Library

University
Cornell

1866

5684.C61
PR

riovel.

Claverings.A
The

970
013
1924
3

564

THE

CLAVERINGS.

Notjel.

BY

TROLLOPE,

ANTHONY

AUTHOR

'CAN

TOU

FORGIVE

"THE

HEEf"
"THE

SMALL
BELTON

"

HOUSE

AT

ESTATE,"

NEW
HARPER

OP

ALLINGTON,"

"o., "c.

YOEK:
PUBLISHERS,

BROTHERS,
FRANKLIN

SQUARE.

18

66.
P

"OELET

FARM,"

Illustrations

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CLAVERINGS.

THE

gate that led

and

"You
said

the

side

his tone

from

"Of

have

escape
As
she

to

to

But

did

vnhy

walk

with

convey

some

and

with

if such

which

violence

were

would

not

she

bounds,

I shall

violence."
and

moment,

smile

lady.

I refused.

therefore

still for

stood

face

that

the

and

you,

prevented by

am

she

seemed

used

in
with-

feel herself

great anger.
no

inclined

When

me

ful,
play-

be

to

mood.

in that

means

refuse

you

be

might

she

though
was
by

he

to

going in, said

am

his

rational

intended

waylaid me,

spoke

indicate

he

to

me

now

into

driven

walking,

"

unless

"

looked

lady was

walked'

in his words.

course

asked

You

house,

there

that

deep reproach
"You

the

to

gentleman.
are
going in, then, Miss Brabazon,"
manifest
gentleman ; and it was
very

her

by

I asked

"And
?" said

you

he.
"For

two

"

she

as

now

dismissed

and

up,

with

thought
you."

old friend."

an

chiefly,"and

herself

drew

conversation

any

is civil to

That

"But

partlybecause

reasons,

to avoid

it better

she

spoke
smile

the

from

her eyes
the
to fall upon
face,and allowed
I thought that
ground; "but
chiefljbecause
Lord
prefer that I should not roam
Ongar would
with
about
alone
Clavering Park
any
young
down
here ; and
that he
gentleman while I am
might Speciallyobject to my roaming with you,
her

he

were

Now
CHAPTER
JULIA

I.

Clavering,and

three

some

sombre

of Sir
of that

I will

with

personages

in the

August,

of lawn
from
to

care

flower-beds
let the

labor

and

were

but

be

in

beautyto
readers

dry.

these

It

dens,
gar-

recommend

to

them

was

quainted
ac-

parterres, beds, and

almost

bits

ugly,

already,then

of

do

me

it may

Over

thing
the

was

burnt

; but
on

care

He

enough ?"
her, between

quaintances.
ac-

be

to

the Clavering

her

what

And

"

do

not

owe

I
any

Prom

the

what
that

yon
will

standing in front of

now

was

and

is it you
to

gate, and

she

made

no

mean

not

None

in

if you
were
him
without
"I
any

should

rate."

the
to

Ongar,

being
have

and

false to
had

an

and

you

that

if

me."

to

come

least ; and

ask him

I suppose

want

fight Lord

did yoii would

you

yellow,adust,
tnrf,toward

?"

effort to leave him.

"

and

likelythat

it

think

you

"
long drought. In gardens
Fight him ! No ; I have
labor are given abundantly, him.
Fighting him would do

every

old

whom

one

whom

to

one

no

what

"

ought

that

it is not.

indeed

"Enough!
know

the

now

especially
any

be

of the

two

to make

bestowed
scantily

Gardens, and

harsh,and

and

I wish

the

that

were

very frank, Mr.

duty."

pretty, and grass will be green,

will be

weather

the

was

followingstory.

effects of

which

which

name

my

think

afraid of offending any

am

love,and

enth
Clavering, the elev-

whom

and

large,square,

and
dry,disfigured,

were

the

the

mansion

introduce

afraid of him

YoiLare

"I

removed

were

Hugh

had but little of

which

of

yardsfrom

looking stone

baronet

them,

Clavering Park

hundred

country-house

end

of

gardens

and
been

enough."

EBABAZON.

"

The

you

I have

that

know

to

no

he
yon

quarrel with
good."

would
could

not

not

fight
ask

"

me.

example

for

that,

at

CLAVEEINGS.

THE

hood,
worship? You are very handsome, HaiTy,and
Clavering. My falseis of you, too, should go into the market and make
to call me
false,
different
Why should you not learn
and
is
a very
by all the best of yourself.
nature,
pardonable
nice girlthat has money to assist
to love some
laws known
in the world."
"You
are
a jilt that is alh"
you?"
"
"Julia!"
Come, Harry, don't use hard words,"and
That's nonsense, Mr.
if you should choose

"

"

she

put her hand

such

at me,

I am,

as

his

kindlyupon
and

and
yourself,

at

thingbut miserycould

say whether any

between
a match

you

and

pounds.

You

af

owe

ten
two

have, perhaps,double

much,

as

"No, madam,
''

not

am

know

Well, well,you

usher at

an

I don't

angry."

you

though we

as

But

liberal income.

have

that you

much

so

younger

month, and

same

I shall

But

have

courage

that

do

never

enough,then,to

ill-used

not

have

whether

Why,

what

at me,

am

you
old woman,
Even
if I were

fool you
tell me

and

fitto be the wife of such

an

life.

as

one

entering the world

are

and

lived

shall have

fit to be

your mate
I fit,
after

am
livinghere together,

were

I have

what

Look

the time

By
you.
I shall be
we

be I

me

tell me

?"

me

I have.
"Certainly

going to

am

instantly.I

to-day."

You

"

am
a
At the present moment
my
look forward when
and, ifI remained so, 1 might fairly

to

sort of cousin.

after

ter,
schoolmas-

"

born in the

were

If you

called Julia.

leave you

Harry, as being

call you

may
"

would
make

not be

and
do I will be insulted,

You

school."
to

mean

No, sir ; I will

"

six hundred

this moment

lose half of that if you married.

usher at a school."

an

of

years older
hundred
a

and would
are

then

come

Our ages by the

me.

the same, but 'I am

are
register
I have
than yon by the world.
year, and

Look

"

arm.

done

and

seen

during the last

reallydo
cause any good to any one
if I were
to jilt,
as
matrimony beyou call
it.Lord Ongar, and tell them all your cousin.
you are going to giveup your profession.
and your father
that
kiiows what
heaven
Sir Hugh, and my sister,
Now
Lord Ongar has
I was
going to keep myselfup, and marry you
perhapssixtythousand a year."
"
heard such effrontery
In all my lifeI never
when you were
ready for me ?"
shameless worldliness."
"You
such barefaced,
to say that the.evil is done."
mean
"
I owe
At the present moment
No, indeed.
Why should I not love a man with a large
six hundred
and I don't know
where to
income ?"
pounds,
,
husband
be
turn
for it,so that my
not
He is old enough to be your father."
may
"He
is thirty-six,
and I am
twenty-four." dunned for my debts as soon as he has married
have been for you
What
me.
a wife I should
"Thirty-six!"
"There
is the Peerage for you to look at. should I not?"
" I could
But,my dear Harry,do you not know that you
pounds for yon
pay the six hundred
for
?
and
too
with
that I have earned
are
me
nothing
pei-plexing
myself,though
yourself
money
here from Nice, you do call me
I came
I was fool enough when
usher ; and perhaps would
an
to me
after papa's
ask fewer questions
about it than Lord Ongar
death,to let you talk nonsense
givethat up."
You

"

years ?

two

will not be

Do

you

think

it would

fitfor

more

"

"

"

"

"

' '

"

"

for

month

"Did

you

or

two."

or

did you

will do with

that you loved

not swear

"Dear

all his thousands."

Harry, I beg

your pardon about the

Of course, I know
that you are a fellow
and that St. Cuthbert's,
where
college,

me?"

usher.

I did not Imagine that

Oh, Mr. Clavering,
would
have
condescended to take
strength
your
of a woman.
such advantageover
the weakness
I remember
oaths of any kind,and what
no
foolish assertions I may have made, I am
not
goingto repeat. It must have become manifest
to you duringthese two
years that all that was
If it be a pleasureto you to look
a
romance.
I can not deprive
back to it,of that pleasure
you.
sometimes
look back.
But
I
also
Perhaps
may
I shall never
speakof that time again; and you,
if you are as noble as I take you to be,will not
speak of it either. I know you would not wish
me."
to injure

of your
you teach the

"

"

I would
are

you

wish

to

bringing

on

save

yourself."

that you must

myself. Lord Ongar
"In

and
"

no

I intend to be
How

about

"And

to

love

man

can

win

from

you

true

allow

me

to

him

"

England ;

I think you
try for it."
"I

have

"

woman's

going into

the

you'llbe a judge. I know you'llbe

and that you'll
do it all
distinguished,
yourself.You are distinguished
already.If
I should preyou could onlyknow how infinitely
fer
your lot to mine I Oh, Harry,I envy you,!

Then

I do envy

feet,and

wife, you

and useful."
you

all idea of

great and

but

think that

love,unless

as

tinue
con-

structive
deabsolutely

thouglifor a while it mightafford

pleasantrelaxation to your graver studies.
to me,

he is

filledto the brim with poetry,and has a neck

like your
like Lord Byron,and is handsome

ruin you ?
You
know
it as well
selfish enough to wish to
are
which would be
romance

do ; but you
a

Do

given up

"

church."

love ?"

him, sir.

boys,is one of the grandestschools

be a bishop nay,
hope you'll
if you make
will,
to
up your mind
and I

you ! You have got the ball at your

the world before you, and
win
can
the misery every thingfor yourself."
"But nothingis any thingwithout
your love."
look after
"Pshaw!
Love.indeed. What could I do for

wants
certainly
to

in

have

Harry,you can choose in the world. You

and law, and literature,
divinity,
and art.

CLAVERINGS.

THE

love nowbytlie
Andif dejbarredfrora
exigenciesthere on
of labor,
you will be as fit for love in ten years'
you
time

you are at present."

I do love now."

as

"But
"Be

man,
is not to be

Love

"I

then,and keep it
our

that

even

into the house

go

temptation. I
Hugh is there,

when

yourself.
except about twice a year on solemn invitation
can
choose, justto prevent there beinga familyquarrel."
choice
no
Good-by,then, and she offered Mm her
"

I say ; but I have had no choice

but to be married well,or to go out like a snufF
I don't like the snufF of a canof a candle.
dle,

as

"

going

I am
and, therefore,

row,
to-mor-

to

You

master.

decline

must

never

the day after

thirty-first;

the

know."

to

be

hand.

Good-by,if it must

"

married

well."

"

"

"I

be so."

whether

don't know

to

mean

you

grace

marriage?"

my

I shall be away from Clavering,

not.
Certainly
it not
bellsmay not wound
so that the marriage
I'shall be at
suffice?
You are very uncivil,
For the matter
of that,
cousin,and very my ears.
unlike the rest of the world.
pliments the school."
Everybody com-

And

"

"It

that suffices
?"

me

only rich,but

man

of talent."
"Are
"And
"

of that kind

yourself?"

of life?"

of it.

not

Most

ery
ev-

mean

to have

said of

ever

me.

Harry."
Good-by,
Julia."
Good-by,

day in town."

some

My

and

ways

Lord

be

the placeis so
often,

But you will not do

dull and unattractive."

"

It is the dearest old

park."

"

You

that

in the house.

you

won't

for old

much

care

parksas Lady

Ongar."
what I may care
about as
will
Brabazon
I
but
now
Julia
as
Lady Ongar ;
Then they
say good-by for the last time."
don't know

"You

lady returned to the great house,

made his way across
the
Clavering
Harry

and
parted,
while

the

park toward

the

rectory.

in the
years before this scene
had
at ClaveringPark,Lord Brabazon

gardens

Three

whom

One

at

introduced.

justbeen

reader has

the

died

the lady
daughter,

unmarried

Nice,leavingone
to

"

shall meet

we

probablynot.

to meet

be fond of

to

mean

thing that Lord Ongar likes. I know that

change him, and, therefore I shall not
try."
"You
Miss Brabazon."
are rightthere,
"
to be impertinent,
You mean
sir;but I will
last meeting
This is to be our
not take it so.
and I wgn't acknowledgethat I am
in private,
be over
insulted. But it must
now, Harry ; and
here I have been pacing round and round the
gardenwith you, in spiteof ray refusal justnow.
It must
not be repeat'ed,
or thingswill be said
I do

I suppose

if I
even
altogether
different,
If you
shohld succeed in getting
up to London
to see Hermione
ever
come
here,I may chance

I can't

which

"
"

Ongar's will

you fond of race-horses

fond of them."

Very fond

should

my marriage. Lord Ongar is

he is a man
and a
of fashion,

on

not

"Very

"

And why

suffice.

must

ready
daughterhe had, wTio was then aland Lady
married to Sir Hugh Clavering,

other

let it pass.
And rethat once
member
mention
of whom
the Hermione
this; I have told you all my hopes, Clavering
was
Lord Brabazon,whose
has already
been made.
and my one
trouble. I have been thus open
had descended to him in a direct line
with you because I thought it might serve
to peerage
of
in
I
from
times of the Plantagenetg,
was
one
make
look
the
at
a
things
rightlight.
you

Well, for

"

trust

honor

to your

''

gentleman to repeat

those

with

those."

of whom

nobles

unfortunate

burdened

to repeatsuch
given,
thingsas

not

am

as

I have said to you."

nothingthat

equalto

their rank.

and
life,

had

England

have

few,who

but

is

means

no

had married late in

He

died without

heir.

male

The

from the Plantagenets

And 1 hope you titlewhich had come
was
you are not.
about
the
last
lord
in which they now
and
when
will not misunderstand the spirit
died,
;
lapsed
have been spoken. I shair never
regretwhat I four hundred a year was divided between his
have told you now, if it tends to make you perceive two daughters. The elder had alreadymade
in marexcellent match,as regarded
rying
both regard our past acthat we
must
an
fortune,
quaintance
"I'm

sure

as

stern

which

we

have

which must, from the

as a dream

romance,

of
necessity

be treated
things,

dreamt, or

poem

which

we

read."

have

You can treat it as you please."

bless you, Harry; and I will
"God
and hear of your
hope for yOur welfare,
"

with
them

joy. Will you come

on Thursday?"

success

shoot

with

to

do it as

at

sort

of

up

to

the house.

Lord

much

the

younger

splendid

more

present.

Harry Claveringit perhapsmay not

be necessary to say much in the way of description.
The
attentive reader will have already
And

of

nearlyallthat
gathered
he
He

makes
was

should be known

himself known
the

onlyson

by

of him

his

own

of the Reverend

uncle of
head-keeper.
Henry Clavering,rector of Clavering,
and brother of
the present Sir Hugh Clavering,
vering,
The Eeverend
the last Sir Hugh.
Henry Cla-

I know, tlian that of an

higherposition,
usher,but it doesn't suit me."
"
Oh, HaiTv, that is so cruel ! But you will
eome

to make

match in her alliance with Lord Ongar. Of them

I do not know that it is necessary to say much

No; Hugh and I do before

Hugh?
I deeds.
hit it off together,if I shot at Clavering,

should have
It's

Hugh Clavering; and

about

was,now

more

always

with

"What,
not

up and

Sir

Ongar

will be

and his
his wife,
and Mrs. Clavering,

daughters,
Mary

and

two

lived
Fanny Clavering,

al-

CLAVERINGS.

THE
ways

CUveringRectory,on

at

the outskirts of

And

who

the

and
enjj^s

the usher

say where

can

erly
begins? He, perhaps,may propis hired by a private
the house. The church stood in the park,about
usher who
be called an
schoolmaster
to assist himself in his private
midway between the two residences. When I
have named
whereas Harry Claveringhad been
vering,
one
more
occupation,
Clavering,
Captain Cladidates,
selected
Archibald
Sir
a
Captain
by publicbody out of a hundred canClavering, Hugh's
reference
real or pretended
with much
and when
I shall have said also that
brother,
ly
certainHe was
both Sir Hugh and CaptainClavering were
to certificates of qualification.
men
hundred
a
three
fond of pleasure
and fond of money, I shall have
not an usher,as he was
paid
is quitebeyond the
which
said all that I need now
for
his
the
about
work,
Clavering
year
say
certain ; but yet
So much
was
mark of ushers.
^ily at large.
comfortable.
niscencethe word stuck in his throat and made him unremihad indulgedin some
Julia Brabazon
He did not like to reflect that he
of the romance
of her past poeticlife
she talked of consinship
home
for the holidays.
when
between her and
was
But he had determined that he would never
Harry Clavering. Her sister was the wife of
mas
first cousin,
home
for J;he
but between her
come
holidaysagain. At ChristHarry Clavering's
he would leave the school at which he had
and Harry there was
whatever.
no
relationship
and
had died at Nice she won
his appointmentwith so much
When
old Lord Brabazon
trouble,
had come
to ClaveringPark, and had created
profession.Indeed he had
go into an
open
of entering
and his mode
astonishment
those who knew Sir chosen his profession,
some
among
and perlishment.it. He would become
a civilengineer,
Hngh by making good her footingin his estabhaps

ClaveringPark, at

He
wife's
of

fuU

the

not

was

and make
sister,

charityor
who

from
had

fashionable

domestic

no
withal,

to take

man

his house

been

was

her

love.

handsome

doubt may

influence ; but Sir Hugh

from

mile's distance

Lady

and

much

would

out

enter

surveyor, and with this view he

himself as a pupilin the great house

of Beilby and
vering,
Cla-

woman

have had

man

land

up

home,

schoolmaster

been

settled.

hundred

some

prone

Burton.
He

was

pounds

and

settled in the

terms

had

even

of five

premium

join Mr. Burton,who was

for twelve months
Stratton,

of

town

The
to pay

office in
presumed before he placedhimself in Mr. Beilby's
that Julia Brabazon
Stratton was
less than twenty miles
had made
herself agreeableLondon.
in the house, and probablyalso useful.
from Clavering.It was a comfort to him to think
She
had been taken to London
throughtwo seasons, that he could pay this five hundred pounds ont
and had there held up her head
the of his own
his father.
earnings,without troubling
among
bravest.
And
she had been taken abroad
for It was
a comfort,even
thoughhe had earned that
Sir Hugh did not love ClaveringPark, except money
for the last two years.
by " ushering"
When
six
weeks
he left Julia Brabazon
of
and
she
in the garden,
during
partridge-shooting
;
had been at Newmarket
did not go at once home
with them, and at the Harry Clavering
to the
house of a certain fast huntingduke with whom
rectory,but sauntered out all alone into the park,
Sir Hugh was
intimate ; and at Brighton with
intendingto indulgein reminiscences of his past
her sister,
when
It was
it suited Sir Hngh to remain
all over, that idea of having
romance.
alone at the duke's ; and then again up in Lonfor his love ; and now
don, Julia Brabazon
he had to
where
she finally
with ask himself whether
he intended to be made
arranged matters
Lord Ongar. It was
acknowledgedby all the permanentlymiserable by her worldlyfalseness,
friends of the two
whether
and indeed I may
he would
or
borrow something of her
families,
bazon
Brathe
and agree with himself to look
worldly
wisdom,
say of the three families now
among
and the back on what was
people,and the Claveringpeople,
excitement
past as a pleasurable
in his boyhood. Of course
Courton people Lord Ongar'sfamilyname
was
that
we all know
that Julia Brabazon
Courton
had been very really
permanent miserywas in truth out of the
clever.
Of her and Harry Claveringtogether question.Nature had not made him physically
said a word.
had ever
If any words
or mentally
no
one
so poor a creature
as to be incapable
to

follow his

own

It

courses.

must

be

"

"

"

"

had been

Herraione

the

been

spokenbetween her and

the two sisters had
subject,

on

discreet

of

But

cure.

on

this occasion

misery.

permanent

There

he decided
about

was

on

his heart

that they should go no farhis actual anatomical

to manage
ther. ^about
with its internal
heart,
In those short months
of Julia's romance
arrangement of valves and blood-vessels
Sir Hugh had been away
from Clavering,
a heavydragging
and
feel that almost amounted
Hermione
had been
much
occupiedin giving to corporealpain,and which he described

enough

"

to

birth to

an

short

one

sonnet,and

heir,

Julia had

now

lived past her

written her one

spellof poetry,had
was
preparedfor the business

of the

world.

CHAPTER
HAERT

CLAVEEING

HIS

as

agony.

Claveking

he was
but,nevertheless,

might
home

not

should

lord
disreputable

takingthe cup

from

his

this rich,debauched,

have

lip,the

the power
morsel

of
of

one

bread which

he coveted

And

had
Harry (.Havering

in truth

PB0FB8SI0N.

for Lord
Haebt

Why

from Ins mouth, his one

ingotof treasure out of his coffer ? Fight him !
No, he knew he could not fightLord Ongar.
The
world was
againstsuch an arrangement.

II.

CHOOSES

himself

be

an

usher, fight
so

for the holidavs.

poor

Ongar
creature.

tremens, and

was

so

that he had

The
a

man

much
no

had

tempt
con-

wish
had

to

lirium
de-

worn-out, miserable

CLAVEEINGS.

THE

object.So
too readyto
Lord

Harry Claveringwas

at least
believe.
in

Ongar

.He did

the

matter.

not

care

only

much

called him

times

for

His

anger was
have deserted him

But

boy.
check ?

As

to

dear genfoolish,
indiscreet,
erous

what

she

was

had

that,she

do with the

to

hardlyas yet made

she joined
her sisteron the
up her mind when
; that she should
she
for a miserable creature,who had nothingto morning in question. Even to Hermione
did not dare tellthe fact that such a letterhad
back him but wealth and rank.
wretchedness in every view of the been received by her.
There was
But in truth her debts were
He loved her so well,and yet ho could
a great torment
matter.

her
against

ing
to her; and yet how
trifling
nothing! He could take no steptoward savthey were when
himself.
The marriagebells compared with the wealth of the man
who was
her or assisting
would ringwithin a month from the presenttime, to become her husband in six weeks ! Let her
and his own father would go to the church and
marry him, and not pay them, and he probably
Lord
would
be the wiser.
Unless
die
them.
to
Ongar
were
never
They would get
marry
themselves paid almost without his knowledge,
before then by God's hand, there could be no
without his hearingof them.
and of such escape Harry Clavering perhapsaltogether
escape
had no thought. He felt a weary, draggingBut yet she feared him, knowing him to be
at his heart,and told himself that he
soreness
greedyabout money ; and, to give her such
due to her,she feltthe meanness
be miserable forever not so miserable but merit as was
must
der.
what he would work, but so wretched that the of goingto her husband with debts on her shoulShe had five thousand pounds of her own ;
world could have for him no satisfaction.
What
could he do?
What
thing could he but the very settlement which gave her a noble
that he did not
achieve so that she should know
so brilliant,
dower,and which made the marriage
let her go from him without more
to her
thoughtthan made over this small sum in its entirety

do

"

"

? He was perfectyer
lord. She had been wrong not to tell the lawhis poor words had expressed
ly
the paof her trouble when he had bi'ought
that in their conversation she had had
aware
per

for her to sign; but she had not told him.

er
quite If Sir Hugh Claveringhad been her own brothbut he
there would have been no difiiculty,
She had treated him de haut
like a woman.
and she feared to
bas with allthat superiority
which youth and was
en
onlyher brother-in-law,
knew
that
him.
Her
a
to
to
woman
over
a
sister,
however,
speak
give
very
young
young
beauty
she was
there were
What could he do ? Before he returned
man.
debts,and on that subject
the best of the
like

almost

argument

boy, while

that he

"

she had

had

talked

talked

the rectory,he had made

up his mind what
morning Julia
do,and on the following
Bi'abazon received by the hands of her maid the

not afraid to

note
following

this morning."
clugh's

to

"

he would

"I think I understood allthat you said to me

yesterday.At any rate,I understand that you
and that I have the means
have one trouble left,
of curingit." In the firstdraft of his letter he
but that he omitted
said somethingabout ushering,
' ' You
be
that
the
assured
afterward.
may
inclosed is all my
my

own

own,

You
disposal.

and that it is entirely

at
sure
may also be quite

H. C."
of good faith on the part of the lender.
in this letterhe inclosed a check for six
the money
which he
hundred pounds. It was
and had been
liad saved since he took his degree,
But
intended for Messrs. Beilbyand Burton.
to
he would wait another two years continuing
ter
do his usheringfor her sake. What did it mat"

And

man

who must, under

"

this money

that I

owe

I got

I to do about
Col-

bill from

to be
"Just because he knows you'refgoing
married ; that's all."
"
But how am I to pay him ?"
"Take
notice of it tillnext spring.I
no
don't know
what else you can do. You'll be
back from
when you come
to have money
sure
the Continent."
"You
couldn't lend it me, could you?"
have
I?
Did you ever know me
"Who?
I
married?
in hand since I was
any money

have

the

of

name

spent before

it

an

comes

but
allowance,
to me,

and I

it is
am

always
always

in debt."

let me have it?"

Hugh
"What, giveit you?"
any circumstances, "Well, it wouldn't be so very much
"Would

"

to

speakto Hermione.
Hermy,"said she, what am

"

for him.

asked him for a pound yet."

Sir Hugh was not yet at Clavering.He was
"I think he would say somethingyou wouldn't
with Lord Ongar on the eve of the parlike if you were to ask him ; but,of course, you
to come
tridge-shooting.
had
The two sisters,
can
therefore,
try it if you please."
"Then
At about twelve
what am I to do?"
the house all to themselves.
"Lord
Ongar should have let you keep your
they sat down to breakfast togetherin a little
be

miserable
permanently

chamber
up-stairs

never

own
Lady Clavering's
adjoining

fortune.

It would

have

been nothingto

room, Julia Brabazon at that time having him."

"
tune."
her lover's generous letter in her pCcket. She
Hugh didn't let you keep your own forit
was
as improperas
knew that it was
ous,
generwhich
the mon"y
will be nothing to
and that,
very dangerous. "But
moreover, it was
You're
a good deal to Hugh.
There was
no knowing what might be the result Lord Ongar was
of such a letter should Lord Ongar even know
going to have sixtythousand a year, while wc
ly
have to do with seven
or
eight. Besides,1
that she had received it. She was not absolutebeen out in London, and it wasn't likely
hadn't
but
to
with
herself,
had,
twenty
Han-y,
angi-y
own

CLAVEEINGS.

THE
I should
and

there

"

owe
was

What

am

"Write
what

and

you

BO
to-day,

mucli in Nice.

He

did ask me,

something."
I to do,Hermy ?"
ask Lord Ongar to
out of your

want

that he may

own

he,being

have

let you

Write

money.

get your letter before he

to

Oh dear ! oh dear !

him

done
man

done

yet, and

wrote

never

begin with

to

word

asking him

for

don't think he

can

be angry

''

of

I shouldn't know

what

to say.

Would

you
it looks f "

when

But

to

be the

arbiter of his

Harry received back

the

turned
Julia Brabazon, then he again reMessrs. Beilby
to his resolution respecting
aiid Burton, and took the first opportunity

check

with you for

that."

fate.

own

money!"
"I

littlefor his son, should dictate to a young

had
and who
who
had
been
energetic,
out of the question.
for himself,
much
was

was
Harry,therefore,

comes."
"

should follow out

very anxious that his son
intended ; but
been
he
which
had
for
the course
and having hitherto
that
nnenergetic,
was

from

his father that such was the case.

telling
After breakfast he followed his father into his

in two easy-chairs
posite
opstudy,and there,sitting
to each other,theyliteach a cigar.Such
ernoon,
in the aftthe reverend gentleman's
custom
I think that poor Harry Claverwas
to do it,
I
do
not
also
in
the
been
As
it
and
such
would
have
used.
check
morning.
was.
ing's
four or five cigars
of
the
dear
know
whether
letter
the
to
wrote
smoking
"My
Clavering
Lady
Lord Ongar,"and it was
copied and signedby dailyby the parson of a parishmay nowadaybe
the
considered as a vice in him, but if so, it was
Julia Brabazon."
"Yours
most
affectionately,
of a check for only vice with which Mr. Clavering could be
The effect of this was the receipt
thousand pounds in a Very pretty note from
gracious
a
charged. He was a kind,soft-hearted,
whom
he ever regarded
Lord Ongar, which the lord broughtwith him
man, tender to his wife,
the angel of his house, indulgent to his
and sent up to Julia as he was
to Clavering,
as
he idolized,
whom
ever
fortable
patientwith
daughters,
dressingfor dinner. It was an extremelycomand
awake
his
Julia
not widely
and
though
was
parishioners,
arrangement,
very glad
of his calling.
it to be a portionof that awake
to the responsibilities
of the money, feeling
her own.
And
which
was
Harry'scheck had The world had been too comfortable for him, and
ness.
been returned to him on the day of its receipt.also too narrow
; so that he had sunk into idle"
The world had givenhim much
I can not take it,
and of course
to eat and
Of course
you
words were
should not have sent it." These
drink,but it had givenhim littlato do,and thus
the he had gradually
fallen away from his early
the morsel of paper in which
written on
poses,
purhad
till his energy hardlysufficed for the doreturned.
But Miss Brabazon
ing
was
money
of that little. His livinggave him
off the check,so that it might
torn
the signature
eight
hundred
be safe,whereas Harry Claveringhad taken no
led
a year ; his wife's fortune nearlydoubthat.
He had married
with it whatever.
Bnt then Harry
and had got
early,
precaution
his livingearly,
and had been very prosperous,
Claveringhad not lived two years in London.
not a happy man.
He knew
But he was
that
During the hours that the check was away
from him, Harry had told his father that perhaps, he had put off the day of action till the power
even
His library
yet,he might change his purpose as of action had passed away from him.
He
well furnished,
to
but he rarely read
was
going to Messrs. Beilbyand Burton.
else than novels and poetry; and of late
but he was
stillin doubt.
much
did not know, he said,
from
chance
the
This had
some
questionyears
readingeven of poetry had given way
sprung
which
his father had
asked,and which had to the readingof novels. Till within ten years
Mr. Clavering of the hour of which
I speak,he had been a
seemed to demand
an
answer.
disliked the scheme of life which his son
not hunting loudly,
but folhunting parson
lowing
greatly
his sport as it is followed by moderate
had made.
Harry'slife hitherto had been prosperous,
and very creditable. He had gone early sportsmen.
Then
there had come
a new
op,
bishand the new
a
to Cambridge,and at twenty-two had become
bishophad sent for him^nay,
he could
had come
to him, and had lectured him
fellow of his college.This fellowship
finally
with blatant authority."My" lord,"said the
hold for five or six years without goinginto orders.
and would
It would then lead to a living,
parson of Clavering,
pluckingup somethingof
yond his past energy, as the color rose
in the mean
time afford a livelihood.
But, beto his face,
"I think yotiare wrong
tainly
in this. I think
this,
Harry,with an energy which he ceryou
had become are specially
had not inherited from his father,
to interfere with me
in this
wrong
and was
a
schoolmaster,
alreadya rich way on your firstcoming among ns.
You feel
He had done more
than well,and there it to be your duty,
doubt ; but to me
man.
no
it seems
that between
them they that you mistake your duty. But, as the mata great probability
was
ter
is one
to
might be able to buy the next presentation
I shall
simply of my own pleasure,
in which
Clavering,when the time should come
give it up.*After that Mr. Clavering
hunted
it. That
Sir Hugh should determine on selling
no
spoke a good word to any
more, and never
Sir Hugh should givethe familylivingto his one of the bishopof his diocese. For myself,I
cousin was
never
thoughtprobableby any of think it as well that clergymen
should not hunt ;
how
see
write it for me, and let me
This Lady Clavering did ; and

had

she

fused
re-

"

"

"

tlie family
at the

rectory; but he mightperhapsbut had I been the parson of Clavering,

I should,
able
under those circumstances,
have hunted double.
part with it under such circumstances on favorterms.

For

all these

reasons

the father

Mr. Claveringhunted

no

move,

and

probably

.CLAVEMNGS:

THE
smoked

greater number

u,

He
at

his

time

had

but
disposal,

of

cigarsin

of time

did not, therefore,

give more
Alas ! what time did he

his duties.

to

'

his duties ?

give to

He

liepta

he allowed

curate,whom

do

wished

their clouds of smoke.

The son
had
cared to say, and would have
that there might then be an end of it;

but

knew

out

quence.
conse-

ing

increased amount

an

said all that he

he

mind, and
energetic

most

almost

that his father had

much

fain express, if he

would

his

on

could

press
ex-

he
it without too much
without
or
trouble,
his own
would with the parish.Every-dayservices he too evident a need of self-reproach,
have made up
did prohibit,
declaringthat he would not have thoughtson the subject."You
the parish
but in otlier your mind, then,altogether,
that you do not like
church made ridiculous;

respectshis curate

Sunday

to

what

the pastor
Once evei-y the church as a profession
?" he said
"
and once
day
I think I have, father."
service,
every Sun-

at last,

was

he read the

preached,and

"
he resided in his par
And on what grounds
? The groundswhich
His wife and
ucation
it to you are very strong. Your edrecommend
every year.
in
has adaptedyou for it. Your success
daughterswent among the poor, and he smoked
he it is already
insured by your fellowship.In a
cigarsin his library.Though not yet fifty,

he

months

ten

sonage

to walk, great degreeyou have entered it as a profession

becoming fat and idle unwilling
What
caringmuch even for such ridingas the alreadyliytakinga fellowship.
you are

was

"

and

not

bishophad
worse

and

And

left to him.

make

to

matters

far worse, ho knew

all this of
understood
it tlioroughly."I see

path,and

know

the worse."

how

Ho

good

a line
doingis not choosing

alreadychosen.
stone."
a rolling

himself,one

"

better

it is, but I follow

"A

ever

should

stone

You

in

but changing
life,
of yourself

makmg

are

roll tillit has

to the

come

ly,
sayingthat to himself daispot that suits it."
and was
sayingit alwayswithout hope.
Why not give up .the school if it irks you?"
She had
"And
become
And his wife had given him up.
a Cambridge Don, and
tice
pracnor
givenhim up, not with disdainful rejection,
deportmentamong the under-graduates."
was

"

in her
contempt in her eye, or censure
voice,not with diminution of love or of outward
dons
abanrespect. She had givenhim up as a man
his attempts to make
his favorite dog take

"I

with

He

the water.

would

fain that the

should dash into the stream

dog he

other

as

don't

need

not

You

holdingup

loves

dogswill

live at

in London.

you

do

Cambridge

would

be

hand.

your

If

that.

Take
to

sure

get

You

church

by

one

lowship,
that,.with your fel-

I will giveyou
sufficient,

is not
more

need

that you

see

even

what

want."

I will
a noble instinct in a
"No, father no.
is,to his thinking,
By God's blessing
lowship
his dog dreads the water.
ever, never
ask you for a pound. I can hold my felAs, howhe puts
for four years longerwithout
he has learned to love the beast,
orders,
time I think I can
dreams of and in four years'
earn
my
up with this mischance, and never

.-do.

It

"

But

dog.

Ponto

banishingpoor
this failure.

And

and her husband

so

from his hearth because

it was

at the

He

and

to
acknowledged

he

for such

knew

that he

so

was

bread."
don't doubt

"I

"Then

understood

himself the necessityqualified

to be

rejection.

"

is

"

Yes ; it is serious
"

as

about

think of; but

If I
in
the
plans,
change
my
a

it off

man
on

can

that account.

as
a

serious

man

mean

can

to

sooner

thing

not

make

"

good clergyman
doubts,is

is not that you have

I mighthave them if I

"It

very serious thingto decide upon,"

about
when
his son had spoken to him.
he said,
"It

"

that,Harry

why should I not follow my wishes in

I do not feel myself
The truth is,
far rejected
; this matter?

He

rectory.

it all.

of

Clavering

with Mrs.

it,as

I must

do not wish to be

it?"

to think much

came

do if I took orders.
in doing what
crippled

And

I think

gyman
put lawfulby conventional rules. A rebelliouscleris,I think,a sorry object. It seems

such

I do it the

to

that he is

me

Now,

better."
But yesterday
you were in another mind."
not in another mind.
I did not
"No, father,
tell you then, nor can I tell you all now.
I had

I know

bird foulinghis

I should

be

own

nest.

rehelliousclergyman."

"

thought that
purpose

I should want
for

year

or

other
money for antwo ; but that I have

my

abandoned."
"Is the purpose a secret,Harry?"
"It is a secret,because it concerns

another

person."
"Yon
some

"I

were

going to

lend your

money

to

"

hunting. Bishop Proudie

such being the nature
intrusive,

keepit a secret,though ^ou know

vulgar

exclude

was

and

of his wife,

who

instructs him

; but if

should be very sorry to

one?"
must

"In our church the lifeof a clergyman is as

the life of any other gentleman within very
broad limits."
"Then
why did Bishop Proudie interfere
with your hunting?"
"Limits may be very broad,Harry,and yet

"It

seems

to me

that

you

were

you take

see

in orders I
to

hunting."

ing
clergymanhas nothhe is alwayspreaching
a

That idea,
to do in life nnless
seldom have any secrets from you.
I
and
to
mean
and
is
over
teaching. Look at Saul" Mr. Saul was
however, abandoned,
go
"
he is alwayspreaching
to Stratton to-morrow, and tellMr. Burton that the curate of Clavering
is
He
I
be
and
must
at
I shall be there after Christmas.
teaching.
doing the best he can ;
"

"

St Cuthbert's on Tuesday."
blowThey both sat silentfor a while,silently

and what a lifehe has of it ! He has literally

thrown off all worldlycares, and consequently

10

CLAVERINGS.

THE

loves
through his steward,bestowed ten
breathes,pounds. Among the farmers one pound ninebut I shouldn't like his life."
and-eightpencehad been collected. Mr. Saul
At this pointthere was
another pause, which
had given two pounds ; Mrs. Clavering gave five
each ; Henry
lasted tillthe cigars
had come
to an end.
Then, poundsi the girls
gave ten shillings
and
then
the
Mr. Claverfive
the stump into the fire,
as he threw
pounds;
Claveringgave
But Mr. Saul
truth is,Harry, that parson made
ing spoke again. "The
up the remainder.
ing
makto Bristol,
fore had journeyedthrice painfully
a bad
example beyou have had, all your life,
and
ing
comthe
the
for
going
church,
you."
bargain
and he had written
each time by third-class,
"No, father."
"Yes, my son; let me speak on to the end, all the letters ; but Mrs. Claveringhad paid the
them
and then you can
postage, and she and the girlsbetween
say what you please. In me
side,and were making the coveringfor the little altar.
you have had a bad example on one
"Is it all settled,
ping
Harry?" said Fanny, stopnow, in poor Saul, you have a bad example on
his
and hanging over
Can you fancyno life between
with her brother,
the other side.
with
chair.
She was
girl,
a pretty,
the two, which would fit your physicalnature
gay-spirited
and your mental wants
which is largerthan his,
hair,which fell in
brighteyes and dark-brown
which are higherthan mine?
Yes, they are, two curls behind her ears.
He has said nothingto unsettle it."
Harry. It is my duty to say this,but it would
"
I know
it makes
him very unhappy."
be unseemlythat there should be any controversy
between ns on the subject."
"No, Fanny, not very unhappy. He would
"
in that way
"If you choose to stop me
rather that I should go into the church,but that

body laughs at him, and nobody

every

liim.

I don't

believe

better

gracio

man

"

"

"I do choose

Saul,it
such

as

is
man

that he has

is unconscious

flesh to

no

of the flavor of

of roses, or the beautyof women.

specimen of a man, and
exceptional

an

need

no

hope,that
At

fear,than you should

more

this
of

that Mr.

you could become

Saul

was

whisper,but

in his

humor

comic

convey
Saul, if it were

"It's about
come

"

you to go
site."
I

"

or

out

trance
en-

with

thoughtthat

possible.
church,papa.
come

"

He

No,
no

your tail isn't gone

tail isn't gone

my

life is like

about the

all settled."

says not."
"What
does it matter

put it any where he likes

where
on

better go to him."

Harry,thoughmamma

papa

may

hasn't said so, I'm

right.

are

She

won't

to interfere with

seem

choose

yet?"
Mary thinks
life. But,
clergyman's
yet.

to

say ; but I'm

sure

sure

so

say

as

any thing
she's glad

it is?

the Green.
So Mr.

"And
I'm

their father into the

says
wants

"

Couldn't you

He

can

er,
Howev-

drive

drawing-room.

Mrs. Clavering
over

in
the pony chair,
and settle it between you ?" said
Mr. Clavering
Mr. Saul looked
to his curate.

disappointed.In

"He

I had

And

"

I am
gladin my heart,Fanny. And
the person most
concerned,I suppose
that's the most material thing." Then
lowed
they fol-

and he

CumberlyGreen
was

"

that

it,and partly
might escape as

the iron

to

in her heart."
face,as thoughpartly

wish that he

part of it has

thing
some-

So should

course.

tail."

to

he is."

as

so, of

too,perhaps,if I were engaged to a clergyman.

That's the old storyof the fox who had lost his

she thinks you

This questionMr. Claveringlong as it may

afraid that Mr. Saul should hear

it is

venture

say
"What
in the drawing-room.

intendingto
Mr.

He
you

by the
pointtheywere interrupted
to
Fanny Clavering, who came

does he want, Fanny!"

asked half in a
of

such

all."

think you are quite

right."
"And
Mary thinks I am quitewrong."
"I

mortify. "Mai-y thinks

venison,or

the scent
is

is about

become

you
It is not that be mortifies

he.

as

As for

should

impossiblethat

ills fiesh,
but
He

stop you in that way.

to

the firstplace,
he hated driving

the pony, which

a
was
beast,that had a will of his
next

he thought the
place,

Claveringthe spot on

such

an

little
rapid-footed
own

rector

occasion.

; and

in the

ought to
"Or

Mrs.

visit

vering
Cla-

will drive you," said the rector,rememCumberly Green was a hamlet in the
bering
three miles distant from the
Mr. Saul's objection
parishof Clavering,
to the pony.
Still
ed
Mr. Saul looked unhappy. Mr. Saul was
church,the peopleof which had got into a wickvery
habit of going to a Dissenting
chapelnear to tall and very thin,with a tall thin head, and
them.
By Mr. Saul's energy, but chieflyout weak eyes, and a sharp,well-cut nose, and, so to
of Mr. Clavering's
iron chapel had
and very white teeth,
with no beard,
purse, an
say, no lips,
and fifty
been purchasedfor a hundred
pounds, and a well-cut chin. His face was so thin that
duties his cheek-bones obtruded
and Mr. Saul proposedto add to his own
themselves unpleasantly.
the pleasing
He wore
occupationof walking to Cumberly
a long rusty-black
coat,and a
Grreen every Sunday morning before breakfast,high rusty-black
and trowsers that
waistcoat,
and every Wednesdayeveningafter dinner,to were
brown with dirtyroads and general illit never
perform a service and bring back to the true usage.
Nevertheless,
occurred to any
of the erringsheep of Cumberly one that Mr. Saul did not look like a
flock as many
gentleman,
Green as he might be able to catch. Toward
not even
to himself,
to whom
no ideas whatever
the purchaseof this iron church Mr. Claveringon that subject
ever
presentedthemselves. But
had at firstgiven a hundred pounds. Sir Hugh, that he was
"
gentleman I think he knew well
in answer
had very unto the fifth application,
enough,and was able to carry himself before Sir
went.

