </p> + <p> + Dinner was ordered in the library, and poor old Tate, by some strange + motive of sympathy, took a more than common pains in all the decorations + of the table. The flowers which Lady Eleanor was fondest of decked the + centre—alas, there was no need to husband them now! on the morrow + who was to care for them?—a little bouquet of fresh violets marked + her place at the table, and more than a dozen times did the old man + hesitate how the light should fall through the large window, and whether + it would be more soothing to his mistress to look abroad upon that fair + and swelling landscape so dear to her, or more painful to gaze upon the + scenes she should never see more. + </p> + <p> + “If it was myself,” muttered old Tate, “I'd like to be looking at it as + long as I could, and make it follow me in my dhrames after; but sure there + 's no knowing how great people feels! they say they never has the same + kind of thought as us!” + </p> + <p> + Poor fellow, he little knew how levelling is misfortune, and that the + calamities of life evoke the same sufferings in the breast of the king and + the peasant. With a delicacy one more highly born might have been proud + of, the old butler alone waited at dinner, well judging that his familiar + face would be less irksome to them than the prying looks of the other + servants. + </p> + <p> + If there are people who can expend much eloquent indignation on those + social usages which exact a certain amount of decorous observance in all + the trials and crosses of life, there is a great deal to be said in favor + of that system of conventional good-breeding whose aim is to repress + selfish indulgence, and make the individual feel that, whatever his own + griefs, the claims of the world demand a fortitude and a bearing that + shall not obtrude his sorrows on his neighbors. That the code may be + abused, and become occasionally hypocritical in practice, is no argument + against it; we would merely speak in praise of that well-bred forbearance + which always merges private afflictions in the desire to make others + happy. To instance our meaning, we would speak of those who now met at + dinner in the old library of Gwynne Abbey. + </p> + <p> + It would be greatly to mistake us to suppose that we uphold any show or + counterfeit of kindliness where there is no substance of the feeling + behind it; we merely maintain that the very highest and most acute + sympathy is not inconsistent with a bearing of easy, nay, almost cheerful + character. So truly was it the case here that old Tate Sullivan more than + once stood still in amazement at the tranquil faces and familiar quietude + of those who, in his own condition of life, could have found no accents + loud or piercing enough to bewail their sorrow, and whom, even with his + long knowledge of them, he could scarcely acquit of insensibility. + </p> + <p> + There is a contagion in an effort of this kind most remarkable. The light + and gentle attempts made by Lady Eleanor to sustain the spirits of the + party were met by sallies of manly good-humor by the Knight himself, in + which Lionel and Helen were not slow to join, while Bagenal Daly could + scarcely repress his enthusiastic delight at the noble and high-souled + courage that sustained them one and all. + </p> + <p> + While by a tacit understanding they avoided any allusion to the painful + circumstances of their late misfortune, the Knight adroitly turned the + conversation to their approaching journey northwards, and drew from Daly a + description of “the Corvy” that actually evoked a burst of downright + laughter. From this he passed on to speak of the peasantry, so unlike in + every trait those of the South and West; the calm, reflective character of + their minds, uninfluenced by passion and unmarked by enthusiasm, were a + strong contrast to the headlong impulse and ardent temperament of the + “real Irish.” + </p> + <p> + “You 'll scarcely like them at first, my dear Helen—” + </p> + <p> + “Still less on a longer acquaintance,” broke in Helen. “I 'll not quarrel + with the caution and reserve of the Scotchman,—the very mists of his + native mountains may teach him doubt and uncertainty of purpose; but here + at home, what have such frames of mind and thought in common with our less + calculating natures?” + </p> + <p> + “It were far better had they met oftener,” said the Knight, thoughtfully; + “impulse is only noble when well directed; the passionate pilots are more + frequently the cause of shipwreck than of safety.” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing so wearisome as the trade-winds,” said Helen, with a saucy toss + of the head; “eh, Lionel, you are of my mind?” + </p> + <p> + “They do push one's temper very hard now and then,” said Daly, with a + stern frown; “that impassive habit they have of taking everything as in + the common order of events is, I own, somewhat difficult to bear with. I + remember being run away with on a blood mare from a little village called + Ballintray. The beast was in high condition, and I turned her, without + knowing the country, at the first hill I could see; she breasted it + boldly, and, though full a quarter of a mile in length, never shortened + stride to the very summit. What was my surprise, when I gained the top, to + see that we were exactly over the sea. It was a cliff which, projecting + for some distance out, was fissured by an immense chasm, through which the + waves passed; not very wide, but deep enough to make it a very awful leap. + Over it she went, and then, when I expected her to dash onwards, and was + already preparing to fling myself from the saddle, she stood stock still, + trembling all over, and snorting with fear at the danger around her. At + the same instant, a hard-featured old fellow popped his head up from amid + the tall fern which he had been cutting for thatch for his cabin, and + looked at me, not the slightest sign of astonishment in his cold, rigid + countenance. + </p> + <p> + “'Ye 'll no get back so easy, my bonnie mon,' said he, with the slightest + possible approach to a smile. + </p> + <p> + “'Get back! no, faith, I 'll not try it,' said I, looking at the yawning + gulf, through which the wild waves boiled, and the opposite bank several + feet higher than the ground I stood upon. + </p> + <p> + “'I thought sae,' was the rejoinder; when, rising slowly, he leisurely + walked round the mare, as she stood riveted by fear to the one spot. 'I + 'll gie ye sax shilling for the hide o' her forbye the shoes,' added he, + with a voice as imperturbable as though he were pricing the commonest + commodity of a market. + </p> + <p> + “I confess it was fortunate that the ludicrous was stronger in me at the + moment than indignation, for if I had not laughed at him I might have done + worse.” + </p> + <p> + “I could not endure such a peasantry,” said Helen, as soon as the mirth + the anecdote called forth had subsided. + </p> + <p> + “It's quite true,” said Daly, “they have burlesqued Scotch prudence in the + same way that the Anglo-Hibernian has travestied the Irish temperament. It + is the danger of all imitators, they always transgress the limits of their + model.” + </p> + <p> + “It is fortunate,” broke in the Knight, “that traits which conciliate so + little the stranger should win their way on nearer intimacy; and such I + believe to be the case with the Ulster peasant.” + </p> + <p> + “You are right,” said Daly; “no man can detest more cordially than I do + the rudeness that is assumed to heighten a contrast with any good quality + behind it. In most instances the kernel is not worth the trouble of + breaking off the husk; but with the Northerner this is not the case: in + his independence he neither apes the equality of the Frenchman nor the + license of the Yankee. That he suffices for himself, and seeks neither + patron nor protector, is the source of honest pride, and if this sometimes + takes the guise of stubbornness, let us remember that the virtue was + reared in poverty, without encouragement or example.” + </p> + <p> + “And the gentry,” said Lady Eleanor, “have they any trace of these + peculiarities observable among the people?” + </p> + <p> + “Gentry!” said Daly, impetuously, “I know of none. There are some thrifty + families, who, by some generations of hard saving, have risen to affluence + and wealth. They are keen fellows, given to money-getting,—millers + some of them, bleachers most, with a tenantry of weavers, and estates like + the grass-plot of a laundry. They are as crafty and as calculating as the + peasant, shrewd as stockbrokers at a bargain, and as pretentious as a + Prince Palatine with a territory the size of Merrion Square. Gentry! they + have neither ancestry nor tradition; they hold their estates from certain + Guilds, whose very titles are a parody upon gentle breeding,—fishmongers + and clothworkers!” + </p> + <p> + “I will not be their champion against you, Bagenal, but I cannot help + feeling how heavily they might retort upon us. These same prudent and + prosaic landlords have not spent their fortunes in wasteful extravagance + and absurd display; they have not rackrented their tenantry that they + might rival a neighbor.” + </p> + <p> + “I am sincerely rejoiced,” interposed Lady Eleanor, smiling, “that my + English relative, Lord Netherby, was not a witness to this discussion, + lest he should fancy that, between the wastefulness of the South and the + thrift of the North, this poor island was but ill provided with a gentry. + Pray, Mr. Daly, how does your sister like the North? She is our neighbor, + is she not?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,—that is to say, a few miles distant,” said Daly, confusedly; + for he had never acknowledged that “the Corvy” had been Miss Daly's + residence. “Of the neighborhood she knows nothing; she is not free from my + own prejudices, and lives a very secluded life.” + </p> + <p> + The conversation now became broken and unconnected, and the party soon + after retired to the drawing-room, where, while Lady Eleanor and Helen sat + together, the Knight, Daly, and Lionel gathered in a little knot, and + discussed, in a low tone, the various steps for the coming journey, and + the probable events of the morrow. + </p> + <p> + It was agreed upon that Daly should accompany the Darcys to the North, + whither Sandy was already despatched, but that Lionel should remain at the + abbey for some days longer, to complete the arrangements necessary for the + removal of certain family papers and the due surrender of the property to + its new owner; after which he should repair to London, and procure his + exchange into some regiment of the line, and, if possible, one on some + foreign station,—the meeting with friends and acquaintances, under + his now altered fortunes, being judged as a trial too painful and too + difficult to undergo. + </p> + <p> + Again they all met around the tea-table, and once more they talked in the + same vein of mutual confidence; each conscious of the effort by which he + sustained his part, and wondering how the others summoned courage to do + what cost himself so much. They chatted away till near midnight, and when + they shook hands at separating, it was with feelings of affection to which + sorrow had only added fresh and stronger ties. + </p> + <p> + Daly stood for some time alone in the library, wondering within himself at + the noble fortitude with which they severally sustained their dreadful + reverse. It is only the man of stout heart can truly estimate the higher + attributes of courage; but even to him these efforts seemed surprising. + “Ay,” muttered he, “each nobly upholds the other; it is opposing a hollow + square to fortune: so long as they stand firm and together, well! let but + one quail and falter, let the line be broken, and they would be swept away + at once and forever.” Taking a caudle from the table, he left the room, + and ascended the wide staircase towards his chamber. All was still and + noiseless, and to prevent his footsteps being heard, he entered the little + corridor which opened on the gallery of the refectory, the same from which + Forester first caught sight of the party at the dinner-table. + </p> + <p> + He had scarcely, with careful hand, closed the door behind him, when, + looking over the balustrades of the gallery, he beheld a figure moving + slowly along in the great apartment beneath, guided by a small lamp, which + threw its uncertain light rather on the wall than on the form of him who + carried it. Suddenly stopping before one of the large portraits which in a + long succession graced the chamber, the light was turned fully round, so + as to display the broad and massive features of old Tate Sullivan. Curious + to ascertain what the old man might be about in such a place at such an + hour, Daly extinguished the candle to watch him unobserved. Tate was + dressed in his most accurate costume: his long cravat, edged with deep + lace, descended in front of his capacious white waistcoat; silver buckles, + of a size that showed there was no parsimony of the precious metal, shone + in his shoes; and his newly powdered wig displayed an almost snowy lustre. + His gestures were in accordance with the careful observances of his + toilet; he moved along the floor with a slow, sliding step, bowing deeply + and reverentially as he went, and with all the courtesy he would have + displayed if ushering a goodly company into the state drawing-room. + </p> + <p> + Bagenal Daly was not left long to speculate on honest Tate's intentions; + and although to a stranger's eyes the motives might have seemed strange + and dubious, the mystery was easily solved to him, who knew the old man + well and thoroughly. He was there to take a last look, and bid farewell to + those venerable portraits, who for more than half a century were enshrined + in his memory