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diff --git a/old/9840-h.htm b/old/9840-h.htm deleted file mode 100644 index 4be05d5..0000000 --- a/old/9840-h.htm +++ /dev/null @@ -1,24489 +0,0 @@ -<!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" xml:lang="en" lang="en"> -<head> -<meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html;charset=utf-8" /> -<meta http-equiv="Content-Style-Type" content="text/css" /> -<title>The Project Gutenberg eBook of Vivian Grey, by The Earl of Beaconsfield, Benjamin Disraeli</title> - -<style type="text/css" xml:space="preserve"> - - body { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; 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;} - .toc { margin-left: 10%; margin-bottom: .75em;} - div.fig { display:block; margin:0 auto; text-align:center; } - pre { font-style: italic; font-size: 90%; margin-left: 10%;} - -a:link {color:blue; text-decoration:none} -a:visited {color:blue; text-decoration:none} -a:hover {color:red} - -</style> - </head> - <body> - -<div style='text-align:center; font-size:1.2em; font-weight:bold'>The Project Gutenberg eBook of Vivian Grey, by Earl of Beaconsfield, Benjamin Disraeli</div> -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and -most other parts of the world 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 <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org">www.gutenberg.org</a>. If you -are not located in the United States, you will have to check the laws of the -country where you are located before using this eBook. -</div> -<div style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:1em; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Title: Vivian Grey</div> -<div style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:1em; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Author: Earl of Beaconsfield, Benjamin Disraeli</div> -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>Release Date: October 23, 2003 [eBook #9840]<br /> -[Most recently updated: August 16, 2021]</div> -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>Language: English</div> -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>Character set encoding: UTF-8</div> -<div style='display:block; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Produced by: Charles Aldarondo, Keren Vergon, Charlie Kirschner, David Widger and PG Distributed Proofreaders</div> -<div style='margin-top:2em; margin-bottom:4em'>*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK VIVIAN GREY ***</div> - - <h1> - VIVIAN GREY - </h1> - <h2> - By The Earl Of Beaconsfield, Benjamin Disraeli - </h2> - <p> - <br /><br /> - </p> - <h3> - The English Comédie Humaine <br /><br /> Second Series - </h3> - <p> - <a name="linkimage-0001" id="linkimage-0001"> - <!-- IMG --></a> - </p> - <div class="fig" style="width:80%;"> - <img src="images/frontispiece.jpg" alt="Frontispiece " height="550" /><br /> - </div> - <p> - <a name="linkimage-0002" id="linkimage-0002"> - <!-- IMG --></a> - </p> - <div class="fig" style="width:80%;"> - <img src="images/titlepage.jpg" alt="Titlepage " height="550" /><br /> - </div> - <p> - <br /> <br /> - </p> - <hr /> - <p> - <br /> <br /> - </p> - <h2> - PUBLISHER’S NOTE. - </h2> - <p> - As a novelist, Benjamin Disraeli belongs to the early part of the - nineteenth century. “Vivian Grey” (1826-27) and “Sybil” (1845) mark the - beginning and the end of his truly creative period; for the two - productions of his latest years, “Lothair” (1870) and “Endymion” (1880), - add nothing to the characteristics of his earlier volumes except the - changes of feeling and power which accompany old age. His period, thus, is - that of Bulwer, Dickens, and Thackeray, and of the later years of Sir - Walter Scott—a fact which his prominence as a statesman during the - last decade of his life, as well as the vogue of “Lothair” and “Endymion,” - has tended to obscure. His style, his material, and his views of English - character and life all date from that earlier time. He was born in 1804 - and died in 1881. - </p> - <p> - Disraeli was barely twenty-one when he published “Vivian Grey,” his first - work of fiction; and the young author was at once hailed as a master of - his art by an almost unanimous press. - </p> - <p> - In this, as in his subsequent books, it was not so much Disraeli’s notable - skill as a novelist but rather his portrayal of the social and political - life of the day that made him one of the most popular writers of his - generation, and earned for him a lasting fame as a man of letters. In - “Vivian Grey” is narrated the career of an ambitious young man of rank; - and in this story the brilliant author has preserved to us the exact tone - of the English drawing-room, as he so well knew it, sketching with sure - and rapid strokes a whole portrait gallery of notables, disguised in name - may be, but living characters nevertheless, who charm us with their - graceful manners and general air of being people of consequence. “Vivian - Grey,” then, though not a great novel is beyond question a marvelously - true picture of the life and character of an interesting period of English - history and made notable because of Disraeli’s fine imagination and vivid - descriptive powers. - </p> - <p> - <br /> <br /> - </p> - <hr /> - <p> - <br /> <br /> - </p> - <blockquote> - <p class="toc"> - <big><b>CONTENTS</b></big> - </p> - <p> - <br /> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2H_4_0002"> <big><b>VIVIAN GREY</b></big> </a> - </p> - <p> - <br /> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2H_4_0003"> BOOK I </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0001"> CHAPTER I </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0002"> CHAPTER II </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0003"> CHAPTER III </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0004"> CHAPTER IV </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0005"> CHAPTER V </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0006"> CHAPTER VI </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0007"> CHAPTER VII </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0008"> CHAPTER VIII </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0009"> CHAPTER IX </a> - </p> - <p> - <br /> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2H_4_0013"> BOOK II </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0010"> CHAPTER I </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0011"> CHAPTER II </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0012"> CHAPTER III </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0013"> CHAPTER IV </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0014"> CHAPTER V </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0015"> CHAPTER VI </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0016"> CHAPTER VII </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0017"> CHAPTER VIII </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0018"> CHAPTER IX </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0019"> CHAPTER X </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0020"> CHAPTER XI </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0021"> CHAPTER XII </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0022"> CHAPTER XIII </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0023"> CHAPTER XIV </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0024"> CHAPTER XV </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0025"> CHAPTER XVI </a> - </p> - <p> - <br /> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2H_4_0030"> BOOK III </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0026"> CHAPTER I </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0027"> CHAPTER II </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0028"> CHAPTER III </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0029"> CHAPTER IV </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0030"> CHAPTER V </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0031"> CHAPTER VI </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0032"> CHAPTER VII </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0033"> CHAPTER VIII </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0034"> CHAPTER IX </a> - </p> - <p> - <br /> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2H_4_0040"> BOOK IV </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0035"> CHAPTER I </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0036"> CHAPTER II </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0037"> CHAPTER III </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0038"> CHAPTER IV </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0039"> CHAPTER V </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0040"> CHAPTER VI </a> - </p> - <p> - <br /> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2H_4_0047"> BOOK V </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0041"> CHAPTER I </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0042"> CHAPTER II </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0043"> CHAPTER III </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0044"> CHAPTER IV </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0045"> CHAPTER V </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0046"> CHAPTER VI </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0047"> CHAPTER VII </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0048"> CHAPTER VIII </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0049"> CHAPTER IX </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0050"> CHAPTER X </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0051"> CHAPTER XI </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0052"> CHAPTER XII </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0053"> CHAPTER XIII </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0054"> CHAPTER XIV </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0055"> CHAPTER XV </a> - </p> - <p> - <br /> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2H_4_0063"> BOOK VI </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0056"> CHAPTER I </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0057"> CHAPTER II </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0058"> CHAPTER III </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0059"> CHAPTER IV </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0060"> CHAPTER V </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0061"> CHAPTER VI </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0062"> CHAPTER VII </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0063"> CHAPTER VIII </a> - </p> - <p> - <br /> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2H_4_0072"> BOOK VII </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0064"> CHAPTER I </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0065"> CHAPTER II </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0066"> CHAPTER III </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0067"> CHAPTER IV </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0068"> CHAPTER V </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0069"> CHAPTER VI </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0070"> CHAPTER VII </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0071"> CHAPTER VIII </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0072"> CHAPTER IX </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0073"> CHAPTER X </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0074"> CHAPTER XI </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0075"> CHAPTER XII </a> - </p> - <p> - <br /> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2H_4_0085"> BOOK VIII </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0076"> CHAPTER I </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0077"> CHAPTER II </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0078"> CHAPTER III </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#link2HCH0079"> CHAPTER IV </a> - </p> - </blockquote> - <p> - <br /> <br /> - </p> - <hr /> - <p> - <br /> <br /> - </p> - <blockquote> - <p> - <b>List of Illustrations</b> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#linkimage-0001"> Frontispiece </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#linkimage-0002"> Titlepage </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#linkimage-0003"> Small Silver Box </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#linkimage-0004"> Is there anything you want, sir? </a> - </p> - <p class="toc"> - <a href="#linkimage-0005"> Dark Thought </a> - </p> - </blockquote> - <p> - <br /> <br /> - </p> - <hr /> - <p> - <br /> <br /> <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> - <h2> - VIVIAN GREY - </h2> - <p> - <a name="link2H_4_0003" id="link2H_4_0003"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - BOOK I - </h2> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0001" id="link2HCH0001"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER I - </h2> - <p> - We are not aware that the infancy of Vivian Grey was distinguished by any - extraordinary incident. The solicitude of the most affectionate of - mothers, and the care of the most attentive of nurses, did their best to - injure an excellent constitution. But Vivian was an only child, and these - exertions were therefore excusable. For the first five years of his life, - with his curly locks and his fancy dress, he was the pride of his own and - the envy of all neighbouring establishments; but, in process of time, the - spirit of boyism began to develop itself, and Vivian not only would brush - his hair straight and rebel against his nurse, but actually insisted upon - being—breeched! At this crisis it was discovered that he had been - spoiled, and it was determined that he should be sent to school. Mr. Grey - observed, also, that the child was nearly ten years old, and did not know - his alphabet, and Mrs. Grey remarked that he was getting ugly. The fate of - Vivian was decided. - </p> - <p> - “I am told, my dear,” observed Mrs. Grey, one day after dinner to her - husband, “I am told, my dear, that Dr. Flummery’s would do very well for - Vivian. Nothing can exceed the attention which is paid to the pupils. - There are sixteen young ladies, all the daughters of clergymen, merely to - attend to the morals and the linen; terms moderate: 100 guineas per annum, - for all under six years of age, and few extras, only for fencing, pure - milk, and the guitar. Mrs. Metcalfe has both her boys there, and she says - their progress is astonishing! Percy Metcalfe, she assures me, was quite - as backward as Vivian; indeed, backwarder; and so was Dudley, who was - taught at home on the new system, by a pictorial alphabet, and who - persisted to the last, notwithstanding all the exertions of Miss Barrett, - in spelling A-P-E, monkey, merely because over the word there was a - monster munching an apple.” - </p> - <p> - “And quite right in the child, my dear. Pictorial alphabet! pictorial - fool’s head!” - </p> - <p> - “But what do you say to Flummery’s, Horace?” - </p> - <p> - “My dear, do what you like. I never trouble myself, you know, about these - matters;” and Mr. Grey refreshed himself, after this domestic attack, with - a glass of claret. - </p> - <p> - Mr. Grey was a gentleman who had succeeded, when the heat of youth was - over, to the enjoyment of a life estate of some two thousand a year. He - was a man of lettered tastes, and had hailed with no slight pleasure his - succession to a fortune which, though limited in its duration, was still a - great thing for a young lounger about town, not only with no profession, - but with a mind unfitted for every species of business. Grey, to the - astonishment of his former friends, the wits, made an excellent domestic - match; and, leaving the whole management of his household to his lady, - felt himself as independent in his magnificent library as if he had never - ceased to be that true freeman, A MAN OF CHAMBERS. - </p> - <p> - The young Vivian had not, by the cares which fathers are always heirs to, - yet reminded his parent that children were anything else but playthings. - The intercourse between father and son was, of course, extremely limited; - for Vivian was, as yet, the mother’s child; Mr. Grey’s parental duties - being confined to giving his son a daily glass of claret, pulling his ears - with all the awkwardness of literary affection, and trusting to God “that - the urchin would never scribble.” - </p> - <p> - “I won’t go to school, mamma,” bawled Vivian. - </p> - <p> - “But you must, my love,” answered Mrs. Grey; “all good boys go to school;” - and in the plenitude of a mother’s love she tried to make her offspring’s - hair curl. - </p> - <p> - “I won’t have my hair curl, mamma; the boys will laugh at me,” rebawled - the beauty. - </p> - <p> - “Now who could have told the child that?” monologised mamma, with all a - mamma’s admiration. - </p> - <p> - “Charles Appleyard told me so; his hair curled, and the boys called him - girl. Papa! give me some more claret; I won’t go to school.” - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0002" id="link2HCH0002"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER II - </h2> - <p> - Three or four years passed over, and the mind of Vivian Grey astonishingly - developed itself. He had long ceased to wear frills, had broached the - subject of boots three or four times, made a sad inroad during the - holidays in Mr. Grey’s bottle of claret, and was reported as having once - sworn at the butler. The young gentleman began also to hint, during every - vacation, that the fellows at Flummery’s were somewhat too small for his - companionship, and (first bud of puppyism!) the former advocate of - straight hair now expended a portion of his infant income in the purchase - of Macassar, and began to cultivate his curls. Mrs. Grey could not - entertain for a moment the idea of her son’s associating with children, - the eldest of whom (to adopt his own account) was not above eight years - old; so Flummery, it was determined, he should leave. But where to go? Mr. - Grey was for Eton, but his lady was one of those women whom nothing in the - world can persuade that a public school is anything else but a place where - boys are roasted alive; and so with tears, and taunts, and supplications, - the point of private education was conceded. - </p> - <p> - At length it was resolved that the only hope should remain at home a - season, until some plan should be devised for the cultivation of his - promising understanding. During this year Vivian became a somewhat more - constant intruder into the library than heretofore; and living so much - among books, he was insensibly attracted to those silent companions, that - speak so eloquently. - </p> - <p> - How far the character of the parent may influence the character of the - child the metaphysician must decide. Certainly the character of Vivian - Grey underwent, at this period of his life, a sensible change. Doubtless, - constant communion with a mind highly refined, severely cultivated, and - much experienced, cannot but produce a beneficial impression, even upon a - mind formed and upon principles developed: how infinitely more powerful - must the influence of such communion be upon a youthful heart, ardent, - innocent, and unpractised! As Vivian was not to figure in the microcosm of - a public school, a place for which, from his temper, he was almost better - fitted than any young genius whom the playing fields of Eton or the hills - of Winton can remember, there was some difficulty in fixing upon his - future Academus. Mr. Grey’s two axioms were, first, that no one so young - as his son should settle in the metropolis, and that Vivian must - consequently not have a private tutor; and, secondly, that all private - schools were quite worthless; and, therefore, there was every probability - of Vivian not receiving any education whatever. - </p> - <p> - At length, an exception to axiom second started up in the establishment of - Mr. Dallas. This gentleman was a clergyman, a profound Grecian, and a poor - man. He had edited the Alcestis, and married his laundress; lost money by - his edition, and his fellowship by his match. In a few days the hall of - Mr. Grey’s London mansion was filled with all sorts of portmanteaus, - trunks, and travelling cases, directed in a boy’s sprawling hand to - “Vivian Grey, Esquire, at the Reverend Everard Dallas, Burnsley Vicarage, - Hants.” - </p> - <p> - “God bless you, my boy! write to your mother soon, and remember your - Journal.” - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0003" id="link2HCH0003"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER III - </h2> - <p> - The rumour of the arrival of “a new fellow” circulated with rapidity - through the inmates of Burnsley Vicarage, and about fifty young devils - were preparing to quiz the newcomer, when the school-room door opened, and - Mr. Dallas, accompanied by Vivian, entered. - </p> - <p> - “A dandy, by Jove!” whispered St. Leger Smith. “What a knowing set out!” - squeaked Johnson secundus. “Mammy-sick!” growled Barlow primus. This last - exclamation was, however, a scandalous libel, for certainly no being ever - stood in a pedagogue’s presence with more perfect sang froid, and with a - bolder front, than did, at this moment, Vivian Grey. - </p> - <p> - One principle in Mr. Dallas’s system was always to introduce a new-comer - in school-hours. He was thus carried immediately in medias res, and the - curiosity of his co-mates being in a great degree satisfied at the time - when that curiosity could not personally annoy him, the new-comer was, of - course, much better prepared to make his way when the absence of the ruler - became a signal for some oral communication with “the arrival.” - </p> - <p> - However, in the present instance the young savages at Burnsley Vicarage - had caught a Tartar; and in a very few days Vivian Grey was decidedly the - most popular fellow in the school. He was “so dashing! so devilish - good-tempered! so completely up to everything!” The magnates of the land - were certainly rather jealous of his success, but their very sneers bore - witness to his popularity. “Cursed puppy,” whispered St. Leger Smith. - “Thinks himself knowing,” squeaked Johnson secundus. “Thinks himself - witty,” growled Barlow primus. - </p> - <p> - Notwithstanding this cabal, days rolled on at Burnsley Vicarage only to - witness the increase of Vivian’s popularity. Although more deficient than - most of his own age in accurate classical attainments, he found himself, - in talents and various acquirements, immeasurably their superior. And - singular is it that at school distinction in such points is ten thousand - times more admired by the multitude than the most profound knowledge of - Greek Metres, or the most accurate acquaintance with the value of Roman - coins. Vivian Grey’s English verses and Vivian Grey’s English themes were - the subject of universal commendation. Some young lads made copies of - these productions, to enrich, at the Christmas holidays, their sisters’ - albums; while the whole school were scribbling embryo prize-poems, epics - of twenty lines on “the Ruins of Paestum” and “the Temple of Minerva;” - “Agrigentum,” and “the Cascade of Terni.” Vivian’s productions at this - time would probably have been rejected by the commonest twopenny - publication about town, yet they turned the brain of the whole school; - while fellows who were writing Latin Dissertations and Greek Odes, which - might have made the fortune of the Classical Journal, were looked on by - the multitude as as great dunderheads as themselves. Such is the advantage - which, even in this artificial world, everything that is genuine has over - everything that is false and forced. The dunderheads who wrote “good - Latin” and “Attic Greek” did it by a process by means of which the - youngest fellow in the school was conscious he could, if he chose, attain - the same perfection. Vivian Grey’s verses were unlike anything which had - yet appeared in the literary Annals of Burnsley Vicarage, and that which - was quite novel was naturally thought quite excellent. - </p> - <p> - There is no place in the world where greater homage is paid to talent than - an English school. At a public school, indeed, if a youth of great talents - be blessed with an amiable and generous disposition, he ought not to envy - the Minister of England. If any captain of Eton or praefect of Winchester - be reading these pages, let him dispassionately consider in what situation - of life he can rationally expect that it will be in his power to exercise - such influence, to have such opportunities of obliging others, and be so - confident of an affectionate and grateful return. Aye, there’s the rub! - Bitter thought! that gratitude should cease the moment we become men. - </p> - <p> - And sure I am that Vivian Grey was loved as ardently and as faithfully as - you might expect from innocent young hearts. His slight accomplishments - were the standard of all perfection, his sayings were the soul of all good - fellowship, and his opinion the guide in any crisis which occurred in the - monotonous existence of the little commonwealth. And time flew gaily on. - </p> - <p> - One winter evening, as Vivian, with some of his particular cronies, were - standing round the school-room fire, they began, as all schoolboys do when - it grows rather dark and they grow rather sentimental, to talk of HOME. - </p> - <p> - “Twelve weeks more,” said Augustus Etherege; “twelve weeks more, and we - are free! The glorious day should be celebrated.” - </p> - <p> - “A feast, a feast!” exclaimed Poynings. - </p> - <p> - “A feast is but the work of a night,” said Vivian Grey; “something more - stirring for me! What say you to private theatricals?” - </p> - <p> - The proposition was, of course, received with enthusiasm, and it was not - until they had unanimously agreed to act that they universally remembered - that acting was not allowed. And then they consulted whether they should - ask Dallas, and then they remembered that Dallas had been asked fifty - times, and then they “supposed they must give it up;” and then Vivian Grey - made a proposition which the rest were secretly sighing for, but which - they were afraid to make themselves; he proposed that they should act - without asking Dallas. “Well, then, we’ll do it without asking him,” said - Vivian; “nothing is allowed in this life, and everything is done: in town - there is a thing called the French play, and that is not allowed, yet my - aunt has got a private box there. Trust me for acting, but what shall we - perform?” - </p> - <p> - This question was, as usual, the fruitful source of jarring opinions. One - proposed Othello, chiefly because it would be so easy to black a face with - a burnt cork. Another was for Hamlet, solely because he wanted to act the - ghost, which he proposed doing in white shorts and a night-cap. A third - was for Julius Caesar, because the murder scene would be such fun. - </p> - <p> - “No! no!” said Vivian, tired at these various and varying proposals, “this - will never do. Out upon Tragedies; let’s have a Comedy!” - </p> - <p> - “A Comedy! a Comedy! oh! how delightful!” - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0004" id="link2HCH0004"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER IV - </h2> - <p> - After an immense number of propositions, and an equal number of - repetitions, Dr. Hoadley’s bustling drama was fixed upon. Vivian was to - act Ranger, Augustus Etherege was to personate Clarinda, because he was a - fair boy and always blushing; and the rest of the characters found able - representatives. Every half-holiday was devoted to rehearsals, and nothing - could exceed the amusement and thorough fun which all the preparations - elicited. All went well; Vivian wrote a pathetic prologue and a witty - epilogue. Etherege got on capitally in the mask scene, and Poynings was - quite perfect in Jack Maggot. There was, of course, some difficulty in - keeping all things in order, but then Vivian Grey was such an excellent - manager! and then, with infinite tact, the said manager conciliated the - Classics, for he allowed St. Leger Smith to select a Greek motto, from the - Andromache, for the front of the theatre; and Johnson secundus and Barlow - primus were complimented by being allowed to act the chairmen. - </p> - <p> - But alas! in the midst of all this sunshine, the seeds of discord and - dissension were fast flourishing. Mr. Dallas himself was always so - absorbed in some freshly-imported German commentator that it was a fixed - principle with him never to trouble himself with anything that concerned - his pupils “out of school hours.” The consequence was, that certain powers - were necessarily delegated to a certain set of beings called USHERS. - </p> - <p> - The usherian rule had, however, always been comparatively light at - Burnsley Vicarage, for the good Dallas, never for a moment entrusting the - duties of tuition to a third person, engaged these deputies merely as a - sort of police, to regulate the bodies, rather than the minds, of his - youthful subjects. One of the first principles of the new theory - introduced into the establishment of Burnsley Vicarage by Mr. Vivian Grey - was, that the ushers were to be considered by the boys as a species of - upper servants; were to be treated with civility, certainly, as all - servants are by gentlemen; but that no further attention was to be paid - them, and that any fellow voluntarily conversing with an usher was to be - cut dead by the whole school. This pleasant arrangement was no secret to - those whom it most immediately concerned, and, of course, rendered Vivian - rather a favourite with them. These men had not the tact to conciliate the - boy, and were, notwithstanding, too much afraid of his influence in the - school to attack him openly; so they waited with that patience which - insulted beings can alone endure. - </p> - <p> - One of these creatures must not be forgotten; his name was Mallett; he was - a perfect specimen of the genuine usher. The monster wore a black coat and - waistcoat; the residue of his costume was of that mysterious colour known - by the name of pepper-and-salt. He was a pallid wretch with a pug nose, - white teeth, and marked with the small-pox: long, greasy, black hair, and - small black, beady eyes. This daemon watched the progress of the - theatrical company with eyes gloating with vengeance. No attempt had been - made to keep the fact of the rehearsal a secret from the police; no - objection, on their part, had as yet been made; the twelve weeks - diminished to six; Ranger had secretly ordered a dress from town, and was - to get a steel-handled sword from Fentum’s for Jack Maggot; and everything - was proceeding with delightful success, when one morning, as Mr. Dallas - was apparently about to take his departure, with a volume of Becker’s - Thucydides under his arm, the respected Dominie stopped, and thus - harangued: “I am informed that a great deal is going on in this family - with which it is intended that I shall be kept unacquainted. It is not my - intention to name anybody or anything at present; but I must say that of - late the temper of this family has sadly changed. Whether there be any - seditious stranger among you or not, I shall not at present even endeavour - to discover; but I will warn my old friends of their new ones:” and so - saying, the Dominie withdrew. - </p> - <p> - All eyes were immediately fixed on Vivian, and the faces of the Classics - were triumphant with smiles; those of the manager’s particular friends, - the Romantics, we may call them, were clouded; but who shall describe the - countenance of Mallett? In a moment the school broke up with an agitated - and tumultuous uproar. “No stranger!” shouted St. Leger Smith; “no - stranger!” vociferated a prepared gang. Vivian’s friends were silent, for - they hesitated to accept for their leader the insulting title. Those who - were neither Vivian’s friends nor in the secret, weak creatures who side - always with the strongest, immediately swelled the insulting chorus of Mr. - St. Leger Smith. That worthy, emboldened by his success and the smiles of - Mallett, contained himself no longer: “Down with the manager!” he cried. - His satellites chorussed. But now Vivian rushed forward. “Mr. Smith, I - thank you for being so definite; take that!” and he struck Smith with such - force that the Cleon staggered and fell; but Smith instantly recovered, - and a ring was instantly formed. To a common observer, the combatants were - unequally matched; for Smith was a burly, big-limbed animal, alike - superior to Grey in years and strength. But Vivian, though delicate in - frame and more youthful, was full his match in spirit, and, thanks to - being a Cockney! ten times his match in science. He had not built a white - great coat or drunk blue ruin at Ben Burn’s for nothing! - </p> - <p> - Oh! how beautifully he fought! how admirably straight he hit! and his - stops quick as lightning! and his followings up confounding his adversary - with their painful celerity! Smith alike puzzled and punished, yet proud - in his strength, hit round, and wild, and false, and foamed like a furious - elephant. For ten successive rounds the result was dubious; but in the - eleventh the strength of Smith began to fail him, and the men were more - fairly matched. “Go it, Ranger! go it, Ranger!” halloed the Greyites; “No - stranger! no stranger!” eagerly bawled the more numerous party. “Smith’s - floored, by Jove!” exclaimed Poynings, who was Grey’s second. “At it - again! at it again!” exclaimed all. And now, when Smith must certainly - have given in, suddenly stepped forward Mr. Mallett, accompanied by—Dallas! - </p> - <p> - “How, Mr. Grey! No answer, sir; I understand that you have always an - answer ready. I do not quote Scripture lightly, Mr. Grey; but ‘Take heed - that you offend not, even with your tongue.’ Now, sir, to your room.” - </p> - <p> - When Vivian Grey again joined his companions, he found himself almost - universally shunned. Etherege and Poynings were the only individuals who - met him with their former frankness. - </p> - <p> - “A horrible row, Grey,” said the latter. “After you went, the Doctor - harangued the whole school, and swears you have seduced and ruined us all; - everything was happiness until you came, &c. Mallett is of course at - the bottom of the whole business: but what can we do? Dallas says you have - the tongue of a serpent, and that he will not trust himself to hear your - defence. Infamous shame! I swear! And now every fellow has got a story - against you: some say you are a dandy, others want to know whether the - next piece performed at your theatre will be ‘The Stranger;’ as for myself - and Etherege, we shall leave in a few weeks, and it does not signify to - us; but what the devil you’re to do next half, by Jove, I can’t say. If I - were you, I would not return.” - </p> - <p> - “Not return, eh! but that will I, though; and we shall see who, in future, - can complain of the sweetness of my voice! Ungrateful fools!” - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0005" id="link2HCH0005"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER V - </h2> - <p> - The Vacation was over, and Vivian returned to Burnsley Vicarage. He bowed - cavalierly to Mr. Dallas on his arrival, and immediately sauntered up into - the school-room, where he found a tolerable quantity of wretches looking - as miserable as schoolboys who have left their pleasant homes generally do - for some four-and-twenty hours. “How d’ye do, Grey? How d’ye do, Grey?” - burst from a knot of unhappy fellows, who would have felt quite delighted - had their newly arrived co-mate condescended to entertain them, as usual, - with some capital good story fresh from town. But they were disappointed. - </p> - <p> - “We can make room for you at the fire, Grey,” said Theophilus - </p> - <p> - “I thank you, I am not cold.” - </p> - <p> - “I suppose you know that Poynings and Etherege don’t come back, Grey?” - </p> - <p> - “Everybody knew that last half:” and so he walked on. - </p> - <p> - “Grey, Grey!” halloed King, “don’t go into the dining-room; Mallett is - there alone, and told us not to disturb him. By Jove, the fellow is going - in: there will be a greater row this half between Grey and Mallett than - ever.” - </p> - <p> - Days, the heavy first days of the half, rolled on, and all the citizens of - the little commonwealth had returned. - </p> - <p> - “What a dull half this will be!” said Eardley; “how one misses Grey’s set! - After all, they kept the school alive: Poynings was a first-rate fellow, - and Etherege so deuced good-natured! I wonder whom Grey will crony with - this half; have you seen him and Dallas speak together yet? He cut the - Doctor quite dead at Greek to-day.” - </p> - <p> - “Why, Eardley! Eardley! there is Grey walking round playing fields with - Mallett!” halloed a sawney who was killing the half-holiday by looking out - of the window. - </p> - <p> - “The devil! I say, Matthews, whose flute is that? It is a devilish - handsome one!” - </p> - <p> - “It’s Grey’s! I clean it for him,” squeaked a little boy. “He gives me - sixpence a week!” - </p> - <p> - “Oh, you sneak!” said one. - </p> - <p> - “Cut him over!” - </p> - <p> - “Roast him!” cried a third. - </p> - <p> - “To whom are you going to take the flute?” asked a fourth. - </p> - <p> - “To Mallett,” squeaked the little fellow. “Grey lends his flute to Mallett - every day.” - </p> - <p> - “Grey lends his flute to Mallett! The deuce he does! So Grey and Mallett - are going to crony!” - </p> - <p> - A wild exclamation burst forth from the little party; and away each of - them ran, to spread in all directions the astounding intelligence. - </p> - <p> - If the rule of the ushers had hitherto been light at Burnsley Vicarage, - its character was materially changed during this half-year. The vexatious - and tyrannical influence of Mallett was now experienced in all directions, - meeting and interfering with the comforts of the boys in every possible - manner. His malice was accompanied, too, by a tact which could not have - been expected from his vulgar mind, and which, at the same time, could not - have been produced by the experience of one in his situation. It was quite - evident to the whole community that his conduct was dictated by another - mind, and that that mind was one versed in all the secrets of a - school-boy’s life, and acquainted with all the workings of a school-boy’s - mind: a species of knowledge which no pedagogue in the world ever yet - attained. There was no difficulty in discovering whose was the power - behind the throne. Vivian Grey was the perpetual companion of Mallett in - his walks, and even in the school; he shunned also the converse of every - one of the boys, and did not affect to conceal that his quarrel was - universal. Superior power, exercised by a superior mind, was for a long - time more than a match even for the united exertions of the whole school. - If any one complained, Mallett’s written answer (and such Dallas always - required) was immediately ready, explaining everything in the most - satisfactory manner, and refuting every complaint with the most triumphant - spirit. Dallas, of course, supported his deputy, and was soon equally - detested. This tyranny had continued through a great part of the long - half-year, and the spirit of the school was almost broken, when a fresh - outrage occurred, of such a nature that the nearly enslaved multitude - conspired. - </p> - <p> - The plot was admirably formed. On the first bell ringing for school, the - door was to be immediately barred, to prevent the entrance of Dallas. - Instant vengeance was then to be taken on Mallett and his companion—the - sneak! the spy! the traitor! The bell rang: the door was barred: four - stout fellows seized on Mallett, four rushed to Vivian Grey: but stop: he - sprang upon his desk, and, placing his back against the wall, held a - pistol at the foremost: “Not an inch nearer, Smith, or I fire. Let me not, - however, baulk your vengeance on yonder hound: if I could suggest any - refinements in torture, they would be at your service.” Vivian Grey - smiled, while the horrid cries of Mallett indicated that the boys were - “roasting” him. He then walked to the door and admitted the barred-out - Dominie. Silence was restored. There was an explanation and no defence; - and Vivian Grey was expelled. - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0006" id="link2HCH0006"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER VI - </h2> - <p> - Vivian was now seventeen; and the system of private education having so - decidedly failed, it was resolved that he should spend the years - antecedent to his going to Oxford at home. Nothing could be a greater - failure than the first weeks of his “course of study.” He was perpetually - violating the sanctity of the drawing-room by the presence of Scapulas and - Hederics, and outraging the propriety of morning visitors by bursting into - his mother’s boudoir with lexicons and slippers. - </p> - <p> - “Vivian, my dear,” said his father to him one day, “this will never do; - you must adopt some system for your studies, and some locality for your - reading. Have a room to yourself; set apart certain hours in the day for - your books, and allow no consideration on earth to influence you to - violate their sacredness; and above all, my dear boy, keep your papers in - order. I find a dissertation on ‘The Commerce of Carthage’ stuck in my - large paper copy of ‘Dibdin’s Decameron,’ and an ‘Essay on the Metaphysics - of Music’ (pray, my dear fellow, beware of magazine scribbling) cracking - the back of Montfaucon’s ‘Monarchie.’” - </p> - <p> - Vivian apologised, promised, protested, and finally sat down “TO READ.” He - had laid the foundations of accurate classical knowledge under the tuition - of the learned Dallas; and twelve hours a day and self-banishment from - society overcame, in twelve months, the ill effects of his imperfect - education. The result of this extraordinary exertion may be conceived. At - the end of twelve months, Vivian, like many other young enthusiasts, had - discovered that all the wit and wisdom of the world were concentrated in - some fifty antique volumes, and he treated the unlucky moderns with the - most sublime spirit of hauteur imaginable. A chorus in the Medea, that - painted the radiant sky of Attica, disgusted him with the foggy atmosphere - of Great Britain; and while Mrs. Grey was meditating a visit to Brighton, - her son was dreaming of the gulf of Salamis. The spectre in the Persae was - his only model for a ghost, and the furies in the Orestes were his - perfection of tragical machinery. - </p> - <p> - Most ingenious and educated youths have fallen into the same error, but - few have ever carried such feelings to the excess that Vivian Grey did; - for while his mind was daily becoming more enervated under the beautiful - but baneful influence of Classic Reverie, the youth lighted upon PLATO. - </p> - <p> - Wonderful is it that while the whole soul of Vivian Grey seemed - concentrated and wrapped in the glorious pages of the Athenian; while, - with keen and almost inspired curiosity, he searched, and followed up, and - meditated upon, the definite mystery, the indefinite development; while - his spirit alternately bowed in trembling and in admiration, as he seemed - to be listening to the secrets of the Universe revealed in the glorious - melodies of an immortal voice; wonderful is it, I say, that the writer, - the study of whose works appeared to the young scholar, in the revelling - of his enthusiasm, to be the sole object for which man was born and had - his being, was the cause by which Vivian Grey was saved from being all his - life a dreaming scholar. - </p> - <p> - Determined to spare no exertions, and to neglect no means, by which he - might enter into the very penetralia of his mighty master’s meaning, - Vivian determined to attack the latter Platonists. These were a race of - men, of whose existence he knew merely by the references to their - productions which were sprinkled in the commentaries of his “best - editions.” In the pride of boyish learning, Vivian had limited his library - to Classics, and the proud leaders of the later schools did not - consequently grace his diminutive bookcase. In this dilemma he flew to his - father, and confessed by his request that his favourites were not - all-sufficient. - </p> - <p> - “Father! I wish to make myself master of the latter Platonists. I want - Plotinus, and Porphyry, and Iamblichus, and Syrirnus, and Maximus Tyrius, - and Proclus, and Hierocles, and Sallustius, and Damascius.” - </p> - <p> - Mr. Grey stared at his son, and laughed. - </p> - <p> - “My dear Vivian! are you quite convinced that the authors you ask for are - all pure Platonists? or have not some of them placed the great end rather - in practical than theoretic virtue, and thereby violated the first - principles of your master? which would be shocking. Are you sure, too, - that these gentlemen have actually ‘withdrawn the sacred veil, which - covers from profane eyes the luminous spectacles?’ Are you quite convinced - that every one of these worthies lived at least five hundred years after - the great master? for I need not tell so profound a Platonist as yourself - that it was not till that period that even glimpses of the great master’s - meaning were discovered. Strange! that TIME should alike favour the - philosophy of theory and the philosophy of facts. Mr. Vivian Grey, - benefiting, I presume, by the lapse of further centuries, is about to - complete the great work which Proclus and Porphyry commenced.” - </p> - <p> - “My dear sir! you are pleased to be amusing this morning.” - </p> - <p> - “My dear boy! I smile, but not with joy. Sit down, and let us have a little - conversation together. Father and son, and father and son on such terms as - we are, should really communicate oftener together than we do. It has - been, perhaps, my fault; it shall not be so again.” - </p> - <p> - “My dear sir!” - </p> - <p> - “Nay, nay, it shall be my fault now. Whose it shall be in future, Vivian, - time will show. My dear Vivian, you have now spent upwards of a year under - this roof, and your conduct has been as correct as the most rigid parent - might require. I have not wished to interfere with the progress of your - mind, and I regret it. I have been negligent, but not wilfully so. I do - regret it; because, whatever may be your powers, Vivian, I at least have - the advantage of experience. I see you smile at a word which I so often - use. Well, well, were I to talk to you for ever, you would not understand - what I mean by that single word. The time will come when you will deem - that single word everything. Ardent youths in their closets, Vivian, too - often fancy that they are peculiar beings; and I have no reason to believe - that you are an exception to the general rule. In passing one whole year - of your life, as you have done, you doubtless imagine that you have been - spending your hours in a manner which no others have done before. Trust - me, my boy, thousands have done the same; and, what is of still more - importance, thousands are doing, and will do, the same. Take the advice of - one who has committed as many, ay more, follies than yourself; but who - would bless the hour that he had been a fool if his experience might be of - benefit to his beloved son.” - </p> - <p> - “My father!” - </p> - <p> - “Nay, don’t agitate yourself; we are consulting together. Let us see what - is to be done. Try to ascertain, when you are alone, what may be the chief - objects of your existence in this world. I want you to take no theological - dogmas for granted, nor to satisfy your doubts by ceasing to think; but, - whether we are in this world in a state of probation for another, or - whether we cease altogether when we cease to breathe, human feelings tell - me that we have some duties to perform; to our fellow creatures, to our - friends, to ourselves. Pray tell me, my dear boy, what possible good your - perusal of the latter Platonists can produce to either of these three - interests? I trust that my child is not one of those who look with a - glazed eye on the welfare of their fellow-men, and who would dream away an - useless life by idle puzzles of the brain; creatures who consider their - existence as an unprofitable mystery, and yet are afraid to die. You will - find Plotinus in the fourth shelf of the next room, Vivian.” - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0007" id="link2HCH0007"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER VII - </h2> - <p> - In England, personal distinction is the only passport to the society of - the great. Whether this distinction arise from fortune, family, or talent, - is immaterial; but certain it is, to enter into high society, a man must - either have blood, a million, or a genius. - </p> - <p> - The reputation of Mr. Grey had always made him an honoured guest among the - powerful and the great. It was for this reason that he had always been - anxious that his son should be at home as little as possible; for he - feared for a youth the fascination of London society. Although busied with - his studies, and professing “not to visit,” Vivian could not avoid - occasionally finding himself in company in which boys should never be - seen; and, what was still worse, from a certain social spirit, an - indefinable tact with which Nature had endowed him, this boy of nineteen - began to think this society delightful. Most persons of his age would have - passed through the ordeal with perfect safety; they would have entered - certain rooms, at certain hours, with stiff cravats, and Nugee coats, and - black velvet waistcoats; and after having annoyed all those who - condescended to know of their existence, with their red hands and their - white gloves, they would have retired to a corner of the room, and - conversationised with any stray four-year-older not yet sent to bed. - </p> - <p> - But Vivian Grey was a graceful, lively lad, with just enough of dandyism - to preserve him from committing gaucheries, and with a devil of a tongue. - All men will agree with me that the only rival to be feared by a man of - spirit is a clever boy. What makes them so popular with women it is - difficult to explain; however, Lady Julia Knighton, and Mrs. Frank - Delmington, and half a score of dames of fashion, were always patronising - our hero, who found an evening spent in their society not altogether dull, - for there is no fascination so irresistible to a boy as the smile of a - married woman. Vivian had passed such a recluse life for the last two - years and a half, that he had quite forgotten that he was once considered - an agreeable fellow; and so, determined to discover what right he ever had - to such a reputation, he dashed into all these amourettes in beautiful - style. - </p> - <p> - But Vivian Grey was a young and tender plant in a moral hothouse. His - character was developing itself too soon. Although his evenings were now - generally passed in the manner we have alluded to, this boy was, during - the rest of the day, a hard and indefatigable student; and having now got - through an immense series of historical reading, he had stumbled upon a - branch of study certainly the most delightful in the world; but, for a - boy, as certainly the most perilous, THE STUDY OF POLITICS. - </p> - <p> - And now everything was solved! the inexplicable longings of his soul, - which had so often perplexed him, were at length explained. The want, the - indefinable want, which he had so constantly experienced, was at last - supplied; the grand object on which to bring the powers of his mind to - bear and work was at last provided. He paced his chamber in an agitated - spirit, and panted for the Senate. - </p> - <p> - It may be asked, what was the evil of all this? and the reader will, - perhaps, murmur something about an honourable spirit and youthful - ambition. The evil was great. The time drew nigh for Vivian to leave his - home for Oxford, that is, for him to commence his long preparation for - entering on his career in life. And now this person, who was about to be a - pupil, this stripling, who was going to begin his education, had all the - desires of a matured mind, of an experienced man, but without maturity and - without experience. He was already a cunning reader of human hearts; and - felt conscious that his was a tongue which was born to guide human beings. - The idea of Oxford to such an individual was an insult! - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0008" id="link2HCH0008"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER VIII - </h2> - <p> - We must endeavour to trace, if possible, more accurately the workings of - Vivian Grey’s mind at this period of his existence. In the plenitude of - his ambition, he stopped one day to enquire in what manner he could obtain - his magnificent ends. - </p> - <p> - “The Bar: pooh! law and bad jokes till we are forty; and then, with the - most brilliant success, the prospect of gout and a coronet. Besides, to - succeed as an advocate, I must be a great lawyer; and, to be a great - lawyer, I must give up my chance of being a great man. The Services in war - time are fit only for desperadoes (and that truly am I); but, in peace, - are fit only for fools. The Church is more rational. Let me see: I should - certainly like to act Wolsey; but the thousand and one chances against me! - And truly I feel my destiny should not be on a chance. Were I the son of a - millionaire, or a noble, I might have all. Curse on my lot! that the want - of a few rascal counters, and the possession of a little rascal blood, - should mar my fortunes!” - </p> - <p> - Such was the general tenor of Vivian’s thoughts, until, musing himself - almost into madness, he at last made, as he conceived, the Grand - Discovery. Riches are Power, says the Economist; and is not Intellect? - asks the Philosopher. And yet, while the influence of the millionaire is - instantly felt in all classes of society, how is it that “Noble Mind” so - often leaves us unknown and unhonoured? Why have there been statesmen who - have never ruled, and heroes who have never conquered? Why have glorious - philosophers died in a garret? and why have there been poets whose only - admirer has been Nature in her echoes? It must be that these beings have - thought only of themselves, and, constant and elaborate students of their - own glorious natures, have forgotten or disdained the study of all others. - Yes! we must mix with the herd; we must enter into their feelings; we must - humour their weaknesses; we must sympathise with the sorrows that we do - not feel; and share the merriment of fools. Oh, yes! to rule men, we must - be men; to prove that we are strong, we must be weak; to prove that we are - giants, we must be dwarfs; even as the Eastern Genie was hid in the - charmed bottle. Our wisdom must be concealed under folly, and our - constancy under caprice. - </p> - <p> - “I have been often struck by the ancient tales of Jupiter’s visits to the - earth. In these fanciful adventures, the god bore no indication of the - Thunderer’s glory; but was a man of low estate, a herdsman, a hind, often - even an animal. A mighty spirit has in Tradition, Time’s great moralist, - perused ‘the wisdom of the ancients.’ Even in the same spirit, I would - explain Jove’s terrestrial visitings. For, to govern man, even the god - appeared to feel as a man; and sometimes as a beast, was apparently - influenced by their vilest passions. Mankind, then, is my great game. - </p> - <p> - “At this moment, how many a powerful noble wants only wit to be a - Minister; and what wants Vivian Grey to attain the same end? That noble’s - influence. When two persons can so materially assist each other, why are - they not brought together? Shall I, because my birth baulks my fancy, - shall I pass my life a moping misanthrope in an old château? Supposing I - am in contact with this magnifico, am I prepared? Now, let me probe my - very soul. Does my cheek blanch? I have the mind for the conception; and I - can perform right skilfully upon the most splendid of musical instruments, - the human voice, to make those conceptions beloved by others. There wants - but one thing more: courage, pure, perfect courage; and does Vivian Grey - know fear?” He laughed an answer of bitterest derision. - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0009" id="link2HCH0009"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER IX - </h2> - <p> - Is it surprising that Vivian Grey, with a mind teeming with such feelings, - should view the approach of the season for his departure to Oxford with - sentiments of disgust? After hours of bitter meditation, he sought his - father; he made him acquainted with his feelings, but concealed from him - his actual views, and dwelt on the misery of being thrown back in life, at - a period when society seemed instinct with a spirit peculiarly active, and - when so many openings were daily offered to the adventurous and the bold. - </p> - <p> - “Vivian,” said Mr. Grey, “beware of endeavouring to become a great man in - a hurry. One such attempt in ten thousand may succeed: these are fearful - odds. Admirer as you are of Lord Bacon, you may perhaps remember a certain - parable of his, called ‘Memnon, or a youth too forward.’ I hope you are - not going to be one of those sons of Aurora, ‘who, puffed up with the - glittering show of vanity and ostentation, attempt actions above their - strength.’ - </p> - <p> - “You talk to me about the peculiarly active spirit of society; if the - spirit of society be so peculiarly active, Mr. Vivian Grey should beware - lest it outstrip him. Is neglecting to mature your mind, my boy, exactly - the way to win the race? This is an age of unsettled opinions and - contested principles; in the very measures of our administration, the - speculative spirit of the present day is, to say the least, not - impalpable. Nay, don’t start, my dear fellow, and look the very - Prosopopeia of Political Economy! I know exactly what you are going to - say; but, if you please, we will leave Turgot and Galileo to Mr. Canning - and the House of Commons, or your Cousin Hargrave and his Debating - Society. However, jesting apart, get your hat, and walk with me as far as - Evans’s, where I have promised to look in, to see the Mazarin Bible, and - we will talk this affair over as we go along. - </p> - <p> - “I am no bigot, you know, Vivian. I am not one of those who wish to oppose - the application of refined philosophy to the common business of life. We - are, I hope, an improving race; there is room, I am sure, for great - improvement, and the perfectibility of man is certainly a pretty dream. - (How well that Union Club House comes out now, since they have made the - opening), but, although we may have steam kitchens, human nature is, I - imagine, much the same this moment that we are walking in Pall Mall East, - as it was some thousand years ago, when as wise men were walking on the - banks of the Ilyssus. When our moral powers increase in proportion to our - physical ones, then huzza, for the perfectibility of man! and respectable, - idle loungers like you and I, Vivian, may then have a chance of walking in - the streets of London without having their heels trodden upon, a ceremony - which I have this moment undergone. In the present day we are all studying - science, and none of us are studying ourselves. This is not exactly the - Socratic process; and as for the [Greek: gnothi seauton] of the more - ancient Athenian, that principle is quite out of fashion in the nineteenth - century (I believe that’s the phrase). Self is the only person whom we - know nothing about. - </p> - <p> - “But, my dear Vivian, as to the immediate point of our consideration. In - my library, uninfluenced and uncontrolled by passion or by party, I cannot - but see that it is utterly impossible that all that we are wishing and - striving for can take place, without some, without much evil. In ten - years’ time, perhaps, or less, the fever will have subsided, and in ten - years’ time, or less, your intellect will be matured. Now, my good sir, - instead of talking about the active spirit of the age, and the - opportunities offered to the adventurous and the bold, ought you not - rather to congratulate yourself that a great change is effecting at a - period of your life when you need not, individually, be subjected to the - possibility of being injured by its operation; and when you are preparing - your mind to take advantage of the system, when that system is matured and - organised? - </p> - <p> - “As to your request, it assuredly is one of the most modest, and the most - rational, that I have lately been favoured with. Although I would much - rather that any influence which I may exercise over your mind, should be - the effect of my advice as your friend than of my authority as your - father; still I really feel it my duty, parentally, to protest against - this crude proposition of yours. However, if you choose to lose a term or - two, do. Don’t blame me, you know, if afterwards you repent it.” - </p> - <p> - Here dashed by the gorgeous equipage of Mrs. Ormolu, the wife of a man who - was working all the gold and silver mines in Christendom. “Ah! my dear - Vivian,” said Mr. Grey, “it is this which has turned all your brains. In - this age every one is striving to make an immense fortune, and what is - most terrific, at the same time a speedy one. This thirst for sudden - wealth it is which engenders the extravagant conceptions, and fosters that - wild spirit of speculation which is now stalking abroad; and which, like - the Daemon in Frankenstein, not only fearfully wanders over the whole wide - face of nature, but grins in the imagined solitude of our secret chambers. - Oh! my son, it is for the young men of the present day that I tremble; - seduced by the temporary success of a few children of fortune, I observe - that their minds recoil from the prospects which are held forth by the - ordinary, and, mark me, by the only modes of acquiring property, fair - trade, and honourable professions. It is for you and your companions that - I fear. God grant that there may not be a moral as well as a political - disorganisation! God grant that our youth, the hope of our state, may not - be lost to us! For, oh! my son, the wisest has said, ‘He that maketh haste - to be rich shall not be innocent.’ Let us step into Clarke’s and take an - ice.” - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2H_4_0013" id="link2H_4_0013"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - BOOK II - </h2> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0010" id="link2HCH0010"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER I - </h2> - <p> - The Marquess of Carabas started in life as the cadet of a noble family. - The earl, his father, like the woodman in the fairy tale, was blessed with - three sons: the first was an idiot, and was destined for the Coronet; the - second was a man of business, and was educated for the Commons; the third - was a Roué, and was shipped to the Colonies. - </p> - <p> - The present Marquess, then the Honourable Sidney Lorraine, prospered in - his political career. He was servile, and pompous, and indefatigable, and - loquacious, so whispered the world: his friends hailed him as, at once, a - courtier and a sage, a man of business and an orator. After revelling in - his fair proportion of commissionerships, and under-secretaryships, and - the rest of the milk and honey of the political Canaan, the apex of the - pyramid of his ambition was at length visible, for Sidney Lorraine became - President of a Board, and wriggled into the adytum of the cabinet. - </p> - <p> - At this moment his idiot brother died. To compensate for his loss of - office, and to secure his votes, the Earl of Carabas was promoted in the - peerage, and was presented with some magnificent office, meaning nothing; - swelling with dignity, and void of duties. As years rolled on, various - changes took place in the administration, of which his Lordship was once a - component part; and the ministry, to their surprise, getting popular, - found that the command of the Carabas interest was not of such vital - importance to them as heretofore, and so his Lordship was voted a bore, - and got shelved. Not that his Lordship was bereaved of his splendid - office, or that anything occurred, indeed, by which the uninitiated might - have been led to suppose that the beams of his Lordship’s consequence were - shorn; but the Marquess’s secret applications at the Treasury were no - longer listened to, and pert under-secretaries settled their cravats, and - whispered “that the Carabas interest was gone by.” - </p> - <p> - The noble Marquess was not insensible to his situation, for he was what - the world calls ambitious; but the vigour of his faculties had vanished - beneath the united influence of years and indolence and ill-humour; for - his Lordship, to avoid ennui, had quarrelled with his son, and then, - having lost his only friend, had quarrelled with himself. - </p> - <p> - Such was the distinguished individual who graced, one day at the latter - end of the season of 18—, the classic board of Horace Grey, Esquire. - The reader will, perhaps, be astonished, that such a man as his Lordship - should be the guest of such a man as our hero’s father; but the truth is, - the Marquess of Carabas had just been disappointed in an attempt on the - chair of the President of the Royal Society, which, for want of something - better to do, he was ambitious of filling, and this was a conciliatory - visit to one of the most distinguished members of that body, and one who - had voted against him with particular enthusiasm. The Marquess, still a - politician, was now, as he imagined, securing his host’s vote for a future - St. Andrew’s day. - </p> - <p> - The cuisine of Mr. Grey was superb; for although an enthusiastic advocate - for the cultivation of the mind, he was an equally ardent supporter of the - cultivation of the body. Indeed, the necessary dependence of the sanity of - the one on the good keeping of the other, was one of his favourite - theories, and one which, this day, he was supporting with pleasant and - facetious reasoning. His Lordship was delighted with his new friend, and - still more delighted with his new friend’s theory. The Marquess himself - was, indeed, quite of the same opinion as Mr. Grey; for he never made a - speech without previously taking a sandwich, and would have sunk under the - estimates a thousand times, had it not been for the juicy friendship of - the fruit of Portugal. - </p> - <p> - The guests were not numerous. A regius professor of Greek; an officer just - escaped from Sockatoo; a man of science, and two M.P.‘s with his Lordship; - the host, and Mr. Vivian Grey, constituted the party. Oh, no! there were - two others. There was a Mr. John Brown, a fashionable poet, and who, - ashamed of his own name, published his melodies under the more euphonious - and romantic title of “Clarence Devonshire,” and there was a Mr. Thomas - Smith, a fashionable novelist; that is to say, a person who occasionally - publishes three volumes, one half of which contain the adventures of a - young gentleman in the country, and the other volume and a half the - adventures of the same young gentleman in the metropolis; a sort of - writer, whose constant tattle about beer and billiards, and eating soup, - and the horribility of “committing” puns, give truly an admirable and - accurate idea of the conversation of the refined society of the refined - metropolis of Great Britain. These two last gentlemen were “pets” of Mrs. - Grey. - </p> - <p> - The conversation may be conceived. Each person was of course prepared with - a certain quota of information, without which no man in London is morally - entitled to dine out; and when the quota was expended, the amiable host - took the burthen upon his own shoulders, and endeavoured, as the phrase - goes, to draw out his guests. - </p> - <p> - O London dinners! empty artificial nothings! and that beings can be found, - and those too the flower of the land, who, day after day, can act the same - parts in the same dull, dreary farce! The officer had discoursed - sufficiently about “his intimate friend, the Soudan,” and about the chain - armour of the Sockatoo cuirassiers; and one of the M.P.‘s, who was in the - Guards, had been defeated in a ridiculous attempt to prove that the - breast-plates of the household troops of Great Britain were superior to - those of the household troops of Timtomtoo. Mrs. Grey, to whose opinion - both parties deferred, gave it in favour of the Soudan. And the man of - science had lectured about a machine which might destroy fifteen square - feet of human beings in a second, and yet be carried in the waistcoat - pocket. And the classic, who, for a professor, was quite a man of the - world, had the latest news of the new Herculaneum process, and was of - opinion that, if they could but succeed in unrolling a certain - suspicious-looking scroll, we might be so fortunate as to possess a minute - treatise on &c., &c., &c. In short, all had said their say. - There was a dead pause, and Mrs. Grey looked at her husband, and rose. - </p> - <p> - How singular it is, that when this move takes place every one appears to - be relieved, and yet every one of any experience must be quite aware that - the dead bore work is only about to commence. Howbeit, all filled their - glasses, and the peer, at the top of the table, began to talk politics. I - am sure I cannot tell what the weighty subject was that was broached by - the ex-minister; for I did not dine with Grey that day, and had I done so, - I should have been equally ignorant, for I am a dull man, and always sleep - at dinner. However, the subject was political, the claret flew round, and - a stormy argument commenced. The Marquess was decidedly wrong, and was - sadly badgered by the civil M.P. and the professor. The host, who was of - no party, supported his guest as long as possible, and then left him to - his fate. The military M.P. fled to the drawing-room to philander with - Mrs. Grey; and the man of science and the African had already retired to - the intellectual idiocy of a May Fair “At Home.” The novelist was silent, - for he was studying a scene; and the poet was absent, for he was musing a - sonnet. - </p> - <p> - The Marquess refuted, had recourse to contradiction, and was too acute a - man to be insensible to the forlornness of his situation; when, at this - moment, a voice proceeded from the end of the table, from a young - gentleman, who had hitherto preserved a profound silence, but whose - silence, if the company were to have judged from the tones of his voice, - and the matter of his communication, did not altogether proceed from a - want of confidence in his own abilities. “In my opinion,” said Mr. Vivian - Grey, as he sat lounging in his father’s vacated seat, “in my opinion his - Lordship has been misunderstood; and it is, as is generally the case, from - a slight verbal misconception in the commencement of this argument, that - the whole of this difference arises.” - </p> - <p> - The eyes of the Marquess sparkled, and the mouth of the Marquess was - closed. His Lordship was delighted that his reputation might yet be saved; - but as he was not perfectly acquainted in what manner that salvation was - to be effected, he prudently left the battle to his youthful champion. - </p> - <p> - Mr. Vivian Grey proceeded with the utmost sang froid; he commented upon - expressions, split and subtilised words, insinuated opinions, and finally - quoted a whole passage of Bolingbroke to prove that the opinion of the - most noble the Marquess of Carabas was one of the soundest, wisest, and - most convincing of opinions that ever was promulgated by mortal man. The - tables were turned, the guests looked astounded, the Marquess settled his - ruffles, and perpetually exclaimed, “Exactly what I meant!” and his - opponents, full of wine and quite puzzled, gave in. - </p> - <p> - It was a rule with Vivian Grey never to advance any opinion as his own. He - had been too deep a student of human nature, not to be aware that the - opinions of a boy of twenty, however sound, and however correct, stand but - a poor chance of being adopted by his elder, though feebler, - fellow-creatures. In attaining any end, it was therefore his system always - to advance his opinion as that of some eminent and considered personage; - and when, under the sanction of this name, the opinion or advice was - entertained and listened to, Vivian Grey had no fear that he could prove - its correctness and its expediency. He possessed also the singular faculty - of being able to improvise quotations, that is, he could unpremeditatedly - clothe his conceptions in language characteristic of the style of any - particular author; and Vivian Grey was reputed in the world as having the - most astonishing memory that ever existed; for there was scarcely a - subject of discussion in which he did not gain the victory, by the great - names he enlisted on his side of the argument. His father was aware of the - existence of this dangerous faculty, and had often remonstrated with his - son on the use of it. On the present occasion, when the buzz had somewhat - subsided, Mr. Grey looked smiling to his son, and said, “Vivian, my dear, - can you tell me in what work of Bolingbroke I can find the eloquent - passage you have just quoted?” - </p> - <p> - “Ask Mr. Hargrave, sir,” replied the son, with perfect coolness; then, - turning to the member, “You know, Mr. Hargrave, you are reputed the most - profound political student in the House, and more intimately acquainted - than any other person with the works of Bolingbroke.” - </p> - <p> - Mr. Hargrave knew no such thing; but he was a weak man, and, seduced by - the compliment, he was afraid to prove himself unworthy of it by - confessing his ignorance of the passage. - </p> - <p> - Coffee was announced. - </p> - <p> - Vivian did not let the peer escape him in the drawing-room. He soon - managed to enter into conversation with him; and certainly the Marquess of - Carabas never found a more entertaining companion. Vivian discoursed on a - new Venetian liqueur, and taught the Marquess how to mull Moselle, an - operation of which the Marquess had never heard (as who has?); and then - the flood of anecdotes, and little innocent personalities, and the - compliments so exquisitely introduced, that they scarcely appeared to be - compliments; and the voice so pleasant, and conciliating, and the - quotation from the Marquess’s own speech; and the wonderful art of which - the Marquess was not aware, by which, during all this time, the lively, - chattering, amusing, elegant conversationist, so full of scandal, - politics, and cookery, did not so much appear to be Mr. Vivian Grey as the - Marquess of Carabas himself. - </p> - <p> - “Well, I must be gone,” said the fascinated noble; “I really have not felt - in such spirits for some time; I almost fear I have been vulgar enough to - be amusing, eh! eh! eh! but you young men are sad fellows, eh! eh! eh! - Don’t forget to call on me; good evening! and Mr. Vivian Grey! Mr. Vivian - Grey!” said his lordship, returning, “you will not forget the receipt you - promised me for making tomahawk punch.” - </p> - <p> - “Certainly not, my Lord,” said the young man; “only it must be invented - first,” thought Vivian, as he took up his light to retire. “But never - mind, never mind; - </p> -<pre xml:space="preserve"> - Chapeau bas! chapeau bas! - Glorie au Marquis de Carabas!!” - </pre> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0011" id="link2HCH0011"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER II - </h2> - <p> - A few days after the dinner at Mr. Grey’s, as the Marquess of Carabas was - sitting in his library, and sighing, in the fulness of his ennui, as he - looked on his large library table, once triply covered with official - communications, now thinly besprinkled with a stray parliamentary paper or - two, his steward’s accounts, and a few letters from some grumbling - tenants, Mr. Vivian Grey was announced. - </p> - <p> - “I fear I am intruding on your Lordship, but I really could not refrain - from bringing you the receipt I promised.” - </p> - <p> - “Most happy to see ye, most happy to see ye.” - </p> - <p> - “This is exactly the correct receipt, my Lord. TO EVERY TWO BOTTLES OF - STILL CHAMPAGNE, ONE PINT OF CURAÇAO.” The Peer’s eyes glistened, and his - companion proceeded; “ONE PINT OF CURAÇAO; CATCH THE AROMA OF A POUND OF - GREEN TEA, AND DASH THE WHOLE WITH GLENLIVET.” - </p> - <p> - “Splendid!” ejaculated the Marquess. - </p> - <p> - “The nice point, however, which it is impossible to define in a receipt, - is catching the aroma. What sort of a genius is your Lordship’s chêf” - </p> - <p> - “First-rate! Laporte <i>is</i> a genius.” - </p> - <p> - “Well, my Lord! I shall be most happy to superintend the first concoction - for you; and remember particularly,” said Vivian, rising, “remember it - must be iced.” - </p> - <p> - “Certainly, my dear fellow; but pray don’t think of going yet.” - </p> - <p> - “I am very sorry, my Lord; but such a pressure of engagements; your - Lordship’s kindness is so great, and, really, I fear, that at this moment - especially, your Lordship can scarcely be in a humour for my trifling.” - </p> - <p> - “Why this moment especially, Mr. Vivian Grey?” - </p> - <p> - “Oh, my Lord! I am perfectly aware of your Lordship’s talents for - business; but still I had conceived, that the delicate situation in which - your Lordship is now placed, requiring such anxious attention such—” - </p> - <p> - “Delicate situation! anxious attention! why man! you speak riddles. I - certainly have a great deal of business to transact: people are so - obstinate, or so foolish, they will consult me, certainly; and certainly I - feel it my duty, Mr. Vivian Grey; I feel it the duty, sir of every Peer in - this happy country (here his Lordship got parliamentary): yes, sir, I feel - it due to my character, to my family, to, to, to assist with my advice all - those who think fit to consult me.” Splendid peroration! - </p> - <p> - “Oh, my Lord!” carelessly remarked Vivian, “I thought it was a mere on - dit.” - </p> - <p> - “Thought what, my dear sir? you really quite perplex me.” - </p> - <p> - “I mean to say, my Lord; I, I thought it was impossible the overtures had - been made.” - </p> - <p> - “Overtures, Mr. Vivian Grey?” - </p> - <p> - “Yes, my Lord! Overtures; has not your Lordship seen the <i>Post</i>. But - I knew it was impossible; I said so, I—” - </p> - <p> - “Said what, Mr. Vivian Grey?” - </p> - <p> - “Said that the whole paragraph was unfounded.” - </p> - <p> - “Paragraph! what paragraph?” and his Lordship rose, and rang the library - bell with vehemence: “Sadler, bring me the <i>Morning Post</i>.” - </p> - <p> - The servant entered with the paper. Mr. Vivian Grey seized it from his - hands before it reached the Marquess, and glancing his eye over it with - the rapidity of lightning, doubled up the sheet in a convenient readable - form, and pushing it into his Lordship’s hands, exclaimed, “There, my - Lord! there, that will explain all.” - </p> - <p> - His Lordship read: - </p> - <p> - “We are informed that some alteration in the composition of the present - administration is in contemplation; Lord Past Century, it is said, will - retire; Mr. Liberal Principles will have the—; and Mr. Charlatan Gas - the—. A noble Peer, whose practised talents have already benefited - the nation, and who, on vacating his seat in the Cabinet, was elevated in - the Peerage, is reported as having had certain overtures made him, the - nature of which may be conceived, but which, under present circumstances, - it would be indelicate in us to hint at.” - </p> - <p> - It would have been impossible for a hawk to watch its quarry with eyes of - more fixed and anxious earnestness than did Vivian Grey the Marquess of - Carabas, as his Lordship’s eyes wandered over the paragraph. Vivian drew - his chair close to the table opposite to the Marquess, and when the - paragraph was read, their eyes met. - </p> - <p> - “Utterly untrue,” whispered the Peer, with an agitated voice, and with a - countenance which, for a moment, seemed intellectual. - </p> - <p> - “But why Mr. Vivian Grey should deem the fact of such overtures having - been made ‘impossible,’ I confess, astonishes me.” - </p> - <p> - “Impossible, my Lord!” - </p> - <p> - “Ay, Mr. Grey, impossible, that was your word.” - </p> - <p> - “Oh, my Lord! what should I know about these matters?” - </p> - <p> - “Nay, nay, Mr. Grey, something must have been floating in your mind: why - impossible, why impossible? Did your father think so?” - </p> - <p> - “My father! Oh! no, he never thinks about these matters; ours is not a - political family; I am not sure that he ever looks at a newspaper.” - </p> - <p> - “But, my dear Mr. Grey, you would not have used the word without some - meaning. Why did you think it impossible? impossible is such a peculiar - word.” And here the Marquess looked up with great earnestness to a - portrait of himself, which hung over the fire-place. It was one of Sir - Thomas’s happiest efforts; but it was not the happiness of the likeness, - or the beauty of the painting, which now attracted his Lordship’s - attention; he thought only of the costume in which he appeared in that - portrait: the court dress of a Cabinet Minister. “Impossible, Mr. Grey, - you must confess, is a very peculiar word,” reiterated his Lordship. - </p> - <p> - “I said impossible, my Lord, because I did conceive, that had your - Lordship been of a disposition to which such overtures might have been - made with any probability of success, the Marquess of Carabas would have - been in a situation which would have precluded the possibility of those - overtures being made at all.” - </p> - <p> - “Hah!” and the Marquess nearly started from his seat. - </p> - <p> - “Yes, my Lord, I am a young, an inexperienced young man, ignorant of the - world’s ways; doubtless I was wrong, but I have much to learn,” and his - voice faltered; “but I did conceive, that having power at his command, the - Marquess of Carabas did not exercise it, merely because he despised it: - but what should I know of such matters, my Lord?” - </p> - <p> - “Is power a thing so easily to be despised, young man?” asked the - Marquess. His eye rested on a vote of thanks from the “Merchants and - Bankers of London to the Right Honourable Sydney Lorraine, President, - &c., &c., &c.,” which, splendidly emblazoned, and gilt, and - framed, and glazed, was suspended opposite the President’s portrait. - </p> - <p> - “Oh, no! my Lord, you mistake me,” eagerly burst forth Vivian. “I am no - cold-blooded philosopher that would despise that, for which, in my - opinion, men, real men, should alone exist. Power! Oh! what sleepless - nights, what days of hot anxiety! what exertions of mind and body! what - travel! what hatred! what fierce encounters! what dangers of all possible - kinds, would I not endure with a joyous spirit to gain it! But such, my - Lord, I thought were feelings peculiar to inexperienced young men: and - seeing you, my Lord, so situated, that you might command all and - everything, and yet living as you do, I was naturally led to believe that - the object of my adoration was a vain glittering bauble, of which those - who could possess it, knew the utter worthlessness.” - </p> - <p> - The Peer sat in a musing mood, playing the Devil’s tattoo on the library - table; at last he raised his eyes, and said in a low whisper, “Are you so - certain that I can command all and everything?” - </p> - <p> - “All and everything! did I say all and everything? Really, my Lord, you - scan my expressions so critically! but I see your Lordship is smiling at - my boyish nonsense! and really I feel that I have already wasted too much - of your Lordship’s valuable time, and displayed too much of my own - ignorance.” - </p> - <p> - “My dear sir! I am not aware that I was smiling.” - </p> - <p> - “Oh! your Lordship is so very kind.” - </p> - <p> - “But, my dear sir! you are really labouring under a great mistake. I am - desirous, I am particularly desirous, of having your opinion upon this - subject.” - </p> - <p> - “My opinion, my Lord! what should my opinion be, but an echo of the circle - in which I live, but a faithful representation of the feelings of general - society?” - </p> - <p> - “And, Mr. Grey, I should be glad to know what can possibly be more - interesting to me than a faithful representation of the feelings of - general society on this subject?” - </p> - <p> - “The many, my Lord, are not always right.” - </p> - <p> - “Mr. Grey, the many are not often wrong. Come, my dear sir, do me the - favour of being frank, and let me know why the public is of opinion that - all and everything are in my power, for such, after all, were your words.” - </p> - <p> - “If I did use them, my Lord, it was because I was thinking, as I often do, - what, after all, in this country is public life? Is it not a race in which - the swiftest must surely win the prize; and is not that prize power? Has - not your Lordship treasure? There is your moral steam which can work the - world. Has not your Lordship’s treasure most splendid consequence, pure - blood and aristocratic influence? The Millionaire has in his possession - the seeds of everything, but he must wait for half a century till his - descendant finds himself in your Lordship’s state; till he is yclept - noble, and then he starts fair in the grand course. All these advantages - your Lordship has apparently at hand, with the additional advantage (and - one, oh! how great!) of having already proved to your country that you - know how to rule.” - </p> - <p> - There was a dead silence, which at length the Marquess broke. “There is - much in what you say; but I cannot conceal it from myself, I have no wish - to conceal it from you; I am not what I was.” O, ambition! art thou the - parent of truth? - </p> - <p> - “Ah! my Lord!” eagerly rejoined Vivian, “here is the terrible error into - which you great statesmen have always fallen. Think you not, that - intellect is as much a purchasable article as fine parks and fair castles? - With your Lordship’s tried and splendid talents, everything might be done; - but, in my opinion, if, instead of a practised, an experienced, and wary - Statesman, I was now addressing an idiot Earl, I should not see that the - great end might not equally be consummated.” - </p> - <p> - “Say you so, my merry man, and how?” - </p> - <p> - “Why, my Lord: but, but, I feel that I am trespassing on your Lordship’s - time, otherwise I think I could show why society is of opinion that your - Lordship can do all and everything; how, indeed, your Lordship might, in a - very short time, be Prime Minister.” - </p> - <p> - “No, Mr. Grey; this conversation must be finished. I will just give orders - that we may not be disturbed, and then we shall proceed immediately. Come, - now! your manner takes me, and we shall converse in the spirit of the most - perfect confidence.” - </p> - <p> - Here, as the Marquess settled at the same time his chair and his - countenance, and looked as anxious as if Majesty itself were consulting - him on the formation of a ministry, in burst the Marchioness, - notwithstanding all the remonstrances, entreaties, threats, and - supplications of Mr. Sadler. - </p> - <p> - Her Ladyship had been what they style a splendid woman; that was now past, - although, with the aid of cashmeres, diamonds, and turbans, her general - appearance was still striking. Her Ladyship was not remarkable for - anything save a correct taste for poodles, parrots, and bijouterie, and a - proper admiration of Theodore Hook and John Bull. - </p> - <p> - “Oh! Marquess,” exclaimed her Ladyship, and a favourite green parrot, - which came flying in after its accustomed perch, her Ladyship’s left - shoulder, shrieked at the same time in concert, “Oh! Marquess, my poor - Julie! You know we have noticed how nervous she has been for some days - past, and I had just given her a saucer of arrow-root and milk, and she - seemed a little easier, and I said to Miss Graves. ‘I really do think she - is a leetle better’ and Miss Graves said, ‘Yes, my Lady, I hope she is; - ‘when just as we flattered ourselves that the dear little creature was - enjoying a quiet sleep, Miss Graves called out, ‘Oh, my Lady! my Lady! - Julie’s in a fit!’ and when I turned round she was lying on her back, - kicking, with her eyes shut.’ And here the Marchioness detected Mr. Grey, - and gave him as sublime a stare as might be expected from a lady patroness - of Almack’s. - </p> - <p> - “The Marchioness, Mr. Vivian Grey, my love, I assure you we are engaged in - a most important, a most—” - </p> - <p> - “Oh! I would not disturb you for the world, only if you will just tell me - what you think ought to be done; leeches, or a warm bath; or shall I send - for Doctor Blue Pill?” - </p> - <p> - The Marquess looked a little annoyed, as if he wished her Ladyship in her - own room again. He was almost meditating a gentle reprimand, vexed that - his grave young friend should have witnessed this frivolous intrusion, - when that accomplished stripling, to the astonishment of the future - minister, immediately recommended “the warm bath,” and then lectured, with - equal rapidity and erudition, on dogs, and their diseases in general. - </p> - <p> - The Marchioness retired, “easier in her mind about Julie than she had been - for some days,” as Vivian assured her “that it was not apoplexy, but only - the first symptom of an epidemic.” And as she retired, she murmured her - gratitude gracefully to Julie’s young physician. - </p> - <p> - “Now, Mr. Grey,” said his Lordship, endeavouring to recover his dignity, - “we were discussing the public sentiments you know on a certain point, - when this unfortunate interruption—” - </p> - <p> - Vivian had not much difficulty in collecting his ideas, and he proceeded, - not as displeased as his Lordship with the domestic scene. - </p> - <p> - “I need not remind your Lordship that the two great parties into which - this State is divided are apparently very unequally proportioned. Your - Lordship well knows how the party to which your Lordship is said to - belong: your Lordship knows, I imagine, how that is constituted. We have - nothing to do with the other. My Lord, I must speak out. No thinking man, - and such, I trust, Vivian Grey is, no thinking man can for a moment - suppose, that your Lordship’s heart is very warm in the cause of a party, - which, for I will not mince my words, has betrayed you. How is it, it is - asked by thinking men, how is it that the Marquess of Carabas is the tool - of a faction?” - </p> - <p> - The Marquess breathed aloud, “They say so, do they?” - </p> - <p> - “Why, my Lord, listen even to your servants in your own hall, need I say - more? How, then! is this opinion true? Let us look to your conduct to the - party to which you are said to belong. Your votes are theirs, your - influence is theirs; and for all this, what return, my Lord Marquess, what - return? My Lord, I am not rash enough to suppose, that your Lordship, - alone and unsupported, can make yourself the arbiter of this country’s - destinies. It would be ridiculous to entertain such an idea for a second. - The existence of such a man would not be endured by the nation for a - second. But, my Lord, union is strength. Nay, my Lord, start not; I am not - going to advise you to throw yourself into the arms of opposition; leave - such advice for greenhorns. I am not going to adopt a line of conduct, - which would, for a moment, compromise the consistency of your high - character; leave such advice for fools. My Lord, it is to preserve your - consistency, it is to vindicate your high character, it is to make the - Marquess of Carabas perform the duties which society requires from him, - that I, Vivian Grey, a member of that society, and an humble friend of - your Lordship, speak so boldly.” - </p> - <p> - “My friend,” said the agitated Peer, “you cannot speak too boldly. My mind - opens to you. I have felt, I have long felt, that I was not what I ought - to be, that I was not what society requires me to be; but where is your - remedy? what is the line of conduct that I should pursue?” - </p> - <p> - “The remedy, my Lord! I never conceived, for a moment, that there was any - doubt of the existence of means to attain all and everything. I think that - was your Lordship’s phrase. I only hesitated as to the existence of the - inclination on the part of your Lordship.” - </p> - <p> - “You cannot doubt it now,” said the Peer, in a low voice; and then his - Lordship looked anxiously round the room, as if he feared that there had - been some mysterious witness to his whisper. - </p> - <p> - “My Lord,” said Vivian, and he drew his chair close to the Marquess, “the - plan is shortly this. There are others in a similar situation with - yourself. All thinking men know, your Lordship knows still better, that - there are others equally influential, equally ill-treated. How is it that - I see no concert, among these individuals? How is it that, jealous of each - other, or each trusting that he may ultimately prove an exception to the - system of which he is a victim; how is it, I say, that you look with cold - hearts on each other’s situation? My Lord Marquess, it is at the head of - these that I would place you, it is these that I would have act with you; - and this is the union which is strength.” - </p> - <p> - “You are right, you are right; there is Courtown, but we do not speak; - there is Beaconsfield, but we are not intimate: but much might be done.” - </p> - <p> - “My Lord, you must not be daunted at a few difficulties, or at a little - exertion. But as for Courtown, or Beaconsfield, or fifty other offended - men, if it can be shown to them that their interest is to be your - Lordship’s friend, trust me, that ere six months are over, they will have - pledged their troth. Leave all this to me, give me your Lordship’s name,” - said Vivian, whispering most earnestly in the Marquess’s ear, and laying - his hand upon his Lordship’s arm; “give me your Lordship’s name, and your - Lordship’s influence, and I will take upon myself the whole organisation - of the Carabas party.” - </p> - <p> - “The Carabas party! Ah! we must think more of this.” - </p> - <p> - The Marquess’s eyes smiled with triumph, as he shook Vivian cordially by - the hand, and begged him to call upon him on the morrow. - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0012" id="link2HCH0012"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER III - </h2> - <p> - The intercourse between the Marquess and Vivian after this interview was - constant. No dinner-party was thought perfect at Carabas House without the - presence of the young gentleman; and as the Marchioness was delighted with - the perpetual presence of an individual whom she could always consult - about Julie, there was apparently no domestic obstacle to Vivian’s - remaining in high favour. - </p> - <p> - The Earl of Eglamour, the only child in whom were concentrated all the - hopes of the illustrious House of Lorraine, was in Italy. The only - remaining member of the domestic circle who was wanting was the Honourable - Mrs. Felix Lorraine, the wife of the Marquess’s younger brother. This - lady, exhausted by the gaiety of the season, had left town somewhat - earlier than she usually did, and was inhaling fresh air, and studying - botany, at the magnificent seat of the Carabas family, Château Desir, at - which splendid place Vivian was to pass the summer. - </p> - <p> - In the meantime all was sunshine with Vivian Grey. His noble friend and - himself were in perpetual converse, and constantly engaged in deep - consultation. As yet, the world knew nothing, except that, according to - the Marquess of Carabas, “Vivian Grey was the most astonishingly clever - and prodigiously accomplished fellow that ever breathed;” and, as the - Marquess always added, “resembled himself very much when he was young.” - </p> - <p> - But it must not be supposed that Vivian was to all the world the - fascinating creature that he was to the Marquess of Carabas. Many - complained that he was reserved, silent, satirical, and haughty. But the - truth was, Vivian Grey often asked himself, “Who is to be my enemy - to-morrow?” He was too cunning a master of the human mind, not to be aware - of the quicksands upon which all greenhorns strike; he knew too well the - danger of unnecessary intimacy. A smile for a friend, and a sneer for the - world, is the way to govern mankind, and such was the motto of Vivian - Grey. - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0013" id="link2HCH0013"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER IV - </h2> - <p> - How shall we describe Château Desir, that place fit for all princes? In - the midst of a park of great extent, and eminent for scenery, as varied as - might please nature’s most capricious lover; in the midst of green lawns - and deep winding glens, and cooling streams, and wild forest, and soft - woodland, there was gradually formed an elevation, on which was situate a - mansion of great size, and of that bastard, but picturesque style of - architecture, called the Italian Gothic. The date of its erection was - about the middle of the sixteenth century. You entered by a noble gateway, - in which the pointed style still predominated; but in various parts of - which, the Ionic column, and the prominent keystone, and other creations - of Roman architecture, intermingled with the expiring Gothic, into a large - quadrangle, to which the square casement windows, and the triangular - pediments or gable ends supplying the place of battlements, gave a varied - and Italian feature. In the centre of the court, from a vast marble basin, - the rim of which was enriched by a splendidly sculptured lotus border, - rose a marble group representing Amphitrite with her marine attendants, - whose sounding shells and coral sceptres sent forth their subject element - in sparkling showers. This work, the chef d’oeuvre celebrated artist of - Vicenza, had been purchased by Valerian, first Lord Carabas, who having - spent the greater part of his life as the representative of his monarch at - the Ducal Court of Venice, at length returned to his native country; and - in the creation of Château Desir endeavoured to find some consolation for - the loss of his beautiful villa on the banks of the Adige. - </p> - <p> - Over the gateway there rose a turreted tower, the small square window of - which, notwithstanding its stout stanchions, illumined the muniment room - of the House of Carabas. In the spandrils of the gateway and in many other - parts of the building might be seen the arms of the family; while the tall - twisted stacks of chimneys, which appeared to spring from all parts of the - roof, were carved and built in such curious and quaint devices that they - were rather an ornament than an excrescence. When you entered the - quadrangle, you found one side solely occupied by the old hall, the huge - carved rafters of whose oak roof rested on corbels of the family - supporters against the walls. These walls were of stone, but covered - half-way from the ground with a panelling of curiously-carved oak; whence - were suspended, in massy frames, the family portraits, painted by Dutch - and Italian artists. Near the dais, or upper part of the hall, there - projected an oriel window, which, as you beheld, you scarcely knew what - most to admire, the radiancy of its painted panes or the fantastic - richness of Gothic ornament, which was profusely lavished in every part of - its masonry. Here too the Gothic pendent and the Gothic fan-work were - intermingled with the Italian arabesques, which, at the time of the - building of the Château, had been recently introduced into England by Hans - Holbein and John of Padua. - </p> - <p> - How wild and fanciful are those ancient arabesques! Here at Château Desir, - in the panelling of the old hall, might you see fantastic scrolls, - separated by bodies ending in termini, and whose heads supported the Ionic - volute, while the arch, which appeared to spring from these capitals, had, - for a keystone, heads more monstrous than those of the fabled animals of - Ctesias; or so ludicrous, that you forgot the classic griffin in the - grotesque conception of the Italian artist. Here was a gibbering monkey, - there a grinning pulcinello; now you viewed a chattering devil, which - might have figured in the “Temptation of St. Anthony;” and now a mournful, - mystic, bearded countenance, which might have flitted in the back scene of - a “Witches’ Sabbath.” - </p> - <p> - A long gallery wound through the upper story of two other sides of the - quadrangle, and beneath were the show suite of apartments with a sight of - which the admiring eyes of curious tourists were occasionally delighted. - </p> - <p> - The grey stone walls of this antique edifice were, in many places, thickly - covered with ivy and other parasitical plants, the deep green of whose - verdure beautifully contrasted with the scarlet glories of the pyrus - japonica, which gracefully clustered round the windows of the lower - chambers. The mansion itself was immediately surrounded by numerous - ancient forest trees. There was the elm with its rich branches bending - down like clustering grapes; there was the wide-spreading oak with its - roots fantastically gnarled; there was the ash, with its smooth bark and - elegant leaf; and the silver beech, and the gracile birch; and the dark - fir, affording with its rough foliage a contrast to the trunks of its more - beautiful companions, or shooting far above their branches, with the - spirit of freedom worthy of a rough child of the mountains. - </p> - <p> - Around the Castle were extensive pleasure-grounds, which realised the - romance of the “Gardens of Verulam.” And truly, as you wandered through - their enchanting paths there seemed no end to their various beauties, and - no exhaustion of their perpetual novelty. Green retreats succeeded to - winding walks; from the shady berçeau you vaulted on the noble terrace; - and if, for an instant, you felt wearied by treading the velvet lawn, you - might rest in a mossy cell, while your mind was soothed by the soft music - of falling waters. Now your curious eyes were greeted by Oriental animals, - basking in a sunny paddock; and when you turned from the white-footed - antelope and the dark-eyed gazelle, you viewed an aviary of such extent, - that within its trellised walls the imprisoned, songsters could build, in - the free branches of a tree, their natural nests. - </p> - <p> - “O fair scene!” thought Vivian Grey, as he approached, on a fine summer’s - afternoon, the splendid Château, “O fair scene! doubly fair to those who - quit for thee the thronged and agitated city. And can it be, that those - who exist within this enchanted domain, can think of anything but sweet - air, and do aught but revel in the breath of perfumed flowers?” And here - he gained the garden-gate: so he stopped his soliloquy, and gave his horse - to his groom. - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0014" id="link2HCH0014"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER V - </h2> - <p> - The Marquess had preceded Vivian in his arrival about three or four days, - and of course, to use the common phrase, the establishment “was quite - settled.” It was, indeed, to avoid the possibility of witnessing the - domestic arrangements of a nobleman in any other point of view save that - of perfection, that Vivian had declined accompanying his noble friend to - the Château. Mr. Grey, junior, was an epicurean, and all epicureans will - quite agree with me, that his conduct on this head was extremely wise. I - am not very nice myself about these matters; but there are, we all know, a - thousand little things that go wrong on the arrivals of even the best - regulated families; and to mention no others, for any rational being - voluntarily to encounter the awful gaping of an English family, who have - travelled one hundred miles in ten successive hours, appears to me to be - little short of madness. - </p> - <p> - “Grey, my boy, quite happy to see ye! later than I expected; first bell - rings in five minutes. Sadler will show you your room. Your father, I - hope, quite well?” - </p> - <p> - Such was the salutation of the Marquess; and Vivian accordingly retired to - arrange his toilet. - </p> - <p> - The first bell rang, and the second bell rang, and Vivian was seated at - the dinner-table. He bowed to the Marchioness, and asked after her poodle, - and gazed with some little curiosity at the vacant chair opposite him. - </p> - <p> - “Mrs. Felix Lorraine, Mr. Vivian Grey,” said the Marquess, as a lady - entered the room. - </p> - <p> - Now, although we are of those historians who are of opinion that the - nature of the personages they celebrate should be developed rather by a - recital of their conduct than by a set character on their introduction, it - is, nevertheless, incumbent upon us to devote a few lines to the lady who - has just entered, which the reader will be so good as to get through, - while she is accepting an offer of some white soup; by this means he will - lose none of the conversation. - </p> - <p> - The Honourable Felix Lorraine we have before described as a roué. After - having passed through a career with tolerable credit, which would have - blasted the character of any vulgar personage, Felix Lorraine ended by - pigeoning a young nobleman, whom, for that purpose, he had made his - intimate friend. The affair got wind; after due examination, was - proclaimed “too bad,” and the guilty personage was visited with the - heaviest vengeance of modern society; he was expelled his club. By this - unfortunate exposure, Mr. Felix Lorraine was obliged to give in a match, - which was on the tapis, with the celebrated Miss Mexico, on whose million - he had determined to set up a character and a chariot, and at the same - time pension his mistress, and subscribe to the Society for the - Suppression of Vice. Felix left England for the Continent, and in due time - was made drum-major at Barbadoes, or fiscal at Ceylon, or something of - that kind. While he loitered in Europe, he made a conquest of the heart of - the daughter of some German baron, and after six weeks passed in the most - affectionate manner, the happy couple performing their respective duties - with perfect propriety, Felix left Germany for his colonial appointment, - and also left his lady behind him. - </p> - <p> - Mr. Lorraine had duly and dutifully informed his family of his marriage; - and they, as amiably and affectionately, had never answered his letters, - which he never expected they would. Profiting by their example, he never - answered his wife’s, who, in due time, to the horror of the Marquess, - landed in England, and claimed the protection of her “beloved husband’s - family.” The Marquess vowed he would never see her; the lady, however, one - morning gained admittance, and from that moment she had never quitted her - brother-in-law’s roof, and not only had never quitted it, but now made the - greatest favour of her staying. - </p> - <p> - The extraordinary influence which Mrs. Felix Lorraine possessed was - certainly not owing to her beauty, for the lady opposite Vivian Grey had - apparently no claims to admiration, on the score of her personal - qualifications. Her complexion was bad, and her features were indifferent, - and these characteristics were not rendered less uninterestingly - conspicuous by, what makes an otherwise ugly woman quite the reverse, - namely, a pair of expressive eyes; for certainly this epithet could not be - applied to those of Mrs. Felix Lorraine, which gazed in all the vacancy of - German listlessness. - </p> - <p> - The lady did bow to Mr. Grey, and that was all; and then she negligently - spooned her soup, and then, after much parade, sent it away untouched. - Vivian was not under the necessity of paying any immediate courtesy to his - opposite neighbour, whose silence, he perceived, was for the nonce, and - consequently for him. But the day was hot, and Vivian had been fatigued by - his ride, and the Marquess’ champagne was excellent; and so, at last, the - floodgates of his speech burst, and talk he did. He complimented her - Ladyship’s poodle, quoted German to Mrs. Felix Lorraine, and taught the - Marquess to eat cabinet pudding with Curaçao sauce (a custom which, - by-the-bye, I recommend to all); and then his stories, his scandal, and - his sentiment; stories for the Marquess, scandal for the Marchioness, and - sentiment for the Marquess’ sister! That lady, who began to find out her - man, had no mind to be longer silent, and although a perfect mistress of - the English language, began to articulate a horrible patois, that she - might not be mistaken for an Englishwoman, an occurrence which she - particularly dreaded. But now came her punishment, for Vivian saw the - effect which he had produced on Mrs. Felix Lorraine, and that Mrs. Felix - Lorraine now wished to produce a corresponding effect upon him, and this - he was determined she should not do; so new stories followed, and new - compliments ensued, and finally he anticipated her sentences, and - sometimes her thoughts. The lady sat silent and admiring! At last the - important meal was finished, and the time came when good dull English - dames retire; but of this habit Mrs. Felix Lorraine did not approve, and - although she had not yet prevailed upon Lady Carabas to adopt her ideas on - field-days, still, when alone, the good-natured Marchioness had given in, - and to save herself from hearing the din of male voices at a time at which - during her whole life she had been unaccustomed to them, the Marchioness - of Carabas dozed. Her worthy spouse, who was prevented, by the presence of - Mrs. Felix Lorraine, from talking politics with Vivian, passed the bottle - pretty briskly, and then, conjecturing that “from the sunset we should - have a fine day to-morrow,” fell back in his easy-chair, and snored. - </p> - <p> - Mrs. Felix Lorraine looked at her noble relatives, and shrugged up her - shoulders with an air which baffleth all description. “Mr. Grey, I - congratulate you on this hospitable reception; you see we treat you quite - en famille. Come! ‘tis a fine evening; you have seen as yet but little of - Château Desir: we may as well enjoy the fine air on the terrace.” - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0015" id="link2HCH0015"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER VI - </h2> - <p> - “You must know, Mr. Grey, that this is my favourite walk, and I therefore - expect that it will be yours.” - </p> - <p> - “It cannot indeed fail to be such, the favourite as it alike is of nature - and Mrs. Felix Lorraine.” - </p> - <p> - “On my word, a very pretty sentence! And who taught you, young sir, to - bandy words so fairly?” - </p> - <p> - “I never can open my mouth, except in the presence of a woman,” observed - Vivian, with impudent mendacity; and he looked interesting and innocent. - </p> - <p> - “Indeed! And what do you know about such wicked work as talking to women?” - and here Mrs. Felix Lorraine imitated Vivian’s sentimental voice. “Do you - know,” she continued, “I feel quite happy that you have come down here; I - begin to think that we shall be great friends.” - </p> - <p> - “Nothing appears to me more evident,” said Vivian. - </p> - <p> - “How delicious is friendship!” exclaimed Mrs. Felix Lorraine; “delightful - sentiment, that prevents life from being a curse! Have you a friend, Mr. - Vivian Grey?” - </p> - <p> - “Before I answer that question, I should like to know what meaning Mrs. - Felix Lorraine attaches to that important monosyllable, friend.” - </p> - <p> - “Oh, you want a definition. I hate definitions; and of all the definitions - in the world, the one I have been most unfortunate in has been a - definition of friendship; I might say” (and here her voice sunk), “I might - say of all the sentiments in the world, friendship is the one which has - been must fatal to me; but I must not inoculate you with my bad spirits, - bad spirits are not for young blood like yours, leave them to old persons - like myself.” - </p> - <p> - “Old!” said Vivian, in a proper tone of surprise. - </p> - <p> - “Old! ay old; how old do you think I am?” - </p> - <p> - “You may have seen twenty summers,” gallantly conjectured Vivian. - </p> - <p> - The lady looked pleased, and almost insinuated that she had seen one or - two more. - </p> - <p> - “A clever woman,” thought Vivian, “but vain; I hardly know what to think - of her.” - </p> - <p> - “Mr. Grey, I fear you find me in bad spirits to-day; but alas! I—I - have cause. Although we see each other to-day for the first time, yet - there is something in your manner, something in the expression of your - eyes, that make me believe my happiness is not altogether a matter of - indifference to you.” These words, uttered in one of the sweetest voices - by which ever human being was fascinated, were slowly and deliberately - spoken, as if it were intended that they should rest on the ear of the - object to whom they were addressed. - </p> - <p> - “My dearest madam! it is impossible that I can have but one sentiment with - regard to you, that of—” - </p> - <p> - “Of what, Mr. Grey?” - </p> - <p> - “Of solicitude for your welfare.” - </p> - <p> - The lady gently took the arm of the young man, and then with an agitated - voice, and a troubled spirit, dwelt upon the unhappiness of her lot, and - the cruelty of her fortunes. Her husband’s indifference was the sorrowful - theme of her lamentations; and she ended by asking Mr. Vivian Grey’s - advice, as to the line of conduct which she should pursue with regard to - him; first duly informing Vivian that this was the only time and he the - only person to whom this subject had been ever mentioned. - </p> - <p> - “And why should I mention it here, and to whom? The Marquess is the best - of men, but—” and here she looked up in Vivian’s face, and spoke - volumes; “and the Marchioness is the most amiable of women: at least, I - suppose her lap-dog thinks so.” - </p> - <p> - The advice of Vivian was concise. He sent the husband to the devil in two - seconds, and insisted upon the wife’s not thinking of him for another - moment; and then the lady dried her eyes, and promised to do her best. - </p> - <p> - “And now,” said Mrs. Felix Lorraine, “I must talk about your own affairs. - I think your plan excellent.” - </p> - <p> - “Plan, madam!” - </p> - <p> - “Yes, plan, sir! the Marquess has told me all. I have no head for - politics, Mr. Grey; but if I cannot assist you in managing the nation, I - perhaps may in managing the family, and my services are at your command. - Believe me, you will have enough to do: there, I pledge you my troth. Do - you think it a pretty hand?” - </p> - <p> - Vivian did think it a very pretty hand, and he performed due courtesies in - a becoming style. - </p> - <p> - “And now, good even to you,” said the lady; “this little gate leads to my - apartments. You will have no difficulty in finding your way back.” So - saying, she disappeared. - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0016" id="link2HCH0016"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER VII - </h2> - <p> - The first week at Château Desir passed pleasantly enough. Vivian’s morning - was amply occupied in maturing with the Marquess the grand principles of - the new political system: in weighing interests, in balancing connections, - and settling “what side was to be taken on the great questions?” O - politics, thou splendid juggle! The whole business, although so - magnificent in its result, appeared very easy to the two counsellors, for - it was one of the first principles of Mr. Vivian Grey, that everything was - possible. Men did fail in life to be sure, and after all, very little was - done by the generality; but still all these failures, and all this - inefficiency, might be traced to a want of physical and mental courage. - Some men were bold in their conceptions, and splendid heads at a grand - system, but then, when the day of battle came, they turned out very - cowards; while others, who had nerve enough to stand the brunt of the - hottest fire, were utterly ignorant of military tactics, and fell before - the destroyer, like the brave untutored Indians before the civilised - European. Now Vivian Grey was conscious that there was at least one person - in the world who was no craven either in body or in mind, and so he had - long come to the comfortable conclusion, that it was impossible that his - career could be anything but the most brilliant. And truly, employed as he - now was, with a peer of the realm, in a solemn consultation on that - realm’s most important interests, at a time when creatures of his age were - moping in Halls and Colleges, is it to be wondered at that he began to - imagine that his theory was borne out by experience and by fact? Not that - it must be supposed, even for a moment, that Vivian Grey was what the - world calls conceited. Oh no! he knew the measure of his own mind, and had - fathomed the depth of his powers with equal skill and impartiality; but in - the process he could not but feel that he could conceive much, and dare do - more. - </p> - <p> - We said the first week at Château Desir passed pleasantly enough; and so - it did, for Vivian’s soul revelled in the morning councils on his future - fortunes, with as much eager joy as a young courser tries the turf, - preliminary to running for the plate. And then, in the evening, were - moonlit walks with Mrs. Felix Lorraine! And then the lady abused England - so prettily, and initiated her companion, in all the secrets of German - Courts, and sang beautiful French songs, and told the legends of her - native land in such an interesting, semi-serious tone, that Vivian almost - imagined, that she believed them; and then she would take him beside the - luminous lake in the park, and now it looked just like the dark blue - Rhine! and then she remembered Germany, and grew sad, and abused her - husband; and then she taught Vivian the guitar, and some other fooleries - besides. - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0017" id="link2HCH0017"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER VIII - </h2> - <p> - The second week of Vivian’s visit had come round, and the flag waved - proudly on the proud tower of Château Desir, indicating to the admiring - county, that the most noble Sidney, Marquess of Carabas, held public days - twice a week at his grand castle. And now came the neighbouring peer, full - of grace and gravity, and the mellow baronet, with his hearty laugh, and - the jolly country squire, and the middling gentry, and the jobbing country - attorney, and the flourishing country surveyor; some honouring by their - presence, some who felt the obligation equal, and others bending before - the noble host, as if paying him adoration was almost an equal pleasure - with that of guzzling his venison pasties and quaffing his bright wines. - </p> - <p> - Independently of all these periodical visitors, the house was full of - permanent ones. There were the Viscount and Viscountess Courtown and their - three daughters, and Lord and Lady Beaconsfield and their three sons, and - Sir Berdmore and Lady Scrope, and Colonel Delmington of the Guards, and - Lady Louisa Manvers and her daughter Julia. Lady Louisa was the only - sister of the Marquess, a widow, proud and penniless. - </p> - <p> - To all these distinguished personages Vivian was introduced by the - Marquess as “a monstrous clever young man, and his Lordship’s most - particular friend,” and then the noble Carabas left the game in his young - friend’s hands. - </p> - <p> - And right well Vivian did his duty. In a week’s time it would have been - hard to decide with whom of the family of the Courtowns Vivian was the - greatest favourite. He rode with the Viscount, who was a good horseman, - and was driven by his Lady, who was a good whip; and when he had - sufficiently admired the tout ensemble of her Ladyship’s pony phaeton, he - entrusted her, “in confidence,” with some ideas of his own about - martingales, a subject which he assured her Ladyship “had been the object - of his mature consideration.” The three honourable Misses were the most - difficult part of the business; but he talked sentiment with the first, - sketched with the second, and romped with the third. - </p> - <p> - Ere the Beaconsfields could be jealous of the influence of the Courtowns, - Mr. Vivian Grey had promised his Lordship, who was a collector of medals, - an unique which had never yet been heard of; and her Ladyship, who was a - collector of autographs, the private letters of every man of genius that - ever had been heard of. In this division of the Carabas guests he was not - bored with a family; for sons he always made it a rule to cut dead; they - are the members of a family who, on an average, are generally very - uninfluential, for, on an average, they are fools enough to think it very - knowing to be very disagreeable. So the wise man but little loves them, - but woe to the fool who neglects the daughters! - </p> - <p> - Sir Berdmore Scrope Vivian found a more unmanageable personage; for the - baronet was confoundedly shrewd, and without a particle of sentiment in - his composition. It was a great thing, however, to gain him; for Sir - Berdmore was a leading country gentleman, and having quarrelled with - Ministers about the corn laws, had been counted disaffected ever since. - The baronet, however, although a bold man to the world, was luckily - henpecked; so Vivian made love to the wife and secured the husband. - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0018" id="link2HCH0018"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER IX - </h2> - <p> - I think that Julia Manvers was really the most beautiful creature that - ever smiled in this fair world. Such a symmetrically formed shape, such - perfect features, such a radiant complexion, such luxuriant auburn hair, - and such blue eyes, lit up by a smile of such mind and meaning, have - seldom blessed the gaze of admiring man! Vivian Grey, fresh as he was, was - not exactly the creature to lose his heart very speedily. He looked upon - marriage as a comedy in which, sooner or later, he was, as a well-paid - actor, to play his part; and could it have advanced his views one jot he - would have married the Princess Caraboo to-morrow. But of all wives in the - world, a young and handsome one was that which he most dreaded; and how a - statesman who was wedded to a beautiful woman could possibly perform his - duties to the public, did most exceedingly puzzle him. Notwithstanding - these sentiments, however, Vivian began to think that there really could - be no harm in talking to so beautiful a creature as Julia, and a little - conversation with her would, he felt, be no unpleasing relief to the - difficult duties in which he was involved. - </p> - <p> - To the astonishment of the Honourable Buckhurst Stanhope, eldest son of - Lord Beaconsfield, Mr. Vivian Grey, who had never yet condescended to - acknowledge his existence, asked him one morning, with the most - fascinating of smiles and with the most conciliating voice, “whether they - should ride together.” The young heir-apparent looked stiff and assented. - He arrived again at Château Desir in a couple of hours, desperately - enamoured of the eldest Miss Courtown. The sacrifice of two mornings to - the Honourable Dormer Stanhope and the Honourable Gregory Stanhope sent - them home equally captivated by the remaining sisters. Having thus, like a - man of honour, provided for the amusement of his former friends, the three - Miss Courtowns, Vivian left Mrs. Felix Lorraine to the Colonel, whose - moustache, by-the-bye, that lady considerably patronised; and then, having - excited an universal feeling of gallantry among the elders, Vivian found - his whole day at the service of Julia Manvers. - </p> - <p> - “Miss Manvers, I think that you and I are the only faithful subjects in - this Castle of Indolence. Here am I lounging on an ottoman, my ambition - reaching only so far as the possession of a chibouque, whose aromatic and - circling wreaths, I candidly confess, I dare not here excite; and you, of - course, much too knowing to be doing anything on the first of August save - dreaming of races, archery feats, and county balls: the three most - delightful things which the country can boast, either for man, woman, or - child.” - </p> - <p> - “Of course, you except sporting for yourself, shooting especially, I - suppose.” - </p> - <p> - “Shooting, oh! ah! there is such a thing. No, I am no shot; not that I - have not in my time cultivated a Manton; but the truth is, having, at an - early age, mistaken my intimate friend for a cock pheasant, I sent a whole - crowd of fours into his face, and thereby spoilt one of the prettiest - countenances in Christendom; so I gave up the field. Besides, as Tom Moore - says, I have so much to do in the country, that, for my part, I really - have no time for killing birds and jumping over ditches: good work enough - for country squires, who must, like all others, have their hours of - excitement. Mine are of a different nature, and boast a different - locality; and so when I come into the country, ‘tis for pleasant air, and - beautiful trees, and winding streams; things which, of course, those who - live among them all the year round do not suspect to be lovely and - adorable creations. Don’t you agree with Tom Moore, Miss Manvers?” - </p> - <p> - “Oh, of course! but I think it is very improper, that habit, which every - one has, of calling a man of such eminence as the author of ‘Lalla Rookh’ - <i>Tom</i> Moore.” - </p> - <p> - “I wish he could but hear you! But, suppose I were to quote Mr. Moore, or - Mr. Thomas Moore, would you have the most distant conception whom I meant? - Certainly not. By-the-bye, did you ever hear the pretty name they gave him - at Paris?” - </p> - <p> - “No, what was it?” - </p> - <p> - “One day Moore and Rogers went to call on Denon. Rogers gave their names - to the Swiss, Monsieur Rogers et Monsieur Moore. The Swiss dashed open the - library door, and, to the great surprise of the illustrious antiquary, - announced, Monsieur l’Amour! While Denon was doubting whether the God of - Love was really paying him a visit or not, Rogers entered. I should like - to have seen Denon’s face!” - </p> - <p> - “And Monsieur Denon did take a portrait of Mr. Rogers as Cupid, I - believe?” - </p> - <p> - “Come, madam, ‘no scandal about Queen Elizabeth.’ Mr. Rogers is one of the - most elegant-minded men in the country.” - </p> - <p> - “Nay! do not lecture me with such a laughing face, or else your moral will - be utterly thrown away.” - </p> - <p> - “Ah! you have Retsch’s ‘Faust’ there. I did not expect on a drawing-room - table at Château Desir to see anything so old, and so excellent, I thought - the third edition of Tremaine would be a very fair specimen of your - ancient literature, and Major Denham’s hair-breadth escapes of your - modern. There was an excellent story about, on the return of Denham and - Clapperton. The travellers took different routes, in order to arrive at - the same point of destination. In his wanderings the Major came unto an - unheard-of Lake, which, with the spirit which they of the Guards surely - approved, he christened ‘Lake Waterloo.’ Clapperton arrived a few days - after him; and the pool was immediately re-baptized ‘Lake Trafalgar.’ - There was a hot quarrel in consequence. Now, if I had been there, I would - have arranged matters, by proposing as a title, to meet the views of all - parties, ‘The United Service Lake.’” - </p> - <p> - “That would have been happy.” - </p> - <p> - “How beautiful Margaret is,” said Vivian, rising from his ottoman, and - seating himself on the sofa by the lady. “I always think that this is the - only Personification where Art has not rendered Innocence insipid.” - </p> - <p> - “Do you think so?” - </p> - <p> - “Why, take Una in the Wilderness, or Goody Two Shoes. These, I believe, - were the most innocent persons that ever existed, and I am sure you will - agree with me, they always look the most insipid. Nay, perhaps I was wrong - in what I said; perhaps it is Insipidity that always looks innocent, not - Innocence always insipid.” - </p> - <p> - “How can you refine so, when the thermometer is at 100°! Pray, tell me - some more stories.” - </p> - <p> - “I cannot, I am in a refining humour: I could almost lecture to-day at the - Royal Institution. You would not call these exactly Prosopopeias of - Innocence?” said Vivian, turning over a bundle of Stewart Newton’s - beauties, languishing, and lithographed. “Newton, I suppose, like Lady - Wortley Montague, is of opinion, that the face is not the most beautiful - part of woman; at least, if I am to judge from these elaborate ankles. - Now, the countenance of this Donna, forsooth, has a drowsy placidity - worthy of the easy-chair she is lolling in, and yet her ankle would not - disgrace the contorted frame of the most pious faquir.” - </p> - <p> - “Well! I am an admirer of Newton’s paintings.” - </p> - <p> - “Oh! so am I. He is certainly a cleverish fellow, but rather too much - among the blues; a set, of whom, I would venture to say, Miss Manvers - knoweth little about.” - </p> - <p> - “Oh, not the least! Mamma does not visit that way. What are they?” - </p> - <p> - “Oh, very powerful people! though ‘Mamma does not visit that way.’ Their - words are Ukases as far as Curzon Street, and very Decretals in the - general vicinity of May Fair; but you shall have a further description - another time. How those rooks bore! I hate staying with ancient families; - you are always cawed to death. If ever you write a novel, Miss Manvers, - mind you have a rookery in it. Since Tremaine, and Washington Irving, - nothing will go down without.” - </p> - <p> - “By-the-bye, who is the author of Tremaine?” - </p> - <p> - “It is either Mr. Ryder, or Mr. Spencer Percival, or Mr. Dyson, or Miss - Dyson, or Mr. Bowles, or the Duke of Buckingham, or Mr. Ward, or a young - officer in the Guards, or an old Clergyman in the North of England, or a - middle-aged Barrister on the Midland Circuit.” - </p> - <p> - “Mr. Grey, I wish you could get me an autograph of Mr. Washington Irving; - I want it for a particular friend.” - </p> - <p> - “Give me a pen and ink; I will write you one immediately.” - </p> - <p> - “Ridiculous!” - </p> - <p> - “There! now you have made me blot Faustus.” - </p> - <p> - At this moment the room-door suddenly opened, and as suddenly shut. - </p> - <p> - “Who was that?” - </p> - <p> - “Mephistopheles, or Mrs. Felix Lorraine; one or the other, perhaps both.” - </p> - <p> - “What!” - </p> - <p> - “What do you think of Mrs. Felix Lorraine, Miss Manvers?” - </p> - <p> - “Oh! I think her a very amusing woman, a very clever woman a very—but—” - </p> - <p> - “But what?” - </p> - <p> - “But I cannot exactly make her out.” - </p> - <p> - “Nor I; she is a dark riddle; and, although I am a very Oedipus, I confess - I have not yet unravelled it. Come, there is Washington Irving’s autograph - for you; read it; is it not quite in character? Shall I write any more? - One of Sir Walter’s, or Mr. Southey’s, or Mr. Milman’s or Mr. Disraeli’s? - or shall I sprawl a Byron?” - </p> - <p> - “I really cannot sanction such unprincipled conduct. You may make me one - of Sir Walter’s, however.” - </p> - <p> - “Poor Washington!” said Vivian, writing. “I knew him well. He always slept - at dinner. One day, as he was dining at Mr. Hallam’s, they took him, when - asleep, to Lady Jersey’s: and, to see the Sieur Geoffrey, they say, when - he opened his eyes in the illumined saloons, was really quite admirable! - quite an Arabian tale!” - </p> - <p> - “How delightful! I should have so liked to have seen him! He seems quite - forgotten now in England. How came we to talk of him?” - </p> - <p> - “Forgotten! Oh! he spoilt his elegant talents in writing German and - Italian twaddle with all the rawness of a Yankee. He ought never to have - left America, at least in literature; there was an uncontested and - glorious field for him. He should have been managing director of the - Hudson Bay Company, and lived all his life among the beavers.” - </p> - <p> - “I think there is nothing more pleasant than talking over the season, in - the country, in August.” - </p> - <p> - “Nothing more agreeable. It was dull though, last season, very dull; I - think the game cannot be kept going another year. If it were not for the - General Election, we really must have a war for variety’s sake. Peace gets - quite a bore. Everybody you dine with has a good cook, and gives you a - dozen different wines, all perfect. We cannot bear this any longer; all - the lights and shadows of life are lost. The only good thing I heard this - year was an ancient gentlewoman going up to Gunter and asking him for ‘the - receipt for that white stuff,’ pointing to his Roman punch. I, who am a - great man for receipts, gave it her immediately: ‘One hod of mortar to one - bottle of Noyau.’” - </p> - <p> - “And did she thank you?” - </p> - <p> - “Thank me! ay, truly; and pushed a card into my hand, so thick and sharp - that it cut through my glove. I wore my arm in a sling for a month - afterwards.” - </p> - <p> - “And what was the card?” - </p> - <p> - “Oh, you need not look so arch. The old lady was not even a faithless - duenna. It was an invitation to an assembly, or something of the kind, at - a place, somewhere, as Theodore Hook or Mr. Croker would say, ‘between - Mesopotamia and Russell Square.’” - </p> - <p> - “Pray, Mr. Grey, is it true that all the houses in Russell Square are - tenantless?” - </p> - <p> - “Quite true; the Marquess of Tavistock has given up the county in - consequence. A perfect shame, is it not? Let us write it up.” - </p> - <p> - “An admirable plan! but we will take the houses first, at a pepper-corn - rent.” - </p> - <p> - “What a pity, Miss Manvers, the fashion has gone out of selling oneself to - the devil.” - </p> - <p> - “Good gracious, Mr. Grey!” - </p> - <p> - “On my honour, I am quite serious. It does appear to me to be a very great - pity. What a capital plan for younger brothers! It is a kind of thing I - have been trying to do all my life, and never could succeed. I began at - school with toasted cheese and a pitchfork; and since then I have invoked, - with all the eloquence of Goethe, the evil one in the solitude of the - Hartz, but without success. I think I should make an excellent bargain - with him: of course I do not mean that ugly vulgar savage with a fiery - tail. Oh, no! Satan himself for me, a perfect gentleman! Or Belial: Belial - would be the most delightful. He is the fine genius of the Inferno, I - imagine, the Beranger of Pandemonium.” - </p> - <p> - “I really cannot listen to such nonsense one moment longer. What would you - have if Belial were here?” - </p> - <p> - “Let us see. Now, you shall act the spirit, and I, Vivian Grey. I wish we - had a short-hand writer here to take down the Incantation Scene. We would - send it to Arnold. Commençons: Spirit! I will have a fair castle.” - </p> - <p> - The lady bowed. - </p> - <p> - “I will have a palace in town.” - </p> - <p> - The lady bowed. - </p> - <p> - “I will have a fair wife. Why, Miss Manvers, you forget to bow!” - </p> - <p> - “I really beg your pardon!” - </p> - <p> - “Come, this is a novel way of making an offer, and, I hope, a successful - one.” - </p> - <p> - “Julia, my dear,” cried a voice in the veranda, “Julia, my dear, I want - you to walk with me.” - </p> - <p> - “Say you are engaged with the Marchioness,” whispered Vivian, with a low - but distinct—voice; his eyes fixed on the table, and his lips not - appearing to move. - </p> - <p> - “Mamma, I am—” - </p> - <p> - “I want you immediately and particularly, Julia,” cried Lady Louisa, in an - earnest voice. - </p> - <p> - “I am coming, I am coming. You see I must go.” - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0019" id="link2HCH0019"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER X - </h2> - <p> - “Confusion on that old hag! Her eye looked evil on me, at the very moment! - Although a pretty wife is really the destruction of a young man’s - prospects, still, in the present case, the niece of my friend, my patron, - high family, perfectly unexceptionable, &c. &c. &c. Such blue - eyes! upon my honour, this must be an exception to the general rule,” Here - a light step attracted his attention, and, on turning round, he found Mrs. - Felix Lorraine at his elbow. - </p> - <p> - “Oh! you are here, Mr. Grey, acting the solitaire in the park! I want your - opinion about a passage in ‘Herman and Dorothea.’” - </p> - <p> - “My opinion is always at your service; but if the passage is not perfectly - clear to Mrs. Felix Lorraine, it will be perfectly obscure, I am - convinced, to me.” - </p> - <p> - “Ah! yes, of course. Oh, dear! after all my trouble, I have forgotten my - book. How mortifying! Well, I will show it to you after dinner: adieu! - and, by-the-bye, Mr. Grey, as I am here, I may as well advise you not to - spoil all the Marquess’s timber, by carving a certain person’s name on his - park trees. I think your plans in that quarter are admirable. I have been - walking with Lady Louisa the whole morning, and you cannot think how I - puffed you! Courage, Cavalier, and we shall soon be connected, not only in - friendship, but in blood.” - </p> - <p> - The next morning, at breakfast, Vivian was surprised to find that the - Manvers party was suddenly about to leave the Castle. All were - disconsolate at their departure: for there was to be a grand entertainment - at Château Desir that very day, but particularly Mrs. Felix Lorraine and - Mr. Vivian Grey. The sudden departure was accounted for by the arrival of - “unexpected,” &c. &c. &c. There was no hope; the green - post-chariot was at the door, a feeble promise of a speedy return; Julia’s - eyes were filled with tears. Vivian was springing forward to press her - hand, and bear her to the carriage, when Mrs. Felix Lorraine seized his - arm, vowed she was going to faint, and, ere she could recover herself, or - loosen her grasp, the Manvers were gone. - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0020" id="link2HCH0020"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER XI - </h2> - <p> - The gloom which the parting had diffused over all countenances was quite - dispelled when the Marquess entered. - </p> - <p> - “Lady Carabas,” said he, “you must prepare for many visitors to-day. There - are the Amershams, and Lord Alhambra, and Ernest Clay, and twenty other - young heroes, who, duly informed that the Miss Courtowns were honouring us - with their presence, are pouring in from all quarters; is it not so, - Juliana?” gallantly asked the Marquess of Miss Courtown: “but who do you - think is coming besides?” - </p> - <p> - “Who, who?” exclaimed all. - </p> - <p> - “Nay, you shall guess,” said the Peer. - </p> - <p> - “The Duke of Waterloo?” guessed Cynthia Courtown, the romp. - </p> - <p> - “Prince Hungary?” asked her sister Laura. - </p> - <p> - “Is it a gentleman?” asked Mrs. Felix Lorraine. - </p> - <p> - “No, no, you are all wrong, and all very stupid. It is Mrs. Million.” - </p> - <p> - “Oh, how delightful!” said Cynthia. - </p> - <p> - “Oh, how annoying!” said the Marchioness. - </p> - <p> - “You need not look so agitated, my love,” said the Marquess; “I have - written to Mrs. Million to say that we shall be most happy to see her; but - as the castle is very full, she must not come with five - carriages-and-four, as she did last year.” - </p> - <p> - “And will Mrs. Million dine with us in the Hall, Marquess?” asked Cynthia - Courtown. - </p> - <p> - “Mrs. Million will do what she likes; I only know that I shall dine in the - Hall, whatever happens, and whoever comes; and so, I suppose, will Miss - Cynthia Courtown?” - </p> - <p> - Vivian rode out alone, immediately after breakfast, to cure his melancholy - by a gallop. - </p> - <p> - Returning home, he intended to look in at a pretty farm-house, where lived - one John Conyers, a great friend of Vivian’s. This man had, about a - fortnight ago, been of essential service to our hero, when a vicious - horse, which he was endeavouring to cure of some ugly tricks, had nearly - terminated his mortal career. - </p> - <p> - “Why are you crying so, my boy?” asked Vivian of a little Conyers, who was - sobbing bitterly at the floor. He was answered only with desperate sobs. - </p> - <p> - “Oh, ‘tis your honour,” said a decent-looking woman, who came out of the - house; “I thought they had come back again.” - </p> - <p> - “Come back again! why, what is the matter, dame?” - </p> - <p> - “Oh! your honour, we’re in sad distress; there’s been a seizure this - morning, and I’m mortal fear’d the good man’s beside himself.” - </p> - <p> - “Good heavens! why did not you come to the Castle?” - </p> - <p> - “Oh! your honour, we a’nt his Lordship’s tenants no longer; there’s been a - change for Purley Mill, and now we’re Lord Mounteney’s people. John - Conyers has been behind-hand since he had the fever, but Mr. Sedgwick - always gave time: Lord Mounteney’s gem’man says the system’s bad, and so - he’ll put an end to it; and so all’s gone, your honour; all’s gone, and - I’m mortal fear’d the good man’s beside himself.” - </p> - <p> - “And who is Lord Mounteney’s man of business?” - </p> - <p> - “Mr. Stapylton Toad,” sobbed the good dame. - </p> - <p> - “Here, boy, leave off crying, and hold my horse; keep your hold tight, but - give him rein, he’ll be quiet enough then. I will see honest John, dame.” - </p> - <p> - “I’m sure your honour’s very kind, but I’m mortal fear’d the good man’s - beside himself, and he’s apt to do very violent things when the fits on - him. He hasn’t been so bad since young Barton behaved so wickedly to his - sister.” - </p> - <p> - “Never mind! there is nothing like a friend’s face in the hour of sorrow.” - </p> - <p> - “I wouldn’t advise your honour,” said the good dame. “It’s an awful hour - when the fit’s on him; he knows not friend or foe, and scarcely knows me, - your honour.” - </p> - <p> - “Never mind, I’ll see him.” - </p> - <p> - Vivian entered the house; but who shall describe the scene of desolation! - The room was entirely stripped; there was nothing left, save the bare - whitewashed walls, and the red tiled flooring. The room was darkened; and - seated on an old block of wood, which had been pulled out of the orchard, - since the bailiff had left, was John Conyers. The fire was out, but his - feet were still among the ashes. His head was buried in his hands, and - bowed down nearly to his knees. The eldest girl, a fine sensible child of - about thirteen, was sitting with two brothers on the floor in a corner of - the room, motionless, their faces grave, and still as death, but tearless. - Three young children, of an age too tender to know grief, were acting - unmeaning gambols near the door. - </p> - <p> - “Oh! pray beware, your honour,” earnestly whispered the poor dame, as she - entered the cottage with the visitor. - </p> - <p> - Vivian walked up with a silent step to the end of “the room, where Conyers - was sitting. He remembered this little room, when he thought it the very - model of the abode of an English husbandman. The neat row of plates, and - the well-scoured utensils, and the fine old Dutch clock, and the ancient - and amusing ballad, purchased at some neighbouring fair, or of some - itinerant bibliopole, and pinned against the wall, all gone! - </p> - <p> - “Conyers!” exclaimed Vivian. - </p> - <p> - There was no answer, nor did the miserable man appear in the slightest - degree to be sensible of Vivian’s presence. - </p> - <p> - “My good John!” - </p> - <p> - The man raised his head from his resting-place, and turned to the spot - whence the voice proceeded. There was such an unnatural fire in his eyes, - that Vivian’s spirit almost quailed. His alarm was not decreased, when he - perceived that the master of the cottage did not recognize him. The - fearful stare was, however, short, and again the sufferer’s face was hid. - </p> - <p> - The wife was advancing, but Vivian waved his hand to her to withdraw, and - she accordingly fell into the background; but her fixed eye did not leave - her husband for a second. - </p> - <p> - “John Conyers, it is your friend, Mr. Vivian Grey, who is here,” said - Vivian. - </p> - <p> - “Grey!” moaned the husbandman; “Grey! who is he?” - </p> - <p> - “Your friend, John Conyers. Do you quite forget me?” said Vivian - advancing, and with a tone which Vivian Grey could alone assume. - </p> - <p> - “I think I have seen you, and you were kind,” and the face was again hid. - </p> - <p> - “And always will be kind, John. I have come to comfort you. I thought that - a friend’s voice would do you good. Come, cheer up, my man!” and Vivian - dared to touch him. His hand was not repulsed. “Do you remember what good - service you did me when I rode white-footed Moll? Why, I was much worse - off then than you are now: and yet, you see, a friend came and saved me. - You must not give way so, my good fellow. After all, a little management - will set everything right,” and he took the husbandman’s sturdy hand. - </p> - <p> - “I do remember you,” he faintly cried. “You were always very kind.” - </p> - <p> - “And always will be, John; always to friends like you. Come, come, cheer - up and look about you, and let the sunbeam enter your cottage:” and Vivian - beckoned to the wife to open the closed shutter. - </p> - <p> - Conyers stared around him, but his eye rested only on bare walls, and the - big tear coursed down his hardy cheek. - </p> - <p> - “Nay, never mind, man,” said Vivian, “we will soon have chairs and tables - again. And as for the rent, think no more about that at present.” - </p> - <p> - The husbandman looked up, and then burst into weeping. Vivian could - scarcely hold down his convulsed frame on the rugged seat; but the wife - advanced from the back of the room, and her husband’s head rested against - her bosom. Vivian held his honest hand, and the eldest girl rose unbidden - from her silent sorrow, and clung to her father’s knee. - </p> - <p> - “The fit is over,” whispered the wife. “There, there, there’s a man, all - is now well;” and Vivian left him resting on his wife’s bosom. - </p> - <p> - “Here, you curly-headed rascal, scamper down to the village immediately, - and bring up a basket of something to eat; and tell Morgan Price that Mr. - Grey says he is to send up a couple of beds, and some chairs here - immediately, and some plates and dishes, and everything else, and don’t - forget some ale;” so saying, Vivian flung the urchin a sovereign. - </p> - <p> - “And now, dame, for Heaven’s sake, light the fire. As for the rent, John, - do not waste this trifle on that,” whispered Vivian, slipping his purse - into his hand, “for I will see Stapylton Toad, and get time. Why, woman, - you’ll never strike a light, if your tears drop so fast into the - tinder-box. Here, give it me. You are not fit to work to-day. And how is - the trout in Ravely Mead, John, this hot weather? You know you never kept - your promise with me. Oh! you are a sad fellow! There! there’s a spark! I - wonder why old Toad did not take the tinder-box. It is a very valuable - piece of property, at least to us. Run and get me some wood, that’s a good - boy. And so white-footed Moll is past all recovery? Well, she was a pretty - creature! There, that will do famously,” said Vivian, fanning the flame - with his hat. “See, it mounts well! And now, God bless you all! for I am - an hour too late, and must scamper for my very life.” - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0021" id="link2HCH0021"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER XII - </h2> - <p> - Mrs. Million arrived, and kept her promise; only three carriages-and-four! - Out of the first descended the mighty lady herself, with some noble - friends, who formed the most distinguished part of her suite: out of the - second came her physician, Dr. Sly; her toad-eater, Miss Gusset; her - secretary, and her page. The third carriage bore her groom of the - chambers, and three female attendants. There were only two men servants to - each equipage; nothing could be more moderate, or, as Miss Gusser said, - “in better taste.” - </p> - <p> - Mrs. Million, after having granted the Marquess a private interview in her - private apartments, signified her imperial intention of dining in public, - which, as she had arrived late, she trusted she might do in her travelling - dress. The Marquess kotooed like a first-rate mandarin, and vowed “that - her will was his conduct.” - </p> - <p> - The whole suite of apartments were thrown open, and were crowded with - guests. Mrs. Million entered; she was leaning on the Marquess’ arm, and in - a travelling dress, namely, a crimson silk pelisse, hat and feathers, with - diamond ear-rings, and a rope of gold round her neck. A train of about - twelve persons, consisting of her noble fellow-travellers, toad-eaters, - physicians, secretaries, &c. &c. &c. followed. The entree of - Her Majesty could not have created a greater sensation than did that of - Mrs. Million. All fell back. Gartered peers, and starred ambassadors, and - baronets with blood older than the creation, and squires, to the antiquity - of whose veins chaos was a novelty; all retreated, with eyes that scarcely - dared to leave the ground; even Sir Plantagenet Pure, whose family had - refused a peerage regularly every century, now, for the first time in his - life, seemed cowed, and in an awkward retreat to make way for the - approaching presence, got entangled with the Mameluke boots of my Lord - Alhambra. - </p> - <p> - At last a sofa was gained, and the great lady was seated, and the - sensation having somewhat subsided, conversation was resumed; and the - mighty Mrs. Million was not slightly abused, particularly by those who had - bowed lowest at her entree; and now the Marquess of Carabas, as was - wittily observed by Mr. Septimus Sessions, a pert young barrister, “went - the circuit,” that is to say, made the grand tour of the suite of - apartments, making remarks to every one of his guests, and keeping up his - influence in the county. - </p> - <p> - “Ah, my Lord Alhambra! this is too kind; and how is your excellent father, - and my good friend? Sir Plantagenet, yours most sincerely! we shall have - no difficulty about that right of common. Mr. Leverton, I hope you find - the new plough work well; your son, sir, will do the county honour. Sir - Godfrey, I saw Barton upon that point, as I promised. Lady Julia, I am - rejoiced to see ye at Château Desir, more blooming than ever! Good Mr. - Stapylton Toad, so that little change was effected: My Lord Devildrain, - this is a pleasure indeed!” - </p> - <p> - “Why, Ernest Clay,” said Mr. Buckhurst Stanhope, “I thought Alhambra wore - a turban; I am quite disappointed.” - </p> - <p> - “Not in the country. Stanhope; here he only sits cross-legged on an - ottoman, and carves his venison with an ataghan.” - </p> - <p> - “Well, I am glad he does not wear a turban; that would be bad taste, I - think,” said Fool Stanhope. “Have you read his poem?” - </p> - <p> - “A little. He sent me a copy, and as I am in the habit of lighting my pipe - or so occasionally with a leaf, why I cannot help occasionally seeing a - line: it seems quite first-rate.” - </p> - <p> - “Indeed!” said Fool Stanhope; “I must get it.” - </p> - <p> - “My dear Puff! I am quite glad to find you here,” said Mr. Cayenne, a - celebrated reviewer, to Mr. Partenopex Puff, a small author and smaller - wit. “Have you seen Middle Ages lately?” - </p> - <p> - “Not very lately,” drawled Mr. Partenopex, “I breakfasted with him before - I left town, and met a Professor Bopp there, a very interesting man, and - Principal of the celebrated University of Heligoland, the model of the - London.” - </p> - <p> - “Ah, indeed! talking of the London, is Foaming Fudge to come in for - Cloudland?” - </p> - <p> - “Doubtless! Oh! he is a prodigious fellow! What do you think Booby says? - He says that Foaming Fudge can do more than any man in Great Britain; that - he had one day to plead in the King’s Bench, spout at a tavern, speak in - the House, and fight a duel; and that he found time for everything but the - last.” - </p> - <p> - “Excellent!” laughed Mr. Cayenne. - </p> - <p> - Mr. Partenopex Puff was reputed, in a certain set, a sayer of good things, - but he was a modest wit, and generally fathered his bon mots on his valet - Booby, his monkey, or his parrot. - </p> - <p> - “I saw you in the last number,” said Cayenne. “From the quotations from - your own works, I imagine the review of your own book was by yourself?” - </p> - <p> - “What do you think Booby said?” - </p> - <p> - “Mr. Puff, allow me to introduce you to Lord Alhambra,” said Ernest Clay, - by which means Mr. Puff’s servant’s last good thing was lost. - </p> - <p> - “Mr. Clay, are you an archer?” asked Cynthia Courtown. - </p> - <p> - “No, fair Dian; but I can act Endymion.” - </p> - <p> - “I don’t know what you mean. Go away.” - </p> - <p> - “Aubrey Vere, welcome to ——shire. Have you seen Prima Donna?” - </p> - <p> - “No; is he here? How did you like his last song in the Age?” - </p> - <p> - “His last song! Pooh! pooh! he only supplies the scandal.” - </p> - <p> - “Groves,” said Sir Hanway Etherington, “have you seen the newspaper this - morning? Baron Crupper has tried fifteen men for horse-stealing at York, - and acquitted every one.” - </p> - <p> - “Well then, Sir Hanway, I think his Lordship’s remarkable wrong; for when - a man gets a horse to suit him, if he loses it, ‘tisn’t so easy to suit - himself again. That’s the ground I stand upon.” - </p> - <p> - All this time the Marquess of Carabas had wanted Vivian Grey twenty times, - but that gentleman had not appeared. The important moment arrived, and his - Lordship offered his arm to Mrs. Million, who, as the Gotha Almanack says, - “takes precedence of all Archduchesses, Grand Duchesses, Duchesses, - Princesses, Landgravines, Margravines, Palsgravines, &c. &c. &c.” - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0022" id="link2HCH0022"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER XIII - </h2> - <p> - In their passage to the Hall, the Marquess and Mrs. Million met Vivian - Grey, booted and spurred, and covered with mud. - </p> - <p> - “Oh! Mrs. Million—Mr. Vivian Grey. How is this, my dear fellow? you - will be too late.” - </p> - <p> - “Immense honour!” said Vivian, bowing to the ground to the lady. “Oh! my - Lord I was late, and made a short cut over Fearnley Bog. It has proved a - very Moscow expedition. However, I am keeping you. I shall be in time for - the guava and liqueurs, and you know that is the only refreshment I ever - take.” - </p> - <p> - “Who is that, Marquess?” asked Mrs. Million. - </p> - <p> - “That is Mr. Vivian Grey, the most monstrous clever young man, and nicest - fellow I know.” - </p> - <p> - “He does, indeed, seem, a very nice young man,” said Mrs. Million. - </p> - <p> - Some steam process should be invented for arranging guests when they are - above five hundred. In the present instance all went wrong when they - entered the Hall; but, at last, the arrangements, which, of course, were - of the simplest nature, were comprehended, and the guests were seated. - There were three tables, each stretching down the Hall; the dais was - occupied by a military band. The number of guests, the contrast between - the antique chamber and their modern costumes, the music, the various - liveried menials, all combined to produce a whole, which at the same time - was very striking, and “in remarkable good taste.” - </p> - <p> - In process of time, Mr. Vivian Grey made his entrance. There were a few - vacant seats at the bottom of the table, “luckily for him,” as kindly - remarked Mr. Grumbleton. To the astonishment and indignation, however, of - this worthy squire, the late comer passed by the unoccupied position, and - proceeded onward with undaunted coolness, until he came to about the - middle of the middle table, and which was nearly the best situation in the - Hall. - </p> - <p> - “Beautiful Cynthia,” said Vivian Grey, softly and sweetly whispering in - Miss Courtown’s ear, “I am sure you will give up your place to me; you - have nerve enough, you know, for anything, and would no more care for - standing out than I for sitting in.” There is nothing like giving a romp - credit for a little boldness. To keep up her character she will out-herod - Herod. - </p> - <p> - “Oh! Grey, is it you? certainly, you shall have my place immediately; but - I am not sure that we cannot make room for you. Dormer Stanhope, room must - be made for Grey, or I shall leave the table immediately. You men!” said - the hoyden, turning round to a set of surrounding servants, “push this - form down and put a chair between.” - </p> - <p> - The men obeyed. All who sat lower in the table on Miss Cynthia Courtown’s - side than that lady, were suddenly propelled downwards about the distance - of two feet. Dr. Sly, who was flourishing a carving-knife and fork, - preparatory to dissecting a gorgeous haunch, had these fearful instruments - suddenly precipitated into a trifle, from whose sugared trellis-work he - found great difficulty in extricating them; while Miss Gusset, who was on - the point of cooling herself with some exquisite iced jelly, found her - frigid portion as suddenly transformed into a plate of peculiarly ardent - curry, the property, but a moment before, of old Colonel Rangoon. - Everything, however, receives a civil reception from a toad-eater, so Miss - Gusset burnt herself to death by devouring a composition, which would have - reduced anyone to ashes who had not fought against Bundoolah. - </p> - <p> - “Now that is what I call a sensible arrangement; what could go off - better?” said Vivian. - </p> - <p> - “You may think so, sir,” said Mr. Boreall, a sharp-nosed and - conceited-looking man, who, having got among a set whom he did not the - least understand, was determined to take up Dr. Sly’s quarrel, merely for - the sake of conversation. “You, I say, sir, may think it so, but I rather - imagine that the ladies and gentlemen lower down can hardly think it a - sensible arrangement;” and here Boreall looked as if he had done his duty, - in giving a young man a proper reproof. - </p> - <p> - Vivian glanced a look of annihilation. “I had reckoned upon two deaths, - sir, when I entered the Hall, and finding, as I do, that the whole - business has apparently gone off without any fatal accident, why, I think - the circumstances bear me out in my expression.” - </p> - <p> - Mr. Boreall was one of those unfortunate men who always take things to the - letter: he consequently looked amazed, and exclaimed, “Two deaths, sir?” - </p> - <p> - “Yes, sir, two deaths; I reckoned, of course, on some corpulent parent - being crushed to death in the scuffle, and then I should have had to shoot - his son through the head for his filial satisfaction. Dormer Stanhope, I - never thanked you for exerting yourself: send me that fricandeau you have - just helped yourself to.” - </p> - <p> - Dormer, who was, as Vivian well knew, something of an epicure, looked - rather annoyed, but by this time he was accustomed to Vivian Grey, and - sent him the portion he had intended for himself. Could epicure do more? - </p> - <p> - “Whom are we among, bright Cynthia?” asked Vivian. - </p> - <p> - “Oh! an odd set,” said the lady, looking dignified; “but you know we can - be exclusive.” - </p> - <p> - “Exclusive! pooh! trash! Talk to everybody; it looks as if you were going - to stand for the county. Have we any of the millionaires near us?” - </p> - <p> - “The Doctor and Toady are lower down.” - </p> - <p> - “Where is Mrs. Felix Lorraine?” - </p> - <p> - “At the opposite table, with Ernest Clay.” - </p> - <p> - “Oh! there is Alhambra, next to Dormer Stanhope. Lord Alhambra, I am quite - rejoiced to see you.” - </p> - <p> - “Ah! Mr. Grey, I am quite rejoiced to see you. How is your father?” - </p> - <p> - “Extremely well; he is at Paris; I heard from him yesterday. Do you ever - see the Weimar Literary Gazette, my Lord?” - </p> - <p> - “No; why?” - </p> - <p> - “There is an admirable review of your poem in the last number I have - received.” - </p> - <p> - The young nobleman looked agitated. “I think, by the style,” continued - Vivian, “that it is by Goëthe. It is really delightful to see the oldest - poet in Europe dilating on the brilliancy of a new star on the poetical - horizon.” - </p> - <p> - This was uttered with a perfectly grave voice, and now the young nobleman - blushed. “Who is <i>Gewter</i>?” asked Mr. Boreall, who possessed such a - thirst for knowledge that he never allowed an opportunity to escape him of - displaying his ignorance. - </p> - <p> - “A celebrated German writer,” lisped the modest Miss Macdonald. - </p> - <p> - “I never heard his name,” persevered the indefatigable Boreall; “how do - you spell it?” - </p> - <p> - “GOETHE,” re-lisped modesty. - </p> - <p> - “Oh! <i>Goty</i>!” exclaimed the querist. “I know him well: he wrote the - Sorrows of Werter.” - </p> - <p> - “Did he indeed, sir?” asked Vivian, with the most innocent and inquiring - face. - </p> - <p> - “Oh! don’t you know that?” said Boreall, “and poor stuff it is!” - </p> - <p> - “Lord Alhambra! I will take a glass of Johannisberg with you, if the - Marquess’ wines are in the state they should be: - </p> -<pre xml:space="preserve"> - The Crescent warriors sipped their sherbet spiced, - For Christian men the various wines were <i>iced</i>. -</pre> - <p> - I always think that those are two of the best lines in your Lordship’s - poem,” said Vivian. - </p> - <p> - His Lordship did not exactly remember them: it would have been a wonder if - he had: but he thought Vivian Grey the most delightful fellow he ever met, - and determined to ask him to Helicon Castle for the Christmas holidays. - </p> - <p> - “Flat! flat!” said Vivian, as he dwelt upon the flavour of the Rhine’s - glory. “Not exactly from the favourite bin of Prince Metternich, I think. - By-the-bye, Dormer Stanhope, you have a taste that way; I will tell you - two secrets, which never forget: decant your Johannisberg, and ice your - Maraschino. Ay, do not stare, my dear Gastronome, but do it.” - </p> - <p> - “O, Vivian! why did not you come and speak to me?” exclaimed a lady who - was sitting at the side opposite Vivian, but higher in the table. - </p> - <p> - “Ah! adorable Lady Julia! and so you were done on the grey filly.” - </p> - <p> - “Done!” said the sporting beauty with pouting lips; “but it is a long - story, and I will tell it you another time.” - </p> - <p> - “Ah! do. How is Sir Peter?” - </p> - <p> - “Oh! he has had a fit or two, since you saw him last.” - </p> - <p> - “Poor old gentleman! let us drink his health. Do you know Lady Julia - Knighton?” asked Vivian of his neighbour. “This Hall is bearable to dine - in; but I once breakfasted here, and I never shall forget the ludicrous - effect produced by the sun through the oriel window. Such complexions! - Every one looked like a prize-fighter ten days after a battle. After all, - painted glass is a bore; I wish the Marquess would have it knocked out, - and have it plated.” - </p> - <p> - “Knock out the painted glass!” said Mr. Boreall; “well, I must confess, I - cannot agree with you.” - </p> - <p> - “I should have been extremely surprised if you could. If you do not insult - that man, Miss Courtown, in ten minutes I shall be no more. I have already - a nervous fever.” - </p> - <p> - “May I have the honour of taking a glass of champagne with you, Mr. Grey?” - said Boreall. - </p> - <p> - “Mr. Grey, indeed!” muttered Vivian: “Sir, I never drink anything but - brandy.” - </p> - <p> - “Allow me to give <i>you</i> some champagne, Miss,” resumed Boreall, as he - attacked the modest Miss Macdonald: “champagne, you know,” continued he, - with a smile of agonising courtesy, “is quite the lady’s wine.” - </p> - <p> - “Cynthia Courtown,” whispered Vivian with a sepulchral voice, “‘tis all - over with me: I have been thinking what would come next. This is too much: - I am already dead. Have Boreall arrested; the chain of circumstantial - evidence is very strong.” - </p> - <p> - “Baker!” said Vivian, turning to a servant, “go and inquire if Mr. - Stapylton Toad dines at the Castle to-day.” - </p> - <p> - A flourish of trumpets announced the rise of the Marchioness of Carabas, - and in a few minutes the most ornamental portion of the guests had - disappeared. The gentlemen made a general “move up,” and Vivian found - himself opposite his friend, Mr. Hargrave. - </p> - <p> - “Ah! Mr. Hargrave, how d’ye do? What do you think of the Secretary’s state - paper?” - </p> - <p> - “A magnificent composition, and quite unanswerable. I was just speaking of - it to my friend here, Mr. Metternich Scribe. Allow me to introduce you to - Mr. Metternich Scribe.” - </p> - <p> - “Mr. Metternich Scribe, Mr. Vivian Grey!” and here Mr. Hargrave introduced - Vivian to an effeminate-looking, perfumed young man, with a handsome, - unmeaning face and very white hands; in short, as dapper a little - diplomatist as ever tattled about the Congress of Verona, smirked at Lady - Almack’s supper after the Opera, or vowed “that Richmond Terrace was a - most convenient situation for official men.” - </p> - <p> - “We have had it with us some time before the public received it,” said the - future under-secretary, with a look at once condescending and conceited. - </p> - <p> - “Have you?” said Vivian: “well, it does your office credit. It is a - singular thing that Canning and Croker are the only official men who can - write grammar.” - </p> - <p> - The dismayed young gentleman of the Foreign Office was about to mince a - repartee, when Vivian left his seat, for he had a great deal of business - to transact. “Mr. Leverton,” said he, accosting a flourishing grazier, “I - have received a letter from my friend, M. De Noé. He is desirous of - purchasing some Leicestershires for his estate in Burgundy. Pray, may I - take the liberty of introducing his agent to you?” - </p> - <p> - Mr. Leverton was delighted. - </p> - <p> - “I also wanted to see you about some other little business. Let me see, - what was it? Never mind, I will take my wine here, if you can make room - for me; I shall remember it, I dare say, soon. Oh! by-the-bye: ah! that - was it. Stapylton Toad; Mr. Stapylton Toad; I want to know all about Mr. - Stapylton Toad. I dare say you can tell me. A friend of mine intends to - consult him on some parliamentary business, and he wishes to know - something about him before he calls.” - </p> - <p> - We will condense, for the benefit of the reader, the information of Mr. - Leverton. - </p> - <p> - Stapylton Toad had not the honour of being acquainted with his father’s - name; but as the son found himself, at an early age, apprenticed to a - solicitor of eminence, he was of opinion that his parent must have been - respectable. Respectable! mysterious word! Stapylton was a diligent and - faithful clerk, but was not so fortunate in his apprenticeship as the - celebrated Whittington, for his master had no daughter and many sons; in - consequence of which, Stapylton, not being able to become his master’s - partner, became his master’s rival. - </p> - <p> - On the door of one of the shabbiest houses in Jermyn Street the name of - Mr. Stapylton Toad for a long time figured, magnificently engraved on a - broad brass plate. There was nothing however, otherwise, in the appearance - of the establishment, which indicated that Mr. Toad’s progress was very - rapid, or his professional career extraordinarily prosperous. In an - outward office one solitary clerk was seen, oftener stirring his office - fire than wasting his master’s ink; and Mr. Toad was known by his brother - attorneys as a gentleman who was not recorded in the courts as ever having - conducted a single cause. In a few years, however, a story was added to - the Jermyn Street abode, which, new pointed and new painted, began to - assume a mansion-like appearance. The house-door was also thrown open, for - the solitary clerk no longer found time to answer the often agitated bell; - and the eyes of the entering client were now saluted by a gorgeous green - baize office door; the imposing appearance of which was only equalled by - Mr. Toad’s new private portal, splendid with a brass knocker and patent - varnish. And now his brother attorneys began to wonder “how Toad got on! - and who Toad’s clients were!” - </p> - <p> - A few more years rolled over, and Mr. Toad was seen riding in the Park at - a classical hour, attended by a groom in a classical livery. And now “the - profession” wondered still more, and significant looks were interchanged - by “the respectable houses:” and flourishing practitioners in the City - shrugged up their shoulders, and talked mysteriously of “money business,” - and “some odd work in annuities.” In spite, however, of the charitable - surmises of his brother lawyers, it must be confessed that nothing of even - an equivocal nature ever transpired against the character of the - flourishing Mr. Toad, who, to complete the mortification of his less - successful rivals, married, and at the same time moved from Jermyn Street - to Cavendish Square. The new residence of—Mr. Toad had previously - been the mansion of a noble client, and one whom, as the world said, Mr. - Toad “had got out of difficulties.” This significant phrase will probably - throw some light upon the nature of the mysterious business of our - prosperous practitioner. Noble Lords who have been in difficulties will - not much wonder at the prosperity of those who get them out. - </p> - <p> - About this time Mr. Toad became acquainted with Lord Mounteney, a nobleman - in great distress, with fifty thousand per annum. His Lordship “really did - not know how he had got involved: he never gamed, he was not married, and - his consequent expenses had never been unreasonable: he was not - extraordinarily negligent; quite the reverse: was something of a man of - business, remembered once looking over his accounts; and yet in spite of - his regular and correct career, found himself quite involved, and must - leave England.” - </p> - <p> - The arrangement of the Mounteney property was the crowning stroke of Mr. - Stapylton Toad’s professional celebrity. His Lordship was not under the - necessity of quitting England, and found himself in the course of five - years in the receipt of a clear rental of five-and-twenty thousand per - annum. His Lordship was in raptures; and Stapylton Toad purchased an - elegant villa in Surrey, and became a Member of Parliament. Goodburn Park, - for such was the name of Mr. Toad’s country residence, in spite of its - double lodges and patent park paling, was not, to Mr. Toad, a very - expensive purchase; for he “took it off the hands” of a distressed client - who wanted an immediate supply, “merely to convenience him,” and, - consequently, became the purchaser at about half its real value. - “Attorneys,” as Bustle the auctioneer says, “have <i>such</i> - opportunities!” - </p> - <p> - Mr. Toad’s career in the House was as correct as his conduct out of it. - After ten years’ regular attendance, the boldest conjecturer would not - have dared to define his political principles. It was a rule with - Stapylton Toad never to commit himself. Once, indeed, he wrote an able - pamphlet on the Corn Laws, which excited the dire indignation of the - Political Economy Club. But Stapylton cared little for their subtle - confutations and their loudly expressed contempt. He had obliged the - country gentlemen of England, and ensured the return, at the next - election, of Lord Mounteney’s brother for the county. At this general - election, also, Stapylton Toad’s purpose in entering the House became - rather more manifest; for it was found, to the surprise of the whole - country, that there was scarcely a place in England; county, town, or - borough; in which Mr. Stapylton Toad did not possess some influence. In - short, it was discovered, that Mr. Stapylton Toad had “a first-rate - parliamentary business;” that nothing could be done without his - co-operation, and everything with it. In spite of his prosperity, - Stapylton had the good sense never to retire from business, and even to - refuse a baronetcy; on condition, however, that it should be offered to - his son. - </p> - <p> - Stapylton, like the rest of mankind, had his weak points. The late - Marquess of Almack’s was wont to manage him very happily, and Toad was - always introducing that minister’s opinion of his importance. “‘My time is - quite at your service, General,’ although the poor dear Marquess used to - say, ‘Mr. Stapylton Toad, your time is mine.’ He knew the business I had - to get through!” The family portraits also, in ostentatious frames, now - adorned the dining-room of his London mansion; and it was amusing to hear - the worthy M.P. dilate upon his likeness to his respected father. - </p> - <p> - “You see, my Lord,” Stapylton would say, pointing to a dark, dingy picture - of a gentleman in a rich court dress, “you see, my Lord, it is not in a - very good light, and it certainly is a very dark picture, by Hudson; all - Hudson’s pictures were dark. But if I were six inches taller, and could - hold the light just there, I think your Lordship would be astonished at - the resemblance; but it’s a dark picture, certainly it is dark; all - Hudson’s pictures were.” - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0023" id="link2HCH0023"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER XIV - </h2> - <p> - The Cavaliers have left the ancient Hall, and the old pictures frown only - upon empty tables. The Marquess immediately gained a seat by Mrs. Million, - and was soon engrossed in deep converse with that illustrious lady. In one - room, the most eminent and exclusive, headed by Mrs. Felix Lorraine, were - now winding through the soothing mazes of a slow waltz, and now whirling, - with all the rapidity of Eastern dervishes, to true double Wien time. In - another saloon, the tedious tactics of quadrilles commanded the exertions - of less civilised beings: here Liberal Snake, the celebrated political - economist, was lecturing to a knot of alarmed country gentlemen; and there - an Italian improvisatore poured forth to an admiring audience all the - dulness of his inspiration. Vivian Grey was holding an earnest - conversation in one of the recesses with Mr. Stapylton Toad. He had - already charmed that worthy by the deep interest which he took in - everything relating to elections and the House of Commons, and now they - were hard at work on the Corn Laws. Although they agreed upon the main - points, and Vivian’s ideas upon this important subject had, of course, - been adopted after studying Mr. Toad’s “most luminous and convincing - pamphlet,” still there were a few minor points on which Vivian “was - obliged to confess” that “he did not exactly see his way.” Mr. Toad was - astonished, but argumentative, and, of course, in due time, had made a - convert of his companion; “a young man,” as he afterwards remarked to Lord - Mounteney, “in whom he knew not which most to admire, the soundness of his - own views, or the candour with which he treated those of others.” If you - wish to win a man’s heart, allow him to confute you. - </p> - <p> - “I think, Mr. Grey, you must admit that my definition of labour is the - correct one?” said Mr. Toad, looking earnestly in Vivian’s face, his - finger just presuming to feel a button. - </p> - <p> - “That exertion of mind or body which is not the involuntary effect of the - influence of natural sensations,” slowly repeated Vivian, as if his whole - soul was concentrated in each monosyllable. “Y-e-s, Mr. Toad, I do admit - it.” - </p> - <p> - “Then, my dear sir, the rest follows of course,” triumphantly exclaimed - the member; “don’t you see it?” - </p> - <p> - “Although I admit the correctness of your definition, Mr. Toad, I am not - free to confess that I am ex-act-ly convinced of the soundness of your - conclusion,” said Vivian, in a musing mood. - </p> - <p> - “But, my dear sir, I am surprised that you don’t see that—” - </p> - <p> - “Stop, Mr. Toad,” eagerly exclaimed Vivian; “I see my error. I - misconceived your meaning: you are right, sir; your definition is - correct.” - </p> - <p> - “I was confident that I should convince you, Mr. Grey.” - </p> - <p> - “This conversation, I assure you, Mr. Toad, has been to me a peculiarly - satisfactory one. Indeed, sir, I have long wished to have the honour of - making your acquaintance. When but a boy, I remember, at my father’s - table, the late Marquess of Almack’s—” - </p> - <p> - “Yes, Mr. Grey.” - </p> - <p> - “One of the ablest men, Mr. Toad, after all, that this country ever - produced.” - </p> - <p> - “Oh, poor dear man!” - </p> - <p> - “I remember his observing to a friend of mine, who was at that time - desirous of getting into the House: ‘Hargrave,’ said his Lordship, ‘if you - want any information upon points of practical politics;’ that was his - phrase; you remember, Mr. Toad, that his Lordship was peculiar in his - phrases?” - </p> - <p> - “Oh! yes, poor dear man; but you were observing, Mr. Grey—” - </p> - <p> - “Ay, ay! ‘If you want any information,’ said his Lordship, ‘on such - points, there is only one man in the kingdom whom you should consult, and - he is one of the soundest heads I know, and that is Stapylton Toad, the - member for Mounteney;’ you know you were in for Mounteney then, Mr. Toad.” - </p> - <p> - “I was, and accepted the Chilterns to make room for Augustus Clay, Ernest - Clay’s brother, who was so involved, that the only way to keep him out of - the House of Correction was to get him into the House of Commons. But the - Marquess said so, eh?” - </p> - <p> - “Ay, and much more, which I scarcely can remember;” and then followed a - long dissertation on the character of the noble statesman, and his views - as to the agricultural interest, and the importance of the agricultural - interest; and then a delicate hint was thrown out as to “how delightful it - would be to write a pamphlet together” on this mighty agricultural - interest; and then came a panegyric on the character of country gentlemen, - and English yeomen, and the importance of keeping up the old English - spirit in the peasantry, &c. &c. &c. &c.; and then, when - Vivian had led Mr. Toad to deliver a splendid and patriotic oration on - this point, he “just remembered (quite apropos to the sentiments which Mr. - Toad had just delivered, and which, he did not hesitate to say, ‘did equal - honour to his head and heart’) that there was a little point, which, if it - was not trespassing too much on Mr. Toad’s attention, he would just submit - to him;” and then he mentioned poor John Conyers’ case, although “he felt - convinced, from Mr. Toad’s well-known benevolent character, that it was - quite unnecessary for him to do so, as he felt assured that it would be - remedied immediately it fell under his cognisance; but then Mr. Toad had - really so much business to transact, that perhaps these slight matters - might occasionally not be submitted to him,” &c. &c. &c. - </p> - <p> - What could Stapylton Toad do but, after a little amiable grumbling about - “bad system and bad precedent,” promise everything that Vivian Grey - required? - </p> - <p> - “Mr. Vivian Grey,” said Mrs. Felix Lorraine, “I cannot understand why you - have been talking to Mr. Toad so long. Will you waltz?” - </p> - <p> - Before Vivian could answer, a tittering, so audible that it might almost - be termed a shout, burst forth from the whole room. Cynthia Courtown had - stolen behind Lord Alhambra, as he was sitting on an ottoman a la Turque, - and had folded a cashmere shawl round his head with a most Oriental tie. - His Lordship, who, notwithstanding his eccentricities, was really a very - amiable man, bore his blushing honours with a gracious dignity worthy of a - descendant of the Abencerrages. The sensation which this incident - occasioned favoured Vivian’s escape from Mrs. Felix, for he had not left - Mr. Stapylton Toad with any intention of waltzing. - </p> - <p> - But he had hardly escaped from the waltzers ere he found himself in danger - of being involved in a much more laborious duty; for now he stumbled on - the Political Economist, and he was earnestly requested by the contending - theorists to assume the office of moderator. Emboldened by his success. - Liberal Snake had had the hardihood to attack a personage of whose - character he was not utterly ignorant, but on whom he was extremely - desirous of “making an impression.” This important person was Sir - Christopher Mowbray, who, upon the lecturer presuming to inform him “what - rent was,” damned himself several times from sheer astonishment at the - impudence of the fellow. I don’t wish to be coarse, but Sir Christopher is - a great man, and the sayings of great men, particularly when they are - representative of the sentiment of a species, should not pass unrecorded. - </p> - <p> - Sir Christopher Mowbray is member for the county of ——; and - member for the county he intends to be next election, although he is in - his seventy-ninth year, for he can still follow a fox with as pluck a - heart and with as stout a voice as any squire in Christendom. Sir - Christopher, it must be confessed, is rather peculiar in his ideas. His - grandson, Peregrine Mowbray, who is as pert a genius as the applause of a - common-room ever yet spoiled, and as sublime an orator as the cheerings of - the Union ever yet inspired, says “the Baronet is not up to the nineteenth - century;” and perhaps this phrase will give the reader a more significant - idea of Sir Christopher Mowbray than a character as long and as laboured - as the most perfect of my Lord Clarendon’s. The truth is, the good Baronet - had no idea of “liberal principles,” or anything else of that school. His - most peculiar characteristic is a singular habit which he has got of - styling political economists French Smugglers. Nobody has ever yet - succeeded in extracting a reason from him for this singular appellation, - and even if you angle with the most exquisite skill for the desired - definition, Sir Christopher immediately salutes you with a volley of - oaths, and damns French wines, Bible Societies, and Mr. Huskisson. Sir - Christopher for half a century has supported in the senate, with equal - sedulousness and silence, the constitution and the corn laws; he is - perfectly aware of “the present perilous state of the country,” and - watches with great interest all “the plans and plots” of this enlightened - age. The only thing which he does not exactly comprehend is the London - University. This affair really puzzles the worthy gentleman, who could as - easily fancy a county member not being a freeholder as an university not - being at Oxford or Cambridge. Indeed to this hour the old gentleman - believes that the whole business is “a hoax;” and if you tell him that, - far from the plan partaking of the visionary nature he conceives, there - are actually four acres of very valuable land purchased near White Conduit - House for the erection, and that there is little apprehension that, in the - course of a century, the wooden poles which are now stuck about the ground - will not be as fair and flourishing as the most leafy bowers of New - College Gardens, the old gentleman looks up to heaven, as if determined - not to be taken in, and leaning back in his chair, sends forth a sceptical - and smiling “No! no! no! that won’t do.” - </p> - <p> - Vivian extricated himself with as much grace as possible from the toils of - the Economist, and indeed, like a skilful general, turned this little - rencontre to account in accomplishing the very end for the attainment of - which he had declined waltzing with Mrs. Felix Lorraine. - </p> - <p> - “My dear Lord,” said Vivian, addressing the Marquess, who was still by the - side of Mrs. Million, “I am going to commit a most ungallant act; but you - great men must pay a tax for your dignity. I am going to disturb you. You - are wanted by half the county! What could possibly induce you ever to - allow a Political Economist to enter Château Desir? There are. at least, - three baronets and four squires in despair, writhing under the tortures of - Liberal Snake. They have deputed me to request your assistance, to save - them from being defeated in the presence of half their tenantry; and I - think, my Lord,” said Vivian, with a serious voice, “if you could possibly - contrive to interfere, it would be desirable. That lecturing knave never - knows when to stop, and he is actually insulting men before whom, after - all, he ought not to dare open his lips. I see that your Lordship is - naturally not very much inclined to quit your present occupation, in order - to act moderator to a set of brawlers; but come, you shall not be quite - sacrificed to the county. I will give up the waltz in which I was engaged, - and keep your seat until your return.” - </p> - <p> - The Marquess, who was always “keeping up county influence,” was very - shocked at the obstreperous conduct of Liberal Snake. Indeed he had viewed - the arrival of this worthy with no smiling countenance, but what could he - say, as he came in the suit of Lord Pert, who was writing, with the - lecturer’s assistance, a little pamphlet on the Currency? Apologising to - Mrs. Million, and promising to return as soon as possible and lead her to - the music-room, the Marquess retired, with the determination of - annihilating one of the stoutest members of the Political Economy Club. - </p> - <p> - Vivian began by apologising to Mrs. Million for disturbing her progress to - the Hall by his sudden arrival before dinner; and then for a quarter of an - hour poured forth the usual quantity of piquant anecdotes and insidious - compliments. Mrs. Million found Vivian’s conversation no disagreeable - relief to the pompous prosiness of his predecessor. - </p> - <p> - And now, having succeeded in commanding Mrs. Million’s attention by that - general art of pleasing which was for all the world, and which was, of - course, formed upon his general experience of human nature, Vivian began - to make his advances to Mrs. Million’s feelings by a particular art of - pleasing; that is, an art which was for the particular person alone whom - he was at any time addressing, and which was founded on his particular - knowledge of that person’s character. - </p> - <p> - “How beautiful the old Hall looked to-day! It is a scene which can only be - met with in ancient families.” - </p> - <p> - “Ah! there is nothing like old families!” remarked Mrs. Million, with all - the awkward feelings of a parvenue. - </p> - <p> - “Do you think so?” said Vivian; “I once thought so myself, but I confess - that my opinion is greatly changed. After all, what is noble blood? My eye - is now resting on a crowd of nobles; and yet, being among them, do we - treat them in a manner differing in any way from that which we should - employ to individuals of a lower caste who were equally uninteresting?” - </p> - <p> - “Certainly not,” said Mrs. Million. - </p> - <p> - “The height of the ambition of the less exalted ranks is to be noble, - because they conceive to be noble implies to be superior; associating in - their minds, as they always do, a pre-eminence over their equals. But to be - noble among nobles, where is the pre-eminence?” - </p> - <p> - “Where indeed?” said Mrs. Million; and she thought of herself, sitting the - most considered personage in this grand castle, and yet with sufficiently - base blood flowing in her veins. - </p> - <p> - “And thus, in the highest circles,” continued Vivian, “a man is of course - not valued because he is a Marquess or a Duke; but because he is a great - warrior, or a great statesman, or very fashionable, or very witty. In all - classes but the highest, a peer, however unbefriended by nature or by - fortune, becomes a man of a certain rate of consequence; but to be a - person of consequence in the highest class requires something else besides - high blood.” - </p> - <p> - “I quite agree with you in your sentiments, Mr. Grey. Now what character - or what situation in life would you choose, if you had the power of making - your choice?” - </p> - <p> - “That is really a most metaphysical question. As is the custom of all - young men, I have sometimes, in my reveries, imagined what I conceived to - be a lot of pure happiness: and yet Mrs. Million will perhaps be - astonished that I was neither to be nobly born nor to acquire nobility, - that I was not to be a statesman, or a poet, or a warrior, or a merchant, - nor indeed any profession, not even a professional dandy.” - </p> - <p> - “Oh! love in a cottage, I suppose,” interrupted Mrs. Million. - </p> - <p> - “Neither love in a cottage, nor science in a cell.” - </p> - <p> - “Oh! pray tell me what it is.” - </p> - <p> - “What it is? Oh! Lord Mayor of London, I suppose; that is the only - situation which answers to my oracular description.” - </p> - <p> - “Then you have been joking all this time!” - </p> - <p> - “Not at all. Come then, let us imagine this perfect lot. In the first - place, I would be born in the middle classes of society, or even lower, - because I would wish my character to be impartially developed. I would be - born to no hereditary prejudices, no hereditary passions. My course in - life should not be carved out by the example of a grandfather, nor my - ideas modelled to a preconceived system of family perfection. Do you like - my first principle, Mrs. Million?” - </p> - <p> - “I must hear everything before I give an opinion.” - </p> - <p> - “When, therefore, my mind was formed, I would wish to become the - proprietor of a princely fortune.” - </p> - <p> - “Yes!” eagerly exclaimed Mrs. Million. - </p> - <p> - “And now would come the moral singularity of my fate. If I had gained this - fortune by commerce, or in any other similar mode, my disposition, before - the creation of this fortune, would naturally have been formed, and been - permanently developed; and my mind would have been similarly affected, had - I succeeded to some ducal father; for I should then, in all probability, - have inherited some family line of conduct, both moral and political. But - under the circumstances I have imagined, the result would be far - different. I should then be in the singular situation of possessing, at - the same time, unbounded wealth, and the whole powers and natural feelings - of my mind unoppressed and unshackled. Oh! how splendid would be my - career! I would not allow the change in my condition to exercise any - influence on my natural disposition. I would experience the same passions - and be subject to the same feelings, only they should be exercised and - influential in a wider sphere. Then would be seen the influence of great - wealth, directed by a disposition similar to that of the generality of - men, inasmuch as it had been formed like that of the generality of men; - and consequently, one much better acquainted with their feelings, their - habits, and their wishes. Such a lot would indeed be princely! Such a lot - would infallibly ensure the affection and respect of the great majority of - mankind; and, supported by them, what should I care if I were - misunderstood by a few fools and abused by a few knaves?” - </p> - <p> - Here came the Marquess to lead the lady to the concert. As she quitted her - seat, a smile, beaming with graciousness, rewarded her youthful companion. - “Ah!” thought Mrs. Million, “I go to the concert, but leave sweeter music - than can possibly meet me there. What is the magic of these words? It is - not flattery; such is not the language of Miss Gusset! It is not a - rifacimento of compliments; such is not the style with which I am saluted - by the Duke of Doze and the Earl of Leatherdale! Apparently I have heard a - young philosopher delivering his sentiments upon an abstract point in - human life; and yet have I not listened to a brilliant apology for my own - character, and a triumphant defence of my own conduct. Of course it was - unintentional; and yet how agreeable to be unintentionally defended!” So - mused Mrs. Million, and she made a thousand vows not to let a day pass - over without obtaining a pledge from Vivian Grey to visit her on their - return to the metropolis. - </p> - <p> - Vivian remained in his seat for some time after the departure of his - companion. “On my honour, I have half a mind to desert my embryo faction - and number myself in her gorgeous retinue. Let me see. What part should I - act? her secretary, or her toad-eater, or her physician, or her cook? or - shall I be her page? Methinks I should make a pretty page, and hand a - chased goblet as gracefully as any monkey that ever bent his knee in a - lady’s chamber. Well! at any rate, there is this chance to be kept back, - as the gambler does his last trump, or the cunning fencer his last ruse.” - </p> - <p> - He rose to offer his arm to some stray fair one; for crowds were now - hurrying to pineapples and lobster salads: that is to say, supper was - ready in the Long Gallery. - </p> - <p> - In a moment Vivian’s arm was locked in that of Mrs. Felix Lorraine. - </p> - <p> - “Oh, Mr. Grey, I have got a much better ghost story than even that of the - Leyden Professor for you; but I am so wearied with waltzing that I must - tell it you to-morrow. How came you to be so late this morning? Have you - been paying many calls to-day? I quite missed you at dinner. Do you think - Ernest Clay handsome? I dare not repeat what Lady Scrope said of you! You - are an admirer of Lady Julia Knighton, I believe? I do not much like this - plan of supping in the Long Gallery; it is a favourite locale of mine, and - I have no idea of my private promenade being invaded by the uninteresting - presence of trifles and Italian creams. Have you been telling Mrs. Million - that she was very witty?” asked Vivian’s companion, with a significant - look. - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0024" id="link2HCH0024"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER XV - </h2> - <p> - Sweet reader! you know what a Toadey is? That agreeable animal which you - meet every day in civilised society. But perhaps you have not speculated - very curiously upon this interesting race. So much the worse! for you - cannot live many lustres without finding it of some service to be a little - acquainted with their habits. - </p> - <p> - The world in general is under a mistake as to the nature of these vermin. - They are by no means characterised by that similarity of disposition for - which your common observer gives them credit. There are Toadeys of all - possible natures. - </p> - <p> - There is your Common-place Toadey, who merely echoes its feeder’s - common-place observations. There is your Playing-up Toadey, who, - unconscious to its feeder, is always playing up to its feeder’s - weaknesses; and, as the taste of that feeder varies, accordingly provides - its cates and confitures. A little bit of scandal for a dashing widow, or - a pious little hymn for a sainted one; the secret history of a newly - discovered gas for a May Fair feeder, and an interesting anecdote about a - Newgate bobcap or a Penitentiary apron for a charitable one. Then there is - your Drawing-out Toadey, who omits no opportunity of giving you a chance - of being victorious in an argument where there is no contest, and a - dispute where there is no difference; and then there is—but we - detest essay writing, so we introduce you at once to a party of these - vermin. If you wish to enjoy a curious sight, you must watch the Toadeys - when they are unembarrassed by the almost perpetual presence of their - breeders; when they are animated by “the spirit of freedom;” when, like - Curran’s Negro, the chain bursts by the impulse of their swelling veins. - The great singularity is the struggle between their natural and their - acquired feelings: the eager opportunity which they seize of revenging - their voluntary bondage, by their secret taunts, on their adopted - task-masters, and the servility which they habitually mix up even with - their scandal. Like veritable Grimalkins, they fawn upon their victims - previous to the festival; compliment them upon the length of their - whiskers and the delicacy of their limbs prior to excoriating them, and - dwelling on the flavour of their crashed bones. ‘Tis a beautiful scene, - and ten thousand times more piquant than the humours of a Servants’ Hall, - or the most grotesque and glorious moments of high life below stairs. - </p> - <p> - “Dear Miss Graves,” said Miss Gusset, “you can’t imagine how terrified I - was at that horrible green parrot flying upon my head! I declare it pulled - out three locks of hair.” - </p> - <p> - “Horrible green parrot, my dear madam! Why, it was sent to my Lady by - Prince Xtmnprqtosklw, and never shall I forget the agitation we were in - about that parrot. I thought it would never have got to the Château, for - the Prince could only send his carriage with it as far as Toadcaster. - Luckily my Lady’s youngest brother, who was staying at Desir, happened to - get drowned at the time; and so Davenport, very clever of him! sent her on - in my Lord Dormer’s hearse.” - </p> - <p> - “In the hearse! Good heavens, Miss Graves! How could you think of green - parrots at such an awful moment? I should have been in fits for three - days; eh! Dr. Sly?” - </p> - <p> - “Certainly you would, madame; your nerves are very delicate.” - </p> - <p> - “Well! I, for my part, never could see much use in giving up to one’s - feelings. It is all very well for commoners,” rather rudely exclaimed the - Marchioness’ Toadey; “but we did not choose to expose ourselves to the - servants when the old General died this year. Everything went on as usual. - Her Ladyship attended Almack’s; my Lord took his seat in the House; and I - looked in at Lady Doubtful’s where we do not visit, but where the - Marchioness wishes to be civil.” - </p> - <p> - “We do not visit Lady Doubtful either,” replied Miss Gusset: “she had not - a card for our fête champètre. I was so sorry you were not in town. It was - so delightful!” - </p> - <p> - “Do tell me who was there? I quite long to know all about it. I saw some - account of it. Everything seemed to go off so well. Do tell me who was - there?” - </p> - <p> - “Oh! there was plenty of Royalty at the head of the list. Really I cannot - go into particulars, but everybody was there who is anybody; eh! Dr. Sly?” - </p> - <p> - “Certainly, madam. The pines were most admirable. There are few people for - whom I entertain a higher esteem, than Mr. Gunter.” - </p> - <p> - “The Marchioness seems very fond of her parrot, Miss Graves; but she is a - sweet woman!” - </p> - <p> - “Oh, a dear, amiable creature! but I cannot think how she can bear the - eternal screaming of that noisy bird.” - </p> - <p> - “Nor I, indeed. Well, thank goodness, Mrs. Million has no pets; eh! Dr. - Sly?” - </p> - <p> - “Certainly. I am clearly of opinion that it cannot be wholesome to have so - many animals about a house. Besides which, I have noticed that the - Marchioness always selects the nicest morsels for that little poodle; and - I am also clearly of opinion, Miss Graves, that the fit it had the other - day arose from repletion.” - </p> - <p> - “I have no doubt of it in the world. She consumes three pounds of - arrowroot weekly and two pounds of the finest loaf sugar, which I have the - trouble of grating every Monday morning. Mrs. Million appears to be a most - amiable woman, Miss Gusset?” - </p> - <p> - “Quite perfection; so charitable, so intellectual, such a soul! It is a - pity, though, her manner is so abrupt; she really does not appear to - advantage sometimes; eh! Dr. Sly?” - </p> - <p> - The Toadey’s Toadey bowed assent as usual. “Well,” rejoined Miss Graves, - “that is rather a fault of the dear Marchioness, a little want of - consideration for another’s feelings; but she means nothing.” - </p> - <p> - “Oh, no! nor Mrs. Million, dear creature! She means nothing; though I dare - say, not knowing her so well as we do; eh! Dr. Sly? you were a little - surprised at the way in which she spoke to me at dinner.” - </p> - <p> - “All people have their oddities, Miss Gusset. I am sure the Marchioness is - not aware how she tries my patience about that little wretch Julie. I had - to rub her with warm flannels for an hour and a half before the fire this - morning; that is that Vivian Grey’s doing.” - </p> - <p> - “Who is this Mr. Grey, Miss Graves?” - </p> - <p> - “Who, indeed! Some young man the Marquess has picked up, and who comes - lecturing here about poodles and parrots, and thinking himself quite Lord - Paramount, I can assure you. I am surprised that the Marchioness, who is a - most sensible woman, can patronise such conduct a moment; but whenever she - begins to see through him the young gentleman has always got a story about - a bracelet, or a bandeau, and quite turns her head.” - </p> - <p> - “Very disagreeable, I am sure.” - </p> - <p> - “Some people are so easily managed! By-the-bye, Miss Gusset, who could - have advised Mrs. Million to wear crimson? So large as she is, it does not - at all suit her. I suppose it’s a favourite colour.” - </p> - <p> - “Dear Miss Graves, you are always so insinuating. What can Miss Graves - mean; eh! Dr. Sly?” - </p> - <p> - A Lord Burleigh shake of the head. - </p> - <p> - “Cynthia Courtown seems as lively as ever,” said Miss Gusset. - </p> - <p> - “Yes, lively enough; but I wish her manner was less brusque.” - </p> - <p> - “Brusque, indeed! you may well say so. She nearly pushed me down in the - Hall; and when I looked as if I thought she might have given me a little - more room, she tossed her head and said, ‘Beg pardon, never saw you!’” - </p> - <p> - “I wonder what Lord Alhambra sees in that girl?” - </p> - <p> - “Oh! those forward misses always take the men.” - </p> - <p> - “Well,” said Miss Graves, “I have no notion that it will come to anything; - I am sure, I, for one, hope not,” added she, with all a Toadey’s venom. - </p> - <p> - “The Marquess seems to keep a remarkably good table,” said the physician. - “There was a haunch to-day, which I really think was the finest haunch I - ever met with; but that little move at dinner; it was, to say the least, - very ill-timed.” - </p> - <p> - “Yes, that was Vivian Grey again,” said Miss Graves, very indignantly. - </p> - <p> - “So you have got the Beaconsfields here, Miss Graves! nice, unaffected, - quiet people.” - </p> - <p> - “Yes, very quiet.” - </p> - <p> - “As you say, Miss Graves, very quiet, but a little heavy.” - </p> - <p> - “Yes, heavy enough.” - </p> - <p> - “If you had but seen the quantity of pineapples that boy Dormer Stanhope - devoured at our fête champètre! but I have the comfort of knowing that - they made him very ill; eh! Dr. Sly?” - </p> - <p> - “Oh! he learnt that from his uncle,” said Miss Graves; “it is quite - disgusting to see how that Vivian Grey encourages him.” - </p> - <p> - “What an elegant, accomplished woman Mrs. Felix Lorraine seems to be, Miss - Graves! I suppose the Marchioness is very fond of her?” - </p> - <p> - “Oh, yes; the Marchioness is so good-natured that I dare say she thinks - very well of Mrs. Felix Lorraine. She thinks well of everyone; but I - believe Mrs. Felix is rather a greater favourite with the Marquess.” - </p> - <p> - “O—h!” drawled out Miss Gusset with a very significant tone. “I - suppose she is one of your playing-up ladies. I think you told me she was - only on a visit here.” - </p> - <p> - “A pretty long visit, though, for a sister-in-law, if sister-in-law she - be. As I was saying to the Marchioness the other day, when Mrs. Felix - offended her so violently by trampling on the dear little Julie, if it - came into a court of justice I should like to see the proof; that’s all. - At any rate, it is pretty evident that Mr. Lorraine has had enough of his - bargain.” - </p> - <p> - “Quite evident, I think; eh! Dr. Sly? Those German women never make good - English wives,” continued Miss Gusset, with all a Toadey’s patriotism. - </p> - <p> - “Talking of wives, did not you think Lady Julia spoke very strangely of - Sir Peter after dinner to-day? I hate that Lady Julia, if it be only for - petting Vivian Grey so.” - </p> - <p> - “Yes, indeed, it is quite enough to make one sick; eh! Dr. Sly?” - </p> - <p> - The doctor shook his head mournfully, remembering the haunch. - </p> - <p> - “They say Ernest Clay is in sad difficulties, Miss Gusset.” - </p> - <p> - “Well, I always expected his dash would end in that. Those wild - harum-scarum men are monstrous disagreeable. I like a person of some - reflection; eh! Dr. Sly?” - </p> - <p> - Before the doctor could bow his usual assent there entered a pretty little - page, very daintily attired in a fancy dress of green and silver. Twirling - his richly chased dirk with one tiny white hand, and at the same time - playing with a pet curl which was picturesquely flowing over his forehead, - he advanced with ambling gait to Miss Gusset, and, in a mincing voice and - courtly phrase, summoned her to the imperial presence. - </p> - <p> - The lady’s features immediately assumed the expression which befitted the - approaching interview, and in a moment Miss Graves and the physician were - left alone. - </p> - <p> - “Very amiable young woman Miss Gusset appears to be, Dr. Sly?” - </p> - <p> - “Oh! the most amiable being in the world; I owe her the greatest - obligations.” - </p> - <p> - “So gentle in her manners.” - </p> - <p> - “O yes, so gentle.” - </p> - <p> - “So considerate for everybody.” - </p> - <p> - “Oh, yes! so considerate,” echoed the Aberdeen M.D. - </p> - <p> - “I am afraid, though, she must sometimes meet with people who do not - exactly understand her character; such extraordinary consideration for - others is sometimes liable to misconstruction.” - </p> - <p> - “Very sensibly remarked, Miss Graves. I am sure Miss Gusset means well; - and that kind of thing is all very admirable in its way; but, but—” - </p> - <p> - “But what, Dr. Sly?” - </p> - <p> - “Why, I was merely going to hazard an observation, that according - to my feelings, that is, to my own peculiar view of the case, I should - prefer some people thinking more about their own business, and, - and—but I mean nothing.” - </p> - <p> - “Oh, no, of course not, Dr. Sly! You know we always except our own - immediate friends, at least when we can be sure they are our friends; but, - as you were saying, or going to say, those persons who are so very anxious - about other people’s affairs are not always the most agreeable persons in - the world to live with. It certainly did strike me that that interference - of Miss Gusset’s about Julie to-day was, to say the least, very odd.” - </p> - <p> - “Oh, my dear madam! when you know her as well as I do, you will see she is - always ready to put in a word.” - </p> - <p> - “Well! do you know, Dr. Sly, between ourselves, that was exactly my - impression; and she is then very, very—I do not exactly mean to say - meddling or inquisitive; but—but you understand me, Dr. Sly?” - </p> - <p> - “Perfectly; and if I were to speak my mind, which I do not hesitate to do - in confidence to you, Miss Graves, I really should say that she is the - most jealous, irritable, malicious, meddling, and at the same time - fawning, disposition that I ever met with in the whole course of my life, - and I speak from experience.” - </p> - <p> - “Well, do you know, Dr. Sly, from all I have seen, that was exactly my - impression; therefore I have been particularly careful not to commit - myself to such a person.” - </p> - <p> - “‘Ah! Miss Graves! if all ladies were like you! O—h!” - </p> - <p> - “My dear Dr. Sly!” - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0025" id="link2HCH0025"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER XVI - </h2> - <p> - Vivian had duly acquainted the Marquess with the successful progress of - his negotiations with their intended partisans, and Lord Carabas had - himself conversed with them singly on the important subject. It was - thought proper, however, in this stage of the proceedings, that the - persons interested should meet together; and so the two Lords, and Sir - Berdmore, and Vivian were invited to dine with the Marquess alone, and in - his library. - </p> - <p> - There was abundance of dumb waiters and other inventions by which the ease - of the guests might be consulted, without risking even their secret looks - to the gaze of liveried menials. The Marquess’ gentleman sat in an - ante-chamber, in case human aid might be necessary, and everything, as his - Lordship averred, was “on the same system as the Cabinet Dinners.” - </p> - <p> - In the ancient kingdom of England it hath ever been the custom to dine - previously to transacting business. This habit is one of those few which - are not contingent upon the mutable fancies of fashion, and at this day we - see Cabinet Dinners and Vestry Dinners alike proving the correctness of - our assertion. Whether the custom really expedites the completion or the - general progress of the business which gives rise to it, is a grave - question, which we do not feel qualified to decide. Certain it is that - very often, after the <i>dinner</i>, an appointment is made for the - transaction of the <i>business</i> on the following morning: at the same - time it must be remembered that, had it not been for the opportunity which - the banquet afforded of developing the convivial qualities of the guests, - and drawing out, by the assistance of generous wine, their most kindly - sentiments and most engaging feelings, it is very probable that the - appointment for the transaction of the business would never have been made - at all. - </p> - <p> - There certainly was every appearance that “the great business,” as the - Marquess styled it, would not be very much advanced by the cabinet dinner - at Château Desir. For, in the first place, the table was laden “with every - delicacy of the season,” and really, when a man is either going to talk - sense, fight a duel, or make his will, nothing should be seen at dinner - save cutlets and the lightest Bordeaux. And, in the second place, it must - be confessed, that when it came to the point of all the parties interested - meeting, the Marquess’ courage somewhat misgave him. Not that any - particular reason occurred to him which would have induced him to yield - one jot of the theory of his sentiments, but the putting them in practice - rather made him nervous. In short, he was as convinced as ever that he was - an ill-used man, of great influence and abilities; but then he remembered - his agreeable sinecure and his dignified office, and he might not succeed. - The thought did not please. - </p> - <p> - But here they were all assembled; receding was impossible; and so the - Marquess took a glass of claret, and felt more courageous. - </p> - <p> - “My Lords and Gentlemen,” he began, “although I have myself taken the - opportunity of communicating to you singly my thoughts upon a certain - subject, and although, if I am rightly informed, my excellent young friend - has communicated to you more fully upon that subject; yet, my Lords and - Gentlemen, I beg to remark that this is the first time that we have - collectively assembled to consult on the possibility of certain views, - upon the propriety of their nature, and the expediency of their adoption.” - (Here the claret passed.) “The present state of parties,” the Marquess - continued, “has doubtless for a long time engaged your attention. It is - very peculiar, and although the result has been gradually arrived at, it - is nevertheless, now that it is realised, startling, and not, I apprehend, - very satisfactory. There are few distinctions now between the two sides of - the House of Commons, very different from the times in which most, I - believe all, of us, my Lords and Gentlemen, were members of that assembly. - The question then naturally arises, why a certain body of individuals, who - now represent no opinions, should arrogate to themselves the entire - government and control of the country? A second question would occur, how - they contrive to succeed in such an assumption? They succeed clearly - because the party who placed them in power, because they represented - certain opinions, still continue to them their support. Some of the most - influential members of that party, I am bold to say, may be found in this - room. I don’t know, if the boroughs of Lord Courtown and Lord Beaconsfield - were withdrawn at a critical division, what might be the result. I am - quite sure that if the forty country gentlemen who follow, I believe I am - justified in saying, our friend Sir Berdmore, and wisely follow him, were - to declare their opposition to any particular tax, the present men would - be beaten, as they have been beaten before. I was myself a member of the - government when so beaten, and I know what Lord Liverpool said the next - morning. Lord Liverpool said the next morning. ‘Forty country gentlemen, - if they choose, might repeal every tax in the Budget.’ Under these - circumstances, my Lords and Gentlemen, it becomes us, in my opinion, to - consider our situation. I am far from wishing to witness any general - change, or indeed, very wide reconstruction of the present administration. - I think the interests of the country require that the general tenor of - their system should be supported; but there are members of that - administration whose claims to that distinction appear to me more than - questionable, while at the same time there are individuals excluded, - personages of great influence and recognised talents, who ought no longer, - in my opinion, to occupy a position in the background. Mr. Vivian Grey, a - gentleman whom I have the honour to call my particular friend, and who, I - believe, has had already the pleasure of incidentally conversing with you - on the matters to which I have referred, has given great attention to this - important subject. He is a younger man than any of us, and certainly has - much better lungs than I have. I will take the liberty, therefore, of - requesting him to put the case in its completeness before us.” - </p> - <p> - A great deal of “desultory conversation,” as it is styled, relative to the - great topic of debate, now occurred. When the blood of the party was - tolerably warmed, Vivian addressed them. The tenor of his oration may be - imagined. He developed the new political principles, demonstrated the - mistake under the baneful influence of which they had so long suffered, - promised them place, and power, and patronage, and personal consideration, - if they would only act on the principles which he recommended, in the most - flowing language and the most melodious voice in which the glories of - ambition were ever yet chaunted. There was a buzz of admiration when the - flattering music ceased; the Marquess smiled triumphantly, as if to say, - “Didn’t I tell you he was a monstrous clever fellow?” and the whole - business seemed settled. Lord Courtown gave in a bumper, <i>“Mr. Vivian - Grey, and success to his maiden speech!”</i> and Vivian replied by - proposing <i>“The New Union!”</i> At last, Sir Berdmore, the coolest of - them all, raised his voice: “He quite agreed with Mr. Grey in the - principles which he had developed; and, for his own part, he was free to - confess that he had perfect confidence in that gentleman’s very brilliant - abilities, and augured from their exertion complete and triumphant - success. At the same time, he felt it his duty to remark to their - Lordships, and also to that gentleman, that the House of Commons was a new - scene to him; and he put it, whether they were quite convinced that they - were sufficiently strong as regarded talent in that assembly. He could not - take it upon himself to offer to become the leader of the party. Mr. Grey - might be capable of undertaking that charge, but still, it must be - remembered that in that assembly he was as yet untried. He made no apology - to Mr. Grey for speaking his mind so freely; he was sure that his motives - could not be misinterpreted. If their Lordships, on the whole, were of - opinion that this charge should be entrusted to him, he, Sir Berdmore, - having the greatest confidence in Mr. Grey’s abilities, would certainly - support him to the utmost.” - </p> - <p> - “He can do anything,” said the Marquess. - </p> - <p> - “He is a surprising clever man!” said Lord Courtown. - </p> - <p> - “He is a surprising clever man!” echoed Lord Beaconsfield. - </p> - <p> - “Stop, my Lords,” said Vivian; “your good opinion deserves my gratitude, - but these important matters do indeed require a moment’s consideration. I - trust that Sir Berdmore Scrope does not imagine that I am the vain idiot - to be offended at his most excellent remarks, even for a moment. Are we - not met here for the common good, and to consult for the success of the - common cause? Whatever my talents are, they are at your service, and in - your service will I venture anything; but surely, my Lords, you will not - unnecessarily entrust this great business to a raw hand! I need only aver - that I am ready to follow any leader who can play his great part in a - becoming manner.” - </p> - <p> - “Noble!” said the Marquess. - </p> - <p> - But who was the leader to be? Sir Berdmore frankly confessed that he had - none to propose; and the Viscount and the Baron were quite silent. - </p> - <p> - “Gentlemen!” exclaimed the Marquess, “Gentlemen! there is a man who could - do our bidding,” The eyes of every guest were fixed on the haranguing - host. - </p> - <p> - “Gentlemen, fill your glasses, I give you our leader, Mr. Frederick - Cleveland!” - </p> - <p> - “Cleveland”’ every one exclaimed. A glass of claret fell from Lord - Courtown’s hand; Lord Beaconsfield stopped as he was about to fill his - glass, and stood gaping at the Marquess with the decanter in his hand; and - Sir Berdmore stared on the table, as men do when something unexpected and - astounding has occurred at dinner which seems past all their management. - </p> - <p> - “Cleveland!” exclaimed the guests. - </p> - <p> - “I should as soon have expected you to have given us Lucifer!” said Lord - Courtown. - </p> - <p> - “Or the present Secretary!” said Lord Beaconsfield. - </p> - <p> - “Or yourself,” said Sir Berdmore. - </p> - <p> - “And does any one maintain that Frederick Cleveland is not capable of - driving out a much stronger Government than he will have to cope with?” - demanded the Marquess with a rather fierce air. - </p> - <p> - “We do not deny Mr. Cleveland’s powers, my Lord; we only humbly beg to - suggest that it appears to us that, of all the persons in the world, the - man with whom Mr. Cleveland would be least inclined to coalesce would be - the Marquess of Carabas.” - </p> - <p> - The Marquess looked somewhat blank. - </p> - <p> - “Gentlemen,” said Vivian, “do not despair; it is enough for me to know - that there is a man who is capable of doing our work. Be he animate man or - incarnate fiend, provided he can be found within this realm, I pledge - myself that within ten days he is drinking my noble friend’s health at - this very board.” - </p> - <p> - The Marquess said, “Bravo,” the rest smiled, and rose from the table in - some confusion. Little more was said on the “great business.” The guests - took refuge in coffee and a glass of liqueur. The pledge was, however, - apparently accepted, and Lord Carabas and Vivian were soon left alone. The - Marquess seemed agitated by Vivian’s offer and engagement. “This is a - grave business,” he said: “you hardly know, my dear Vivian, what you have - undertaken; but, if anybody can succeed, you will. We must talk of this - to-morrow. There are some obstacles, and I should once have thought, - invincible. I cannot conceive what made me mention his name; but it has - been often in my mind since you first spoke to me. You and he together, we - might carry everything before us. But there are some obstacles; no doubt - there are some obstacles. You heard what Courtown said, a man who does not - make difficulties, and Beaconsfield, a man who does not say much. Courtown - called him Lucifer. He is Lucifer. But, by Jove, you are the man to - overcome obstacles. We must talk of it to-morrow. So now, my dear fellow, - good night!” - </p> - <p> - “What have I done?” thought Vivian; “I am sure that Lucifer may know, for - I do not. This Cleveland is, I suppose, after all, but a man. I saw the - feeble fools were wavering, and, to save all, made a leap in the dark. - Well! is my skull cracked? Nous verrons. How hot either this room or my - blood is! Come, for some fresh air (he opened the library window). How - fresh and soft it is! Just the night for the balcony. Hah! music! I cannot - mistake that voice. Singular woman! I will just walk on till I am beneath - her window.” - </p> - <p> - Vivian accordingly proceeded along the balcony, which extended down one - whole side of the Château. While he was looking at the moon he stumbled - against some one. It was Colonel Delmington. He apologised to the - militaire for treading on his toes, and wondered “how the devil he got - there!” - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2H_4_0030" id="link2H_4_0030"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - BOOK III - </h2> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0026" id="link2HCH0026"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER I - </h2> - <p> - Fredrick Cleveland was educated at Eton and at Cambridge; and after having - proved, both at the school and the University, that he possessed talents - of a high order, he had the courage, in order to perfect them, to immure - himself for three years in a German University. It was impossible, - therefore, for two minds to have been cultivated on more contrary systems - than those of Frederick Cleveland and Vivian Grey. The systems on which - they had been educated were not, however, more discordant than the - respective tempers of the pupils. With that of Vivian Grey the reader is - now somewhat acquainted. It has been shown that he was one precociously - convinced of the necessity of managing mankind, by studying their tempers - and humouring their weaknesses. Cleveland turned from the Book of Nature - with contempt, and although his was a mind of extraordinary acuteness, he - was, at three-and-thirty, as ignorant of the workings of the human heart - as when, in the innocence of boyhood, he first reached Eton. - </p> - <p> - Although possessed of no fortune, from his connections and the reputation - of his abilities, he entered Parliament at an early age. His success was - eminent. It was at this period that he formed a great intimacy with the - present Marquess of Carabas, then Under Secretary of State. His exertions - for the party to which Mr. Under Secretary Lorraine belonged were - unremitting; and it was mainly through their influence that a great - promotion took place in the official appointments of the party. When the - hour of reward came, Mr. Lorraine and his friends unfortunately forgot - their youthful champion. He remonstrated, and they smiled: he reminded - them of private friendship, and they answered him with political - expediency. Mr. Cleveland went down to the House, and attacked his old - comates in a spirit of unexampled bitterness. He examined in review the - various members of the party that had deserted him. They trembled on their - seats, while they writhed beneath the keenness of his satire: but when the - orator came to Mr. President Lorraine, he flourished the tomahawk on high - like a wild Indian chieftain; and the attack was so awfully severe, so - overpowering, so annihilating, that even this hackneyed and hardened - official trembled, turned pale, and quitted the House. Cleveland’s triumph - was splendid, but it was only for a night. Disgusted with mankind, he - scouted the thousand offers of political connections which crowded upon - him; and having succeeded in making an arrangement with his creditors, he - accepted the Chiltern Hundreds. - </p> - <p> - By the interest of his friends he procured a judicial situation of - sufficient emolument, but of local duty; and to fulfil this duty he was - obliged to reside in North Wales. The locality, indeed, suited him well, - for he was sick of the world at nine-and-twenty; and, carrying his - beautiful and newly-married wife from the world, which without him she - could not love, Mr. Cleveland enjoyed all the luxuries of a cottage ornée - in the most romantic part of the Principality. Here were born unto him a - son and daughter, beautiful children, upon whom the father lavished all - the affection which Nature had intended for the world. - </p> - <p> - Four years had Cleveland now passed in his solitude, an unhappy man. A - thousand times during the first year of his retirement he cursed the - moment of excitement which had banished him from the world; for he found - himself without resources, and restless as a curbed courser. Like many men - who are born to be orators, like Curran and like Fox, Cleveland was not - blessed, or cursed, with the faculty of composition; and indeed, had his - pen been that of a ready writer, pique would have prevented him from - delighting or instructing a world whose nature he endeavoured to persuade - himself was base, and whose applause ought, consequently, to be valueless. - In the second year he endeavoured to while away his time by interesting - himself in those pursuits which Nature has kindly provided for country - gentlemen. Farming kept him alive for a while; but, at length, his was the - prize ox; and, having gained a cup, he got wearied of kine too prime for - eating, wheat too fine for the composition of the staff of life, and - ploughs so ingeniously contrived that the very ingenuity prevented them - from being useful. Cleveland was now seen wandering over the moors and - mountains, with a gun over his shoulder and a couple of dogs at his heels; - but ennui returned in spite of his patent percussion: and so, at length, - tired of being a sportsman, he almost became what he had fancied himself - in an hour of passion, a misanthrope. - </p> - <p> - After having been closeted with Lord Carabas for a considerable time the - morning after the cabinet dinner, Vivian left Château Desir. - </p> - <p> - He travelled night and day, until he arrived in the vicinity of Mr. - Cleveland’s abode. What was he to do now? After some deliberation, he - despatched a note to Mr. Cleveland, informing him “that he (Mr. Grey) was - the bearer to Mr. Cleveland of a ‘communication of importance.’ Under the - circumstances of the case, he observed that he had declined bringing any - letters of introduction. He was quite aware, therefore, that he should - have no right to complain if he had to travel back three hundred miles - without having the honour of an interview; but he trusted that this - necessary breach of etiquette would be overlooked.” - </p> - <p> - The note produced the desired effect, and an appointment was made for Mr. - Grey to call at Kenrich Lodge on the following morning. - </p> - <p> - Vivian, as he entered the room, took a rapid glance at its master. Mr. - Cleveland was tall and distinguished, with a face which might have been a - model for manly beauty. He came forward to receive Vivian with a - Newfoundland dog on one side and a large black greyhound on the other; and - the two animals, after having elaborately examined the stranger, divided - between them the luxuries of the rug. The reception which Mr. Cleveland - gave our hero was cold and constrained; but it did not appear to be - purposely uncivil, and Vivian flattered himself that his manner was not - unusually stiff. - </p> - <p> - “I do not know whether I have the honour of addressing the son of Mr. - Horace Grey?” said Mr. Cleveland, with a frowning countenance, which was - intended to be courteous. - </p> - <p> - “I have that honour.” - </p> - <p> - “Your father, sir, is a most amiable and able man. I had the pleasure of - his acquaintance when I was in London, many years ago, at a time when Mr. - Vivian Grey was not entrusted, I rather imagine, with missions ‘of - importance.’” Although Mr. Cleveland smiled when he said this, his smile - was anything but a gracious one. The subdued satire of his keen eye burst - out for an instant, and he looked as if he would have said, “Who is this - yonker who is trespassing upon my retirement?” - </p> - <p> - Vivian had, unbidden, seated himself by the side of Mr. Cleveland’s - library table; and, not knowing exactly how to proceed, was employing - himself by making a calculation whether there were more black than white - spots on the body of the old Newfoundland, who was now apparently happily - slumbering. - </p> - <p> - “Well, sir!” continued the Newfoundland’s master, “the nature of your - communication? I am fond of coming to the point.” - </p> - <p> - Now this was precisely the thing which Vivian had determined not to do; - and so he diplomatised, in order to gain time. “In stating, Mr. Cleveland, - that the communication which I had to make was one of importance, I beg to - be understood, that it was with reference merely to my opinion of its - nature that that phrase was used, and not as relative to the possible, or, - allow me to say, the probable, opinion of Mr. Cleveland.” - </p> - <p> - “Well, sir!” said that gentleman, with a somewhat disappointed air. - </p> - <p> - “As to the purport or nature of the communication it is,” said Vivian, - with one of his sweetest cadences and looking up to Mr. Cleveland’s face - with an eye expressive of all kindness, “it is of a political nature.” - </p> - <p> - “Well, sir!” again exclaimed Cleveland, looking very anxious, and moving - restlessly on his library chair. - </p> - <p> - “When we take into consideration, Mr. Cleveland, the present aspect of the - political world, when we call to mind the present situation of the two - great political parties, you will not be surprised, I feel confident, when - I mention that certain personages have thought that the season was at hand - when a move might be made in the political world with very considerable - effect—” - </p> - <p> - “Mr. Grey, what am I to understand?” interrupted Mr. Cleveland, who began - to suspect that the envoy was no greenhorn. - </p> - <p> - “I feel confident, Mr. Cleveland, that I am doing very imperfect justice - to the mission with which I am entrusted; but, sir, you must be aware that - the delicate nature of such disclosures, and—” - </p> - <p> - “Mr. Grey, I feel confident that you do not doubt my honour; and, as for - the rest, the world has, I believe, some foolish tales about me; but, - believe me, you shall be listened to with patience. I am certain that, - whatever may be the communication, Mr. Vivian Grey is a gentleman who will - do its merits justice.” - </p> - <p> - And now Vivian, having succeeded in exciting Cleveland’s curiosity and - securing himself the certainty of a hearing, and having also made a - favourable impression, dropped the diplomatist altogether, and was - explicit enough for a Spartan. - </p> - <p> - “Certain Noblemen and Gentlemen of eminence and influence, hitherto - considered as props of the —— party, are about to take a novel - and decided course next Session. It is to obtain the aid and personal - co-operation of Mr. Cleveland that I am now in Wales. - </p> - <p> - “Mr. Grey, I have promised to listen to you with patience: you are too - young a man to know much, perhaps, of the history of so insignificant a - personage as myself, otherwise you would have been aware that there is no - subject in the world on which I am less inclined to converse than that of - politics. If I were entitled to take such a liberty, I would recommend you - to think of them as little as I do; but enough of this. Who is the mover - of the party?” - </p> - <p> - “My Lord Courtown is a distinguished member of it.” - </p> - <p> - “Courtown, Courtown; powerful enough: but surely the good Viscount’s skull - is not exactly the head for the chief of a cabal?” - </p> - <p> - “There is my Lord Beaconsfield.” - </p> - <p> - “Powerful, too; but a dolt.” - </p> - <p> - “Well,” thought Vivian, “it must out at last; and so to it boldly. And, - Mr. Cleveland, there is little fear that we may secure the great influence - and tried talents of the Marquess of Carabas.” - </p> - <p> - “The Marquess of Carabas!” almost shrieked Mr. Cleveland, as he started - from his seat and paced the room with hurried steps; and the greyhound and - the Newfoundland jumped up from the rug, shook themselves, growled, and - then imitated their master in promenading the apartment, but with more - dignified and stately paces. “The Marquess of Carabas! Now, Mr. Grey, - speak to me with the frankness which one gentleman should use to another; - is the Marquess of Carabas privy to this application?” - </p> - <p> - “He himself proposed it.” - </p> - <p> - “Then he is baser than even I conceived. Mr. Grey, I am a man spare of my - speech to those with whom I am unacquainted, and the world calls me a - soured, malicious man. And yet, when I think for a moment that one so - young as you are, endowed as I must suppose with no ordinary talents, and - actuated as I will believe with a pure and honourable spirit, should be - the dupe, or tool, or even present friend of such a creature as this - perjured Peer, it gives me pang.” - </p> - <p> - “Mr. Cleveland,” said Vivian, “I am grateful for your kindness; and - although we may probably part, in a few hours, never to meet again, I will - speak to you with the frankness which you have merited, and to which I - feel you are entitled. I am not the dupe of the Marquess of Carabas; I am - not, I trust, the dupe, or tool, of any one whatever. Believe me, sir, - there is that at work in England which, taken at the tide, may lead on to - fortune. I see this, sir; I, a young man, uncommitted in political - principles, unconnected in public life, feeling some confidence, I - confess, in my own abilities, but desirous of availing myself, at the same - time, of the powers of others. Thus situated, I find myself working for - the same end as my Lord Carabas and twenty other men of similar calibre, - mental and moral; and, sir, am I to play the hermit in the drama of life - because, perchance, my fellow-actors may be sometimes fools, and - occasionally knaves? If the Marquess of Carabas has done you the - ill-service which Fame says he has, your sweetest revenge will be to make - him your tool; your most perfect triumph, to rise to power by his - influence. - </p> - <p> - “I confess that I am desirous of finding in you the companion of my - career. Your splendid talents have long commanded my admiration; and, as - you have given me credit for something like good feeling, I will say that - my wish to find in you a colleague is greatly increased when I see that - those splendid talents are even the least estimable points in Mr. - Cleveland’s character. But, sir, perhaps all this time I am in error; - perhaps Mr. Cleveland is, as the world reports him, no longer the - ambitious being who once commanded the admiration of a listening Senate; - perhaps, convinced of the vanity of human wishes, Mr. Cleveland would - rather devote his attention to the furtherance of the interests of his - immediate circle; and, having schooled his intellect in the Universities - of two nations, is probably content to pass the hours of his life in - mediating in the quarrels of a country village.” - </p> - <p> - Vivian ceased. Cleveland heard him with his head resting on both his arms. - He started at the last expression, and something like a blush suffused his - cheek, but he did not reply. At last he jumped up and rang the bell. - “Come, Mr. Grey,” said he, “I am in no humour for politics this morning. - You must not, at any rate, visit Wales for nothing. Morris! send down to - the village for this gentleman’s luggage. Even we cottagers have a bed for - a friend, Mr. Grey: come, and I will introduce you to my wife.” - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0027" id="link2HCH0027"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER II - </h2> - <p> - And Vivian was now an inmate of Kenrich Lodge. It would have been - difficult to have conceived a life of more pure happiness than that which - was apparently enjoyed by its gifted master. A beautiful wife and lovely - children, and a romantic situation, and an income sufficient not only for - their own but for the wants of their necessitous neighbours; what more - could man wish? Answer me, thou inexplicable myriad of sensations which - the world calls human nature! - </p> - <p> - Three days passed over in delightful converse. It was so long since - Cleveland had seen any one fresh from the former scenes of his life, that - the company of any one would have been agreeable; but here was a companion - who knew every one, everything, full of wit and anecdote, and literature - and fashion; and then so engaging in his manners, and with such a winning - voice. - </p> - <p> - The heart of Cleveland relented; his stern manner gave way; all his former - warm and generous feeling gained the ascendant; he was in turn amusing, - communicative, and engaging. Finding that he could please another, he - began to be pleased himself. The nature of the business upon which Vivian - was his guest rendered confidence necessary; confidence begets kindness. - In a few days Vivian necessarily became more acquainted with Mr. - Cleveland’s disposition and situation than if they had been acquainted for - as many years; in short. - </p> -<pre xml:space="preserve"> - They talked with open heart and tongue, - Affectionate and true, - A pair of friends. -</pre> - <p> - Vivian, for some time, dwelt upon everything but the immediate subject of - his mission; but when, after the experience of a few days, their hearts - were open to each other, and they had mutually begun to discover that - there was a most astonishing similarity in their principles, their tastes, - their feelings, then the magician poured forth his incantation, and raised - the once-laid ghost of Cleveland’s ambition. The recluse agreed to take - the lead of the Carabas party. He was to leave Wales immediately, and - resign his place; in return for which the nephew of Lord Courtown was - immediately to give up, in his favour, an office of considerable - emolument; and, having thus provided some certainty for his family, - Frederick Cleveland prepared himself to combat for a more important - office. - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0028" id="link2HCH0028"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER III - </h2> - <p> - “Is Mr. Cleveland handsome?” asked Mrs. Felix Lorraine of Vivian, - immediately on his return, “and what colour are his eyes?” - </p> - <p> - “Upon my honour, I have not the least recollection of ever looking at - them; but I believe he is not blind.” - </p> - <p> - “How foolish you are! now tell me, pray, <i>point de moquerie</i>, - is he amusing?” - </p> - <p> - “What does Mrs. Felix Lorraine mean by amusing?” asked Vivian. - </p> - <p> - “Oh! you always tease me with your definitions; go away. I will quarrel - with you.” - </p> - <p> - “By-the-bye, Mrs. Felix Lorraine, how is Colonel Delmington?” - </p> - <p> - Vivian redeemed his pledge: Mr. Cleveland arrived. It was the wish of the - Marquess, if possible, not to meet his old friend till dinner-time. He - thought that, surrounded by his guests, certain awkward senatorial - reminiscences might be got over. But, unfortunately, Mr. Cleveland arrived - about an hour before dinner, and, as it was a cold autumnal day, most of - the visitors who were staying at Château Desir were assembled in the - drawing-room. The Marquess sallied forward to receive his guest with a - most dignified countenance and a most aristocratic step; but, before he - got half-way, his coronation pace degenerated into a strut, and then into - a shamble, and with an awkward and confused countenance, half impudent and - half flinching, he held forward his left hand to his newly-arrived - visitor. Mr. Cleveland looked terrifically courteous and amiably arrogant. - He greeted the Marquess with a smile at once gracious and grim, and looked - something like Goliath, as you see the Philistine depicted in some old - German painting, looking down upon the pigmy fighting men of Israel. - </p> - <p> - As is generally the custom when there is a great deal to be arranged and - many points to be settled, days flew over, and very little of the future - system of the party was matured. Vivian made one or two ineffectual - struggles to bring the Marquess to a business-like habit of mind, but his - Lordship never dared to trust himself alone with Cleveland, and, indeed, - almost lost the power of speech when in presence of the future leader of - his party; so, in the morning, the Marquess played off the two Lords and - Sir Berdmore against his former friend, and then, to compensate for not - meeting Mr. Cleveland in the morning, he was particularly courteous to him - at dinner-time, and asked him always “how he liked his ride?” and - invariably took wine with him. As for the rest of the day, he had - particularly requested his faithful counsellor, Mrs. Felix Lorraine, “for - God’s sake to take this man off his shoulders;” and so that lady, with her - usual kindness, and merely to oblige his Lordship, was good enough to - patronise Mr. Cleveland, and on the fourth day was taking a moonlit walk - with him. - </p> - <p> - Mr. Cleveland had now been ten days at Château Desir, and was to take his - departure the next morning for Wales, in order to arrange everything for - his immediate settlement in the metropolis. Every point of importance was - postponed until their meeting in London. Mr. Cleveland only agreed to take - the lead of the party in the Commons, and received the personal pledge of - Lord Courtown as to the promised office. - </p> - <p> - It was a September day, and to escape from the excessive heat of the sun, - and at the same time to enjoy the freshness of the air, Vivian was writing - his letters in the conservatory, which opened into one of the - drawing-rooms. The numerous party which then honoured the Château with - their presence were out, as he conceived, on a picnic excursion to the - Elfin’s Well, a beautiful spot about ten miles off; and among the - adventurers were, as he imagined, Mrs. Felix Lorraine and Mr. Cleveland. - </p> - <p> - Vivian was rather surprised at hearing voices in the adjoining room, and - he was still more so when, on looking round, he found that the sounds - proceeded from the very two individuals whom he thought were far away. - Some tall American plants concealed him from their view, but he observed - all that passed distinctly, and a singular scene it was. Mrs. Felix - Lorraine was on her knees at the feet of Mr. Cleveland; her countenance - indicated the most contrary passions, contending, as it were, for mastery; - supplication, anger, and, shall I call it, love? Her companion’s - countenance was hid, but it was evident that it was not wreathed with - smiles: there were a few hurried sentences uttered, and then both quitted - the room at different doors, the lady in despair, and the gentleman in - disgust. - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0029" id="link2HCH0029"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER IV - </h2> - <p> - And now Château Desir was almost deserted. Mrs. Million continued her - progress northward. The Courtowns, and the Beaconsfields, and the Scropes - quitted immediately after Mr. Cleveland; and when the families that form - the material of the visiting corps retire, the nameless nothings that are - always lounging about the country mansions of the great, such as artists, - tourists, authors, and other live stock, soon disappear. Mr. Vivian Grey - agreed to stay another fortnight, at the particular request of the - Marquess. - </p> - <p> - Very few days had passed ere Vivian was exceedingly struck at the decided - change which suddenly took place in his Lordship’s general demeanour - towards him. - </p> - <p> - The Marquess grew reserved and uncommunicative, scarcely mentioning “the - great business” which had previously been the sole subject of his - conversation but to find fault with some arrangement, and exhibiting, - whenever his name was mentioned, a marked acrimony against Mr. Cleveland. - This rapid change alarmed as much as it astonished Vivian, and he - mentioned his feelings and observations to Mrs. Felix Lorraine. That lady - agreed with him that something certainly was wrong; but could not, - unfortunately, afford him any clue to the mystery. She expressed the - liveliest solicitude that any misunderstanding should be put an end to, - and offered her services for that purpose. - </p> - <p> - In spite, however, of her well-expressed anxiety, Vivian had his own ideas - on the subject; and, determined to unravel the affair, he had recourse to - the Marchioness. - </p> - <p> - “I hope your Ladyship is well to-day. I had a letter from Count Caumont - this morning. He tells me that he has got the prettiest poodle from Paris - that you can possibly conceive! waltzes like an angel, and acts proverbs - on its hind feet.” - </p> - <p> - Her Ladyship’s eyes glistened with admiration. - </p> - <p> - “I have told Caumont to send it me down immediately, and I shall then have - the pleasure of presenting it to your Ladyship.” - </p> - <p> - Her Ladyship’s eyes sparkled with delight. - </p> - <p> - “I think,” continued Vivian, “I shall take a ride to-day. By-the-bye, how - is the Marquess? he seems in low spirits lately.” - </p> - <p> - “Oh, Mr. Grey! I do not know what you have done to him,” said her - Ladyship, settling at least a dozen bracelets; “but, but—” - </p> - <p> - “But what?” - </p> - <p> - “He thinks; he thinks.” - </p> - <p> - “Thinks what, dear lady?” - </p> - <p> - “That you have entered into a combination, Mr. Grey.” - </p> - <p> - “Entered into a combination!” - </p> - <p> - “Yes, Mr. Grey! a conspiracy, a conspiracy against the Marquess, with Mr. - Cleveland. He thinks that you have made him serve your purpose, and now - you are going to get rid of him.” - </p> - <p> - “Well, that is excellent, and what else does he think?” - </p> - <p> - “He thinks you talk too loud,” said the Marchioness, still working at her - bracelets. - </p> - <p> - “Well! that is shockingly vulgar! Allow me to recommend your Ladyship to - alter the order of those bracelets, and place the blue and silver against - the maroon. You may depend upon it, that is the true Vienna order. And - what else dues the Marquess say?” - </p> - <p> - “He thinks you are generally too authoritative. Not that I think so, Mr. - Grey: I am sure your conduct to me has been most courteous. The blue and - silver next to the maroon, did you say? Yes; certainly it does look - better. I have no doubt the Marquess is quite wrong, and I dare say you - will set things right immediately. You will remember the pretty poodle, - Mr. Grey? and you will not tell the Marquess I mentioned anything.” - </p> - <p> - “Oh! certainly not. I will give orders for them to book an inside place - for the poodle, and send him down by the coach immediately, I must be off - now. Remember the blue and silver next to the maroon. Good morning to your - Ladyship.” - </p> - <p> - “Mrs. Felix Lorraine, I am your most obedient slave,” said Vivian Grey, as - he met that lady on the landing-place. “I can see no reason why I should - not drive you this bright day to the Elfin’s Well; we have long had an - engagement to go there.” - </p> - <p> - The lady smiled a gracious assent: the pony phaeton was immediately - ordered. - </p> - <p> - “How pleasant Lady Courtown and I used to discourse about martingales! I - think I invented one, did not I? Pray, Mrs. Felix Lorraine, can you tell - me what a martingale is? for upon my honour I have forgotten, or never - knew.” - </p> - <p> - “If you found a martingale for the mother, Vivian, it had been well if you - had found a curb for the daughter. Poor Cynthia! I had intended once to - advise the Marchioness to interfere; but one forgets these things.” - </p> - <p> - “One does. O, Mrs. Felix!” exclaimed Vivian, “I told your admirable story - of the Leyden Professor to Mrs. Cleveland. It is universally agreed to be - the best ghost-story extant. I think you said you knew the Professor.” - </p> - <p> - “Well! I have seen him often, and heard the story from his own lips. And, - as I mentioned before, far from being superstitious, he was an esprit - fort. Do you know, Mr. Grey, I have such an interesting packet from - Germany to-day; from my cousin, Baron Rodenstein. But I must keep all the - stories for the evening; come to my boudoir, and I will read them to you. - There is one tale which I am sure will make a convert even of you. It - happened to Rodenstein himself, and within these three months,” added the - lady in a serious tone. “The Rodensteins are a singular family. My mother - was a Rodenstein. Do you think this beautiful?” said Mrs. Felix, showing - Vivian a small miniature which was attached to a chain round her neck. It - was the portrait of a youth habited in the costume of a German student. - His rich brown hair was flowing over his shoulders, and his dark blue eyes - beamed with such a look of mysterious inspiration, that they might have - befitted a young prophet. - </p> - <p> - “Very, very beautiful!” - </p> - <p> - “‘Tis Max, Max Rodenstein,” said the lady, with a faltering voice. “He was - killed at Leipsic, at the head of a band of his friends and - fellow-students. O, Mr. Grey! this is a fair work of art, but if you had - but seen the prototype you would have gazed on this as on a dim and - washed-out drawing. There was one portrait, indeed, which did him more - justice; but then that portrait was not the production of mortal pencil.” - </p> - <p> - Vivian looked at his companion with a somewhat astonished air, but Mrs. - Felix Lorraine’s countenance was as little indicative of jesting as that - of the young student whose miniature rested on her bosom. - </p> - <p> - “Did you say <i>not</i> the production of a mortal hand, Mrs. Felix - Lorraine?” - </p> - <p> - “I am afraid I shall weary you with my stories, but the one I am about to - tell you is so well evidenced that I think even Mr. Vivian Grey will hear - it without a sneer.” - </p> - <p> - “A sneer! O lady-love, do I ever sneer?” - </p> - <p> - “Max Rodenstein was the glory of his house. A being so beautiful in body - and in soul you cannot imagine, and I will not attempt to describe. This - miniature has given you some faint idea of his image, and yet this is only - the copy of a copy. The only wish of the Baroness Rodenstein, which never - could be accomplished, was the possession of a portrait of her youngest - son, for no consideration could induce Max to allow his likeness to be - taken. His old nurse had always told him that the moment his portrait was - taken he would die. The condition upon which such a beautiful being was - allowed to remain in the world was, she always said, that his beauty - should not be imitated. About three months before the battle of Leipsic, - when Max was absent at the University, which was nearly four hundred miles - from Rodenstein Castle, there arrived one morning a large case directed to - the Baroness. On opening it it was found to contain a picture, the - portrait of her son. The colouring was so vivid, the general execution so - miraculous, that for some moments they forgot to wonder at the incident in - their admiration of the work of art. In one corner of the picture, in - small characters yet fresh, was an inscription, which on examining they - found consisted of these words: ‘Painted last night. Now, lady, thou hast - thy wish.’ My aunt sank into the Baron’s arms. - </p> - <p> - “In silence and in trembling the wonderful portrait was suspended over the - fireplace of my aunt’s favourite apartment. The next day they received - letters from Max. He was quite well, but mentioned nothing of the - mysterious painting. - </p> - <p> - “Three months afterwards, as a lady was sitting alone in the Baroness’s - room, and gazing on the portrait of him she loved right dearly, she - suddenly started from her seat, and would have shrieked, had not an - indefinable sensation prevented her. The eyes of the portrait moved. The - lady stood leaning on a chair, pale, and trembling like an aspen, but - gazing steadfastly on the animated portrait. It was no illusion of a - heated fancy; again the eyelids trembled, there was a melancholy smile, - and then they closed. The clock of Rodenstein Castle struck three. Between - astonishment and fear the lady was tearless. Three days afterwards came - the news of the battle of Leipsic, and at the very moment that the eyes of - the portrait closed Max Rodenstein had been pierced by a Polish Lancer.” - </p> - <p> - “And who was this wonderful lady, the witness of this wonderful incident?” - asked Vivian. - </p> - <p> - “That lady was myself.” - </p> - <p> - There was something so singular in the tone of Mrs. Felix Lorraine’s - voice, and so peculiar in the expression of her countenance, as she - uttered these words, that the jest died on Vivian’s tongue; and, for want - of something better to do, he lashed the little ponies, which were already - scampering at their full speed. - </p> - <p> - The road to the Elfin’s Well ran through the wildest parts of the park; - and after an hour and a half’s drive they reached the fairy spot. It was a - beautiful and pellucid spring, that bubbled up in a small wild dell, - which, nurtured by the flowing stream, was singularly fresh and green. - Above the spring had been erected a Gothic arch of grey stone, round which - grew a few fine birch-trees. In short, nature had intended the spot for - picnics. There was fine water, and an interesting tradition; and as the - parties always bring, or always should bring, a trained punster, - champagne, and cold pasties, what more ought Nature to have provided? - </p> - <p> - “Come, Mrs. Lorraine, I will tie Gypsey to this ash, and then you and I - will rest ourselves beneath these birch-trees, just where the fairies - dance.” - </p> - <p> - “Oh, delightful!” - </p> - <p> - “Now, truly, we should have some book of beautiful poetry to while away an - hour. You will blame me for not bringing one. Do not. I would sooner - listen to your voice; and, indeed, there is a subject on which I wish to - ask your particular advice.” - </p> - <p> - “Is there?” - </p> - <p> - “I have been thinking that this is a somewhat rash step of the Marquess; - this throwing himself into the arms of his former bitterest enemy, - Cleveland.” - </p> - <p> - “You really think so?” - </p> - <p> - “Why, Mrs. Lorraine, does it appear to you to be the most prudent course - of action which could have been conceived?” - </p> - <p> - “Certainly not.” - </p> - <p> - “You agree with me, then, that there is, if not cause for regret at this - engagement, at least for reflection on its probable consequences?” - </p> - <p> - “I quite agree with you.” - </p> - <p> - “I know you do. I have had some conversation with the Marquess upon this - subject this very morning.” - </p> - <p> - “Have you?” eagerly exclaimed the lady, and she looked pale and breathed - short. - </p> - <p> - “Ay; and he tells me you have made some very sensible observations on the - subject. ‘Tis pity they were not made before Mr. Cleveland left; the - mischief might then have been prevented.” - </p> - <p> - “I certainly have made some observations.” - </p> - <p> - “And very kind of you. What a blessing for the Marquess to have such a - friend!” - </p> - <p> - “I spoke to him,” said Mrs. Felix, with a more assured tone, “in much the - same spirit as you have been addressing me. It does, indeed, seem a most - imprudent act, and I thought it my duty to tell him so.” - </p> - <p> - “Ay, no doubt; but how came you, lady fair, to imagine that <i>I</i> was - also a person to be dreaded by his Lordship; <i>I</i>, Vivian Grey!” - </p> - <p> - “Did I say <i>you</i>?” asked the lady, pale as death. - </p> - <p> - “Did you not, Mrs. Felix Lorraine? Have you not, regardless of my - interests, in the most unwarrantable and unjustifiable manner; have you - not, to gratify some private pique which you entertain against Mr. - Cleveland; have you not, I ask you, poisoned the Marquess’ mind against - one who never did aught to you but what was kind and honourable?” - </p> - <p> - “I have been imprudent; I confess it; I have spoken somewhat loosely.” - </p> - <p> - “Now, listen to me once more,” and Vivian grasped her hand. “What has - passed between you and Mr. Cleveland it is not for me to inquire. I give - you my word of honour that he never even mentioned your name to me. I can - scarcely understand how any man could have incurred the deadly hatred - which you appear to entertain for him. I repeat, I can contemplate no - situation in which you could be placed together which would justify such - behaviour. It could not be justified, even if he had spurned you while—kneeling - at his feet.” - </p> - <p> - Mrs. Felix Lorraine shrieked and fainted. A sprinkling from the fairy - stream soon recovered her. “Spare me! spare me!” she faintly cried: “say - nothing of what you have seen.” - </p> - <p> - “Mrs. Lorraine, I have no wish. I have spoken thus explicitly that we may - not again misunderstand each other. I have spoken thus explicitly, I say, - that I may not be under the necessity of speaking again, for if I speak - again it must not be to Mrs. Felix Lorraine. There is my hand; and now let - the Elfin’s Well be blotted out of our memories.” - </p> - <p> - Vivian drove rapidly home, and endeavoured to talk in his usual tone and - with his usual spirit; but his companion could not be excited. Once, ay - twice, she pressed his hand, and as he assisted her from the phaeton she - murmured something like a blessing. She ran upstairs immediately. Vivian - had to give some directions about the ponies; Gipsey was ill, or Fanny had - a cold, or something of the kind; and so he was detained for about a - quarter of an hour before the house, speaking most learnedly to grooms, - and consulting on cases with a skilled gravity worthy of Professor - Coleman. - </p> - <p> - When he entered the house he found the luncheon prepared, and Mrs. Felix - pressed him earnestly to take some refreshment. He was indeed wearied, and - agreed to take a glass of hock and seltzer. - </p> - <p> - “Let me mix it for you,” said Mrs. Felix; “do you like sugar?” - </p> - <p> - Tired with his drive, Vivian Grey was leaning on the mantelpiece, with his - eyes vacantly gazing on the looking-glass which rested on the marble slab. - It was by pure accident that, reflected in the mirror, he distinctly - beheld Mrs. Felix Lorraine open a small silver box, and throw some powder - into the tumbler which she was preparing for him. She was leaning down, - with her back almost turned to the glass, but still Vivian saw it - distinctly. A sickness came over him, and ere he could recover himself his - Hebe tapped him on the shoulder. - </p> - <p> - <a name="linkimage-0003" id="linkimage-0003"> - <!-- IMG --></a> - </p> - <div class="fig" style="width:80%;"> - <img src="images/small_box.jpg" alt="Small Silver Box " height="550" /><br /> - </div> - <p> - “Here, drink, drink while it is effervescent.” - </p> - <p> - “I cannot drink,” said Vivian, “I am not thirsty; I am too hot; I am - anything—” - </p> - <p> - “How foolish you are! It will be quite spoiled.” - </p> - <p> - “No, no; the dog shall have it. Here, Fidele, you look thirsty enough; - come here—” - </p> - <p> - “Mr. Grey, I do not mix tumblers for dogs,” said the lady, rather - agitated: “if you will not take it,” and she held it once more before him, - “here it goes for ever.” So saying she emptied the tumbler into a large - globe of glass, in which some gold and silver fish were swimming their - endless rounds. - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0030" id="link2HCH0030"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER V - </h2> - <p> - This last specimen of Mrs. Felix Lorraine was somewhat too much even for - the steeled nerves of Vivian Grey, and he sought his chamber for relief. - </p> - <p> - “Is it possible? Can I believe my senses? Or has some demon, as we read of - in old tales, mocked me in a magic mirror? I can believe anything. Oh! my - heart is very sick! I once imagined that I was using this woman for my - purpose. Is it possible that aught of good can come to one who is forced - to make use of such evil instruments as these? A horrible thought - sometimes comes over my spirit. I fancy that in this mysterious foreigner, - that in this woman, I have met a kind of double of myself. The same - wonderful knowledge of the human mind, the same sweetness of voice, the - same miraculous management which has brought us both under the same roof: - yet do I find her the most abandoned of all beings; a creature guilty of - that which, even in this guilty age, I thought was obsolete. And is it - possible that I am like her? that I can resemble her? that even the - indefinite shadow of my most unhallowed thought can for a moment be as - vile as her righteousness? O God! the system of my existence seems to - stop. I cannot breathe.” He flung himself upon his bed, and felt for a - moment as if he had quaffed the poisoned draught so lately offered. - </p> - <p> - “It is not so; it cannot be so; it shall not be so! In seeking the - Marquess I was unquestionably impelled by a mere feeling of self-interest; - but I have advised him to no course of action in which his welfare is not - equally consulted with my own. Indeed, if not principle, interest would - make me act faithfully towards him, for my fortunes are bound up in his. - But am I entitled, I, who can lose nothing, am I entitled to play with - other men’s fortunes? Am I all this time deceiving myself with some - wretched sophistry? Am I, then, an intellectual Don Juan, reckless of - human minds, as he was of human bodies; a spiritual libertine? But why - this wild declamation? Whatever I have done, it is too late to recede; - even this very moment delay is destruction, for now it is not a question - as to the ultimate prosperity of our worldly prospects, but the immediate - safety of our very bodies. Poison! O God! O God! Away with all fear, all - repentance, all thought of past, all reckoning of future. If I be the Juan - that I fancied myself, then Heaven be praised! I have a confidant in all - my troubles; the most faithful of counsellors, the craftiest of valets; a - Leporello often tried and never found wanting: my own good mind. And now, - thou female fiend! the battle is to the strongest; and I see right well - that the struggle between two such spirits will be a long and a fearful - one. Woe, I say, to the vanquished! You must be dealt with by arts which - even yourself cannot conceive. Your boasted knowledge of human nature - shall not again stand you in stead; for, mark me, from henceforward Vivian - Grey’s conduct towards you shall have no precedent in human nature.” - </p> - <p> - As Vivian re-entered the drawing-room he met a servant carrying in the - globe of gold and silver fishes. - </p> - <p> - “What, still in your pelisse, Mrs. Lorraine!” said Vivian. “Nay, I hardly - wonder at it, for surely, a prettier pelisse never yet fitted prettier - form. You have certainly a most admirable taste in dress; and this the - more surprises me, for it is generally your plain personage that is the - most recherché in frills and fans and flounces.” - </p> - <p> - The lady smiled. - </p> - <p> - “Oh! by-the-bye,” continued her companion, “I have a letter from Cleveland - this morning. I wonder how any misunderstanding could possibly have - existed between you, for he speaks of you in such terms.” - </p> - <p> - “What does he say?” was the quick question. - </p> - <p> - “Oh! what does he say?” drawled out Vivian; and he yawned, and was most - provokingly uncommunicative. - </p> - <p> - “Come, come, Mr. Grey, do tell me.” - </p> - <p> - “Oh! tell you, certainly. Come, let us walk together in the conservatory:” - so saying, he took the lady by the hand, and they left the room. - </p> - <p> - “And now for the letter, Mr. Grey.” - </p> - <p> - “Ay, now for the letter;” and Vivian slowly drew an epistle from his - pocket, and therefrom read some exceedingly sweet passages, which made - Mrs. Felix Lorraine’s very heart-blood tingle. Considering that Vivian - Grey had never in his life received a single letter from Mr. Cleveland, - this was tolerably well: but he was always an admirable improvisatore! “I - am sure that when Cleveland comes to town everything will be explained; I - am sure, at least, that it will not be my fault if you are not the best - friends. I am heroic in saying all this, Mrs. Lorraine; there was a time - when (and here Vivian seemed so agitated that he could scarcely proceed), - there was a time when I could have called that man liar who would have - prophesied that Vivian Grey could have assisted another in riveting the - affections of Mrs. Felix Lorraine. But enough of this. I am a weak, - inexperienced boy, and misinterpret, perhaps, that which is merely the - compassionate kindness natural to all women into a feeling of a higher - nature. But I must learn to contain myself; I really do feel quite ashamed - of my behaviour about the tumbler to-day. To act with such unwarrantable - unkindness, merely because I had remembered that you once performed the - same kind office for Colonel Delmington, was indeed too bad.” - </p> - <p> - “Colonel Delmington is a vain, empty-headed fool. Do not think of him, my - dear Mr. Grey,” said Mrs. Felix, with a countenance beaming with smiles. - </p> - <p> - “Well, I will not; and I will try to behave like a man; like a man of the - world, I should say. But indeed you must excuse the warm feelings of a - youth; and truly, when I call to mind the first days of our acquaintance, - and then remember that our moonlit walks are gone for ever, and that our—” - </p> - <p> - “Nay, do not believe so, my dear Vivian; believe me, as I ever shall be, - your friend, your—” - </p> - <p> - “I will, I will, my dear, my own Amalia!” - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0031" id="link2HCH0031"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER VI - </h2> - <p> - It was an autumnal night; the wind was capricious and changeable as a - petted beauty, or an Italian greyhound, or a shot silk. Now the breeze - blew so fresh that the white clouds dashed along the sky as if they bore a - band of witches too late for their Sabbath meeting, or some other - mischief; and now, lulled and soft as the breath of a slumbering infant, - you might almost have fancied it Midsummer Eve; and the bright moon, with - her starry court, reigned undisturbed in the light blue sky. Vivian Grey - was leaning against an old beech-tree in the most secluded part of the - park, and was gazing on the moon. - </p> - <p> - O thou bright moon! thou object of my first love! thou shalt not escape an - invocation, although perchance at this very moment some varlet sonnetteer - is prating of “the boy Endymion” and “thy silver bow.” Here to thee, Queen - of the Night! in whatever name thou most delightest! Or Bendis, as they - hailed thee in rugged Thrace; or Bubastis, as they howled to thee in - mysterious Egypt; or Diana, as they sacrificed to thee in gorgeous Rome; or - Artemis, as they sighed to thee on the bright plains of ever glorious - Greece! Why is it that all men gaze on thee? Why is it that all men love - thee? Why is it that all men worship thee? - </p> - <p> - Shine on, shine on, sultana of the soul! the Passions are thy eunuch - slaves, Ambition gazes on thee, and his burning brow is cooled, and his - fitful pulse is calm. Grief wanders in her moonlit walk and sheds no tear; - and when thy crescent smiles the lustre of Joy’s revelling eye is dusked. - Quick Anger, in thy light, forgets revenge; and even dove-eyed Hope feeds - on no future joys when gazing on the miracle of thy beauty. - </p> - <p> - Shine on, shine on! although a pure Virgin, thou art the mighty mother of - all abstraction! The eye of the weary peasant returning from his daily - toil, and the rapt gaze of the inspired poet, are alike fixed on thee; - thou stillest the roar of marching armies, and who can doubt thy influence - o’er the waves who has witnessed the wide Atlantic sleeping under thy - silver beam? - </p> - <p> - Shine on, shine on! they say thou art Earth’s satellite; yet when I gaze - on thee my thoughts are not of thy suzerain. They teach us that thy power - is a fable, and that thy divinity is a dream. Oh, thou bright Queen! I - will be no traitor to thy sweet authority; and verily, I will not believe - that thy influence o’er our hearts is, at this moment, less potent than - when we worshipped in thy glittering fane of Ephesus, or trembled at the - dark horrors of thine Arician rites. Then, hail to thee, Queen of the - Night! Hail to thee, Diana, Triformis; Cynthia, Orthia, Taurica; ever - mighty, ever lovely, ever holy! Hail! hail! hail! - </p> - <p> - Were I a metaphysician, I would tell you why Vivian Grey had been gazing - two hours on the moon; for I could then present you with a most logical - programme of the march of his ideas, since he whispered his last honied - speech in the ear of Mrs. Felix Lorraine, at dinner-time, until this very - moment, when he did not even remember that such a being as Mrs. Felix - Lorraine breathed. Glory to the metaphysician’s all-perfect theory! When - they can tell me why, at a bright banquet, the thought of death has - flashed across my mind, who fear not death; when they can tell me why, at - the burial of my beloved friend, when my very heart-strings seemed - bursting, my sorrow has been mocked by the involuntary remembrance of - ludicrous adventures and grotesque tales; when they can tell me why, in a - dark mountain pass, I have thought of an absent woman’s eyes; or why, when - in the very act of squeezing the third lime into a beaker of Burgundy cup, - my memory hath been of lean apothecaries and their vile drugs; why then, I - say again, glory to the metaphysician’s all-perfect theory! and fare you - well, sweet world, and you, my merry masters, whom, perhaps, I have - studied somewhat too cunningly: <i>nosce teipsum</i> shall be my motto. I - will doff my travelling cap, and on with the monk’s cowl. - </p> - <p> - There are mysterious moments in some men’s lives when the faces of human - beings are very agony to them, and when the sound of the human voice is - jarring as discordant music. These fits are not the consequence of violent - or contending passions: they grow not out of sorrow, or joy, or hope, or - fear, or hatred, or despair. For in the hour of affliction the tones of - our fellow-creatures are ravishing as the most delicate lute; and in the - flush moment of joy where is the smiler who loves not a witness to his - revelry or a listener to his good fortune? Fear makes us feel our - humanity, and then we fly to men, and Hope is the parent of kindness. The - misanthrope and the reckless are neither agitated nor agonised. It is in - these moments that men find in Nature that congeniality of spirit which - they seek for in vain in their own species. It is in these moments that we - sit by the side of a waterfall and listen to its music the live-long day. - It is in these moments that men gaze upon the moon. It is in these moments - that Nature becomes our Egeria; and, refreshed and renovated by this - beautiful communion, we return to the world better enabled to fight our - parts in the hot war of passions, to perform the great duties for which - man appeared to have been created, to love, to hate, to slander, and to - slay. - </p> - <p> - It was past midnight, and Vivian was at a considerable distance from the - Château. He proposed entering by a side door, which led into the - billiard-room, and from thence, crossing the Long Gallery, he could easily - reach his apartment without disturbing any of the household. His way led - through the little gate at which he had parted with Mrs. Felix Lorraine on - the first day of their meeting. - </p> - <p> - As he softly opened the door which led into the Long Gallery he found he - was not alone: leaning against one of the casements was a female. Her - profile was to Vivian as he entered, and the moon, which shone bright - through the window, lit up a countenance which he might be excused for not - immediately recognising as that of Mrs. Felix Lorraine. She was gazing - steadfastly, but her eye did not seem fixed upon any particular object. - Her features appeared convulsed, but their contortions were not momentary, - and, pale as death, a hideous grin seemed chiselled on her idiot - countenance. - </p> - <p> - Vivian scarcely knew whether to stay or to retire. Desirous not to disturb - her, he determined not even to breathe; and, as is generally the case, his - very exertions to be silent made him nervous, and to save himself from - being stifled he coughed. - </p> - <p> - Mrs. Lorraine immediately started and stared wildly around her, and when - her eye caught Vivian’s there was a sound in her throat something like the - death-rattle. - </p> - <p> - “Who are you?” she eagerly asked. - </p> - <p> - “A friend, and Vivian Grey.” - </p> - <p> - “How came you here?” and she rushed forward and wildly seized his hand, - and then she muttered to herself, “‘tis flesh.” - </p> - <p> - “I have been playing, I fear, the mooncalf to-night; and find that, though - I am a late watcher, I am not a solitary one.” - </p> - <p> - Mrs. Lorraine stared earnestly at him, and then she endeavoured to assume - her usual expression of countenance; but the effort was too much for her. - She dropped Vivian’s arm, and buried her face in her own hands. Vivian was - retiring, when she again looked up. “Where are you going?” she asked, with - a quick voice. - </p> - <p> - “To sleep, as I would advise all: ‘tis much past midnight.” - </p> - <p> - “You say not the truth. The brightness of your eye belies the sentence of - your tongue. You are not for sleep.” - </p> - <p> - “Pardon me, dear Mrs. Lorraine; I really have been yawning for the last - hour,” said Vivian, and he moved on. - </p> - <p> - “You are speaking to one who takes her answer from the eye, which does not - deceive, and from the speaking lineaments of the face, which are Truth’s - witnesses. Keep your voice for those who can credit man’s words. You will - go, then? What! are you afraid of a woman, because ‘tis past midnight,’ - and you are in an old gallery?” - </p> - <p> - “Fear, Mrs. Lorraine, is not a word in my vocabulary.” - </p> - <p> - “The words in your vocabulary are few, boy! as are the years of your age. - He who sent you here this night sent you here not to slumber. Come - hither!” and she led Vivian to the window: “what see you?” - </p> - <p> - “I see Nature at rest, Mrs. Lorraine; and I would fain follow the example - of beasts, birds, and fishes.” - </p> - <p> - “Yet gaze upon this scene one second. See the distant hills, how - beautifully their rich covering is tinted with the moonbeam! These nearer - fir-trees, how radiantly their black skeleton forms are tipped with - silver; and the old and thickly foliaged oaks bathed in light! and the - purple lake reflecting in its lustrous bosom another heaven? la it not a - fair scene?” - </p> - <p> - “Beautiful! most beautiful!” - </p> - <p> - “Yet, Vivian, where is the being for whom all this beauty exists? Where is - your mighty creature, Man? The peasant on his rough couch enjoys, - perchance, slavery’s only service-money, sweet sleep; or, waking in the - night, curses at the same time his lot and his lord. And that lord is - restless on some downy couch; his night thoughts, not of this sheeny lake - and this bright moon, but of some miserable creation of man’s artifice, - some mighty nothing, which Nature knows not of, some offspring of her - bastard child, Society. Why, then, is Nature loveliest when man looks not - on her? For whom, then, Vivian Grey, is this scene so fair?” - </p> - <p> - “For poets, lady; for philosophers; for all those superior spirits who - require some relaxation from the world’s toils; spirits who only commingle - with humanity on the condition that they may sometimes commune with - Nature.” - </p> - <p> - “Superior spirits! say you?” and here they paced the gallery. “When - Valerian, first Lord Carabas, raised this fair castle; when, profuse for - his posterity, all the genius of Italian art and Italian artists was - lavished on this English palace; when the stuffs and statues, the marbles - and the mirrors, the tapestry, and the carvings, and the paintings of - Genoa, and Florence, and Venice, and Padua, and Vicenza, were obtained by - him at miraculous cost, and with still more miraculous toil; what think - you would have been his sensations, if, while his soul was revelling in - the futurity of his descendants keeping their state in this splendid pile, - some wizard had foretold to him that, ere three centuries could elapse, - the fortunes of his mighty family would be the sport of two individuals; - one of them a foreigner, unconnected in blood, or connected only in - hatred; and the other a young adventurer alike unconnected with his race, - in blood or in love; a being ruling all things by the power of his own - genius, and reckless of all consequences save his own prosperity? If the - future had been revealed to my great ancestor, the Lord Valerian, think - you, Vivian Grey, that you and I should be walking in this long gallery?” - </p> - <p> - “Really, Mrs. Lorraine, I have been so interested in discovering what - people think in the nineteenth century, that I have had but little time to - speculate on the possible opinions of an old gentleman who flourished in - the sixteenth.” - </p> - <p> - “You may sneer, sir; but I ask you, if there are spirits so superior to - that of the slumbering Lord of this castle as those of Vivian Grey and - Amelia Lorraine, why may there not be spirits proportionately superior to - our own?” - </p> - <p> - “If you are keeping me from my bed, Mrs. Lorraine, merely to lecture my - conceit by proving that there are in this world wiser heads than that of - Vivian Grey, on my honour you are giving yourself a great deal of - unnecessary trouble.” - </p> - <p> - “You will misunderstand me, then, you wilful boy!” - </p> - <p> - “Nay, lady, I will not affect to misunderstand your meaning; but I - recognise, you know full well, no intermediate essence between my own good - soul and that ineffable and omnipotent spirit in whose existence - philosophers and priests alike agree.” - </p> - <p> - “Omnipotent and ineffable essence! Leave such words to scholars and - to school-boys! And think you that such indefinite nothings, such - unmeaning abstractions, can influence beings whose veins are full of - blood, bubbling like this?” And here she grasped Vivian with a - feverish hand. “Omnipotent and ineffable essence! Oh! I have lived - in a land where every mountain, and every stream, and every wood, and - every ruin, has its legend and its peculiar spirit; a land in whose dark - forests the midnight hunter, with his spirit-shout, scares the slumbers - of the trembling serf; a land from whose winding rivers the fair-haired - Undine welcomes the belated traveller to her fond and fatal embrace; and - you talk to me of omnipotent and ineffable essence! Miserable Mocker! It - is not true, Vivian Grey; you are but echoing the world’s deceit, - and even at this hour of the night you dare not speak as you do think. - You worship no omnipotent and ineffable essence; you believe in no - omnipotent and ineffable essence. Shrined in this secret chamber of your - soul there is an image before which you bow down in adoration, and that - image is <small>YOURSELF</small>. And truly, when I do gaze upon your - radiant eyes,” and here the lady’s tone became more - terrestrial; “and truly, when I do look upon your luxuriant - curls,” and here the lady’s small white hand played like - lightning through Vivian’s dark hair; “and truly, when I do - remember the beauty of your all-perfect form, I cannot deem your - self-worship a false idolatry,” and here the lady’s arms were - locked round Vivian’s neck, and her head rested on his bosom. - </p> - <p> - “Oh, Amalia! it would be far better for you to rest here than to think of - that of which the knowledge is vanity.” - </p> - <p> - “Vanity!” shrieked Mrs. Lorraine, and she violently loosened her embrace, - and extricated herself from the arm which, rather in courtesy than in - kindness, had been wound round her delicate waist: “Vanity! Oh! if you - knew but what I know, oh! if you had but seen what I have seen;” and here - her voice failed her, and she stood motionless in the moonshine, with - averted head and outstretched arms. - </p> - <p> - “Amalia! this is madness; for Heaven’s sake calm yourself!” - </p> - <p> - “Calm myself! Yes, it is madness; very, very madness! ‘tis the madness of - the fascinated bird; ‘tis the madness of the murderer who is voluntarily - broken on the wheel; ‘tis the madness of the fawn that gazes with - adoration on the lurid glare of the anaconda’s eye; ‘tis the madness of - woman who flies to the arms of her Fate;” and here she sprang like a - tigress round Vivian’s neck, her long light hair bursting from its bands, - and clustering down her shoulders. - </p> - <p> - And here was Vivian Grey, at past midnight, in this old gallery, with this - wild woman clinging round his neck. The figures in the ancient tapestry - looked living in the moon, and immediately opposite him was one - compartment of some old mythological tale, in which were represented, - grinning, in grim majesty, the Fates. - </p> - <p> - The wind now rose again, and the clouds which had vanished began to - reassemble in the heavens. As the blue sky was gradually covering, the - gigantic figures of Clotho, Lachesis, and Atropos became as gradually - dimmer and dimmer, and the grasp of Vivian’s fearful burden looser and - looser. At last the moon was entirely hid, the figures of the Fates - vanished, and Mrs. Felix Lorraine sank lifeless into his arms. - </p> - <p> - Vivian groped his way with difficulty to the nearest window, the very one - at which she was leaning when he first entered the gallery. He played with - her wild curls; he whispered to her in a voice sweeter than the sweetest - serenade; but she only raised her eyes from his breast and stared wildly - at him, and then clung round his neck with, if possible, a tighter grasp. - </p> - <p> - For nearly half an hour did Vivian stand leaning against the window, with - his mystic and motionless companion. At length the wind again fell; there - was a break in the sky, and a single star appeared in the midst of the - clouds, surrounded with a little heaven of azure. - </p> - <p> - “See there, see there!” the lady cried, and then she unlocked her arms. - “What would you give, Vivian Grey, to read that star?” - </p> - <p> - “Am I more interested in that star, Amalia, than in any other of the - bright host?” asked Vivian with a serious tone, for he thought it - necessary to humour his companion. - </p> - <p> - “Are you not? is it not the star of your destiny?” - </p> - <p> - “Are you learned in all the learning of the Chaldeans, too?” - </p> - <p> - “Oh, no, no, no!” slowly murmured Mrs. Lorraine, and then she started: but - Vivian seized her arms, and prevented her from again clasping his neck. - </p> - <p> - “I must keep these pretty hands close prisoners,” he said, smiling, - “unless you promise to behave with more moderation. Come, my Amalia! you - shall be my instructress! Why am I so interested in this brilliant star?” - and holding her hands in one of his, he wound his arm round her waist, and - whispered her such words as he thought might calm her troubled spirit. The - wildness of her eyes gradually gave way; at length she raised them to - Vivian with a look of meek tenderness, and her head sank upon his breast. - </p> - <p> - “It shines, it shines, it shines, Vivian!” she softly whispered; “glory to - thee and woe to me! Nay, you need not hold my hands; I will not harm you. - I cannot: ‘tis no use. O Vivian! when we first met, how little did I know - to whom I pledged myself!” - </p> - <p> - “Amalia, forget these wild fancies; estrange yourself from the wild belief - which has exercised so baneful an influence, not only over your mind, but - over the very soul of the land from which you come. Recognise in me only - your friend, and leave the other world to those who value it more, or more - deserve it. Does not this fair earth contain sufficient of interest and - enjoyment?” - </p> - <p> - “O Vivian! you speak with a sweet voice, but with a sceptic’s spirit. You - know not what I know.” - </p> - <p> - “Tell me, then, my Amalia; let me share your secrets, provided they be - your sorrows.” - </p> - <p> - “Almost within this hour, and in this park, there has happened that which—” - and here her voice died, and she looked fearfully round her. - </p> - <p> - “Nay, fear not; no one can harm you here, no one shall harm you. Rest upon - me, and tell me all thy grief.” - </p> - <p> - “I dare not, I cannot tell you.” - </p> - <p> - “Nay, thou shalt.” - </p> - <p> - “I cannot speak; your eye scares me. Are you mocking me? I cannot speak if - you look so at me.” - </p> - <p> - “I will not look on you; I will gaze on yonder star. Now speak on.” - </p> - <p> - “O Vivian, there is a custom in my native land: the world calls it an - unhallowed one; you, in your proud spirit, will call it a vain one. But - you would not deem it vain if you were the woman now resting on your - bosom. At certain hours of particular nights, and with peculiar - ceremonies, which I need not here mention, we do believe that in a lake or - other standing water fate reveals itself to the solitary votary. O Vivian, - I have been too long a searcher after this fearful science; and this very - night, agitated in spirit, I sought yon water. The wind was in the right - direction, and everything concurred in favouring a propitious divination. - I knelt down to gaze on the lake. I had always been accustomed to view my - own figure performing some future action, or engaged in some future scene - of my life. I gazed, but I saw nothing but a brilliant star. I looked up - into the heavens, but the star was not there, and the clouds were driving - quick across the sky. More than usually agitated by this singular - occurrence, I gazed once more; and just at the moment when with breathless - and fearful expectation I waited the revelation of my immediate destiny - there flitted a figure across the water. It was there only for the - breathing of a second, and as it passed it mocked me.” Here Mrs. Lorraine - writhed in Vivian’s arms; her features were moulded in the same unnatural - expression as when he first entered the gallery, and the hideous grin was - again sculptured on her countenance. Her whole frame was in such a state - of agitation that she rose up and down in Vivian’s arms, and it was only - with the exertions of his whole strength that he could retain her. - </p> - <p> - “Why, Amalia, this, this was nothing; your own figure.” - </p> - <p> - “No, not my own; it was yours!” - </p> - <p> - Uttering a piercing shriek, which echoed through the winding gallery, she - swooned. - </p> - <p> - Vivian gazed on her in a state of momentary stupefaction, for the - extraordinary scene had begun to influence his own nerves. And now he - heard the tread of distant feet, and a light shone through the key-hole of - the nearest door. The fearful shriek had alarmed some of the household. - What was to be done? In desperation Vivian caught the lady up in his arms, - and dashing out of an opposite door bore her to her chamber. - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0032" id="link2HCH0032"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER VII - </h2> - <p> - What is this chapter to be about? Come, I am inclined to be courteous! You - shall choose the subject of it. What shall it be, sentiment or scandal? a - love-scene or a lay sermon? You will not choose? Then we must open the - note which Vivian, in the morning, found on his pillow:— - </p> - <p> - “Did you hear the horrid shriek last night? It must have disturbed every - one. I think it must have been one of the South American birds which - Captain Tropic gave the Marchioness. Do not they sometimes favour the - world with these nocturnal shriekings? Is not there a passage in Spix - apropos to this? A——.” - </p> - <p> - “Did you hear the shriek last night, Mr. Grey?” asked the Marchioness, as - Vivian entered the breakfast-room. - </p> - <p> - “Oh, yes! Mr. Grey, did you hear the shriek?” asked Miss Graves. - </p> - <p> - “Who did not?” - </p> - <p> - “What could it be?” said the Marchioness. - </p> - <p> - “What could it be?” said Miss Graves. - </p> - <p> - “What should it be; a cat in a gutter, or a sick cow, or a toad dying to - be devoured, Miss Graves?” - </p> - <p> - Always snub toadeys and led captains. It is only your greenhorns who - endeavour to make their way by fawning and cringing to every member of the - establishment. It is a miserable mistake. No one likes his dependants to - be treated with respect, for such treatment affords an unpleasant contrast - to his own conduct. Besides, it makes the toadey’s blood unruly. There are - three persons, mind you, to be attended to: my lord, or my lady, as the - case may be (usually the latter), the pet daughter, and the pet dog. I - throw out these hints en passant, for my principal objects in writing this - work are to amuse myself and to instruct society. In some future book, - probably the twentieth or twenty-fifth, when the plot begins to wear - threadbare, and we can afford a digression. I may give a chapter on - Domestic Tactics. - </p> - <p> - “My dear Marchioness,” continued Vivian, “see there: I have kept my - promise, there is your bracelet. How is Julie to-day?” - </p> - <p> - “Poor dear, I hope she is better.” - </p> - <p> - “Oh! yes, poor Julie. I think she is better.” - </p> - <p> - “I do not know that, Miss Graves,” said her Ladyship, somewhat tartly, not - at all approving of a toadey thinking. “I am afraid that scream last night - must have disturbed her. O dear, Mr. Grey, I am afraid she will be ill - again.” - </p> - <p> - Miss Graves looked mournful, and lifted up her eyes and hands to Heaven, - but did not dare to speak this time. - </p> - <p> - “I thought she looked a little heavy about the eyes this morning,” said - the Marchioness, apparently very agitated; “and I have heard from Eglamour - this post; he is not well, too; I think everybody is ill now; he has - caught a fever going to see the ruins of Paestum. I wonder why people go - to see ruins!” - </p> - <p> - “I wonder, indeed,” said Miss Graves; “I never could see anything in a - ruin.” - </p> - <p> - “O, Mr. Grey!” continued the Marchioness, “I really am afraid Julie is - going to be very ill.” - </p> - <p> - “Let Miss Graves pull her tail and give her a little mustard seed: she - will be better tomorrow.” - </p> - <p> - “Remember that, Miss Graves.” - </p> - <p> - “Oh! y-e-s, my Lady!” - </p> - <p> - “Mrs. Felix,” said the Marchioness, as that lady entered the room, “you - are late to-day; I always reckon upon you as a supporter of an early - breakfast at Desir.” - </p> - <p> - “I have been half round the park.” - </p> - <p> - “Did you hear the scream, Mrs. Felix?” - </p> - <p> - “Do you know what it was, Marchioness?” - </p> - <p> - “No: do you?” - </p> - <p> - “See the reward of early rising and a walk before breakfast. It was one of - your new American birds, and it has half torn down your aviary.” - </p> - <p> - “One of the new Americans? O the naughty thing; and has it broken the new - fancy wirework?” - </p> - <p> - Here a little odd-looking, snuffy old man, with a brown scratch wig, who - had been very busily employed the whole breakfast-time with a cold game - pie, the bones of which Vivian observed him most scientifically pick and - polish, laid down his knife and fork, and addressed the Marchioness with - an air of great interest. - </p> - <p> - “Pray, will your Ladyship have the goodness to inform me what bird this - is?” - </p> - <p> - The Marchioness looked astounded at any one presuming to ask her a - question; and then she drawled, “Mr. Grey, you know everything; tell this - gentleman what some bird is.” - </p> - <p> - Now this gentleman was Mr. Mackaw, the most celebrated ornithologist - extant, and who had written a treatise on Brazilian parroquets, in three - volumes folio. He had arrived late at the Château the preceding night, - and, although he had the honour of presenting his letter of introduction - to the Marquess, this morning was the first time he had been seen by any - of the party present, who were of course profoundly ignorant of his - character. - </p> - <p> - “Oh! we were talking of some South American bird given to the Marchioness - by the famous Captain Tropic; you know him, perhaps; Bolivar’s - brother-in-law, or aide-de-camp, or something of that kind; and which - screams so dreadfully at night that the whole family is disturbed. The - Chowchowtow it is called; is not it, Mrs. Lorraine?” - </p> - <p> - “The Chowchowtow!” said Mr. Mackaw; “I don’t know it by that name.” - </p> - <p> - “Do not you? I dare say we shall find an account of it in Spix, however,” - said Vivian, rising, and taking a volume from the book-case; “ay! here it - is; I will read it to you.” - </p> - <p> - “‘The Chowchowtow is about five feet seven inches in height from the point - of the bill to the extremity of the claws. Its plumage is of a dingy, - yellowish white; its form is elegant, and in its movements and action a - certain pleasing and graceful dignity is observable; but its head is by no - means worthy of the rest of its frame; and the expression of its eye is - indicative of the cunning and treachery of its character. The habits of - this bird are peculiar: occasionally most easily domesticated, it is - apparently sensible of the slightest kindness; but its regard cannot be - depended upon, and for the slightest inducement, or with the least - irritation, it will fly at its feeder. At other times it seeks perfect - solitude, and can only be captured with the utmost skill and perseverance. - It generally feeds three times a day, but its appetite is not rapacious; - it sleeps little, is usually on the wing at sunrise, and proves that it - slumbers but little in the night by its nocturnal and thrilling shrieks.’” - </p> - <p> - “What an extraordinary bird! Is that the bird you meant, Mrs. Felix - Lorraine?” - </p> - <p> - Mr. Mackaw was restless the whole time that Vivian was reading this - interesting passage. At last he burst forth with an immense deal of - science and a great want of construction, a want which scientific men - often experience, always excepting those mealy-mouthed professors who - lecture “at the Royal,” and get patronised by the blues, the Lavoisiers of - May Fair! - </p> - <p> - “Chowchowtow, my Lady! five feet seven inches high! Brazilian bird! When I - just remind your Ladyship that the height of the tallest bird to be found - in Brazil, and in mentioning this fact, I mention nothing hypothetical, - the tallest bird does not stand higher than four feet nine. Chowchowtow! - Dr. Spix is a name, accurate traveller, don’t remember the passage, most - singular bird! Chowchowtow! don’t know it by that name. Perhaps your - Ladyship is not aware; I think you called that gentleman Mr. Grey; perhaps - Mr. Grey is not aware, that I am Mr. Mackaw, I arrived late here last - night, whose work in three volumes folio, on Brazilian Parroquets, - although I had the honour of seeing his Lordship is, I trust, a sufficient - evidence that I am not speaking at random on this subject; and - consequently, from the lateness of the hour, could not have the honour of - being introduced to your Ladyship.” - </p> - <p> - “Mr. Mackaw!” thought Vivian. “The deuce you are! Oh! why did I not say a - Columbian cassowary, or a Peruvian penguin, or a Chilian condor, or a - Guatemalan goose, or a Mexican mastard; anything but Brazilian. Oh! - unfortunate Vivian Grey!” - </p> - <p> - The Marchioness, who was quite overcome with this scientific appeal, - raised her large, beautiful, sleepy eyes from a delicious compound of - French roll and new milk, which she was working up in a Sèvre saucer for - Julie; and then, as usual, looked to Vivian for assistance. - </p> - <p> - “Mr. Grey, you know everything; tell Mr. Mackaw about a bird.” - </p> - <p> - “Is there any point on which you differ from Spix in his account of the - Chowchowtow, Mr. Mackaw?” - </p> - <p> - “My dear sir, I don’t follow him at all. Dr. Spix is a most excellent man, - a most accurate traveller, quite a name; but, to be sure, I’ve only read - his work in our own tongue; and I fear from the passage you have just - quoted, five feet seven inches high! in Brazil! it must be an imperfect - version. I say, that four feet nine is the greatest height I know. I don’t - speak without some foundation for my statement. The only bird I know above - that height is the Paraguay cassowary; which, to be sure, is sometimes - found in Brazil. But the description of your bird, Mr. Grey, does not - answer that at all. I ought to know. I do not speak at random. The only - living specimen of that extraordinary bird, the Paraguay cassowary, in - this country, is in my possession. It was sent me by Bompland, and was - given to him by the Dictator of Paraguay himself. I call it, in - compliment, Doctor Francia. I arrived here so late last night, only saw - his Lordship, or I would have had it on the lawn this morning.” - </p> - <p> - “Oh, then, Mr. Mackaw,” said Vivian, “that was the bird which screamed - last night!” - </p> - <p> - “Oh, yes! oh, yes! Mr. Mackaw,” said Mrs. Felix Lorraine. - </p> - <p> - “Lady Carabas!” continued Vivian, “it is found out. It is Mr. Mackaw’s - particular friend, his family physician, whom he always travels with, that - awoke us all last night.” - </p> - <p> - “Is he a foreigner?” asked the Marchioness, looking up. - </p> - <p> - “My dear Mr. Grey, impossible! the Doctor never screams.” - </p> - <p> - “Oh! Mr. Mackaw, Mr. Mackaw!” said Vivian. - </p> - <p> - “Oh! Mr. Mackaw, Mr. Mackaw!” said Mrs. Felix Lorraine. - </p> - <p> - “I tell you he never screams,” reiterated the man of science; “I tell you - he can’t scream; he’s muzzled.” - </p> - <p> - “Oh, then, it must have been the Chowchowtow.” - </p> - <p> - “Yes, I think it must have been the Chowchowtow.” - </p> - <p> - “I should very much like to hear Spix’s description again,” said Mr. - Mackaw, “only I fear it is troubling you too much, Mr. Grey.” - </p> - <p> - “Read it yourself, my dear sir,” said Vivian, putting the book into his - hand, which was the third volume of Tremaine. - </p> - <p> - Mr. Mackaw looked at the volume, and turned it over, and sideways, and - upside downwards: the brain of a man who has written three folios on - parroquets is soon puzzled. At first, he thought the book was a novel; but - then, an essay on predestination, under the title of Memoirs of a Man of - Refinement, rather puzzled him; then he mistook it for an Oxford reprint - of Pearson on the Creed; and then he stumbled on rather a warm scene in an - old Château in the South of France. - </p> - <p> - Before Mr. Mackaw could gain the power of speech the door opened, and - entered, who? Dr. Francia. - </p> - <p> - Mr. Mackaw’s travelling companion possessed the awkward accomplishment of - opening doors, and now strutted in, in quest of his beloved master. - Affection for Mr. Mackaw was not, however, the only cause which induced - this entrance. - </p> - <p> - The household of Château Desir, unused to cassowaries, had neglected to - supply Dr. Francia with his usual breakfast, which consisted of half a - dozen pounds of rump steaks, a couple of bars of hard iron, some pig lead, - and brown stout. The consequence was, the Dictator was sadly famished. - </p> - <p> - All the ladies screamed; and then Mrs. Felix Lorraine admired the Doctor’s - violet neck, and the Marchioness looked with an anxious eye on Julie, and - Miss Graves, as in duty bound, with an anxious eye on the Marchioness. - </p> - <p> - There stood the Doctor, quite still, with his large yellow eye fixed on - Mr. Mackaw. At length he perceived the cold pasty, and his little black - wings began to flutter on the surface of his immense body. - </p> - <p> - “Che, che, che, che!” said the ornithologist, who did not like the - symptoms at all: “Che, che, che, che, don’t be frightened, ladies! you see - he’s muzzled; che, che, che, che, now, my dear doctor, now, now, now, - Franky, Franky, Franky, now go away, go away, that’s a dear doctor, che, - che, che, che!” - </p> - <p> - But the large yellow eye grew more flaming and fiery, and the little black - wings grew larger and larger; and now the left leg was dashed to and fro - with a fearful agitation. Mackaw looked agonised. What a whirr! Francia is - on the table! All shriek, the chairs tumble over the ottomans, the Sèvre - china is in a thousand pieces, the muzzle is torn off and thrown at Miss - Graves; Mackaw’s wig is dashed in the clotted cream, and devoured on the - spot; and the contents of the boiling urn are poured over the beauteous - and beloved Julie! - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0033" id="link2HCH0033"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER VIII - </h2> - <p> - THE HONOURABLE CYNTHIA COURTOWN TO VIVIAN GREY, ESQ. - </p> - <p> - “Alburies, Oct. 18—. - </p> - <p> - “DEAR GREY, - </p> - <p> - “We have now been at Alburies for a fortnight. Nothing can be more - delightful. Here is everybody in the world that I wish to see, except - yourself. The Knightons, with as many outriders as usual: Lady Julia and - myself are great allies; I like her amazingly. The Marquess of Grandgoût - arrived here last week, with a most delicious party; all the men who write - ‘John Bull.’ I was rather disappointed at the first sight of Stanislaus - Hoax. I had expected, I do not know why, something juvenile and squibbish, - when lo! I was introduced to a corpulent individual, with his coat - buttoned up to his chin, looking dull, gentlemanlike, and apoplectic. - However, on acquaintance, he came out quite rich, sings delightfully, and - improvises like a prophet, ten thousand times more entertaining than - Pistrucci. We are sworn friends; and I know all the secret history of - ‘John Bull.’ There is not much, to be sure, that you did not tell me - yourself; but still there are some things. I must not trust them, however, - to paper, and therefore pray dash down to Alburies immediately; I shall be - most happy to introduce you to Lord Devildrain. There <i>was</i> an - interview. What think you of that? Stanislaus told me all, - circumstantially, and after dinner; I do not doubt that it is quite true. - What would you give for the secret history of the ‘rather yellow, rather - yellow,’ chanson? I dare not tell it you. It came from a quarter that will - quite astound you, and in a very elegant, small, female hand. You remember - Lambton did stir very awkwardly in the Lisbon business. Stanislaus wrote - all the songs that appeared in the first number, except that; but he never - wrote a single line of prose for the first three months: it all came from - Vivida Vis. - </p> - <p> - “I like the Marquess of Grandgoût so much! I hope he will be elevated in - the peerage: he looks as if he wanted it so! Poor dear man!” - </p> - <p> - “Oh! do you know I have discovered a liaison between Bull and Blackwood. I - am to be in the next Noctes; I forget the words of the chorus exactly, but - Courtown is to rhyme with port down, or something of that kind, and then - they are to dash their glasses over their heads, give three cheers, and - adjourn to whisky-toddy and the Chaldee chamber. How delightful! - </p> - <p> - “The Prima Donnas are at Cheltenham, looking most respectable. Do you ever - see the ‘Age’? It is not proper for me to take it in. Pray send me down - your numbers, and tell me all about it. Is it true that his Lordship - paragraphises a little? - </p> - <p> - “I have not heard from Ernest Clay, which I think very odd. If you write - to him, mention this, and tell him to send me word how Dormer Stanhope - behaves at mess. I understand there has been a melee, not much; merely a - rouette; do get it all out of him. - </p> - <p> - “Colonel Delmington is at Cheltenham, with the most knowing beard you can - possibly conceive; Lady Julia rather patronises him. Lady Doubtful has - been turned out of the rooms; fifty challenges in consequence and one - duel; missed fire, of course. - </p> - <p> - “I have heard from Alhambra; he has been wandering about in all - directions. He has been to the Lakes, and is now at Edinburgh. He likes - Southey. He gave the laureate a quantity of hints for his next volume of - the Peninsular War, but does not speak very warmly of Wordsworth: - gentlemanly man, but only reads his own poetry. - </p> - <p> - “Here has been a cousin of yours about us; a young barrister going the - circuit; by name Hargrave Grey. The name attracted my notice, and due - inquiries having been made and satisfactorily answered, I patronised the - limb of law. Fortunate for him! I got him to all the fancy balls and - pic-nics that were going on. He was in heaven for a fortnight, and at - length, having overstayed his time, he left us, also leaving his bag and - only brief behind him. They say he is ruined for life. Write soon. - </p> - <p> - “Yours ever, - </p> - <p> - “CYNTHIA COURTOWN.” ERNEST CLAY, ESQ., TO VIVIAN GREY, ESQ. - </p> - <p> - “October, 18—. - </p> - <p> - “DEAR GREY, - </p> - <p> - “I am sick of key-bugles and country-balls! All the girls in the town are - in love with me, or my foraging cap. I am very much obliged to you for - your letter to Kennet, which procured everything I wanted. The family - turned out bores, as you had prepared me. I never met such a clever family - in my life; the father is summoning up courage to favour the world with a - volume of sermons; and Isabella Kennet most satisfactorily proved to me, - after an argument of two hours, which for courtesy’s sake I fought very - manfully, that Sir Walter Scott was not the author of Waverley; and then - she vowed, as I have heard fifty young literary ladies vow before, that - she had ‘seen the Antiquary in manuscript.’ - </p> - <p> - “There has been a slight row to diversify the monotony of our military - life. Young Premium, the son of the celebrated loan-monger, has bought in; - and Dormer Stanhope, and one or two others equally fresh, immediately - anticipated another Battier business; but, with the greatest desire to - make a fool of myself, I have a natural repugnance to mimicking the - foolery of others; so with some little exertion, and very fortunately for - young Premium, I got the tenth voted vulgar, on the score of curiosity, - and we were civil to the man. As it turned out, it was all very well, for - Premium is a quiet, gentlemanlike fellow enough, and exceedingly useful. - He will keep extra grooms for the whole mess, if they want it. He is very - grateful to me for what does not deserve any gratitude, and for what gave - me no trouble; for I did not defend him from any feeling of kindness: and - both the Mounteneys, and young Stapylton Toad, and Augustus, being in the - regiment, why, I have very little trouble in commanding a majority, if it - come to a division. - </p> - <p> - “I dined the other day at old Premium’s, who lives near this town in a - magnificent old hall; which, however, is not nearly splendid enough for a - man who is the creditor of every nation from California to China; and, - consequently, the great Mr. Stucco is building a plaster castle for him in - another part of the park. Glad am I enough that I was prevailed upon to - patronise the Premium; for I think I seldom witnessed a more amusing scene - than I did the day I dined there. - </p> - <p> - “I was ushered through an actual street of servitors, whose liveries were - really cloth of gold, and whose elaborately powdered heads would not have - disgraced the most ancient mansion in St. James’s Square, into a large and - crowded saloon. I was, of course, received with miraculous consideration; - and the ear of Mrs. Premium seemed to dwell upon the jingling of my spurs - (for I am adjutant) as upon exquisite music. It was <i>bonâ fide</i> - evidence of ‘the officers being there.’ - </p> - <p> - “Premium is a short, but by no means vulgar-looking man, about fifty, with - a high forehead covered with wrinkles, and with eyes deep sunk in his - head. I never met a man of apparently less bustle, and of a cooler - temperament. He was an object of observation from his very - unobtrusiveness. There were, I immediately perceived, a great number of - foreigners in the room. They looked much too knowing for Arguelles and - Co., and I soon found that they were members of the different embassies, - or missions of the various Governments to whose infant existence Premium - is foster father. There were two striking figures in Oriental costume, who - were shown to me as the Greek Deputies; not that you are to imagine that - they always appear in this picturesque dress. It was only as a particular - favour, and to please Miss Premium (there, Grey, my boy! there is a - quarry!), that the illustrious envoys appeared habited this day in their - national costume. - </p> - <p> - “You would have enjoyed the scene. In one part of the room was a naval - officer, just hot from the mines of Mexico, and lecturing eloquently on - the passing of the Cordillera. In another was a man of science, dilating - on the miraculous powers of a newly-discovered amalgamation process to a - knot of merchants, who, with bent brows and eager eyes, were already - forming a Company for its adoption. Here floated the latest anecdote of - Bolivar; and there a murmur of some new movement of Cochrane’s. And then - the perpetual babble about ‘rising states,’ and ‘new loans,’ and - ‘enlightened views,’ and ‘juncture of the two oceans,’ and ‘liberal - principles,’ and ‘steamboats to Mexico,’ and the earnest look which every - one had in the room. How different to the vacant gaze that we have been - accustomed to! I was really particularly struck by the circumstance. Every - one at Premium’s looked full of some great plan, as if the fate of empires - wag on his very breath. I hardly knew whether they were most like - conspirators, or gamblers, or the lions of a public dinner, conscious of - an universal gaze, and consequently looking proportionately interesting. - One circumstance particularly struck me: as I was watching the acute - countenance of an individual, who young Premium informed me was the - Chilian minister, and who was listening with great attention to a - dissertation from Captain Tropic, the celebrated traveller, on the - feasibility of a railroad over the Andes, I observed a great sensation - among those around me; every one shifting, and shuffling, and staring, and - assisting in that curious and confusing ceremony called ‘making way.’ Even - Premium appeared a little excited when he came forward with a smile on his - face to receive an individual, apparently a foreigner, and who stepped on - with great though gracious dignity. Being curious to know who this great - man was, I found that this was an ambassador, the representative of a - recognised state. - </p> - <p> - “‘Pon my honour, when I saw all this, I could not refrain from moralising - on the magic of wealth; and when I just remembered the embryo plot of some - young Hussar officers to cut the son of the magician, I rather smiled; but - while I, with even greater reverence than all others, was making way for - his Excellency, I observed Mrs. Premium looking at my spurs. ‘Farewell - Philosophy!’ thought I; ‘Puppyism for ever!’ - </p> - <p> - “Dinner was at last announced, and the nice etiquette which was observed - between recognised states and non-recognised states was really excessively - amusing: not only the ambassador would take precedence of the mere - political agent, but his Excellency’s private secretary was equally - tenacious as to the agent’s private secretary. At length we were all - seated: the spacious dining-room was hung round with portraits of most of - the successful revolutionary leaders, and over Mr. Premium was suspended a - magnificent portrait of Bolivar. If you could but have seen the plate! By - Jove! I have eaten off the silver of most of the first families in - England, yet never in my life did it enter into my imagination that it was - possible for the most ingenious artist that ever existed to repeat a crest - half so often in a tablespoon as in that of Premium. The crest is a - bubble, and really the effect produced by it is most ludicrous. - </p> - <p> - “I was very much struck at table by the appearance of an individual who - came in very late, but who was evidently, by his bearing, no insignificant - personage. He was a tall man, with a long hooked nose and high cheek - bones, and with an eye (were you ever at the Old Bailey? there you may see - its fellow); his complexion looked as if it had been accustomed to the - breezes of many climes, and his hair, which had once been red, was now - silvered, or rather iron-greyed, not by age. Yet there was in his whole - bearing, in his slightest actions, even in the easy, desperate air with - which he took a glass of wine, an indefinable something (you know what I - mean) which attracted your unremitting attention to him. I was not wrong - in my suspicions of his celebrity; for, as Miss Premium, whom I sat next - to, whispered, ‘he was quite a lion.’ It was Lord Oceanville What he is - after no one knows. Some say he is going to Greece, others whisper an - invasion of Paraguay, and others, of course, say other things; perhaps - equally correct. I think he is for Greece. I know he is one of the most - extraordinary men I ever met with. I am getting prosy. Good-bye! Write - soon. Any fun going on? How is Cynthia? I ought to have written. How is - Mrs. Felix Lorraine? She is a deuced odd woman! - </p> - <p> - “Yours faithfully, - </p> - <p> - “ERNEST CLAY.” HARGRAVE GREY, ESQ., TO VIVIAN GREY, ESQ. - </p> - <p> - “October, 18—. - </p> - <p> - “DEAR VIVIAN, - </p> - <p> - “You ought not to expect a letter from me. I cannot conceive why you do - not occasionally answer your correspondents’ letters, if correspondents - they may be called. It is really a most unreasonable habit of yours; any - one but myself would quarrel with you. - </p> - <p> - “A letter from Baker met me at this place, and I find that the whole of - that most disagreeable and annoying business is arranged. From the - promptitude, skill, and energy which are apparent in the whole affair, I - suspect I have to thank the very gentleman whom I was just going to - quarrel with. You are a good fellow, Vivian, after all. For want of a - brief, I sit down to give you a sketch of my adventures on this my first - circuit. - </p> - <p> - “This circuit is a cold and mercantile adventure, and I am disappointed in - it. Not so either, for I looked for but little to enjoy. Take one day of - my life as a specimen; the rest are mostly alike. The sheriff’s trumpets - are playing; one, some tune of which I know nothing, and the other no tune - at all. I am obliged to turn out at eight. It is the first day of the - Assize, so there is some chance of a brief, being a new place. I push my - way into court through files of attorneys, as civil to the rogues as - possible, assuring them there is plenty of room, though I am at the very - moment gasping for breath wedged-in in a lane of well-lined waistcoats. I - get into court, take my place in the quietest corner, and there I sit, and - pass other men’s fees and briefs like a twopenny postman, only without - pay. Well! ‘tis six o’clock, dinner-time, at the bottom of the table, - carve for all, speak to none, nobody speaks to me, must wait till last to - sum up, and pay the bill. Reach home quite devoured by spleen, after - having heard every one abused who happened to be absent. - </p> - <p> - “I travelled to this place with Manners, whom I believe you know, and - amused myself by getting from him an account of my fellows, anticipating, - at the same time, what in fact happened; to wit, that I should afterwards - get his character from them. It is strange how freely they deal with each - other; that is, the person spoken of being away. I would not have had you - see our Stanhope for half a hundred pounds; your jealousy would have been - so excited. To say the truth, we are a little rough; our mane wants - pulling and our hoofs trimming, but we jog along without performing either - operation; and, by dint of rattling the whip against the splash-board, - using all one’s persuasion of hand and voice, and jerking the bit in his - mouth, we do contrive to get into the circuit town, usually, just about - the time that the sheriff and his <i>posse comitatus</i> are starting to - meet my Lord the King’s Justice: and that is the worst of it; for their - horses are prancing and pawing coursers just out of the stable, sleek - skins and smart drivers. We begin to be knocked up just then, and our - appearance is the least brilliant of any part of the day. Here I had to - pass through a host of these powdered, scented fops; and the multitude who - had assembled to gaze on the nobler exhibition rather scoffed at our - humble vehicle. As Manners had just then been set down to find the inn and - lodging, I could not jump out and leave our equipage to its fate, so I - settled my cravat, and seemed not to mind it, only I did. - </p> - <p> - “But I must leave off this nonsense, and attend to his Lordship’s charge, - which is now about to commence. I have not been able to get you a single - good murder, although I have kept a sharp look-out, as you desired me; but - there is a chance of a first-rate one at ——n. - </p> - <p> - “I am quite delighted with Mr. Justice St. Prose. He is at this moment in - a most entertaining passion, preparatory to a ‘conscientious’ summing up; - and in order that his ideas may not be disturbed, he has very liberally - ordered the door-keeper to have the door oiled immediately, at his own - expense. Now for my Lord the King’s Justice. - </p> - <p> - “‘Gentlemen of the Jury, - </p> - <p> - “‘The noise is insufferable, the heat is intolerable, the door-keepers let - the people keep shuffling in, the ducks in the corner are going quack, - quack, quack, here’s a little girl being tried for her life, and the judge - can’t hear a word that’s said. Bring me my black cap, and I’ll condemn her - to death instantly.’ - </p> - <p> - “‘You can’t, my Lord.’ shrieks the infant sinner; ‘it’s only for petty - larceny!’ - </p> - <p> - “I have just got an invite from the Kearneys. Congratulate me. - </p> - <p> - “Dear Vivian, yours faithfully, - </p> - <p> - “HARGRAVE GREY.” LADY SCROPE TO VIVIAN GREY, ESQ. - </p> - <p> - “Ormsby Park, Oct. 18—. - </p> - <p> - “MY DEAR VIVIAN, - </p> - <p> - “By desire of Sir Berdmore, I have to request the fulfilment of a promise, - upon the hope of which being performed I have existed through this dull - month. Pray, my dear Vivian, come to us immediately. Ormsby has at present - little to offer for your entertainment. We have had that unendurable bore - Vivacity Dull with us for a whole fortnight. A report of the death of the - Lord Chancellor, or a rumour of the production of a new tragedy, has - carried him up to town; but whether it be to ask for the seals, or to - indite an ingenious prologue to a play which will be condemned the first - night, I cannot inform you. I am quite sure he is capable of doing either. - However, we shall have other deer in a few days. - </p> - <p> - “I believe you have never met the Mounteneys. They have never been at - Hallesbrooke since you have been at Desir. They are coming to us - immediately. I am sure you will like them very much. Lord Mounteney is one - of those kind, easy-minded, accomplished men, who, after all, are nearly - the pleasantest society one ever meets. Rather wild in his youth, but with - his estate now unencumbered, and himself perfectly domestic. His lady is - an unaffected, agreeable woman. But it is Caroline Mounteney whom I wish - you particularly to meet. She is one of those delicious creatures who, in - spite of not being married, are actually conversable. Spirited, without - any affectation or brusquerie; beautiful, and knowing enough to be quite - conscious of it; perfectly accomplished, and yet never annoying you with - tattle about Bochsa, and Ronzi de Begnis, and D’Egville. - </p> - <p> - “We also expect the Delmonts, the most endurable of the Anglo-Italians - that I know. Mrs. Delmont is not always dropping her handkerchief like - Lady Gusto, as if she expected a miserable cavalier servente to be - constantly upon his knees; or giving those odious expressive looks, which - quite destroy my nerves whenever I am under the same roof as that horrible - Lady Soprano. There is a little too much talk, to be sure, about Roman - churches, and newly-discovered mosaics, and Abbate Maii, but still we - cannot expect perfection. There are reports going about that Ernest Clay - is either ruined or going to be married. Perhaps both are true. Young - Premium has nearly lost his character by driving a square-built, striped - green thing, drawn by one horse. Ernest Clay got him through this terrible - affair. What can be the reasons of the Sieur Ernest’s excessive - amiability? - </p> - <p> - “Both the young Mounteneys are with their regiment, but Aubrey Vere is - coming to us, and I have half a promise from—; but I know you never - speak to unmarried men, so why do I mention them? Let me, I beseech you, - my dear Vivian, have a few days of you to myself before Ormsby is full, - and before you are introduced to Caroline Mounteney. I did not think it - was possible that I could exist so long without seeing you; but you really - must not try me too much, or I shall quarrel with you. I have received all - your letters, which are very, very agreeable; but I think rather, rather - impudent. Adieu! - </p> - <p> - “HARRIETTE SCROPE.” HORACE GREY, ESQ., TO VIVIAN GREY, ESQ. - </p> - <p> - “Paris, Oct. 18—. - </p> - <p> - “MY DEAR VIVIAN, - </p> - <p> - “I have received yours of the 9th, and have read it with mixed feelings of - astonishment and sorrow. - </p> - <p> - “You are now, my dear son, a member of what is called the great world; - society formed on anti-social principles. Apparently you have possessed - yourself of the object of your wishes; but the scenes you live in are very - moveable; the characters you associate with are all masked; and it will - always be doubtful whether you can retain that long, which has been - obtained by some slippery artifice. Vivian, you are a juggler; and the - deceptions of your sleight-of-hand tricks depend upon instantaneous - motions. - </p> - <p> - “When the selfish combine with the selfish, bethink you how many projects - are doomed to disappointment! how many cross interests baffle the parties - at the same time joined together without ever uniting. What a mockery is - their love! but how deadly are their hatreds! All this great society, with - whom so young an adventurer has trafficked, abate nothing of their price - in the slavery of their service and the sacrifice of violated feelings. - What sleepless nights has it cost you to win over the disobliged, to - conciliate the discontented, to cajole the contumatious! You may smile at - the hollow flatteries, answering to flatteries as hollow, which like - bubbles when they touch, dissolve into nothing; but tell me, Vivian, what - has the self-tormentor felt at the laughing treacheries which force a man - down into self-contempt? - </p> - <p> - “Is it not obvious, my dear Vivian, that true Fame and true Happiness must - rest upon the imperishable social affections? I do not mean that coterie - celebrity which paltry minds accept as fame; but that which exists - independent of the opinions or the intrigues of individuals: nor do I mean - that glittering show of perpetual converse with the world which some - miserable wanderers call Happiness; but that which can only be drawn from - the sacred and solitary fountain of your own feelings. - </p> - <p> - “Active as you have now become in the great scenes of human affairs, I - would not have you be guided by any fanciful theories of morals or of - human nature. Philosophers have amused themselves by deciding on human - actions by systems; but, as these system? are of the most opposite - natures, it is evident that each philosopher, in reflecting his own - feelings in the system he has so elaborately formed, has only painted his - own character. - </p> - <p> - “Do not, therefore, conclude, with Hobbes and Mandeville, that man lives - in a state of civil warfare with man; nor with Shaftesbury, adorn with a - poetical philosophy our natural feelings. Man is neither the vile nor the - excellent being which he sometimes imagines himself to be. He does not so - much act by system as by sympathy. If this creature cannot always feel for - others, he is doomed to feel for himself; and the vicious are, at least, - blessed with the curse of remorse. - </p> - <p> - “You are now inspecting one of the worst portions of society in what is - called the great world (St. Giles’ is bad, but of another kind), and it - may be useful, on the principle that the actual sight of brutal ebriety - was supposed to have inspired youth with the virtue of temperance; on the - same principle that the Platonist, in the study of deformity, conceived - the beautiful. Let me warn you not to fall into the usual error of youth - in fancying that the circle you move in is precisely the world itself. Do - not imagine that there are not other beings, whose benevolent principle is - governed by finer sympathies, by more generous passions, and by those - nobler emotions which really constitute all our public and private - virtues. I give you this hint, lest, in your present society, you might - suppose these virtues were merely historical. - </p> - <p> - “Once more, I must beseech you not to give loose to any elation of mind. - The machinery by which you have attained this unnatural result must be so - complicated that in the very tenth hour you will find yourself stopped in - some part where you never counted on an impediment; and the want of a - slight screw or a little oil will prevent you from accomplishing your - magnificent end. - </p> - <p> - “We are, and have been, very dull here. There is every probability - of Madame de Genlis writing more volumes than ever. I called on the old - lady, and was quite amused with the enthusiasm of her imbecility. - Chateaubriand is getting what you call a bore; and the whole city is mad - about a new opera by Boieldieu. Your mother sends her love, and desires - me to say, that the <i>salmi</i> of woodcocks, <i>à la Lucullus</i>, - which you write about, does not differ from the practice here in vogue. - How does your cousin Hargrave prosper on his circuit? The Delmingtons are - here, which makes it very pleasant for your mother, as well as for - myself; for it allows me to hunt over the old bookshops at my leisure. - There are no new books worth sending you, or they would accompany this; - but I would recommend you to get Meyer’s new volume from Treüttel - and Wurtz, and continue to make notes as you read it. Give my compliments - to the Marquess, and believe me, - </p> - <p> - “Your affectionate father, - </p> - <p> - “HORACE GREY.” <a name="link2HCH0034" id="link2HCH0034"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER IX - </h2> - <p> - It was impossible for any human being to behave with more kindness than - the Marquess of Carabas did to Vivian Grey after that young gentleman’s - short conversation with Mrs. Felix Lorraine in the conservatory. The only - feeling which seemed to actuate the Peer was an eager desire to - compensate, by his present conduct, for any past misunderstanding, and he - loaded his young friend with all possible favour. Still Vivian was about - to quit Château Desir; and in spite of all that had passed, he was - extremely loth to leave his noble friend under the guardianship of his - female one. - </p> - <p> - About this time, the Duke and Duchess of Juggernaut, the very pink of - aristocracy, the wealthiest, the proudest, the most ancient, and most - pompous couple in Christendom, honoured Château Desir with their presence - for two days; only two days, making the Marquess’s mansion a convenient - resting-place in one of their princely progresses to one of their princely - castles. - </p> - <p> - Vivian contrived to gain the heart of her Grace by his minute acquaintance - with the Juggernaut pedigree; and having taken the opportunity, in one of - their conversations, to describe Mrs. Felix Lorraine as the most perfect - specimen of divine creation with which he was acquainted, at the same time - the most amusing and the most amiable of women, that lady was honoured - with an invitation to accompany her Grace to Himalaya Castle. As this was - the greatest of all possible honours, and as Desir was now very dull, Mrs. - Felix Lorraine accepted the invitation, or rather obeyed the command, for - the Marquess would not hear of a refusal, Vivian having dilated in the - most energetic terms on the opening which now presented itself of gaining - the Juggernaut. The coast being thus cleared, Vivian set off the next day - for Sir Berdmore Scrope’s. - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2H_4_0040" id="link2H_4_0040"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - BOOK IV - </h2> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0035" id="link2HCH0035"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER I - </h2> - <p> - The important hour drew nigh. Christmas was to be passed by the Carabas - family, the Beaconsfields, the Scropes, and the Clevelands at Lord - Courtown’s villa at Richmond; at which place, on account of its vicinity - to the metropolis, the Viscount had determined to make out the holidays, - notwithstanding the Thames entered his kitchen windows, and the Donna del - Lago was acted in the theatre with real water, Cynthia Courtown performing - Elena, paddling in a punt. - </p> - <p> - “Let us order our horses, Cleveland, round to the Piccadilly gate, and - walk through the Guards. I must stretch my legs. That bore, Horace - Buttonhole, captured me in Pall Mall East, and has kept me in the same - position for upwards of half an hour. I shall make a note to blackball him - at the Athenaeum. How is Mrs. Cleveland?” - </p> - <p> - “Extremely well. She goes down to Buckhurst Lodge with Lady Carabas. Is - not that Lord Lowersdale?” - </p> - <p> - “His very self. He is going to call on Vivida Vis, I have no doubt. - Lowersdale is a man of very considerable talent; much more than the world - gives him credit for.” - </p> - <p> - “And he doubtless finds a very able counsellor in Monsieur le Sécrétaire?” - </p> - <p> - “Can you name a better one?” - </p> - <p> - “You rather patronise Vivida, I think, Grey?” - </p> - <p> - “Patronise him! he is my political pet!” - </p> - <p> - “And yet Kerrison tells me you reviewed the Suffolk papers in the - Edinburgh.” - </p> - <p> - “So I did; what of that? I defended them in Blackwood.” - </p> - <p> - “This, then, is the usual method of you literary gentlemen. Thank God! I - never could write a line.” - </p> - <p> - “York House rises proudly; if York House be its name.” - </p> - <p> - “This confounded Catholic Question is likely to give us a great deal of - trouble, Grey. It is perfect madness for us to advocate the cause of the - ‘six millions of hereditary bondsmen;’ and yet, with not only the - Marchese, but even Courtown and Beaconsfield committed, it is, to say the - least, a very delicate business.” - </p> - <p> - “Very delicate, certainly; but there are some precedents, I suspect, - Cleveland, for the influence of a party being opposed to measures which - the heads of that party had pledged themselves to adopt.” - </p> - <p> - “Does old Gifford still live at Pimlico, Grey?” - </p> - <p> - “Still.” - </p> - <p> - “He is a splendid fellow, after all.” - </p> - <p> - “Certainly, a mind of great powers, but bigoted.” - </p> - <p> - “Oh, yes! I know exactly what you are going to say. It is the fashion, I - am aware, to abuse the old gentleman. He is the Earl of Eldon of - literature; not the less loved because a little vilified. But, when I just - remember what Gifford has done; when I call to mind the perfect and - triumphant success of everything he has undertaken; the Anti-Jacobin, the - Baviad and Maeviad, the Quarterly; all palpable hits, on the very jugular; - I hesitate before I speak of William Gifford in any other terms, or in any - other spirit, than those of admiration and of gratitude. - </p> - <p> - “And to think. Grey, that the Tory Administration and the Tory party of - Great Britain should never, by one single act, or in a single instance, - have indicated that they were in the least aware that the exertions of - such a man differed in the slightest degree from those of Hunt and Hone! - Of all the delusions which flourish in this mad world, the delusion of - that man is the most frantic who voluntarily, and of his own accord, - supports the interest of a party. I mention this to you because it is the - rock on which all young politicians strike. Fortunately, you enter life - under different circumstances from those which usually attend most - political debutants. You have your connections formed and your views - ascertained. But if, by any chance, you find yourself independent and - unconnected, never, for a moment, suppose that you can accomplish your - objects by coming forward, unsolicited, to fight the battle of a party. - They will cheer your successful exertions, and then smile at your youthful - zeal; or, crossing themselves for the unexpected succour, be too cowardly - to reward their unexpected champion. No, Grey; make them fear you, and - they will kiss your feet. There is no act of treachery or meanness of - which a political party is not capable; for in politics there is no - honour. - </p> - <p> - “As to Gifford, I am surprised at their conduct towards him, although I - know better than most men of what wood a minister is made, and how much - reliance may be placed upon the gratitude of a party: but Canning; from - Canning I certainly did expect different conduct.” - </p> - <p> - “Oh, Canning! I love the man: but as you say, Cleveland, ministers have - short memories, and Canning’s; that was Antilles that just passed us; - apropos to whom, I quite rejoice that the Marquess has determined to take - such a decided course on the West India Question.” - </p> - <p> - “Oh, yes! curse your East India sugar.” - </p> - <p> - “To be sure; slavery and sweetmeats forever!” - </p> - <p> - “But, aside with joking, Grey, I really think, that if any man of average - ability dare rise in the House, and rescue many of the great questions of - the day from what Dugald Stuart or Disraeli would call the spirit of - Political Religionism, with which they are studiously mixed up, he would - not fail to make a great impression upon the House, and a still greater - one upon the country.” - </p> - <p> - “I quite agree with you; and certainly I should recommend commencing with - the West India Question. Singular state of affairs when even Canning can - only insinuate his opinion when the very existence of some of our most - valuable colonies is at stake, and when even his insinuations are only - indulged with an audience on the condition that he favours the House with - an introductory discourse of twenty minutes on ‘the divine Author of our - faith,’ and an éloge of equal length on the Génie du Christianisme, in a - style worthy of Chateaubriand.” - </p> - <p> - “Miserable work, indeed! I have got a pamphlet on the West India Question - sent me this morning. Do you know any raving lawyer, any mad Master in - Chancery, or something of the kind, who meddles in these affairs?” - </p> - <p> - “Oh! Stephen! a puddle in a storm! He is for a crusade for the - regeneration of the Antilles; the most forcible of feebles, the most - energetic of drivellers; Velluti acting Pietro l’Eremita.” - </p> - <p> - “Do you know, by any chance, whether Southey’s Vindiciae is out yet? I - wanted to look it over during the holidays.” - </p> - <p> - “Not out, though it has been advertised some time; but what do you - expect?” - </p> - <p> - “Nay, it is an interesting controversy, as controversies go. Not exactly - Milton and Salmasius; but fair enough.” - </p> - <p> - “I do not know. It has long degenerated into a mere personal bickering - between the Laureate and Butler. Southey is, of course, revelling in the - idea of writing an English work with a Latin title! and that, perhaps, is - the only circumstance for which the controversy is prolonged.” - </p> - <p> - “But Southey, after all, is a man of splendid talents.” - </p> - <p> - “Doubtless; the most philosophical of bigots, and the most poetical of - prose writers.” - </p> - <p> - “Apropos to the Catholic Question, there goes Colonial Bother’em trying to - look like Prince Metternich; a decided failure.” - </p> - <p> - “What can keep him in town?” - </p> - <p> - “Writing letters, I suppose, Heaven preserve me from receiving any of - them!” - </p> - <p> - “Is it true, then, that his letters are of the awful length that is - whispered?” - </p> - <p> - “True! Oh! they are something beyond all conception! Perfect epistolary - Boa Constrictors. I speak with feeling, for I have myself suffered under - their voluminous windings.” - </p> - <p> - “Have you seen his quarto volume: ‘The Cure for the Catholic Question?’” - </p> - <p> - “Yes.” - </p> - <p> - “If you have it, lend it to me. What kind of thing is it?” - </p> - <p> - “Oh! what should it be! ingenious and imbecile. He advises the Catholics, - in the old nursery language, to behave like good boys; to open their - mouths and shut their eyes, and see what God will send them.” - </p> - <p> - “Well, that is the usual advice. Is there nothing more characteristic of - the writer?” - </p> - <p> - “What think you of a proposition of making Jockey of Norfolk Patriarch of - England, and of an ascertained <i>credo</i> for our Catholic - fellow-subjects? Ingenious, is not it?” - </p> - <p> - “Have you seen Puff’s new volume of Ariosto?” - </p> - <p> - “I have. What could possibly have induced Mr. Partenopex Puff to have - undertaken such a duty? Mr. Puff is a man destitute of poetical powers, - possessing no vigour of language, and gifted with no happiness of - expression. His translation is hard, dry, and husky, as the outside of a - cocoanut. I am amused to see the excellent tact with which the public has - determined not to read his volumes, in spite of the incessant exertions of - a certain set to ensure their popularity; but the time has gone by when - the smug coterie could create a reputation.” - </p> - <p> - “Do you think the time ever existed, Cleveland?” - </p> - <p> - “What could have seduced Puff into being so ambitious? I suppose his - admirable knowledge of Italian; as if a man were entitled to strike a die - for the new sovereign merely because he was aware how much alloy might - legally debase its carats of pure gold.” - </p> - <p> - “I never can pardon Puff for that little book on Cats. The idea was - admirable; but, instead of one of the most delightful volumes that ever - appeared, to take up a dull, tame compilation from Bingley’s Animal - Biography!” - </p> - <p> - “Yes! and the impertinence of dedicating such a work to the Officers of - His Majesty’s Household troops! Considering the quarter from whence it - proceeded, I certainly did not expect much, but still I thought that there - was to be some little esprit. The poor Guards! how nervous they must have - been at the announcement! What could have been the point of that - dedication?” - </p> - <p> - “I remember a most interminable proser, who was blessed with a very - sensible-sounding voice, and who, on the strength of that, and his correct - and constant emphases, was considered by the world, for a great time, as a - sage. At length it was discovered that he was quite the reverse. Mr. - Puff’s wit is very like this man’s wisdom. You take up one of his little - books, and you fancy, from its titlepage, that it is going to be very - witty; as you proceed, you begin to suspect that the man is only a wag, - and then, surprised at not ‘seeing the point,’ you have a shrewd suspicion - that he is a great hand at dry humour. It is not till you have closed the - volume that you wonder who it is that has had the hardihood to intrude - such imbecility upon an indulgent world.” - </p> - <p> - “Come, come! Mr. Puff is a worthy gentleman. Let him cease to dusk the - radiancy of Ariosto’s sunny stanzas, and I shall be the first man who will - do justice to his merits. He certainly tattles prettily about tenses and - terminations, and is not an inelegant grammarian.” - </p> - <p> - “Our literature, I think, is at a low ebb.” - </p> - <p> - “There is nothing like a fall of stocks to affect what it is the fashion - to style the Literature of the present day, a fungus production which has - flourished from the artificial state of our society, the mere creature of - our imaginary wealth. Everybody being very rich, has afforded to be very - literary, books being considered a luxury almost as elegant and necessary - as ottomans, bonbons, and pier-glasses. Consols at 100 were the origin of - all book societies. The Stockbrokers’ ladies took off the quarto travels - and the hot-pressed poetry. They were the patronesses of your patent ink - and your wire-wove paper. That is all past. Twenty per cent difference in - the value of our public securities from this time last year, that little - incident has done more for the restoration of the old English feeling, - than all the exertions of Church and State united. There is nothing like a - fall in Consols to bring the blood of our good people of England into cool - order. It is your grand state medicine, your veritable Doctor Sangrado! - </p> - <p> - “A fall in stocks! and halt to ‘the spread of knowledge!’ and ‘the - progress of liberal principles’ is like that of a man too late for - post-horses. A fall in stocks! and where are your London Universities, and - your Mechanics’ Institutes, and your new Docks? Where your philosophy, - your philanthropy, and your competition? National prejudices revive as - national prosperity decreases. If the Consols were at 60 we should be - again bellowing, God save the King! eating roast beef, and damning the - French.” - </p> - <p> - “And you imagine literature is equally affected, Grey?” - </p> - <p> - “Clearly. We were literary because we were rich. Amid the myriad of - volumes which issued monthly from the press, what one was not written for - the mere hour? It is all very well to buy mechanical poetry and historical - novels when our purses have a plethora; but now, my dear fellow, depend - upon it, the game is up. We have no scholars now, no literary recluses, no - men who ever appear to think. ‘Scribble, scribble, scribble’ as the Duke - of Cumberland said to Gibbon, should be the motto of the mighty - ‘nineteenth century.’” - </p> - <p> - “Southey, I think, Grey, is an exception.” - </p> - <p> - “By no means. Southey is a political writer, a writer for a particular - purpose. All his works, from those in three volumes quarto to those in one - duodecimo, are alike political pamphlets.” - </p> - <p> - “We certainly want a master-spirit to set us right, Grey. We want Byron.” - </p> - <p> - “There was the man! And that such a man should be lost to us at the very - moment that he had begun to discover why it had pleased the Omnipotent to - have endowed him with such powers!” - </p> - <p> - “If one thing were more characteristic of Byron’s mind than another, it - was his strong, shrewd, common sense; his pure, unalloyed sagacity.” - </p> - <p> - “You knew him, I think, Cleveland?” - </p> - <p> - “Well, I was slightly acquainted with him when in England; slightly, - however, for I was then very young. But many years afterwards I met him in - Italy. It was at Pisa, just before he left that place for Genoa. I was - then very much struck at the alteration in his appearance.” - </p> - <p> - “Indeed.” - </p> - <p> - “Yes; his face was swollen, and he was getting fat. His hair was grey, and - his countenance had lost that spiritual expression which it once eminently - possessed. His teeth were decaying; and he said that if ever he came to - England it would be to consult Wayte about them. I certainly was very much - struck at his alteration for the worse. Besides, he was dressed in the - most extraordinary manner.” - </p> - <p> - “Slovenly?” - </p> - <p> - “Oh, no, no, no! in the most dandified style that you can conceive; but - not that of an English dandy either. He had on a magnificent foreign - foraging cap, which he wore in the room, but his grey curls were quite - perceptible; and a frogged surtout; and he had a large gold chain round - his neck, and pushed into his waistcoat pocket. I imagined, of course, - that a glass was attached to it; but I afterwards found that it bore - nothing but a quantity of trinkets. He had also another gold chain tight - round his neck, like a collar.” - </p> - <p> - “How odd! And did you converse much with him?” - </p> - <p> - “I was not long at Pisa, but we never parted, and there was only one - subject of conversation, England, England, England. I never met a man in - whom the maladie du pays was so strong. Byron was certainly at this time - restless and discontented. He was tired of his dragoon captains and - pensioned poetasters, and he dared not come back to England with what he - considered a tarnished reputation. His only thought was of some desperate - exertion to clear himself: it was for this he went to Greece. When I was - with him he was in correspondence with some friends in England about the - purchase of a large tract of land in Colombia. He affected a great - admiration of Bolivar.” - </p> - <p> - “Who, by-the-bye, is a great man.” - </p> - <p> - “Assuredly.” - </p> - <p> - “Your acquaintance with Byron must have been one of the gratifying - incidents of your life, Cleveland?” - </p> - <p> - “Certainly; I may say with Friar Martin, in Goetz of Berlichingen, ‘The - sight of him touched my heart. It is a pleasure to have seen a great - man.’” - </p> - <p> - “Hobhouse was a faithful friend to him?” - </p> - <p> - “His conduct has been beautiful; and Byron had a thorough affection for - him, in spite of a few squibs and a few drunken speeches, which damned - good-natured friends have always been careful to repeat.” - </p> - <p> - “The loss of Byron can never be retrieved. He was indeed a real man; and - when I say this, I award him the most splendid character which human - nature need aspire to. At least, I, for my part, have no ambition to be - considered either a divinity or an angel; and truly, when I look round - upon the creatures alike effeminate in mind and body of which the world - is, in general, composed, I fear that even my ambition is too exalted. - Byron’s mind was like his own ocean, sublime in its yesty madness, - beautiful in its glittering summer brightness, mighty in the lone - magnificence of its waste of waters, gazed upon from the magic of its own - nature, yet capable of representing, but as in a glass darkly, the natures - of all others.” - </p> - <p> - “Hyde Park is greatly changed since I was a dandy, Vivian. Pray, do the - Misses Otranto still live in that house?” - </p> - <p> - “Yes; blooming as ever.” - </p> - <p> - “It is the fashion to abuse Horace Walpole, but I really think him the - most delightful writer that ever existed. I wonder who is to be the Horace - Walpole of the present century? some one, perhaps, we least suspect.” - </p> - <p> - “Vivida Vis, think you?” - </p> - <p> - “More than probable. I will tell you who ought to be writing Memoirs; Lord - Dropmore. Does my Lord Manfred keep his mansion there, next to the Misses - Otranto?” - </p> - <p> - “I believe so, and lives there.” - </p> - <p> - “I knew him in Germany; a singular man, and not understood. Perhaps he - does not understand himself. I see our horses.” - </p> - <p> - “I will join you in an instant, Cleveland. I just want to speak one word - to Osborne, whom I see coming down here. Well, Osborne, I must come and - knock you up one of these mornings. I have got a commission for you from - Lady Julia Knighton, to which you must pay particular attention.” - </p> - <p> - “Well, Mr. Grey, how does Lady Julia like the bay mare?” - </p> - <p> - “Very much, indeed; but she wants to know what you have done about the - chestnut.” - </p> - <p> - “Oh! put it off, sir, in the prettiest style, on young Mr. Feoffment, who - has just married, and taken a house in Gower Street. He wanted a bit of - blood; hopes he likes it!” - </p> - <p> - “Hopes he does, Jack. There is a particular favour which you can do for - me, Osborne, and which I am sure you will. Ernest Clay; you know Ernest - Clay; a most excellent fellow is Ernest Clay, you know, and a great friend - of yours, Osborne; I wish you would just step down to Connaught Place, and - look at those bays he bought of Harry Mounteney. He is in a little - trouble, and we must do what we can for him; you know he is an excellent - fellow, and a great friend of yours. Thank you, I knew you would. Good - morning; remember Lady Julia. So you really fitted young Feoffment with - the chestnut; well, that was admirable! Good morning.” - </p> - <p> - “I do not know whether you care for these things at all, Cleveland, but - Premium, a famous millionaire, has gone this morning, for I know not how - much! Half the new world will be ruined; and in this old one a most - excellent fellow, my friend Ernest Clay. He was engaged to Premium’s - daughter, his last resource, and now, of course, it is all up with him.” - </p> - <p> - “I was at College with his brother, Augustus Clay. He is a nephew of Lord - Mounteney’s, is he not?” - </p> - <p> - “The very same. Poor fellow! I do not know what we must do for him. I - think I shall advise him to change his name to Clay<i>ville</i>; and if - the world ask him the reason of the euphonious augmentation, why, he can - swear it was to distinguish himself from his brothers. Too many roués of - the same name will never do. And now spurs to our steeds! for we are going - at least three miles out of our way, and I must collect my senses and - arrange my curls before dinner, for I have to flirt with at least three - fair ones.” - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0036" id="link2HCH0036"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER II - </h2> - <p> - These conversations play the very deuce with one’s story. We had intended - to have commenced this book with something quite terrific, a murder or a - marriage; and all our great ideas have ended in a lounge. After all, it - is, perhaps, the most natural termination. In life, surely man is not - always as monstrously busy as he appears to be in novels and romances. We - are not always in action, not always making speeches or making money, or - making war, or making love. Occasionally we talk, about the weather - generally; sometimes about, ourselves; oftener about our friends; as often - about our enemies, at least, those who have any; which, in my opinion, is - the vulgarest of all possessions. - </p> - <p> - But we must get on. - </p> - <p> - Mr. Cleveland and Mrs. Felix Lorraine again met, and the gentleman - scarcely appeared to be aware that this meeting was not their first. The - lady sighed and remonstrated. She reproached Mr. Cleveland with passages - of letters. He stared, and deigned not a reply to an artifice which he - considered equally audacious and shallow. There was a scene. Vivian was - forced to interfere; but as he deprecated all explanation, his - interference was of little avail; and, as it was ineffectual for one party - and uncalled for by the other, it was, of course, not encouraged. The - presence of Mrs. Cleveland did not tend to assist Mrs. Felix in that - self-control which, with all her wildness, she could appositely practise. - In the presence of the Clevelands she was fitful, capricious, perplexing; - sometimes impertinent, sometimes humble; but always ill at ease, and never - charming. - </p> - <p> - Peculiar, however, as was her conduct in this particular relation, it was - in all others, at this moment, most exemplary. Her whole soul seemed - concentrated in the success of the approaching struggle. No office was too - mechanical for her attention, or too elaborate for her enthusiastic - assiduity. Her attentions were not confined merely to Vivian and the - Marquess, but were lavished with equal generosity on their colleagues. She - copied letters for Sir Berdmore, and composed letters for Lord Courtown, - and construed letters to Lord Beaconsfield; they, in return, echoed her - praises to her delighted relative, who was daily congratulated on the - possession of “such a fascinating sister in law.” - </p> - <p> - “Well, Vivian,” said Mrs. Lorraine, to that young gentleman, the day - previous to his departure from Buckhurst Lodge, “you are going to leave me - behind you.” - </p> - <p> - “Indeed!” - </p> - <p> - “Yes! I hope you will not want me. I am very annoyed at not being able to - go to town with you, but Lady Courtown is so pressing! and I have really - promised so often to stay a week with her, that I thought it was better to - make out my promise at once than in six months hence.” - </p> - <p> - “Well! I am exceedingly sorry, for you really are so useful! and the - interest you take in everything is so encouraging, that I very much fear - we shall not be able to get on without you. The important hour draws - nigh.” - </p> - <p> - “It does, indeed, Vivian; and I assure you that there is no person - awaiting it with intenser interest than myself. I little thought,” she - added, in a low but distinct voice, “I little thought, when I first - reached England, that I should ever again be interested in anything in - this world.” - </p> - <p> - Vivian was silent, for he had nothing to say. - </p> - <p> - “Vivian!” very briskly resumed Mrs. Lorraine, “I shall get you to frank - all my letters for me. I shall never trouble the Marquess again. Do you - know, it strikes me you will make a very good speaker!” - </p> - <p> - “You flatter me exceedingly; suppose you give me a few lessons.” - </p> - <p> - “But you must leave off some of your wicked tricks, Vivian! You must not - improvise parliamentary papers!” - </p> - <p> - “Improvise papers, Mrs. Lorraine! What can you mean?” - </p> - <p> - “Oh! nothing. I never mean anything.” - </p> - <p> - “But you must have had some meaning.” - </p> - <p> - “Some meaning! Yes, I dare say I had; I meant; I meant; do you think it - will rain to-day?” - </p> - <p> - “Every prospect of a hard frost. I never knew before that I was an - improvisatore.” - </p> - <p> - “Nor I. Have you heard from papa lately? I suppose he is quite in spirits - at your success?” - </p> - <p> - “My father is a man who seldom gives way to any elation of mind.” - </p> - <p> - “Ah, indeed! a philosopher, I have no doubt, like his son.” - </p> - <p> - “I have no claims to the title of philosopher, although I have had the - advantage of studying in the school of Mrs. Felix Lorraine.” - </p> - <p> - “What do you mean? If I thought you meant to be impertinent, I really - would; but I excuse you; I think the boy means well.” - </p> - <p> - “The boy ‘means nothing; he never means anything.’” - </p> - <p> - “Come, Vivian! we are going to part. Do not let us quarrel the last day. - There, there is a sprig of myrtle for you! - </p> -<pre xml:space="preserve"> - What! not accept my foolish flower? - Nay, then, I am indeed unblest! -</pre> - <p> - and now you want it all! Unreasonable young man! If I were not the kindest - lady in the land I should tear this sprig into a thousand pieces sooner; - but come, my child! you shall have it. There! it looks quite imposing in - your button-hole. How handsome you look to-day!” - </p> - <p> - “How agreeable you are! I love compliments!” - </p> - <p> - “Ah, Vivian! will you never give me credit for anything but a light and - callous heart? Will you never be convinced that, that; but why make this - humiliating confession? Oh! no, let me be misunderstood for ever! The time - may come when Vivian Grey will find that Amalia Lorraine was—” - </p> - <p> - “Was what, madam?” - </p> - <p> - “You shall choose the word, Vivian.” - </p> - <p> - “Say, then, my friend.” - </p> - <p> - “‘Tis a monosyllable full of meaning, and I will not quarrel with it. And - now, adieu! Heaven prosper you! Believe me, that my first thoughts and my - last are for you and of you!” - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0037" id="link2HCH0037"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER III - </h2> - <p> - “This is very kind of you, Grey! I was afraid my note might not have - caught you. You have not breakfasted? Really I wish you would take up your - quarters in Carabas House, for I want you now every moment.” - </p> - <p> - “What is the urgent business of this morning?” - </p> - <p> - “Oh! I have seen Bromley.” - </p> - <p> - “Hah!” - </p> - <p> - “And everything most satisfactory, I did not go into detail; I left that - for you: but I ascertained sufficient to convince me that management is - now alone required.” - </p> - <p> - “Well, my Lord, I trust that will not be wanting.” - </p> - <p> - “No, Vivian; you have opened my eyes to the situation in which fortune has - placed me. The experience of every day only proves the truth and soundness - of your views. Fortunate, indeed, was the hour in which we met.” - </p> - <p> - “My Lord, I do trust that it was a meeting which neither of us will live - to repent.” - </p> - <p> - “Impossible! my dear friend, I do not hesitate to say that I would not - change my present lot for that of any Peer of this realm; no, not for that - of His Majesty’s most favoured counsellor. What! with my character and my - influence, and my connections, I to be a tool! I, the Marquess of Carabas! - I say nothing of my own powers; but, as you often most justly and truly - observe, the world has had the opportunity of judging of them; and I think - I may recur, without vanity, to the days in which my voice had some weight - in the Royal Councils. And, as I have often remarked, I have friends, I - have you, Vivian. My career is before you. I know what I should have done - at your age; not to say what I did do. I to be a tool! The very last - person that ought to be a tool. But I see my error: you have opened my - eyes, and blessed be the hour in which we met. But we must take care how - we act, Vivian; we must be wary; eh! Vivian, wary, wary. People must know - what their situations are; eh! Vivian?” - </p> - <p> - “Exceedingly useful knowledge; but I do not exactly understand the - particular purport of your Lordship’s last observation.” - </p> - <p> - “You do not, eh?” asked the Peer; and he fixed his eyes as earnestly and - expressively as he possibly could upon his young companion. “Well, I - thought not. I was positive it was not true,” continued the Marquess in a - murmur. - </p> - <p> - “What, my Lord?” - </p> - <p> - “Oh! nothing, nothing; people talk at random, at random, at random. I feel - confident you quite agree with me; eh! Vivian?” - </p> - <p> - “Really, my Lord, I fear I am unusually dull this morning.” - </p> - <p> - “Dull! no, no; you quite agree with me. I feel confident you do. People - must be taught what their situations are; that is what I was saying, - Vivian. My Lord Courtown,” added the Marquess, in a whisper, “is not to - have everything his own way; eh! Vivian?” - </p> - <p> - “Oh, oh!” thought Vivian; “this, then, is the result of that admirable - creature, Miss Felix Lorraine, staying a week with her dear friend, Lady - Courtown.” - </p> - <p> - “My Lord, it would be singular if, in the Carabas party, the Carabas - interest was not the predominant one.” - </p> - <p> - “I knew you thought so. I could not believe for a minute that you could - think otherwise: but some people take such strange ideas into their heads, - I cannot account for them. I felt confident what would be your opinion. My - Lord Courtown is not to carry everything before him in the spirit that I - have lately observed; or rather, in the spirit which I understand, from - very good authority, is exhibited. Eh! Vivian; that is your opinion, is - not it?” - </p> - <p> - “Oh! my dear Marquess, we must think alike on this, as on all points.” - </p> - <p> - “I knew it. I felt confident as to your sentiments upon this subject. I - cannot conceive why some people take such strange ideas into their heads! - I knew that you could not disagree with me upon this point. No, no, no; my - Lord Courtown must feel which is the predominant interest, as you so well - express it. How choice your expressions always are! I do not know how it - is, but you always hit upon the right expression, Vivian. The predominant - interest, the pre-do-mi-nant in-te-rest. To be sure. What! with my high - character and connections, with my stake in society, was it to be expected - that I, the Marquess of Carabas, was going to make any move which - compromised the predominancy of my interests? No, no, no, my Lord - Courtown; the predominant interest must be kept predominant; eh! Vivian?” - </p> - <p> - “To be sure, my Lord; explicitness and decision will soon arrange any - désagrémens.” - </p> - <p> - “I have been talking to Lady Carabas, Vivian, upon the expediency of her - opening the season early. I think a course of parliamentary dinners would - produce a good effect. It gives a tone to a political party.” - </p> - <p> - “Certainly; the science of political gastronomy has never been - sufficiently studied.” - </p> - <p> - “Egad! Vivian, I am in such spirits this morning. This business of Bromley - so delights me; and finding you agree with me about Lord Courtown, I was - confident as to your sentiments on that point. But some people take such - strange ideas into their heads! To be sure, to be sure, the predominant - interest, mine, that is to say ours, Vivian, is the predominant interest. - I have no idea of the predominant interest not being predominant; that - would be singular! I knew you would agree with me; we always agree. ‘Twas - a lucky hour when we met. Two minds so exactly alike! I was just your very - self when I was young; and as for you, my career is before you.” - </p> - <p> - Here entered Mr. Sadler with the letters. - </p> - <p> - “One from Courtown. I wonder if he has seen Mounteney. Mounteney is a very - good-natured fellow, and I think might be managed. Ah! I wish you could - get hold of him, Vivian; you would soon bring him round. What it is to - have brains, Vivian!” and here the Marquess shook his head very pompously, - and at the same time tapped very significantly on his left temple. “Hah! - what, what is all this? Here, read it, read it, man; I have no head - to-day.” - </p> - <p> - Vivian took the letter, and his quick eye dashed through its contents in a - second. It was from Lord Courtown, and dated far in the country. It talked - of private communications, and premature conduct, and the suspicious, not - to say dishonourable, behaviour of Mr. Vivian Grey: it trusted that such - conduct was not sanctioned by his Lordship, but “nevertheless obliged to - act with decision, regretted the necessity,” &c. &c. &c. &c. - In short, Lord Courtown had deserted, and recalled his pledge as to the - official appointment promised to Mr. Cleveland, “because that promise was - made while he was the victim of delusions created by the representations - of Mr. Grey.” - </p> - <p> - “What can all this mean, my Lord?” - </p> - <p> - The Marquess swore a fearful oath, and threw another letter. - </p> - <p> - “This is from Lord Beaconsfield, my Lord,” said Vivian, with a face pallid - as death, “and apparently the composition of the same writer; at least, it - is the same tale, the same refacimento of lies, and treachery, and - cowardice, doled out with diplomatic politesse. But I will off to ——shire - instantly. It is not yet too late to save everything. This is Wednesday; - on Thursday afternoon I shall be at Norwood Park. Thank God! I came this - morning.” - </p> - <p> - The face of the Marquess, who was treacherous as the wind, seemed already - to indicate “Adieu! Mr. Vivian Grey!” but that countenance exhibited some - very different passions when it glanced over the contents of the next - epistle. There was a tremendous oath and a dead silence. His Lordship’s - florid countenance turned as pale as that of his companion. The - perspiration stole down in heavy drops. He gasped for breath! - </p> - <p> - “Good God! my Lord, what is the matter?” - </p> - <p> - “The matter!” howled the Marquess, “the matter! That I have been a vain, - weak, miserable fool!” and then there was another oath, and he flung the - letter to the other side of the table. - </p> - <p> - It was the official congé of the Most Noble Sydney Marquess of Carabas. - His Majesty had no longer any occasion for his services. His successor was - Lord Courtown! - </p> - <p> - We will not affect to give any description of the conduct of the Marquess - of Carabas at this moment. He raved, he stamped, he blasphemed! but the - whole of his abuse was levelled against his former “monstrous clever” - young friend; of whose character he had so often boasted that his own was - she prototype, but who was now an adventurer, a swindler, a scoundrel, a - liar, a base, deluding, flattering, fawning villain, &c. &c. &c. - &c, - </p> - <p> - “My Lord,” said Vivian. - </p> - <p> - “I will not hear you; out on your fair words! They have duped me enough - already. That I, with my high character and connections! that I, the - Marquess of Carabas, should have been the victim of the arts of a young - scoundrel!” - </p> - <p> - Vivian’s fist was once clenched, but it was only for a moment. The - Marquess leant back in his chair with his eyes shut. In the agony of the - moment a projecting tooth of his upper jaw had forced itself through his - under lip, and from the wound the blood was flowing freely over his dead - white countenance. Vivian left the room. - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0038" id="link2HCH0038"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER IV - </h2> - <p> - He stopped one moment on the landing-place, ere he was about to leave the - house for ever. - </p> - <p> - “‘Tis all over! and so, Vivian Grey, your game is up! and to die, too, - like a dog! a woman’s dupe! Were I a despot, I should perhaps satiate my - vengeance upon this female fiend with the assistance of the rack, but that - cannot be; and, after all, it would be but a poor revenge in one who has - worshipped the Empire of the Intellect to vindicate the agony I am now - enduring upon the base body of a woman. No! ‘tis not all over. There is - yet an intellectual rack of which few dream: far, far more terrific than - the most exquisite contrivances of Parysatis. Jacinte,” said he to a - female attendant that passed, “is your mistress at home?” - </p> - <p> - “She is, sir.” - </p> - <p> - “‘Tis well,” said Vivian, and he sprang upstairs. - </p> - <p> - “Health to the lady of our love!” said Vivian Grey, as he entered the - elegant boudoir of Mrs. Felix Lorraine. “In spite of the easterly wind, - which has spoiled my beauty for the season, I could not refrain from - inquiring after your prosperity before I went to the Marquess. Have you - heard the news?” - </p> - <p> - “News! no; what news?” - </p> - <p> - “‘Tis a sad tale,” said Vivian, with a melancholy voice. - </p> - <p> - “Oh! then, pray do not tell it me. I am in no humour for sorrow to-day. - Come! a bon-mot, or a calembourg, or exit Mr. Vivian Grey.” - </p> - <p> - “Well, then, good morning! I am off for a black crape, or a Barcelona - kerchief. Mrs. Cleveland is dead.” - </p> - <p> - “Dead!” exclaimed Mrs. Lorraine. - </p> - <p> - “Dead! She died last night, suddenly. Is it not horrible?” - </p> - <p> - “Shocking!” exclaimed Mrs. Lorraine, with a mournful voice and an eye - dancing with joy. “Why, Mr. Grey, I do declare you are weeping.” - </p> - <p> - “It is not for the departed!” - </p> - <p> - “Nay, Vivian! for Heaven’s sake, what is the matter?” - </p> - <p> - “My dear Mrs. Lorraine!” but here the speaker’s voice was choked with - grief, and he could not proceed. - </p> - <p> - “Pray compose yourself.” - </p> - <p> - “Mrs. Felix Lorraine, can I speak with you half an hour, undisturbed?” - </p> - <p> - “By all means. I will ring for Jacinte. Jacinte! mind I am not at home to - anyone. Well, what is the matter?” - </p> - <p> - “O! madam, I must pray your patience; I wish you to shrive a penitent.” - </p> - <p> - “Good God! Mr. Grey! for Heaven’s sake be explicit.” - </p> - <p> - “For Heaven’s sake, for your sake, for my soul’s sake, I would be - explicit; but explicitness is not the language of such as I am. Can you - listen to a tale of horror? can you promise me to contain yourself?” - </p> - <p> - “I will promise anything. Pray, pray proceed.” - </p> - <p> - But in spite of her earnest solicitations her companion was mute. At - length he rose from his chair, and leaning on the chimney-piece, buried - his face in his hands and wept. - </p> - <p> - “Vivian,” said Mrs. Lorraine, “have you seen the Marquess yet?” - </p> - <p> - “Not yet,” he sobbed; “I am going to him, but I am in no humour for - business this morning.” - </p> - <p> - “Compose yourself, I beseech you. I will hear everything. You shall not - complain of an inattentive or an irritable auditor. Now, my dear Vivian, - sit down and tell me all.” She led him to a chair, and then, after - stifling his sobs, with a broken voice he proceeded. - </p> - <p> - “You will recollect, madam, that accident made me acquainted with certain - circumstances connected with yourself and Mr. Cleveland. Alas! actuated by - the vilest of sentiments, I conceived a violent hatred against that - gentleman, a hatred only to be equalled by my passion for you; but I find - difficulty in dwelling upon the details of this sad story of jealousy and - despair.” - </p> - <p> - “Oh! speak, speak! compensate for all you have done by your present - frankness; be brief, be brief.” - </p> - <p> - “I will be brief,” said Vivian, with earnestness: “I will be brief. Know - then, madam, that in order to prevent the intercourse between you and Mr. - Cleveland from proceeding I obtained his friendship, and became the - confidante of his heart’s sweetest secret. Thus situated, I suppressed the - letters with which I was entrusted from him to you, and, poisoning his - mind, I accounted for your silence by your being employed in other - correspondence; nay, I did more; with the malice of a fiend, I boasted of—; - nay, do not stop me; I have more to tell.” - </p> - <p> - Mrs. Felix Lorraine, with compressed lips and looks of horrible - earnestness, gazed in silence. - </p> - <p> - “The result of all this you know; but the most terrible part is to come; - and, by a strange fascination, I fly to confess my crimes at your feet, - even while the last minutes have witnessed my most heinous one. Oh! madam. - I have stood over the bier of the departed; I have mingled my tears with - those of the sorrowing widower, his young and tender child was on my knee, - and as I kissed his innocent lips, me thought it was but my duty to the - departed to save the father from his mother’s rival—” He stopped. - </p> - <p> - “Yes, yes, yes,” said Mrs. Felix Lorraine, in a low whisper. - </p> - <p> - “It was then, even then, in the hour of his desolation, that I mentioned - your name, that it might the more disgust him; and while he wept over his - virtuous and sainted wife, I dwelt on the vices of his rejected mistress.” - </p> - <p> - Mrs. Lorraine clasped her hands, and moved restlessly on her seat. - </p> - <p> - “Nay! do not stop me; let me tell all. ‘Cleveland,’ said I, ‘if ever you - become the husband of Mrs. Felix Lorraine, remember my last words: it will - be well for you if your frame be like that of Mithridates of Pontus, and - proof against —— poison.’” - </p> - <p> - “And did you say this?” shrieked the woman. - </p> - <p> - “Even these were my words.” - </p> - <p> - “Then may all evil blast you!” She threw herself on the sofa; her voice - was choked with the convulsions of her passion, and she writhed in fearful - agony. - </p> - <p> - Vivian Grey, lounging in an arm-chair in the easiest of postures, and with - a face brilliant with smiles, watched his victim with the eye of a - Mephistopheles. - </p> - <p> - She slowly recovered, and, with a broken voice, poured forth her sacred - absolution to the relieved penitent. - </p> - <p> - “You wonder I do not stab you; hah! hah! hah! there is no need for that! - the good powers be praised that you refused the draught I once proffered. - Know, wretch, that your race is run. Within five minutes you will breathe - a beggar and an outcast. Your golden dreams are over, your cunning plans - are circumvented, your ambitious hopes are crushed for ever, you are - blighted in the very spring of your life. Oh, may you never die! May you - wander for ever, the butt of the world’s malice; and may the slow moving - finger of scorn point where’er you go at the ruined Charlatan!” - </p> - <p> - “Hah, hah! is it so? Think you that Vivian Grey would fall by a woman’s - wile? Think you that Vivian Grey could be crushed by such a worthless - thing as you? Know, then, that your political intrigues have been as - little concealed from me as your personal ones; I have been acquainted - with all. The Marquess has himself seen the Minister, and is more firmly - established in his pride of place than ever. I have myself seen our - colleagues, whom you tampered with, and their hearts are still true, and - their purpose still fixed. All, all prospers; and ere five days are passed - ‘the Charlatan’ will be a Senator.” - </p> - <p> - The shifting expression of Mrs. Lorraine’s countenance, while Vivian was - speaking, would have baffled the most cunning painter. Her complexion was - capricious as the chameleon’s, and her countenance was so convulsed that - her features seemed of all shapes and sizes. One large vein protruded - nearly a quarter of an inch from her forehead, and the dank light which - gleamed in her tearful eye was like an unwholesome meteor quivering in a - marsh. When he ended she sprang from the sofa, and, looking up and - extending her arms with unmeaning wildness, she gave one loud shriek and - dropped like a bird shot on the wing; she had burst a blood-vessel. - </p> - <p> - Vivian raised her on the sofa and paid her every possible attention. There - is always a medical attendant lurking about the mansions of the noble, and - to this worthy and the attendant Jacinte Vivian delivered his patient. - </p> - <p> - Had Vivian Grey left the boudoir a pledged bridegroom his countenance - could not have been more triumphant; but he was labouring under unnatural - excitement; for it is singular that when, as he left the house, the porter - told him that Mr. Cleveland was with his Lord, Vivian had no idea at the - moment what individual bore that name. The fresh air of the street revived - him, and somewhat cooled the bubbling of his blood. It was then that the - man’s information struck upon his senses. - </p> - <p> - “So, poor Cleveland!” thought Vivian; “then he knows all!” His own misery - he had not yet thought of; but when Cleveland occurred to him, with his - ambition once more baulked, his high hopes once more blasted, and his - honourable soul once more deceived; when he thought of his fair wife, and - his infant children, and his ruined prospects, a sickness came over his - heart, he grew dizzy, and fell. - </p> - <p> - “And the gentleman’s ill, I think,” said an honest Irishman; and, in the - fulness of his charity, he placed Vivian on a door-step. - </p> - <p> - “So it seems,” said a genteel passenger in black; and he snatched, with - great sang-froid, Vivian’s watch. “Stop thief!” hallooed the Hibernian. - Paddy was tripped up. There was a row, in the midst of which Vivian Grey - crawled to an hotel. - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0039" id="link2HCH0039"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER V - </h2> - <p> - In half an hour Vivian was at Mr. Cleveland’s door. - </p> - <p> - “My master is at the Marquess of Carabas’, sir; he will not return, but is - going immediately to Richmond, where Mrs. Cleveland is staying.” - </p> - <p> - Vivian immediately wrote to Mr. Cleveland. “If your master have left the - Marquess’, let this be forwarded to him at Richmond immediately.” - </p> - <p> - “CLEVELAND! - </p> - <p> - “You know all. It would be mockery were I to say that at this moment I am - not thinking of myself. I am a ruined man in body and in mind. But my own - misery is nothing; I can die, I can go mad, and who will be harmed? But - you! I had wished that we should never meet again; but my hand refuses to - trace the thoughts with which my heart is full, and I am under the sad - necessity of requesting you to see me once more. We have been betrayed, - and by a woman; but there has been revenge. Oh, what revenge! - </p> - <p> - “VIVIAN GREY.” - </p> - <p> - When Vivian left Mr. Cleveland’s he actually did not know what to do with - himself. Home, at present, he could not face, and so he continued to - wander about, quite unconscious of locality. He passed in his progress - many of his acquaintance, who, from his distracted air and rapid pace, - imagined that he was intent on some important business. At length he found - himself in one of the most sequestered parts of Kensington Gardens. It was - a cold, frosty day, and as Vivian flung himself upon one of the summer - seats the snow drifted from off the frozen board; but Vivian’s brow was as - burning hot as if he had been an inhabitant of Sirius. Throwing his arms - on a small garden table, he buried his face in his hands and wept as men - can but once weep in this world. - </p> - <p> - O, thou sublime and most subtle philosopher, who, in thy lamp-lit cell, - art speculating upon the passions which thou hast never felt! O, thou - splendid and most admirable poet, who, with cunning words, art painting - with a smile a tale of woe! tell me what is Grief, and solve me the - mystery of Sorrow. - </p> - <p> - Not for himself, for after the first pang he would have whistled off his - high hopes with the spirit of a Ripperda; not even for Cleveland, for at - this moment, it must be confessed, his thoughts were not for his friend, - did Vivian Grey’s soul struggle as if it were about to leave its fleshy - chamber. We said he wept as men can weep but once in this world, and yet - it would have been impossible for him to have defined what, at that - fearful moment, was the cause of his heart’s sorrow. Incidents of - childhood of the most trivial nature, and until this moment forgotten, - flashed across his memory; he gazed on the smile of his mother, he - listened to the sweet tones of his father’s voice, and his hand clenched, - with still more agonised grasp, his rude resting-place, and the scalding - tears dashed down his cheek in still more ardent torrents. He had no - distinct remembrance of what had so lately happened; but characters - flitted before him as in a theatre, in a dream, dim and shadowy, yet full - of mysterious and undefinable interest; and then there came a horrible - idea across his mind that his glittering youth was gone and wasted; and - then there was a dark whisper of treachery, and dissimulation, and - dishonour; and then he sobbed as if his very heart were cracking. All his - boasted philosophy vanished; his artificial feelings fled him. Insulted - Nature reasserted her long-spurned authority, and the once proud Vivian - Grey felt too humble even to curse himself. Gradually his sobs became less - convulsed and his brow more cool; and, calm from very exhaustion, he sat - for upwards of an hour motionless. - </p> - <p> - At this moment there issued, with their attendant, from an adjoining - shrubbery, two beautiful children. They were so exceedingly lovely that - the passenger would have stopped to gaze upon them. The eldest, who yet - was very young, was leading his sister hand in hand with slow and graceful - steps, mimicking the courtesy of men. But when his eye caught Vivian’s the - boy uttered a loud cry of exultation, and rushed, with the eagerness of - infantile affection, to his gentle and favourite playmate. They were the - young Clevelands. With what miraculous quickness will man shake off the - outward semblance of grief when his sorrow is a secret! The mighty - merchant, who knows that in four-and-twenty hours the world must be - astounded by his insolvency, will walk in the front of his confident - creditor as if he were the lord of a thousand argosies; the meditating - suicide will smile on the arm of a companion as if to breathe in this - sunny world were the most ravishing and rapturous bliss. We cling to our - stations in our fellow-creatures’ minds and memories; we know too well the - frail tenure on which we are in this world great and considered - personages. Experience makes us shrink from the specious sneer of - sympathy; and when we are ourselves falling, bitter Memory whispers that - we have ourselves been neglectful. - </p> - <p> - And so it was that even unto these infants Vivian Grey dared not appear - other than a gay and easy-hearted man; and in a moment he was dancing them - on his knee, and playing with their curls, and joining in their pretty - prattle, and pressing their small and fragrant lips. - </p> - <p> - It was night when he paced down—. He passed his club; that club to - become a member of which had once been the object of his high ambition, - and to gain which privilege had cost such hours of canvassing, such - interference of noble friends, and the incurring of favours from so many - people, “which never could be forgotten!” - </p> - <p> - A desperate feeling actuated him, and he entered the Club-house. He walked - into the great saloon and met some fifty “most particular friends,” all of - whom asked him “how the Marquess did,” or “have you seen Cleveland?” and a - thousand other as comfortable queries. At length, to avoid these - disagreeable rencontres, and indeed to rest himself, he went to a smaller - and more private room. As he opened the door his eyes lighted upon - Cleveland. - </p> - <p> - He was standing with his back to the fire. There were only two other - persons in the room; one was a friend of Cleveland’s, and the other an - acquaintance of Vivian’s. The latter was writing at the table. - </p> - <p> - When Vivian saw Cleveland he would have retired, but he was bid to “come - in” in a voice of thunder. - </p> - <p> - As he entered he instantly perceived that Cleveland was under the - influence of wine. When in this situation, unlike other men, Mr. - Cleveland’s conduct was not distinguished by any of the little - improprieties of behaviour by which a man is always known by his friends - “to be very drunk.” He neither reeled, nor hiccuped, nor grew maudlin. The - effect of drinking upon him was only to increase the intensity of the - sensation by which his mind was at the moment influenced. He did not even - lose the consciousness of identity of persons. At this moment it was clear - to Vivian that Cleveland was under the influence of the extremest passion; - his eyes rolled wildly, and seemed fixed only upon vacancy. As Vivian was - no friend to scenes before strangers he bowed to the two gentlemen and - saluted Cleveland with his wonted cordiality; but his proffered hand was - rudely repelled. - </p> - <p> - “Away!” exclaimed Cleveland, in a furious tone; “I have no friendship for - traitors.” - </p> - <p> - The two gentlemen stared, and the pen of the writer stopped. - </p> - <p> - “Cleveland!” said Vivian, in an earnest whisper, as he came up close to - him; “for God’s sake contain yourself. I have written you a letter which - explains all; but—” - </p> - <p> - “Out! out upon you. Out upon your honied words and your soft phrases! I - have been their dupe too long;” and he struck Vivian. - </p> - <p> - “Sir John Poynings!” said Vivian, with a quivering lip, turning to the - gentleman who was writing at the table, “we were school-fellows; - circumstances have prevented us from meeting often in after-life; but I - now ask you, with the frankness of an old acquaintance, to do me the sad - service of accompanying me in this quarrel, a quarrel which I call Heaven - to witness is not of my seeking.” - </p> - <p> - The Baronet, who was in the Guards, and although a great dandy, quite a - man of business in these matters, immediately rose from his seat and led - Vivian to a corner of the room. After some whispering he turned round to - Mr. Cleveland, and bowed to him with a very significant look. It was - evident that Cleveland comprehended his meaning, for, though he was - silent, he immediately pointed to the other gentleman, his friend, Mr. - Castleton. - </p> - <p> - “Mr. Castleton,” said Sir John, giving his card, “Mr. Grey will accompany - me to my rooms in Pall Mall; it is now ten o’clock; we shall wait two - hours, in which time I hope to hear from you. I leave time, and place, and - terms to yourself. I only wish it to be understood that it is the - particular desire of my principal that the meeting should be as speedy as - possible.” - </p> - <p> - About eleven o’clock the communication from Mr. Castleton arrived. It was - quite evident that Cleveland was sobered, for in one instance Vivian - observed that the style was corrected by his own hand. The hour was eight - the next morning, at —— Common, about six miles from town. - </p> - <p> - Poynings wrote to a professional friend to be on the ground at half-past - seven, and then he and Vivian retired. - </p> - <p> - Did you ever fight a duel? No? nor send a challenge either? Well! you are - fresh, indeed! ‘Tis an awkward business, after all, even for the boldest. - After an immense deal of negotiation, and giving your opponent every - opportunity of coming to an honourable understanding, the fatal letter is - at length signed, sealed, and sent. You pass your mornings at your - second’s apartments, pacing his drawing-room with a quivering lip and - uncertain step. At length he enters with an answer; and while he reads you - endeavour to look easy, with a countenance merry with the most melancholy - smile. You have no appetite for dinner, but you are too brave not to - appear at table; and you are called out after the second glass by the - arrival of your solicitor, who comes to alter your will. You pass a - restless night, and rise in the morning as bilious as a Bengal general. - Urged by impending fate, you make a desperate effort to accommodate - matters; but in the contest between your pride and your terror you at the - same time prove that you are a coward and fail in the negotiation. You - both fire and miss, and then the seconds interfere, and then you shake - hands: everything being arranged in the most honourable manner and to the - mutual satisfaction of both parties. The next day you are seen pacing Bond - Street with an erect front and a flashing eye, with an air at once - dandyish and heroical, a mixture at the same time of Brummell and the Duke - of Wellington. - </p> - <p> - It was a fine February morning. Sir John drove Vivian to the ground in his - cabriolet. - </p> - <p> - “Nothing like a cab, Grey, for the business you are going on: you glide - along the six miles in such style that it actually makes you quite - courageous. I remember once going down, on a similar purpose, in a post - and pair, and ‘pon my soul, when I came to the ground, my hand shook so - that I could scarcely draw. But I was green then. Now, when I go in my - cab, with Philidor with his sixteen-mile-an-hour paces, egad! I wing my - man in a trice; and take all the parties home to Pall Mall, to celebrate - the event with a grilled bone, Havannahs, and Regent’s punch. Ah! there! - that is Cleveland that we have just passed, going to the ground in a - chariot: he is a dead man, or my name is not Poynings.” - </p> - <p> - “Come, Sir John; no fear of Cleveland’s dying,” said Vivian, with a smile. - </p> - <p> - “What? You mean to fire in the air, and all that sort of thing? - Sentimental, but slip-slop!” - </p> - <p> - The ground is measured, all is arranged. Cleveland, a splendid shot, fired - first. He grazed Vivian’s elbow. Vivian fired in the air. The seconds - interfered. Cleveland was implacable, and, “in the most irregular manner,” - as Sir John declared, insisted upon another shot. To the astonishment of - all, he fired quite wild. Vivian shot at random, and his bullet pierced - Cleveland’s heart. Cleveland sprang nearly two yards from the ground and - then fell upon his back. In a moment Vivian was at the side of his fallen - antagonist, but the dying man “made no sign;” he stared wildly, and then - closed his eyes for ever! - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0040" id="link2HCH0040"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER VI - </h2> - <p> - When Vivian Grey remembered his existence he found himself in bed. The - curtains of his couch were closed; but as he stared around him they were - softly withdrawn, and a face that recalled everything to his recollection - gazed upon him with a look of affectionate anxiety. - </p> - <p> - “My father!” exclaimed Vivian; but the finger pressed on the parental lip - warned him to silence. His father knelt by his side, and then the curtains - were again closed. - </p> - <p> - Six weeks, unconsciously to Vivian, had elapsed since the fatal day, and - he was now recovering from the effects of a fever from which his medical - attendants had supposed he never could have rallied. And what had been the - past? It did indeed seem like a hot and feverish dream. Here was he once - more in his own quiet room, watched over by his beloved parents; and had - there then ever existed such beings as the Marquess, and Mrs. Lorraine, - and Cleveland, or were they only the actors in a vision? “It must be so,” - thought Vivian; and he jumped up in his bed and stared wildly around him. - “And yet it was a horrid dream! Murder, horrible murder! and so real, so - palpable! I muse upon their voices as upon familiar sounds, and I recall - all the events, not as the shadowy incidents of sleep, that mysterious - existence in which the experience of a century seems caught in the - breathing of a second, but as the natural and material consequences of - time and stirring life. O, no! it is too true!” shrieked the wretched - sufferer, as his eye glanced upon a despatch-box which was on the table, - and which had been given to him by Lord Carabas; “It is true! it is true! - Murder! murder!” He foamed at the mouth, and sank exhausted on his pillow. - </p> - <p> - But the human mind can master many sorrows, and, after a desperate relapse - and another miraculous rally, Vivian Grey rose from his bed. - </p> - <p> - “My father, I fear that I shall live!” - </p> - <p> - “Hope, rather, my beloved.” - </p> - <p> - “Oh! why should I hope?” and the sufferer’s head sank upon his breast. - </p> - <p> - “Do not give way, my son; all will yet be well, and we shall all yet be - happy,” said the father, with streaming eyes. - </p> - <p> - “Happy! oh, not in this world, my father!” - </p> - <p> - “Vivian, my dearest, your mother visited you this morning, but you were - asleep. She was quite happy to find you slumbering so calmly.” - </p> - <p> - “And yet my dreams were not the dreams of joy. O, my mother! you were wont - to smile upon me; alas! you smiled upon your sorrow.” - </p> - <p> - “Vivian, my beloved! you must indeed restrain your feelings. At your age - life cannot be the lost game you think it. A little repose, and I shall - yet see my boy the honour to society which he deserves to be.” - </p> - <p> - “Alas! my father, you know not what I feel. The springiness of my mind has - gone. O, man, what a vain fool thou art! Nature has been too bountiful to - thee. She has given thee the best of friends, and thou valuest not the - gift of exceeding price until the griefs are past even friendship’s cure. - O, my father! why did I leave thee?” and he seized Mr. Grey’s hand with - convulsive grasp. - </p> - <p> - Time flew on, even in this house of sorrow. “My boy,” said Mr. Grey to his - son one day, “your mother and I have been consulting together about you; - and we think, now that you have somewhat recovered your strength, it may - be well for you to leave England for a short time. The novelty of travel - will relieve your mind without too much exciting it; and if you can manage - by the autumn to settle down anywhere within a thousand miles of England, - why we will come and join you, and you know that will be very pleasant. - What say you to this little plan?” - </p> - <p> - In a few weeks after this proposition had been made Vivian Grey was in - Germany. He wandered for some months in that beautiful land of rivers, - among which flows the Rhine, matchless in its loveliness; and at length - the pilgrim shook the dust off his feet at Heidelberg, in which city - Vivian proposed taking up his residence. It is, in truth, a place of - surpassing loveliness, where all the romantic wildness of German scenery - is blended with the soft beauty of the Italian. An immense plain, which, - in its extent and luxuriance, reminds you of the fertile tracts of - Lombardy, is bordered on one side by the Bergstrasse Mountains, and on the - other by the range of the Vosges. Situate on the river Neckar, in a ravine - of the Bergstrasse, amid mountains covered with vines, is Heidelberg; its - ruined castle backing the city, and still frowning from one of the most - commanding heights. In the middle of the broad plain may be distinguished - the shining spires of Mannheim, Worms, and Frankenthal; and pouring its - rich stream through this luxuriant land, the beautiful and abounding Rhine - receives the tribute of the Neckar. The range of the Vosges forms the - extreme distance. - </p> - <p> - To the little world of the little city of which he was now an habitant - Vivian Grey did not appear a broken-hearted man. He lived neither as a - recluse nor a misanthrope. He became extremely addicted to field sports, - especially to hunting the wild boar; for he feared nothing so much as - thought, and dreaded nothing so much as the solitude of his own chamber. - He was an early riser to escape from hideous dreams; and at break of dawn - he wandered among the wild passes of the Bergstrasse; or, climbing a lofty - ridge, was a watcher for the rising sun; and in the evening he sailed upon - the star-lit Neckar. - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2H_4_0047" id="link2H_4_0047"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - BOOK V - </h2> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0041" id="link2HCH0041"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER I - </h2> - <p> - Thou rapid Aar! thy waves are swollen by the snows of a thousand hills; - but for whom are thy leaping waters fed? Is it for the Rhine? - </p> - <p> - Calmly, O placid Neckar! does thy blue stream glide through thy vine-clad - vales; but calmer seems thy course when it touches the rushing Rhine! - </p> - <p> - How fragrant are the banks which are cooled by thy dark-green waters, thou - tranquil Maine! but is not the perfume sweeter of the gardens of the - Rhine? - </p> - <p> - Thou impetuous Nah! I lingered by thine islands of nightingales, and I - asked thy rushing waters why they disturbed the music of thy groves? They - told me they were hastening to the Rhine! - </p> - <p> - Red Moselle! fierce is the swell of thy spreading course; but why do thy - broad waters blush when they meet the Rhine? - </p> - <p> - Thou delicate Meuse! how clear is the current of thy limpid wave; as the - wife yields to the husband do thy pure waters yield to the Rhine! - </p> - <p> - And thou, triumphant and imperial River, flushed with the tribute of these - vassal streams! thou art thyself a tributary, and hastenest even in the - pride of conquest to confess thine own vassalage! But no superior stream - exults in the homage of thy servile waters; the Ocean, the eternal Ocean, - alone comes forward to receive thy kiss! not as a conqueror, but as a - parent, he welcomes with proud joy his gifted child, the offspring of his - honour; thy duty, his delight; thy tribute, thine own glory! - </p> - <p> - Once more upon thy banks, most beauteous Rhine! In the spring-time of my - youth I gazed on thee, and deemed thee matchless. Thy vine-enamoured - mountains, thy spreading waters, thy traditionary crags, thy shining - cities, the sparkling villages of thy winding shores, thy antique - convents, thy grey and silent castles, the purple glories of thy radiant - grape, the vivid tints of thy teeming flowers, the fragrance of thy sky, - the melody of thy birds, whose carols tell the pleasures of their sunny - woods; are they less lovely now, less beautiful, less sweet? - </p> - <p> - The keen emotions of our youth are often the occasion of our estimating - too ardently; but the first impression of beauty, though often - overcharged, is seldom supplanted: and as the first great author which he - reads is reverenced by the boy as the most immortal, and the first - beautiful woman that he meets is sanctified by him as the most adorable; - so the impressions created upon us by those scenes of nature which first - realise the romance of our reveries never escape from our minds, and are - ever consecrated in our memories; and thus some great spirits, after - having played their part on the theatre of the world, have retired from - the blaze of courts and cities to the sweet seclusion of some spot with - which they have accidentally met in the earliest years of their career. - </p> - <p> - But we are to speak of one who had retired from the world before his time. - </p> - <p> - Upwards of a year had elapsed since Vivian Grey left England. The mode of - life which he pursued at Heidelberg for many months has already been - mentioned. He felt himself a broken-hearted man, and looked for death, - whose delay was no blessing; but the feelings of youth which had misled - him in his burning hours of joy equally deceived him in his days of - sorrow. He lived; and in the course of time found each day that life was - less burdensome. The truth is, that if it be the lot of man to suffer, it - is also his fortune to forget. Oblivion and sorrow share our being, as - Darkness and Light divide the course of time. It is not in human nature to - endure extremities, and sorrows soon destroy either us or themselves. - Perhaps the fate of Niobe is no fable, but a type of the callousness of - our nature. There is a time in human suffering when succeeding sorrows are - but like snow falling on an iceberg. It is indeed horrible to think that - our peace of mind should arise, not from a retrospection of the past, but - from a forgetfulness of it; but, though this peace be produced at the best - by a mental opiate, it is not valueless; and Oblivion, after all, is a - just judge. As we retain but a faint remembrance of our felicity, it is - but fair that the smartest stroke of sorrow should, if bitter, at least be - brief. But in feeling that he might yet again mingle in the world, Vivian - Grey also felt that he must meet mankind with different feelings, and view - their pursuits with a different interest. He woke from his secret sorrow - in as changed a state of being as the water nymph from her first embrace; - and he woke with a new possession, not only as miraculous as Undine’s - soul, but gained at as great a price, and leading to as bitter results. - The nymph woke to new pleasures and to new sorrows; and, innocent as an - infant, she deemed mankind a god, and the world a paradise. Vivian Grey - discovered that this deity was but an idol of brass, and this garden of - Eden but a savage waste; for, if the river nymph had gained a soul, he had - gained Experience. - </p> - <p> - Experience, mysterious spirit! whose result is felt by all, whose nature - is described by none. The father warns the son of thy approach, and - sometimes looks to thee as his offspring’s cure and his own consolation. - We hear of thee in the nursery, we hear of thee in the world, we hear of - thee in books; but who has recognised thee until he was thy subject, and - who has discovered the object of so much fame until he has kissed thy - chain? To gain thee is the work of all and the curse of all; thou art at - the same time necessary to our happiness and destructive of our felicity; - thou art the saviour of all things and the destroyer of all things; our - best friend and our bitterest enemy; for thou teachest us truth, and that - truth is, despair. Ye youth of England, would that ye could read this - riddle! - </p> - <p> - To wake from your bright hopes, and feel that all is vanity, to be roused - from your crafty plans and know that all is worthless, is a bitter, but - your sure, destiny. Escape is impossible; for despair is the price of - conviction. How many centuries have fled since Solomon, in his cedar - palaces, sung the vanity of man! Though his harp was golden and his throne - of ivory, his feelings were not less keen, and his conviction not less - complete. How many sages of all nations have, since the monarch of - Jerusalem, echoed his sad philosophy! yet the vain bubble still glitters - and still allures, and must for ever. - </p> - <p> - The genealogy of Experience is brief; for Experience is the child of - Thought, and Thought is the child of Action. We cannot learn men from - books, nor can we form, from written descriptions, a more accurate idea of - the movements of the human heart than we can of the movements of nature. A - man may read all his life, and form no conception of the rush of a - mountain torrent, or the waving of a forest of pines in a storm; and a man - may study in his closet the heart of his fellow-creatures for ever, and - have no idea of the power of ambition, or the strength of revenge. - </p> - <p> - It is when we have acted ourselves, and have seen others acting; it is - when we have laboured ourselves under the influence of our passions, and - have seen others labouring; it is when our great hopes have been attained - or have been baulked; it is when, after having had the human heart - revealed to us, we have the first opportunity to think; it is then that - the whole truth lights upon us; it is then that we ask of ourselves - whether it be wise to endure such anxiety of mind, such agitation of - spirit, such harrowing of the soul, to gain what may cease to interest - to-morrow, or for which, at the best, a few years of enjoyment can alone - be afforded; it is then that we waken to the hollowness of all human - things; it is then that the sayings of sages and the warnings of prophets - are explained and understood; it is then that we gain Experience. - </p> - <p> - Vivian Grey was now about to join, for the second time, the great and - agitated crowd of beings who are all intent in the search after that - undiscoverable talisman, Happiness. That he entertained any hope of being - the successful inquirer is not to be imagined. He considered that the - happiest moment in human life is exactly the sensation of a sailor who has - escaped a shipwreck, and that the mere belief that his wishes are to be - indulged is the greatest bliss enjoyed by man. - </p> - <p> - How far his belief was correct, how he prospered in this his second - venture on the great ocean of life, it is our business to relate. There - were moments when he wished himself neither experienced nor a philosopher; - moments when he looked back to the lost paradise of his innocent boyhood, - those glorious hours when the unruffled river of his Life mirrored the - cloudless heaven of his Hope! - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0042" id="link2HCH0042"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER II - </h2> - <p> - Vivian pulled up his horse as he ascended through the fine beechwood which - leads immediately to the city of Frankfort from the Darmstadt road. The - crowd seemed to increase every moment, but as they were all hastening the - same way, his progress was not much impeded. It was Frankfort fair; and - all countenances were expressive of that excitement which we always - experience at great meetings of our fellow-creatures; whether the - assemblies be for slaughter, pleasure, or profit, and whether or not we - ourselves join in the banquet, the battle, or the fair. At the top of the - hill is an old Roman tower, and from this point the flourishing city of - Frankfort, with its picturesque Cathedral, its numerous villas, and - beautiful gardens in the middle of the fertile valley of the Maine, burst - upon Vivian’s sight. On crossing the bridge over the river, the crowd - became almost impassable, and it was with the greatest difficulty that - Vivian steered his way through the old narrow winding streets, full of - tall ancient houses, with heavy casements and notched gable ends. These - structures did not, however, at the present moment, greet the traveller - with their usual sombre and antique appearance: their outside walls were, - in most instances, covered with pieces of broad cloth of the most showy - colours, red, blue, and yellow predominating. These standards of trade - were not merely used for the purpose of exhibiting the quality of the - article sold in the interior, but also of informing the curious traveller - the name and nation of their adventurous owners. Inscriptions in German, - French, Russian, English, Italian, and even Hebrew, appeared in striking - characters on each woollen specimen; and, as if these were not sufficient - to attract the attention of the passenger, an active apprentice, or - assistant, commented in eloquent terms on the peculiar fairness and - honesty of his master. The public squares and other open spaces, and - indeed every spot which was secure from the hurrying wheels of the heavy - old-fashioned coaches of the Frankfort aristocracy and the spirited - pawings of their sleek and long-tailed coach-horses, were covered with - large and showy booths, which groaned under the accumulated treasures of - all countries. French silks and French clocks rivalled Manchester cottons - and Sheffield cutlery, and assisted to attract or entrap the gazer, in - company with Venetian chains, Neapolitan coral, and Vienna pipe-heads: - here was the booth of a great book-seller, who looked to the approaching - Leipsic fair for some consolation for his slow sale and the bad taste of - the people of Frankfort; and there was a dealer in Bologna sausages, who - felt quite convinced that in some things the taste of the Frankfort public - was by no means to be lightly spoken of. All was bustle, bargaining, and - business: there were quarrels and conversation in all languages; and - Vivian Grey, although he had no chance either of winning or losing money, - was amused. - </p> - <p> - At last Vivian gained the High Street; and here, though the crowd was not - less, the space was greater; and so in time he arrived at the grand hotel - of “the Roman Emperor,” where he stopped. It was a long time before he - could be informed whether Baron Julius von Konigstein at present honoured - that respectable establishment with his presence; for, although Vivian did - sometimes succeed in obtaining an audience of a hurrying waiter, that - personage, when in a hurry, has a peculiar habit of never attending to a - question which a traveller addresses to him. In this dilemma Vivian was - saluted by a stately-looking personage above the common height. He was - dressed in a very splendid uniform of green and gold, covered with - embroidery, and glittering with frogs. He wore a cocked hat adorned with a - flowing parti-coloured plume, and from his broad golden belt was suspended - a weapon of singular shape and costly workmanship. This personage was as - stiff and stately as he was magnificent. His eyes were studiously - preserved from the profanation of meeting the ground, and his - well-supported neck seldom condescended to move from its perpendicular - position. His coat was buttoned to the chin and over the breast, with the - exception of one small aperture, which was elegantly filled up by a - delicate white cambric handkerchief, very redolent of rich perfumes. This - gorgeous gentleman, who might have been mistaken for an elector of the - German Empire, had the German Empire been in existence, or the governor of - the city at the least, turned out to be the chasseur of the Baron von - Konigstein; and with his courtly assistance Vivian soon found himself - ascending the staircase of the Roman Emperor. - </p> - <p> - Vivian was ushered into an apartment, in which he found three or four - individuals at breakfast. A middle-aged man of distinguished appearance, - in a splendid chamber robe, sprung up from a many-cushioned easy-chair, - and seized his hand as he was announced. - </p> - <p> - “My dear Mr. Grey! I have left notes for you at the principal hotels. And - how is Eugene? wild blood for a student, but an excellent heart, and you - have been so kind to him! He feels under such particular obligations to - you. Will you breakfast? Ah! I see you smile at my supposing a horseman - unbreakfasted. And have you ridden here from Heidelberg this morning? - Impossible! Only from Darmstadt! I thought so! You were at the Opera then - last night. And how is the little Signora? We are to gain her though! - trust the good people of Frankfort for that! Pray be seated, but really I - am forgetting the commonest rules of breeding. Next to the pleasure of - having friends is that of introducing them to each other. Prince, you will - have great pleasure in being introduced to my friend, Mr. Grey: Mr. Grey! - Prince Salvinski! my particular friend, Prince Salvinski. The Count von - Altenburgh! Mr. Grey! my very particular friend, the Count von Altenburgh. - And the Chevalier de Boeffleurs! Mr. Grey! my most particular friend, the - Chevalier de Boeffleurs.” - </p> - <p> - Baron Julius von Konigstein was minister to the Diet of Frankfort from a - first-rate German power. In person he was short, but delicately formed; - his head a little bald, but as he was only five-and-thirty, this could - scarcely be from age; and his remaining hair, black, glossy, and curling, - proved that their companion ringlets had not been long lost. His features - were small, but not otherwise remarkable, except a pair of liquid black - eyes, of great size, which would have hardly become a Stoic, and which - gleamed with great meaning and perpetual animation. - </p> - <p> - “I understand, Mr. Grey, that you are a regular philosopher. Pray who is - the favourite master? Kant or Fichte? or is there any other new star who - has discovered the origin of our essence, and proved the non-necessity of - eating? Count, let me help you to a little more of these saucisses aux - choux. I am afraid, from Eugene’s account, that you are almost past - redemption; and I am sorry to say that, although I am very desirous of - being your physician and effecting your cure, Frankfort will supply me - with very few means to work your recovery. If you could but get me an - appointment once again to your delightful London, I might indeed produce - some effect; or were I even at Berlin, or at your delicious Vienna, Count - Altenburgh! (the Count bowed); or at that Paradise of women, Warsaw, - Prince Salvinski!! (the Prince bowed); or at Paris, Chevalier!!! (the - Chevalier bowed); why, then, indeed, you should have some difficulty in - finding an excuse for being in low spirits with Julius von Konigstein! But - Frankfort, eh! de Boeffleurs?” - </p> - <p> - “Oh! Frankfort!” sighed the French Chevalier, who was also attached to a - mission in this very city, and who was thinking of his own gay Boulevards - and his brilliant Tuileries. - </p> - <p> - “We are mere citizens here!” continued the Baron, taking a long pinch of - snuff, “mere citizens! Do you snuff?” and here he extended to Vivian a - gold box, covered with the portrait of a crowned head, surrounded with - diamonds. “A present from the King of Sardinia, when I negotiated the - marriage of the Duke of —— and his niece, and settled the - long-agitated controversy about the right of anchovy fishing on the left - shore of the Mediterranean. - </p> - <p> - “But the women,” continued the Baron, “the women; that is a different - thing. There is some amusement among the little bourgeoises, who are glad - enough to get rid of their commercial beaus; whose small talk, after a - waltz, is about bills of exchange, mixed up with a little patriotism about - their free city, and some chatter about what they call ‘the fine arts;’ - their awful collections of ‘the Dutch school:’ school forsooth! a cabbage, - by Gerard Dowl and a candlestick, by Mieris! And now will you take a basin - of soup, and warm yourself, while his Highness continues his account of - being frozen to death this spring at the top of Mont-Blanc: how was it, - Prince?” - </p> - <p> - “Your Highness has been a great traveller?” said Vivian. - </p> - <p> - “I have seen a little of most countries. These things are interesting - enough when we are young; but when we get a little more advanced in life, - the novelty wears off, and the excitement ceases. I have been in all - quarters of the globe. In Europe I have seen everything except the - miracles of Prince Hohenlohe. In Asia, everything except the ruins of - Babylon. In Africa, I have seen every thing but Timbuctoo; and, in - America, everything except Croker’s Mountains.” - </p> - <p> - Next to eating, music is the business in which an Austrian is most - interested, and Count von Altenburgh, having had the misfortune of - destroying, for the present, one great source of his enjoyment, became now - very anxious to know what chance there existed of his receiving some - consolation from the other. Pushing his plate briskly from him, he - demanded with an anxious air, “Can any gentleman inform me what chance - there is of the Signora coming?” - </p> - <p> - “No news to-day,” said the Baron, with a mournful look; “I am almost in - despair. What do you think of the last notes that have been interchanged?” - </p> - <p> - “Very little chance,” said the Chevalier de Boeffleurs, shaking his head. - “Really these burghers, with all their affected enthusiasm, have managed - the business exceedingly bad. No opera can possibly succeed that is not - conducted by a committee of noblemen.” - </p> - <p> - “Certainly!” said the Baron; “we are sure then to have the best singers, - and be in the Gazette the same season.” - </p> - <p> - “Which is much better, I think, Von Konigstein, than paying our bills and - receiving no pleasure.” - </p> - <p> - “But,” continued the Baron, “these clumsy burghers, with their affected - enthusiasm, as you well observe; who could have contemplated such novices - in diplomacy! Whatever may be the issue, I can at least lay my head upon - my pillow and feel that I have done my duty. Did not I, de Boeffleurs, - first place the negotiation on a basis of acknowledged feasibility and - mutual benefit? Who drew the protocol, I should like to know? Who baffled - the intrigues of the English Minister, the Lord Amelius Fitzfudge - Boroughby? Who sat up one whole night with the Signora’s friend, the - Russian Envoy, Baron Squallonoff, and who was it that first arranged about - the extra chariot?” and here the representative of a first-rate German - Power looked very much like a resigned patriot, who feels that he deserves - a ribbon. - </p> - <p> - “No doubt of it, my dear Von Konigstein,” echoed the French Chargé - d’Affaires, “and I think, whatever may be the result, that I, too, may - look back to this negotiation with no ungratified feelings. Had the - arrangement been left as I had wished, merely to the Ministers of the - Great Powers, I am confident that the Signora would have been singing this - night in our Opera House.” - </p> - <p> - “What is the grand point of difference at present?” asked the Austrian. - </p> - <p> - “A terrific one,” said the Baron; “the lady demanded twenty covers, two - tables, two carriages, one of which I arranged should be a chariot; that - at least the town owes to me; and, what else? merely a town mansion and - establishment. Exerting myself day and night, these terms were at length - agreed to by the municipality, and the lady was to ride over from - Darmstadt to sign and seal. In the course of her ride she took a cursed - fancy to the country villa of a great Jew banker, and since that moment - the arrangement has gone off. We have offered her everything; the - commandant’s country castle; his lady’s country farm; the villa of the - director of the Opera; the retreat of our present prima donna; all in - vain. We have even hinted at a temporary repose in a neighbouring royal - residence; but all useless. The banker and the Signora are equally - intractable, and Frankfort is in despair.” - </p> - <p> - “She ought to have signed and sealed at Darmstadt,” said the Count, very - indignantly. - </p> - <p> - “To be sure! they should have closed upon her caprice, and taken her when - she was in the fancy.” - </p> - <p> - “Talking of Opera girls,” commenced the Polish Prince, “I remember the - Countess Katszinski—” - </p> - <p> - “Your Highness has nothing upon your plate,” quickly retorted the Baron, - who was in no humour for a story. - </p> - <p> - “Nothing more, I thank you,” continued the Prince: “as I was saying, I - remember the Countess Katszinski—” but just at this moment the door - opened, and Ernstorff entered and handed a despatch to the Baron, - recommending it to his Excellency’s particular attention. - </p> - <p> - “Business, I suppose,” said the Plenipotentiary; “it may wait till - to-morrow.” - </p> - <p> - “From M. Clarionet, your Excellency.” - </p> - <p> - “From M. Clarionet!” eagerly exclaimed the Baron, and tore open the - epistle. “Gentlemen! congratulate me, congratulate yourselves, - congratulate Frankfort;” and the diplomatist, overcome, leant back in his - chair. “She is ours, Salvinski! she is ours, Von Altenburgh! she is ours, - my dear de Boeffleurs! Mr. Grey, you are most fortunate; the Signora has - signed and sealed; all is arranged; she sings to-night! What a - fine-spirited body is this Frankfort municipality! what elevation of soul! - what genuine enthusiasm! eh! de Boeffleurs?” - </p> - <p> - “Most genuine!” exclaimed the Chevalier, who hated German music with all - his heart, and was now humming an air from La Dame Blanche. - </p> - <p> - “But mind, my dear friend, this is a secret, a cabinet secret; the - municipality are to have the gratification of announcing the event to the - city in a public decree; it is but fair. I feel that I have only to hint - to secure your silence.” - </p> - <p> - At this moment, with a thousand protestations of secresy, the party broke - up, each hastening to have the credit of first spreading the joyful - intelligence through the circles, and of depriving the Frankfort senate of - their hard-earned gratification. The Baron, who was in high spirits, - ordered the carriage to drive Vivian round the ramparts, where he was to - be introduced to some of the most fashionable beauties, previous to the - evening triumph. - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0043" id="link2HCH0043"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER III - </h2> - <p> - Vivian passed a week very agreeably at Frankfort. In the Baron and his - friends he found the companions that he had need of; their conversation - and pursuits diverted his mind without engaging his feelings, and allowed - him no pause to brood. There were moments, indeed, when he found in the - Baron a companion neither frivolous nor uninstructive. His Excellency had - travelled in most countries, and had profited by his travels. His taste - for the fine arts was equalled by his knowledge of them; and his - acquaintance with many of the most eminent men of Europe enriched his - conversation with a variety of anecdotes, to which his lively talents did - ample justice. He seemed fond at times of showing Vivian that he was not a - mere artificial man of the world, destitute of all feelings, and thinking - only of himself: he recurred with satisfaction to moments of his life when - his passions had been in full play; and, while he acknowledged the errors - of his youth with candour, he excused them with grace. In short, Vivian - and he became what the world calls friends; that is to say, they were men - who had no objection to dine in each other’s company, provided the dinner - were good; assist each other in any scrape, provided no particular - personal responsibility were incurred by the assistant; and live under the - same roof, provided each were master of his own time. Vivian and the - Baron, indeed, did more than this; they might have been described as - particular friends, for his Excellency had persuaded our hero to accompany - him for the summer to the Baths of Ems, a celebrated German - watering-place, situate in the duchy of Nassau, in the vicinity of the - Rhine. - </p> - <p> - On the morrow they were to commence their journey. The fair of Frankfort, - which had now lasted nearly a month, was at its close. A bright sunshiny - afternoon was stealing into twilight, when Vivian, escaping from the - principal street and the attractions of the Braunfels, or chief shops - under the Exchange, directed his steps to some of the more remote and - ancient streets. In crossing a little square his attention was excited by - a crowd which had assembled round a conjuror, who, from the top of a small - cart, which he had converted into a stage, was haranguing, in front of a - green curtain, an audience with great fervency, and apparently with great - effect; at least Vivian judged so from the loud applauses which constantly - burst forth. The men pressed nearer, shouted, and clapped their hands; and - the anxious mothers struggled to lift their brats higher in the air that - they might early form a due conception of the powers of magic, and learn - that the maternal threats which were sometimes extended to them at home - were not mere idle boasting. Altogether, the men with their cocked hats, - stiff holiday coats, and long pipes; the women with their glazed gowns of - bright fancy patterns, close lace caps, or richly-chased silver headgear; - and the children with their gaping mouths and long heads of hair, offered - quaint studies for a German or Flemish painter. Vivian became also one of - the audience, and not an uninterested one. - </p> - <p> - The appearance of the conjuror was peculiar. He was not much more than - five feet high, but so slightly formed that he reminded you rather of the - boy than the dwarf. The upper part of his face was even delicately - moulded; his sparkling black eyes became his round forehead, which was not - too much covered by his short glossy black hair; his complexion was clear, - but quite olive; his nose was very small and straight, and contrasted - singularly with his enormous mouth, the thin bluish lips of which were - seldom closed, and consequently did not conceal his large square teeth, - which, though very white, were set apart, and were so solid that they - looked almost like double teeth. This enormous mouth, which was supported - by large jawbones, attracted the attention of the spectator so keenly that - it was some time before you observed the prodigious size of the ears, - which also adorned this extraordinary countenance. The costume of this - being was not less remarkable than his natural appearance. He wore a - complete under dress of pliant leather, which fitted close up to his - throat and down to his wrists and ankles, where it was clasped with large - fastenings, either of gold or some gilt material. This, with the addition - of a species of hussar jacket of green cloth, which was quite unadorned - with the exception of its vivid red lining, was the sole covering of the - conjuror; who, with a light cap and feather in his hand, was now - haranguing the spectators. The object of his discourse was a panegyric of - himself and a satire on all other conjurors. He was the only conjuror, the - real one, a worthy descendant of the magicians of old. - </p> - <p> - “Were I to tell that broad-faced Herr,” continued the conjuror, “who is - now gaping opposite to me, that this rod is the rod of Aaron, mayhap he - would call me a liar; yet were I to tell him that he was the son of his - father, he would not think it wonderful! And yet, can he prove it? My - friends, if I am a liar, the whole world is a liar, and yet any one of you - who’ll go and proclaim that on the Braunfels will get his skull cracked. - Every truth is not to be spoken, and every lie is not to be punished. I - have told you that it is better for you to spend your money in seeing my - tricks than in swigging schnaps in the chimney corner; and yet, my - friends, this may be a lie. I have told you that the profits of this whole - night shall be given to some poor and worthy person in this town; and - perhaps I shall give them to myself. What then! I shall speak the truth; - and you will perhaps crack my skull. Is this a reward for truth? O - generation of vipers! My friends, what is truth? who can find it in - Frankfort? Suppose I call upon you, Mr. Baker, and sup with you this - evening; you will receive me as a neighbourly man should, tell me to make - myself at home, and do as I like. Is it not so? I see you smile, as if my - visit would make you bring out one of the bottles of your best - Asmanshausen!” - </p> - <p> - Here the crowd laughed out; for we are always glad when there is any talk - of another’s hospitality being put to the test, although we stand no - chance of sharing in the entertainment ourselves. The baker looked - foolish, as all men singled out in a crowd do. - </p> - <p> - “Well, well,” continued the conjuror, “I have no doubt his wine would be - as ready as your tobacco, Mr. Smith; or a wafila from your basket, my - honest cake-seller;” and so saying, with a long thin wand the conjuror - jerked up the basket of an itinerant and shouting pastry-cook, and - immediately began to thrust the contents into his mouth with a rapidity - ludicrously miraculous. The laugh now burst out again, but the honest - baker joined in it this time with an easy spirit. - </p> - <p> - “Be not disconcerted, my little custard-monger; if thou art honest, thou - shalt prosper. Did I not say that the profits of this night were for the - most poor and the most honest? If thy stock in trade were in thy basket, - my raspberry-puff, verily thou art not now the richest here; and so, - therefore, if thy character be a fair one, that is to say, if thou only - cheat five times a day, and give a tenth of thy cheatery to the poor, thou - shalt have the benefit. I ask thee again, what is truth? If I sup with the - baker, and he tells me to do what I like with all that is his, and I kiss - his wife, he will kick me out; yet to kiss his wife might be my pleasure, - if her breath were sweet. I ask thee again, what is truth? Truth, they - say, lies in a well; but perhaps this is a lie. How do we know that truth - is not in one of these two boxes?” asked the conjuror, placing his cap on - his head, and holding one small snuff-box to a tall, savage-looking, - one-eyed Bohemian, who, with a comrade, had walked over from the Austrian - garrison at Mentz. - </p> - <p> - “I see but one box,” growled the soldier. - </p> - <p> - “It is because thou hast only one eye, friend; open the other, and thou - shalt see two,” said the conjuror, in a slow, malicious tone, with his - neck extended, and his hand with the hateful box outstretched in it. - </p> - <p> - “Now, by our black Lady of Altoting, I’ll soon stop thy prate, - chitterling!” bellowed the enraged Bohemian. - </p> - <p> - “Murder! the protection of the free city against the Emperor of Austria, - the King of Bohemia, Hungary, and Lombardy!” and the knave retreated to - the very extremity of the stage, and affecting agitating fear, hid himself - behind the green curtain, from a side of which his head was alone visible, - or rather an immense red tongue, which wagged in all shapes at the unlucky - soldier, except when it retired to the interior of his mouth, to enable - him to reiterate “Murder!” and invoke the privileges of the free city of - Frankfort. - </p> - <p> - When the soldier was a little cooled, the conjuror again came forward, - and, having moved his small magical table to a corner, and lit two tapers, - one of which he placed at each side of the stage, he stripped off his - hussar jacket, and began to imitate a monkey; an animal which, by the - faint light, in his singular costume, he very much resembled. How amusing - were his pranks! He first plundered a rice plantation, and then he cracked - cocoa-nuts; then he washed his face and arranged his toilet with, his - right paw; and finally he ran a race with his own tail, which humorous - appendage to his body was very wittily performed for the occasion by a - fragment, of an old tarred rope. His gambols were so diverting that they - even extracted applause from his enemy the one-eyed serjeant; and, - emboldened by the acclamations, from monkeys the conjuror began to imitate - men. He first drank like a Dutchman, and having reeled round with a - thousand oaths, to the manifold amusement of the crowd, he suddenly began - to smoke like a Prussian. Nothing could be more admirable than the look of - complacent and pompous stolidity with which he accompanied each puff of - his pipe. The applause was continued; and the one-eyed Bohemian serjeant, - delighted at the ridicule which was heaped on his military rival, actually - threw the mimic some groschen. - </p> - <p> - “Keep thy pence, friend,” said the conjuror; “thou wilt soon owe me more; - we have not yet closed accounts. My friends, I have drank like a Dutchman; - I have smoked like a Prussian; and now I will eat like an Austrian!” and - here the immense mouth of the actor seemed distended even a hundred - degrees bigger, while with gloating eyes and extended arms he again set to - at the half-emptied wafila basket of the unhappy pastry-cook. - </p> - <p> - “Now, by our black Lady of Altoting, thou art an impudent varlet!” growled - the Austrian soldier. - </p> - <p> - “You are losing your temper again,” retorted the glutton, with his mouth - full; “how difficult you are to please! Well, then, if the Austrians may - not be touched, what say you to a Bohemian! a tall one-eyed Bohemian - serjeant, with an appetite like a hog and a liver like a lizard?” - </p> - <p> - “Now, by our black Lady of Altoting, this is too much!” and the soldier - sprang at the conjuror. - </p> - <p> - “Hold him!” cried Vivian Grey; for the mob, frightened at the soldier, - gave way. - </p> - <p> - “There is a gentle’s voice under a dark cloak!” cried the conjuror; “but I - want no assistance;” and so saying, with a dexterous spring the conjuror - leaped over the heads of two or three staring children, and lighted on the - nape of the serjeant’s gigantic neck; placing his forefingers behind each - of the soldier’s ears, he threatened to slit them immediately if he were - not quiet. The serjeant’s companion, of course, came to his rescue, but - Vivian engaged him, and attempted to arrange matters. “My friends, surely - a gay word at a fair is not to meet with military punishment! What is the - use of living in the free city of Frankfort, or, indeed, in any other - city, if jokes are to be answered with oaths, and a light laugh met with a - heavy blow? Avoid bloodshed, if possible, but stand by the conjuror. His - business is jibes and jests, and this is the first time that I ever saw - Merry Andrew arrested. Come, my good fellows!” said he to the soldiers, - “we had better be off; men so important as you and I should not be - spectators of these mummeries.” The Austrians, who understood Vivian’s - compliment literally, were not sorry to make a dignified retreat; - particularly as the mob, encouraged by Vivian’s interference, began to - show fight. Vivian also took his departure as soon as he could possibly - steal off unnoticed; but not before he had been thanked by the conjuror. - </p> - <p> - “I knew there was gentle blood under that cloak. If you like to see the - Mystery of the Crucifixion, with the Resurrection, and real fireworks, it - begins at eight o’clock, and you shall be admitted gratis. I knew there - was gentle blood under that cloak, and some day or other, when your - Highness is in distress, you shall not want the aid of ESSPER GEORGE!” - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0044" id="link2HCH0044"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER IV - </h2> - <p> - It was late in the evening when a britzska stopped at the post-house at - Coblentz. The passage-boat from Bingen had just arrived; and a portly - judge from the Danube, a tall, gaunt Prussian officer, a sketching English - artist, two University students, and some cloth-merchants, returning from - Frankfort fair, were busily occupied at a long table in the centre of the - room, at an ample banquet, in which sour-crout, cherry-soup, and savoury - sausages were not wanting. So keen were the appetites of these worthies, - that the entrance of the new comers, who seated themselves at a small - table in the corner of the room, was scarcely noticed; and for - half-an-hour nothing was heard but the sound of crashing jaws and of - rattling knives and forks. How singular is the sight of a dozen hungry - individuals intent upon their prey! What a noisy silence! A human voice - was at length heard. It proceeded from the fat judge; a man at once - convivial, dignified, and economical: he had not spoken for two minutes - before his character was evident to every person in the room, although he - flattered himself that his secret purpose was concealed from all. Tired - with the thin Moselle gratuitously allowed to the table, the judge wished - to comfort himself with a glass of more generous liquor; aware of the - price of a bottle of good Rudesheimer, he was desirous of forming a - copartnership with one or two gentlemen in the venture; still more aware - of his exalted situation, he felt it did not become him to appear in the - eyes of any one as an unsuccessful suppliant. - </p> - <p> - “This Moselle is very thin,” observed the judge, shaking his head. - </p> - <p> - “Very fair table-wine, I think” said the artist, refilling his tumbler, - and then proceeding with his sketch, which was a rough likeness, in black - chalk, of the worthy magistrate himself. - </p> - <p> - “Very good wine, I think,” swore the Prussian, taking the bottle. With the - officer there was certainly no chance. - </p> - <p> - The cloth-merchants mixed even this thin Moselle with water, and therefore - they could hardly be looked to as boon companions; and the students were - alone left. A German student is no flincher at the bottle, although he - generally drinks beer. These gentry, however, were no great favourites - with the magistrate, who was a loyal man, of regular habits, and no - encourager of brawls, duels, and other still more disgraceful outrages; to - all which abominations, besides drinking beer and chewing tobacco, the - German student is remarkably addicted; but in the present case what was to - be done? He offered the nearest a pinch of snuff, as a mode of commencing - his acquaintance and cultivating his complacency. The student dug his - thumb into the box, and, with the additional aid of the forefinger - sweeping out half its contents, growled out something like thanks, and - then drew up in his seat, as if he had too warmly encouraged the - impertinent intrusion of a Philistine to whom he had never been - introduced. - </p> - <p> - The cloth-merchant, ceasing from sipping his meek liquor, and taking out - of his pocket a letter, from which he tore off the back, carefully - commenced collecting with his forefinger the particles of dispersed snuff - in a small pyramid, which, when formed, was dexterously slided into the - paper, then folded up and put into his pocket; the prudent merchant - contenting himself for the moment with the refreshment which was afforded - to his senses by the truant particles which had remained in his nail. - </p> - <p> - “Waiter, a bottle of Rudesheimer!” bellowed the judge; “and if any - gentleman or gentlemen would like to join me, they may,” he added, in a - more subdued tone. No one answered, and the bottle was put down. The judge - slowly poured out the bright yellow fluid into a tall bell glass, adorned - with a beautiful and encircling wreath of vine leaves; he held the glass a - moment before the lamp, for his eye to dwell with still greater advantage - on the transparent radiancy of the contents; and then deliberately pouring - them down his throat, and allowing them to dwell a moment on his palate, - he uttered an emphatic “bah!” and sucking in his breath, leaned back in - his chair. The student immediately poured out a glass from the same - bottle, and drank it off. The judge gave him a look, and then blessed - himself that, though his boon companion was a brute, still he would lessen - the expense of the bottle, which nearly amounted to a day’s pay; and so he - again filled his glass, but this was merely to secure his fair portion. He - saw the student was a rapid drinker; and, although he did not like to - hurry his own enjoyment, he thought it most prudent to keep his glass well - stored by his side. - </p> - <p> - “I hope your Lordships have had a pleasant voyage,” exclaimed a man, - entering the room rapidly as he spoke; and, deliberately walking up to the - table, he pushed between two of the cloth-merchants, who quietly made way; - and then placing a small square box before him, immediately opened it, and - sweeping aside the dishes and glasses which surrounded him, began to fill - their places with cups, balls, rings, and other mysterious-looking - matters, which generally accompany a conjuror. - </p> - <p> - “I hope your Lordships have had a pleasant voyage. I have been thinking of - you all the day. (Here the cups were arranged.) Next to myself, I am - interested for my friends. (Here the rice was sprinkled.) I came from - Fairy-land this morning. (Here the trick was executed.) Will any gentleman - lend me a handkerchief? Now, sir, tie any knot you choose: tighter, - tighter, tight as you can, tight as you can: now pull! Why, sir, where’s - your knot?” Here most of the company good-naturedly laughed at a trick - which had amused them before a hundred times. But the dignified judge had - no taste for such trivial amusements; and, besides, he thought that all - this noise spoilt the pleasure of his wine, and prevented him from - catching the flavour of his Rudesheimer. Moreover, the Judge was not in a - very good humour. The student appeared to have little idea of the rules - and regulations of a fair partnership: for not only did he not regulate - his draughts by the moderate example of his bottle companion, but actually - filled the glass of his University friend, and even offered the precious - green flask to his neighbour, the cloth-merchant. That humble individual - modestly refused the proffer. The unexpected circumstance of having his - health drank by a stranger seemed alone to have produced a great - impression upon him; and adding a little more water to his already diluted - potation, he bowed reverently to the student, who, in return, did not - notice him. All these little circumstances prevented the judge from - laughing at the performances of our friend Essper George; for we need - hardly mention that the conjuror was no other. His ill-humour did not - escape the lord of the cups and balls, who, as was his custom, immediately - began to torment him. - </p> - <p> - “Will you choose a card?” asked the magician of the judge, with a most - humble look. - </p> - <p> - “No, sir!” - </p> - <p> - Essper George looked very penitent, as if he felt he had taken a great - liberty by his application; and so, to compensate for his incorrect - behaviour, he asked the magistrate whether he would have the goodness to - lend him his watch. The judge was irate, and determined to give the - intruder a set down. - </p> - <p> - “I am not one of those who can be amused by tricks that his grandfather - knew.” - </p> - <p> - “Grandfather!” shrieked Essper; “what a wonderful grandfather yours must - have been! All my tricks are fresh from Fairyland this morning. - Grandfather, indeed! Pray, is this your grandfather?” and here the - conjuror, leaning over the table, with a rapid catch drew out from the fat - paunch of the judge a long grinning wooden figure, with great staring - eyes, and the parrot nose of a pulcinello. The laugh which followed this - sleight-of-hand was loud, long, and universal. The judge lost his temper; - and Essper George took the opportunity of the confusion to drink off the - glass of Rudesheimer which stood, as we have mentioned, ready charged, at - the magistrate’s elbow. - </p> - <p> - The waiter now went round to collect the money of the various guests who - had partaken of the boat-supper; and, of course, charged the judge extra - for his ordered bottle, bowing at the same time very low, as was proper to - so good a customer. These little attentions at inns encourage expenditure. - The judge tried at the same time the bottle, which he found empty, and - applied to his two boon companions for their quota; but the students - affected a sort of brutal surprise at any one having the impudence to - imagine that they were going to pay their proportion; and flinging down - the money for their own supper on the table, they retired. The magistrate, - calling loudly for the landlord, followed them out of the