THE

Hugh

and

his wife witii

quiteas

much

CLAVERINGS.

11

CHAPTER

as

ease

rectory. Once or twice he

the great house ; but Lady Claver-

III.

he could do in the

LORD

had dined at
inghad declared him

ONGAR.

and Sir Hugh

to be a bore,
On the next
rode
morning HarryClavering
mals, over
had called him " that most offensive of all animuch
of his misery
to Stratton,
thinking
cided as he went.
all very well for him, in
It was
a clerical
prig."It had therefore been dethat he
house

"

not

was

be asked to the great the presence

to

It may

more.

any

be

well

as

to

state

of his

as the
profession

one

family,to
subjectwhich

talk of his

own

to him

was

that Mr. Clavering

ly
self
of any importance
here,as elsewhere,
very rare; but he knew very well himthem
in
to his nephew'stable. On certain occathat he was
went
sions
onlybeguiling
doing
he did do so, so that there might be no
This
so.
questionof a profession
was, after
recognizedquarrelbetween him and Sir Hugh ; all,but dead leaves to him" to him who had a
but such visits were
few and far between.
canker at his heart,
thorn in his bosom,
a perpetual
words from Mr. Saul,
After a few more
him which no
and a
a miserywithin
profession
! Those dear ones
could mitigate
at home guessglancefrom his wife's eye, Mr. Clavering
consented
ed
to go to CumberlyGreen,though there
of
nothing this,and he would take care
he liked so little
was
as a morning spent that they shovdd guess
nothing
nothing. Why should
with his curate.
he had started,
When
Harry theyhave the pain of knowing that he had
told his mother also of his final decision. "I shall been made wretched forever by blighted
hopes?
and settle it all."
His mother, indeed,had suspected
go to Stratton to-morrow
something
"And what does papa say?"asked the mother.
in those sweet days of his roaming with Julia
"Just what he has said before. It is not so
throughthe park. She had once or twice said
much

that he wishes

that he does

wish

not

to

me
me

be
to

as
clergyman,

have

lost all mv

time

up to this."
"It is more
than

word

his

to

him.

warn

deep love

"

so

But

of the very truth of

she had been

he told himself

happily
ignorant.Let

"

her be

ignorant. Why
said should he make his mother unhappy ? .As these
that,I think,Harry,"
his elder sister,
less prettythan her
a tall girl,
passedthroughhis mind, I think that
thoughts
less careful of her prettiness,
and made
he reveled in his wretchedness,
much
sister,
apparently
to himself of his misery. He sucked in his sorrow
said,demure,but known
very quiet,
or, as some
to be good as goldby all who knew
her well.
somewhat proud to have
and was
greedily,
"I doubt it,"said Harry,stoutly. "But, had occasion to break his heart.
But not the
however that may be, a man
must
choose for less,
thus earlyblighted,
because he was
.would
himself."
"We
all

he

thoughtyou

had

chosen,"said

Mary.
"

If it is settled,"
said the

mother,

for success
struggle

show

her

in the world.

He

would

that,as his wife,she might have

than Lord
worthier position

Ongar

had

could

give
the quicker
no
ment
impedirode along,

rise
He, too,might probably
world,as now he would have
"Would
of wife or family. Then, as he
said Harry.
he composed a sonnet
to his case, the
fitting
"
No, my dear. I think you should judgefor strengthand rhythm of which seemed to him,
as he sat on
yourself."
horseback,to be almost perfect.
"You
in
the
back at Clavering,
see I could have no
church
when
he was
scope
Unfortunately,
for that sort of ambition which would satisfy
Ae. and sat in his room
with the pen in his hand,
Look
at such men
as
Locke,and Stephenson,the turn of the words had escapedhim.
and Brassey.They are the men
who seem
He found Mr. Burton
not
to
at home, and was
to do most in the world.
by
me
They were all self- longin concludinghis business. Messra. Beila
man
and Burton
can't have a worse
not only civil engineers,
educated,but surely
were
chance because he has learned something. Look
but were
land surveyors also,and land valuers
with a seat in Parliament,
at old Beilby
and a on a great scale. They were
employedmuch by
worth
three hundred
and if not
two
or
thousand
property
government upon publicbuildings,
pounds ! When he was my age he had nothingarchitects themselves,
were
supposedto know
but his weeklywages."
all that architectsshould do and should not do.
we

shall do

"I

don't know

happyman

"

I suppose

it."
good by opposing
you wish to oppose it,mamma?"

whether Mr.

Beilbyis a

her.

in the

no

very

In the

Mr.
of great properties
purchase

Burton's

good man," said Mary.

opinionwas supposedto be,or to have been,as
"I don't know, either,"
said Harry; " but I good as any in the kingdom,
and therefore there
do know that he has thrown a singlearch over
to be learned in the officeat
was
very much
a

or

very

than
wider span of water
and that oughtto make

ever

was

him

not
done before, Stratton. But Mr. Burton was
"
an
his partner, Mr. Beilby,
nor

like
er
happy. Aftting
befitman.
sayingthis in a tone of high authority
his dignity
as a fellow of his college,
Harry had
went
and never
Clavering
out, leavinghis mother
sisters to discuss the

them

As
all-important.

was

hopes of
of

subjectwhich

her own,

to

two

of

to Mary,she had
vested in the clerical concerns

neighboring
parish.

He
never

been

had

never

soared

had
speculated,

rich

man.

ambitious

Parliamentward,
invented,and

never

great. He had been the father of a

all of whom
were
doing as
very large'family,
of them perhaps
well in the world,and some
than their father. Indeed,there were
better,
would have
who said that Mr. Burton
many
himself
if he had not joined
been a richer man

12
In

with
partnership

had

the

Mr. Beilby. Mr. Beilby short,and

than his and open,
of swallowingmore
reputation

share wherever

was

CLAVERINGS.

THE

he

and
pupil about lodgings,
found

town

that

to

look for

rooms.

HarryClaveringwas

this respect,and in his

that this

went

mind

own

with

out

The

old

him

nice in

formed

an

beginner might have been

it

broad

was

of that feminine command

conveyed.That Florence's
"

well,

very
mean-lookbut she was, on the whole,a ing
little thing. He could not,as he said to

glossy;

man

rather

forehead,though
none

Julia's look
soft as
eyes were
very bright brightand
hair was
he allowed ; and her dark brown
which

went.

the business part of the arrangement

When
finished Mr. Burton
talked to his future

into the

her
had

himself

idea

as

on

she

his return
was

home, avoid

the

he had
the first girl

son,
compari-

seen

since

partedfrom Julia Brabazon.

comfortable at
"I hope you'llfind yourself
auspicious
pupil,had he not alreadybecome a
fellow of a college. Indeed, Harry talked to
Burton.
s
aid
old
Mrs.
Stratton,
sir,"
"Thank
on
him quiteas though theytwo were
an
ity
equalyou,"said Harry, "but I want very
together; and, before they had parted,Mr. littlemyselfin that way.
Any thing does for
me."
Burton was not sure that Harry did not patronize
"
room
He asked the young
him.
One young gentleman we had took a "bedman, however,
their
and
then
at Mrs. Pott's,
and did very nicelywithout
them
at
to join
earlydinner,
Don't you remember;
introduced
him
to Mrs. Burton, and
to their any second room
at all.
"
the only child who was
still Mr. B. ? It was
Granger."
youngest daughter,
young
"All
other
short
ance,"
allowhad
with
them.
are
a
girls
Young Granger
living
my
very
"
said Mr. Burton.
He lived upon fifty
ried
married,Mr. Clavering; and all of them marto men
connected with my own
pounds a year all the time he was here."
profession.
"And
I don't think Scarness had more
to Florence
The
color came
Burton's
when
slightly
cheeks as she heard her father's words,and Harry
he began,"said Mrs. Burton.
"Mr. Scarness
asked himself whether the old man
Mr. Clavering,
when
expected married one of my girls,
ordeal ; he started himself at Liverpool. He has pretty
that he should go through the same
himself was
that nigh all the Liverpooldocks under him now.
but Mr. Burton
quiteunaware
he had said any thingwrong, and then went
I have heard him say that butcher's meat
did
on
of his sons.
"But they not cost him four shillings
to speakof the successes
all the time
a week
hard
I've alwaysthoughtStratton one
Mr. Clavering; and worked
he was
here.
began early,
He was
a good,kindly, of the reasonablest
placesany where for a young
very hard indeed."
to do for himself in."
but Harry began to doubt
man
garrulpusold man;
at Stratton.
It
"I don't know, my dear,"said the husband,
whether
he would learn much
new

he had

more

' '

"

"

was,

however, too late

thingwas
Harry,when

every

think of that now, and

once

declared

he

"that

Mr.

will
Clavering

care

very much

for

that."

looked

Burton,
"Perhaps not, Mr. B. ; but I do like to see
What's
plain.young men careful about their spendings.
unlike Julia Brabazon
the use of spendingashilling
when sixpence
never
will
Any thing more
appearedin the guise of a young lady. Julia do as well ; and sixpencesaved when a man
with a highbrow,a glorious
was
tall,
becomes pounds and
complex- has nothingbut himself,
ion,
modeled
a nose
as
cian pounds by the time he has a family
as
finely
though a Greabout him."
ly
sculptorhad cut it,a small mouth, but loveDuring all this time Miss Burton said little
in its curves, and
chin that finished and
and Harry Clavering
or nothing,
himself did not
made
He could not express any intention
perfectthe symmetry of her face. Her say much.
neck was
Mr. Scarness's economy
long,but gracefulas a swan's, her of rivaling
in the article
and her whole figurelike that of
bust was
of butcher's meat, nor could he promise to
full,
to this,when
he had first content
a
himself with Granger'ssolitary
goddess. Added
room.
bedknown
But as he rode home
her, had been all the charm of youth.
he almost began
When
she had returned to Claveringthe other to fear that he had made
a mistake.
He was
day,the afiianced bride of Lord Ongar,he had not wedded to the joysof his college
hall,or the
hardlyknown whether to admire or to deplore collegecommon
He
did not like the
room.
at

'

to

fixed.
to himself

at Florence

that she

was

the settled air of established womanhood

she had

assumed.

Her

which

narrowness

of

life.
college

But

he

doubted

largeeyes had always whether the change from that to the oft-repeated
lacked something of rapidglancingsparkling
of Mrs. Burton might not be too
hospitalities
brightness.They had been gloriouseyes to much for him. Scarness's four shillings'
worth
of butcher's meat
had already
him, and in those early
days he had not known
made him half
that theylacked aught; hut he had perceived,sick of his new
and thoughStratton
profession,
that now, in her present might be the "reasonablest
or
perhaps fancied,
placeany where for
often cold,and sometimes
a young
condition,theywere
man," he could not look forward to living
cruel.
almost
he was
there for a year with much
Nevertheless,
ready to
delight.As
that she was
in her beauty.
for Miss Burton,it might he quiteas well that
swear
perfect
short of stature, she was
Poor Florence Burton
was
plain,as he wished for none of the delights
which beauty affords to
was
brown, meagre, and poor-looking.So said
young men.
to himself.
Her small hand,
On his return
Harry Clavering
home, however,he made no
charm
of complaintof Stratton.
though soft,lacked that wondrous
He was too strong-willed
touch which Julia's possessed. Her face was
to own
that he had been in
any way wrong.

CLAVERINGS.

THE

13

in the following
and when early
week he startBrabazon
ed
had no doubt that she was doingwell.
for St. Cuthbert's,he was able to speakwith Poor Harry Clavering
!
She had loved him in
cheerful hope of his new
mately the daysof her romance.
She, too, had written
prospects. If ultiBut she had grown old earlier in
he should find lifeIn Stratton to be unher sonnets.
endurable,
he would

short,and

contrive

that

cut

part of his

career

life than

he had

done, and

had'

taughtherself

that romance
could not be allowed to a woman
get up to London at an
in her position.She was
earliertime than he had intended.
highlyborn,the
On the 31st of August Lord Ongar and Sir daughter of a peer, without money, and even
reached Clavering
Hugh Clavering
Park,and,as without a home to which she had any claim.
has been

alreadytold,a prettylittlenote

When

up to Miss
she met Lord

about

an

once

to

sent

Brabazon

was

at

in her bedroom.

Of

she

course

she had

not

had

put

out

Lord
accepted
her hand

to

Ongar,

but

take all these

that she would do

Ongar in the drawing-room, good thingswithout resolving
afterward,she had instructed her duty to her future lord. The duty would
herself that it would he best to say nothing of be doubtless disagreeable,
but she would
do it
the note ; but she could not refrainfrom a word,
with all the more
that account.
on
diligence
much
"lam
obliged,
passedby,hecatombs of partridges
September
my lord,by your kindness
and generosity,"
she said,as she gave him her were
and the day of the wedding
slalughtered,
hand.
He merelybowed
and mutand smiled,
drew nigh. It was
tered
pretty to see Lord Ongar
at this
somethingas to his hopingthat he might and the self-satisfactionwhich he enjoyed
her.
The world was becoming young with him
He was a time.
alwaysfind it as easy to gratify
littleman, on whose behalf it certainly
and he thought
that he rather liked the
appeared again,
tliat the Peerage must
have told a falsehood ; respectability
of his present mode
of life. He
it seemed so ,atleast to those who judgedof his gave himself but scantyallowances of wine,and
The Peerage said no allowance of any thingstrongerthan wine,
years from his appearance.
that he was
and that,no doubt,was
and did not dislike his temperance. There was
thirty-six,
hour

in truth

his age, but any one

would
have declaredabout him at all hours an air which seemejto
This look was
to be ten years older.
say, "There; I told you all that I could do it

him

producedchiefly
by the effect of
dressed jet-black
wig which he
misfortune
be bald

had

earlyin

made
be
life,

him

bald

an

elaboratelyas
What

wore.
so

early if to
"

as

there

was

halcyondays he

in
any necessity."And
could shoot for an hour

without his pony, and he liked the gentlecourteous

bestowed
his
badinage which was
upon
and he liked also Julia'sbeauty..
Her
courtship,
say ; but he had lost the hair from the crown
of his head;and had pi-eferred
ness., conduct to him was
never
perfect. She was
wiggeryto balda

misfortune"

soon

these

can

not

No doubt an effort was made to hide the pert,never

never
romantic,and never
exigeant,
ways
She never bored him, and yet was alwiggishnessof his wigs,but what effect in that humble.
direction was
made successfully
He was,
?
ever
readyto be with him when he wished it.
and yet she bore her
She was
never
exalted,
moreover, weak, thin,and physically
poor, and
had,no doubt,increased this weakness and poorhigh placdas became a woman
noblyborn and
ness
to be beautiful.
by hard living.Though others thoughthim acknowledged
with him, and he
"I declare yon have quitemade
a lover of
old,time had gone swiftly
stillthoughthimself a young man.
He hunted, him," said Lady Clavering
to her sister. When
though he could not ride; he shot,though he a thoughtof the match had first arisen in Sir
could not walk; and, unfortunately,
he drank, Hugh's London
house.Lady Claveringhad been
though he had no capacityfor drinking! His eager in praiseof Lord Ongar, or eager in praise
friends at last had taughthim to believe that his rather of the position
which the future Lady Ongar
cured,
only chance of savinghimself layin marriage,
might hold ; but since the prizehad been seand therefore he had engaged himself to Julia
since it had become
plainthat Julia was
her at the priceof a brilof the two, she had
liant to be the greater woman
Brabazon,purchasing
settlement. If Lord Ongar should die before harped sometimes
the other string. As a
on
but
with
sister she had striven for a sister'swelfare,
her,Ongar Park was to be hers for life,
she could not keep herselffrom comthousands a year to maintain it. Courton Castle,as a woman
parisons
the greatfamily
Vhich might tend to show that after all,
seat,would of course
go to the
ter
but
Park
the
be
Julia
well
was
as
was
to
Ongar
heir;
doing,she was not doing betsupposed
Hermione
small country-seatany where
than her elder sister had done.
most
delightful
and not the richest
within thirty
It layamong
miles of London.
had married simplya baronet,
she
but
amiable
baronets
the Surreyhills,
the
and all the world had heard of
most
or
among
;
suitable in age and wealth,
the charms of OngarPark.
If Julia were
had married a man
vive
to surher lord,
Ongar Park was to be hers ; and with whom any girlmight have been in love.
them
both together
who
had hut little She had not sold herself to be the nurse, or not
saw
they
doubt that she would come
to be the nurse, as it might turn out, of a wornto the enjoymentof
She would have hinted nothing
this clause in her settlement. Lady Clavering out debauchee.
have
had been clever in arranging
the match ; and
of this,
thought nothing of this,
perhaps
had not Julia and Lord Ongar walked together
Sir Hugh, thoughhe might have been unwilling
to give his sister-in-lawmoney
out of his own
through the Claveringgroves as though they
pocket,had performed his duty as a, brother- were two young people. She owed it as a duty
in-law in looking
Julia to her sisterto pointout that Lord Ongar could
to her future welfare.

CLAVEEINGS.

THE
be

person, and
to be encouragedto play that part.

not

"

romantic young

I don't know

my
mind.

made

"I

Julia.

ried."
when
they'regoing to be marquite understood the ideas that
passingthroughher sister's mind, and did

like other

men

Julia

were

not feel them

"What

to be

mean

strong in the Romeo

unnafural.

I'lltell you

out so
a very fine
is,that he has come
pected, caught a Tartar."
line,which we hardlyex-

your
Giovanni."

he
it likely,
as

cold.

it's so

hope not, because

"I

what it is,"said Sir Hugh to

night; " sixtythousand a year is
income, but Julia will find she has

"

his wife that

shall have him under

We
yon know.
bedroom
window with a. guitarlike Don

think

quiteas much,

"

any thingof
suppose he's much

that I have

him," answered

But
I dare say, as you do.
smoking,
has
If Lord Ongar
givenup
never
I quiteagree with you that it'sa good thing.
it up, for I hate the smell
I wish they'dall .give
He
and worse.
of it. Hugh has got worse
about changing his clothes now."
never
cares

ought not

fond of

seems

I don't

goingto

bed

early."

I suppose he'll
I don't know
or

"

"

hardlylive long,will
care

when

he lives

or

he?"
when

bearing
he dies ; but,by Heaven
! he is the most overfellow I ever had in the house with me.

I wouldn't
"

not

even

here for another

stand him

fortnight

her all safe."

to make

"It will soon

be over.
They'llbe gone on
thingfor him," said Lady
and
serious
olent.
benevcarefully
becoming
Thursday."
Claveriiig,
'' It's
"What
do you think of his having the impudence
quitea wonder what good hours
the head
Cunliffe was
and quietlivinghave done for him in so short
to tell Cunliffe"
I was
keeper "before my face,that he didn't know
a time.
observinghim as he walked yesterday,
ly
and he put his feet to the ground as firmWell, my lord,
any thing about pheasants!
I think we've got a few about the place,'
almost as Hugh does."
said
'
"
I hope he won't have the Cunliffe.
Did he indeed ?
Very few, said Ongar, with a sneer.
habit of puttinghis hand down
firmlyas Hugh Now, if I haven't a better head of game here
than he has at Courton,I'll eat him.
But the
does sometimes."
with a impudence of his sayingthat before me!"
"As
for that,"said Lady Clavering,
"

it'sthe best

And

"

"

'

'

littletremor,

''

Lord

Ongar

"I

think

ference
dif-

I don't think there's much

them.

between

They

thing he does

means

ought to

man

all say that when

have

it."

Then

of his

shouldn't

mean
a

way

Did yo"
"'There's
' '

that

own."
"And

But, as
to

was

take

Ongar

sayingsif Lord
of himself

care

quitea

different

next

nothingnow,

to

dear?

also; don't yon, my

woman

man.

tinue
con-

become

may

about

any

enough

from

do what

must

tobacco.

you

happen

me,' I said.
off his pins. I
tell Julia

can

"

'

said the sister.

"Julia is very clever,''

The
day of the marriage came, and eveiy
done with much
was
thingat Claveriiig
splendor.

Four bridesmaids
Hugh says that he drinks
came
the precedingday;
on
though he sometimes
smoking-room at night,he stayingin the house,and the
You

?"

answer

to suit

he skulked away, knocked

like to be his wife ; I

and

lightsa cigarin the

hardlyever smokes it.
keep him

he

will

him

make

as

two

more

from

the

down
two
two

from

don
Lon-

already

were

cousins

came

rectory. Julia Brabazon

had

been really
never
intimate with Mary and
but she had known them well
Fanny Clavering,
cigarswere worse for him even than brandy.", enough to make it odd if she did not ask them
All this Julia bore with an even
to come
to her wedding and to take a part in
temper. She
determined
the ceremony.
to bear every thingtillher time
was
And, moreover, she had thought
Indeed
she had made
herself
of Harry and her little romance
should come.
of other days.
understand
that the hearing of such thingsas
Harry,perhaps,might be glad to know that she
these was
had shown this courtesy to his sisters.
a
part of the pricewhich she was
Harry,
called upon to pay.
It was
not pleasant
for her she knew, would be away at his school. Though
Sir Charles Poddy had said about
she had asked him whether he meant
to hear what
to come
she was just to her wedding,she
the tobacco and brandy of the man
h^ been better pleasedthat
to

can

know

that Sir Charles

going

to

marry.

She

Poddy

said that

would

sooner

so

to

many

have'heard

ridingsixtymiles a day, or dancingall

tented
night,as she might have heard had she been conto take Harry Clavering. But she had
of his

made

he

should be absent.
but
herself,

should have them.

were

a^kedto

her selection with her eyes open, and was

and Fs.miy
would
cause but rtuSirmother
disposedto quarrelwith her bargain,be-

She had not many

grets
reit pleased
her to think that he
So

ing
Mary and Fanny Claver-

attend her at the altar.

both have

Mary
to decline,
preferred

had told them that

theycould
not^o so.
"It would make
said
ill-feeling,"
it to be Mrs. Clavering "and
she had known
than the article which
that is what your
;
papa
she was
when
wishes to avoid."
making her purchase. Nor was
particularly
I will do t^e
she even
"When
angry with her sister.
wishes any
you say papa particularly
be sure of thfct. thing,
best I can, Hermy ; you may
mamma,
that you wish
you alwaysmean
But there are some
thingswhich it is uselessto it particularly
said Fanny.
yourself,"
But if
/
talk about."
it must be done,it must ; and then I shall know
it was
"But
should know/what how to behav6 when
as well- you
Mary'stime comes."
/
Sir Charles said."
The bells were
all the morning,
rung lustily
I know quiteenough of what he says, Her- and all the parishwas
there,round about the
not

that which

she had

bought was

no

better

"

"

"

THE

church,to
ever

see.

havingbeen

before ; and
my
were

now

sister.
lady's
a

There was no record of a lord

married in Clavering
Church
this lord
It

was

going to marry

was

all one

"A

and
fires,

no

no

thoughshe
no
no

was

some
generally

and

the steward.

about

wranglebetween
"

the rector

If there's to be all this row

rector had said to the steward,

ask for it again." "I wish my uncle
onlybe as good as his word," Sir Hugh

it,"the

"I'll never

static would
ec-

bon-

15

when
had said,

the rector's

speechwas

repeated

puir feckless thing,tottering

alonglike."

eatingand drinkingat Sir Hugh's

to him.
there was not much
of real
Therefore,
for any of the rejoicing
in the parish
this occasion,
on
provided
though
occasion. the bells were
by Lady Clavering
on that special
and though the peorung loudly,
ple,
"

poor

as

Claveringherself. But there was

the parish.There were to be

joyin

ejipense

Ca^AVERINGS.

comforts

Indeed,there was never much of such kindnesses

yard
young and old,did cluster round the churchbetween the lord of the soiland his dependents.
the lord lead his bride out of the
to see
A certain stipulated
dole was given at Christmas church.
"A puirfeckless thing,
along
tottering
for coals and blankets ; hut even
for that there like not lialfthe makings of a man.
A stout
"

16
lass like she could

puffof

her mouth."

blow

most

That

was

him away wi' a

the verdict which

verdict was
made
of the parish.
But

though the

Julia Brabazon
every

inch

might

have

walked

paid,she

thingwhich
she

and

she had

from

out

had

at

steppedinto the chariot

to the railwaystation on

had
she

had

was

now

idle while he
his

been

not

about

to commence

there,and

was

advanced

more

which

stage of

church

got the
And

as

carried her

with
dusty pigeon-holes

beheld the

and

great Mr.

the

under
pupilage,

dusty papers, and caught the first glimpse of

in the workshop of
were
thingsas they really
that man
of business,
he had, to say the truth,
ner,
been disgusted. And Mrs. Burton's earlydin-

and Florence
Burton's "plainface" and
to Dover,
right. She plainways, had disconcerted him. On that day
chosen her profession
as Harry Clavering he had
repentedof his intention with regardto
chosen his ; and having so far succeeded, Stratton ; but he had carried out his purpose
would do her best to make her success
he rejoiced
greatlythat he
fect. like a man, and now
perhad done so.
He rejoiced
cenary.
though his
Mercenary ! Of course she had been mergreatly,
Were

Then

there

for the

all

not

women

hopes

nary
merceing
earn-

somewhat
sobered,and his views of
He was
to
grand than tjieyhad been.

were

life less

the

himself

whom

Claveringearlyon
intendingto spend his

greatbreakfast at the park

"

nephew

and

start for

was

quality and

submitted

men

her way

done

of
devolved the necessity

upon whom
their bread?

the

rate

buy.

to

that

price she

any

intended

away
she told herself that she had
had

the

Whatever

countess.

he

Beilbyin
passedupon him,
stillgood,if
good by the generalopinion London, with hopes which were
as
theyonce had
they were not so magnificent
fice,
in his ofMr. Burton
lord might be onlyhalf a man,
been.
When
he firstsaw

old farmer's wife

an

"

CLAVERINGS.

THE

the rector

on

this

the guest
he thoroughly
disliked.
to

become

sion
occa-

of

and

will

we

bade

see

farewell

He

and

one

of the

family.
sittingin

Burton's
was

Mr. Burton's

members

small

house, and

home,

at

listen to him

him

to

ing,
mornfollowing

Christmas

back

the

on

as

he

of Mr.

parlorin

table

of

itlie

burning a singlecandle. It
dull dingy brown
was
a
room, furnished with
horsehair-covered chairs,an old horsehair sofa,
there

room

and

was

heavy rusty

there

room

It

was

evening,and
had

tea

was

the

that

at

ment,
orna-

evidence

no

of

o'clock in the

seven

in Mrs. Burton's

over

Harry Claveringhad
his hot muffin,at

eaten

side from

was

about

now

attempt

any

there
certainly

as

wealth.

and

I don't know

curtains.

in the

was

fire of the

had

tablishment.
es-

his

the

tea,

farther

familytable,while

Florence had poured out the tea, and Mrs. Burton

had

sat

by

comfortable
on

the fire on

her

over

made

and

that

Mr. Burton

with his arm-chair

the other side.

had

side with

one

lap,and
When

and

tea

was

kerchief
hand-

had
his

been

slippers

over,

Harry

his

partingspeech to Mrs. Burton,

lady had kissed him, and bade God

bless him.

"I'll see you for a moment

before
office,
go, in my
Harry,"Mr. Burton had
said. Then
and
Harry had gone down stairs,

you

some

else had

one

they

two

brown

were

room.

reader

what

-with him, and

gone boldly
sittingtogetherin the dingy
After that I need hardlytell
my

had become

of

Harry Clavering's

heart's misery.
perpetual
life-enduring
He
and Florence were
sittingon the old
horsehair sofa,
and Florence's hand was
In his.
he said,"how
I to live for
"My darling,"
am

CHAPTER

the next two years ?"

"
You mean
five years, Harry."
that is two, unless I can
"No; I mean
two
make
the time less. I believe you'd be better

IV.

"

FLORENCE

BURTON.

pleasedto
It

was

now

Christmas

Christmas
rather,
the Christmas

time

next

was

time
near

at

Stratton,
or,
at hand; not

after the autumn

of Lord

think it was

ten."

"Much
better pleasedto think it was
than to have no .such hope at all. Of course
shall

see

each

other.

It's not

but the following

Ongar'Bmamage,
Christmas, were going to
and Harry Clavering
had finished his studies in
"I almost

New

Zealand."

wish

Mr. Burton's

of this
necessity

office. He

flattered himself

that then

as

to

the

were.

as

One

ten
we

thoughyou
would

cursed

agree

delay."

CLAVERINGS.

THE

"Harry, Harry!"
The

It is accursed.

"

in these latter

prudenceof

days seems

to

the world
be

to

me

17

tillyou come
for me.
Dearest Hari-y
!" Then
she bore with him, as he pressed
her close to his

bosom,and

more

abominable than all its other iniquities."

"
But, Harry,we should have no income."

and her

kissed

her

and
lips,

he
When
few minutes

hair.
glossy

down

her

was

forehead,

gone she sat

the old sofa,

alone for a
on
and hugged herself in her happiness. What
a
"
to your liigh
Now
on
horse, happy wind that had been which had blown such
you are getting
and you know I always
a lover as that for her to Stratton !
go out of the way when
"
beast.
that
As
for
I think he's a good young man," said.Mrs.
to
on
prance
me,
you begin
is

"Income

I don't want

word that I hate."

leave

to

of my bread and
in another."
sure

"

papa'shouse,where
tillI'm sure
butter,

on
that,Florence,
purpose

You

say
me."

I'm
of it

to torment

Burton,as

she

as

soon

up stairs.
"Yes, he's a

was

leftwith her old husband

good young

He

man.

means

very well."
"But

he is not

idle,is he?"

he's very
"No
ment
to toryou think I want
no, he's not idle. And
I'm afraid. But I think
you on your last night? The truth is,I clever too clever,
love you so well that I can afford to be patienthe'H do well,though it may
take him some
for you."
time to settle."

Harry,do

"Dear

"

"

"

I hate

is one

bad
ble

and alwaysdid.
patience,

of the

vices

worst

t know.

Patience

It's almost

as

"

humility. You'll tellme you're 'umnext.

If you'll
ed,
onlyadd that you'recontentof the lowest
describe yourself
as one
you'll
as

of God's creatures."
"I

don't know
Are

contented.

about
not

being'umble,but I

you

contented

am

with me,

sir?"
"No

in

because you'renot

"

married.

to be

hurry

"

I'm
goose you are ! Do you know
love a person, and
that if you really
not sure
I am
of you
are
as
quiteconfident about him
that havingto look forward to being married
What

"

"

"It

seems

doesn't it?

natural his taking to Flo;

so

They'veall taken

one

when

they

and they'veall done very well.

Deary me, how sad the house will be when Flo
went

away,

has gone !'*

"
Yes, it'llmake
what

then?

difference that way.

I wouldn't wish

to

keep

one

for that reason."

"No, indeed. I think I'd feel ashamed

But
of

'em at home

to have

myself

daughternot married,or

of
not

in the way to be married afore she's thirty.I

couldn't bear to think that no young man
should
But Flo's not
take a fanpy to a girlof mine.

twenty yet,and Carry,who

was

the oldestto go,

when Scarness took her.''

four-and-twenty
to
is not the best part of it all. I suppose you'llThereupon the old ladyput her handkerchief
like to ^et my letters now, but I don't know that the corner
of her eyes, and wept gently.
for them much
when we've been man
"Flo isn't gone yet,"said Mr. Burton.
care
you'll
"
But I hope,B.,it'snot to be a long engageand wife for ten years."
ment.
I don't like long engagements. It ain't
"But
can't live upon letters."
one
"
indeed."
I shall expect you to live upon mine,and to good not for the girl
; it ain't,
There ; I heard papa'sstep
"We
were
engaged for seven years."
grow fat on them.
the stairs. He said you were
on
to go to him.
"People weren't so much in a hurrythen at
ed
Harry dearest Harry! Wlaat a blessGood-by,
any thing; but I ain't sure it was very good for
And
wind it was that blew you here !"
me.
thoughwe weren't justmarried,we
"
about your getting
to Cla- were
Stop a moment
livingnext door, and saw each other.
"

wasn't

"

"

"

for you on EaSter-eve."

What'U come
to Flo if she's to be here and he's
himself?"
Oh no ; why should you have so much trouto be up in London, pleasuring
ble
and expense ?"
"Flo must bear it as other girls
do,"said the
"I tell you I shall come
for you, unless,
deed,father,
inas he got up from his chair.
"I think he's a good young man
; I think he
you decline to travel with me."
"
But don't stand out for
"It will be so nice!
And
then I shall be is,"said the mother.

vering. I shall

come

"

What
ters
matfor 'em to begin upon.
I see
have you with me the firstmoment
too much
? Sure if they were
to be a littleshort you
I shall think it very awful when I first
this
as
could help 'era." To such a suggestion
meet
your father."
well
make
it
to
Burton
no
swer,
anI
as
Mr.
"He's
the most good-natured
should
thought
man,
but with ponderous
stepsdescended to his
say, in England,"
to

sure

them.

"But

he'll think

first,
you know.
to tell me
so,
married

so

so

as

never

you

You

did at

And

Mary

Oh

dear,oh

them

shy among

"you shy!
dop'tsuppose

plain.

he won't be uncivilenough

you did.
in Easter week ?

I shall be
I

me

But

saw

were

yet."

dear ;

"Well, Harry,"said Mr. Burton,"so you're

morning ?"
row."
"Yes, sir ; I shall breakfast at home to-mor-

to be off in the

all."

you
ever

is to be

ofiSce.

shy in

my

really
put

life.
out

"Ah ! when I was

start.
make an early
never

does

any

your age I alwaysused to

fast
Three hours before breakhurt.

But

it shouldn't be

The wind gets into the stomach."

more' than that.
really
put you out,because papa
make
had
remark
on
to
this,
is waiting
dearest
no
for you.
Harry
Dear,dear,
Harry.
tillMr. Burton went on.
I shall count the hours and waited,
therefore,
Though I am so patient,
"

But I

must

THE

18
"

And

be
you'll
month

next

by the

up in London

CLAVERINGS.

10th

of

?"

"Yes, sir;I

intend

fice
ofBeilby's

to be at Mr.

the hill of Stratton Street with

down

the 11th."

on

dayshe had never seen Florence, and had

a man
of what qualities
hardlythoughtseriously
walked
he
As
in
wife.
wants
up and
a
really
old

the kiss of

day. In losing the dear,modest, affectionate girlstill warm

his lips,
he told himself that a marriage
a, day now,
upon
you don't lose what you might earn
would have
Julia Brabazon
as
in a day,but what you might be earning with such a one
now
of happifatal to his chance
should
been altogether
when you'reat your best. A young man
ness.
can't dispense
that.
You
always remember
had
You
And
in the ladder going up.
with a round
thingshad occurred and rumors
ing
only make your time at the top so much the reached him which assistedhim much in adoptknown
this view of the subject. It was
to
shorter."
and even
to all others who
sir. I all the Claverings,
find that I'm all right,
"I hope you'll
that Lord and Lady Oncared about such things,
to be idle."
don't mean
and it had been already
I
Of
not
course, you know,
speak gar were
happy together,
Pray don't.
said that Lady Ongar had misconducted
from what I should do
to you very dififevently
if you were
simplygoing away from my office. herself. There was a certain count whose name
to be mingled with hers in a way
that
I
shall have to giveFlorence will be very had come
What
little. She shall was, to say the least of it,very nnfortunate. Sir
little that is,comparatively
in Mrs. ClavertillI Hugh Clavering had declared,
she marries,
have a hundred
a year, when
little
but
die ; and after my death and her mother's she ing's
disposedin genhearing,though
eral
"

That's

right. Never

lose

"

"

with

will share

the others.

But

hundred

hundred

to you."
year will be nothing
"Won't
it,sir? I think avery

great deal of

I'm to have a hundred

and
year.
the office ; and I should be readyto

marry on that to-morrow."

couldn't live on such
"You

"But

to alter your habits very much."

I will alter them."

"We

shall

were

you

and

I would

for the next

"

Yon
lose

are
a

own

had

known

bed, and

thing in the world to make me

"We'll
try what a year will do.

work."
So Florence

is to go to your father's house at Easter?"

Yes, sir ; she has been good enough to promise

she

what Lord

him, and

Sir Hugh had

done

all that in him

had

of the

any

in

The

had

her own."

was

So

snid,and, in sayingit,had

earl

England

tliese rumors

lie upon
it. She
before she had

was

lay to damn his sister-inHarry Clavering,little as he

world
during the last twelve
that some
ent
peopletold a differ-

lived in the

story.
been

must

Ongar

the fault

much

income, months, stillknew

to put off thinkingof it

years."
down
would
be
is,that settling

to

the

law's fair fame.

placedthat by

so

considerable

the best

"

her

advise you
two

belief

My

see.

would

marryingyou

to

revelations

many

rectory,"that he did not intend

take his sister-in-law's part. She had made

married

income,unless

an

make

familyat

from
fifty

to

too

and

since their
been

his wife had

marriage,so

filtered to them

at

not

that
home

through a foreignmedium.
During most of
their time they had been in Italy,
and now, as
Harry knew, theywere at Florence. He had
heard that Lord Ongar had declared his intention
of suing for a divorce ; but that he supposed

if you have no objection."

to be erroneous, as the two were
stillliving
quiteas well that they should know
her early. I only hope they will like her as
under the same
roof.
Then
he heard that
well as we Jike you.
Now
I'll say good-night,Lord Ongar was
ill; and whisperswere
spread
and good-by." Then
and doubtingly,
Harry went, and walking abroad darkly,
as thoughgreat
thought misfortunes were apprehended.
up and down the High Street of Stratton,
of all that he had done duringthe past year.
Harry could not fail to tell himself that had
On his arrival at Stratton,that idea of perpetJulia become
his wife,as she had once
ual
promised,
misery arisingfrom his blightedaffection these whispersand this darkness would hardly
still strong within his breast. He had givwas
have come
But not on
to pass.
that account
en
all his heart to a false woman,
who had bedid he now
trayed
had not
regret that her earlyvows
him.
He had risked all his fortftne on
been kept. Living at Stratton,
he had taught
of the die,,
one
cast
had lost himself to think much
and,gambler-like,
of the quietdomesticities
On the day of Julia's marriagehe of life,
and to believe that Florence Burton was
thing.
every
to come,

"It

is

had shut himself up at the school

it was
fitter to be his wife than Julia Brabazon.
He
luckily
had flattered himself that he had" told himself that he had done well to find this
a holiday and
hours of intense agony.
No
gone throughsome
out, and that he had been wise to act upon it.
doubt he did suffer somewhat, for in truth he had
His wisdom
had in truth consisted in his capacity
loved the woman
dom
selare
to feel that Florence
; but such sufferings
was
a nice girl,
clever,
and with him theyhad been as
perpetual,
and full of
well-minded,
"

"

high-principled,

spirit,

A littlemore
and in falling
in love with her as a
easy of cure as with most others.
consequence.
than a year had passed,
and now
he was
alreadyAll his regardfor the quietdomesticities had
As he thought
of
engaged to another woman.
from his love,and had had no
come
share in
he did not by any means
himself of producingit. Florence was
this,
accuse
No

bright-eyed.

inconstancyor
to him

now

weakness

the most

that he should

of heart.

natural

It

thingin

love Florence Burton.

appeared eyes
the world

In those

were

^ver
laughter. And

either
brighter,

in tears

when

to

he

came

well he found that he had been

an

or

in

look at her
idiot to think

THE

plain,

her

There

"

; and

are

you

them, he had said

ed,
men," she had answer"

are

to

19

"I'm

to

grow

"

beauty
exquisite

to

"

of

one

there

"And

her.

thingsthat

are

at them

beauty as you look

CLAVERINGS.
sure

I think

shall like her,"said Fanny.

we

that I shall like

Harry'schoice,"

said Mrs. Clavering.

"
will like her," said Mary
I do hope Edward
"
"
said
I do wish you were
her sister,
Mary,"

as you listen to them

flattery
and
married.
When
to impudentflattery
begin to
you are, you'll
;
you are one of once
them."
I thought you plainthe first day I have a self of your own
again. Now you'reno
That's not flattery."
saw
"Yes, sir,it better than an unconscious echo."
you.
it for flattery.
is ; and you mean
Wait for your own
But, after all,
turn,my dear,"said the
that you want
to mother.
Harry, it comes
onlyto this,
He
and
tellme that you hare learned to love me."
Harry had reached home on a Saturday,
this
he
and
all
the
himself
walked
to
was
as
following
Monday
Christmas-day.
Lady
up
repeated
"

who

to

grow

"

"

"

at the park,
and declared to himself that she Clavering,
he was told,
at home
was
Stratton,
lovely. It had been given to him to and Sir Hugh had been there lately.No one
rather proud of himself. from the house except the servants were
at
ascertain this,and he was
seen

down
was

very

But

he
He

father.

was

Florence

might
her,and mightnot
see

Florence

church

day.

discernment enough to
he had done.
But

have

as

at once,
going to Clavering
givebeforehand his own

he would be able to
of her.