like saints. Around them were associated all the little + incidents of his peaceful life; they were the chroniclers of his + impressions in boyhood, in manhood, and in age; he could call to mind the + first moments he gazed on them in awe-struck veneration; he could remember + the proud period when the duty first devolved upon him of describing them + to the strangers who came to see the abbey; in the history of all and each + of them he was well read, versed in their noble achievements, their + triumphs in camp or cabinet. To his eyes they formed a long line of heroic + characters, of which the world had produced no equal; they realized in his + conception the proud eulogy of the Bayards, “where all the men were brave, + and all the women virtuous;” and it is not improbable that his devotion to + his master was in a great measure ascribable to that awe-struck admiration + with which he regarded his glorious ancestors. + </p> + <p> + The old man stood, and, holding the lamp above his head, gazed in + respectful admiration at the grim figure of a Knight in armor. There might + have been little to charm the lover of painting in the execution of the + picture, and the mere castle-builder could scarcely have indulged his + fancy in weaving a story from the countenance of the portrait, for the + vizor was down, and he stood in all the unmoved sternness of his iron + prison, with his glaived hands elapsed upon the cross of a long straight + sword. Tate gazed on him for some moments. Heaven knows with what + qualities of mind or person the old man had endowed him, for while to + others he was only Sir Gavin Darcy, first Knight of Gwynne, Tate in all + likelihood had invested him with traits of character and appearance, of + which that external shell was the mere envelope. + </p> + <p> + “We're going, Sir Gavin,” muttered the old man, as if addressing the + portrait; “'tis the ould stock is laving the place, never to see it more; + 't is your own proud heart will be sorry to-day to look down upon us. Ah, + ah!” muttered he, “the world is changed; there was times when a Darcy + would n't quit the house of his fathers without a blow for it—aud + they say we are better now!” With a heavy sigh he passed on, and stood + before the next picture. “Yes, my Lady,” said he, “ye may well cry that + lost the two beautiful boys the same morning, fighting side by side; but + there's heavier grief here now: the brave youths sleep in peace and in + honor; but we have no home to shelter us!” + </p> + <p> + With a slow step and bent-down head, he tottered on, and, placing the lamp + upon the floor, crossed his arms upon his breast. “'Tis you that can help + us now,” said he as he cast a timid and imploring glance at the goodly + countenance and rotund figure of Bernhard Emmeric, fourth Abbot of Gwynne; + “'tis your reverence can offer a prayer for your own blood that's in sore + trouble and distress. Do it, my Lord; do it in the name of the Vargin. + Smiling and happy you look, but it 's sorrowful your heart is in you to + see what's going on here. Them, them was the happy days, when it was n't + the cry of grief was heard beneath this roof, but the heavenly chants of + holy men, and the prayers of the blessed mass.” He knelt down as he said + this, and with trembling lips and tearful eyes recited some verses from + his breviary. + </p> + <p> + This done, he arose, and, as if with renovated courage, proceeded on his + way. + </p> + <p> + “Reginald Herbert de Guyon! ah! second Baron of Gwynne, Lord Protector of + Munster, Knight of Malta, Chevalier of St. John of Jerusalem, + Standard-Bearer to the Queen! and well you desarve it all! 'T is yourself + sits your horse like a proud nobleman!” He stood with eyes riveted upon + the picture, while his face glowed with intense enthusiasm, and at last, + as a bitter sneer passed across his lips, he added, “Ay, faith! and them + that comes after us won't like the look of you. 'T is you that 'll never + disguise from them your real mind, and every day they 'll dine in the + hall, that same frown will darken, and that same hand will threaten them.” + </p> + <p> + He moved on now, and passed several portraits without stopping, muttering + as he went, “'T is more English than Irish blood is in your veins, and you + won't feel as much for us as the rest;” then, halting suddenly, he stood + before a tall figure, dressed in black velvet, with a deep collar of point + lace. A connoisseur of higher pretensions than poor Tate might have gazed + with even greater rapture at that splendid canvas, for it was from the + hand of Vandyke, and in his very best manner. The picture represented the + person of Sir Everard Darcy, Lord Privy Seal to Charles I. It was a + specimen of manly beauty and high blood such as the great Fleming loved to + paint; and even yet the proud and lofty forehead, the deep-set brown eyes, + the thin compressed lip, the long and somewhat projecting chin, seemed to + address themselves to the beholder with traits of character more than mere + painting is able to convey. Tate approached the spot with an almost + trembling veneration, and bowed deeply before the haughty figure. “There + was a time, Sir Everard, when your word could make a duke or a marquis,—when + your whisper in the king's ear could bring grief or joy to any heart in + the empire. Could you do nothing for us now? They say you never were at a + loss, no matter what came to pass—that you were always ready-witted + to save your master from trouble—and oh! if the power hasn't left + you, stand by us now. It is not because your eyes are so bright, and that + quiet smile is on your lips, that your heart does not feel, for I know + well that the day you were beheaded you had the same look on you as you + have now. I think I see you this minute, as you lifted your head off the + block to settle the lace collar that the villain, the executioner, rumpled + with his bloody fingers,—I think I hear the words you spoke: 'Honest + Martin, for all your practice, you are but a clumsy valet.' Weil, well! 't + is a happier and a prouder day that same than to-morrow's dawn will bring + to ourselves. Yes, yes, my darlings,” said Tate, with a benevolent smile, + as he waved his hand towards a picture where two beautiful children were + represented, sitting on the grass, and playing with flowers, “be happy and + amuse yourselves, in God's name; 'tis the only time for happiness your + lives ever gave you. Ah! and here 's your father, with a smile on his face + and a cheerful brow, for he had both till the day misfortune robbed him of + his children;” and he stood in front of a portrait of an officer in an + admiral's uniform. He was a distinguished member of the Darcy family; but + from the nature of his services, which were all maritime, and the great + number of years he had spent away from Ireland, possessed less of Tate's + sympathy than most of the others. + </p> + <p> + “They say you didn't like Ireland; but I don't believe them. There never + was a Darcy did n't love the ould island; but I know well whose fault it + was if you did n't,—it was that dark villain that's standing at your + side, ould Harry Inchiquin, the renegade, that turned many a man against + his country. Ye may frown and scowl at me; but if you were alive this + minute, I 'd say it to your face. It was you that first brought gambling + and dicing under this blessed roof; it was you that sent the ould acres to + the hammer; 'twas you that loved rioting, and duelling, and every + wickedness, just like old Bagenal Daly himself, that never could sleep in + his bed if he had n't a fight on hand.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="linkimage-0014" id="linkimage-0014"> + <!-- IMG --></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%;"> + <img src="images/408.jpg" width="100%" alt="408 " /> + </div> + <p> + “What ho! you old reprobate!” called out Daly, in a voice which, echoing + under the arched roof, seemed rather to float through the atmosphere than + issue from any particular quarter. + </p> + <p> + “Oh! marciful Father!” cried Tate, as, falling on his knees, the lamp + dropped from his fingers, and became extinguished,—“oh! marciful + Father! sure I did n't mane it; 't is what the lying books said of you,—bad + luck to the villains that wrote them! O God! pardon me; I never thought + you 'd hear me; and if it 's in trouble you are, I 'll say a mass for you + every day till Aaster, and one every Friday as long as I live.” + </p> + <p> + A hoarse burst of laughter broke from Daly, while, pacing the gallery with + heavy tread, he went forth, banging the door behind him. The terror was + too great for poor Tate's endurance, and, with a faint cry for mercy, he + rolled down upon the floor almost insensible. + </p> + <p> + When morning broke, he was found seated in the refectory, pale and + careworn; but no entreaty, nor no pressing, could elicit from him one word + of a secret in which he believed were equally involved the honor of the + dead and the safety of himself. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0034" id="link2HCH0034"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXIV. A GLANCE AT PUBLIC OPINION IN THE YEAR 1800. + </h2> + <p> + Among the arrangements for the departure of the family from the abbey, all + of which were confided to Bagenal Daly, was one which he pressed with a + more than ordinary zeal and anxiety; this was, that they should set out at + a very early hour of the morning,—at dawn of day, if possible. Lady + Eleanor's habits made such a plan objectionable, and it was only by + representing the great sacrifice of feeling a later departure would exact, + when crowds of country people would assemble to take their farewells of + them forever, that she consented. While Daly depicted the unnecessary + sorrow to which they would expose themselves by the sight of their old and + attached tenantry, he strenuously preserved silence on the real reason + which actuated him, and to explain which a brief glance at the state of + public feeling at the period is necessary. + </p> + <p> + To such a pitch of acrimony and animosity were parties borne by the + agitation which preceded the carrying of the “Union,” that all previous + character and conduct of those who voted on the question were deemed as + nothing in comparison with the line they adopted on the one absorbing + subject. If none who advocated the Ministerial plan escaped the foulest + animadversions, all who espoused the opposite side were exalted to the + dignity of patriots; argument and reason went for little, principle for + still less: a vote was deemed the touchstone of honesty. Such rash and + hasty judgments suited the temper of the times, and, it may be said in + extenuation, were not altogether without some show of reason. Each day + revealed some desertion from the popular party of men who, up to that + moment, had rejected all the seductions of the Crown; country gentlemen, + hitherto supposed inaccessible to all the temptations of bribery, were + found suddenly addressing speculative letters to their constituencies, + wherein they ingeniously discussed all the contingencies of a measure they + had once opposed without qualification. Noblemen of high rank and fortune + were seen to pay long visits at the Castle, and, by a strange fatality, + were found to have modified their opinions exactly at the period selected + by the Crown to bestow on them designations of honor or situations of + trust and dignity. Lawyers in high practice at the bar, men esteemed by + their profession, and held in honor by the public, were seen to abandon + their position of proud independence, and accept Government appointments, + in many cases inferior both in profit and rank to what they had + surrendered. + </p> + <p> + There seemed a kind of panic abroad. Men feared to walk without the + protective mantle of the Crown being extended over them; the barriers of + shame were broken down by the extent to which corruption had spread. The + examples of infamy were many, and several were reconciled to the ignominy + of their degradation by their associates in disgrace. That in such general + corruption the judgments of the public should have been equally wholesale, + is little to be wondered at; the regret is rather that they were so rarely + unjust and ill-bestowed. + </p> + <p> + Public confidence was utterly uprooted; there was a national bankruptcy of + honor, and none were trusted; all the guarantees for high principle and + rectitude a lifetime had given, all the hostages to good faith years of + unimpeached honor bestowed, were forgotten in a moment, and such as + opposed the Government measure with less of acrimony or activity than + their neighbors, were set down “as waiting for or soliciting the bribery + of the Crown.” + </p> + <p> + To this indiscriminating censure the Knight of Gwynne was a victim. It may + be remarked that in times of popular excitement, when passions are rife + and the rude enthusiasm of the mass has beaten down the more calmly + weighed opinion of the few, that there is a strange pleasure felt in the + detection of any real or supposed lapse of one once esteemed. It were well + if this malignant delight were limited to the mere mob, but it is not so; + men of education and position are not exempt from its taint. It would seem + as if society were so thoroughly disorganized that every feeling was + perverted, and all the esteem for what is good and great had degenerated + into a general cry of exultation over each new instance of tarnished + honor. + </p> + <p> + Accustomed as we now are to the most free and unfettered criticisms of all + public men and their acts, it would yet astonish any one not conversant + with that period, to look back to the newspapers of the time, and see the + amount of violence and personality with which every man obnoxious to a + party