room. - </p> - <p> - Essper George stood moralising at the table, and emptying every glass - whose contents were not utterly drained, with the exception of the - tumblers of the cloth-merchants, of whose liquor he did not approve. - </p> - <p> - “Poor man! to get only one glass out of his own bottle! Ay! call for M. - Maas; threaten as you will. Your grandfather will not help you here. Blood - out of a wall and money out of a student come the same day. Ah! is your - Excellency here?” said Essper, turning round to our two travellers with - affected surprise, although he had observed them the whole time. “Is your - Excellency here? I have been looking for you through Frankfort this whole - morning. There! it will do for your glass. It is of chamois leather, and I - made it myself, from a beast I caught last summer in the valley of the - Rhone.” So saying, he threw over Vivian’s neck a neat chain, or cord, of - curiously-worked leather. - </p> - <p> - “Who the devil is this, Grey?” asked the Baron. - </p> - <p> - “A funny knave, whom I once saved from a thrashing, or something of the - kind, which I do him the justice to say he well deserved.” - </p> - <p> - “Who the devil is this?” said Essper George. “Why, that is exactly the - same question I myself asked when I saw a tall, pompous, proud fellow, - dressed like a peacock on a May morning, standing at the door just now. He - looked as if he would pass himself off for an ambassador at least; but I - told him that if he got his wages paid he was luckier than most servants. - Was I right, your Excellency?” - </p> - <p> - “Poor Ernstorff!” said the Baron, laughing. “Yes; <i>he</i> certainly gets - paid. Here, you are a clever varlet; fill your glass.” - </p> - <p> - “No; no wine. Don’t you hear the brawling, and nearly the bloodshed, which - are going on upstairs about a sour bottle of Rudesheimer? and here I see - two gentles who have ordered the best wine merely to show that they are - masters and not servants of the green peacock, and lo! cannot get through - a glass. Lord! lord! what is man? If my fat friend and his grandfather - would but come down stairs again, here is liquor enough to make wine and - water of the Danube; for he comes from thence by his accent. No, I’ll have - none of your wine; keep it to throw on the sandy floor, that the dust may - not hurt your delicate shoes, nor dirt the hand of the gentleman in green - and gold when he cleans them for you in the morning.” - </p> - <p> - Here the Baron laughed again, and, as he bore his impertinence, Essper - George immediately became polite. - </p> - <p> - “Does your Highness go to Ems?” - </p> - <p> - “We hardly know, my friend.” - </p> - <p> - “Oh! go there, gentlemen. I have tried them all; Aix-la-Chapelle, Spa, - Wiesbaden, Carlsbad, Pyrmont, every one of them; but what are these to - Ems? There we all live in the same house and eat from the same table. When - there I feel that you are all under my protection; I consider you all as - my children. Besides, the country, how delightful! the mountains, the - valleys, the river, the woods, and then the company so select! No - sharpers, no adventurers, no blacklegs: at Ems you can be taken in by no - one except your intimate friend. To Ems, by all means. I would advise you, - however, to send the gentleman in the cocked hat on before you to engage - rooms; for I can assure you that you will have a hard chance. The baths - are very full.” - </p> - <p> - “And how do you get there, Essper?” asked Vivian. - </p> - <p> - “Those are subjects on which I never speak,” answered the conjuror, with a - solemn air. - </p> - <p> - “But have you all your stock-in-trade with you, my good fellow? Where is - the Mystery?” - </p> - <p> - “Sold, sir; sold! I never keep to anything long. Variety is the mother of - Enjoyment. At Ems I shall not be a conjuror: but I never part with my box. - It takes no more room than one of those medicine chests, which I dare say - you have got with you in your carriage, to prop up your couple of - shattered constitutions.” - </p> - <p> - “By Jove! you are a merry, impudent fellow,” said the Baron; “and if you - like to get up behind my britzska, you may.” - </p> - <p> - “No; I carry my own box and my own body, and I shall be at Ems to-morrow - in time enough to receive your Lordships.” - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0045" id="link2HCH0045"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER V - </h2> - <p> - In a delightful valley of Nassau, formed by the picturesque windings of - the Taunus Mountains, and on the banks of the noisy river Lahn, stands a - vast brick pile, of irregular architecture, which nearly covers an acre of - ground. This building was formerly a favourite palace of the ducal house - of Nassau; but the present Prince has thought proper to let out the former - residence of his family as an hotel for the accommodation of the company, - who in the season frequent this, the most lovely spot in his lovely little - duchy. This extensive building contains two hundred and thirty rooms and - eighty baths; and these apartments, which are under the management of an - official agent, who lives in the “Princely Bathing House,” for such is its - present dignified title, are to be engaged at fixed prices, which are - marked over the doors. All the rooms in the upper story of the Princely - Bathing House open on, or are almost immediately connected with, a long - corridor, which extends the whole length of the building. The - ground-floor, besides the space occupied by the baths, also affords a - spacious promenade, arched with stone, and surrounded with stalls, behind - which are marshalled vendors of all the possible articles which can be - required by the necessities of the frequenters of a watering-place. There - you are greeted by the jeweller of the Palais Royal and the marchande de - mode of the Rue de la Paix; the print-seller from Mannheim and the - china-dealer from Dresden; and other small speculators in the various - fancy articles which abound in Vienna, Berlin, Geneva, Basle, Strasburg, - and Lausanne; such as pipes, costumes of Swiss peasantry, crosses of Mont - Blanc crystal, and all varieties of national bijouterie. All things may - here be sold, save those which administer to the nourishment of the body - or the pleasure of the palate. Let not those of my readers who have - already planned a trip to the sweet vales of the Taunus be frightened by - this last sentence. At Ems “eatables and drinkables” are excellent and - abounding; but they are solely supplied by the restaurateur, who farms the - monopoly from the Duke. This gentleman, who is a pupil of Beauvillier’s, - and who has conceived an exquisite cuisine, by adding to the lighter - graces of French cookery something of the more solid virtues of the - German, presides in a saloon of vast size and magnificent decoration, in - which, during the season, upwards of three hundred persons frequent the - table d’hôte. It is the etiquette at Ems that, however distinguished or - however humble the rank of the visitors, their fare and their treatment - must be alike. In one of the most aristocratic countries in the word the - sovereign prince and his tradesman subject may be found seated in the - morning at the same board, and eating from the same dish, as in the - evening they may be seen staking on the same colour at the gaming-table, - and sharing in the same interest at the Redoute. - </p> - <p> - The situation of Ems is delightful. The mountains which form the valley - are not, as in Switzerland, so elevated that they confine the air or seem - to impede the facility of breathing. In their fantastic forms the - picturesque is not lost in the monotonous, and in the rich covering of - their various woods the admiring eye finds at the same time beauty and - repose. Opposite the ancient palace, on the banks of the Lahn, are the - gardens. In these, in a pavilion, a band of musicians seldom cease from - enchanting the visitors by their execution of the most favourite specimens - of German and Italian music. Numberless acacia arbours and retired sylvan - seats are here to be found, where the student or the contemplative may - seek refuge from the noise of his more gay companions, and the tedium of - eternal conversation. In these gardens, also, are the billiard-room, and - another saloon, in which each night meet, not merely those who are - interested in the mysteries of rouge et noir, and the chances of roulette, - but, in general, the whole of the company, male and female, who are - frequenting the baths. In quitting the gardens for a moment, we must not - omit mentioning the interesting booth of our friend, the restaurateur, - where coffee, clear and hot, and exquisite confectionery, are never - wanting. Nor should we forget the glittering pennons of the gay boats - which glide along the Lahn; nor the handsome donkeys, who, with their - white saddles and red bridles, seem not unworthy of the princesses whom - they sometimes bear. The gardens, with an alley of limetrees, which are - farther on, near the banks of the river, afford easy promenades to the - sick and debilitated; but the more robust and active need not fear - monotony in the valley of the Lahn. If they sigh for the champaign - country, they can climb the wild passes of the encircling mountains, and - from their tops enjoy the most magnificent views of the Rhineland. There - they may gaze on that mighty river, flowing through the prolific plain - which at the same time it nourishes and adorns, bounded on each side by - mountains of every form, clothed with wood or crowned with castles. Or, if - they fear the fatigues of the ascent, they may wander farther up the - valley, and in the wild dells, romantic forests, and grey ruins of Stein - and Nassau, conjure up the old times of feudal tyranny when the forest was - the only free land, and he who outraged the laws the only one who did not - suffer from their authority. - </p> - <p> - Besides the Princely Bathing House, I must mention that there was another - old and extensive building near it, which, in very full seasons, also - accommodated visitors on the same system as the palace. At present, this - adjoining building was solely occupied by a Russian Grand Duke, who had - engaged it for the season. - </p> - <p> - Such is a slight description of Ems, a place almost of unique character; - for it is a watering-place with every convenience, luxury, and - accommodation; and yet without shops, streets, or houses. - </p> - <p> - The Baron and Vivian were fortunate in finding rooms, for the Baths were - very full; the extraordinary beauty of the weather having occasioned a - very early season. They found themselves at the baths early on the morning - after their arrival at Coblentz, and at three o’clock in the same day had - taken their places at the dinner table in the great saloon. At the long - table upwards of two hundred and fifty guests were assembled, of different - nations, and of very different characters. There was the cunning, - intriguing Greek, who served well his imperial master the Russian. The - order of the patron saint of Moscow, and the glittering stars of other - nations which sparkled on his green uniform, told how well he had laboured - for the interest of all other countries except his own; but his clear, - pale complexion, his delicately trimmed mustachio, his lofty forehead, his - arched eyebrow, and his Eastern eye, recalled to the traveller, in spite - of his barbarian trappings, the fine countenances of the Aegean, and - became a form which apparently might have struggled in Thermopylae. Next - to him was the Austrian diplomatist, the Sosia of all cabinets, in whose - gay address and rattling conversation you could hardly recognise the - sophistical defender of unauthorised invasion, and the subtle inventor of - Holy Alliances and Imperial Leagues. Then came the rich usurer from - Frankfort or the prosperous merchant from Hamburgh, who, with his wife and - daughters, were seeking some recreation from his flourishing - counting-house in the sylvan gaieties of a German bathing-place. Flirting - with these was an adventurous dancing-master from Paris, whose profession - at present was kept in the background, and whose well-curled black hair, - diamond pin, and frogged coat hinted at the magnifico incog, and also - enabled him, if he did not choose in time to follow his own profession, to - pursue another one, which he had also studied, in the profitable mystery - of the Redoute. There were many other individuals, whose commonplace - appearance did not reveal a character which perhaps they did not possess. - There were officers in all uniforms, and there were some uniforms without - officers. But all looked perfectly comme il faut, and on the whole very - select; and if the great persons endeavoured for a moment to forget their - dignity, still these slight improprieties were amply made up by the - affected dignity of those little persons who had none to forget. - </p> - <p> - “And how like you the baths of Ems?” the Baron asked of Vivian, “We shall - get better seats to-morrow, and perhaps be among those whom you shall - know. I see many friends and some agreeable ones. In the meantime, you - must make a good dinner to-day, and I will amuse you, and assist your - digestion, by putting you up to some of the characters with whom you are - dining.” - </p> - <p> - At this moment a party entered the room, who were rather late in their - appearance, but who attracted the attention of Vivian. The group consisted - of three persons; a very good-looking young man, who supported on each arm - a female. The lady on his right arm was apparently of about - five-and-twenty years of age. She was of majestic stature; her complexion - of untinged purity. Her features were like those conceptions of Grecian - sculptors which, in moments of despondency, we sometimes believe to be - ideal. Her full eyes were of the same deep blue as the mountain lake, and - gleamed from under their long lashes as that purest of waters beneath its - fringing sedge. Her brown light hair was braided from her high forehead, - and hung in long full curls over her neck; the mass gathered up into a - Grecian knot, and confined by a bandeau of cameos. She wore a dress of - black velvet, whose folding drapery was confined round a waist which was - in exact symmetry with the proportions of her full bust and the polished - roundness of her bending neck. The countenance of the lady was dignified, - without any expression of pride, and reserved, without any of the - harshness of austerity. In gazing on her the enraptured spectator for a - moment believed that Minerva had forgotten her severity, and had entered - into a delightful rivalry with Venus. - </p> - <p> - Her companion was much younger, not so tall, and of slender form. The long - tresses of her chestnut hair shaded her oval face. Her small, aquiline - nose, bright hazel eyes, delicate mouth, and the deep colour of her lips, - were as remarkable as the transparency of her complexion. The flush of her - cheek was singular; it was of a brilliant pink: you may find it in the lip - of an Indian shell. The blue veins played beneath her arched forehead, - like lightning beneath a rainbow. She was dressed in white, and a damask - rose, half hid in her clustering hair, was her only ornament. This lovely - creature glided by Vivian Grey almost unnoticed, so fixed was his gaze on - her companion. Yet, magnificent as was the style of Lady Madeleine Trevor, - there were few who preferred even her commanding graces to the softer - beauties of Violet Fane. - </p> - <p> - This party, having passed Vivian, proceeded to the top of the room, where - places had been kept for them. Vivian’s eye watched them till they were - lost among surrounding visitors: their peculiar loveliness could not - deceive him. - </p> - <p> - “English, no doubt,” observed he to the Baron; “who can they be?” - </p> - <p> - “I have not the least idea; that is, I do not exactly know. I think they - are English,” answered the Baron, in so confused a manner that Vivian - rather stared. After musing a moment, the Baron recovered himself. - </p> - <p> - “The unexpected sight of a face we feel that we know, and yet cannot - immediately recognise, is extremely annoying; it is almost agitating. They - are English. The lady in black is Lady Madeleine Trevor; I knew her in - London.” - </p> - <p> - “And the gentleman?” asked Vivian: “is the gentleman Mr. Trevor?” - </p> - <p> - “No; Trevor, poor Trevor, is dead, I think; is, I am sure, dead. That, I - am confident, is not he. He was of the —— family, and was in - office when I was in England. It was in my diplomatic capacity that I - first became acquainted with him. Lady Madeleine was, and, as you see, is, - a charming woman; a very charming woman is Lady Madeleine Trevor.” - </p> - <p> - “And the young lady with her?” - </p> - <p> - “And the young lady with her, I cannot exactly say; I do not exactly know. - Her face is familiar to me, and yet I cannot remember her name. She must - have been very young, as you may see, when I was in England; she cannot - now be above eighteen. Miss Fane must therefore have been very young when - I was in England, Miss Fane; how singular I should have recalled her name! - that is her name, Violet Fane, a cousin, or some relation, of Lady - Madeleine: good family. Will you have some soup?” - </p> - <p> - Whether it were from not being among his friends, or some other cause, the - Baron was certainly not in his usual spirits this day at dinner. - Conversation, which with him was generally as easy as it was brilliant, - like a fountain at the same time sparkling and fluent, was evidently - constrained. For a few minutes he talked very fast, and was then - uncommunicative, absent, and dull. He, moreover, drank a great deal of - wine, which was not his custom; but the grape did not inspire him. Vivian - found amusement in his next neighbour, a forward, bustling man, clever in - his talk, very fine, but rather vulgar. He was the manager of a company of - Austrian actors, and had come to Ems on the chance of forming an - engagement for his troop, who generally performed at Vienna, He had been - successful in his adventure, the Archduke having engaged the whole band at - the New House, and in a few days the troop were to arrive; at which time - the manager was to drop the character of a travelling gentleman, and cease - to dine at the table d’hôte of Ems. From this man Vivian learnt that Lady - Madeleine Trevor had been at the Baths for some time before the season - commenced: that at present hers was the party which, from its long stay - and eminent rank, gave the tone to the amusements of the place; the - influential circle which those who have frequented watering-places have - often observed, and which may be seen at Ems, Spa, or Pyrmont, equally as - at Harrowgate, Tunbridge Wells, or Cheltenham. - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0046" id="link2HCH0046"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER VI - </h2> - <p> - When dinner was finished the party broke up, and most of them assembled in - the gardens. The Baron, whose countenance had assumed its wonted - cheerfulness, and who excused his previous dulness by the usual story of a - sudden headache, proposed to Vivian to join the promenade. The gardens - were very full, and the Baron recognised many of his acquaintance. - </p> - <p> - “My dear Colonel, who possibly expected to meet you here? Why! did you - dine in the saloon? I only arrived this morning. This is my friend, Mr. - Grey; Colonel von Trumpetson.” - </p> - <p> - “An Englishman, I believe?” said the Colonel, bowing. He was a starch - militaire, with a blue frock coat buttoned up to his chin, a bald head - with a few grey hairs, and long, thin mustachios like a mandarin’s. “An - Englishman, I believe; pray, sir, will you inform me whether the household - troops in England wear the Marboeuf cuirass?” - </p> - <p> - “Sir!” said Vivian. - </p> - <p> - “I esteem myself particularly fortunate in thus meeting with an English - gentleman. It was only at dinner to-day that a controversy arose between - Major von Musquetoon and the Prince of Buttonstein on this point. As I - said to the Prince, you may argue for ever, for at present we cannot - decide the fact. How little did I think when I parted from the Major that - in a few minutes I should be able to settle the question beyond a doubt. I - esteem myself particularly fortunate in meeting with an Englishman.” - </p> - <p> - “I regret to say, Colonel, that the question is one that I cannot decide.” - </p> - <p> - “Sir, I wish you good morning,” said the Colonel, very drily; and, staring - keenly at Vivian, he walked away. - </p> - <p> - “He is good enough to fight, I suppose,” said the Baron, with a smile and - shrug of the shoulders, which seemed to return thanks to Providence for - having been educated in the civil service. - </p> - <p> - At this moment Lady Madeleine Trevor, leaning on the arm of the same - gentleman, passed, and the Baron bowed. The bow was coldly returned. - </p> - <p> - “You know her Ladyship, then! well!” - </p> - <p> - “I did know her,” said the Baron; “but I see from her bow that I am at - present in no very high favour. The truth is, she is a charming woman, but - I never expected to see her in Germany, and there was some little - commission of hers which I neglected, some little order for Eau de - Cologne, or a message about a worked pocket-handkerchief, which I utterly - forgot: and then, I never wrote! and you know. Grey, that these little - sins of omission are never forgiven by women.” - </p> - <p> - “My dear friend, De Konigstein, one pinch! one pinch!” chirped out a - little old odd-looking man, with a poudré head, and dressed in a costume - in which the glories of the vieille cour seemed to retire with reluctance. - A diamond ring twinkled on the snuffy hand, which was encircled by a rich - ruffle of dirty lace. The brown coat was not modern, and yet not quite - such an one as was worn by its master when he went to see the King dine in - public at Versailles before the Revolution: large silver buckles still - adorned the well-polished shoes; and silk stockings, whose hue was - originally black, were picked out with clock-work of gold. - </p> - <p> - “My dear Marquis, I am most happy to see you; will you try the - boulangero?” - </p> - <p> - “With pleasure! A-a-h! what a box! a Louis-Quatorze, I think?” - </p> - <p> - “Oh, no! by no means so old.” - </p> - <p> - “Pardon me, my dear De Konigstein; I think a Louis-Quatorze.” - </p> - <p> - “I bought it in Sicily.” - </p> - <p> - “A-a-h!” slowly exclaimed the little man, shaking his head. - </p> - <p> - “Well, good afternoon,” said the Baron, passing on. - </p> - <p> - “My dear De Konigstein, one pinch; you have often said you have a - particular regard for me.” - </p> - <p> - “My dear Marquis!” - </p> - <p> - “A-a-h! I thought so; you have often said you would serve me, if - possible.” - </p> - <p> - “My dear Marquis, be brief.” - </p> - <p> - “A-a-h! I will. There’s a cursed crusty old Prussian officer here; one - Colonel de Trumpetson.” - </p> - <p> - “Well, what can I do? you are surely not going to fight him!” - </p> - <p> - “A-a-h! no, no; I wish you to speak to him.” - </p> - <p> - “Well, what?” - </p> - <p> - “He takes snuff.” - </p> - <p> - “What is that to me?” - </p> - <p> - “He has got a box.” - </p> - <p> - “Well!” - </p> - <p> - “It is a Louis-Quatorze; could not you get it for me?” - </p> - <p> - “Good morning to you,” said the Baron, pulling on Vivian. - </p> - <p> - “You have had the pleasure, Grey, of meeting this afternoon two men who - have each only one idea. Colonel von Trumpetson and the Marquis de la - Tabatière are equally tiresome. But are they more tiresome than any other - man who always speaks on the same subject? We are more irritable, but not - more wearied, with a man who is always thinking of the pattern of a - button-hole, or the shape of a snuff-box, than with one who is always - talking about pictures, or chemistry, or politics. The true bore is that - man who thinks the world is only interested in one subject, because he - himself can only comprehend one.” - </p> - <p> - Here Lady Madeleine passed again, and this time the Baron’s eyes were - fixed on the ground. - </p> - <p> - A buzz and a bustle at the other end of the gardens, to which the Baron - and Vivian were advancing, announced the entry of the Grand Duke. His - Imperial Highness was a tall man, with a quick, piercing eye, which was - prevented from giving to his countenance the expression of intellect, - which it otherwise would have done, by the dull and almost brutal effect - of his flat, Calmuck nose. He was dressed in a plain green uniform, - adorned by a single star; but his tightened waist, his stiff stock, and - the elaborate attention which had evidently been bestowed upon his - mustachio, denoted the military fop. The Grand Duke was accompanied by - three or four stiff and stately-looking personages, in whom the severity - of the martinet seemed sunk in the servility of the aide-de-camp. - </p> - <p> - The Baron bowed very low to the Prince as he drew near, and his Highness, - taking off his cocked-hat with an appearance of cordial condescension, - made a full stop. The silent gentlemen in the rear, who had not - anticipated this suspense in their promenade, almost foundered on the - heels of their royal master; and, frightened at the imminency of the - profanation, forgot their stiff pomp in a precipitate retreat of half a - yard. - </p> - <p> - “Baron,” said his Highness, “why have I not seen you at the New House?” - </p> - <p> - “I have but this moment arrived, may it please your Imperial Highness.” - </p> - <p> - “Your companion,” continued the Grand Duke, pointing very graciously to - Vivian. - </p> - <p> - “My intimate friend, my fellow-traveller, and an Englishman. May I have - the honour of presenting Mr. Grey to your Imperial Highness?” - </p> - <p> - “Any friends of the Baron von Konigstein I shall always feel great - pleasure in having presented to me. Sir, I feel great pleasure in having - you presented to me. Sir, you ought to be proud of the name of Englishman; - sir, the English are a noble nation; sir, I have the highest respect for - the English nation!” - </p> - <p> - Vivian of course bowed very low; and of course made a very proper speech - on the occasion, which, as all speeches of that kind should be, was very - dutiful and quite inaudible. - </p> - <p> - “And what news from Berlin, Baron? let us move on,” and the Baron turned - with the Grand Duke. The silent gentlemen, settling their mustachios, - followed in the rear. For about half an hour, anecdote after anecdote, - scene after scene, caricature after caricature, were poured out with - prodigal expenditure for the amusement of the Prince, who did nothing - during the exhibition but smile, stroke his whiskers, and at the end of - the best stories fence with his forefinger at the Baron’s side, with a - gentle laugh, and a mock shake of the head, and a “Eh! Von Konigstein, - you’re too bad!” Here Lady Madeleine Trevor passed again, and the Grand - Duke’s hat nearly touched the ground. He received a most gracious bow. - </p> - <p> - “Finish the story about Salvinski, Baron, and then I will present you for - a reward to the most lovely creature in existence, a countrywoman of your - friend, Lady Madeleine Trevor.” - </p> - <p> - “I have the honour of a slight acquaintance with her,” said the Baron; “I - had the pleasure of knowing her in England.” - </p> - <p> - “Indeed! Fortunate mortal! I see she has stopped, talking to some - stranger. Let us turn and join her.” - </p> - <p> - The Grand Duke and the two friends accordingly turned, and of course the - silent gentlemen in the rear followed with due precision. - </p> - <p> - “Lady Madeleine!” said the Grand Duke, “I flattered myself for a moment - that I might have had the honour of presenting to you a gentleman for whom - I have a great esteem; but he has proved to me that he is more fortunate - than myself, since he had the honour before me of an acquaintance with - Lady Madeleine Trevor.” - </p> - <p> - “I have not forgotten Baron von Konigstein,” said her ladyship, with a - serious air. “May I ask his Highness how he prospered in his negotiation - with the Austrian troop?” - </p> - <p> - “Perfectly successful! Inspired by your Ladyship’s approbation, my steward - has really done wonders. He almost deserves a diplomatic appointment for - the talent which he has shown; but what should I do without Cracowsky? - Lady Madeleine, can you conceive what I should do without Cracowsky?” - </p> - <p> - “Not in the least.” - </p> - <p> - “Cracowsky is everything to me. It is impossible to say what Cracowsky is - to me. I owe everything to Cracowsky. To Cracowsky I owe being here.” The - Grand Duke bowed very low, for this eulogium on his steward also conveyed - a compliment to her Ladyship. The Grand Duke was certainly right in - believing that he owed his summer excursion to Ems to his steward. That - wily Pole regularly every year put his Imperial master’s summer excursion - up to auction, and according to the biddings of the proprietors of the - chief baths did he take care that his master regulated his visit. The - restaurateur of Ems, in collusion with the official agent of the Duke of - Nassau, were fortunate this season in having the Grand Duke knocked down - to them. - </p> - <p> - “May I flatter myself that Miss Fane feels herself better?” asked the - Grand Duke. - </p> - <p> - “She certainly does feel herself better, but my anxiety about her does not - decrease. In her illness apparent convalescence is sometimes as alarming - as suffering.” - </p> - <p> - The Grand Duke continued by the side of Lady Madeleine for about twenty - minutes, seizing every opportunity of uttering, in the most courtly tone, - inane compliments; and then trusting that he might soon have her - Ladyship’s opinion respecting the Austrian troop at the New House, and - that Von Konigstein and his English friend would not delay letting him see - them there, his Imperial Highness, followed by his silent suite, left the - gardens. - </p> - <p> - “I am afraid Lady Madeleine must have almost mistaken me for a taciturn - lord chamberlain,” said the Baron, occupying immediately the Grand Duke’s - vacated side. - </p> - <p> - “Baron von Konigstein must be very changed if silence be imputed to him as - a fault,” said Lady Madeleine. - </p> - <p> - “Baron von Konigstein is very much changed since last he had the pleasure - of conversing with Lady Madeleine Trevor; more changed than she will - perhaps believe; more changed than he can sometimes himself believe. I - hope that he will not be less acceptable to Lady Madeleine Trevor because - he is no longer rash, passionate, and unthinking; because he has learnt to - live more for others and less for himself.” - </p> - <p> - “Baron von Konigstein does indeed appear changed, since, by his own - account, he has become, in a very few years, a being in whose existence - philosophers scarcely believe, a perfect man.” - </p> - <p> - “My self-conceit has been so often reproved by you, that I will not - apologise for a quality which I almost flattered myself I no longer - possessed; but you will excuse, I am sure, one who, in zealous haste to - prove himself amended, has, I fear, almost shown that he has deceived - himself.” - </p> - <p> - Some strange thoughts occurred to Vivian while this conversation was - taking place. “Is this a woman to resent the neglect of an order for Eau - de Cologne? My dear Von Konigstein, you are a very pleasant fellow, but - this is not the way men apologise for the non-purchase of a - pocket-handkerchief!” - </p> - <p> - “Have you been long at Ems?” inquired the Baron, with an air of great - deference. - </p> - <p> - “Nearly a month: we are travelling in consequence of the ill-health of a - relation. It was our intention to have gone on to Pisa, but our physician, - in consequence of the extreme heat of the summer, is afraid of the fatigue - of travelling, and has recommended Ems. The air between these mountains is - very soft and pure, and I have no reason to regret at present that we have - not advanced farther on our journey.” - </p> - <p> - “The lady who was with your party at dinner is, I fear, your invalid. She - certainly does not look like one. I think,” said the Baron, with an - effort, “I think that her face is not unknown to me. It is difficult, even - after so many years, to mistake Miss—” - </p> - <p> - “Fane,” said Lady Madeleine, firmly; for it seemed that the Baron required - a little assistance at the end of his sentence. - </p> - <p> - “Ems,” returned his Excellency, with great rapidity of utterance, “Ems is - a charming place, at least to me. I have, within these few years, quite - recurred to the feelings of my boyhood; nothing to me is more disgustingly - wearisome than the gay bustle of a city. My present diplomatic appointment - at Frankfort ensures a constant life among the most charming scenes of - nature. Naples, which was offered to me, I refused. Eight years ago, I - should have thought an appointment at Naples a Paradise on earth.” - </p> - <p> - “You must indeed be changed.” - </p> - <p> - “How beautiful is the vicinity of the Rhine! I have passed within these - three days, for almost the twentieth time in my life, through the - Rheingau; and yet how fresh, and lovely, and novel, seemed all its various - beauties! My young travelling companion is enthusiastic about this gem of - Germany. He is one of your Ladyship’s countrymen. Might I take the liberty - of presenting to you Mr. Grey?” - </p> - <p> - Lady Madeleine, as if it could now no longer be postponed, introduced to - the two gentlemen her brother, Mr. St. George. This gentleman, who, during - the whole previous conversation, had kept his head in a horizontal - position, looking neither to the right nor to the left, and apparently - unconscious that any one was conversing with his sister, because, - according to the English custom, he was not introduced, now suddenly - turned around, and welcomed his acquaintance with cordiality. - </p> - <p> - “Mr. Grey,” asked her Ladyship, “are you of Dorsetshire?” - </p> - <p> - “My mother is a Dorsetshire woman; her family name is Vivian, which name I - also bear.” - </p> - <p> - “Then I think we are longer acquainted than we have been introduced. I met - your father at Sir Hargrave Vivian’s last Christmas. He spoke of you in - those terms that make me glad that I have met his son. You have been long - from England, I think?” - </p> - <p> - “Nearly a year and a half.” - </p> - <p> - The Baron had resigned his place by Lady Madeleine, and was already in - close conversation with Mr. St. George, from whose arm Lady Madeleine’s - was disengaged. No one acted the part of Asmodeus with greater spirit than - his Excellency; and the secret history of every person whose secret - history could be amusing delighted Mr. St. George. - </p> - <p> - “There,” said the Baron, “goes the son of an unknown father; his mother - followed the camp, and her offspring was early initiated in the mysteries - of military petty larceny. As he grew up he became the most skilful - plunderer that ever rifled the dying of both sides. Before he was twenty - he followed the army as a petty chapman, and amassed an excellent fortune - by re-acquiring after a battle the very goods and trinkets which he had - sold at an immense price before it. Such a wretch could do nothing but - prosper, and in due tune the sutler’s brat became a commissary-general. He - made millions in a period of general starvation, and cleared at least a - hundred thousand dollars by embezzling the shoe leather during a retreat. - He is now a baron, covered with orders, and his daughters are married to - some of our first nobles. There goes a Polish Count who is one of the - greatest gamblers in Christendom. In the same season he lost to a Russian - general, at one game of chess, his chief castle and sixteen thousand acres - of woodland; and recovered himself on another game, on which he won of a - Turkish Pasha one hundred and eighty thousand leopard skins. The Turk, who - was a man of strict honour, paid the Count by embezzling the tribute in - kind of the province he governed; and as on quarter-day he could not, of - course, make up his accounts with the Divan, he joined the Greeks.” - </p> - <p> - While the Baron was entertaining Mr. St. George, the conversation between - Lady Madeleine and Vivian proceeded. - </p> - <p> - “Your father expressed great disappointment to me at his being prevented - paying you a visit. Do you not long to see him?” - </p> - <p> - “More than I can express. Did you think him in good spirits?” - </p> - <p> - “Generally so: as cheerful as all fathers can be without their only son.” - </p> - <p> - “Did he complain, then, of my absence?” - </p> - <p> - “He regretted it.” - </p> - <p> - “I linger in Germany with the hope of seeing him; otherwise I should have - now been much further south. Do you find Sir Hargrave as amusing as ever?” - </p> - <p> - “When is he otherwise than the most delightful of old men? Sir Hargrave is - one of my great favourites. I should like to persuade you to return and - see them all. Cannot you fancy Chester Grange very beautiful now? Albert!” - said her Ladyship, turning to her brother, “what is the number of our - apartments? Mr. Grey, the sun has now disappeared, and I fear the night - air among these mountains. We have hardly yet summer nights, though we - certainly have summer days. We shall be happy to see you at our rooms.” So - saying, bowing very cordially to Vivian and coldly to the Baron, Lady - Madeleine left the gardens. - </p> - <p> - “There goes the most delightful woman in the world,” said the Baron; “how - fortunate that you know her! for really, as you might have observed, I - have no great claims on her indulgent notice. I was certainly very wild in - England; but then young men, you know, Grey! and I did not leave a card, - or call, before I went; and the English are very stiff and precise about - those things; and the Trevors had been very kind to me. I think we had - better take a little coffee now; and then, if you like, we will just - stroll into the REDOUTE.” - </p> - <p> - In a brilliantly-illuminated saloon, adorned with Corinthian columns and - casts from some of the most famous antique statues, assembled, between - nine and ten o’clock in the evening, many of the visitors at Ems. On each - side of the room was placed a long narrow table, one of which was covered - with green baize, and unattended; while the variously-coloured leathern - surface of the other was closely surrounded by an interested crowd. Behind - this table stood two individuals of different appearance. The first was a - short, thick man, whose only business was dealing certain portions of - playing cards with quick succession one after the other: and as the fate - of the table was decided by this process, did his companion, a very tall, - thin man, throw various pieces of money upon certain stakes, which were - deposited by the bystanders on different parts of the table; or, which was - much oftener the case, with a silver rake with a long ebony handle, sweep - into a large inclosure near him the scattered sums. This inclosure was - called the Bank, and the mysterious ceremony in which these persons were - assisting was the celebrated game of rouge-et-noir. A deep silence was - strictly preserved by those who immediately surrounded the table; no voice - was heard save that of the little, short, stout dealer, when, without an - expression of the least interest, he seemed mechanically to announce the - fate of the different colours. No other sound was heard, except the jingle - of the dollars and Napoleons, and the ominous rake of the tall, thin - banker. The countenances of those who were hazarding their money were - grave and gloomy: their eyes were fixed, their brows contracted, and their - lips projected; and yet there was an evident effort visible to show that - they were both easy and unconcerned. Each player held in his hand a small - piece of pasteboard, on which, with a steel pricker, he marked, the run of - the cards, in order, from his observations, to regulate his own play. The - rouge-et-noir player imagines that chance is not capricious. Those who - were not interested in the game promenaded in two lines within the tables, - or, seated in recesses between the pillars, formed small parties for - conversation. - </p> - <p> - “I suppose we must throw away a dollar or two,” said the Baron, as he - walked up to the table. - </p> - <p> - “My dear De Konigstein, one pinch!” - </p> - <p> - “Ah! Marquess, what fortune to-night?” - </p> - <p> - “Bad! I have lost my Napoleon: I never risk further. There is that cursed - crusty old De Trumpet son, persisting, as usual, in his run of bad luck; - because he never will give in. Trust me, my dear De Konigstein, it will - end in his ruin; and then, if there be a sale of his effects, I shall, - perhaps, get his snuff-box; a-a-h!” - </p> - <p> - “Come, shall I throw down a couple of Napoleons on joint account. I do not - care much for play myself; but I suppose, at Ems, we must make up our - minds to lose a few Louis. Here! now, for the red; joint account, mind!” - </p> - <p> - “Done.” - </p> - <p> - “There’s the Grand Duke! Let us go and make our bow; we need not stick at - the table as if our whole soul were staked with our crown-pieces,” So - saying, the gentlemen walked up to the top of the room. - </p> - <p> - “Why, Grey! Surely no, it cannot be, and yet it is. De Boeffleurs, how - d’ye do?” said the Baron, with a face beaming with joy and a hearty shake - of the hand. “My dear fellow, how did you manage to get off so soon? I - thought you were not to be here for a fortnight: we only arrived ourselves - to-day.” - </p> - <p> - “Yes; but I have made an arrangement which I did not anticipate; and so I - posted after you at once. Whom do you think I have brought with me?” - </p> - <p> - “Who?” - </p> - <p> - “Salvinski.” - </p> - <p> - “Ah! And the Count?” - </p> - <p> - “Follows immediately. I expect him to-morrow or next day. Salvinski is - talking to the Grand Duke; and see, he beckons to me. I suppose I am going - to be presented.” - </p> - <p> - The Chevalier moved forward, followed by the Baron and Vivian. - </p> - <p> - “Any friend of Prince Salvinski I shall always have great pleasure in - having presented to me. Chevalier, I feel great pleasure in having you - presented to me. Chevalier, you ought to be proud of the name of - Frenchman. Chevalier, the French are a great nation. Chevalier, I have the - highest respect for the French nation.” - </p> - <p> - “The most subtile diplomatist,” thought Vivian, as he recalled to mind his - own introduction, “would be puzzled to decide to which interest his - Imperial Highness leans.” - </p> - <p> - The Grand Duke now entered into conversation with the Prince, and most of - the circle who surrounded him. As his Imperial Highness was addressing - Vivian, the Baron let slip our hero’s arm, and, taking that of the - Chevalier de Boeffleurs, began walking up and down the room with him, and - was soon engaged in animated conversation. In a few minutes the Grand - Duke, bowing to his circle, made a move, and regained the side of a Saxon - lady, from whose interesting company he had been disturbed by the arrival - of Prince Salvinski; an individual of whose long stories and dull romances - the Grand Duke had, from experience, a particular dread: but his Highness - was always very courteous to the Poles. - </p> - <p> - “Grey, I have despatched De Boeffleurs to the house, to instruct his - servant and Ernstorff to do the impossible, in order that our rooms may be - all together. You will be delighted with De Boeffleurs when you know him, - and I expect you to be great friends. By-the-bye, his unexpected arrival - has quite made us forget our venture at rouge-et-noir. Of course we are - too late now for anything; even if we had been fortunate, our stake, - remaining on the table, is, of course, lost: we may as well, however, walk - up.” So saying, the Baron reached the table. - </p> - <p> - “That is your Excellency’s stake! that is your Excellency’s stake!” - exclaimed many voices as he came up. - </p> - <p> - “What is the matter, my friends?” asked the Baron, calmly. - </p> - <p> - “There has been a run on the red! there has been a run on the red! and - your Excellency’s stake has doubled each time. It has been 4, 8, 16, 32, - 64, 128, 256, and now it is 512!” quickly rattled a little thin man in - spectacles, pointing at the same time to his unparalleled line of - punctures. This was one of those officious, noisy little men who are - always ready to give you unasked information, and who are never so happy - as when they are watching over the interest of some stranger, who never - thanks them for their unnecessary solicitude. - </p> - <p> - Vivian, in spite of his philosophy, felt the excitement of the moment. He - looked at the Baron, whose countenance, however, was unmoved. - </p> - <p> - “It seems,” said he, coolly, “we are in luck.” - </p> - <p> - “The stake, then, is not all your own?” eagerly asked the little man in - spectacles. - </p> - <p> - “No; part of it is yours, sir,” answered the Baron, drily. - </p> - <p> - “I am going; to deal,” said the short, thick man behind. “Is the board - cleared?” - </p> - <p> - “Your Excellency, then, allows the stake to remain?” inquired the tall, - thin banker, with affected nonchalance. - </p> - <p> - “Oh! certainly,” said the Baron, with real nonchalance. - </p> - <p> - “Three, eight, fourteen, twenty-four, thirty-four. Rouge 34—” - </p> - <p> - All crowded nearer; the table was surrounded five or six deep, for the - wonderful run of luck had got wind, and nearly the whole room were round - the table. Indeed, the Grand Duke and Saxon lady, and of course the silent - suite, were left alone at the upper part of the room. The tall banker did - not conceal his agitation. Even the short, stout dealer ceased to be a - machine. All looked anxious except the Baron. Vivian looked at the table; - his Excellency watched, with a keen eye, the little dealer. No one even - breathed as the cards descended. “Ten, twenty (here the countenance of the - banker brightened), twenty-two, twenty-five, twenty-eight, thirty-one; - noir 31. The bank’s broke: no more play tonight. The roulette table opens - immediately.” - </p> - <p> - In spite of the great interest which had been excited, nearly the whole - crowd, without waiting to congratulate the Baron, rushed to the opposite - side of the room, in order to secure places at the roulette fable. - </p> - <p> - “Put these five hundred and twelve Napoleons into a bag,” said the Baron, - “Grey, this is your share. With regard to the other half, Mr. Hermann, - what bills have you got?” - </p> - <p> - “Two on Gogel of Frankfort for two hundred and fifty each, and these - twelve Napoleons will make it right,” said the tall banker, as he opened a - large black pocket-book, from which he took out two small bits of paper. - The Baron examined them, and after having seen them endorsed, put them - into his pocket, not forgetting the twelve Napoleons; and then taking - Vivian’s arm, and regretting extremely that he should have the trouble of - carrying such a weight, he wished Mr. Hermann a very good night and - success at his roulette, and walked with his companion quietly home. Thus - passed a day at Ems! - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0047" id="link2HCH0047"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER VII - </h2> - <p> - On the following morning, Vivian met with his friend Essper George, behind - a small stall in the Bazaar. - </p> - <p> - “Well, my Lord, what do you wish? Here are Eau de Cologne, violet soap, - and watch-ribbons; a smelling bottle of Ems crystal; a snuff-box of - fig-tree wood. Name your price: the least trifle that can be given by a - man who breaks a bank must be more than my whole stock-in-trade is worth. - </p> - <p> - “I have not paid you yet, Essper, for my glass chain. There is your share - of my winnings, the fame of which, it seems, has reached even you!” added - Vivian, with no pleased air. - </p> - <p> - “I thank you, sir, for the Nap; but I hope I have not offended by alluding - to a certain event, which shall be passed over in silence,” continued - Essper George, with a look of mock solemnity. “I really think you have but - a faint appetite for good fortune. They deserve her most who value her - least.” - </p> - <p> - “Have you any patrons at Ems, Essper, that have induced you to fix on this - place in particular for your speculations? Here, I should think, you have - many active rivals,” said Vivian, looking round the various stalls. - </p> - <p> - “I have a patron here who has never deceived, and who will never desert - me; I want no other; and that’s myself. Now here comes a party: could you - just tell me the name of that tall lady now?” - </p> - <p> - “If I tell you it is Lady Madeleine Trevor, what will it profit you?” - </p> - <p> - Before Vivian could well finish his sentence Essper had drawn out a long - horn from beneath his small counter, and sounded a blast which echoed - through the arched passages. The attention of every one was excited, and - no part of the following speech was lost:— - </p> - <p> - “The celebrated Essper George, fresh from Fairyland, dealer in pomatum and - all sorts of perfumery, watches, crosses, Ems crystal, coloured prints, - Dutch toys, Dresden china, Venetian chains, Neapolitan coral, French - crackers, chamois bracelets, tame poodles, and Cherokee corkscrews, mender - of mandolins and all other musical instruments, to Lady Madeleine Trevor, - has just arrived at Ems, where he only intends to stay two or three days, - and a few more weeks besides. Now, gracious lady, what do you wish?” - </p> - <p> - “And who,” said Lady Madeleine, smiling, “is this?” - </p> - <p> - “The celebrated Essper George, just—” again commenced the conjuror; - but Vivian prevented the repetition. - </p> - <p> - “He is an odd knave. Lady Madeleine, that I have met with before, at other - places, I believe I may add an honest one. What say you, Essper?” - </p> - <p> - “More honest than moonlight, gracious lady, for that deceives every one; - and less honest than self-praise, for that deceives no one.” - </p> - <p> - “My friend, you have a ready wit.” - </p> - <p> - “My wit is like a bustling servant, gracious lady; always ready when not - wanted, and never present at a pinch.” - </p> - <p> - “Come, I must have a pair of your chamois bracelets. How sell you them?” - </p> - <p> - “I sell nothing; all here is gratis to beauty, virtue, and nobility: and - these are my only customers.” - </p> - <p> - “Thanks will not supply a stock-in-trade though, Essper,” said Vivian. - </p> - <p> - “Very true! but my customers are apt to leave some slight testimonies - behind them of the obligations which they are under to me; and these, at - the same time, are the prop of my estate and the proof of their - discretion. But who comes here?” said Essper, drawing out his horn. The - sight of this instrument reminded Lady Madeleine how greatly the effect of - music is heightened by distance, and she made a speedy retreat, yielding - her place to a family procession of a striking character. - </p> - <p> - Three daughters abreast, flanked by two elder sons, formed the first file. - The father, a portly, prosperous-looking man, followed, with his lady on - his arm. Then came two nursery maids, with three children, between the - tender ages of five and six. The second division of the grand army, - consisting of three younger sons, immediately followed. This was commanded - by a tutor. A governess and two young daughters then advanced; and then - came the extreme rear, the sutlers of the camp, in the persons of two - footmen in rich liveries, who each bore a basket on his arm, filled with - various fancy articles, which had been all purchased during the promenade - of this nation through only part of the bazaar. - </p> - <p> - The trumpet of Essper George produced a due effect upon the great party. - The commander-in-chief stopped at his little stall, and, as if this were - the signal for general attack and plunder, the files were immediately - broken up. Each individual dashed at his prey, and the only ones who - struggled to maintain a semblance of discipline were the nursery maids, - the tutor, and the governess, who experienced the greatest difficulty in - suppressing the early taste which the detachment of light infantry - indicated for booty. But Essper George was in his element: he joked, he - assisted, he exhibited, he explained; tapped the cheeks of the children - and complimented the elder ones; and finally, having parted at a - prodigious profit, with nearly his whole, stock, paid himself out of a - large and heavy purse, which the portly father, in his utter inability to - comprehend the complicated accounts and the debased currency, with great - frankness deposited in the hands of the master of the stall, desiring him - to settle his own claims. - </p> - <p> - “I hope I may be allowed to ask after Miss Fane,” said Vivian. - </p> - <p> - “She continues better; we are now about to join her in the Limewalk. If - you will join our morning stroll, it will give us much pleasure.” - </p> - <p> - Nothing in the world could give Vivian greater pleasure; he felt himself - impelled to the side of Lady Madeleine; and only regretted his - acquaintance with the Baron because he felt conscious that there was some - secret cause which prevented that intimacy from existing between his - Excellency and the Trevor party which his talents and his position would - otherwise have easily produced. - </p> - <p> - “By-the-bye,” said Lady Madeleine, “I do not know whether I may be allowed - to congratulate you upon your brilliant success at the Redoute last night. - It is fortunate that all have not to regret your arrival at Ems so much as - poor Mr. Hermann.” - </p> - <p> - “The run was extraordinary. I am only sorry that the goddess should have - showered her favours on one who neither deserves nor desires them; for I - have no wish to be rich; and as I never lost by her caprices, it is hardly - fair that I should gain by them.” - </p> - <p> - “You do not play, then, much?” - </p> - <p> - “I never played in my life till last night. Gambling has never been one of - my follies, although my catalogue of errors is fuller, perhaps, than most - men’s.” - </p> - <p> - “I think Baron von Konigstein was your partner in the exploit?” - </p> - <p> - “He was; and apparently as little pleased at the issue as myself.” - </p> - <p> - “Indeed! Have you known the Baron long?” - </p> - <p> - “We are only friends of a week. I have been living, ever since I was in - Germany, a very retired life. A circumstance of a most painful nature - drove me from England; a circumstance of which I can hardly flatter - myself, and can hardly wish, that you should be ignorant.” - </p> - <p> - “I learnt the sad history from one who, while he spoke the truth, spoke of - the living sufferer in terms of the fondest affection.” - </p> - <p> - “A father!” said Vivian, agitated, “a father can hardly be expected to be - impartial.” - </p> - <p> - “Such a father as yours may, I only wish that he was with us now, to - assist me in bringing about what he must greatly desire, your return to - England.” - </p> - <p> - “It cannot be. I look back to the last year which I spent in that country - with feelings of such disgust, I look forward to a return to that country - with feelings of such repugnance that—but I feel I am trespassing - beyond all bounds in touching on these subjects.” - </p> - <p> - “I promised your father that in case we met, I would seek your society. I - have suffered too much myself not to understand how dangerous and how - deceitful is the excess of grief. You have allowed yourself to be overcome - by that which Providence intended as a lesson of instruction, not as a - sentence of despair. In your solitude you have increased the shadow of - those fantasies of a heated brain, which converse with the pure sunshine - of the world would have enabled you to dispel.” - </p> - <p> - “The pure sunshine of the world, Lady Madeleine! would that it had ever - lighted me! My youth flourished in the unwholesome sultriness of a - blighted atmosphere, which I mistook for the resplendent brilliancy of a - summer day. How deceived I was, you may judge, not certainly from finding - me here; but I am here because I have ceased to suffer, only in having - ceased to hope.” - </p> - <p> - “You have ceased to hope, because hope and consolation are not the - companions of solitude, which are of a darker nature. Hope and consolation - spring from the social affections. Converse with the world will do more - for you than all the arguments of philosophers. I hope yet to find you a - believer in the existence of that good which we all worship and all - pursue. Happiness comes when we least expect it, and to those who strive - least to obtain it; as you were fortunate yesterday at the Redoute, when - you played without an idea of winning.” - </p> - <p> - They were in the Limewalk: gay sounds greeted them, and Miss Fane came - forward from a light-hearted band to welcome her cousin. She had to - propose a walk to the New Spring, which she was prepared for Lady - Madeleine to resist on the ground of her cousin’s health. But Miss Fane - combated all the objections with airy merriment, and with a bright - resource that never flagged. As she bent her head slightly to Vivian, ere - she hastened back to her companions to announce the success of her - mission, it seemed to him that he had never beheld so animated and beaming - a countenance, or glanced upon a form of such ineffable and sparkling - grace. - </p> - <p> - “You would scarcely imagine, Mr. Grey, that we are travelling for my - cousin’s health, nor do her physicians, indeed, give us any cause for - serious uneasiness; yet I cannot help feeling at times great anxiety. Her - flushed cheek and the alarming languor which succeeds any excitement make - me fear her complaint may be more deeply seated than they are willing to - acknowledge.” - </p> - <p> - “They were saying the other day that the extraordinary heat of this season - must end in an earthquake, or some great convulsion of nature. That would - bring languor.” - </p> - <p> - “We are willing to adopt any reasoning that gives us hope, but her mother - died of consumption.” - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0048" id="link2HCH0048"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER VIII - </h2> - <p> - When the walking party returned home they found a crowd of idle servants - assembled opposite the house, round a group of equipages, consisting of - two enormous crimson carriages, a britzska, and a large caravan, on all - which vehicles the same coat of arms was ostentatiously blazoned. - </p> - <p> - “Some new guests!” said Miss Fane. - </p> - <p> - “It must be the singular party that we watched this morning in the - bazaar,” said Lady Madeleine. “Violet! I have such a curious character to - introduce you to, a particular friend of Mr. Grey, who wishes very much to - have the honour of your acquaintance, MR. ESSPER GEORGE.” - </p> - <p> - “These carriages, then, belong to him?” - </p> - <p> - “Not exactly,” said Vivian. - </p> - <p> - In an hour’s time, the party again met at dinner in the saloon. By the - joint exertions of Ernstorff and Mr. St. George’s servants, the Baron, - Vivian, and the Chevalier de Boeffleurs were now seated next to the party - of Lady Madeleine Trevor. - </p> - <p> - “My horses fortunately arrived from Frankfort this morning,” said the - Baron. “Mr. St. George and myself have been taking a ride very far up the - valley. Has your Ladyship yet been to the Castle of Nassau?” - </p> - <p> - “We have not. The expedition has been one of those plans often arranged - and never executed.” - </p> - <p> - “You should go. The ruin is one of the finest in Germany. An expedition to - Nassau Castle would be a capital foundation for a pic-nic. Conceive a - beautiful valley, discovered by a knight, in the middle ages, following - the track of a stag. How romantic! The very incident vouches for its sweet - seclusion. Cannot you imagine the wooded mountains, the old grey ruin, the - sound of the unseen river? What more should we want, except agreeable - company, fine music, and the best provisions, to fancy ourselves in - Paradise?” - </p> - <p> - “I wish the plan were practicable,” said Mr. St. George. - </p> - <p> - “I take the whole arrangement upon myself; there is not a difficulty. The - ladies shall go on donkeys, or we might make a water excursion of it part - of the way, and the donkeys can meet us at the pass near Stein, and then - the gentlemen may walk; and if you fear the water at night, why then the - carriages may come round: and if your own be too heavy for mountain roads, - my britzska is always at your command. You see there is not a difficulty.” - </p> - <p> - “Not a difficulty,” said Mr. St. George. “Madeleine, we only wait your - consent.” - </p> - <p> - “I think we had better put off the execution of our plan till June is a - little more advanced. We must have a fine summer night for Violet.” - </p> - <p> - “Well, then, I hold the whole party present engaged to follow my standard, - whenever I have permission from authority to unfold it,” said the Baron, - bowing to Lady Madeleine: “and lest, on cool reflection, I shall not - possess influence enough to procure the appointment, I shall, like a - skilful orator, take advantage of your feelings, which gratitude for this - excellent plan must have already enlisted in my favour, and propose myself - as Master of the Ceremonies.” The Baron’s eye caught Lady Madeleine’s as - he uttered this, and something like a smile, rather of pity than derision, - lighted up her face. - </p> - <p> - Here Vivian turned round to give some directions to an attendant, and to - his annoyance found Essper George standing behind his chair. - </p> - <p> - <a name="linkimage-0004" id="linkimage-0004"> - <!-- IMG --></a> - </p> - <div class="fig" style="width:80%;"> - <img src="images/frontispiece.jpg" alt="Frontispiece " height="550" /><br /> - </div> - <p> - “Is there anything you want, sir?” - </p> - <p> - “Who ordered you here?” - </p> - <p> - “My duty.” - </p> - <p> - “In what capacity do you attend?” - </p> - <p> - “As your servant, sir.” - </p> - <p> - “I insist upon your leaving the room directly.” - </p> - <p> - “Ah! my friend, Essper George,” said Lady Madeleine, “are you there? What - is the matter?” - </p> - <p> - “This, then, is Essper George!” said Violet Fane. “What kind of being can - he possibly be? What indeed is the matter?” - </p> - <p> - “I am merely discharging a servant at a moment’s warning, Miss Fane; and - if you wish to engage his constant attendance upon yourself, I have no - objection to give him a character for the occasion.” - </p> - <p> - “What do you want, Essper?” said Miss Fane. - </p> - <p> - “Merely to see whether your walk this morning had done your appetites any - good,” answered Essper, looking disconsolate; “and so I thought I might - make myself useful at the same time. And though I do not bring on the soup - in a cocked hat, and carve the venison with a couteau-de-chasse,” - continued he, bowing very low to Ernstorff, who, standing stiff behind his - master’s chair, seemed utterly unaware that any other person in the room - could experience a necessity; “still I can change a plate or hand the wine - without cracking the first, or drinking the second.” - </p> - <p> - “And very good qualities, too!” said Miss Fane. “Come, Essper, you shall - put your accomplishments into practice immediately; change my plate.” - </p> - <p> - This Essper did with dexterity and quiet, displaying at the same time a - small white hand, on the back of which was marked a comet and three - daggers. As he had the discretion not to open his mouth, and performed all - his duties with skill, his intrusion in a few minutes was not only - pardoned but forgotten. - </p> - <p> - “There has been a great addition to the visitors to-day, I see,” said Mr. - St. George. “Who are the new comers?” - </p> - <p> - “I will tell you all about them,” said the Baron. “This family is one of - those whose existence astounds the Continent much more than any of your - mighty dukes and earls, whose fortunes, though colossal, can be conceived, - and whose rank is understood. Mr. Fitzloom is a very different personage, - for thirty years ago he was a journeyman cotton spinner. Some miraculous - invention in machinery entitled him to a patent, which has made him one of - the great proprietors of England. He has lately been returned a member for - a manufacturing town, and he intends to get over the first two years of - his parliamentary career by successively monopolising the accommodation of - all the principal cities of France, Germany, Switzerland, and Italy, and - by raising the price of provisions and post-horses through a track of five - thousand miles. My information is authentic, for I had a casual - acquaintance with him in England. There was some talk of a contract for - supplying our army from England, and I saw Fitzloom often on the subject. - I have spoken to him to-day. This is by no means the first of the species - that we have had in Germany. I can assure you that the plain traveller - feels seriously the inconvenience of following such a caravan; their money - flows with such unwise prodigality that real liberality ceases to be - valued; and many of your nobility have complained to me that in their - travels they are now often expostulated with on account of their - parsimony, and taunted with the mistaken extravagance of a stocking-maker - or a porter-brewer.” - </p> - <p> - “What pleasure can such people find in travelling?” wondered Mr. St. - George. - </p> - <p> - “As much pleasure and more profit than half the young men of the present - day,” replied a middle-aged English gentleman, who was a kinsman of the - St. Georges, and called them cousins. “In my time travelling was - undertaken on a very different system to what it is now. The English youth - then travelled to frequent, what Lord Bacon says are ‘especially to be - seen and observed, the Courts of Princes.’ You all travel now, it appears, - to look at mountains and catch cold in spouting trash on lakes by - moonlight.” - </p> - <p> - “But, my dear sir!” said the Baron, “although I grant you that the - principal advantages of travel must be the opportunity which it affords us - of becoming acquainted with human nature, knowledge, of course, chiefly - gained where human beings most congregate, great cities, and, as you say, - the Courts of Princes; still, one of its great benefits is, that it - enlarges a man’s experiences, not only of his fellow-creatures in - particular, but of nature in general. Many men pass through life without - seeing a sunrise: a traveller cannot. If human experience be gained by - seeing men in their undress, not only when they are conscious of the - presence of others, natural experience is only to be acquired by studying - nature at all periods, not merely when man is busy and the beasts asleep.” - </p> - <p> - “But what is the use of this deep experience of nature? Men are born to - converse with men, not with stocks and stones. He who has studied Le Sage - will be more happy and more successful in this world than the man who - muses over Rousseau.” - </p> - <p> - “I agree with you. I have no wish to make man an anchorite. But as to the - benefit of a thorough experience of nature, it appears to me to be - evident. It increases our stock of ideas.” - </p> - <p> - “So does everything.” - </p> - <p> - “But it does more than this. It calls into being new emotions, it gives - rise to new and beautiful associations; it creates that salutary state of - mental excitement which renders our ideas more lucid and our conclusions - more sound. Can we too much esteem a study which at the same time - stimulates imagination and corrects the judgment?” - </p> - <p> - “Do not you think that a communion with nature is calculated to elevate - the soul,” said Lady Madeleine, “to—?” - </p> - <p> - “So is reading your Bible. A man’s soul should always be elevated. If not, - he might look at mountains for ever, but I should not trust him a jot - more.” - </p> - <p> - “But, sir,” continued the Baron, with unusual warmth, “I am clear that - there are cases in which the influence of nature has worked what you - profess to treat as an impossibility or a miracle. I am myself acquainted - with an instance of a peculiar character. A few years ago, a gentleman of - high rank found himself exposed to the unhappy suspicion of being - connected with some dishonourable transactions which took place in the - highest circles of England. Unable to find any specific charge which he - could meet, he added one to the numerous catalogue of those unfortunate - beings who have sunk in society, the victims of a surmise. He quitted - England, and, disgusted with the world, became the profligate which he had - been falsely believed to be. At the house of Cardinal ——, at - Naples, celebrated for its revels, this gentleman became a constant guest. - He entered with a mad eagerness into every species of dissipation, - although none gave him pleasure, and his fortune, his health, and the - powers of his mind were all fast vanishing. One night of frantic - dissipation a mock election of Master of the Sports was proposed, and the - hero of my tale had the splendid gratification of being chosen by - unanimous consent to this new office. About two o’clock of the same night - he left the palace of the Cardinal, with an intention of returning; his - way on his return led by the Chiaja. It was one of those nights which we - witness only in the south. The blue and brilliant sea was sleeping beneath - a cloudless sky; and the moon not only shed her light over the orange and - lemon trees, which, springing from their green banks of myrtle, hung over - the water, but added fresh lustre to the white domes and glittering towers - of the city, and flooded Vesuvius and the distant coast with light as far - even as Capua. The individual of whom I am speaking had passed this spot - on many nights when the moon was not less bright, the waves not less - silent, and the orange trees not less sweet; but to-night something - irresistible impelled him to stop. What a contrast to the artificial light - and heat and splendour of the palace to which he was returning! He mused - in silence. Would it not be wiser to forget the world’s injustice in - gazing on a moonlit ocean than in discovering in the illumined halls of - Naples the baseness of the crowd which forms the world’s power? To enjoy - the refreshing luxury of a fanning breeze which now arose he turned and - gazed on the other side of the bay; upon his right stretched out the - promontory of Pausilippo; there were the shores of Baiae. But it was not - only the loveliness of the land which now overcame his spirit; he thought - of those whose fame had made us forget even the beauty of these shores in - associations of a higher character and a more exalted nature. He - remembered the time when it was his only wish to be numbered among them. - How had his early hopes been fulfilled! What just account had he rendered - to himself and to his country; that country that had expected so much, - that self that had aspired even to more! - </p> - <p> - “Day broke over the city and found him still pacing the Chiaja; he did not - return to the Cardinal’s palace, and in two days he had left Naples. I can - myself, from personal experience, aver that this individual is now a - useful and honourable member of society. The world speaks of him in more - flattering terms.” - </p> - <p> - The Baron spoke with energy and animation. Miss Fane, who had been silent, - and who certainly had not encouraged by any apparent interest the previous - conversation of the Baron, listened to this anecdote with eager attention; - but the effect it produced upon Lady Madeleine Trevor was remarkable. - </p> - <p> - Soon after this the party broke up. The promenade followed; the Grand - Duke, his compliments, and courtiers; then came the Redoute. Mr. Hermann - bowed low as the gentlemen walked up to the table. The Baron whispered - Vivian that it was “expected” that they should play, and give the tables a - chance of winning back their money. Vivian staked with the carelessness of - one who wishes to lose; as is often the case under such circumstances, he - again left the Redoute a considerable winner. He parted with the Baron at - his Excellency’s door and proceeded to the next, which was his own. Here - he stumbled over something at the doorway which appeared like a large - bundle; he bent down with his light to examine it, and found Essper George - lying on his back with his eyes half-open. It was some moments before - Vivian perceived he was asleep; stepping gently over him, he entered his - apartment. - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0049" id="link2HCH0049"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER IX - </h2> - <p> - When Vivian rose in the morning a gentle tap at his door announced the - presence of an early visitor, who, being desired to enter, appeared in the - person of Essper George. - </p> - <p> - “Do you want anything, sir?” asked Essper, with a submissive air. - </p> - <p> - Vivian stared at him for a moment, and then ordered him to come in. - </p> - <p> - “I had forgotten, Essper, until this moment, that on returning to my room - last night I found you sleeping at my door. This also reminds me of your - conduct in the saloon yesterday; and as I wish to prevent the repetition - of such improprieties, I shall take this opportunity of informing you, - once for all, that if you do not in future conduct yourself with more - discretion, I must apply to the Maitre d’Hôtel. Now, sir, what do you - want?” - </p> - <p> - Essper was silent, and stood with his hands crossed on his breast, and his - eyes fixed on the ground. - </p> - <p> - “If you do not want anything, quit the room immediately.” - </p> - <p> - Here the singular being began to weep. - </p> - <p> - “Poor fellow!” thought Vivian, “I fear, with all thy wit and pleasantry, - thou art, after all, but one of those capriccios which Nature sometimes - indulges in, merely to show how superior is her accustomed order to - eccentricities, even accompanied with rare powers.” - </p> - <p> - “What is your wish, Essper?” continued Vivian, in a kinder tone. “If there - be any service that I can do you, you will not find me backward. Are you - in trouble? you surely are not in want?” - </p> - <p> - “No!” sobbed Essper; “I wish to be your servant:” here he hid his face in - his hands. - </p> - <p> - “My servant! why surely it is not very wise to seek dependence upon any - man. I am afraid that you have been keeping company too much with the - lackeys that are always loitering about these bathing-places, Ernstorff’s - green livery and sword, have they not turned your brain, Essper?” - </p> - <p> - “No, no, no! I am tired of living alone.” - </p> - <p> - “But remember, to be a servant, you must be a person of regular habits and - certain reputation. I have myself a good opinion of you, but I have myself - seen very little of you, though more than any one here, and I am a person - of a peculiar turn of mind. Perhaps there is not another individual in - this house who would even allude to the possibility of engaging a servant - without a character.” - </p> - <p> - “Does the ship ask the wind for a character when he bears her over the sea - without hire and without reward? and shall you require a character from me - when I request to serve you without wages and without pay?” - </p> - <p> - “Such an engagement, Essper, it would be impossible for me to enter into, - even if I had need of your services, which at present I have not. But I - tell you frankly that I see no chance of your suiting me. I should require - an attendant of steady habits and experience; not one whose very - appearance would attract attention when I wish to be unobserved, and - acquire a notoriety for the master which he detests. I warmly advise you - to give up all idea of entering into a state of life for which you are not - in the least suited. Believe me, your stall will be a better friend than a - master. Now leave me.” - </p> - <p> - Essper remained one moment with his eyes still fixed on the ground; then - walking very rapidly up to Vivian, he dropped on his knee, kissed his - hand, and disappeared. - </p> - <p> - Mr. St. George breakfasted with the Baron, and the gentlemen called on - Lady Madeleine early in the morning to propose a drive to Stein Castle; - but she excused herself, and Vivian following her example, the Baron and - Mr. St. George “patronised” the Fitzlooms, because there was nothing else - to do. Vivian again joined the ladies in their morning walk, but Miss Fane - was not in her usual high spirits. She complained more than once of her - cousin’s absence; and this, connected with some other circumstances, gave - Vivian the first impression that her feelings towards Mr. St. George were - not merely those of a relation. As to the Chevalier de Boeffleurs, Vivian - soon found that it was utterly impossible to be on intimate terms with a - being without an idea. The Chevalier was certainly not a very fit - representative of the gay, gallant, mercurial Frenchman: he rose very - late, and employed the whole of the morning in reading the French journals - and playing billiards alternately with Prince Salvinski and Count von - Altenburgh. - </p> - <p> - These gentlemen, as well as the Baron, Vivian, and Mr. St. George, were to - dine this day at the New House. - </p> - <p> - They found assembled at the appointed hour a party of about thirty - individuals. The dinner was sumptuous, the wines superb. At the end of the - banquet the company adjourned to another room, where play was proposed and - immediately commenced. His Imperial Highness did not join in the game, - but, seated in a corner of the apartment, was surrounded by his - aides-de-camp, whose business was to bring their master constant accounts - of the fortunes of the table and the fate of his bets. His Highness did - not stake. - </p> - <p> - Vivian soon found that the game was played on a very different scale at - the New House to what it was at the Redoute. He spoke most decidedly to - the Baron of his detestation of gambling, and expressed his unwillingness - to play; but the Baron, although he agreed with him in his sentiments, - advised him to conform for the evening to the universal custom. As he - could afford to lose, he consented, and staked boldly. This night very - considerable sums were lost and won; but none returned home greater - winners than Mr. St. George and Vivian Grey. - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0050" id="link2HCH0050"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER X - </h2> - <p> - The first few days of an acquaintance with a new scene of life and with - new characters generally appear to pass very slowly; not certainly from - the weariness which they induce, but rather from the keen attention which - every little circumstance commands. When the novelty has worn off, when we - have discovered that the new characters differ little from all others we - have met before, and that the scene they inhabit is only another variety - of the great order we have so often observed, we relapse into our ancient - habits of inattention; we think more of ourselves, and less of those we - meet; and musing our moments away in reverie, or in a vain attempt to - cheat the coming day of the monotony of the present one, we begin to find - that the various-vested hours have bounded and are bounding away in a - course at once imperceptible, uninteresting, and unprofitable. Then it is - that, terrified at our nearer approach to the great river whose dark - windings it seems the business of all to forget, we start from our stupor - to mourn over the rapidity of that collective sum of past-time, every - individual hour of which we have in turn execrated for its sluggishness. - </p> - <p> - Vivian had now been three weeks at Ems, and the presence of Lady Madeleine - Trevor and her cousin alone induced him to remain. Whatever the mystery - existing between Lady Madeleine and the Baron, his efforts to attach - himself to her party had been successful. The great intimacy subsisting - between the Baron and her brother materially assisted in bringing about - this result. For the first fortnight the Baron was Lady Madeleine’s - constant attendant in the evening promenade, and sometimes in the morning - walk; and though there were few persons whose companionship could be - preferred to that of Baron von Konigstein, still Vivian sometimes - regretted that his friend and Mr. St. George had not continued their - rides. The presence of the Baron seemed always to have an unfavourable - influence upon the spirits of Miss Fane, and the absurd and evident - jealousy of Mr. St. George prevented Vivian from finding in her agreeable - conversation some consolation for the loss of the sole enjoyment of Lady - Madeleine’s exhilarating presence. Mr. St. George had never met Vivian’s - advances with cordiality, and he now treated him with studied coldness. - </p> - <p> - The visits of the gentlemen to the New House had been frequent. The saloon - of the Grand Duke was open every evening, and in spite of his great - distaste for the fatal amusement which was there invariably pursued, - Vivian found it impossible to decline frequently attending without - subjecting his motives to painful misconception. His extraordinary fortune - did not desert him, and rendered his attendance still more a duty. The - Baron was not so successful as on his first evening’s venture at the - Redoute; but Mr. St. George’s star remained favourable. Of Essper Vivian - had seen little. In passing through the bazaar one morning, which he - seldom did, he found, to his surprise, that the former conjuror had doffed - his quaint costume, and was now attired in the usual garb of men of his - condition of life. As Essper was busily employed at the moment, Vivian did - not stop to speak to him; but he received a respectful bow. Once or twice, - also, he had met Essper in the Baron’s apartments; and he seemed to have - become a very great favourite with the servants of his Excellency and the - Chevalier de Boeffleurs, particularly with his former butt, Ernstorff, to - whom he now behaved with great deference. - </p> - <p> - For the first fortnight the Baron’s attendance on Lady Madeleine was - constant. After this time he began to slacken in his attentions. He first - disappeared from the morning walks, and yet he did not ride; he then - ceased from joining the party at Lady Madeleine’s apartments in the - evening, and never omitted increasing the circle at the New House for a - single night. The whole of the fourth week the Baron dined with his - Imperial Highness. Although the invitation had been extended to all the - gentlemen from the first, it had been agreed that it was not to be - accepted, in order that the ladies should not find their party in the - saloon less numerous or less agreeable. The Baron was the first to break - through a rule which he had himself proposed, and Mr. St. George and the - Chevalier de Boeffleurs soon followed his example. - </p> - <p> - “Mr. Grey,” said Lady Madeleine one evening, as she was about to leave the - gardens, “we shall be happy to see you to-night, if you are not engaged.” - </p> - <p> - “I fear that I am engaged,” said Vivian; for the receipt of some letters - from England made him little inclined to enter into society. - </p> - <p> - “Oh, no! you cannot be,” said Miss Fane: “pray come! I know you only want - to go to that terrible New House. I wonder what Albert can find to amuse - him there; I fear no good. Men never congregate together for any - beneficial purpose. I am sure, with all his gastronomical affectations, he - would not, if all were right, prefer the most exquisite dinner in the - world to our society. As it is, we scarcely see him a moment. I think - that, you are the only one who has not deserted the saloon. For once, give - up the New House.” - </p> - <p> - Vivian smiled at Miss Fane’s warmth, and could not persist in his refusal, - although she did dilate most provokingly on the absence of her cousin. He - therefore soon joined them. - </p> - <p> - “Lady Madeleine is assisting me in a most important work, Mr. Grey. I am - making drawings of the Valley of the Rhine. I know that you are acquainted - with the scenery; you can, perhaps, assist me with your advice about this - view of old Hatto’s Castle.” - </p> - <p> - Vivian was so completely master of every spot in the Rhineland that he had - no difficulty in suggesting the necessary alterations. The drawings were - vivid representations of the scenery which they professed to depict, and - Vivian forgot his melancholy as he attracted the attention of the fair - artist to points of interest unknown or unnoticed by the guide-books and - the diaries. - </p> - <p> - “You must look forward to Italy with great interest, Miss Fane?” - </p> - <p> - “The greatest! I shall not, however, forget the Rhine, even among the - Apennines.” - </p> - <p> - “Our intended fellow-travellers, Lord Mounteney and his family, are - already at Milan,” said Lady Madeleine to Vivian; “we were to have joined - their party. Lady Mounteney is a Trevor.” - </p> - <p> - “I have had the pleasure of meeting Lord Mounteney in England, at Sir - Berdmore Scrope’s: do you know him?” - </p> - <p> - “Slightly. The Mounteneys pass the winter at Rome, where I hope we shall - join them. Do you know the family intimately?” - </p> - <p> - “Mr. Ernest Clay, a nephew of his Lordship’s, I have seen a great deal of; - I suppose, according to the adopted phraseology, I ought to describe him - as my friend, although I am ignorant where he is at present; and although, - unless he is himself extremely altered, there scarcely can be two persons - who now more differ in their pursuits and tempers than ourselves.” - </p> - <p> - “Ernest Clay! is he a friend of yours? He is at Munich, attached to the - Legation. I see you smile at the idea of Ernest Clay drawing up a - protocol!” - </p> - <p> - “Madeleine, you have never read me Caroline Mounteney’s letter, as you - promised,” said Miss Fane; “I suppose full of raptures; ‘the Alps and - Apennines, the Pyrenaean and the River Po?’” - </p> - <p> - “By no means; the whole letter is filled with an account of the ballet at - La Scala, which, according to Caroline, is a thousand times more - interesting than Mont Blanc or the Simplon.” - </p> - <p> - “One of the immortal works of Vigano, I suppose,” said Vivian; “he has - raised the ballet of action to an equality with tragedy. I have heard my - father mention the splendid effect of his Vestale and his Otello.” - </p> - <p> - “And yet,” said Violet, “I do not like Othello to be profaned. It is not - for operas and ballets. We require the thrilling words.” - </p> - <p> - “It is very true; yet Pasta’s acting in the opera was a grand performance; - and I have myself seldom witnessed a more masterly effect produced by any - actor in the world than I did a fortnight ago, at the Opera at Darmstadt, - by Wild in Othello.” - </p> - <p> - “I think the history of Desdemona is the most affecting of all tales,” - said Miss Fane. - </p> - <p> - “The violent death of a woman, young, lovely, and innocent, is assuredly - the most terrible of tragedies,” observed Vivian. - </p> - <p> - “I have often asked myself,” said Miss Fane, “which is the most terrible - destiny for the young to endure: to meet death after a life of anxiety and - suffering, or suddenly to be cut off in the enjoyment of all things that - make life delightful.” - </p> - <p> - “For my part,” said Vivian, “in the last instance, I think that death can - scarcely be considered an evil. How infinitely is such a destiny to be - preferred to that long apprenticeship of sorrow, at the end of which we - are generally as unwilling to die as at the commencement!” - </p> - <p> - “And yet,” said Miss Fane, “there is something fearful in the idea of - sudden death.” - </p> - <p> - “Very fearful,” muttered Vivian, “in some cases;” for he thought of one - whom he had sent to his great account before his time. - </p> - <p> - “Violet, my dear!” said Lady Madeleine, “have you finished your drawing of - the Bingenloch?” But Miss Fane would not leave the subject. - </p> - <p> - “Very fearful in all cases, Mr. Grey. How few of us are prepared to leave - this world without warning! And if from youth, or sex, or natural - disposition, a few may chance to be better fitted for the great change - than their companions, still I always think that in those cases in which - we view our fellow-creatures suddenly departing from this world, - apparently without a bodily or mental pang, there must be a moment of - suffering which none of us can understand; a terrible consciousness of - meeting death in the very flush of life; a moment of suffering which, from - its intense and novel character, may appear an eternity of anguish. I have - always looked upon such an end as the most fearful of dispensations.” - </p> - <p> - “Violet, my dear.” said her Ladyship, “let us talk no more of death. You - have been silent a fortnight. I think to-night you may sing.” Miss Fane - rose and sat down to the instrument. - </p> - <p> - It was a lively air, calculated to drive away all melancholy feelings, and - cherishing sunny views of human life. But Rossini’s Muse did not smile - to-night upon her who invoked its gay spirit; and ere Lady Madeleine could - interfere Violet Fane had found more congenial emotions in one of Weber’s - prophetic symphonies. - </p> - <p> - O Music! miraculous art, that makes a poet’s skill a jest, revealing to - the soul inexpressible feelings by the aid of inexplicable sounds! A blast - of thy trumpet, and millions rush forward to die; a peal of thy organ, and - uncounted nations sink down to pray. Mighty is thy threefold power! - </p> - <p> - First, thou canst call up all elemental sounds, and scenes, and subjects, - with the definiteness of reality. Strike the lyre! Lo! the voice of the - winds, the flash of the lightning, the swell of the wave, the solitude of - the valley! - </p> - <p> - Then thou canst speak to the secrets of a man’s heart as if by - inspiration. Strike the lyre! Lo! our early love, our treasured hate, our - withered joy, our flattering hope! - </p> - <p> - And, lastly, by thy mysterious melodies thou canst recall man from all - thought of this world and of himself, bringing back to his soul’s memory - dark but delightful recollections of the glorious heritage which he has - lost, but which he may win again. Strike the lyre! Lo! Paradise, with its - palaces of inconceivable splendour and its gates of unimaginable glory! - </p> - <p> - When Vivian left the apartment of Lady Madeleine he felt no inclination to - sleep, and, instead of retiring to rest, he bent his steps towards the - gardens. It was a rich summer night; the air, recovered from the sun’s - scorching rays, was cool, not chilling. The moon was still behind the - mountains; but the dark blue heavens were studded with innumerable stars, - whose tremulous light quivered on the face of the river. All human sounds - had ceased to agitate; and the note of the nightingale and the rush of the - waters banished monotony without disturbing reflection. But not for - reflection had Vivian Grey deserted his chamber: his heart was full, but - of indefinable sensations, and, forgetting the world in the intenseness of - his emotions, he felt too much to think. - </p> - <p> - How long he had been pacing by the side of the river he knew not, when he - was awakened from his reverie by the sound of voices. He looked up, and - saw lights moving at a distance. The party at the New House had just broke - up. He stopped beneath a branching elm-tree for a moment, that the sound - of his steps might not attract their attention, and at this very instant - the garden gate opened and closed with great violence. The figure of a man - approached. As he passed Vivian the moon rose up from above the brow of - the mountain, and lit up the countenance of the Baron. Despair was stamped - on his distracted features. - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0051" id="link2HCH0051"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER XI - </h2> - <p> - On the evening of the next day there was to be a grand fête given at the - New House by his Imperial Highness. The ladies would treasure their - energies for the impending ball, and the morning was to pass without an - excursion. Only Lady Madeleine, whom Vivian met taking her usual early - promenade in the gardens, seemed inclined to prolong it, and even invited - him to be her companion. She talked of the fête, and she expressed a hope - that Vivian would accompany their party; but her air was not festive, she - seemed abstracted and disturbed, and her voice more than once broke off - abruptly at the commencement of a sentence which it seemed she had not - courage to finish. - </p> - <p> - At length she said suddenly, “Mr. Grey, I cannot conceal any longer that I - am thinking of a very different subject from the ball. As you form part of - my thoughts, I shall not hesitate to disburthen my mind to you. I wish not - to keep you in suspense. It is of the mode of life which I see my brother, - which I see you, pursuing here that I wish to speak,” she added with a - tremulous voice. “May I speak with freedom?” - </p> - <p> - “With the most perfect unreserve and confidence.” - </p> - <p> - “You are aware that Ems is not the first place at which I have met Baron - von Konigstein.” - </p> - <p> - “I am not ignorant that he has been in England.” - </p> - <p> - “It cannot have escaped you that I acknowledged his acquaintance with - reluctance.” - </p> - <p> - “I should judge, with the greatest.” - </p> - <p> - “And yet it was with still more reluctance that I prevailed upon myself to - believe you were his friend. I experienced great relief when you told me - how short and accidental had been your acquaintance. I have experienced - great pain in witnessing to what that acquaintance has led; and it is with - extreme sorrow for my own weakness, in not having had courage to speak to - you before, and with a hope of yet benefiting you, that I have been - induced to speak to you now.” - </p> - <p> - “I trust there is no cause either for your sorrow or your fear; but much, - much cause for my gratitude.” - </p> - <p> - “I have observed the constant attendance of yourself and my brother at the - New House with the utmost anxiety. I have seen too much not to be aware of - the danger which young men, and young men of honour, must always - experience at such places. Alas! I have seen too much of Baron von - Konigstein not to know that at such places especially his acquaintance is - fatal. The evident depression of your spirits yesterday determined me on a - step which I have for the last few days been considering. I can learn - nothing from my brother. I fear that I am even now too late; but I trust - that, whatever may be your situation, you will remember, Mr. Grey, that - you have friends; that you will decide on nothing rash.” - </p> - <p> - “Lady Madeleine,” said Vivian, “I will not presume to express the - gratitude which your generous conduct allows me to feel. This moment - repays me for a year of agony. I affect not to misunderstand your meaning. - My opinion, my detestation of the gaming table, has always been, and must - always be, the same. I do assure you this, and all things, upon my honour. - Far from being involved, my cheek burns while I confess that I am master - of a considerable sum acquired by this unhallowed practice. You are aware - of the singular fortune which awaited my first evening at Ems; that - fortune was continued at the New House the very first day I dined there, - and when, unexpectedly, I was forced to play. That fatal fortune has - rendered my attendance at the New House necessary. I found it impossible - to keep away without subjecting myself to painful observations. My - depression of yesterday was occasioned by the receipt of letters from - England. I am ashamed of having spoken so much about myself, and so little - about those for whom you are more interested. So far as I can judge, you - have no cause, at present, for any uneasiness with regard to Mr. St. - George. You may, perhaps, have observed that we are not very intimate, and - therefore I cannot speak with any precision as to the state of his - fortunes; but I have reason to believe that they are by no means - unfavourable. And as for the Baron—” - </p> - <p> - “Yes, yes!” - </p> - <p> - “I hardly know what I am to infer from your observations respecting him. I - certainly should infer something extremely bad, were not I conscious that, - after the experience of five weeks, I, for one, have nothing to complain - of him. The Baron, certainly, is fond of play; plays high, indeed. He has - not had equal fortune at the New House as at the Redoute; at least I - imagine so, for he has given me no cause to believe, in any way, that he - is a loser.” - </p> - <p> - “If you could only understand the relief I feel at this moment, I am sure - you would not wonder that I prevailed upon myself to speak to you. It may - still be in my power, however, to prevent evil.” - </p> - <p> - “Yes, certainly! I think the best course now would be to speak to me - frankly respecting Von Konigstein; and, if you are aware of anything which - has passed in England of a nature—” - </p> - <p> - “Stop!” said Lady Madeleine, agitated. Vivian was silent, and some moments - elapsed before his companion again spoke. When she did her eyes were fixed - on the ground, and her tones were low; but her voice was calm and steady. - </p> - <p> - “I am going to accept, Mr. Grey, the confidence which you have proffered - me; but I do not affect to conceal that I speak, even now, with - reluctance; an effort, and it will soon be over. It is for the best.” Lady - Madeleine paused one moment, and then resumed with a firm voice: - </p> - <p> - “Upwards of six years have now passed since Baron von Konigstein was - appointed Minister to London from the Court of ——. Although - apparently young for such an important mission, he had already - distinguished himself as a diplomatist; and with all the advantages of - brilliant talents, various accomplishments, rank, reputation, person, and - a fascinating address, I need not tell you that he immediately became of - consideration, even in the highest circles. Mr. Trevor, I was then just - married, was at this period in office, and was constantly in personal - communication with the Baron. They became intimate, and he was our - constant guest. He had the reputation of being a man of pleasure. He was - one for whose indiscretions there might be some excuse; nor had anything - ever transpired which could induce us to believe that Baron von Konigstein - could be guilty of anything but an indiscretion. At this period a relation - and former ward of Mr. Trevor’s, a young man of considerable fortune, and - one whom we all fondly loved, resided in our family. We considered him as - our brother. With this individual Baron von Konigstein formed a strong - friendship; they were seldom apart. Our relation was not exempted from the - failings of young men. He led a dissipated life; but he was very young; - and as, unlike most relations, we never allowed any conduct on his part to - banish him from our society, we trusted that the contrast which his own - family afforded to his usual companions would in time render his habits - less irregular. We had now known Baron von Konigstein for upwards of a - year and a half, intimately. Nothing had transpired during this period to - induce Mr. Trevor to alter the opinion which he had entertained of him - from the first; he believed him to be a man of honour, and, in spite of a - few imprudences, of principle. Whatever might have been my own opinion of - him at this period, I had no reason to doubt the natural goodness of his - disposition; and though I could not hope that he was one who would assist - us in our plans for the reformation of Augustus, I still was not sorry to - believe, that in the Baron he would at least find a companion very - different from the unprincipled and selfish beings by whom he was too - often surrounded. Something occurred at this time which placed Baron von - Konigstein, according to his own declaration, under lasting obligations to - myself. In the warmth of his heart he asked if there was any real and - important service which he could do me. I took advantage of the moment to - speak to him about our young friend; I detailed to him all our anxieties; - he anticipated all my wishes, and promised to watch over him, to be his - guardian, his friend, his real friend. Mr. Grey,” continued her Ladyship, - “I struggle to restrain my feelings; but the recollections of this period - of my life are so painful that for a moment I must stop to recover - myself.” - </p> - <p> - For a few minutes they walked on in silence. Vivian did not speak; and - when his companion resumed her tale, he, unconsciously, pressed her arm. - </p> - <p> - “I try to be brief. About three months after the Baron had given me the - pledge which I mentioned, Mr. Trevor was called up at an early hour one - morning with the intelligence that his late ward was supposed to be at the - point of death at a neighbouring hotel. He instantly repaired to him, and - on the way the fatal truth was broken to him: our friend had committed - suicide! He had been playing all night with one whom I cannot now name.” - Here Lady Madeleine’s voice died away, but with a struggle she again spoke - firmly. - </p> - <p> - “I mean with the Baron, some foreigners also, and an Englishman, all - intimate friends of Von Konigstein, and scarcely known to the deceased. - Our friend had been the only sufferer; he had lost his whole fortune, and - more than his fortune: and, with a heart full of despair and remorse, had, - with his own hand, terminated his life. The whole circumstances were so - suspicious that they attracted public attention, and Mr. Trevor spared no - exertion to bring the offenders to justice. The Baron had the hardihood to - call upon us the next day; of course, in vain. He wrote violent letters, - protesting his innocence; that he was asleep during most of the night, and - accusing the others who were present of a conspiracy. The unhappy business - now attracted very general interest. Its consequence on me was an alarming - illness of a most unfortunate kind; I was therefore prevented from - interfering, or, indeed, knowing anything that took place; but my husband - informed me that the Baron was involved in a public correspondence; that - the accused parties recriminated, and that finally he was convinced that - Von Konigstein, if there were any difference, was, if possible, the most - guilty. However this might be, he soon obtained his recall from his own - Government. He wrote to us both before he left England; but I was too ill - to hear of his letters, until Mr. Trevor informed me that he had returned - them unopened. And now, I must give utterance to that which as yet has - always died upon my lips, the unhappy victim was the brother of Miss - Fane!” - </p> - <p> - “And Mr. St. George,” said Vivian, “knowing all this, which surely he must - have done; how came he to tolerate, for an instant, the advances of such a - man?” - </p> - <p> - “My brother,” said Lady Madeleine, “is a very good young man, with a kind - heart and warm feelings; but my brother has not much knowledge of the - world, and he is too honourable himself ever to believe that what he calls - a gentleman can be dishonest. My brother was not in England when the - unhappy event took place, and of course the various circumstances have not - made the same impression upon him as upon us. He has heard of the affair - only from me; and young men too often imagine that women are apt to - exaggerate in matters of this nature, which, of course, few of us can - understand. The Baron had not the good feeling, or perhaps had not the - power, connected as he was with the Grand Duke, to affect ignorance of our - former acquaintance, or to avoid a second one. I was obliged formally to - present him to my brother. I was quite perplexed how to act. I thought of - writing to him the next morning, impressing upon him the utter - impossibility of our acquaintance being renewed: but this proceeding - involved a thousand difficulties. How was a man of his distinction, a man, - who not only from his rank, but from his disposition, is always a - remarkable and a remarked character, wherever he may be; how could he - account to the Grand Duke, and to his numerous friends, for his not - associating with a party with whom he was perpetually in contact. - Explanations, and worse, must have been the consequence. I could hardly - expect him to leave Ems; it was, perhaps, out of his power: and for Miss - Fane to leave Ems at this moment was most strenuously prohibited by her - physician. While I was doubtful and deliberating, the conduct of Baron von - Konigstein himself prevented me from taking any step whatever. Feeling all - the awkwardness of his situation, he seized, with eagerness, the - opportunity of becoming intimate with a member of the family whom he had - not before known. His amusing conversation, and insinuating address, - immediately enlisted the feelings of my brother in his favour. You know - yourself that the very morning after their introduction they were riding - together. As they became more intimate, the Baron boldly spoke to Albert, - in confidence, of his acquaintance with us in England, and of the unhappy - circumstances which led to its termination. Albert was deceived by this - seeming courage and candour. He has become the Baron’s friend, and has - adopted his version of the unhappy story; and as the Baron has had too - much delicacy to allude to the affair in a defence of himself to me, he - calculated that the representations of Albert, who, he was conscious, - would not preserve the confidence which he has always intended him to - betray, would assist in producing in my mind an impression in his favour. - The Neapolitan story which he told the other day at dinner was of himself. - I confess to you, that though I have not for a moment doubted his guilt, - still I was weak enough to consider that his desire to become reconciled - to me was at least an evidence of a repentant heart; and the Neapolitan - story deceived me. Actuated by these feelings, and acting as I thought - wisest under existing circumstances, I ceased to discourage his advances. - Your acquaintance, which we all desired to cultivate, was perhaps another - reason for enduring his presence. His subsequent conduct has undeceived - me: I am convinced now, not only of his former guilt, but also that he is - not changed; and that, with his accustomed talent, he has been acting a - part which for some reason or other he has no longer any object in - maintaining.” - </p> - <p> - “And Miss Fane,” said Vivian, “she must know all?” - </p> - <p> - “She knows nothing in detail; she was so young at the time that we had no - difficulty in keeping the particular circumstances of her brother’s death, - and the sensation which it excited, a secret from her. As she grew up, I - have thought it proper that the mode of his death should no longer be - concealed from her; and she has learnt from some incautious observations - of Albert, enough to make her look upon the Baron with terror. It is for - Violet,” continued Lady Madeleine, “that I have the severest - apprehensions. For the last fortnight her anxiety for her cousin has - produced an excitement, which I look upon with more dread than anything - that can happen to her. She has entreated me to speak to Albert, and also - to you. The last few days she has become more easy and serene. She - accompanies us to-night; the weather is so beautiful that the night air is - scarcely to be feared; and a gay scene will have a favourable influence - upon her spirits. Your depression last night did not, however, escape her - notice. Once more let me say how I rejoice at hearing what you have told - me. I unhesitatingly believe all that you have said. Watch Albert. I have - no fear for yourself.” - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0052" id="link2HCH0052"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER XII - </h2> - <p> - The company at the Grand Duke’s fête was most select; that is to say, it - consisted of everybody who was then at the Baths: those who had been - presented to his Highness having the privilege of introducing any number - of their friends; and those who had no friend to introduce them purchasing - tickets at an enormous price from Cracowsky, the wily Polish Intendant. - The entertainment was imperial; no expense and no exertion were spared to - make the hired lodging-house look like an hereditary palace; and for a - week previous to the great evening the whole of the neighbouring town of - Wiesbaden, the little capital of the duchy, had been put under - contribution. What a harvest for Cracowsky! What a commission from the - restaurateur for supplying the refreshments! What a percentage on hired - mirrors and dingy hangings! - </p> - <p> - The Grand Duke, covered with orders, received every one with the greatest - condescension, and made to each of his guests a most flattering speech. - His suite, in new uniforms, simultaneously bowed directly the flattering - speech was finished. - </p> - <p> - “Madame von Furstenburg, I feel the greatest pleasure in seeing you. My - greatest pleasure is to be surrounded by my friends. Madame von - Furstenburg, I trust that your amiable and delightful family are quite - well. [The party passed on.] Cravatischeff!” continued his Highness, - inclining his head round to one of his aides-de-camp, “Cravatischeff! a - very fine woman is Madame von Furstenburg. There are few women whom I more - admire than Madame von Furstenburg. - </p> - <p> - “Prince Salvinski, I feel the greatest pleasure in seeing you. My greatest - pleasure is to be surrounded by my friends. Poland honours no one more - than Prince Salvinski. Cravatischeff! a remarkable bore is Prince - Salvinski. There are few men of whom I have a greater terror than Prince - Salvinski. - </p> - <p> - “Baron von Konigstein, I feel the greatest pleasure in seeing you. My - greatest pleasure is to be surrounded by my friends. Baron von Konigstein, - I have not yet forgotten the story of the fair Venetian. Cravatischeff! an - uncommonly pleasant fellow is Baron von Konigstein. There are few men - whose company I more enjoy than Baron von Konigstein’s. - </p> - <p> - “Count von Altenburgh, I feel the greatest pleasure in seeing you. My - greatest pleasure is to be surrounded by my friends. You will not forget - to give me your opinion of my Austrian troop. Cravatischeff! a very good - billiard player is Count von Altenburgh. There are few men whose play I - would sooner bet upon than Count von Altenburgh’s. - </p> - <p> - “Lady Madeleine Trevor, I feel the greatest pleasure in seeing you. My - greatest pleasure is to be surrounded by my friends. Miss Fane, your - servant; Mr. St. George, Mr. Grey. Cravatischeff! a most splendid woman is - Lady Madeleine Trevor. There is no woman whom I more admire than Lady - Madeleine Trevor! and Cravatischeff! Miss Fane, too! a remarkably fine - girl is Miss Fane.” - </p> - <p> - The great saloon of the New House afforded excellent accommodation for the - dancers. It opened on the gardens, which, though not very large, were - tastefully laid out, and were this evening brilliantly illuminated. In the - smaller saloon the Austrian troop amused those who were not fascinated by - waltz or quadrille with acting proverbs: the regular dramatic performance - was thought too heavy a business for the evening. There was sufficient - amusement for all; and those who did not dance, and to whom proverbs were - no novelty, walked and talked, stared at others, and were themselves - stared at; and this, perhaps, was the greatest amusement of all. Baron von - Konigstein did certainly to-night look neither like an unsuccessful - gamester nor a designing villain. Among many who were really amusing he - was the most so, and, apparently without the least consciousness of it, - attracted the admiration of all. To the Trevor party he had attached - himself immediately, and was constantly at Lady Madeleine’s side, - introducing to her, in the course of the evening, his own and Mr. St. - George’s particular friends, Mr. and Mrs. Fitzloom. Among many smiling - faces Vivian Grey’s was clouded; the presence of the Baron annoyed him. - When they first met he was conscious that he was stiff and cool. One - moment’s reflection convinced him of the folly of his conduct, and he made - a struggle to be very civil. In five minutes’ time he had involuntarily - insulted the Baron, who stared at his friend, and evidently did not - comprehend him. - </p> - <p> - “Grey,” said his Excellency, very quietly, “you are not in a good humour - tonight. What is the matter? This is not at all a temper to come to a fête - in. What! won’t Miss Fane dance with you?’” asked the Baron, with an - arched smile. - </p> - <p> - “I wonder wind can induce your Excellency to talk such nonsense!” - </p> - <p> - “Your Excellency! by Jove, that’s good! What the deuce is the matter with - the man? It is Miss Fane, then, eh?” - </p> - <p> - “Baron von Konigstein, I wish you to understand—” - </p> - <p> - “My dear fellow, I never could understand anything. I think you have - insulted me in a most disgraceful manner, and I positively must call you - out, unless you promise to dine at my rooms with me to-morrow, to meet De - Boeffleurs.” - </p> - <p> - “I cannot.” - </p> - <p> - “Why not? You have no engagement with Lady Madeleine I know, for St. - George has agreed to come.” - </p> - <p> - “Yes?” - </p> - <p> - “De Boeffleurs leaves Ems next week. It is sooner than he expected, and I - wish to have a quiet evening together before he goes. I should be very - vexed if you were not there. We have scarcely been enough together lately. - What with the New House in the evening, and riding parties in the morning, - and those Fitzloom girls, with whom St. George is playing a most foolish - game, he will be taken in now, if he is not on his guard; we really never - meet, at: least not in a quiet friendly way; and so now, will you come?” - </p> - <p> - “St. George is positively coming?” - </p> - <p> - “Oh yes’ positively; do not be afraid of his gaining ground on the little - Violet in your absence.” - </p> - <p> - “Well, then, my dear Von Konigstein, I will come.” - </p> - <p> - “Well, that is yourself again. It made me quite unhappy to see you look so - sour and melancholy; one would have thought that I was some bore, - Salvinski at least, by the way you spoke to me. Well, mind you come; it is - a promise, good. I must go and say just one word to the lovely little - Saxon girl; by-the-bye, Grey, one word before I am off. List to a friend; - you are on the wrong scent about Miss Fane; St. George, I think, has no - chance there, and now no wish to succeed. The game is your own, if you - like; trust my word, she is an angel. The good powers prosper you!” So - saying, the Baron glided off. - </p> - <p> - Mr. St. George had danced With Miss Fane the only quadrille in which Lady - Madeleine allowed her to join. He was now waltzing with Aurelia Fitzloom, - and was at the head of a band of adventurous votaries of Terpsichore; who, - wearied with the commonplace convenience of a saloon, had ventured to - invoke the Muse on the lawn. - </p> - <p> - “A most interesting sight, Lady Madeleine!” said Mr. Fitzloom, as he - offered her his arm, and advised their instant presence as patrons of the - “Fête du Village,” for such Baron von Konigstein had most happily termed - it. “A delightful man, that Baron von Konigstein, and says such delightful - things! Fête du Village! how very good!” - </p> - <p> - “That is Miss Fitzloom, then, whom my brother is waltzing with?” asked - Lady Madeleine. - </p> - <p> - “Not exactly, my Lady,” said Mr. Fitzloom, “not exactly <i>Miss</i> - Fitzloom, rather Miss Aurelia Fitzloom, my third daughter; our third - eldest, as Mrs. Fitzloom sometimes says; for really it is necessary to - distinguish, with such a family as ours, you know.” - </p> - <p> - “Let us walk,” said Miss Fane to Vivian, for she was now leaning upon his - arm; “the evening is deliriously soft, but even with the protection of a - cashmere I scarcely dare venture to stand still. Lady Madeleine seems very - much engaged at present. What amusing people these Fitzlooms are!” - </p> - <p> - “Mrs. Fitzloom; I have not heard her voice yet.” - </p> - <p> - “No; Mrs. Fitzloom does not talk. Albert says she makes it a rule never to - speak in the presence of a stranger. She deals plenteously, however, at - home in domestic apophthegms. If you could but hear him imitating them - all! Whenever she does speak, she finishes all her sentences by confessing - that she is conscious of her own deficiencies, but that she has taken care - to give her daughters the very best education. They are what Albert calls - fine girls, and I am glad he has made friends with them; for, after all, - he must find it rather dull here. By-the-bye, Mr. Grey, I am afraid that - you cannot find this evening very amusing, the absence of a favourite - pursuit always makes a sensible void, and these walls must remind you of - more piquant pleasures than waltzing with fine London ladies, or - promenading up a dull terrace with an invalid.” - </p> - <p> - “I assure you that you are quite misinformed as to the mode in which I - generally pass my evenings.” - </p> - <p> - “I hope I am!” said Miss Fane, in rather a serious tone. “I wish I could - also he mistaken in my suspicions of the mode in which Albert spends his - time. He is sadly changed. For the first month that we were here he seemed - to prefer nothing in the world to our society, and now—I was nearly - saying that we had not seen him for one single evening these three weeks. - I cannot understand what you find at this house of such absorbing - interest. Although I know you think I am much mistaken in my suspicions, - still I feel very anxious. I spoke to Albert to-day; but he scarcely - answered me; or said that which it was a pleasure for me to forget.” - </p> - <p> - “Mr. St. George should feel highly gratified in having excited such an - interest in the mind of Miss Fane.” - </p> - <p> - “He should not feel more gratified than all who are my friends; for all - who are such I must ever experience the liveliest interest.” - </p> - <p> - “How happy must those be who feel that they have a right to count Miss - Fane among their friends!” - </p> - <p> - “I have the pleasure then, I assure you, of making many happy, and among - them, Mr. Grey.” - </p> - <p> - Vivian was surprised that he did not utter some complimentary answer; but - he knew not why, the words would not come; and instead of speaking, he was - thinking of what had been spoken. - </p> - <p> - “How brilliant are these gardens!” said Vivian, looking at the sky. - </p> - <p> - “Very brilliant!” said Miss Fane, looking on the ground. Conversation - seemed nearly extinct, and yet neither offered to turn back. - </p> - <p> - “Good heavens! you are ill,” exclaimed Vivian, when, on accidentally - turning to his companion, he found she was in tears. “Shall we go back, or - will you wait here? Can I fetch anything? I fear you are very ill!” - </p> - <p> - “No, not very ill, but very foolish; let us walk on,” and, sighing, she - seemed suddenly to recover. - </p> - <p> - “I am ashamed of this foolishness; what can you think? But I am so - agitated, so nervous. I hope you will forget—I hope—” - </p> - <p> - “Perhaps the air has suddenly affected you; shall we go in? Nothing has - been said, nothing happened; no one has dared to say or do anything to - annoy you? Speak, dear Miss Fane, the, the—” the words died on - Vivian’s lips, yet a power he could not withstand urged him to speak, - “the, the, the Baron?” - </p> - <p> - “Ah!” almost shrieked Miss Fane. “Stop one second; an effort, and I must - be well; nothing has happened, and no one has done or said anything; but - it is of something that should be said, of something that should be done, - that I was thinking, and it overcame me.” - </p> - <p> - “Miss Fane,” said Vivian, “if there be anything which I can do or devise, - any possible way that I can exert myself in your service, speak with the - most perfect confidence; do not fear that your motives will be - misconceived, that your purpose will be misinterpreted, that your - confidence will be misunderstood. You are addressing one who would lay - down his life for you, who is willing to perform all your commands, and - forget them when performed. I beseech you to trust me; believe me, that - you shall not repent.” - </p> - <p> - She answered not, but holding down her head, covered her face with her - small white hand; her lovely face which was crimsoned with her flashing - blood. They were now at the end of the terrace; to return was impossible. - If they remained stationary, they must be perceived and joined. What was - to be done? He led her down a retired walk still farther from the house. - As they proceeded in silence, the bursts of the music and the loud - laughter of the joyous guests became fainter and fainter, till at last the - sounds died away into echo, and echo into silence. - </p> - <p> - A thousand thoughts dashed through Vivian’s mind in rapid succession; but - a painful one, a most painful one to him, to any man, always remained the - last. His companion would not speak; yet to allow her to return home - without freeing her mind of the fearful burden which evidently overwhelmed - it, was impossible. At length he broke a silence which seemed to have - lasted an age. - </p> - <p> - “Do not believe that I am taking advantage of an agitating moment to - extract from you a confidence which you may repent. I feel assured that I - am right in supposing that you have contemplated in a calmer moment the - possibility of my being of service to you; that, in short, there is - something in which you require my assistance, my co-operation; an - assistance, a co-operation, which, if it produce any benefit to you, will - make me at length feel that I have not lived in vain. No feeling of false - delicacy shall prevent me from assisting you in giving utterance to - thoughts which you have owned it is absolutely necessary should be - expressed. Remember that you have allowed me to believe that we are - friends; do not prove by your silence that we are friends only in name.” - </p> - <p> - “I am overwhelmed; I cannot speak. My face burns with shame; I have - miscalculated my strength of mind, perhaps my physical strength; what, - what must you think of me?” She spoke in a low and smothered voice. - </p> - <p> - “Think of you! everything which the most devoted respect dare think of an - object which it reverences. Do not believe that I am one who would presume - an instant on my position, because I have accidentally witnessed a young - and lovely woman betrayed into a display of feeling which the artificial - forms of cold society cannot contemplate, and dare to ridicule. You are - speaking to one who also has felt; who, though a man, has wept; who can - comprehend sorrow; who can understand the most secret sensations of an - agitated spirit. Dare to trust me. Be convinced that hereafter, neither by - word nor look, hint nor sign, on my part, shall you feel, save by your own - wish, that you have appeared to Vivian Grey in any other light than in the - saloons we have just quitted.” - </p> - <p> - “Generous man, I dare trust anything to you that I dare trust to human - being; but—” here her voice died away. - </p> - <p> - “It is a painful thing for me to attempt to guess your thoughts; but if it - be of Mr. St. George that you are thinking, have no fear respecting him; - have no fear about his present situation. Trust to me that there shall be - no anxiety for his future one. I will be his unknown guardian, his unseen - friend; the promoter of your wishes, the protector of your—” - </p> - <p> - “No, no,” said Miss Fane, with firmness, and looking quickly up, as if her - mind were relieved by discovering that all this time Vivian had never - imagined she was thinking of him. “No, no, you are mistaken; it is not of - Mr. St. George, of Mr. St. George only, that I am thinking. I am much - better now; I shall be able in an instant to speak; be able, I trust, to - forget how foolish, how very foolish I have been. - </p> - <p> - “Let us walk on,” continued Miss Fane, “let us walk on; we can easily - account for our absence if it be remarked; and it is better that it should - be all over. I feel quite well, and shall be able to speak quite firmly - now.” - </p> - <p> - “Do not hurry; there is no fear of our absence being remarked, Lady - Madeleine is so surrounded.” - </p> - <p> - “After what has passed, it seems ridiculous in me to apologise, as I had - intended, for speaking to you on a graver subject than what has generally - formed the point of conversation between us. I feared that you might - misunderstand the motives which have dictated my conduct. I have attempted - not to appear agitated, and I have been overcome. I trust that you will - not be offended if I recur to the subject of the New House. Do not believe - that I ever would have allowed my fears, my girlish fears, so to have - overcome my discretion; so to have overcome, indeed, all propriety of - conduct on my part; as to have induced me to have sought an interview with - you, to moralise to you about your mode of life. No, no; it is not of this - that I wish to speak, or rather that I will speak. I will hope, I will - pray, that Albert and yourself have never found in that which you have - followed as an amusement, the source, the origin, the cause of a single - unhappy or even anxious moment; Mr. Grey, I will believe all this.” - </p> - <p> - “Dearest Miss Fane, believe it with confidence. Of St. George, I can with - sincerity aver, that it is my firm opinion, that, far from being involved, - his fortune is not in the slightest degree injured. Believe me, I will not - attempt to quiet you now, as I would have done at any other time, by - telling you that you magnify your fears, and allow your feelings to - exaggerate the danger which exists. There has been danger. There is - danger; play, high play, has been and is pursued at this New House, but - Mr. St. George has never been a loser; and if the exertions of man can - avail, never shall, at least unfairly. As to the other individual, whom - you have honoured by the interest which you have professed in his welfare, - no one can more thoroughly detest any practice which exists in this world - than he does the gaming-table.” - </p> - <p> - “Oh! you have made me so happy! I feel so persuaded that you have not - deceived me! the tones of your voice, your manner, your expression, - convince me that you have been sincere, and that I am happy, at least for - the present.” - </p> - <p> - “For ever, I trust, Miss Fane.” - </p> - <p> - “Let me now prevent future misery. Let me speak about that which has long - dwelt on my mind like a nightmare, about that which I did fear it was - almost too late to speak. Not of your pursuit, not even of that fatal - pursuit, do I now think, but of your companion in this amusement, in all - amusements! it is he, he whom I dread, whom I look upon with horror, even - to him, I cannot say, with hatred!” - </p> - <p> - “The Baron?” said Vivian, calmly. - </p> - <p> - “I cannot name him. Dread him, fear him, avoid him! it is he that I mean, - he of whom I thought that you were the victim. You must have been - surprised, you must have wondered at our conduct towards him. Oh! when - Lady Madeleine turned from him with coolness, when she answered him in - tones which to you might have appeared harsh, she behaved to him, in - comparison to what is his due, and what we sometimes feel to be our duty, - with affection, actually with affection and regard. No human being can - know what horror is, until he looks upon a fellow-creature with the eyes - that I look upon that man.” She leant upon Vivian’s arm with her whole - weight, and even then he thought she must have sunk; neither spoke. How - solemn is the silence of sorrow! - </p> - <p> - “I am overcome,” continued Miss Fane; “the remembrance of what he has done - overwhelms me. I cannot speak it; the recollection is death; yet you must - know it. That you might know it, I have before attempted. I wished to have - spared myself the torture which I now endure. You must know it. I will - write; ay! that will do. I will write: I cannot speak now; it is - impossible; but beware of him; you are so young.” - </p> - <p> - “I have no words now to thank you, dear Miss Fane, for this. Had I been - the victim of Von Konigstein, I should have been repaid for all my misery - by feeling that you regretted its infliction; but I trust that I am in no - danger: though young, I fear that I am one who must not count his time by - calendars. ‘An aged interpreter, though young in days.’ Would that I could - be deceived! Fear not for your cousin. Trust to one whom you have made - think better of this world, and of his fellow-creatures.” - </p> - <p> - The sound of approaching footsteps, and the light laugh of pleasure, told - of some who were wandering like themselves. - </p> - <p> - “We had better return,” said Miss Fane; “I fear that Lady Madeleine will - observe that I look unwell. Some one approaches! No, they pass only the - top of the walk.” It was Mr. St. George and Aurelia Fitzloom. - </p> - <p> - Quick flew the brilliant hours; and soon the dance was over, and the music - mute. - </p> - <p> - It was late when Vivian retired. As he opened his door he was surprised to - find lights in his chamber. The figure of a man appeared seated at the - table. It moved; it was Essper George. - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0053" id="link2HCH0053"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER XIII - </h2> - <p> - The reader will remember that Vivian had agreed to dine, on the day after - the fête, with the Baron, in his private apartments. This was an - arrangement which, in fact, the custom of the house did not permit; but - the irregularities of great men who are attended by chasseurs are - occasionally winked at by a supple maître d’hôtel. Vivian had reasons for - not regretting his acceptance of the invitation; and he never shook hands - with the Chevalier de Boeffleurs, apparently, with greater cordiality, - than on the day on which he met him at dinner at the Baron von - Konigstein’s. Mr. St. George had not arrived. - </p> - <p> - “Past five!” said the Baron; “riding out, I suppose, with the Fitzlooms. - Aurelia is certainly a fine girl; but I should think that Lady Madeleine - would hardly approve the connection. The St. Georges have blood in their - veins; and would, I suppose, as soon think of marrying a Fitzloom as we - Germans should of marrying a woman without a <i>von</i> before her name. - We are quite alone, Grey, only the Chevalier and St. George. I had an idea - of asking Salvinski, but he is such a regular steam-engine, and began such - a long story last night about his interview with the King of Ashantee, - that the bare possibility of his taking it into his head to finish it - to-day frightened me. You were away early from the Grand Duke’s last - night. The business went off well.” - </p> - <p> - “Very well, indeed!” said the Chevalier de Boeffleurs; completing by this - speech the first dozen of words which he had uttered since his stay at - Ems. - </p> - <p> - “I think that last night Lady Madeleine Trevor looked perfectly - magnificent; and a certain lady, too, Grey, eh? Here is St. George. My - dear fellow, how are you? Has the fair Aurelia recovered from the last - night’s fatigues? Now, Ernstorff, dinner as soon as possible.” - </p> - <p> - The Baron made up to-day, certainly, for the silence of his friend the - Chevalier. He outdid himself. Story after story, adventure after - adventure, followed each other with exciting haste. In fact, the Baron - never ceased talking the whole dinner, except when he refreshed himself - with wine, which he drank copiously. A nice observer would, perhaps, have - considered the Baron’s high spirits artificial, and his conversation an - effort. Yet his temper, though lively, was generally equable; and his - ideas, which always appeared to occur easily, were usually thrown out in - fluent phraseology. The dinner was long, and a great deal of wine was - drunk: more than most of the parties present for a long time had been - accustomed to. About eight o’clock the Chevalier proposed going to the - Redoute, but the Baron objected. - </p> - <p> - “Let us have an evening altogether: surely we have had enough of the - Redoute. In my opinion one of the advantages of the fête is, that there is - no New House to-night. Conversation is a novelty. On a moderate - calculation I must have told you to-day at least fifty original anecdotes. - I have done my duty. It is the Chevalier’s turn now. Come, de Boeffleurs, - a choice one!” - </p> - <p> - “I remember a story Prince Salvinski once told me.” - </p> - <p> - “No, no, that is too bad; none of that Polish bear’s romances; if we have - his stories, we may as well have his company.” - </p> - <p> - “But it is a very curious story,” continued the Chevalier, with a little - animation. - </p> - <p> - “Oh! so is every story, according to the storier.” - </p> - <p> - “I think, Von Konigstein, you imagine no one can tell a story but - yourself,” said De Boeffleurs, actually indignant. Vivian had never heard - him speak so much before, and really began to believe that he was not - quite an automaton. - </p> - <p> - “Let us have it!” said St. George. - </p> - <p> - “It is a story told of a Polish nobleman, a Count somebody: I never can - remember their crack-jaw names. Well! the point is this,” said the silent - little Chevalier, who, apparently, already repented of the boldness of his - offer, and, misdoubting his powers, wished to begin with the end of his - tale: “the point is this, he was playing one day at ecarté with the - Governor of Wilna; the stake was trifling, but he had a bet, you see, with - the Governor of a thousand roubles; a bet with the Governor’s secretary, - never mind the amount, say two hundred and fifty, you see; then, he went - on the turn-up with the Commandant’s wife; and took the pips on the trumps - with the Archbishop of Warsaw. To understand the point of the story, you - see, you must have a distinct conception how the game stood. You see, St. - George, there was the bet with the Governor, one thousand roubles; the - Governor’s secretary, never mind the amount, say two hundred and fifty; - turn-up with the Commandant’s lady, and the pips with the Archbishop of - Warsaw. Proposed three times, one for the king, the Governor drew ace; the - Governor was already three and the ten. When the Governor scored king, the - Archbishop gave the odds, drew knave queen one hand. The count offered to - propose fourth time. Governor refused. King to six, ace fell to knave, - queen cleared on. Governor lost, besides bets with the whole état-major; - the Secretary gave his bill; the Commandant’s lady pawned her jewels; and - the Archbishop was done on the pips!” - </p> - <p> - “By Jove, what a Salvinski!” - </p> - <p> - “How many trumps had the Governor?” asked St. George. - </p> - <p> - “Three,” said the Chevalier. - </p> - <p> - “Then it is impossible: I do not believe the story; it could not be.” - </p> - <p> - “I beg your pardon,” said the Chevalier; “you see the Governor had—” - </p> - <p> - “By Jove, don’t let us have it all over again!” said the Baron. “Well! if - this be your model for an after-dinner anecdote, which ought to be as - piquant as an anchovy toast, I will never complain of your silence in - future.” - </p> - <p> - “The story is a true story,” said the Chevalier; “have you got a pack of - cards, Von Konigstein? I will show it you.” - </p> - <p> - “There is not such a thing in the room,” said the Baron. - </p> - <p> - “Well, I never heard of a room without a pack of cards before,” said the - Chevalier; “I will send for one to my own apartments.” - </p> - <p> - “Perhaps Ernstorff has got a pack. Here, Ernstorff, have you got a pack of - cards? That’s well; bring it immediately.” - </p> - <p> - The cards were brought, and the Chevalier began to fight his battle over - again; but could not satisfy Mr. St. George. “You see, there was the bet - with the Governor, and the pips, as I said before, with the Archbishop of - Warsaw.” - </p> - <p> - “My dear De Boeffleurs, let’s no more of this. If you like to have a game - of ecarté with St. George, well and good; but as for quarrelling the whole - evening about some blundering lie of Salvinski’s, it really is too much. - You two can play, and I can talk to Don Vivian, who, by-the-bye, is rather - of the rueful countenance to-night. Why, my dear fellow, I have not heard - your voice this evening: frightened by the fate of the Archbishop of - Warsaw, I suppose?” - </p> - <p> - “Ecarté is so devilish dull,” said St. George; “and it is such a trouble - to deal.” - </p> - <p> - “I will deal for both, if you like,” said De Boeffleurs; “I am used to - dealing.” - </p> - <p> - “Oh! no, I won’t play ecarté; let us have something in which we can all - join.” - </p> - <p> - “Rouge-et-noir,” suggested the Chevalier, in a careless tone, as if he had - no taste for the amusement. - </p> - <p> - “There is not enough, is there?” asked St. George. - </p> - <p> - “Oh! two are enough, you know; one deals, much more four.” - </p> - <p> - “Well, I don’t care; rouge-et-noir then, let us have rouge-et-noir. Von - Konigstein, what say you to rouge-et-noir? De Boeffleurs says we can play - it here very well. Come, Grey.” - </p> - <p> - “Oh! rouge-et-noir, rouge-et-noir,” said the Baron; “have not you both had - rouge-et-noir enough? Am I not to be allowed one holiday? Well, anything - to please you; so rouge-et-noir, if it must be so.” - </p> - <p> - “If all wish it, I have no objection,” said Vivian. - </p> - <p> - “Well, then, let us sit down; Ernstorff has, I dare say, another pack of - cards, and St. George will be dealer; I know he likes that ceremony.” - </p> - <p> - “No, no; I appoint the Chevalier.” - </p> - <p> - “Very well,” said De Boeffleurs, “the plan will be for two to bank against - the table; the table to play on the same colour by joint agreement. You - can join me, Von Konigstein, and pay or receive with me, from Mr. St. - George and Grey.” - </p> - <p> - “I will bank with you, if you like, Chevalier,” said Vivian. - </p> - <p> - “Oh! certainly; that is if you like. But perhaps the Baron is more used to - banking; you perhaps don’t understand it.” - </p> - <p> - “Perfectly; it appears to me to be very simple.” - </p> - <p> - “No, don’t you bank, Grey,” said St. George. “I want you to play with me - against the Chevalier and the Baron; I like your luck.” - </p> - <p> - “Luck is very capricious, remember.” - </p> - <p> - “Oh, no, I like your luck; don’t bank.” - </p> - <p> - “Be it so.” - </p> - <p> - Playing commenced. An hour elapsed, and the situation of none of the - parties was materially different from what it had been when they began the - game. Vivian proposed leaving off; but Mr. St. George avowed that he felt - very fortunate, and that he had a presentiment that he should win. Another - hour elapsed, and he had lost considerably. Eleven o’clock: Vivian’s luck - had also deserted him. Mr. St. George was losing desperately. Midnight: - Vivian had lost back half his gains on the season. St. George still more - desperate, all his coolness had deserted him. He had persisted obstinately - against a run on the red; then floundered and got entangled in a seesaw, - which alone cost him a thousand. - </p> - <p> - Ernstorff now brought in refreshments; and for a moment they ceased - playing. The Baron opened a bottle of champagne; and St. George and the - Chevalier were stretching their legs and composing their minds in very - different ways, the first in walking rapidly up and down the room, and the - other by lying very quietly at his full length on the sofa; Vivian was - employed in building houses with the cards. - </p> - <p> - “Grey,” said the Chevalier de Boeffleurs, “I cannot imagine why you do not - for a moment try to forget the cards: that is the only way to win. Never - sit musing over the table.” - </p> - <p> - But Grey was not to be persuaded to give up building his pagoda: which, - now many stories high, like a more celebrated but scarcely more - substantial structure, fell with a crash. Vivian collected the scattered - cards into two divisions. - </p> - <p> - “Now!” said the Baron, seating himself, “for St. George’s revenge.” - </p> - <p> - The Chevalier and the greatest sufferer took their places. - </p> - <p> - “Is Ernstorff coming in again, Baron?” asked Vivian. - </p> - <p> - “No! I think not.” - </p> - <p> - “Let us be sure; it is disagreeable to be disturbed at this time of - night.” - </p> - <p> - “Lock the door, then,” said St. George. - </p> - <p> - “A very good plan,” said Vivian; and he locked it accordingly. - </p> - <p> - “Now, gentlemen,” said Vivian, rising from the table, and putting both - packs of cards into his pocket; “now, gentlemen, I have another game to - play.” The Chevalier started on his chair, the Baron turned pale, but both - were silent. “Mr. St. George,” continued Vivian, “I think that you owe the - Chevalier de Boeffleurs about four thousand Napoleons, and to Baron von - Konigstein something more than half that sum. I have to inform you that it - is unnecessary for you to satisfy the claims of either of these gentlemen, - which are founded neither in law nor in honour.” - </p> - <p> - “Mr. Grey, what am I to understand?” asked the quiet Chevalier de - Boeffleurs, with the air of a wolf and the voice of a lion. - </p> - <p> - “Understand, sir!” answered Vivian, sternly, “that I am not one who will - be bullied by a blackleg.” - </p> - <p> - “Grey! good God! what do you mean?” asked the Baron. - </p> - <p> - “That which it is my duty, not my pleasure, to explain, Baron von - Konigstein.” - </p> - <p> - “If you mean to insinuate,” burst forth the Chevalier. - </p> - <p> - “I mean to insinuate nothing. I leave insinuations and innuendoes to - chevaliers d’industrie. I mean to prove everything.” - </p> - <p> - Mr. St. George did not speak, but seemed as utterly astounded and - overwhelmed as Baron von Konigstein himself, who, with his arm leaning on - the table, his hands clasped, and the forefinger of his right hand playing - convulsively on his left, was pale as death, and did not even breathe. - </p> - <p> - “Gentlemen,” said Vivian, “I shall not detain you long, though I have much - to say that is to the purpose. I am perfectly cool, and, believe me, - perfectly resolute. Let me recommend to you all the same temperament; it - may be better for you. Rest assured, that if you flatter yourselves that I - am one to be pigeoned and then bullied, you are mistaken. In one word, I - am aware of everything that has been arranged for the reception of Mr. St. - George and myself this evening. Your marked cards are in my pocket, and - can only be obtained by you with my life. Here are two of us against two; - we are equally matched in number, and I, gentlemen, am armed. If I were - not, you would not dare to go to extremities. Is it not, then, the wisest - course to be temperate, my friends?” - </p> - <p> - “This is some vile conspiracy of your own, fellow,” said De Boeffleurs: - “marked cards, indeed! a pretty tale, forsooth! The Ministers of a - first-rate Power playing with marked cards! The story will gain credit, - and on the faith of whom? An adventurer that no one knows, who, having - failed this night in his usual tricks, and lost money which he cannot pay, - takes advantage of the marked cards, which he has not succeeded in - introducing, and pretends, forsooth, that they are those which he has - stolen from our table; our own cards being, previously to his accusation, - concealed in a secret pocket.” - </p> - <p> - The impudence of the fellow staggered even Vivian. As for Mr. St. George, - he stared like a wild man. Before Vivian could answer him the Baron had - broken silence. It was with the greatest effort that he seemed to dig his - words out of his breast. - </p> - <p> - “No, no; this is too much! It is all over! I am lost; but I will not add - crime to crime. Your courage and your fortune have saved you, Mr. Grey, - and your friend from the designs of villains. And you! wretch,” said he, - turning to De Boeffleurs, “sleep now in peace; at length you have undone - me.” He leant on the table, and buried his face in his hands. - </p> - <p> - “Chicken-hearted fool!” said the Chevalier; “is this the end of all your - promises and all your pledges? But remember, sir! remember. I have no - taste for scenes. Good night, gentlemen. Baron, I expect to hear from - you.” - </p> - <p> - “Stop, sir!” said Vivian; “no one leaves this room without my permission.” - </p> - <p> - “I am at your service, sir, when you please,” said the Chevalier. - </p> - <p> - “It is not my intention to detain you long, sir; far from it. I have every - inclination to assist you in your last exit from this room; had I time, it - should not be by the door. As it is, go! in the devil’s name.” So saying - he hurled the adventurous Frenchman half down the corridor. - </p> - <p> - “Baron von Konigstein,” said Vivian, turning to the Baron, “you have - proved yourself, by your conduct this evening, to be a better man than I - imagined you. I confess that I thought you had been too much accustomed to - such scenes to be sensible of the horror of detection.” - </p> - <p> - “Never!” said the Baron, with emphasis, with energy. The firm voice and - manner in which he pronounced this single word wonderfully contrasted with - his delivery when he had last spoke; but his voice immediately died away. - </p> - <p> - “‘Tis all over! I have no wish to excite your pity, gentlemen, or to gain - your silence, by practising upon your feelings. Be silent. I am not the - less ruined, not the less disgraced, not the less utterly undone. Be - silent; my honour, all the same, in four-and-twenty hours, has gone for - ever. I have no motive, then, to deceive you. You must believe what I - speak; even what <i>I</i> speak, the most degraded of men. I say again, <i>never</i>, - never, never, never, never was my honour before sullied, though guilty of - a thousand follies. You see before you, gentlemen, the unhappy victim of - circumstances; of circumstances which he has in vain struggled to control, - to which he has at length fallen a victim. I am not pretending, for a - moment, that my crimes are to be accounted for by an inexorable fate, and - not to be expiated by my everlasting misery. No, no! I have been too weak - to be virtuous: but I have been tried, tried most bitterly. I am the most - unfortunate of men; I was not born to be a villain. Four years have passed - since I was banished from the country in which I was honoured, my - prospects in life blasted, my peace of mind destroyed; and all because a - crime was committed of any participation in which I am as innocent as - yourselves. Driven in despair to wander, I tried, in the wild dissipation - of Naples, to forget my existence and my misery. I found my fate in the - person of this vile Frenchman, who never since has quitted me. Even after - two years of madness in that fatal place, my natural disposition rallied; - I struggled to save myself; I quitted it. I was already involved to De - Boeffleurs; I became still more so, in gaining from him the means of - satisfying all claims against me. Alas! I found I had sold myself to a - devil, a very devil, with a heart like an adder’s. Incapable of a stray - generous sensation, he has looked upon mankind during his whole life with - the eyes of a bully of a gaming-house. I still struggled to free myself - from this man; and I indemnified him for his advances by procuring him a - place in the mission to which, with the greatest difficulty and - perseverance, I had at length obtained my appointment. In public life I - yet hoped to forget my private misery. At Frankfort I felt that, though - not happy, I might be calm. I determined never again even to run the risk - of enduring the slavery of debt. I foreswore, with the most solemn oaths, - the gaming table; and had it not been for the perpetual sight of De - Boeffleurs, I might, perhaps, have felt at ease; though the remembrance of - my blighted prospects, the eternal feeling that I experienced of being - born for nobler ends, was quite sufficient perpetually to embitter my - existence. The second year of my Frankfort appointment I was tempted to - this unhappy place. The unexpected sight of faces which I had known in - England, though they called up the most painful associations, strengthened - me, nevertheless, in my resolution to be virtuous. My unexpected fortune - at the Redoute, the first night, made me forget all my resolves, and has - led to all this misery. I make my sad tale brief. I got involved at the - New House: De Boeffleurs once more assisted me, though his terms were most - severe. Yet, yet again, I was mad enough, vile enough, to risk what I did - not possess. I lost to Prince Salvinski and a Russian gentleman a - considerable sum on the night before the fête. It is often the custom at - the New House, as you know, among men who are acquainted, to pay and - receive all losses which are considerable on the next night of meeting. - The fête gave me breathing time: it was not necessary to redeem my pledge - till the fourth night. I rushed to De Boeffleurs; he refused to assist me, - alleging his own losses and his previous advance. What was to be done? No - possibility of making any arrangement with Salvinski. Had he won of me as - others have done, an arrangement, though painful, would perhaps have been - possible; but, by a singular fate, whenever I have chanced to be - successful, it is of this man that I have won. De Boeffleurs, then, was - the only chance. He was inexorable. I prayed to him; I promised him - everything; I offered him any terms; in vain! At length, when he had - worked me up to the last point of despair, he whispered hope. I listened; - let me be quick! why finish? You know I fell!” The Baron again covered his - face, and appeared perfectly overwhelmed. - </p> - <p> - “By God! it is too horrible,” said St. George. “Grey, let us do something - for him.” - </p> - <p> - “My dear St. George,” said Vivian, “be calm. You are taken by surprise. I - was prepared for all this. Believe me, it is better for you to leave us. I - recommend you to retire, and meet me in the morning. Breakfast with me at - eight; we can then arrange everything.” - </p> - <p> - Vivian’s conduct had been so decisive, and evidently so well matured, that - St. George felt that, in the present case, it was for him only to obey, - and he retired with wonder still expressed on his countenance; for he had - not yet, in the slightest degree, recovered from the first surprise. - </p> - <p> - “Baron von Konigstein,” said Vivian to the unhappy man, “we are alone. Mr. - St. George has left the room: you are freed from the painful presence of - the cousin of Captain Fane.” - </p> - <p> - “You know all, then!” exclaimed the Baron quickly, looking up, “or you - have read my secret thoughts. How wonderful! at that very moment I was - thinking of my friend. Would I had died with him! You know all, then; and - now you must believe me guilty. Yet, at this moment of annihilating - sorrow, when I can gain nothing by deceit, I swear; and if I swear - falsely, may I fall down a livid corpse at your feet; I swear that I was - guiltless of the crime for which I suffered, guiltless as yourself. What - may be my fate I know not. Probably a few hours, and all will be over. - Yet, before we part, sir, it would be a relief; you would be doing a - generous service to a dying man, to bear a message from me to one with - whom you are acquainted; to one whom I cannot now name.” - </p> - <p> - “Lady Madeleine Trevor?” - </p> - <p> - “Again you have read my thoughts! Lady Madeleine! Is it she who told you - of my early history?” - </p> - <p> - “All that I know is known to many.” - </p> - <p> - “I must speak! If you have time, if you can listen for half an hour to a - miserable being, it would be a consolation to me. I should die with ease - if I thought that Lady Madeleine could believe me innocent of that first - great offence.” - </p> - <p> - “Your Excellency may address anything to me, if it be your wish, even at - this hour of the night. It may be better; after what has passed, we - neither of us can sleep, and this business must be arranged at once.” - </p> - <p> - “My object is, that Lady Madeleine should receive from me at this moment, - at a time when I can have no interest to deceive, an account of the - particulars of her cousin’s and my friend’s death. I sent it written after - the horrid event; but she was ill, and Trevor, who was very bitter against - me, returned the letters unopened. For four years I have never travelled - without these rejected letters; this year I have them not. But you could - convey to Lady Madeleine my story as now given to you; to you at this - terrible moment.” - </p> - <p> - “Speak on!” - </p> - <p> - “I must say one word of my connection with the family to enable you fully - to understand the horrid event, of which, if, as I believe, you only know - what all know, you can form but a most imperfect conception. When I was - Minister at the Court of London I became acquainted; became, indeed, - intimate, with Mr. Trevor, then in office, the husband of Lady Madeleine. - She was just married. Of myself at that time, I may say that, though - depraved, I was not heartless, and that there were moments when I panted - to be excellent. Lady Madeleine and myself became friends; she found in me - a companion who not only respected her talents and delighted in her - conversation, but one who in return was capable of instructing, and was - overjoyed to amuse her. I loved her; but when I loved her I ceased to be a - libertine. At first I thought that nothing in the world could have tempted - me to have allowed her for an instant to imagine that I dared to look upon - her in any other light than as a friend; but the negligence, the coldness - of Trevor, the overpowering mastery of my own passions, drove me one day - past the line, and I wrote that which I dared not utter. It never entered - into my mind for an instant to insult such a woman with the commonplace - sophistry of a ribald. No! I loved her with all my spirit’s strength. I - would have sacrificed all my views in life, my ambition, my family, my - fortune, my country, to have gained her; and I told her this in terms of - respectful adoration. I worshipped the divinity, even while I attempted to - profane the altar. When I had sent this letter I was in despair. - Conviction of the insanity of my conduct flashed across my mind. I - expected never to see her again. There came an answer; I opened it with - the greatest agitation; to my surprise, an appointment. Why trouble you - with a detail of my feelings, my mad hope, my dark despair! The moment for - the interview arrived. I was received neither with affection nor anger. In - sorrow she spoke. I listened in despair. I was more madly in love with her - than ever. That very love made me give her such evidences of a contrite - spirit that I was pardoned. I rose with a resolution to be virtuous, with - a determination to be her friend: then I made the fatal promise which you - know of, to be doubly the friend of a man whose friend I already was. It - was then that I pledged myself to Lady Madeleine to be the guardian spirit - of her cousin.” Here the Baron, overpowered by his emotions, leant back in - his chair, and ceased to speak. In a few minutes he resumed. - </p> - <p> - “I did my duty; by all that’s sacred, I did my duty! Night and day I was - with young Fane. A hundred times he was on the brink of ruin; a hundred - times I saved him. One day, one never-to-be-forgotten day, one most dark - and damnable day, I called on him, and found him on the point of joining a - coterie of desperate character. I remonstrated with him, I entreated, I - supplicated him not to go, in vain. At last he agreed to forego his - engagement on condition that I dined with him. There were important - reasons that day for my not staying with him; yet every consideration - vanished when I thought of her for whom I was exerting myself. He was - frantic this day; and, imagining that there was no chance of his leaving - his home, I did not refuse to drink freely, to drink deeply. My doing so - was the only way to keep him at home. As we were passing down Pall Mall we - met two foreigners of distinction and a noble of your country; they were - men of whom we both knew little. I had myself introduced Fane to the - foreigners a few days before, being aware that they were men of high rank. - After some conversation they asked us to join them at supper at the house - of their English friend. I declined; but nothing could induce Fane to - refuse them, and I finally accompanied them. Play was introduced after - supper: I made an ineffectual struggle to get Fane home, but I was too - full of wine to be energetic. After losing a small sum I got up from the - table, and, staggering to a sofa, fell fast asleep. Even as I passed - Fane’s chair in this condition, my master thought was evident, and I - pulled him by the shoulder: all was useless; I woke to madness!” It was - terrible to witness the anguish of Von Konigstein. - </p> - <p> - “Could you not clear yourself?” asked Vivian, for he felt it necessary to - speak. - </p> - <p> - “Clear myself! Everything told against me. The villains were my friends, - not the sufferer’s; I was not injured. My dining with him was part of the - conspiracy; he was intoxicated previous to his ruin. Conscious of my - innocence, quite desperate, but confiding in my character, I accused the - guilty trio; they recriminated and answered, and without clearing - themselves convinced the public that I was their dissatisfied and - disappointed tool. I can speak no more.” - </p> - <p> - It is awful to witness sudden death; but, oh! how much more awful it is to - witness in a moment the moral fall of a fellow-creature! How tremendous is - the quick succession of mastering passions! The firm, the terrifically - firm, the madly resolute denial of guilt; that eagerness of protestation - which is a sure sign of crime, then the agonising suspense before the - threatened proof is produced, the hell of detection, the audible anguish - of sorrow, the curses of remorse, the silence of despair! Few of us, - unfortunately, have passed through life without having beheld some - instance of this instantaneous degradation of human nature. But, oh! how - terrible is it when the confessed criminal has been but a moment before - our friend! What a contrast to the laugh of joyous companionship is the - quivering tear of an agonised frame! how terrible to be prayed to by those - whose wishes a moment before we lived only to anticipate! - </p> - <p> - “Von Konigstein,” said Vivian, after a long silence, “I feel for you. Had - I known this I would have spared both you and myself this night of misery; - I would have prevented you from looking back to this day with remorse. You - have suffered for that of which you were not guilty; you shall not suffer - now for what has passed. Much would I give to see you freed from that - wretched knave, whose vile career I was very nearly tempted this evening - to have terminated for ever. I shall make the communication you desire, - and I will endeavour that it shall be credited; as to the transactions of - this evening, the knowledge of them can never transpire to the world. It - is the interest of De Boeffleurs to be silent; if he speak no one will - credit the tale of such a creature, who, if he speak truth, must proclaim - his own infamy. And now for the immediate calls upon your honour; in what - sum are you indebted to Prince Salvinski and his friend?” - </p> - <p> - “Thousands! two, three thousand.” - </p> - <p> - “I shall then have an opportunity of ridding myself of that the - acquisition of which, to me, has been matter of great sorrow. Your honour - Is saved. I will discharge the claims of Salvinski and his friend.” - </p> - <p> - “Impossible! I cannot allow—” - </p> - <p> - “Stop; in this business I must command. Surely there can be no feelings of - delicacy between us two now. If I gave you the treasures of the Indies you - would not be under so great an obligation to me as you are already: I say - this with pain. I recommend you to leave Ems to-morrow; public business - will easily account for your sudden departure. And now, your character is - yet safe, you are yet in the prime of life, you have vindicated yourself - from that which has preyed upon your mind for years; cease to accuse your - fate!” Vivian was about to leave the room when the Baron started from his - seat and seized his hand. He would have spoken, but the words died upon - his lips, and before he could recover himself Vivian had retired. - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0054" id="link2HCH0054"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER XIV - </h2> - <p> - The sudden departure of Baron von Konigstein from the Baths excited great - surprise and sorrow; all wondered at the cause, and all regretted the - effect. The Grand Duke missed his good stories, the rouge-et-noir table - his constant presence, and Monsieur le Restaurateur gave up, in - consequence, an embryo idea of a fête and fireworks for his own benefit, - which agreeable plan he had trusted that, with his Excellency’s generous - co-operation as patron, he should have had no difficulty in carrying into - execution. But no one was more surprised, and more regretted the absence - of his Excellency, than his friend Mr. Fitzloom. What could be the reason? - Public business, of course; indeed he had learnt as much, confidentially, - from Cracowsky. He tried Mr. Grey, but could elicit nothing satisfactory; - he pumped Mr. St. George, but produced only the waters of oblivion: Mr. - St. George was gifted, when it suited his purpose, with a most convenient - want of memory. There must be something in the wind, perhaps a war. Was - the independence of Greece about to be acknowledged, or the dependence of - Spain about to be terminated? What first-rate Power had marched a million - of soldiers into the land of a weak neighbour, on the mere pretence of - exercising the military? What patriots had had the proud satisfaction of - establishing a constitutional government without bloodshed, to be set - aside in the course of the next month in the same manner? Had a conspiracy - for establishing a republic in Russia been frustrated by the timely - information of the intended first Consuls? Were the Janissaries learning - mathematics, or had Lord Cochrane taken Constantinople in the James Watt - steampacket? One of these many events must have happened; but which? At - length Fitzloom decided on a general war. England must interfere either to - defeat the ambition of France, or to curb the rapacity of Russia, or to - check the arrogance of Austria, or to regenerate Spain, or to redeem - Greece, or to protect Portugal, or to shield the Brazils, or to uphold the - Bible Societies, or to consolidate the Greek Church, or to monopolise the - commerce of Mexico, or to disseminate the principles of free trade, or to - keep up her high character, or to keep up the price of corn. England must - interfere. In spite of his conviction, however, Fitzloom did not alter the - arrangements of his tour; he still intended to travel for two years. All - he did was to send immediate orders to his broker in England to sell two - millions of consols. The sale was of course effected, the example - followed, stocks fell ten per cent., the exchange turned, money became - scarce. The public funds of all Europe experienced a great decline, smash - went the country banks, consequent runs on the London, a dozen Baronets - failed in one morning, Portland Place deserted, the cause of infant - Liberty at a terrific discount, the Greek loan disappeared like a vapour - in a storm, all the new American States refused to pay their dividends, - manufactories deserted, the revenue in a decline, the country in despair, - Orders in Council, meetings of Parliament, change of Ministry, and new - loan! Such were the terrific consequences of a diplomatist turning - blackleg! The secret history of the late distress is a lesson to all - modern statesmen. Rest assured that in politics, however tremendous the - effects, the causes are often as trifling. - </p> - <p> - Vivian found his reception by the Trevor party, the morning after the - memorable night, a sufficient reward for all his anxiety and exertion. St. - George, a generous, open-hearted young man, full of gratitude to Vivian, - and regretting his previous want of cordiality towards him, now delighted - in doing full justice to his coolness, courage, and ability. Lady - Madeleine said a great deal in the most graceful and impressive manner; - but Miss Fane scarcely spoke. Vivian, however, read in her eyes her - approbation and her gratitude. - </p> - <p> - “And now, how came you to discover the whole plot, Mr. Grey?” asked Lady - Madeleine, “for we have not yet heard. Was it at the table?” - </p> - <p> - “They would hardly have had recourse to such clumsy instruments as would - have given us the chance of detecting the conspiracy by casual - observation. No, no; we owe our preservation and our gratitude to one whom - we must hereafter count among our friends. I was prepared, as I told you, - for everything; and though I had seen similar cards to those with which - they played only a few hours before, it was with difficulty that I - satisfied myself at the table that the cards we lost by were prepared, so - wonderful is the contrivance!” - </p> - <p> - “But who is the unknown friend?” said Miss Fane, with great eagerness. - </p> - <p> - “I must have the pleasure of keeping you all in suspense,” said Vivian: - “cannot any of you guess?” - </p> - <p> - “None, none, none!” - </p> - <p> - “What say you, then, to—Essper George?” - </p> - <p> - “Is it possible?” - </p> - <p> - “It is the fact that he, and he alone, is our preserver. Soon after my - arrival at this place this singular being was seized with the - unaccountable fancy of becoming my servant. You all remember his - unexpected appearance one day in the saloon. In the evening of the same - day, I found him sleeping at the door of my room; and, thinking it high - time that he should be taught more discretion, I spoke to him very - seriously the next morning respecting his troublesome and eccentric - conduct. It was then that I learnt his wish. I objected, of course, to - engaging a servant of whose previous character I was ignorant, and of - which I could not be informed, and one whose peculiar habits would render - both himself and his master notorious. While I declined his services, I - also advised him most warmly to give up all idea of deserting his present - mode of life, for which I thought him extremely well suited. The - consequence of my lecture was, what you all perceived with surprise, a - great change in Essper’s character. He became serious, reserved, and - retiring, and commenced his career as a respectable character by throwing - off his quaint costume. In a short time, by dint of making a few bad - bargains, he ingratiated himself with Ernstorff, Von Konigstein’s pompous - chasseur. His object in forming this connection was to gain an opportunity - of becoming acquainted with the duties of a gentleman’s servant, and in - this he has succeeded. About a week since, he purchased from Ernstorff a - large quantity of cast-off apparel of the Baron’s, and other perquisites - of a great man’s valet; among these were some playing cards which had been - borrowed one evening in great haste from the servant of that rascal De - Boeffleurs, and never returned. On accidentally examining these cards, - Essper detected they were marked. The system on which the marks are formed - and understood is so simple and novel, that it was long before I could - bring myself to believe that his suspicions were founded even on a - probability. At length, however, he convinced me. It is at Vienna, he - tells me, that he has met with these cards before. The marks are all on - the rim of the cards; and an experienced dealer, that is to say, a - blackleg, can with these marks produce any results and combinations which - may suit his purpose. Essper tells me that De Boeffleurs is even more - skilled in sleight-of-hand than himself. From Ernstorff, Essper learnt on - the day of the fête that Mr. St. George was to dine with the Chevalier at - the Baron’s apartments on the morrow, and that there was a chance that I - should join them. He suspected that villany was in the wind, and when I - retired to my room at a late hour on the night of the fête, I there met - him, and it was then that he revealed to me everything which I have told - you. Am I not right, then, in calling him our preserver?” - </p> - <p> - “What can be done for him?” said Lady Madeleine. - </p> - <p> - “His only wish is already granted; he is my servant. That he will serve me - diligently and faithfully I have no doubt. I only wish that he would - accept or could appreciate a more worthy reward.” - </p> - <p> - “Can man be more amply rewarded,” said Miss Fane, “than by choosing his - own remuneration? I think he has shown in his request his accustomed - talent. I must go and see him this moment.” - </p> - <p> - “Say nothing of what has passed; he is prepared for silence from all - parties.” - </p> - <p> - A week, a happy week, passed over, and few minutes of the day found Vivian - absent from the side of Violet Fane; and now he thought again of England, - of his return to that country under very different circumstances to what - he had ever contemplated. Soon, very soon, he trusted to write to his - father, to announce to him the revolution in his wishes, the consummation - of his hopes. Soon, very soon, he trusted that he should hail his native - cliffs, a reclaimed wanderer, with a matured mind and a contented spirit, - his sorrows forgotten, his misanthropy laid aside. - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0055" id="link2HCH0055"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER XV - </h2> - <p> - It was about a week after the departure of the Baron that two young - Englishmen, who had been college friends of Mr. St. George, arrived at the - Baths. These were Mr. Anthony St. Leger and Mr. Adolphus St. John. In the - academic shades of Christchurch these three gentlemen had been known as - “All Saints.” Among their youthful companions they bore the more martial - style of “The Three Champions,” St. George, St. John, and St. Anthony. - </p> - <p> - St. John and St. Anthony had just completed the grand tour, and, after - passing the Easter at Rome, had returned through the Tyrol from Italy. - Since then they had travelled over most parts of Germany; and now, in the - beginning of July, found themselves at the Baths of Ems. Two years’ travel - had not produced any very beneficial effect on either of these sainted - personages. They had gained, by visiting the capitals of all Europe, only - a due acquaintance with the follies of each; and the only difference that - could be observed in their conduct on their return was, that their - affectation was rather more fantastical, and therefore more amusing. - </p> - <p> - “Corpo di Bacco, my champion! who ever thought of meeting thee thou holy - saint! By the eyebrow of Venus, my spirit rejoiceth!” exclaimed St. - Anthony, whose peculiar affectation was an adoption in English of the - Italian oaths. - </p> - <p> - “This is the sweetest spot, St. Anthony, that we have found since we left - Paradiso; that is, St. George, in the vulgar, since we quitted Italia. - ‘Italia! O Italia!’ I forget the rest; probably you remember it. - Certainly, a most sweet spot this, quite a Gaspar!” - </p> - <p> - Art was the peculiar affectation of St. John; he was, indeed, quite a - patron of the Belle Arti, had scattered his orders through the studios of - most of the celebrated sculptors of Italy, and spoke on all subjects and - all things only with a view to their capability of forming material for - the painter. According to the school of which Mr. St. John was a disciple, - the only use of the human passions is, that they produce situations for - the historical painter; and nature, according to these votaries of the - [Greek: to kalon], is only to be valued as affording hints for the more - perfect conceptions of a Claude or a Salvator. - </p> - <p> - “By the girdle of Venus, a devilish fine woman!” exclaimed St. Anthony. - </p> - <p> - “A splendid bit!” ejaculated St. John; “touched in with freedom, a grand - tournure, great gout in the swell of the neck. What a study for Retsch!” - </p> - <p> - “In the name of the Graces, who is it, mio Santo?” - </p> - <p> - “Ay! name la bellissima Signora.” - </p> - <p> - “The ‘fine bit,’ St. John, is my sister.” - </p> - <p> - “The devil!” - </p> - <p> - “Diavolo!” - </p> - <p> - “Will you introduce us, most holy man?” - </p> - <p> - This request from both, simultaneously arranging their mustachios. - </p> - <p> - The two saints were accordingly, in due time, introduced; but finding the - attention of Miss Fane always engrossed, and receiving some not very - encouraging responses from Lady Madeleine, they voted her ladyship - cursedly satirical; and passing a general censure on the annoying coldness - of Englishwomen, they were in four-and-twenty hours attached to the suite - of the Miss Fitzlooms, to whom they were introduced by St. George as his - particular friends, and were received with the most flattering - consideration. - </p> - <p> - “By the aspect of Diana! fine girls,” swore St. Anthony. - </p> - <p> - “Truly most gorgeous colouring! quite Venetian! Aurelia is a perfect - Giorgione!” said St. John. - </p> - <p> - “Madeleine,” said St. George, one morning, to his sister, “have you any - objection to make up a party with the Fitzlooms to pass a day at Nassau? - You know we have often talked of it; and as Violet is so well now, and the - weather so delightful, there surely can be no objection. The Fitzlooms are - very agreeable people; and though you do not admire the Santi, still, upon - my word, when you know them a little more, you will find them very - pleasant fellows, and they are extremely good-natured; and just the - fellows for such a party. Do not refuse me. I have set my mind upon your - joining the party. Pray nod assent; thank you. Now I must go and arrange - everything. Let us see: there are seven Fitzlooms; for we cannot count on - less than two boys; yourself, Grey, Violet, and myself, four; the Santi; - quite enough, a most delightful party. Half a dozen servants and as many - donkeys will manage the provisions. Then three light carriages will take - us all. ‘By the wand of Mercury!’ as St. Anthony would vow, admirably - planned!” - </p> - <p> - “By the breath of Zephyr! a most lovely day, Miss Fane,” said St. Anthony, - on the morning of the intended excursion. - </p> - <p> - “Quite a Claude!” said St. John. - </p> - <p> - “Almost as beautiful as an Italian winter day, Mr. St. Leger?” asked Miss - Fane. - </p> - <p> - “Hardly!” said St. Anthony, with a serious air; for he imagined the - question to be quite genuine. - </p> - <p> - The carriages are at the door; into the first ascended Mrs. Fitzloom, two - daughters, and the travelling saints. The second bore Lady Madeleine, Mr. - Fitzloom, and his two sons; the third division was formed of Mr. St. - George and Aurelia Fitzloom, Miss Fane and Vivian. - </p> - <p> - Away, away, rolled the carriages; the day was beautiful, the sky was - without a cloud, and a mild breeze prevented the heat of the sun from - being overpowering. All were in high spirits; for St. George had made a - capital master of the ceremonies, and had arranged the company in the - carriages to their mutual satisfaction. St. Anthony swore, by the soul of - Psyche! that Augusta Fitzloom was an angel; and St. John was in equal - raptures with Araminta, who had an expression about the eyes which - reminded him, of Titian’s Flora. Mrs. Fitzloom’s natural silence did not - disturb the uninterrupted jargon of the Santi, whose foppery elicited loud - and continued approbation from the fair sisters. The mother sat admiring - these sprigs of noble trees. The young Fitzlooms, in crimson cravats, - conversed with Lady Madeleine with a delightful military air; and their - happy parent, as he gazed upon them with satisfied affection, internally - promised them both a commission in a crack regiment. - </p> - <p> - The road from Ems to Nassau winds along the banks of the Lahn, through two - leagues of delightful scenery; at the end of which, springing up from the - peak of a bold and richly-wooded mountain, the lofty tower of the ancient - castle of Nassau meets your view. Winding walks round the sides of the - mountain lead through all the varieties of sylvan scenery, and command in - all points magnificent views of the surrounding country. These finally - bring you to the old castle, whose spacious chambers, though now choked up - with masses of grey ruin or covered with underwood, still bear witness to - the might of their former lord! the powerful Baron whose sword gained for - his posterity a throne. - </p> - <p> - All seemed happy; none happier than Violet Fane. Never did she look so - beautiful as to-day, never was she so animated, never had she boasted that - her pulse beat more melodious music, or her lively blood danced a more - healthful measure. After examining all the antique chambers of the castle, - and discovering, as they flattered themselves, secret passages, and dark - dungeons, and hidden doors, they left this interesting relic of the middle - ages; and soon, by a gradual descent through delightful shrubberies, they - again found themselves at the bottom of the valley. Here they visited the - modern château of Baron von Stein, one of the most enlightened and able - politicians that Germany has ever produced. As Minister of Prussia, he - commenced those reforms which the illustrious Hardenberg perfected. For - upwards of five centuries the family of Stein have retained their - territorial possessions in the valley of the Lahn. Their family castle, at - present a ruin, and formerly a fief of the House of Nassau, is now only a - picturesque object in the pleasure-grounds of the present lord. - </p> - <p> - The noon had passed some hours before the delighted wanderers complained - of fatigue, and by that time they found themselves in a pleasant green - glade on the skirts of the forest of Nassau. It was nearly environed by - mountains, covered with hanging woods, which shaded the beautiful valley, - and gave it the appearance of a sylvan amphitheatre. From a rocky cleft in - these green mountains a torrent, dashing down with impetuous force, and - whose fall was almost concealed by the cloud of spray which it excited, - gave birth to a small and gentle river, whose banks were fringed with - beautiful trees, which prevented the sun’s darts from piercing its - coldness, by bowing their fair heads over its waters. From their extending - branches Nature’s choristers sent forth many a lovely lay - </p> -<pre xml:space="preserve"> - Of God’s high praise, and of their loves’ sweet teen. -</pre> - <p> - Near the banks of this river, the servants, under the active direction of - Essper George, had prepared a banquet for the party. The cloth had been - laid on a raised work of wood and turf, and rustic seats of the same - material surrounded the picturesque table. It glowed with materials, and - with colours to which Veronese alone could have done justice: pasties, and - birds, and venison, and groups of fish, gleamy with prismatic hues, while - amid pyramids of fruit rose goblets of fantastic glass, worthy of the - famous wines they were to receive. - </p> - <p> - “Well!” said Miss Fane, “I never will be a member of an adventurous party - like the present, of which Albert is not manager.” - </p> - <p> - “I must not take the whole credit upon myself, Violet; St. John is butler, - and St. Leger my vice-chamberlain.” - </p> - <p> - “Well, I cannot praise Mr. St. John till I have tasted the malvoisie which - he has promised; but as for the other part of the entertainment, Mr. St. - Leger, I am sure this is a temptation which it would be a sin, even in St. - Anthony, to withstand.’ - </p> - <p> - “By the body of Bacchus, very good!” swore Mr. St. Leger. - </p> - <p> - “These mountains,” said Mr. St. John, “remind me of one of Gaspar’s cool - valleys. The party, indeed, give it a different character, quite a - Watteau!” - </p> - <p> - “Now, Mrs. Fitzloom,” said St. George, who was in his element, “let me - recommend a little of this pike! Lady Madeleine, I have sent you some - lamb. Miss Fitzloom, I hope St. Anthony is taking care of you. Wrightson, - plates to Mr. St. Leger. Holy man, and much beloved! send Araminta some - chicken. Grey has helped you, Violet? Aurelia, this is for you. William - Pitt Fitzloom, I leave you to yourself. George Canning Fitzloom, take care - of the ladies near you. Essper George! Where is Essper? St. John, who is - your deputy in the wine department? Wrightson! bring those long green - bottles out of the river, and put the champagne underneath the willow. - Will your Ladyship take some light claret? Mrs. Fitzloom, you must use - your tumbler; nothing but tumblers allowed, by Miss Fane’s particular - request!” - </p> - <p> - “St. George, thou holy man!” said Miss Fane, “methinks you are very - impertinent. You shall not be my patron saint if you say such words.” - </p> - <p> - For the next hour there was nothing heard save the calling of servants, - the rattling of knives and forks, the drawing of corks, and continued - bursts of laughter, which were not occasioned by any brilliant - observations, either of the Saints, or any other persons, but merely the - result of an exuberance of spirits on the part of every one present. - </p> - <p> - “Well, Aurelia,” said Lady Madeleine, “do you prefer our present mode of - life to feasting in an old hall, covered with banners and battered - shields, and surrounded by mysterious corridors and dark dungeons?” - Aurelia was so flattered by the notice of Lady Madeleine, that she made - her no answer; probably because she was intent on a plover’s egg. - </p> - <p> - “I think we might all retire to this valley,” said Miss Fane, “and revive - the feudal times with great success. Albert might take us to Nassau - Castle, and you, Mr. Fitzloom, might re-fortify the old tower of Stein. - With two sons, however, who are about to enter the Guards, I am afraid we - must be your vassals. Then what should we do? We could not have wood - parties every day; I suppose we should get tired of each other. No! that - does seem impossible; do not you all think so?” - </p> - <p> - Omnes, “Impossible!” - </p> - <p> - “We must, however, have some regular pursuit, some cause of constant - excitement, some perpetual source of new emotions. New ideas, of course, - we must give up; there would be no going to London for the season, for new - opinions to astound country cousins on our return. Some pursuit must be - invented; we all must have something to do. I have it! Albert shall be a - tyrant.” - </p> - <p> - “I am very much obliged to you, Violet.” - </p> - <p> - “Yes! a cruel, unprincipled, vindictive, remorseless tyrant, with a long - black beard, I cannot tell how long, about twenty thousand times longer - than Mr. St. Leger’s mustachios.” - </p> - <p> - “By the beard of Jove!” swore St. Anthony, as he almost started from his - seat, and arranged with his thumb and forefinger the delicate Albanian - tuft of his upper lip, “by the beard of Jove, Miss Fane, I am obliged to - you.” - </p> - <p> - “Well, then,” continued Violet, “Albert being a tyrant, Lady Madeleine - must be an unhappy, ill-used, persecuted woman, living on black bread and - green water, in an unknown dungeon. My part shall be to discover her - imprisonment. Sounds of strange music attract my attention to a part of - the castle which I have not before frequented. There I shall distinctly - hear a female voice chaunting the ‘Bridesmaids’ Chorus,’ with Erard’s - double pedal accompaniment. By the aid of the confessors of the two - families, two drinking, rattling, impertinent, most corrupt, and most - amusing friars, to wit, our sainted friends—” - </p> - <p> - Here both Mr. St. Leger and Mr. St. John bowed low to Miss Fane. - </p> - <p> - “A most lively personage is Miss Fane,” whispered St. Anthony to his - neighbour, Miss Fitzloom, “great style!” - </p> - <p> - “Most amusing, delightful girl, great style! rather a display today, I - think.” - </p> - <p> - “Oh, decidedly! and devilish personal too; some people wouldn’t like it. I - have no doubt she will say something about you next.” - </p> - <p> - “Oh, I shall be very surprised, indeed, if she does! It may be very well - to you, but Miss Fane must be aware—” - </p> - <p> - Before this pompous sentence could be finished an incident occurred which - prevented Miss Fane from proceeding with her allotment of characters, and - rendered unnecessary the threatened indignation of Miss Fitzloom. - </p> - <p> - Miss Fane, as we mentioned, suddenly ceased speaking; the eyes of all were - turned in the direction in which she was gazing as if she had seen a - ghost. - </p> - <p> - “What are you looking up at, Violet?” asked St. George. - </p> - <p> - “Did not you see anything? did not any of you see anything?” - </p> - <p> - “None, none!” - </p> - <p> - “Mr. Grey, surely you must have seen it!” - </p> - <p> - “I saw nothing.” - </p> - <p> - “It could not be fancy; impossible. I saw it distinctly. I cannot be in a - dream. See there! again, on that topmost branch. It moves!” - </p> - <p> - Some odd shrill sounds, uttered in the voice of a Pulcinello, attracted - the notice of them all; and lo! high in the air, behind a lofty chestnut - tree, the figure of a Pulcinello did appear, hopping and vaulting in the - unsubstantial air. Now it sent forth another shrill, piercing sound, and - now, with both its hands, it patted and complacently stroked its ample - paunch; dancing all the time with unremitting activity, and wagging its - queer head at the astounded guests. - </p> - <p> - “Who, what can it be?” cried all. The Misses Fitzloom shrieked, and the - Santi seemed quite puzzled. - </p> - <p> - “Who, what can it be?” - </p> - <p> - Ere time could be given for any one to hazard a conjecture, the figure had - advanced from behind the trees, and had spanned in an instant the festal - board, with two enormous stilts, on which they now perceived it was - mounted. The Misses Fitzloom shrieked again. The figure imitated their - cries in his queer voice, and gradually raising one enormous stilt up into - the air, stood only on one support, which was planted behind the lovely - Araminta. - </p> - <p> - “O! inimitable Essper George!” exclaimed Violet Fane. - </p> - <p> - Here Signor Punch commenced a song, which he executed in the tone peculiar - to his character, and in a style which drew applauses from all; and then, - with a hop, step, and a jump, he was again behind the chestnut-tree. In a - moment he advanced without his stilts towards the table. Here, on the - turf, he again commenced his antics; kicking his nose with his right foot, - and his hump with his left one; executing splendid somersets, and cutting - every species of caper, and never ceasing for a moment from performing all - his movements to the inspiring music of his own melodious voice. At last, - jumping up very high in the air, he fell as if all his joints were - loosened, and the Misses Fitzloom, imagining that his bones were really - broken, shrieked again. But now Essper began the wonderful performance of - a dead body possessed by a devil, and in a minute his shattered corpse, - apparently without the assistance of any of its members, began to jump and - move about the ground with miraculous rapidity. At length it disappeared - behind the chestnut-tree. - </p> - <p> - “I really think,” said Mr. St. George, “it is the most agreeable day I - ever passed in all my life.” - </p> - <p> - “Decidedly!” said St. Anthony. “St. John, you remember our party to - Paestum with Lady Calabria M’Crater and the Marquis of Agrigentum. It was - nothing to this! Nothing! Do you know I thought that rather dull.” - </p> - <p> - “Yes, too elaborate; too highly finished; nothing of the pittore - improvisatore. A party of this kind should be more sketchy in its style; - the outline more free, and less detail.” - </p> - <p> - “Essper is coming out to-day,” said Vivian to Miss Fane, “after a long, - and, I venture to say, painful forbearance. However, I hope you will - excuse him. It seems to amuse us.” - </p> - <p> - “I think it is delightful. See! here he comes again.” - </p> - <p> - He now appeared in his original costume; the one in which Vivian first met - him at the fair. Bowing, he threw his hand carelessly over his mandolin, - and having tried the melody of its strings, sang with great taste, and a - sweet voice; sweeter from its contrast with its previous shrill tones; a - very pretty romance. All applauded him very warmly, and no one more so - than Miss Fane. - </p> - <p> - “Ah! inimitable Essper George, how can we sufficiently thank you! How well - he plays! and his voice is quite beautiful. Oh! could not we dance? would - not it be delightful? and he could play on his guitar. Think of the - delicious turf!” - </p> - <p> - Omnes, “Delightful! delightful!” They rose from the table. - </p> - <p> - “Violet, my dear,” asked Lady Madeleine, “what are you going to do?” - </p> - <p> - “By the toe of Terpsichore!” as Mr. St. Leger would say, “I am going to - dance.” - </p> - <p> - “But remember, to-day you have done so much! let us be moderate; though - you feel so much better, still think what a change to-day has been from - your usual habits!” - </p> - <p> - “But, dearest Lady Madeleine, think of dancing on the turf, and I feel so - well!” - </p> - <p> - “By the Graces! I am for the waltz,” said St. Anthony. - </p> - <p> - “It has certainly a very free touch to recommend it,” said St. John. - </p> - <p> - “No, no,” said Violet; “let us all join in a country dance.” But the - Misses Fitzloom preferred a quadrille. - </p> - <p> - The quadrille was soon formed: Violet made up for not dancing with Vivian - at the Grand Duke’s. She was most animated, and kept up a successful - rivalry with Mr. St. Leger, who evidently prided himself, as Mr. Fitzloom - observed, “on his light fantastic toe.” Now he pirouetted like Paul, and - now he attitudinised like Albert; and now Miss Fane eclipsed all his - exertions by her inimitable imitations of Ronzi Vestris’ rushing and - arrowy manner. St. Anthony, in despair, but quite delighted, revealed a - secret which had been taught him by a Spanish dancer at Milan; but then - Miss Fane vanquished him for ever with the pas de Zephyr of the exquisite - Fanny Bias. - </p> - <p> - The day was fast declining when the carriages arrived; the young people - were in no humour to return; and as, when they had once entered the - carriage, the day seemed finished for ever, they proposed walking part of - the way home. Lady Madeleine made little objection to Violet joining the - party, as after the exertion that Miss Fane had been making, a drive in an - open carriage might be dangerous: and yet the walk was too long, but all - agreed that it would be impossible to shorten it; and, as Violet declared - that she was not in the least fatigued, the lesser evil was therefore - chosen. The carriages rolled off; at about halfway from Ems, the two empty - ones were to wait for the walking party. Lady Madeleine smiled with fond - affection, as she waved her hand to Violet the moment before she was out - of sight. - </p> - <p> - “And now,” said St. George, “good people all, instead of returning by the - same road, it strikes me, that there must be a way through this little - wood; you see there is an excellent path. Before the sun is set we shall - have got through it, and it will bring us out, I have no doubt, by the old - cottage which you observed, Grey, when we came along. I saw a gate and - path there; just where we first got sight of Nassau Castle; there can be - no doubt about it. You see it is a regular right-angle, and besides - varying the walk, we shall at least gain a quarter of an hour, which, - after all, as we have to walk nearly three miles, is an object. It is - quite clear, if I have a head for anything, it is for finding my way.” - </p> - <p> - “I think you have a head for everything,” said Aurelia Fitzloom, in a soft - sentimental whisper; “I am sure we owe all our happiness to-day to you!” - </p> - <p> - “If I have a head for everything, I have a heart only for one person!” - </p> - <p> - As every one wished to be convinced, no one offered any argument in - opposition to Mr. St. George’s view of the case; and some were already in - the wood. - </p> - <p> - “Albert,” said Miss Fane, “I do not like walking in the wood so late; pray - come back.” - </p> - <p> - “Oh, nonsense, Violet! come. If you do not like to come, you can walk by - the road; you will meet us round by the gate, it is only five minutes’ - walk.” Ere he had finished speaking, the rest were in the wood, and some - had advanced. Vivian strongly recommended Violet not to join them; he was - sure that Lady Madeleine would not approve of it; he was sure that it was - very dangerous, extremely; and, by-the-bye, while he was talking, which - way had they gone? he did not see them. He halloed; all answered, and a - thousand echoes besides. “We certainly had better go by the road, we shall - lose our way if we try to follow them; nothing is so puzzling as walking - in woods; we had much better keep to the road.” So by the road they went. - </p> - <p> - The sun had already sunk behind the mountains, whose undulating forms were - thrown into dark shadow against the crimson sky. The thin crescent of the - new moon floated over the eastern hills, whose deep woods glowed with the - rosy glories of twilight. Over the peak of a purple mountain glittered the - solitary star of evening. As the sun dropped, universal silence seemed to - pervade the whole face of nature. The voice of the birds was still; the - breeze, which had refreshed them during the day, died away, as if its - office were now completed; and none of the dark sounds and sights of - hideous Night yet dared to triumph over the death of Day. Unseen were the - circling wings of the bat; unheard the screech of the waking owl; silent - the drowsy hum of the shade-born beetle! What heart has not acknowledged - the influence of this hour, the sweet and soothing hour of twilight! the - hour of love, the hour of adoration, the hour of rest! when we think of - those we love, only to regret that we have not loved more dearly; when we - remember our enemies only to forgive them! - </p> - <p> - And Vivian and his beautiful companion owned the magic of this hour, as - all must do, by silence. No word was spoken, yet is silence sometimes a - language. They gazed, and gazed again, and their full spirits held due - communion with the starlit sky, and the mountains and the woods, and the - soft shadows of the increasing moon. Oh! who can describe what the - o’ercharged spirit feels at this sacred hour, when we almost lose the - consciousness of existence, and our souls seem to struggle to pierce - futurity! In the forest of the mysterious Odenwald, in the solitudes of - the Bergstrasse, had Vivian at this hour often found consolation for a - bruised spirit, often in adoring nature had forgotten man. But now, when - he had never felt nature’s influence more powerful; when he had never - forgotten man and man’s world more thoroughly; when he was experiencing - emotions, which, though undefinable, he felt to be new; he started when he - remembered that all this was in the presence of a human being! Was it - Hesperus he gazed upon, or something else that glanced brighter than an - Evening star? Even as he thought that his gaze was fixed on the - countenance of nature, he found that his eyes rested on the face of - nature’s loveliest daughter! - </p> - <p> - “Violet! dearest Violet!” - </p> - <p> - As in some delicious dream the sleeper is awakened from his bliss by the - sound of his own rapturous voice, so was Vivian roused by these words from - his reverie, and called back to the world which he had forgotten. But ere - a moment had passed, he was pouring forth in a rapid voice, and incoherent - manner, such words as men speak only once. He spoke of his early follies, - his misfortunes, his misery; of his matured views, his settled principles, - his plans, his prospects, his hopes, his happiness, his bliss; and when he - had ceased, he listened, in his turn, to some small still words, which - made him the happiest of human beings. He bent down, he kissed the soft - silken cheek which now he could call his own. Her hand was in his; her - head sank upon his breast. Suddenly she clung to him with a strong grasp. - “Violet! my own, my dearest; you are overcome. I have been rash, I have - been imprudent. Speak, speak, my beloved! say, you are not ill!” - </p> - <p> - She spoke not, but clung to him with a fearful strength, her head still - upon his breast, her full eyes closed. Alarmed, he raised her off the - ground, and bore her to the river-side. Water might revive her. But when - he tried to lay her a moment on the bank, she clung to him gasping, as a - sinking person clings to a stout swimmer. He leant over her; he did not - attempt to disengage her arms; and, by degrees, by very slow degrees, her - grasp loosened. At last her arms gave way and fell by his side, and her - eyes partly opened. - </p> - <p> - “Thank God! Violet, my own, my beloved, say you are better!” - </p> - <p> - She answered not, evidently she did not know him, evidently she did not - see him. A film was on her sight, and her eye was glassy. He rushed to the - water-side, and in a moment he had sprinkled her temples, now covered with - a cold dew. Her pulse beat not, her circulation seemed suspended. He - rubbed the palms of her hands, he covered her delicate feet with his coat; - and then rushing up the bank into the road, he shouted with frantic cries - on all sides. No one came, no one was near. Again, with a cry of fearful - anguish, he shouted as if an hyaena were feeding on his vitals. No sound; - no answer. The nearest cottage was above a mile off. He dared not leave - her. Again he rushed down to the water-side. Her eyes were still open, - still fixed. Her mouth also was no longer closed. Her hand was stiff, her - heart had ceased to beat. He tried with the warmth of his own body to - revive her. He shouted, he wept, he prayed. All, all in vain. Again he was - in the road, again shouting like an insane being. There was a sound. Hark! - It was but the screech of an owl! - </p> - <p> - Once more at the river-side, once more bending over her with starting - eyes, once more the attentive ear listening for the soundless breath. No - sound! not even a sigh! Oh! what would he have given for her shriek of - anguish! No change had occurred in her position, but the lower part of her - face had fallen; and there was a general appearance which struck him with - awe. Her body was quite cold, her limbs stiffened. He gazed, and gazed, - and gazed. He bent over her with stupor rather than grief stamped on his - features. It was very slowly that the dark thought came over his mind, - very slowly that the horrible truth seized upon his soul. He gave a loud - shriek, and fell on the lifeless body of VIOLET FANE! - </p> - <p> - <a name="linkimage-0005" id="linkimage-0005"> - <!-- IMG --></a> - </p> - <div class="fig" style="width:80%;"> - <img src="images/dark_thought.jpg" alt="Dark Thought " height="550" /><br /> - </div> - <p> - <a name="link2H_4_0063" id="link2H_4_0063"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - BOOK VI - </h2> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0056" id="link2HCH0056"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER I - </h2> - <p> - The green and bowery summer had passed away. It was midnight when two - horsemen pulled up their steeds beneath a wide oak; which, with other - lofty trees, skirted the side of a winding road in an extensive forest in - the south of Germany. - </p> - <p> - “By heavens!” said one, who apparently was the master, “we must even lay - our cloaks, I think, under this oak; for the road winds again, and - assuredly cannot lead now to our village.” - </p> - <p> - “A starlit sky in autumn can scarcely be the fittest curtain for one so - weak as you, sir; I should recommend travelling on, if we keep on our - horses’ backs till dawn.” - </p> - <p> - “But if we are travelling in a directly contrary way to our voiturier, - honest as we may suppose him to be, if he find in the morning no paymaster - for his job, he may with justice make free with our baggage. And I shall - be unusually mistaken if the road we are now pursuing does not lead back - to the city.” - </p> - <p> - “City, town, or village, you must sleep under no forest tree, sir. Let us - ride on. It will be hard if we do not find some huntsman’s or ranger’s - cottage; and for aught we know a neat snug village, or some comfortable - old manor-house, which has been in the family for two centuries; and - where, with God’s blessing, they may chance to have wine as old as the - bricks. I know not how you may feel, sir, but a ten hours’ ride when I was - only prepared for half the time, and that, too, in an autumn night, makes - me somewhat desirous of renewing my acquaintance with the kitchen-fire.” - </p> - <p> - “I could join you in a glass of hock and a slice of venison, I confess, my - good fellow; but in a nocturnal ride I am no longer your match. However, - if you think it best, we will prick on our steeds for another hour. If it - be only for them, I am sure we must soon stop.” - </p> - <p> - “Ay! do, sir; and put your cloak well round you; all is for the best. You - are not, I guess, a Sabbath-born child?” - </p> - <p> - “That am I not, but how would that make our plight worse than it is? - Should we be farther off supper?” - </p> - <p> - “Nearer, perhaps, than you imagine; for we should then have a chance of - sharing the spoils of the Spirit Hunter.” - </p> - <p> - “Ah! Essper, is it so?” - </p> - <p> - “Truly yes, sir; and were either of us a Sabbath-born child, by holy - cross! I would not give much for our chance of a down bed this night.” - </p> - <p> - Here a great horned owl flew across the road. - </p> - <p> - “Were I in the north,” said Essper, “I would sing an Ave Mary against the - STUT OZEL.” - </p> - <p> - “What call you that?” asked Vivian. - </p> - <p> - “Tis the great bird, sir; the great horned owl, that always flies before - the Wild Hunter. And truly, sir, I have passed through many forests in my - time, but never yet saw I one where I should sooner expect to hear a - midnight bugle. If you will allow me, sir, I will ride by your side. Thank - God, at least, it is not the Walpurgis night!” - </p> - <p> - “I wish to Heaven it were!” said Vivian, “and that we were on the Brocken. - It must be highly amusing!” - </p> - <p> - “Hush! hush! it is lucky we are not in the Hartz; but we know not where we - are, nor who at this moment may be behind us.” - </p> - <p> - And here Essper began pouring forth a liturgy of his own, half Catholic - and half Calvinistic, quite in character with the creed of the country - through which they were travelling. - </p> - <p> - “My horse has stumbled,” continued Essper, “and yours, sir, is he not - shying? There is a confounded cloud over the moon, but I have no sight in - the dark if that mass before you be not a devil’s-stone. The Lord have - mercy upon our sinful souls!” - </p> - <p> - “Peace! Essper,” said Vivian, who was surprised to find him really - alarmed; “I see nothing but a block of granite, no uncommon sight in a - German forest.” - </p> - <p> - “It is a devil-stone, I tell you, sir; there has been some church here, - which he has knocked down in the night. Look! is it the moss-people that I - see! As sure as I am a hungry sinner, the Wild One is out a-hunting - to-night.” - </p> - <p> - “More luck for us, if we meet him. His dogs, as you say, may gain us a - supper. I think our wisest course will be to join the cry.” - </p> - <p> - “Hush! hush! you would not talk so if you knew what your share of the - spoils might be. Ay! if you did, sir, your cheek would be paler, and your - very teeth would chatter. I knew one man who was travelling in the forest, - just as we are now; it was about this time; and he believed in the Wild - Huntsman about as much as you, that is, he liked to talk of the Spirit, - merely to have the opportunity of denying that he believed in him; which - showed, as I used to say, that his mind was often thinking of it. He was a - merry knave, and as firm a hand for a boar-spear as ever I met with, and I - have met many. We used to call him, before the accident, Left-handed Hans, - but they call him now, sir, the Child-Hunter. Oh! it is a very awful tale, - and I would sooner tell it in blazing hall than in free forest. You did - not hear any sound to the left, did you?” - </p> - <p> - “Nothing but the wind, Essper; on with your tale, my man.” - </p> - <p> - “It is a very awful tale, sir, but I will make short work of it. You see, - sir, it was a night just like this; the moon was generally hid, but the - stars prevented it from ever being pitch dark. And so, sir, he was - travelling alone; he had been up to the castle of the baron, his master; - you see, sir, he was head-ranger to his lordship, and he always returned - home through the forest. What he was thinking of, I cannot say, but most - likely of no good; when all on a sudden he heard the baying of hounds in - the distance. Now directly he heard it; I have heard him tell the story a - thousand times; directly he heard it, it struck him that it must be the - Spirit Huntsman; and though there were many ways to account for the - hounds, still he never for a moment doubted that they were the hell-dogs. - The sounds came nearer and nearer. Now I tell you this, because if ever, - which the Holy Virgin forbid! if ever you meet the Wild Huntsman, you will - know how to act: conduct yourself always with propriety, make no noise, - but behave like a gentleman, and don’t put the dogs off the scent; stand - aside, and let him pass. Don’t talk; he has no time to lose; for if he - hunt after daybreak, a night’s sport is forfeited for every star left in - the morning sky. So, sir, you see nothing puts him in a greater passion - than to lose his time in answering impertinent questions. Well, sir, - Left-handed Hans stood by the road-side. The baying of the dogs was so - distinct, that he felt that in a moment the Wild One would be up: his - horse shivered like a sallow in a storm. He heard the tramp of the - Spirit-steed: they came in sight. As the tall figure of the Huntsman - passed; I cannot tell you what it was; it might have been; Lord, forgive - me for thinking what it might have been! but a voice from behind Hans, a - voice so like his own, that for a moment he fancied that he had himself - spoken, although he was conscious that his lips had been firmly closed the - whole time; a voice from the road-side, just behind poor Hans, mind, said, - ‘Good sport, Sir Huntsman, ‘tis an odd light to track a stag!’ The poor - man, sir, was all of an ague; but how much greater was his horror when the - tall huntsman stopped! He thought that he was going to be eaten up on the - spot, at least: not at all. ‘My friend!’ said the Wild One, in the kindest - voice imaginable; ‘my friend, would you like to give your horse a - breathing with us?’ Poor Hans was so alarmed that it never entered into - his head for a single moment to refuse the invitation, and instantly he - was galloping by the side of the Wild Huntsman. Away they flew! away! - away! away! over bog, and over mere; over ditch, and over hedge; away! - away! away! and the Ranger’s horse never failed, but kept by the side of - the Wild Spirit without the least distress; and yet it is very singular - that Hans was about to sell this very beast only a day before, for a - matter of five crowns: you see, he only kept it just to pick his way at - night from the castle to his own cottage. Well, it is very odd, but Hans - soon lost all fear, for the sport was so fine and he had such a keen - relish for the work, that, far from being alarmed, he thought himself one - of the luckiest knaves alive. But the oddest thing all this time was, that - Hans never caught sight for one moment of either buck or boar, although he - saw by the dogs’ noses that there was something keen in the wind, and - although he felt that if the hunted beast were like any that he had - himself ever followed before, it must have been run down with such dogs, - quicker than a priest could say a paternoster. At last, for he had grown - quite bold, says Hans to the Wild Huntsman, ‘The beasts run quick o’ - nights, sir, I think; it has been a long time, I ween, ere I scampered so - far, and saw so little!’ Do you know that the old gentleman was not the - least affronted, but said, in the pleasantest voice imaginable, ‘A true - huntsman should be patient, Hans; you will see the game quick enough; look - forward, man! what see you?’ And sure enough, your Highness, he did look - forward. It was near the skirts of the forest, there was a green glade - before them, and very few trees, and therefore he could see far a-head. - The moon was shining very bright, and sure enough, what did he see? - Running as fleet over the turf as a rabbit, was a child. The little figure - was quite black in the moonlight, and Hans could not catch its face: in a - moment the hell-dogs were on it. Hans quivered like a windy reed, and the - Wild One laughed till the very woods echoed. ‘How like you hunting - moss-men?’ asked the Spirit. Now when Hans found it was only a moss-man, - he took heart again, and said in a shaking voice, that ‘It is rare good - sport in good company;’ and then the Spirit jumped off his horse, and - said, ‘Now, Hans, you must watch me well, for I am little used to bag - game.’ He said this with a proudish air, as much as to hint, that had he - not expected Hans he would not have rode out this evening without his - groom. So the Wild One jumped on his horse again, and put the bag before - him. It was nearly morning when Hans found himself at the door of his own - cottage; and, bowing very respectfully to the Spirit Hunter, he thanked - him for the sport, and begged his share of the night’s spoil. This was all - in joke, but Hans had heard that ‘talk to the devil, and fear the last - word;’ and so he was determined, now that they were about to part, not to - appear to tremble, but to carry it off with a jest. ‘Truly, Hans,’ said - the Huntsman, ‘thou art a bold lad, and to encourage thee to speak to wild - huntsmen again, I have a mind to give thee for thy pains the whole spoil. - Take the bag, knave, a moss-man is good eating; had I time I would give - thee a receipt for sauce;’ and, so saying, the Spirit rode off, laughing - very heartily. Well, sir, Hans was so anxious to examine the contents of - the bag, and see what kind of thing a moss-man really was, for he had only - caught a glimpse of him in the chase, that instead of going to bed - immediately, and saying his prayers, as he should have done, he lighted a - lamp and undid the string; and what think you he took out of the bag? As - sure as I am a born sinner, his own child!” - </p> - <p> - “‘Tis a wonderful tale,” said Vivian; “and did the unfortunate man tell - you this himself?” - </p> - <p> - “Often and often. I knew Left-handed Hans well. He was ranger, as I said, - to a great lord; and was quite a favourite, you see. For some reason or - other he got out of favour. Some said that the Baron had found him out - a-poaching; and that he used to ride his master’s horses a-night. Whether - this be true or not, who can say? But, howsoever, Hans went to ruin; and - instead of being a flourishing active lad, he was turned out, and went - a-begging all through Saxony; and he always told this story as the real - history of his misfortunes. Some say he is not as strong in his head as he - used to be. However, why should we say it is not a true tale? What is - that?” almost shrieked Essper. - </p> - <p> - Vivian listened, and heard distinctly the distant baying of hounds. - </p> - <p> - “‘Tis he!” said Essper; “now don’t speak, sir, don’t speak! and if the - devil make me join him, as may be the case, for I am but a cock-brained - thing, particularly at midnight, don’t be running after me from any - foolish feeling, but take care of yourself, and don’t be chattering. To - think you should come to this, my precious young master!” - </p> - <p> - “Cease your blubbering! Do you think that I am to be frightened by the - idiot tales of a parcel of old women, and the lies of a gang of detected - poachers? Come, sir, ride on. We are, most probably, near some huntsman’s - cottage. That distant baying is the sweetest music I have heard a long - while.” - </p> - <p> - “Don’t be rash, sir; don’t be rash. If you were to give me fifty crowns - now, I could not remember a single line of a single prayer. Ave Maria! it - always is so when I most want it. Paternoster! and whenever I have need to - remember a song, sure enough I am always thinking of a prayer. ‘Unser - vater, der du bist im himmel, sanctificado se el tu nombra; il tuo regno - venga.’” Here Essper George was proceeding with a scrap of modern Greek, - when the horsemen suddenly came upon one of those broad green vistas which - we often see in forests, and which are generally cut, either for the - convenience of hunting, or carting wood. It opened on the left side of the - road; and at the bottom of it, though apparently at a great distance, a - light was visible. - </p> - <p> - “So much for your Wild Huntsman, friend Essper! I shall be much - disappointed if here are not quarters for the night. And see! the moon - comes out, a good omen!” - </p> - <p> - After ten minutes’ canter over the noiseless turf, the travellers found - themselves before a large and many-windowed mansion. The building formed - the farthest side of a quadrangle, which you entered through an ancient - and massy gate; on each side of which was a small building, of course the - lodges. Essper soon found that the gate was closely fastened; and though - he knocked often and loudly, it was with no effect. That the inhabitants - of the mansion had not yet retired was certain, for lights were moving in - the great house; and one of the lodges was not only very brilliantly - illuminated, but full, as Vivian was soon convinced, of clamorous if not - jovial guests. - </p> - <p> - “Now, by the soul of my unknown father!” said the enraged Essper, “I will - make these saucy porters learn their duty—What ho! there; what ho! - within; within!” But the only answer he received was the loud reiteration - of a rude and roaring chorus, which, as it was now more distinctly and - audibly enunciated, evidently for the purpose of enraging the travellers, - they detected to be something to the following effect:— - </p> -<pre xml:space="preserve"> - Then a prayer to St. Peter, a prayer to St. Paul! - A prayer to St. Jerome, a prayer to them all! - A prayer to each one of the saintly stock, - But devotion alone, devotion to Hock! -</pre> - <p> - “A right good burden’” said Essper. The very words had made him recover - his temper, and ten thousand times more desirous of gaining admittance. He - was off his horse in a moment, and scrambling up the wall with the aid of - the iron stanchions, he clambered up to the window. The sudden appearance - of his figure startled the inmates of the lodge, and one of them soon - staggered to the gate. - </p> - <p> - “What want you, ye noisy and disturbing varlets? what want you, ye most - unhallowed rogues, at such a place, and at such an hour? If you be - thieves, look at our bars (here a hiccup). If you be poachers, our master - is engaged, and ye may slay all the game in the forest (another hiccup); - but if ye be good men and true—” - </p> - <p> - “We are!” halloed Essper, eagerly. - </p> - <p> - “You are!” said the porter, in a tone of great surprise; “then you ought - to be ashamed of yourselves for disturbing holy men at their devotions!” - </p> - <p> - “Is this the way,” said Essper, “to behave, ye shameless rascals, to a - noble and mighty Prince, who happens to have lost his way in your - abominable forest, but who, though he has parted with his suite, has still - in his pocket a purse full of ducats? Would ye have him robbed by any - others but yourselves? Is this the way you behave to a Prince of the Holy - Roman Empire, a Knight of the Golden Fleece, and a most particular friend - of your own master? Is this the way to behave to his secretary, who is one - of the merriest fellows living, can sing a jolly song with any of you, and - so bedevil a bottle of Geisenheim with lemons and brandy that for the soul - of ye you wouldn’t know it from the greenest Tokay? Out, out on ye! you - know not what you have lost!” - </p> - <p> - Ere Essper had finished more than one stout bolt had been drawn, and the - great key had already entered the stouter lock. - </p> - <p> - “Most honourable sirs!” hiccuped the porter, “in our Lady’s name enter. I - had forgot myself, for in these autumn nights it is necessary to - anticipate the cold with a glass of cheering liquor; and, God forgive me! - if I did not mistake your most mighty Highnesses for a couple of forest - rovers, or small poachers at least. Thin entertainment here, kind sir - (here the last bolt was withdrawn); a glass of indifferent liquor and a - prayer-book. I pass the time chiefly these cold nights with a few - holy-minded friends at our devotions. You heard us at our prayers, - honourable lords! - </p> -<pre xml:space="preserve"> - “A prayer to St. Peter, a prayer to St. Paul! - A prayer to St. Jerome, a prayer to them all!” - </pre> - <p> - Here the devout porter most reverently crossed himself. - </p> -<pre xml:space="preserve"> - “A prayer to each one of the saintly stock, - But devotion alone, devotion to Hock!” - </pre> - <p> - added Essper George; “you forget the best part of the burden, my honest - friend.” - </p> - <p> - “Oh!” said the porter, with an arch smile, as he opened the lodge door; “I - am glad to find that your honourable Excellencies have a taste for hymns!” - </p> - <p> - The porter led them into a room, at a round table in which about - half-a-dozen individuals were busily engaged in discussing the merits of - various agreeable liquors. There was an attempt to get up a show of polite - hospitality to Vivian as he entered, but the man who offered him his chair - fell to the ground in an unsuccessful struggle to be courteous; and - another one, who had filled a large glass for the guest on his entrance, - offered him, after a preliminary speech of incoherent compliments, the - empty bottle by mistake. The porter and his friends, although they were - all drunk, had sense enough to feel that the presence of a Prince of the - Holy Roman Empire, a Chevalier of the Golden Fleece, and the particular - friend of their master, was not exactly a fit companion for themselves, - and was rather a check on the gay freedom of equal companionship; and so, - although the exertion was not a little troublesome, the guardian of the - gate reeled out of the room to inform his honoured lord of the sudden - arrival of a stranger of distinction, Essper George immediately took his - place, and ere the master of the lodge had returned the noble secretary - had not only given a choice toast, sung a choice song, and been hailed by - the grateful plaudits of all present, but had proceeded in his attempt to - fulfil the pledge which he had given at the gate to the very letter by - calling out lustily for a bottle of Geisenheim, lemons, brandy, and a - bowl. - </p> - <p> - “Fairly and softly, my little son of Bacchus,” said the porter as he - re-entered, “fairly and softly, and then thou shalt want nothing; but - remember I have to perform my duties unto the noble Lord my master, and - also to the noble Prince your master. If thou wilt follow me,” continued - the porter, reeling as he bowed with the greatest consideration to Vivian; - “if thou wilt follow me, most high and mighty sir, my master will be right - glad to have the honour of drinking your health. And as for you, my - friends, fairly and softly say I again. We will talk of the Geisenheim - anon. Am I to be absent from the first brewing? No, no! fairly and softly; - you can drink my health when I am absent in cold liquor, and say those - things which you could not well say before my face. But mind, my most - righteous and well-beloved, I will have no flattery. Flattery is the - destruction of all good fellowship; it is like a qualmish liqueur in the - midst of a bottle of wine. Speak your minds, say any little thing that - comes first, as thus, ‘Well, for Hunsdrich, the porter, I must declare - that I never heard evil word against him;’ or thus, ‘A very good leg has - Hunsdrich the porter, and a tight-made lad altogether; no enemy with the - girls, I warrant me;’ or thus, ‘Well, for a good-hearted, good-looking, - stout-drinking, virtuous, honourable, handsome, generous, sharp-witted - knave, commend me to Hunsdrich the porter;’ but not a word more, my - friends, not a word more, no flattery—Now, sir, I beg your pardon.” - </p> - <p> - The porter led the way through a cloistered walk, until they arrived at - the door of the great mansion, to which they ascended by a lofty flight of - steps; it opened into a large octagonal hail, the sides of which were - covered with fowling-pieces, stags’ heads, couteaux de chasse, - boar-spears, and huge fishing-nets. Passing through this hall, they - ascended a noble stair-case, on the first landing-place of which was a - door, which Vivian’s conductor opened, and ushering him into a large and - well-lighted chamber, withdrew. From the centre of this room descended a - magnificently cut chandelier, which threw a graceful light upon a - sumptuous banquet table, at which were seated eight very singular-looking - personages. All of them wore hunting-dresses of various shades of - straw-coloured cloth, with the exception of one, who sat on the left hand - of the master of the feast, and the colour of whose costume was a rich - crimson purple. From the top to the bottom of the table extended a double - file of wine-glasses and goblets, of all sizes and all colours. There you - might see brilliant relics of that ancient ruby-glass the vivid tints of - which seem lost to us for ever. Next to these were marshalled goblets of - Venetian manufacture, of a cloudy, creamy white; then came the huge hock - glass of some ancient Primate of Mentz, nearly a yard high, towering above - its companions, as the church, its former master, predominated over the - simple laymen of the middle ages. Why should we forget a set of most - curious and antique drinking-cups of painted glass, on whose rare surfaces - were emblazoned the Kaiser and ten electors of the old Empire? - </p> - <p> - Vivian bowed to the party and stood in silence, while they stared a - scrutinising examination. At length the master of the feast spoke. He was - a very stout man, with a prodigious paunch, which his tightened dress set - off to great advantage. His face, and particularly his forehead, were of - great breadth. His eyes were set far apart. His long ears hung down almost - to his shoulders; yet singular as he was, not only in these, but in many - other respects, everything was forgotten when your eyes lighted on his - nose. It was the most prodigious nose that Vivian ever remembered not only - seeing, but hearing or even reading of. It fact, it was too monstrous for - a dream. This mighty nose seemed to hang almost to its owner’s chest. - </p> - <p> - “Be seated,” said this personage, in no unpleasing voice, and he pointed - to the chair opposite to him. Vivian took the vacated seat of the - Vice-President, who moved himself to the right. “Be seated, and whoever - you may be, welcome! If our words be few, think not that our welcome is - scant. We are not much given to speech, holding it for a principle that if - a man’s mouth be open, it should be for the purpose of receiving that - which cheers a man’s spirit; not of giving vent to idle words, which, so - far as we have observed, produce no other effect save filling the world - with crude and unprofitable fantasies, and distracting our attention when - we are on the point of catching those flavours which alone make the world - endurable. Therefore, briefly, but heartily, welcome! Welcome, Sir - Stranger, from us, and from all: and first from us, the Grand Duke of - Johannisberger.” Here his Highness rose, and pulled out a large ruby - tumbler from the file. Each of those present did the same, without, - however, rising, and the late Vice-President, who sat next to Vivian, - invited him to follow their example. - </p> - <p> - The Grand Duke of Johannisberger brought forward, from beneath the table, - an ancient and exquisite bottle of that choice liquor from which he took - his exhilarating title. The cork was drawn, and the bottle circulated with - rapidity; and in three minutes the ruby glasses were filled and emptied, - and the Grand Duke’s health quaffed by all present. - </p> - <p> - “Again, Sir Stranger,” continued the Grand Duke, “briefly, but heartily, - welcome! welcome from us and welcome from all; and first from us, and now - from the Archduke of Hockheimer!” - </p> - <p> - The Archduke of Hockheimer was a thin, sinewy man, with long, carroty - hair, eyelashes of the same colour, but of a remarkable length; and - mustachios, which, though very thin, were so long that they met under his - chin. Vivian could not refrain from noticing the extreme length, - whiteness, and apparent sharpness of his teeth. The Archduke did not - speak, but, leaning under the table, soon produced a bottle of Hockheimer. - He then took from the file one of the Venetian glasses of clouded white. - All followed his example; the bottle was sent round, his health was - pledged, and the Grand Duke of Johannisberger again spoke: - </p> - <p> - “Again, Sir Stranger, briefly, but heartily, welcome! Welcome from us, and - welcome from all; and first from us, and now from the Elector of - Steinberg!” - </p> - <p> - The Elector of Steinberg was a short, but very broad-backed, strong-built - man. Though his head was large, his features were small, and appeared - smaller from the immense quantity of coarse, shaggy, brown hair which grew - over almost every part of his face and fell down upon his shoulders. The - Elector was as silent as his predecessor, and quickly produced a bottle of - Steinberg. The curious drinking cups of painted glass were immediately - withdrawn from the file, the bottle was sent round, the Elector’s health - was pledged, and the Grand Duke of Johannisberger again spoke: - </p> - <p> - “Again, Sir Stranger, briefly, but heartily, welcome! Welcome from us, and - welcome from all; and first from us, and now from the Margrave of - Rudesheimer!” - </p> - <p> - The Margrave of Rudesheimer was a slender man of elegant appearance. As - Vivian watched the glance of his speaking eye, and the half-satirical and - half-jovial smile which played upon his features, he hardly expected that - he would be as silent as his predecessors. But the Margrave spoke no word. - He gave a kind of shout of savage exultation as he smacked his lips after - dashing off his glass of Rudesheimer; and scarcely noticing the - salutations of those who drank his health, he threw himself back in his - chair, and listened seemingly with a smile of derision, while the Grand - Duke of Johannisberger again spoke: - </p> - <p> - “Again, Sir Stranger, briefly, but heartily, welcome! Welcome from us, and - welcome from all; and first from us, and now from the Landgrave of - Grafenberg.” - </p> - <p> - The Landgrave of Grafenberg was a rude, awkward-looking person, who, when - he rose from his seat, stared like an idiot, and seemed utterly ignorant - of what he ought to do. But his quick companion, the Margrave of - Rudesheimer, soon thrust a bottle of Grafenberg into the Landgrave’s hand, - and with some trouble and bustle the Landgrave extracted the cork; and - then helping himself sat down, forgetting either to salute, or to return - the salutations of those present. - </p> - <p> - “Again, Sir Stranger, briefly, but heartily, welcome! Welcome from us, and - welcome from all; and first from us, and now from the Palsgrave of - Geisenheim!” - </p> - <p> - The Palsgrave of Geisenheim was a dwarf in spectacles. He drew the cork - from his bottle like lightning, and mouthed at his companions even while - he bowed to them. - </p> - <p> - “Again, Sir Stranger, briefly, but heartily, welcome! Welcome from us, and - welcome from all; and first from us, and now from the Count of - Markbrunnen!” - </p> - <p> - The Count of Markbrunnen was a sullen-looking personage, with lips - protruding nearly three inches beyond his nose. From each side of his - upper jaw projected a large tooth. - </p> - <p> - “Thanks to Heaven!” said Vivian, as the Grand Duke again spoke; “thanks to - Heaven, here is our last man!” - </p> - <p> - “Again, Sir Stranger, briefly, but heartily, welcome! Welcome from us, and - welcome from all; and first from us, and now from the Baron of - Asmanshausen!” - </p> - <p> - The Baron of Asmanshausen sat on the left hand of the Grand Duke of - Johannisberger, and was dressed, as we have before said, in an unique - costume of crimson purple. The Baron stood, without his boots, about six - feet eight. He was a sleek man, with a head not bigger than a child’s, and - a pair of small, black, beady eyes, of singular brilliancy. The Baron - introduced a bottle of the only red wine that the Rhine boasts; but which, - for its fragrant and fruity flavour and its brilliant tint, is perhaps not - inferior to the sunset glow of Burgundy. - </p> - <p> - “And now,” continued the Grand Duke, “having introduced you to all - present, sir, we will begin drinking.” - </p> - <p> - Vivian had submitted to the introductory ceremonies with the good grace - which becomes a man of the world; but the coolness of this last - observation recalled our hero’s wandering senses; and, at the same time, - alarmed at discovering that eight bottles of wine had been discussed by - the party merely as preliminary, and emboldened by the contents of one - bottle which had fallen to his own share, he had the courage to confront - the Grand Duke of Johannisberger in his own castle. - </p> - <p> - “Your wine, most noble Lord, stands in no need of my commendation; but as - I must mention it, let it not be said that I ever mentioned it without - praise. After a ten hours’ ride, its flavour is as grateful to the palate - as its strength is refreshing to the heart; but though old Hock, in homely - phrase, is styled meat and drink, I confess to you that, at this moment, I - stand in need of even more solid sustenance than the juice of the sunny - hill.” - </p> - <p> - “A traitor!” shrieked all present, each with his right arm stretched out, - glass in hand; “a traitor!” - </p> - <p> - “No traitor,” answered Vivian, “noble and right thirsty lords, but one of - the most hungry mortals that ever yet famished.” - </p> - <p> - The only answer that he received for some time was a loud and ill-boding - murmur. The long whisker of the Archduke of Hockheimer curled with renewed - rage; audible, though suppressed, was the growl of the hairy Elector of - Steinberg; fearful the corporeal involutions of the tall Baron of - Asmanshausen; and savagely sounded the wild laugh of the bright-eyed - Margrave of Rudesheimer. - </p> - <p> - “Silence, my Lords!” said the Grand Duke. “Forget we that ignorance is the - stranger’s portion, and that no treason can exist among those who are not - our sworn subjects? Pity we rather the degeneracy of this bold-spoken - youth, and in the plenitude of our mercy let us pardon his demand! Know - ye, unknown knight, that you are in the presence of an august society who - are here met at one of their accustomed convocations, whereof the purport - is the frequent quaffing of those most glorious liquors of which the - sacred Rhine is the great father. We profess to find a perfect commentary - on the Pindaric laud of the strongest element in the circumstance of the - banks of a river being the locality where the juice of the grape is most - delicious, and holding, therefore, that water is strongest because, in a - manner, it giveth birth to wine, we also hold it as a sacred element, and - consequently most religiously refrain from refreshing our bodies with that - sanctified and most undrinkable fluid. Know ye that we are the children of - the Rhine, the conservators of his flavours, profound in the learning of - his exquisite aroma, and deep students in the mysteries of his - inexplicable näre. Professing not to be immortal, we find in the exercise - of the chase a noble means to preserve that health which is necessary for - the performance of the ceremonies to which we are pledged. At to-morrow’s - dawn our bugle sounds, and thou, stranger, may engage the wild boar at our - side; at to-morrow’s noon the castle bell will toll, and thou, stranger, - may eat of the beast which thou hast conquered; but to feed after - midnight, to destroy the power of catching the delicate flavour, to - annihilate the faculty of detecting the undefinable näre, is heresy, most - rank and damnable heresy! Therefore at this hour soundeth no plate or - platter, jingleth no knife or culinary instrument, in the PALACE or THE - WINES. Yet, in consideration of thy youth, and that on the whole thou hast - tasted thy liquor like a proper man, from which we augur the best - expectations of the manner in which thou wilt drink it, we feel confident - that our brothers of the goblet will permit us to grant thee the - substantial solace of a single shoeing horn.” - </p> - <p> - “Let it be a Dutch herring, then,” said Vivian, “and as you have souls to - be saved grant me one slice of bread.” - </p> - <p> - “It cannot be,” said the Grand Duke; “but as we are willing to be - indulgent to bold hearts, verily, we will wink at the profanation of a - single toast; but you must order an anchovy one, and give secret - instructions to the waiting-man to forget the fish. It must be counted as - a second shoeing horn, and you will forfeit for the last a bottle of - Markbrunnen.” - </p> - <p> - “And now, illustrious brothers,” continued the Grand Duke, “let us drink - 1726.” - </p> - <p> - All present gave a single cheer, in which Vivian was obliged to join, and - they honoured with a glass of the very year the memory of a celebrated - vintage. - </p> - <p> - “1748!” said the Grand Duke. - </p> - <p> - Two cheers and the same ceremony. - </p> - <p> - 1766 and 1779 were honoured in the same manner, but when the next toast - was drank, Vivian almost observed in the countenances of the Grand Duke - and his friends the signs of incipient insanity. - </p> - <p> - “1783!” hallooed the Grand Duke in a tone of the most triumphant - exultation, and his mighty proboscis, as it snuffed the air, almost caused - a whirlwind round the room. Hockheimer gave a roar, Steinberg a growl, - Rudesheimer a wild laugh, Markbrunnen, a loud grunt, Grafenberg a bray, - Asmanshausen’s long body moved to and fro with wonderful agitation, and - little Geisenheim’s bright eyes glistened through their glasses as if they - were on fire. How ludicrous is the incipient inebriety of a man who wears - spectacles! - </p> - <p> - Thanks to an excellent constitution, which recent misery, however, had - somewhat shattered, Vivian bore up against all these attacks; and when - they had got down to 1802, from the excellency of his digestion and the - inimitable skill with which he emptied many of the latter glasses under - the table, he was, perhaps, in better condition than any one in the room. - </p> - <p> - And now rose the idiot Grafenberg; Rudesheimer all the time, with a - malicious smile, faintly pulling him down by the skirt of his coat, as if - he were desirous of preventing an exposure which his own advice had - brought about. He had been persuading Grafenberg the whole evening to make - a speech. - </p> - <p> - “My Lord Duke,” brayed the jackass; and then he stopped dead, and looked - round the room with an unmeaning stare. - </p> - <p> - “Hear, hear, hear!” was the general cry; but Grafenberg seemed astounded - at any one being desirous of hearing his voice, or for a moment seriously - entertaining the idea that he could have anything to say; and so he stared - again, and again, and again, till at last Rudesheimer, by dint of kicking - his shins under the table, the Margrave the whole time seeming perfectly - motionless, at length extracted a sentence from the asinine Landgrave. - </p> - <p> - “My Lord Duke!” again commenced Grafenberg, and again he stopped. - </p> - <p> - “Go on!” shouted all. - </p> - <p> - “My Lord Duke! Rudesheimer is treading on my toes!” - </p> - <p> - Here little Geisenheim gave a loud laugh of derision, in which all joined - except surly Markbrunnen, whose lips protruded an extra inch beyond their - usual length when he found that all were laughing at his friend. The Grand - Duke at last procured silence. - </p> - <p> - “Shame! shame! mighty Princes! Shame! shame! noble Lords! Is it with this - irreverent glee, these scurvy flouts, and indecorous mockery, that you - would have this stranger believe that we celebrate the ceremonies of our - Father Rhine? Shame, I say; and silence! It is time that we should prove - to him that we are not merely a boisterous and unruly party of swilling - varlets, who leave their brains in their cups. It is time that we should - do something to prove that we are capable of better and worthier things. - What ho! my Lord of Geisenheim! shall I speak twice to the guardian of the - horn of the Fairy King?” - </p> - <p> - The little dwarf instantly jumped from his seat and proceeded to the end - of the room, where, after having bowed three times with great reverence - before a small black cabinet made of vine wood, he opened it with a golden - key, and then with great pomp and ceremony bore its contents to the Grand - Duke. That chieftain took from the little dwarf the horn of a gigantic and - antediluvian elk. The cunning hand of an ancient German artificer had - formed this curious relic into a drinking-cup. It was exquisitely - polished, and cased in the interior with silver. On the outside the only - ornaments were three richly-chased silver rings, which were placed nearly - at equal distances. When the Grand Duke had carefully examined this most - precious horn, he held it up with great reverence to all present, and a - party of devout Catholics could not have paid greater homage to the - elevated Host than did the various guests to the horn of the Fairy King. - Even the satanic smile on Rudesheimer’s countenance was for a moment - subdued, and all bowed. The Grand Duke then delivered the mighty cup to - his neighbour, the Archduke of Hockheimer, who held it with both hands - until his Royal Highness had emptied into it, with great care, three - bottles of Johannisberger. All rose: the Grand Duke took the goblet in one - hand, and with the other he dexterously put aside his most inconvenient - and enormous nose. Dead silence prevailed, save the roar of the liquor as - it rushed down the Grand Duke’s throat, and resounded through the chamber - like the distant dash of a waterfall. In three minutes the Chairman had - completed his task, the horn had quitted his mouth, his nose had again - resumed its usual situation, and as he handed the cup to the Archduke, - Vivian thought that a material change had taken place in his countenance - since he had quaffed his last draught. His eyes seemed more apart; his - ears seemed broader and longer; and his nose visibly lengthened. The - Archduke, before he commenced his draught, ascertained with great - scrupulosity that his predecessor had taken his fair share by draining the - horn as far as the first ring; and then he poured off with great rapidity - his own portion. But though, in performing the same task, he was quicker - than the master of the party, the draught not only apparently, but - audibly, produced upon him a much more decided effect than it had on the - Grand Duke; for when the second ring was drained the Archduke gave a loud - roar of exultation, and stood up for some time from his seat, with his - hands resting on the table, over which he leant, as if he were about to - spring upon his opposite neighbour. The cup was now handed across the - table to the Baron of Asmanshausen. His Lordship performed his task with - ease; but as he withdrew the horn from his mouth, all present, except - Vivian, gave a loud cry of “Supernaculum!” The Baron smiled with great - contempt, as he tossed, with a careless hand, the great horn upside - downwards, and was unable to shed upon his nail even the one excusable - pearl. He handed the refilled horn to the Elector of Steinberg, who drank - his portion with a growl; but afterwards seemed so pleased with the - facility of his execution that, instead of delivering it to the next - bibber, the Palsgrave of Markbrunnen, he commenced some clumsy attempts at - a dance of triumph, in which he certainly would have proceeded, had not - the loud grunts of the surly and thick-lipped Markbrunnen occasioned the - interference of the President. Supernaculum now fell to the Margrave of - Rudesheimer, who gave a loud and long-continued laugh as the dwarf of - Geisenheim filled the horn for the third time. - </p> - <p> - While this ceremony was going on, a thousand plans had occurred to Vivian - for his escape; but all, on second thoughts, proved impracticable. With - agony he had observed that supernaculum was his miserable lot. Could he - but have foisted it on the idiot Grafenberg, he might, by his own - impudence and the other’s stupidity, have escaped. But he could not - flatter himself that he should be successful in bringing about this end, - for he observed with dismay that the malicious Rudesheimer had not for a - moment ceased watching him with a keen and exulting glance. Geisenheim - performed his task; and ere Vivian could ask for the goblet, Rudesheimer, - with a fell laugh, had handed it to Grafenberg. The greedy ass drank his - portion with ease, and indeed drank far beyond his limit. The cup was in - Vivian’s hand, Rudesheimer was roaring supernaculum louder than all; - Vivian saw that the covetous Grafenberg had providentially rendered his - task comparatively light; but even as it was, he trembled at the idea of - drinking at a single draught more than a pint of most vigorous and - powerful wine. - </p> - <p> - “My Lord Duke,” said Vivian, “you and your companions forget that I am - little used to these ceremonies; that I am yet uninitiated in the - mysteries of the näre. I have endeavoured to prove myself no - chicken-hearted water-drinking craven, and I have more wine within me at - this moment than any man yet bore without dinner. I think, therefore, that - I have some grounds for requesting indulgence, and I have no doubt that - the good sense of yourself and your friends—” - </p> - <p> - Ere Vivian could finish, he almost fancied that a well-stocked menagerie - had been suddenly emptied in the room. Such roaring, and such growling, - and such hissing, could only have been exceeded on some grand feast day in - the recesses of a Brazilian forest. Asmanshausen looked as fierce as a boa - constrictor before dinner. The proboscis of the Grand Duke heaved to and - fro like the trunk of an enraged elephant. Hockheimer glared like a Bengal - tiger about to spring upon its prey. Steinberg growled like a Baltic bear. - In Markbrunnen Vivian recognised the wild boar he had himself often - hunted. Grafenberg brayed like a jackass, and Geisenheim chattered like an - ape. But all was forgotten and unnoticed when Vivian heard the fell and - frantic shouts of the laughing hyaena, the Margrave of Rudesheimer! - Vivian, in despair, dashed the horn of Oberon to his mouth. One pull, a - gasp, another desperate draught; it was done! and followed by a - supernaculum almost superior to the exulting Asmanshausen’s. - </p> - <p> - A loud shout hailed the exploit, and when the shout had subsided into - silence the voice of the Grand Duke of Johannisberger was again heard: - </p> - <p> - “Noble Lords and Princes! I congratulate you on the acquisition of a - congenial co-mate, and the accession to our society of one who, I now - venture to say, will never disgrace the glorious foundation; but who, on - the contrary, with heaven’s blessing and the aid of his own good palate, - will, it is hoped, add to our present knowledge of flavours by the - detection of new ones, and by illustrations drawn from frequent study and - constant observation of the mysterious näre. In consideration of his long - journey and his noble achievement, I do propose that we drink but very - lightly to-night, and meet by two hours after to-morrow’s dawn, under the - moss-man’s oak. Nevertheless, before we part, for the refreshment of our - own good bodies, and by way of reward and act of courtesy unto this noble - and accomplished stranger, let us pledge him in some foreign grape of - fame, to which he may perhaps be more accustomed than unto the - ever-preferable juices of our Father Rhine.” Here the Grand Duke nodded to - little Geisenheim, who in a moment was at his elbow. - </p> - <p> - It was in vain that Vivian remonstrated, excused himself from joining, or - assured them that their conduct had already been so peculiarly courteous, - that any further attention was at present unnecessary. A curiously cut - glass, which on a moderate calculation Vivian reckoned would hold at least - three pints, was placed before each guest; and a basket, containing nine - bottles of sparkling champagne, première qualité, was set before his - Highness. - </p> - <p> - “We are no bigots, noble stranger,” said the Grand Duke, as he took one of - the bottles, and scrutinised the cork with a very keen eye; “we are no - bigots, and there are moments when we drink Champagne, nor is Burgundy - forgotten, nor the soft Bourdeaux, nor the glowing grape of the sunny - Rhone!” His Highness held the bottle at an oblique angle with the - chandelier. The wire is loosened, whirr! The exploded cork whizzed through - the air, extinguished one of the burners of the chandelier, and brought - the cut drop which was suspended under it rattling down among the glasses - on the table. The President poured the foaming fluid into his great - goblet, and bowing to all around, fastened on its contents with as much - eagerness as Arabs hasten to a fountain. - </p> - <p> - The same operation was performed as regularly and as skilfully by all - except Vivian. Eight burners were extinguished; eight diamond drops had - fallen clattering on the table; eight human beings had finished a - miraculous carouse, by each drinking off a bottle of sparkling champagne. - It was Vivian’s turn. All eyes were fixed on him with the most perfect - attention. He was now, indeed, quite desperate; for had he been able to - execute a trick which long practice alone could have enabled any man to - perform, he felt conscious that it was quite out of his power to taste a - single drop of the contents of his bottle. However, he loosened his wire - and held the bottle at an angle with the chandelier; but the cork flew - quite wild, and struck with great force the mighty nose of Johannisberger. - </p> - <p> - “A forfeit!” cried all. - </p> - <p> - “Treason, and a forfeit!” cried the Margrave of Rudesheimer. - </p> - <p> - “A forfeit is sufficient punishment,” said the President; who, however, - still felt the smarting effect of the assault on his proboscis. “You must - drink Oberon’s horn full of champagne,” he continued. - </p> - <p> - “Never!” said Vivian. “Enough of this. I have already conformed in a - degree which may injuriously affect my health with your barbarous humours; - but there is moderation even in excess. And so, if you please, my Lord, - your servant may show me to my apartment, or I shall again mount my - horse.” - </p> - <p> - “You shall not leave this room,” said the President, with great firmness. - </p> - <p> - “Who shall prevent me?” asked Vivian. - </p> - <p> - “I will, all will!” - </p> - <p> - “Now, by heavens! a more insolent and inhospitable old ruffian did I never - meet. By the wine you worship, if one of you dare touch me, you shall rue - it all your born days; and as for you, sir, if you advance one step - towards me, I will take that sausage of a nose of yours and hurl you half - round your own castle!” - </p> - <p> - “Treason!” shouted all, and looked to the chair. - </p> - <p> - “Treason!” said enraged majesty. The allusion to the nose had done away - with all the constitutional doubts which had been sported so moderately at - the commencement of the evening. - </p> - <p> - “Treason!” howled the President: “instant punishment!” - </p> - <p> - “What punishment?” asked Asmanshausen. - </p> - <p> - “Drown him in the new butt of Moselle,” recommended Rudesheimer. The - suggestion was immediately adopted. Every one rose: the little Geisenheim - already had hold of Vivian’s shoulder; and Grafenberg, instigated by the - cowardly but malicious Rudesheimer, was about to seize him by the neck. - Vivian took the dwarf and hurled him at the chandelier, in whose brazen - chains the little being got entangled, and there remained. An unexpected - cross-buttocker floored the incautious and unscientific Grafenberg; and - following up these advantages, Vivian laid open the skull of his prime - enemy, the retreating Margrave of Rudesheimer, with the assistance of the - horn of Oberon; which flew from his hand to the other end of the room, - from the force with which it rebounded from the cranium of the enemy. All - the rest were now on the advance; but giving a vigorous and unexpected - push to the table, the Johannisberger and Asmanshausen were thrown over, - and the nose of the former got entangled with the awkward windings of the - Fairy King’s horn. Taking advantage of this move, Vivian rushed to the - door. He escaped, but had not time to secure the lock against the enemy, - for the stout Elector of Steinberg was too quick for him. He dashed down - the stairs with extraordinary agility; but just as he had gained the large - octagonal hall, the whole of his late boon companions, with the exception - of the dwarf of Geisenheim, who was left in the chandelier, were visible - in full chase. Escape was impossible, and so Vivian, followed by the seven - nobles, headed by their President, described with all possible rapidity a - circle round the hall. He gave himself up for lost; but, luckily, for him, - it never occurred to one of his pursuers to do anything but follow their - leader; and as, therefore, they never dodged Vivian, and as, also, he was - a much fleeter runner than the fat President, whose pace, of course, - regulated the progress of his followers, the party might have gone on at - this rate until all of them had dropped from fatigue, had not the - occurrence of a ludicrous incident prevented this consummation. - </p> - <p> - The hall door was suddenly dashed open, and Essper George rushed in, - followed in full chase by Hunsdrich and the guests of the lodge, who were - the servants of Vivian’s pursuers. Essper darted in between Rudesheimer - and Markbrunnen, and Hunsdrich and his friends following the same tactics - as their lords and masters, without making any attempt to surround and hem - in the object of their pursuit, merely followed him in order, describing, - but in a contrary direction, a lesser circle within the eternal round of - the first party. It was only proper for the servants to give their masters - the wall. In spite of their very disagreeable and dangerous situation, it - was with difficulty that Vivian refrained from laughter, as he met Essper - regularly every half minute at the foot of the great staircase. Suddenly, - as Essper passed, he took Vivian by the waist, and with a single jerk - placed him on the stairs; and then, with a dexterous dodge, he brought - Hunsdrich the porter and the Grand Duke in full contact. - </p> - <p> - “I have got you at last,” said Hunsdrich, seizing hold of his Grace of - Johannisberger by the ears, and mistaking him for Essper. - </p> - <p> - “I have got you at last,” said his master, grappling, as he supposed, with - Vivian. Both struggled; their followers pushed on with impetuous force, - the battle was general, the overthrow universal. In a moment all were on - the ground; and if any less inebriated or more active individual attempted - to rise, Essper immediately brought him down with a boar-spear. - </p> - <p> - “Give me that large fishing-net,” said Essper to Vivian; “quick, quick.” - </p> - <p> - Vivian pulled down a large coarse net, which covered nearly five sides of - the room. It was immediately unfolded, and spread over the fallen crew. To - fasten it down with half a dozen boar-spears, which they drove into the - floor, was the work of a moment. Essper had one pull at the proboscis of - the Grand Duke of Johannisberger before he hurried Vivian away; and in ten - minutes they were again on their horses’ backs and galloping through the - star-lit wood. - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0057" id="link2HCH0057"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER II - </h2> - <p> - It is the hour before the labouring bee has left his golden hive; not yet - the blooming day buds in the blushing East; not yet has the victorious - Lucifer chased from the early sky the fainting splendour of the stars of - night. All is silent, save the light breath of morn waking the slumbering - leaves. Even now a golden streak breaks over the grey mountains. Hark to - shrill chanticleer! As the cock crows the owl ceases. Hark to shrill - chanticleer’s feathered rival! The mountain lark springs from the sullen - earth, and welcomes with his hymn the coming day. The golden streak has - expanded into a crimson crescent, and rays of living fire flame over the - rose-enamelled East. Man rises sooner than the sun, and already sound the - whistle of the ploughman, the song of the mower, and the forge of the - smith; and hark to the bugle of the hunter, and the baying of his - deep-mouthed hound. The sun is up, the generating sun! and temple, and - tower, and tree, the massy wood, and the broad field, and the distant - hill, burst into sudden light; quickly upcurled is the dusky mist from the - shining river; quickly is the cold dew drunk from the raised heads of the - drooping flowers! - </p> - <p> - A canter by a somewhat clearer light than the one which had so - unfortunately guided himself and his companion to the Palace of the Wines - soon carried them again to the skirts of the forest, and at this minute - they are emerging on the plain from yonder dark wood. - </p> - <p> - “By heavens! Essper, I cannot reach the town this morning. Was ever - anything more unfortunate. A curse on those drunken fools. What with no - rest and no solid refreshment, and the rivers of hock that are flowing - within me, and the infernal exertion of running round that vile hall, I - feel fairly exhausted, and could at this moment fall from my saddle. See - you no habitation, my good fellow, where there might be a chance of a - breakfast and a few hours’ rest? We are now well out of the forest. Oh! - surely there is smoke from behind those pines; some good wife, I trust, is - by her chimney corner.” - </p> - <p> - “If my sense be not destroyed by the fumes of that mulled Geisenheim, - which still haunts me, I could swear that the smoke is the soul of a - burning weed.” - </p> - <p> - “A truce to your jokes, good Essper; I really am very ill. A year ago I - could have laughed at our misfortunes, but now it is very different; and, - by heavens, I must have breakfast! so stir, exert yourself, and, although - I die for it, let us canter up to the smoke.” - </p> - <p> - “No, dear master, I will ride on before. Do you follow gently, and if - there be a pigeon in the pot in all Germany. I swear by the patron saint - of every village for fifty miles round, provided they be not heretics, - that you shall taste of its breast-bone this morning.” - </p> - <p> - The smoke did issue from a chimney, but the door of the cottage was shut. - </p> - <p> - “Hilloa, within!” shouted Essper; “who shuts the sun out on a September - morning?” - </p> - <p> - The door was at length slowly opened, and a most ill-favoured and - inhospitable-looking dame demanded, in a sullen voice, “What’s your will?” - </p> - <p> - “You pretty creature!” said Essper, who was still a little tipsy. - </p> - <p> - The door would have been shut in his face had not he darted into the house - before the woman was aware. - </p> - <p> - “Truly, a neat and pleasant dwelling! and you would have no objection, I - guess, to give a handsome young gentleman some little sop of something - just to remind him, you know, that it isn’t dinner-time.” - </p> - <p> - “We give no sops here: what do you take us for? and so, my handsome young - gentleman, be off, or I shall call the good man.” - </p> - <p> - “Why, I am not the handsome young gentleman; that is my master! who, if he - were not half-starved to death, would fall in love with you at first - sight.” - </p> - <p> - “Your master; is he in the carriage?” - </p> - <p> - “Carriage! no; on horseback.” - </p> - <p> - “Travellers?” - </p> - <p> - “To be sure, dear dame; travellers true.” - </p> - <p> - “Travellers true, without luggage, and at this time of morn! Methinks, by - your looks, queer fellows, that you are travellers whom it may be wise for - an honest woman not to meet.” - </p> - <p> - “What! some people have an objection, then, to a forty kreüzer piece on a - sunny morning?” - </p> - <p> - So saying, Essper, in a careless manner, tossed a broad piece in the air, - and made it ring on a fellow coin, as he caught it in the palm of his hand - when it descended. - </p> - <p> - “Is that your master?” asked the woman. - </p> - <p> - “Ay, is it! and the prettiest piece of flesh I have seen this month, - except yourself.” - </p> - <p> - “Well! if the gentleman likes bread he can sit down here,” said the woman, - pointing to a bench, and throwing a sour black loaf upon the table. - </p> - <p> - “Now, sir!” said Essper, wiping the bench with great care, “lie you here - and rest yourself. I have known a marshal sleep upon a harder sofa. - Breakfast will be ready immediately.” - </p> - <p> - “If you cannot eat what you have, you may ride where you can find better - cheer.” - </p> - <p> - “What is bread for a traveller’s breakfast? But I daresay my lord will be - contented; young men are so easily pleased when there is a pretty girl in - the case; you know that, you wench I you do, you little hussy; you are - taking advantage of it.” - </p> - <p> - Something like a smile lit up the face of the sullen woman when she said. - “There may be an egg in the house, but I don’t know.” - </p> - <p> - “But you will soon, you dear creature! What a pretty foot!” bawled Essper - after her, as she left the room. “Now confound this hag; if there be not - meat about this house may I keep my mouth shut at our next dinner. What’s - that in the corner? a boar’s tusk! Ay, ay! a huntsman’s cottage; and when - lived a huntsman on black bread before! Oh! bless your bright eyes for - these eggs, and this basin of new milk.” - </p> - <p> - So saying, Essper took them out of her hand and placed them before Vivian. - </p> - <p> - “I was saying to myself, my pretty girl, when you were out of the room, - ‘Essper George, good cheer, say thy prayers, and never despair; come what - may, you will fall among friends at last, and how do you know that your - dream mayn’t come true after all? Didn’t you dream that you breakfasted in - the month of September with a genteel young woman with gold ear-rings? and - is not she standing before you now? and did not she do everything in the - world to make you comfortable? Did not she give you milk and eggs, and - when you complained that you and meat had been but slack friends of late, - did not she open her own closet, and give you as fine a piece of hunting - beef as was ever set before a Jagd Junker?’” - </p> - <p> - “I think you will turn me into an innkeeper’s wife at last,” said the - dame, her stern features relaxing into a smile; and while she spoke she - advanced to the great closet, Essper George following her, walking on his - toes, lolling out his enormous tongue, and stroking his mock paunch. As - she opened it he jumped upon a chair and had examined every shelf in less - time than a pistol could flush. “White bread! fit for a countess; salt! - worthy of Poland; boar’s head!! no better at Troyes; and hunting beef!!! - my dream is true!” and he bore in triumph to Vivian, who was nearly - asleep, the ample round of salt and pickled beef well stuffed with all - kinds of savoury herbs. - </p> - <p> - It was nearly an hour before noon ere the travellers had remounted. Their - road again entered the forest which they had been skirting for the last - two days. The huntsmen were abroad; and the fine weather, his good meal - and seasonable rest, and the inspiriting sounds of the bugle made Vivian - feel recovered from his late fatigues. - </p> - <p> - “That must be a true-hearted huntsman, Essper, by the sound of his bugle. - I never heard one played with more spirit. Hark! how fine it dies away hi - the wood; fainter and fainter, yet how clear! It must be now half a mile - distant.” - </p> - <p> - “I hear nothing so wonderful,” said Essper, putting the two middle fingers - of his right hand before his mouth and sounding a note so clear and - beautiful, so exactly imitative of the fall which Vivian had noticed and - admired, that for a moment he imagined that the huntsman was at his elbow. - </p> - <p> - “Thou art a cunning knave! do it again.” This time Essper made the very - wood echo. In a few minutes a horseman galloped up; he was as spruce a - cavalier as ever pricked gay steed on the pliant grass. He was dressed in - a green military uniform, and a gilt bugle hung by his side; his spear - told them that he was hunting the wild boar. When he saw Vivian and Essper - he suddenly pulled up his horse and seemed astonished. - </p> - <p> - “I thought that his Highness had been here,” said the huntsman. - </p> - <p> - “No one has passed us, sir,” said Vivian. - </p> - <p> - “I could have sworn that his bugle sounded from this very spot,” said the - huntsman. “My ear seldom deceives me.” - </p> - <p> - “We heard a bugle to the right, sir,” said Essper. - </p> - <p> - “Thanks, my friend,” and the huntsman was about to gallop off. - </p> - <p> - “May I ask the name of his Highness?” said Vivian. “We are strangers in - this country.” - </p> - <p> - “That may certainly account for your ignorance,” said the huntsman; “but - no one who lives in this land can be unacquainted with his Serene Highness - the Prince of Little Lilliput, my illustrious master. I have the honour,” - continued the huntsman, “of being Jagd Junker, or Gentilhomme de la Chasse - to his Serene Highness.” - </p> - <p> - “‘Tis an office of great dignity,” said Vivian, “and one that I have no - doubt you admirably perform; I will not stop you, sir, to admire your - horse.” - </p> - <p> - The huntsman bowed courteously and galloped off. - </p> - <p> - “You see, sir,” said Essper George, “that my bugle has deceived even the - Jagd Junker, or Gentilhomme de la Chasse of his Serene Highness the Prince - of Little Lilliput himself;” so saying, Essper again sounded his - instrument. - </p> - <p> - “A joke may be carried too far, my good fellow,” said Vivian. “A true - huntsman like myself must not spoil a brother’s sport, so silence your - bugle.” - </p> - <p> - Now again galloped up the Jagd Junker, or Gentilhomme de la Chasse of his - Serene Highness the Prince of Little Lilliput. He pulled up his horse - again apparently as much astounded as ever. - </p> - <p> - “I thought that his Highness had been here.” said the huntsman. - </p> - <p> - “No one has passed us,” said Vivian. - </p> - <p> - “We heard a bugle to the right,” said Essper George. - </p> - <p> - “I am afraid his Serene Highness must be in distress. The whole suite are - off the scent. It must have been his bugle, for the regulations of this - forest are so strict that no one dare sound a blast but his Serene - Highness.” Away galloped the huntsman. - </p> - <p> - “Next time I must give you up, Essper,” said Vivian. - </p> - <p> - “One more blast, good master!” begged Essper, in a supplicating voice. - “This time to the left; the confusion will be then complete.” - </p> - <p> - “I command you not,” and so they rode on in silence. But it was one of - those days when Essper could neither be silent nor subdued. Greatly - annoyed at not being permitted to play his bugle, he amused himself - imitating the peculiar sound of every animal that he met; a young fawn and - various birds already followed him, and even a squirrel had perched on his - horse’s neck. And now they came to a small farmhouse, which was situated - in the forest: the yard here offered great amusement to Essper. He - neighed, and half a dozen horses’ heads immediately appeared over the - hedge; another neigh, and they were following him in the road. A dog - rushed out to seize the dangerous stranger and recover his charge, but - Essper gave an amicable bark, and in a second the dog was jumping by his - side and engaged in earnest and friendly conversation. A loud and - continued grunt soon brought out the pigs, and meeting three or four cows - returning home, a few lowing sounds soon seduced them from keeping their - appointment with the dairymaid. A stupid jackass, who stared with - astonishment at the procession, was saluted with a lusty bray, which - immediately induced him to swell the ranks; and, as Essper passed the - poultry-yard, he so deceitfully informed its inhabitants that they were - about to be fed, that broods of ducks and chickens were immediately after - him. The careful hens were terribly alarmed at the danger which their - offspring incurred from the heels and hoofs of the quadrupeds; but while - they were in doubt and despair a whole flock of stately geese issued in - solemn pomp from another gate of the farmyard, and commenced a cackling - conversation with the delighted Essper. So contagious is the force of - example, and so great was the confidence which the hens placed in these - pompous geese, who were not the first fools whose solemn air has deceived - a few old females, that as soon as they perceived them in the train of the - horseman they also trotted up to pay their respects at his levée. - </p> - <p> - But it was not a moment for mirth; for rushing down the road with awful - strides appeared two sturdy and enraged husbandmen, one armed with a pike - and the other with a pitchfork, and accompanied by a frantic female, who - never for a moment ceased hallooing “Murder, rape, and fire!” everything - but “theft.” - </p> - <p> - “Now, Essper, here’s a pretty scrape!” - </p> - <p> - “Stop, you rascals!” hallooed Adolph, the herdsman. - </p> - <p> - “Stop, you gang of thieves!” hallooed Wilhelm, the ploughman. - </p> - <p> - “Stop, you bloody murderers!” shrieked Phillippa, the indignant mistress - of the dairy and the poultry-yard. - </p> - <p> - “Stop, you villains!” hallooed all three. The villains certainly made no - attempt to escape, and in half a second the enraged household of the - forest farmer would have seized on Essper George; but just at this crisis - he uttered loud sounds in the respective language of every bird and beast - about him, and suddenly they all turned round and counter-marched. Away - rushed the terrified Adolph, the herdsman, while one of his own cows was - on his back. Still quicker scampered off the scared Wilhelm, the - ploughman, while one of his own steeds kicked him in his rear. Quicker - than all these, shouting, screaming, shrieking, dashed back the unhappy - mistress of the hen-roost, with all her subjects crowding about her; some - on her elbow, some on her head, her lace cap destroyed, her whole dress - disordered. The movements of the crowd were so quick that they were soon - out of sight. - </p> - <p> - “A trophy!” called out Essper, as he jumped off his horse and picked up - the pike of Adolph, the herdsman. - </p> - <p> - “A boar-spear, or I am no huntsman,” said Vivian: “give it me a moment!” - He threw it up into the air, caught it with ease, poised it with the - practiced skill of one well used to handle the weapon, and with the same - delight imprinted on his countenance as greets the sight of an old friend. - </p> - <p> - “This forest, Essper, and this spear, make me remember days when I was - vain enough to think that I had been sufficiently visited with sorrow. Ah! - little did I then know of human misery, although I imagined I had suffered - so much!” - </p> - <p> - As he spoke, the sounds of a man in distress were heard from the right - side of the road. - </p> - <p> - “Who calls?” cried Essper. A shout was the only answer. There was no path, - but the underwood was low, and Vivian took his horse, an old forester, - across it with ease. Essper’s jibbed; Vivian found himself in a small - green glade of about thirty feet square. It was thickly surrounded with - lofty trees, save at the point where he had entered; and at the farthest - corner of it, near some grey rocks, a huntsman was engaged in a desperate - contest with a wild boar. - </p> - <p> - The huntsman was on his right knee, and held his spear with both hands at - the furious beast. It was an animal of extraordinary size and power. Its - eyes glittered like fire. On the turf to its right a small grey mastiff, - of powerful make, lay on its back, bleeding profusely, with its body - ripped open. Another dog, a fawn-coloured bitch, had seized on the left - ear of the beast; but the under tusk of the boar, which was nearly a foot - long, had penetrated the courageous dog, and the poor creature writhed in - agony, even while it attempted to wreak its revenge upon its enemy. The - huntsman was nearly exhausted. Had it not been for the courage of the - fawn-coloured dog, which, clinging to the boar, prevented it making a full - dash at the man, he must have been gored. Vivian was off his horse in a - minute, which, frightened at the sight of the wild boar, dashed again over - the hedge. - </p> - <p> - “Keep firm, sir!” said he; “do not move. I will amuse him behind, and make - him turn.” - </p> - <p> - A graze of Vivian’s spear on its back, though it did not materially injure - the beast, for there the boar is nearly in vulnerable, annoyed it; and - dashing off the fawn-coloured dog with great force, it turned on its new - assailant. Now there are only two places in which the wild boar can be - assailed with any effect; and these are just between the eyes and between - the shoulders. Great caution, however, is necessary in aiming these blows, - for the boar is very adroit in transfixing the weapon on his snout or his - tusks; and if once you miss, particularly if you are not assisted by dogs, - which Vivian was not, ‘tis all over with you; for the enraged animal - rushes in like lightning, and gored you must be. - </p> - <p> - But Vivian was fresh and cool. The animal suddenly stood still and eyed - its new enemy. Vivian was quiet, for he had no objection to give the beast - an opportunity of retreating to its den. But retreat was not its object; - it suddenly darted at the huntsman, who, however, was not off his guard, - though unable, from a slight wound in his knee, to rise. Vivian again - annoyed the boar at the rear, and the animal soon returned to him. He made - a feint, as if he were about to strike his pike between its eyes. The - boar, not feeling a wound which had not been inflicted, and very - irritated, rushed at him, and he buried his spear a foot deep between its - shoulders. The beast made one fearful struggle, and then fell down quite - dead. The fawn-coloured bitch, though terribly wounded, gave a loud bark; - and even the other dog, which Vivian thought had been long dead, testified - its triumphant joy by an almost inarticulate groan. As soon as he was - convinced that the boar was really dead, Vivian hastened to the huntsman, - and expressed his hope that he was not seriously hurt. - </p> - <p> - “A trifle, which our surgeon, who is used to these affairs, will quickly - cure. Sir! we owe you our life!” said the huntsman, with great dignity, as - Vivian assisted him in rising from the ground. He was a tall man, of - distinguished appearance; but his dress, which was the usual hunting - costume of a German nobleman, did not indicate his quality. - </p> - <p> - “Sir, we owe you our life!” repeated the stranger; “five minutes more, and - our son must have reigned in Little Lilliput.” - </p> - <p> - “I have the honour, then, of addressing your Serene Highness. Far from - being indebted to me, I feel that I ought to apologise for having so - unceremoniously joined your sport.” - </p> - <p> - “Nonsense, man! We have killed in our time too many of these gentry to be - ashamed of owning that, had it not been for you, one of them would at last - have revenged the species. But many as are the boars that we have killed - or eaten, we never saw a more furious or powerful animal than the present. - Why, sir, you must be one of the best hands at the spear in all - Christendom!” - </p> - <p> - “Indifferently good, your Highness: your Highness forgets that the animal - was already exhausted by your assault.” - </p> - <p> - “Why, there is something in that; but it was neatly done, man; it was - neatly done. You are fond of the sport, we think?” - </p> - <p> - “I have had some practice, but illness has so weakened me that I have - given up the forest.” - </p> - <p> - “Pity! and on a second examination we observe that you are no hunter. This - coat is not for the free forest; but how came you by the pike?” - </p> - <p> - “I am travelling to the next post town, to which I have sent on my - luggage. I am getting fast to the south; and as for this pike, my servant - got it this morning from some peasant in a brawl, and was showing it to me - when I heard your Highness call. I really think now that Providence must - have sent it. I certainly could not have done you much service with my - riding whip. Hilloa! Essper, where are you?” - </p> - <p> - “Here, noble sir! here, here. Why, what have you got there? The horses - have jibbed, and will not stir. I can stay no longer: they may go to the - devil!” So saying, Vivian’s valet dashed over the underwood, and leaped al - the foot of the Prince. - </p> - <p> - “In God’s name, is this thy servant?” asked his Highness. - </p> - <p> - “In good faith am I,” said Essper; “his valet, his cook, and his - secretary, all in one; and also his Jagd Junker, or Gentilhomme de la - Chasse, as a puppy with a bugle horn told me this morning.” - </p> - <p> - “A merry knave!” said the Prince; “and talking of a puppy with a bugle - horn reminds us how unaccountably we have been deserted to-day by a suite - that never yet were wanting. We are indeed astonished. Our bugle, we fear, - has turned traitor.” So saying, the Prince executed a blast with great - skill, which Vivian immediately recognised as the one which Essper George - had imitated. - </p> - <p> - “And now, my good friend,” said the Prince, “we cannot hear of your - passing through our land without visiting our good castle. We would that - we could better testify the obligation that we feel under to you in any - other way than by the offer of an hospitality which all gentlemen, by - right, can command. But your presence would, indeed, give us sincere - pleasure. You must not refuse us. Your looks, as well as your prowess, - prove your blood; and we are quite sure no cloth-merchant’s order will - suffer by your not hurrying to your proposed point of destination. We are - not wrong, we think, though your accent is good, in supposing that we are - conversing with an English gentleman. But here they come.” - </p> - <p> - As he spoke, three or four horsemen, at the head of whom was the young - huntsman whom the travellers had met in the morning, sprang into the - glade. - </p> - <p> - “Why, Arnelm!” said the Prince, “when before was the Jagd Junker’s ear so - bad that he could not discover his master’s bugle, even though the wind - were against him?” - </p> - <p> - “In truth, your Highness, we have heard bugles enough this morning. Who is - violating the forests laws we know not; but that another bugle is - sounding, and played; St. Hubert forgive me for saying so; with as great - skill as your Highness’, is certain. Myself, Von Neuwied, and Lintz have - been galloping over the whole forest. The rest, I doubt not, will be up - directly.” The Jagd Junker blew his own bugle. - </p> - <p> - In the course of five minutes, about twenty other horsemen, all dressed in - the same uniform, had arrived; all complaining of their wild chases after - the Prince in every other part of the forest. - </p> - <p> - “It must be the Wild Huntsman himself!” swore an old hand. This solution - of the mystery satisfied all. - </p> - <p> - “Well, well!” said the Prince; “whoever it may be, had it not been for the - timely presence of this gentleman, you must have changed your green - jackets for mourning coats, and our bugle would have sounded no more in - the forest of our fathers. Here, Arnelm! cut up the beast, and remember - that the left shoulder is the quarter of honour, and belongs to this - stranger, not less honoured because unknown.” - </p> - <p> - All present took off their caps and bowed to Vivian, who took this - opportunity of informing the Prince who he was. - </p> - <p> - “And now,” continued his Highness, “Mr. Grey will accompany us to our - castle; nay, sir, we can take no refusal. We will send on to the town for - your luggage. Arnelm, do you look to this! And, honest friend,” said the - Prince, turning to Essper George, “we commend you to the special care of - our friend Von Neuwied; and so, gentlemen, with stout hearts and spurs to - your steeds, to the castle.” - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0058" id="link2HCH0058"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER III - </h2> - <p> - The cavalcade proceeded for some time at a brisk but irregular pace, until - they arrived at a less wild and wooded part of the forest. The Prince of - Little Lilliput reined in his steed as he entered a broad avenue of purple - beeches, at the end of which, though at a considerable distance, Vivian - perceived the towers and turrets of a Gothic edifice glittering in the - sunshine. - </p> - <p> - “Welcome to Turriparva!” said his Highness. - </p> - <p> - “I assure your Highness,” said Vivian, “that I view with no unpleasant - feeling the prospect of a reception in any civilised mansion; for to say - the truth, for the last eight-and-forty hours Fortune has not favoured me - either in my researches after a bed, or that which some think still more - important than repose.” - </p> - <p> - “Is it so?” said the Prince. “Why, we should have thought by your home - thrust this morning that you were as fresh as the early lark. In good - faith, it was a pretty stroke! And whence come you, then, good sir?” - </p> - <p> - “Know you a most insane and drunken idiot who styles himself the Grand - Duke of Johannisberger?” - </p> - <p> - “No, no!” said the Prince, staring in Vivian’s face earnestly, and then - laughing. “And you have actually fallen among that mad crew. A most - excellent adventure! Arnelm! why, man, where art thou? Ride up! Behold in - the person of this gentleman a new victim to the overwhelming hospitality - of our Uncle of the Wines. And did they confer a title on you on the spot? - Say, art thou Elector, or Palsgrave, or Baron; or, failing in thy devoirs, - as once did our good cousin Arnelm, confess that thou wert ordained with - becoming reverence the Archprimate of Puddledrink. Eh! Arnelm, is not that - the style thou bearest at the Palace of the Wines?” - </p> - <p> - “So it would seem, your Highness. I think the title was conferred on me - the same night that your Highness mistook the Grand Duke’s proboscis for - Oberon’s horn, and committed treason not yet pardoned.” - </p> - <p> - “Good! good! thou hast us there. Truly a good memory is often as ready a - friend as a sharp wit. Wit is not thy strong point, friend Arnelm; and yet - it is strange that in the sharp encounter of ready tongues and idle - logomachies thou hast sometimes the advantage. But, nevertheless, rest - assured, good cousin Arnelm, that wit is not thy strong point.” - </p> - <p> - “It is well for me that all are not of the same opinion as your Serene - Highness,” said the young Jagd Junker, somewhat nettled; for he prided - himself on his repartees. - </p> - <p> - The Prince was much diverted with Vivian’s account of his last night’s - adventure; and our hero learnt from his Highness that his late host was no - less a personage than the cousin of the Prince of Little Lilliput, an old - German Baron, who passed his time, with some neighbours of congenial - temperament, in hunting the wild boar in the morning, and speculating on - the flavours of the fine Rhenish wines during the rest of the day. “He and - his companions,” continued the Prince, “will enable you to form some idea - of the German nobility half a century ago. The debauch of last night was - the usual carouse which crowned the exploits of each day when we were a - boy. The revolution has rendered all these customs obsolete. Would that it - had not sent some other things equally out of fashion!” - </p> - <p> - At this moment the Prince sounded his bugle, and the gates of the castle, - which were not more than twenty yards distant, were immediately thrown - open. The whole cavalcade set spurs to their steeds, and dashed at full - gallop over the hollow-sounding drawbridge into the courtyard of the - castle. A crowd of serving-men, in green liveries, instantly appeared, and - Arnelm and Von Neuwied, jumping from their saddles, respectively held the - stirrup and the bridle of the Prince as he dismounted. - </p> - <p> - “Where is Master Rodolph?” asked his Highness, with a loud voice. - </p> - <p> - “So please your Serene Highness, I am here!” answered a very thin treble; - and, bustling through the surrounding crowd, came forward the owner of the - voice. Master Rodolph was not much above five feet high, but he was nearly - as broad as he was long. Though more than middle-aged, an almost infantile - smile played upon his broad fair face, to which his small turn-up nose, - large green goggle-eyes, and unmeaning mouth gave no expression. His long - hair hung over his shoulders, the flaxen locks in some places maturing - into grey. In compliance with the taste of his master, this most - unsportsman-like-looking steward was clad in a green jerkin, on the right - arm of which was embroidered a giant’s head, the crest of the Little - Lilliputs. - </p> - <p> - “Truly, Rodolph, we have received some scratch in the chase to-day, and - need your assistance. The best of surgeons, we assure you, Mr. Grey, if - you require one: and look you that the blue chamber be prepared for this - gentleman; and we shall have need of our cabinet this evening. See that - all this be done, and inform Prince Maximilian that we would speak with - him. And look you, Master Rodolph, there is one in this company; what call - you your servant’s name, sir? Essper George! ‘tis well: look you, Rodolph, - see that our friend Essper George be well provided for. We know that we - can trust him to your good care. And now, gentlemen, at sunset we meet in - the Giants’ Hall.” So saying, his Highness bowed to the party; and taking - Vivian by the arm, and followed by Arnelm and Von Neuwied, he ascended a - stair case which opened into the court, and then mounted into a covered - gallery which ran round the whole building. The interior wall of the - gallery was alternately ornamented with stags’ heads or other trophies of - the chase, and coats of arms blazoned in stucco. The Prince did the - honours of the castle to Vivian with great courtesy. The armoury and the - hall, the knights chamber, and even the donjon-keep, were all examined; - and when Vivian had sufficiently admired the antiquity of the structure - and the beauty of the situation, the Prince, having proceeded down a long - corridor, opened the door into a small chamber, which he introduced to - Vivian as his cabinet. The furniture of this room was rather quaint, and - not unpleasing. The wainscot and ceiling were painted alike, of a light - green colour, and were richly carved and gilt. The walls were hung with - green velvet, of which material were also the chairs, and a sofa, which - was placed under a large and curiously-cut looking glass. The lower panes - of the windows of this room were of stained glass, of vivid tints; but the - upper panes were untinged, in order that the light should not be disturbed - which fell through them upon two magnificent pictures; one a - hunting-piece, by Schneiders, and the other a portrait of an armed - chieftain on horseback, by Lucas Cranach. - </p> - <p> - And now the door opened, and Master Rodolph entered, carrying in his hand - a white wand, and bowing very reverently as he ushered in servants bearing - a cold collation. As he entered, it was with difficulty that he could - settle his countenance into the due and requisite degree of gravity; and - so often was the fat steward on the point of bursting into laughter, as he - arranged the setting out of the refreshments on the table, that the - Prince, with whom he was at the same time both a favourite and a butt, at - last noticed his unusual and unmanageable risibility. - </p> - <p> - “Why, Rodolph, what ails thee? Hast thou just discovered the point of some - good saying of yesterday?” - </p> - <p> - The steward could now contain his laughter no longer, and he gave vent to - his emotion in a most treble “He! he! he!” - </p> - <p> - “Speak, man, in the name of St. Hubert, and on the word of as stout a - huntsman as ever yet crossed horse. Speak, we say; what ails thee?” - </p> - <p> - “He! he! he! in truth, a most comical knave! I beg your Serene Highness - ten thousand most humble pardons, but, in truth, a more comical knave did - I never see. How call you him? Essper George, I think; he! he! he! In - truth, your Highness was right when you styled him a merry knave; in - truth, a most comical knave; he! he! a very funny knave! He says, your - Highness, that I am like a snake in a consumption! he! he! he! In truth, a - most comical knave!” - </p> - <p> - “Well, Rodolph, so long as you do not quarrel with his jokes, they shall - pass as true wit. But why comes not our son? Have you bidden the Prince - Maximilian to our presence?” - </p> - <p> - “In truth have I, your Highness; but he was engaged at the moment with Mr. - Sievers, and therefore he could not immediately attend my bidding. - Nevertheless, he bade me deliver to your Serene Highness his dutiful - affection, saying that he would soon have the honour of bending his knee - unto your Serene Highness.” - </p> - <p> - “He never said any such nonsense. At least, if he did, he must be changed - since last we hunted.” - </p> - <p> - “In truth, your Highness, I cannot aver, upon my conscience as a faithful - steward, that such were the precise words and exact phraseology of his - Highness the Prince Maximilian. But in the time of the good Prince, your - father, whose memory be ever blessed, such were the words and style of - message which I was schooled and instructed by Mr. von Lexicon, your - Serene Highness’ most honoured tutor, to bear unto the good Prince your - father, whose memory be ever blessed, when I had the great fortune of - being your Serene Highness’ most particular page, and it fell to my lot to - have the pleasant duty of informing the good Prince your father, whose - memory be ever blessed—” - </p> - <p> - “Enough! but Sievers is not Von Lexicon, and Maximilian, we trust, is—” - </p> - <p> - “Papa! papa! dearest papa!” shouted a young lad, as he dashed open the - door, and, rushing into the room, threw his arms round the Prince’s neck. - </p> - <p> - “My darling!” said the father, forgetting at this moment of genuine - feeling the pompous plural in which he had hitherto spoken of himself. The - Prince fondly kissed his child. The boy was about ten years of age, - exquisitely handsome. Courage, not audacity, was imprinted on his noble - features. - </p> - <p> - “Papa! may I hunt with you to-morrow?” - </p> - <p> - “What says Mr. Sievers?” - </p> - <p> - “Oh! Mr. Sievers says I am excellent; I assure you, upon my honour, he - does, I heard you come home; but though I was dying to see you, I would - not run out till I had finished my Roman History. I say, papa! what a - grand fellow Brutus was; what a grand thing it is to be a patriot! I - intend to be a patriot myself, and to kill the Grand Duke of Reisenburg. - Who is that?” - </p> - <p> - “My friend, Max, Mr. Grey. Speak to him.” - </p> - <p> - “I am happy to see you at Turriparva, sir,” said the boy, bowing to Vivian - with dignity. “Have you been hunting with his Highness this morning?” - </p> - <p> - “I can hardly say I have.” - </p> - <p> - “Max, I have received a slight wound to-day. Do not look alarmed; it is - slight. I only mention it because, had it not been for this gentleman, it - is very probable you would never have seen your father again. He has saved - my life!” - </p> - <p> - “Saved your life! saved my papa’s life!” said the young Prince, seizing - Vivian’s hand. “Oh! sir, what can I do for you? Mr. Sievers!” said the - boy, with eagerness, to a gentleman who entered the room; “Mr. Sievers! - here is a young lord who has saved papa’s life!” - </p> - <p> - Mr. Sievers was a tall, thin man, about forty, with a clear sallow - complexion, a high forehead, on which a few wrinkles were visible, bright - keen eyes, and a quantity of grey curling hair, which was combed back off - his forehead, and fell down over his shoulders. He was introduced to - Vivian as the Prince’s particular friend; and then he listened, apparently - with interest, to his Highness’ narrative of the morning’s adventure, his - danger, and his rescue. Young Maximilian never took his large, dark-blue - eyes off his father while he was speaking, and when he had finished the - boy rushed to Vivian and threw his arms round his neck. Vivian was - delighted with the affection of the child, who whispered to him in a low - voice, “I know what you are!” - </p> - <p> - “What, my young friend?” - </p> - <p> - “Ah! I know.” - </p> - <p> - “But tell me!” - </p> - <p> - “You thought I should not find out: you are a patriot!” - </p> - <p> - “I hope I am,” said Vivian; “but travelling in a foreign country is hardly - a proof of it. Perhaps you do not know that I am an Englishman.” - </p> - <p> - “An Englishman!” said the child, with an air of great disappointment. “I - thought you were a patriot! I am one. Do you know I will tell you a - secret. You must promise not to tell, though. Promise, upon your word! - Well, then,” said the urchin, whispering with great energy in Vivian’s ear - through his hollow fist, “I hate the Grand Duke of Reisenburg, and I mean - to stab him to the heart.” So saying, the little Prince grated his teeth - with an expression of bitter detestation. - </p> - <p> - “What the deuce is the matter with the child!” thought Vivian; but at this - moment his conversation with him was interrupted. - </p> - <p> - “Am I to believe this young gentleman, my dear Sievers,” asked the Prince, - “when he tells me that his conduct has met your approbation?” - </p> - <p> - “Your son, Prince,” answered Mr. Sievers, “can only speak truth. His - excellence is proved by my praising him to his face.” - </p> - <p> - The young Maximilian, when Mr. Sievers had ceased speaking, stood - blushing, with his eyes fixed on the ground; and the delighted parent, - catching his child up in his arms, embraced him with unaffected fondness. - </p> - <p> - “And now, all this time Master Rodolph is waiting for his patient. By St. - Hubert, you can none of you think me very ill! Your pardon, Mr. Grey, for - leaving you. My friend Sievers will, I am sure, be delighted to make you - feel at ease at Turriparva. Max, come with me!” - </p> - <p> - Vivian found in Mr. Sievers an interesting companion; nothing of the - pedant and much of the philosopher. Their conversation was of course - chiefly on topics of local interest, anecdotes of the castle and the - country, of Vivian’s friends, the drunken Johannisberger and his crew, and - such matters; but there was a keenness of satire in some of Mr. Sievers’ - observations which was highly amusing, and enough passed to make Vivian - desire opportunities of conversing with him at greater length, and on - subjects of greater interest. They were at present disturbed by Essper - George entering the room to inform Vivian that his luggage had arrived - from the village, and that the blue chamber was now prepared for his - presence. - </p> - <p> - “We shall meet, I suppose, in the hall, Mr. Sievers?” - </p> - <p> - “No; I shall not dine there. If you remain at Turriparva, which I trust - you will. I shall be happy to see you in my room. If it have no other - inducement to gain it the honour of your visit, it has here, at least, the - recommendation of singularity; there is, at any rate, no other chamber - like it in this good castle.” - </p> - <p> - The business of the toilet is sooner performed for a hunting party in a - German forest than for a state dinner at Château Desir, and Vivian was - ready before he was summoned. - </p> - <p> - “His Serene Highness has commenced his progress towards the