He

had

not

engagement

had

been

account

his

not

was

his

father

he himself had first seen

as

his mistake

ascertain
and

little difiident about

his
thought that,perhaps,

been

home

since

thingsettled; but

either
"But

the

on

Sunday or

that shows

on

Christmas-

said
nothing,
"

the

tor,"
rec-

"
does
He very rarely
speakingin anger.
come, and when he does,it would be better that
he should be away.
I think that he likes to insult

me

himself. They say that she

by misconducting
believe that all this
well,and I can easily

is not
about

her sister makes

her

unhappy. If I

were

you, I would go up and call. Your mother

there the other day,but did not see them.

was

I
positionwith regardto Florence had been
and his mother had written to think you'll
find that he's away, hunting somedeclared by letter,
where.
I saw
the groom
to Clavering.
the young ladyaskingher to come
going off with three
He always sends
When
Harry got home all the familyreceived horses on Sunday afternoon.
"I am
him with congratulations.
so
glad to them by the church gate just as we're coming
his mother
out."
think that you should marry early,"
So Harry went
said to him in a whisper. " But I am
not married
up to the house,and found
She was lookingold
Lady Claveringat home.
yet,mother,"he answered.
" Do
said Fanny,
but she was
and careworn,
show me a lock of her hair,''
glad to see him.
hair than
laughing. "It's twice prettier
Harry was the only one of the rectoryfamily
who had been liked at the great house since Sir
yours, though she doesn't think half so much
about it as you do,"said her brother,
pinching Hugh's marriage,and-he,had he cared to do so,
"But
show me
a
lock, would have been made welcome there. But, as
Fanny's arm.
you'll
if
said to Sir Hugh's sister-in-law,
he had once
won't you ?" said Fanny.
"I'm
riage," he shot the Clavering
so
glad she's to be here at my margame, he would be expected
to do so in the guise of a head gamekeeper,
said Mary, " because then Edward will
I'm so glad that he will see her." and he did not choose to play that part. It
know
her.
' ' Edward
and won't
would not suit him to drink Sir Hugh's claret,
will have other fish to fry,
and to be asked to
and be bidden to ringthe bell,
much
about her,"said Harry.
care
this
do
the
into
the
for
that.
He was
stable
or
"It seems
to
a
regular
you'regoing
step
fellow of his college,
and quiteas big a man, he
tices.
thing,"said his father,' like all the goodapprenwould not be a hangas Sir Hugh. He
er-on
Marry your master's daughter,and then thought,
he disliked
This was not
Lord Mayor of London."
at the park,and, to tell the truth,
become
it had pleasedHarry to rehis cousin quite
as his father did.
gard
the view in which
as much
All the other "young But there had even
been a sort of friendship
his engagement.
almost
between
a
men"
that had gone to Mr. Burton's had married
confidence,
nay"occasionally
and he believed that by
Mr. Burton's daughters or,at least,
enough him and Lady Clavering,
the Stratton assertion that her he was
had done so to justify
reallyliked.
The
tons,
Burhad heard of his engagement,
all had fallen into the same
Clavering
trap.
Lady
"
Who
him.
told
with their five girls,
were
ton
and of course
supposedin Stratcongratulated
it
mother?"
"Was
their
he
affairs
asked.
and
to have managed
my
veiy well,
you?"
something of these hints had reached Hari-y's " No ; I have not seen your mother I don't

his

'

"

"

ears.

He

would

have

that
preferred

should not have been made

not fool enough to make
was

the

thing know

but he
common,
himself really
unhappy

so

when.

Though
at the

we

I think
somehow

rectory,our

it was
don't

servants

my
see
are

maid

much
no

told

of you
doubt

me.

all

more

I'm sure she

with the rectoryservants.
gracious
have
be nice,Harry, or you would not
must
''
"
I
she
has
line.
her.
some
lie
i
n
chosen
But
doesn't
our
hope
money."
got
exactly
promotion
master's daughterdoes,it seems,"
"Yes, I think she is nice. She is coming
marryingyour
said the rector.
Harry thought that this,as here at Easter."
almost ill-natured," Ah ! we shall be away then,you know ; and
was
coming from his father,
on

that head.

becoming

Lord

and therefore

"I don't know

much

about

Mayor," he replied."That

droppedthe

conversation.

about the money

?"

CLAVERINGS.

THE

20

"She
hundred
"

will hhve

but
little,

little

very

"Thank

"

only just come

I have

you, no;

home."

year."

"And

ger
Oh, Harry,is hot that rash of you ? YounYou are
brothers should alwaysget money.

That

justgoing away.

am

is,I

go

stand this place. 1

all England,
in
the same
think it is the dullest neighborhood
as a younger
brother,
you know."
''
I
house
ever
saw.
the
most
and
idea
bread.
It's
is
not
to earn
gloomy
My
my own
but,after all,there are a great Hermione likes it."
very aristocratic,
in the

more

many
''

boat with me."

same

Of course you will

a wife with
money

because
girlis not the worse
help. However, I'm sure
happy."

she
I

some

bring

can

Very

that he is very ill."

last ; but Julia

heard

we

heard

"I'm

was

sorry that it is

be for the best.

not

thing
most

they have

been

not

"

Yes, I had

' '

Of

you ?
said of her."

"

I have

"

Yon

and I

afraid that

so

was

would

She

can

"

You

She

did

what

ple
peo-

"I

think you

done

Of

"

dear,I

Oh

course

"

had

believe

"

"Only
She

think what

but
probablyimprudent,

was

is

than that.

imprudent?

But

absolutely
wrong,
I think she

astray.
really

And

then

as

and

can

what

with such

think you

to

go

man

as

him

he

thousand

seven

not

him, and

took
while

has
syllable

been

be the first to

at

that moment

the door

in.
Sir Hugh came
does Sir Hugh think?"

was

"What
"

We

were

speakingof Lord Ongar,"said

sitting
up and
"

that I would

one

hands
shaking

Then, Harry,you

this house.
?

said he

were

rather not

Do you
I will have no

be
she

against

If she would

"

best I could
home

; and

as

remain

for her.

abroad

She

I would do the
chooses to return

I think she's wrong, I won't have

You
don't suppose that I

go about the world accusingher ?"

"I think you might do something to
her battle for her."

But

been

I don't

turn

thinks

opened,and

year

attempted to
left him, and now

in his last moments.

ought to

lasted.

her here

"

that

h(?r."

only

proud

too

was

who

she

that,so difBcult and Ill-tempered^"Sir Hugh

"

care

When

he was."

man

that when

knew

has been with him

"

she

nothingworse

what

say

been

"

I think

I don't
not.

do.

should have borne with

ironically,
you shouldn't
isn't to have
If he dies,
she will be well off,of A woman
for
will
in
time
what
nothing."
people
forget
that is,if she will live quietly. ' 'But you forgetthat
been said
worst of it is that she fears nothing."
proved againsther, or
But you speak as though you thought she proved. She has never
been

"

she

unjustto her,Hugh."

are

you

"

The

it.

want

guiltyor

that

mean

to

me

"

If you
say it now.
course, and
has

should

she

she has been

into such a mess

gets her name
she should keep in the background."

Harry.
"

had

stay where

woman

said
greatdeal better for herself,"

the afternoon

on

You don't suppose that

I expect any thing else. But if you mean
to
once,
that there would have been all this row
would suspectit. tell me
if she had been
for you ; would
prudent,I tell you
decently
that you'remistaken."

she, Harry ?"

"

Ongar

Lady Clavering.

said

whether
of pretending

use

know

Hugh

have

never

Florence

the devil doesn't she

"Then

always loved her,Harry.

how
unhappy that made

remember

that Lord

heard,perhaps,

believed it."

never

at

afternoon

same

"People
it is?" said Sir Hugh, to his wife.
forgether there,and in twelve months'
to be a cruel would
would be all over."
time the row
not but think
ten,
that
"Perhaps she does not want to be forgot-

is the

thingwith

had died

He

England.
"Why

that."
what

that

to say
by telegraph,

dead.

happy ?"

heard
; and

course

that,"said

as

him

to

came

ing
Claver-

ed.
he had intend-

and Lady Ongar

Christmas-day,
her intention of coming at once
expressed.

else to Say.
know whether

It seems

say, but of course

You
of her.
have
to

any
have

on

There

from

get away

morning as

the next

of

hope when

no

bad

so

Harry,not well knowing what

"
I do not
As regardsJulia,
may

Park

KETtTRN.

did not

Sir Hugh

But

was

writes now."

never

ONGAK'S

LADT

message
ill. I believe there

V.

CHAPTER

meantwas

have

tradict
con-

be
hopeyou'll

she said.
"I

to

him.

the money
comes
"
I'm sure
I oughtto agree with yon, because
had any." Then there was
never
a pause.
we
"I suppose you've heard about Lord Ongar,"

' '

pressed
Lady Clavering ex-

did she venture

assent, nor

no

thati think it bestwhen

from the husband."

"WhatI

not

can

this last assertion

To

ing
your bread,but havwould not hinder that.

earn

to-morrow.

"

ry,
Har-

that's all.

"

I will

dp nothing,unless she takes my

vice
ad-

with his cousin.

and

ject
sub-

her now,

It's

an

but

speakingon
have

discussed

in

understand that,HermiLord Ongar

about
talking

We know very little,

or his wife.
and what we
hear is simplyuncomfortable.
Will you dine
hero to-day,
Hany ?"

remains

abroad.

You

fight

must

write to

and you will tell her what I say.

infernalbore,his dying at this moment;

I suppose

peoplewon't expect that

I'm to shut

myselfup."
For

one

day onlydid

the baronet shut himself

he went
up, and on the following
he had before intended.

whither

THE

CLAVEEINGS.

Lady Claveringthoughtit proper to write a

line to the rectory,informing
the familythere
This she did
no
that Lord Ongar was
more.
and
when it was
in a note to Mrs. Clavering
;
the faces of them all
received there came
over
that lugubrious
look,which is,as a matter of

21

Harry was

consorted.

that his
grieved

cousin

had not resistedthe

temptationof goingat such

a
time, but he was quick enough to perceive
that Lady Claveringalluded to the absence of
her lord as a reason
why Harry might pay his

visitto the house with satisfaction.

when
dings
tiassumed
decorous
"I'm so much
to you for coming,"
by
people
course,
obliged
of the death of any one who has said Lady Clavering.' ' I want to know if you
come
As she spoke she
been known
in the most distant can do somethingfor me."
to them, even
of Harry,all
exception

the

With

way.

had been introduced

rectoryClaverings

the

Lord

to

had

paper in her hand, which he immediately

be a letterfrom Italy.

perceivedto

bound to express some"I'll do any thing I can, of course. Lady

were
now
thing
Will any one
to sorrow.
approaching
Clavering."
If it be so called,
f
"But
to call this hypocrisy
I must
tell you that I hardlyknow
in the world is not a hypocrite
?
Where
whether I ought to ask you.
I'm doing what

Ongai',and
dare

who

is the
for

man

sorrow

who

face
who has not a special
or woman
before company ? The man
or woman
has no such face would at once
be accused

make
Hugh
and
unreasonable,

condemns

"

think,it isbut littlemore

than

year since you

married them!"
"
And twelve such months as theyhave been
for her!" said the rector,shakinghis head.

so

her simplybecause,as he says, there

without fire. That is such a cruel

is no smoke
impropriety.
sad,"said Mrs. Clavering
only thingto say
;

of heartless
"It is very

But he is so
very angry.
He
cruel about Julia.

would

about

woman

Harry thoughtthat
he

as

before

did not

wish

"

it was

to

is it not ?"
but
cruel thing,

speak evil of

Sir

Hugh

his tongue.

he held
Lady Clavering,

"
When
we
by telegraph,
got tlie first news
home at
Julia said that she intended to come
a kindly,
essentially
Hugh thinks that she should remain
parson he was
easy man, to once.
whom
time,and, indeed,1 am not
humbug was odious,and who dealt little abroad for some
still sure
At any rate, he
in the austeritiesof clerical denunciation,
but that would be best.

His

face

very

was

lugubrious
; for though as

pulpitsorrow for the sins of made me write to her and advise her to stay.
ical
he would
at once
He declared that if she came
perhapscall his clerpeople
knack of gentlecondemnation
and could do nothingfor her. The truth is,he does not
solemn
therefore assume
a
look,and a, little want to have her here,for if she were again in
of his head, with more
saddened motion
ease
the house,he would have to take her part if illfor natured thingswere
not often caiUed upon
said."
than peoplewho
are
"
such action.
That's cowardly,"said Harry,stoutly.
"
"
Poor woman
Don't say that,
!" said Fanny,thinking
of the
Harry,tillyou liave heard
and her early
it all. If he believes these things,
he is right
married sorrows
hood.
widowwoman's
He is very hard,and
not to wish to meddle.
" Poor
! said Mary,shuddering
as she
man
always believes evil ; but he is not a coward.
If she were
thoughtof the husband's fate.
here,livingwith him as my sister,
self
"I
hope," said Harry, almost sententious- he would take her part,whatever he might himhe had

his face of

the

what

"

I may

"

"

"

ly,

that

no

upon
heard."
"

in this house

one

such

her

mere

rumors

will condemn
have been

think."
"But

as

why

sister-in-law?

Why

should any

one

in this house condemn

ill of his

should he think
I have never

own

thought ill of

her."

"You
loved her,and he never
did; though
her,"said the rector, "even if there were more
But that's
than rumors?
My dears,judgenot,lest ye be I think he liked her too in his way.
judged. As regardsher,we are bound by close what he told me to do, and I did it. I wrote
ties not to speakillof her
to think ill,to hei',
or even
advisingher to remain at Florence till
unless we can not avoid it. As far as I know, the warm
weather comes, sayingthat as she
"

have

we

not

any

reason

for

ill." Then
thinking

could not

wish
specially

to he in London

for the

ble
comfortanance,
out, changedthe tone of his counteseason, I thoughtshe would be more
I
then
that
added
and
the
than
there
and
lit
his
here;
rectory stables,
among
cigar.
Hugh also advised her to stay. Of course I did

he

went

days after that a second note was

broughtdown from the great house to the recto Harry.
toiy,and this was from Lady Clavering
"Dear Harry,"ran the note, " could you
this morning? Sir
find time to come
up to me
Three

not

that

say that he would not have

his threat."
was

her here

"

but

to press herself where she

She is not likely
wanted."
her rank and
"No; and she will not forget
be hers.
Julia
now
Hugh has gone to North Priory.Ever yours, her money, for that must
H. C."
Harry,of course, went, and as he can be quiteas hard and as stubborn as he can.
he wondered
how Sir Hugh could have But I did write as I say, and I think that if she
went
"

is not

"

had the heai'tto go to North Prioryat such

moment.some
a

North

thirtymiles

great nobleman

had got my

letter before she

had

self,
written her-

she would perhapshave staid. But here

hunting-seat
that she will come
from her declaring
lettsr
from Clavering,
is
t
o
a
belonging
almost as soon
She will be starting
Sir Hugh much
at once.
with whom

Priorywas

CLAVEEINGS.

THE

22

and I
my lettergets there,
not niter her purpose now."

as

"

I don't

she will

sure

if she

come

Only that

she

might be

comfortable

more

she says. You need not

read the first part. Not that there is any secret
; but it is about him and his last moments,

there.

But

read what

confess

to

said that it was

never

Claverings
; but

of the

any

it.

she

now

would

He

"

that

knew

thoughshe

such,and

known, she had

was

to

so

driven

likes it."
"

to be

known
this

she should not

why

see

am

was

let

not

me

him.
without telling
go, Harry. I could not go
and if I told him he would forbid it."
out
she is to be allalone in London, with"And
any friend ?"
"I shall go to her

he will let me.

as
as
soon
only painyou."
Harry longed to read the whole,but he did I don't think he will forbid my going to her,
he was
as
bid, and began the letter at the spot perhapsafter a day or two ; but I know he wotdd
her."
for him with her not let me
which Lady Claveringmarked
go on purpose to meet
"
hard."
It does seem
finger. I have to start on the third,and as I
"But about the apartments,Harry ? I thought
shall stay nowhere
except to sleepat Turin and
After
that perhapsyou would see about them.
Paris,I shall be home by the eighth; I think on
I could not have asked you,
the eveningof the eighth. I shall bringonly all that has passed,
itis
who desires only that now, as you are engaged yourself,
maid, and one of his men
my own
married.
I wish to have apartback with me.
as though you were
to come
ments nearly the same
in London.
I suppose
I would ask Archibald,only then there would
taken for me
much
for
Archibald and Hugh ; and
this
?"
be a fuss between
will
do
as
me
as
Hugh
I look on you more
"I am
as a brother-inquitesure Hugh won't,"said Lady somehow
who
was
watching his eye as he law than I do Archibald."
Clavering,
and

it would

"

"Is

read.

Archie

in London

?"

Harry said nothing,but went on reading. ' His address is at his club,but I dare say he
"
I shall onlywant
and two
is at North
two sitting-rooms
Prioryalso. At any rate, I shall
for myself,
and one
for Clara, say nothingto him."
bedrooms
one
and should like to have them somewhere
"I was thinkinghe might have met her."
near
liked him.
about there.
"Julia
or
never
And, indeed,I
Piccadillyin ClargesStreet,
You can
send me
about being
write me
don't think she will care so much
or
a message
a Jine,
If any thing met.
to the Hotel
at Paris.
She was alwaysindependentin that way,
Bristol,
and would go over
the world alone better than
so that I should not hear,I shall go to the
fails,
Palace
graph many
But couldn't you run
age
men.
Hotel,and, in that case, should teleup and manfor rooms
from Paris."
about the apartments ?
A woman
coming
"
Is that all I'm to read ?" Harry asked.
home
and in her position feels a
a widow
as
"You
hotel to be so public."
can
go on and see what she says as
for coming." So Harry went on
"I will see about the apartments.''
to her reason
"
I knew you would.
And
there will be time
reading. I have suffered much, and of course
'

"

"

"

"

"

I know

that I must
that
It has

once.

snfter

I will face
been

hinted

will be made

; but I

more

the
to

that

me

for you to send to me,

termined
deParis
will there not?

am

of it at

worst

tempt
at-

an

that I

so

There

"

write to

can

is

than

more

week, you know."

ment
interferewith the settle-

Henry did not wish to go to London on

immediately.He had made up
Harry. Lady Claveringsuspectedwho might his mind that he would not onlytake the rooms,
have done so, but she made
but that he would also meet
"I
no
answer.
Lady Ongar at the
can
hardlythink it possible;
vering,
but,if it is done, station. He said nothingof this to Lady Cla"

"

"

I will not

duty as

Who

to

ha.ve hinted

can

be out of the way.

I have
could,and have done
that I may

trulysay

doing it.
; and I will go on
ashamed to show
say that I am
you
"

Vou

own.

my

see

will be

I have

me.

aged so

But

this business

done

my
it under

best I

circumstances

claim

that ?" said

were

Harry refolded

one

my

face and

shall

man

he is asked

to

"

had
the

"

the letter and

gave

Hugh

it two

not

show

him

if I

were

to do so, he would

Now

"

"

It would

seem

so

cold to her

on

her return."

"Very cold. Will you not go and meet her?"

Lady Claveringblushed as she answered.
Though Sir Hugh was a tyrantto his wife,and

could

for

no

excuse

come

man,
of his

that

But

full week

write

he

and

do

what
he

But

more.

namely,that

"

married

peated
re-

ing
Claver-

Lady

already

was

that,therefore,

courtesyto his

he did not wish

to

in's
cous-

make

did he desireto be

out of his

could not
Clavering
it was
and, therefore,
would

should

cases

do

to London,nor
journeys

simplydo nothing, She

let her go to the totel in London.

that would be unkind
would it not?"
"Very unkind,I think."
and

as

wife's sister.

away

is gone, and therefore I could

that in time to do any thing; but

made

same

harm

in such

do,and

himself the

to

surprisedwhen

much

back to his companion.

"Sir

was

ble
terridoubt.

No

"
You need not go on,"said Lady Clavering.
no
The rest is about nothingthat signifies."

Then

she might not approve ; but

as, perhaps,
his intention.
He
was
wrong, no

such

holidays.Lady

press him to go at once,

settled as he proposed.

to Paris

and
immediately,

he
four days.
"If we only knew of
any apartments, we could
write,"said Lady Clavering. "You could not
know that theywere
said Harry
comfortable,"
would go up to London

after three

or

"and

you

of time."

will find that I will do it in

plenty
Then
he took his leave;but

had
Clavering

Lady

stillone

other word

to

say

to

THE

CLAVEfilNGS.

23

"
You had better not say any thing
about
Lord Ongar had married,and had deUim.
scribed
woman
all this at the rectory; had you ?"
with rapture his joythat that earlypasHarry,
sion
without considering
much about it,
he would have
said that he
had come
to nothing.Now
and
he thought
would not mention it.
to tell Florence of this meeting
;
Then
he went
he would make
between
her
away and walked again about of the comparison
ty
the park,thinkingof it all. He had not seen
brightyoung charms and the shipwreckedbeauher since he had walked
round
the park, in
of the widow.
On the whole,he was
proud
after parting
with her in the garhis misery,
den. that he had been selected for the commission,
had happened since then ! as he liked to think of himself as one to whom
How
much

had become
had been married in her glory,
thingshappenedwhich were out of the ordinary
that
His onlyobjection
to Florence was
turningcourse.
recountess, and then a widow, and was now
in the ordinary
with a tarnished name,
almost repudishe had come
to him so much
ated
by those who had been her dearest friends,course.
"
but with rank and fortune at her command
and
I suppose the truth is you are tired of our
She

"

free

again a

mighthave

what

He

could

not

been his chance

were

woman.

but think

his father to him

said
dullness,"

he

when

clared
de-

his purpose of going up to London, and,

asked
that were
in answer
to certain questions

it not for

Florence Burton ! But much had happened to

him also. He had almost perished
in his misery
him, had hesitated to tell his business.
"
he told himself; but had once
so
more
Indeed,it is not so,"said Harry,earnestly
;
"
for a certricked his beams"
that was
his expression" but I have a commission
tain
to execute
"
and was now
to himself
in the forehead"
flaming
person, and I can not explainwhat it is."
"
of a glorious
if there
Another
love. And
secret
even
eh, Harry?"
"
It is
had been no such love,would a widowed countI am
ess
very sorry, but it is a secret.
"

"

"

"

a damaged name
simplybecause she

with

of the poor

wretch

have been

no

There

between

vows

such

had

to whom

No, indeed.
of renewed

have

suited his

she had
could be

them

now

even
question

not

bition,
am-

the rich dower

sold herself?

no

had there been

seeking;

own

and

mother

His

or
question

question

there could

of my

one

say."

; but when

two

that is all I

sisters also asked

he became

goingto

he is

What

her.

meet

ous,
mysteri-

"
Of course
they did not persevere.
somethingabout Florence,"said Fanny.

be bound

can

him

it is
"

I'll
will

"gloriouslove,"which had accrued to him you bet me, Harry, you don't go to the play
in rightof his with Florence
before you come
To
his normal
home?"
as
privilege
pupilagein Mr. Burton's office. No ; there this Henry deignedno answer
; and after that
asked.
could be,there could have been,nothing now
no
more
were
questions
in
between him and the widowed
Countess
of OnHe went
up to London, and took rooms
ing,
fresh-lookhe liked the idea of Bolton Street. There was
a pretty,
But, nevertheless,
gar.
ing-rooms,
He felt some
meetingher in London.
triumph
lightdrawing-room,or, indeed,two drawand a large
and a small dining-room,
in the thoughtthat he should be the first to
touch her hand on her return after all that she bedroom
lookingover upon the trees of some
He would be very courteous
had suffered.
to
nobleman's
garden. As Harry stood at
great
her,and would spare no trouble that would give the window, it seemed so odd to him that he
her any ease.
As for her rooms, he would see
should be there. And he was
busy about every
that all things
of
which
the
to
that
he
could
think
in
seeing
thing
chamber,
thing
every
might add to her comfort ; and a wish crept were clean and well-ordered. Was the woman
Sure ; of course
that she might be con^
of the house sure of her cook ?
him, uninvited,
upon
no

almost

scious of what he had done for her.

she be aware, he wondered, that he
Would

engaged ?

was

had
Lady Clavering

for the last three

mentioned

have

months, and
the

known

would

wished
not

that she

care

to be

might not
talkingto

know
her

it.
about

Had

sure.

for

not

old Lady Dimdaif lived

"I should

two

Lady Ongar keep

would

letter.
Then

the

eame

found his commission

asked seemed

to

her

own

riage?"
car-

Harry could

say nothing.
questionof price,and Harry

to this

As

Florence,"a

be

very difficult. The sum

"
Seven guineas

enormous.

weelc at that time of the year !"

daff
Lady Dim-

had alwayspaidseven guineas. " But that

in the season,"suggested
Harry. To this

he said to himself.
It

there

probably"And

circumstance in

been good

not

was

so
years, and nobody ever was
it particular
about her victuals as Lady Dimdaff.

The
he knew, had
perhapsnot.
sisters,
and
he almost
correspondents
;

But

she

to was
very strange that theyshould come
the season
that it was
now.
a
replied
way, after all that had passed the woman
drive
like
gain
barbetween them in former days. Would
a
did
not
to
he
it occur
felt
that
Harry
would care
the onlyman
to her that he was
she had ever
for the countess, who probably
and therefore assented.
loved ? for,of course, as he well knew, she had
what she paid,
very little
a great
loved her husband.
Or would she now
But siguineaa day for lodgingsdid seem
never
meet

was

in such

be too callous to every

to think at all of such

(hat she

thingbut the outer world

subject?She had said

deal of money.
commence

He

was

preparedto

marry

and

for all
less sum
mission,
However, he had done his com-

on
housekeeping

aged,and he could well believe it. his expenses.

and had
her to himself in her weeds,
had written to Lady Clavering,
pictured
He had almost brought
to Paris.
worn, sad,thin,but still proud and handsome.
telegraphed
He had told Florence of his earlv love for the himself to wrjte to Lady Ongar, but when the

Then

he

was

24

CLAVERINGS.

THE

moment

he abstained.

came

telegram as

from

H.

think that it came

He
when

he
He

She

Clavering.

the

might

Hugh if she pleased.

attend specially
to his dress
her at the Victoria

to meet

went

sent

from

unable to

was

had

He

told himself that he

was

ass

an

It's very
very well,I'm sure.
Street.
Bolton
in
The rooms
kind of you.
are
Oh! thank yon."
here.
I have- the number
So he led
But she would
not take his arm.
"It

will do

tion. the way,

Sta"

but

into the

and

stood

at the

carriagewith

her

door

while she got

"I'd

maid.

better

This he
now."
where yon are
During the show the man
with
her
hands
through
whole afternoon he could do nothingbut think did,and afterward shook
all he saw
of
ence
of what he had in hand.
He was
to tell Florthe carriage-window.This was
which have been repeated
known
and
the
words
Florence
the
but
had
her,
thing
;
every
she were
all that were
actual state of his mind, I doubt whether
spoken. Of her face he had
The train not caught a glimpse.
would have been satisfied with him.
he was
scious
conHe dined at the Oxford and
As he went home
due at 8 P.M.
to his lodgings
was
tory.
that the interview had not been satisfacCambridge Club at six,and then went to his
he wanted,
He could not say what more
lodgingsto take one last look at his outer man.
down
but he went
but he felt that there was
The evening was very fine,
to
somethingamiss. He
consoled himself,
the station in a cab because he would not meet
however, by remindinghimself
He
told
himself
he had
soiled
boots.
that
Florence
Burton
the girlwhom
in
was
Lady Ongar
an
ass
reallyloved,and not Julia Brabazon.
Lady
again that he was
; and then tried to
and
sion
console himself by thinkingthat such an occaOngar had givenhim no invitation to come
that he
see
as this seldom
her, and therefore he determined
happened once to any man
would return
home
could hardlyhappen more
than once to any man.
the following
on
day without
He had hired a carriage
for her,not thinkingit going near Bolton Street.
He had pictured
to
himself beforehand
fitthat Lady Ongar should be taken to her new
the sort of description
he
home in a cab; and when he was
at the station,would
give to Lady Clavering of her sister ;
half an hour before the proper time,was
but, seeinghow thingshad turned out, he made
very
because it had not come.
Ten minutes
fidgety
up his mind that he would
say nothing of the
before eighthe might have been seen
standing meeting. Indeed,he would not go up to the
at the entrance
to the station,
iously
lookingout anxgreat house at all. He had done Lady Claverfor the vehicle.
The man
of ing'scommission
littletrouble and exwas
at some
there,
pense
himself angiy
and there should be an end
to himself,
course, in time, but Harry made
because he could not get the carriage
so placed of it.
Lady Ongar would not mention that she
of stepping
tliatLady Ongar might be sure
into had
him.
He
seen
doubted,indeed,whether
it without leavingthe platform. Punctuallyto she would remember
whom
she had seen.
For
the moment
the coming train announced
itself any good that he had done,or for any sentiment
that there had been, his cousin Hugh's butler
by its whistle,and Harry Claveringfelt himself
to be in a flutter.
might as well have gone to the train. In this
The
train came
and
mood
he returned home, consoling
himself with
up along the platfonn,
the fitness of thingswhich had givenhim FlorHarry stood there expectingto see Julia Brabaence
zon's head projected
from the firstwindow
that
Burton
instead of Julia Brabazon for a
of Julia Brabazon's
It was
wife.
caught his eye.
head, and not of Lady Ongar's,that he was
thinking. But hq saw no signof her presence
while the carriages
were
coming to a stand-still,
and the platformwas
coverei with passengers
CHAPTEK
VI.
still he

went

being an

on

ass.

"

before he discovered
At

last he

her whom

encountered

he

in the

and found from him

livery,
" I have
Ongar'sservant.
Ongar," said Harry,"and

seeking.

was

crowd

that he

THE

in

man

REV.

SAMUEL

SAUL.

DtmiNG
Lady
cumstance
Harry'sabsence in London,a cirhad occurred at the
Lady
rectory which
have got a carriagehad surprised
of them
some
and annoyed others
for her.
Then the servant found his mistress,
a good deal.
Mr. Saul,
the curate, had made
and Harry offered his hand to a tall woman
in an offer to Fanny. The rector and
clared
Fanny deblack. She wore
hat with a veil,
a black straw
themselves to be both surprised
and annoyed.
was

to meet

come

"

but the veil

at all

"Is
' '

was

so

thick that

that Mr.
"

Yes,

said

any

"Thank
knows

where

"

Harry,

itis I. Your

thing. Can
you;
the

to it?

was

in truth troubled

the

man

as

"

sister asked
was

you to

in town
see

if you

?"
get the luggage
will do

that.

He

thingsare."
carriage
; shall I

"
I ordered a
show him
where it is ? Perhapsyou will let me take you

They are so stupidhere.

bringit up."

not let me

the rector

Mrs.
very evident.
said that she had almost suspectedit

Clavering?"said she.

to take rooms

wanted

That

not

by the thingwas

for you, and

I thoughtI might as well meet
me

Harry could

her face.

see

They would

was, St any rate,not

of course
she was
itself,

surprised
; as

Clavering
that she

to the

offer
sorry that it should have

been

made, as it could not suit Fanny to accept

as she had
Mary was surprised,
thoughtMr.
Saul to be whollyintent on other things but
;
she could not see any reason
why the offer
should be regardedas beingon his
sonable.
part unreait.

"

been

How

can

you

say so,

mamma

?"

exclamation
Fanny'sindignant

Such had
when

Mrs.

CLAVEKESrGS.

THE

25

had hinted that Mr. Saul's proceeding

distribution of coal,
when, justas she was about
Clavering
Mr. Saul came
had been expected
It was
to leave the cottage,
by her.
up.
Simplybecause I saw that he liked you, my then past four,and the evening was becoming
"

dear.

Men
ways

under
of

such circumstances have

there was, moreover,

ferent
difdark,and

of rain.
showingtheir liking."
had seen all of Mary'slove-affair walk of a

It

slightdrizzle

temptingevening for a
half througha very dirty

not

was

mile and a
Tanny,who
lane ; but Fanny Claveringdid not care much
from the beginningto the end, and who had
watched
the Reverend Edward
Fieldingin all for such things,and was juststeppingout into
withher dress well looped
his very conspicuousmanceuvres,
would not the mud and moisture,
f
rom
Mr.
her.
this.
the
first
when
Saul
accosted
Edward
to
Fielding
agree
up,
"
of his intimate acquaintance
with Mary
I'm afraid you'll
ing."
moment
be very wet, Miss Claverhad

leftno

doubt

of any

one.

been

lover of the

of his intentions

on

the mind

"That
had talked to Mary and walked
will be better than going without my
he was allowed or found it cup of tea,Mr. Saul,which I should have to do
with Mary whenever
ny,
to do so.
And I
When
driven to talk to Fanif I staid any longerwith Mrs. Tubb.
possible
he had alwaystalked about Mary. He had
have got an umbrella,"
a

about whom
the

He

good,old,plain-spoken
stamp,

there had

first moment

been

of his

no

mistake.

coming

much

Clavering
Eectory the only questionhad

From

"But

it is

"I'm

used to

about
been

"Yes, I
her.

"

dark and

BO

said
dirty,"

he.

that,as you ought to know."

said he,walkingon with
know it,''

do

I do know

that

nothingever

turns

you

"I don't think Mr. Saul away from the good work."
about his income.
said a word to me
There was
in the tone of his voice
ever
except about the poor
something
said Fanny. which Fanny did not like. He had never
plimented
compeople and the church services,"
"
That was merely his way," said Mrs. Clavering.
her before.
timate,
They had been very in"
Then
he must be a goose,"said Fanny.
ny
and had often scolded each other. Fan"I

am

he had

very son-y ifI have made

no

business to

come

to

him
me

but
unhappy,
in that

way."

would

him

accuse

of

exactingtoo

he would

and
people,

the

much

from

upon her that

would often decline

retort

"I suppose I shall have to look for another

she coddled them.
Fanny
said the rector.
But this was
said in to obey him, and he would make angry hints as
curate,"
to his clericalauthority.In this way
privateto his wife.
theyhad
"I don't see that at all,
''saidMrs. Clavering.worked togetherpleasantly,
without' slnyof the
''
With
it would be so ; but I think
men
many
you will find that he will take an answer, and
that there will be an end of it."

Fanny,perhaps,had

awkwardness
arisen between
But

now

which
a

on

young
that he

other terms
man

and

would
young

began to praiseher

have
an.
wom-

with

intention of meaningin his tone,

rightto be indignant,some
peculiar
for certainly
Mr. Saul had given her no
fair she was
confounded.
She had made
mediate
imno
to him, but walked on rapidly
warning of his intention. Mary had for some
answer
months
been intent rather on
Mr. Fielding'sthrough the mud and slush.
church matters
than on
those goingon in her
said he ; "I have
"Yon
are
very constant,"
and therefore there had been nothing
without finding
own
not been two years at Clavering
parish,
singularin the fact that Mr. Saul had said that out." It was becoming worse and worse.
such matters to Fanny than to her sister. It was
his words which provoked
more
on
not so much
Fanny was eager and active ; and as Mr. her as the tone in which they were
utteyed.
it was
ural
natSaul was
idea of what
And yet she had not the slightest
very eager and very active,
that they should have had some
interests in was
votion
coming. If,thoroughly
admiringher deBut there had been no private
ings,
walkand mistaken as to her character,
he were
common.
and no talkingsthat could properly
be to ask her to become a Protestant nun, or suggest
called private.There was
and
which
a certainbook
to her that she should leave her home
of all the go as nurse
then there would
into a hospital,
Fanny kept,containingtl^enames
a

of which she believed

to which Mr. Saul had
have occurred the sort of folly
peoplein the parish,
him to be capable. Of the follywhich
equallywith herself;but its contents
of a most prosaic
she he now
nature ; and when
she had not believed him to
were
committed,
it in the rectory drawing-room,be capable.
had sat over
with Mr. Saul by her side,striving
and she held
to extract
It had come
to rain hard,
on
than twelve pennies out of charity
He also was
more
shil- her umbrella low over her head.
lings,
she had never
it
his hand, so
with
umbrella
in
that
would
lead
an
walking
thought
open
to a declaration of love.
other.
that they were
not very close to each
He had never
called her Fanny in his life
on impetuously,
put her
Fanny,as she stepped
and splashed
self
herwhen she declined the foot into the depthof a pool,
not up to the moment
honor of becomingMrs. Saul. The offer itself
thoroughly.
made in this wise.
She had been at the
"Oh
was
dear,oh dear,"said she; "this is very
house of old Widow
Tubb, half way between disagreeable."
of Clavering,
said he,."I have been
Miss Clavering,"
CumberlyGreen and the littlevillage
old woman
to speak to you, and
to make that rheumatic
striving
lookingfor an opportunity
poor

access

"

"

believe that she had not been cheated by a general

in the matter of a
of the parish
conspiracy

when
so
I may find another
I do not know
suitable as this." She stillbelieved that some

was
proposition

to be made

would

her which

to

and perhapsimpertinent
;
disagreeable,

be
it

CLAVEEINGS.

THE

26

occurred

never

of

want

to

her

that Mr.

Saul

was

but
in

"Doesn't

Then

she gave
ill-suited."
splashedhei-selfsadly. "I

for

it rain too hard

talking?"she

in

lover

start,and

have

books,and have

very

"

again

read,

never

not

allowed

imaginationto dwell much on such things."

Saul,don't go on; pray don't." Now
did understand what was
coining.

my

"Mr.

said.
"As

it is done

how

wife.

playthe part of

ill-suited to

am

I have

begun,I

must

go

on

with it now," she

Mr. Saul proposes.

he

his voice
laising
replied,

as thoughit
little,

necessary that he should do so to make

hear him throughthe rain and darkness.

were

moved

littlefarther away
but
irritation;

his purpose.

"Miss

from

him

still he

went

with
on

I know
Olavering.

her
She

I must
"Yes,Miss Clavering,
not

on

that account

me

an

answer

with

to-dny. I

go on now;
I press you to

have learned

to

but

give
love

if you can
love me
in return, I will
take you by the hand,and you shall be
my wife.
I have found that in yoliwhich I have been nn-

thinking you,
un-

that I

would

and

.CLAVERINGS.

THE

able not to love

not

it to

own

"

myselfas

my

bind
covet that I may
forever. Will you think

to

and give me
of this,
an
considered it fully?"
He

had

when

answer

had not

and,though she
quarreled,

to be hard

upon Mr. Saul

she did feel that in

have

you

27

he

making

Because

blundered.

had

did not wish

of his mistake,

account

on

his

she

proposition

chose

to

do

he
spoken altogetheramiss,and her duty as a parishclergyman's
daughter,
tee,
Fanny,though she was very angry with him, thoughthimself entitled to regardher as devoto resignevery thing
conscious of this. The time he had chosen
who would be willing
was
who was
the wife of a clergyman,
tion
to become
ive,
actmightnot be considered suitable for a declaraof inof love,nor the place
come
indeed,but who had not one shilling
; but having chosen
them, he had, perhaps,made the best of them.
beyondhis curacy. " Mr. Saul,"she said,
There had been no hesitation in his voice,
and
I can assure
ther
you I need take no time for farhis words had been perfectly
audible.
thinking.It can not be as you would have
"
Oh, Mr. Saul,of course I can assure
you at it."
need not be any
once,"said Fanny. "There
"Perhaps I have been abrupt^ Indeed,I
feel that it is so, though I did not know
consideration.
I really
have never
how to
thought

.^

not

' '

"

"

Fanny,who

knew

her

mind

own

the matter'

on

avoid it."

It would have made no difference. Indeed,

hardlyable to express herself
As soon
as that
indeed,Mr. Saul,nothing of that kind could
plainlyand without incivility.
she felt have made
a difference."
phrase of course" had passedher lips,
that it should not have been
"Will you grant me this that I may speakto
spoken. There
''

was
thoroughly,

''

"

was

need

no

him
have

that such

but

insult him

that she should

one

from
proposition

who

manifest
less

are

littlesigns,
as

by

to you

awkward,all

felt for you.

Indeed,could I have
should stillhave hesitated tillI had
resolved

that I

without

one

that

might

might be

; and

possiblefor

be

would be better with

"

better with
resolved

had

wife than
far

also,as
that

me,

so, I

done

as

be

for

me

to

for

Can

also.

me

any

thinkingwhether
for her
must

as

for you.
you

well

as

think for

such

offer to

out
withobligation
bonds would be good
an

for himself?

yourselfand
"

should

You

man

think

so

and
yourself,

sliould think also for me."

that

quiteaware

Fanny was

the matter
thinking. Mr.

was

one

which

as

self,
herregarded

requiredno

more

with whom
Saul was
not a man
she could bringherself to be in love. She had
her

own

whom

ideas

to what

that for

so

much

?"

time

you." Fanny

to

lover.

present himself
He

was

one

her in. the

to

of those

men

of

become

ness
very fond with the fondof friendship,
but from whom
women
young
in the way of love as
to be as far removed
women

other

some

I will not

gatherby
"

Mr.

am

said
press you farther,"
your tone that it distresses
so

Saul,I

species.
he, " as I
you."

sorry if I distress you, but really,

could give you
I never
could give
"

you any other answer."

Then
they walked

on
through the
silently
without a singleword
for more
silently,
than half a mile,tillthey reached the rectory
gate. Here it was necessary that theyshould,
and for the last
at any rate,speakto each other,
three hundred yardsFanny had been trying
to
"

"

which would be suitable. But

"
night,
Goodthe firstto break the silence.
he said,stopping
Miss Clavering,"
and

find the words

he

lovable in men,
throughthe rain
curate,splashing
as

"

though theybelonged to

Of course, you
have I thought rain

for

good

had the idea before

made

guiseof

for life to

woman

"

after six months

subject
good."

thoughtthat she would have Mr. Saul himself

before her,and that that would be enough. Mr.
and his thick,
Saul,with his rusty clothes,
dirty
shoes,and his weak, blinkingeyes, and his mind
could
always set upon the one wish of his life,

"

think of."
"And

you

seem

should

to bind a,
marry a woman
and to so close
certain duties,

will have

ajso

you

same

not, do any

can

thoroughly not_be

husband."

that
Saul,really

Mr.

do

men

the love that I have

the

It will do this

"

answer.

No, Miss Clavering; I know you have never

thoughtof it,and therefore it would be well that
I have not been able to
you should take time.
"

make

"It

could

him

againon

ing' you
tell-

by

was

was

puttingout his hand.

"
Mr. Saul."
Good-night,
be no differencein
"I hope that there may
of excellence.
She was unconsciously
aware
that he had altogether
mistaken her character,our bearingto each other because of what 1
and givenher credit for more
abnegationof the have to-daysaid to you ?"
sirous " Not on my part that is,if you will forget
deworld than she pretended
to possess, or was
in it."
of possessing.Fanny Claveringwas
"
I shall not forget.If
no
No, Miss Clavering,
hurry to get married. I do not know that
I should not
she had even
made up her mind that marriage it had been a thingto be forgotten,
shall not forgetit."
have spoken. I certainly
would be a good thingfor her ; but she had an
and the eager

by her side,
by

no

means

came

ard
up to her stand-

"

know what I mean, Mr. Saul."

"You
untroubled conviction that if she did marry, her
in the way that
"I shall not forgetit even
liusband should have a, house and an income.
stillI
think
But
of
She had no reliance on her own
mean.
you need not fear
livingyou
power
I think
because you know that I love you.
dress eveiy year. me
and with one new
on a potato,
A
comfortable home, with nice,comfortable I can promisethat you need not withdraw yourself

thingsaround
in
elegance

her,ease
were
life,

in money
matters, and
charms
with which she

from
you

me

because

of what

has

will tellyour father and your

passed. But
mother, and

28

CLAVEEINGS.