was visited; coarse invective stood in the place of argument, a + species of low humor had replaced the light brilliancy of wit. The public + mind, fed on grosser materials, had lost all appetite for the piquancy of + more highly flavored food, and the purveyors were not sorry to find a + market for a commodity which cost them so little to procure. In this + spirit was it that one of the most popular of the Opposition journals + announced for the amusement of its readers a series of sketches under the + title of “The Gallery of Traitors,”—a supposed collection of + portraits to be painted for the Viceroy, and destined to decorate one of + the chambers of the Castle. + </p> + <p> + Not satisfied with aspersing the reputation, and mistaking the views of + any who sided with the Minister, the attack went further, and actually + ascribed the casualties which occurred to such persons or their families + as instances of divine vengeance. In this diabolical temper the Knight of + Gwynne was held up to reprobation; it was a bold thought to venture on + calumniating a man every action of whose life had placed him above even + slander, but its boldness was the warranty of success. The whole story of + his arrival in Dublin, his dinner with the Secretary, his intimacy with + Heffernan, was related circumstantially. The night on which Heffernan + entrapped him by the trick already mentioned, was quoted as the eventful + moment of his change. Then came the history of his appearance in the House + on the evening of the second reading: his hesitation to enter, his doubts + and waverings were all described, ending with a minute detail of his + compact with Lord Castlereagh, by which his voting was dispensed with, and + his absence from the division deemed enough. + </p> + <p> + Gleeson's flight and its consequences were soon known. The ruin of Darcy's + large fortune was a circumstance not likely to lose by public discussion, + particularly when the daily columns of a newspaper devoted a considerable + space to the most minute details of that catastrophe. It was asserted that + the Knight had sold himself for a Marqui-sate and a seat in the English + peerage; that his vote was deemed so great a prize by the Minister that he + might have made even higher terms, but in the confidence of possessing a + large fortune he had only bargained for rank, and rejected every offer of + mere emolument; and now came the dreadful retribution on his treachery, + the downfall of his fortune by the villany of his agent. To assume a title + when the very expense of the patent could not be borne, was an absurdity, + and this explained why Maurice Darcy remained ungazetted. Such was the + plausible calumny generally circulated, and, alas for the sake of charity! + scarcely less generally believed. + </p> + <p> + There are epidemics of credulity as of infidelity, and such a plague raged + at this period. Anything was believed, were it only bad enough. While men, + therefore, went about deploring, with all the sanctity of self-esteem, the + fall of Maurice Darcy, public favor, by one of those caprices all its own, + adopted the cause of his colleague, Hickman O'Reilly. His noble refusal of + every offer (and what a catalogue of seductions did they not enumerate!) + was given in the largest type. They recounted, with all the eloquence of + their calling, the glittering coronets rejected, the places of honor and + profit declined, the dignities proffered in vain, preferring as he did the + untitled rank of a country gentleman, and the unpurchasable station of a + true friend to Ireland. + </p> + <p> + He was eulogized in capital letters, and canonized among the martyrs of + patriotism; public orators belabored him with praises, and ballad-singers + chanted his virtues through the streets. Nor was this turn of feeling a + thing to be neglected by one so shrewd in worldly matters. His sudden + accession to increased fortune and the position attendant on it, would, he + well knew, draw down upon him many a sneer upon his origin, and some + unpleasant allusions to the means by which the wealth was amassed. To + anticipate such an ungrateful inquiry, he seized the lucky accident of his + popularity, and turned it to the best account. + </p> + <p> + Whole “leaders” were devoted to the laudation of his character: the + provincial journals, less scrupulous than the metropolitan, boldly + asserted their knowledge of the various bribes tendered to him, and threw + out dark hints of certain disclosures which, although at present refrained + from out of motives of delicacy, should Mr. O'Reilly ultimately be + persuaded to make, the public would be horrified at the extent to which + corruption had been carried. + </p> + <p> + The O'Reilly liveries, hitherto a modest snuff color, were now changed to + an emerald green; an Irish motto ornamented the garter of the family + crest; while the very first act of his return to the West was a splendid + donation to the chapel of Ballyraggan, or, as it was subsequently and more + politely named, the Church of St. Barnabas of Treves: all measures + dictated by a high-spirited independence, and a mind above the vulgar + bigotry of party. + </p> + <p> + Had O'Reilly stopped here; had he contented himself with the preliminary + arrangements for being a patriot, it is probable that Bagenal Daly had + never noticed them, or done so merely with some passing sarcasm; but the + fact was otherwise. Daly discovered, in the course of his journey + westward, that the rumors of the Knight's betrayal of his party were + generally disseminated in exact proportion with the new-born popularity of + O'Reilly; that the very town of Westport, where Darcy's name was once + adored, was actually placarded with insulting notices of the Knight's + conduct, and scandalous aspersions on his character: jeering allusions to + his altered fortunes were sung in the villages as he passed along, and it + was plain that the whole current of popular opinion had set strong against + him. + </p> + <p> + To spare his friend Darcy a mortification which Daly well knew would be + one of the greatest to his feelings, the early departure was planned and + decided on. It must not be inferred that because the Knight would have + felt deeply the unjust censure of the masses, he was a man to care or bend + beneath the angry menace of a mob; far from it. The ingratitude towards + himself would have called forth the least of his regrets; it was rather a + heartfelt sorrow at the hopeless ignorance and degradation of those who + could be so easily deceived,—at that populace whose fickleness + preferred the tinsel and trappings of patriotism to the acts and opinions + of one they had known and respected for years. + </p> + <p> + Long before day broke, Daly was stirring and busied with all the + preparations of the journey; the travelling carriage, covered with its + various boxes and imperials, stood before the door in the courtyard; the + horses were harnessed and bridled in the stables; everything was in + readiness for a start; and yet, save himself and the stablemen, all within + the abbey seemed buried in slumber. + </p> + <p> + Although it was scarcely more than five o'clock, Daly's impatience at the + continued quietude around him began to manifest itself; he walked hastily + to and fro, endeavoring to occupy his thoughts by a hundred little + details, till at last he found himself returning to the same places and + with the self-same objects again and again, while he muttered broken + sentences of angry comments on people who could sleep so soundly at such a + time. + </p> + <p> + It was in one of those fretful moods he had approached the little + flower-garden of the sub-prior's house, when the twinkling of a light + attracted him: it came from the window of Lady Eleanor's favorite + drawing-room, and glittered like a star in the gloom of the morning. + Curious to see who was stirring in that part of the house, he drew near, + and, opening the wicket, noiselessly approached the window. He there + beheld Lady Eleanor, who, supported by Helen's arm, moved slowly along the + room, stopping at intervals, and again proceeding; she seemed to be taking + a last farewell of the various well-known objects endeared to her by years + of companionship; her handkerchief was often raised to her eyes as she + went, but neither uttered a syllable. Ashamed to have obtruded even thus + upon a scene of private sorrow, Daly turned back again to the courtyard, + where now the loud voice of the Knight was heard giving his orders to the + servants. + </p> + <p> + The first greetings over, the Knight took Daly's arm and walked beside + him. + </p> + <p> + “I have been thinking over the matter in the night, Bagenal,” said he, + “and am convinced it were far better that you should remain with Lionel; + we can easily make our journey alone,—the road is open, and no + difficulty in following it; but that poor boy will need advice and + counsel. You will probably receive letters from Dublin by the post, with + some instructions how to act; in any case my heart fails me at leaving + Lionel to himself.” + </p> + <p> + “I 'll remain, then,” replied Daly; “I'll see you the first stage out of + Westport, and then return here. It is, perhaps, better as you say.” + </p> + <p> + “There is another point,” said Darcy, after a pause, and with evident + hesitation in his manner; “it is perfectly impossible for me to walk + through this labyrinth without your guidance, Bagenal,—I have + neither head nor heart for it,—you must be the pilot, and if you + quit the helm for a moment—” + </p> + <p> + “Trust me, Maurice, I'll not do it,” said Daly, grasping his hand with a + firm grip. + </p> + <p> + “I know that well,” said the Knight, as his voice trembled with agitation; + “I never doubted the will, Bagenal, it was the power only I suspected. I + see you will not understand me. Confound it! why should old friends, such + as we are, keep beating about the bush, or fencing like a pair of + diplomatists? I wanted to speak to you about that bond of yours: there is + something like seven thousand pounds lying to my credit at Henshaw's; take + what is necessary, and get rid of that scoundrel Hickman's claim. If they + should arrest you—” + </p> + <p> + “I wish he had done so yesterday,—my infernal temper, that never + will let matters take due course, stopped the fellow; you can't see why, + but I'll tell you. I paid the money to Hickman's law-agent, in Dublin, the + morning I started from town, and they had not time to stop the execution + of the writ down here. Yes, Darcy, there was one drop more in the stoup, + and I drained it! The last few acres I possessed in the world, the old + estate of Hardress Daly, is now in the ownership of one Samuel Kerney, + grocer of Bride Street. I paid off Hickman, however, and found something + like one hundred and twenty-eight pounds afterwards in my pocket—but + let us talk of something else: you must not yield to these people without + a struggle; Bicknell says there are abundant grounds for a trial at bar in + the affair. If collusion between Hickman and Gleeson should be proved, + that many of the leases were granted with false signatures annexed—” + </p> + <p> + “I 'll do whatever men of credit and character counsel me,” said the + Knight; “if there be any question of right, I 'll neither compromise nor + surrender it: I can promise no more. But here comes Lionel,—to + announce breakfast, perhaps.” + </p> + <p> + And so it was; the young man came towards them with an easy smile, + presenting a hand to each. If sorrow had sunk deeply into his heart, few + traces of grief were apparent in his manly, handsome countenance. + </p> + <p> + Notwithstanding the efforts of the party, the breakfast did not pass over + as lightly as the dinner of the previous day; the eventful moment of + parting was now too near not to exclude every other subject, and even when + by an exertion some allusion to a different topic would be made, a chance + question, the entrance of a servant for orders, or the tramp of horses in + the courtyard, would suddenly bring back the errant thoughts, and place + the sad reality in all its force before them. + </p> + <p> + Breakfast was over, and yet no one stirred; a heavy, dreary revery seemed + to have settled on all except Daly,—and he, from delicacy, + restrained the impatience that was working within him. In vain he sought + to catch Darcy's eye, and then Lionel's,—both were bent downward. + Lady Eleanor at last looked up, and at once seemed to read what was + passing in his mind. + </p> + <p> + “I am ready,” said she, in a low, gentle voice, “and I see Mr. Daly is not + sorry at it. Helen, dearest, fetch me my gloves.” + </p> + <p> + She arose, and the others with her. The calmness in which she spoke on the + theme that none dared approach, seemed also to electrify them, when + suddenly a low sob was heard, and the mother fell, in a burst of anguish, + into the arms of her son. + </p> + <p> + “Eleanor, my dearest Eleanor!” said Darcy, as his pale cheek shook and his + lip trembled. As if recalled to herself by the words, she raised her head, + and, with a smile of deep-meaning sorrow, said,— + </p> + <p> + “It's the first tear I have yet shed; it shall be the last.” Then, taking + Daly's arm, she walked steadily forward. + </p> + <p> + “I have often wondered,” said she, “at the prayer of a condemned felon for + a few hours longer of life; but I can understand it now. I feel as if I + could give life itself for another day within these walls, where often I + have pined with <i>ennui</i>. You will watch over Lionel for me, Mr. Daly. + When the world went fairly with us, calamities came softened,—as the + summer rain falls lighter in sunshine; but now, now that we have lost so + much, we cannot afford more.” + </p> + <p> + Daly's stern features grew sterner and darker; his lips were compressed + more firmly; he tried to say a few words, but a low, indistinct muttering + was all that came. + </p> + <p> + The next moment the carriage door was closed on the party—they were + gone. + </p> + <p> + Lionel stood gazing after them till they disappeared, and then, with a + slow step, re-entered the abbey. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0035" id="link2HCH0035"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXV. BAGENAL DALY'S RETURN + </h2> + <p> + Lionel Darcy bore up manfully against his altered fortunes so long as + others were around him, and that the necessity for exertion existed; but + once more alone within that silent and deserted house, all his courage + failed him at once, and he threw himself upon a seat and gave way to + grief. Never were the brighter prospects of opening life more cruelly + dashed, and yet his sorrow was for others. Every object about brought up + thoughts of that dear mother and sister, to whom the refinements of life + were less luxuries than wants. How were they to engage in the stern + conflict with daily poverty,—to see themselves bereft of all the + appliances which filled up the hours of each day? Could his mother, frail + and delicate as she was, much longer sustain the effort by which she first + met the stroke of fortune? Would not the reaction, whenever it came, be + too terrible to be borne? And Helen, too,—his sweet and lovely + sister,—she whom he had loved to think of as the admired of a + splendid Court; on whose appearance in the world he had so often + speculated, castle-building over the sensations her beauty and her + gracefulness would excite,—what was to be her lot? Deep and + heartfelt as his sorrow was for them, it was only when he thought of his + father that Lionel's anguish burst its bounds, and he broke into a torrent + of tears. From very boyhood he had loved and admired him; but never had + the high features of his character so impressed Lionel Darcy as when the + reverse of fortune called up that noble spirit whose courage displayed + itself in manly submission and the generous effort to support the hearts + of others. How cruel did the decrees of fate seem to him, that such a man + should be visited so heavily, while vice and meanness prospered on every + side. He knew not that virtue has no nobler attribute than its power of + sustaining unmerited affliction, and that the destiny of the good man is + never more nobly carried out than when he points the example of patience + in suffering. + </p> + <p> + Immersed in such gloomy thoughts, he wandered on from room to room, + feeding, as it were, the appetite for sorrow, by the sight of every object + that could remind him of past happiness; nor were they few. There was the + window-seat he loved to sit in as a boy, when all the charm of some + high-wrought story could not keep his eyes from wandering at intervals + over the green hills where the lambs were playing, or adown by that dark + stream where circling eddies marked the leaping trout. Here was Helen's + favorite room, a little octagon boudoir, from every window of which a + different prospect opened; it seemed to breathe of her sweet presence even + yet; the open desk, from which she had taken some letter, lay there upon + the table, the pen she had last touched, the chair she sat upon, all, even + to the little nosegay of scarce-faded flowers, the last she had plucked, + teemed with her memory. He walked on with bent-down head and tardy step, + and entered the little room which, opening on the lawn, was used by the + Knight to receive such of the tenantry as came to him for assistance or + advice; many an hour had he sat there beside his father, and, while + listening with the eager curiosity of youth to the little stories of the + poor man's life, his trials and his difficulties, imbibed lessons of + charity and benevolence never to be forgotten. + </p> + <p> + The great square volume in which the Knight used to record his notes of + the neighboring poor, lay on the table; his chair was placed near it; all + was in readiness for his coming who was to come there no more! As Lionel + stood in silent sorrow, surveying these objects, the shadow of a man + darkened the window. He turned suddenly, and saw the tall, scarecrow + figure of Flury the madman. A large placard decorated the front of his + hat, on which the words “Down with the Darcys!” were written in capital + letters, and he carried in his hand a bundle of papers, like handbills, + which he shook with a menacing air at Lionel. + </p> + <p> + “What is this, Flury?” said the youth, opening the window, and at the same + time snatching one of the papers from his hand. + </p> + <p> + “It's the full account of the grand auction of Government hacks,” said + Flury, with the sing-song intonation of a street-crier, “no longer needed + for the services of the Crown, and to be sowld without resarve.” + </p> + <p> + “And who sent you here with this?” said the young man, moderating his + tone, to avoid startling the other. + </p> + <p> + “Connor Egan, Hickman's man, gave me a pint and a noggin of spirits to cry + the auction, and tould me to come up here and maybe you'd like to hear of + it ye'selves.” + </p> + <p> + Lionel threw his eyes over the offensive lines, where in coarse ribaldry + names the most venerable were held up to scorn and derision. If it was + some satisfaction to find that his father was linked in the ruffianly + attack with men of honor as unblemished as his own, he was not less + outraged at the vindictive cowardice that had suggested this insult. + </p> + <p> + “There'll be a fine sight of people there, by all accounts,” said Flury, + gravely, “for the auction-bills is far and near over the country, and the + Castlebar coach has one on each door.” + </p> + <p> + “Is popular feeling always as corrupt a thing as this?” muttered Lionel, + with a bitter sneer, while at the same time the door of the room was + opened, and Daly entered. His face was marked by a severe cut on one + cheek, from which the blood had flowed freely; a dark blue stain, as of a + blow, was on his chin, and one hand he carried enveloped in his + handkerchief; his clothes were torn besides in many places, and bore + traces of a severe personal conflict. + </p> + <p> + “What has happened?” said Lionel, as he looked in alarm at the swollen and + blood-stained features. “Did you fall?” + </p> + <p> + “Fall! no such thing, boy,” replied Daly, sternly; “but some worthy folk + in Castlebar planned a little surprise for me this morning. They heard, it + seems, that we passed through the town by daybreak, but that I was to + return before noon; and so they placed some cars and turf creels in the + main street, opposite the inn, in such a way that, while seeming merely + accident, would effectually stop a horseman from proceeding. When I + arrived at the spot, I halted, and called out to the fellows to move on, + and let me pass. They took no heed of my words, and then I saw in a moment + what was intended. I had no arms; I had purposely left my pistols behind + me, for I feared something might provoke me, though not anticipating such + as this. So I got down and drew this wattle from the side of a turf creel,—you + see it is a strong blackthorn, and good stuff too. Before I was in the + saddle the word was passed, and the whole street was full of people, and I + now perceived that, by the same manouvre as they employed in front, they + had also closed the rear upon me, and cut off my retreat. 'Now for it! now + for it!' they shouted. 'Where's Bully Dodd?—Where's the Bully?' I + suppose you know the fellow?” + </p> + <p> + “The man that was transported?” + </p> + <p> + “The same. The greatest ruffian the country was cursed with. He came at + the call, without coat or waistcoat, his shirt-sleeves tucked up to his + shoulders, and a handkerchief round his waist ready for a fight. There was + an old quarrel between us, for it was I captured the fellow the day after + he burnt down Dawson's house. He came towards me, the mob opening a way + for him, with a pewter pot of porter in his hand. + </p> + <p> + “'We want you to dhrink a toast for us, Mr. Daly,' said he, with a marked + courtesy, and a grin that amused the fellows around him. 'You were always + a patriot, and won't make any objections to it.' + </p> + <p> + “'What is the liquor?' said I. + </p> + <p> + “'Good porter,—divil a less,' cried the mob; 'Mol Heavyside's best.' + And so I took the vessel in my hands, and before they could say a + syllable, drained it to the bottom; for I was very thirsty with the ride, + and in want of something to refresh myself. + </p> + <p> + “'But you did n't dhrink the toast,' said Dodd savagely. + </p> + <p> + “'Where was the toast? He didn't say the words,' shouted the mob. + </p> + <p> + “'Off with his hat, and make him drink it,' cried out several others from + a distance. They saved me one part of the trouble, for they knocked off my + hat with a stone. + </p> + <p> + “'Here's health and long life to Hickman O'Reilly!' cried out Dodd,—'that's + the toast.' + </p> + <p> + “'And what have I to wish him either?' said I, while at the same time I + tore open the pewter measure, and then with one strong dash of my band + drove it down on the ruffian's head, down to the very brows. I lost no + time afterwards, but, striking right and left, plunged forwards; the mob + fled as I followed, and by good luck the carthorses, getting frightened, + sprang forward also, and so I rode on with a few slight cuts; a stone or + two struck me, nothing more; but they 'll need a plumber to rid my friend + Dodd of his helmet.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="linkimage-0015" id="linkimage-0015"> + <!-- IMG --></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%;"> + <img src="images/424.jpg" width="100%" alt="424 " /> + </div> + <p> + “And we used to call this town our own,” said Lionel, bitterly. + </p> + <p> + “Nothing is a man's own but his honor, sir. That base cowardice yonder + believes itself honest and independent, as if a single right feeling, a + single good or virtuous thought, could consort with habits like theirs; + but they are less base than those who instigate them. The real scoundrels + are the Hickmans of this world, the men who compensate for low birth and + plebeian origin by calumniating the wellborn and the noble.—What is + Flury wanting here?” said he, as, attracted by Daly's narrative, the poor + fellow had drawn near to listen. + </p> + <p> + “'I 'm glad you put the pewter pot on the Bully's head, he 's a disgrace + to the town,” said Flury, with a laugh; and he turned away, as if enjoying + the downfall of an enemy. + </p> + <p> + “Oh! I see,” said Daly, taking up one of the papers that had fallen to the + ground, “this is the first act of the drama. Come along, Lionel, let us + talk of matters nearer to our hearts.” + </p> + <p> + They walked along together to the library, each silently following his own + train of thought, and for some time neither seemed disposed to speak. + Lionel at length broke silence, as he said,— + </p> + <p> + “I have been thinking over it, and am convinced my father will never be + able to endure this life of inactivity before him.” + </p> + <p> + “That is exactly the fear I entertain myself for him; altered fortunes + will impress themselves more in the diminished sphere to which his + influence and utility will be reduced, than in anything else: but how to + remedy this?” + </p> + <p> + “I have been considering that also; but you must advise me if the plan be + a likely one. He held the rank of colonel once—” + </p> + <p> + “To be sure he did, and with good right,—he raised the regiment + himself. Darcy's Light Horse were as handsome a set of fellows as the + service could boast of.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, my notion is, that although the Government did not buy his + vote on the Union, there would be no just reason why they should not + appoint him to some one of those hundred situations which the service + includes. His former rank, his connection and position, his unmerited + misfortunes, are, in some sense, claims. I can scarcely suppose his + opposition in Parliament would be remembered against him at such a + moment.” + </p> + <p> + “I hardly think it would,” said Daly, musingly; “there is much in what you + propose. Would Lord Netherby support such a request if it were made?” + </p> + <p> + “He could not well decline it; almost the last thing he said at parting + was, that whatever favor he enjoyed should be gladly employed in our + behalf. Besides, we really seek nothing to which we may not lay fair and + honest claim. My intention would be to write at once to Lord Netherby. + acquainting him briefly with our altered fortunes.” + </p> + <p> + “The more briefly on that topic the better,” said Daly, dryly. + </p> + <p> + “To mention my father's military rank and services, to state that, having + raised and equipped a company at his own expense, without accepting the + slightest aid from the Government, now, in his present change of + condition, he would be proud of any recognition of those services which + once he was but too happy to render unrewarded by the Crown. There are + many positions, more or less lucrative, which would well become him, and + which no right-minded gentleman could say were ill-bestowed on such a + man.” + </p> + <p> + “All true,” said Daly, whose eye brightened as he gazed on the youth, + whose character seemed already about to develop itself under the pressure + of misfortune with traits of more thoughtful meaning than yet appeared iu + him. + </p> + <p> + “Then I will write to Lord Netherby at once,” resumed Lionel; “there can + be no indelicacy in making such a request: he is our relative, the nearest + my mother has.” + </p> + <p> + “He is far better, he 's a Lord in Waiting, and a very subtle courtier,” + said Daly. “Write this day, and, if you like it, I 'll dictate the + letter.” + </p> + <p> + Lionel accepted the offer with all the pleasure possible. He had been from + boyhood a firm believer in the resources and skill of Daly in every + possible contingency of life, and looked on him as one of those persons + who invariably succeed when everybody else fails. + </p> + <p> + There is a species of promptitude in action, the fruit generally of a + strong will and a quick imagination, which young men mistake for a much + higher gift, and estimate at a price very far above its value. Bagenal + Daly had, however, other qualities than these; but truth compels us to own + that, in Lionel's eyes, his supremacy on such grounds was no small merit. + He had ever found him ready for every emergency, prompt to decide, no less + quick to act, and, without stopping to inquire how far success followed + such rapid resolves, this very energy charmed him. It was, then, in + perfect confidence in the skill and address of his adviser that Lionel sat + down, pen in hand, to write at his dictation. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0036" id="link2HCH0036"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXVI. THE LAW AND ITS CHANCES. + </h2> + <p> + We left Mr. Daly at the conclusion of our last chapter in the exercise of—what + to him was always a critical matter—the functions of a polite + letter-writer. His faults, it is but justice to say, were much less those + of style than of the individual himself; for if he rarely failed to convey + a clear notion of his views and intentions, he still more rarely omitted + to impart considerable insight into his own character. + </p> + <p> + His abrupt and broken sentences, his sudden outbreaks of intelligence or + passion, were not inaptly conveyed by the character of a handwriting which + was bold, careless, and hurried. Indifferent to everything like neatness + or accuracy, generally blotted, and never very legible, these defects, if + they did not palliate, they might, in a measure, explain something of his + habits of thought and action; but now, when about to dictate to another, + the case was different, and those interruptions which Daly would have set + down by a dash of his pen, were to be conveyed by the less significant + medium of mere blanks. + </p> + <p> + “I 'm ready,” said Lionel, at length, as he sat for some time in silent + expectation of Daly's commencement. But that gentleman was walking up and + down the room with his hands behind his back, occasionally stopping to + look out upon the lawn. + </p> + <p> + “Very well, begin—'My dear Lord Netherby,' or 'My dear Lord,'—it + does n't signify which, though I suppose he would be of another mind, and + find a whole world of difference between the two. Have you that?—very + well. Then go on to mention, in such terms as you like yourself, the + sudden change of fortune that has befallen your family,—briefly, but + decisively.” + </p> + <p> + “Dictate it, I'll follow you,” said Lionel, somewhat put out by this mode + of composition. + </p> + <p> + “Oh! it doesn't matter exactly what the words are,—say, that a d——d + scoundrel, Gleeson—Honest Tom we always called him—has cut and + run with something like a hundred thousand pounds, after forging and + falsifying every signature to our leases for the last ten or fifteen + years; we are, in consequence, ruined—obliged to leave the abbey, + take to a cottage—a devilish poor one, too.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't go so fast—'we are in consequence—'” + </p> + <p> + “Utterly smashed—broken up—no home, and devilish little to + live upon,—my mother's jointure being barely sufficient for herself + and Helen. I want, therefore, to remind you—your Lordship, that is—to + remind your Lordship of the kind pledge which you so lately made us, at a + time when we little anticipated the early necessity we should have to + recall it. My father, some forty-five or six years back, raised the Darcy + Light Horse, equipped, armed, and mounted six hundred men, at his own + expense. This regiment, of which he took the head, did good service in the + Low Countries, and although distinguished in many actions, he received + nothing but thanks,—happily not wanting more, if so much. Times are + changed now with him, and it would be a seasonable act of kindness and a + suitable reward to an old officer—highly esteemed as he is and has + been through life—to make up for past neglect by some appointment—the + service has many such—Confound them! the pension-list shows what + fellows there are—'governors and deputy-governors,' 'acting + adjutants' of this, and 'deputy assistant commissaries' of that.” + </p> + <p> + “I 'm not to write that, I suppose?” + </p> + <p> + “No, you needn't,—it would do no harm, though, to give them a hint + on the subject; but never mind it now. 'As for myself, I 'll leave the + Guards, and take service in the Line. I am only anxious for a regiment on + a foreign station, and if in India, so much the better.' Is that down? + Well—eh! that will do, I think. You may just say, that the matter + ought to be arranged without any communication with your father, inasmuch + as, from motives of delicacy, he might feel bound to decline what was + tendered as an offer, though he would hold himself pledged to accept what + was called by the name of duty. Yes, Lionel, that's the way to put the + case; active service, by all means active service,—no guard-mounting + at Windsor or Carlton House; no Hounslow Heath engagements.” + </p> + <p> + Lionel followed, as well as he was able, the suggestions, to which sundry + short interjections and broken “hems!” and “ha's!” gave no small + confusion, and at last finished a letter, which, if it conveyed some part + of the intention, was even a stronger exponent of the character, of him + who dictated it. + </p> + <p> + “Shall I read it over to you?” + </p> + <p> + “Heaven forbid! If you did, I 'd alter every word of it. I never + reconsidered a note that I did not change my mind about it, and I don't + believe I ever counted a sum of money over more than once without making + the tot vary each time. Send it off as it is—' Yours truly, Lionel + Darcy.'” + </p> + <p> + It was about ten days after the events we have just related that Bagenal + Daly sat in consultation with Darcy's lawyer in the back parlor of the + Knight's Dublin residence. Lionel, who had been in conclave with them for + several hours, had just left the room, and they now remained in thoughtful + silence, pondering over their late discussion. + </p> + <p> + “That young man,” said Bicknell, at length, “is very far from being + deficient in ability, but he is wayward and reckless as the rest of the + family; he seems to have signed his name everywhere they told him, and to + anything. Here are leases forever at nominal rents—no fines in + renewal—rights of fishery disposed of—oak timber—marble + quarries—property of every kind—made away with. Never was + there such wasteful, ruinous expenditure coupled with peculation and + actual robbery at the same time.” + </p> + <p> + “What's to be done?” said Daly, interrupting a catalogue of disasters he + could scarcely listen to with patience; “have you anything to propose?” + </p> + <p> + “We must move in Equity for an inquiry into the validity of these + documents; many of the signatures are probably false; we can lay a case + for a jury—” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I don't want to hear the details,—you mean to go to law; now, + has Darcy wherewithal to sustain a suit? These Hickmans are rich.” + </p> + <p> + “Very wealthy people indeed,” said Bicknell, dryly. “The Knight cannot + engage in a legal contest with them without adequate means. I am not + sufficiently in possession of Mr. Darcy's resources to pronounce on the + safety of such a step.” + </p> + <p> + “I can tell you, then: they have nothing left to live upon save his wife's + jointure. Lady Eleanor has something like a thousand a year in settlement,—certainly + not more.” + </p> + <p> + “If they can contrive to live on half this sum,” said the lawyer, + cautiously, “we may, perhaps, find the remainder enough for our purposes. + The first expenses will be, of course, very heavy: drafts to prepare, + searches to make, witnesses to examine, with opinion of high counsel, will + all demand considerable outlay.” + </p> + <p> + “This is a point I can give no opinion upon,” said Daly; “they have been + accustomed to live surrounded with luxuries of every kind: whether they + can at once descend to actual poverty, or would rather cling to the + remnant of their former comforts, is not in my power to tell.” + </p> + <p> + “The very bond under which they have foreclosed,” said Bicknell, “admits + of great question. Unfortunately, that fellow Gleeson destroyed all the + papers before his suicide, or we could ascertain if a clause of redemption + were not inserted; there was no registry of the judgment, and we are + consequently in the hands of the enemy.” + </p> + <p> + “I cannot help saying,” said Daly, sternly, “that if it were not for the + confounded subtleties of your craft, roguery would have a less profitable + sphere of employment: so many hitches, so many small crotchety + conjunctures influence the mere question of right and wrong that a man is + led at last to think less of justice itself than of the petty artifices to + secure a superiority.” + </p> + <p> + “I must assure you that you are in a great error,” said Bicknell, calmly; + “the complication of a suit is the necessary security the law has recourse + to against the wiles and stratagems of designing men. What you call its + hitches and subtleties are the provisions against craft by which mere + honesty is protected: that they are sometimes employed to defeat justice, + is saying no more than that they are only human contrivances; for what + good institution cannot be so perverted?” + </p> + <p> + “So much the better, if you can think so. Now, what are Darcy's chances of + success?—never mind recapitulating details, which remind me a great + deal too much of my own misfortunes, but say, in one word, is the prospect + good or bad, or has it a tinge of both?” + </p> + <p> + “It may be any of the three, according to the way in which the claim is + prosecuted; if there be sufficient means—” + </p> + <p> + “Is that the great question?” + </p> + <p> + “Undoubtedly; large fees to the leading counsel, retainers, if a record be + kept for trial at the Assizes, and payment to special juries: all are + expensive, and all necessary.” + </p> + <p> + “I 'll write to Darcy to-night, then,—or, better still, I 'll write + to Lady Eleanor, repeating what you have told me, and asking her advice + and opinion; meanwhile, lose no time in consulting Mr. Boyle,—you + prefer him?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly, in a case like this he cannot be surpassed; besides, he is + already well acquainted with all the leading facts, and has taken a deep + interest in the affair. There are classes and gradations of ability at the + bar, irrespective of degrees of actual capacity; we have the heavy + artillery of the Equity Court, the light field-pieces of the King's Bench, + and the Congreve rockets of Assize display: to misplace or confound them + would be a grave error.” + </p> + <p> + “I know where I 'd put them all, if <i>my</i> pleasure were to be + consulted,” muttered Daly, in an undergrowl. + </p> + <p> + “Now, if we have a case for a jury, we must secure Mr. O'Halloran—” + </p> + <p> + “He who made a speech to the mob in Smithfield the other day?” + </p> + <p> + “The same. I perceive you scarcely approve of my suggestion; but his + success at the bar is very considerable: he knows a good deal of law, and + a great deal more about mankind. A rising man, sir, I assure you.” + </p> + <p> + “It must be in a falling state of society, then,” said Daly, bitterly. + “Time was when the first requisite of a barrister was to be a gentleman. + An habitual respect for the decorous observances of polite life was deemed + an essential in one whose opinions were as often to be listened to in + questions of right feeling as of right doing. His birth, his social + position, and his acquirements were the guarantees he gave the world that, + while discussing subtleties, he would not be seduced into anything low or + unworthy. I am sorry that notion has become antiquated.” + </p> + <p> + “You would not surely exclude men of high talents from a career because + their origin was humble?” said Bicknell. + </p> + <p> + “And why not, sir? Upon what principle was the bodyguard of noble persons + selected to surround the person of the sovereign, save that blood was + deemed the best security for allegiance? And why should not the law, only + second in sacred respect to the person of the monarch, be as rigidly + protected? The Church excludes from her ministry all who, even by physical + defect, may suggest matter of ridicule or sarcasm to the laity; for the + same reason I would reject from all concern with the administration of + justice those coarser minds whose habits familiarize them with vulgar + tastes and low standards of opinion.” + </p> + <p> + “I confess this seems to me very questionable doctrine, not to speak of + the instances which the law exhibits of her brightest ornaments derived + from the very humblest walks in life.” + </p> + <p> + “Such cases are probably esteemed the more because of that very reason,” + said Daly, haughtily; “they are like the pearl in the oyster-shell, not + very remarkable in itself, but one must go so low down to seek for it. I + have an excuse for warmth; I have lost the greater part of a large fortune + in contesting a right pronounced by high authority to be incontrovertible. + Besides,” added he, with a courteous smile, “if Mr. Bicknell may oppose my + opinion, he has the undoubted superiority that attaches to liberality, his + own family claiming alliance with the best in the land.” + </p> + <p> + This happy turn seemed to divert the course of a conversation which half + threatened angrily. Again the business topic was resumed, and after a + short discussion, Bicknell took his leave, while Daly prepared to write + his letter to Lady Eleanor. + </p> + <p> + He had not proceeded far in his task when Lionel entered with a newspaper + in his hand. + </p> + <p> + “Have you heard the news of the notorious robber being taken?” said he. + </p> + <p> + “Who do you mean? Barrington, is it?” + </p> + <p> + “No; Freney.” + </p> + <p> + “Freney! taken?