hall.” - announced Essper George to Vivian in a treble voice, and bowing with - ceremony as he offered to lead the way with a white wand waving in his - right hand. - </p> - <p> - “I shall attend his Highness,” said his master; “but before I do, if that - white wand be not immediately laid aside it will be broken about your - back.” - </p> - <p> - “Broken about my back! what, the wand of office, sir, of your steward! - Master Rodolph says that, in truth, a steward is but half himself who hath - not his wand: methinks when his rod of office is wanting, his Highness of - Lilliput’s steward is but unequally divided. In truth, he is stout enough - to be Aaron’s wand that swallowed up all the rest. But has your nobleness - any serious objection to my carrying a wand? It gives such an air!” - </p> - <p> - The Giants’ Hall was a Gothic chamber of imposing appearance; the oaken - rafters of the curiously-carved roof rested on the grim heads of gigantic - figures of the same material. These statues extended the length of the - hall on each side; they were elaborately sculptured and highly polished, - and each one held in its outstretched arm a blazing and aromatic torch. - Above them, small windows of painted glass admitted a light which was no - longer necessary at the banquet to which we are now about to introduce the - reader. Over the great entrance doors was a gallery, from which a band of - trumpeters, arrayed in ample robes of flowing scarlet, sent forth many a - festive and martial strain. More than fifty individuals, all wearing - hunting dresses of green cloth on which the giant’s head was carefully - emblazoned, were already seated in the hall when Vivian entered: he was - conducted to the upper part of the chamber, and a seat was allotted him on - the left hand of the Prince. His Highness had not arrived, but a chair of - state, placed under a crimson canopy, denoted the style of its absent - owner; and a stool, covered with velvet of the same regal colour, and - glistening with gold lace, announced that the presence of Prince - Maximilian was expected. While Vivian was musing in astonishment at the - evident affectation of royal pomp which pervaded the whole establishment - of the Prince of Little Lilliput, the trumpeters in the gallery suddenly - commenced a triumphant flourish. All rose as the princely procession - entered the hall: first came Master Rodolph twirling his white wand with - the practised pride of a drum-major, and looking as pompous as a - turkey-cock in a storm; six footmen in splendid liveries, two by two, - immediately followed him. A page heralded the Prince Maximilian, and then - came the Serene father; the Jagd Junker, and four or five other gentlemen - of the court, formed the suite. - </p> - <p> - His Highness ascended the throne, Prince Maximilian was on his right, and - Vivian had the high honour of the left hand; the Jagd Junker seated - himself next to our hero. The table was profusely covered, chiefly with - the sports of the forest, and the celebrated wild boar was not forgotten. - Few minutes had elapsed ere Vivian perceived that his Highness was always - served on bended knee; surprised at this custom, which even the mightiest - and most despotic monarchs seldom exact, and still more surprised at the - contrast which all this state afforded to the natural ease and affable - amiability of the Prince, Vivian ventured to ask his neighbour Arnelm - whether the banquet of to-day was in celebration of any particular event - of general or individual interest. - </p> - <p> - “By no means,” said the Jagd Junker, “this is the usual style of the - Prince’s daily meal, except that to-day there is, perhaps, rather less - state and fewer guests than usual, in consequence of many of our - fellow-subjects having left us with the purpose of attending a great - hunting party, which is now holding in the dominions of his Highness’ - cousin, the Duke of Micromegas.” - </p> - <p> - When the more necessary but, as most hold, the less delightful part of - banqueting was over, and the numerous serving-men had removed the more - numerous dishes of wild boar, red deer, roebuck, and winged game, a stiff - Calvinistic-looking personage rose and delivered a long and most grateful - grace, to which the sturdy huntsmen listened with a due mixture of piety - and impatience. When his starch reverence, who in his black coat looked - among the huntsmen very like (as Essper George observed) a blackbird among - a set of moulting canaries, had finished, an old man, with long snow-white - hair—and a beard of the same colour—rose from his seat, and, - with a glass in his hand, bowing first to his Highness with great respect - and then to his companions, with an air of condescension, gave in a stout - voice, “The Prince!” A loud shout was immediately raised, and all quaffed - with rapture the health of a ruler whom evidently they adored. Master - Rodolph now brought forward an immense silver goblet full of some crafty - compound, from its odour doubtless delicious. The Prince held the goblet - by its two massy handles, and then said in a loud voice: - </p> - <p> - “My friends, the Giant’s head! and he who sneers at its frown may he rue - its bristles!” - </p> - <p> - The toast was welcomed with a cry of triumph. When the noise had subsided - the Jagd Junker rose, and prefacing the intended pledge by a few - observations as remarkable for the delicacy of their sentiments as the - elegance of their expression, he gave, pointing to Vivian, “The Guest! and - may the Prince never want a stout arm at a strong push!” The sentiment was - again echoed by the lusty voices of all present, and particularly by his - Highness. As Vivian shortly returned thanks and modestly apologised for - the German of a foreigner, he could not refrain from remembering the last - time when he was placed in the same situation; it was when the treacherous - Lord Courtown had drank success to Mr. Vivian Grey’s maiden speech in a - bumper of claret at the political orgies of Château Desir. Could he really - be the same individual as the daring youth who then organised the crazy - councils of those ambitious, imbecile grey-beards? What was he then? What - had happened since? What was he now? He turned from the comparison with - feelings of sickening disgust, and it was with difficulty that his - countenance could assume the due degree of hilarity which befitted the - present occasion. - </p> - <p> - “Truly, Mr. Grey,” said the Prince, “your German would pass current at - Weimar. Arnelm, good cousin Arnelm, we must trouble thy affectionate duty - to marshal and regulate the drinking devoirs of our kind subjects - to-night; for by the advice of our trusty surgeon, Master Rodolph, of much - fame, we shall refrain this night from our accustomed potations, and - betake ourselves to the solitude of our cabinet; a solitude in good sooth, - unless we can persuade you to accompany us, kind sir,” said the Prince, - turning to Mr. Grey. “Methinks eight-and-forty hours without rest, and a - good part spent in the mad walls of our cousin of Johannisberger, are - hardly the best preparatives for a drinking bout; unless, after Oberon’s - horn, ye may fairly be considered to be in practice. Nevertheless, I - advise the cabinet and a cup of Rodolph’s coffee. What sayest thou?” - Vivian acceded to the Prince’s proposition with eagerness; and accompanied - by Prince Maximilian, and preceded by the little steward, who, surrounded - by his serving-men, very much resembled a planet eclipsed by his - satellites, they left the hall. - </p> - <p> - “‘Tis almost a pity to shut out the moon on such a night,” said the - Prince, as he drew a large green velvet curtain from the windows of the - cabinet. - </p> - <p> - “‘Tis a magnificent night!” said Vivian; “how fine the effect of the light - is upon the picture of the warrior. The horse seems quite living, and its - fierce rider actually frowns upon us.” - </p> - <p> - “He may well frown,” said the Prince of Little Lilliput, in a voice of - deep melancholy; and he hastily redrew the curtain. In a moment he started - from the chair on which he had just seated himself, and again admitted the - moonlight. “Am I really afraid of an old picture? No, no; it has not yet - come to that.” - </p> - <p> - This was uttered in a distinct voice, and of course excited the - astonishment of Vivian, who, however, had too much discretion to evince - his surprise, or to take any measure by which his curiosity might be - satisfied. - </p> - <p> - His companion seemed instantly conscious of the seeming singularity of his - expression. - </p> - <p> - “You are surprised at my words, good sir,” said his Highness, as he paced - very rapidly up and down the small chamber; “you are surprised at my - words; but, sir, my ancestor’s brow was guarded by a diadem!” - </p> - <p> - “Which was then well won, Prince, and is now worthily worn.” - </p> - <p> - “By whom? where? how?” asked the Prince, in a rapid voice. “Maximilian,” - continued his Highness, in a more subdued tone; “Maximilian, my own love, - leave us; go to Mr. Sievers. God bless you, my only boy. Good night!” - </p> - <p> - “Good night, dearest papa, and down with the Grand Duke of Reisenburg!” - </p> - <p> - “He echoes the foolish zeal of my fond followers,” said the Prince, as his - son left the room. “The idle parade to which their illegal loyalty still - clings; my own manners, the relics of former days; habits will not change - like stations; all these have deceived you, sir. You have mistaken me for - a monarch; I should be one. A curse light on me the hour I can mention it - without a burning blush. Oh, shame! shame on the blood of my father’s son! - Can my mouth own that I once was one? Yes, sir! you see before you the - most injured, the least enviable of human beings. I am a mediatised - Prince!” - </p> - <p> - Vivian had resided too long in Germany to be ignorant of the meaning of - this title, with which, perhaps, few of our readers may be acquainted. A - mediatised Prince is an unhappy victim of those Congresses which, among - other good and evil, purged with great effect the ancient German political - system. By the regulations then determined on, that country was freed at - one fell swoop from the vexatious and harassing dominion of the various - petty Princes who exercised absolute sovereignties over little nations of - fifty thousand souls. These independent sovereigns became subjects; and - either swelled, by their mediatisation, the territories of some already - powerful potentate, or transmuted into a state of importance some more - fortunate petty ruler than themselves, whose independence, through the - exertions of political intrigue or family influence, had been preserved - inviolate. In most instances, the concurrence of these little rulers in - their worldly degradation was obtained by a lavish grant of official - emoluments or increase of territorial possessions; and the mediatised - Prince, instead of being an impoverished and uninfluential sovereign, - became a wealthy and powerful subject. But so dominant in the heart of man - is the love of independent dominion, that even with these temptations few - of the petty princes could have been induced to have parted with their - cherished sceptres, had they not been conscious that, in case of - contumacy, the resolutions of a Diet would have been enforced by the - armies of an emperor. As it is, few of them have yet given up the outward - and visible signs of regal sway. The throne is still preserved and the - tiara still revered. They seldom frequent the courts of their sovereigns, - and scarcely condescend to notice the attentions of their fellow nobility. - Most of them expend their increased revenues in maintaining the splendour - of their little courts at their ancient capitals, or in swelling the ranks - of their retainers at their solitary forest castles. - </p> - <p> - The Prince of Little Lilliput was the first mediatised sovereign that - Vivian had ever met. At another time, and under other circumstances, he - might have smiled at the idle parade and useless pomp which he had this - day witnessed, or moralised on that weakness of human nature which seemed - to consider the inconvenient appendages of a throne as the great end for - which power was to be coveted; but at the present moment he only saw a - kind and, as he believed, estimable individual disquieted and distressed. - It was painful to witness the agitation of the Prince, and Vivian felt it - necessary to make some observations, which, from his manner, expressed - more than they meant. - </p> - <p> - “Sir,” said his Highness, “your sympathy consoles me. Do not imagine that - I can misunderstand it; it does you honour. You add by this to the many - favours you have already conferred on me by saving my life and accepting - my hospitality. I sincerely hope that your departure hence will be - postponed to the last possible moment. Your conversation and your company - have made me pass a more cheerful day than I am accustomed to. All here - love me; but, with the exception of Sievers, I have no companion; and - although I esteem his principles and his talents, there is no congeniality - in our tastes, or in our tempers. As for the rest, a more devoted band - cannot be conceived; but they think only of one thing, the lost dignity of - their ruler; and although this concentration of their thoughts on one - subject may gratify my pride, it does not elevate my spirit. But this is a - subject on which in future we will not converse. One of the curses of my - unhappy lot is, that a thousand circumstances daily occur which prevent me - forgetting it.” - </p> - <p> - The Prince rose from the table, and pressing with his right hand on part - of the wall, the door of a small closet sprung open; the interior was - lined with crimson velvet. He took out of it a cushion of the same regal - material, on which reposed, in solitary magnificence, a golden coronet of - antique workmanship. - </p> - <p> - “The crown of my fathers,” said his Highness, as he placed the treasure - with great reverence on the table, “won by fifty battles and lost without - a blow! Yet in my youth I was deemed no dastard; and I have shed more - blood for my country in one day than he who claims to be my suzerain in - the whole of his long career of undeserved prosperity. Ay, this is the - curse; the ancestor of my present sovereign was that warrior’s serf!” The - Prince pointed to the grim chieftain, whose stout helmet Vivian now - perceived was encircled by a crown similar to the one which was now lying - before him. “Had I been the subject, had I been obliged to acknowledge the - sway of a Caesar, I might have endured it with resignation. Had I been - forced to yield to the legions of an Emperor, a noble resistance might - have consoled me for the clanking of my chains. But to sink without a - struggle, the victim of political intrigue; to become the bondsman of one - who was my father’s slave; for such was Reisenburg, even in my own - remembrance, our unsuccessful rival; this was too had. It rankles in my - heart, and unless I can be revenged I shall sink under it. To have lost my - dominions would have been nothing. But revenge I will have! It is yet in - my power to gain for an enslaved people the liberty I have myself lost. - Yes! the enlightened spirit of the age shall yet shake the quavering - councils of the Reisenburg cabal. I will, in truth I have already seconded - the just, the unanswerable demands of an oppressed and insulted people, - and, ere six months are over, I trust to see the convocation of a free and - representative council in the capital of the petty monarch to whom I have - been betrayed. The chief of Reisenburg has, in his eagerness to gain his - grand ducal crown, somewhat overstepped the mark. - </p> - <p> - “Besides myself, there are no less than three other powerful princes whose - dominions have been devoted to the formation of his servile duchy. We are - all animated by the same spirit, all intent upon the same end. We have all - used, and are using, our influence as powerful nobles to gain for our - fellow-subjects their withheld rights; rights which belong to them as men, - not merely as Germans. Within this week I have forwarded to the Residence - a memorial subscribed by myself, my relatives, the other princes, and a - powerful body of discontented nobles, requesting the immediate grant of a - constitution similar to those of Wirtemburg and Bavaria. My companions in - misfortune are inspirited by my joining them. Had I been wise I should - have joined them sooner; but until this moment I have been the dupe of the - artful conduct of an unprincipled Minister. My eyes, however, are now - open. The Grand Duke and his crafty counsellor, whose name shall not - profane my lips, already tremble. Part of the people, emboldened by our - representations, have already refused to answer an unconstitutional - taxation. I have no doubt that he must yield. Whatever may be the - inclination of the Courts of Vienna or St. Petersburg, rest assured that - the liberty of Germany will meet with no opponent except political - intrigue; and that Metternich is too well acquainted with the spirit which - is now only slumbering in the bosom of the German nation to run the - slightest risk of exciting it by the presence of foreign legions. No, no! - that mode of treatment may do very well for Naples, or Poland, or Spain; - but the moment that a Croat or a Cossack shall encamp upon the Rhine or - the Elbe, for the purpose of supporting the unadulterated tyranny of their - new-fangled Grand Dukes, that moment Germany becomes a great and united - nation. The greatest enemy of the prosperity of Germany is the natural - disposition of her sons; but that disposition, while it does now, and may - for ever, hinder us from being a great people, will at the same time - infallibly prevent us from ever becoming a degraded one.” - </p> - <p> - At this moment, this moment of pleasing anticipation of public virtue and - private revenge, Master Rodolph entered, and prevented Vivian from gaining - any details of the history of his host. The little round steward informed - his master that a horseman had just arrived, bearing for his Highness a - despatch of importance, which he insisted upon delivering into the - Prince’s own hands. - </p> - <p> - “Whence comes he?” asked his Highness. - </p> - <p> - “In truth, your Serene Highness, that were hard to say, inasmuch as the - messenger refuses to inform us.” - </p> - <p> - “Admit him.” - </p> - <p> - A man whose jaded looks proved that he had travelled far that day was soon - ushered into the room, and, bowing to the Prince, delivered to him in - silence a letter. - </p> - <p> - “From whom comes this?” asked the Prince. - </p> - <p> - “It will itself inform your Highness,” was the only answer. - </p> - <p> - “My friend, you are a trusty messenger, and have been well trained. - Rodolph, look that this gentleman be well lodged and attended.” - </p> - <p> - “I thank your Highness,” said the messenger, “but I do not tarry here. I - wait no answer, and my only purpose in seeing you was to perform my - commission to the letter, by delivering this paper into your own hands.” - </p> - <p> - “As you please, sir; you must be the best judge of your own time; but we - like not strangers to leave our gates while our drawbridge is yet echoing - with their entrance steps.” - </p> - <p> - The Prince and Vivian were again alone. Astonishment and agitation were - visible on his Highness’ countenance as he threw his eye over the letter. - At length he folded it up, put it into his breast-pocket and tried to - resume conversation; but the effort was both evident and unsuccessful. In - another moment the letter was again taken out, and again read with not - less emotion than accompanied its first perusal. - </p> - <p> - “I fear I have wearied you, Mr. Grey,” said his Highness; “it was - inconsiderate in me not to remember that you require repose.” - </p> - <p> - Vivian was not sorry to have an opportunity of retiring, so he quickly - took the hint, and wished his Highness agreeable dreams. - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0059" id="link2HCH0059"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER IV - </h2> - <p> - No one but an adventurous traveller can know the luxury of sleep. There is - not a greater fallacy in the world than the common creed that sweet sleep - is labour’s guerdon. Mere regular, corporeal labour may certainly procure - us a good, sound, refreshing slumber, disturbed often by the consciousness - of the monotonous duties of the morrow; but how sleep the other great - labourers of this laborious world? Where is the sweet sleep of the - politician? After hours of fatigue in his office and hours of exhaustion - in the House, he gains his pillow; and a brief, feverish night, disturbed - by the triumph of a cheer and the horrors of a reply. Where is the sweet - sleep of the poet? We all know how harassing are the common dreams which - are made up of incoherent images of our daily life, in which the actors - are individuals that we know, and whose conduct generally appears to be - regulated by principles which we can comprehend. How much more enervating - and destroying must be the slumber of that man who dreams of an imaginary - world! waking, with a heated and excited spirit, to mourn over some - impressive incident of the night, which is nevertheless forgotten, or to - collect some inexplicable plot which has been revealed in sleep, and has - fled from the memory as the eyelids have opened. Where is the sweet sleep - of the artist? of the lawyer? Where, indeed, of any human being to whom - to-morrow brings its necessary duties? Sleep is the enemy of Care, and - Care is the constant companion of regular labour, mental or bodily. - </p> - <p> - But your traveller, your adventurous traveller, careless of the future, - reckless of the past, with a mind interested by the world, from the - immense and various character which that world presents to him, and not by - his own stake in any petty or particular contingency; wearied by - delightful fatigue, daily occasioned by varying means and from varying - causes; with the consciousness that no prudence can regulate the fortunes - of the morrow, and with no curiosity to discover what those fortunes may - be, from a conviction that it is utterly impossible to ascertain them; - perfectly easy whether he lie in a mountain-hut, or a royal palace; and - reckless alike of the terrors and chances of storm and bandits, seeing - that he has a fair chance of meeting both with security and enjoyment; - this is the fellow who, throwing himself upon a down couch or his mule’s - pack-saddle, with equal eagerness and equal sangfroid, sinks into a - repose, in which he is never reminded by the remembrance of an appointment - or an engagement for the next day, a duel, a marriage, or a dinner, the - three perils of man, that he has the misfortune of being mortal; and wakes - not to combat care, but only to feel that he is fresher and more vigorous - than he was the night before; and that, come what come may, he is, at any - rate, sure this day of seeing different faces, and of improvising his - unpremeditated part upon a different scene. - </p> - <p> - We have now both philosophically accounted and politely apologised for the - loud and unfashionable snore which sounded in the blue chamber about five - minutes after Vivian Grey had entered that most comfortable apartment. In - about twelve hours’ time he was scolding Essper George for having presumed - to wake him so early, quite unconscious that he had enjoyed anything more - than a twenty minutes’ doze. - </p> - <p> - “I should not have come in, sir, only they are all out. They were off by - six o’clock this morning, sir; most part at least. The Prince has gone; I - do not know whether he went with them, but Master Rodolph has given me—I - breakfasted with Master Rodolph. Holy Virgin! what quarters we have got - into!” - </p> - <p> - “To the point; what of the Prince?” - </p> - <p> - “His Highness has left the castle, and desired Master Rodolph; if your - Grace had only seen Master Rodolph tipsy last night; he rolled about like - a turbot in a tornado.” - </p> - <p> - “What of the Prince?” - </p> - <p> - “The Prince desired this letter to be given to you, sir.” - </p> - <p> - Vivian read the note, which supposed that, of course, he would not wish to - join the chase this morning, and regretted that the writer was obliged to - ride out for a few hours to visit a neighbouring nobleman, but requested - the pleasure of his guest’s company at a private dinner in the cabinet on - his return. - </p> - <p> - After breakfast Vivian called on Mr. Sievers. He found that gentleman - busied in his library. - </p> - <p> - “You never hunt, I suppose, Mr. Sievers?” - </p> - <p> - “Never. His Highness, I apprehend, is out this morning; the beautiful - weather continues; surely we never had such a season. As for myself, I - almost have given up my indoor pursuits. The sun is not the light of - study. Let us take our caps and have a stroll.” - </p> - <p> - The gentlemen accordingly left the library, and proceeding through a - different gate to that by which Vivian had entered the castle, they came - upon a part of the forest in which the timber and brushwood had been in a - great measure cleared away; large clumps of trees being left standing on - an artificial lawn, and newly-made roads winding about in pleasing - irregularity until they were all finally lost in the encircling woods. - </p> - <p> - “I think you told me,” said Mr. Sievers, “that you had been long in - Germany. What course do you think of taking from here?” - </p> - <p> - “Straight to Vienna.” - </p> - <p> - “Ah! a delightful place. If, as I suppose to be the case, you are fond of - dissipation and luxury, Vienna is to be preferred to any city with which I - am acquainted. And intellectual companions are not wanting there, as some - have said. There are one or two houses in which the literary soirées will - yield to few in Europe; and I prefer them to most, because there is less - pretension and more ease. The Archduke John is a man of considerable - talents, and of more considerable acquirements. An excellent geologist! - Are you fond of geology?” - </p> - <p> - “I am not in the least acquainted with the science.” - </p> - <p> - “Naturally so; at your age, if, in fact, we study at all, we are fond of - fancying ourselves moral philosophers, and our study is mankind. Trust me, - my dear sir, it is a branch of research soon exhausted; and in a few years - you will be very glad, for want of something else to do, to meditate upon - stones. See now,” said Mr. Sievers, picking up a stone, “to what - associations does this little piece of quartz give rise! I am already an - antediluvian, and instead of a stag bounding by that wood I witness the - moving mass of a mammoth. I live in other worlds, which, at the same time, - I have the advantage of comparing with the present. Geology is indeed a - magnificent study! What excites more the imagination? What exercises more - the reason? Can you conceive anything sublimer than the gigantic shadows - and the grim wreck of an antediluvian world? Can you devise any plan which - will more brace our powers, and develop our mental energies, than the - formation of a perfect chain of inductive reasoning to account for these - phenomena? What is the boasted communion which the vain poet holds with - nature compared with conversation which the geologist perpetually carries - on with the elemental world? Gazing on the strata of the earth, he reads - the fate of his species. In the undulations of the mountains is revealed - to him the history of the past; and in the strength of rivers and the - powers of the air he discovers the fortunes of the future. To him, indeed, - that future, as well as the past and the present, are alike matter for - meditation: for the geologist is the most satisfactory of antiquarians, - the most interesting of philosophers, and the most inspired of prophets; - demonstrating that which has past by discovery, that which is occurring by - observation, and that which is to come by induction. When you go to Vienna - I will give you a letter to Frederic Schlegel; we were fellow-students, - and are friends, though for various reasons we do not at present meet; - nevertheless a letter from me will command respect. I will recommend you, - however, before you go on to Vienna, to visit Reisenburg.” - </p> - <p> - “Indeed! from the Prince’s account, I should have thought that there was - little to interest me there.” - </p> - <p> - “His Highness is not an impartial judge. You are probably acquainted with - the disagreeable manner in which he is connected with that Court. Far from - his opinion being correct, I should say there are few places in Germany - more worthy of a visit than the little Court near us; and above all things - my advice is that you should not pass it over.” - </p> - <p> - “I am inclined to follow it. You are right in supposing that I am not - ignorant that His Highness has the misfortune of being a mediatised - Prince; but what is the exact story about him? I have heard some odd - rumours, some—” - </p> - <p> - It is a curious story, but I am afraid you will find it rather long. - Nevertheless, if you really visit Reisenburg, it may be of use to you to - know something of the singular characters you will meet there. In the - first place, you say you know that Little Lilliput is a mediatised Prince, - and, of course, are precisely aware what that title means. About fifty - years ago, the rival of the illustrious family in whose chief castle we - are both of us now residing was the Margrave of Reisenburg, another petty - Prince with territories not so extensive as those of our friend, and with - a population more limited: perhaps fifty thousand souls, half of whom were - drunken cousins. The old Margrave of Reisenburg, who then reigned, was a - perfect specimen of the old-fashioned German Prince: he did nothing but - hunt and drink and think of the quarterings of his immaculate shield, all - duly acquired from some Vandal ancestor as barbarous as himself. His - little Margraviate was misgoverned enough for a great empire. Half of his - nation, who were his real people, were always starving, and were unable to - find crown pieces to maintain the extravagant expenditure of the other - moiety, the cousins; who, out of gratitude to their fellow-subjects for - their generous support, harassed them with every species of excess. - Complaints were of course made to the Margrave, and loud cries for justice - resounded at the palace gates. This Prince was an impartial chief - magistrate; he prided himself upon his “invariable” principles of justice, - and he allowed nothing to influence his decisions. His plan for arranging - all differences had the merit of being brief; and if brevity be the soul - of wit, it certainly was most unreasonable in his subjects to consider his - judgments no joke. He always counted the quarterings in the shields of the - respective parties, and decided accordingly. Imagine the speedy redress - gained by a muddy-veined peasant against one of the cousins; who, of - course, had as many quarterings as the Margrave himself. The defendant was - regularly acquitted. At length, a man’s house having been burnt down out - of mere joke in the night, the owner had the temerity in the morning to - accuse one of the privileged, and to produce, at the same tune, a shield, - with exactly one more quartering than the reigning shield itself - contained. The Margrave was astounded, the people in raptures, and the - cousins in despair. The complainant’s shield was examined and counted, and - not a flaw discovered. What a dilemma! The chief magistrate consulted with - the numerous branches of his family, and the next morning the - complainant’s head was struck off for high treason, for daring to have one - more quartering than his monarch! - </p> - <p> - “In this way they passed their time about fifty years since in Reisenburg; - occasionally, for the sake of variety, declaring war against the - inhabitants of Little Lilliput, who, to say the truth, in their habits and - pursuits did not materially differ from their neighbours. The Margrave had - one son, the present Grand Duke. A due reverence of the great family - shield, and a full acquaintance with the invariable principles of justice, - were early instilled into him; and the royal stripling made such rapid - progress, under the tuition of his amiable parent, that he soon became - highly popular with all his relations. At length his popularity became - troublesome to his father; and so the old Margrave sent for his son one - morning and informed him that he had dreamed the preceding night that the - air of Reisenburg was peculiarly unwholesome for young persons, and - therefore he begged him to get out of his dominions as soon as possible. - The young Prince had no objection to see something of the world. He flew - to a relative whom he had never before visited. This nobleman was one of - those individuals who anticipate their age, which, by-the-bye, Mr. Grey, - none but noblemen should do; for he who anticipates his century is - generally persecuted when living, and is always pilfered when dead. - Howbeit, this relation was a philosopher; all about him thought him mad; - he, in return, thought all about him fools. He sent the Prince to an - University, and gave him for a tutor a young man about ten years older - than his pupil. This person’s name was Beckendorff. You will hear more of - him. - </p> - <p> - “About three years after the sudden departure of the young Prince, the old - Margrave his father and the then reigning Prince of Little Lilliput shot - each other through the head in a drunken brawl, after a dinner given in - honour of a proclamation of peace between the two countries. The cousins - were not much grieved, as they anticipated a fit successor in their former - favourite. Splendid preparations were made for the reception of the - inheritor of the family shield, and all Reisenburg was poured out to - witness the triumphant entrance of their future monarch. At last two - horsemen in plain dresses, and on indifferent steeds, rode up to the - palace gates, dismounted, and without making any enquiry ordered the - attendance of some of the chief nobility in the presence chamber. One of - them, a young man, without any preparatory explanation, introduced the - Reisenburg chieftains to his companion as his Prime Minister, and - commanded them immediately to deliver up their portefeuilles and golden - keys to Mr. Beckendorff. The nobles were in dismay, and so astounded that - they made no resistance, though the next morning they started in their - beds when they remembered that they had delivered their insignia of office - to a man without a von before his name. They were soon, however, roused - from their sorrow and their stupor, by receiving a peremptory order to - quit the palace: and as they retired from the walls which they had long - considered as their own, they had the mortification of meeting crowds of - the common people, their slaves and their victims, hurrying with joyful - countenances and triumphant looks to the palace of their Prince, in - consequence of an energetic proclamation for the redress of grievances, - and an earnest promise to decide cases in future without examining the - quarterings of the parties, in a week’s time the cousins were all adrift. - At length they conspired, but the conspiracy was tardy, they found their - former servants armed, and they joined in an unequal struggle; for their - opponents were alike animated with hopes of the future and with revenge - for the past. The cousins got well beat, and this was not the worst; for - Beckendorff took advantage of this unsuccessful treason, which he had - himself fomented, and forfeited all their estates; destroying in one hour - the system which had palsied, for so many years, the energies of his - master’s subjects. In time many of the chief nobility were restored to - their honours and estates; but the power with which they were again - invested was greatly modified, and the privileges of the Commons greatly - increased. At this moment the French Revolution broke out. The French - crossed the Rhine and carried all before them; and the Prince of Little - Lilliput, among other true Germans, made a bold but fruitless resistance. - The Margrave of Reisenburg, on the contrary, received the enemy with open - arms; he raised a larger body of troops than his due contingent, and - exerted himself in every manner to second the views of the Great Nation. - In return for his services he was presented with the conquered - principality of Little Lilliput and some other adjoining lands; and the - Margraviate of Reisenburg, with an increased territory and population, and - governed with consummate wisdom, began to be considered the most - flourishing of the petty states in the quarter of the empire to which it - belonged. On the contrary, our princely and patriotic friend, mortified by - the degenerate condition of his country and the prosperity of his rival - house, quitted Little Lilliput, and became one of those emigrant princes - who abounded during the first years of the Revolution in the northern - courts of Europe. Napoleon soon appeared upon the stage; and vanquished - Austria, with the French dictating at the gates of her capital, was no - longer in a condition to support the dignity of the Empire. The policy of - the Margrave of Reisenburg was as little patriotic and quite as consistent - as before. Beckendorff became the constant and favoured counsellor of the - French Emperor. It was chiefly by his exertions that the celebrated - Confederation of the Rhine was carried into effect. The institution of - this body excited among many Germans, at the time, loud expressions of - indignation; but I believe few impartial and judicious men now look upon - that league as any other than one in the formation of which consummate - statesmanship was exhibited. In fact, it prevented the subjugation of - Germany to France, and by flattering the pride of Napoleon saved the - decomposition of our Empire. But how this might be it is not at present - necessary for us to enquire. Certain it was, that the pupil of Beckendorff - was amply repaid for the advice and exertions of his master and his - Minister; and when Napoleon fell the brows of the former Margrave were - encircled with a grand ducal crown, and his duchy, while it contained - upwards of a million and a half of inhabitants, numbered in its limits - some of the most celebrated cities in Germany and many of Germany’s most - flourishing provinces. But Napoleon fell. The Prince of Little Lilliput - and his companions in patriotism and misfortune returned from their exile - panting with hope and vengeance. A Congress was held to settle the affairs - of agitated Germany. Where was the Grand Duke of Reisenburg? His - hard-earned crown tottered on his head. Where was his crafty Minister, the - supporter of revolutionary France, the friend of its Imperial enslaver, - the constant enemy of the House of Austria? At the very Congress which, - according to the expectations of the exiled Princes, was to restore them - to their own dominions, and to reward their patriotic loyalty with the - territories of their revolutionary brethren; yes! at this very Congress - was Beckendorff; not as a suppliant, not as a victim, but seated at the - right hand of Metternich, and watching, with parental affection, the first - interesting and infantile movements of that most prosperous of political - bantlings, the Holy Alliance. You may well imagine that the Military Grand - Duke had a much better chance in political negotiation than the emigrant - Prince. In addition to this, the Grand Duke of Reisenburg had married, - during the war, a Princess of a powerful House; and the allied Sovereigns - were eager to gain the future aid and constant co-operation of a mind like - Beckendorff’s. The Prince of Little Lilliput, the patriot, was rewarded - for his conduct by being restored to his forfeited possessions: and the - next day he became the subject of his former enemy, the Grand Duke of - Reisenburg, the traitor. What think you of Monsieur Beckendorff?” - </p> - <p> - “One of the most interesting characters I have long heard of. But his - pupil appears to be a man of mind.” - </p> - <p> - “You shall hear. I should, however, first mention that while Beckendorff - has not scrupled to resort to any measures or adopt any opinions in order - to further the interests of his monarch and his country, he has in every - manner shown that personal aggrandisement has never been his object. He - lives in retirement, scarcely with an attendant, and his moderate official - stipend amply supports his more moderate expenditure. The subjects of the - Grand Duke may well be grateful that they have a Minister without - relations and without favourites. The Grand Duke is, unquestionably, a man - of talents; but at the same time, perhaps, one of the most weak-minded men - that ever breathed. He was fortunate in meeting with Beckendorff early in - life; and as the influence of the Minister has not for a moment ceased - over the mind of the monarch, to the world the Grand Duke of Reisenburg - has always appeared to be an individual of a strong mind and consistent - conduct. But when you have lived as much and as intimately in his Court as - I have done, you will find how easily the world may be deceived. Since the - close connection which now exists between Reisenburg and Austria took - place, Beckendorff has, in a great degree, revived the ancient privileges - of blood and birth. A Minister who has sprung from the people will always - conciliate the aristocracy. Having no family influence of his own, he - endeavours to gain the influence of others: and it often happens that - merit is never less considered than when merit has made the Minister. A - curious instance of this occurs in a neighbouring state. There the - Premier, decidedly a man of great talents, is of as humble an origin as - Beckendorff. With no family to uphold him, he supports himself by a lavish - division of all the places and patronage of the State among the nobles. If - the younger son or brother of a peer dare to sully his oratorical - virginity by a chance observation in the Lower Chamber, the Minister, - himself a real orator, immediately rises to congratulate, in pompous - phrase, the House and the country on the splendid display which has made - this night memorable, and on the decided advantages which must accrue both - to their own resolutions and the national interests from the future - participation of his noble friend in their deliberations. All about him - are young nobles, quite unfit for the discharge of their respective - duties. His private secretary is unable to coin a sentence, almost to - direct a letter; but he is noble! The secondary officials cannot be - trusted even in the least critical conjunctures; but they are noble! And - the Prime Minister of a powerful empire is forced to rise early and be up - late; not to meditate on the present fortunes or future destinies of his - country, but by his personal exertions to compensate for the inefficiency - and expiate the blunders of his underlings, whom his unfortunate want of - blood has forced him to overwhelm with praises which they do not deserve, - and duties which they cannot discharge. I do not wish you to infer that - the policy of Beckendorff has been actuated by the feelings which - influence the Minister whom I have noticed, from whose conduct in this - very respect his own materially differs. On the contrary, his connection - with Austria is, in all probability, the primary great cause. However this - may be, certain it is that all offices about the Court and connected with - the army (and I need not remind you that at a small German Court these - situations are often the most important in the State) can only be filled - by the nobility; nor can any person who has the misfortune of not - inheriting the magical monosyllable <i>von</i> before his name, the - shibboleth of nobility and the symbol of territorial pride, violate by - their unhallowed presence the sanctity of Court dinners, or the as sacred - ceremonies of a noble fête. But while a monopoly of those offices which - for their due performance require only a showy exterior or a schooled - address is granted to the nobles, all those State charges which require - the exercise of intellect are now chiefly filled by the bourgeoisie. At - the same time, however, that both our Secretaries of State, many of our - Privy Councillors, war Councillors, forest Councillors, and finance - Councillors, are to be reckoned among the second class, still not one of - these exalted individuals, who from their situations are necessarily in - constant personal communication with the Sovereign, ever see that - Sovereign except in his Cabinet and his Council-Chamber. Beckendorff - himself, the Premier, is the son of a peasant; and of course not noble. - Nobility, which has been proffered him, not only by his own monarch, but - by most of the sovereigns of Europe, he has invariably refused; and - consequently never appears at Court. The truth is, that, from disposition, - he is little inclined to mix with men; and he has taken advantage of his - want of an escutcheon completely to exempt himself from all those duties - of etiquette which his exalted situation would otherwise have imposed upon - him. None can complain of the haughtiness of the nobles when, ostensibly, - the Minister himself is not exempted from their exclusive regulations. If - you go to Reisenburg, you will not therefore see Beckendorff, who lives, - as I have mentioned, in solitude, about thirty miles from the capital; - communicating only with his Royal master, the foreign Ministers, and one - or two official characters of his own country. I was myself an inmate of - the Court for upwards of two years. During that time I never saw the - Minister; and, with the exception of some members of the royal family and - the characters I have mentioned, I never knew one person who had even - caught a glimpse of the individual who may indeed be said to be regulating - their destinies. - </p> - <p> - “It is at the Court, then,” continued Mr. Sievers, “when he is no longer - under the control of Beckendorff, and in those minor points which are not - subjected to the management or influenced by the mind of the Minister, - that the true character of the Grand Duke is to be detected. Indeed it may - really be said, that the weakness of his mind has been the origin of his - fortune. In his early youth his pliant temper adapted itself without a - struggle to the barbarous customs and the brutal conduct of his father’s - Court; that same pliancy of temper prevented him opposing with bigoted - obstinacy the exertions of his relation to educate and civilise him; that - same pliancy of temper allowed him to become the ready and the - enthusiastic disciple of Beckendorff. Had the pupil, when he ascended the - throne, left his master behind him, it is very probable that his natural - feelings would have led him to oppose the French; and at this moment, - instead of being the first of the second rate powers of Germany, the Grand - Duke of Reisenburg might himself have been an mediatised Prince. As it - was, the same pliancy of temper which I have noticed enabled him to - receive Napoleon, when an Emperor, with outstretched arms; and at this - moment does not prevent him from receiving, with equal rapture, the - Imperial Archduchess, who will soon be on her road from Vienna to espouse - his son; for, to crown his career, Beckendorff has successfully negotiated - a marriage between a daughter of the House of Austria and the Crown Prince - of Reisenburg. It is generally believed that the next step of the Diet - will be to transmute the father’s Grand Ducal coronet into a Regal crown; - and perhaps, my good sir, before you reach Vienna, you may have the - supreme honour of being presented to his Majesty the King of Reisenburg.” - </p> - <p> - “But when you talk only of the pupil’s pliancy of temper, am I to suppose - that in mentioning his talents you were speaking ironically?” - </p> - <p> - “By no means! The Grand Duke is a scholar; a man of refined taste, a - patron of the fine arts, a lover of literature, a promoter of science, and - what the world would call a philosopher. His judgment is sound, and - generally correct, his powers of discrimination acute, and his knowledge - of mankind greater than that of most sovereigns; but with all these - advantages he is cursed with such a wavering and indecisive temper, that - when, which is usually the case, he has come to a right conclusion, he can - never prevail upon himself to carry his theory into practice; and with all - his acuteness, his discernment, and his knowledge of the world, his mind - is always ready to receive any impression from the person who last - addresses him, though he himself be fully aware of the inferiority of his - adviser’s intellect to his own, or the imperfection of that adviser’s - knowledge. Never for a moment out of the sight of Beckendorff, the royal - pupil has made an admirable political puppet, since his talents have - always enabled him to understand the part which the Minister had forced - him to perform. Thus the world has given the Grand Duke credit, not only - for the possession of great talents, but almost for as much firmness of - mind and decision of character as his Minister. But since his - long-agitated career has become calm and tranquil, and Beckendorff, like a - guardian spirit, has ceased to be ever at his elbow, the character of the - Grand Duke of Reisenburg begins to be understood. His Court has been, and - still is, frequented by all the men of genius in Germany, who are admitted - without scruple, even if they be not noble. But the astonishing thing is, - that the Grand Duke is always surrounded by every species of political and - philosophical quack that you can imagine. Discussions on a free press, on - the reformation of the criminal code, on the abolition of commercial - duties, and such like interminable topics, are perpetually resounding - within the palace of this arbitrary Prince; and the people, fired by the - representations of the literary and political journals with which - Reisenburg abounds, and whose bold speculations on all subjects elude the - vigilance of the censor, by being skilfully amalgamated with a lavish - praise of the royal character, are perpetually flattered with the speedy - hope of becoming freemen. Suddenly, when all are expecting the grant of a - charter or the institution of Chambers, Mr. Beckendorff rides up from his - retreat to the Residence, and the next day the whole crowd of philosophers - are swept from the royal presence, and the censorship of the press becomes - so severe, that for a moment you would fancy that Reisenburg, instead of - being, as it boasts itself, the modern Athens, had more right to the title - of the modern Boeotia. The people, who enjoy an impartial administration - of equal laws, who have flourished, and are flourishing, under the wise - and moderate rule of their new monarch, have in fact no inclination to - exert themselves for the attainment of constitutional liberty in any other - way than by their voices. Their barbarous apathy astounds the - philosophers; who, in despair, when the people tell them that they are - happy and contented, artfully remind them that their happiness depends on - the will of a single man; and that, though the present character of the - monarch may guarantee present felicity, still they should think of their - children, and not less exert themselves for the insurance of the future. - These representations, as constantly reiterated as the present system will - allow, have at length produced an effect; and political causes of a - peculiar nature, combining their influence with these philosophical - exertions, have of late frequently frightened the Grand Duke, who, in - despair, would perhaps grant a constitution if Beckendorff would allow - him. But the Minister is conscious that the people would not be happier, - and do not in fact require one: he looks with a jealous and an evil eye on - the charlatanism of all kinds which is now so prevalent at Court: he - knows, from the characters of many of these philosophers and patriots, - that their private interest is generally the secret spring of their public - virtue; that if the Grand Duke, moved by their entreaties, or seduced by - their flattery, were to yield a little, he would soon be obliged to grant - all to their demands and their threats; and finally, Beckendorff has, of - late years, so completely interwoven the policy of Reisenburg with that of - Austria, that he feels that the rock on which he has determined to found - the greatness of his country must be quitted for ever if he yield one jot - to the caprice or the weakness of his monarch.” - </p> - <p> - “But Beckendorff,” said Vivian; “why can he not crush in the bud the - noxious plant which he so much dreads? Why does the press speak in the - least to the people? Why is the Grand Duke surrounded by any others except - pompous Grand Marshals and empty-headed Lord Chamberlains? I am surprised - at this indifference, this want of energy!” - </p> - <p> - “My dear sir, there are reasons for all things. Rest assured that - Beckendorff is not a man to act incautiously or weakly. The Grand Duchess, - the mother of the Crown Prince, has been long dead. Beckendorff, who, as a - man, has the greatest contempt for women; as a statesman, looks to them as - the most precious of political instruments; it was his wish to have - married the Grand Duke to the young Princess who is now destined for his - son, but for once in his life he failed in influencing his pupil. The - truth was, and it is to this cause that we must trace the present - disorganised state of the Court, and indeed of the Duchy, that the Grand - Duke had secretly married a lady to whom he had long been attached. This - lady was a Countess, and his subject; and, as it was impossible by the - laws of the kingdom that any one but a member of the reigning family could - be allowed to share the throne, his Royal Highness had recourse to a plan - which is not uncommon in this country, and espoused the lady with his left - hand. The ceremony, which we call here a morganatic marriage, you have, - probably, heard of before. The favoured female is, to all intents and - purposes, the wife of the monarch, and shares everything except his - throne. She presides at Court, but neither she nor her children assume the - style of majesty, although in some instances the latter have been created - princes, and acknowledged as heirs apparent when there has been a default - in the lineal royal issue. The lady of whom we are speaking, according to - the usual custom, has assumed a name derivative from that of her royal - husband; and as the Grand Duke’s name is Charles, she is styled Madame - Carolina.” - </p> - <p> - “And what kind of lady is Madame Carolina?” asked Vivian. - </p> - <p> - Philosophical! piquant! Parisian! a genius, according to her friends; who, - as in fact she is a Queen, are of course the whole world. Though a German - by family, she is a Frenchwoman by birth. Educated in the spiritual - saloons of the French metropolis, she has early imbibed superb ideas of - the perfectibility of man, and of the “science” of conversation, on both - which subjects you will not be long at Court ere you hear her descant; - demonstrating by the brilliancy of her ideas the possibility of the one, - and by the fluency of her language her acquaintance with the other. She is - much younger than her husband, and, though not exactly a model for - Phidias, a fascinating woman. Variety is the talisman by which she - commands all hearts and gained her monarch’s. She is only consistent in - being delightful; but, though changeable, she is not capricious. Each day - displays a new accomplishment as regularly as it does a new costume; but - as the acquirement seems only valued by its possessor as it may delight - others, so the dress seems worn, not so much to gratify her own vanity as - to please her friends’ tastes. Genius is her idol; and with her genius is - found in everything. She speaks in equal ruptures of an opera dancer and - an epic poet. Her ambition is to converse on all subjects; and by a - judicious management of a great mass of miscellaneous reading, and by - indefatigable exertions to render herself mistress of the prominent points - of the topics of the day, she appears to converse on all subjects with - ability. She takes the liveliest interest in the progress of mind, in all - quarters of the globe; and imagines that she should, at the same time, - immortalise herself and benefit her species, could she only establish a - Quarterly Review in Ashantee and a scientific Gazette at Timbuctoo. - Notwithstanding her sudden elevation, no one has ever accused her of - arrogance, or pride, or ostentation. Her liberal principles and her - enlightened views are acknowledged by all. She advocates equality in her - circle of privileged nobles, and is enthusiastic on the rights of man in a - country where justice is a favour. Her boast is to be surrounded by men of - genius, and her delight to correspond with the most celebrated persons of - all countries. She is herself a literary character of no mean celebrity. - Few months have elapsed since enraptured Reisenburg hailed from her - glowing pen two neat octavos, bearing the title of ‘Memoirs of the Court - of Charlemagne,’ which give an interesting and accurate picture of the - age, and delight the modern public with vivid descriptions of the cookery, - costume, and conversation of the eighth century. You smile, my friend, at - Madame Carolina’s production. Do not you agree with me that it requires no - mean talent to convey a picture of the bustle of a levée during the middle - ages? Conceive Sir Oliver looking in at his club! and fancy the small talk - of Roland during a morning visit! Yet even the fame of this work is to be - eclipsed by Madame’s forthcoming quarto of ‘Haroun al Raschid and his - Times.’ This, it is whispered, is to be a chef-d’oeuvre, enriched by a - chronological arrangement, by a celebrated oriental scholar, of all the - anecdotes in the Arabian Nights relating to the Caliph. It is, of course, - the sun of Madame’s patronage that has hatched into noxious life the swarm - of sciolists who now infest the Court, and who are sapping the husband’s - political power while they are establishing the wife’s literary - reputation. So much for Madame Carolina! I need hardly add that during - your short stay at Court you will be delighted with her. If ever you know - her as well as I do, you will find her vain, superficial, heartless; her - sentiment a system, her enthusiasm exaggeration, and her genius merely a - clever adoption of the profundity of others. - </p> - <p> - “And Beckendorff and the lady are not friendly?” asked Vivian, who was - delighted with his communicative companion. - </p> - <p> - “Beckendorff’s is a mind that such a woman cannot comprehend. He treats - her with contempt, and, if possible, views her with hatred, for he - considers that she has degraded the character of his pupil; while she, on - the contrary, wonders by what magic spell he exercises such influence over - the conduct of her husband. At first Beckendorff treated her and her - circle of illuminati with contemptuous silence; but in politics nothing is - contemptible. The Minister, knowing that the people were prosperous and - happy, cared little for projected constitutions, and less for metaphysical - abstractions; but some circumstances have lately occurred which, I - imagine, have convinced him that for once he has miscalculated. After the - arrangement of the German States, when the Princes were first mediatised, - an attempt was made, by means of a threatening league, to obtain for these - political victims a very ample share of the power and patronage of the new - State of Reisenburg. This plan failed from the lukewarmness and indecision - of our good friend of Little Lilliput, who, between ourselves, was - prevented from joining the alliance by the intrigues of Beckendorff. - Beckendorff secretly took measures that the Prince should be promised - that, in case of his keeping backward, he should obtain more than would - fall to his lot by leading the van. The Prince of Little Lilliput and his - peculiar friends accordingly were quiet, and the attempt of the other - chieftains failed. It was then that his Highness found that he had been - duped. Beckendorff would not acknowledge the authority, and, of course, - did not redeem the pledge, of his agent. The effect that this affair - produced upon the Prince’s mind you can conceive. Since then he has never - frequented Reisenburg, but constantly resided either at his former - capital, now a provincial town of the Grand Duchy, or at this castle; - viewed, you may suppose, with no very cordial feeling by his companions in - misfortune. But the thirst of revenge will inscribe the bitterest enemies - in the same muster-roll; and the Princes, incited by the bold carriage of - Madame Carolina’s philosophical protégés, and induced to believe that - Beckendorff’s power is on the wane, have again made overtures to our - friend, without whose powerful assistance they feel that they have but - little chance of success. Observe how much more men’s conduct is - influenced by circumstances than principles! When these persons leagued - together before it was with the avowed intention of obtaining a share of - the power and patronage of the State: the great body of the people, of - course, did not sympathise in that which, after all, to them was a party - quarrel, and by the joint exertions of open force and secret intrigue the - Court triumphed. But now these same individuals come forward, not as - indignant Princes demanding a share of the envied tyranny, but as ardent - patriots advocating a people’s rights. The public, though I believe that - in fact they will make no bodily exertion to acquire a constitutional - freedom the absence of which they can only abstractedly feel, have no - objection to attain that which they are assured will not injure their - situation, provided it be by the risk and exertions of others. So far, - therefore, as clamour can support the Princes, they have the people on - their side; and as upwards of three hundred thousand of the Grand Ducal - subjects are still living on their estates, and still consider themselves - as their serfs, they trust that some excesses from this great body may - incite the rest of the people to similar outrages. The natural disposition - of mankind to imitation, particularly when the act to be imitated is - popular, deserves attention. The Court is divided; for the exertions of - Madame and the bewitching influence of Fashion have turned the heads even - of greybeards: and to give you only one instance, his Excellency the Grand - Marshal, protégé of the House of Austria, and a favourite of Metternich, - the very person to whose interests, and as a reward for whose services, - our princely friend was sacrificed by the Minister, has now himself become - a pupil in the school of modern philosophy, and drivels out, with equal - ignorance and fervour, enlightened notions on the most obscure subjects. - In the midst of all this confusion, the Grand Duke is timorous, dubious, - and uncertain. Beckendorff has a difficult game to play; he may fall at - last. Such, my dear sir, are the tremendous consequences of a weak Prince - marrying a blue-stocking!” - </p> - <p> - “And the Crown Prince, Mr. Sievers, how does he conduct himself at this - interesting moment? or is his mind so completely engrossed by the - anticipation of his Imperial alliance that he has no thought for anything - but his approaching bride.” - </p> - <p> - “The Crown Prince, my dear sir, is neither thinking of his bride nor of - anything else: he is a hunch-backed idiot. Of his deformity I have myself - been a witness; and though it is difficult to give an opinion of the - intellect of a being with whom you have never interchanged a syllable, - nevertheless his countenance does not contradict the common creed. I say - the common creed, Mr. Grey, for there are moments when the Crown Prince of - Reisenburg is spoken of by his future subjects in a very different manner. - Whenever any unpopular act is committed, or any unpopular plan suggested - by the Court or the Grand Duke, then whispers are immediately afloat that - a future Brutus must be looked for in their Prince; then it is generally - understood that his idiocy is only assumed; and what woman does not - detect, in the glimmerings of his lack-lustre eye, the vivid sparks of - suppressed genius! In a short time the cloud blows over the Court, - dissatisfaction disappears, and the moment that the monarch is again - popular the unfortunate Crown Prince again becomes the uninfluential - object of pity or derision. All immediately forget that his idiocy is only - assumed; and what woman ever ceases from deploring the unhappy lot of the - future wife of their impuissant Prince! Such, my dear sir, is the way of - mankind! At the first glance it would appear, that in this world, - monarchs, on the whole, have it pretty well their own way; but reflection - will soon enable us not to envy their situations; and speaking as a - father, which unfortunately I am not, should I not view with disgust that - lot in life which necessarily makes my son my enemy? The Crown Prince of - all countries is only a puppet in the hands of the people, to be played - against his own father.” - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0060" id="link2HCH0060"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER V - </h2> - <p> - The Prince returned home at a late hour, and immediately enquired for - Vivian. During dinner, which he hastily despatched, it did not escape our - hero’s attention that his Highness was unusually silent, and, indeed, - agitated. - </p> - <p> - “When we have finished our meal, my good friend,” at length said the - Prince, “I very much wish to consult with you on a most important - business.” Since the explanation of last night, the Prince, in private - conversation, had dropped his regal plural. - </p> - <p> - “I am ready at once,” said Vivian. - </p> - <p> - “You will think it strange, Mr. Grey, when you become acquainted with the - nature of my communication; you will justly consider it most strange, most - singular, that I should choose for a confidant and a counsellor in an - important business a gentleman with whom I have been acquainted so short a - time as yourself. But, sir, I have well weighed, at least I have - endeavoured well to weigh, all the circumstances and contingencies which - such a confidence would involve; and the result of my reflection is, that - I will look to you as a friend and adviser, feeling assured that, both - from your situation and your disposition, no temptation exists which can - induce you to betray or to deceive me.” Though the Prince said this with - an appearance of perfect sincerity, he stopped and looked earnest in his - guest’s face, as if he would read his secret thoughts, or were desirous of - now giving him an opportunity of answering. - </p> - <p> - “So far as the certainty of your confidence being respected,” answered - Vivian, “I trust your Highness may communicate to me with the most assured - spirit. But while my ignorance of men and affairs in this country will - ensure you from any treachery on my part, I very much fear that it will - also preclude me from affording you any advantageous advice or - assistance.” - </p> - <p> - “On that head,” replied the Prince, “I am, of course, the best judge. The - friend whom I need is a man not ignorant of the world, with a cool head - and an impartial mind. Though young, you have said and told me enough to - prove that you are not unacquainted with mankind. Of your courage I have - already had a convincing proof. In the business in which I require your - assistance freedom from national prejudices will materially increase the - value of your advice; and, therefore, I am far from being unwilling to - consult a person ignorant, according to your own phrase, of men and - affairs in this country. Moreover, your education as an Englishman has - early led you to exercise your mind on political subjects; and it is in a - political business that I require your aid.” - </p> - <p> - “Am I fated always to be the dry nurse of an embryo faction!” thought - Vivian; and he watched earnestly the countenance of the Prince. In a - moment he expected to be invited to become a counsellor of the leagued - Princes. Either the lamp was burning dim, or the blazing wood fire had - suddenly died away, or a mist was over Vivian’s eyes; but for a moment he - almost imagined that he was sitting opposite his old friend the Marquis of - Carabas. The Prince’s phrase had given rise to a thousand agonising - associations: in an instant Vivian had worked up his mind to a pitch of - nervous excitement. - </p> - <p> - “Political business?” said Vivian, in an agitated voice. “You could not - address a more unfortunate person. I have seen, Prince, too much of - politics ever to wish to meddle with them again.” - </p> - <p> - “You are too quick, my good friend,” continued his Highness. “I may wish - to consult you on political business, and yet have no intention of - engaging you in politics, which, indeed, is quite a ridiculous idea. But I - see that I was right in supposing that these subjects have engaged your - attention.” - </p> - <p> - “I have seen, in a short time, something of the political world,” answered - Vivian, who was almost ashamed of his previous emotion; “and I thank - Heaven daily that I have no chance of again having any connection with - it.” - </p> - <p> - “Well, well! that as it may be. Nevertheless, your experience is only - another inducement to me to request your assistance. Do not fear that I - wish to embroil you in politics; but I hope you will not refuse, although - almost a stranger, to add to the great obligations which I am already - under to you, and give me the benefit of your opinion.” - </p> - <p> - “Your Highness may speak with perfect unreserve, and reckon upon my - delivering my genuine sentiments.” - </p> - <p> - “You have not forgotten, I venture to believe,” said the Prince, “our - short conversation of last night!” - </p> - <p> - “It was of too interesting a nature easily to escape my memory.” - </p> - <p> - “Before I can consult you on the subject which at present interests me, it - is necessary that I should make you a little acquainted with the present - state of public affairs here, and the characters of the principal - individuals who control them.” - </p> - <p> - “So far as an account of the present state of political parties, the - history of the Grand Duke’s career, and that of his Minister, Mr. - Beckendorff, and their reputed characters, will form part of your - Highness’s narrative, by so much may its length be curtailed and your - trouble lessened; for I have at different times picked up, in casual - conversation, a great deal of information on these topics. Indeed, you may - address me, in this respect, as you would any German gentleman who, not - being himself personally interested in public life, is, of course, not - acquainted with its most secret details.” - </p> - <p> - “I did not reckon on this,” said the Prince, in a cheerful voice. “This is - a great advantage, and another reason that I should no longer hesitate to - develop to you a certain affair which now occupies my mind. To be short,” - continued the Prince, “it is of the letter which I so mysteriously - received last night, and which, as you must have remarked, very much - agitated me; it is on this letter that I wish to consult you. Bearing in - mind the exact position, the avowed and public position, in which I stand, - as connected with the Court, and having a due acquaintance, which you - state you have, with the character of Mr. Beckendorff, what think you of - this letter?” - </p> - <p> - So saying, the Prince leant over the table, and handed to Vivian the - following epistle: - </p> - <p> - “TO HIS HIGHNESS THE PRINCE OF LITTLE LILLIPUT. - </p> - <p> - “I am commanded by his Royal Highness to inform your Highness that his - Royal Highness has considered the request which was signed by your - Highness and other noblemen, and presented by you to his Royal Highness in - a private interview. His Royal Highness commands me to state that that - request will receive his most attentive consideration. At the same time, - his Royal Highness also commands me to observe that, in bringing about the - completion of a result desired by all parties, it is difficult to carry on - the necessary communications merely by written documents; and his Royal - Highness has therefore commanded me to submit to your Highness the - advisability of taking some steps in order to further the possibility of - the occurrence of an oral interchange of the sentiments of the respective - parties. Being aware, from the position which your Highness has thought - proper at present to maintain, and from other causes which are of too - delicate a nature to be noticed in any other way except by allusion, that - your Highness may feel difficulty in personally communicating with his - Royal Highness without consulting the wishes and opinions of the other - Princes; a process to which, it must be evident to your Highness, his - Royal Highness feels it impossible to submit; and, at the same time, - desirous of forwarding the progress of those views which his Royal - Highness and your Highness may conjunctively consider calculated to - advance the well-being of the State, I have to submit to your Highness the - propriety of considering the propositions contained in the enclosed paper; - which, if your Highness keep unconnected with this communication, the - purport of this letter will be confined to your Highness. - </p> - <p> - PROPOSITIONS. - </p> - <p> - ‘1st. That an interview shall take place between your Highness and myself, - the object of which shall be the consideration of measures by which, when - adopted, the various interests now in agitation shall respectively be - regarded. - </p> - <p> - ‘2nd. That this interview shall be secret; your Highness be incognito.’ - </p> - <p> - “If your Highness be disposed to accede to the first proposition, I beg to - submit to you that, from the nature of my residence, its situation, and - other causes, there will be no fear that any suspicion of the fact of Mr. - von Philipson acceding to the two propositions will gain notoriety. This - letter will be delivered into your own hands. If Mr. von Philipson - determine on acceding to these propositions, he is most probably aware of - the general locality in which my residence is situated; and proper - measures will be taken that, if Mr. von Philipson honour me with a visit, - he shall not be under the necessity of attracting attention by inquiring - the way to my house. It is wished that the fact of the second proposition - being acceded to should only be known to Mr. von Philipson and myself, but - if to be perfectly unattended be considered as an insuperable objection, I - consent to his being accompanied by a single friend. I shall be alone. - </p> - <p> - “BECKENDORFF.” - </p> - <p> - “Well!” said the Prince, as Vivian finished the letter. - </p> - <p> - “The best person,” said Vivian, “to decide upon your Highness consenting - to this interview is yourself.” - </p> - <p> - “That is not the point on which I wish to have the benefit of your - opinion; for I have already consented. I rode over this morning to my - cousin, the Duke of Micromegas, and despatched from his residence a trusty - messenger to Beckendorff. I have agreed to meet him, and to-morrow; but on - the express terms that I should not be unattended. Now then,” continued - the Prince, with great energy; “now then, will you be my companion?” - </p> - <p> - “I!” said Vivian. - </p> - <p> - “Yes; you, my good friend! you. I should consider myself as safe if I were - sleeping in a burning house as I should be were I with Beckendorff alone. - Although this is not the first time that we have communicated, I have - never yet seen him; and I am fully aware that, if the approaching - interview were known to my friends, they would consider it high time that - my son reigned in my stead. But I am resolved to be firm, to be - inflexible. My course is plain. I am not to be again duped by him, which,” - continued the Prince, much confused, “I will not conceal that I have been - once.” - </p> - <p> - “But I!” said Vivian; “I; what good can I possibly do? It appears to me - that, if Beckendorff is to be dreaded as you describe, the presence or the - attendance of no friend can possibly save you from his crafty plans. But - surely, if any one attend you, why not be accompanied by a person whom you - have known long, and who knows you well; on whom you can confidently rely, - and who may be aware, from a thousand signs and circumstances which will - never attract my attention, at what particular and pressing moments you - may require prompt and energetic assistance. Such is the companion you - want; and surely such an one you may find in Arnelm, Von Neuwied—” - </p> - <p> - “Arnelm! Von Neuwied!” said the Prince; “the best hands at sounding a - bugle or spearing a boar in all Reisenburg! Excellent men, forsooth! to - guard their master from the diplomatic deceits of the wily Beckendorff! - Moreover, were they to have even the slightest suspicion of my intended - movement, they would commit rank treason out of pure loyalty, and lock me - up in my own cabinet! No, no! they will never do: I want a companion of - experience and knowledge of the world, with whom I may converse with some - prospect of finding my wavering firmness strengthened, or my misled - judgment rightly guided, or my puzzled brain cleared; modes of assistance - to which the worthy Jagd Junker is but little accustomed, however quickly - he might hasten to my side in a combat or the chase.” - </p> - <p> - “If these, then, will not do, surely there is one man in this castle who, - although he may not be a match for Beckendorff, can be foiled by few - others. Mr. Sievers?” said Vivian, with an inquiring eye. - </p> - <p> - “Sievers!” exclaimed the Prince, with great eagerness; “the very man! - firm, experienced, and sharp-witted; well schooled in political learning, - in case I required his assistance in arranging the terms of the intended - Charter or the plan of the intended Chambers; for these, of course, are - the points on which Beckendorff wishes to consult. But one thing I am - determined on: I positively pledge myself to nothing while under - Beckendorff’s roof. He doubtless anticipates, by my visit, to grant the - liberties of the people on his own terms: perhaps Mr. Beckendorff, for - once in his life, may be mistaken. I am not to be deceived twice; and I am - determined not to yield the point of the Treasury being under the control - of the Senate. That is the part of the harness which galls; and to - preserve themselves from this rather inconvenient regulation, without - question, my good friend Beckendorff has hit upon this plan.” - </p> - <p> - “Then Mr. Sievers will accompany you?” asked Vivian, calling the Prince’s - attention to the point of consultation. - </p> - <p> - “The very man for it, my dear friend! but although Beckendorff, most - probably respecting my presence, and taking into consideration the - circumstances under which we meet, would refrain from consigning Sievers - to a dungeon; still, although the Minister invites this interview, and - although I have no single inducement to conciliate him, yet it would - scarcely be correct, scarcely dignified on my part, to prove, by the - presence of my companion, that I had for a length of time harboured an - individual who, by Beckendorff’s own exertions, was banished from the - Grand Duchy. It would look too much like a bravado.” - </p> - <p> - “Oh!” said Vivian; “is it so? And pray of what was Mr. Sievers guilty?” - </p> - <p> - “Of high treason against one who was not his sovereign.” - </p> - <p> - “How is that?” - </p> - <p> - “Sievers, who is a man of considerable talents, was for a long time a - professor in one of our great Universities. The publication of many able - works procured him a reputation which induced Madame Carolina to use every - exertion to gain his attendance at Court; and a courtier in time the - professor became. At Reisenburg Mr. Sievers was the great authority on all - subjects: philosophical, literary, and political. In fact, he was the - fashion; and, at the head of the great literary journal which is there - published, he terrified admiring Germany with his profound and piquant - critiques. Unfortunately, like some men as good, he was unaware that - Reisenburg was not an independent state; and so, on the occasion of - Austria attacking Naples, Mr. Sievers took the opportunity of attacking - Austria. His article, eloquent, luminous, profound, revealed the dark - colours of the Austrian policy, as an artist’s lamp brings out the murky - tints of a Spagnoletto. Every one admired Sievers’ bitter sarcasms, - enlightened views, and indignant eloquence. Madame Carolina crowned him - with laurel in the midst of her coterie, and it is said that the Grand - Duke sent him a snuff-box. In a short time the article reached Vienna, and - in a still shorter time Mr. Beckendorff reached the Residence, and - insisted on the author being immediately given up to the Austrian - Government. Madame Carolina was in despair, the Grand Duke in doubt, and - Beckendorff threatened to resign if the order were not signed. A kind - friend, perhaps his Royal Highness himself, gave Sievers timely notice, - and by rapid flight he reached my castle, and demanded my hospitality. He - has lived here ever since, and has done me a thousand services, not the - least of which is the education which he has given my son, my glorious - Maximilian.” - </p> - <p> - “And Beckendorff,” asked Vivian; “has he always been aware that Sievers - was concealed here?” - </p> - <p> - “That I cannot answer: had he been, it is not improbable that he would - have winked at it; since it never has been his policy unnecessarily to - annoy a mediatised Prince, or without great occasion to let us feel that - our independence is gone; I will not, with such a son as I have, say, for - ever.” - </p> - <p> - “Mr. Sievers of course, then, cannot visit Beckendorff,” said Vivian. - </p> - <p> - “That is clear,” said the Prince; “and I therefore trust that now you will - no longer refuse my first request.” - </p> - <p> - It was impossible for Vivian to deny the Prince any longer; and indeed he - had no objection (as his Highness could not be better attended) to seize - the singular and unexpected opportunity which now offered itself of - becoming acquainted with an individual respecting whom his curiosity was - much excited. It was a late hour ere the Prince and his friend retired, - having arranged everything for the morrow’s journey, and conversed on the - probable subjects of the approaching interview at great length. - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0061" id="link2HCH0061"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER VI - </h2> - <p> - On the following morning, before sunrise, the Prince’s valet roused Vivian - from his slumbers. According to the appointment of the preceding evening, - Vivian repaired in due time to a certain spot in the park. The Prince - reached it at the same moment. A mounted groom, leading two English horses - of showy appearance, and each having a travelling case strapped on the - back of its saddle, awaited them. His Highness mounted one of the steeds - with skilful celerity, although Arnelm and Von Neuwied were not there to - do honour to his bridle and his stirrup. - </p> - <p> - “You must give me an impartial opinion of your courser, my dear friend,” - said the Prince to Vivian; “for if you deem it worthy of being bestridden - by you, my son requests that you will do him the honour of accepting it. - If so, call it Max; and provided it be as thoroughbred as the donor, you - need not change it for Bucephalus.” - </p> - <p> - “Not unworthy of the son of Ammon!” said Vivian, as he touched the - spirited animal with the spur, and proved its fiery action on the - springing turf. - </p> - <p> - A man never feels so proud or so sanguine as when he is bounding on the - back of a fine horse. Cares fly with the first curvet, and the very sight - of a spur is enough to prevent one committing suicide. - </p> - <p> - When Vivian and his companion had proceeded about five miles, the Prince - pulled up, and giving a sealed letter to the groom, he desired him to - leave them. The Prince and Vivian amused themselves by endeavouring to - form some conception of the person, manners, and habits of the remarkable - man to whom they were on the point of paying so interesting a visit. - </p> - <p> - “I expect,” said Vivian, “to be received with folded arms, and a brow - lowering with the overwhelming weight of a brain meditating for the - control of millions. His letter has prepared us for the mysterious, but - not very amusing, style of his conversation. He will be perpetually on his - guard not to commit himself; and although public business, and the receipt - of papers, by calling him away, will occasionally give us an opportunity - of being alone, still I regret that I did not put up in my case some - interesting volume, which would have allowed me to feel less tedious those - hours during which you will necessarily be employed with him in private - consultation.” - </p> - <p> - After a ride of five hours, the horsemen arrived at a small village. - </p> - <p> - “Thus far I think I have well piloted you,” said the Prince: “but I - confess my knowledge here ceases; and though I shall disobey the - diplomatic instructions of the great man, I must even ask some old woman - the way to Mr. Beckendorff’s.” - </p> - <p> - While they were hesitating as to whom they should address, an equestrian, - who had already passed them on the road, though at some distance, came up, - and inquired, in a voice which Vivian recognised as that of the messenger - who had brought Beckendorff’s letter to Turriparva, whether he had the - honour of addressing Mr. von Philipson. Neither of the gentlemen answered, - for Vivian of course expected the Prince to reply; and his Highness was, - as yet, so unused to his incognito, that he had actually forgotten his own - name. But it was evident that the demandant had questioned rather from - system than by way of security, and he waited patiently until the Prince - had collected his senses and assumed sufficient gravity of countenance to - inform the horseman that he was the person in question. “What, sir, is - your pleasure?” - </p> - <p> - “I am instructed to ride on before you, sir, that you may not mistake your - way;” and without waiting for an answer the laconic messenger turned his - steed’s head and trotted off. - </p> - <p> - The travellers soon left the high road and turned up a wild turf path, not - only inaccessible to carriages, but even requiring great attention from - horsemen. After much winding and some floundering, they arrived at a light - gate, which apparently opened into a shrubbery. - </p> - <p> - “I will take your horses here, gentlemen,” said the guide; and getting off - his horse, he opened the gate. “Follow this path, and you can meet with no - difficulty.” The Prince and Vivian accordingly dismounted, and the guide - immediately gave a loud shrill whistle. - </p> - <p> - The path ran, for a short way, through the shrubbery, which evidently was - a belt encircling the grounds. From this the Prince and Vivian emerged - upon a lawn, which formed on the farthest side a terrace, by gradually - sloping down to the margin of the river. It was enclosed on the other - side, and white pheasants were feeding in its centre. Following the path - which skirted the lawn, they arrived at a second gate, which opened into a - garden, in which no signs of the taste at present existing in Germany for - the English system of picturesque pleasure-grounds were at all visible. - The walk was bounded on both sides by tall borders, or rather hedges, of - box, cut into the shape of battlements; the sameness of these turrets - being occasionally varied by the immovable form of some trusty warder, - carved out of yew or laurel. Raised terraces and arched walks, aloes and - orange trees mounted on sculptured pedestals, columns of cypress and - pyramids of bay, whose dark foliage strikingly contrasted with the marble - statues, and the white vases shining in the sun, rose in all directions in - methodical confusion. The sound of a fountain was not wanting, and large - beds of beautiful flowers abounded. Proceeding through a lofty berçeau, - occasional openings in whose curving walks allowed effective glimpses of a - bust or a statue, the companions at length came in sight of the house. It - was a long, uneven, low building, evidently of ancient architecture. - Numerous stacks of tall and fantastically-shaped chimneys rose over three - thick and heavy gables, which reached down farther than the middle of the - elevation, forming three compartments, one of them including a large and - modern bow window, over which clustered in profusion the sweet and glowing - blossoms of the clematis and the pomegranate. Indeed, the whole front of - the house was so completely covered with a rich scarlet-creeper, that it - was difficult to ascertain of what materials it was built. As Vivian was - admiring a white peacock, which, attracted by their approach, had taken - the opportunity of unfurling its wheeling train, a man came forward from - the bow window. - </p> - <p> - In height he was about five feet eight, and of a spare but - well-proportioned figure. He had little hair, which was powdered, and - dressed in a manner to render more remarkable the elevation of his conical - and polished forehead. His long piercing black eyes were almost closed, - from the fullness of their upper lids. His cheek was sallow, his nose - aquiline, his mouth compressed. His ears, which were uncovered, were so - small that it would be wrong to pass them over unnoticed; as, indeed, were - his hands and feet, in form quite feminine. He was dressed in a coat and - waistcoat of black velvet, the latter part of his costume reaching to his - thighs; and in a button-hole of his coat was a large bunch of tube-rose. - The broad collar of his exquisitely plaited shirt, though tied round with - a wide black ribbon, did not conceal a neck which agreed well with his - beardless chin, and would not have misbecome a woman. In England we should - have called his breeches buckskin. They were of a pale yellow leather, and - suited his large and spur-armed cavalry boots, which fitted closely to the - legs they covered, reaching over the knees of the wearer. A ribbon round - his neck, tucked into his waistcoat pocket, was attached to a small French - watch. He swung in his right hand the bow of a violin; and in the other, - the little finger of which was nearly hid by a large antique ring, he held - a white handkerchief strongly perfumed with violets. Notwithstanding the - many feminine characteristics which I have noticed, either from the - expression of the eyes or the formation of the mouth, the countenance of - this individual generally conveyed an impression of firmness and energy. - This description will not be considered ridiculously minute by those who - have never had an opportunity of becoming acquainted with the person of so - celebrated a gentleman as MR. BECKENDORFF. - </p> - <p> - He advanced to the Prince with an air which seemed to proclaim that, as - his person could not be mistaken, the ceremony of introduction was - unnecessary. Bowing in a ceremonious and courtly manner to his Highness, - Mr. Beckendorff, in a weak but not unpleasing voice, said that he was - “honoured by the presence of Mr. von Philipson.” The Prince answered his - salutation in a manner equally ceremonious and equally courtly; for having - no mean opinion of his own diplomatic abilities, his Highness determined - that neither by an excess of coldness nor cordiality on his part should - the Minister gather the slightest indication of the temper in which he had - attended the interview. You see that even the bow of a diplomatist is a - serious business! - </p> - <p> - “Mr. Beckendorff,” said his Highness, “my letter doubtless informed you - that I should avail myself of your permission to be accompanied. Let me - have the honour of presenting to you my friend Mr. Grey, an English - gentleman.” - </p> - <p> - As the Prince spoke, Beckendorff stood with his arms crossed behind him, - and his chin resting upon his chest, but his eyes at the same time so - raised as to look his Highness full in the face. Vivian was so struck by - his posture and the expression of his countenance, that he nearly omitted - to bow when he was presented. As his name was mentioned, the Minister gave - him a sharp, sidelong glance, and moving his head slightly, invited his - guests to enter the house. The gentlemen accordingly complied with his - request. Passing through the bow window, they found themselves in a - well-sized room, the sides of which were covered with shelves filled with - richly-bound books. There was nothing in the room which gave the slightest - indication that the master of the library was any other than a private - gentleman. Not a book, not a chair was out of its place. A purple inkstand - of Sèvre, and a highly-tooled morocco portfolio of the same colour, - reposed on a marqueterie table, and that was all. No papers, no - despatches, no red tape, and no red boxes. Over an ancient chimney, lined - with china tiles, on which were represented grotesque figures, cows - playing the harp, monkeys acting monarchs, and tall figures all legs, - flying with rapidity from pursuers who were all head; over this chimney - were suspended some curious pieces of antique armour, among which an - Italian dagger, with a chased and jewelled hilt, was the most remarkable - and the most precious. - </p> - <p> - “This,” said Mr. Beckendorff, “is my library.” - </p> - <p> - “What a splendid poignard!” said the Prince, who had no taste for books; - and he immediately walked up to the chimney-piece. Beckendorff followed - him, and taking down the admired weapon from its resting-place, proceeded - to lecture on its virtues, its antiquity, and its beauty. Vivian seized - this opportunity of taking a rapid glance at the contents of the library. - He anticipated interleaved copies of Machiavel, Vattel, and Montesquieu; - and the lightest works that he expected to meet with were the lying - memoirs of some intriguing cardinal or the deluding apology of an exiled - minister. To his surprise, he found that, without an exception, the - collection consisted of poetry and romance. Somewhat surprised, Vivian - looked with a curious eye on the unlettered backs of a row of mighty - folios on a corner shelf. “These,” he thought, “at least must be royal - ordinances, and collected state papers.” The sense of propriety struggled - for a moment with the passion of curiosity; but nothing is more difficult - for the man who loves books than to refrain from examining a volume which - he fancies may be unknown to him. From the jewelled dagger Beckendorff had - now got to an enamelled breast-plate. Two to one he should not be - observed; and so, with a desperate pull, Vivian extracted a volume; it was - a herbal! He tried another; it was a collection of dried insects! - </p> - <p> - “And now,” said Mr. Beckendorff, “I will show you my drawing-room.” - </p> - <p> - He opened a door at the farther end of the library, and introduced them to - a room of a different character. The sun, which was shining brightly, lent - additional brilliancy to the rainbow-tinted birds of paradise, the crimson - maccaws, and the green parroquets that glistened on the Indian paper, - which covered not only the walls, but also the ceiling of the room. Over - the fireplace a black frame, projecting from the wall, and mournfully - contrasting with the general brilliant appearance of the apartment, - inclosed a picture of a beautiful female; and bending over its frame, and - indeed partly shadowing the countenance, was the withered branch of a - tree. A harpsichord and several cases of musical instruments were placed - in different parts of the room; and suspended by broad black ribbons from - the wall, on each side of the picture, were a guitar and a tambourine. On - a sofa of unusual size lay a Cremona; and as Mr. Beckendorff passed the - instrument he threw by its side the bow, which he had hitherto carried in - his hand. - </p> - <p> - “We may as well now take something,” said Mr. Beckendorff, when his guests - had sufficiently admired the room; “my pictures are in my dining-room; let - us go there.” - </p> - <p> - So saying, and armed this time not only with his bow but also with his - violin, he retraced his steps through the library, and crossing a small - passage which divided the house into two compartments, he opened the door - into his dining-room. The moment they entered the room their ears were - saluted, and indeed their senses ravished, by what appeared to be a - concert of a thousand birds; yet none of the winged choristers were to be - seen, and not even a single cage was visible. The room, which was simply - furnished, appeared at first rather gloomy; for, though lighted by three - windows, the silk blinds were all drawn. - </p> - <p> - “And now,” said Mr. Beckendorff, raising the first blind, “you shall see - my pictures. At what do you estimate this Breughel?” - </p> - <p> - The window, which was of stained green glass, gave to the landscape an - effect similar to that generally produced by the artist mentioned. The - Prince, who was already puzzled by finding one who at the same time was - both his host and his enemy so different a character from what he had - conceived, and who, being by temper superstitious, considered that this - preliminary false opinion of his was rather a bad omen, did not express - any great admiration of the gallery of Mr. Beckendorff; but Vivian, who - had no ambitious hopes or fears to affect his temper, and who was amused - by the character with whom he had become so unexpectedly acquainted, - good-naturedly humoured the fantasies of the Minister, and said that he - preferred his picture to any Breughel he had ever seen. - </p> - <p> - “I see you have a fine taste,” said Mr. Beckendorff, with a serious air, - but in a courteous tone; “you shall see my Claude!” - </p> - <p> - The rich yellow tint of the second window gave to the fanciful garden all - that was requisite to make it look Italian. - </p> - <p> - “Have you ever been in Italy, sir?” asked Beckendorff. - </p> - <p> - “I have not.” - </p> - <p> - “You have, Mr. von Philipson?” - </p> - <p> - “Never south of Germany,” answered the Prince, who was hungry, and eyed - with a rapacious glance the capital luncheon which he saw prepared for - him. - </p> - <p> - “Well, then, when either of you go, you will, of course, not miss the Lago - Maggiore. Gaze on Isola Bella at sunset, and you will not view so fair a - scene as this! And now, Mr. von Philipson,” said Beckendorff, “do me the - favour of giving me your opinion of this Honthorst?” - </p> - <p> - His Highness would rather have given his opinion of the dish of game which - still smoked upon the table, but which he was mournfully convinced would - not smoke long. “But,” thought he, “this is the last!” and so he admired - the effect produced by the flaming panes, to which Beckendorff swore that - no piece ever painted by Gerard Honthorst, for brilliancy of colouring and - boldness of outline, could be compared. “Besides,” continued Beckendorff, - “mine are all animated pictures. See that cypress, waving from the breeze - which is now stirring, and look! look at this crimson peacock! look! Mr. - von Philipson.” - </p> - <p> - “I am looking, Mr. von—I beg pardon, Mr. Beckendorff,” said the - Prince, with great dignity, making this slight mistake in the name, either - from being unused to converse with such low people as had not the nominal - mark of nobility, or to vent his spleen at being so unnecessarily kept - from the refreshment which he so much required. - </p> - <p> - “Mr. von Philipson,” said Beckendorff, suddenly turning round, “all my - fruits and all my vegetables are from my own garden. Let us sit down and - help ourselves.” - </p> - <p> - The only substantial food at table was a great dish of game. The - vegetables and the fruits were numerous and superb; and there really - appeared to be a fair prospect of the Prince of Little Lilliput making as - good a luncheon as if the whole had been conducted under the auspices of - Master Rodolph himself, had it not been for the melody of the unseen - vocalists, which, probably excited by the sounds of the knives and plates, - too evidently increased every moment. But this inconvenience was soon - removed by Mr. Beckendorff rising and giving three loud knocks on the door - opposite to the one by which they had entered. Immediate silence ensued. - </p> - <p> - “Clara will change your plate, Mr. von Philipson,” said Beckendorff. - </p> - <p> - Vivian eagerly looked up, not with the slightest idea that the entrance of - Clara would prove that the mysterious picture in the drawing-room was a - portrait, but, it must be confessed, with a little curiosity to view the - first specimen of the sex who lived under the roof of Mr. Beckendorff. - Clara was a hale old woman, with rather an acid expression of countenance, - prim in her appearance, and evidently precise in her manners. She placed a - bottle and two wine-glasses with long, thin stems on the table; and having - removed the game and changed the plates, she disappeared. - </p> - <p> - “Pray what wine is this, Mr. Beckendorff?” eagerly asked the Prince. - </p> - <p> - “I really don’t know. I never drink wine.” - </p> - <p> - “Not know! I never tasted such Tokay in my life!” - </p> - <p> - “Probably,” said Mr. Beckendorff; “I think it was a present from the - Emperor. I have never tasted it.” - </p> - <p> - “My dear sir, take a glass!” said the Prince, his naturally jovial temper - having made him completely forget whom he was addressing, and the business - he had come upon. - </p> - <p> - “I never drink wine; I am glad you like it; I have no doubt Clara has - more.” - </p> - <p> - “No, no, no! we must be moderate,” said the Prince, who, though a great - admirer of a good luncheon, had also a due respect for a good dinner, and - consequently had no idea, at this awkward hour in the day, of preventing - himself from properly appreciating the future banquet. Moreover, his - Highness, taking into consideration the manner in which the game had been - dressed, and the marks of refinement and good taste which seemed to - pervade every part of the establishment of Mr. Beckendorff, did not - imagine that he was much presuming when he conjectured that there was a - fair chance of his dinner being something superior. - </p> - <p> - The sudden arrival and appearance of some new and unexpected guests - through the mysterious portal on which Mr. Beckendorff by his three knocks - had previously produced such a tranquillising effect, and which he had now - himself opened, explained the character of the apartment, which, from its - unceasing melody, had so much excited the curiosity of his guests. These - new visitors were a crowd of piping bullfinches, Virginia nightingales, - trained canaries, Java sparrows, and Indian lorys; which, freed from their - cages of golden wire by their fond master, had fled, as was their custom, - from his superb aviary to pay their respects and compliments at his daily - levée. - </p> - <p> - “I am glad to see that you like birds, sir,” said Beckendorff to Vivian; - for our hero, good-naturedly humouring the tastes of his host, was - impartially dividing the luxuries of a peach among a crowd of gaudy and - greedy little sparrows. “You shall see my favourites,” continued - Beckendorff; and tapping rather loudly on the table, he held out the - forefinger of each hand. Two bullfinches recognised the signal, and - immediately hastened to their perch. - </p> - <p> - “My dear!” trilled out one little songster, and it raised its speaking - eyes to its delighted master. - </p> - <p> - “My love!” warbled the other, marking its affection by looks equally - personal. - </p> - <p> - As these monosyllables were repeated, Beckendorff, with sparkling eyes, - triumphantly looked round at Vivian, as if the frequent reiteration were a - proof of the sincerity of the affection of these singular friends. - </p> - <p> - At length, to the Prince’s relief, Mr. Beckendorff’s feathered friends, - having finished their dessert, were sent back to their cages, with a - strict injunction not to trouble their master at present with their - voices, an injunction which was obeyed to the letter; and when the door - was closed few persons could have been persuaded that the next room was an - aviary. - </p> - <p> - “I am proud of my peaches, Mr. von Philipson,” said Beckendorff, - recommending the fruit to his guest’s attention, then rising from the - table, he threw himself on the sofa, and began humming a tune in a low - voice. Presently he took up his Cremona, and, using the violin as a - guitar, accompanied himself in a beautiful air, but not in a more audible - tone. While Mr. Beckendorff was singing he seemed unconscious that any - person was in the room; and the Prince, who was not very fond of music, - certainly gave him no hint, either by his approbation or his attention, - that he was listened to. Vivian, however, like most unhappy men, loved - music; and actuated by this feeling, and the interest which he began to - take in the character of Mr. Beckendorff, he could not, when that - gentleman had finished his air, refrain from very sincerely saying - “encore!” - </p> - <p> - Beckendorff started and looked round, as if he were for the first moment - aware that any being had heard him. - </p> - <p> - “Encore!” said he, with a kind sneer: “who ever could sing or play the - same thing twice! Are you fond of music, sir?” - </p> - <p> - “Very much so, indeed. I fancied I recognised that air. You are an admirer - I imagine, of Mozart?” - </p> - <p> - “I never heard of him; I know nothing of those gentry. But if you really - like music, I will play you something worth listening to.” - </p> - <p> - Mr. Beckendorff began a beautiful air very adagio, gradually increasing - the time in a kind of variation, till at last his execution became so - rapid that Vivian, surprised at the mere mechanical action, rose from his - chair in order better to examine the player’s management and motion of his - bow. Exquisite as were the tones, enchanting as were the originality of - his variations and the perfect harmony of his composition, it was - nevertheless extremely difficult to resist smiling at the contortions of - his face and figure. Now, his body bending to the strain, he was at one - moment with his violin raised in the air, and the next instant with the - lower nut almost resting upon his foot. At length, by well-proportioned - degrees, the air died away into the original soft cadence; and the player, - becoming completely entranced in his own performance, finished by sinking - back on the sofa, with his bow and violin raised over his head. Vivian - would not disturb him by his applause. An instant after, Mr. Beckendorff, - throwing down the instrument, rushed through an open window into the - garden. - </p> - <p> - As soon as Beckendorff was out of sight, Vivian looked at the Prince; and - his Highness, elevating his eyebrows, screwing up his mouth, and shrugging - his shoulders, altogether presented a comical picture of a puzzled man. - </p> - <p> - “Well, my dear friend,” said he, “this is rather different from what we - expected.” - </p> - <p> - “Very different; but much more amusing.” - </p> - <p> - “Humph!” said the Prince, slowly; “I do not think it exactly requires a - ghost to tell us that Mr. Beckendorff is not in the habit of going to - court. I do not know how he is accustomed to conduct himself when he is - honoured by a visit from the Grand Duke; but I am quite sure that, as - regards his treatment of myself, to say the least, the incognito is well - observed.” - </p> - <p> - “Mr. von Philipson,” said the gentleman of whom they were speaking, - putting his head in at the window, “you shall see my blue passion-flower. - We will take a walk round the garden.” - </p> - <p> - The Prince gave Vivian a look which seemed to suppose they must go, and - accordingly they stepped into the garden. - </p> - <p> - “You do not see my garden in its glory,” said Mr. Beckendorff, stopping - before the bow window of the library. “This spot is my strong point; had - you been here earlier in the year, you might have admired with me my - invaluable crescents of tulips; such colours! such brilliancy! so defined! - And last year I had three king-tulips; their elegantly-formed, creamy cups - I have never seen equalled. And then my double variegated ranunculuses; my - hyacinths of fifty bells, in every tint, single and double; and my - favourite stands of auriculas, so large and powdered that the colour of - the velvet leaves was scarcely discoverable! The blue passion-flower is, - however, now beautiful. You see that summer-house, sir,” continued he, - turning to Vivian; “the top is my observatory. You will sleep in that - pavilion to-night, so you had better take notice how the walk winds.” - </p> - <p> - The passion-flower was trained against the summer-house in question. - </p> - <p> - “There,” said Mr. Beckendorff; and he stood admiring with outstretched - arms; “the latter days of its beauty, for the autumn frosts will soon stop - its flower. Pray, Mr. von Philipson, are you a botanist?” - </p> - <p> - “Why,” said the Prince, “I am a great admirer of flowers, but I cannot - exactly say that—” - </p> - <p> - “Ah! no botanist. The flower of this beautiful plant continues only one - day, but there is a constant succession from July to the end of the - autumn; and if this fine weather continue—Pray, sir, how is the - wind?” - </p> - <p> - “I really cannot say,” said the Prince; “but I think the wind is either—” - </p> - <p> - “Do you know, sir?” continued Beckendorff to Vivian. - </p> - <p> - “I think, sir, that it is—” - </p> - <p> - “Westerly. Well! If this weather continue, the succession may still last - another month. You will be interested to know, Mr. von Philipson, that the - flower comes out at the same joint with the leaf, on a peduncle nearly - three inches long; round the centre of it are two radiating crowns; look, - look, sir! the inner inclining towards the centre column; now examine this - well, and I will be with you in a moment.” So saying, Mr. Beckendorff, - running down the walk, jumped over the railing, and in a moment was - coursing across the lawn, towards the river, in a chase after a - dragon-fly. - </p> - <p> - Mr. Beckendorff was soon out of sight, and after lingering half-an-hour in - the vicinity of the blue passion-flower, the Prince proposed to Vivian - that they should quit the spot. “So far as I can observe,” continued his - Highness, “we might as well quit the house. No wonder that Beckendorff’s - power is on the wane, for he appears to me to be growing childish. Surely - he could not always have been this frivolous creature!” - </p> - <p> - “I am really so astonished,” said Vivian, “that it is quite out of my - power to assist your Highness in any supposition. But I should recommend - you not to be too hasty in your movements. Take care that staying here - does not affect the position which you have taken up, or retard the - progress of any measures on which you have determined, and you are safe. - What will it injure you if, with the chance of achieving the great and - patriotic purpose to which you have devoted your powers and energies, you - are subjected for a few hours to the caprices, or even rudeness, of any - man whatever? If Beckendorff be the character which the world gives him - credit to be, I do not think he can imagine that you are to be deceived - twice; and if he do imagine so, we are convinced that he will be - disappointed. If, as you have supposed, not only his power is on the wane, - but his intellect also, four-and-twenty hours will convince us of the - fact; for in less than that time your Highness will necessarily have - conversation of a more important nature with him. I recommend, therefore, - that we continue here to-day, although,” added Vivian, smiling, “I have to - sleep in his observatory.” - </p> - <p> - After walking in the gardens about an hour, the Prince and Vivian again - went into the house, imagining that Beckendorff might have returned by - another entrance; but he was not there. The Prince was much annoyed; and - Vivian, to amuse himself, had recourse to the library. After re-examining - the armour, looking at the garden through the painted windows, - conjecturing who might be the original of the mysterious picture and what - could be the meaning of the withered branch, the Prince was fairly worn - out. The precise dinner hour he did not know; and notwithstanding repeated - exertions, he had hitherto been unable to find the blooming Clara. He - could not flatter himself, however, that there were less than two hours to - kill before the great event took place; and so, heartily wishing himself - back again at Turriparva, he prevailed upon Vivian to throw aside his book - and take another walk. - </p> - <p> - This time they extended their distance, stretched out as far as the river, - and explored the adjoining woods; but of Mr. Beckendorff they saw and - heard nothing. At length they again returned: it was getting dusk. They - found the bow window of the library closed. They again entered the - dining-room, and, to their surprise, found no preparations for dinner. - This time the Prince was more fortunate in his exertions to procure an - interview with Madam Clara, for that lady almost immediately entered the - room. - </p> - <p> - “Pray, my good madam,” inquired the Prince, “has your master returned?” - </p> - <p> - “Mr. Beckendorff is in the library, sir,” said the old lady, pompously. - </p> - <p> - “Indeed! we do not dine in this room, then?” - </p> - <p> - “Dine, sir!” said the good dame, forgetting her pomposity in her - astonishment. - </p> - <p> - “Yes, dine,” said the Prince. - </p> - <p> - “Mr. Beckendorff never takes anything after his noon meal.” - </p> - <p> - “Am I to understand, then, that we are to have no dinner?” asked his - Highness, angry and agitated. - </p> - <p> - “Mr. Beckendorff never takes anything after his noon meal, sir; but I am - sure that if you and your friend are hungry, sir, I hope there is never a - want in this house.” - </p> - <p> - “My good lady, I am hungry, very hungry, indeed; and if your master, I - mean Mr. von, that is Mr. Beckendorff, has such a bad appetite that he can - satisfy himself with picking, once a day, the breast of a pheasant; why, - if he expect his friends to be willing or even able to live on such fare, - the least that I can say is, that he is much mistaken; and so, therefore, - my good friend Grey, I think we had better order our horses and be off.” - </p> - <p> - “No occasion for that, I hope,” said Mrs. Clara, rather alarmed at the - Prince’s passion; “no want, I trust, ever here, sir; and I make no doubt - you will have dinner as soon as possible; and so, sir, I hope you will not - be hasty.” - </p> - <p> - “Hasty! I have no wish to be hasty; but as for disarranging the whole - economy of the house, and getting up an extemporaneous meal for me, I - cannot think of it. Mr. Beckendorff may live as he likes, and if I stay - here I am contented to live as he does. I do not wish him to change his - habits for me, and I shall take care that, after today, there will be no - necessity for his doing so. However, absolute hunger can make no - compliments; and therefore I will thank you, my good madam, to let me and - my friend have the remains of that cold game, if they be still in - existence, on which we lunched, or, as you term it, took our noon meal, - this morning; and which, if it were your own cooking, Mrs. Clara, I assure - you, as I observed to my friend at the time, did you infinite credit.” - </p> - <p> - The Prince, although his gentlemanlike feelings had, in spite of his - hunger, dictated a deprecation of Mrs. Clara’s making a dinner merely for - himself, still thought that a seasonable and deserved compliment to the - lady might assist in bringing about a result which, notwithstanding his - politeness, he much desired; and that was the production of another - specimen of her culinary accomplishments. Having behaved, as he - considered, with moderation and dignified civility, he was, it must be - confessed, rather astounded when Mrs. Clara, duly acknowledging his - compliment by her curtsey, was sorry to inform him that she dared give no - refreshment in this house without Mr. Beckendorff’s special order. - </p> - <p> - “Special order! Why! surely your master will not grudge me the cold leg of - a pheasant?” - </p> - <p> - “Mr. Beckendorff is not in the habit of grudging anything,” answered the - housekeeper, with offended majesty. - </p> - <p> - “Then why should he object?” asked the Prince. - </p> - <p> - “Mr. Beckendorff is the best judge, sir, of the propriety of his own - regulations.” - </p> - <p> - “Well, well!” said Vivian, more interested for his friend than himself, - “there is no difficulty in asking Mr. Beckendorff?” - </p> - <p> - “None in the least, sir,” answered the housekeeper, “when he is awake.” - </p> - <p> - “Awake!” said the Prince, “why! is he asleep now?” - </p> - <p> - “Yes, sir, in the library.” - </p> - <p> - “And how long will he be asleep?” asked the Prince, with eagerness. - </p> - <p> - “It is uncertain; he may be asleep for hours, he may wake in five minutes; - all I can do is to watch.” - </p> - <p> - “But, surely in a case like the present, you can wake your master?” - </p> - <p> - “I could not wake Mr. Beckendorff, sir, if the house were on fire. No one - can enter the room when he is asleep.” - </p> - <p> - “Then how can you possibly know when he is awake?” - </p> - <p> - “I shall hear his violin immediately, sir.” - </p> - <p> - “Well, well! I suppose it must be so. I wish we were in Turriparva; that - is all I know. Men of my station have no business to be paying visits to - the sons of the Lord knows who! peasants, shopkeepers, and pedagogues!” - </p> - <p> - As a fire was blazing in the dining-room, which Mrs. Clara informed them - Mr. Beckendorff never omitted having every night in the year, the Prince - and his friend imagined that they were to remain there, and they - consequently did not attempt to disturb the slumbers of their host. - Resting his feet on the hobs, his Highness, for the fiftieth time, - declared that he wished he had never left Turriparva; and just when Vivian - was on the point of giving up in despair the hope of consoling him, Mrs. - Clara entered and proceeded to lay the cloth. - </p> - <p> - “Your master is awake, then?” asked the Prince, very quickly. - </p> - <p> - “Mr. Beckendorff has been long awake, sir! and dinner will be ready - immediately.” - </p> - <p> - His Highness’ countenance brightened; and in a short time the supper - appearing, the Prince, again fascinated by Mrs. Clara’s cookery and Mr. - Beckendorff’s wine, forgot his chagrin, and regained his temper. - </p> - <p> - In about a couple of hours Mr. Beckendorff entered. - </p> - <p> - “I hope that Clara has given you wine you like, Mr. von Philipson?” - </p> - <p> - “The same bin, I will answer for that.” - </p> - <p> - Mr. Beckendorff had his violin in his hand, but his dress was much - changed. His great boots being pulled off, exhibited the white silk - stockings which he invariably wore. His coat had given place to the easier - covering of a brocade dressing-gown. He drew a chair round the fire, - between the Prince and Vivian. It was a late hour, and the room was only - lighted by the glimmering coals, for the flames had long died away. Mr. - Beckendorff sat for some time without speaking, gazing earnestly on the - decaying embers. Indeed, before many minutes had elapsed, complete silence - prevailed; for both the endeavours of the Prince and of Vivian to promote - conversation had been unsuccessful. At length the master of the house - turned round to the Prince, and pointing to a particular mass of coal, - said, “I think, Mr. von Philipson, that is the completest elephant I ever - saw. We will ring the bell for some coals, and then have a game of whist.” - </p> - <p> - The Prince was so surprised by Mr. Beckendorff’s remark that he was not - sufficiently struck by the strangeness of his proposition, and it was only - when he heard Vivian professing his ignorance of the game that it occurred - to him that to play at whist was hardly the object for which he had - travelled from Turriparva. - </p> - <p> - “An Englishman not know whist!” said Mr. Beckendorff: - </p> - <p> - “Ridiculous! You do know it. Let us play! Mr. von Philipson, I know, has - no objection.” - </p> - <p> - “But, my good sir,” said the Prince, “although previous to conversation I - may have no objection to join in a little amusement, still it appears to - me that it has escaped your memory that whist is a game which requires the - co-operation of four persons.” - </p> - <p> - “Not at all! I take dummy! I am not sure it is not the finest way of - playing the game.” - </p> - <p> - The table was arranged, the lights brought, the cards produced, and the - Prince of Little Lilliput, greatly to his surprise, found himself playing - whist with Mr. Beckendorff. Nothing could be more dull. The Minister would - neither bet nor stake, and the immense interest which he took in every - card that was played ludicrously contrasted with the rather sullen looks - of the Prince and the very sleepy ones of Vivian. Whenever Mr. Beckendorff - played for dummy he always looked with the most searching eye into the - next adversary’s face, as if he would read his cards in his features. The - first rubber lasted an hour and a half, three long games, which Mr. - Beckendorff, to his triumph, hardly won. In the first game of the second - rubber Vivian blundered; in the second he revoked; and in the third, - having neglected to play, and being loudly called upon, and rated both by - his partner and Mr. Beckendorff, he was found to be asleep. Beckendorff - threw down his hand with a loud dash, which roused Vivian from his - slumber. He apologised for his drowsiness; but said that he was so sleepy - that he must retire. The Prince, who longed to be with Beckendorff alone, - winked approbation of his intention. - </p> - <p> - “Well!” said Beckendorff, “you spoiled the rubber. I shall ring for Clara. - Why you all are so fond of going to bed I cannot understand. I have not - been to bed these thirty years.” - </p> - <p> - Vivian made his escape; and Beckendorff, pitying his degeneracy, proposed - to the Prince, in a tone which seemed to anticipate that the offer would - meet with instantaneous acceptation, double dummy. This, however, was too - much. - </p> - <p> - “No more cards, sir, I thank you,” said the Prince; “if, however, you have - a mind for an hour’s conversation, I am quite at your service.” - </p> - <p> - “I am obliged to you; I never talk. Good night, Mr. von Philipson.” - </p> - <p> - Mr. Beckendorff left the room. His Highness could contain himself no - longer. He rang the bell. - </p> - <p> - “Pray, Mrs. Clara,” said he, “where are my horses?” - </p> - <p> - “Mr. Beckendorff will have no quadrupeds within a mile of the house, - except Owlface.” - </p> - <p> - “How do you mean? Let me see the man-servant.” - </p> - <p> - “The household consists only of myself, sir.” - </p> - <p> - “Why! where is my luggage, then?” - </p> - <p> - “That has been brought up, sir; it is in your room.” - </p> - <p> - “I tell you I must have my horses.” - </p> - <p> - “It is quite impossible to-night, sir. I think, sir, you had better - retire. Mr. Beckendorff may not be home again these six hours.” - </p> - <p> - “What! is your master gone out?” - </p> - <p> - “Yes, sir, he is just gone out to take his ride.” - </p> - <p> - “Why! where is his horse kept, then?” - </p> - <p> - “It is Owlface, sir.” - </p> - <p> - “Owlface, indeed! What! is your master in the habit of riding out at - night?” - </p> - <p> - “Mr. Beckendorff rides out, sir, just when it happens to suit him.” - </p> - <p> - “It is very odd I cannot ride out when it happens to suit me! However, I - will be off to-morrow; and so, if you please, show me my bed-room at - once.” - </p> - <p> - “Your room is the library, sir.” - </p> - <p> - “The library! Why, there is no bed in the library.” - </p> - <p> - “We have no beds, sir; but the sofa is made up.” - </p> - <p> - “No beds! Well! it is only for one night. You are all mad, and I am as mad - as you for coming here.” - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0062" id="link2HCH0062"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER VII - </h2> - <p> - The morning sun peeping through the window of the little summer-house - roused its inmate at an early hour; and finding no signs of Mr. - Beckendorff and his guest having yet risen from their slumbers, Vivian - took the opportunity of strolling about the gardens and the grounds. - Directing his way along the margin of the river, he soon left the lawn and - entered some beautiful meadows, whose dewy verdure glistened in the - brightening beams of the early sun. Crossing these, and passing through a - gate, he found himself in a rural road, whose lofty hedge-rows, rich with - all the varieties of wild fruit and flower, and animated with the cheering - presence of the busy birds chirping from every bough and spray, altogether - presented a scene which reminded him of the soft beauties of his own - country. With some men, to remember is to be sad; and unfortunately for - Vivian Grey, there were few objects which with him did not give rise to - associations of a painful nature. The strange occurrences of the last few - days had recalled, if not revived, the feelings of his boyhood. His early - career flitted across his mind. He would have stifled the remembrance with - a sigh, but man Is the slave of Memory. For a moment he mused over Power; - but then he, shuddering, shrank from the wearing anxiety, the consuming - care, the eternal vigilance, the constant contrivance, the agonising - suspense, the distracting vicissitudes of his past career. Alas! it is our - nature to sicken, from our birth, after some object of unattainable - felicity, to struggle through the freshest years of our life in an insane - pursuit after some indefinite good, which does not even exist! But sure - and quick is the dark hour which cools our doting frenzy in the frigid - waves of the ocean of oblivion! We dream of immortality until we die. - Ambition! at thy proud and fatal altar we whisper the secrets of our - mighty thoughts, and breathe the aspirations of our inexpressible desires. - A clouded flame licks up the offering of our ruined souls, and the - sacrifice vanishes in the sable smoke of Death. - </p> - <p> - But where are his thoughts wandering? Had he forgotten that day of darkest - despair? There had that happened to him which had happened to no other - man. He was roused from his reverie by the sound of a trotting horse. He - looked up, but the winding road prevented him at first from seeing the - steed which evidently was approaching. The sound came nearer and nearer; - and at length, turning a corner, Mr. Beckendorff came in sight. He was - mounted on a strong-built, rough, and ugly pony, with an obstinate mane, - which, defying the exertion’s of the groom, fell in equal divisions on - both sides of its bottle neck, and a large white face, which, combined - with its blinking vision, had earned for it the euphonious title of - Owlface. Both master and steed must have travelled hard and far, for both - were covered with dust and mud from top to toe, from mane to hoof. Mr. - Beckendorff seemed surprised at meeting Vivian, and pulled up his pony as - he reached him. - </p> - <p> - “An early riser, I see, sir. Where is Mr. von Philipson?” - </p> - <p> - “I have not yet seen him, and imagined that both he and yourself had not - yet risen.” - </p> - <p> - “Hum! how many hours is it to noon?” asked Mr. Beckendorff, who always - spoke astronomically. - </p> - <p> - “More than four, I imagine.” - </p> - <p> - “Pray do you prefer the country about here to Turriparva?” - </p> - <p> - “Both, I think, are beautiful.” - </p> - <p> - “You live at Turriparva?” asked Mr. Beckendorff. - </p> - <p> - “As a guest,” answered Vivian. - </p> - <p> - “Has it been a fine summer at Turriparva?” - </p> - <p> - “I believe everywhere.” - </p> - <p> - “I am afraid Mr. von Philipson finds it rather dull here?” - </p> - <p> - “I am not aware of it.” - </p> - <p> - “He seems a ve-ry—?” said Beckendorff, looking keenly in his - companion’s face. But Vivian did not supply the desired phrase; and so the - Minister was forced to finish the sentence himself, “a very gentlemanlike - sort of man?” A low bow was the only response. - </p> - <p> - “I trust, sir, I may indulge the hope,” continued Mr. Beckendorff, “that - you will honour me with your company another day.” - </p> - <p> - “You are exceedingly obliging!” - </p> - <p> - “Mr. von Philipson is fond, I think, of a country life?” said Beckendorff. - </p> - <p> - “Most men are.” - </p> - <p> - “I suppose he has no innate objection to live occasionally in a city?” - </p> - <p> - “Few have.” - </p> - <p> - “You probably have known him long?” - </p> - <p> - “Not long enough to wish our acquaintance at an end.” - </p> - <p> - “Hum!” - </p> - <p> - They proceeded in silence for some moments, and then Beckendorff again - turned round, and this time with a direct question. - </p> - <p> - “I wonder if Mr. Von Philipson can make it convenient to honour me with - his company another day. Can you tell me?” - </p> - <p> - “I think the best person to inform you of that would be his Highness - himself,” said Vivian, using his friend’s title purposely to show Mr. - Beckendorff how ridiculous he considered his present use of the incognito. - </p> - <p> - “You think so, sir, do you?” answered Beckendorff, sarcastically. - </p> - <p> - They had now arrived at the gate by which Vivian had reached the road. - </p> - <p> - “Your course, sir,” said Mr. Beckendorff, “lies that way. I see, like - myself, you are no great talker. We shall meet at breakfast.” So saying, - the Minister set spurs to his pony, and was soon out of sight. - </p> - <p> - When Vivian reached the house, he found the bow window of the library - thrown open, and as he approached he saw Mr. Beckendorff enter the room - and bow to the prince. His Highness had passed a good night in spite of - not sleeping in a bed, and he was at this moment commencing a delicious - breakfast. His ill-humour had consequently vanished. He had made up his - mind that Beckendorff was mad; and although he had given up all the secret - and flattering hopes which he had dared to entertain when the interview - was first arranged, he nevertheless did not regret his visit, which on the - whole had been amusing, and had made him acquainted with the person and - habits, and, as he believed, the intellectual powers of a man with whom, - most probably, he should soon be engaged in open hostility. Vivian took - his seat at the breakfast, table, and Beckendorff stood conversing with - them with his back to the fireplace, and occasionally, during the pauses - of conversation, pulling the strings of his violin with his fingers. It - did not escape Vivian’s observation that the Minister was particularly - courteous and even attentive to the Prince; and that he endeavoured by his - quick and more communicative answers, and occasionally by a stray - observation, to encourage the good humour visible on the cheerful - countenance of his guest. - </p> - <p> - “Have you been long up, Mr. Beckendorff?” asked the Prince; for his host - had resumed his dressing-gown and slippers. - </p> - <p> - “I generally see the sun rise.” - </p> - <p> - “And yet you retire late! out riding last night, I understand?” - </p> - <p> - “I never go to bed.” - </p> - <p> - “Indeed!” said the Prince. “Well, for my part, without my regular rest I - am nothing. Have you breakfasted, Mr. Beckendorff?” - </p> - <p> - “Clara will bring my breakfast immediately.” - </p> - <p> - The dame accordingly soon appeared, bearing a tray with a basin of boiling - water and one large thick biscuit. This Mr. Beckendorff, having well - soaked in the hot fluid, eagerly devoured; and then taking up his violin, - amused himself until his guests had finished their breakfast. - </p> - <p> - When Vivian had ended his meal he left the Prince and Beckendorff alone, - determined that his presence should not be the occasion of the Minister - any longer retarding the commencement of business. The Prince, who by a - private glance had been prepared for his departure, immediately took the - opportunity of asking Mr. Beckendorff, in a decisive tone, whether he - might flatter himself that he could command his present attention to a - subject of importance. Mr. Beckendorff said that he was always at Mr. von - Philipson’s service; and drawing a chair opposite him, the Prince and Mr. - Beckendorff now sat on each side of the fireplace. - </p> - <p> - “Hem!” said the Prince, clearing his throat; and he looked at Mr. - Beckendorff, who sat with his heels close together, his toes out square, - his hands resting on his knees, which, as well as his elbows, were turned - out, his shoulders bent, his head reclined, and his eyes glancing. - </p> - <p> - “Hem!” said the Prince of Little Lilliput. “In compliance, Mr. - Beckendorff, with your wish, developed in the communication received by me - on the—inst., I assented in my answer to the arrangement then - proposed; the object of which was, to use your own words, to facilitate - the occurrence of an oral interchange of the sentiments of various parties - interested in certain proceedings, by which interchange it was anticipated - that the mutual interests might be respectively considered and finally - arranged. Prior, Mr. Beckendorff, to either of us going into any detail - upon those points of probable discussion, which will, in all likelihood, - form the fundamental features of this interview, I wish to recall your - attention to the paper which I had the honour of presenting to his Royal - Highness, and which is alluded to in your communication of the—last. - The principal heads of that document I have brought with me, abridged in - this paper.” - </p> - <p> - Here the Prince handed to Mr. Beckendorff a MS. pamphlet, consisting of - several sheets closely written. The Minister bowed very graciously as he - took it from his Highness’ hand, and then, without even looking at it, - laid it on the table. - </p> - <p> - “You, sir, I perceive,” continued the Prince, “are acquainted with its - contents; and it will therefore be unnecessary for me at present to - expatiate upon their individual expediency, or to argue for their - particular adoption. And, sir, when we observe the progress of the human - mind, when we take into consideration the quick march of intellect, and - the wide expansion of enlightened views and liberal principles; when we - take a bird’s-eye view of the history of man from the earliest ages to the - present moment, I feel that it would be folly in me to conceive for an - instant that the measures developed and recommended in that paper will not - finally receive the approbation of his Royal Highness. As to the exact - origin of slavery, Mr. Beckendorff, I confess that I am not, at this - moment, prepared distinctly to speak. That the Divine Author of our - religion was its decided enemy, I am informed, is clear. That the slavery - of ancient times was the origin of the feudal service of a more modern - period, is a point on which men of learning have not precisely made up - their minds. With regard to the exact state of the ancient German people, - Tacitus affords us a great deal of most interesting information. Whether - or not, certain passages which I have brought with me marked in the - Germania are incontestable evidences that our ancestors enjoyed or - understood the practice of a wise and well-regulated representative - system, is a point on which I shall be happy to receive the opinion of so - distinguished a statesman as Mr. Beckendorff. In stepping forward, as I - have felt it my duty to do, as the advocate of popular rights and national - privileges, I am desirous to prove that I have not become the votary of - innovation and the professor of revolutionary doctrines. The passages of - the Roman author in question, and an ancient charter of the Emperor - Charlemagne, are, I consider, decisive and sufficient precedents for the - measures which I have thought proper to sanction by my approval, and to - support by my influence. A minister, Mr. Beckendorff, must take care that - in the great race of politics the minds of his countrymen do not leave his - own behind them. We must never forget the powers and capabilities of man. - On this very spot, perhaps, some centuries ago, savages clothed in skins - were committing cannibalism in a forest. We must not forget, I repeat, - that it is the business to those to whom Providence has allotted the - responsible possession of power and influence (that it is their duty, our - duty, Mr. Beckendorff), to become guardians of our weaker - fellow-creatures; that all power is a trust; that we are accountable for - its exercise; that from the people, and for the people, all springs, and - all must exist; and that, unless we conduct ourselves with the requisite - wisdom, prudence, and propriety, the whole system of society will be - disorganised; and this country, in particular, will fall a victim to that - system of corruption and misgovernment which has already occasioned the - destruction of the great kingdoms mentioned in the Bible, and many other - states besides, Greece, Rome, Carthage, &c.” - </p> - <p> - Thus ended the peroration of an harangue consisting of an incoherent - arrangement of imperfectly-remembered facts and misunderstood principles; - all gleaned by his Highness from the enlightening articles of the - Reisenburg journals. Like Brutus, the Prince of Little Lilliput paused for - a reply. - </p> - <p> - “Mr. von Philipson,” said his companion, when his Highness had finished, - “you speak like a man of sense.” Having given this answer, Mr. Beckendorff - rose from his seat and walked straight out of the room. - </p> - <p> - The Prince at first took the answer for a compliment; but Mr. Beckendorff - not returning, he began to have a faint idea that he was neglected. In - this uncertainty he rang the bell for his friend Clara. - </p> - <p> - “Mrs. Clara! where is your master?” - </p> - <p> - “Just gone out, sir.” - </p> - <p> - “How do you mean?” - </p> - <p> - “He has gone out with his gun, sir.” - </p> - <p> - “You are quite sure he has—gone out?” - </p> - <p> - “Quite sure, sir. I took him his coat and boots myself.” - </p> - <p> - “I am to understand, then, that your master has gone out?” - </p> - <p> - “Yes, sir; Mr. Beckendorff has gone out. He will be home for his noon - meal.” - </p> - <p> - “That is enough! Grey!’ called out the indignant Prince, darting into the - garden. - </p> - <p> - “Well, my dear Prince,” said Vivian, “what can possibly be the matter?” - </p> - <p> - “The matter! Insanity can be the only excuse; insanity can alone account - for his preposterous conduct. We have seen enough of him. The repetition - of absurdity is only wearisome. Pray assist me in getting our horses - immediately.” - </p> - <p> - “Certainly, if you wish it; but remember you brought me here as your - friend and counsellor. As I have accepted the trust, I cannot help being - sensible of the responsibility. Before, therefore, you finally resolve - upon departure, pray let me be fully acquainted with the circumstances - which have impelled you to this sudden resolution.” - </p> - <p> - “Willingly, my good friend, could I only command my temper; and yet to - fall into a passion with a madman is almost a mark of madness. But his - manner and his conduct are so provoking and so puzzling, that I cannot - altogether repress my irritability. And that ridiculous incognito! Why I - sometimes begin to think that I really am Mr. von Philipson! An incognito - forsooth! for what? to deceive whom? His household apparently only - consists of two persons, one of whom has visited me in my own castle; and - the other is a cross old hag, who would not be able to comprehend my rank - if she were aware of it. But to the point! When you left the room I was - determined to be trifled with no longer, and I asked him, in a firm voice - and very marked manner, whether I might command his immediate attention to - important business. He professed to be at my service. I opened the affair - by taking a cursory, yet definite, review of the principles in which my - political conduct had originated, and on which it was founded. I flattered - myself that I had produced an impression. Sometimes we are in a better cue - for these expositions than at others, and to-day I was really unusually - felicitous. My memory never deserted. I was at the same time luminous and - profound; and while I was guided by the philosophical spirit of the - present day, I showed, by my various reading, that I respected the - experience of antiquity. In short, I was satisfied with myself; and with - the exception of one single point about the origin of slavery, which - unfortunately got entangled with the feudal system, I could not have got - on better had Sievers himself been at my side. Nor did I spare Mr. - Beckendorff; but, on the contrary, I said a few things which, had he been - in his senses, must, I imagine, have gone home. Do you know I finished by - drawing his own character, and showing the inevitable effects of his - ruinous policy: and what do you think he did?” - </p> - <p> - “Left you in a passion?” - </p> - <p> - “Not at all. He seemed much struck by what I had said, and apparently - understood it. I have heard that in some species of insanity the patient - is perfectly able to comprehend everything addressed to him, though at - that point his sanity ceases, and he is unable to answer or to act. This - must be Beckendorff’s case; for no sooner had I finished than he rose up - immediately, and, saying that I spoke like a man of sense, abruptly - quitted the room. The housekeeper says he will not be at home again till - that infernal ceremony takes place called the noon meal. Now, do you not - advise me to be off as soon as possible?” - </p> - <p> - “It will require some deliberation. Pray did you not speak to him last - night?” - </p> - <p> - “Ah! I forgot that I had not been able to speak to you since then. Well! - last night, what do you think he did? When you were gone, he had the - insolence to congratulate me on the opportunity then afforded of playing - double dummy; and when I declined his proposition, but said that if he - wished to have an hour’s conversation I was at his service, he coolly told - me that he never talked, and bade me good night! Did you ever know such a - madman? He never goes to bed. I only had a sofa. How the deuce did you - sleep?” - </p> - <p> - “Well and safely, considering that I was in a summer-house without lock or - bolt.” - </p> - <p> - “Well! I need not ask you now as to your opinion of our immediately - getting off. We shall have, however, some trouble about our horses, for he - will not allow a quadruped near the house, except some monster of an - animal that he rides himself; and, by St. Hubert! I cannot find out where - our steeds are. What shall we do?” But Vivian did not answer. “What are - you thinking of?” continued his Highness. “Why don’t you answer?” - </p> - <p> - “Your Highness must not go,” said Vivian, shaking his head. - </p> - <p> - “Not go! Why so?” - </p> - <p> - “Depend upon it you are wrong about Beckendorff. That he is a humorist - there is no doubt; but it appears to me to be equally clear that his queer - habits and singular mode of life are not of late adoption. What he is now - he must have been these ten, perhaps these twenty years, perhaps more; of - this there are a thousand proofs about us. As to the overpowering cause - which has made him the character he appears at present, it is needless for - us to inquire; probably some incident in his private life in all - likelihood connected with the mysterious picture. Let us be satisfied with - the effect. If the case be as I state it in his private life and habits, - Beckendorff must have been equally incomprehensible and equally singular - at the very time that, in his public capacity, he was producing such - brilliant results as at the present moment. Now then, can we believe him - to be insane? I anticipate your objections. I know you will enlarge upon - the evident absurdity of his inviting his political opponent to his house - for a grave consultation on the most important affairs, and then treating - him as he has done you, when it must be clear to him that you cannot be - again duped, and when he must feel that, were he to amuse you for as many - weeks as he has days, your plans and your position would not be - injuriously affected. Be it so; probably a humorist like Beckendorff - cannot, even in the most critical moment, altogether restrain the bent of - his capricious inclinations. However, my dear Prince, I will lay no stress - upon this point. My opinion, indeed my conviction, is that Beckendorff - acts from design. I have considered his conduct well, and I have observed - all that you have seen, and more than you have seen, and keenly; depend - upon it that since you assented to the interview Beckendorff has been - obliged to shift his intended position for negotiation; some of the - machinery has gone wrong. Fearful, if he had postponed your visit, you - should imagine that he was only again amusing you, and consequently would - listen to no future overtures, he has allowed you to attend a conference - for which he is not prepared. That he is making desperate exertions to - bring the business to a point is my firm opinion; and you would perhaps - agree with me were you as convinced as I am that, since we parted last - night, our host has been to Reisenburg and back again.” - </p> - <p> - “To Reisenburg and back again!” - </p> - <p> - “Ay! I rose this morning at an early hour, and imagining that both you and - Beckendorff had not yet made your appearance, I escaped from the grounds, - intending to explore part of the surrounding country. In my stroll I came - to a narrow winding road, which I am convinced lies in the direction - towards Reisenburg; there, for some reason or other, I loitered more than - an hour, and very probably should have been too late for breakfast had not - I been recalled to myself by the approach of a horseman. It was - Beckendorff, covered with dust and mud; his horse had been evidently hard - ridden. I did not think much of it at the time, because I supposed he - might have been out for three or four hours and hard worked, but I - nevertheless was struck by his appearance; and when you mentioned that he - went out riding at a late hour last night, it immediately occurred to me - that had he come home at one or two o’clock it was not very probable that - he would have gone out again at four or five. I have no doubt that my - conjecture is correct; Beckendorff has been to Reisenburg.” - </p> - <p> - “You have placed this business in a new and important light,” said the - Prince, his expiring hopes reviving; “what then do you advise me to do?” - </p> - <p> - “To be quiet. If your own view of the case be right, you can act as well - to-morrow or the next day as this moment; on the contrary, if mine be the - correct one, a moment may enable Beckendorff himself to bring affairs to a - crisis. In either case I should recommend you to be silent, and in no - manner to allude any more to the object of your visit. If you speak you - only give opportunities to Beckendorff of ascertaining your opinions and - your inclinations; and your silence, after such frequent attempts on your - side to promote discussion upon business, will soon be discovered by him - to be systematic. This will not decrease his opinion of your sagacity and - firmness. The first principle of negotiation is to make your adversary - respect you.” - </p> - <p> - After long consultation the Prince determined to follow Vivian’s advice; - and so firmly did he adhere to his purpose that when he met Mr. - Beckendorff at the noon meal, he asked him, with a very unembarrassed - voice and manner, “what sport he had had in the morning.” - </p> - <p> - The noon meal again consisted of a single dish, as exquisitely dressed, - however, as the preceding one. It was a haunch of venison. - </p> - <p> - “This is my dinner, gentlemen,” said Beckendorff; “let it be your - luncheon. I have ordered your dinner at sunset.” - </p> - <p> - After having eaten a slice of the haunch, Mr. Beckendorff rose from the - table and said, “We will have our wine in the drawing-room, Mr. von - Philipson, and then you will not be disturbed by my birds.” - </p> - <p> - He left the room. - </p> - <p> - To the drawing-room, therefore, his two guests soon adjourned; they found - him busily employed with his pencil. The Prince thought it must be a - chart, or a fortification at least, and was rather surprised when Mr. - Beckendorff asked him the magnitude of Mirac in Boötes; and the Prince - confessing his utter ignorance of the subject, the Minister threw aside - his unfinished planisphere and drew his chair to them at the table. It was - with satisfaction that his Highness perceived a bottle of his favourite - Tokay; and with no little astonishment he observed that to-day there were - three wine glasses placed before them. They were of peculiar beauty, and - almost worthy, for their elegant shapes and great antiquity, of being - included in the collection of the Grand Duke of Johannisberger. - </p> - <p> - After exhausting their bottle, in which they were assisted to the extent - of one glass by their host, who drank Mr. von Philipson’s health with - cordiality, they assented to Mr. Beckendorff’s proposition of visiting his - fruitery. - </p> - <p> - To the Prince’s great relief, dinner-time soon arrived; and having - employed a couple of hours on that meal very satisfactorily, he and Vivian - adjourned to the drawing-room, having previously pledged their honour to - each other that nothing should again induce them to play dummy whist. - Their resolutions and their promises were needless. Mr. Beckendorff, who - was sitting opposite the fire when they came into the room, neither by - word nor motion acknowledged that he was aware of their entrance. Vivian - found refuge in a book; and the Prince, after having examined and - re-examined the brilliant birds that figured on the drawing-room paper, - fell asleep upon the sofa. Mr. Beckendorff took down the guitar, and - accompanied himself in a low voice for some time; then he suddenly ceased, - and stretching out his legs, and supporting his thumbs in the armholes of - his waistcoat, he leant back in his chair and remained motionless, with - his eyes fixed upon the picture. Vivian, in turn, gazed upon this singular - being and the fair pictured form which he seemed to idolise. Was he, too, - unhappy? Had he, too, been bereft in the hour of his proud and perfect - joy? Had he, too, lost a virgin bride? His agony overcame him, the book - fell from his hand, and he sighed aloud! Mr. Beckendorff started, and the - Prince awoke. Vivian, confounded, and unable to overpower his emotions, - uttered some hasty words, explanatory, apologetical, and contradictory, - and retired. In his walk to the summer-house a man passed him. In spite of - a great cloak, Vivian recognised him as their messenger and guide; and his - ample mantle did not conceal his riding boots and the spurs which - glistened in the moonlight. - </p> - <p> - It was an hour past midnight when the door of the summer-house softly - opened and Mr. Beckendorff entered. He started when he found Vivian still - undressed, and pacing up and down the little chamber. The young man made - an effort, when he witnessed an intruder, to compose a countenance whose - agitation could not be concealed. - </p> - <p> - “What, are you up again?” said Mr. Beckendorff. “Are you ill?” - </p> - <p> - “Would I were as well in mind as in body! I have not yet been to rest. We - cannot command our feelings at all moments, sir; and at this, especially, - I felt that I had a right to count upon being alone.” - </p> - <p> - “I exceedingly regret that I have disturbed you,” said Mr. Beckendorff, in - a kind voice, and in a manner which responded to the sympathy of his tone. - “I thought that you had been long asleep. There is a star which I cannot - exactly make out. I fancy it must be a comet, and so I ran to the - observatory; but let me not disturb you;” and Mr. Beckendorff was - retiring. - </p> - <p> - “You do not disturb me, sir. I cannot sleep: pray ascend.” - </p> - <p> - “Never mind the star. But if you really have no inclination to sleep, let - us sit down and have a little conversation; or perhaps we had better take - a stroll. It is a warm night.” As he spoke, Mr. Beckendorff gently put his - arm within Vivian’s, and led him down the steps. - </p> - <p> - “Are you an astronomer, sir?” asked Beckendorff. - </p> - <p> - “I can tell the Great Bear from the Little Dog; but I confess that I look - upon the stars rather in a poetical than a scientific spirit.” - </p> - <p> - “Hum! I confess I do not.” - </p> - <p> - “There are moments,” continued Vivian, “when I cannot refrain from - believing that these mysterious luminaries have more influence over our - fortunes than modern times are disposed to believe. I feel that I am - getting less sceptical, perhaps I should say more credulous, every day; - but sorrow makes us superstitious.” - </p> - <p> - “I discard all such fantasies,” said Mr. Beckendorff; “they only tend to - enervate our mental energies and paralyse all human exertion. It is the - belief in these, and a thousand other deceits I could mention, which teach - man that he is not the master of his own mind, but the ordained victim or - the chance sport of circumstances, that makes millions pass through life - unimpressive as shadows, and has gained for this existence the stigma of a - vanity which it does not deserve.” - </p> - <p> - “I wish that I could think as you do,” said Vivian; “but the experience of - my life forbids me. Within only these last two years my career has, in so - many instances, indicated that I am not the master of my own conduct; that - no longer able to resist the conviction which is hourly impressed on me, I - recognise in every contingency the preordination of my fate.” - </p> - <p> - “A delusion of the brain!” said Beckendorff, quickly. “Fate, Destiny, - Chance, particular and special Providence; idle words! Dismiss them all, - sir! A man’s fate is his own temper; and according to that will be his - opinion as to the particular manner in which the course of events is - regulated. A consistent man believes in Destiny, a capricious man in - Chance.” - </p> - <p> - “But, sir, what is a man’s temper? It may be changed every hour. I started - in life with very different feelings from those which I profess at this - moment. With great deference to you, I imagine that you mistake the effect - for the cause; for surely temper is not the origin, but the result of - those circumstances of which we are all the creatures.” - </p> - <p> - “Sir, I deny it. Man is not the creature of circumstances. Circumstances - are the creatures of men. We are free agents, and man is more powerful - than matter. I recognise no intervening influence between that of the - established course of nature and my own mind. Truth may be distorted, may - be stifled, be suppressed. The invention of cunning deceits may, and in - most instances does, prevent man from exercising his own powers. They have - made him responsible to a realm of shadows, and a suitor in a court of - shades. He is ever dreading authority which does not exist, and fearing - the occurrence of penalties which there are none to enforce. But the mind - that dares to extricate itself from these vulgar prejudices, that proves - its loyalty to its Creator by devoting all its adoration to His glory; - such a spirit as this becomes a master-mind, and that master-mind will - invariably find that circumstances are its slaves.” - </p> - <p> - “Mr. Beckendorff, yours is a bold philosophy, of which I myself was once a - votary. How successful in my service you may judge by finding me a - wanderer.” - </p> - <p> - “Sir! your present age is the age of error: your whole system is founded - on a fallacy: you believe that a man’s temper can change. I deny it. If - you have ever seriously entertained the views which I profess; if, as you - lead me to suppose, you have dared to act upon them, and failed; sooner or - later, whatever may be your present conviction and your present feelings, - you will recur to your original wishes and your original pursuits. With a - mind experienced and matured, you may in all probability be successful; - and then I suppose, stretching your legs in your easy-chair, you will at - the same moment be convinced of your own genius, and recognise your own - Destiny!” - </p> - <p> - “With regard to myself, Mr. Beckendorff, I am convinced of the - erroneousness of your views. It is my opinion that no one who has dared to - think can look upon this world in any other than a mournful spirit. Young - as I am, nearly two years have elapsed since, disgusted with the world of - politics, I retired to a foreign solitude. At length, with passions - subdued, and, as I flatter myself, with a mind matured, convinced of the - vanity of all human affairs, I felt emboldened once more partially to - mingle with my species. Bitter as my lot had been, I had discovered the - origin of my misery in my own unbridled passions; and, tranquil and - subdued, I now trusted to pass through life as certain of no fresh sorrows - as I was of no fresh joys. And yet, sir, I am at this moment sinking under - the infliction of unparalleled misery; misery which I feel I have a right - to believe was undeserved. But why expatiate to a stranger on sorrow which - must be secret? I deliver myself up to my remorseless Fate.” - </p> - <p> - “What is grief?” said Mr. Beckendorff; “if it be excited by the fear of - some contingency, instead of grieving, a man should exert his energies and - prevent its occurrence. If, on the contrary, it be caused by an event, - that which has been occasioned by anything human, by the co-operation of - human circumstances, can be, and invariably is, removed by the same means. - Grief is the agony of an instant; the indulgence of Grief the blunder of a - life. Mix in the world, and in a month’s time you will speak to me very - differently. A young man, you meet with disappointment; in spite of all - your exalted notions of your own powers, you immediately sink under it. If - your belief of your powers were sincere, you should have proved it by the - manner in which you have struggled against adversity, not merely by the - mode in which you laboured for advancement. The latter is but a very - inferior merit. If, in fact, you wish to succeed, success, I repeat, is at - your command. You talk to me of your experience; and do you think that my - sentiments are the crude opinions of an unpractised man? Sir! I am not - fond of conversing with any person, and therefore far from being inclined - to maintain an argument in a spirit of insincerity merely for the sake of - a victory of words. Mark what I say: it is truth. No Minister ever yet - fell but from his own inefficiency. If his downfall be occasioned, as it - generally is, by the intrigues of one of his own creatures, his downfall - is merited for having been the dupe of a tool which in all probability he - should never have employed. If he fall through the open attacks of his - political opponents, his downfall is equally deserved for having - occasioned by his impolicy the formation of a party, for having allowed it - to be formed, or for not having crushed it when formed. No conjecture can - possibly occur, however fearful, however tremendous it may appear, from - which a man, by his own energy, may not extricate himself, as a mariner by - the rattling of his cannon can dissipate the impending water-spout!” - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0063" id="link2HCH0063"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER VIII - </h2> - <p> - It was on the third day of the visit to Mr. Beckendorff, just as that - gentleman was composing his mind after his noon meal with his favourite - Cremona, and in a moment of rapture raising his instrument high in the - air, that the door was suddenly dashed open, and Essper George rushed into - the room. The intruder, the moment that his eye caught Vivian, flew to his - master, and, seizing him by the arm, commenced and continued a loud shout - of exultation, accompanying his scream the whole time by a kind of quick - dance, which, though not quite as clamorous as the Pyrrhic, nevertheless - completely drowned the scientific harmony of Mr. Beckendorff. - </p> - <p> - So astounded were the three gentlemen by this unexpected entrance, that - some moments elapsed ere either of them found words at his command. At - length the master of the house spoke. - </p> - <p> - “Mr. von Philipson, I beg the favour of being informed who this person - is?” - </p> - <p> - The Prince did not answer, but looked at Vivian in great distress; and - just as our hero was about to give Mr. Beckendorff the requisite - information, Essper George, taking up the parable himself, seized the - opportunity of explaining the mystery. - </p> - <p> - “Who am I? who are you? I am an honest man, and no traitor; and if all - were the same, why, then, there would be no rogues in Reisenburg. Who am - I? A man. There’s an arm! there’s a leg! Can you see through a wood by - twilight? If so, yours is a better eye than mine. Can you eat an unskinned - hare, or dine on the haunch of a bounding stag? If so, your teeth are - sharper than mine. Can you hear a robber’s footstep when he’s kneeling - before murder? or can you listen to the snow falling on Midsummer’s day? - If so, your ears are finer than mine. Can you run with a chamois? can you - wrestle with a bear? can you swim with an otter? If so, I’m your match. - How many cities have you seen? how many knaves have you gulled? Which is - dearest, bread or justice? Why do men pay more for the protection of life - than life itself? Is cheatery a staple at Constantinople, as it is at - Vienna? and what’s the difference between a Baltic merchant and a Greek - pirate? Tell me all this, and I will tell you who went in mourning in the - moon at the death of the last comet. Who am I, indeed!” - </p> - <p> - The embarrassment of the Prince and Vivian while Essper George addressed - to Mr. Beckendorff these choice queries was indescribable. Once Vivian - tried to check him, but in vain. He did not repeat his attempt, for he was - sufficiently employed in restraining his own agitation and keeping his own - countenance; for in spite of the mortification and anger that Essper’s - appearance had excited in him, still an unfortunate but innate taste for - the ludicrous did not allow him to be perfectly insensible to the humour - of the scene. Mr. Beckendorff listened quietly till Essper had finished; - he then rose. - </p> - <p> - “Mr. von Philipson,” said he, “as a personal favour to yourself, and to my - own great inconvenience, I consented that in this interview you should be - attended by a friend. I did not reckon upon your servant, and it is - impossible that I can tolerate his presence for a moment. You know how I - live, and that my sole attendant is a female. I allow no male servants - within this house. Even when his Royal Highness honours me with his - presence he is unattended. I desire that I am immediately released from - the presence of this buffoon.” - </p> - <p> - So saying, Mr. Beckendorff left the room. - </p> - <p> - “Who are you?” said Essper, following him, with his back bent, his head on - his chest, and his eyes glancing. The imitation was perfect. - </p> - <p> - “Essper,” said Vivian, “your conduct is inexcusable, the mischief that you - have done irreparable, and your punishment shall be severe.” - </p> - <p> - “Severe! Why, what day did my master sell his gratitude for a silver - groschen! Is this the return for finding you out, and saving you from a - thousand times more desperate gang than that Baron at Ems! Severe indeed - will be your lot when you are in a dungeon in Reisenburg Castle, with - black bread for roast venison and sour water for Rhenish!” - </p> - <p> - “Why, what are you talking about?” - </p> - <p> - “Talking about! About treason, and arch traitors, and an old scoundrel who - lives in a lone lane, and dares not look you straight in the face. Why, - his very blink is enough to hang him without trial!” - </p> - <p> - “Essper, cease immediately this rhodomontade, and then in distinct terms - inform his Highness and myself of the causes of this unparalleled - intrusion.” - </p> - <p> - The impressiveness of Vivian’s manner produced a proper effect; and except - that he spoke somewhat affectedly slow and ridiculously precise, Essper - George delivered himself with great clearness. - </p> - <p> - “You see, sir, you never let me know that you were going to leave, and so - when I found that you did not come back, I made bold to speak to Mr. - Arnelm when he came home from hunting; but I could not get enough breath - out of him to stop a ladybird on a rose-leaf. I did not much like it, your - honour, for I was among strangers, and so were you, you know. Well, then, - I went to Master Rodolph: he was very kind to me, and seeing me in low - spirits, and thinking me, I suppose, in love, or in debt, or that I had - done some piece of mischief, or had something or other preying on my mind, - he comes to me, and says, ‘Essper,’ said he; you remember Master Rodolph’s - voice, sir?” - </p> - <p> - “To the point. Never let me hear Master Rodolph’s name again.” - </p> - <p> - “Yes, sir! Well, well! he said to me, ‘Come and dine with me in my room;’ - says I, ‘I will.’ A good offer should never be refused, unless we have a - better one at the same time. Whereupon, after dinner, Master Rodolph said - to me, ‘We will have a bottle of Burgundy for a treat.’ You see, sir, we - were rather sick of the Rhenish. Well, sir, we were free with the wine; - and Master Rodolph, who is never easy except when he knows everything, - must be trying, you see, to get out of me what it was that made me so down - in the mouth. I, seeing this, thought I would put off the secret to - another bottle; which being produced, I did not conceal from him any - longer what was making me so low. ‘Rodolph,’ said I, ‘I do not like my - young master going out in this odd way: he is of a temper to get into - scrapes, and I should like very much to know what he and the Prince - (saving your Highness’ presence) are after. They have been shut up in that - cabinet these two nights, and though I walked by the door pretty often, - devil a bit of a word ever came through the key-hole; and so you see, - Rodolph,’ said I, ‘it requires a bottle or two of Burgundy to keep my - spirits up.’ Well, your Highness, strange to say, no sooner had I spoken - than Master Rodolph put his head across the little table; we dined at the - little table on the right hand of the room as you enter—” - </p> - <p> - “Go on.” - </p> - <p> - “I am going on. Well! he put his head across the little table, and said to - me in a low whisper, cocking his odd-looking eye at the same time, ‘I tell - you what, Essper, you are a deuced sharp fellow!’ and so, giving a shake - of his head and another wink of his eye, he was quiet. I smelt a rat, but - I did not begin to pump directly; but after the third bottle, ‘Rodolph,’ - said I, ‘with regard to your last observation (for we had not spoken - lately, Burgundy being too fat a wine for talking), we are both of us - sharp fellows. I dare say, now, you and I are thinking of the same thing.’ - ‘No doubt of it,’ said Rodolph. And so, sir, he agreed to tell me what he - was thinking of, on condition that I should be equally frank afterwards. - Well, then, he told me that there were sad goings on at Turriparva.” - </p> - <p> - “The deuce!” said the Prince. - </p> - <p> - “Let him tell his story,” said Vivian. - </p> - <p> - “Sad goings on at Turriparva! He wished that his Highness would hunt more - and attend less to politics; and then he told me, quite confidentially, - that his Highness the Prince, and Heaven knows how many other Princes - besides, had leagued together, and were going to dethrone the Grand Duke, - and that his master was to be made King, and he, Master Rodolph, Prime - Minister. Hearing all this, and duly allowing for a tale over a bottle, I - made no doubt, as I find to be the case, that you, good master, were about - to be led into some mischief; and as I know that conspiracies are always - unsuccessful, I have done my best to save my master; and I beseech you, - upon my knees, to get out of the scrape as soon as you possibly can.” Here - Essper George threw himself at Vivian’s feet, and entreated him to quit - the house immediately. - </p> - <p> - “Was ever anything so absurd and so mischievous!” ejaculated the Prince; - and then he conversed with Vivian for some time in a whisper. “Essper,” at - length Vivian said, “you have committed one of the most perfect and most - injurious blunders that you could possibly perpetrate. The mischief which - may result from your imprudent conduct is incalculable. How long is it - since you have thought proper to regulate your conduct on the absurd - falsehoods of a drunken steward? His Highness and myself wish to consult - in private; but on no account leave the house. Now mind me; if you leave - this house without my permission, you forfeit the little chance which - remains of being retained in my service.” - </p> - <p> - “Where am I to go, sir?” - </p> - <p> - “Stay in the passage.” - </p> - <p> - “Suppose” (here he imitated Beckendorff) “comes to me.” - </p> - <p> - “Then open the door and come into this room.” - </p> - <p> - “Well,” said the Prince, when the door was at length shut, “one thing is - quite clear. He does not know who Beckendorff is.” - </p> - <p> - “So far satisfactory; but I feel the force of your Highness’ observations. - It is a most puzzling case. To send him back to Turriparva would be - madness: the whole affair would be immediately revealed over another - bottle of Burgundy with Master Rodolph; in fact, your Highness’ visit - would be a secret to no one in the country, your host would be soon - discovered, and the evil consequences are incalculable. I know no one to - send him to at Reisenburg; and if I did, it appears to me that the same - objections equally apply to his proceeding to that city as to his - returning to Turriparva. What is to be done? Surely some demon must have - inspired him. We cannot now request Beckendorff to allow him to stay here; - and if we did, I am convinced, from his tone and manner, that nothing - could induce him to comply with our wish. The only course to be pursued is - certainly an annoying one; but, so far as I can judge, it is the only mode - by which very serious mischief can be prevented. Let me proceed forthwith - to Reisenburg with Essper. Placed immediately under my eye, and solemnly - adjured by me to silence, I think I can answer, particularly when I give - him a gentle hint of the station of Beckendorff, for his preserving the - confidence with which it will now be our policy partially to entrust him. - It is, to say the least, awkward and distressing to leave you alone; but - what is to be done? It does not appear that I can now be of any material - service to you. I have assisted you as much as, and more than, we could - reasonably have supposed it would have been in my power to have done, by - throwing some light upon the character and situation of Beckendorff. With - the clue to his conduct which my chance meeting with him yesterday morning - has afforded us, the only point for your Highness to determine is as to - the length of time you will resolve to wait for his communication. As to - your final agreement together, with your Highness’ settled views and - decided purpose, all the difficulty of negotiation will be on his side. - Whatever, my dear Prince,” continued Vivian, with a significant voice and - marked emphasis, “whatever, my dear Prince, may be your secret wishes, be - assured that to attain them in your present negotiation you have only to - be firm. Let nothing divert you from your purpose, and the termination of - this interview must be gratifying to you.” - </p> - <p> - The Prince of Little Lilliput was very disinclined to part with his shrewd - counsellor, who had already done him considerable service, and he strongly - opposed Vivian’s proposition. His opposition, however, like that of most - other persons, was unaccompanied by any suggestion of his own. And as both - agreed that something must be done, it of course ended in the Prince being - of opinion that Vivian’s advice must be followed. The Prince was really - much affected by this sudden and unexpected parting with one for whom, - though he had known him so short a time, he began to entertain a sincere - regard. “I owe you my life,” said the Prince, “and perhaps more than my - life; and here we are about suddenly to part, never to meet again. I wish - I could get you to make Turriparva your home. You should have your own - suite of rooms, your own horses, your own servants, and never feel for an - instant that you were not master of all around you. In truth,” continued - the Prince, with great earnestness, “I wish, my dear friend, you would - really think seriously of this. You know you could visit Vienna, and even - Italy, and yet return to me. Max would be delighted to see you: he loves - you already; and Sievers and his library would be at your command. Agree - to my proposition, dear friend.” - </p> - <p> - “I cannot express to your Highness how sensible I am of your kindness. - Your friendship I sincerely value and shall never forget; but I am too - unhappy and unlucky a being to burden any one with my constant presence. - Adieu! or will you go with me to Beckendorff?” - </p> - <p> - “Oh, go with you by all means! But,” said the Prince, taking a ruby ring - of great antiquity off his finger, “I should feel happy if you would wear - this for my sake.” - </p> - <p> - The Prince was so much affected at the thoughts of parting with Vivian - that he could scarcely speak. Vivian accepted the ring with a cordiality - which the kind-hearted donor deserved; and yet our hero unfortunately had - had rather too much experience of the world not to be aware that, most - probably, in less than another week, his affectionate friend would not be - able to recall his name under an hour’s recollection. Such are friends! - The moment that we are not at their side we are neglected, and the moment - that we die we are forgotten! - </p> - <p> - They found Mr. Beckendorff in his library. In apprising Mr. Beckendorff of - his intention of immediately quitting his roof, Vivian did not omit to - state the cause of his sudden departure. These not only accounted for the - abruptness of his movement, but also gave Beckendorff an opportunity of - preventing its necessity, by allowing Essper to remain. But the - opportunity was not seized by Mr. Beckendorff. The truth was, that - gentleman had a particular wish to see Vivian out of his house. In - allowing the Prince of Little Lilliput to be attended during the interview - by a friend, Beckendorff had prepared himself for the reception of some - brawny Jagd Junker, or some thick-headed chamberlain, who he reckoned - would act rather as an incumbrance than an aid to his opponent. It was - with great mortification therefore, that he found him accompanied by a - shrewd, experienced, wary, and educated Englishman. A man like Beckendorff - soon discovered that Vivian Grey’s was no common mind. His conversation - with him of the last night had given him some notion of his powers, and - the moment that Beckendorff saw Essper George enter the house he - determined that he should be the cause of Vivian leaving it. There was - also another and weighty reason for Mr. Beckendorff desiring that the - Prince of Little Lilliput should at this moment be left to himself. - </p> - <p> - “Mr. Grey will ride on to Reisenburg immediately,” said the Prince, “and, - my dear friend, you may depend upon having your luggage by the day after - to-morrow. I shall be at Turriparva early to-morrow, and it will be my - first care.” - </p> - <p> - This was said in a loud voice, and both gentlemen watched Mr. - Beckendorff’s countenance as the information was given; but no emotion was - visible. - </p> - <p> - “Well, sir, good morning to you,” said Mr. Beckendorff; “I am sorry you - are going. Had I known it sooner I would have given you a letter. Mr. von - Philipson,” said Beckendorff, “do me the favour of looking over that - paper.” So saying, Mr. Beckendorff put some official report into the - Prince’s hand; and while his Highness’ attention was attracted by this - sudden request, Mr. Beckendorff laid his finger on Vivian’s arm, and said - in a lower tone, “I shall take care that you find a powerful friend at - Reisenburg!” - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2H_4_0072" id="link2H_4_0072"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - BOOK VII - </h2> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0064" id="link2HCH0064"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER I - </h2> - <p> - As Vivian left the room Mr. Beckendorff was seized with an unusual desire - to converse with the Prince of Little Lilliput, and his Highness was - consequently debarred the consolation of walking with his friend as far as - the horses. At the little gate Vivian and Essper encountered the only male - attendant who was allowed to approach the house of Mr. Beckendorff. As - Vivian quietly walked his horse up the rough turf road, he could not - refrain from recurring to his conversation of the previous night; and when - he called to mind the adventures of the last six days, he had new cause to - wonder at, and perhaps to lament over, his singular fate. In that short - time he had saved the life of a powerful Prince, and being immediately - signalled out, without any exertion on his part, as the object of that - Prince’s friendship, the moment he arrives at his castle, by a wonderful - contingency, he becomes the depositary of state secrets, and assists in a - consultation of importance with one of the most powerful Ministers in - Europe. And now the object of so much friendship, confidence, and honour, - he is suddenly on the road to the capital of the State of which his late - host is the Prime Minister and his friend the chief subject, without even - the convenience of a common letter of introduction; and with little - prospect of viewing, with even the usual advantages of a common traveller, - one of the most interesting of European Courts. - </p> - <p> - When he had proceeded about halfway up the turf lane he found a private - road to his right, which, with that spirit of adventure for which - Englishmen are celebrated, he immediately resolved must not only lead to - Reisenburg, but also carry him to that city much sooner than the regular - high road. He had not advanced far up this road before he came to the gate - at which he had parted with Beckendorff on the morning that gentleman had - roused him so unexpectedly from, his reverie in a green lane. He was - surprised to find a horseman dismounting at the gate. Struck by this - singular circumstance, the appearance of the stranger was not unnoticed. - He was a tall and well proportioned man, and as the traveller passed he - stared Vivian so fully in the face that our hero did not fail to remark - his handsome countenance, the expression of which, however, was rather - vacant and unpleasing. He was dressed in a riding-coat exactly similar to - the one always worn by Beckendorff’s messenger, and had Vivian not seen - him so distinctly he would have mistaken him for that person. The stranger - was rather indifferently mounted, and carried his cloak and a small - portmanteau at the back of his saddle. - </p> - <p> - “I suppose it is the butler,” said Essper George, who now spoke for the - first time since his dismissal from the room. Vivian did not answer him; - not because he entertained any angry feeling on account of his exceedingly - unpleasant visit. By no means: it was impossible for a man like Vivian - Grey to cherish an irritated feeling for a second. But he did not exchange - a syllable with Essper George, merely because he was not in the humour to - speak. He could not refrain from musing on the singular events of the last - few days; and, above all, the character of Beckendorff particularly - engrossed his meditation. Their conversation of the preceding night - excited in his mind new feelings of wonder, and revived emotions which he - thought were dead or everlastingly dormant. Apparently, the philosophy on - which Beckendorff had regulated his career, and by which he had arrived at - his pitch of greatness, was exactly the same with which he himself, Vivian - Grey, had started in life; which he had found so fatal in its - consequences; which he believed to be so vain in its principles. How was - this? What radical error had he committed? It required little - consideration. Thirty, and more than thirty, years had passed over the - head of Beckendorff ere the world felt his power, or indeed was conscious - of his existence. A deep student, not only of man in detail, but of man in - groups; not only of individuals, but of nations; Beckendorff had hived up - his ample knowledge of all subjects which could interest his - fellow-creatures, and when that opportunity which in this world occurs to - all men occurred to Beckendorff he was prepared. With acquirements equal - to his genius, Beckendorff depended only upon himself, and succeeded. - Vivian Grey, with a mind inferior to no man’s, dashed on the stage, in - years a boy, though in feelings a man. Brilliant as might have been his - genius, his acquirements necessarily were insufficient. He could not - depend only upon himself; a consequent necessity arose to have recourse to - the assistance of others; to inspire them with feelings which they could - not share; and humour and manage the petty weaknesses which he himself - could not experience. His colleagues were, at the same time, to work for - the gratification of their own private interests, the most palpable of all - abstract things; and to carry into execution a great purpose, which their - feeble minds, interested only by the first point, cared not to comprehend. - The unnatural combination failed, and its originator fell. To believe that - he could recur again to the hopes, the feelings, the pursuits of his - boyhood, he felt to be the vainest of delusions. It was the expectation of - a man like Beckendorff, whose career, though difficult, though hazardous, - had been uniformly successful; of a man who mistook cares for grief, and - anxiety for sorrow. - </p> - <p> - The travellers entered the city at sunset. Proceeding through an ancient - and unseemly town, full of long, narrow, and ill-paved streets, and black - unevenly built houses, they ascended the hill, on the top of which was - situated the new and Residence town of Reisenburg. The proud palace, the - white squares, the architectural streets, the new churches, the elegant - opera house, the splendid hotels, and the gay public gardens, full of - busts, vases, and statues, and surrounded by an iron railing cast out of - the cannon taken from both sides during the war by the Reisenburg troops, - and now formed into pikes and fasces, glittering with gilded heads: all - these, shining in the setting sun, produced an effect which, at any time - and in any place, would have been beautiful and striking; but on the - present occasion were still more so, from the remarkable contrast they - afforded to the ancient, gloomy, and filthy town through which Vivian had - just passed, and where, from the lowness of its situation, the sun had - already set. There was as much difference between the old and new town of - Reisenburg as between the old barbarous Margrave and the new and noble - Grand Duke. - </p> - <p> - On the second day after his arrival at Reisenburg, Vivian received the - following letter from the Prince of Little Lilliput. His luggage did not - accompany the epistle. - </p> - <p> - “My Dear Friend, - </p> - <p> - “By the time you have received this I shall have returned to Turriparva. - My visit to a certain gentleman was prolonged for one day. I never can - convey to you by words the sense I entertain of the value of your - friendship and of your services; I trust that time will afford me - opportunities of testifying it by my actions. I return home by the same - road by which we came; you remember how excellent the road was, as indeed - are all the roads in Reisenburg; that must be confessed by all. I fear - that the most partial admirers of the old régime cannot say as much for - the convenience of travelling in the time of our fathers. Good roads are - most excellent things, and one of the first marks of civilisation and - prosperity. The Emperor Napoleon, who, it must be confessed, had, after - all, no common mind, was celebrated for his roads. You have doubtless - admired the Route Napoleon on the Rhine, and if you travel into Italy I am - informed that you will be equally, and even more, struck by the passage - over the Simplon and the other Italian roads. Reisenburg has certainly - kept pace with the spirit of the time; nobody can deny that; and I confess - to you that the more I consider the subject it appears to me that the - happiness, prosperity, and content of a state are the best evidences of - the wisdom and beneficent rule of a government. Many things are very - excellent in theory, which are quite the reverse in practice, and even - ludicrous. And while we should do our most to promote the cause and uphold - the interests of rational liberty, still, at the same time, we should ever - be on our guard against the crude ideas and revolutionary systems of those - who are quite inexperienced in that sort of particular knowledge which is - necessary for all statesmen. Nothing is so easy as to make things look - fine on paper; we should never forget that there is a great difference - between high-sounding generalities and laborious details. Is it reasonable - to expect that men who have passed their lives dreaming in colleges and - old musty studies should be at all calculated to take the head of affairs, - or know what measures those at the head of affairs ought to adopt? I think - not. A certain personage, who by-the-bye is one of the most clear-headed - and most perfect men of business that I ever had the pleasure of being - acquainted with; a real practical man, in short; he tells me that - Professor Skyrocket, whom you will most likely see at Reisenburg, wrote an - article in the Military Quarterly Review, which is published there, on the - probable expenses of a war between Austria and Prussia, and forgot the - commissariat altogether. Did you ever know anything so ridiculous? What - business have such fellows to meddle with affairs of state? They should - certainly be put down: that, I think, none can deny. A liberal spirit in - government is certainly a most excellent thing; but we must always - remember that liberty may degenerate into licentiousness. Liberty is - certainly an excellent thing, that all admit; but, as a certain person - very well observed, so is physic, and yet it is not to be given at all - times, but only when the frame is in a state to require it. People may be - as unprepared for a wise and discreet use of liberty, as a vulgar person - may be for the management of a great estate unexpectedly inherited: there - is a great deal in this, and, in my opinion, there are cases in which to - force liberty down a people’s throat is presenting them, not with a - blessing, but a curse. I shall send your luggage on immediately; it is - very probable that I may be in town at the end of the week, for a short - time. I wish much to see and to consult you, and therefore hope that you - will not leave Reisenburg before you see - </p> - <p> - “Your faithful and obliged friend, - </p> - <p> - “LITTLE LILLIPUT.” - </p> - <p> - Two days after the receipt of this letter Essper George ran into the room - with a much less solemn physiognomy than he had thought proper to assume - since his master’s arrival at Reisenburg. - </p> - <p> - “Lord, sir; whom do you think I have just met?” - </p> - <p> - “Whom?” asked Vivian, with eagerness, for, as is always the case when such - questions are asked us, he was thinking of every person in the world - except the right one. “It might be—” - </p> - <p> - “To think that I should see him!” continued Essper. - </p> - <p> - “It is a man, then,” thought Vivian; “who is it at once, Essper?” - </p> - <p> - “I thought you would not guess, sir! It will quite cure you to hear it; - Master Rodolph!” - </p> - <p> - “Master Rodolph!” - </p> - <p> - “Ay! and there’s great news in the wind.” - </p> - <p> - “Which of course you have confidentially extracted from him. Pray let us - have it.” - </p> - <p> - “The Prince of Little Lilliput is coming to Reisenburg,” said Essper. - </p> - <p> - “Well! I had some idea of that before,” said Vivian. - </p> - <p> - “Oh! then, you know it all, sir, I suppose,” said Essper, with a look of - great disappointment. - </p> - <p> - “I know nothing more than I have mentioned,” said his master. - </p> - <p> - “What! do you not know, sir, that the Prince has come over; that he is - going to live at Court; and be, Heaven knows what! That he is to carry a - staff every day before the Grand Duke at dinner; does not my master know - that?” - </p> - <p> - “I know nothing of all this; and so tell me in plain German what the case - is.” - </p> - <p> - “Well, then,” continued Essper, “I suppose you do not know that his - Highness the Prince is to be his Excellency the Grand Marshal, that - unfortunate but principal officer of state having received his dismissal - yesterday. They are coming up immediately. Not a moment is to be lost, - which seems to me very odd. Master Rodolph is arranging everything; and he - has this morning purchased from his master’s predecessor his palace, - furniture, wines, and pictures; in short, his whole establishment: the - late Grand Marshal consoling himself for his loss of office, and revenging - himself on his successor, by selling him his property at a hundred per - cent. profit. However, Master Rodolph seems quite contented with his - bargain; and your luggage is come, sir. His Highness, the Prince, will be - in town at the end of the week; and all the men are to be put in new - livery. Mr. Arnelm is to be his Highness’ chamberlain, and Von Neuwied - master of the horse. So you see, sir, you were right; and that old puss in - boots was no traitor, after all. Upon my soul, I did not much believe you, - sir, until I heard all this good news.” - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0065" id="link2HCH0065"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER II - </h2> - <p> - About a week after his arrival at Reisenburg, as Vivian was at breakfast, - the door opened, and Mr. Sievers entered. - </p> - <p> - “I did not think that our next meeting would be in this city,” said Mr. - Sievers, smiling. - </p> - <p> - “His Highness, of course, informed me of your arrival,” said Vivian, as he - greeted him cordially. - </p> - <p> - “You, I understand, are the diplomatist whom I am to thank for finding - myself again at Reisenburg. Let me, at the same time, express my gratitude - for your kind offices to me, and congratulate you on the brilliancy of - your talents for negotiation. Little did I think, when I was giving you, - the other day, an account of Mr. Beckendorff, that the information would - have been of such service to you. - </p> - <p> - “I am afraid you have nothing to thank me for; though, certainly, had the - office of arranging the terms between the parties devolved on me, my first - thoughts would have been for a gentleman for whom I have so much regard - and respect as Mr. Sievers.” - </p> - <p> - “Sir! I feel honoured: you already speak like a finished courtier. Pray, - what is to be your office?” - </p> - <p> - “I fear Mr. Beckendorff will not resign in my favour; and my ambition is - so exalted that I cannot condescend to take anything under the - Premiership.” - </p> - <p> - “You are not to be tempted by a Grand Marshalship!” said Mr. Sievers. “You - hardly expected, when you were at Turriparva, to witness such a rapid - termination of the patriotism of our good friend. I think you said you - have seen him since your arrival: the interview must have been piquant!” - </p> - <p> - “Not at all. I immediately congratulated him on the judicious arrangements - which had been concluded; and, to relieve his awkwardness, took some - credit to myself for having partially assisted in bringing about the - result. The subject was not again mentioned, and I dare say never will - be.” - </p> - <p> - “It is a curious business,” said Sievers. “The Prince is a man who, rather - than have given me up to the Grand Duke; me, with whom he was not - connected, and who, of my own accord, sought his hospitality; sooner, I - repeat, than have delivered me up, he would have had his castle razed to - the ground and fifty swords through his heart; and yet, without the - slightest compunction, has this same man deserted, with the greatest - coolness, the party of which, ten days ago, he was the zealous leader. How - can you account for this, except it be, as I have long suspected, that in - politics there positively is no feeling of honour? Every one is conscious - that not only himself, but his colleagues and his rivals, are working for - their own private purpose; and that however a party may apparently be - assisting in bringing about a result of common benefit, that nevertheless, - and in fact, each is conscious that he is the tool of another. With such - an understanding, treason is an expected affair; and the only point to - consider is, who shall be so unfortunate as to be the deserted, instead of - the deserter. It is only fair to his Highness to state that Beckendorff - gave him incontestable evidence that he had had a private interview with - every one of the mediatised Princes. They were the dupes of the wily - Minister. In these negotiations he became acquainted with their plans and - characters, and could estimate the probability of their success. The - golden bribe, which was in turn dandled before the eyes of all, had been - always reserved for the most powerful, our friend. His secession and the - consequent desertion of his relatives destroy the party for ever; while, - at the same time, that party have not even the consolation of a good - conscience to uphold them in their adversity; but feel that in case of - their clamour, or of any attempt to stir up the people by their hollow - patriotism, it is in the power of the Minister to expose and crush them - for ever.” - </p> - <p> - “All this,” said Vivian, “makes me the more rejoice that our friend has - got out of their clutches; he will make an excellent Grand Marshal; and - you must not forget, my dear sir, that he did not forget you. To tell you - the truth, although I did not flatter myself that I should benefit during - my stay at Reisenburg by his influence, I am not the least surprised at - the termination of our visit to Mr. Beckendorff. I have seen too many of - these affairs not to have been quite aware, the whole time, that it would - require very little trouble, and very few sacrifices on the part of Mr. - Beckendorff, to quash the whole cabal. By-the-bye, our visit to him was - highly amusing; he is a singular man.” - </p> - <p> - “He has had, nevertheless,” said Sievers, “a difficult part to play. Had - it not been for you, the Prince would have perhaps imagined that he was - only trifling with him again, and terminated the interview abruptly and in - disgust. Having brought the Grand Duke to terms, and having arranged the - interview, Beckendorff of course imagined that all was finished. The very - day that you arrived at his house he had received despatches from his - Royal Highness, recalling his promise, and revoking Beckendorff’s - authority to use his unlimited discretion in this business. The difficulty - then was to avoid discussion with the Prince, with whom he was not - prepared to negotiate; and, at the same time, without letting his Highness - out of his sight, to induce the Grand Duke to resume his old view of the - case. The first night that you were there Beckendorff rode up to - Reisenburg, saw the Grand Duke, was refused, through the intrigues of - Madame Carolina, the requested authority, and resigned his power. When he - was a mile on his return, he was summoned back to the palace; and his - Royal Highness asked, as a favour from his tutor, four-and-twenty hours’ - consideration. This Beckendorff granted, on the condition that, in case - the Grand Duke assented to the terms proposed, his Royal Highness should - himself be the bearer of the proposition; and that there should be no more - written promises to recall, and no more written authorities to revoke. The - terms were hard, but Beckendorff was inflexible. On the second night of - your visit a messenger arrived with a despatch, advising Beckendorff of - the intended arrival of his Royal Highness on the next morning. The - ludicrous intrusion of your amusing servant prevented you from being - present at the great interview, in which I understand Beckendorff for the - moment laid aside all his caprices. Our friend acted with great firmness - and energy. He would not be satisfied even with the personal pledge and - written promise of the Grand Duke, but demanded that he should receive the - seals of office within a week; so that, had the Court not been sincere, - his situation with his former party would not have been injured. It is - astonishing how very acute even a dull man is when his own interests are - at stake. Had his Highness been the agent of another person, he would - probably have committed many blunders, have made disadvantageous terms, or - perhaps have been thoroughly duped. Self-interest is the finest - eye-water.” - </p> - <p> - “And what says Madame Carolina to all this?” - </p> - <p> - “Oh! according to custom, she has changed already, and thinks the whole - business admirably arranged. His Highness is her grand favourite, and my - little pupil Max her pet. I think, however, on the whole, the boy is - fondest of the Grand Duke, whom, if you remember, he was always informing - you in confidence that he intended to assassinate. And as for your - obedient servant,” said Sievers, bowing, “here am I once more the - Aristarchus of her coterie. Her friends, by-the-bye, view the accession of - the Prince with no pleased eyes; and, anticipating that his juncture with - the Minister is only a prelude to their final dispersion, they are - compensating for the approaching termination of their career by unusual - violence and fresh fervour, stinging like mosquitoes before a storm, - conscious of their impending destruction from the clearance of the - atmosphere. As for myself, I have nothing more to do with them. Liberty - and philosophy are fine words; but until I find men are prepared to - cultivate them both in a wiser spirit I shall remain quiet. I have no idea - of being banished and imprisoned because a parcel of knaves are making a - vile use of the truths which I disseminate. In my opinion, philosophers - have said enough; now let men act. But all this time I have forgotten to - ask you how you like Reisenburg.” - </p> - <p> - “I can hardly say; with the exception of yesterday, when I rode Max round - the ramparts, I have not been once out of the hotel. But to-day I feel so - well that, if you are disposed for a lounge, I should like it above all - things.” - </p> - <p> - “I am quite at your service; but I must not forget that I am the bearer of - a missive to you from his Excellency the Grand Marshal. You are invited to - join the court dinner to-day, and be presented—” - </p> - <p> - “Really, my dear sir, an invalid—” - </p> - <p> - “Well! if you do not like it, you must make your excuses to him; but it - really is the pleasantest way of commencing your acquaintance at Court, - and only allowed to distingués; among which, as you are the friend of the - new Grand Marshal, you are of course considered. No one is petted so much - as a political apostate, except, perhaps, a religious one; so at present - we are all in high feather. You had better dine at the palace to-day. - Everything quite easy; and, by an agreeable relaxation of state, neither - swords, bags, nor trains are necessary. Have you seen the palace? I - suppose not. We will look at it, and then call on the Prince.” - </p> - <p> - The gentlemen accordingly left the hotel; and proceeding down the - principal street of the New Town, they came into a large square, or Place - d’Armes. A couple of regiments of infantry were exercising in it. - </p> - <p> - “A specimen of our standing army,” said Sievers. “In the war time, this - little State brought thirty thousand highly-disciplined and well-appointed - troops into the field. This efficient contingent was, at the same time, - the origin of our national prosperity and our national debt. For we have a - national debt, sir! I assure you we are proud of it, and consider it the - most decided sign of being a great people. Our force in times of peace is, - of course, much reduced. We have, however, still eight thousand men, who - are perfectly unnecessary. The most curious thing is, that, to keep up the - patronage of the Court and please the nobility, though we have cut down - our army two-thirds, we have never reduced the number of our generals; and - so, at this moment, among our eight thousand men, we count about forty - general officers, being one to every two hundred privates. We have, - however, which perhaps you would not suspect, one military genius among - our multitude of heroes. The Count von Sohnspeer is worthy of being one of - Napoleon’s marshals. Who he is no one exactly knows; some say an - illegitimate son of Beckendorff. Certain it is that he owes his nobility - to his sword; and as certain it is that he is to be counted among the very - few who share the Minister’s confidence. Von Sohnspeer has certainly - performed a thousand brilliant exploits; yet, in my opinion, the not least - splendid day of his life was that of the battle of Leipsic. He was on the - side of the French, and fought against the Allies with desperate fury. - When he saw that all was over, and the Allies triumphant, calling out - ‘Germany for ever!’ he dashed against his former friends, and captured - from the flying Gauls a hundred pieces of cannon. He hastened to the tent - of the Emperors with his blood-red sword in his hand, and at the same time - congratulated them on the triumph of their cause, and presented them with - his hard-earned trophies. The manoeuvre was perfectly successful; and the - troops of Reisenburg, complimented as true Germans, were pitied for their - former unhappy fate in being forced to fight against their fatherland, and - were immediately enrolled in the allied army; as such, they received a due - share of all the plunder. He is a grand genius, young Master von - Sohnspeer?” - </p> - <p> - “Decidedly! Worthy of being a companion of the fighting bastards of the - middle ages. This is a fine square.” - </p> - <p> - “Very grand indeed! Precedents for some of the architectural combinations - could hardly be found at Athens or Rome; nevertheless the general effect - is magnificent. Do you admire this plan of making every elevation of an - order consonant with the purpose of the building? See, for instance, on - the opposite side of the square is the palace. The Corinthian order, which - is evident in all its details, suits well the character of the structure. - It accords with royal pomp and elegance, with fêtes and banquets, and - interior magnificence. On the other hand, what a happy contrast is - afforded to this gorgeous structure by the severe simplicity of this - Tuscan Palace of Justice. The School of Arts, in the farthest corner of - the square, is properly entered through an Ionic portico. Let us go into - the palace. Here not only does our monarch reside, but (an arrangement - which I much admire) here are deposited, in a gallery worthy of the - treasures it contains, our superb collection of pictures. They are the - private property of his Royal Highness; but, as is usually the case under - despotic Princes, the people, equally his property, are flattered by the - collection being styled the ‘Public Gallery.’” - </p> - <p> - The hour of the court dinner at Reisenburg was two o’clock, about which - time, in England, a man first remembers the fatal necessity of shaving; - though, by-the-bye, this allusion is not a very happy one, for in this - country shaving is a ceremony at present somewhat obsolete. At two - o’clock, however, our hero, accompanying the Grand Marshal and Mr. - Sievers, reached the palace. In the saloon were assembled various guests, - chiefly attached to the Court. Immediately after the arrival of our party, - the Grand Duke and Madame Carolina, followed by their chamberlains and - ladies in waiting, entered. The little Prince Maximilian strutted in - between his Royal Highness and his fair Consort, having hold of a hand of - each. The urchin was much changed in appearance since Vivian first saw - him; he was dressed in the complete uniform of a captain of the Royal - Guards, having been presented with a commission on the day of his arrival - at Court. A brilliant star glittered on his scarlet coat, and paled the - splendour of his golden epaulettes. The duties, however, of the princely - captain were at present confined to the pleasing exertion of carrying the - bon-bon box of Madame Carolina, the contents of which were chiefly - reserved for his own gratification. In the Grand Duke Vivian was not - surprised to recognise the horseman whom he had met in the private road on - the morning of his departure from Mr. Beckendorff’s; his conversation with - Sievers had prepared him for this. Madame Carolina was in appearance - Parisian of the highest order: that is to say, an exquisite figure and an - indescribable tournure, an invisible foot, a countenance full of esprit - and intelligence, without a single regular feature, and large and very - bright black eyes. Madame’s hair was of the same colour, and arranged in - the most effective manner. Her cashmere would have graced the Feast of - Roses, and so engrossed your attention that it was long before you - observed the rest of her costume, in which, however, traces of a creative - genius were immediately visible; in short, Madame Carolina was not - fashionable, but fashion herself. In a subsequent chapter, at a ball which - we have in preparation, we will make up for this brief notice of her - costume by publishing her court dress. For the sake of our fair readers, - however, we will not pass over the ornament in her hair. The comb which - supported her elaborate curls was invisible, except at each end, whence it - threw out a large Psyche’s wing of golden web, the eyes of which were - formed of rubies encircled with turquoises. - </p> - <p> - The Royal party made a progress round the circle. Madame Carolina first - presented her delicate and faintly-rouged cheek to the hump-backed Crown - Prince, who scarcely raised his eyes from the ground as he performed the - accustomed courtesy. One or two Royal relatives, who were on a visit at - the palace, were honoured by the same compliment. The Grand Duke bowed - graciously and gracefully to every individual; and his lady accompanied - the bow by a speech, which was at the same time personal and piquant. The - first great duty of a monarch is to know how to bow skilfully! nothing is - more difficult, and nothing more important. A Royal bow may often quell a - rebellion, and sometimes crush a conspiracy. It should at the same time be - both general and individual; equally addressed to the company assembled, - and to every single person in the assembly. Our own sovereign bows to - perfection. His bow is eloquent, and will always render an oration on his - part unnecessary; which is a great point, for harangues are not regal. - Nothing is more undignified than to make a speech. It is from the first an - acknowledgment that you are under the necessity of explaining, or - conciliating, or convincing, or confuting; in short, that you are not - omnipotent, but opposed. - </p> - <p> - The bow of the Grand Duke of Reisenburg was a first-rate bow, and always - produced a great sensation with the people, particularly if it were - followed up by a proclamation for a public fête or fireworks; then his - Royal Highness’ popularity was at its height. But Madame Carolina, after - having by a few magic sentences persuaded the whole room that she took a - peculiar interest in the happiness of every individual present, has - reached Vivian, who stood next to his friend the Grand Marshal. He was - presented by that great officer, and received most graciously. For a - moment the room thought that his Royal Highness was about to speak; but he - only smiled. Madame Carolina, however, said a great deal; and stood not - less than sixty seconds complimenting the English nation, and particularly - the specimen of that celebrated people who now had the honour of being - presented to her. No one spoke more in a given time than Madame Carolina; - and as, while the eloquent words fell from her deep red lips, her bright - eyes were invariably fixed on those of the person she addressed, what she - did say, as invariably, was very effective. Vivian had only time to give a - nod of recognition to his friend Max, for the company, arm-in-arm, now - formed into a procession to the dining saloon. Vivian was parted from the - Grand Marshal, who, as the highest officer of state present, followed - immediately after the Grand Duke. Our hero’s companion was Mr. Sievers. - Although it was not a state dinner, the party, from being swelled by the - suites of the royal visitors, was numerous; and as the Court occupied the - centre of the table, Vivian was too distant to listen to the conversation - of Madame, who, however, he well perceived, from the animation of her - countenance, was delighted and delighting. The Grand Duke spoke little, - but listened, like a lover of three days, to the accents of his - accomplished consort. The arrangement of a German dinner promotes - conversation. The numerous dishes are at once placed upon the table; and - when the curious eye has well examined their contents, the whole dinner, - untouched, disappears. Although this circumstance is rather alarming to a - novice, his terror soon gives place to self-congratulation when he finds - the banquet re-appear, each dish completely carved and cut up. - </p> - <p> - “Not being Sunday,” said Mr. Sievers, “there is no opera to-night. We are - to meet again, I believe, at the palace, in a few hours, at Madame - Carolina’s soirée. In the meantime, you had better accompany his - Excellency to the public gardens; that is the fashionable drive. I shall - go home and smoke a pipe.” - </p> - <p> - The circle of the public gardens of Reisenburg exhibited exactly, although - upon a smaller scale, the same fashions and the same frivolities, the same - characters and the same affectations, as the Hyde Park of London, or the - Champs Elysées of Paris, the Prater of Vienna, the Corso of Rome or Milan, - or the Cascine of Florence. There was the female leader of ton, hated by - her own sex and adored by the other, and ruling both; ruling both by the - same principle of action, and by the influence of the same quality which - creates the arbitress of fashion in all countries, by courage to break - through the conventional customs of an artificial class, and by talents to - ridicule all those who dare follow her innovating example; attracting - universal notice by her own singularity, and at the same time conciliating - the support of those from whom she dares to differ, by employing her - influence in preventing others from violating their laws. The arbitress of - fashion is one who is allowed to be singular, in order that she may - suppress singularity; she is exempted from all laws; but, by receiving the - dictatorship, she ensures the despotism. Then there was that mysterious - being whose influence is perhaps even more surprising than the dominion of - the female despot of manners, for she wields a power which can be analysed - and comprehended; I mean the male authority in coats, cravats, and - chargers; who, without fortune and without rank, and sometimes merely - through the bold obtrusion of a fantastic taste, becomes the glass of - fashion in which even royal dukes and the most aristocratic nobles hasten - to adjust themselves, and the mould by which the ingenious youth of a - whole nation is enthusiastically formed. There is a Brummell in every - country. - </p> - <p> - Vivian, who, after a round or two with the Grand Marshal, had mounted Max, - was presented by the young Count von Bernstorff, the son of the Grand - Chamberlain, to whose care he had been specially commended by the Prince, - to the lovely Countess von S——. The examination of this high - authority was rigid and her report satisfactory. When Vivian quitted the - side of her britzska half a dozen dandies immediately rode up to learn the - result, and, on being informed, they simultaneously cantered up to young - von Bernstorff, and requested to have the honour of being introduced to - his highly-interesting friend. All these exquisites wore white hats lined - with crimson, in consequence of the head of the all-influential Emilius - von Aslingen having, on the preceding day, been kept sacred from the - profaning air by that most tasteful covering. The young lords were loud in - their commendations of this latest evidence of von Aslingen’s happy - genius, and rallied with unmerciful spirit the unfortunate von Bernstorff - for not having yet mounted the all-perfect chapeau. Like all von - Aslingen’s introductions, it was as remarkable for good taste as for - striking singularity; they had no doubt it would have a great run, exactly - the style of thing for a hot autumn, and it suited so admirably with the - claret-coloured riding coat which Madame considered von Aslingen’s - chef-d’oeuvre. Inimitable von Aslingen! As they were in these raptures, to - Vivian’s delight and to their dismay, the object of their admiration - appeared. Our hero was, of course, anxious to see so interesting a - character; but he could scarcely believe that he, in fact, beheld the - ingenious introducer of white and crimson hats, and the still happier - inventor of those chef-d’oeuvres, claret-coloured riding coats, when his - attention was directed to a horseman who wore a peculiarly high heavy - black hat and a frogged and furred frock, buttoned up, although it was a - most sultry day, to his very nose. How singular is the slavery of fashion! - Notwithstanding their mortification, the unexpected costume of von - Aslingen appeared only to increase the young lords’ admiration of his - character and accomplishments; and instead of feeling that he was an - insolent pretender, whose fame originated in his insulting their tastes, - and existed only by their sufferance, all cantered away with the - determination of wearing on the next day, even if it were to cost them - each a calenture, furs enough to keep a man warm during a winter party at - St. Petersburg, not that winter parties ever take place there; on the - contrary, before the winter sets in, the Court moves on to Moscow, which, - from its situation and its climate, will always, in fact, continue the - real capital of Russia. - </p> - <p> - The royal carriage, drawn by six horses and backed by three men servants, - who would not have disgraced the fairy equipage of Cinderella, has now - left the gardens. - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0066" id="link2HCH0066"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER III - </h2> - <p> - Madame Carolina held her soirée in her own private apartments, the Grand - Duke himself appearing in the capacity of a visitor. The company was - numerous and brilliant. His Royal Highness, surrounded by a select circle, - dignified one corner of the saloon; Madame Carolina at the other end of - the room, in the midst of poets, philosophers, and politicians, in turn - decided upon the most interesting and important topics of poetry, - philosophy, and politics. Boston, and Zwicken, and whist interested some, - and puzzles and other ingenious games others. A few were above conversing, - or gambling, or guessing; superior intelligences, who would neither be - interested nor amused, among these Emilius von Aslingen was most - prominent. He leant against a door in full uniform, with his vacant eyes - fixed on no object. The others were only awkward copies of an easy - original; and among these, stiff or stretching, lounging on a - chaise-lounge, or posted against the wall, Vivian’s quick eye recognised - more than one of the unhappy votaries of white hats lined with crimson. - </p> - <p> - When Vivian made his bow to the Grand Duke he was surprised by his Royal - Highness coming forward a few steps from the surrounding circle and - extending to him his hand. His Royal Highness continued conversing with - him for upwards of a quarter of an hour; expressed the great pleasure he - felt at seeing at his Court a gentleman of whose abilities he had the - highest opinion; and, after a variety of agreeable compliments - (compliments are doubly agreeable from crowned heads), the Grand Duke - retired to a game of Boston with his royal visitors. Vivian’s reception - made a sensation through the room. Various rumours were immediately - afloat. - </p> - <p> - “Who can he be?” - </p> - <p> - “Don’t you know? Oh! most curious story. Killed a boar as big as a - bonasus, which was ravaging half Reisenburg, and saved the lives of his - Excellency the Grand Marshal and his whole suite.” - </p> - <p> - “What is that about the Grand Marshal and a boar as big as a bonasus? - Quite wrong; natural son of Beckendorff; know it for a fact. Don’t you see - he is being introduced to von Sohnspeer! brothers, you know, managed the - whole business about the leagued Princes; not a son of Beckendorff, only a - particular friend; the son of the late General—, I forget his name - exactly. Killed at Leipsic, you know; that famous general; what was his - name? that very famous general; don’t you remember? Never mind; well! he - is his son; father particular friend of Beckendorff; college friend; - brought up the orphan; very handsome of him! They say he does handsome - things sometimes.” - </p> - <p> - “Ah! well, I’ve heard so too; and so this young man is to be the new - under-secretary! very much approved by the Countess von S——.” - </p> - <p> - “No, it can’t be! your story is quite wrong. He is an Englishman.” - </p> - <p> - “An Englishman! no!” - </p> - <p> - “Yes he is. I had it from Madame; high rank incog.; going to Vienna; - secret mission.” - </p> - <p> - “Something to do with Greece, of course; independence recognised?” - </p> - <p> - “Oh! certainly; pay a tribute to the Porte, and governed by a hospodar. - Admirable arrangement! have to support their own government and a foreign - one besides!” - </p> - <p> - It was with pleasure that Vivian at length observed Mr. Sievers enter the - room, and extricating himself from the enlightened and enthusiastic crowd - who were disserting round the tribunal of Madame, he hastened to his - amusing friend. - </p> - <p> - “Ah! my dear sir, how glad I am to see you! I have, since we met last, - been introduced to your fashionable ruler, and some of her most - fashionable slaves. I have been honoured by a long conversation with his - Royal Highness, and have listened to some of the most eloquent of the - Carolina coterie. What a Babel! there all are, at the same time, talkers - and listeners. To what a pitch of perfection may the ‘science’ of - conversation be carried! My mind teems with original ideas, to which I can - annex no definite meaning. What a variety of contradictory theories, which - are all apparently sound! I begin to suspect that there is a great - difference between reasoning and reason!” - </p> - <p> - “Your suspicion is well founded, my dear sir,” said Mr. Sievers; “and I - know no circumstance which would sooner prove it than listening for a few - minutes to this little man in a snuff-coloured coat near me. But I will - save you from so terrible a demonstration. He has been endeavouring to - catch my eye these last ten minutes, and I have as studiously avoided - seeing him. Let us move.” - </p> - <p> - “Willingly; who may this fear-inspiring monster be?” - </p> - <p> - “A philosopher,” said Mr. Sievers, “as most of us call ourselves here; - that is to say, his profession is to observe the course of Nature; and if - by chance he can discover any slight deviation of the good dame from the - path which our ignorance has marked out as her only track, he claps his - hands, cries [Greek: euraeka]! and is dubbed ‘illustrious’ on the spot. - Such is the world’s reward for a great discovery, which generally, in a - twelvemonth’s time, is found out to be a blunder of the philosopher, and - not an eccentricity of Nature. I am not underrating those great men who, - by deep study, or rather by some mysterious inspiration, have produced - combinations and effected results which have materially assisted the - progress of civilisation and the security of our happiness. No, no! to - them be due adoration. Would that the reverence of posterity could be some - consolation to these great spirits for neglect and persecution when they - lived! I have invariably observed of great natural philosophers, that if - they lived in former ages they were persecuted as magicians, and in - periods which profess to be more enlightened they have always been - ridiculed as quacks. The succeeding century the real quack arises. He - adopts and develops the suppressed, and despised, and forgotten discovery - of his unfortunate predecessor! and Fame trumpets this resurrection-man of - science with as loud a blast of rapture as if, instead of being merely the - accidental animator of the corpse, he were the cunning artist himself who - had devised and executed the miraculous machinery which the other had only - wound up.” - </p> - <p> - “But in this country,” said Vivian, “surely you have no reason to complain - of the want of moral philosophers, or of the respect paid to them. The - country of Kant—, of ——” - </p> - <p> - “Yes, yes! we have plenty of metaphysicians, if you mean them. Watch that - lively-looking gentleman, who is stuffing kalte schale so voraciously in - the corner. The leader of the Idealists, a pupil of the celebrated Fichte! - To gain an idea of his character, know that he out-Herods his master; and - Fichte is to Kant what Kant is to the unenlightened vulgar. You can now - form a slight conception of the spiritual nature of our friend who is - stuffing kalte schale. The first principle of his school is to reject all - expressions which incline in the slightest degree to substantiality. - Existence is, in his opinion, a word too absolute. Being, principle, - essence, are terms scarcely sufficiently ethereal even to indicate the - subtile shadowings of his opinions. Some say that he dreads the contact of - all real things, and that he makes it the study of his life to avoid them. - Matter is his great enemy. When you converse with him you lose all - consciousness of this world. My dear sir,” continued Mr. Sievers, “observe - how exquisitely Nature revenges herself upon these capricious and - fantastic children. Believe me, Nature is the most brilliant of wits; and - that no repartees that were ever inspired by hate, or wine, or beauty, - ever equalled the calm effects of her indomitable power upon those who are - rejecting her authority. You understand me? Methinks that the best answer - to the idealism of M. Fichte is to see his pupil devouring kalte schale!” - </p> - <p> - “And this is really one of your great lights?” - </p> - <p> - “Verily! His works are the most famous and the most unreadable in all - Germany. Surely you have heard of his ‘Treatise on Man?’ A treatise on a - subject in which everyone is interested, written in a style which no one - can understand.” - </p> - <p> - “You think, then,” said Vivian, “that posterity may rank the German - metaphysicians with the later Platonists?” - </p> - <p> - “I hardly know; they are a body of men not less acute, but I doubt whether - they will be as celebrated. In this age of print, notoriety is more - attainable than in the age of manuscript; but lasting fame certainly is - not. That tall thin man in black that just bowed to me is the editor of - one of our great Reisenburg reviews. The journal he edits is one of the - most successful periodical publications ever set afloat. Among its - contributors, may assuredly be classed many men of eminent talents; yet to - their abilities the surprising success and influence of this work is - scarcely to be ascribed. It is the result rather of the consistent spirit - which has always inspired its masterly critiques. One principle has ever - regulated its management; it is a simple rule, but an effective one: every - author is reviewed by his personal enemy. You may imagine the point of the - critique; but you would hardly credit, if I were to inform you, the - circulation of the review. You will tell me that you are not surprised, - and talk of the natural appetite of our species for malice and slander. Be - not too quick. The rival of this review, both in influence and in sale, is - conducted on as simple a principle, but not a similar one. In this journal - every author is reviewed by his personal friend; of course, perfect - panegyric. Each number is flattering as a lover’s tale; every article an - eloge. What say you to this? These are the influential literary and - political journals of Reisenburg. There was yet another; it was edited by - an eloquent scholar; all its contributors were, at the same time, - brilliant and profound. It numbered among its writers some of the most - celebrated names in Germany; its critiques and articles were as impartial - as they were able, as sincere as they were sound; it never paid the - expense of the first number. As philanthropists and admirers of our - species, my dear sir, these are gratifying results; they satisfactorily - demonstrate that mankind have no innate desire for scandal, calumny, and - backbiting; it only proves that they have an innate desire to be gulled - and deceived.” - </p> - <p> - “And who is that?” said Vivian. - </p> - <p> - “That is von Chronicle, our great historical novelist. When I first came - to Reisenburg, now eight years ago, the popular writer of fiction was a - man, the most probable of whose numerous romances was one in which the - hero sold his shadow to a demon over the dice-box; then married an unknown - woman in a churchyard; afterwards wedded a river nymph; and, having - committed bigamy, finally stabbed himself, to enable his first wife to - marry his own father. He and his works are quite obsolete; and the star of - his genius, with those of many others, has paled before the superior - brilliancy of that literary comet, Mr. von Chronicle. According to von - Chronicle, we have all, for a long time, been under a mistake. We have - ever considered that the first point to be studied in novel writing is - character: miserable error! It is costume. Variety of incident, novelty, - and nice discrimination of character; interest of story, and all those - points which we have hitherto looked upon as necessary qualities of a fine - novel, vanish before the superior attractions of variety of dresses, - exquisite descriptions of the cloak of a signer, or the trunk-hose of a - serving man. - </p> - <p> - “Amuse yourself while you are at Reisenburg by turning over some volumes - which every one is reading; von Chronicle’s last great historical novel. - The subject is a magnificent one, Rienzi; yet it is strange that the hero - only appears in the first and the last scenes. You look astonished. Ah! I - see you are not a great historical novelist. You forget the effect which - is produced by the contrast of the costume of Master Nicholas, the notary - in the quarter of the Jews, and that of Rienzi, the tribune, in his robe - of purple, at his coronation in the Capitol. Conceive the effect, the - contrast. With that coronation von Chronicle’s novel terminates; for, as - he well observes, after that, what is there in the career of Rienzi which - would afford matter for the novelist? Nothing! All that afterwards occurs - is a mere contest of passions and a development of character; but where is - a procession, a triumph, or a marriage? - </p> - <p> - “One of von Chronicle’s great characters in this novel is a Cardinal. It - was only last night that I was fortunate enough to have the beauties of - the work pointed out to me by the author himself. He entreated, and gained - my permission to read to me what he himself considered ‘the great scene.’ - I settled myself in my chair, took out my handkerchief, and prepared my - mind for the worst. While I was anticipating the terrors of a heroine he - introduced me to his Cardinal. Thirty pages were devoted to the - description of the prelate’s costume. Although clothed in purple, still, - by a skilful adjustment of the drapery, von Chronicle managed to bring in - six other petticoats. I thought this beginning would never finish, but to - my surprise, when he had got to the seventh petticoat, he shut his book, - and leaning over the table, asked me what I thought of his ‘great scene.’ - ‘My friend,’ said I, ‘you are not only the greatest historical novelist - that ever lived, but that ever will live.’” - </p> - <p> - “I shall certainly get Rienzi,” said Vivian; “it seems to me to be an - original work.” - </p> - <p> - “Von Chronicle tells me that he looks upon it as his masterpiece, and that - it may be considered as the highest point of perfection to which his - system of novel-writing can be carried. Not a single name is given in the - work, down even to the rabble, for which he has not contemporary - authority; but what he is particularly proud of are his oaths. Nothing, he - tells me, has cost him more trouble than the management of the swearing: - and the Romans, you know, are a most profane nation. The great difficulty - to be avoided was using the ejaculations of two different ages. The - ‘sblood’ of the sixteenth century must not be confounded with the ‘zounds’ - of the seventeenth. Enough of von Chronicle! The most amusing thing,” - continued Mr. Sievers, “is to contrast this mode of writing works of - fiction with the prevalent and fashionable method of writing works of - history. Contrast the ‘Rienzi’ of von Chronicle with the ‘Haroun Al - Raschid’ of Madame Carolina. Here we write novels like history, and - history like novels: all our facts are fancy, and all our imagination - reality.” So saying, Mr. Sievers rose, and, wishing Vivian good night, - quitted the room. He was one of those prudent geniuses who always leave - off with a point. - </p> - <p> - Mr. Sievers had not left Vivian more than a minute when the little Prince - Maximilian came up and bowed to him in a condescending manner. Our hero, - who had not yet had an opportunity of speaking with him, thanked him - cordially for his handsome present, and asked him how he liked the Court. - </p> - <p> - “Oh, delightful! I pass all my time with the Grand Duke and Madame:” and - here the young apostate settled his military stock and arranged the girdle - of his sword. “Madame Carolina,” continued he, “has commanded me to inform - you that she desires the pleasure of your attendance.” - </p> - <p> - The summons was immediately obeyed, and Vivian had the honour of a long - conversation with the interesting Consort of the Grand Duke. He was, for a - considerable time, complimented by her enthusiastic panegyric of England, - her original ideas of the character and genius of Lord Byron, her - veneration for Sir Humphry Davy, and her admiration of Sir Walter Scott. - Not remiss was Vivian in paying, in his happiest manner, due compliments - to the fair and royal authoress of the Court of Charlemagne. While she - spoke his native tongue, he admired her accurate English; and while she - professed to have derived her imperfect knowledge of his perfect language - from a study of its best authors, she avowed her belief of the - impossibility of ever speaking it correctly without the assistance of a - native. Conversation became more interesting. - </p> - <p> - When Vivian left the palace he was not unmindful of an engagement to - return there the next day, to give a first lesson in English pronunciation - to Madame Carolina. - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0067" id="link2HCH0067"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER IV - </h2> - <p> - Vivian duly kept his appointment with Madame Carolina. The chamberlain - ushered him into a library, where Madame Carolina was seated at a large - table covered with books and manuscripts. Her costume and her countenance - were equally engaging. Fascination was alike in her smile, and her sash, - her bow, and her buckle. What a delightful pupil to perfect in English - pronunciation! Madame pointed, with a pride pleasing to Vivian’s feelings - as an Englishman, to her shelves, graced with the most eminent of English - writers. Madame Carolina was not like one of those admirers of English - literature whom you often meet on the Continent: people who think that - Beattie’s Minstrel is our most modern and fashionable poem; that the Night - Thoughts is the masterpiece of our literature; and that Richardson is our - only novelist. Oh, no! Madame Carolina would not have disgraced May Fair. - She knew Childe Harold by rote, and had even peeped into Don Juan. Her - admiration of the Edinburgh and Quarterly Reviews was great and similar. - To a Continental liberal, indeed, even the Toryism of the Quarterly is - philosophy; and not an Under-Secretary ever yet massacred a radical - innovator without giving loose to some sentiments and sentences which are - considered rank treason in the meridian of Vienna. - </p> - <p> - After some conversation, in which Madame evinced eagerness to gain details - about the persons and manners of our most eminent literary characters, she - naturally began to speak of the literary productions of other countries; - and in short, ere an hour was passed, Vivian Grey, instead of giving a - lesson in English pronunciation to the Consort of the Grand Duke of - Reisenburg, found himself listening, in an easy-chair, and with folded - arms, to a long treatise by that lady de l’Esprit de Conversation. It was - a most brilliant dissertation. Her kindness in reading it to him was most - particular; nevertheless, for unexpected blessings we are not always - sufficiently grateful. - </p> - <p> - Another hour was consumed by the treatise. How she refined! what - unexpected distinctions! what exquisite discrimination of national - character! what skilful eulogium of her own! Nothing could be more - splendid than her elaborate character of a repartee; it would have - sufficed for an epic poem. At length Madame Carolina ceased de l’Esprit de - Conversation, and Vivian was successful in concealing his weariness and in - testifying his admiration. “The evil is over,” thought he; “I may as well - gain credit for my good taste.” The lesson in English pronunciation, - however, was not yet terminated. Madame was charmed with our hero’s - uncommon discrimination and extraordinary talents. He was the most skilful - and the most agreeable critic with whom she had ever been acquainted. How - invaluable must the opinion of such a person be to her on her great work! - No one had yet seen a line of it; but there are moments when we are - irresistibly impelled to seek a confidant; that confidant was before her. - The morocco case was unlocked, and the manuscript of Haroun Al Raschid - revealed to the enraptured eye of Vivian Grey. - </p> - <p> - “I flatter myself,” said Madame Carolina, “that this work will create a - great sensation; not only in Germany. It abounds, I think, with - interesting story, engaging incidents, and animated and effective - descriptions. I have not, of course, been able to obtain any new matter - respecting his Sublimity the Caliph. Between ourselves, I do not think - this very important. So far as I have observed, we have matter enough in - this world on every possible subject already. It is manner in which the - literature of all nations is deficient. It appears to me that the great - point for persons of genius now to direct their attention to is the - expansion of matter. This I conceive to be the great secret; and this must - be effected by the art of picturesque writing. For instance, my dear Mr. - Grey, I will open the Arabian Nights’ Entertainments, merely for an - exemplification, at the one hundred and eighty-fifth night; good! Let us - attend to the following passage:— - </p> - <p> - “‘In the reign of the Caliph Haroun Al Raschid, there was at Bagdad a - druggist, called Alboussan Ebn Thaher, a very rich, handsome man. He had - more wit and politeness than people of his profession ordinarily have. His - integrity, sincerity, and jovial humour made him beloved and sought after - by all sorts of people. The Caliph, who knew his merit, had entire - confidence in him. He had so great an esteem for him that he entrusted him - with the care to provide his favourite ladies with all the things they - stood in need of. He chose for them their clothes, furniture, and jewels, - with admirable taste. His good qualities and the favour of the Caliph made - the sons of Emirs and other officers of the first rank be always about - him. His house was the rendezvous of all the nobility of the Court.’ - </p> - <p> - “What capabilities lurk in this dry passage!” exclaimed Madame Carolina; - “I touch it with my pen, and transform it into a chapter. It shall be one - of those that I will read to you. The description of Alboussan alone - demands ten pages. There is no doubt that his countenance was oriental. - The tale says that he was handsome: I paint him with his eastern eye, his - thin arched brow, his fragrant beard, his graceful mustachio. The tale - says he was rich: I have authorities for the costume of men of his dignity - in contemporary writers. In my history he appears in an upper garment of - green velvet, and loose trousers of pink satin; a jewelled dagger lies in - his golden girdle; his slippers are of the richest embroidery; and he - never omits the bath of roses daily. On this system, which in my opinion - elicits truth, for by it you are enabled to form a conception of the - manners of the age; on this system I proceed throughout the paragraph. - Conceive my account of his house being the ‘rendezvous of all the nobility - of the Court.’ What a brilliant scene! what variety of dress and - character! what splendour! what luxury! what magnificence! Imagine the - detail of the banquet; which, by the bye, gives me an opportunity of - inserting, after the manner of your own Gibbon, ‘a dissertation on - sherbet.’ What think you of the art of picturesque writing?” - </p> - <p> - “Admirable!” said Vivian; “von Chronicle himself—” - </p> - <p> - “How can you mention the name of that odious man!” almost shrieked Madame - Carolina, forgetting the dignity of her semi-regal character in the - jealous feelings of the author. “How can you mention him! A scribbler - without a spark, not only of genius, but even of common invention. A - miserable fellow, who seems to do nothing but clothe and amplify, in his - own fantastic style, the details of a parcel of old chronicles!” - </p> - <p> - Madame’s indignation reminded Vivian of a true but rather vulgar proverb - of his own country; and he extricated himself from his very awkward - situation with a dexterity worthy of his former years. - </p> - <p> - “Von Chronicle himself,” said Vivian; “von Chronicle himself, as I was - going to observe, will be the most mortified of all on the appearance of - your work. He cannot be so blinded by self-conceit as to fail to observe - that your history is a thousand times more interesting than his fiction. - Ah! Madame, if you can thus spread enchantment over the hitherto weary - page of history, what must be your work of imagination!” - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0068" id="link2HCH0068"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER V - </h2> - <p> - Vivian met Emilius von Aslingen in his ride through the gardens. As that - distinguished personage at present patronised the English nation, and - astounded the Reisenburg natives by driving an English mail, riding - English horses, and ruling English grooms, he deigned to be exceedingly - courteous to our hero, whom he had publicly declared at the soirée of the - preceding night to be “very good style.” Such a character from such a man - raised Vivian even more in the estimation of the Reisenburg world than his - flattering reception by the Grand Duke and his cordial greeting by Madame - Carolina. - </p> - <p> - “Shall you be at the Grand Marshal’s to-night?” asked Vivian. - </p> - <p> - “Ah! that is the new man, the man who was mediatised, is not it?” - </p> - <p> - “The Prince of Little Lilliput.” - </p> - <p> - “Yes!” drawled out Mr. von Aslingen. “I shall go if I have courage enough; - but they say his servants wear skins, and he has got a tail.” - </p> - <p> - The ball-room was splendidly illuminated. The whole of the Royal Family - was present, and did honour to their new officer of state; his Royal - Highness all smiles, and his Consort all diamonds. Stars and uniforms, - ribbons and orders, abounded. The diplomatic body wore the dresses of - their respective Courts. Emilius von Aslingen, having given out in the - morning that he should appear as a captain in the Royal Guards, the young - lords and fops of fashion were consequently ultra military. They were not - a little annoyed when, late in the evening, their model lounged in, - wearing the rich scarlet uniform of a Knight of Malta, of which - newly-revived order von Aslingen, who had served half a campaign against - the Turks, was a member. - </p> - <p> - The Royal Family had arrived only a few minutes: dancing had not yet - commenced. Vivian was at the top of the room, honoured by the notice of - Madame Carolina, who complained of his yesterday’s absence from the - palace. Suddenly the universal hum and buzz which are always sounding in a - crowded room were stilled; and all present, arrested in their conversation - and pursuits, stood with their heads turned towards the great door. - Thither also Vivian looked, and, wonderstruck, beheld—Mr. - Beckendorff. His singular appearance, for, with the exception of his - cavalry boots, he presented the same figure as when he first came forward - to receive the Prince of Little Lilliput and Vivian on the lawn, - immediately attracted universal attention; but in this crowded room there - were few who, either from actual experience or accurate information, were - not ignorant that this personage was the Prime Minister. The report spread - like wildfire. Even the etiquette of a German ball-room, honoured as it - was by the presence of the Court, was no restraint to the curiosity and - wonder of all present. Yes! even Emilius von Aslingen raised his glass to - his eye. But great as was Vivian’s astonishment, it was not only - occasioned by this unexpected appearance of his former host. Mr. - Beckendorff was not alone: a woman was leaning on his left arm. A quick - glance in a moment convinced Vivian that she was not the original of the - mysterious picture. The companion of Beckendorff was very young. Her full - voluptuous growth gave you, for a moment, the impression that she was - somewhat low in stature; but it was only for a moment, for the lady was by - no means short. Her beauty it is impossible to describe. It was of a kind - that baffles all phrases, nor have I a single simile at command to make it - more clearer more confused. Her luxurious form, her blonde complexion, her - silken hair, would have all become the languishing Sultana; but then her - eyes, they banished all idea of the Seraglio, and were the most decidedly - European, though the most brilliant that ever glanced; eagles might have - proved their young at them. To a countenance which otherwise would have - been calm, and perhaps pensive, they gave an expression of extreme - vivacity and unusual animation, and perhaps of restlessness and arrogance: - it might have been courage. The lady was dressed in the costume of a - Chanoinesse??? of a Couvent des dames nobles; an institution to which - Protestant and Catholic ladles are alike admitted. The orange-coloured - cordon of her canonry was slung gracefully over her plain black silk - dress, and a diamond cross hung below her waist. - </p> - <p> - Mr. Beckendorff and his fair companion were instantly welcomed by the - Grand Marshal; and Arnelm and half-a-dozen Chamberlains, all in new - uniforms, and extremely agitated, did their utmost, by their exertions in - clearing the way, to prevent the Prime Minister of Reisenburg from paying - his respects to his Sovereign. At length, however, Mr. Beckendorff reached - the top of the room, and presented the young lady to his Royal Highness, - and also to Madame Carolina. Vivian had retired on their approach, and now - found himself among a set of young officers, idolators of von Aslingen, - and of white hats lined with crimson. “Who can she be?” was the universal - question. Though all by the query acknowledged their ignorance, yet it is - singular that, at the same time, every one was prepared with a response to - it. Such are the sources of accurate information! - </p> - <p> - “And that is Beckendorff, is it?” exclaimed the young Count of Eberstein; - “and his daughter, of course! Well; there is nothing like being a plebeian - and a Prime Minister! I suppose Beckendorff will bring an anonymous friend - to Court next.” - </p> - <p> - “She cannot be his daughter,” said Bernstorff. “To be a Chanoinesse of - that order, remember, she must be noble.” - </p> - <p> - “Then she must be his niece,” answered the young Count of Eberstein. “I - think I do remember some confused story about a sister of Beckendorff who - ran away with some Wirtemberg Baron. What was that story, Gernsbach?” - </p> - <p> - “No, it was not his sister,” said the Baron of Gernsbach; “it was his - aunt, I think.” - </p> - <p> - “Beckendorff’s aunt; what an idea! As if he ever had an aunt! Men of his - calibre make themselves out of mud. They have no relations. Well, never - mind; there was some story, I am sure, about some woman or other. Depend - upon it that this girl is the child of that woman, whether she be aunt, - niece, or daughter. I shall go and tell every one that I know the whole - business; this girl is the daughter of some woman or other.” So saying, - away walked the young Count of Eberstein, to disseminate in all directions - the important conclusion to which his logical head had allowed him to - arrive. - </p> - <p> - “Von Weinbren,” said the Baron of Gernsbach, “how can you account for this - mysterious appearance of the Premier?” - </p> - <p> - “Oh! when men are on the decline they do desperate things. I suppose it is - to please the renegado.” - </p> - <p> - “Hush! there’s the Englishman behind you.” - </p> - <p> - “On dit, another child of Beckendorff.” - </p> - <p> - “Oh no! secret mission.” - </p> - <p> - “Ah! indeed.” - </p> - <p> - “Here comes von Aslingen! Well, great Emilius! how solve you this - mystery?” - </p> - <p> - “What mystery? Is there one?” - </p> - <p> - “I allude to this wonderful appearance of Beckendorff.” - </p> - <p> - “Beckendorff! what a name! Who is he?” - </p> - <p> - “Nonsense! the Premier.” - </p> - <p> - “Well!” - </p> - <p> - “You have seen him, of course; he is here. Have you just come in?” - </p> - <p> - “Beckendorff here!” said von Aslingen, in a tone of affected horror; “I - did not know that the fellow was to be visited. It is all over with - Reisenburg. I shall go to Vienna to-morrow.” - </p> - <p> - But hark! the sprightly music calls to the dance; and first the stately - Polonaise, in easy gradation between walking and dancing. To the surprise - of the whole room and the indignation of main of the high nobles, the - Crown Prince of Reisenburg led off the Polonaise with the unknown fair - one. Such an attention to Beckendorff was a distressing proof of present - power and favour. The Polonaise is a dignified promenade, with which - German balls invariably commence. The cavaliers, with an air of studied - grace, offer their right hands to their fair partners; and the whole - party, in a long file, accurately follow the leading couple through all - their scientific evolutions, as they wind through every part of the room. - Waltzes in sets speedily followed the Polonaise; and the unknown, who was - now an object of universal attention, danced with Count von Sohnspeer, - another of Beckendorff’s numerous progeny, if the reader remember. How - scurvily are poor single gentlemen who live alone treated by the candid - tongues of their fellow-creatures! The commander-in-chief of the - Reisenburg troops was certainly a partner of a different complexion from - the young lady’s previous one. The crown Prince had undertaken his duty - with reluctance, and had performed it without grace; not a single word had - he exchanged with his partner during the promenade, and his genuine - listlessness was even more offensive than affected apathy. Von Sohnspeer, - on the contrary, danced in the true Vienna style, and whirled like a - Dervish. All our good English prejudices against the soft, the swimming, - the sentimental, melting, undulating, dangerous waltz would quickly - disappear, if we only executed the dreaded manoeuvres in the true Austrian - style. One might as soon expect our daughters to get sentimental in a - swing. - </p> - <p> - Vivian did not choose to presume upon his late acquaintance with Mr. - Beckendorff, as it had not been sought by that gentleman, and he - consequently did not pay his respects to the Minister. Mr. Beckendorff - continued at the top of the room, standing between the State chairs of his - Royal Highness and Madame Carolina, and occasionally addressing an - observation to his Sovereign and answering one of the lady’s. Had Mr. - Beckendorff been in the habit of attending balls nightly he could not have - exhibited more perfect nonchalance. There he stood, with his arms crossed - behind him, his chin resting on his breast, and his raised eyes glancing! - </p> - <p> - “My dear Prince,” said Vivian to the Grand Marshal, “you are just the - person I wanted to speak to. How came you to invite Beckendorff, and how - came he to accept the invitation?” - </p> - <p> - “My dear friend,” said his Highness, shrugging his shoulders, “wonders - will never cease. I never invited him; I should just as soon have thought - of inviting old Johannisberger.” - </p> - <p> - “Were you not aware, then, of his intention?” - </p> - <p> - “Not in the least! you should rather say attention; for, I assure you, I - consider it a most particular one. It is quite astonishing, my dear - friend, how I mistook that man’s character. He really is one of the most - gentlemanlike, polite, and excellent persons I know; no more mad than you - are! And as for his power being on the decline, we know the nonsense of - that!” - </p> - <p> - “Better than most persons, I suspect. Sievers, of course, is not here?” - </p> - <p> - “No! you have heard about him, I suppose?” - </p> - <p> - “Heard! heard what?” - </p> - <p> - “Not heard! well, he told me yesterday, and said he was going to call upon - you directly to let you know.” - </p> - <p> - “Know what?” - </p> - <p> - “He is a very sensible man, Sievers; and I am very glad at last that he is - likely to succeed in the world. All men have their little imprudences, and - he was a little too hot once. What of that? He has come to his senses, so - have I; and I hope you will never lose yours.” - </p> - <p> - “But, pray, my dear Prince, tell me what has happened to Sievers.” - </p> - <p> - “He is going to Vienna immediately, and will be very useful there, I have - no doubt. He has got a good place, and I am sure he will do his duty. They - cannot have an abler man.” - </p> - <p> - “Vienna! that is the last city in the world in which I should expect to - find Mr. Sievers. What place can he have? and what services can he perform - there?” - </p> - <p> - “Many! he is to be Editor of the Austrian Observer, and Censor of the - Austrian Press. I thought he would do well at last. All men have their - imprudent day. I had. I cannot stop now. I must go and speak to the - Countess von S——.” - </p> - <p> - As Vivian was doubting whether he should most grieve or laugh at this - singular termination of Mr. Sievers’ career, his arm was suddenly touched, - and on turning round he found it was by Mr. Beckendorff. - </p> - <p> - “There is another strong argument, sir,” said the Minister, without any of - the usual phrases of recognition; “there is another strong argument - against your doctrine of Destiny.” And then Mr. Beckendorff, taking Vivian - by the arm, began walking up and down part of the saloon with him; and in - a few minutes, quite forgetting the scene of the discussion, he was - involved in metaphysics. This incident created another great sensation, - and whispers of “secret mission, Secretary of State, decidedly a son,” - &c. &c. &c. were in an instant afloat in all parts of the - room. - </p> - <p> - The approach of his Royal Highness extricated Vivian from an argument - which was as profound as it was interminable; and as Mr. Beckendorff - retired with the Grand Duke into a recess in the ball-room, Vivian was - requested by von Neuwied to attend his Excellency the Grand Marshal. - </p> - <p> - “My dear friend,” said the Prince, “I saw you talking with a certain - person, I did not say anything to you when I passed you before; but, to - tell you the truth now, I was a little annoyed that he had not spoken to - you. I knew you were as proud as Lucifer, and would not salute him - yourself; and between ourselves I had no great wish you should, for, not - to conceal it, he did not even mention your name. But the reason of this - is now quite evident, and you must confess he is remarkably courteous. You - know, if you remember, we thought that incognito was a little affected; - rather annoying, if you recollect. I remember in the green lane you gave - him a gentle cut about it. It was spirited, and I dare say did good. Well! - what I was going to say about that is this; I dare say now, after all,” - continued his Excellency, with a knowing look, “a certain person had very - good reasons for that; not that he ever told them to me, nor that I have - the slightest idea of them; but when a person is really so exceedingly - polite and attentive I always think he would never do anything - disagreeable without a cause; and it was exceedingly disagreeable, if you - remember, my dear friend. I never knew to whom he was speaking. Von - Philipson indeed! Well! we did not think, the day we were floundering down - that turf road, that it would end in this. Rather a more brilliant scene - than the Giants’ Hall at Turriparva, I think, eh? But all men have their - imprudent days; the best way is to forget them. There was poor Sievers; - who ever did more imprudent things than he? and now it is likely he will - do very well in the world, eh? What I want of you, my dear friend, is - this. There is that girl who came with Beckendorff; who the deuce she is, - I don’t know: let us hope the best! We must pay her every attention. I - dare say she is his daughter. You have not forgotten the portrait. Well! - we all were gay once. All men have their imprudent day; why should not - Beckendorff? Speaks rather in his favour, I think. Well, this girl; his - Royal Highness very kindly made the Crown Prince walk the Polonaise with - her; very kind of him, and very proper. What attention can be too great - for the daughter or friend of such a man! a man who, in two words, may be - said to have made Reisenburg. For what was Reisenburg before Beckendorff? - Ah! what? Perhaps we were happier then, after all; and then there was no - Royal Highness to bow to; no person to be condescending, except ourselves. - But never mind! we will forget. After all, this life has its charms. What - a brilliant scene! but this girl, every attention should be paid her. The - Crown Prince was so kind as to walk the Polonaise with her. And von - Sohnspeer; he is a brute, to be sure; but then he is a Field Marshal. Now, - I think, considering what has taken place between Beckendorff and - yourself, and the very distinguished manner in which he recognised you; I - think, that after all this, and considering everything, the etiquette is - for you, particularly as you are a foreigner, and my personal friend; - indeed, my most particular friend, for in fact I owe everything to you, my - life, and more than my life; I think, I repeat, considering all this, that - the least you can do is to ask her to dance with you; and I, as the host, - will introduce you. I am sorry, my dear friend,” continued his Excellency, - with a look of great regret, “to introduce you to—; but we will not - speak about it. We have no right to complain of Mr. Beckendorff. No person - could possibly behave to us in a manner more gentlemanlike.” - </p> - <p> - After an introductory speech in his Excellency’s happiest manner, and in - which an eulogium of Vivian and a compliment to the fair unknown got - almost as completely entangled as the origin of slavery and the history of - the feudal system in his more celebrated harangue, Vivian found himself - waltzing with the anonymous beauty. The Grand Marshal, during the process - of introduction, had given the young lady every opportunity of declaring - her name; but every opportunity was thrown away. “She must be incog.,” - whispered his Excellency; “Miss von Philipson, I suppose?” - </p> - <p> - Vivian was not a little desirous of discovering the nature of the - relationship or connection between Beckendorff and his partner. The rapid - waltz allowed no pause for conversation; but after the dance Vivian seated - himself at her side, with the determination of not quickly deserting it - The lady did not even allow him the satisfaction of commencing the - conversation; for no sooner was she seated than she begged to know who the - person was with whom she had previously waltzed. The history of Count von - Sohnspeer amused her; and no sooner had Vivian finished his anecdote than - the lady said, “Ah! so: you are an amusing person. Now tell me the history - of everybody in the room.” - </p> - <p> - “Really,” said Vivian, “I fear I shall forfeit my reputation of being - amusing very speedily, for I am almost as great a stranger at this Court - as you appear to be yourself. Count von Sohnspeer is too celebrated a - personage at Reisenburg to have allowed even me to be long ignorant of his - history; and as for the rest, as far as I can judge, they are most of them - as obscure as myself, and not nearly as interesting as you are!” - </p> - <p> - “Are you an Englishman?” asked the lady. - </p> - <p> - “I am.” - </p> - <p> - “I supposed so, both from your travelling and your appearance: I think the - English countenance very peculiar.” - </p> - <p> - “Indeed! we do not flatter ourselves so at home.” - </p> - <p> - “Yes! it is peculiar.” said the lady, in a tone which seemed to imply that - contradiction was unusual; “and I think that you are all handsome! I - admire the English, which in this part of the world is singular: the - South, you know, is generally francisé.” - </p> - <p> - “I am aware of that,” said Vivian. “There, for instance,” pointing to a - pompous-looking personage who at that moment strutted by; “there, for - instance, is the most francisé person in all Reisenburg! that is our Grand - Chamberlain. He considers himself a felicitous copy of Louis the - Fourteenth! He allows nothing in his opinions and phrases but what is - orthodox. As it generally happens in such cases, his orthodoxy is rather - obsolete.” - </p> - <p> - “Who is that Knight of Malta?” asked the lady. - </p> - <p> - “The most powerful individual in the room,” answered Vivian. - </p> - <p> - “Who can he be?” asked the lady, with eagerness. - </p> - <p> - “Behold him, and tremble!” rejoined Vivian: “for with him it rests to - decide whether you are civilised or a savage; whether you are to be - abhorred or admired: idolised or despised. Nay, do not be alarmed! there - are a few heretics, even in Reisenburg, who, like myself, value from - conviction, and not from fashion, and who will be ever ready, in spite of - a von Aslingen anathema, to evince our admiration where it is due.” - </p> - <p> - The lady pleaded fatigue as an excuse for not again dancing; and Vivian - did not quit her side. Her lively remarks, piquant observations, and - singular questions highly amused him; and he was flattered by the evident - gratification which his conversation afforded her. It was chiefly of the - principal members of the Court that she spoke: she was delighted with - Vivian’s glowing character of Madame Carolina, whom she said she had this - evening seen for the first time. Who this unknown could be was a question - which often occurred to him; and the singularity of a man like Beckendorff - suddenly breaking through his habits and outraging the whole system of his - existence, to please a daughter, or niece, or female cousin, did not fail - to strike him. - </p> - <p> - “I have the honour of being acquainted with Mr. Beckendorff,” said Vivian. - This was the first time that the Minister’s name had been mentioned. - </p> - <p> - “I perceived you talking with him,” was the answer. - </p> - <p> - “You are staying, I suppose, at Mr. Beckendorff’s?” - </p> - <p> - “Not at present.” - </p> - <p> - “You have, of course, been at his retreat; delightful place!” - </p> - <p> - “Yes!” - </p> - <p> - “Are you an ornithologist?” asked Vivian, smiling. - </p> - <p> - “Not at all scientific; but I, of course, can now tell a lory from a Java - sparrow, and a bullfinch from a canary. The first day I was there, I never - shall forget the surprise I experienced, when, after the noon meal being - finished, the aviary door was opened. After that I always let the - creatures out myself; and one day I opened all the cages at once. If you - could but have witnessed the scene! I am sure you would have been quite - delighted with it. As for poor Mr. Beckendorff, I thought even he would - have gone out of his mind; and when I brought in the white peacock he - actually left the room in despair. Pray how do you like Madame Clara and - Owlface too? Which do you think the most beautiful? I am no great - favourite with the old lady. Indeed, it was very kind of Mr. Beckendorff - to bear with everything as he did: I am sure he is not much used to lady - visitors.” - </p> - <p> - “I trust that your visit to him will not be very short?” - </p> - <p> - “My stay at Reisenburg will not be very long,” said the young lady, with - rather a grave countenance, “Have you been here any time?” - </p> - <p> - “About a fortnight; it was a mere chance my coming at all. I was going on - straight to Vienna.” - </p> - <p> - “To Vienna, indeed! Well, I am glad you did not miss Reisenburg; you must - not quit it now. You know that this is not the Vienna season?” - </p> - <p> - “I am aware of it; but I am such a restless person that I never regulate - my movements by those of other people.” - </p> - <p> - “But surely you find Reisenburg agreeable?” - </p> - <p> - “Very much so; but I am a confirmed wanderer.’ - </p> - <p> - “Why are you?” asked the lady, with great naïveté. - </p> - <p> - Vivian looked grave; and the lady, as if she were sensible of having - unintentionally occasioned him a painful recollection, again expressed her - wish that he should not immediately quit the Court, and trusted that - circumstances would not prevent him from acceding to her desire. - </p> - <p> - “It does not even depend upon circumstances,” said Vivian; “the whim of - the moment is my only principle of action, and therefore I may be off - to-night, or be here a month hence.” - </p> - <p> - “Oh! pray stay then,” said his companion eagerly; “I expect you to stay - now. If you could only have an idea what a relief conversing with you is, - after having been dragged by the Crown Prince and whirled by that von - Sohnspeer! Heigho! I could almost sigh at the very remembrance of that - doleful Polonaise.” - </p> - <p> - The lady ended with a faint laugh a sentence which apparently had been - commenced in no light vein. She did not cease speaking, but continued to - request Vivian to remain at Reisenburg at least as long as herself. Her - frequent requests were perfectly unnecessary, for the promise had been - pledged at the first hint of her wish; but this was not the only time - during the evening that Vivian had remarked that his interesting companion - occasionally talked without apparently being sensible that she was - conversing. - </p> - <p> - The young Count of Eberstein, who, to use his own phrase, was “sadly - involved,” and consequently desirous of being appointed a forest - Councillor, thought that he should secure his appointment by condescending - to notice the person whom he delicately styled “the Minister’s female - relative.” To his great mortification and surprise, the honour was - declined; and “the female relative,” being unwilling to dance again, but - perhaps feeling it necessary to break off her conversation with her late - partner, it having already lasted an unusual time, highly gratified his - Excellency the Grand Marshal by declaring that she would dance with Prince - Maximilian. “This, to say the least, was very attentive of Miss von - Philipson.” - </p> - <p> - Little Max, who had just tact enough to discover that to be the partner of - the fair incognita was the place of honour of the evening, now considered - himself by much the most important personage in the room. In fact, he was - only second to Emilius von Aslingen. The evident contest which was ever - taking place between his natural feelings as a boy and his acquired habits - as a courtier made him an amusing companion. He talked of the Gardens and - the Opera in a style not unworthy of the young Count of Eberstein. He - thought that Madame Carolina was as charming as usual to-night; but, on - the contrary, that the Countess von S—— was looking rather - ill, and this put him in mind of her ladyship’s new equipage; and then, - apropos to equipages, what did his companion think of the new fashion of - the Hungarian harness? His lively and kind companion encouraged the boy’s - tattle; and, emboldened by her good nature, he soon forgot his artificial - speeches, and was quickly rattling on about Turriparva, and his horses, - and his dogs, and his park, and his guns, and his grooms. Soon after the - waltz, the lady, taking the arm of the young Prince, walked up to Mr. - Beckendorff. He received her with great attention, and led her to Madame - Carolina, who rose, seated Mr. Beckendorff’s “female relative” by her - side, and evidently said something extremely agreeable. - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0069" id="link2HCH0069"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER VI - </h2> - <p> - Vivian had promised Madame Carolina a second English lesson on the day - after the Grand Marshal’s fete. The progress which the lady had made, and - the talent which the gentleman had evinced during the first, had rendered - Madame the most enthusiastic of pupils, and Vivian, in her estimation, the - ablest of instructors. Madame Carolina’s passion was patronage: to - discover concealed merit, to encourage neglected genius, to reveal the - mysteries of the world to a novice in mankind, or, in short, to make - herself very agreeable to any one whom she fancied to be very interesting, - was the great business and the great delight of her existence. No sooner - had her eyes lighted on Vivian Grey than she determined to patronise. His - country, his appearance, the romantic manner in which he had become - connected with the Court, all pleased her lively imagination. She was - intuitively acquainted with his whole history, and in an instant he was - the hero of a romance, of which the presence of the principal character - compensated, we may suppose, for the somewhat indefinite details. His - taste and literary acquirements completed the spell by which Madame - Carolina was willingly enchanted. A low Dutch professor, whose luminous - genius rendered unnecessary the ceremony of shaving; and a dumb dwarf, in - whose interesting appearance was forgotten its perfect idiocy, prosy - improvisatore, and a South American savage, were all superseded by the - appearance of Vivian Grey. - </p> - <p> - As Madame Carolina was, in fact, a charming woman, our hero had no - objection to humour her harmless foibles; and not contented with making - notes in an interleaved copy of her Charlemagne, he even promised to read - Haroun Al Raschid in manuscript. The consequence of his courtesy and the - reward of his taste was unbounded favour. Apartments in the palace were - offered him, and declined; and when Madame Carolina had become acquainted - with sufficient of his real history to know that, on his part, neither - wish nor necessity existed to return immediately to his own country, she - tempted him to remain at Reisenburg by an offer of a place at Court; and - doubtless, had he been willing, Vivian might in time have become a Lord - Chamberlain, or perhaps even a Field Marshal. - </p> - <p> - On entering the room the morning in question he found Madame Carolina - writing. At the end of the apartment a lady ceased, on his appearance, - humming an air to which she was dancing, and at the same time imitating - castanets. Madame received Vivian with expressions of delight, saying - also, in a peculiar and confidential manner, that she was just sealing up - a packet for him, the preface of Haroun; and then she presented him to - “the Baroness!” The lady who was lately dancing came forward. It was his - unknown partner of the preceding night. “The Baroness” extended her hand - to Vivian, and unaffectedly expressed her great pleasure at seeing him - again. Vivian trusted that she was not fatigued by the fête, and asked - after Mr. Beckendorff. Madame Carolina was busily engaged at the moment in - duly securing the precious preface. The Baroness said that Mr. Beckendorff - had returned home, but that Madame Carolina had kindly insisted upon her - staying at the palace. She was not the least wearied. Last night had been - one of the most agreeable she had ever spent; at least she supposed she - ought to say so: for if she had experienced a tedious or mournful feeling - for a moment, it was hardly for what was then passing so much as for—” - </p> - <p> - “Pray, Mr. Grey,” said Madame Carolina, interrupting them, “have you heard - about our new ballet?” - </p> - <p> - “No.” - </p> - <p> - “I do not think you have ever been to our Opera. To-morrow is Opera night, - and you must not be again away. We pride ourselves here very much upon our - Opera.” - </p> - <p> - “We estimate it even in England,” said Vivian, “as possessing perhaps the - most perfect orchestra now organised.” - </p> - <p> - “The orchestra is perfect. His Royal Highness is such an excellent - musician, and he has spared no trouble or expense in forming it: he has - always superintended it himself. But I confess I admire our ballet - department still more. I expect you to be delighted with it. You will - perhaps be gratified to know that the subject of our new splendid ballet, - which is to be produced to-morrow, is from a great work of your - illustrious poet, my Lord Byron.” - </p> - <p> - “From which?” - </p> - <p> - “The Corsair. Ah! what a sublime work! what passion! what energy! what - knowledge of feminine feeling! what contrast of character! what - sentiments! what situations! I wish this were Opera night; Gulnare! my - favourite character; beautiful! How do you think they will dress her?” - </p> - <p> - “Are you an admirer of our Byron?” asked Vivian, of the Baroness. - </p> - <p> - “I think he is a very handsome man. I once saw him at the carnival at - Venice.” - </p> - <p> - “But his works; his grand works! ma chère petite,” said Madame Carolina, - in her sweetest tone: “you have read his works?” - </p> - <p> - “Not a line,” answered the Baroness, with great naïveté; “I never saw - them.” - </p> - <p> - “Pauvre enfant!” said Madame Carolina; “I will employ you, then, while you - are here.” - </p> - <p> - “I never read,” said the Baroness; “I cannot bear it. I like poetry and - romances, but I like somebody to read to me.” - </p> - <p> - “Very just,” said Madame Carolina; “we can judge with greater accuracy of - the merit of a composition when it reaches our mind merely through the - medium of the human voice. The soul is an essence, invisible and - indivisible. In this respect the voice of man resembles the principle of - his existence; since few will deny, though there are some materialists who - will deny everything, that the human voice is both impalpable and audible - only in one place at the same time. Hence, I ask, is it illogical to infer - its indivisibility? The soul and the voice, then, are similar in two great - attributes: there is a secret harmony in their spiritual construction. In - the early ages of mankind a beautiful tradition was afloat that the soul - and the voice were one and the same. We may perhaps recognise in this - fanciful belief the effect of the fascinating and imaginative philosophy - of the East; that mysterious portion of the globe,” continued Madame - Carolina, “from which we should frankly confess that we derive everything; - for the South is but the pupil of the East, through the mediation of - Egypt. Of this opinion,” said Madame with fervour, “I have no doubt: of - this opinion,” continued the lady with enthusiasm, “I have boldly avowed - myself a votary in a dissertation appended to the second volume of Haroun: - for this opinion I would die at the stake! Oh, lovely East! why was I not - oriental! Land where the voice of the nightingale is never mute! Land of - the cedar and the citron, the turtle and the myrtle, of ever-blooming - flowers and ever-shining skies! Illustrious East! Cradle of Philosophy! My - dearest Baroness, why do not you feel as I do? From the East we obtain - everything!” - </p> - <p> - “Indeed!” said the Baroness, with simplicity; “I thought we only got - shawls.” - </p> - <p> - This puzzling answer was only noticed by Vivian; for the truth is, Madame - Carolina was one of those individuals who never attend to any person’s - answers. Always thinking of herself, she only asked questions that she - herself might supply the responses. And now having made, as she flattered - herself, a splendid display to her favourite critic, she began to consider - what had given rise to her oration. Lord Byron and the ballet again - occurred to her; and as the Baroness, at least, was not unwilling to - listen, and as she herself had no manuscript of her own which she - particularly wished to be perused, she proposed that Vivian should read to - them part of the Corsair, and in the original tongue. Madame Carolina - opened the volume at the first prison scene between Gulnare and Conrad. It - was her favourite. Vivian read with care and feeling. Madame was in - raptures, and the Baroness, although she did not understand a single - syllable, seemed almost equally delighted. At length Vivian came to this - passage: - </p> -<pre xml:space="preserve"> - My love stern Seyd’s! Oh, no, no, not my love! - Yet much this heart, that strives no more, once strove - To meet his passion; but it would not be. - I felt, I feel, love dwells with, with the free. - I am a slave, a favour’d slave at best, - To share his splendour, and seem very blest! - Oft must my soul the question undergo, - Of, “Dost thou love?” and burn to answer, “No!” - Oh! hard it is that fondness to sustain, - And struggle not to feel averse in vain; - But harder still the heart’s recoil to bear, - And hide from one, perhaps another there; - He takes the hand I give not nor withhold, - Its pulse nor checked nor quickened, calmly cold: - And when resign’d, it drops a lifeless weight - From one I never loved enough to hate. - No warmth these lips return by his imprest, - And chill’d remembrance shudders o’er the rest. - Yes, had I ever prov’d that passion’s zeal, - The change to hatred were at least to feel: - But still, he goes unmourn’d, returns unsought, - And oft when present, absent from my thought. - Or when reflection comes, and come it must, - I fear that henceforth ‘twill but bring disgust: - I am his slave; but, in despite of pride, - ‘Twere worse than bondage to become his bride. -</pre> - <p> - “Superb!” said Madame, in a voice of enthusiasm; “how true! what passion! - what energy! what sentiments! what knowledge of feminine feeling! Read it - again, I pray: it is my favourite passage.” - </p> - <p> - “What is this passage about?” asked the Baroness, with some anxiety; “tell - me.” - </p> - <p> - “I have a French translation, ma mignonne,” said Madame; “you shall have - it afterwards.” - </p> - <p> - “No! I detest reading,” said the young lady, with an imperious air; - “translate it to me at once.” - </p> - <p> - “You are rather a self-willed beauty!” thought Vivian; “but your eyes are - so brilliant that nothing must be refused you!” and so he translated it. - </p> - <p> - On its conclusion Madame was again in raptures. The Baroness was not less - affected, but she said nothing. She appeared agitated; she changed colour, - raised her beautiful eyes with an expression of sorrow, looked at Vivian - earnestly, and then walked to the other end of the room. In a few moments - she returned to her seat. - </p> - <p> - “I wish you would tell me the story,” she said, with earnestness. - </p> - <p> - “I have a French translation, ma belle!” said Madame Carolina; “at present - I wish to trouble Mr. Grey with a few questions.” Madame Carolina led - Vivian into a recess. - </p> - <p> - “I am sorry we are troubled with this sweet little savage; but I think she - has talent, though evidently quite uneducated. We must do what we can for - her. Her ignorance of all breeding is amusing, but then I think she has a - natural elegance. We shall soon polish her. His Royal Highness is so - anxious that every attention should be paid to her. Beckendorff, you know, - is a man of the greatest genius.” (Madame Carolina had lowered her tone - about the Minister since the Prince of Little Lilliput’s apostasy.) “The - country is greatly indebted to him. This, between ourselves, is his - daughter. At least I have no doubt of it. Beckendorff was once married, to - a lady of great rank, died early, beautiful woman, very interesting! His - Royal Highness had a great regard for her. The Premier, in his - bereavement, turned humorist, and has brought up this lovely girl in the - oddest possible manner; nobody knows where. Now that he finds it necessary - to bring her forward, he, of course, is quite at a loss. His Royal - Highness has applied to me. There was a little coldness before between the - Minister and myself. It is now quite removed. I must do what I can for her - I think she must marry von Sohnspeer, who is no more Beckendorff’s son - than you are: or young Eberstein, or young Bernstorff, or young Gernsbach. - We must do something for her. I offered her last night to Emilius von - Aslingen; but he said that, unfortunately, he was just importing a savage - or two of his own from the Brazils, and consequently was not in want of - her.” - </p> - <p> - A chamberlain now entered, to announce the speedy arrival of his Royal - Highness. The Baroness, without ceremony, expressed her great regret that - he was coming, as now she should not hear the wished-for story. Madame - Carolina reproved her, and the reproof was endured rather than submitted - to. - </p> - <p> - His Royal Highness entered, and was accompanied by the Crown Prince. He - greeted the young lady with great kindness; and even the Crown Prince, - inspired by his father’s unusual warmth, made a shuffling kind of bow and - a stuttering kind of speech. Vivian was about to retire on the entrance of - the Grand Duke, but Madame Carolina prevented him from going, and his - Royal Highness, turning round, very graciously seconded her desire, and - added that Mr. Grey was the very gentleman with whom he was desirous of - meeting. - </p> - <p> - “I am anxious,” said he to Vivian, in rather a low tone, “to make - Reisenburg agreeable to Mr. Beckendorff’s fair friend. As you are one of - the few who are honoured by his intimacy, and are familiar with some of - our state secrets,” added the Grand Duke with a smile, “I am sure it will - give you pleasure to assist me in the execution of my wishes.” - </p> - <p> - His Royal Highness proposed that the ladies should ride; and he himself, - with the Crown Prince and Mr. Grey, would attend them. Madame Carolina - expressed her willingness; but the Baroness, like all forward girls unused - to the world, suddenly grew at the same time both timid and disobliging. - She looked sullen and discontented, and coolly said that she did not feel - in the humour to ride for at least these two hours. To Vivian’s surprise, - even the Grand Duke humoured her fancy, and declared that he should then - be happy to attend them after the Court dinner. Until that time Vivian was - amused by Madame, and the Grand Duke exclusively devoted himself to the - Baroness. His Royal Highness was in his happiest mood, and his winning - manners and elegant conversation soon chased away the cloud which, for a - moment, had settled on the young lady’s fair brow. - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0070" id="link2HCH0070"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER VII - </h2> - <p> - The Grand Duke of Reisenburg was an enthusiastic lover of music, and his - people were consequently music mad. The whole city were fiddling day and - night, or blowing trumpets, oboes, and bassoons. Sunday, however, was the - most harmonious day in the week. The Opera amused the Court and the - wealthiest citizens, and few private houses could not boast their family - concert or small party of performers. In the tea-gardens, of which there - were many in the suburbs of the city, bearing the euphonious, romantic, - and fashionable titles of Tivoli, Arcadia, and Vauxhall, a strong and - amateur orchestra was never wanting. Strolling through the city on a - Sunday afternoon, many a pleasing picture of innocent domestic enjoyment - might be observed. In the arbour of a garden a very stout man, with a - fair, broad, good-natured, solid German face, may be seen perspiring under - the scientific exertion of the French horn; himself wisely disembarrassed - of the needless incumbrance of his pea-green coat and showy waistcoat, - which lay neatly folded by his side; while his large and sleepy blue eyes - actually gleam with enthusiasm. His daughter, a soft and delicate girl, - touches the light guitar: catching the notes of the music from the opened - opera, which is placed before the father on a massy music-stand. Her voice - joins in melody with her mother, who, like all German mothers, seems only - her daughter’s self, subdued by an additional twenty years. The bow of one - violin is handled with the air of a master by an elder brother; while a - younger one, an university student, grows sentimental over the flute. The - same instrument is also played by a tall and tender-looking young man in - black, who stands behind the parents, next to the daughter, and - occasionally looks off his music-book to gaze on his young mistress’s - eyes. He is a clerk in a public office; and on next Michaelmas day, if he - succeed, as he hopes, in gaining a small addition to his salary, he will - be still more entitled to join in the Sunday family concert. Such is one - of the numerous groups, the sight of which must, assuredly, give pleasure - to every man who delights in seeing his fellow-creatures refreshed after - their weekly labours by such calm and rational enjoyment. We would gladly - linger among such scenes; and, moreover, the humours of a guinguette are - not unworthy of our attention: but we must introduce the reader to a more - important party. - </p> - <p> - The Court chapel and the Court dinner are over. We are in the Opera-house - of Reisenburg; and, of course, rise as the Royal party enters. The house, - which is of moderate size, was fitted up with splendour: we hardly know - whether we should say with great taste; for, although not merely the - scenery, but indeed every part of the house, was painted by eminent - artists, the style of the ornaments was rather patriotic than tasteful. - The house had been built immediately after the war, at a period when - Reisenburg, flushed with the success of its thirty thousand men, imagined - itself to be a great military nation. Trophies, standards, cannon, eagles, - consequently appeared in every corner of the Opera-house; and quite - superseded lyres, and timbrels, and tragic daggers, and comic masks. The - royal box was constructed in the form of a tent, and held nearly fifty - persons. It was exactly in the centre of the house, its floor over the - back of the pit, and its roof reaching to the top of the second circle; - its crimson hangings were restrained by ropes of gold, and the whole was - surmounted by a large and radiant crown. The house was merely lighted by a - chandelier from the centre. - </p> - <p> - The Opera for the evening was Rossini’s Otello. As soon as the Grand Duke - entered the overture commenced, his Royal Highness coming forward to the - front of the box and himself directing the musicians, keeping time - earnestly with his right hand, in which was a long black opera-glass. This - he occasionally used, but merely to look at the orchestra, not, assuredly, - to detect a negligent or inefficient performer; for in the schooled - orchestra of Reisenburg it would have been impossible even for the eagle - eye of his Royal Highness, assisted as it was by his long black - opera-glass, or for his fine ear, matured as it was by the most complete - study, to discover there either inattention or feebleness. The house was - perfectly silent; for when the Monarch directs the orchestra the world - goes to the Opera to listen. Perfect silence at Reisenburg, then, was - etiquette and the fashion. Between the acts of the Opera, however, the - Ballet was performed; and then everybody might talk, and laugh, and remark - as much as they chose. - </p> - <p> - The Grand Duke prided himself as much upon the accuracy of his scenery and - dresses and decorations as upon the exquisite skill of his performers. In - truth, an Opera at Reisenburg was a spectacle which could not fail to be - interesting to a man of taste. When the curtain drew up the first scene - presented a view of old Brabantio’s house. It was accurately copied from - one of the sumptuous structures of Scamozzi, or Sansovino, or Palladio, - which adorn the Grand Canal of Venice. In the distance rose the domes of - St. Mark and the lofty Campanile. Vivian could not fail to be delighted - with this beautiful work of art, for such indeed it should be styled. He - was more surprised, however, but not less pleased, on the entrance of - Othello himself. In England we are accustomed to deck this adventurous - Moor in the costume of his native country; but is this correct? The Grand - Duke of Reisenburg thought not. Othello was an adventurer; at an early age - he entered, as many foreigners did, into the service of Venice. In that - service be rose to the highest dignities, became General of her armies and - of her fleets, and finally the Viceroy of her favourite kingdom. Is it - natural to suppose that such a man should have retained, during his - successful career, the manners and dress of his original country? Ought we - not rather to admit that, had he done so his career would, in fact, not - have been successful? In all probability, he imitated to affectation the - manners of the country which he had adopted. It is not probable that in - such or in any age the turbaned Moor would have been treated with great - deference by the common Christian soldier of Venice; or, indeed, that the - scandal of a heathen leading the armies of one of the most powerful of - European States would have been tolerated for an instant by indignant - Christendom. If Shylock even, the Jew merchant, confined to his quarter, - and herding with his own sect, were bearded on the Rialto, in what spirit - would the Venetians have witnessed their doge and nobles, whom they ranked - above kings, holding equal converse, and loading with the most splendid - honours of the Republic a follower of Mahound? Such were the sentiments of - the Grand Duke of Reisenburg on this subject, a subject interesting to - Englishmen; and I confess I think that they are worthy of attention. In - accordance with his opinions, the actor who performed Othello appeared in - the full dress of a Venetian magnifico of the middle ages; a fit companion - for Cornaro, or Grimani, or Barberigo, or Foscari. - </p> - <p> - The first act of the Opera was finished. The Baroness expressed to Vivian - her great delight at its being over, as she was extremely desirous of - learning the story of the ballet, which she had not yet been able to - acquire. His translation of yesterday had greatly interested her. Vivian - shortly gave her the outline of the story of Conrad. She listened with - much attention, but made no remark. - </p> - <p> - The ballet at Reisenburg was not merely a vehicle for the display of - dancing. It professed by gesture and action, aided by music, to influence - the minds of the spectators not less than the regular drama. Of this - exhibition dancing was a casual ornament, as it is of life. It took place - therefore only on fitting occasions, and grew out, in a natural manner, - from some event in the history represented. For instance, suppose the - story of Othello the subject of the ballet. The dancing, in all - probability, would be introduced at a grand entertainment given in - celebration of the Moor’s arrival at Cyprus. All this would be in - character. Our feelings would not be outraged by a husband chassezing - forward to murder his wife, or by seeing the pillow pressed over the - innocent Desdemona by the impulse of a pirouette. In most cases, - therefore, the chief performers in this species of spectacle are not even - dancers. This, however, may not always be the case. If Diana be the - heroine, poetical probability will not be offended by the goddess joining - in the chaste dance with her huntress nymphs; and were the Baiadere of - Goethe made the subject of a ballet, the Indian dancing girl would - naturally be the heroine both of the drama and the poem. There are few - performances more affecting than the serious pantomime of a master. In - some of the most interesting situations it is in fact even more natural - than the oral drama, logically it is more perfect; for the soliloquy is - actually thought before us, and the magic of the representation not - destroyed by the sound of the human voice at a moment when we all know man - never speaks. - </p> - <p> - The curtain again rises. Sounds of revelry and triumph are heard from the - Pirate Isle. They celebrate recent success. Various groups, accurately - attired in the costume of the Greek islands, are seated on the rocky - foreground. On the left rises Medora’s tower, on a craggy steep; and on - the right gleams the blue Aegean. A procession of women enters. It heralds - the presence of Conrad and Medora; they honour the festivity of their rude - subjects. The pirates and the women join in the national dance; and - afterwards eight warriors, completely armed, move in a warlike measure, - keeping time to the music with their bucklers and clattering sabres. - Suddenly the dance ceases; a sail is in sight. The nearest pirates rush to - the strand, and assist the disembarkation of their welcome comrades. The - commander of the vessel comes forward with an agitated step and gloomy - countenance. He kneels to Conrad and delivers him a scroll, which the - chieftain reads with suppressed agitation. In a moment the faithful Juan - is at his side, the contents of the scroll revealed, the dance broken up, - and preparations made to sail in an hour’s time to the city of the Pacha. - The stage is cleared, and Conrad and Medora are alone. The mysterious - leader is wrapt in the deepest abstraction. He stands with folded arms, - and eyes fixed on the yellow sand. A gentle pressure on his arm calls him - back to recollection; he starts, and turns to the intruder with a gloomy - brow. He sees Medora, and his frown sinks into a sad smile. “And must we - part again! this hour, this very hour; it cannot be!” She clings to him - with agony, and kneels to him with adoration. No hope, no hope! a quick - return promised with an air of foreboding fate. His stern arm encircles - her waist. He chases the heavy tear from her fair cheek, and while he bids - her be glad in his absence with her handmaids peals the sad thunder of the - signal gun. She throws herself upon him. The frantic quickness of her - motion strikingly contrasts with the former stupor of her appearance. She - will not part. Her face is buried in his breast; her long fair hair floats - over his