THE

if there had been a

Saul's fault,
On the next day he
should be condoned.
tonished
good-night." Then he went, and she was asfault,
all astonished
were
and
the
had
much
the
to
they
had
came
at findingthat he
rectory,
with which he bore himself.
best of it in his manner
at the ease
of speakingand conducting
freedom
himself. She had refused him very It was not that he affectedany special
avoided
he
had
that
He
and
of
not
well.
he
had
borne
it
or
altogether
any
manner,
curtly,
been abashed,
had he become
nor
sulky,nor had change in his mode of speakingto them. A
of

will be

com-se

gnidedby

he tried to melt her

In

by

truth he

had

that he should have

she

told her

mother

of his

mention

ery.
mis-

own

thing. Of

one

mother, and

father.

slightblush

upon

came

face

his sallow

as

he

and he hardlydid
Clavering,
singleword to Fanny. But
he carried himself as though conscious of what
of the
he had done, but in no
degree ashamed
stiff
to him was
doing it. The rector's manner
and formal ; seeingwhich Mrs. Clavering
spoke

it very well,only firstspoketo Mrs.

than say a
better than to make
more

done

known

told her

that Mr.

now,

gued

any such attempt at all.

Mr. Saul had been rightin
course

And

them.

course

her

dinner

that

of

Before

"I saw
and with a smile.
you
evening the whole affair was being debated in to him gently,
ny
the familyconclave. They all agreedthat Fana littlehard
were
on
him, and therefore I tried
said she aftenvard.
had no alternative but to reject
"Yon
the proposito make
tion
up for it,"
Yon als
aid
the husband.
at once.
ways
so
were
That, indeed,was
quiteright,"
thoroughly
that the point was
cussed.
But I wish he had not made
such a
taken for granted,
are.
not dis"

But
the
Mrs.

there

rector

came

to

be

and

and
Clavering

Fanny
Mary on the

difference between fool of himself.

on

one

other.

side,and
"

Upon

"
my word,"said the rector, I think it was
very
impertinent."Fanny would not hare liked to

that word

use

for
"
"

but
herself,

she loved her father

I do

He

not

could not

mightbe.

and

you

Difference
that,"said Mrs. Clavering.
know what Fanny's views in life difference."
' '

see

never

be the

same

thing

him

between

usingit.

It will

again." Harry hardlyspoke to Mr.

Saul the firsttime he met him, all of which Mr.
Saul understood
perfectly.
"Clavering,"he said to Harry,a day or two
after this,"I hope there is to be no difference

with

me."

! I don't know

what

you

mean

by

' '

We
and I hope that we
were
good friends,
very often marry out of the
No doubt you know
what
clergymen with whom
they are are to remain so.
placed,and I do not see why Mr. Saul should has taken placebetween me and your sister."
"
be debarred from the privilege
of trying.
Oh, yes ; I have been told,of course."
"If he had got to like Fanny what else was
"What
I mean
is,that I hope you are not
he to do ?" said Mary.
that account?
on
going to quarrelwith me
"Oh, Mary, don't talk such nonsense,"said What I did,is it not what you would have done
? onlyyou would have done it
Fanny. "Got to like! People shouldn't get in my position
to like people unless
there's some
for successfully.
reason
"
it."
I think a fellow should have some
income,
houses

Curates

of the

"

"

"

What

earth did he intend to live

on

demanded

the

"Edward

on

?"

you know."
"Can

rector.

you

say that you

would

have waited

had

nothingto live on, when you for income before you spoke of marriage?"
"
firstallowed him to come
I think it might have been better that
here,"said Mary.
yon
"
But Edward
had prospects,
far
should
have gone to my father."
findSaul,as
as I know, has none.
He had givenno one the
"It may
be that that is the rule in such
notice.
If the man
in the moon
had
but if so I do not know it. Would
slightest
things,
she
to Fanny I don't
come
have liked that better ?"
suppose she would have
"
been more
surprised."
Well,I can't say."
" Not
'
half so much, papa.
You are engaged? Did
you go to the young
Then
it was
that Mrs. Clavering had declared
lady's
familyfirst?"
that she was
not
"I can't say I did; but I think I had given
surprised that she had
and had almost made
suspectedit,
Fanny angiy them some ground to expect it. I fancythey
back two
all knew
what I was
by saying so. "When Harry eame
about. But it'sover now,
the familynews
was
days afterward,
imparted and I don't know that we need say any thing
to him, and he immediatelyranged himself on
about it."
more
his father'sside. " Upon my word I think that
not.
Certainly
Nothingcan be said that
he ought to be forbidden the house,"said Hany. would be of
any use ; but I do not think I have
"
He
has forgottenhimself in making such a done
any thingthat you should resent."
"
proposition."
Resent is a strong word.
I don't resent it,
''

'

"

"

"That's

nonsense, Harry,"said his mother.

be comfortable
coming here,there

or, at any
end of it."

rate,I won't

be an
; and there may
After this,
Harrywas more gracious
be no reason
can
able.
with Mr. Saul,having an idea that tlie curate
why he should be uncomfortIt would
be an
to him
to ask
had made some
injustice
sort of apology
for what he had
him to go, and a great trouble to your father to done.
But that,
I fancy,
was
Mr.
by no means
find another curate that would suit him so well." Saul's view of the
Had he offered to marcase.
ry
There could be no doubt whatever as to the latter
the daughter of the Archbishopof Canterbury,
and therefore it was
instead of the daughterof the Rector of
proposition,
arquietly
"If

he

can

CLAVEEINGS.

THE

he would not have imagined

that Ms
Clavering,
doing so needed an apology.

day after his

The

for

saw

you

return

my

so

Lady

from London

"

Harry

up to the house.
sisterin London ?" she said.

Clayeringsent

taken

So

29

are

thingthat I wanted, and

every

grateful!Yours

am

J. 0."

ever,

When
this,
Harryhad read and had digested
that he was
became aware
again fluttered.
"
"Poor
creature !" he said to himself; it is sad

he

in
"Yes," said Harry,blushing
; "as I was
I
I
her.
well
that
meet
as
thought
might
town,
out
But,as you said.
Lady Ongar is able to do withmuch
I onlyjust
assistance of that kind.

to think how

much

she is in want

of

friend."

her."

saw

Julia took it

"

kindlyof

so

you ; but

she

that you did not come

to her the
surprised
She
would
have
followingday.
thoughtyou
seems

called."
"

T fancied that she would

dear,no.

Oh

wish to

be

busy
any
acquaintance."
Ah, Harry,I see that she has angeredyou,"
otherwise you would not
said Lady Clavering
;
talk about mere
acquaintance."
tired and

too

too

to

mere

see

"

''

"
How could
Not in the least. Angered me!
at such
was
she anger me ? What I meant
tjiat
wish to see no one
a time she would probably

unless it was
peopleon business
or Hugh."
to her,like yourself
Hugh will not go to her."

but

some

"

near
"
"

' '

But you will do so, will you not?"

Before long I will. You don't seem
"

did

if you
I

as

that I can't

"

run

please.I ought not

say, but

one

to some

one

there

feels

I
this,

wanted

dare
talk

to

one's affairs. At

she said almost in

the present
if
to go
even

the money

not

other reason."

no

were

derstand,
un-

be odd
and back

up to town

to tell you

thoughone

as

about

I have

moment,

to

it would
and, perhaps,

Harry

one

"

These

then she looked

whisper,and

last words

to see what he
up into the young man's face,
she had made
thought of the communication

him.
But

the

he

the
at

was

to

He

"You

hope it won't

be

could

open

did open

SOME

SCENES

went

up
at Mr.

his letter at the breakfast-table.

hardly understood

read

it

or

it,but,in truth,he

it
digested

tillhe

taken it away with him up to his own

The letter,
which was
was
very short,

had
lows
fol-

of

the

LIFE

OF

COUNTESS.

ing
January Hany ClaverLondon, and settled himself to
office
oflSce. Mr. Beilby's
Beilby's
looking
four or five largechambers,overto

river from

Fkieot), I felt your kindness in

"

coming to me at the station so much! the

others,who owed me
more, perhaps,because
have paidme less. Don't supmore
kindness,
pose
that.I allude to poor Hermione, for,in
I have no intention to complainof her.
truth,
I thought,perhaps,
to see
you would have come

the

bottom

of Adam

other

pupils.It

was

fine old

room,

with largewindows, ornamented on

and a. ing
flythe ceiling
with Italian scroll-work,

and
lofty,

goddess in
"Deae

THE

Street in the Adelphi,and here Harry found a

table for himself in the same
apartment with
three

room.
as

IN

Aeotjt the middle of

handwriting,which he knew, his work

in his mouth, and he hesitated consisted
once
it and

VII.

CHAPTER

soon

longbefore

post for him

saw

heart

morningbut one a letter came

from Lady Ongar. When

the next

On

by

said.

he

"Oh, money!"
get money.
you go."

the

centre.

In

days

gone

by

had been the habitation of some

great
had there enjoyedthe sweet
rich man, who
come
had bebreezes from the river before London
the house

the
when

no

the Thames.

London

of the

embankment

had

present days,and
been

needed

Nothing could be nicer

than

for

his

than the table and seat

pleasant
room, or more
near
a
he was
to occupy
which
window; but
; but I suppose you
of the other
the
in
that
tone
hurried.
I
hear
from
there
were
something
was
Clavering
you
him.
in a day men
toward him which did not quitesatisfy
are to be up about your new
profession
low
a feldid not know that he was
or two.
Pray come and see me before you have They probably
me

before you left London

been many
much

to

days in
say

to

London.

you!

The

I shall have
rooms

you

so

have

and treated him almost

of a college,
to them
might have done had he come

as

they
direct

CLAVERINGS.

THE

so

dore's
her brother Theowas
Theodore
as
that
a
a
nd
favorite sister,
tain
cerwas
and
perfect.
a
to
him.
and
man,
a
been
brother,
honor
had
of
husband,
amount
paid
dusted his boots with his
had
They had known there who he was, and had felt But Theodore
and Harry Claveringwould not
deference for him.
some
They had not slapped handkerchief,

from King'sCollege,
in the Strand,or from
London University.
Down
at Stratton a

him

on

back, or pokedhim

the

in the

the

ribs,or

before some
length
fellow,
But
such appellation.
of acquaintance
justified
in the Adelphi,one
young
up at Mr. Beilby's,
his juniorin age, and
certainly
man, who was
even

who

called him

did not

seem

had

dine with him

And

old

as

told him

then

that

on

it

she

that
was

day.

manifest
painfully

him

to

his destiny
every bne in the office knew
with reference, to old Burton's daughter. He
had been one of the Stratton men, and no more
that

yet to have attained any high than any other had he gone unscathed through

ly
manifestthe Stratton fire. He had been made to do the
engineering,
and
Scarness,and others
regularthing,as Granger,
thought that he was actingin a friendly
had done it. Stratton would be safer ground
the stranger to be a
becoming way by declaring
the last. That
the second day of his appearance.
lad of wax
on
now, as Clavering had taken
Harry Claveringwas not disinclined to believe was the feelingon the matter which seemed to
"
"
"
that he was
a brick,"
or
a
a lad of wax," or
belongto others. It was not that Harry thought
Florence.
He knew
desired
in this way of his own
small
beer."
But
he
or
"no
trump,"
that such complimentaryand endearingappellations^vell enough what a lucky fellow he was to
well aware
how
have won
such a girl. He was
should be used to him onlyby those who
differed from CarryScarness.
that widelyhis Florence
had known
him long enough to be aware
that
He denied to himself indignantly
he deserved them.
Mr. Joseph Walliker certainly
he had
he had any notion of repentingwhat
this number.
not as yet among
was
But he did wish that these private
done.
There
who was
ters
mata
man
at Mr. Beilby's
was
and that all
entitled to greethim with endearing
might have remained private,
terms, and
had
known
of his
at
not
to be so
greetedhimself,althoughHarry had the men
Beilby's
When
the
fourth
on
him tillhe attended for the firsttime
never
seen
Walliker,
engagement.
asked him if it was
at the Adelphi. This
Theodore Burton, day of their acquaintance,
was
he made
all rightat Stratton,
who was now
the leading
his future brother-in-law,
up his mind that
that he would
he hated Walliker,and
hate
in the London
house
the leadingman
man
as
regardedbusiness,
though he was not as yet Walliker to the last day of his life. He had
ton
declined the first invitation given to him
understood that this Mr. Bura partner. It was
by
in when his father went
to come
out ; Theodore
was
Burton, but he could not altogether
and had agreed
and in the mean
time he received a salaryof a avoid his future brother-in-law,
thousand
A very to dine with him on thi'sday.
a
year as managing clerk.
Mr.
On that same
was
man
hard-working,
steady,intelligent
afternoon,
Harry,when he left
Theodore
fore- Mr. Beilby's
head,
direct to Bolton Street,
went
Burton,with a bald head,a higli
office,
that he might call on
and that look of constant work about him
Lady Ongar. As he
which such men
obtain.
Harry Claveringcould went thither he bethoughthimself that these
cause Wallikers and the like had had no such events
not
bringhimself to take a likingto him, beand had an odious
in life as had befallen him ! They laughedat
he wore
cotton gloves,
habit of dustinghis shoes with his pocket-handhim about Florence Burton,littleguessingthat
kerchief.
Twice Harry saw
him do this on the it had been his lot to love,and to be loved by
firstday of their acquaintance,
and he regrettedsuch a one
Julia Brabazon
had been
as
such
cotton
it exceedingly. The
one
a
as
But
gloves,too, were
Lady Ongar now was.
things
also the thick shoes which had
had gone well with him.
as were
could
Julia Brabazon
ofiensive,
been dusted ; but the dusting
the great sin. have made
was
no
man
happy,but Florence Burton
And there was
somethingwhich did not quite would be the sweetest,dearest,
truest littlewife
in the science of
position

"

"

please
Harry in
though

the

Mr. Theodore

gentleman had

Burton's

manner,

that

ever

man

ever

took

to

his home.

He

was

intended
manifestly

and determined to think of it

thinkingof this,
Burton had been
When
to be very kind to him.
and more
more
daily,as he knocked at Lady
at
speakingto him for a minute or two, it flashed Ongar'sdoor.
"Yes; her ladyshipwas
self
across
Han-y'smind that he had not bound himhome," said the servant,whom he had seen on
to marry
the whole Burton family,
and that, the railway
platform; and in a few moments'
means
he found
to let that time
himself in the drawing-room
perhaps,he must take some
fact be known.

en
which
he had criticisedso carefully
"Theodore," as he had so oftwhen he
the younger Mr. Burton called by loving
was
takingit for its present occupant.
seemed
to claim him as his own, called
He was left in the room
for five or six minutes,
lips,
him
and
and was
able to make a fullmental inventory
Harry,
upbraidedhim with friendly
heard

warmth

Burton's

for not

house

havingcome

direct to his

in Onslow

Crescent.

"

Mr.

"Pray

of its contents.

It

was

very differentin

its

which he had
presentaspect from the room
feel yourself
at home
said Mr. Burton.
not yet a month
seen
there,"
since. She had told him
I hope you'll
like my wife.
You
needn't be that the apartments had been all that she desired
"

"

afraid of beingmade

eveningsthere,for
Will you

come

and

to be
we

are

dine

idle if you spendyour

all

; bat

readingpeople.

to-day?" Florence

had

at

been

since then

every thinghad been

least in appearance.

broughtin,and

the chintz

new
on

tered,
al-

piano
the fur-

THE

CLAVERINGS.

31

"
And
the room
niture was
Oh no,"said he.
was
surelynew.
ative
indiccrowded with small feminine belongings,
"Of
course
you did. If I thoughtyou did
of wealth and luxury. There were
with you now.
But had
naments not, I should be angry
orabout,and prettytoys,and a thousand it been to save my life I could not have helped
but the rich can
which
knickknacks
none
to
sess, it. Why did not Sir Hugh Claveringcome
posand which none
me?
can
meet
possess even
Why did not my sister'shusband
among

the rich unless

give taste

they can

as

well

as

Then he heard a
acquisition.
door opened,and Lady Ongar

their

to

money

lightstep; the
there.

was

expectedto

the

see

same

unlike that Julia Brabazon

was

known

in old

she

in

spiteof

the weeds

there

about her of the weariness

of

made

He

woe.

of crape,

hanging down

he

no

his hat

from

or

so

much

he

looked

ever

as

been

ever

her

about

her,he

at

handsome
had

to his eyes

she was
woman,
older than she had been !
same

found

she

handsome

more

"

And

that

yet,as
was

as

than

she

shook

hurryto

let

me

in

are

away."

go

himself.
"Oh no," said he, seating
"
Or unless you, too,are afraid of me."
of you, Lady Ongar?"
you.
; but I don't mean

"Afraid

who

woman

coward

are

was

once

I don't
desert

friend because

your

fortune
mis-

her,and calumnyhas

has overtaken
at work

enough to

been

with her name."

"I

hope not,"said he.

But
No, Harry; I do not think it of you.
if Sir Hugh be not a coward, why did he not
''

have

and

have

you

were

so

about

he left

to

me

his god, but I

was
and should
shilling,
Oh. Harry,how wicked

asked him
done

has

that he could be of service to

that money
for

I knew
never

not

Why

me?

meet

alone,now

now.

that check

Do

ber
remem-

you

?"

There
a
was
dignity "Yes; I remember."
"
So shajlI; always,always.Ifl had taken
figurewhich became her
carried as though she knew
that money,
how often should I have heard of

before.

face

and

well,and which she

herself to be in very truth a countess.
It was
face which bore well such signsof ago as
a
to
those which had come
upon it. She seemed

it since ?"

"Heard
from me?"

of it?" he said.

"Do

you

mean

than for girlhood. "Yes; how often from you? Would you
brighterthan' of yore, have dunned me and told me of it once a week?
and, as Harry thought,larger; and her high Upon my word, Harry, I was told of it more
forehead and noble stamp of countenance
seemed
nearlyevery day. Is it not wonderful that men
fitted for the dress and headgearwhich she wore.
should be so mean
?"
"I have been expecting
It was
that she was
clear to him now
you," said she,steptalking
ping
him.
"Hermione
to
word
of
her
husband
and on that subject
wrote
who
was
me
dead,
up
to come
he felt himself at presentunable to speaka
that you were
up on Monday. Why
be

fitterfor womanhood

woman

Her

her and

"

from

the

stillstandingwith
turned his face
his head.
now

"Sit down, Harry,"she said,"and

talk to you like a friend unless you

the cap which sat so prettily

come
But it was
her face at which
stand
upon her head.
he gazed. At firsthe thoughtthat she could
me?

hardlybe

question
Harry could

was

hand, and

believe that yon

of the solemnity

or

in his

She

hardlysaw that her dress was

that longwhite pendentswere

this
He

answer.

"Yes, afraid

ing
noth-

was

To

me?"

had

black ; nay, no doubt,

; but in spiteof the

dressed in weeds

was

black and

whom

days at ClaveringPark.

no
dressed,
doubt,in

was

to

make

away

figurethat he
had
the same
the railwayplatform,
seen
on
the same
like
quiet,almost deathgloomydrapery,
veil over
demeanor, nay, almost the same
her features ; but the Lady Ongar whom
he
now
saw
was
as unlike that Lady Ongar as she
He

come

did you

eyes

not

come

her face

were

?"

sooner

There

and
she spoke,

was

smile

word.

He

littledreamed

at that moment

how

openly she would soon speak to him of Lord

her tone which almost confounded him.
Ongar and of Lord Ongar'sfaults!
"I have had so many
thingsto do,"said he,
"Oh, how I have wished that I had taken
on

as

confidence

in

lamely.
About

''

your
new

profession.
Yes,I can

And

so

your

that.

you

don
settledin Lon-

are

money

Harry.

derstand
un-

became

soon

But

Wretched
a

never
as

small

mind
such

about

taunts

thing.

But

that now,

were, they
it has been

in your cousin,Hugh ; has it not ? If

livingthat is,if you cowardly
to this,
are settled yet?" In answer
Harry told I had not lived with him as one of his family,
her that he had taken lodgings
in Bloomsbury it would not have mattered.
People would not
have expected
as
it. It was
so
though my own
Square,blushing somewhat as he named
unfashionable a locality.
Old jjirs.
Burton had brother had cast me forth."
recommended
him to the house in which he was
Lady Claveringhas been with you ; has she
now

Where

are

you

"

"

but
located,

he did not

find it necessary to

plain
ex-

not?"

She came
"Once, for half an hour.
up for
Lady Ongar.
here by herself,
have to thank you for what you did for one day,and came
coweringas
afraid of me.
Poor Hermy !
though she were
me," continued she. "You ran away from me
in such a hurryon that nightthat I was unable She has not a good time of iteither. You lords
But to tellthe truth,
to speak to you.
Harry, of creation lead your slaves sad lives when it
and cooing
I was
mood then to speak to any one.
in no
pleasesyou to change your billing
Of course you thoughtthat I treated you ill." for matter-of-factmasterdom and rule. I don't
that fact to

"I

THE

32
blame

I did

Nor

should

the servant
me,

not

"If I had thought that

she did all she could, dence could approve.
to
word of reproachof her. any thingwas wanted,I should liave come

I suppose

Hermy.

and

utter one

Indeed,if he
deny me to hira.

I to him.
would
and

it

was

that

not

Lady Ongar

came

He

now
you
has insulted "

the insult."

I shall remember

Harry Claveringdid
what

CLAVEEINGS.

understand
clearly
had

desired of her

sooner,"said he.

Every thingis wanted,Harry. Everything

is wanted

pounds
Did

you

"

except that check

which
ever

sent

you
think what

me

for six hundred

so

might

treacherously.
happened

have

Talk.
friendly

brother-in-law

what aid she had required

if a certain person had heard of that ?
; nor
All the
did he know whether it would ho fitting
for him
world would have declared that you had done it
to offerto act in Sir Hugh's place. Any thing for
privatepurposes all the world,
your own
that he could do, he felt himself at that moment
except one.'),
"

"

willingto do, even

should demand

some

though the

necessary

service

sacrificegreater than pru-

feltthat he was blushing.

Harry,as he heard this,
Did Lady Ongar know of his engagement

THE

CLAVERINGS.

83

with Florence Barton ? Lady Claveringknew

what was his
upon him rather than a comfort
it,and might probablyhave told the tidings;
mode, do you think,of riddinghimself of the
but then,again,she might not have told them.
burden ?"
at her.
Claveringsat silent looking
wished that he knew how
Both her hands were
now
Harry at tliismoment
up to her forehead,
All that Lady Ongarsaid to him would
it was.
and her largeeyes were
gazingat him till he
with so different a meaning accordingas
found himself unable to withdraw his own
for a
come
from her face.
"He
she did,or did not know thut fact. But he had
strove to get anmoment
other
"

mind

no

tell her of the fact himself.

to

hoped she

himself that he

to

it would

make

to

serve

them

both

but he did not

together
;

claimed
de-

He

to

man

knew

it,as

he found

more

fortable
com-

with

take

he charged mo
failing,

was

which
guilt

the

off his hands ; and when

me

that he

he himself had

contrived

think: that it for me."

bringfonvard

subject, "Lady Ongar!"

You may
thing "Yes; you may well stare at me.
would be that she should congratulate
him, but well speakhoarselyand look like that. It may
"I certainly
meant
be that even
this she did not do.
no
you will not believe me ; but by the
he said,
I tellyou nothing
in answer
God in whom
both believe,
to the last words she had
we
ill,"
but the truth. He attempted
that and he failed,
spoken.
would

do for him

neck and

"You

have

thoughyou
before
such
"

it

The

were.

the

proper

ill to me, Harry; and then he accused me

of the crime which he
meant
ly
could not bringme to commit."
you have abused me dreadful"
I dare say you forget
the hard
what then ?"
And
You men
do forget
called me.
"Yes; what then!
Harry,I had a thingto

never

know

now.

you have

names

to

as
heels,

things."

calling
you

I remember

name."

one

repeat it now, if you please. If I

deserved it,it would shame
me
; and if I did
not, it should shame you."
"Do

not

; I will not

"

No

"

Does

it not

The

toward

leaning now

was

and
table,
while

one

her

hand

eyes
attitude was

him,

the

across

raised to her forehead

was

his.

fixed intently
upon

were

wliich he felt

one

would

intimacy. She

extreme

you and I
this way?"

odd,HaiTy,that

togetherin
sitting
talking

should be
She

repeat it."

seem

to

express
have sat in

not

back her hair from her

that way, pressing
banished
with all appearance of widowhood

do and

bravest

the last!

to

He

have

throughit.

told

before he

me

tried the

I stuck

to

him

dying

was

that I was
before that last frightful
illness,
Tor
stayingwith him for his money.
your
I said,'and for my own
name.'
nioney,my lord,'
"

And

it

so

Would

was.

it have

after all that I had

me,

that for which

had been

very poor, and had

such poverty as

You

feared that

creature

as

that wanted

I knew

bargain?

curse

I gave up because I
I to be foiled at last,

Was

curse.

such

of his

out

what

know

wise in

mine, was

poverty,even
to me.

been

through,to have
sold myself? I
been so placedthat

gone
I had

givenup

brow, because
from

life to live that would

but I went

there

to

were

shirk
some

felt that it was

ing
say I had been false. Hugh ClaverBut
I
never
so
they
now,
says
suppose.
should say I had lefthim to die alone-in a foreign

such

land."

the presence of any but

close friend. He did not think of
her

face,in

dear and

but
this,

he

" I
have
so, almost by instinct.
tale to tell you," she said;"suCh
a

who

he ask you

"Did

tale !"

Why should

she tellit to him ?

Of

asked himself this question. Then

that she had

no

brother

he

bered
remem-

remembered

"

he

course

also

if necessary, he would
himself that,

to

be her brother.

' '

"No

him

conviction that it could not be for long,has

saved me from destroying
myself. I knew that
he must die!"

"
'

It
'

was

his

And

meanness.

could know

if you

no

Oh, Harry,you

then,Harry,
pityme

would

all !"

own

!"
intemperance
was
brandy

Intemperance! It

"

sheer brandy.

broughthimself to such a state that

and in
nothingbut brandywould keep him alive,
which brandywas sure to killhim; and itdid kill
He

him

"

he gave

in his

his last illness!

could
or woman
life as I did not think any man
this side the grave.
I will
be made
to live on
be honest with you, Harry. Nothingbut the

name

which

should
should hear and stay. No woman
do so unless she had a purpose such as mine.
and
He wanted back the pricethat he had paid,
I was
sist
determined to do nothingthat shouldas-

I fear that you have not been

he, "since I saw you last."

"Happy!" she replied."I have lived such

happy,"said

"Oh, Lady Ongar!"

''
Yes,indeed ; th at is the

to leave him?"
that name

called me

; but he

woman

thather brother-in-law had deserted her,and he

declared

would

"

me

;
him,he

Did you ever hear of the horrors of drink ?"

Yes,I have heard of such a state."
live to see it. It is
I hope you may never

a
and because I consented to take it from
sightthat would stick by you forever. But
the whole,as
I
find
I
to
how
am
saw
heavens!
treated me
it,and tended him through
oh,
I remained with
words to tellyou what he did,and the way in thoughI had been his servant.
who opened the door for you
could not tell him when that man
A woman
which he treated me.
the room.
I was with
friend
endure
I
could
that
no
I
have
no
it to a man.
longer
Harry,
him when
the strong woman
from the hospital,
trust but you, but to you I can not tell it. When
most
in marrying though she could not understand his words,alhe found that he had been wrong
"

me,

that he did not

had

thoughtwould

want

suit
C

the

thingwhich

him, that I

was

fainted at what

he

drag

was

she

punished,Harry.

saw

I need

and

heard.

wish

no

He

farther

CLAVERINGS.

THE

his
on
him, even for all his cruelty,
his unmanly treachery.Is it not fearful
injustice,
vengeance

to think that any

of

that

the power
that?"

should have

man

himself to such an
bringing
Harry was thinkingrather

end

as

it in his power
through such a Gehenna

should

man

have

to

itis not

I have

"

drag

like

out

and

man,

say

so?"

something."

heard

something!

heard

have

"Yes, you

fearful it was

how

Speak

you?

even

whether

heard

somethingof your

be ?

All the world would

be

If you

would

sister where
chaos

to

you
till

you

pulledout somebody'stongue by the

injuredme I For two years your
I met
home.
cousin Hugh's house
Julia Brabazon
been his,as she had once
was
my
ised
prommarried from
I was
Lord Ongar in his house.
would have allowed himself
him, he never
and it so
his house.
He is my brother-in-law,
to speak a harsh word to her,to have looked at
But she had chois
the
nearest
to me.
sen
of
all
he
her except with lovingeyes.
men
happens that
who liad treated He
stands well before the world,and
at this
to join herself to a man
her with a cruelty
exceeding all that his imaginationtime could have done me real service. How is
any woman
which this lord had

conceived.

could have
"It

is

husband,and
me.
destroying
that I

me

to think

was

me

to

But

have

when

which

"

to

come

been

this

not what

was

that

husband

my

had

now

did

not

can

Why

meet

to you, who
are
husband's cousin ;
not

'

May

"

His

that man's

was

is Pateroff.

name

we

are

Harry?"
old friends,said he,wondering
"

again at this moment

I ask what

speaksEnglishlike

to you,

Because

he relented."

"

"

nothing to

sister'sme
; my
young man, from your position
fit to be my confidant?
Why am I

this
taught telling
'

He

is a

am

with

was

"

told him

; that I

home

me

that he
my sister;
that the world might know

his house

at

me, so
received back among
people?
my own
is it,Harry, that I am
this to you
telling

that I

his agent in
understood

man

not

life;

terms

he had been

Not

roots.

it that he did not welcome

if I may
with

"

had

you

mercy

married

friend

one

had

was

my

from

had but

friend who

is

Perhaps you

something of my

now

throughitall I

and

call him

"It

for both.

mercy

understand

as

felt that had

he at last.

gone,"said

that he has

He

created.

whether

she knew

of his

name?"

engagement to Florence Burton.

and we have
"Yes, we are old friends,

Pole,but he

ways
al-

liked each other ; but you must know that,

Englishman. In my presence
he told Lord Ongar that he was
false and
the world judges,I am
as
to tell all this
wrong
brutal.
Lord Ongar laughed,with that little,to you.
I should be wrong
that
the world
only
has cast me
no
low,sneeringlaughterwhich was his nearest
out, so that I am
longerbound
off
to regardit. I am
approach to merriment, and told Count PaterLady Ongar, and I have my
that that was
his game before me.
of course
share of that man's money.
They have given
of it. me
There,Harry,I will tell you nothingmore
up Ongar Park,having satisfied themselves
You
will understand
enough to know what I that it is mine by right,and must be mine by
an

"

have

suffered;and

have

not

if you

believe

can

that I

"

sinned

"

"Oh, Lady Ongar!"

"

far

will

Well,I
I

as

she will
she

can

soon

And

her.
"

"I

I shall not

am

hurt

illof

you."

else

had

collected for

to

the

priceof

written home

"

that evidence

dine,and then of
duringthis he

sudden

and

ask that

would

be

man

be

If I could

now

bringforward

onlyoffered
might be
What

he show

me

evidence I

taste or
us

ly
exact-

like best.

to understand

that."

and
foolish,

declared

his assistance because

convenient

at the

could he do for her ?

haps
per-

ment.
presentmo-

How

could

his

for her now

?
at once
friendship
"You
have done it,Harry,in listening
to
and givingme
dom
your sympathy. It is selthat we
want
any great thingfrom our

can

hurt

and

my

I want
me

rank

nothingof that kind.

much
are

farther

No

one

My money
grees,
safe;and, perhaps,
by denow.

if not friends,
will form
acquaintances,
themselves round me
again. At present,of

day. But there course, I see no one ; but because I see no

needs no care for a woman's
honor,thougha man
to whom
I could speak.
one
one, I wanted some
evidence ! Poor Hermy is worse
may have to guard his by collecting
than no one.
Good-by,
"But what he did can not injure
you."
and bewildered now,
Harry; you look surprised
"Yes, Harry,it has injuredme; it has all but you will soon get over that. Don't be long
but destroyedme.
Have not reportsreached before I see you again."
as

the

enough

ourselves

we

smiled and looked

absent;friends.

was

it all clear

clever

are

He

to

orderingthat evidence
should be collected! Evidence,
indeed ! The
have lived with me
servants
same
through it
could make

he has

as
friendship
yours ; not my own
Mrs. Grundy alwaysdenies

he had

And
gettingrid of me.
yet he
be civil,
hoping to cheat me
would

friend I

tell me

every friend."

those thingswhich
You

sometimes

He

of every

you

"

tage
advan-

should

me

choice.

free. The

him

robbed

"No, Harry, I will not forgetyou, though I

of you justnow.
But your
spoke so slightingly
vanityneed not be hurt. It is Only the world
Mrs. Grundy, you know, that would deny me

mains. that he
my servitude rewould
beit
you lieve

with
living

was

say

into inadvertencies.

all.

"Not

duringmy slavery
sorely
;

while I

"

home

am

one

he has

world,and yet
injuredme !"

such
no

others. I

some
me

and
free,

that ?

would

What

"

her and

He

written

her.

advantage,Harry

one

chains have
but I

blame

she believes

sure

have
over

are

do, poor creature?"

am

in the

not

you again. But as

nearlyalone in your
but
Hermy thinks I can not tell,
bid
come
to think as Hugh may

What

belief.

But

had
doubt

not

learn you

can

law.

"

THE

Then, feelingthat

he

bidden

was

and
good-by,

wished her

CLAVERINGS.

35

false; and one hears stories as to the truth

falsehood of which one is in doubt,and stories

to go, he

festly
'.
or

went.

againwhich

truth of which

CHAPTER

So it had

had

ONSLOW

IN

HOUSE

THE

VIII.

had

Hakry,

his heels

on

from

away

his head.

or
''

to dress

not

he walked

as

Street,
hardlyknew

in Bolton

"

We

Burton had

don't

house
he was
told him

the

whether

"

Bolton Street to Onslow

managed to keep the

he

doubted

Crescent.

But,though
down

all

false
have

givedress dinner-parties,

It's all in the familyway with

you know.
direct from
went
\is" and Harry, therefore,

Sir Hugh

possible.
Lady Ongar

it

ing
as beregardedall women
even
he,I think,would

and

men

she l)ad said ; and

Sir Hugh, who

as

even

"

beyonddoubt

"

believed it.

But

had

heard

and

that of the

to be

seems

with the tale which

It had been all

told.

CRESCENT.

partlytrue

also hears

one

doubt

no

been

be

to

seem

But

partlyuntrue.

deserved the

she had

come

upon

her.

very tender
that.
She had

toward

was

cadilly,
Picherself

which
sufferings
Hariy, whose heart

Even

her, owned as much as

she had said of
as
herself,

sold

She had givenherself

regardednot at all,even
he was
whither
he hardly knew
to a man
going. It when her heart belongedto another
form of lifehad been whom
seemed
as
when
she must have loathed and despised
though a new
tar.
opened to him, and that it had been opened she was puttingher hand into his before the alto ingulf
in such a way as almost necessarily
What
had there been upon her face
scorn
tory when
him.
It was
she spoke of the beginningof their marnot onlythat Lady Ongar's hisried
and her life so strange,but
miseries ! With what eloquence
of expreswas
so terrible,
sion
called upon to form a part
that he himself was
had she pronouncedhim to be vile,
worthless,
and to joinhimself in some
of that history,
sort
unmanly ; a thing from which a woman
This countess,with her wealth, must turn with speechless
to that life.
contempt ! She had
her rank,her beauty,and her brightintellect,
his name, his rank,and his money, but she
now
had called him to her, and told him that he was
clared
friendless and alone.
was
Harry Claveringdehe had promisedhis
deserved
it
Of course
to himself that she had
her onlyfriend.
friendship.How could he have failed to give and, having so declared,
forgaveher all her
he had loved so faults.
such a promise to one whom
ed
She had sinned, and then had sufferwell ?
But to what must such a promiselead,
should now
be forgiven. If
; and,therefore,
it not have led,had it not
he would
must
he could do aught to ease her troubles,
or rather to what
been for Florence Burton ? She was young, free, do it as a brother would for a sister.
he

course

proper

confusion of mind

in such

was

that

to

than

more

whom

man

once.

she

"

"

"

She made
no
pretense of regret for
she had lost,
the husband
speakingof him as
and

But

rich.

though in

truth she

his wife.

And

hardlyregarded herself

she

the

was

same

as

Julia whom

his

it would

and
interview,
At

be well that she should know

engagement.
any

rate,he

Then

felt

he

that she

sure

of

thoughtof the whole

told himself

know

must

that he

was

it.

sure.

jilt-She could hardlyhave spoken to him as she had

ed
last they
When
he had once
him, and in regret for whom
done,unless she had known.
round
the garresolved to lead a wretched,lonelylife!
had been together,
Of
sauntering
dens
it
he had rebuked her for her
she must expect that he would renew
at Clavering,
course
most
she came
to him alNow
all
to him.
unless,indeed,she knew of his engagement.
treachery
f
ull
of
her
But if she knew
had
ing
swearshe
not
free,
cares,
it,why
open-armed,
he had

loved,who

had loved him, who

had

"

spokenof

it ?

him

to

could it be that she had no friends

that every body had deserted her,that she was
And

this could

"

all alone in the world ?

As

he

that that

that he
mean

one

but

her

was
one

thingwas

onlyfriend!

All

thing unless she knew

barred by his altered position.
"

of it all,
thought

him to think that she had

to him to be too terrible
But it gratified
of her tale ; that
had
him
for
the
that
she
chosen
What
a
was
repository
tragedy
reality.
I fear
to him.
told him ! He thought of the man's insolence she had told her terrible history
was
he had married and sworn
whom
small part of this gratification
that some
to the woman

thing seemed

the whole
for

to

To be the one
his fiendish,
hellish owing to her rank and wealth.
cruelty,
and
terrible punishment. friend of a widowed countess, young, rich,
mon
stuck to him through it all,"
she had said beautiful,
was
somethingmuch out of the comSuch confidence liftedhim far above
to picture
him ; and then he endeavored
to
way.
his

love,then of

of his
crueltyand,lastly,
"

"I
to

himself

that bedside

his Julia

attendants
hospital

they

had

strong man
failed him

by which

Brabazon,had

"

had been

and
witnessed,
of

man

Julia

of the
Brabazon,the Waflikers

remained

firm,when
rors
scared by the horthe

nerves

of

paidfor such work, had

he never
The
truth of her word throughout
who
doubted ; and,indeed,no man
woman
or
One hears stories
heard her could have doubted.
maniare
told that to one's self,
the hearer,

world.

That

he

was

pleased

beautiful,
was,
to him
althoughI bear in
I.think,no disgrace
mind his condition as a man
engaged. It might
but that danger in such case it
be dangerous,
But in order
would be his duty to overcome.
be
that it might be overcome, it would certainly
to be

so

trusted by

one

that

was

"

well that she should know

I fear he

speculated

as

his

position.

he went

along as

to

what might have been his condition in the world

CLAVEEINGS.

THE

36
had

he

asked

never

seen

himself

Florence

whether,under

"

him.

to
circumstan-,

any

up from her
Mamma
says I

Cissy got

First he

Burton.

chair,and

came
up
love you very
her face to be

to

am

puttingup
a widow,
much," said Cissy,
to marry
oes, he would have wished
kissed.
had
he
and especially
whom
already
a widow
by
" But
I did not tell you to say I had told
been jilted.Yes; he thoughtthat he could have
Mrs. Burton, laughing.
said
had
not
heart
you,"
forgivenher even that,if his own
HarI will love you veiy much, "said ry,
"And
himself
tell
to
did
but
he
not
forget
changed ;
his
her
in
arms.
taking
up
again how luckyit was for him that his heart
Florence
will
Aunt
as
"But
not so much
in the world, let
What
countess
changed.

was

able
you?"
might,and any imagin-

she

of thousands

number

sweet,

"

park

her have what

nice,so good,so

so

year, could he so
for him as his
fitting
a

They all knew it.

every body connected

It

was

clear to him

that

had been

with the Burtons

told of the engagement, and that they all spoke

of it openly,as they did of any other every-day
much
not
There
cence
retiwas
She
still
of
was
the
widow
a
married
familyoccurrence.
peer.
could not but
He
the Burtons.
unless she
among
called,he believed,by her old title,
feel t"is,
it. Any such arrangement
should choose to abandon
though now, at the present moment,
well of the
he
to think
but
was
out
of the question
specially
was
now
disposed
;
Florence

to

reflect what

he

thoughtthat

have

happened

when

endeavored

commoner

preferthat slie should

if such a state
Clavering,

he would

called Mrs.

been

he

Then

Burton?

own

were

"And

"Yes;

to

came

her from

her late husband.

was

at

shown

once

up

into the

drawing-room. He knew that Mr. Burton had

and he had pictured
to himself an untidy,
a family,
with
an
an
motherlywomhouse,
untidy,
ugly
Such
going about with a baby in her arms.
who dusted
would naturally
be the home of a man
But
bis shoes with his pocket-handkerchief.
he found himself in as prettya
to his surprise
to have seen
drawing-roomas lie remembered
;
and seated on
a
sofa,was almost as pretty a
woman

he

as

remembered.

She

was

children

daughter?"
niece,Mr. Clavering.
call you Harry; may
I
may
is Cecilia.
Yes, that is Miss

My

name

future

Vert.".
"

I'm

ball of

had

been

himself

and, before

Junior
"Now

quite at home in ten

had returned,

Mr. Burton

being as yet only some few

you'veseen us all,"said

Burton, "and

wait for my

husband.
We

don't

we'll go
I must

so
dinner,

stairs and

down

let you into a secret,

dine till past seven
; you
that for the future. Bat

may as well remember

I wanted to have you for half
before

ton.
SophyBur-

up stairs into the nursery to see

Burton
Junior
Theodore
in his cradle,

old.

too.