—when—how—where?” + </p> + <p> + “It's curious enough,” said Lionel, coolly, seating himself to read the + paragraph, without noticing the eagerness of Daly's manner; “the fellow + seems to have had a taste for sporting matters which no personal fear + could eradicate. His capture took place this wise. He went over to + Doncaster, to be present at the Spring Meeting, where he betted freely, + and won largely. There happened, however, to come a reverse to his + fortune, and on the last day of the running he lost everything, and was + obliged to apply for assistance to a former companion, who, it would seem, + was some hundred pounds in his debt; this worthy, having no desire to + refund, threatened the police; Freney became exasperated, knocked him down + on the spot, and then, turning smartly round, chucked one of the jockeys + from his saddle, sprang on the horse's back, and made off like lightning. + The other, only stunned for a moment, was soon on his legs again, and the + cry of 'Freney! it was Freney the robber!' resounded throughout the + race-course. The scene must then have been a most exciting one, for the + whole mounted population, with one accord, gave chase. Noblemen and + country gentlemen, fox-hunters, farmers, and blacklegs, away they went, + Freney about a quarter of a mile in front, and riding splendidly.” + </p> + <p> + “That I 'm sure of,” said Daly, earnestly. “Go on!” + </p> + <p> + “Mellington took the lead of every one, mounted on that great steeplechase + horse he is so proud of,—no fences too large for him, they say; but + the robber—and what a good judge of country the fellow must be—left + the heavy ground and preferred even breasting a long hill of grass-land, + with several high rails, to the open country below, where the clay soil + distressed his horse. By this manoeuvre, says the newspaper, he was + obliged to make a circuit which again brought the great body of his + pursuers close up with him; and now his dexterity as a horseman became + apparent, for while riding at top speed, and handling his horse with the + most perfect judgment, he actually contrived to divest himself of his + heavy greatcoat. He had but just accomplished this very difficult task, + when Lord Mellington once more came up. There was a heavy dike in front, + with a double post and rail, and at this they rushed desperately, each, + apparently, calculating on the other being thrown, or at least checked. + </p> + <p> + “Freney, now only a dozen strides in advance, turned in his saddle, and + drawing a pistol from his breast, took an aim,—as steadily, too, as + if firing at a mark. Lord Mellington saw the dreadful purpose of the + robber; he shouted aloud, and, pulling up with all his might, he bent down + to the very mane of his horse. Freney pulled the trigger, and with one mad + plunge Lord Mellington's horse came headforemost to the ground, with his + rider under him. Freney was not long the victor; the racer he bestrode + breasted the high rail, and, unable to clear it, fell heavily forward, + smashing the frail timbers before him, and pitching the rider on his head. + He was up in a second and away; for about twenty yards his speed was + immense, then, reeling, he staggered forwards and fell senseless; before + he rallied he was taken, and in handcuffs. There is a description of the + fellow,” said Lionel, “and, by Jove! one would think they were describing + some wild denizen of the woods, or some strange animal of savage life, so + eloquent is the paragraph about his appearance and personal strength.” + </p> + <p> + “A well-knit fellow, no doubt, and more than a match for most in single + combat,” said Daly, musing. + </p> + <p> + “You have seen him, then?” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, that I have, and must see him again. Where is he confined?” + </p> + <p> + “In Newgate.” + </p> + <p> + “That is so far fortunate, because the jailer is an old acquaintance of + mine.” + </p> + <p> + “I have a great curiosity to see this Freney.” + </p> + <p> + “Come along with me, then,” said Daly, as he arose and rang the bell to + order a carriage; “you shall gratify your curiosity; but I must ask you to + leave us alone together afterwards, for, strange as it may seem, we have a + little affair of confidence between us.” + </p> + <p> + It did, indeed, appear not a little strange that any secret negotiation or + understanding should exist between two such men; but Lionel did not + venture to ask any explanation of the difficulty, but silently prepared to + accompany him. As they went along towards Newgate, Daly related several + anecdotes of Freney, all of which tended to show that the fellow had all + his life felt that strange passion for danger so attractive to certain + minds, and that his lawless career was more probably adopted from this + tendency than any mere desire of money-getting. Many of his robberies + resembled feats of daring rather than cautious schemes to obtain property. + “Society,” added Daly, “is truly not much benefited because the highwayman + is capricious; but still, one cannot divest oneself of a certain interest + for a rascal who has always shown himself ready to risk his neck, and who + has never been charged with any distinct act of cruelty. When I say this + much, I must caution you against indulging a sympathy for a law-breaker + because he is not a perfect monster of iniquity; such fellows are very + rare, and we are always too well inclined to admire the few good qualities + of a bad man, just as we are astonished at a few words spoken plain by a + parrot. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “'The things themselves are neither strange nor rare; + We wonder how the devil they came there.'” + </pre> + <p> + While Daly wisely cautioned his young companion against the indulgence of + a false and mawkish sympathy for the criminal, he in his own heart could + not help feeling the strongest interest for any misfortune of a spirit so + wild and so reckless. + </p> + <p> + Daly's card, passed through the iron grating of the strong door, soon + procured them admission, and they were conducted into a small and neatly + furnished room, where a mild-looking middle-aged man was seated, reading. + He rose as they entered, and saluted them respectfully. + </p> + <p> + “Good evening, Dunn; I hope I see you well. My friend Captain Darcy—Mr. + Dunn. We have just heard that the noted Freney has taken up his lodgings + here, and are curious to see him.” + </p> + <p> + “I 'm afraid I must refuse your request, Mr. Daly; my orders are most + positive about the admission of any one to the prisoner: there have been I + can't say how many people here on the same errand since four o'clock, when + he arrived.” + </p> + <p> + “I think I ought to be free of the house,” said Daly, laughing; “I + matriculated here at least, if I didn't take out a high degree.” + </p> + <p> + “So you did, sir,” said Dunn, joining in the laugh. “Freney is in the very + same cell you occupied for four months.” + </p> + <p> + “Come, come, then, you can't refuse me paying a visit to my old quarters.” + </p> + <p> + “There is another objection, and a stronger one,—. Freney himself + declines seeing any one, and asked a special leave of the sheriff to + refuse all comers admission to him.” + </p> + <p> + “This surprises me,” said Daly. “Why, the fellow has a prodigious deal of + personal vanity, and I cannot conceive his having adopted such a + resolution.” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps I can guess his meaning,” said the jailer, shrewdly; “the greater + number of those who came here, and also who tried to see him in Liverpool, + were artists of one kind or other, wanting to take busts or profiles of + him. Now, my surmise is, Freney would not dislike the notoriety, if it + were not that it might be inconvenient one of these days. To be plain, + sir, though he is doubly ironed, and in the strongest part of the + strongest jail in Ireland, he is at this moment meditating on an escape, + in the event of which he calculates all the trouble and annoyance it would + give him to have his picture or his cast stuck up in every town and + village of the kingdom. This, at least, is my reading of the mystery; but + I think it is not without some show of probability.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, the objection could scarcely apply to me,” said Daly; “if his + portrait be not taken by a more skilful artist than I am, he may be very + easy on the score of recognition. Pray let me send in my name to him, and + if he refuses to see me, I 'll not press the matter further.” + </p> + <p> + Partly from an old feeling of kindness towards Daly, Dunn gave no further + opposition, but in reality he was certain that Freney's refusal would set + the matter at rest. His surprise was consequently great when the turnkey + returned with a civil message from Freney that he would be very glad to + see Mr. Daly. + </p> + <p> + “Your friend can remain here,” said Dunn, in a voice that plainly showed + he was not quite easy in his mind as to the propriety of the interview; + and Daly, to alleviate suspicions natural enough in one so circumstanced, + assented, and walked on after the turnkey, alone. + </p> + <p> + “That's the way he spends his time; listen to him now,” whispered the + turnkey, as they stopped at the door of the cell, from within which the + deep tones of a man's voice were heard singing to himself, as he slowly + paced the narrow chamber, his heavy fetters keeping a melancholy time to + the melody:— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “'T was afther two when he quitted Naas, + But he gave the spar, and he went the pace, + 'As many an like may now give chase,' + Says he, 'I give you warning. + You may raise the country far and near, + From Malin Head down to Cape Clear, + But the divil a man of ye all I fear, + I 'll be far away before morning.' + + “By break of day he reach'd Kildare, + The black horse never turn'd a hair; + Says Freney, 'We 've some time to spare, + This stage we 've rather hasten'd.' + So he eat four eggs and a penny rowl, + And he mix'd of whiskey such a bowl! + The drink he shared with the beast, by my sowl, + For Jack was always dacent. + + “'You might tighten the girths,' Jack Freney cried, + 'For I 've soon a heavy road to ride.' + 'Twas the truth he tould, for he never lied; + The way was dark and rainy. + 'Good-by,' says he, 'I 'll soon be far, + And many a mile from Mullingar.' + So he kiss'd the girl behind the bar, + 'T is the divil you wor, Jack Freney!” + </pre> + <p> + “Sorra lie in that, any way,” said the robber, as he repeated the last + line over once more, with evident self-satisfaction. + </p> + <p> + “Who comes there?” cried he, sternly, as the heavy bolts were shot back, + and the massive door opened. + </p> + <p> + “Why don't you say, 'Stand and deliver'?” said the turnkey, with a laugh + as harsh and grating as the creak of the rusty hinges. + </p> + <p> + “And many a time I did to a better man,” said Freney. + </p> + <p> + “You may leave us now,” said Daly, to the turnkey. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Daly, your sarvant,” said the robber, saluting him; “you 're the only + man in Ireland I wanted to see.” + </p> + <p> + “I wish our meeting had been anywhere else,” said Daly, sorrowfully, as he + took his seat on a stool opposite the bed where Freney sat. + </p> + <p> + “Well, well, so it is, sir; it's just what every one prophesied this many + a day,—as if there was much cunning in saying that I 'd be hanged + some time or other; why, if they wanted to surprise me, they 'd have tould + me I 'd never be taken. You heard how it was, I suppose?” + </p> + <p> + Daly nodded, and Freney went on:— + </p> + <p> + “The English horse wouldn't rise to the rail; if I was on the chestnut + mare or Black Billy, I would n't be where I am now.” + </p> + <p> + “I have several things to ask you about, Freney; but first, how I can + serve you? You must have counsel in this business.” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir, I thank you; it's only throwing good money after bad. I'll plead + guilty,—it will save time with us all.” + </p> + <p> + “But you give yourself no chance, man.” + </p> + <p> + “Faix, I spoiled my chance long ago, Mr. Daly. Do you know, sir,”—here + he spoke in a low, determined tone,—“there's not a mail in Ireland I + did n't stop at one time or other. There's few country gentlemen I have + n't lightened of their guineas; the court wouldn't hold the witnesses + against me if I were to stand my trial.” + </p> + <p> + “With all that, you must still employ a lawyer; these fellows are as + crafty in <i>their</i> walk as ever you were in <i>yours</i>. Who will you + have? Name the man, and leave the rest to me.” + </p> + <p> + Freney seemed to deliberate for a few moments, and he threw his eyes down + at the heavy irons on his legs, and he gazed at the strong stanchions of + the windows, and then said, in a low voice,— + </p> + <p> + “There's a chap called Hosey M'Garry, in a cellar in Charles Street: he's + an ould man with one eye, and not a tooth in his head; but he's the only + man that could sarve me now.” + </p> + <p> + “Hosey M'Garry,” repeated Daly, “Charles Street,” as he wrote down the + address with his pencil: “a strange name and residence for a lawyer.” + </p> + <p> + “I did n't say he was, sir,” said Freney, laughing. + </p> + <p> + “And who and what is he, then?” + </p> + <p> + “The only man, now alive, that can make a cowld chisel to cut iron without + noise.