shoulders. He is almost unnerved; but at this moment the ship - sails on; the crew and their afflicted wives enter; the page brings to - Lord Conrad his cloak, his carbine, and his bugle. He tears himself from - her embrace, and without daring to look behind him bounds over the rocks, - and is in the ship. The vessel moves, the wives of the pirates continue on - the beach, waving their scarfs to their desolate husbands. In the - foreground Medora, motionless, stands rooted to the strand, and might have - inspired Phidias with a personification of Despair. - </p> - <p> - In a hall of unparalleled splendour stern Seyd reclines on innumerable - pillows, placed on a carpet of golden cloth. His bearded chiefs are ranged - around. The chambers are brilliantly illuminated, and an opening at the - farther end of the apartments exhibits a portion of the shining city and - the glittering galleys. Gulnare, covered with a silver veil, which reaches - even to her feet, is ushered into the presence of the Pacha. Even the - haughty Seyd rises to honour his beautiful favourite. He draws the - precious veil from her blushing features and places her on his right hand. - The dancing girls now appear, and then are introduced the principal - artists. Now takes place the scientific part of the ballet; and here might - Bias, or Noblet, or Ronzi Vestris, or her graceful husband, or the - classical Albert, or the bounding Paul, vault without stint, and - attitudinise without restraint, and not in the least impair the effect of - the tragic tale. The Dervise, of course, appears; the galleys, of course, - are fired; and Seyd, of course, retreats. A change in the scenery gives us - the blazing Harem, the rescue of its inmates, the deliverance of Gulnare, - the capture of Conrad. - </p> - <p> - It is the prison scene. On a mat, covered with irons, lies the forlorn - Conrad. The flitting flame of a solitary lamp hardly reveals the heavy - bars of the huge grate that forms the entrance to its cell. For some - minutes nothing stirs. The mind of the spectator is allowed to become - fully aware of the hopeless misery of the hero. His career is ended, - secure is his dungeon, trusty his guards, overpowering his chains. - To-morrow he wakes to be impaled. A gentle noise, so gentle that the - spectator almost deems it unintentional, is now heard. A white figure - appears behind the dusky gate; is it a guard or a torturer? The gate - softly opens, and a female conies forward. Gulnare was represented by a - girl with the body of a Peri and the soul of a poetess. The Harem Queen - advances with an agitated step; she holds in her left hand a lamp, and in - the girdle of her light dress is a dagger. She reaches with a soundless - step the captive. He is asleep! Ay! he sleeps, while thousands are weeping - over his ravage or his ruin; and she, in restlessness, is wandering here! - A thousand thoughts are seen coursing over her flushed brow; she looks to - the audience, and her dark eye asks why this Corsair is so dear to her. - She turns again, and raises the lamp with her long white arm, that the - light may fall on the captive’s countenance. She gazes, without moving, on - the sleeper, touches the dagger with a slow and tremulous hand, and starts - from the contact with terror. She again touches it; it is drawn from her - vest; it falls to the ground. He wakes; he stares with wonder; he sees a - female not less fair than Medora. Confused, she tells him her station; she - tells him that her pity is as certain as his doom. He avows his readiness - to die; he appears undaunted, he thinks of Medora, he buries his face in - his hands. She grows pale as he avows he loves—another. She cannot - conceal her own passion. He, wondering, confesses that he supposed her - love was his enemy’s, was Seyd’s. Gulnare shudders at the name; she draws - herself up to her full stature, she smiles in bitterness: - </p> -<pre xml:space="preserve"> - My love stern Seyd’s! Oh, no, no, not my love! -</pre> - <p> - The acting was perfect. The house burst into unusual shouts of admiration. - Madame Carolina applauded with her little finger on her fan. The Grand - Duke himself gave the signal for applause. Vivian never felt before that - words were useless. His hand was suddenly pressed. He turned round; it was - the Baroness. She was leaning back in her chair; and though she did her - utmost to conceal her agitated countenance, a tear coursed down her cheek - big as the miserable Medora’s! - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0071" id="link2HCH0071"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER VIII - </h2> - <p> - On the evening of the Opera arrived at Court part of the suite of the - young Archduchess, the betrothed of the Crown Prince of Reisenburg. These - consisted of an old grey-headed General, who had taught her Imperial - Highness the manual exercise; and her tutor and confessor, an ancient and - toothless Bishop. Their youthful mistress was to follow them in a few - days; and this arrival of such a distinguished portion of her suite was - the signal for the commencement of a long series of sumptuous festivities. - After interchanging a number of compliments and a few snuff-boxes, the new - guests were invited by his Royal Highness to attend a Review, which was to - take place the next morning, of five thousand troops and fifty Generals. - </p> - <p> - The Reisenburg army was the best appointed in Europe. Never were men seen - with breasts more plumply padded, mustachios better trained, or such - spotless gaiters. The Grand Duke himself was a military genius, and had - invented a new cut for the collars of the Cavalry. His Royal Highness was - particularly desirous of astonishing the old grey-headed governor of his - future daughter by the skilful evolutions and imposing appearance of his - legions. The affair was to be of the most refined nature, and the whole - was to be concluded by a mock battle, in which the spectators were to be - treated by a display of the most exquisite evolutions and complicated - movements which human beings ever yet invented to destroy others or to - escape destruction. Field Marshal Count von Sohnspeer, the - Commander-in-Chief of all the Forces of his Royal Highness the Grand Duke - of Reisenburg, condescended, at the particular request of his Sovereign, - to conduct the whole affair himself. - </p> - <p> - At first it was rather difficult to distinguish between the army and the - staff; for Darius, in the Straits of Issus, was not more sumptuously and - numerously attended than Count von Sohnspeer. Wherever he moved he was - followed by a train of waving plumes and radiant epaulettes, and foaming - chargers and shining steel. In fact, he looked like a large military - comet. Had the fate of Reisenburg depended on the result of the day, the - Field Marshal, and his Generals, and Aides-de-camp, and Orderlies, could - not have looked more agitated and more in earnest. Von Sohnspeer had not - less than four horses in the field, on every one of which he seemed to - appear in the space of five minutes. Now he was dashing along the line of - the Lancers on a black charger, and now round the column of the - Cuirassiers on a white one. He exhorted the Tirailleurs on a chestnut, and - added fresh courage to the ardour of the Artillery on a bay. - </p> - <p> - It was a splendid day. The bands of the respective regiments played - triumphant tunes as each marched on the field. The gradual arrival of the - troops was picturesque. Distant music was heard, and a corps of Infantry - soon made its appearance. A light bugle sounded, and a body of Tirailleurs - issued from the shade of a neighbouring wood. The kettle-drums and - clarions heralded the presence of a troop of Cavalry; and an advanced - guard of Light Horse told that the Artillery were about to follow. The - arms and standards of the troops shone in the sun; military music sounded - in all parts of the field; unceasing was the bellow of the martial drum - and the blast of the blood-stirring trumpet. Clouds of dust ever and anon - excited in the distance denoted the arrival of a regiment of Cavalry. Even - now one approaches; it is the Red Lancers. How gracefully their Colonel, - the young Count of Eberstein, bounds on his barb! Has Theseus turned - Centaur? His spur and bridle seem rather the emblems of sovereignty than - the instruments of government: he neither chastises nor directs. The rider - moves without motion, and the horse judges without guidance. It would seem - that the man had borrowed the beast’s body, and the beast the man’s mind. - His regiment has formed upon the field, their stout lances erected like a - young and leafless grove; but although now in line, it is with difficulty - that they can subject the spirit of their warlike steeds. The trumpet has - caught the ear of the horses; they stand with open nostrils, already - breathing war ere they can see an enemy; and now dashing up one leg, and - now the other, they seem to complain of Nature that she has made them of - anything earthly. - </p> - <p> - The troops have all arrived; there is an unusual bustle in the field. Von - Sohnspeer is again changing his horse, giving directions while he is - mounting to at least a dozen Aides-de-camp. Orderlies are scampering over - every part of the field. Another flag, quite new, and of large size, is - unfurled by the Field-Marshal’s pavilion. A signal gun! the music in the - whole field is hushed: a short silence of agitating suspense, another gun, - and another! All the bands of all the regiments burst forth at the same - moment into the national air: the Court dash into the field! - </p> - <p> - Madame Carolina, the Baroness, the Countess von S——, and some - other ladies, wore habits of the uniform of the Royal Guards. Both Madame - and the Baroness were perfect horsewomen; and the excited spirits of Mr. - Beckendorff’s female relative, both during her ride and her dashing run - over the field, amidst the firing of cannon and the crash of drums and - trumpets, strikingly contrasted with her agitation and depression of the - preceding night. - </p> - <p> - “Your Excellency loves the tented field, I think!” said Vivian, who was at - her side. - </p> - <p> - “I love war! it is a diversion for kings!” was the answer. “How fine the - breast-plates and helmets of those Cuirassiers glisten in the sun!” - continued the lady. “Do you see von Sohnspeer? I wonder if the Crown - Prince be with him!” - </p> - <p> - “I think he is.” - </p> - <p> - “Indeed! Ah! can he interest himself in anything? He seemed Apathy itself - at the Opera last night. I never saw him smile, or move, and have scarcely - heard his voice! but if he love war, if he be a soldier, if he be thinking - of other things than a pantomime and a ball, ‘tis well! very well for his - country! Perhaps he is a hero?” - </p> - <p> - At this moment the Crown Prince, who was of von Sohnspeer’s staff, slowly - rode up to the Royal party. - </p> - <p> - “Rudolph!” said the Grand Duke, “do you head your regiment to-day?” - </p> - <p> - “No,” was the muttered answer. - </p> - <p> - The Grand Duke moved his horse to his son, and spoke to him in a low tone, - evidently with earnestness. Apparently he was expostulating with him; but - the effect of the royal exhortation was only to render the Prince’s brow - more gloomy, and the expression of his withered features more sullen and - more sad. The Baroness watched the father and son as they were conversing - with keen attention. When the Crown Prince, in violation of his father’s - wishes, fell into the party, and allowed his regiment to be headed by the - Lieutenant-colonel, the young lady raised her lustrous eyes to heaven with - that same expression of sorrow or resignation which had so much interested - Vivian on the morning that he had translated to her the moving passage in - the Corsair. - </p> - <p> - But the field is nearly cleared, and the mimic war has commenced. On the - right appears a large body of Cavalry, consisting of Cuirassiers and - Dragoons. A vanguard of Light Cavalry and Lancers, under the command of - the Count of Eberstein, is ordered out, from this body, to harass the - enemy, a strong body of Infantry supposed to be advancing. Several - squadrons of Light Horse immediately spring forward; they form themselves - into line, they wheel into column, and endeavour, by well-directed - manoeuvres, to outflank the strong wing of the advancing enemy. After - succeeding in executing all that was committed to them, and after having - skirmished in the van of their own army, so as to give time for all - necessary dispositions of the line of battle, the vanguard suddenly - retreats between the brigades of the Cavalry of the line; the prepared - battery of cannon is unmasked; and a tremendous concentric fire opened on - the line of the advancing foe. Taking advantage of the confusion created - by this unexpected salute of his artillery, von Sohnspeer, who commands - the Cavalry, gives the word to “Charge!” - </p> - <p> - The whole body of Cavalry immediately charge in masses; the extended line - of the enemy is as immediately broken. But the Infantry, who are commanded - by one of the royal relatives and visitors, the Prince of Pike and - Powdren, dexterously form into squares, and commence a masterly retreat in - square battalions. At length they take up a more favourable position than - the former one. They are again galled by the Artillery, who have - proportionately advanced, and again charged by the Cavalry in their huge - masses. And now the squares of Infantry partially give way. They admit the - Cavalry, but the exulting Horse find, to their dismay, that the enemy are - not routed, but that there are yet inner squares formed at salient angles. - The Cavalry for a moment retire, but it is only to give opportunity to - their Artillery to rake the obstinate foes. The execution of the battery - is fearful. Headed by their Commander, the whole body of Cuirassiers and - Dragoons again charge with renewed energy and concentrated force. The - Infantry are thrown into the greatest confusion, and commence a rout, - increased and rendered irremediable by the Lancers and Hussars, the former - vanguard, who now, seizing on the favourable moment, again rush forward, - increasing the effect of the charge of the whole army, overtaking the - fugitives with their lances, and securing the prisoners. - </p> - <p> - The victorious von Sohnspeer, followed by his staff, now galloped up to - receive the congratulations of his Sovereign. - </p> - <p> - “Where are your prisoners, Field Marshal?” asked his Royal Highness, with - a flattering smile. - </p> - <p> - “What is the ransom of our unfortunate guest?” asked Madame Carolina. - </p> - <p> - “I hope we shall have another affair,” said the Baroness, with a flushed - face and glowing eyes. - </p> - <p> - But the Commander-in-Chief must not tarry to bandy compliments. He is - again wanted in the field. The whole troops have formed in line. Some most - scientific evolutions are now executed. With them we will not weary the - reader, nor dilate on the comparative advantages of forming en - cremaillière and en echiquier; nor upon the duties of tirailleurs, nor - upon concentric fires and eccentric movements, nor upon deploying, nor - upon enfilading, nor upon oblique fronts, nor upon échellons. The day - finished by the whole of the troops again forming in line and passing in - order before the Commander-in-Chief, to give him an opportunity of - observing their discipline and inspecting their equipments. - </p> - <p> - The review being finished, Count von Sohnspeer and his staff joined the - royal party; and after walking their horses round the field, they - proceeded to his pavilion, where refreshments were prepared for them. The - Field Marshal, flattered by the interest which the young Baroness had - taken in the business of the day, and the acquaintance which she evidently - possessed of the more obvious details of military tactics, was inclined to - be particularly courteous to her; but the object of his admiration did not - encourage attentions by which half the ladies of the Court would have - thought themselves as highly honoured as by those of the Grand Duke - himself; so powerful a person was the Field Marshal, and so little - inclined by temper to cultivate the graces of the fair sex! - </p> - <p> - “In the tent keep by my side,” said the Baroness to Vivian. “Although I am - fond of heroes, von Sohnspeer is not to my taste. I know not why I flatter - you so by my notice, for I suppose, like all Englishmen, you are not a - soldier? I thought so. Never mind! you ride well enough for a field - marshal. I really think I could give you a commission without much - stickling of my conscience. No, no! I should like you nearer me. I have a - good mind to make you my master of the horse; that is to say, when I am - entitled to have one.” - </p> - <p> - As Vivian acknowledged the young Baroness’ compliment by becoming emotion, - and vowed that an office near her person would be the consummation of all - his wishes, his eye caught the lady’s: she blushed deeply, looked down - upon her horse’s neck, and then turned away her head. - </p> - <p> - Von Sohnspeer’s pavilion excellently became the successful leader of the - army of Reisenburg. Trophies taken from all sides decked its interior. The - black eagle of Austria formed part of its roof, and the brazen eagle of - Gaul supported part of the side. The grey-headed General looked rather - grim when he saw a flag belonging to a troop which perhaps he had himself - once commanded. He vented his indignation to the toothless Bishop, who - crossed his breast with his fingers, covered with diamonds, and preached - temperance and moderation in inarticulate sounds. - </p> - <p> - During the collation the conversation was principally military. Madame - Carolina, who was entirely ignorant of the subject of discourse, enchanted - all the officers present by appearing to be the most interested person in - the tent. Nothing could exceed the elegance of her eulogium of “petit - guerre.” The old grey General talked much about the “good old times,” by - which he meant the thirty years of plunder, bloodshed, and destruction, - which were occasioned by the French Revolution. He gloated on the - recollections of horror, which he feared would never occur again. The - Archduke Charles and Prince Schwartzenburg were the gods of his idolatry, - and Nadasti’s hussars and Wurmser’s dragoons the inferior divinities of - his bloody heaven. One evolution of the morning, a discovery made by von - Sohnspeer himself, in the deploying of cavalry, created a great sensation; - and it was settled that it would have been of great use to Desaix and - Clairfait in the Netherlands affair of some eight-and-twenty years ago, - and was not equalled even by Seidlitz’ cavalry in the affair with the - Russians at Zorndorff. In short, every “affair” of any character during - the late war was fought over again in the tent of Field Marshal von - Sohnspeer. At length from the Archduke Charles and Prince Schwartzenburg, - the old grey-headed General got to Polybius and Monsieur Folard; and the - Grand Duke now thinking that the “affair” was taking too serious a turn, - broke up the party. Madame Carolina and most of the ladies used their - carriages on their return. They were nearly fifteen miles from the city; - but the Baroness, in spite of the most earnest solicitations, would - remount her charger. - </p> - <p> - They cantered home, the Baroness in unusual spirits, Vivian thinking very - much of his fair companion. Her character puzzled him. That she was not - the lovely simpleton that Madame Carolina believed her to be, he had - little doubt. Some people have great knowledge of society and little of - mankind. Madame Carolina was one of these. She viewed her species through - only one medium. That the Baroness was a woman of acute feeling, Vivian - could not doubt. Her conduct at the Opera, which had escaped every one’s - attention, made this evident. That she had seen more of the world than her - previous conversation had given him to believe, was equally clear by her - conduct and conversation this morning. He determined to become more - acquainted with her character. Her evident partiality to his company would - not render the execution of his purpose very difficult. At any rate, if he - discovered nothing, it was something to do: it would at least amuse him. - </p> - <p> - In the evening he joined a large party at the palace. He looked - immediately for the Baroness. She was surrounded by the dandies. Their - attentions she treated with contempt, and ridiculed their compliments - without mercy. Without obtruding himself on her notice, Vivian joined her - circle, and witnessed her demolition of the young Count of Eberstein with - great amusement. Emilius von Aslingen was not there; for having made the - interesting savage the fashion, she was no longer worthy of his attention, - and consequently deserted. The young lady soon observed Vivian; and - saying, without the least embarrassment, that she was delighted to see - him, she begged him to share her chaise-longue. Her envious levée - witnessed the preference with dismay; and as the object of their attention - did not now notice their remarks, even by her expressed contempt, one by - one fell away. Vivian and the Baroness were left alone, and conversed much - together. The lady displayed, on every subject, engaging ignorance, and - requested information on obvious topics with artless naïveté. Vivian was - convinced that her ignorance was not affected, and equally sure that it - could not arise from imbecility of intellect; for while she surprised him - by her crude questions, and her want of acquaintance with all those topics - which generally form the staple of conversation, she equally amused him - with her poignant wit, and the imperious and energetic manner in which she - instantly expected satisfactory information on every possible subject. - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0072" id="link2HCH0072"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER IX - </h2> - <p> - On the day after the review a fancy-dress ball was to be given at Court. - It was to be an entertainment of a peculiar nature. The lively genius of - Madame Carolina, wearied of the commonplace effect generally produced by - this species of amusement, in which usually a stray Turk and a wandering - Pole looked sedate and singular among crowds of Spanish girls, Swiss - peasants, and gentlemen in uniforms, had invented something novel. Her - idea was ingenious. To use her own sublime phrase, she determined that the - party should represent “an age!” Great difficulty was experienced in - fixing upon the century which was to be honoured. At first a poetical idea - was started of having something primeval, perhaps antediluvian; but Noah, - or even Father Abraham, were thought characters hardly sufficiently - romantic for a fancy-dress ball, and consequently the earliest - postdiluvian ages were soon under consideration. Nimrod, or Sardanapalus, - were distinguished personages, and might be well represented by the Master - of the Staghounds, or the Master of the Revels; but then the want of an - interesting lady-character was a great objection. Semiramis, though not - without style in her own way, was not sufficiently Parisian for Madame - Carolina. New ages were proposed and new objections started; and so the - “Committee of Selection,” which consisted of Madame herself, the Countess - von S——, and a few other dames of fashion, gradually slided - through the four great empires. Athens was not aristocratic enough, and - then the women were nothing. In spite of her admiration of the character - of Aspasia, Madame Carolina somewhat doubted the possibility of persuading - the ladies of the Court of Reisenburg to appear in the characters of - [Greek: hetairai]. Rome presented great capabilities, and greater - difficulties. Finding themselves, after many days’ sitting and study, - still very far from coming to a decision, Madame called in the aid of the - Grand Duke, who proposed “something national.” The proposition was - plausible; but, according to Madame Carolina, Germany, until her own time, - had been only a land of barbarism and barbarians; and therefore in such a - country, in a national point of view, what could there be interesting? The - middle ages, as they are usually styled, in spite of the Emperor - Charlemagne, “that oasis in the desert of barbarism,” to use her own - eloquent and original image, were her particular aversion. “The age of - chivalry is past!” was as constant an exclamation of Madame Carolina as it - was of Mr. Burke. “The age of chivalry is past; and very fortunate that it - is. What resources could they have had in the age of chivalry? an age - without either moral or experimental philosophy; an age in which they were - equally ignorant of the doctrine of association of ideas, and of the - doctrine of electricity; and when they were as devoid of a knowledge of - the Incalculable powers of the human mind as of the incalculable powers of - steam!” Had Madame Carolina been the consort of an Italian grand duke, - selection would not be difficult; and, to inquire no farther, the court of - the Medici alone would afford them everything they wanted. But Germany - never had any character, and never produced nor had been the resort of - illustrious men and interesting persons. What was to be done? The age of - Frederick the Great was the only thing; and then that was so recent, and - would offend the Austrians: it could not be thought of. - </p> - <p> - At last, when the “Committee of Selection” was almost in despair, some one - proposed a period which not only would be German, not only would - compliment the House of Austria, but, what was of still greater - importance, would allow of every contemporary character of interest of - every nation, the age of Charles the Fifth! The suggestion was received - with enthusiasm, and adopted on the spot. “The Committee of Selection” was - immediately dissolved, and its members as immediately formed themselves - into a “Committee of Arrangement.” Lists of all the persons of any fame, - distinction, or notoriety, who had lived either in the empire of Germany, - the kingdoms of Spain, Portugal, France, or England, the Italian States, - the Netherlands, the American, and, in short, in every country in the - known world, were immediately formed. Von Chronicle, rewarded for his last - historical novel by a ribbon and the title of Baron, was appointed - secretary to the “Committee of Costume.” All guests who received a card - invitation were desired, on or before a certain day, to send in the title - of their adopted character and a sketch of their intended dress, that - their plans might receive the sanction of the ladies of the “Committee of - Arrangement,” and their dresses the approbation of the secretary of - costume. By this method the chance and inconvenience of two persons - selecting and appearing in the same character were destroyed and - prevented. After exciting the usual jealousies, intrigues, - dissatisfaction, and ill-blood, by the influence and imperturbable temper - of Madame Carolina, everything was arranged; Emilius von Aslingen being - the only person who set both the Committees of Arrangement and Costume at - defiance, and treated the repeated applications of their respected - secretary with contemptuous silence. The indignant Baron von Chronicle - entreated the strong interference of the “Committee of Arrangement,” but - Emilius von Aslingen was too powerful an individual to be treated by - others as he treated them. Had the fancy-dress ball of the Sovereign been - attended by all his subjects, with the exception of this Captain in his - Guards, the whole affair might have been a failure; would have been dark - in spite of the glare of ten thousand lamps and the glories of all the - jewels of his state; would have been dull, although each guest were - wittier than Pasquin himself; and very vulgar, although attended by lords - of as many quarterings as the ancient shield of his own antediluvian - house! All, therefore, that the ladies of the “Committee of Arrangement” - could do, was to enclose to the rebellious von Aslingen a list of the - expected characters, and a resolution passed in consequence of his - contumacy, that no person or persons was, or were, to appear as either or - any of these characters, unless he, or they, could produce a ticket, or - tickets, granted by a member of the “Committee of Arrangement,” and - countersigned by the secretary of the “Committee of Costume.” At the same - time that these vigorous measures were resolved on, no persons spoke of - Emilius von Aslingen’s rebellious conduct in terms of greater admiration - than the ladies of the Committee themselves. If possible, he in - consequence became even a more influential and popular personage than - before, and his conduct procured him almost the adoration of persons who, - had they dared to imitate him, would have been instantly crushed, and - would have been banished society principally by the exertions of the very - individual whom they had the presumption to mimic. - </p> - <p> - In the gardens of the palace was a spacious amphitheatre, cut out in green - seats, for the spectators of the plays which, during the summer months, - were sometimes performed there by the Court. There was a stage in the same - taste, with rows of trees for side-scenes, and a great number of arbours - and summer-rooms, surrounded by lofty hedges of laurel, for the actors to - retire and dress in. Connected with this “rural Theatre,” for such was its - title, were many labyrinths, and groves, and arched walks, in the same - style. More than twelve large fountains were in the immediate vicinity of - this theatre. At the end of one walk a sea-horse spouted its element - through its nostrils; and in another, Neptune turned an Ocean out of a - vase. Seated on a rock, Arcadia’s half-goat god, the deity of silly sheep - and silly poets, sent forth trickling streams through his rustic pipes; - and in the centre of a green grove, an enamoured Salmacis, bathing in a - pellucid basin, seemed watching for her Hermaphrodite. - </p> - <p> - It was in this rural theatre and its fanciful confines that Madame - Carolina and her councillors resolved that their magic should, for a - night, not only stop the course of time, but recall past centuries. It was - certainly rather late in the year for choosing such a spot for the scene - of their enchantment; but the season, as we have often had occasion to - remark in the course of these volumes, was singularly fine; and indeed at - this moment the nights were as warm, and as clear from mist and dew, as - they are during an Italian midsummer. - </p> - <p> - But it is eight o’clock; we are already rather late. Is that a figure by - Holbein, just started out of the canvas, that I am about to meet? Stand - aside! It is a page of the Emperor Charles the Fifth! The Court is on its - way to the theatre. The theatre and the gardens are brilliantly - illuminated. The effect of the thousands of coloured lamps, in all parts - of the foliage, is very beautiful. The moon is up, and a million stars! If - it be not quite as light as day, it is just light enough for pleasure. You - could not perhaps endorse a bill of exchange, or engross a parchment, by - this light; but then it is just the light to read a love-letter by, and do - a thousand other things besides. - </p> - <p> - All hail to the Emperor! we would give his costume, were it not rather too - much in the style of the von Chronicles. Reader! you have seen a portrait - of Charles by Holbein: very well; what need is there of a description? No - lack was there in this gay scene of massy chains and curious collars, nor - of cloth of gold, nor of cloth of silver! No lack was there of trembling - plumes and costly hose! No lack was there of crimson velvet, and russet - velvet, and tawny velvet, and purple velvet, and plunket velvet, and of - scarlet cloth, and green taffeta, and cloth of silk embroidered! No lack - was there of garments of estate, and of quaint chemews, nor of short - crimson cloaks, covered with pearls and precious stones! No lack was there - of party-coloured splendour, of purple velvet embroidered with white, and - white satin dresses embroidered with black! No lack was there of splendid - koyfes of damask, or kerchiefs of fine Cyprus; nor of points of Venice - silver of ducat fineness, nor of garlands of friars’ knots, nor of - coloured satins, nor of bleeding hearts embroidered on the bravery of - dolorous lovers, nor of quaint sentences of wailing gallantry! But for the - details, are they not to be found in those much-neglected and - much-plundered persons, the old chroniclers? and will they not - sufficiently appear in the most inventive portion of the next great - historical novel? - </p> - <p> - The Grand Duke looked the Emperor. Our friend the Grand Marshal was - Francis the First; and Arnelm and von Neuwied figured as the Marshal of - Montmorency and the Marshal Lautrec. The old toothless Bishop did justice - to Clement the Seventh; and his companion, the ancient General, looked - grim as Pompeo Colonna. A prince of the House of Nassau, one of the royal - visitors, represented his adventurous ancestor the Prince of Orange. Von - Sohnspeer was that haughty and accomplished rebel, the Constable of - Bourbon. The young Baron Gernsbach was worthy of the seraglio, as he - stalked along as Solyman the Magnificent, with all the family jewels - belonging to his dowager mother shining in his superb turban. Our friend - the Count of Eberstein personified chivalry, in the person of Bayard. The - younger Bernstorff, the intimate friend of Gernsbach, attended his - sumptuous sovereign as that Turkish Paul Jones, Barbarossa. An Italian - Prince was Andrew Doria. The Grand Chamberlain, our francisé acquaintance, - and who affected a love of literature, was the Protestant Elector of - Saxony. His train consisted of the principal litterateurs of Reisenburg. - The Editor of the “Attack-all Review,” who originally had been a Catholic, - but who had been skilfully converted some years ago, when he thought - Catholicism was on the decline, was Martin Luther, an individual whom, - both in his apostasy and fierceness, he much and only resembled. On the - contrary, the editor of the “Praise-all Review” appeared as the mild and - meek Melanchthon. Mr. Sievers, not yet at Vienna, was Erasmus. Ariosto, - Guicciardini, Ronsard, Rabelais, Machiavel, Pietro Aretino, Garcilasso de - la Vega. Sannazaro, and Paracelsus, afforded names to many nameless - critics. Two Generals, brothers, appeared as Cortes and Pizarro. The noble - Director of the Gallery was Albert Durer, and his deputy Hans Holbein. The - Court painter, a wretched mimic of the modern French School, did justice - to the character of Correggio; and an indifferent sculptor looked sublime - as Michel Angelo. - </p> - <p> - Von Chronicle had persuaded the Prince of Pike and Powdren, one of his - warmest admirers, to appear as Henry the Eighth of England. His Highness - was one of those true North German patriots who think their own country a - very garden of Eden, and verily believe that original sin is to be finally - put an end to in a large sandy plain between Berlin and Hanover. The - Prince of Pike and Powdren passed his whole life in patriotically sighing - for the concentration of all Germany into one great nation, and in - secretly trusting that, if ever the consummation took place, the North - would be rewarded for their condescending union by a monopoly of all the - privileges of the Empire. Such a character was of course extremely - desirous of figuring to-night in a style peculiarly national. The - persuasions of von Chronicle, however, prevailed, and induced his Highness - of Pike and Powdren to dismiss his idea of appearing as the ancient - Arminius, although it was with great regret that the Prince gave up his - plan of personating his favourite hero, with hair down to his middle and - skins up to his chin. Nothing would content von Chronicle but that his - kind patron should represent a crowned head: anything else was beneath - him. The patriotism of the Prince disappeared before the flattery of the - novelist, like the bloom of a plum before the breath of a boy, when he - polishes the powdered fruit ere he devours it. No sooner had his Highness - agreed to be changed into bluff Harry than the secret purpose of his - adviser was immediately detected. No Court confessor, seduced by the - vision of a red hat, ever betrayed the secrets of his sovereign with - greater fervour than did von Chronicle labour for the Cardinal’s costume, - which was the consequence of the Prince of Pike and Powdren undertaking - the English monarch. To-night, proud as was the part of the Prince as - regal Harry, his strut was a shamble compared with the imperious stalk of - von Chronicle as the arrogant and ambitious Wolsey. The Cardinal in Rienzi - was nothing to him; for to-night Wolsey had as many pages as the other had - petticoats! - </p> - <p> - But, most ungallant of scribblers! Place aux dames! Surely Madame - Carolina, as the beautiful and accomplished Margaret of Navarre, might - well command, even without a mandate, your homage and your admiration! The - lovely Queen seemed the very goddess of smiles and repartee; young Max, as - her page, carried at her side a painted volume of her own poetry. The arm - of the favourite sister of Francis, who it will be remembered once - fascinated even the Emperor, was linked in that of Caesar’s natural - daughter, her beautiful namesake, the bright-eyed Margaret of Austria. - Conversing with these royal dames, and indeed apparently in attendance - upon them, was a young gallant of courtly bearing, and attired in a - fantastic dress. It is Clement Marot, “the Poet of Princes and the Prince - of Poets,” as he was styled by his own admiring age; he offers to the - critical inspection of the nimble-witted Navarre a few lines in - celebration of her beauty and the night’s festivity; one of those short - Marotique poems once so celebrated; perhaps a page culled from those gay - and airy psalms which, with characteristic gallantry, he dedicated “to the - Dames of France!” Observe well the fashionable bard! Marot was a true - poet, and in his day not merely read by queens and honoured by courtiers: - observe him well; for the character is supported by our Vivian Grey. It - was with great difficulty that Madame Carolina had found a character for - her favourite, for the lists were all filled before his arrival at - Reisenburg. She at first wished him to appear as some celebrated - Englishman of the time, but no character of sufficient importance could be - discovered. All our countrymen in contact or connection with the Emperor - Charles were churchmen and civilians; and Sir Nicholas Carew and the other - fops of the reign of Henry the Eighth, who, after the visit to Paris, were - even more ridiculously francisé than the Grand Chamberlain of Reisenburg - himself, were not, after mature deliberation, considered entitled to the - honour of being ranked in Madame Carolina’s age of Charles the Fifth. - </p> - <p> - But who is this, surrounded by her ladies and her chamberlains and her - secretaries? Four pages in dresses of cloth of gold, and each the son of a - prince of the French blood, support her train; a crown encircles locks - grey as much from thought as from time, but which require no show of - loyalty to prove that they belong to a mother of princes; that ample - forehead, aquiline nose, and the keen glance of her piercing eye denote - the Queen as much as the regality of her gait and her numerous and - splendid train. The young Queen of Navarre hastens to proffer her duty to - the mother of Francis, the celebrated Louise of Savoy; and exquisitely did - the young and lovely Countess of S—— personate the most - celebrated of female diplomatists. - </p> - <p> - We have forgotten one character; the repeated commands of his father and - the constant entreaties of Madame Carolina had at length prevailed upon - the Crown Prince to shuffle himself into a fancy dress. No sooner had he - gratified them by his hard-wrung consent than Baron von Chronicle called - upon him with drawings of the costume of the Prince of Asturias, - afterwards Philip the Second of Spain. If we for a moment forgot so - important a personage as the future Grand Duke, it must have been because - he supported his character so ably that no one for an instant believed - that it was an assumed one; standing near the side scenes of the - amphitheatre, with his gloomy brow, sad eye, protruding under-lip, and - arms hanging straight by his sides, he looked a bigot without hope, and a - tyrant without purpose. - </p> - <p> - The first hour is over, and the guests are all assembled. As yet they - content themselves with promenading round the amphitheatre; for before - they can think of dance or stroll, each of them must be duly acquainted - with the other’s dress. It was a most splendid scene. The Queen of Navarre - has now been presented to the Emperor, and, leaning on his arm, they head - the promenade. The Emperor had given the hand of Margaret of Austria to - his legitimate son; but the Crown Prince, though he continued in silence - by the side of the young Baroness, soon resigned a hand which did not - struggle to retain his. Clement Marot was about to fall back into a less - conspicuous part of the procession; but the Grand Duke, witnessing the - regret of his loved Consort, condescendingly said, “We cannot afford to - lose our poet;” and so Vivian found himself walking behind Madame - Carolina, and on the left side of the young Baroness. Louise of Savoy - followed with her son, the King of France; most of the ladies of the - Court, and a crowd of officers, among them Montmorency and De Lautrec, - after their Majesties. The King of England moves by; his state unnoticed - in the superior magnificence of Wolsey. Pompeo Colonna apologises to Pope - Clement for having besieged his holiness in the Castle of St. Angelo. The - Elector of Saxony and the Prince of Orange follow. Solyman the Magnificent - is attended by his Admiral; and Bayard’s pure spirit almost quivers at the - whispered treason of the Constable of Bourbon. Luther and Melanchthon, - Erasmus and Rabelais, Cortez and Pizarro, Correggio and Michael Angelo, - and a long train of dames and dons of all nations, succeed; so long that - the amphitheatre cannot hold them, and the procession, that they may walk - over the stage, makes a short progress through an adjoining summer-room. - </p> - <p> - Just as the Emperor and the fair Queen are in the middle of the stage, a - wounded warrior with a face pale as an eclipsed moon, a helmet on which is - painted the sign of his sacred order, a black mantle thrown over his left - shoulder, but not concealing his armour, a sword in his right hand and an - outstretched crucifix in his left, rushes on the scene. The procession - suddenly halts; all recognise Emilius von Aslingen! and Madame Carolina - blushes through her rouge when she perceives that so celebrated, “so - interesting a character” as Ignatius Loyola, the Founder of the Jesuits, - has not been included in the all-comprehensive lists of her committee. - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0073" id="link2HCH0073"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER X - </h2> - <p> - Henry of England led the Polonaise with Louise of Savoy; Margaret of - Austria would not join in it: waltzing quickly followed. The Emperor - seldom left the side of the Queen of Navarre, and often conversed with her - Majesty’s poet. The Prince of Asturias hovered for a moment round his - father’s daughter, as if he were summoning resolution to ask her to waltz. - Once, indeed, he opened his mouth; could it have been to speak? But the - young Margaret gave no encouragement to this unusual exertion; and Philip - of Asturias, looking, if possible, more sad and sombre than before, - skulked away. The Crown Prince left the gardens, and now a smile lit up - every face, except that of the young Baroness. The gracious Grand Duke, - unwilling to see a gloomy countenance anywhere to-night, turned to Vivian, - who was speaking to Madame Carolina, and said, “Gentle poet, would that - thou hadst some chanson or courtly compliment to chase the cloud which - hovers on the brow of our much-loved daughter of Austria! Your popularity, - sir,” continued the Grand Duke, dropping his mock heroic vein and speaking - in a much lower tone, “your popularity, sir, among the ladies of the - Court, cannot be increased by any panegyric of mine; nor am I insensible, - believe me, to the assiduity and skill with which you have complied with - my wishes in making our Court agreeable to the relative of a man to whom - we owe so much as Mr. Beckendorff. I am informed, Mr. Grey,” continued his - Royal Highness, “that you have no intention of very speedily returning to - your country; I wish that I could count you among my peculiar attendants. - If you have an objection to live in the palace without performing your - quota of duty to the State, we shall have no difficulty in finding you an - office, and clothing you in our official costume. Think of this!” So - saying, with a gracious smile, his Royal Highness, leading Madame - Carolina, commenced a walk round the gardens. - </p> - <p> - The young Baroness did not follow them. Solyman the Magnificent, and - Bayard the irreproachable, and Barbarossa the pirate, and Bourbon the - rebel, immediately surrounded her. Few persons were higher ton than the - Turkish Emperor and his Admiral; few persons talked more agreeable - nonsense than the Knight sans peur et sans reproche; no person was more - important than the warlike Constable; but their attention, their - amusement, and their homage were to-night thrown away on the object of - their observance. The Baroness listened to them without interest, and - answered them with brevity. She did not even condescend, as she had done - before, to enter into a war of words, to mortify their vanity or exercise - their wit. She treated them neither with contempt nor courtesy. If no - smile welcomed their remarks, at least her silence was not scornful, and - the most shallow-headed prater that fluttered around her felt that he was - received with dignity and not with disdain. Awed by her conduct, not one - of them dared to be flippant, and every one of them soon became dull. The - ornaments of the Court of Reisenburg, the arbiters of ton and the lords of - taste, stared with astonishment at each other when they found, to their - mutual surprise, that at one moment, in such a select party, universal - silence pervaded. In this state of affairs, every one felt that his - dignity required his speedy disappearance from the lady’s presence. The - Orientals, taking advantage of Bourbon’s returning once more to the charge - with an often unanswered remark, coolly walked away: the Chevalier made an - adroit and honourable retreat by joining a passing party; and the - Constable was the only one who, being left in solitude and silence, was - finally obliged to make a formal bow and retire discomforted from the side - of the only woman with whom he had ever condescended to fall in love. - Leaning against the trunk of a tree at some little distance, Vivian Grey - watched the formation and dissolution of the young Baroness’ levée with - lively interest. His eyes met the lady’s as she raised them from the - ground on von Sohnspeer quitting her. She immediately beckoned to Vivian, - but without her usual smile. He was directly at her side, but she did not - speak. At last he said, “This is a most brilliant scene!” - </p> - <p> - “You think so, do you?” answered the lady, in a tone and manner which - almost made Vivian believe, for a moment, that his friend Mr. Beckendorff - was at his side. - </p> - <p> - “Decidedly his daughter!” thought he. - </p> - <p> - “You are not gay to-night?” said Vivian. - </p> - <p> - “Why should I be?” said the lady, in a manner which would have made Vivian - imagine that his presence was as disagreeable to her as that of Count von - Sohnspeer, had not the lady herself invited his company. - </p> - <p> - “I suppose the scene is very brilliant,” continued the Baroness, after a - few moments’ silence. “At least all here seem to think so, except two - persons.” - </p> - <p> - “And who are they?” asked Vivian. - </p> - <p> - “Myself and—the Crown Prince. I am almost sorry that I did not dance - with him. There seems a wonderful similarity in our dispositions.” - </p> - <p> - “You are pleased to be severe to-night.” - </p> - <p> - “And who shall complain when the first person that I satirize is myself?” - </p> - <p> - “It is most considerate in you,” said Vivian, “to undertake such an - office; for it is one which you yourself are alone capable of fulfilling. - The only person that can ever satirize your Excellency is yourself; and I - think even then that, in spite of your candour, your self-examination must - please us with a self-panegyric.” - </p> - <p> - “Nay, a truce to compliments: at least let me hear better things from you. - I cannot any longer endure the glare of these lamps and dresses! your arm! - Let us walk for a few minutes in the more retired and cooler parts of the - gardens.” - </p> - <p> - The Baroness and Vivian left the amphitheatre by a different path to that - by which the Grand Duke and Madame Carolina had quitted it. They found the - walks quite solitary; for the royal party, which was small, contained the - only persons who had yet left the stage. - </p> - <p> - Vivian and his companions strolled about for some time, conversing on - subjects of casual interest. The Baroness, though no longer absent, either - in her manner or her conversation, seemed depressed; and Vivian, while he - flattered himself that he was more entertaining than usual, felt, to his - mortification, that the lady was not entertained. - </p> - <p> - “I am afraid you find it dull here,” said he; “shall we return?” - </p> - <p> - “Oh, no; do not let us return! We have so short a time to be together that - we must not allow even one hour to be dull.” - </p> - <p> - As Vivian was about to reply, he heard the joyous voice of young - Maximilian; it sounded very near. The royal party was approaching. The - Baronet expressed her earnest desire to avoid it; and as to advance or to - retreat, in these labyrinthine walks, was almost equally hazardous, they - retired into one of those green recesses which we have before mentioned; - indeed it was the very evergreen grove in the centre of which the Nymph of - the Fountain watched for her loved Carian youth. A shower of moonlight - fell on the marble statue, and showed the Nymph in an attitude of - consummate skill: her modesty struggling with her desire, and herself - crouching in her hitherto pure waters, while her anxious ear listens for - the bounding step of the regardless huntsman. - </p> - <p> - “The air is cooler here,” said the Baroness, “or the sound of the falling - water is peculiarly refreshing to my senses. They have passed. I rejoice - that we did not return; I do not think that I could have remained among - those lamps another moment. How singular, actually to view with aversion a - scene which appears to enchant all!” - </p> - <p> - “A scene which I should have thought would have been particularly charming - to you,” said Vivian; “you are dispirited tonight!” - </p> - <p> - “Am I?” said the Baroness. “I ought not to be; not to be more dispirited - than I ever am. To-night I expected pleasure; nothing has happened which I - did not expect, and everything which I did. And yet I am sad! Do you think - that happiness can ever be sad? I think it must be so. But whether I am - sorrowful or happy I can hardly tell; for it is only within these few days - that I have known either grief or joy.” - </p> - <p> - “It must be counted an eventful period in your existence which reckons in - its brief hours a first acquaintance with such passions!” said Vivian, - with a searching eye and an inquiring voice. - </p> - <p> - “Yes; an eventful period, certainly an eventful period,” answered the - Baroness, with a thoughtful air and in measured words. - </p> - <p> - “I cannot bear to see a cloud upon that brow!” said Vivian. “Have you - forgotten how much was to be done to-night? How eagerly you looked forward - to its arrival? How bitterly we were to regret the termination of the - mimic empire?” - </p> - <p> - “I have forgotten nothing; would that I had! I will not look grave. I will - be gay; and yet, when I remember how soon other mockery besides this - splendid pageant must be terminated, why should I look gay? Why may I not - weep?” - </p> - <p> - “Nay, if we are to moralise on worldly felicity, I fear that instead of - inspiriting you, which is my wish, I shall prove but a too congenial - companion. But such a theme is not for you.” - </p> - <p> - “And why should it be for one who, though he lecture me with such gravity - and gracefulness, can scarcely be entitled to play the part of Mentor by - the weight of years?” said the Baroness, with a smile: “for one who, I - trust, who I should think, as little deserved, and was as little inured - to, sorrow as myself!” - </p> - <p> - “To find that you have cause to grieve,” said Vivian, “and to learn from - you, at the same time, your opinion of my own lot, prove what I have too - often had the sad opportunity of observing, that the face of man is - scarcely more genuine and less deceitful than these masquerade dresses - which we now wear.” - </p> - <p> - “But you are not unhappy?” asked the Baroness with a quick voice. - </p> - <p> - “Not now,” said Vivian. - </p> - <p> - His companion seated herself on the marble balustrade which surrounded the - fountain: she did not immediately speak again, and Vivian was silent, for - he was watching her motionless countenance as her large brilliant eyes - gazed with earnestness on the falling water sparkling in the moonlight. - Surely it was not the mysterious portrait at Beckendorff’s that he beheld! - </p> - <p> - She turned. She exclaimed in an agitated voice, “O friend! too lately - found, why have we met to part?” - </p> - <p> - “To part, dearest!” said he, in a low and rapid voice, and he gently took - her hand; “to part! and why should we part? why—” - </p> - <p> - “Ask not; your question is agony!” She tried to withdraw her hand, he - pressed it with renewed energy, it remained in his, she turned away her - head, and both were silent. - </p> - <p> - “O! lady,” said Vivian, as he knelt at her side, “why are we not happy?” - </p> - <p> - His arm is round her waist, gently he bends his head, their speaking eyes - meet, and their trembling lips cling into a kiss! - </p> - <p> - A seal of love and purity and faith I and the chaste moon need not have - blushed as she lit up the countenances of the lovers. - </p> - <p> - “O! lady, why are we not happy?” - </p> - <p> - “We are, we are: is not this happiness, is not this joy, is not this - bliss? Bliss,” she continued, in a low broken voice, “to which I have no - right, no title. Oh! quit, quit my hand! Happiness is not for me!” She - extricated herself from his arm, and sprang upon her feet. Alarm, rather - than affection, was visible on her agitated features. It seemed to cost - her a great effort to collect her scattered senses; the effort was made - with pain, but with success. - </p> - <p> - “Forgive me,” she said, in a hurried and indistinct tone; “forgive me! I - would speak, but cannot, not now at least; we have been long away, too - long; our absence will be remarked to-night; to-night we must give up to - the gratification of others, but I will speak. For yours, for my own sake, - let us, let us go. You know that we are to be very gay to-night, and gay - we will be. Who shall prevent us? At least the present hour is our own; - and when the future ones must be so sad, why, why, trifle with this?” - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0074" id="link2HCH0074"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER XI - </h2> - <p> - The reader is not to suppose that Vivian Grey thought of the young - Baroness merely in the rapid scenes which we have sketched. There were few - moments in the day in which her image did not occupy his thoughts, and - which, indeed, he did not spend in her presence. From the first her - character had interested him. His accidental but extraordinary - acquaintance with Beckendorff made him view any individual connected with - that singular man with a far more curious feeling than could influence the - young nobles of the Court, who were ignorant of the Minister’s personal - character. There was an evident mystery about the character and situation - of the Baroness, which well accorded with the eccentric and romantic - career of the Prime Minister of Reisenburg. Of the precise nature of her - connection with Beckendorff Vivian was wholly ignorant. The world spoke of - her as his daughter, and the affirmation of Madame Carolina confirmed the - world’s report. Her name was still unknown to him; and although during the - few moments that they had enjoyed an opportunity of conversing together - alone, Vivian had made every exertion of which good breeding, impelled by - curiosity, is capable, and had devised many little artifices with which a - schooled address is well acquainted to obtain it, his exertions had - hitherto been unsuccessful. If there was a mystery, the young lady was - competent to preserve it; and with all her naïveté, her interesting - ignorance of the world, and her evidently uncontrollable spirit, no hasty - word ever fell from her cautious lips which threw any light on the objects - of his inquiry. Though impetuous, she was never indiscreet, and often - displayed a caution which was little in accordance with her youth and - temper. The last night had witnessed the only moment in which her passions - seemed for a time to have struggled with, and to have overcome, her - judgment; but it was only for a moment. That display of overpowering - feeling had cost Vivian a sleepless night; and he is at this instant - pacing up and down the chamber of his hotel, thinking of that which he had - imagined could exercise his thoughts no more. - </p> - <p> - She was beautiful; she loved him; she was unhappy! To be loved by any - woman is flattering to the feelings of every man, no matter how deeply he - may have quaffed the bitter goblet of worldly knowledge. The praise of a - fool is incense to the wisest of us; and though we believe ourselves - broken-hearted, it still delights us to find that we are loved. The memory - of Violet Fane was still as fresh, as sweet, to the mind of Vivian Grey as - when he pressed her blushing cheek for the first and only time. To love - again, really to love as he had done, he once thought was impossible; he - thought so still. The character of the Baroness had interested him from - the first. Her ignorance of mankind, and her perfect acquaintance with the - polished forms of society; her extreme beauty, her mysterious rank, her - proud spirit and impetuous feelings; her occasional pensiveness, her - extreme waywardness, had astonished, perplexed, and enchanted him. But he - had never felt in love. It never for a moment had entered into his mind - that his lonely bosom could again be a fit resting-place for one so lovely - and so young. Scared at the misery which had always followed in his track, - he would have shuddered ere he again asked a human being to share his sad - and blighted fortunes. The partiality of the Baroness for his society, - without flattering his vanity, or giving rise to thoughts more serious - than how he could most completely enchant for her the passing hour, had - certainly made the time passed in her presence the least gloomy which he - had lately experienced. At the same moment that he left the saloon of the - palace he had supposed that his image quitted her remembrance; and if she - had again welcomed him with cheerfulness and cordiality, he had felt that - his reception was owing to not being, perhaps, quite as frivolous as the - Count of Eberstein, and rather more amusing than the Baron of Gernsbach. - </p> - <p> - It was therefore with the greatest astonishment that, last night, he had - found that he was loved, loved, too, by this beautiful and haughty girl, - who had treated the advances of the most distinguished nobles with - ill-concealed scorn, and who had so presumed upon her dubious relationship - to the bourgeois Minister that nothing but her own surpassing loveliness - and her parent’s all-engrossing influence could have excused or authorised - her conduct. - </p> - <p> - Vivian had yielded to the magic of the moment, and had returned the - feelings apparently no sooner expressed than withdrawn. Had he left the - gardens of the palace the Baroness’s plighted lover he might perhaps have - deplored his rash engagement, and the sacred image of his first and - hallowed love might have risen up in judgment against his violated - affection; but how had he and the interesting stranger parted? He was - rejected, even while his affection was returned; and while her flattering - voice told him that he alone could make her happy, she had mournfully - declared that happiness could not be hers. How was this? Could she be - another’s? Her agitation at the Opera, often the object of his thought, - quickly occurred to him! It must be so. Ah! another’s! and who this rival? - this proud possessor of a heart which could not beat for him? Madame - Carolina’s declaration that the Baroness must be married off was at this - moment remembered: her marked observation, that von Sohnspeer was no son - of Beckendorff’s, not forgotten. The Field Marshal, too, was the valued - friend of the Minister; and it did not fail to occur to Vivian that it was - not von Sohnspeer’s fault that his attendance on the Baroness was not as - constant as his own. Indeed, the unusual gallantry of the - Commander-in-Chief had been the subject of many a joke among the young - lords of the Court, and the reception of his addresses by their unmerciful - object not unobserved or unspared. But as for poor von Sohnspeer, what - could be expected, as Emilius von Aslingen observed, “from a man whose - softest compliment was as long, loud, and obscure as a birthday salute!” - </p> - <p> - No sooner was the affair clear to Vivian, no sooner was he convinced that - a powerful obstacle existed to the love or union of himself and the - Baroness, than he began to ask what right the interests of third persons - had to interfere between the mutual affection of any individuals. He - thought of her in the moonlight garden, struggling with her pure and - natural passion. He thought of her exceeding beauty, her exceeding love. - He beheld this rare and lovely creature in the embrace of von Sohnspeer. - He turned from the picture in disgust and indignation. She was his. Nature - had decreed it. She should be the bride of no other man. Sooner than yield - her up he would beard Beckendorff himself in his own retreat, and run - every hazard and meet every danger which the ardent imagination of a lover - could conceive. Was he madly to reject the happiness which Providence, or - Destiny, or Chance had at length offered him? If the romance of boyhood - could never be realised, at least with this engaging being for his - companion, he might pass through his remaining years in calmness and in - peace. His trials were perhaps over. Alas! this is the last delusion of - unhappy men! - </p> - <p> - Vivian called at the Palace, but the fatigues of the preceding night - prevented either of the ladies from being visible. In the evening he - joined a small and select circle. The party, indeed, only consisted of the - Grand Duke, Madame, their visitors, and the usual attendants, himself, and - von Sohnspeer. The quiet of the little circle did not more strikingly - contrast with the noise, and glare, and splendour of the last night than - did Vivian’s subdued reception by the Baroness with her agitated demeanour - in the garden. She was cordial, but calm. He found it quite impossible to - gain even one moment’s private conversation with her. Madame Carolina - monopolised his attention, as much to favour the views of the Field - Marshal as to discuss the comparative merits of Pope as a moralist and a - poet; and Vivian had the mortification of observing his odious rival, whom - he now thoroughly detested, discharge without ceasing his royal salutes in - the impatient ear of Beckendorff’s lovely daughter. - </p> - <p> - Towards the conclusion of the evening a chamberlain entered the room and - whispered his mission to the Baroness. She immediately rose and quitted - the apartment. As the party was breaking up she again entered. Her - countenance was agitated. Madame Carolina was in the art of being - overwhelmed with the compliments of the Grand Marshal, and Vivian seized - the opportunity of reaching the Baroness. After a few hurried sentences - she dropped her glove. Vivian gave it her. So many persons were round them - that it was impossible to converse except on the most common topics. The - glove was again dropped. - </p> - <p> - “I see,” said the Baroness, with a meaning look, “that you are but a - recreant knight, or else you would not part with a lady’s glove so - easily.” - </p> - <p> - Vivian gave a rapid glance round the room. No one was observing him, and - the glove was immediately concealed. He hurried home, rushed up the - staircase of the hotel, ordered lights, locked the door, and with a - sensation of indescribable anxiety tore the precious glove from his bosom, - seized, opened, and read the enclosed and following note. It was written - in pencil, in a hurried hand, and some of the words were repeated:— - </p> - <p> - “I leave the Court to-night. He is here himself. No art can postpone my - departure. Much, much, I wish to see you; to say, to say, to you. He is to - have an interview with the Grand Duke to-morrow morning. Dare you come to - his place in his absence? You know the private road. He goes by the high - road, and calls in his way on a Forest Councillor: it is the white house - by the barrier; you know it! Watch him to-morrow morning; about nine or - ten I should think; here, here; and then for heaven’s sake let me see you. - Dare everything! Fail not! Mind, by the private road: beware the other! - You know the ground. God bless you: - </p> - <p> - “SYBILLA” <a name="link2HCH0075" id="link2HCH0075"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER XII - </h2> - <p> - Vivian read the note over a thousand times. He could not retire to rest. - He called Essper George, and gave him all necessary directions for the - morning. About three o’clock Vivian lay down on a sofa, and slept for a - few hours. He started often in his short and feverish slumber. His dreams - were unceasing and inexplicable. At first von Sohnspeer was their natural - hero; but soon the scene shifted. Vivian was at Ems, walking under the - well-remembered lime-trees, and with the Baroness. Suddenly, although it - was mid-day, the Sun became large, blood-red, and fell out of the heavens; - his companion screamed, a man rushed forward with a drawn sword. It was - the idiot Crown Prince of Reisenburg. Vivian tried to oppose him, but - without success. The infuriated ruffian sheathed his weapon in the heart - of the Baroness. Vivian shrieked, and fell upon her body, and, to his - horror, found himself embracing the cold corpse of Violet Fane! - </p> - <p> - Vivian and Essper mounted their horses about seven o’clock. At eight they - had reached a small inn near the Forest Councillor’s house, where Vivian - was to remain until Essper had watched the entrance of the Minister. It - was a few minutes past nine when Essper returned with the joyful - intelligence that Owlface and his master had been seen to enter the - Courtyard. Vivian immediately mounted Max, and telling Essper to keep a - sharp watch, he set spurs to his horse. - </p> - <p> - “Now, Max, my good steed, each minute is golden; serve thy master well!” - He patted the horse’s neck, the animal’s erected ears proved how well it - understood its master’s wishes; and taking advantage of the loose bridle, - which was confidently allowed it, the horse sprang rather than galloped to - the Minister’s residence. Nearly an hour, however, was lost in gaining the - private road, for Vivian, after the caution in the Baroness’s letter, did - not dare the high road. - </p> - <p> - He is galloping up the winding rural lane, where he met Beckendorff on the - second morning of his visit. He has reached the little gate, and following - the example of the Grand Duke, ties Max at the entrance. He dashes over - the meadows; not following the path, but crossing straight through the - long dewy grass, he leaps over the light iron railing; he is rushing up - the walk; he takes a rapid glance, in passing, at the little summer-house; - the blue passion-flower is still blooming, the house is in sight; a white - handkerchief is waving from the drawing-room window! He sees it; fresh - wings are added to its course; he dashes through a bed of flowers, - frightens the white peacock, darts through the library window, and is in - the drawing room. - </p> - <p> - The Baroness was there: pale and agitated she stood beneath the mysterious - picture, with one arm leaning on the old carved mantelpiece. Overcome by - her emotions, she did not move forward to meet him as he entered; but - Vivian observed neither her constraint nor her agitation. - </p> - <p> - “Sybilla! dearest Sybilla! say you are mine!” - </p> - <p> - He seized her hand. She struggled not to disengage herself; her head sank - upon her arm, which rested upon his shoulder. Overpowered, she sobbed - convulsively. He endeavoured to calm her, but her agitation increased; and - minutes elapsed ere she seemed to be even sensible of his presence. At - length she became more calm, and apparently making a struggle to compose - herself, she raised her head and said, “This is very weak—let us - walk for a moment about the room!” - </p> - <p> - At this moment Vivian was seized by the throat with a strong grasp. He - turned round; it was Mr. Beckendorff, with a face deadly white, his full - eyes darting from their sockets like a hungry snake’s, and the famous - Italian dagger in his right hand. - </p> - <p> - “Villain!” said he, in the low voice of fatal passion; “Villain, is this - your Destiny?” - </p> - <p> - Vivian’s first thoughts were for the Baroness; and turning his head from - Beckendorff, he looked with the eye of anxious love to his companion. But, - instead of fainting, instead of being overwhelmed by this terrible - interruption, she seemed, on the contrary, to have suddenly regained her - natural spirit and self-possession. The blood had returned to her hitherto - pale cheek, and the fire to an eye before dull with weeping. She - extricated herself immediately from Vivian’s encircling arm, and by so - doing enabled him to have struggled, had it been necessary, more equally - with the powerful grasp of his assailant. - </p> - <p> - “Stand off, sir!” said the Baroness, with an air of inexpressible dignity, - and a voice which even at this crisis seemed to anticipate that it would - be obeyed. “Stand off, sir! stand off, I command you!” - </p> - <p> - Beckendorff for one moment was motionless: he then gave her a look of - piercing earnestness, threw Vivian, rather than released him, from his - hold, and flung the dagger with a bitter smile, into the corner of the - room. “Well, madam!” said he, in a choking voice, “you are obeyed!” - </p> - <p> - “Mr. Grey,” continued the Baroness, “I regret that this outrage should - have been experienced by you because you have dared to serve me. My - presence should have preserved you from this contumely; but what are we to - expect from those who pride themselves upon being the sons of slaves! You - shall hear further from me.” So saying, the lady, bowing to Vivian, and - sweeping by the Minister with a glance of indescribable disdain, quitted - the apartment. As she was on the point of leaving the room, Vivian was - standing against the wall, with a pale face and folded arms; Beckendorff, - with his back to the window, his eyes fixed on the ground; and Vivian, to - his astonishment, perceived, what escaped the Minister’s notice, that - while the lady bade him adieu with one hand she made rapid signs with the - other to some unknown person in the garden. - </p> - <p> - Mr. Beckendorff and Vivian were left alone, and the latter was the first - to break silence. - </p> - <p> - “Mr. Beckendorff,” said he, in a calm voice, “considering the - circumstances under which you have found me in your house this morning, I - should have known how to excuse and to forget any irritable expressions - which a moment of ungovernable passion might have inspired. I should have - passed them over unnoticed. But your unjustifiable behaviour has exceeded - that line of demarcation which sympathy with human feelings allows even - men of honour to recognise. You have disgraced both me and yourself by - giving me a blow. It is, as that lady well styled it, an outrage; an - outrage which the blood of any other man but yourself could only - obliterate from my memory; but while I am inclined to be indulgent to your - exalted station and your peculiar character, I at the same time expect, - and now wait for, an apology!” - </p> - <p> - “An apology!” said Beckendorff, now beginning to stamp up and down the - room; “an apology! Shall it be made to you, sir, or the Archduchess?” - </p> - <p> - “The Archduchess;” said Vivian. “Good God! what can you mean! Did I hear - you right?” - </p> - <p> - “I said the Archduchess,” answered Beckendorff, with firmness; “a Princess - of the House of Austria, and the pledged wife of his Royal Highness the - Crown Prince of Reisenburg. Perhaps you may now think that other persons - have to apologise?” - </p> - <p> - “Mr. Beckendorff,” said Vivian, “I am overwhelmed; I declare, upon my - honour—” - </p> - <p> - “Stop, sir! you have said too much already—” - </p> - <p> - “But, Mr. Beckendorff, surely you will allow me to explain—” - </p> - <p> - “Sir! there is no need of explanation. I know everything; more than you do - yourself. You can have nothing to explain to me! and I presume you are now - fully aware of the impossibility of again speaking to her. It is at - present within an hour of noon. Before sunset you must be twenty miles - from the Court; so far you will be attended. Do not answer me; you know my - power. A remonstrance only, and I write to Vienna: your progress shall be - stopped throughout the South of Europe. For her sake this business will be - hushed up. An important and secret mission will be the accredited reason - of your leaving Reisenburg. This will be confirmed by your official - attendant, who will be an Envoy’s Courier. Farewell!” - </p> - <p> - As Mr. Beckendorff quitted the room, his confidential servant, the - messenger of Turriparva, entered, and with the most respectful bow - informed Vivian that the horses were ready. In about three hours’ time - Vivian Grey, followed by the Government messenger, stopped at his hotel. - The landlord and waiters bowed with increased obsequiousness on seeing him - so attended, and in a few minutes Reisenburg was ringing with the news - that his appointment to the Under-Secretaryship of State was now “a - settled thing.” - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2H_4_0085" id="link2H_4_0085"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - BOOK VIII - </h2> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0076" id="link2HCH0076"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER I - </h2> - <p> - The landlord of the Grand Hotel of the Four Nations at Reisenburg was - somewhat consoled for the sudden departure of his distinguished guest by - selling the plenipotentiary a travelling carriage lately taken for a - doubtful bill from a gambling Russian General at a large profit. In this - convenient vehicle, in the course of a couple of hours after his arrival - in the city, was Mr. Vivian Grey borne through the gate of the Allies. - Essper George, who had reached the hotel about half an hour after his - master, followed behind the carriage on his hack, leading Max. The Courier - cleared the road before, and expedited the arrival of the special Envoy of - the Grand Duke of Reisenburg at the point of his destination by ordering - the horses, clearing the barriers, and paying the postilions in advance. - Vivian had never travelled before with such style and speed. - </p> - <p> - Our hero covered himself up with his cloak and drew his travelling cap - over his eyes, though it was one of the hottest days of this singularly - hot autumn. Entranced in a reverie, the only figure that occurred to his - mind was the young Archduchess, and the only sounds that dwelt on his ear - were the words of Beckendorff: but neither to the person of the first nor - to the voice of the second did he annex any definite idea. - </p> - <p> - After some hours’ travelling, which to Vivian seemed both an age and a - minute, he was roused from his stupor by the door of his calèche being - opened. He shook himself as a man does who has awakened from a benumbing - and heavy sleep, although his eyes were the whole time wide open. The - disturbing intruder was his courier, who, bowing, with his hat in hand, - informed his Excellency that he was now on the frontier of Reisenburg; - regretting that he was under the necessity of quitting his Excellency, he - begged to present him with his passport. “It is made out for Vienna,” - continued the messenger. “A private pass, sir, of the Prime Minister, and - will entitle you to the greatest consideration.” - </p> - <p> - The carriage was soon again advancing rapidly to the next post-house, - when, after they had proceeded about half a mile, Essper George calling - loudly from behind, the drivers suddenly stopped. Just as Vivian, to whose - tortured mind the rapid movement of the carriage was some relief, for it - produced an excitement which prevented thought, was about to inquire the - cause of this stoppage. Essper George rode up to the calèche. - </p> - <p> - “Kind sir!” said he, with a peculiar look, “I have a packet for you.” - </p> - <p> - “A packet! from whom? speak! give it me!” - </p> - <p> - “Hush! softly, good master. Here am I about to commit rank treason for - your sake, and a hasty word is the only reward of my rashness.” - </p> - <p> - “Nay, nay, good Essper, try me not now!” - </p> - <p> - “I will not, kind sir! but the truth is, I could not give you the packet - while that double-faced knave was with us, or even while he was in sight. - ‘In good truth,’ as Master Rodolph was wont to say—!” - </p> - <p> - “But of this packet?” - </p> - <p> - “‘Fairly and softly,’ good sir! as Hunsdrich the porter said when I would - have drunk the mulled wine, while he was on the cold staircase—” - </p> - <p> - “Essper! do you mean to enrage me?” - </p> - <p> - “‘By St. Hubert!’ as that worthy gentleman the Grand Marshal was in the - habit of swearing, I—” - </p> - <p> - “This is too much; what are the idle sayings of these people to me?” - </p> - <p> - “Nay, nay, kind sir! they do but show that each of us has his own way of - telling a story, and that he who would hear a tale must let the teller’s - breath come out of his own nostrils.” - </p> - <p> - “Well, Essper, speak on! Stranger things have happened to me than to be - reproved by my own servant.” - </p> - <p> - “Nay, kind master! say not a bitter word to me because you have slipped - out of a scrape with your head on your shoulders. The packet is from Mr. - Beckendorff’s daughter.” - </p> - <p> - “Ah! why did you not give it me before?” - </p> - <p> - “Why do I give it you now? Because I am a fool; that is why. What! you - wanted it when that double-faced scoundrel was watching every eyelash of - yours as it moved from the breath of a fly? a fellow who can see as well - at the back of his head as from his face. I should like to poke out his - front eyes, to put him on an equality with the rest of mankind. He it was - who let the old gentleman know of your visit this morning, and I suspect - that he has been nearer your limbs of late than you have imagined. Every - dog has his day, and the oldest pig must look for the knife! The Devil was - once cheated on Sunday, and I have been too sharp for Puss in boots and - his mouse-trap! Prowling about the Forest Councillor’s house, I saw your - new servant, sir, gallop in, and his old master soon gallop out. I was off - as quick as they, but was obliged to leave my horse within two miles of - the house, and then trust to my legs. I crept through the shrubs like a - land tortoise; but, of course, too late to warn you. However, I was in for - the death, and making signs to the young lady, who directly saw that I was - a friend; bless her! she is as quick as a partridge; I left you to settle - it with papa, and, after all, did that which I suppose you intended, sir, - to do yourself; made my way into the young lady’s bedchamber.” - </p> - <p> - “Hold your tongue, sir! and give me the packet.” - </p> - <p> - “There it is, and now we will go on; but we must stay an hour at the next - post, if your honour pleases not to sleep there; for both Max and my own - hack have had a sharp day’s work.” - </p> - <p> - Vivian tore open the packet. It contained a long letter, written on the - night of her return to Beckendorff’s; she had stayed up the whole night - writing. It was to have been forwarded to Vivian, in case of their not - being able to meet. In the enclosure were a few hurried lines, written - since the catastrophe. They were these: “May this safely reach you! Can - you ever forgive me? The enclosed, you will see, was intended for you, in - case of our not meeting. It anticipated sorrow; yet what were its - anticipations to our reality!” - </p> - <p> - The Archduchess’ letter was evidently written under the influence of - agitated feelings. We omit it; because, as the mystery of her character is - now explained, a great portion of her communication would be irrelevant to - our tale. She spoke of her exalted station as a woman, that station which - so many women envy, in a spirit of agonising bitterness. A royal princess - is only the most flattered of state victims. She is a political sacrifice, - by which enraged Governments are appeased, wavering allies conciliated and - ancient amities confirmed. Debarred by her rank and her education from - looking forward to that exchange of equal affection which is the great end - and charm of female existence, no individual finds more fatally and feels - more keenly that pomp is not felicity, and splendour not content. - </p> - <p> - Deprived of all those sources of happiness which seem inherent in woman, - the wife of the Sovereign sometimes seeks in politics and in pleasure a - means of excitement which may purchase oblivion. But the political queen - is a rare character; she must possess an intellect of unusual power, and - her lot must be considered as an exception in the fortunes of female - royalty. Even the political queen generally closes an agitated career with - a broken heart. And for the unhappy votary of pleasure, who owns her cold - duty to a royal husband, we must not forget that even in the most - dissipated courts the conduct of the queen is expected to be decorous, and - that the instances are not rare where the wife of the monarch has died on - the scaffold, or in a dungeon, or in exile, because she dared to be - indiscreet where all were debauched. But for the great majority of royal - wives, they exist without a passion; they have nothing to hope, nothing to - fear, nothing to envy, nothing to want, nothing to confide, nothing to - hate, and nothing to love. Even their duties, though multitudinous, are - mechanical, and, while they require much attention, occasion no anxiety. - Amusement is their moment of great emotion, and for them amusement is - rare; for amusement is the result of equal companionship. Thus situated, - they are doomed to become frivolous in their pursuits and formal in their - manners, and the Court chaplain or the Court confessor is the only person - who can prove they have a soul, by convincing them that it will be saved. - </p> - <p> - The young Archduchess had assented to the proposition of marriage with the - Crown Prince of Reisenburg without opposition, as she was convinced that - requesting her assent was only a courteous form of requiring her - compliance. There was nothing outrageous to her feelings in marrying a man - whom she had never seen, because her education, from her tenderest years, - had daily prepared her for such an event. Moreover, she was aware that, if - she succeeded in escaping from the offers of the Crown Prince of - Reisenburg, she would soon be under the necessity of assenting to those of - some other suitor; and if proximity to her own country, accordance with - its sentiments and manners, and previous connection with her own house, - were taken into consideration, an union with the family of Reisenburg was - even desirable. It was to be preferred, at least, to one which brought - with it a foreign husband and a foreign clime, a strange language and - strange customs. The Archduchess, a girl of ardent feelings and lively - mind, had not, however, agreed to become that all-commanding slave, a - Queen, without a stipulation. She required that she might be allowed, - previous to her marriage, to visit her future Court incognita. This - singular and unparalleled proposition was not easily acceded to: but the - opposition with which it was received only tended to make the young - Princess more determined to be gratified in her caprice. Her Imperial - Highness did not pretend that any end was to be obtained by this unusual - procedure, and indeed she had no definite purpose in requesting it to be - permitted. It was originally the mere whim of the moment, and had it not - been strongly opposed it would not have been strenuously insisted upon. As - it was, the young Archduchess persisted, threatened, and grew obstinate; - and the grey-headed negotiators of the marriage, desirous of its speedy - completion, and not having a more tractable tool ready to supply her - place, at length yielded to her bold importunity. Great difficulty, - however, was experienced in carrying her wishes into execution. By what - means and in what character she was to appear at Court, so as not to - excite suspicion or occasion discovery, were often discussed, without - being resolved upon. At length it became necessary to consult Mr. - Beckendorff. The upper lip of the Prime Minister of Reisenburg curled as - the Imperial Minister detailed the caprice and contumacy of the Princess, - and treating with the greatest contempt this girlish whim, Mr. Beckendorff - ridiculed those by whom it had been humoured with no suppressed derision. - The consequence of his conduct was an interview with the future Grand - Duchess, and the consequence of his interview an unexpected undertaking on - his part to arrange the visit according to her Highness’s desires. - </p> - <p> - The Archduchess had not yet seen the Crown Prince; but six miniatures and - a whole length portrait had prepared her for not meeting an Adonis or a - Baron Trenck, and that was all; for never had the Correggio of the age of - Charles the Fifth better substantiated his claims to the office of Court - painter than by these accurate semblances of his Royal Highness, in which - his hump was subdued into a Grecian bend, and his lack-lustre eyes seemed - beaming with tenderness and admiration. His betrothed bride stipulated - with Mr. Beckendorff that the fact of her visit should be known only to - himself and the Grand Duke; and before she appeared at Court she had - received the personal pledge both of himself and his Royal Highness that - the affair should be kept a complete secret from the Crown Prince. - </p> - <p> - Most probably, on her first introduction to her future husband, all the - romantic plans of the young Archduchess to excite an involuntary interest - in his heart vanished; but how this may be, it is needless for us to - inquire, for that same night introduced another character into her romance - for whom she was perfectly unprepared, and whose appearance totally - disorganised its plot. - </p> - <p> - Her inconsiderate, her unjustifiable conduct, in tampering with that - individual’s happiness and affection, was what the young and haughty - Archduchess deplored in the most energetic, the most feeling, and the most - humble spirit; and anticipating that after this painful disclosure they - would never meet again, she declared that for his sake alone she regretted - what had passed, and praying that he might be happier than herself, she - supplicated to be forgiven and forgotten. - </p> - <p> - Vivian read the Archduchess’s letter over and over again, and then put it - in his breast. At first he thought that he had lived to shed another tear; - but he was mistaken. In a few minutes he found himself quite roused from - his late overwhelming stupor. Remorse or regret for the past, care or - caution for the future, seemed at the same moment to have fled from his - mind. He looked up to Heaven with a wild smile, half of despair and half - of defiance, it seemed to imply that Fate had now done her worst, and that - he had at last the satisfaction of knowing himself to be the most - unfortunate and unhappy being that ever existed. When a man at the same - time believes in and sneers at his Destiny we may be sure that he - considers his condition past redemption. - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0077" id="link2HCH0077"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER II - </h2> - <p> - They stopped for an hour at the next post, according to Essper’s - suggestion. Indeed, he proposed resting there for the night, for both men - and beasts much required repose; but Vivian panted to reach Vienna, to - which city two days’ travelling would now carry him. His passions were so - roused, and his powers of reflection so annihilated, that while he had - determined to act desperately, he was unable to resolve upon anything - desperate. Whether, on his arrival at the Austrian capital, he should - plunge into dissipation or into the Danube was equally uncertain. He had - some thought of joining the Greeks or Turks, no matter which, probably the - latter, or perhaps of serving in the Americas. The idea of returning to - England never once entered his mind: he expected to find letters from his - father at Vienna, and he almost regretted it; for, in his excessive - misery, it was painful to be conscious that a being still breathed who was - his friend. - </p> - <p> - It was a fine moonlight night, but the road was mountainous; and in spite - of all the encouragement of Vivian, and all the consequent exertions of - the postilion, they were upwards of two hours and a half going these eight - miles. To get on any farther to-night was quite impossible. Essper’s horse - was fairly knocked up, and even Max visibly distressed. The post-house was - fortunately an inn. It was not at a village, and, as far as the travellers - could learn, not near one, and its appearance did not promise very - pleasing accommodation. Essper, who had scarcely tasted food for nearly - eighteen hours, was not highly delighted with the prospect before them. - His anxiety, however, was not merely selfish: he was as desirous that his - young master should be refreshed by a good night’s rest as himself, and - anticipating that he should have to exercise his skill in making a couch - for Vivian in the carriage, he proceeded to cross-examine the postmaster - on the possibility of his accommodating them. The host was a pious-looking - personage, in a black velvet cap, with a singularly meek and charitable - expression of countenance. His long black hair was exquisitely braided, - and he wore round his neck a collar of pewter medals, all of which had - been recently sprinkled with holy water and blessed under the petticoat of - the saintly Virgin; for the postmaster had only just returned from a - pilgrimage to the celebrated shrine of the Black Lady of Altoting. - </p> - <p> - “Good friend!” said Essper, looking him cunningly in the face, “I fear - that we must order horses on: you can hardly accommodate two?” - </p> - <p> - “Good friend!” answered the innkeeper, and he crossed himself very - reverently at the same time, “it is not for man to fear, but to hope.” - </p> - <p> - “If your beds were as good as your adages,” said Essper George, laughing, - “in good truth, as a friend of mine would say, I would sleep here - to-night.” - </p> - <p> - “Prithee, friend,” continued the innkeeper, kissing a medal of his collar - very devoutly, “what accommodation dost thou lack?” - </p> - <p> - “Why” said Essper, “in the way of accommodation, little, for two excellent - beds will content us; but in the way of refreshment, by St. Hubert! as - another friend of mine would swear, he would be a bold man who would - engage to be as hungry before his dinner as I shall be after my supper.” - </p> - <p> - “Friend!” said the innkeeper, “Our Lady forbid that thou shouldst leave - our walls to-night: for the accommodation, we have more than sufficient; - and as for the refreshment, by Holy Mass! we had a priest tarry here last - night, and he left his rosary behind. I will comfort my soul, by telling - my beads over the kitchen-fire, and for every Paternoster my wife shall - give thee a rasher of kid, and for every Ave a tumbler of Augsburg, which - Our Lady forget me if I did not myself purchase but yesterday se’nnight - from the pious fathers of the Convent of St. Florian!” - </p> - <p> - “I take thee at thy word, honest sir,” said Essper. “By the Creed! I liked - thy appearance from the first; nor wilt thou find me unwilling, when my - voice has taken its supper, to join thee in some pious hymn or holy - canticle. And now for the beds!” - </p> - <p> - “There is the green room, the best bedroom in my house,” said the - Innkeeper. “Holy Mary forget me if in that same bed have not stretched - their legs more valorous generals, more holy prelates, and more - distinguished councillors of our Lord the Emperor, than in any bed in all - Austria.” - </p> - <p> - “That, then, for my master, and for myself—” - </p> - <p> - “H-u-m!” said the host, looking very earnestly in Essper’s face; “I should - have thought that thou wert one more anxious after dish and flagon than - curtain and eider-down!” - </p> - <p> - “By my Mother! I love good cheer,” said Essper, earnestly, “and want it - more at this moment than any knave that ever yet starved: but if thou hast - not a bed to let me stretch my legs on after four-and-twenty hours’ hard - riding, by holy Virgin! I will have horses on to Vienna.” - </p> - <p> - “Our Black Lady forbid!” said the innkeeper, with a quick voice, and with - rather a dismayed look; “said I that thou shouldst not have a bed? St. - Florian desert me if I and my wife would not sooner sleep in the - chimney-corner than thou shouldst miss one wink of thy slumbers!” - </p> - <p> - “In one word, have you a bed?” - </p> - <p> - “Have I a bed? Where slept, I should like to know, the Vice-Principal of - the Convent of Molk on the day before the last holy Ascension? The waters - were out in the morning; and when will my wife forget what his reverence - was pleased to say when he took his leave; ‘Good woman!’ said he, ‘my duty - calls me; but the weather is cold; and between ourselves, I am used to - great feasts, and I should have no objection, if I were privileged, to - stay and to eat again of thy red cabbage and cream!’ What say you to that? - Do you think we have got beds now? You shall sleep to-night, sir, like an - Aulic Councillor!” - </p> - <p> - This adroit introduction of the red cabbage and cream settled everything; - when men are wearied and famished they have no inclination to be - incredulous, and in a few moments Vivian was informed by his servant that - the promised accommodation was satisfactory; and having locked up the - carriage, and wheeled it into a small outhouse, he and Essper were ushered - by their host into a room which, as is usual in small German inns in the - South, served at the same time both for kitchen and saloon. The fire was - lit in a platform of brick, raised in the centre of the floor: the sky was - visible through the chimney, which, although of a great breadth below, - gradually narrowed to the top. A family of wandering Bohemians, consisting - of the father and mother and three children, were seated on the platform - when Vivian entered; the man was playing on a coarse wooden harp, without - which the Bohemians seldom travel. The music ceased as the new guests came - into the room, and the Bohemian courteously offered his place at the fire - to our hero, who, however, declined disturbing the family group. A small - table and a couple of chairs were placed in a corner of the room by the - innkeeper’s wife, a bustling active dame, who apparently found no - difficulty in laying the cloth, dusting the furniture, and cooking the - supper at the same time. At this table Vivian and his servant seated - themselves; nor, indeed, did the cookery discredit the panegyric of the - Reverend Vice-Principal of the Convent of Molk. - </p> - <p> - Alike wearied in mind and body, Vivian soon asked for his bed, which, - though not exactly fitted for an Aulic Councillor, as the good host - perpetually avowed it to be, nevertheless afforded decent accommodation. - </p> - <p> - The Bohemian family retired to the hayloft, and Essper George would have - followed his master’s example, had not the kind mistress of the house - tempted him to stay behind by the production of a new platter of rashers: - indeed, he never remembered meeting with such hospitable people as the - postmaster and his wife. They had evidently taken a fancy to him, and, - though extremely wearied, the lively little Essper endeavoured, between - his quick mouthfuls and long draughts, to reward and encourage their - kindness by many a good story and sharp joke. With all these both mine - host and his wife were exceedingly amused, seldom containing their - laughter, and frequently protesting, by the sanctity of various saints, - that this was the pleasantest night and Essper the pleasantest fellow that - they had ever met with. - </p> - <p> - “Eat, eat, my friend!” said his host; “by the Mass! thou hast travelled - far; and fill thy glass, and pledge with me Our Black Lady of Altoting. By - Holy Cross! I have hung up this week in her chapel a garland of silk - roses, and have ordered to be burnt before her shrine three pounds of - perfumed was tapers! Fill again, fill again! and thou too, good mistress; - a hard day’s work hast thou had; a glass of wine will do thee no harm! - join me with our new friend! Pledge we together the Holy Fathers of St. - Florian, my worldly patrons and my spiritual pastors: let us pray that his - reverence the Sub-Prior may not have his Christmas attack of gout in the - stomach, and a better health to poor Father Felix! Fill again, fill again! - this Augsburg is somewhat acid; we will have a bottle of Hungary. - Mistress, fetch us the bell-glasses, and here to the Reverend - Vice-Principal of Molk! our good friend: when will my wife forget what he - said to her on the morning of last holy Ascension! Fill again, fill - again!” - </p> - <p> - Inspired by the convivial spirit of the pious and jolly postmaster, Essper - George soon forgot his threatened visit to his bedroom, and ate and drank, - laughed and joked, as if he were again with his friend, Master Rodolph; - but wearied Nature at length avenged herself for this unnatural exertion, - and leaning back in his chair, he was, in the course of an hour, overcome - by one of those dead and heavy slumbers the effect of the united influence - of fatigue and intemperance; in short, it was like the midnight sleep of a - fox-hunter. - </p> - <p> - No sooner had our pious votary of the Black Lady of Altoting observed the - effect of his Hungary wine than, making a well-understood sign to his - wife, he took up the chair of Essper in his brawny arms, and, preceded by - Mrs. Postmistress with a lantern, he left the room with his guest. - Essper’s hostess led and lighted the way to an outhouse, which - occasionally served as a coach-house, a stable, and a lumber-room. It had - no window, and the lantern afforded the only light which exhibited its - present contents. In one corner was a donkey tied up, belonging to the - Bohemian. Under a hayrack was a large child’s cradle: it was of a - remarkable size, having been made for twins. Near it was a low wooden - sheep-tank, half filled with water, and which had been placed there for - the refreshment of the dog and his feathered friends, who were roosting in - the rack. - </p> - <p> - The pious innkeeper very gently lowered to the ground the chair on which - Essper was soundly sleeping; and then, having crossed himself, he took up - our friend with great tenderness and solicitude, and dexterously fitted - him in the huge cradle. - </p> - <p> - About an hour past midnight Essper George awoke. He was lying on his back, - and very unwell; and on trying to move, found that he was rocking. His - late adventure was obliterated from his memory; and the strange movement, - united with his peculiar indisposition, left him no doubt that he was on - board ship! As is often the case when we are tipsy or nervous, Essper had - been woke by the fright of falling from some immense height; and finding - that his legs had no sensation, for they were quite benumbed, he concluded - that he had fallen down the hatchway, that his legs were broken, and - himself jammed in between some logs of wood in the hold, and so he began - to cry lustily to those above to come down to his rescue. - </p> - <p> - “O, Essper George!” thought he, “how came you to set foot on salt timber - again! Had not you had enough of it in the Mediterranean and the Turkish - seas, that you must be getting aboard this lubberly Dutch galliot! for I - am sure she’s Dutch by being so low in the water. Well, they may talk of a - sea-life, but for my part, I never saw the use of the Sea. Many a sad - heart it has caused, and many a sick stomach has it occasioned! The - boldest sailor climbs on board with a heavy soul, and leaps on land with a - light spirit. O! thou indifferent ape of Earth! thy houses are of wood and - thy horses of canvas; thy roads have no landmarks and thy highways no - inns; thy hills are green without grass and wet without showers! and as - for food, what art thou, O, bully Ocean! but the stable of horse-fishes, - the stall of cow-fishes, the sty of hog-fishes, and the kennel of - dog-fishes! Commend me to a fresh-water dish for meagre days! Sea-weeds - stewed with chalk may be savoury stuff for a merman; but, for my part, - give me red cabbage and cream: and as for drink, a man may live in the - midst of thee his whole life and die for thirst at the end of it! Besides, - thou blasphemous salt lake, where is thy religion? Where are thy churches, - thou heretic?” So saying Essper made a desperate effort to crawl up the - hold. His exertion set the cradle rocking with renewed violence; and at - lust dashing against the sheep-tank, that pastoral piece of furniture was - overset, and part of its contents poured upon the inmate of the cradle. - </p> - <p> - “Sprung a leak in the hold, by St. Nicholas!” bawled out Essper George. - “Caulkers ahoy!” - </p> - <p> - At this moment three or four fowls, roused by the fall of the tank and the - consequent shouts of Essper, began fluttering about the rack, and at last - perched upon the cradle. “The live stock got loose’” shouted Essper, “and - the breeze getting stiffer every instant! Where is the captain? I will see - him. I am not one of the crew: I belong to the Court! I must have cracked - my skull when I fell like a lubber down that confounded hatchway! Egad! I - feel as if I had been asleep, and been dreaming I was at Court.” - </p> - <p> - The sound of heavy footsteps was now over his head. These noises were at - once an additional proof that he was in the hold, and an additional - stimulus to his calls to those on deck. In fact, these sounds were - occasioned by the Bohemians, who always rose before break of day; and - consequently, in a few minutes, the door of the stable opened, and the - Bohemian, with a lantern in his hand, entered. - </p> - <p> - “What do you want?” cried Essper. - </p> - <p> - “I want my donkey” - </p> - <p> - “You do?” said Essper. “You’re the Purser, I suppose, detected keeping a - jackass among the poultry! eating all the food of our live stock, and we - having kid every day. Though both my legs are off, I’ll have a fling at - you!” and so saying, Essper, aided by the light of the lantern, scrambled - out of the cradle, and taking up the sheep-tank, sent it straight at the - astonished Bohemian’s head. The aim was good, and the man fell; more, - however, from fright than injury. Seizing his lantern, which had fallen - out of his hand, Essper escaped through the stable door and rushed into - the house. He found himself in the kitchen. The noise of his entrance - roused the landlord and his wife, who had been sleeping by the fire; - since, not having a single bed beside their own, they had given that up to - Vivian. The countenance of the innkeeper effectually dispelled the clouds - which had been fast clearing off from Essper’s intellect. Giving one wide - stare, and then rubbing his eyes, the truth lighted upon him, and so he - sent the Bohemian’s lantern at his landlord’s head. The postmaster seized - the poker and the postmistress a faggot, and as the Bohemian, who had now - recovered himself, had entered in the rear, Essper George stood a fair - chance of receiving a thorough drubbing, had not his master, roused by the - suspicious noises and angry sounds which had reached his room, entered the - kitchen with his pistols. - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0078" id="link2HCH0078"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER III - </h2> - <p> - As it was now morning, Vivian did not again retire to rest, but took - advantage of the disturbance in the inn to continue his route at an - earlier hour than he had previously intended. - </p> - <p> - Essper, when he found himself safely mounted, lagged behind a few minutes - to vent his spleen against the innkeeper’s wife. - </p> - <p> - “May St. Florian confound me, madam!” said Essper, addressing himself to - the lady in the window, “if ever I beheld so ugly a witch as yourself! - Pious friend! thy chaplet of roses was ill bestowed, and thou needest not - have travelled so far to light thy wax tapers at the shrine of the Black - Lady at Altoting; for by the beauty of holiness! an image of ebony is - mother of pearl to that soot-face whom thou callest thy wife. Fare thee - well! thou couple of saintly sinners! and may the next traveller who - tarries in the den of thieves qualify thee for canonisation by thy wife’s - admiring pastor, the cabbage-eating Vice-Principal of Molk.” - </p> - <p> - Before the end of an hour they had to ford a rivulet running between two - high banks. The scenery just here was particularly lovely, and Vivian’s - attention was so engrossed by it that he did not observe the danger which - he was about to incur. - </p> - <p> - On the left of the road a high range of rocky mountains abruptly descended - into an open but broken country, and the other side of the road was - occasionally bounded by low undulating hills, partially covered with dwarf - woods, not high enough to obstruct the view of the distant horizon. Rocky - knolls jutted out near the base of the mountains; and on the top of one of - them, overlooked by a gigantic grey peak, stood an ancient and still - inhabited feudal castle. Round the base of this insulated rock a rustic - village peeped above the encircling nutwoods, its rising smoke softening - the hard features of the naked crag. On the side of the village nearest to - Vivian a bold sheet of water discharged itself in three separate falls - between the ravine of a wooded mountain, and flowing round the village as - a fine broad river, expanded before it reached the foundation of the - castled rock into a long and deep lake, which was also fed by numerous - streams, the gulleys only of which were now visible down the steep sides - of the mountains, their springs having been long dried up. - </p> - <p> - Vivian’s view was interrupted by his sudden descent into the bed of the - rivulet, one of the numerous branches of the mountain torrent, and by a - crash which as immediately ensued. The spring of his carriage was broken. - The carriage fell over, but Vivian sustained no injury; and while Essper - George rode forward to the village for assistance, his master helped the - postilion to extricate the horses and secure them on the opposite bank. - They had done all that was in their power some time before Essper - returned; and Vivian, who had seated himself on some tangled beech-roots, - was prevented growing impatient by contemplating the enchanting scenery. - The postilion, on the contrary, who had travelled this road every day of - his life, and who found no gratification in gazing upon rocks, woods, and - waterfalls, lit his pipe, and occasionally talked to his horses. So - essential an attribute of the beautiful is novelty! Essper at length made - his appearance, attended by five or six peasants, dressed in holiday - costume, with some fanciful decorations; their broad hats wreathed with - wild flowers, their short brown jackets covered with buttons and fringe, - and various coloured ribbons streaming from their knees. - </p> - <p> - “Well, sir! the grandson is born the day the grandfather dies! a cloudy - morning has often a bright sunset’ and though we are now sticking in a - ditch, by the aid of St. Florian we may be soon feasting in a castle! - Come, my merry men, I did not bring you here to show your ribbons; the - sooner you help us out of this scrape the sooner you will be again dancing - with the pretty maidens on the green! Lend a hand!” - </p> - <p> - The calèche appeared to be so much shattered that they only ventured to - put in one horse; and Vivian, leaving his carriage in charge of Essper and - the postilion, mounted Max, and rode to the village, attended by the - peasants. He learnt from them on the way that they were celebrating the - marriage of the daughter of their lord, who, having been informed of the - accident, had commanded them to go immediately to the gentleman’s - assistance, and then conduct him to the castle. - </p> - <p> - They crossed the river over a light stone bridge of three arches, the - key-stone of the centre one being decorated with a splendidly sculptured - shield. - </p> - <p> - “This bridge appears to be very recently built?” said Vivian to one of his - conductors. - </p> - <p> - “It was opened, sir, for the first time yesterday, to admit the bridegroom - of my young lady, and the foundation stone was laid on the day she was - born.” - </p> - <p> - “I see that your good lord was determined that it should be a solid - structure.” - </p> - <p> - “Why, sir, it was necessary that the foundation should be strong, because - three succeeding winters it was washed away by the rush of that mountain - torrent. Turn this way, if you please, sir, through the village.” - </p> - <p> - Vivian was much struck by the appearance of the little settlement as he - rode through it. It did not consist of more than fifty houses, but they - were all detached, and each beautifully embowered in trees. The end of the - village came upon a large rising green, leading up to the only accessible - side of the castle. It presented a most animated scene, being covered with - various groups, all intent upon different rustic amusements. An immense - pole, the stem of a gigantic fir-tree, was fixed nearly in the centre of - the green, and crowned with a chaplet, the reward of the most active young - man of the village, whose agility might enable him to display his - gallantry by presenting it to his mistress, she being allowed to wear it - during the remainder of the sports. The middle-aged men were proving their - strength by raising weights; while the elders of the village joined in the - calmer and more scientific diversion of skittles, which in Austria are - played with bowls and pins of very great size. Others were dancing; others - sitting under tents, chattering or taking refreshments. Some were walking - in pairs, anticipating the speedy celebration of a wedding day happier to - them, if less gay to others. Even the tenderest infants on this festive - day seemed conscious of some unusual cause of excitement, and many an - urchin, throwing himself forward in a vain attempt to catch an elder - brother or a laughing sister, tried the strength of his leading-strings, - and rolled over, crowing in the soft grass. - </p> - <p> - At the end of the green a splendid tent was erected, with a large white - bridal flag waving from its top, embroidered in gold, with a true lover’s - knot. From this pavilion came forth, to welcome the strangers, the lord of - the village. He was a tall but thin bending figure, with a florid - benevolent countenance, and a quantity of long white hair. This venerable - person cordially offered his hand to Vivian, regretted his accident, but - expressed much pleasure that he had come to partake of their happiness. - “Yesterday,” continued he, “was my daughter’s wedding day, and both myself - and our humble friends are endeavouring to forget, in this festive scene, - our approaching loss and separation. If you had come yesterday you would - have assisted at the opening of my new bridge. Pray what do you think of - it? But I will show it to you myself, which I assure you will give me - great pleasure; at present let me introduce you to my family, who will be - quite happy to see you. It is a pity that you have missed the Regatta; my - daughter is just going to reward the successful candidate. You see the - boats upon the lake; the one with the white and purple streamer was the - conqueror. You will have the pleasure, too, of seeing my son-in-law; I am - sure you will like him; he quite enjoys our sports. We shall have a fête - champêtre to-morrow, and a dance on the green to-night.” - </p> - <p> - The old gentleman paused for want of breath, and having stood a moment to - recover himself, he introduced his new guests to the inmates of the tent: - first, his maiden sister, a softened facsimile of himself; behind her - stood his beautiful and blushing daughter, the youthful bride, wearing on - her head a coronal of white roses, and supported by three bridesmaids, the - only relief to whose snowy dresses were large bouquets on their left side. - The bridegroom was at first shaded by the curtain; but as he came forward - Vivian started when he recognised his Heidelburg friend, Eugene von - Konigstein! - </p> - <p> - Their mutual delight and astonishment were so great that for an instant - neither of them could speak; but when the old man learnt from his - son-in-law that the stranger was his most valued and intimate friend, and - one to whom he was under great personal obligations, he absolutely - declared that he would have the wedding, to witness which appeared to him - the height of human felicity, solemnised over again. The bride blushed, - the bridesmaids tittered, the joy was universal. - </p> - <p> - Vivian inquired after the Baron. He learnt from Eugene that he had quitted - Europe about a month, having sailed as Minister to one of the New American - States. “My uncle,” continued the young man, “was neither well nor in - spirits before his departure. I cannot understand why he plagues himself - so about politics; however, I trust he will like his new appointment. You - found him, I am sure, a delightful companion.” - </p> - <p> - “Come! you two young gentlemen,” said the father-in-law, “put off your - chat till the evening. The business of the day stops, for I see the - procession coming forward to receive the Regatta prize. Now, my dear! - where is the scarf? You know what to say? Remember, I particularly wish to - do honour to the victor! The sight of all these happy faces makes me feel - quite young again. I declare I think I shall live a hundred years!” - </p> - <p> - The procession advanced. First came a band of young children strewing - flowers, then followed four stout boys carrying a large purple and white - banner. The victor, proudly preceding the other candidates, strutted - forward, with his hat on one side, a light scull decorated with purple and - white ribbons in his right hand, and his left arm round his wife’s waist. - The wife, a beautiful young woman, to whom were clinging two fat - flaxen-headed children, was the most interesting figure in the procession. - Her tight dark bodice set off her round full figure, and her short red - petticoat displayed her springy foot and ankle. Her neatly braided and - plaited hair was partly concealed by a silk cap, covered with gold - spangled gauze, flattened rather at the top, and finished at the back of - the head with a large bow. This costly head-gear, the highest fashion of - her class, was presented to the wearer by the bride, and was destined to - be kept for festivals. After the victor and his wife came six girls and - six boys, at the side of whom walked a very bustling personage in black, - who seemed extremely interested about the decorum of the procession. A - long train of villagers succeeded. - </p> - <p> - “Well!” said the old Lord to Vivian, “this must be a very gratifying sight - to you! How fortunate that your carriage broke down just at my castle! I - think my dear girl is acquitting herself admirably. Ah! Eugene is a happy - fellow, and I have no doubt that she will be happy too. The young sailor - receives his honours very properly: they are as nice a family as I know. - Observe, they are moving off now to make way for the pretty girls and - boys. That person in black is our Abbé, as benevolent, worthy a creature - as ever lived! and very clever too: you will see in a minute. Now they are - going to give us a little bridal chorus, after the old fashion, and it is - all the Abbé’s doing. I understand that there is an elegant allusion to my - new bridge in it, which I think will please you. Who ever thought that - bridge would be opened for my girl’s wedding? Well! I am glad that it was - not finished before. But we must be silent’ You will notice that part - about the bridge; it is in the fifth verse, I am told, beginning with - something about Hymen, and ending with something about roses.” - </p> - <p> - By this time the procession had formed a semicircle before the tent, the - Abbé standing In the middle, with a paper in his hand, and dividing the - two hands of choristers. He gave a signal with his cane, and the girls - commenced:— - </p> -<pre xml:space="preserve"> - <i>Chorus of Maidens</i> -</pre> - <p> - Hours fly! it is Morn; he has left the bed of love! She follows him with a - strained eye when his figure is no longer seen; she leans her head upon - her arm. She is faithful to him as the lake to the mountain! - </p> -<pre xml:space="preserve"> - <i>Chorus of Youths</i> -</pre> - <p> - Hours fly! it is Noon; fierce is the restless sun! While he labours he - thinks of her! while he controls others he will obey her! A strong man - subdued by love is like a vineyard silvered by the moon! - </p> -<pre xml:space="preserve"> - <i>Chorus of Youths and Maidens</i> -</pre> - <p> - Hours fly! it is Eve; the soft star lights him to his home; she meets him - as his shadow falls on the threshold! she smiles, and their child, - stretching forth its tender hands from its mother’s bosom, struggles to - lisp “Father!” - </p> -<pre xml:space="preserve"> - <i>Chorus of Maidens</i> -</pre> - <p> - Years glide! it is Youth; they sit within a secret bower. Purity is in her - raptured eyes, Faith in his warm embrace. He must fly! He kisses his - farewell: the fresh tears are on her cheek! He has gathered a lily with - the dew upon its leaves! - </p> -<pre xml:space="preserve"> - <i>Chorus of Youths</i> -</pre> - <p> - Years glide! it is Manhood. He is in the fierce Camp: he is in the - deceitful Court. He must mingle sometimes with others, that he may be - always with her! In the false world, she is to him like a green olive - among rocks! - </p> -<pre xml:space="preserve"> - <i>Chorus of Youths and Maidens</i> -</pre> - <p> - Years glide! it is Old Age. They sit beneath a branching elm. As the moon - rises on the sunset green, their children dance before them! Her hand is - in his; they look upon their children, and then upon each other! - </p> - <p> - “The fellow has some fancy,” said the old Lord, “but given, I think, to - conceits. I did not exactly catch the passage about the bridge, but I have - no doubt it was all right.” - </p> - <p> - Vivian was now invited to the pavilion, where refreshments were prepared. - Here our hero was introduced to many other guests, relations of the - family, who were on a visit at the castle, and who had been on the lake at - the moment of his arrival. - </p> - <p> - “This gentleman,” said the old Lord, pointing to Vivian, “is my son’s - friend, and I am quite sure that you are all delighted to see him. He - arrived here accidentally, his carriage having fortunately broken down in - passing one of the streams. All those rivulets should have bridges built - over them! I could look at my new bridge for ever. I often ask myself, - ‘Now, how can such a piece of masonry ever be destroyed?’ It seems quite - impossible, does not it? We all know that everything has an end; and yet, - whenever I look at that bridge, I often think that it can only end when - all things end.” - </p> - <p> - In the evening they all waltzed upon the green. The large yellow moon had - risen, and a more agreeable sight than to witness two or three hundred - persons so gaily occupied, and in such a scene, is not easy to imagine. - How beautiful was the stern old castle, softened by the moonlight, the - illumined lake, the richly-silvered foliage of the woods, and the white - brilliant cataract! - </p> - <p> - As the castle was quite full of visitors, its hospitable master had lodged - Vivian for the night at the cottage of one of his favourite tenants. - Nothing would give greater pleasure to Vivian than this circumstance, nor - more annoyance to the worthy old gentleman. - </p> - <p> - The cottage belonged to the victor in the Regatta, who himself conducted - the visitor to his dwelling. Vivian did not press Essper’s leaving the - revellers, so great an acquisition did he seem to their sports! teaching - them a thousand new games, and playing all manner of antics; but perhaps - none of his powers surprised them more than the extraordinary facility and - freedom with which he had acquired and used all their names. The - cottager’s pretty wife had gone home an hour before her husband, to put - her two fair-haired children to bed and prepare her guest’s accommodation - for the night. Nothing could be more romantic and lovely than the - situation of the cottage. It stood just on the gentle slope of the - mountain’s base, not a hundred yards from the lower waterfall. It was in - the middle of a patch of highly-cultivated ground, which bore creditable - evidence to the industry of its proprietor. Fruit trees, Turkey corn, - vines, and flax flourished in luxuriance. The dwelling itself was covered - with myrtle and arbutus, and the tall lemon-plant perfumed the window of - the sitting-room. The casement of Vivian’s chamber opened full on the - foaming cataract. The distant murmur of the mighty waterfall, the gentle - sighing of the trees, the soothing influence of the moonlight, and the - faint sounds occasionally caught of dying revelry, the joyous exclamation - of some successful candidate in the day’s games, the song of some - returning lover, the plash of an oar in the lake: all combined to produce - that pensive mood in which we find ourselves involuntarily reviewing the - history of our life. - </p> - <p> - As Vivian was musing over the last harassing months of his burthensome - existence he could not help feeling that there was only one person in the - world on whom his memory could dwell with solace and satisfaction, and - this person was Lady Madeleine Trevor! - </p> - <p> - It was true that with her he had passed some agonising hours; but he could - not forget the angelic resignation with which her own affliction had been - borne, and the soothing converse by which his had been alleviated. This - train of thought was pursued till his aching mind sunk into - indefiniteness. He sat for some little time almost unconscious of - existence, till the crying of a child, waked by its father’s return, - brought him back to the present scene. His thoughts naturally ran to his - friend Eugene. Surely this youthful bridegroom might reckon upon - happiness! Again Lady Madeleine recurred to him. Suddenly he observed a - wonderful appearance in the sky. The moon was paled in the high heavens, - and surrounded by luminous rings, almost as vividly tinted as the rainbow, - spreading and growing fainter, till they covered nearly half the - firmament. It was a glorious and almost unprecedented halo! - </p> - <p> - <a name="link2HCH0079" id="link2HCH0079"> - <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> - </p> - <div style="height: 4em;"> - <br /><br /><br /><br /> - </div> - <h2> - CHAPTER IV - </h2> - <p> - The sun rose red, the air was thick and hot. Anticipating that the day - would be very oppressive, Vivian and Essper were on their horses’ backs at - an early hour. Already, however, many of the rustic revellers were about, - and preparations were commencing for the fête champêtre, which this day - was to close the wedding festivities. Many and sad were the looks which - Essper George cast behind him at the old castle on the lake. “No good luck - can come of it!” said he to his horse; for Vivian did not encourage - conversation. “O! master of mine, when wilt thou know the meaning of good - quarters! To leave such a place, and at such a time! Why, Turriparva was - nothing to it! The day before marriage and the hour before death is when a - man thinks least of his purse and most of his neighbour. O! man, man, what - art thou, that the eye of a girl can make thee so pass all discretion that - thou wilt sacrifice for the whim of a moment good cheer enough to make - thee last an age!” - </p> - <p> - Vivian had intended to stop and breakfast after riding about ten miles; - but he had not proceeded half that way when, from the extreme sultriness - of the morning, he found it impossible to advance without refreshment. - Max, also, to his rider’s surprise, was much distressed; and, on turning - round to his servant, Vivian found Essper’s hack panting and puffing, and - breaking out, as if, instead of commencing their day’s work, they were - near reaching their point of destination. - </p> - <p> - “Why, how now, Essper? One would think that we had been riding all night. - What ails the beast?” - </p> - <p> - “In truth, sir, that which ails its rider; the poor dumb brute has more - sense than some who have the gift of speech. Who ever heard of a horse - leaving good quarters without much regretting the indiscretion?” - </p> - <p> - “The closeness of the air is so oppressive that I do not wonder at even - Max being distressed. Perhaps when the sun is higher, and has cleared away - the vapours, it may be more endurable: as it is, I think we had better - stop at once and breakfast here. This wood is as inviting as, I trust, are - the contents of your basket!” - </p> - <p> - “St. Florian devour them!” said Essper, in a very pious voice, “if I agree - not with you, sir; and as for the basket, although we have left the land - of milk and honey, by the blessing of our Black Lady! I have that within - it which would put courage in the heart of a caught mouse. Although we may - not breakfast on bridecake and beccaficos, yet is a neat’s tongue better - than a fox’s tail; and I have ever held a bottle of Rhenish to be superior - to rain-water, even though the element be filtered through a gutter. Nor, - by All Saints! have I forgotten a bottle of Kerchen Wasser from the Black - Forest, nor a keg of Dantzic brandy, a glass of which, when travelling at - night, I am ever accustomed to take after my prayers; for I have always - observed that, though devotion doth sufficiently warm up the soul, the - body all the time is rather the colder for stopping under a tree to tell - its beads.” - </p> - <p> - The travellers accordingly led their horses a few yards into the wood, and - soon met, as they had expected, with a small green glade. It was - surrounded, except at the slight opening by which they had entered it, - with fine Spanish chestnut trees, which now, loaded with their large brown - fruit, rich and ripe, clustered in the starry foliage, afforded a retreat - as beautiful to the eye as its shade was grateful to their senses. Vivian - dismounted, and, stretching out his legs, leant back against the trunk of - a tree: and Essper, having fastened Max and his own horse to some - branches, proceeded to display his stores. Vivian was silent, thoughtful, - and scarcely tasted anything: Essper George, on the contrary, was in - unusual and even troublesome spirits, and had not his appetite necessarily - produced a few pauses in his almost perpetual rattle, the patience of his - master would have been fairly worn out. At length Essper had devoured the - whole supply; and as Vivian not only did not encourage his remarks, but - even in a peremptory manner had desired his silence, he was fain to amuse - himself by trying to catch in his mouth a large brilliant fly which every - instant was dancing before him. Two individuals more singularly - contrasting in their appearance than the master and the servant could - scarcely be conceived; and Vivian, lying with his back against a tree, - with his legs stretched out, his arms folded, and his eyes fixed on the - ground; and Essper, though seated, in perpetual motion, and shifting his - posture with feverish restlessness, now looking over his shoulder for the - fly, then making an unsuccessful bite at it, and then, wearied with his - frequent failures, amusing himself with acting Punch with his thumbs; - altogether presenting two figures, which might have been considered as not - inapt personifications of the rival systems of Ideality and Materialism. - </p> - <p> - At length Essper became silent for the sake of variety, and imagining, - from his master’s example, that there must be some sweets in meditation - hitherto undiscovered by him, he imitated Vivian’s posture! So perverse is - human nature, that the moment Vivian was aware that Essper was perfectly - silent, he began to feel an inclination to converse with him. - </p> - <p> - “Why, Essper!” said he, looking up and smiling, “this is the first time - during our acquaintance that I have ever seen thought upon your brow. What - can now be puzzling your wild brain?” - </p> - <p> - “I was thinking, sir,” said Essper, with a very solemn look, “that if - there were a deceased field-mouse here I would moralise on death.” - </p> - <p> - “What! turned philosopher!” - </p> - <p> - “Ay! sir, it appears to me,” said he, taking up a husk which lay on the - turf, “that there is not a nutshell in Christendom which may not become - matter for very grave meditation!” - </p> - <p> - “Can you expound that?” - </p> - <p> - “Verily, sir, the whole philosophy of life seems to me to consist in - discovering the kernel. When you see a courtier out of favour or a - merchant out of credit, when you see a soldier without pillage, a sailor - without prize money, and a lawyer without paper, a bachelor with nephews, - and an old maid with nieces, be assured the nut is not worth the cracking, - and send it to the winds, as I do this husk at present.” - </p> - <p> - “Why, Essper!” said Vivian, laughing, “Considering that you have taken - your degree so lately, you wear the Doctor’s cap with authority! Instead - of being in your noviciate, one would think that you had been a - philosopher long enough to have outlived your system.” - </p> - <p> - “Bless you, sir, for philosophy, I sucked it in with my mother’s milk. - Nature then gave me the hint, which I have ever since acted on, and I hold - that the sum of all learning consists in milking another man’s cow. So - much for the recent acquisition of my philosophy! I gained it, you see, - sir, with the first wink of my eye; and though I lost a great portion of - it by sea-sickness in the Mediterranean, nevertheless, since I served your - Lordship, I have resumed my old habits, and do opine that this vain globe - is but a large football to be kicked and cuffed about by moody - philosophers!” - </p> - <p> - “You must have seen a great deal in your life, Essper,” said Vivian. - </p> - <p> - “Like all great travellers.” said Essper, “I have seen more than I - remember, and remember more than I have seen.” - </p> - <p> - “Have you any objection to go to the East again?” asked Vivian. “It would - require but little persuasion to lead me there.” - </p> - <p> - “I would rather go to a place where the religion is easier; I wish, sir, - you would take me to England!” - </p> - <p> - “Nay, not there with me, if with others.” - </p> - <p> - “With you, or with none.” - </p> - <p> - “I cannot conceive, Essper, what can induce you to tie up your fortunes - with those of such a sad-looking personage as myself.” - </p> - <p> - “In truth, sir, there is no accounting for tastes. My grandmother loved a - brindled cat!” - </p> - <p> - “Your grandmother, Essper! Nothing would amuse me more than to be - introduced to your family.” - </p> - <p> - “My family, sir, are nothing more nor less than what all of us must be - counted, worms of five feet long, mortal angels, the world’s epitome, - heaps of atoms which Nature has kneaded with blood into solid flesh, - little worlds of living clay, sparks of heaven, inches of earth, Nature’s - quintessence, moving dust, the little all, smooth-faced cherubim, in whose - souls the Ring of stars has drawn the image of Himself!” - </p> - <p> - “And how many years has breathed the worm of five feet long that I am now - speaking to?” - </p> - <p> - “Good, my Lord, I was no head at calculating from a boy; but I do remember - that I am two days older than one of the planets.” - </p> - <p> - “How is that?” - </p> - <p> - “There was one born in the sky, sir, the day I was christened with a - Turkish crescent.” - </p> - <p> - “Come, Essper,” said Vivian, who was rather interested by the - conversation; Essper, having, until this morning, skilfully avoided any - discourse upon the subject of his birth or family, adroitly turning the - conversation whenever it chanced to approach these subjects, and silencing - inquiries, if commenced, by some ludicrous and evidently fictitious - answer. “Come, Essper,” said Vivian, “I feel by no means in the humour to - quit this shady retreat. You and I have now known each other long, and - gone through much together. It is but fair that I should become better - acquainted with one who, to me, is not only a faithful servant, but what - is more valuable, a faithful friend, I might now almost add, my only one. - What say you to whiling away a passing hour by giving me some sketch of - your curious and adventurous life? If there be anything that you wish to - conceal, pass it over; but no invention, nothing but the truth, if you - please; the whole truth, if you like.” - </p> - <p> - “Why, sweet sir, as for this odd knot of soul and body, which none but the - hand of Heaven could have twined, it was first seen, I believe, near the - very spot where we are now sitting; for my mother, when I saw her first - and last, lived in Bohemia. She was an Egyptian, and came herself from the - Levant. I lived a week, sir, in the Seraglio when I was at Constantinople, - and I saw there the brightest women of all countries, Georgians, and - Circassians, and Poles; in truth, sir, nature’s masterpieces. And yet, by - the Gods of all nations! there was not one of them half so lovely as the - lady who gave me this tongue!” Here Essper exhibited at full length the - enormous feature which had so much enraged the one-eyed sergeant at - Frankfort. - </p> - <p> - “When I first remember myself,” he continued, “I was playing with some - other gipsy-boys in the midst of a forest. Here was our settlement! It was - large and powerful. My mother, probably from her beauty, possessed great - influence, particularly among the men; and yet I found not among them all - a father. On the contrary, every one of my companions had a man whom he - reverenced as his parent, and who taught him to steal; but I was called by - the whole tribe the mother-son, and was honest from my first year out of - mere wilfulness; at least, if I stole anything, it was always from our own - people. Many were the quarrels I occasioned, since, presuming on my - mother’s love and power, I never called mischief a scrape; but acting just - as my fancy took me, I left those who suffered by my conduct to apologise - for my ill-behaviour. Being thus an idle, unprofitable, impudent, and - injurious member of this pure community, they determined one day to cast - me out from their bosom; and in spite of my mother’s exertions and - entreaties, the ungrateful vipers succeeded in their purpose. As a - compliment to my parent, they allowed me to tender my resignation, instead - of receiving my expulsion. My dear mother gave me a donkey, a wallet, and - a ducat, a great deal of advice about my future conduct, and, what was - more interesting to me, much information about my birth. - </p> - <p> - “‘Sweet child of my womb!’ said my mother, pressing me to her bosom; ‘be - proud of thy white hands and straight nose! Thou gottest them not from me, - and thou shalt take them from whence they came. Thy father is a Hungarian - Prince; and though I would not have parted with thee, had I thought that - thou wouldst ever have prospered in our life, even if he had made thee his - child of the law and lord of his castle, still, as thou canst not tarry - with us, haste thou to him! Give him this ring and this lock of hair; tell - him none have seen them but the father, the mother, and the child! He will - look on them, and remember the days that are passed; and thou shalt be - unto him as a hope for his lusty years and a prop for his old age.’ - </p> - <p> - “My mother gave me all necessary directions, which I well remembered, and - much more advice, which I directly forgot. - </p> - <p> - “Although tempted, now that I was a free man, to follow my own fancy, I - still was too curious to sec what kind of a person was my unknown father - to deviate either from my route or my maternal instructions, and in a - fortnight’s time I had reached my future Principality. - </p> - <p> - “The Sun sank behind the proud castle of my princely father, as, trotting - slowly along upon my humble beast, with my wallet slung at my side, I - approached it through his park. A guard, consisting of twenty or thirty - men in magnificent uniforms, were lounging at the portal. I—but sir, - sir, what is the meaning of this darkness? I always made a vow to myself - that I never would tell my history. Ah! what ails me?” - </p> - <p> - A large eagle fell dead at their feet. - </p> - <p> - “Protect me, master!” screamed Essper, seizing Vivian by the shoulder; - “what is coming? I cannot stand; the earth seems to tremble! Is it the - wind that roars and rages? or is it ten thousand cannon blowing this globe - to atoms?” - </p> - <p> - “It is, it must be the wind!” said Vivian, agitated. “We are not safe - under these trees: look to the horses!” - </p> - <p> - “I will,” said Essper, “if I can stand. Out of the forest! Ah, look at - Max!” - </p> - <p> - Vivian turned, and beheld his spirited horse raised on his hind legs, and - dashing his fore feet against the trunk of a tree to which they had tied - him. The terrified and furious creature was struggling to disengage - himself, and would probably have sustained or inflicted some terrible - injury, had not the wind suddenly hushed. Covered with foam, he stood - panting, while Vivian patted and encouraged him. Essper’s less spirited - beast had, from the first, crouched upon the earth, covered with sweat, - his limbs quivering and his tongue hanging out. - </p> - <p> - “Master!” said Essper, “what shall we do? Is there any chance of getting - back to the castle? I am sure our very lives are in danger. See that - tremendous cloud! It looks like eternal night! Whither shall we go; what - shall we do?” - </p> - <p> - “Make for the castle!” said Vivian, mounting. - </p> - <p> - They had just got into the road when another terrific gust of wind nearly - took them off their horses, and blinded them with the clouds of sand which - it drove out of the crevices of the mountains. - </p> - <p> - They looked round on every side, and Hope gave way before the scene of - desolation. Immense branches were shivered from the largest trees; small - ones were entirely stripped of their leaves; the long grass was bowed to - the earth; the waters were whirled in eddies out of the little rivulets; - birds deserting their nests to shelter in the crevices of the rocks, - unable to stem the driving air, flapped their wings and fell upon the - earth: the frightened animals in the plain, almost suffocated by the - impetuosity of the wind, sought safety, and found destruction: some of the - largest trees were torn up by the roots; the sluices of the mountains were - filled, and innumerable torrents rushed down before empty gulleys. The - heavens now open, and lightning and thunder contend with the horrors of - the wind! - </p> - <p> - In a moment all was again hushed. Dead silence succeeded the bellow of the - thunder, the roar of the wind, the rush of the waters, the moaning of the - beasts, the screaming of the birds! Nothing was heard save the splashing - of the agitated lake as it beat up against the black rocks which girt it - in. - </p> - <p> - “Master!” again said Essper, “is this the day of doom?” - </p> - <p> - “Keep by my side. Essper; keep close, make the best of this pause: let us - but reach the village!” - </p> - <p> - Scarcely had Vivian spoken when greater darkness enveloped the trembling - earth. Again the heavens were rent with lightning, which nothing could - have quenched but the descending deluge. Cataracts poured down from the - lowering firmament. In an instant the horses dashed round; beast and - rider, blinded and stifled by the gushing rain, and gasping for breath. - Shelter was nowhere. The quivering beasts reared, and snorted, and sank - upon their knees. The horsemen were dismounted. Vivian succeeded in - hoodwinking Max, who was still furious: the other horse appeared nearly - exhausted. Essper, beside himself with terror, could only hang over his - neck. - </p> - <p> - Another awful calm. - </p> - <p> - “Courage, Essper!” said Vivian. “We are still safe: look up, man! the - storm cannot last long thus; and see! I am sure the clouds are breaking.” - </p> - <p> - The heavy mass of vapour which had seemed to threaten the earth with - instant destruction suddenly parted. The red and lurid Sun was visible, - but his light and heat were quenched in the still impending waters. - </p> - <p> - “Mount, Essper!” said Vivian, “this is our only chance: five minutes’ good - speed will take us to the village.” - </p> - <p> - Encouraged by his master’s example, Essper once more got upon his horse, - and the panting animals, relieved by the cessation of the hurricane, - carried them at a fair pace towards the village, considering that their - road was now impeded by the overflowing of the lake. - </p> - <p> - “Master!” said Essper, “cannot we get out of these waters?” - </p> - <p> - He had scarcely spoken before a terrific burst, a noise, they knew not - what, a rush they could not understand, a vibration which shook them on - their horses, made them start back and again dismount. Every terror sank - before the appalling roar of the cataract. It seemed that the mighty - mountain, unable to support its weight of waters, shook to the foundation. - A lake had burst on its summit, and the cataract became a falling Ocean. - The source of the great deep appeared to be discharging itself over the - range of mountains; the great grey peak tottered on its foundations! It - shook! it fell! and buried in its ruins the castle, the village, and the - bridge! - </p> - <p> - Vivian with starting eyes beheld the whole washed away; instinct gave him - energy to throw himself on the back of his horse: a breath, and he had - leaped up the nearest hill! Essper George, in a state of distraction, was - madly laughing as he climbed to the top of a high tree: his horse was - carried off in the drowning waters, which had now reached the road. - </p> - <p> - “The desolation is complete!” thought Vivian. At this moment the wind - again rose, the rain again descended, the heavens again opened, the - lightning again flashed! An amethystine flame hung upon rocks and waters, - and through the raging elements a yellow fork darted its fatal point at - Essper’s resting-place. The tree fell! Vivian’s horse, with a maddened - snort, dashed down the hill; his master, senseless, clung to his neck; the - frantic animal was past all government; he stood upright in the air, flung - his rider, and fell dead! - </p> - <p> - Here leave we Vivian! It was my wish to have detailed, in the present - portion of this work, the singular adventures which befell him in one of - the most delightful of modern cities, light-hearted Vienna! But his - history has expanded under my pen, and I fear that I have, even now, too - much presumed upon an attention which I am not entitled to command. I am, - as yet, but standing without the gate of the Garden of Romance. True it - is, that as I gaze through the ivory bars of its Golden Portal, I would - fain believe that, following my roving fancy, I might arrive at some green - retreats hitherto unexplored, and loiter among some leafy bowers where - none have lingered before me. But these expectations may be as vain as - those dreams of Youth over which all have mourned. The Disappointment of - Manhood succeeds to the delusion of Youth: let us hope that the heritage - of Old Age is not Despair. - </p> - <p> - THE END - </p> - -<div style='display:block; margin-top:4em'>*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK VIVIAN GREY ***</div> -<div style='text-align:left'> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -Updated editions will replace the previous one—the old editions will -be renamed. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -Creating the works from print editions not protected by U.S. copyright -law means that no one owns a United States copyright in these works, -so the Foundation (and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United -States without permission and without paying copyright -royalties. Special rules, set forth in the General Terms of Use part -of this license, apply to copying and distributing Project -Gutenberg™ electronic works to protect the PROJECT GUTENBERG™ -concept and trademark. 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