"I'm

tittle."

taken

Burton
Mrs.

mustn't

you
found

Theodore
months

the chair.

girlfrom

Harry
minutes

Pert,"said the littlesoftround

Miss

not

Oh!

tall and

with large brown

slight,
eyes and well-defined
eyebrows,with an oval face,and the sweetest,
kindest mouth that ever
Her
graceda woman.
dark brown
hair was
quiteplain,having been
brushed simplysmooth across
the forehead,
and

another

I suppose I
?

not

At half past six,the time named

by Theodore
Burton, he found himself at the door in Onslow

Crescent,and

But

her

this is another

of

that

and

nice.

so

he

I do not know that

about.
thingshad come
either on
picturedto himself any necessity,
her part or on his,of abandoningany thingelse

Mrs. Burton

family because

that I

an

hour

might look

to

myself

you, and
Flo's choice.
I hope
at

make
about
up my mind
you won't be angry with me ?"
' '
then collected in a knot behind.
Close beside
And
how have you made
up your mind
low
"If
sat
littlefair-haired
on
a
a
to find that out,
chair,
her,
girl,
you want
you must

about

years old,who
pretenseat needle-work

?"

get

going through it throughFlorence. You may be quitesure I

shall tell her; and, I suppose, I may
on
some
be quite
; and kneeling
she will tell you.
the sure
Does she tell you every
a
higher chair,while she sprawled over
another
drawing-room table,was
girl,some
thing?"
"
three years younger, who
I tell her every thing,"
was
said Harry,feeling
engaged with a
ten
puzzle-box.
himself,
however,to be a littleconscience-smitsaid she,risingfrom her
"Mr.
at the moment,
as he remembered
Clavering,"
his interview
with Lady Ongar. Things had occurred
chair, I am so glad to see you, though I am
almost angry with you for not 'coming to us
this very day which he certainly
could not tell
seven

was

"

sooner.

I have
you

know

heard

so

much

about

you ; of

her.

"Do
do
ton,
Harry explainedthat
alwaysdo that,"said Mrs. Burclared
he had only been a few days in town, and dehis arm.
layingher hand affectionately
on
that he was
There is no way so certain to bind a woman
happy to learn that he had
about.
been considered worth talking
to you, heart and soul,
her that you
to show
as
"
If you were worth accepting
worth trust her in every thing. Theodore tells me
you were
talkingabout."
every thing. I don't think there'sa drain planned
"
under a railway-bank,
said he.
but tha" he shows it
Perhaps I was neither,"
in some
"Well, I am
not going to flatter you yet. me
way ; and I feel so gratefulfor it.
Only as I think our Flo is without exception It makes me know that I can never do enough
the most perfect
I hope you'll
be as good to Flo as he
girlI ever saw, I don't suppose for him.
she would be guiltyof mating a bad choice. is to me."
" We
can't both be perfect,
dear, this is Mr. Clavering."
Cissy,
you know."
course

that."

"

"

"

"

THE
"

Ah

Theodore

you'lllaugh

course

alwayslanghs at
calls a highhorse.

he

what

well,of

CLAVERINGS.

when

me

at

I wonder

himself

me.

get

37

on

whether

are

asleepat breakfast-time,his hootings

beingheard round the town."
itor.
Harryrather liked the idea of knowing an edEditors were, he thought,influentialpeople,

sensible as he is ?"
who had the world very much
under their
Harry reflected that he never wore cotton
afraid of no
gloves. "I don't think I am very sensible,"feet being,as he conceived,
are

you

as

men,

"

"I

said he.
and

do

foolish things, while other men

afraid of them.
are
great many
very much
is that I like them."
He was
gladenough to shake Jones by the hand

the worst

I like

So do I.

"

so

foolish

many

said

"Oh, mamma!"

things!"

Cissy.

when

he found

that Jones
had

Jones,thoughhe

was

an

the face and

editor. But
forehead of

that

shall have

and seemed almost

quoted againstme, now, a clever man, was very quiet,
submissive to his sister and brother-in-law.
months, whenever I am preaching
wisdom
in the nursery.
But Florence
is
The
linner was
but good, and Han'v
plain,
after a while became
though
alnearlyas sensible as her brother."
happy and satisfied,
"I

for the next

six

"Much
"All

more

Who
?

of any

heard

ever

of them

they have
enough. Did you

Whatever
have

he had

full up to their eyes

what a good thingit is !
row
coming to sorways
live on, they al-

to

how

known

She

know

ever

has done better with her

who

dearest

Men,

or
children,

old woman."

and

in such
small

resolution

with

to

thing
some-

find fault.

also,do frequently
go abolit

women

from some
mood, havingunconsciously
circumstance
prejudged their acquaintances,
made

that their acquaintances

up their mind
should be condemned.
Influenced

has
in this way,

Harry

had

Harry pleasantevening,and

her called a very clever old woman

and could not
certain persons in Stratton,
but think of her matrimonial successes
her
as

the house

to

come

like

and

an
wom-

er?
better,than Theodore's moth-

to do

is the

almost

are

And

good sense.

with

than I am."

so

the Burtons-

had heard

and

by

he found

been

cold,had
that it

littlewhile he

intended to pass a
have stood aloof

not

would

it been

was

was

to him ; but
possible
possible
; and after a
and joyous,
and the
friendly
not

oflT very well.

There
was
some
praiseswere thus sung by her daughter-in-law.dinner went
while Sophy sat in wild fowl,and he was
as he
on
They went
talking,
surprised
agreeably
Harry'slap,till there was heard" the sound of watched the mental anxiety and gastronomic
the key in the latch of the front door, and the skill with which Burton
went
through the process
known
master
of the house was
of preparingthe gravy, with lemon
and
to be there.
"It's Theodore,"said his wife,jumping up and
little silver pot
a
pepper, having in the room
He
"I'm
and an apparatus of fire for the occasion.
so glad that you
going out to meet him.
have been here a littlebefore him, because now
would as soon
have expectedthe Archbishopof
I feel that I know
When
he's here I Canterbury
himself to go throughsuch an operation
you.
sha'n't
her
how
been

get in

boots with
There
and

word."

Then

his

were

left to

"I

have

ever

cleaned his

bringingwitli

him

known

in the chambers

"Does

always

he

at Lambeth

of business whom

man

the

as

he

had

at the

do

Adelphi.
that,Mrs. Burton?'

Harry asked.

er
anoth-

introduced to Harry
my brother was

he

dining-room

the

lean get the

materials. One doesn't bother one's selfabout a

stairs, "Always,"said Burton,"when

the

stepsagain upon

returned

whom

man,
Jones.

could
who

in

to

speculatehard-working

pocket-handkerchief.
soon

Burton

down

she went

husband,and Harry was

so very charming a woman
brought to love a man

as

didn't know

Mr.
ing,"
com-

cold

leg of mtitton,
you know, which

dinner

when

we

are

alone.

is my usual
children have

The

said Mrs. Burton, "but

it will be very
it hot in the middle of the day."
of course
I shall want
Such
as
a
happenedto him yet,
thing never
pleasant,
you to know
became
little
him."
How
said
Mrs.
Burton.
a
perplexed.
Harry,"
Harry
far might these familyramificationsbe supposed
Gentlywith the pepper,"said the editor. It
he had spoken for some
he be welcomed,as one
of the was
the first word
Would
to go ?
of
Mrs.
the
and
if
time.
hearth
Jones
to
household,
;
of Mrs. Jones's brother ?
"Be
of Mrs. Jones, then
good enough to remember that,yourself,
when you are writing
His mental inquiries,
however,in this direction,
your article to-nipht."
ton.
ended by his findingthat Mr. Jones
soon
were
"No, none for me, Theodore,"said Mrs. Bur"

' '

was

bachelor.

was
Jones,it appeared,

co-editor of

or

some

or
editor,

the

influential

itor,
sub-ed-

newspaper.
daily

"Cissy!"
"

dined

I have

really.If

I had

remembered

that yon were

going to display
your cookeiy,I
of my energy ; but I forgot
would have kept some
Burton.
She had fallen into the way of calling
it."
him Harryat once, but he could not on that occasion
"As
a
rule," said Burton, "I don't think
bring himself to call her Cecilia. He
"He

mighthave

is

done

present,but he
"

He is

of her

Harry,"said
night-bird,

so

was

had

not

her husband

Mrs.

been

to do ithefore him.

ashamed

women

recognizeany

believe wild duck

Harry,"said she,speakingquite the

night-bird,

brother,"and

that he

dark

may

go

cityhaunt

and

at nine

flies away
hoot

like

that he has.

an

owl

same

I
o'clock,blinded.
that they are
some

in

Then, when

mutton

wife

if her

to

should

diiference in flavors. I

and hashed
my
not

mind

proudof
generally

he is |They think it grand."

would

eyes
this,if it were
the

be

were

not

deficiency.

38

CLAVERINGS.

THE

"Just

as

from

tune

think it grand not to know

men

got up from
over, Burton
"
"
do
said
he,
you like good
Harry,"
JHarrysaid that he did. Whatever

dinner

his seat.

was

"
of you, you know, she
How
ourselves.
of
one

think

We

continued,"quite

his wife.

another,"said

When

"

her house.

one

as

could it be otherwise
of all beyond

us

our

Flo is the dearest

when

to

?"

own

to hear

you say so,"

fowl,
I
here and talk about her.
"Then
to good wine, although
come
professan
Theodore
to feel that you are his brother ;
correct
there is a theoryabout the world,quiteas inwant
it is general,that they have given it will be so importantto you in the business
as
it. "Indeed, I do," said Harry. that it should be so." After that he went
away,
drinking
up
and
back along Piccadilly,
said Burton,
and
he walked
"Then
as
I'llgiveyou a bottle of port,"
then up through the regionof St. Giles to his
and so sayinghe left the room.
self
"I'm
to-day,"said home in Bloomsbury Square,he satisfied himvery glad you have come
a better
that the life of Onslow Crescent was
never
gravity. "He
gives
Jones,with much

wine?"
women

may

me

say
indifference

of that wine

any
he

and

wild

about

by

never,

I'm alone with him

when

any

bringsit

means,

You

don't

it alone,Tom
"I

wine

had been

when

much

only

care

as

of the gravy,
ized
scrutinwas
liquid

the concoction

full of anxious
eye that was
Cissy,what do you think of that?

Now,

well

as

an

glassof good

wine

you do,Harry,in
for the duck."

when

spiteof

as

happy

to prelikely
vail

was

Street.

of him

?"

much

so

told

you

me

He is

much

so

nicer

pleasanterand

much

so

"

easier; and I have no doubt he is as clever,

though I don't think he shows that at onee."
He

is clever

enough ;

there's

doubt

no

about

that."
And

"

she gets it,

as
her contempt

theysippedthe old port they sat round

dining-roomfire,and Harry Claveringwas

I like him

than

"

She

course

wife in Onslow

think

do you

What

"

of

was

said the husband.

care.

As
the

so

Crescent.

it; I

' '

decanted with

was

given to

with
knows

of

drinks

the clearness of the dark

and

in Bolton

sister,
laughing.
he

me

of life than that which

manner

he doesn't."

when

The

"

know

him

accuse

?" said his

don't

know

to

mean

for

out

makes

When
he was
gone his character
and
discussed
between
the husband
drinking

company."
' '

"It

said he.

never

men

did you

"Yes,

he

those

men

make

much

was

who

think he

not

He

best with

women.

get on

more

pleasant?"

was

pleasanthere.
of him

for

is

of

one

You'll

while than I shall.

He'll

with you for

gossipwith you, and sit idling
forced to own
been
the hour together,
if you'lllet him,
There's
to himself that he had never
he'd
comfortable.
about
like
and
more
him,
nothingwrong
nothing
said Burton,stretching
"Ah!"
out his slipperedbetter than that."
"
stead
You don't believe that he's idle by disposifeet, why can't it all be after dinner,intion?
of that weary room
at the Adelphi?"
Think
of all that he has done already."
"And
"That's justwhat is most
all old p'ort?"
said Jones.
He
againsthim.
"Yes, and all old port. You are not such an might do very well with us if he had not got
in suggestingto that confounded
to suppose that a man,
ass
as
fellowship
; but having got
himself a continuance
of pleasure,
suggests to that,he thinks the hard work of lifeis pretty
himself also the evils which are supposedto acwith him."
company well over
"
such pleasure.If I took much
of the
I don't suppose he can be so foolish as that,
stuff I should get cross
and sick,and make
a
TJieodore."
beast of myself; but then what a pityit is that
"1
know
well what
such men
are, and I
it should be so !
know
the evil that is done to them by the cramming
"You
wouldn't like much of it,I think,"said
of
they endure. They learn many names
"

"

his wife.

things high-sounding
names,

work

and

"

"That

is

because

it,"said
work

What

looks at it all !

one

are

driven

to

pallson

never

pleasure
alwaysdoes.
it is when

"We

he.

us, whereas
wonderful scheme
No

man

can

understand

great deal about

knowledge that requiresno

littlereal

low
fol-

thought.But

; and

when

theycome

words.

experienceand

it demands

they have

loaded

to

It is

much

very
ory
mem-

themselves

in

this way, they think that they are instructed in

a
man
pleasurelong continually.When
strives to do so, he turns his pleasureat once
all things. After all,
what can
they do that is
into business,
and works at that. Come, Harrj-,of real use to mankind
?
What
ate?"
can
they crewe

mustn't

go

to

went

have

another

bottle,as Jones would

the type." Then

sleepamong
they all
stairs
before
he
went
together.Harry,
up

away,
there
When

taken

was

kissed
he

the

was

againup
two

into the nursery, and

little girlsin their cots.

outside the nursery door,

the
on
took him by the

Mrs. Burton
top of the stairs,
hand.

"and

"You'll

come

to

us

often,"said she,

make

yourselfat home here, will you

Harry could not but say that he would.
almost with
Indeed he did so without hesitation,
not ?"

eagerness, for he

had

liked her and

had liked

I suppose they are

I don't know
it.

"
"

to
pi'etend

that he

one

spoken in
hundred
that do
then
At
some

some

tell you

see

"

is wrong

some

of use."
A

man

for the
"

what

will tell you,

chances
sort

island or
particular

are

ten

ov

to

of

lingowas
provincesix

before

Christ.
What
years
good will
if he were
right? And
any one, even
the effect upon
the men
themselves !

a young
four-and-twenty

fellow has achieved

wonderful

calls himself by
success, and
outlandish and conceited name
a double
"

CLAVERINGS.

THE

39

the kind. Then

ladies only whisperthe news
he thinks engagedyoung
and is too rain to throughthe very depthsof theirpinknote-paper,
completed
every thing,
learn any thingafterward.
The
to blush as theycommunicate
truth is,that and are supposed
has done more
than acat twenty-four
no
man
quire the tidings
by their pens, even in the retirement

or somethingof
first,

he has

rudiments

the

of

his

The

education.

system is bad from beginningto end.

of their own

there

But

rooms.

lies
other fami-

are

vestigeof such mystery,

in which an engaged coupleare spoken of
competitionmakes false and imperfect
growth.
togetheras openlyas though theywere already
Come, I'llgo to bed."
What would Harryhave said if he had heard bound in some
sort of publicpartnership.In
all this from the

who dusted his hoots with

man

in which there is

All that

his handkerchief?

these families the young ladies talk

that
their lovers,
and generally
prefer
conversation

to

was

in the reserved families is

for

BT

by

HALF.

the

"

atoned
usually

the bridal ments,

arrangethe marriage
is at last solemnized ;

magnificenceof

when

Flokbncb

of
subject
family so

open in their arrangements,

The
that of the Burtons
at Stratton.
serve
re-

IX.

PRUDENT

a,

openlyof

so

"

TOO

Such

other.

any

littlemysterious

CHAPTER

no

Bueton

thoughtherself the happiestwhereas,among the other set the peoplewho

There
was
girlin the world.
nothing have no resei-ve
when
it comes,
the marriage
wanting to the perfectionof her bliss. She is customarilyan affair of much less outward
could perceive,
allowed her
though she never
They are married without blast of
ceremony.
that her lover was
mind to dwell upon the fact,
to the confectioner,
trumpet, with very little profit
in many
whom
her
superior
if they do it at
and do their honeymoon,
respectsto the men
sisters had married.
He was better educated, all,
with prosaic
simplicity.
in fact more
better looking,
at
a genfleman
fully
Florence had made
up her mind that she
all pointsthan either Scarness or any of the would be in no hurry about it. Harry was
in a
"

"

She

others.

liked her

sisters'husbands

very

hurry;

well,and in former

ing had

was

days,before Harry Claver- was

she had never
Stratton,
taught She
that she, if she manied, would

to

come

herself to think

any thingdifferent from

had
given to them.

want

that which
She

had

idence
Prov-

even

never

no

thrown
up her head, or even
up her
demand
nose, and told herself that she would
something better than that. But not the less was
thrown

but

that

was

of

matter

He

course.

restless being.
impatient,
quick-blooded,

slower,and
It would

if it

for five

were

fear of

tion.
given to considerathey should wait,

more

be better that
or

six years. She had

She had lived

poverty for herself.

always in a house in which money was

regarded,and among peoplewho were
habits.

But

such had

not

been

much
of inexpensive
his

lot,

knowledgethat somethingbetter and it was her duty to think of the mode of life
in her way, and that that something which might suit him.
had come
He would not be happy
her own.
better was
She was
now
comforts
around
without
as
a
very proud
poor man
of her lover,
feminine
and, no doubt,in some
gently
him, which would simply be comforts to him
she made
so
as
way showed that she was
thoughthey would be luxuries to her. When
her way about among
her friends at Stratton.
her mother told her,shaking her head rather
Any idea that she herself was better educated, sorrowfully
as she heard Florence
talk,that she
better looking,or more
clever than her elder did not like long engagements, Florence would
and that,
she was
therefore,
and tell her
sisters,
deservingof shake hers too,in playful
derision,
entered
a
mother
higher order of husband,had never
not
to be so suspicious." It is not you
her mind.
The Burtons in London
Theodore
that are going to marry him, mamma."
Burton
and his wife" who knew
her well,
and
gagements
"No, my dear; I know that. But long enbest able to appi'ewere
who, of all the family,
never
are
good. And I can't think
ciate Jier worth,had long been of opinionthat why
so many
things,
young peopleshould want
she deserved some
favored lot in life. now, that they used to do without very well
specially
The questionwith them would be,whether Harry
keeping,
I went into housewhen I was
married. When
Claveringwas good enough for her.
we
only had one girlof fifteen to do
hadn't a nursemaid regugaged, every thing; and we
Everybody at Stratton knew that she was enlar
and when
born ; and there were
they wished her joyshe made
till Theodore
was
she alive

the

to

"

"

no

coy

denials.
in the

Her

sistershad

way, and

same

their

gone

off in

them

been
There had never
about their affairs. On

regularsequence

is very
practice

to

all been

gaged
en-

marriageshad

three before him."

any secret with

this *iatter the

could not say how

Florence

their engagements.

Harry might

wish

circumstances,but she
he would

want

much

to
was

more

ants
many maid-servunder similar

have

very confident

that

attendance than her

differentpeople. father and mother had done,or even than some

among
when
think it almost indelicate of her brothers and sisters. Her father,
to talk about marriage,
on
not have objected,
as
in he first married,would
a thingactually
prospectfor any of their own
community. An returninghome, to find his wife in the kitchen,
would be considered to be looking
after the progress of the dinner ; nor
ordinary
acquaintance
There

are

various

families who

impertinentin
the

even

thingwere

at
hinting
an

such

though
aleven
thing,

establishedfact. The

made

have
brother Theodore
circumstance.
such
a
unhappy by

would

her

been

But

CLAVEEINGS.

THE

40

said

mamma,"
that I

think

can't

"You

Florence.

good,|toned

; but I know

those

or
twenty-eight,

You

"No

"

thereabouts."

mean

that he is

not

unsteady.

unsteady?"
I don't think

him

as

toast when

and

tea

married

that I

that

sure

"

don't like

to

engaged young

to

him

make

be

going

like

more

letters were

eveningsspent

he shouldn't

that
butteifly,

may

do

of domestic
some

written,I think,after certain

favorable circumstances

under

Crescent,when he
comfort, and

Onslow

been
but
then

of their

so

or

Harry

pleases.
"

"Dear

Stratton. Mnrch,18S-.

I received

Haeey,"

your

letter this

it at once, because I kridw

morning,and answer
You are
you will be impatientfor an answer.
impatientabout things are you not ? But it
and I
was
a kind,sweet, dear, generous
letter,
"

in

fullof the merits

was

I know
1

so.

without seeinghim.

He

alwayshappy when
I should have

there this spring,

been

third person had

had been a

third person

him,

but ho

been

present.

lady who
had

was

learned

not

from

This

think

to go elsewhere.
person wishes me
to go to London
wishes me
also for a
but I don't want to be away from the old
much
before the final partingcomes
too

at last.

troduced'
inher

to

those of

other

any

in Bolton
having Mamma
Street,
repeatedly
specially
pressedto do so by Lady Ongar, week,
found her at home, and
he had only once
house

to

don't think so, because you don't say

I am
in Onslow

you
am

Crescent.

called

to

only that a certain person who chooses

perhaps also owed
are
to the fact that Lady that his claims on me
inspiration
strongerthan

Ongar had leftLondon

had

wrote

tell you now

that I love the writer of it
not
mained need
Henry reholidayshe with all my heart. I am so gladyou like Cecilia.
ofa woman.
her I think she is the perfection
And
than once
to Florence,pressing
an
though
early day for their marriage. Theodore is every bit as good as Cecilia,

name

These

if the reader

"

fickle

had some
fluence
incare, and as her letter
the storyto be told,the reader shall

on

read it

of

fuse.
re-

have

Cecilia,

from

assistance

young

did

before the Easter

in town

to

was

"

justas it pleasesin the sunshine."

During the three months which
wrote

without

even

cilia's
Crescent,Ce-

men

and
little serious,

about

time

that she would

lady not
changing disposition.So she

high-

part of his

any

and
thoughts,

of her

be surmised

It may
for she

going on
I suppose I'm very old-fashioned ;
in that way.
is engaged,he
man
but I think when
a
young
oughtto remember it and to show it. It ought
see

draw

never

some

the

version

own

with much

It should be vei^ moderate,you know

But then, suppose it wasn't moderate.

"

had

received,direct from Onslow

refused

do.
Do
you know
would
little flirtation

dear!"

"Oh, my

from

ig tired of his work,

for him ?"

good

be very

not

should

man

not

am

he

that

abandon
made

to

he

parentalcofferg. His father

had again offered it,and he had acceptedit.
Old Mr. Burton was
to add a hundred,and Hai-of opinionthat they could do very well.
ry was
and therefore
Cecilia thoughtthe same, he said,
But Florence
refuse.
not
would
Florence
surely

unsteady; but he will be happiersinglefor

to like
He hasn't settled down
year or two.

his

which

since that he would

bit
a

resolve

income

of
He is one
he is young in his ways.
who
should not marry till they are
men

that

"

not

find fault with him

to

mean

there- 1 havingbrought himself

like it; and

"It will do him

Harry, she knew, would

fore Harry must wait.

as

'

And

now

well rush

about the final

it

at

at

once.

parting
; for I may
I need hardlytell

shall make
sion
speechthat she was a foreigner.On that occayon that no care for father or mother
I owe
ery
evLady Ongar had made herself graciousand me put off my marriage. Of course
but nothinghad passedwhich interested
thing to you now ; and as they have appleasant,
proved
he had felt
it,T have no rightto think of them in
him, and, most
unreasonably,
himself to be provoked. When
to
to you.
next he went
And you must not suppose
opposition
Bolton
Street he found that Lady Ongar had
that they ask me
to stay. On
the contrary,
left London.
is alwaystelling
to
She had gone down
that earlymarme
Ongar mamma
riages
at the house
best.
She has sent all the birds out
are
Park,and, as far as the woman
knew, intended to remain there tillafter Easter. of the nest but one ; and is impatientto see that
undefined idea that she should one flyaway, that she may be sui-e that there is
Harry had some
not

Had

have
she

taken such
not

declared

step without
to

him

tellinghim.

that he

was

her

no

lame

one

in the brood.

think that it is

mamma

You
;

must

not

fore
there-

is it papa, as
agrees with me in
nor

is going out of regards

When
himself
a friend
only friend?
though papa
town, leavingan only friend behind, that friend thinkingthat we ought to wait a little.
"Dear
ought to tell her only friend what she is going
Harry,you must not be angry, but I
to
that we
sure
do, otherwise such a declaration of only- am
ought to wait. We are, both
friendshipmeans
nothing. Such was
Harry of us, young, and why should we be in a huriy?
reasoning,and having so reasoned, I know wlfcityou wiljsay, and of course
I love
Clavcring's
he declared to himself that itdid mean
because you love me
nothing, you the more
so well ; but
and was
Burton
to I fancythat I can
be quite happy if I can
see
very pressingto Florence
an
name
earlyday. He had been with Cecilia,you two or three times in the year, and hear
he had learned to call Mrs. Burton
he told her
from you constantly.It is so good of you to
Cecilia in his letters and she quiteagreedwith write such nice letters,
and the longerthey are
him that their income would
be enough. He
the better I like them.
Whatever you put in
his father.them, I like thom to be full. I know
to have two hundred
a year from
was
I can't
"

"

"

CLAVERINGS.

THE
write nice letters
Unless
say, I am
"But

and
myself,

I have

it makes

dumb.
I have

now

In

spiteof all that

do

not

something specialto say.

about Cecilia,
I

you tell me
think it would do for us
I know

marryingyet.

thing,but

sacrifice every
to

happy.
un-

me

to
got somethingspecial

to venture

that you are

I ought not

accept a sacrifice. I could

upon

willingto
on

that

count
ac-

not bear to

41

Had he not shown himself to be such

lover as there is not one in a hundred ? And
yet she wrote and told him that it wouldn't do
for him to be poor and uncomfortable
! After

her sake ?
a

all that he had

done

in the

world,after all that

if,at this
good for
way that he regarded

he had gone through,it would be odd

time of day,he did not know what was
in that
himself!
It was
Florence's pertinacity.

should
He was
rather unhappy at this period.It
you poor and uncomfortable
; and we
be very poor in London
on
nowadayswith such an seemed to him that he was somewhat slighted
income
should have.
If we were
as
we
going both sides or, ifI may say so, less thoughtof on
to live here at Stratton perhapswe
both sides than he deserved. Had Lady Ongar
age,
might mansee

"

but 1 feel sure

in London.

that it would

You

for

oughtnot to be
for I am
quiteas
sayingthis,

with you
onlyI can
in
I know

be

imprudent remained

angry with me
anxious to be

in

town, as she oughtto have done,he

and at the
would have solaced himself,
have

revengedhimself

time

same

ing
Florence,
by devotto that lady. It was

upon
be to be with me
of his spare hours
some
possibly
you can
;
bear to look forward,
and have a pleasthat had
ure
Lady Ongar'ssudden departure

as

is to come.
feelingthat all my happiness
I am
rightin this. Do write me one

littleline to say that you

with
not angry
are
your littlegirl.
"
I shall be quiteready for you by the 29th.
I got such a dear littlenote from Fanny the other

feelthat he ought to rush at

him

riage. Now

he had

to
complaining

of

made

into

once

mai'-

consolation,
except that

no

Mrs.

to the theatre.

quently
Burton,and goingfreTo

Mrs. Burton

he did

complaina great deal,pullingher worsteds and

threads about the while,sittingin idleness
ton
day. She says that you never write to them, while she was working,justas Theodore Burhad predicted
and she supposes that I have the advantageof
that he would do.
all your energy in that way.
I have told her
"I won't have you so idle,
ton
Harry, Mrs. Bursaid to him
that I do get a good deal. My brother writes to
one
day. "You know you
ters ought to be at your officenow."
It must be admitted
me
very seldom,I know ; and I get twenty letfrom Cecilia for one
that
Theodore
behalf
of
t
hat
on
Clavering,
Harry
scrap
they
of these days I who liked him, especially
sends me.
able to
ever
were
Perhaps some
women,
with the rectory. become
shall be the chief correspondent
intimate with him very easily. He had
and I have
comfortable,
Fanny told me all about the dresses,
homely ways about him, and did
come
quiteready. I've been bridesmaid to not habitually
give himself airs. He had bemy own
four of my own
what
so I ought to know
sisters,
quitedomesticated at the Burtons' house
I'm about.
I'll never
be bridesmaid
to any
duringthe ten weeks that he had been in Lon."
most
earth
on
don,and knew his way to Onslow Crescent albody again after Fanny; but whom
It may, perhaps,
wait
be surmised
too well.
shall I have for myself? I think we must
tillCissyand Sophyare ready. Cissy
that he would not have gone there so
wrote me
correctly
if Mrs. Theodore Burton.had been an
word
I don't frequently
that you were
a
darlingman.
from
sy,
Cisknow
how much
of that came
woman.
ugly
directly
"It's all her fault,"
how much
from Cecilia.
said he,continuingto
or
' '
bless you, dear,dearest Harry. Let snipa pieceof worsted with a pairof scissors as
God
have one letter before you come
he spoke. " She's too prudentby half."
to fetch me,
me
if you
Poor Florence !"
and acknowledge that I am
even
right,
"
I like to
You can't but know that I should work: three
disagreeable.Of course
say that I am
different
times
much
if she had given me
think that you want
to have me
as
a
but,
;
you see,
would
of being civilized.
It stands to reason
has to pay the penalty
answer.
one
any man
"

"

"Ever

alwaysyour

and

affectionate

own

"Florence

work

Bdrton."

under

that I
other

HarryClaveringwas very angry when he got

of his anger was
The primarycause

this letter.

the fact that Florence

what

was

If he

was

be contented to

but
herself,

life in London

year, surelyshe

about

I won't

have

"Of
wrong.

"Oh, Harry!
might you'llask her.
were

the
my

I do

as
as

Not

that.

much

as

any

place."
all
worsted destroyed

the

says that Florence is right."

he'll say I'm
he does; of course
course
I won't ask her again that's all."

on

experiment.He
try the same
she f"red for
that
suspect

circumstances

Theodore

same.

know

himself.

moment

he

"

don't
You

say

would

that.

You

know

to-morrow, if she

willing to

"

here."
You

was

at that old house

not

pretendto
he knew

man

such

I believe.
idle,

don't know
or you would
me, Cecilia,
I have made
When
up my mind to
indignantwith her because not say so.
firm about it. She said
I am
a thing,
her fear for him.
generally
What righthad she to accuse
about
two
him of wanting to be comfortable ? Had
something
years, and I will not say a
it
word to alter that decision. If it be altered,
fortable
not for her sake consented to be very uncom-

did not for

he

than

to encounter
willing

less than four hundred

of

should

better for him

"

am

give up

at Stratton ?

his

of Lady Ongar, and

society

Was

he

shall be altered by her."

time he punishedFlorence by
and the
In the mean
fellowship,
to her letter. He
answer
for sendingher no special
every thingelse,

usual,but
last proposal,
to
nor
to her as

wrote
to

CLAVEBINGS.

THE

42

his

asked

him

tell her

told her when

and where

gave her
described

told her

and

said

had

seen

to her decision

rebuke, as

in

word,even

intended that this

He
their mamage;
in
should be felt to be severe, and took pleasure
be giving. Florence,
the pain that he would
about

"I

his mind.

One day

his return

on

It contained
there

that the

name

a
was

of

owner

return

on

the card

his anger

me

to

Of

the
occasion

well

name

though he had

we

week.
meet.

tellyon that I have

I have not
you.

to

purpose

on

Pateroff

to

see

to write to him

him, but I have had

about

He
has
things that happened in Florence.
with reference to the
to England chiefly
come
affairs of Lord Ongar. I want
you to hear his

as

membered
re-

saw

it,

When

itary
it since the sol-

man.

soon

it had

which

He

he

as

mentioned

been

would

in

say much more

"Ever
yours,

able

am

name

Pateroff.

thoughtof

never
on

The

after Easter.

that of Count

was

I write

"But

begged Count

card

when

it you

I'll show

Easter

the

Claveringfor

I declined.

course

the

would

he found

home

go to
note!

are

not

was

I
said),"

(the note

Claveking

he knew

surprisedhim very much.

but over the
but no address,
him he is a
As far as I have known
memorandum, stating story.
pencil
that I
I do not know
though
truth-telling
man,
the card would call again on
his favor.

to London

his

It

so

seen

his table which

name

we

from

without seeing
sorry to leave London
end
of April,
and
the
back
I
shall
be
by
you ;
Come
to me,
rooms.
am
keepingon the same
ner.
if you can, on the evening of the 30th,after dinHe
at last bade Hermy to write and ask

was

Such

I will make

' '

him."

see

expectedthat

he

when

herself.

said to

reasonable when

way in which
be received.

him

will comfort

"
she
together,

on

was

understood thoroughlythe working of

sore, and

him

that he

knew
letter,

she received her

when

Me.

"Dear

and
post-mark,
Lady Ongar :

the

was

that it was

at once

funny story about Mr.

Adelphi. But he

next

Guilford

note.

cent;
Cres-

the office at the

and

no

less,

be
man

in the

by the
toClavering;

play he

unmarried

day he was to go to Stratton,

morning a letter was brought to him
a very short
or, rather,
postman ; a letter,
the

On

and

meet

little dinner-partyin Onslow

Walliker

of

account

some

that she should

him

to
injury

but himself.

angry,
He

he would

and how

her from Stratton

convey

She had

not

was

an

with any
intimately
acquainted

nothing of the kind.

but he would

her,and

he

it was

reference

no

her refusal.

that

tell her

to

he made

to

he had
See

read this he

quitean

was

Of

Pateroff!

Count

task could

What

him.

see

J. 0."
ed
alter-

course

be

more

he
ting
fit-

who had
the man
was
of seeingsuch a man
for a friend than this,
whom
and respecting
don
Ongar'sfriend,
? Before he leftLonunder such circumstances
Lord Ongar had broughta false chargeagainst
for
Count
to be
he wrote
note
Pateroff,
a
his wife.
Why should Count Pateroff call on given to the count by the peopleat the lodgings
him ?
don.
Why was he in England ? Whence had should he call duringHany's absence from Lonhe learned the address in Bloomsbury Square?
In this he explainedthat he would be at
ing
in findhe had no difficulty
To that last question
himself
but expressed
Claveringfor a fortnight,
to

Count Pateroff

him.

Lord

been

Of

answer.

an

he must

course

have

heard

Pateroff had

Lady Ongar. Count

it from

ready to

now

to Ongar '"Park ?
filledwith
instantly
and he became
jealousin spiteof
suspicion,
Could it be that Lady Ongar,
Plorence Burton.
a widow, was
not yet four months
receivingat

left London

Had

he

Harry Clavering'smind

her house

in the

her

name

so, what

been

joined?
fatally

so

He knew
very angry.
but he did not at all know
he

that he

not,by her

own

that he

"

said to himself.
whatever
of him

Not

with that
!"

He

the count

man

but he must, at any

with Lady Ongar or
the

address

in

Pateroff!" he
shouldn't wonder

as

London

to

up

at

day'snotice

before the
about

As

he went

he

journeyeddown
kinder

much
he had

day

named.

his business
to

ideas

he entertained
Stratton,

about

done
previously

day,and

that

since

Lady Ongar
seeingCount

than
Pa-

card.
teroff's

If
He

angry,

CHAPTER

jealous.
him, her

FLORENCE

BtlKTON

X.
AT

THE

RECTOEY.

he entertain such
'

friend !" he

Her

Haeet

Claveeing

down

went

to

Stratton,

nightat old Mr. Burton's house, and

any dealings sleptone
to Clavering twenty miles
after what she has told drove Florence over

if she

has

"

remembered

might

was
was

declaration to

onlyfriend ; and as such could

without anger ? ^'
a suspicion

me

with whose

man

could he think of such behavior

was

Was

leave London

was

country this

had

own

gone

come

Count Pateroff be necessitated again to

should

not

be

at last that perhaps

at

rate,have had
he would

not

Ongar
have

said,repeatingthe
if I have

the

country
"

on

journeytogetherhad

the

following
day. This

been

looked

forward to

ence,
dealing with great delightby both of them, and Florshe had
known
in spiteof the snubbingwhich

some

BloomsburySquare.

Park

across

"

Count

"I
name,
with that
to quarrel

received from her lover because of her

prudence,

very happy as she seated herself alongside

of him in the vehicle which had been sent over

was

from the rectoiy,and which he called a trap.

During the whole of that nighthe was
thinkingof Lady Ongar. As regardedhimself,Not a word had as yet been said between them
that he had nothingto offer to Lady as to that snubbing,
was
he knew
nor
Harry minded that
be
He
should
said.
neverthemeant
to cany
but,
Ongar but a brotherly
thing
friendship
;
any

man."

"

THE

CLAVERINGS.

43

discuss,

I know

what

swering
by not andid
punish me
opiniondifferent from
you not, for having an
Is not that true,Harry ?"
yours ?
"
Punish you
no
; I did not want to punish
I that was
It was
punished,I think."
you.
I was
"But
right. Was I not
you know
right?"

You

me.

meant

you

meant

to

"

"

"I

think you

were

wrong,

but I don't want

thingmore about it now."

"Ah, but,Harry,I want you to talk about it.
it not every thingto me
every thingin this

to say any

Is

"

world

that you

I should agree about this ?

I have nothingelse to think of but you.
I have
nothing to hope for but that I may live to be
"

wife.

your

and

"I

not

am

"Speak

Come, Harry,don't

I
"

is my

glum

be

glum."
nice word

Tell me
that
to me.
I say that it is not of myself
but of you."
thinking,
a

believe me

you

in the world

My onlycare

for you !
with me."
care

am

when

can't you

Why

let

think for

me

myselfin

this ?"
"

Because

you have got to think for me."

I think you'd do very well on the income

"And

we've
summer,
"

his revenge
such was

on

But

desired

not

by being dumb

It

was

was

be

longer."
No, Harry;

glum, as

I must

not

on

about it."
She
Florence'sintention.
" Look
in
this
only tq have her own
here,Harry,if an
way

to marry

call

it,a

do that.

this
ment
mo-

I should

not

charmingday for

cold,but

you

be false to my dutyto you if I did."

that subject. "Then
it's no
use
sayingany thing more

matter,but desired also that he should

her arrangements.
It

If you'll
consent

got.

I won't

not

such

assent

to

"

Of

course

enough to make them

was
a wind,but not wind

hate

so

much

engagement of

two

"

to

you
it is tedious.
"

journey.any thing always tedious

cold

uncomfortable.

years is tedious

Is not
There's

waitingfor
nothing I

waiting."

as

" But
There
listen to me," said she,gravely.' If
them.
if it is more
than you think you
Once there came
it is too tedious,
on
enough to torment
bear without being unhappy, I will release
a littleshower,which justsufficedto giveHarry
can
of wrapping
his companion very
an
opportunity
you from your engagement."
but he had hardly completed
the cere"Florence!"
mony
closely,
"
It will make no
for it was
Hear
before the necessity
to the end.
over.
me
They
both agreedthat this mode
of traveling
finitely
into
was
change in me ; and then if you like to come
to a journey
and me again at the end of the two years, you may
preferable
by railroad,
I myself should be of the same
be sure
of the way in which I shall receive you."
opinionif one
one's journeysunder
what good would that do?"
"And
the
could always make
"
circumstances.
And. it must be understood
same
Simply this good, that you would not be
that makes
that Harry,though no doubt he was
still bound in a manner
you unhappy.
taking his revenge on Florence by abstainingIf you did not intend that when you asked me
from all allusion to her letter,
not disposed to be your wife
was
Oh, Harry,all I want is to
He
himself otherwise disagreeable.
make
to make
for,
you happy. That is all that I care
playedhis part of lover very well,and Florence all that I think about !"
was
supremelyhappy.
Harry swore to her with ten thousand oaths
"
Harry,"she said,when the journeywas that he would not release her from any part of
than half completed,
her engagement with him, that he would give
more
"you never told me
tended
of escape from him, that he inwhat you thoughtof my letter."
her no loophole
'

"

letter?" But he knew

the letterin question.

"Which
which was

"My

prudent latter"written

yours that was very

"
I thoughtthere

imprudent.''
was

nothingmore

about it."
"

in

us

that we

don't

care

to

herself from

her

so

him, she

that
firmly

if she divided

should be accounted

among

ready,
paragon of falseness. He was
his
That was
he said,to marry her to-morrow.
to be said wish,his idea of what would be best for Jjothof

answer

to

women

them ; and after that,if not to-morrow, then

the next day, and so on tillthe day should
on
any subject
which she should consent
to become
think about and
on
come

Come, Harry,don't let there be

between

to hold

very well

44
his wife.

He went

continue

to torment

once

and

CLAVERINGS.