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="linkimage-0016" id="linkimage-0016"> + <!-- IMG --></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%;"> + <img src="images/440.jpg" width="100%" alt="440 " /> + </div> + <p> + “Ah! that's what you're thinking of; you'd rather trust to the flaws of + the iron than of the indictment. Perhaps you are not far wrong, after + all.” + </p> + <p> + “If I was in the court below without the fetters,” said Freney, eagerly, + “I could climb the wall with a holdfast and a chisel, and get down the + same way on the other side; once there, Mr. Daly, I 'd sing the ould + ballad,— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “For the divil a man of ye all I fear, + I 'll be far away before morning.” + </pre> + <p> + “And how are these tools to reach you here? If they admit any of your + friends, won't they search them first?” + </p> + <p> + “So they will, barrin' it was a gentleman,” replied Freney, while his eyes + twinkled with a peculiarly cunning lustre. + </p> + <p> + “So, then, you rely on <i>me</i> for this piece of service?” said Daly, + after a pause. + </p> + <p> + “Troth, you're the only gentleman of my acquaintance,” said Freney, + quaintly. + </p> + <p> + “Well, I suppose I must not give you a bad impression of the order; I 'll + do it.” + </p> + <p> + “I knew you would,” rejoined Freney, calmly. “You might bring two files at + the same time, and a phial of sweet oil to keep down the noise. Hush! + here's Gavin coming to turn you out,—he said ten minutes.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, you shall see me to-morrow, Freney, and I 'll endeavor to see + your friend in the mean time.” This was said as the turnkey stood at the + open door. + </p> + <p> + “This gentleman wants to have a look at you, Freney,” said the jailer,—“as + if he could n't see you for nothing, some Saturday morning soon.” + </p> + <p> + “Maybe he 'd not know me in a nightcap,” replied Freney, laughing, while + he turned the lamplight full on Lionel Darcy's features. + </p> + <p> + “The very fellow that rode off with the horse!” exclaimed Lionel as he saw + him. + </p> + <p> + “Young O'Reilly!” said Freney. “What signifies that charge now? Won't it + satisfy you if they hang me for something else?” + </p> + <p> + “That's Captain Darcy, man,” broke in Daly. “Is all your knowledge of + mankind of so little use to you that you cannot distinguish between a born + gentleman and an upstart?” + </p> + <p> + “By my oath,” said the robber, aloud, “I 'm as glad as a ten-pound note to + know that it wasn't a half-bred one that showed the spirit you did! + Hurrah! there's hopes for ould Ireland yet, when the blood and bone is + still left in her! And wasn't it real luck that I saw you this night? If I + did n't, I 'd have done you a bad turn. One word, Mr. Daly, one word in + your ear.” + </p> + <p> + The robber drew Daly towards him, and whispered eagerly for some seconds. + </p> + <p> + A violent exclamation burst from Daly as he listened, and then he cried + out, “What! are you sure of this? Don't deceive me, man!” + </p> + <p> + “May I never, but it's true.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, then, not have told it before?” + </p> + <p> + “Because”—here he faltered—“because—faix, I 'll tell the + truth—I thought that young gentleman was Hickman's grandson, and I + could n't bring myself to do him a spite after what I had seen.” + </p> + <p> + “The time is up, gentlemen,” said the turnkey, who, out of the delicacy of + his official feeling, was slowly pacing the corridor up and down while + they talked together. + </p> + <p> + “If this be but true,” muttered Daly to himself, “there's another cast of + the dice for it yet.” + </p> + <p> + “I am sorry for that fellow,” said Lionel, aloud; “he did me a good turn + once: I might have gone down the torrent, were it not for his aid.” + </p> + <p> + “So you might, man,” said Daly, speaking in a half-soliloquy; “he gives + the only chance of victory I've seen yet.” + </p> + <p> + These words, so evidently inapplicable to Lionel's observations, were a + perfect enigma; but he did not dare to ask for any explanation, and walked + on in silence beside him. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0037" id="link2HCH0037"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXVII. A SCENE OF HOME. + </h2> + <p> + If the climate of northern Ireland be habitually one of storm and + severity, it must be confessed that, in the rare but happy intervals of + better weather, the beauty of the coast scenery is unsurpassed. Indented + with little bays, whose sides are formed of immense cliffs of chalk, or + the more stately grandeur of that columnar basalt which extends for miles + on either side of the Causeway, the most vivid coloring unites with forms + the wildest and most fantastic; crag and precipice, sandy beach and rocky + shore, alternate in endless variety; while islands are there, some, green + and sheep-clad, others, dark and frowning, form the home of nothing but + the sea-gull. + </p> + <p> + It was on such an evening of calm as displayed the scene to its greatest + advantage, when a long column of burnished golden light floated over the + sea, tipping each crested wave, and darkened into deeper beauty between + them, that the Knight, Lady Eleanor, and Helen sat under the little porch + of their cottage and gazed upon the fair and gorgeous picture. + </p> + <p> + If the leafy grove or the dark wood seem sweeter to our senses when the + thrilling notes of the blackbird or the thrush sing in their solitude, so + the deepest silence, the most unbroken stillness, has a wonderful effect + of soothing to the mind beside the seashore we have so often seen terrible + in the fury of the storm. A gentle calm steals over us as we listen to the + long sweeping of the waves, heaving and breaking in measured melody; and + our thoughts, enticed by some dreaming ecstasy, wander away over the + boundless ocean, not to the far-off lands of other climes alone, but into + worlds of brighter and more beauteous mould. + </p> + <p> + They sat in silence, at first only occupied by the lovely scene that + stretched away before them, but at last each deeply immersed in his own + thoughts,—thoughts which, unconnected with the objects around, yet + by some strange mystery were tinctured by all their calm and tranquil + beauty. A fisherman was mending his net upon the little beach below, and + his children were playing around him, now running merrily along the + strand, now dabbling in the white foam left by the retreating waves; the + father looked up from time to time to watch them, but without interrupting + the low monotonous chant by which he lightened his labor. + </p> + <p> + Towards the little group at length their eyes were turned. “Yes,” said the + Knight, as if interpreting what was passing in the minds of those at his + side, “that is about as near to human happiness as life affords. I believe + there would be very few abortive ambitions if men were content to see + their children occupy the same station as themselves; and yet, when the + time of one's own reverses arrives, how very little of true happiness is + lost by the change of fortune.” + </p> + <p> + “My dearest father!” said Helen, as in a transport of delight she threw + her arms around him, “how happy your words make me! You are, then, + contented?” + </p> + <p> + “Do I not look so, my sweet Helen? And your mother, too, when have you + seen her so well?—when do you remember her walking, as she did + to-day, to the top of the great cliff of Dunluce?” + </p> + <p> + “With no other ill consequence,” said Lady Eleanor, smiling, “than a most + acute attack of vanity; for I begin to fancy myself quite young again.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, Mamma, don't forget we have a visit to pay, some of these days, to + Ballintray,—that's the name of the place, I think, Miss Daly resides + at.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, we really must not neglect it. There was a delicacy in her note of + welcome to us here, judging that we might not be prepared for a personal + visit, which prepossesses me in her favor. You promised to make our + acknowledgments, but I believe you forgot all about it.” + </p> + <p> + “No, not that,” said the Knight, hesitatingly; “but in the midst of so + many things to do and think about, I deferred it from day to day.” + </p> + <p> + “Shall we go to-morrow, then?” cried Helen, eagerly. + </p> + <p> + “I think it were better if your father went first, lest the way should + prove too long for us. I am so proud of my pedestrianism, Helen, I'll not + risk any failure.” + </p> + <p> + “Be it so,” said the Knight, quietly. “And now of this other matter + Bagenal presses so strongly upon us. I feel the greatest repugnance to + assume any name but that I have always borne, and, I hope, not disgraced; + he says we shall be objects of impertinent curiosity here to the + neighborhood.” + </p> + <p> + “Ruins to dispute the honors of lionship with Dunluce,” said Lady Eleanor, + smiling faintly. + </p> + <p> + “Just so; that might, however, be borne patiently; they will soon leave + off talking of us when we give them little matter for speculative gossip. + Besides, we are so far away from anything that could be called + neighborhood.” + </p> + <p> + “But he suggests some other reasons, if I mistake not,” said Lady Eleanor. + </p> + <p> + “He does, but so darkly and mysteriously that I cannot even guess his + drift. Here is his letter.” And the Knight took several papers from his + pocket, from among which he selected one, whose large and blotted writing + unmistakably pronounced it Bagenal Daly's. “Yes, here it is: 'Bicknell + says that Hickman's people are fully persuaded that you have left Ireland + with the intention of never returning; that this impression should be + maintained, because it will induce them to be less guarded than if they + believed you were still here, directing any legal proceeding. The only + case, therefore, he will prepare for trial will be one respecting the + leases falsely signed. The bond and its details must be unravelled by + time; here also your incognito is all-essential,—it need only be for + a short time, and on scruples of delicacy so easily got over: your + grandfather called himself Gwynne, and wrote it also.' That is quite true, + Eleanor, so he did; his letters are signed Matthew Gwynne, Knight of————. + I remember the signature well.” + </p> + <p> + “I think, with Mr. Daly,” said Lady Eleanor, “it will save us a world of + observant impertinence; this place is tranquil and solitary enough just + now, but in summer the coast and the Causeway have many visitors, and + although 'the Corvy' is out of the common track, if our names be bruited + about, we shall not escape that least graceful of all attentions, the + tender commiseration of mere acquaintances.” + </p> + <p> + “Mamma is right,” said Helen; “we should be hunted out by every tourist to + report on how we bore our reverses, and tormented with anonymous + condolences in prose, and short stanzas on the beauty of resignation.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, and, my dear Helen, perhaps the lessons might not be so very + inapplicable,” said the Knight, smiling affectionately. + </p> + <p> + “But very inefficient, sir,” replied Helen, with a toss of her head; “I'm + not a bit resigned.” + </p> + <p> + “Helen, dearest,” interposed Lady Eleanor, rebukingly. + </p> + <p> + “Not a bit, Mamma; I am happy,—happier than I ever knew myself + before, if you like that phrase better,—because we are together, + because this life realizes to me all I ever dreamed of,—that quiet + and tranquil pleasure people might, but somehow never please to, taste of; + but if you ask me am I resigned to see you and my dear father in a station + so much beneath your expectations and your habits, I cannot say that I + am.” + </p> + <p> + “Then, my dear girl, you accuse us of bearing our misfortunes badly, if we + cannot partake of your enjoyments on account of our own vain regrets?” + </p> + <p> + “No, no, Papa, don't mistake me; if I grieve over the altered fortunes + that limit your sphere of usefulness as well as of pleasure, it is because + I know how well you understood the privileges and demands of your high + station, and how little a life so humble as this is can exact of qualities + that were not given to be wasted in obscurity.” + </p> + <p> + “My sweet child,” said the Knight, fondly, “it is a very dangerous + practice to blend up affection with principle; depend upon it, the former + will always coerce the latter, and bend it to its will; and as for those + good gifts you speak of, had I really as many of them as your fond heart + would endow me with, believe me there is no station so humble as not to + admit of their exercise. There never yet was a walk in life without its + sphere of duties; now I intend that not only are we to be happy here, but + that we should contribute to the well-being of those about us.” + </p> + <p> + There was a pause after the Knight had done speaking, during which he + busied himself in turning over some letters, the seals of which were still + unbroken; he knew the handwriting on most of them, and yet hesitated about + inflicting on himself the pain of reading allusions to that condition he + had once occupied. “Yes,” muttered he to himself, “we are always + flattering ourselves of how essential we are to our friends, our party, + and so forth; and yet, when any events occur which despoil us of our brief + importance, we see the whole business of the world go on as currently as + ever. What a foretaste this gives one of death! So it is, the stream of + life flows on, whether the bubble on its surface float or burst.” + </p> + <p> + “That's Lord Netherby's hand, is it not?” said Lady Eleanor, as she lifted + a letter which had fallen to the ground. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said Darcy, carelessly; “written probably soon after his return to + England. I have no doubt it contains a most courtly acknowledgment of our + poor hospitality, and an assurance of undying regard.” + </p> + <p> + “If it be of that tenor, I have no curiosity to read it,” said Lady + Eleanor, handing the letter to the Knight. + </p> + <p> + “Helen would like to study so great a master of epistolary flatteries,” + said the Knight, smiling; “and provided she will keep the whole for her + private reading, I am willing to indulge her.” + </p> + <p> + “I accept the favor with thanks,” said Helen, receiving the letter; “you + know I plead guilty to liking our noble relative. I 'm not skilled enough + to distinguish between an article trebly gilded and one of pure gold, and + his Lordship, to my eyes, looked as like the true metal as possible: he + said so many pretty things to Mamma, and so many fine things of you and + Lionel—” + </p> + <p> + “And paid so many compliments to the fair Helen herself,” interposed the + Knight. + </p> + <p> + “With so much of good tact—” + </p> + <p> + “And good taste, Helen,” added Lady Eleanor, smiling; “why not say that?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I see I shall have to defend myself as well as my champion, so I + 'll even go and read my letter.” + </p> + <p> + And so saying, she arose, and sauntered down to the shore; under the + shelter of a tall rock, from whence the view extended for miles along, she + sat down. “What a contrast!” said she, as she broke the seal, “a + courtier's letter in such a scene as this!” + </p> + <p> + Lord Netherby's letter was, as the Knight suspected, written soon after + his return to England, expressing, in his own most courtly phrase, the + delightful memory he retained of his visit to Ireland. Gracefully + contrasting the brilliant excitement of that brief period with the more + staid quietude of the life to which he returned, he lightly suggested that + none other than one native to the soil could support an existence so + overflowing with pleasurable emotions. With all the artifice of a + courtier, he recalled certain little incidents, too small, as mere matters + of memory, to find a resting-place in the mind, but all of them indicative + of the deep impression made, upon him who remarked them. + </p> + <p> + He spoke also of the delight with which his Royal Highness the Prince + listened to his narrative of life in Ireland. “In truth,” wrote his + Lordship, “I do not believe that the exigencies of his station ever cost + him more than when he reflected on the impossibility of his witnessing + such perfection in the life of a country house as I feebly endeavored to + convey to him. Again and again has he asked me to repeat the tale of the + hunt—the brilliant ball the night of your arrival—and I have + earned a character for story-telling of which Kelly and Sheridan are + beginning to feel jealous, by the mere retail of your anecdotes. Lionel's + return is anxiously looked for by all here, and the Prince has more than + once expressed himself impatient to see him back again. My sweet favorite + Helen, too,—when is she to be presented? There will be a court in + the early part of next month, of which I shall not fail to apprise you, + most earnestly entreating that my cousin Eleanor will not think the + journey too far which shall bring her once again among those scenes she so + gracefully adorned, and where her triumphs will be renewed in the + admiration of her lovely daughter. I need not tell you that my house in + town is entirely at her disposal, either as <i>my</i> guests, or, if you + prefer it, I shall be <i>theirs</i>, whenever I am not in waiting.” + </p> + <p> + Here the writer detailed, with an eloquence all his own, the advantage to + Helen of making her <i>entrée</i> into life under circumstances so + favorable, remarking, with that conventional philosophy just then the + popular cant of the day, that the enthusiasm of the world was never + long-lived, and that even his beautiful cousin Helen should not be above + profiting by the favorable reception the kindly disposition of the court + was sure to procure for her. This was said in a tone of half-serious + banter, but at the same time the invitation was reiterated with an evident + desire for its acceptance. + </p> + <p> + As the letter drew near its conclusion, the lines became more closely + written, as though some circumstances hitherto forgotten had suddenly + occurred to the writer; and so it proved. + </p> + <p> + “I was about, my dear Knight, to write myself, with what truth I will not + say, your 'most affectionate friend, Netherby,' when I received a letter + which requires some mention at my hands. It is, indeed, one of the most + extraordinary documents I have ever perused; nothing very wonderful in + that, when I tell you from whom it comes,—your old sweetheart, Julia + Wallincourt, or, as you will better remember her, Julia d'Esterre; she is + still very beautiful, and just as capricious, just as <i>maligne</i>, as + when she endeavored, by every artifice of her coquetry, to make you jilt + my cousin Eleanor. There 's no doubt of it, Darcy, this woman loved you! + at least, as much as she could love anything, except the pleasure of + torturing her fellow-creatures. Well, it would seem that a younger son of + hers, popularly known as Dick Forester, paid you a visit in Ireland, and, + no very unnatural occurrence, fell desperately in love with your daughter,—not + so Helen with him. She probably regarded him as one of that class upon + which London has so stamped its impress of habit and manner that all + individualism is lost in the quiet observance of certain proprieties. He + must have been a rare contrast to the high-souled enthusiasm and + waywardness of her own brother! Certain it is she refused him; and he, + taking the thing much more to heart than a young Guardsman usually does a + similar catastrophe, hastened home, and endeavored to interest his mother + in his suit. Lady Julia had an old vengeance to exact, and, like a true + woman, could not forego it; she not only positively refused all + intercession on her part, but went what you and I will probably feel to be + a very unnecessary length, and actually declared she never would consent + to such an alliance. We used to remember (some years ago), at Eton, of a + certain Dido who never forgave, and we are told how, for many years after, + the <i>lethalis arundo lateri adhosit</i>; but assuredly the poet was + speaking less of the woes of an individual than of the sorrows of fine + ladies in all ages. Unfortunately, the similitude between her ladyship and + Dido ends here; the classic fair one exhibited, as we are told, the most + delicate fondness for the son of her lover. But, to grow serious, Lady + Wallincourt's conduct must have been peremptory and harsh; she actually + went the length of writing to the Duke of York to request an exchange for + her son into a regiment serving in India: whether Forester obtained some + clew to this manouvre or not, he anticipated the stroke by selling out and + leaving the army altogether; whither he is gone, or what has become of him + since, no one can tell. Such, my dear Knight, is the emergency in which + Lady Wallincourt addresses her letter to me,—a letter so peculiarly + her own, so full of reproaches against you, and vindication of herself, + that I actually scruple to transmit to you this palpable evidence of still + enduring affection. + </p> + <p> + “Were you both thirty years younger, I should claim great credit to my + morality for the forbearance. Let that pass, however, and let me rather + ask you if you know, or have heard anything, of this wayward boy? + Personally, I am unacquainted with him; but his friends agree in saying + that he is high-spirited, honorable, and brave; and it would be a great + pity that his affection for a young lady, and his anger with an old one, + should mar all the prospects of his life. Could you, by any means, find a + clew to him? I do not, of course, ask you to interfere in person, lest it + might seem that you encouraged an attachment which you have far more + reason to discountenance for your daughter than has Lady Wallincourt for + her son; however, your doing so would go far to reconcile the young man to + his mother by showing that, if there was a difficulty on one side, a still + greater obstacle existed on the other.” + </p> + <p> + Requesting a speedy answer, and begging that the whole might be in strict + confidence between them, the letter concluded. + </p> + <p> + “I do not doubt, my dear Knight,” said the postscript, “that you will see + in all this a reason the more for coming up to town. Helen's appearance at + the Drawing-Room would be the best, if not the only, rebuke Lady + Wallin-court's insolence could receive. By all means, come. + </p> + <p> + “Another complication! Lady W., on first hearing of her son's duel, and + the kind treatment he met with after being wounded, wrote a letter of + grateful acknowledgments, which she enclosed to her son, neither knowing + nor caring for the address of his benefactor. When she did hear it at + length, she was excessively angry that she had been, as she terms it, 'the + first to make advances.' Ainsi, telles sont les femmes du monde!” + </p> + <p> + Such was Lord Netherby's letter. With what a succession of emotions Helen + read it we confess ourselves unable to depict. If she sometimes hesitated + to read on, an influence, too powerful to control, impelled her to + continue, while a secret interest in Forester's fortunes—a feeling + she had never known till now—induced her to learn his fate. More + than once, in the alteration of her condition, had she recalled the + proffer of affection she had with such determination rejected, and with + what gratitude did she remember the firmness of her decision! + </p> + <p> + “Poor fellow!” thought she, “I deemed it the mere caprice of one whose + gratitude for kindness had outrun his calmer convictions. And so he really + loved me!” + </p> + <p> + We must avow the fact: Helen's indifference to Forester had, in the main, + proceeded from a false estimate of his character; she saw in him nothing + but a well-bred, good-looking youth, who, with high connections and + moderate abilities, had formed certain ambitious views, to be realized + rather by the adventitious aid of fortune than his own merits. He was, in + her eyes, a young politician, cautions and watchful, trained up to regard + Lord Castlereagh as the model of statesmen, and political intrigue as the + very climax of intellectual display. To know that she had wronged him was + to make a great revolution in her feelings towards him, to see that this + reserved and calmly minded youth should have sacrificed everything—position, + prospects, all—rather than resign his hope, faint as it was, of one + day winning her affection! + </p> + <p> + If these were her first thoughts on reading that letter, those that + followed were far less pleasurable. How should she ever be able to show it + to her father? The circumstances alluded to were of a nature he never + could be cognizant of without causing the greatest pain both to him and + herself. To ask Lady Eleanor's counsel would be even more difficult. Helen + witnessed the emotion the sight of Lady Wallincourt's name had occasioned + her mother the day Forester first visited them; the old rivalry had, then, + left its trace on her mind as well as on that of Lady Julia! What + embarrassment on every hand! Where could she seek counsel, and in whom? + Bagenal Daly, the only one she could have opened her heart to, was away; + and was it quite certain she would have ventured to disclose, even to him, + the story of that affection which already appeared so different from at + first? Forester was not now in her eyes the fashionable guardsman, + indulging a passing predilection, or whiling away the tedious hours of a + country-house by a flirtation, in which he felt interested because + repulsed; he was elevated in her esteem by his misfortunes, and the very + uncertainty of his fate augmented her concern. And yet she must forego the + hope of saving him, or else, by showing the letter to her father, + acknowledge her acquaintance with events she should never have known, or, + knowing, should never reveal. + </p> + <p> + There was no help for it, the letter could not be shown. In all likelihood + neither the Knight nor Lady Eleanor would ever think more about it; and if + they did, there was still enough to speak of in the courteous sentiments + of the writer, and the polite attention of his invitation,—a + civility which even Helen's knowledge of life informed her was rather + proffered in discharge of a debt than as emanating from any real desire to + play their host in London. + </p> + <p> + Thus satisfying herself that no better course offered for the present, she + turned homewards, but with a heavier heart and more troubled mind than had + ever been her fortune in life to have suffered. + </p> + <p> + END OF VOL. I. <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + + + + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of The Knight Of Gwynne, Vol. I (of II), by +Charles James Lever + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE KNIGHT OF GWYNNE, VOL. 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