THE

her

shook hands

with

her,too,had

he been

week tillhe had Induced her to giveway ; too confused

then

he

he had

made

to

with

at variance

a
a

that

stone.

ration
decla-

Burton, in Onslow

Mrs.

to

show

will hollow

water

somewhat

was

line

Latin

quoteda

droppingof

constant

This

also to say that he should

the subjectabout
on

on

to the effect that he would never

speak
Crescent,
to Florence againupon the subject
; but then men
do occasionally
change their minds,and Harry
who often changed his.
was
a man
Clavering
Florence,as he made the declaration above
described,
thought that he playedhis part of

well,and drew herself

lover very
to him
as

she

thanked

him

littlecloser

n)ighthave kissed

He

her.

minded,for Florence

so

of making
capable

to be

was

exact

any

might have done

He

reckoningin

the matter.

so"

that

is,as far

as

may

be

not

have

was

the

would
Mary Clavering
objected
; for this clericalgentleman
who was
Rev. Edward
come
to beFielding,

Florence

her husband

in three

and we'll look

had

have

can

It

time.
days'

Florence," said Fanny, "come

stairs into mamma's

have

up

tea,

some

Harry,you needn'tcome.
for a longtime,and
yourself
again in the evening."
at

her

her

and

room

you.

to

Florence, in this way,

for his warmth.

concerned.

questionwhether

"Now,

You've

was

taken

was

stairs,

up

while three
Harry,you are so good and so kind, and and found herself seated by a fire,
In this way the jour!"
love you so truly
ney pairsof hands were takingfrom her her shawls
almost before she knew where
and.hat and cloak,
made very pleasantly,
and when
ence
Florwas

"Dear
I do

was

driven up

to

the rectory door she

was

she

was.

said Fanny.
"It is so odd to have you here,"
quitecontented with her coachman.
"We
have
the
hero
of
of
who
is
one
brother,
our
only
so,
Clavering,
story,
Harry
course, we
himself
shall make
of you.
Isn't she nice,
have hitherto presented
will not, I fear,
very much
mamma?"
of the heroic nature
to the reader as having much
"I'm sure she is;very nice.
But I shouldn't
It will,
b
e
in his character.
plained
comperhaps,
of him that he is fickle,
led, have told her so before her face,if you hadn't
vain,easily
led to evil as to good. But
asked the question."
and almost as easily
it should
been
and

be remembered

rather

that hitherto he

hardly dealt

that his faults and

with

weaknesses

"That's

has

in these

pages,
have been

believe

mamma

nonsense,
when

You

mamma.

she

pretendsto
It's only put on as

and sententious.

mustn't
be
a

grand

sort

of

to make
air,but we don't mean
pany
comunfairly.That he had such company
faults and was
of yon."
to such weaknesses
subject
may
"
be believed of him ; but there may be a question
said Florence.
Pray don't,''
whether
evil would
of
I'm so gladyou are come
much
as
not be known
justat this time,''
most
I think so much
of havingHarry's
men, let them be heroes or not be heroes, said Mary.
if their characters were, so to say, turned inside future wife at my wedding. I wish we were
both
fellow going to be married the same
out before our
Harry Clavering,
day."
eyes.
of his college,
six feet high,with handsome
face
But we
not going to be married
for
are
and person, and with plentyto say for himself
so
ever
long. Two years hence has been tho
all subjects,
esteemed highlyand regardshortest time named."
on
was
ed
much
"Don't
be sure
of that,Florence,''
said
by those who knew him, in spiteof
those littlefoibles which marred his character ; Fanny. "We
have all of us received a special
and I must
from Harry to talk you out of that
beg the reader to take the world's commission
?"
opinionabout him, and not to estimate him too heresy; have we not,mamma
"
in this history
of his adventures.
I think you had better not tease Florence
meanly thus early
about that immediatelyon
her arrival. It's
If thistale should ever
Iberead by any lady hardlyfair." Then, when theyhad drunk their
of her career, has entered a
who, in the course
tea, Florence was taken away to her own
room,

exposed almost

"

' '

"

house under
had

circumstances

similar to those which

brought Florence Burton

she will understand

been

that young

to

how

tory,
ClaveringRec-

anxious

ladywjieushe

must

encountered

have
the

and

before

she
BO

was

far

she

was

overcome

her

to be able to answer

whole

allowed

intimate with both

awe

of

to

the

down

stairs

and
girls,

had

go

Harry'smother

her without

as

confusion.

what do you think of her?" said

Claveringfamilyin the hall. She had
"Well, sir,
about by the wind, and her cloaks Harryto his father,
alone.
as soon
as theywere
and shawls were
I have not had time to think much
of her
heavyon her,and her hat was
of shape from some
fault on the yet. She seems
a little out
to be very pretty. She isn't
so
self tall as I thoughtshe would be."
part of Harry,as I believe and she felt herto be a dowdy as she appearedamong
them.
said Harry,in a voice
"No; she's not tall,"
What
would theythink of her,and what would
of disappointment.
"I've no doubt we
shall like her
they think of Harryin that he had chosen such a
very much.
Mrs. Claveringhad kissed What money is she to have ?"
to he his wife ?
one
her before she had seen
that lady's
face ; and
"A
hxmdred
a year while her father lives."
"That's notmuch."
Mary and Fanny had kissed her before she knew
which was
which ; and then a stout,clerical genit made no differencewith
"Much
or
little,
tleman
kissed her,who, no doubt,was Mr. ClaI should never
have thoughtof marrying
me.
Aftarth at another clerical gentleveringsenior.
It's a kind of thingthat
a girlfor lier money.
man,
I hate. I almost wish she was
to have nothing.",^
very much younger and very much slighter.
been

blown

"

"

"

THE
"I
"

CLAVERINGS.

shouldn't refuse it if I were

you."
Of course, I sha'n't refuse it ; but what
is that 1

mean

thoughtabout

never

Not at all.

"

it when

45
He

is.

never

The

is that I think he scolds

used

me

ence
onlydiffer-

more

than he

to do."

asked her to have me ; and I sliouldn'thave

"Scold you!"
"
been a bit more
to ask her if she had ten
Oh dear,yes; he alwaysscolded me if he
likely
times as much."
thoughtthere was any thingwrong, especially
"A
fortune with one's wife isn't a bad thing about givingthe children holidays.But
he
does it now
for a poor man, Harry."
than ever."
more
"
be poor in more
But
must
how do you bear it?"
a
"And
poor man
than

senses

one

fortune in that

when

he looks about

have

five hundred

myselfconcerned,I

In

"

I laugh at
half-and-half sort of way.
He makes every
then do as I'm bid.

him, and

justyet," said body do what he bids

thing,
you would
papa, sometimes.

year, and

be very close work in London."

"It's not quitedecided yet,sir.
am

get

way."

"I suppose you won't marry

"
the father.
Includingevery
not

to

think that

that would
As

far

as

But

at

cept
Claveringex"

he scolds

him, too.

I heard

him the other day in the library."

did my father take it from him ?"
"
I don't think
He did,in a sort of a way.
papa likes him ; but then he knows,and we all
And

"

peqpleare

them

I
a

I believe know, that he is so good. He

never
f?reatdeal too prudentabout money.
spares
I could live as a married
himself in any thing. He has nothingbut his
man
on
a hundred
a
for London, I curacy, and what he givesaway is wonderful."
as
more
; and
year, if I had no
don't see why London
should be more
"I hope he won't take to scolding
me," said
ive
expensthan any other place. You can get exactlyHarry,proudly.
what
"

in London, and make

want
pence
your halfgo farther there than any where else."
And
said the
go quicker,"
your sovereigns

"As

you

he thinks
he

rector.

"All
that is wanted," said
will to live on your income,and

Harry,"is
a

the

littlefirmness

don't

you

I should
parish,

the

I suppose
thing right,for

safe.
you're
every

scolds her."

never
"

mamma

yourselfabout

concern

say that
does

There

"None

is
at

no

talk of his

all.

I think

goingaway,"
we

should all be

good."
plans."
sorry, because he does so much
he heard all this
Florence reignedsupreme
in the estimation
The rector of Clavering,
as
looked at Harry'sof the rectory family all the evening of her
wisdom fall from his son's lips,
his finger,at arrival and till
after breakfast the next morning,
at the ringon
expensiveclothes,
restored to her
the gold chain on his waistcoat,
at the studs in but then the bride elect was
and smiled gently. He was
natural pre-eminence. This,however,lasted
his shirt,
by no
means
as his son, but ho knew
so clever a man
only for two days,after which the bride was
of
the
The wedding was veiy nice,
and
and
not
taken
more
world,
though
something
away.
the people of
he had read his pretty,and comfortable ; and
much givento generalreading,
"A
much
better satisfied with it
son's character.
great deal of firmness Claveringwere
and of fortitude also is wanted for that kind of than they had been with that other marriage
"
''
he said.
There
who
brated
as
are
men
can
life,
havingbeen celego which had been mentioned
The rectoryfamily
without
in ClaveringChurch.
it
but I would
not
through
suffering,
and every body wished
advise any young
it in a
to commence
man
was
popular,
generally
hurry. If I were you I should wait a year or well to the daughterwho was beinggivenarway.
two.
Come, let's have a walk: that is,if you When theywere gone there was a breakfast at
and speeches
made with much
for the rectory,
tear yourself
can
were
away from your lady-love
hour.
If there is not Saul coming up the volubility.
On such an occasion the rector was
an
! Take
avenue
ous
your hat,Harry,and we'll get a great man, and Harryalso shone in conspicuHe only wants
the other way.
out
to see the
rivalrywith his father. But Mr. Saul's
but if he catches us he'll spirit
not so well tuned to the occasion as
was
girlsabout the school,
he got
asked after that of the rector or his son, and when
keep us for an hour." Then Havj;y
a hope
Mr. Saul's love affairs. " I've not heard one
a
nd
expressed
his'
mournfully
legs,
upon
word about it since you went away," said that his friend Mr. Fieldingmight be enabled
single
"
it
It seems
to have passedoff like a
the rector.
to bear the trials of this life with fortitude,
in

carryingout

your

had better
dream.
He and Fanny go on the same
felt by them all that the speaking
was
as ever,
be broughtto an end.
and I suppose he knows that he made a fool of
ny
himself." But in this matter the rector of Clashouldn't laugh at him, Harry,"Fanvering "You
almost seriously.
said to her brother afterward,
Mr. Saul did not by any
mistaken.
was
" One
do one
think that he had made a fool of himself.
can
man
thingand one
means
"He
has never
spokena word to me since,"another. You can make a speech better than
he can, but I don't think you could preachso
said Fanny to her brother that evening
; "that

occurred then.
Of
to what
as
gooda sermon."
fond of him
"I declare I think you're
getting
though
very embarrassingat first,
ny
He
said Harry. Upon hearingthis Fanafter all,"
I don't think he minded
it much.
came
turned away with a look of great offense.
after a day or two justthe same
as ever, and he
said she, "would
almost made me think that he had forgotten
it." " No one but a brother,"
say

is,not
course

"

it

And

word

was

he wasn't

confused

?"

such

thingas

that

to

me, because

I don't like

CLAVERINGS.

THE

46
hear

to

That

the poor

they

tell you, you

of ourselves now.
to any

know,

It has

be

Florence declared that the story would

I'm

"

know

to

you

it.

of the

no

at

means

Of

such

course

"

of that

But

"
"

I don't think I should ever bringmyselfto

think of that as the firstthing,"said Florence.
"

"No,
to

would

nor

If I

reallywere

I think I would

man,

I.

tell him

agree to wait,either with hope

"But

indeed,he's the sort of

that

man

far

and

of

sweetest

after
given personally

was

it is not

alwayseasy
It may,

fact of the unfair

he
And

me.

The

him if you will go to the

indeed

he

here

comes

great deal,quiteas much as he did

that happened. He is so good,Florence
a

man

or

to

the

and
breakfast,

decline

invitationsso

think,be doubted whetherhas a rightto give an invitation

woman

in this way, and whether

givenshould not be null and

so

But

quitebright.

was

Burton

Lady Clavering's

her

to

know."
of
plenty

Florence

with

.smile.

matter

any

' '

for him

he
daughter,

civil to his cousin

be

Florence, of course, referred

decided,
hostess,but it was
that they should all accept the invitation.
It

the

given.

"And

he is always

alwaysloses."

thus nncourteous

was

Harry'ssweetheart.

invited
specially

so, and

"

you will see

schools with

tell me

that he

the rector's

to

prepared to

beingin love with isn'the? You see

he will hardlytake the trouhle to dress himself
decently."
I have onlyseen
him at a wedding, you
think of

him

Harry, that he allowed his wife to ask all the

or
rectoryfamily to dine up at the house,in honwas

kind; and,
girlwould

no

has advanced

They

is true.

Newmarket, and
though Sir Hugh

rector

ed
attach-

without it."

or

so, Fanny."
there was
nothingof that

"Just

I hear

at

thing was

Hugh

If

be sure that he has security.

may
Archie,he will come to an end very soon,
you

poor fellow has to the

And
in- was
so
then,dependently

question.The
all literally
none.

quiteout

money,
As for

therefore I like

that,dear,and

of

sure

and

of his own,

if what

sacred with her.

you callit. Archie has

I suppose has not run

heavy on him, as

be

through them yet.

ed
mention-

been

never

to

means

one

family."

out of the

one

you'relike

because

thaitArchie is very heavyon him."

befievethat he would allow any man

hear

"I don't

alone,Fanny

were

story about Mr. Saul.

told Florence the whole

"I

"I

ridiculed-without cause."

man

evening,when

who

man

be

all invitations

void,from

the

advantagethat

fires at

has been taken.

bird
sitting is known to

who
Now, the dinnerrgiver
his guests in an unguarded moment, and

sportsman.

no

catches

before

bagshim when he has had no chance to rise upon

his wing,does fire at a sitting
bird. In this instance,
"Poor
man!"
littlespeechhowever.Lady Clavering's
es
I can't in the least make
made
out from his manwere
ence.
ner
only to Mrs. Claveringand Florwhether he has givennp thinkingabout it.
She said nothingpersonally
to the rector,
and he therefore might have escaped. Bat
Indeed,of course he has,
suppose he has.
!"

' '

because

he

of

use.

soit

whom

may

"He

never

is not

one

can

his wife talked him

no

of

men

"I

think

place at all
"

not

Fanny, thinkingperhapsthat
to

go

for

Harry'ssake,"

said Mrs. Clavering.

they are happy
be quitesure
"I don't see what good it will
"

his

Saul might find himself

over.

should

you

"It will show

the

to

be of

of those

say whether

bound

like your father?"

"Oh
no," said
Mr.

he is

never
; and you
he in his mind."

not

or

what

But
can

you

that it would

know

must

be bound

to the

that you approve

I don't approve
master."

or

do

Harry."

of the matoh."

disapproveof

it.

He's

own

"But

do approve, you know, as you

it ; and there can
be
not possibly
all
We
girlthan Florence Burton.

you

countenance

place,though not exactlywith bonds similar to a sweeter

those which kept her father there.
like her,and I am
sure
you seem
If he found himself to be unhappy,he could thoroughly."
"
Take
to her ; yes, I take to
go," said Florence.
"Oh
he
could
if
he
She's
and though she's
were
py,"
unhapyes;
go
ladylike,
said Fanny. "That
is,he could go if he looks pretty,and is spirited.I

to take to her

"

her veiy well.

beauty,she

no

say she's

dare

clever."

Lady Claveringhad
but

house.

is

come

at

to the

wedding;

presentfrom the great

Sir Hugh, indeed,was

but,as the
been

else had been

one

no

not

at

home

he might have
trulyobserved,
if he had so pleased. "But
he

rector

home

man," said the father

does

to the son, "who

ways
al-

rude

"And
"

so

If she's

I don't

"But

see

good."
that's better than all. Only
good,!

what

as

to
they're

she is

live on."

here,you

will go with

us

to

the great house?"

Mrs.

never
Clavering

asked her husband

any
He

thing if it be in his power.

For
myself,I care
nothing for him, as he
knows.
But he thinks that Mary would have

thingin vain,and

liked to have

for six months,"he said. "If I did not

about once
in six months, there would'
there
go
be supposed to be a familyquarrel,
and that
would be bad for the parish."

and

him as the head of the family,

seen
therefore he does not come.
He has

greaterskillin making himself odious than any

man

knew.
As for her,they say he's
terriblelife. And he's becoming
stingyabout money too 1"
ever

her
leading
so

for
apologized

the rector

agreedto

go.

this afterward to his son by explaining

did it as a duty. " It will

that he
serve

Harry was

to remain

and the dinner

was

onlya
to take

week

at

ing,
Claver-

placethe

even-

THE

ing

before

he

walked

as

he had

CLAVERINGS.

he

went
On that morning her first entrance
"he
into the room;
is impertinent
.away.
all round the park with Florence"
well as disagreeable.I don't care
as
before often walked with Julia
and so I shall let him
and for quarrels
in the parish,
"

5fgiving
her

took that occasion

full history
of

Claveringfamily, "We
none
ray cousin Hugh," he had said.
and she means
at least harmless,
the

natured.

She is very

unlike her

of

us

know."

like

"

sister,
Lady

she's

doosed

good-looking

I call her."
good-looking,
glad you think so," said Harry,dryly.

"I"m

So I should suppose, from what

you

have

Let's see ; where was it yon

I did hear,but I forget.''
"

"Altogetheran inferiorbeing.''
And
she has only one
child."

a
two
"Only one
boy now
years
They say he's any thingbut strong."
"

pickedher

up ?

I pickedher up, as you call it,

at Stratton,
where her father lives."
"Oh
He's the fellow that
yes; I know.
isn't he?
coached you in your new
business,
"

"

And

word

my

said Archie,coming up to him, aftshe is littlething,''

er
to be goodshaken hands with her ; " doosalso
ed
having

told me."

"

Upon

"But

Ongar."
"

47

old

Sir

Hugh has one brother."

By-the-by,Harry,I think you've made a mess
Clavering. I think Archie of it in changing your line. I'd have stuck to
is a worse
fellow even
than Hugh.
You'd got
He makes
shop ifI'd been you.
my governor's
d fagof it,
and there's the living
but there is throughall the d
more
attempts to be agreeable,
that has alwaysbelonged
to a Clavering."
something in his eye which I alwaysdistrust.
And
then he is a man
who does no good in the
would
""What
yonr brother have said if I
world to any body."
had asked him to giveit to me ?"
'
"He's
He wouldn't have givenit,
of course.
body
Nonot married ?"
"
No ; he's not married,
does give any thing to any body nowaI
and
don't suppose
days.
he ever
will marry.
It's on the cards,Florence,
Livingsare a sort of thing that people
that the future baronet may be
cumstances.
Then
she buy. But you'dhave got it under favorable cirfrowned on him,walked on quickly,
and changed
the conversation.
The fact is,Archie, I'm not very fond of
Archie

"Yes;

"

'

"

"

"

the
"

church, as
father.

at your

CHAPTER
SIR

HUGH

There

AND

HIS

XI.
BROTHER

take any
I'd known
ARCHIE.

had

profession."
Look

I should have thoughtit easy work.

keeps a curate,and doesn't

himself.
Upon my word, if

He

trouble
much

as

shy for

it

then

as

I do now, I'd have

couldn't have

myself. Hugh

a numerous
gatheringof Claver- refused it to me."
"But
drawing-room of the great house
Hugh can't giveit while his uncle
when
the familyfrom the rectoryarrived,
prising holds it."
comthree generations
in
"That
was
would have been againstme, to be
; for the nurse
the room
Mrs.
and
life is pretty nearly
holdingthe heir in her arms.
sure,
your governor's
I shouldn't have liked waiting
Claveringand Fanny of course
inspectedthe as good as mine.
child at once, as they were
bound
to do,while
; so I suppose it's as well as it is."
Florence Burton.
There may
Lady Clavering welcomed
perhapshave been other reasons
Archie spokea word or two to his uncle,and
regretsthat he did not
why Archie Clavering's
Sir Hugh vouchsafed to give one fingerto his take holyorders were
needless. He had never
cousin Harry by way
of shakinghands
with
succeeded in learning
atiythingthat any master
him.
Then there came
feeble squeak from
a
had ever
attemptedto te^ch him,althoughhe
the infant,
and there was a cloud at once upon
in pickingup
considerable aptitude
had shown
Sir Hugh's brow.
masters
for which no regular
are
"Hermione," he said,"I acquirements

ings in

was

the

wish you
not
the

wouldn't have the child in here.

It's appointed.He knew the fathers and mothers
and
He's always cross.
sires and dams I ought perhapsto say
place for him.
and so back for
I've said a dozen times I wouldn't have him
and grandmothers,
grandfathers
down here justbefore dinner."
of all the horses of note living
Then a sign some
generations,
made
in his day. He knew also the circumstances of
was
to the nurse, and she walked off with
"

"

her burden.

bairn,but
and

it

It
was

she would

it to her

fain have

as other
relatives,

been

allowed to show
allowed
are

mothers

to do.

"Hugh,"'said his
you to Miss Burton ?"

"

that
thought

wife,"shall I introduce

forward and shook

Sir Hugh came
sort of
with his new
guest, with some
while
stood
his
for
Harry
remissness,
apology
by,gloweringat him, with offense in his eye.
"My father is right,"he had said to himself
when
his cousin failed to notice Florence on
Then

hands

at them, and
what horses would run
the periods
the stakes,
ages, what were
interests of each
of running,and the special
affair. But not, on that account,should it be

all races
a poor, rickety,
unalluring
all that Lady Clavering
had, at what

was

the turf had been

to him.
profitable

at some
future
profitable
might
time,was possible
; but CaptainArchib^'Clastage
veringhad not yet reached the profitable
of a betting
in the career
man, thoughperhaps

That

it

become

himself for it. He

to qualify
beginning
prepossessing
bad-looking,
thoughhis face was unto a judgeof character. He was
and well,made, about five feet nine in
slight
he

was

was

not

CLAVERINGS.

THE

48
with light
brown
height,

hair,which had already "Why, Harry,"said the baronet,"if you

left the

kers,
bald,with slightwhis-

top of his head

and

eyebrows were
this

the

"

His
the world."
in his eyes.
might add
light colored aud very slight, "You

of his face
peculiarity
and

But

mustache.

well -formed

was

four brothers,"
said
my
in the fact that
shame

made

was

will

with your father-in-law and

partnership
brothers-in-law,
you could stand against

go into
all your

apparent by

more

the skin

loose and hung down

the eyes, which was
of them, givinghim a
the outside corners
over
look of cunning which was
disagreeable.He
above

Florence,who
all

they were
"Good

no

saw

engaged in

tbe

business.

same

exclaimed

heaven!"

Sir

after that he did not say much

counting up
always to be speculating,
odds,and calculatingwhether any thing

Hugh,

and

ence.
Flor-

to

more

seemed
the

And

him.

he

the morrow,

on

make

book

and

for that

take the odds that the

would

He

fore
presentbe-

alwaysreadyto

was

providedwith

bet,being ever
purpose.
did not rise

then

with the events

could be done

sun

either

would

wrangle in the losingof it. He

er
nevwrangle,but would do so noiselessly,
such occasions damaging his cause
by a
He
about thirtythree
voice.
now
was

The

had

rector

dinner,and

they

them

between

taken
two

some

into
Lady Clavering

did manage
conversation

to

parishaffairs. Lady Claveringwas

the poor
nor
was
among
and perhaps
neither of them

the

"

carry

on

the
respecting

knew

active

not

himself,

rector

how

little
the

they could talk Claveringtalk,

and
would
was
willingto take for granted
his neighbor's
on
good will to make herself agreeable.
But Mrs. Clavering,
who sat between Sir
loud
than
two
Hugh and Archie,had a very bad time of it.
years younger
years of age, and was
Sir Hugh was
not
Sir Hugh spoke to her once
the baronet.
a gambler like
duringthe dinner,
fore
thereIllsbrother,
but I do not know that he was
sayingthat he hoped she was satisfied with her
estimable man.
He was
a more
greedyand daughter's
marriage; but even this he said in a
anxious to increase his store,never
faction
willingto tone that seemed to imply that any such satislose that which he possessed,
fond of pleasure,
must rest on very poor grounds. "Thorbut very careful of himself in the enjoyment of oughlj'
said Mrs. Clavering,
satisfied,"
drawing
it,handsome, every inch an Englishgentleman herself up and lookingvery unlike the usual
in appearance, and therefore popularwith men
Mrs. Claveringof the rectory. After that there
win

the bet

or

did ; but
the parson

other

'

and

of his

women

class who

own

not

were

near

was

farther

no

enough to him to know him well,given to but

few words, proud of his name, and rank, and

Hugh.
this,"she

place,well

"that

match

versed in the business

for

most

of the

in money

men

world,

matters,

not

ignorant,
though he rarelyopened a book, selfof the feelings
of all
ish,'andutterly
regardless
those
were

with
Sir

whom

he

came

in

and
Hugh Clavering,

captain.
Sir Hugh

took Florence

Such

contact.

his brother

in to

the

dinner,and

Sir

"

much

between

out

and

always
husband,

her

of conceit with

them, but still Archie

with
laboriously

which

Nearly a week,"said Florence.

to the wedding ;
you came

evening to

so

her
is

me

"

on

?"

to

with him long I should begin

woman
myselfthe most disagreeable
in England !"
Then
pray don't be with him
long,"said the rector.
But
Archie
made
conversation
throughout
dinner, and added greatlyto Mrs. Clavering's
troubles by doing so.
There
was
nothingin
common

Burton

said that

between

of him

to find

to

Miss

worst

he puts me
myself. If I were

when

the soup had been eaten made

an
attempt
talk to her.
"How
longhave you been here,

conversation

"The

work

he

his work.

and
recognized,

at

It

which

was

he

went

duty

would

hard.

When
he had used up Mary'smarriage,
subjectwhich he economized
carefully,
I couldn't be here.
It went
off very well,
I so that he broughtit down to the roast saddle of
suppose ?"
When
mutton, ho began upon Harry'smatch.
it to be ?
was
Where
"Very well indeed,I think."
were
they to live ? Was
dings. there any
What
"They're tiresome thingsin general wedof people
manner
money ?
Don't you think so ?"
the Burtons ?
were
Perhapshe might get over
Oh dear,no, except that some
it?
This he whisperedvery lowly,
and it was
person one
loves is alwaysbeingtaken away."
the question
next
in sequence
to that about the
You'll be the next person to be taken away
to this,
Mrs. Clavering
When, in answer
money.
I suppose ?"
with considerable energy declared that
yourself,
any
"I must be the next person at home, because thing of that kind would be a misfortune
of
"Ah!

was

ry
sor-

"

' '

' '

am

the last that is left. All

my

sisters

are

married."
"And
"There

which there seemed

he recovered

how
are

many

are

there?"

five married."

"Good

heavens

"And

they are

"

meant

five !"
all married

nice
to

men

in the

to be

himself

no

chance whatever,

he

fully.
thoughtvery skill"Oh
yes, of course; that's justwhat I
I think her; a doosed
; a doosed nice girl
all round."
Archie's questions
girl,
were

very laborious

to

his

as

in his
fellow-laborer

versation
con-

as
profession
because he never
Harry."
allowed one of them
said Sir Hugh. Harry,
to pass without an
"Quite a family
affair,"
He alwaysrecoganswer.
nized
who was
on the other side of Florence,
the fact that he was workinghard on besitting
half
and would have preferred
that Florence
heard this,
of society,
and, as he used to say himself,
should have said nothingabout her sisters. that he had no idea of pulling
all the conch up'

same

THE
the hill by his
lie had

shoulders.

own

made

CLAVEEINGS.

Whenever

his effort he

waited

into
lookingclosely
companion's,

her

fore
there-

guinea we

for his

allylook

ningly
face,cun-

The

on, so that she also should

pullher share of the coach. Before dinner was

drivingher

Claveringfound

Mrs.

over

steep,and the coach

the hill to be

be

to

bet you seven

his partingspeechas Mrs.

nod
Lady Clavering's
one, that the whole

and

"

this

rose
Clavering

married before me, or, at any rate,as

I don't mean
to remain
singlemuch
tell

was

Fanny,
to comprise
Harry,Florence,
supposed
mentidn
and Lady Ongar, of all of whom

had

been

you."

"box

and

; and

I
longer,

can

dice

if

ruthey'll

to
willing

for the sake

fall into a little

of them"

of

dropped.
morrow,"
any rate, I sha'n't stay here after tosaid Sir Hugh, still addressing
self
him-

At

at

soon

been

had

rector

is,you know,

fox."

huntingtalk

' '

was

up
"I'll bet you seven
to
and dice of them are

"

box

The

very
I'll

kill ; that
for

but he
society,
to go the lengththat Archie
was
not prepared
proposedto take him, and therefore the subject

"

heavy.

very
to one," said he

49

to his

"

brother.

Harry; that
"No
more

Pass

the

is,if your father is

wine

wine,will you,
drinkingany."

most
alfor me," said the rector,

angrily.
Hall,"said Sir Hugh; "everybody
"Liberty
does as theylike about that.
I mean
to have

another bottle of claret. Archie,ringthe hell,

will yon ?"
"at
saving clause
though he was
CaptainClavering,
was
rate,as soon"
cunningly
put in,as it farther from the bell than his elder brother,
got
occurred to Archie that he perhaps might up and did as he was bid. The claret came,

any
had

made,

and

that

"

"

be married

on

the

day as

same

of those other

one

But Mrs. Claveringwas

persons.
either to accept or reject
the

not

pelled
com-

and

drunk

was

almost

had

rector,

bet,as she
alreadymoving before the terms had been
explainedto her.
fully
Lady Claveringas she went out of the room
behind Harry's chair and
Archie offered to
stopped a moment
"I want
to speak was
whispereda word to him.
wrong.
was

in silence. The

high opinionof the cellar of

the great house,would take none' of the new
because he was angry.
Harry filledhis
bottle,
glass,and attemptedto say something. Sir
and
Hugh answered him by a monosyllable,
though he

bet him

two

to

one

that he

said the rector,

drawing-room,"
gettingup.
"All
"What's
was
that Hermione
right,"said Sir Hugh; "you'llfind
saying?"asked
coffee there,I dare say. Has your father given
Sir Hugh, when he had shut the door.
'
the door was
as
She only told me that she wanted to speak up wine?" he asked,as soon

to

before

you

you

to

go

-night." Then

she

"I'll go into the

passedon.

'

closed.

to me."

cursed secret," "Not that I know of,"said Harry.

always got some
" If
used to take as good a whack
as
"He
there is any thing1 hate,
said Sir Hugh.
any
I know.
The
for Sir man
bargo
this was
it'sa secret." Now
bishophasn't put his emhardlyfair,
I hope ?"
that as well as the hunting,
on
Hugh was a man very secret in his own affairs,
made
no
them.
To
this
answer.
h
is
wife
about
never
thing
Harry
telling
any
"
I think,"said Archie.
He's in the blues,
er's
He kepttwo banker's accounts,so that no bankry?"
clerk mightknow how he stood as regarded "Is there any thingthe matter with him, Harhis
yer
lawtreated
and
even
i-eady
hardly
money,
She

"

has

"Nothing,as

with confidence.
He

did not

move

from

his

The

dinner,his uncle was

placesleft by the ladies

and

the table was

after

"I

chair, that,
so

own
not
were

next
not

to

closed up,

very uncomfortable.
going to have another
they're

see

after this with the

said
Pytchley,"

him.

Sir

far

as

I know."

Claveringall the year,

nothingto do, as he is,I think I should
drink a good deal of wine," said Sir Hugh.
"
I don't know what it is somethingin the air,
to me
I suppose
but every body always seems
ain't taking
You
dull here.
to be dreadfully
"If

were

left at

with

"

week

Hugh

"

to

mony,
any wine either. Don't stop here out of cereMiss
I suppose they will or ten days. Things
you know, if you want to go after
Burton."
this year."
ain't very early
Harry took him at his word, and
gether
It's never
went
after Miss Burton, leavingthe brothers to"I think I shall go down.
any

his brother.
"

"

tryingto

use

hunt

after the

here

middle

of

over

The

March."

"You're
said the

rather short of

rector,making

an

are
foxes,

attempt

you not?"
to jointhe

two

their claret.
brothers

remained

wine,but theydrank it
much
not saying
fashion,

in
to

an

drinkingtheir
uncomfortable

each other for the

were
firstten minutes after the other Claverings
thing gone. Archie was in some degreeafraid of his
offeredto make any bets with
and never
brother,
gether.
"
said Archie, him.
Hugh had once put a stop to this altoThere are foxes at Clavering,"
"
''
stand
underhad
"
he
said, pray
Archie,
recommencinghis duty. The hounds will be

conversation.

word I don't
my
said Sir Hugh.
about it,"

"Upon

know

any

"

money to be made out of

If you lost money
before twelve o'clock,or, say, half me, at any rate,not by you.
it
think
wouldn't
draw punctuallyto me, you
necessary to pay ;
past twelve" that is,if they'll
to you." The
shall lose none
do as I like with the pack. I'llbet and I certainly
and let me
fo bet had become with Archie
a guinea we
find,and a guineawe run, and a habit of proposing
here
find

on

and I'llbet three to

Saturday,

fox

one

that there is no

CLAVERINGS.

THE

50

of course, that he did not genpauseda moment, and then acknowledged

a matter
erally
intend any real speculation
by his offers ; that he did know it.
" I
the
hope you did not advise her to refuse."
but with his brother he had dropped even
"
She did not
I advise her !
Oh dear, no.
habit.
And he seldom began any conversation
ask me any thing about it."
with Hugh unless he had some
pointto gain
"
But she has refused. Don't you think she
favor to
to ask, or
some
advance of money
an
has
been
loan
of
a
the
in
of
or
the
very wrong?"
shooting,
beg
way
"
1 1 is hard to say, "said Harry. " You know
horse.
On such occasions he would commence
I thought it very cruel that Hugh did not receive
with his usual diplomacy,not
the
so

much

ry
"

negotiation
knowing any other

expressinghis

of

mode

that his brother would

wishes ; but he was aware
always detect his manoeuvres, and expose them
before he had
as I
therefore,
"

"

what's

I don't know

immediatelyon
I should have

her

If I liad

return.

to Paris

gone

to

meet

l^er."

to

come

my

uncle of

think ; Julia

it most, do you

or

I?

But

as

he

I think I shall has come

round,what can she gain by standing
Hugh, after a while.
Will it not be the best thing for her to
drop them at the rectoiyaltogether." off?

to

He

"

had

never

"But

he has

much

to say for himself."

mode

of

which
speaking,

without

I do

not'choose

to

has justmarried

put

curate."

"Fieldinghas got a living."

"It's something veiy small,then,and I pose
supFanny will marry that prigtheyhave here.
uncle

himself

My
work,and

now

himself.

I used

never

does

Harry is going to
to

think he

any
make

would

of his
a

own

fool of

fall

on

his

legs."
He

is

here."

come

clever fellow.''

that she has much

"I don't know

expressinghimself

up with at my table. The fact is they are going

to the mischief at the rectory. His eldest girl

"

her
him

"It's no good talkingof that now, Harry.

; and,
got throughhis firstpreface
that. Who
feels
afraid of Hugh. Hugh is hard,and we all know
have said,he was

said
late,"
have

been

to

gainby it."

you know that we have a plan?"

"
Who
is we ?" Harry asked ; but she went
on
"
I tell you, bewithout noticing
his question.
cause
"

Harry,do

than any
I believe you can
help us more
for
if
will.
Only
your
engagement
one,
you
I should not
with Miss Burton
mention
it to
you ; and, but for
say, be of no use."

that,the plan would,I dare

plan?" said Harry,

very gravely.
the plan might be had
across
come
Harry'smind duringLady CJaveilast speech.
ing's
"Would
it not be a good thing if Julia and
' '

What

vague

is the

idea

of what

why is he such a fool as to maiTy such

without money,
a
good looks,or Archie were to be married ?" She asked the
girlas this,
voice,lookingat
breeding? It's well for you he is such a fool, questionin a quick,hesitating
have a chance."
first eagerlyup into his face,
and then turning
or else you wouldn't
"I don't see that at all,"
said Archie.
afraid of the
away her eyes, as though she were
she might read there.
Julia always had a sneakingfondness for answer
Of coursel know
fond of her,but all that can be
Harry,and if he had waited would have taken that you were
fool
now."
him now.
of
She was
near
a
making
nothing
very
"
herself with him once, before Lord Ongar turned
No," said HaiTy, " that can be nothing
now."
up."
but he changed
To this Archie said nothing,
Then
why shouldn't Archie have her ? It
all so much
and it may almost be said of him that he would make
comfortable
us
color,
more
blushed.
Why he was so affected in so singular
together. I told Archie that I should speakto
a manner
by his brother's words will be best you, because I know that you have more weight
explainedby a statement of what took placein with her than any of us ; but Hugh doesn't
know
that I mean
the back drawing-rooma littlelater in the evenit."
ing.
"Does
Sir Hugh know of the" the plan?"
"
It was he who proposedit. Archie will be
When
Harry reached the drawing-roomhe
b
ut
she
said
ing
nothto
went
he has settled with Hugh
Clavering,
Lady
veiy badly off when
up
to him
then of especial
notice.
She was
about all their money
lia's
Judealings. Of course
would
be left in her own
hands;
talkingto Mrs. Clavering while the rector was
money
a
reading or pretendingto read
review,and there would be no intention to interfere with
in another
the two girls
that.
But the positionwould be so good for
were
chattering
together
Then
they had coffee,and him ; and it would, you know, put him on his
part of the room.
other men
in from
after a while the two
came
legs."
their wine.
at
"Yes," said Harry," it would put him on his
Lady Claveringdid not move
of
the
first
opportunitydoing legs,I dare say."
once, but she took
"And
She can't
up to Mrs. Clavering
why shouldn't it be so?
so, when Sir Hugh came
A few minutes
and spoke a word to her.
after live alone by herself always. Of course
she
tliat Harry found himself closeted with Lady never
could have really
loved Lord Ongai'."
detached
from the
in a little room
Clavering,
"Never, I should think,"said Harry.
"
And Archie is good-natured,
though the doors between the two were
and good-temothers,
pered,
"

Then

"

"

"

"

open.
"Do

"

"
"
you know, said Lady Clavering, that
here ?" HarSir Hugh has asked Julia to come

and
and
and
good-looking.Don't
think so ? I think it would justdo for her.
She'd have her own
way, for he's not a bit like
"

you

"

"

THE

Hugh, you know.

but he is much
more

CLAVEEINGS.

61

He's

"
not so clever as Hugh,
Why should I wish it?"
"He
good-natured. Don't you
is your own
cousin."
"
think itwould be a good arrangement, Harry?"
Cousin,indeed ! Why should I wish it,or
Then againshe looked up into his face anxiously.why should I not wish it? They are neither
of them any thingto me."
him
Nothing in the whole matter surprised
than her eagerness in advocating
the promore
"She
posal.
ought not to be any thingto you."

Why should she desire that her sister

should be sacrificed in this way?
But in so
thinkingof

it he

forgother

the need that there

own

and
position,

her for

she is nothing. She may

"And
marry
if she pleases,
I shall not set
for me.
Archie,
her againsthim.
But, Lady 'Clavering,
you

friend might as well tellhim'to get one of the stars.

ance.
assistI don't think
you can know your sisterwhen you
She had spoken trulyin saying
that the suppose such a match to be possible."
with her husband ; but since
"Hermione!"
plan had originated
and the
shouted Sir
to be near

to her

for

"

to

was

some

some

comfort

and

Hugh;

it had been

suggestedto her,she had not ceased shout was uttered in a voice that alwayscaused
and to wish for it.
to think of it,
to tremble.
Lady Clavering
"
"I am
Well,Harry,what do you say?" she asked.
coming," she said,risingfrom her
"
"I don't see that I have any thingto say." chair.
Don't set yourself
againstit,Harry,"
"
But I know you can helpus.
I was
When
and then,without waitingto hear him farther,
with her the last time she declared that yon were
she obeyed her husband's summons.
"What
the only one of us she ever wished to see again. the mischief keeps
It
you in there?" he said.
then especially,
She meant
to include me
but of
seemed
that things
had not been goingwell in
she was
I know
not thinkingof Archie.
the larger
course
The rector
had stuck to his
room.
review,taking no notice of Sir Hugh when he
you can help us if you will."
"Am
Not

"

do

I to ask her to marry him?"

that ; I don't think that would
exactly

good.

any

here.

come

But you might persuadeher to

I think she would
if you
come

entered.

"

You

to be very

seem

fond

of your

book,all of a sudden,"Sir Hugh had said,after

standingsilent on the rug for a few minutes.
"Yes, I am," said the rector,"just at present."

advised

her; and then,after a bit,you might

"It's quite new
with you, then," said Sir
good word for Archie."
"
Upon my word I could not.''
Hugh, " or else you'revery much belied."
"
Why not, Harry ?"
"Hugh," said Mr. Clavering,
risingslowly
' ' Because
he would
I know
her from his chair,"I don't often come
not make
into my
happy. What good would such a marriagefather'shouse,but when I do,I wish to be treated
say

do her?"
"

with

position.No

of her

Think

will visit

one

Jierunless she is first received here,or

unless she

rate

it would

to

comes

us

in

Do you
work.
up-hill
determined
Ongar had absolutely
to

to

"

be

get

"And
"I

if the world

had

would
Tlien

at

time

one

makes

no

ence,
differ-

believes it. They say now

months longer she

have

got the money."

they say
to

one

sister when

own

lived three

parcelof old

some

Loi'd

know

to

in this

onlyperson

do so."

Sir Hugh.
girlssat coweringin

"Bosh!"said
The

two

poor Florence
uncomfortable

must

Archie

have begun

their seats,and
entertain an

to

idea of her future connections.

made

frantic

attempt

to raise

some

run

lies.
who

women

down

and

looked at her husband

with
to Archie whatever,
"
beseeching
Henry,"she said," do not
eyes.

allow
is the
"

what

does

it

to be
yourself
use

None

on

It is all

on

There

with

us, and

earth ; and

worse

that Sir Hugh had

Tlien it was

to
by calling

signify,
Harry?

What

returningto
earth,"he said,

"
is it says so ? book.
No use
delightin having in showing it."

backbite.

angry ; pray do not.

?"

Who

false,
Lady Clavering."
"But

the

are

omits

ever

do you believe that she was

guilty?"conversation with Mrs. Claveringabout the
don't say that.
lieve weather.
Mrs. Clavering,
No; why should I bepaying no attention

that if he
"

then

divorce ?"

any thing againstmy

nothing is proved. But that

never

at any

And

town.

You

respect.

parishthat

not

his wife.

"

than

made

I wish

go off alone with

one

his

none

sion
diver-

you'dstay
person in

looked
in that way." Lady Clavering
talking.particular
that thingswere
it would be best for her to marry
Of course
round and immediatelysaw
"will you ring
Sir unpleasant."Archie,"she said,
again; and if she would take Archie
And Archie did ring. The tea was
ther for tea ?"
Hugh's brother,
nothingfarmy brother-in-law,
would be said. She might go any where
brought,and a cup was taken all round,almost
she

is,and you

know

how

people are

"

then.

As

her

I feel sure
sister,

that it is the

in silence.

by himself
vering.
Lady Clahis face as he answered
Archie Clavering
a look of anger
her.
on
marry Lady Ongar
he said,
"your sisterwill marry his Julia 1 It was impossible.He could
"Lady Clavering,"
rangement
I look upon Inot bringhimself even
to think of such an arcousin
never
Archie.
marry
my
almost
with equanimity. He was
the thingas impossible."
frantic with anger as he thoughtof this proposition
self
"Perhaps it is,Harry,that you ^you yourin the
to restore Lady Ongar to the position
would not wish it."
best

thingshe

Harry'sbrow

could do."
became

Harry in

clouded,and

there

was

the

of what
thinking

mean

time remained

he had

heard

from

"

"

CLAVERINGS.

THE

52

she had a rightto claim,

Park, nor could there be one in better repair,
fit for immediate habitation than was
deed or more
marriage as that. " She would ininto the hands of the
himself.
that
house
when
it came
be disgraced
then,"said Harry to
not large,
He
The
taining
concould
was
he knew that it was
widow.
park
young
impossible.

world's

repute which

such

by
But

what

see

would

be the

her to make

to

was

enough
! Archie,indeed !
proposal

his

entertained

he

for

one

no

get

ever

whom,

about

of Julia's countenance

nature

if Archie should
There

gar

near

that moment,
contempt as he

at

thorough a
Clavering.
hope that he was no dog in the
so

also

now

of extent

there

which
place,
Lady Ongar for her life,

attached to the

belonged to

and which

But

or seventy acres.
sixty

farm

home

was

gave to the park itselfan appearance

which itwould otherwise have wanted.

house,regardedas a nobleman's mansion,

but it was
in size,
ample for the
of
which
he
an
entertained
that
the
now
ordinarily
w
ealthy
requirements
family.
feelings
;
been roused
The
for poor Archie would
not have
drawing-rooms,and
dining-room,library,
all largeand well arranged.
were
againstany other possiblesuitor who might breakfast-room,
and spacious,
handsome
husband
for Lady The hall was
and the
have been named
as a fitting
to make
numerous
sufficiently
Ongar. Lady Ongar could be nothingto him ! bedrooms were
Let

us

But

I fear that he

and

that any
Ongar, either

wonld

dog in the manger,

herself

by

the small

knew

him

into the

room

somethingsore

about his

occasioned

Florence

yet,as he

of

out

came

largerroom, there was

and the soreness
heart,

Though

up
have

Claveringrose to return
in the
home, havingswallowed a peace-offering
shape of a cup of tea. But though the tea had
quietedthe storm then on the waters,there was

with

her,but

smiled had
Soon

whether

she known

she

he

went

would

all his heart.

peace in the rector's breast.

He

shook

hands

with Lady Clavering,

without
cordially
with Archie,and then held out three
animosity
to the baronet.
The
baronet held out
fingers
one
finger. Each nodded at the other,and so
theyparted. Harry,who knew nothingof what
had happened,and who was
still thinkingof
and
Lady Ongar, busied himself with Florence,
theywere soon out of the house,walking down
the broad
"

I will

know

road from

that house

Hugh Claveringis

again,when I
it,"said the

rector.

"Don't

make

rash

he said.
house

"

I will

never

that

the world's

againenter

that

my nephew'sguest. I have borne a

great deal for the sake of peace, but there are
thingswhich a man
not bear.
can
as

beries
shruba

place

in its

that

tion,
condipresent perfect
said againstit,all was

was

its bitterest enemies

could

her

frowns,if she could teach herself

to

find

diate
happinessin rural luxuries. On her immereturn to England,her lawyer
had told lier
that he found there would be opposition
to her
claim,and that an attempt would be made to
Lord Ongar's
keep the house out of her hands.
people would,he said,bribe her to submit to
this by immediate acquiescence
as to her income.
But

she had

and

declared that she would

that she

would

all ; and she had

should

I surrender

not

mit
sub-

have

house,and income,

been

successful.

"Why

what

is my own
?" she had
said,lookingthe lawyerfull in the face. The

her

tion,"
asser-

It was

and
largejointure,
ford
whatever,could afimprudence. Every
thing in and about the placewas her own, and
she might live there happily,
in the face of
even

Lord

"

I make

small,the

external

assertions,
Henry,"said lawyerhad

hope it is not rash,but

but

"

its bank.

on

extensive.

fast-

expenses
this delightwithout

his wife.
"I

maintain

to

hidden

shrubs

itselfwas

were

Lady Ongar, with

no

"

in

the

almost

allege.

the front door.

enter

never

that

by

ayainstit which

But

after that Mrs.

true

no

I doubt

as

was

the domain

but when
said

to

him

on

which
"

and walks

costlyto

the great

before the windows

hidden

not

was

But

water.

mediately
Ongar Park lay in the groundsimround the house, which slopeddown

of

her,
unnaturallyfrom the terrace
Lady Ongar could running stream

thoughtthat

smiled

charm

"

any second
be thoughtpossible
for Lady

by

marriage should
Ongar.

the

Lady

mouth

auctioneer's

an

for

others

by

or

that

; and

moderate

was

ger
man-

marriage contemplatedfor

He

nothingto

was

was

have been distasteful to him

distasteful.
be

The

cousin,Archie

did for his

not

from

was

to tell her that her opponents

"

anxietyto

that that

dared

Ongar'sheirs
avoid

meant.

had

exposure;
" I have

them," she said,"

and

calculated
but

on

she knew

nothingto

fear

to claim what

mean

is my

own
by my settlement." There had,in
been no ground for disputing
her right,
truth,
and the placewas
Then, as theywalked home, the two girls
explained
givenup to her before she had
to Harrywhat had occurred in the larger been three months
in England. She at once
talkingto Lady Clavering went down and took possession,
room, while he was
and there she
in the smaller one.
But he said nothing to was, alone,
vfhen her sister was
communicating
them of the subject
of that conversation.
to Harry Clavering her
plan about Captain

Archie.
She
it

CHAPTER
I/ADT

ONGAE

TAKES

XII.
POSSESSION.

abroad
I
more

DO

not

know

that there is in

had

never

seen

the

placetillshe reached

this occasion ; nor had she ever

seen, nor
would she now
probablyever see, Lord Ongar's
largerhouse,Courton Castle. She had gone
on

England

completegentleman'sresidence than

On-

and

now

with him
she had

on
immediately

returned

of his house.

their

widow

There she

was

marriage,

to take possession

in posses-

THE

CLAVERINGS.

63

sion of it all.

The furniture in the rooms, the that she mightlook round

that
upon the things
in the eases, the gildedclocks and
grand were her own.
mirrors about the house,
all the implements
of
And
there came
that she
upon her a feeling
wealthy care about the gardens,the corn in the would not empty this sweet cup at one draught,
the that she would dallysomewhat
granariesand the ricks in the hay-yard,
with the rich
horses in the stable,
and the cows
that was spreadfor her.
She had
lowing in banquet
books

many

the fields

theywere

"

her

pricewas

all hers.

part of the

paid to

her

She

had

and
bargain,

now

into her hands.

much
sorrow
per- griefsto overcome,
formed
the perhapsa long period
of desolation

When

she arrived she did not know what was

the extent
of her riches in this world's goods; nor, in

had she
truth,

and
As

she would

not

be

she looked around

of
prodigal

to
to

her

her while she

lest some
furtively,

conquer,
assuage,

resources.

most
walked,al-

as
gardener,

he

the courage to ask questions

subject. She saw cows, and was

spied

her,might guess her thoughtsand tell how my

the
on
in her prideof possessionit
lady was reveling
told of horses ; and words came
to her gradually appeared to her that those novelties in which
of sheep and oxen, of poultry,
and growing she was
without
to find her new
interest were
pigs,
calves.
It was
world
had
not
end.
as
There was
not a tree there,
a shrub,
though a new
in the walks,which
should not become
not a turn
opened itself before her eyes, full of interest,
and as though all that world were
her own.
her friend.
She did not go far from the
She looked at it,
and knew that it was
the price house,not even
down
She was
to the water.
of her bargain. Upon the whole she had been
But
husbanding her resources.
yet she lost
very luoky. She had,indeed,passedthrougha herself amid the paths,and tried to find a joy
It was
all her
an
that she had done so.
sharpagony
agony sharpalmost to death ; in feeling
but the agony had been short,
and the price
It was
the priceof what she had done ;
own.
was
in her hand.
and the pricewas
now
even
beingpaid into her
A close carriage
had met her at the station,hand
paidwith current coin and of fullweight.
and taken her with her maid to the house.
As she sat down
She
alone to her breakfast,
she
had so arrangedthat she had reached the stadeclared to herself that this should be enough
tion
after dark,and even
then had felt that the for her
that it should satisfy
her.
She had
were
eyes of many
upon her as she went out tq made her bargainwith her eyes open, and would
lier carriage,
with her face covered by a veil. not now
ask for thingswhich had not been stipulated
She was
all alone,and there would be no one
in the contract.
She was alone,and all
she could speak; but the the world was
at the house to whom
turningits back on her. The
relatives
of
her
late husband
knowledge that the carriagewas her own perwould,as a matter
haps
The
Them
she had nevconsoled her.
ceived of course, be her enemies.
er
housekeeperwho reher was
comfortable
a
stout, elderly,
seen, and that they sliould speak evil of her
she could perhaps say a few
seemed
to be only natural.
But her own
relar
body,to whom
words beyond those which might be spoken to tives were
removed
from her by a gulfnearly
OfBrabazon
cousins she had
an
ordinaryservant ; but she fancied at once
equallywide.
that the housekeeperwas
cold to her,and solemn
than the third or fourth degreeof
nearer
none
"
in her demeanor.
she had never
I hope you have good cousinship,
and of them
taken
Her
Mrs. Button."
fires,
"Yes, my lady." "I heed,and expectedno heed from them.
think I will have some
tea ; I don't want
have been the
set of friends would
nafairally
any
and would have been made
as her sister's,
thing else to-night." "Very well,my lady."same
of
known
when
she was
those
she
had
Mrs. Button, maintaining a solemn
nance,
counteone
up
of Sir Hugh's family. But from Sir Hugh she
would not go beyond this ; and yet Mrs.
divided now
could have
from the Ongar
Button
looked like a woman
who
was
as
as widely
h
ad
the
been
to
and
for
of
a
a
gossip,
people,
lady
lady
society from
enjoyed
any purposes
her mind.
Perhaps Mrs. Button did not like her sister also. Sir Hugh had allowed his wife
but to this she would
to invite her to Clavering,
servinga ladyas to whom such sad stories were
to her on
told. Lady Ongar,as she thought
of this,
drew not submit after Sir Hugh's treatment
at

once

"

"

"

"

"

and
unconsciously,

herself up

Mrs. Button

sent

went

would
own.

she

had

suffered

much,

out.

her

for
too late now
been well. But it was
derstand have
unthe farm ; that she would know the borers
la- Sir Hugh Claveringto remedy the evil he had
that
to understand
; that she would assist the poor ; that she done,and he should be made
to
have a school ; and, above all,
that she Lady Ongar would not become, a suppliant
of ownershipher him for mercy.
She was sti-iving
to think how
make all the privileges

that she would

would

Though

return.

Sir Hugh was, in

spiritwas unbroken.
in England.
her
for
an
reception
truth,
responsible
earlybreakfast,
She was
Had
he come
forward lil^ea brother,all might
determined

away from her.

The next
morning,after

Lady Ongar

her

"

Was

she not

work hard ; that she would

not the

use

it?

pricein

her

rich she was in horses,how rich in broidered

over
very good garments and in gold,"as she sat solitary
would
off to
run
her breakfast; but her mind
come
to her

hand,and

would

She felt that it was

something of the pricehad

shape of land,and beeves,and wide,
heavyoutside garniture.From them she would
that

thus in the

pluckan

interest which

have given her.

"

She

mere

was

out

money

could not

other things,cumbering itself with unnecessary

Had she not
miseries and useless indignation.
her

therefore.
early,

pricein

Would

her hand ?

she

see

the steward

that

morning ?

54

THE

No,

not

that morning.

go on for a while
She feared to seem
and

then there

Things outside

in their
to

take

course

as

CLAVERINGS.
could

heretofore.

was

rooms

with her.

Mrs. Button

Was

but

was

Mrs. Button

gossiping. Only
to

once

betray any emotion.

ray lord's mother's room,

after my lord died-^mylord's father that was ;
God bless her."
Then
flected
Lady Ongar remay

came,

not the

that

heard

pricein hor

word

hand

she

her husband

from

either of his father

or

had

never

his moth-

again declined to accept her lady's

scension. er.
condeShe wished
Every spot about the house,every with that woman
closet,and

from
moved

with pride, " That,my lady,

was
possession

that conviction that it would

be well to husband her resources.
So she sent
for Mrs. Button,and asked Mrs. Button to walk
the
through

far removed

very

that
in

some

she

could

small

seat

herself

up-stairs
room,

she was
wardrobe,
readyto and then ask questionafter question about the
zeal; the furniture she was prepared family. But she did not dare to make the
if Lady Onpar would listen to her;
to describe,
plain
attempt. She could not bring herself to exbut every word -was spoken in a solemn voice,
to Mrs. Button
that she had never
known

room,
open

with

THE
of
thing of the belongings

any

her

CLAVERINGS.
band.
hus-

own

When

in truth

was

in

55
thankful

because

; but he

readymoney

of the

sixpence
nothingabout

believed

she had

the upper partof the house, the ten shillings.

He did not especially
seen
lieve,
disbeoftered to convoy
her throughthe
but simplyfelt confident that he understood
kitchens and servants' apartments,but she declined
That kindness
nothingthat was said to him.
this for the present. She had done enough
was
intended,and that the sixpencewas

Mrs.

Button

for the

So she dismissed

Mrs. Button,and
he did understand.
there,
often had she
lings,
But Enoch
Gubby got his weekly ten shilheard that books aiForded the surest consolation
though Lady Ongar hardly realized the
She would take to reading; pleasurethat she had expectedfrom the transto the desolate.
action.

day,

took herself to the

not

this

on

How
libi-ary.

special
day,but

as

the

She sent that afternoon for Mr Giles,

the steward,and told him what she had done.
fore Mr. Giles did not at all approve, and spoke his
faint,be-

she had left the

room,

in which

some

to

former

Lord

Ongar had

stored the musty volumes which he had

purchase.The library
gave her
so

she

went

out

For
must

some

come.

chill disapproval
though
gloomy,damp-feeling,
very plainly,

fit to

shrubs.

for

resource

days,and months, and years

many
But this idea had faded and become

thought old
no

ease,
lawns
and

the
among
-time to come
her

again

be those which

his rebuke

best

man

was

for years had

which he had not

greatmany

half earned.

he will

"Now

said Lady Ongar.

ten,that is all,"

sources have
re-

she could find outside

he garnished
"my lady's."The
the place,
and
a hanger-onabout
received eightshillings
a week,

with

Giles acknowledgedthat if her

Mr.

ladyship
pleased,

the house.
Enoch Gubby must
have the ten shillings,
but
Peering about,she made her way behind the declared that the business could not be carried
which were
attached to the house,to a
in that way.
on
stables,
Every body about the place
fiu-m-yard
gate, through which the way led to would expect an addition,and those peoplewho
the head-quarters
of the live stock.
would think themShe did did earn what theyreceived,
selves
but she looked over
the gate,
treated than
used in beingworse
not go through,
cruelly
herself that those barns and sheds,that Enoch
telling
Gubby, who, according to Mr. Giles,
wealth
of straw-yard,
those sleepingpigsand
the most worthy old man
in
was
by no means
all her own.
As she the parish.And
Mr.
idle dreaming calves,
were
as for his daughter oh!
old laborer,
did so, her eye fell upon
who
an
Giles could not trust himself to talk about the
Before he left her.
was
sittingclose to her, on a felled tree,under daughter to her ladyshi)).
the shelter of a paling,eatinghis dinner.
A
Lady Ongar was convinced that she had made
will pleasure
had brought a mistake.
Not even
from charity
littlegirl,
six years old, who
some
tied up in a handkerchief,
be taken up simply
him
his meal
to appease
was
come, if charity
crouchingnear his feet. .They had both seen her remorse.
For a fortnight
The pricewas
in her hand.
before she had seen them, and when she noticed
them, were
staringat her with all their eyes. the idea clung to her,that graduallyshe would
the same
yard
realize the joysof possession
side of the farmShe and theywere
on
no
; but there was
in which she could tellherself that the
paling,and so she could reach them and moment
There
mistress of the
was
joy was hers. She was now
speak to them without difficulty.
en,
listof
the
There
other
to
no
near
was
no, more
enough
place.
apparently
geography
person
and it occurred to her that she might at any
no
thought
losingherself amid the shrubberies,
His name,
of economizing her resources.
Of Mr. Giles
a friend of this old man.
rate make
his and his doingsshe stillknew very little,
but the
he said,was
Enoch Gubby,and the girlwas
had faded.
The ownerdesire of knowing much
was
ship
grandchild.Her name
PattyGubby. Then
of the haystackshad become
a thingtame
Patty got up and had her head pattedby her
as to every one
ladyshipand received sixpence. They neither to her,and the great cart-horses,
who
her ladyship
of which she had intended to feel an interest,
of them, however, knew
was,
She observed
of indifference to her.
out
matters
were
and, as far as Lady Ongar could ascertain within new
had never
name
that since her arrival a new
too direct to be asked,
a question
attached to the
was
Enoch
name
heard of her.
Gubby said he worked
paint her own
and glaringthat
the
letters
and
that
steward
for
were
Mr.
the
big
for
was
Giles,
carts,
my
tism,
She wished that this had not been done,or, at
lord,and as he was old and stiffwith rheumasmaller.
He
a
week.
he onlygot eightshillings
any rate, that the letters had been
of Patty,who worked
she began to think that it might be well
the mother
Then
had a daughter,
week.
and got six shillings
for her to let the farm to a tenant ; not that she
in the fields,
a
she
money, but because
Every thing about the poor Gubbys seemed to might thus get more
"

"

"

"

The apSometimes
felt that the farm would be a trouble.
be very wretclied and miserable.
ples
had indeed quicklyturned to ashes between
he could hardlydrag himself about,he was
so
she thought her teeth !
Then
bad with the rheumatics.
make
she would
one
person happy,and
tliat his wages should be raised to ten
ed
No matter whether he earna week.
shillings
it or not, or what Mr. Giles might say, he
Enoch
by
Guba week.
should have ten shillings
that

told him

bowed,and

rubbed his

and
head,and stared,

On the first Sunday that she was

Park she went to the parishchurch.
resolved

that
strongly

she would

do

at

Ongar

She had

and
this,

she

for starting
did it ; but when the moment
came,
The church was
her courage almost failed her.
from her own
but a few yards
gate,and she walk-

CLAVEEINGS.

THE

66

ever,
She had,howed there without any attendant.
to say that she
sent word
to the sexton
would

be

was
and the old man
readyto
there,
a thick
She
wore
familypew.
of course, in all the deep
was
dressed,

show her into the

and
veil,

ceremonious

the centre

up

how

know

it had

She

to
pretending

was

for the

mourn

for the
sold herself;

she had

to whom

man

church, she thought of

of the

told herself that all there would

band.
been between her and her hus-

and
dress,

her

she walked

As

of widowhood.

woe

man

throughhappy chance had died so quickly,

leavingher with the pricein her hand ! All,
of course, knew
that,and all thought that they
false to
knew, moreover, that she had been foully
her bargainand had not earned the price.That, i
also,she told herself. But she went through it,I
the village
and walked out of the church among
crowd with her head on high.
|
Three days afterward she wrote to the clergyman,
askinghim to call on her. She had come,
and hoped to be
to live in the parish,
she said,
who

to be of some
able,with his assistance,

people.

the

without

counsel

some

use

The

him.

from

among

how

hardlyknow

She would

to act

schools

but if there was

might be all that was excellent,
she hoped he would tellhei'.
any thingrequired,
On the following
morning the clergymancalled,
ed
listenand,with many thanks for her generosity,
her subsidies. But
and accepted
to her plans,
he

was

married

wife,nor

his

to

come

call

and

man,

during the
on

She

her.

he said

nothing of

week

did his wife

to

be left desolate

next
was

had told lies of

by all,because men
had the pricein her hands, but
to
herself tempted to do as Judas did
and hang herself.
She

"

she had

when

count.

sister of the

This

who
count's,

"

XIII.

in Bolton
name

VISITOR

CALLS

AT

ONGAE

PARK.

heard

even

learned

by

He

he

was

had

aware

that Count
subsequently,

was

person

don,
in Lonliving
Sophie Gorde-

now

in
sitting

found

last he had

when

Street.

nor

other

was

"

loup a lady whom

Lady Ongar'sroom
CHAPTER

had

Gbrdeloup
Harry had

Madame

one

not

another

in London,
was
she felt fact to her friend.
out

had

She

person that Count Pateroff

the
and had then communicated

letter from

her !

go

she

written
the

from
directly

for

then,or

her

seen

heard her

then

not

some

time

tive
Pateroff had any rela-

that HarryClavering,
in London.
in the country
returningone evening to his lodgingsin
Lady Ongar had been a fortnight
ter.
letastonished
Madame
had
been
much
before
she
received
Gordeloup's
Square,
Bloomsbury
self
In that letter the sisterhad declared herat findingthere the card of Count
Pateroif,a
of whom
he had onlyheard,up to that moto be most
ment,
anxious that her brother should
man
as the friend of the late Lord
Ongar. At see Lady Ongar. The letter had been in 3?rerch,
firsthe had been very angry with Lady Ongar, and had been very eloquent more
eloquentin
its cause
than any letter with the same
object
thinkingthat she and this count were in some
could have been if written by an Englishwoman
some
leagueof which he would
leaguetogether,
had given in English; and the eloquencewas less offensive
greatlydisapprove
; but his anger
stances,
circumplaceto a new interest when he learned direct than it might, under all concurrent
the count,
from herself that she had not seen
have been had it reached Lady Ongar
and that she was
pose
simplyanxious that he, as her in English.The reader must not, however, supIt will be remembered

on

"

friend,should have
had

an

interview with

the

that the

man.

letter contained

word

that

was

very
very eager in the matter, intended to snpport a lover's suit. It was
of into subject
himself to any amount
convenience
far indeed from
offering
that,and spoke of the count
He

then

become

so

Lady Ongar

that he

asked

might

of him.

effect that which

He

was

ever,
not, how-

called upon to endure any special

trouble
from Count
expense, as he heard nothingmore
Pateroff tillhe had been back in London for two
or

or

three weeks.
It had

show
a

been

even

to

him

more

had been
than

true

friend ; but its

nothing that had

that

by Lady Ongar

construed
Did

not

she

friend

know

know

"

"

as

eloquencewent
passed shouldoffering
any bar

to

bo
to

said ! Bah !
she,Sophie and did nbt

fair friendship.What

her

Lady Ongar'sstatement
true.

simplyas

the world
"

her friend Julie

quite world was a great liar ?

wicked,venomous
; for telling

Was

"

it not

lies about

that the
even

now

her friend

CLAVERINGS.

THE

57

Julie?
while
Why mind what the world said,seeing tale of her married life,
that the world could not be broughtto speak fixed on his,and her head was
word

one

But

of truth?

The

world

indeed !

Bah!

hands.

then,at

Even

Lady Ongar,though she

than half

more

knew

what

she

ladyknew

Lady Ongar
France

was

known

the

having seen
Italy,

and

her

that moment,
she was
he believed her story,or

as

Sophie Gordeloupwas

had

were

eyes

restingon

not as yet askingherself whether

was
Madame
Gordeloup,whether,within his breast,he was sayingthat
about almost as well as that she was
vile and false.
She knew that she had

old

as

what

her

doing. been

count's
much

of her

in

spised
him, and that he must have deshe
when, with her easy philosophy,
fidy.
permercenary
the^est of her own
and
had called her a jilt
to her face,

false to

sister in

her
had

made

sudden intimacies to which English

He
people are subjectwhen abroad ; and slie had she had been able to receive the accusation with
been gladto see Madame
call her something
smile.
Would
he now
a
Gordeloup in London
much
more
glad than she would have been worse, and with a louder voice,within his own
had she been received there on her return
And if she could convince him that
by a bosom?
But not on that to that accusation she was
crowd of lovingnative friends.
not fairly
subject,
Would
she preparedto shape her conduct
back again?
account
was
might the old thingcome
in accordance
with her friend Sophie'sadvice, he .walk with her again,and look into her eyes
erenceas though he only wanted
her commands
to
not
that advice had refso when
and especially
bi'other. She had, thereto Sophie's
fore, show himself ready to be her slave ? She was
said very little in return to the lady's
had seen
quence,
eloa widow, and
things,hut even
many
she had not reached her six-and-tweutieth
answeringthe letteron that matter very now
vaguely; but,having a purpose of her own, had year.
had quickThe applesat her rich country-seat
ly
begged that Count Pateroff might be asked to
but someashes between
her teeth,
thing
call upon Hairy Clavering. Count Pateroff did
become
of the juiceof the fruit might yet reach
about Harry
not feel himself to cafe very much
and sit with her at
but wishingto do as he was
bidden, her palateif he would come
Clavering,
did leave his card in BloomsburySquare.
the table.
As she complainedto herself of the
And
why was Lady Ongar anxious that the coldness of the world, she thought that she
of those

one

"

who

man

young

who

man

whose

had

her

husband's

manner

She

had

the

see

friend,and

had been fixed withl\erown

name

grievousa
and
friend,

her friend should

was

been

called

in

so

Harryher

it might be that she desired

give

to

of testing
the
this friend every possible
means,
she herself had told.
truth of that story which

reader,perhaps,will hardlyhave believed

in Lady Ongar'sfriendship
perhaps,have
; will,
the story. If
believed neither the friendship
nor

would
and

her wrong, and will

an
aright. The wom-

she had once, in one

was
heart ;
of
her own
her
b
etrayed
life,
epoch
great
false because
she had
she altogether
nor
was
not

heartless because

once
once

taught herself that for such a

a necessity.It might
were

nor

one

be

riches

her sin could meet

punishmentof
in this
should
for

world,but

not

presumedthat

it be

she had

vile because
altogether

lied ;

with

made

was

no

love

To

none

From
she

"

be

loved
she

stillremember

love been

offered to her.
whom

beingto

had

half dead

been

been

saved him

those foibles which

so

with

a
slight

creature

from
as

pretense
had
all

also with

being too

ry
herself. Har-

ed
offended to the quick,and had callthat he
jilt
; but yet it mightbe possible

had been
her

place would

return

It should

repentance left to her.

no

Harry Claveringshe

But

was
a
man,
Harry Clavering
which she valued, and
qualities

for
perfect

only.

love.
pretended

loved.
those

had

which

him, and him

him, there had

seen

of love.

days
"

ever

herself,who

sold

before she had

in

love,

she

she had
very old
those
Old as were

that wretched

Iier and

had

days

him

be but he should

not

other had

none

Between

And

of her love.

She had
other had

them.
To

old
to

she could

whom

her.

her

to

confession

all the world

mightbe

one

him, in

days,it could

mission
re-

no

would

seemed

now

cold

but

loved.

that account

on

there

her

as

that the

how

care

might be

who

The

so, the reader will have done

not have read her character

not

if there

to her.

supposedthat

be

not

since her

turn
re-

definite
shrubberies
to England she had had one settled,
to
tliis
al
renewwith
before
her
of those other object
regard
at Ongar Park she thoughtmuch
eyes
times
in
which
had
been
There
and
of
the
walks
of
her
love.
in
which
at
paths Clavering,
she had not been alone ; and she thought of she had thoughtthat she would go on with the
and that
for herself,
she had prepared
she had exthat interview in the garden when
plained life which
if not happy,
herself contented,
she would make
to Harry as she had then thought so
alone

she walked

As

throughthe

"

that they two,

successfully
"

not

were

had

each

being poor,

other

paidto her. And

her spirits
sank

times,in which

there were
fitto love and marry each other. She
all that,too, duringthe long low within her,and she told herself that
over

of her

sad

journey

home

to

She was thinkingof it stillwhen she

him, and had been so cold to him on
of the
away
slighthim.
sat

had been

pricewhich

brooded

hours

him

with the

because

She had thought of it

in her London

room,

had
the

she had
she had seemed

station,when
railway
angry

England.

him
telling

as

met

looked at

plat- to
form
sent

to

she had

the terrible

be old

the last

no

tentment
con-

to her.
She
longerpossible
and found herself
herself in the glass,
and haggard. Harry,she said,was

was

man

wealth,when
Harry would

any

in the
there
never

do

world to sell himself for

was
as

no

love

remaining.

she had done

Not for all the wealth that

woman

with herself!
ever

58

CLAVERINGS.

THE

inherited

so

himself

one

"

to

tainted

she

among

did him

no

that in

some

told herself

who

had

link

he

herself vile and

think,she

I
this,

In

women

though it may
justice,

than

more

would

"

made

be

ter
she rated his charac-

other matters

is

to

say
connected

highly. Of Florence Burton she had as made

heard nothing,
though had. she heard of her, course
well be that she would

it may

have
"

and

her

desisted.

not

count
ac-

being her thoughts

Such

written to

hopes,she had

that

on

Harry,begging

few words

to

privatematters

on

you

gar.
with papers that belongedto Lord OnP."
I stillhope that you will admit me."
she
Having read these words while standin;;,

too
vet

aggrieved.My presentpurpose

I feel

and

me,

effort

an

for her

think what

to

to

As

follow.

might be

the best

for Lord

Ongar's

papers, she did not believe in the plea. Lord

to
Ongar could have had no papers interesting
her in such

as to

manner

make

her desirous of
in

hearing of them

private.
to the
Ongar,though
had been
do as she was
hour of his death,earning her price,
from
London, her bitterest enemy ; and though there had been
alone in a country house.
somethingabout this count that she had respected,
of intrigue,
she had known
him to be a man
And quitealone she was
one
morning,
sitting
that the apples and afraid of no falsehoods in his intrigues a
counting up her misery,feeling
when
servant
to dangerous man,
who
in
a
came
truth,ashes,
might perhaps now and
were,
her that there was
a
gentleman in again do a generous thing,but one who would
her,telling
The man
had
had
the hall desirous of seeing her.
expectpayment for his generosity.Besides,
She
the visitor's card in his hand, but before she he not been named
openly as her lover?
follows : "Lady Oncould read the name,
the blood had mounted
as
gar
wrote to him, therefore,
ry
Harinto her face as she told herself that it was
presentsher complimentsto Count Pateroff,
and finds it to be out of her power to see him
at
Clavering. There was joy for a moment
him

this

to see

knew

had followed

who

man

and
Italy,

from

had

why
sister simply that she could not
asked,because she was
away
not

"

her

"

she

told the

seeingthis man

of

or

she had

Lord

nursed

him

"

her heart ; but

she

must

not

show

it

and

should

he

country. She
him

not

have

must

see

him

and

her
in

as

widow,

present." This

at

walked

in the

any

some

this

way
but she would
be

Then

her eye fell upon

away

from

the visitor took and

answer

the front door without

ing
show-

the servant, either by his demeanor

in his countenance.
On that evening

disgustto
or

him a longletter,
written
with
her
neighboring
inn,expostulating
very
the card, and she saw, with grievous
to her conduct toward
as
him, and sayingin the
ment,
disappointof Count Pateroff. last line that it was
that it bore the name
impossiblenow that they
No ; she was
not going to he caughtin that way.
should be strangers to each other.
sible
"ImposLet the result be what it might,she would not
that we should be strangers,"she said almost
"
let Sophie Gordeloup,or Sophie'sbrother,get
loud.
out
?
I know
Why impossible
Tell no such impossibility."
the better of her by such a ruse
After that she carefully
as that !
she said,
the gentleman,with my compliments,"
burned botli the letter and the note.
she handed
back the card, "that I regret it
She remained
as
at Ongar Park
somethingover
but I can
now."
Then
six weeks, and then, about
see
no
one
the beginning of
greatly,
the servant
went
back to London.
had
No one
away, and she sat wondering May, she went
the count
whether
would be able to make
his been to see her except Mr. Sturm, the clergyman
into her presence.
She felt rather than
of the parish; and he, though something
way
knew
that she had some
to
fear him.
almost approachingto an intimacyhad sprung
reason
All that had been told of him and of her had
them, had never yet spoken to her
up between
been false. No accusation brought against
her of his wife. She was
not quite sure whether her
had contained one
spark of truth. But there rank might not deter him
whether
under such
had been thingsbetween
Lord Ongar and this circumstances as those now
in question,
nary
the ordimake

understand

to

come

not

"

yet. She had been but four months

gentlewith

"

him.

she received from

the

at

"

"

she would

which

man

in

And

England.

her,he

had

been

occasion had

one

him.

She

would

not

care

to

have told openly

though,in his conduct

customarily
courteous, and
been

to

social rules
whether

on

generous, stillshe feared

much
rather that he should

the

countess

were

not

should

broken
ordinarily
not

wife first,
the
although
stranger; but she did not

call

on

countess

dare

"

clergyman's
might be
a

to do

as

she

would

have done, had no blightattached itself

her name.
She gave, therefore,
no
hint; she

Italy. And though,when all to

she had in her desolation
said no
word of Mrs. Sturm, though her heart
Street,
she would have prewelcomed
his sister Sophie,
ferred was
longingfor a kind word from some
an's
womto her,
that Sophieshould not have come
mouth.
But she allowed herself to feel no
their friendship.But with anger againstthe husband,and went through her
to "renew
claiihing
she would hold no
communion
tlie count
him for his assistance.
parishwork,thanking
now,
Of Mr. Giles she had seen
even
though he should find his way into the
and since
very little,
have

remained

in

alone in Bolton

"

her misfortune with Enoch

room.

few

minutes

Gubby,she

had

made

turned,no farther attempt to interferewith the

passedbefore the servant rewages of
and then he brought a note with him. the persons employed. Into the houses of some
As the door opened Lady Ongar rose, ready to of the poor she had made her
way, but she fancied
leave the room
by another passage ; but she took that theywere not gladto see her. They might,
and read it. It was
the note
follows; "I
as
perhaps,have all heard of her reputation,
and
not understand why you should refuse to see
can
have congratulated
Gubhy'sdaughter
hermay

THE

CLAVEEINGS.

59

selfthat there
as

another in the parishas bad

was
The ownor perhaps,
herself,
worse.
er
happily,
of all the wealth
become

Button

herself and

some

around strove to make

CHAPTER

of charity
between
messenger
of the poor ; but Mrs. Button

After
which

declined the employment,

altogether
although, had
as

her mistress had

her

gar

the

of
disregardful

her

was
fortnight

been

her

horses

and

oxen,

and

mindful at
un-

in

was

of

man

home, said

weeks,during
Claveringand

at

at the

again
at Mr.

Adelphi,

in

Bloomsbury
Beilby'soffice.

the count's visit at the

Street.

from
servant-girl,

Madame

was

which

Harry

led to suppose that the count

a married
was
but
he
had
felt
that
no
rightto
;
Harry

intrude upon

gardens.

the

SISTER.

some

his work

again to

returned

HIS

down

over. Lady OuHarryat once returned

her park,utterly
address given in Mount

of the pleasantstream
which
even
at the bottom
springdaysrippled
softly

these

interval of

an

Harry had

she
ascertained,

sick of her house and

was

AND

herself formed
Pateroff called
per- Count
little missions of charitywith
Square; but Harry was

own

Before

zeal.

PATEROFF

COUNT

Mrs.

XIV.

madame,

he

so

simplylefthis

card.

She had undertaken to be back in London

to have this interview,
Wishing, however,really
elected at a club of which
earlyin May, by appointment with her lawyer, and havingbeen lately
ing
askcommunicated
the fact to he was
and had unfortunately
rather proud,he wrote to the count
He
Madame
him to dine with him at the Beaufort.
Gordeloup. Four or five days before
her mindful Sophie, explainedthat there was
she was
room
due in Bolton Street,
o,
strangers'
"

unerringmemory, wrote to her,declaring which Pateroff' knew very well,having often

and said something as
her readiness to do alland any thing that the dined at the Beaufort
could prompt.
littledinner for two, therebyapoloShould to a private
most
gizing
friendship
diligent
out
don
for proposingto the count
she meet
her dear Julie at the station in Lonto dine withtion,
?
other guests. Pateroff^ acceptedthe invitaShould she bring any special
?
carriage
and Harry,never
Should she order any specialdinner in Bolton
having done such a thing
would
of course
to
ness.
Street?
She herself
come
before,ordered his dinner with much nervousif not allowed to be presentat the
Bolton Street,
and the two
It was
stillchilly
in the evenings,
and
The
count
station.
was
men
punctual,
she would have fires lit. Might she suggest a introduced themselves.
Harry had expectedto
with black hair,polbread sauce, and perhapsa see a handsome
roast fowl and some
foreigner,
ished
and probably
and just
a hook
nose
one
sweet-bread
forty
glassof Champagne ?
whiskers,
And
might she share the banquet? There was
years of age or thereabout,but so got up as to
with

"

"

"

not

word

in the note

about

the too obtrusive

brother,either as to the offense

him, or the offense felt by him.
The

littleFranco-Polish

woman

committed

by

look not much

was

than

more
a

means

thirty.But

of that

man

that the count's age was

of guess
correctness
no

there in

was

by no

his

guest

Excepting
uncertain,
altogether

on

stamp.

that matter

ing
be-

of his appearance, Harry's

possible
by means
A little,
not dared to refuse her.
dry,bright preconceivednotion was wrong in every point.
with a broad fair face,and
she was, with quickeyes, and thin lips,He was
a fair man,
woman
and small nose, and mean
forehead,and scanty very lightblue eyes ; his forehead was low,but
but bore on his lip
from her face and
broad ; he wore
hair drawn back quite
no whiskers,
tightly
which was
not
head ; very dry,but stillalmost prettywith her a heavy mustache
fectly
gray, but perwhite
white it was with years, of course,
quicknessand her brightness.She ,was fifty,
was
SophieGordeloup,but she had so managed but yet it gave no signof age to his face. He
broad in
and somewhat
well made, active,
her limbs as
as active on
her years that she was
was
the chicken
the shoulders,
at twenty-five.And
are
most women
though rather below the middle
which
and
and the bread sauce, and the sweet-bread,
height. But for a certain ease of manner
lessness
the Champagne were
by something of restthere,all very good of their he possessed,
accompanied
in his eye, any one would have taken
kind; for SophieGordeloup liked such things
how
him for an Englishman. And his speechhardly
to indulgeher own
to be good,and knew
that
another
of
and
to
coax
appetite,
betrayedthat he was not English. Harry,
person.
noticed now
a foreigner,
Some
littlesatisfactionLady Ongar received knowing that he was
of
distinctness
little
alone
but
the
and
she
from the fact that
not
acquired
was
again some
;
When
satisfactionwas not satisfactory.
Sophie speechwhich is hardlynatural to a native ; but
self otherwise there was
had left her at ten o'clock,
nothing in his tongue to
running off by herhim.
in
Mount
gar, betray
to her lodgings
Street,
Lady Onshould have had so
"I am
after but one
moment's thought,sat down
sorry that you
he said,shakinghands with Harmuch
and wrote a note to Harry Clavering.
trouble,"
rv.
Claveringdeclared that he had incurred

Bolton

Street,of

course

"

for

Lady Ongar

had

"

"DearHaeey,
come

and

see

me

"

am

to-morrow

"Yours

back in town;

Pray

evening.
ever,

J. 0."

no

trouble,and declared also that he would be

only too happy to have taken any trouble in

obeyinga behest from his friend Lady Ongar.
Had

he been

Pole

as

was

the count, he would

have
to add that he would
forgotten
been equallywillingto exert himself with the
view of making the count's acquaintance
; but
not

have

CLAVERINGS.

THE

60

beingsimplya

Englishman,he

young

was

much

for any such courtesy as that.

The
count
observed the omission,smiled,and
bowed.
Then he spokeof the weather,and said
that London
was
a
city. Oh yes,
magnificent
awkward

too

he

knew

London

well

had

"

it these

known

to Harry's
would
be by no means
satisfactory
it might be sufficiently
though,as it appeared,
feelings,
fore,
therethe
to
Harry,
guest.
satisfactory
suggestedone bottle of claret. The count
agreed,expressingan opinionthat the 51 Ladered,
fittewas
unexceptional.The 51 Lafitte was orered
considand Harry, as he filled his glass,

ber
twenty years ; had been for fifteen years a memglish,
of the Travelers' ; he liked every thingEnexcepthunting. Englishhunting he had

the way

his

in which

should
subject

be introduced.

shooting "You knew Lord Ongar, I think,abroad?"

" Lord
he said,
Ongar abroad ! Oh yes, vei-y well ;
rival,
enna
and for many
the intense energy of an Englishman,who would
years here in London ; and at Viwork all day with his guns harder than plow; and
men
very earlyin life at St. Petersburg.
with their plows. Englishmen sported,I knew Lord Ongar firstin Russia when he was
than their bread
attached to the embassy as Frederick Courton.
he said,as though more
as
a#
then alive,
pendedHis father.
Lord Courton,was
though their honor, their wives,their souls,deHe
often was
also his grandfather.He was a nice,
it. It was
on
goodvery fine !
wished that he was
an
Englishman. Then he lookinglad then."
"As
regardshis beingnice,he seems to have
shruggedhis shoulders.
This the
a conversationchanged a good deal before he died."
Harry was very anxious to commence
about Lady Ongar, but he did not
count noticed by simply
shrugginghis shoulders
Count
and smilingas he sipped his wine.
know how at firstto introduce her name.
"By all
Pateroff had come
hear he became
to him
a horrid bi-ute when
at Lady Ongar'srequest, that I can
and therefore,
he maiTied,"said Harry,energetically.
he thought,the count
as
"He
not
should have been the firstto mention
her.
But
was
pleasantwhen he was ill at
to

for

hour

an

or

could

He

two.

he liked

But

be dull work.

found

not

"

"

the

count

seemed

to

his
enjoying

be

dinner without

thoughteither of

Lady Ongar

At

he had

any
late husband.

this time

or

Florence," said the

of her

been down

"

She

must

have

count.

had

tenible

time

with

him," said Harry.

The count
Ongar Park,on that mission which had been,
put up his hands, again shrugged
his
and then shook his head.
She
futile
he
said
word
of
that
but
no
we
shoulders,
know,
;
Adonis when he marto enjoy
his dinner thoroughly,knew he was
ried
to Harry. He seemed
no longeran
and made himself very agreeable.
When
her."
discussed he told Harry that a cer"An
Adonis!
tlie wine was
tain
No; she did not expect an
thing
vintageof Moselle was very famous at the Adonis ; but she thoughthe would have someBeaufort.
of the honor and feelings
of a man."
Harry ordered the wine,of course,
"
and was
doubt. He
She found it uncomfortable,
to give his guest the best of
no
delighted
little annoyed at did too much
of this,
a
every thing; but he was
you know," said the count,
findingthat the stranger knew his club better raisinghis glassto his lips; and he didn't do
than he knew it himself.
Slowlythe count ate it with 51 Lafitte. That was Ongar'sfault. All
his dinner,
enjoyingevery morsel that he took the world knew it for the last ten years. No
with that thoughtful,
knew it better than Hugh Clavering."
conscious pleasure
which
one
attain
in
and
"But
men
"said Harry, and then he stopped.
never
eating
drinking,
young
and which men
older so often forHe hardlyknew
that he wished to
get
what it was
as they grow
did
to acquire. But the count never
forgotany learn from the man, though he certainly
of his own
for pleasure,
and in all wish to learn something. He had thoughtthat
capacities
the count would himself have talked about Lady
resources.
things made the most of his own
To be rich is not to have one or ten thousand a
Ongar and those Florentine days,but this he did
not seem
disposedto do. "Shall we have our
year, but to be able to get out of that one or ten
thousand allthat every pound,and every shilling,
now?"
said Count Pateroff.
cigars
"
and every penny will giveyou.
After this fashion
One moment, if you don't mind."
"
the count was
ry."
hura rich man.
is no
certainly. There
Certainly,
"
You don't sitafter dinner here,I suppose,"
"
said the count,when
he had completedan elaborate
You will take no more
wine ?"
"
"
I
No more
wine.
I take my wine at dinner,
washingof his mouth and mustache.
to

"

as

"

"

like this club because

so

charminga

room

best club in London

who

we

for

our

for

men

are

strangers have

smoking.
who

It is the

do not

belong

you saw."
"I want
to ask you
about Lady Of gar."
as

to it."

"

It occurred to

Harry

there could be

room

had

men

that he

no

that in the

was

well

the

To

have

have

given

spokenno

or

four

'

"

I will say any thingin her favor that you

I am
alwaysreadyto say any thing in

the favor of any

lady,and, if needs be,to swear

thing againstany lady nobody
ever
say."
Harry was sharpenough to perceivethat any
under
assertion made
such a stipulation
was
than nothing. It was
when
worse
man,
as
a

count, showing it.

it
as
known, givingnotice,
a publicman
publiccircle.

were, that Pateroff would become

when
he was
once
placed in a

specialquestion

smoking- please.

privacy. Three

spoken to
already

one

dinner to the count, and to

a
word to him about Lady Ongar, in

But any
heard me

denyingthe

truth of

statement,does

so

witli

an

assurance

himself
"

lies.
no

that on that subject

he
in telling
justified
any

I did not write the book

rightto

ask the

that I had

not, even

him

for

should

sider
con-

of

number

year, I think!
Not francs,
but

Seven

but you have

lose ourselves in

I should

about

if I had."

Pateroff

"

this way,

and

doing so.

say
was

ry
Har-

"

pounds !

question
; and

speakingof Lady Ongar in

hated

61

CLAVERINGS.

THE

amazement

thousand
We

poor
when

"

a year!
foreigners

we

hear

Seven thousand
your English fortunes.
ful
pounds a year for a ladyall alone,and a beautihouse ! A house so beautiful,
theytell me!"
"
has that to do with it?" said Harry ;
What

Did he not bear false witneas

againstber?"

don't want

ders.
his shoulyou to say any good of her," whereuponthe count again shrugged
"
evil."
What has that to do with it? Because
any
"
rich he was
I certainly
the man
shall say no evil of her."
not justified
was
in illhis wife. Did he not bringfalse accu"But
I think you know that she has been treating
sations
"I

said

mqst
"

he, "

or

cruellytreated."
Well, there is about

her,in
against
seven

thousand

pounds

her

after his death

order that he

of all that

might rob

of which

you

CLAVEEINGS.

THE

02
think

much

so

Did

against her,to his

he

five

followingday, about

the

On

bear fulse witness

not

he
o'clock,

had doubted

He

Street.

called in Mount

dishonor?"

own

mucli

thinkingthat at any rate he ought,

this,
got the money,
in the first place,
to write and ask permission.
beautiful house."
"
take the
But her name
has been covered with lies." But at last he resolved that he would
himself
and
at the
his
at
do
asli
me?
"What
I
do?
count
word,
presenting
can
Why
you
Madame
if door,he sent up his name.
I know nothing. Look here, Mr. Clavering,
Gordeloup
he found
in a few moments
at home, and
was
you had better go
you want to make
any inquiry
"

and
I thinis,

She has

the

my sister. I don't see what good it will do,

if
but she will talk to you by the hour together,
you wish it. Let us smoke."
to

"Your

sister?"
sister. Madame

"Yes, my
Has

name.

They

Gordeloupis her

Lady Ongar

not

himself

in the

in which

room

the

ladywas

ting,
sit-

recognizedher whom he had seen with

Lady Ongar in Bolton Street. She got up at
at the name
upon the card,
once, havingglance^
and

and

seemed

all about him.

know

to

ter hands with him

my sissister lives in hand, and bade

She

shook

almost squeezinghis
cordially,

mentioned

inseparables.
My

are

to

as

him

sit down

her

near

the

on

glad to see him, for her dear

Julie's sake.
"With
Julie,as of course he knew, was
you?"
Oh ! so happy" which,byat ' Ongere'Park.
"No, not with me; I do not live in Mount
"
and would be up in
I have my address sometimes
he did not know
Street.
at her
the-by,
the
of
week.
So many
house."
next
course
thingsto
Mr.
"Madame
of
The house,and
Clavering.
Gordeloup?"
do, course,
Yea, Madame
Gordeloup.She is Lady On- the sei-vants, and the park,and the beautiful
thingsof a largecountry establishment ! But
gar'sfriend. She will talk to you."
and Julie was
Will you introduce me. Count l^ateroff?"
it was
delightful,
quitehappy!"
No peoplecould be more
You
unlike to each other
"Oh
no
can
; it is not necessary.
go
to
Mount
Street,and she will be delighted.than this brother and his sister. No human
And
There is the card.
will smoke."
now
we
being could have taken Madame
Gordeloupfor
Harry feltthat he could not, with good-breeding,an Englishwoman, thoughit might be difficult
detain the count
ris- to judge,either from her languageor her appearing
and, therefore,
any longer,
ance,
of the nationality
from his chair,
led the way into the smokshe belonged.
ing-room.
to which
When
She spokeEnglishwith great fluency,
of the world
but every
there,the man
separatedhimself from his young friend,of word uttered declared her not to be English.
whose enthusiasm
he had perhapshad enough, And
when
she was
fluent she was
most
most
incorrect in her language. She was small,
and was
soon
dry
engaged in conversation with suneager,
other men
of his own
standing. Harry and quick,and appearedquiteas anxious to talk
soon
perceivedthat his guest had no farther as her brother had been to hold his tongue.
Mount

She

"

sofa.

Street."

was

so

"

"

' '

"

need

countenance, and

of his

went

home

to

satisfied with
Bloomsbury Square by no means
his new
acquaintance.
On the next day he dined in Onslow Crescent
with

the

Burtons,and when

about
not

was

for

Lady Ongar
that he

aware

being silent

liismind
removed
that the

Count

was

people of

not be

him

had

the firstfloor of
to

not

all her

Harry
been

longthere

and
history,

of her circumstances.

something is probable;
who

afford

can

to

that she

plained
ex-

That

but how

tell every

thing?
Her

husband

but had
attached
but

was

to

stillliving,
but

was

St. Petersburg. He

suitable in Onslow

classes. He did not at

to himself
that he liked

he

most

there

are

on

told him

kept back

many

were

his lot in life to be concerned

the two

to

room

it seemed

But

before she had

slie

people so fur
sphereof lifefrom Lady Ongar

would
subject
It

He

any specialreason
the subject,
but he made
up

on

in their

Pateroif.

had

small

; and

lived alone.

there he said nothing

that the Burtons

Crescent.
with

or

She lived in
small house

he

was

at

Frenchman
ily,
by fambeen born in Russia.
He had been
the Bussian embassyin London,

now

was

attached

to

diplomacyin general

in Eussia.
She did not join him because she
even
say
loved England oh, so much
the Ongar class the better ; but still,
such
as
! And, perhaps,
his lot,
he must
take it as it came, and enback again some
was
tertain her husband
might come
day.
both subjects
without
She did not say that she had not seen
oL interest,
him for
any
Of
ten years, and
not quite sure
whether he
was
commingling of them one with another.
all

mean

to

"

"

"

Lady Ongar
to

Florence

and

at

some

his

earlylove

he had

but he did
length,

spoken
not

find

was

dead

or

alive; but had

she

made

breast in all

clean

things,she might have done

that she was
a
good deal stillat

so.

it necessary in his letters to tellher any thing She said

the
of Count Pateroff and his dinner at the fort.
BeauBussian embassy; but she did not
say that she
Nor did he mention the dinner to his dear herself was
a paid spy.
Nor do I say so now,
friend Cecilia. On this occasion he made himself
the character givento
; but that was
positively

very happy in Onslow

who knew
Crescent,playingher by many
her. She called her
and
brother Edouard, as though Harry had known
children,
chattingwith his friend,
with a good grace, Theodore Burton's
the count all his life,
and alwaysspoke of Lady
enduring,
little
sarcasm, when that ever-studious gentlemantold Ongar as Julie. She uttered one
or two
with the

liim that he
woman's

was

onlyfit to

npron-string.

go

about

tied to

hints

which

every

thing that

seemed
had

to

imply that

passed between

she

knew

"Julie"

THE

CLAVERINGS.

63

and Harry Clavering

in earlydays,and never
charming you are" Harrywas quitesure then
mentioned Lord Ongar without some
of
that she was
term
fibbing " and that it was so pleasant
abuse.
Edouard
is very much
!
attached to Julie ,
"Horrid wretch !" she said,
pausing over all very much.
Though, of course, all that was mere
in the name
the !"'."
she had called him.
"It nonsense
; just lies told by that wicked lord.
"

"

began,you know, from

Bah!

he had

was

been

the very first. Of course

fool. An old roue is alwaysa
does he get,you know,
What

fool to marry.
for his money
that as soon

?
But

Clavering?
and

jealous.He

not

went

not

was

enough

man

wr-retch !"

almost

end, and

on

which

be

not

must

repeatedhere.

She herself had met her brother in Paris,and

had been with him when theyencountered
the
ing,
Ongars in that capital.Accordingto her show-

theyhad, all of them,been togethernearly

day of Lord Ongar'sdeath.
Harry sooned learned to feel that he could

fi"om that time to the

But
not
"

believe all that the littleladytold him.

Poor EdouEdouard was alwayswith him.

ard !" she said.

"

with his money

And
Julie had

was

about

got to be

wr-retch

There

them

between

"

even

been

so

did not like

when

ter
mat-

money
When

ecarte.

bad,he

so

not

"

some

that

good always!

Julie

Harryby this time

that he had

found

never

Street.

Of course they were

he said,
lies,"
roughly.
Of course, mon
cher. Those thingsalways
and so wicked ! What
lies,
good do they
do any

good,"said Harry.

this madame
as
was
proposition
not preparedto give an
unconditional assent
she therefore shruggedlier shoulders and once
againlooked like her brother.
"

Ah

does
"

"

how
heard

never

Julie is

"

thousand

"

know

not

said

!" she said.

Seven

now.

"

One

year !

to believe it ; does one?"

the

of her

amount

income,"

Harry.
It is all

getically,
that,"said the Pranco-Pole,ener"every franc of it,besides the house!

it.

woman

would risk that,you know

you

happywoman

pounds a

I know

She

as

may say,
lies."

parting were

he had lost it !

wish

to Mount

"Lies never
To so wide

to

then

She

ened,
thingswhich, as he listtelling
many
made HarryClavering's
hair stand

on

"

peopleain't tired of it, are

jealous.But Lord Ongar do?"

jealous. Hor-r-rid

be

He's tired of
Is it not so, Mr.

own.

other

then he becomes

was

his way

prettyface.

it'shis

as

did he know?"

what

beginningto

"I

told

herself.

me

good as

Yes.

Of

gone ?

Wliat

; and his

don't think you understand

life,

they

course

her,Madame

Gordeloup."

done every thingfor the nasty

"Oh
her,so well. And love
yes; I know
wr-retch."
gling her
I love her so dearly!
Harry did not at all like this minoh, Mr. Clavering,
of the name
of Julie and Edouard,though Is she not charming ?
So beautiful,
you know,
and Edouard

had

"

fillhis mind with any

for a moment
and grand. Such a will,
That is what I
too !
It made him fe^el,
like in a woman.
Such a courage !
She never
to Lady Ongar.
as
suspicion
And when
was
dangerous,and flinched in those horrid days,never.
however,that this woman
that her tongue mightbe very mischievous if she he called her
she only looked
what
you know
As he looked
talked to others as she did to him.
at him,justlooked at him, miserable object.
in her own
she was
loup,
Gordeat her
and beingnow
room
Oh, it was beautiful!" And Madame
and as he
dressed with scrupulouscare
not
risingin her energy from her seat for the
er
listened to her,he could not conceive what Lady purpose, strove to throw upon Harry such anothinsulted wife had thrown
Ongar had seen in her that she should have
glanceas the injured,
the count, upon her foul-tongued,
Her brother,
made a friend of her.
dyinglord.
"
She will marry,"
said Madame
was
undoubtedlya gentleman in his manners
Gordeloup,
but he did not know
and way of life,
by what changing her tone with a suddenness that made
who called Lady Ongar Harry start; "yes, she will
to callthis woman,
name
marry^ of course.
unlike any ladies Your Englishwidows alwaysmarry if theyhave
Julie. She was
altogether
whom
he had known.
They are wrong, and she w illbe wrong ;
money.
know
that Julie will be in town
but she will marry."
"You
next
ry,
I do not know how that m.iybe,"said Harweek?"
turn."
lookingfoolish.
"No; I did not know when she was to reit did not

"

"

"

"

"

"
"

in South
dear !
when

Audley Street

Those

were

could

see

"

talismanic

words,which

to

almost celestial,
Harry perceivedfor

the first time

semblance

"

"

put up with lawyers." As she

they must

pronouncedthose
her

seven

people
Thursday. Poor smiled.
! But
much
so harassing
so
thousand
All
a
pounds

that there

between
that

her

they

were

was

some

sort

and

the

count.

brother

and

of

"

Ah,

It would

good of you

He

told

has

dies,you know,
she is grand and will

so

He

want

spendevery thing.

Is she much

Clavering? Of course
Julie's age, though perhapsyou do not.
And
will you give me
to tell?"
the

me

how

think

has

If she

dower.

foolish. And

he looks
to

him, she

willalso."

yes ; but there is a diflference. A sum

is to marry, is better
down, if a man

of money
than a widow's

sister. than

for
a

have,I suppose."

men

you, Mr.

she comes, and of

shall go to her directly
I will tell her how
course
good you have been
And Edouard has been dining leered at him
to come
to me.

How

hardlydo

Edouard

will.

i-e-

"I

with you ?

vering;
she will marry, Mr. ClaHe merely
so yesterday.

I know

I told Edouard

on

lawyersare

peoplehave

year,

I tell you

yes; she has business with those

Oh

that

with

she

was

smile which

almost

more

made
than

older

I know
What
woman

HaiTy
mortal.

CLAVERINGS.

THE

CI
He

and
conversation,

in

talie his leave.

said.

cope with her

after this got up to
will come
again,"she

himself quiteunable

found

"Do.

soon

"You
I like you

to

when

And

much.

so

and almost
seemed to him to be affectionate,

ing.
would
very

Had

she

been

not

hardlythus

have

instant of her

to

eager
written

to

him

on

Lady

"Dear

return.

lov-

him, she

see

the
Ongar,"

he wrote, "I shall dine at my

club,and
gether,
Julie is in town, we shall be able to see her toH. C."
be with you about eight. Tours always,
and I will be your friend. Believe me."
himself to work
and
After
that
he
could
bring
hardly
from
far
believingher,
was
Harry
very
her friendship.Her
satisfactorily
during the whole day. Since his
did not in the least require

indeed
friendship
or

man

such

creature

woman
as

glish interview with the Franco-Polish

could any decent Enladyhe had
and had reof
solved
wish for the friendship
thoughta good deal about himself,
ton
thus that he
to work harder and to love Florence BurIt was
that?
How

The nasty little

more
devotedlythan ever.
thoughtof her as he walked away from Mount
had said certain words to him which had
within his own
woman
making heavy accusations,
Street,
breast and to
Julia ! caused him to look into his own
breast against
Lady Ongar as he did so.
As the love
tellhimself that this was
dozen
to himself
a
He repeatedthe name
over
necessary.
times,thinkingthat the flavor of it was lost since was easier than the work,he began his new tasks
often by that vile on the following
so
morning by writinga longand
it had been contaminated
letter to his own
affectionate
his
Let
it
of
?
But
what
Flo,who was
concern
was
very
tongue.
still stayingat ClaveringRectory; a letterso
she wpuld,she could never
her be Julia to whom
in her
But she was
his friend long and so affectionate that Florence,
be Julia againto him.
made
read
that
of
and
and
told
himself
he
fess
condelight,
Fanny
it,
plainly
ecstasy
Lady Ongar,
it was
his friend had been wrong
in having permitted
that,as a love-letter,
perfect.
all the same," said
"It's great nonsense,
with such a woman
herself to hold any intimacy
jected Fanny.
No doubt Lady OngaV had been subthat.
as
'
at all,said Florence ; "and
It isn't nonsense
to very tryingtroubles in the last months
"

"

'

of her husband's

but
life,

no

her,if she continued

justify

circumstances could
the false

to indorse

if it were, it would
not
That's the question."

"I'm
evil-mindof that horribly
vulgarand ed
cordiality
"
And
littlewoman.
As regarded
the grave charges
brought against
Lady Ongar,Harry stillgave no
any one
credit to
in

them, stilllooked upon

spiteof

the

them

as

it'strue,"said

sure

I, said Florence.

am

tell me

to

why

indeed

it true?

Fanny.

"

so

"Then

nies,
calum-

damning advocacyof Sophie

signify.Is

I don't want

that."

did you

ence
ask,you simpleton?Flora
happy time of it at

having

was

have
her brother ; but he felt that she must
in very dirtywater
to have returned to

ClaveringRectory. When
Fanny called her a
she threw her arms
round Fanny's
simpleton,
England with such claimants on her friendshipneck and kissed her.
admired
the count,
And Harry kepthis resolve about the work too,
He had nqt much
as these.
but the count's sister had been odious to him.
stand,
investigating
planswith a resolution to underI will be your friend.
Believe me."
them which was
almost successful.
ing
DurHarry
those days he would remain at his officetill
Claveringstamped upon the pavement as he
She be past four o'clock,
and would
then walk away
thoughtof the littlePole's offer to him.
his friend ! No, indeed ; not if there were
with Theodore
low
no
Burton,diningsometimes in Onsother friend for him in all London.
and going there sometimes
in the
Crescent,
phie eveningafter dinner; and when there he would
Sophie,too,had her thoughtsabout him. Soanxious
in
this
and
read ; and once
was
was
solved sit and
rewhen
to
Cecilia essayed
matter,
very
to stick as close to her Julie as possible.
talk to him, he told her to keep her apron-stritigs
"I will be his friend or his enemy
let him
to herself.
Then Theodore
gized,
laughed and apolochoose."
That had been Sophie's
and Cecilia said that too much work made
reflectionon
the matter
when she was
left alone.
Jack a dull boy ; and then Theodore
laughed
out
his legs and arms
as he
again; stretching
rested a moment
from his own
and
clared
destudy,
that,under those circumstances,
HaiTy
and

dabbled

"

"

CHAPTER
AN

IN

ETENIKG

XV.
BOLTON

never

would

be

evenings would

STREET.

bairns in their

dull.
be

taken

cots; and

And

Harry

those

on

the
up
he stood with their
stairs

to

see

as

Ten

daysafterhis visitin Mount Street,

Harry mother lookingdown upon the children,
pretty
Lady Ongar had written words would be said about Florence and his
the nightof her arrival in London.
It future life and all was
to him
on
riage
going merry as a mar;
office by her own
was
bell. But on that morning,when the note
brought to Mr. Beilby's
in the morning; but Harry was
had come
footman early
from Lady Ongar, Harry could work
there at the time,and was
thus able to answer
ncT more
to his satisfaction. He
scrawled upon
his blotting-paper,
as
soever
it,telling
and made
Lady Ongar that he would come
no
progress whatreceived the note which

she had

desired.

"Dear
when
"Dear

She had

Harry,"and

commenced

her letter

he well remembered

that

she had before written she had called him

Mr.

Clavering." And

contained only half

dozen

though the

note

ordinary
words,it

toward the
It

was

the

of
understanding

day on which,in due

write to Florence

any thing.

course, he

would

; and

he did write to her. But

this letterto Fanny,claiming

Florence did not show

for it any meed of godlikeperfection.
Itwas

THE
a

he
a

CLAVERINGS.

in which he declared
short letter,
stupid,
and that his head ached.
was
very busy,
he
postscript

told her that he

Lady Ongar that evening.

cated to her under

In
see

This he comihuni-

idea that

an

that he sauntered into the card-room

goingto

was

by doing so

every thingright. And I think that the

of it did relieve his conscience.
telling
left the

office

broughthimself

after

soon

to believe in the

looked

askance

old gentleone
man
him, as though inquiring

at

there to make
whether he had come
angrily
fresh misery. "Thank
I won't play
you; no
"

he

made

He

65

three,having

again,"said Harry.
and
appeased,

was

"Have
you
said the old

Then

the old

oflFeredhim
the

seen

gentleman
pinch of snuff.

book

new

about whist?"

"It

is very useful
low
copy if you will al-

gentleman.

and
headache,

"

veiy useful. I'llsend you a

sauntered down to his club. He found men playme."
Then Harryleftthe roomf,and went
ing
whist there,
and,as whist might be good for down to dinner.
his head,he joined
them.
It was
a little
They won his money,
eightwhen he knocked at

past

and scolded him

for

playingbadlytillhe

angry, and then ha went

for

Lady Ongar'sdoor.

was

I fear he had

calculated

self. that if he were

by himpunctual to the moment, she
As he went alongPiccadilly,
he saw Sophie would think that he thoughtthe matter
to be
Gordeloupcoming toward him, trotting
along,important.It was importantto him, and he
with her dress held well up over
her ankles, was
that she should know that it was
so.
willing
But there are degreesin every thing,
and therefore
eager, quick,and,as he said to himself,
cleai'ly
out

intent upon some

mischief.
avoid her by turningup the
but she

He

endeavored

he

to

Arcade,
Burlington

quick for him, and

too

was

walk

twenty minutes

was

the firstman

has

who

walking advantageof beingafter his

was

up the arcade by his side before he had been able

to make
of ridding
up his mind as to the best mode
himself of such a companion.

ideas

from

went

almost

him

at

late.

He

not

was

weighed the diplomatic

time.

But all those

when

once

she met

him

at the door of the room,

and,takinghim
so
hand,said that she wa*
glad to see
so very glad. Fancy,Harry, I haven't

by the
I am
him
so gladto see you.
Clavering,
I was
with Julia last night. She was
fagged, seen an old friend since I saw you last. You
don't know how hard all that seems."
fagged; the joui-ney,
very much
you know, and
" It
But yet so handsome !
the business.
And we
is hard,"said he ; and when he felt the
talked of you. Yes, Mr. Clavering
the brightness
of
; and I told pressure of her hand,and saw
her how good you had been in coming to me.
her eye, and when her dress rustled against
him
She said you were
alwaysgood ; yes, she did. as he followed her to her seat,and he became
"Ah

When

"

shall you

her?"

see

Harry Claveringwas
and

bad hand
what

not

know

He

would

see
to

find

bad

sensible of the influence of her presence, all his

was
simplydesirous

and he
hand at fibbing,diplomacy
vanished,

at leavinga question
himself to
answered.of devoting
unin this way he did any such devotion was
questioned

to do

but

rather

much

Bolton

going to

could

also

When

was

"

! Mr.

to

not

the truth.

answer

have

said that he

her service.
to be

to that other devotion

Florence

But

Burton.

Street that evening,

but he it was
made,
brain.
"I believe I shall

made

was

Of course,
riment
det-

givenwithout
which

he owed

to

this

stipulation,
though
and with a confused
quickly,

alternative.

no

"

her this evening, he said,

times
simplyventuring "Yes, it is hard," she said. " Harry,somethan
I think I shall go mad.
It is more
tion
mitigatethe evil of making the communicaI can bear.
doubtful.
I could bear it ifithadn't been my
There are
by renderingit falsely
who

men

fibwith

tact that

so

bad

theymight as

a grace and with so little

well not fib at all. They

arrive at success, but

to expect it.

only never

not

venture

never

even

fault

own

There
him
her

"

all my

was

fault."

own

suddenness

about this which took

quiteby surprise.No
fault.

own

He

also had

doubt it had been

told himself that ;

I don't though,
of course, he would make no such charge
evening. Let me see.
think I can
be there to-night
"You
have not recovered yet, he said,
Beren- to her.
; Madame
"from
what you have suffered lately.Things
stoffreceives at the embassy.
into will look brighter
to you after a while."
"Good-afternoon,"said Harry,turning
But
the hair-dresser's shop.
"Will they? Ah ! I do not know.
Truefit's,
and sit down, and let me
"Ah!
very well,"said Sophie to herself;come, Harry ; come
much better. He is get you some
There is no harm, I suppose,
tea.
"justso. It will be better,
and why should he have it all? in havingyou here
is there ?"
simplyone lout,
what louts are these Englishmen " Harm, Lady Ongar?"
My God, what fools,
!" Now havingread Sophie's
harm. Lady Ongar." As she repeatthoughts "Yes
ed
will leave her to walk up the remainafter him, nearly
in his tone,
we
her own
so far,
der
name
of the arcade by herself.
she smiled once
again; and then she looked as

"Ah!

this

"

"

"

"

I do not

know

establishment

by

his

that

had

engagement

that he had

Harry'svi.sitto

simplytaken

hole,as does

Truefit's "she used

to

ground at

may

him.

"

when
days,

him
man

it was

she would

It is hard to know

do, and

what

she

may
I
dying,

illand
my husband was
From
the miment
lefthis bedside.

there he

look in the old

with

the first When

But now
that he
hunted fox.
had his head put in order,and
thoughtthat he looked the better for the operation.
Ue then went back to his club,and when
was

to

in any degree caused

be merry
for the evening. I fancy a woman

been

of my

what
not.
never
rying
mar-

death,I hardlyspoke to a
I did,
presence ; and when once

till his

but in his

he that had

sent

him.

AnVl for all that

CLAVERINGS.

THE

G6

"
He could not say that now, as he has asked
You
peoplehave turned their backs upon me.
and I were
old friends,
Hurry, and something you there."
He
would say
that.
I don't know
"Ah!
But I jilted
not !
we
more
once
were
you, as
after,
another
I
did
first
just as it
How
and
tell
one
me.
to
thing
man
were
enough
you
in wishing
He has some
object
respectyou when you dared to speak the truth would suit him.
I
I
should
that
would
suppose."
know
or
to me
Harry,
don't
! Men
they
go there,
women,
and who was too faithful
who knew
the object,
be harder to them."
"
even
to betrayLady Clavering,
though he was
I did not mean
to be hard to you."
hostile
his
Archie's suit,
cousin
shoulders
and
to
the
"If you had taken me
altogether
by
but said nothing
felt a littleproud of his position,
shaken me, and have declared that before God
I shall not go;
I should
in answer
"But
to this.
yon would not allow such wickedness,
"

have

I should."

I know

obeyedyou.

thought of Florence,and could

it had been

to say that he wished

have
not, therefore,

I should

rightto

and

have

know, and

you
marry
been ruin,you

have been
"

comes

"But

so.

ruin

you.

"He

It would

what is proper.
As I have
I suppose I may
receive whom
Is not that the law?"

been
I

her thoughtat
My sister,
Harry !

make

friends but

onr

I
Hugh Clavering,

do

be

us

anxious
particularly

was

know

to

see

Do

not

"

ried,
mar-

please.such

not

say.

Little

will have

me."

might

have

Archie
men

as

their

and

property. Archie

have

dozen

tends
in-

children."

will have him ? But

marry ! Who
he are often in the way by marrying

cookmaid
at last.
Archie
is Hugh's
some
to Hugh
body-slave.Fancy being body-slave
Clavering! He has two, and poor Hermy is
the other ; only he prefers
not
to have
Hermy
near
him,which is luckyfor her. Here is some
Let us sit down
and
and be comfortable,
tea.

nothingto

How

did

And

in the way you mean, Lady Ongar.

propose to kill all my relations in order

to marry,

talk

that I should

you.

; she

not?

is

that I

connection throughSir
not

know

not

he

Never

"

the moment.
If there

?"

"

Your
may receive me, I should think.
"sisteris my cousin's wife."
Harry'smatter-offor
fact argument did as well as any thingelse,
"

come

mistress of the house

"You

it turned

husband, is

and that may keep her."

ill,
"After
all,Harry, I may have to pack up
and go to Clavering even
yet that is,if the

the

know

I do

Hughy

prudenceafterward ! Oh,
Harry,that was. not pleasant. That was not
pleasant! But what was I saying? Oh! about
of your being here.
It is so hard
the propriety
to

now."

nice

does Hermione

"

ply
sim-

said he.
very pleasant,"
I will not deny that.
But then

and

the wisdom

is in town

when

fools."

"Yes, yes;

he
go to his house when
do they come,
When

or

London.

to

"What

was
folly

The

him,

see

up

Harry?"

been

should

we

will I

nor

I
you have been then,Harry?
and a beast to marry that
and false,

wrong
; but

man

Harry
self
bringhim-

would

where
was

not

no

did not

manly
un-

about

more

don't know

what

honid

our

made

relations.

speak of

me

them.

I
I

it."

mean

he has

been, and how cruel !"

Harry sat down and took the cup from her
Very cruel, said Harry. Then he thought hand,as she had bidden the servant to leave the
of Archie and Archie's suit.
he is willing
"But
tray upon the table.
"

' '

to
me

Hermione
change all that now.
day to persuadeyou to go

the other
"And

"

asked
to

have

quencethem
here to use your eloyou come
for that purpose ?
I will never
go to

Claveringagain,Harry,unless

it should

yours, and your wife should oifer to receive

Then I'd pack up for the dear,dull,
solemn

place,though I

was

on

the other

side of

So you

?"

I lived

be

To

Count

she
PateroflT,"
do you

said.
think

of

this

mediate
questionHarry made no im"You
may speakout. Though

answer.

abroad

with

such

as

them

for twelve

the sweet scent of

months,I have not forgotten
old our
Englishhedgerows,nor the wholesomeness
rope."of Englishhousehold manners.
Eudo you
What
me.

think of them
"It will

saw

vering." " Yes, and his sister."

Cla"
So she told me.
What

be mine."

?"

"

They are not sweet or wholesome,"said he.

I
esty
"Probably not, and probably,therefore,
"Oh, Harry,you are so honest ! Your honbe there again. No ; I can
shall never
is beautiful. A spadewill ever
be a spade
forgive
but not an insult not an insult such
with you."
an
injury,
that.
I will not go to Clavering
He
as
; so, Harry,t
thought that she was laughingat him,
Hermione
I
and
colored.
save
:"
eloquence.
you may
your
shall be glad to see whenever she will come
to
"You
pressedme to speak,"he said," and
If you can persuadeher to that,
me.
words."
you will I did but use your own
but
used
them
with such straightpersuadeher to a charity."
"Yes,
forward
you
I
"
She goes nowhere,I think,without his
violence!
Well, you shall use what
his""
words you please,
and how you please,
because
"
Without his permission. Of course
she a word of truth is so pleasantafter living
in a
does not.
That,I suppose, is allas it should be. Iworld of lies. I know you will not lie to me,
And
he is such a tyrant that he will giveno
Harry. You never did.
such permission. He wo uld tellher,I suppose, I He feltthat now
the moment
was
in which
I he should tellher of his
that her sisterwas no fit companion for her."
but
he let
engagement,
never

"

"

'

"

THE
the moment

pass without
usingit.
have been hard for him

it would

such
In telling

tioningher
him

storyhe would have been

that it

"

he

not

was

the way, and

cau-

was

sure

even

that she had

now

learned the factfrom her sister.

he said.

In

all that he

that his works

with

much.

But

then

and

Had

it not

have

been

seemed

his

"

hope not,

to

him to

was
position

mean

tunate
unfor-

so

than

now

His
that

do it.

he could not

It

Lady Ongar?

to answer

not

sayinghe knew
in comparison
impotent

was

tame

were

hers,which

"

67

deed,the thoughts
of her poverty. The position
would
And, into tell. have suited him exactly.But Florence was
in

useless for her to love

and this he could not bringhimself to do.

And

so

CLAVERINGS.

his

as

he

was

difficult

Burton.

full of tears,and she accepted

"I
for not answeringher.

were

eyes

How
more

of Florence

to tell her

ever

was

excuse

romantic
a
suppose theywould say that I was
fool. When
can
the pricehas been taken one

With Judas,
sufficientthat he gave

not cleanse one's selfof the stain.

know,

you

it

not

was

been for Florence Burton

back the money.
Life was too heavyfor him,
long since at her feet ; for, and so he went out and hangedhimself."
his due,he could be
to give Harry Clavering
"Julia,"he said,gettingup from his chair,
and going over
lia,
quickenough at swearingto a passion. He was
to where she sat on a sofa,"Juof those men
one
to whom
in
it is horrid to hear you speak of yourself
comes
love-making,
that it is a pitythat they should ever
so readily
that way.
I will not have it. You
not
are
He was
ever
such a one as the Iscariot." And as he spoke
making love to women,
marry.
He made
love to to her,he found her hand in his.
usuallymeaning no harm.
Cecilia Burton over her children's beds,and that
"I wish you had my burden,Harry,for one
discreet matron
liked it. But it was
love- half day,so that you might know its weight."
a
'"I wish I could bear it for you
for life."
on
making without danger. It simplysignified
his part the pleasurehe had in being on good
"To be alwaysalone,Harry; to have none
1

he would

"

with

"terms

love in the

would

have

way to Lady
and in all loveimpossible,

Oiigar; but that was

making with Lady Ongar
There

He

pretty woman.

liked to have made

same

there

must

be

danger.

of his last
pause after the expression
hopes,duringwhich he finished his tea,and then
was

at^iisboots.

looked
"

do not ask

You

"And

what

"Hating
"That

have

do

doingthere

you been

Harry,that

themselves.
memories

; full of

whether

know

comes

Harry,that
woman,
Julie !
here and calls me

got me

to

he

promisetoo

I know

Sophie!

here.

comes

an
wom-

And

that I would

call

cause
bethat you despiseme
Yes ; I can see it. You

not wholesome,with
was
thing your dear,outspokenhonesty."

word

help

that she

once

"It

curse

can

put his foot in it.

ever

then

Oh, that

exist !
who

was

your word."
she is not wholesome, whosesoever

She

it was.
he

was

so

there,hanging about him

was

bad,before the

they
placeis full of him and his played^carte with him
him, though I do not as yet gloves. I believe in my

The

with

one

not,could

pretenseof itwhere itdoes not, can

said. People when

easily

thingsif

of such

It is terrible to

not ?

that will speakto

one

the

her

of all that now."

so

scold me, and love me,

Smile ! You will scold

And

"And

is

me

the old easiness of familiar affection.

said at

that I do ; every
is the nature of the

near

one

she

That

think

not

?"

and

me

rate,will you

any

no

it."

upon me."
"You
think too much
"Ah

at

she has

is

be wrong.

must

me,
have

not

wrong."
Every thingis wrong

"

to

come

and sometimes make

what I have been doing

me

country house."

at my

that

Do

read novels to him

and

I let her

me,
because

books

"

worst

that I
for

what

heart she

She

came.

never

saw, and
she called

was

spying

go as she would,
to be afraid of her.

and

come

I would not seem

plan,a scheme, which would,
useful
It So it grew.
And
or twice she was
once
happy for one half hour.
have
is to giveevery thingback to the family.Every to me.
to
a
wants
A woman,
Han'y,
her sometimes
even
thing money, house,and name
near
thoughit be
; to call myself woman
Julia Brabazon,and let the world call me what
such an unwholesome
creature as Sophie GorI would walk out into the deloup. You
it pleases. Then
must
not think too badlyof me
to giveme
one
and beg some
her account."
on
streets,
my bread.
you know, I have
I think,make
me

"

"

Is there

one

give me

Harry
"

Poor
her

cause

that he

in all the wide

crust ?

one,

that would

self,
except yourexcept yourself?"

Florence!

I fear it fared

How

at this moment.

should

world

Is there one,

not

was

badlywith

to him

this

I fear that it was

now.

that he could

not

not

it been

open

to him

to

playthat part,he would

in
have gloried

playedit well,and would

He

"

him

or

is he not?
is better,
nothing; but he has
she has.

badlyof you

said words

more

Indeed I hked
well ; and

nor

was

afraid of

considerate. Once

gentleand

was

I know
a

Ongar

Lord
had known
did not toadyhim

grief he

placehimself close at

and
her side,bid her do as she had planned,
Had
then come
to him, and share all his crusts.

have

I will not ; I will not think

it possibleoutside than

regret,that he should

akin to
look back upon Stratton with something
?
Julia had been his first love,and to
sorrow
I fear he
her he could have been always true.

thoughtof

"

at

all."

that I

was

called

on

to

little of

reputable
him.

He

thoughhe
him, yet he
to me

resent

"

he

^but

that he
and I know
should have protected
It is too bad,Hany, is it not ? Too bad
to be believed by such as you."

them,
repeated
promptedby him who

never

was

me.

almost
"

It is very bad,"said Harry.

that he was
alwayscourteous; and

"After

CLAVERINGS.

THE

68
when

the end

terrivery ble,
in
went

thingswere

and

came

he behaved

kindly. He

well and

that it would

"She

told

"

did,did

She

me

If she

she ?

not

do.''

speaksof it again

that it will never

do.
He
tellher that she is right,
old friend.
and like an
quietly,
I should
down
I
know
Had
he
to
Park,
not
useful.
and
come
Ongar
for
was
paid
every thing,
that even
this made
peopletalk ; yes, Harry, not have mentioned this to you. I should not
that ! But in spite have
at such a moment
thought that he had in truth any such
as
even
and

out

talkingI

of the

then than I

did better with him

looks like

"He

could be kind if

who

man

he chooses."
"He

is

find it easy

of those,Harry,who

one

been

tell you

that

Indeed,he

said

there ?"

did not

"He

did not

He

in his head.

scheme
he had

could have done without him."

mention

it.

very littleabout you at all."

He
"No, he would not.

is cautious.

He

talks of any body to any body. He

by nature, never
their
of the outward thingsof the world.
but
not
from
cats
are
heart,
speaksonly
through
as
do for me
is this."
what yon must
itsuits Now, Harry,
instinctive propensity
to softness. When
speakingto him she was leaning
them, they scratch,even though they have been As she was
with her forehead resting
Count Pateroif is a cat. again upon the table,
soft before.
ever
so
Her small widow's
cap had
You, Harry,I think,are a dog." She perhaps upon her hands.
expectedthat he would promise to her that he become thus thrust back, and was now nearly
to
fection
off her head, so that her rich brown hair was
would be her dog a dog in constancy and afand
good-natured,

to be

who

soft

are

"

"

; but

he

still mindful

was

in

part of

Florence,and restrained himself.

be
as

in its full

seen

it had

luxuriance,rich and lovely

been.

ever

Could

it be

that she felt

she
without knowing that
half thought,half felt,
something farther,"
she thought it that while the signsof her wid"And
it is this that I particuowhood
said.
larly
about her,telling
in their too plain
I have not seen
were
to tell you.
want
him,
languagethe tale of what she had been,he could
you know, since I partedwith him at Florence."
"
not
dare to speak to her of his love?
She was
I did not know," said Harry.
"
I tliought
I had told you.
However, so it indeed a widow, but not as are other widows.
She had confessed,
did hourly
confess to herself,
down
to Ongar
is. And
now, listen : he came
the guiltwhich she had committed
in marrying
Park the other day while I was
there,and sent
When
I refused to receive him, that man
in his card.
; but the very fact of such confessions,
clined,
of such acknowledgment,absolved her from the
he wrote
to me
pressinghis visit. I stilldeof any show of sorrow.
When
clared
and he wrote
she deagain. I burned his note, necessity
how she had despisedand hated her late
because I did not choose that any thing from
him should be in my possession.He told some
lord,she threw off mentally all her weeds.
ing
of mourning,
even
Mourning, the appearance
storyabout papers of Lord Ongar. I have nothdo with Lord
to
Every became impossibleto her, and the cap upon
Ongar's papers.
sealed up in the her head was
declared openlyto be a sacrifice
thing of which I knew was
count's presence and in mine, and was
sent to
to the world's requirements.It was
now
pushed
ing
I looked at noththe lawyersfor the executors.
back,but I fancythat nothing like a thoughton
letter. What
the matter
itself plainto her mind.
had made
; not at one word in a single
could he have to say to me
of Lord Ongar'spado for me
is this,"
she continued.
pers "What
you must
?"
You must
Pateroff again,
see Count
"
Or he might have written ?"
and tellhim from me
as
that I can
my friend
" At
there, not consent to see him. Tell him that if he will
any rate, lieshould not have come
he must
know
the reason
Harry. I would not see him, nor, ifI can help think of it,
why."
"I

tell you
indeed

must

"

"

"

"

"

it,will I

here.

I think that

make

to

him

see

Harry.

I will be open

his wife.

me

however, would

with you,
him

"Of

Such

suit

aiTangement,

an

him

that

what

I say, all the same

; and tell
hitherto had cause
to be

I have

as

not
to him
for his kindness,
also I hope
going grateful
so
frightenedinto marrying a man, because he will not put an end to that feelingby any
called my lover.
If I can
that would
has been falsely
not be kind.
If there
thingnow
Ongar's,he can take them
escape the calumny in any other way, I will be papers of Lord
either to my lawyers,
if that be fit,
to those
or
escape it in that way."
Has he said any thing?"
of the family. You
tell him that,
can
can
you

not

him

he will know."

course

"Tell

perhapsit might suit

me.

am

to be

he
not
not
"

"

No

; not

since the
I have

seen

"And

after Lord

seen

him

Ongar'sfuneral.

But

has she

No, she has

it,sayingthat

it would

that of

all that would

is

open
know

so
can

what

slyand
not

she

"Oh

yes ; I can tellhim."

have you any objection?"
for myself. The questionis,
"None
Would

thing?"

proposedit.

shows
She

not?"

"And

such
proposed
not

1 tell her
me

not

his sister."

"

of

I have

word.

day

course

not

do.

it would
make

But

she talks

Then, when

that with all my eyes

false,
quiteunderstand her,or quite
is doing. I do not feel sure that
so

she wishes it herself."

better from

come

"Because
Whom
else

do, she
expedient.I

not

it

It not

go ?
this ?
would
I

can

some

one

else ?"-

man, you mean?

I^rust,
Harry? To whom can

you

are

young

Would

ask Hugh to do
you have me
perhapsyou think Archie Clavering

Or
be

proper

messenger.

Who

got?"
"

Would

not

his sisterbo better?"

else have

THE

CLAVEEINGS.

69

"How

should I know that she had told him ?

She would tell him her own
she
story"what
herself wished.
And
whatever story she told,
he would not believe it. They know each other
better than you and I know
them.
if
will
do
it."
Harry,
you,
you

It must

be

"
Of course
I will do it. I will try to see
him to-morrow.
Where does he live?"
"
should I know ?
How
Perhaps nobody

knows

of all those with whom

; no one, perhaps,
he associates constantly.
er
They do not live aft-

do they,these foreigners
our
fashion,
?
But
you will find him at his club,or hear of him at
the house in Mount
Street. You will do it
"

eh,Harry?"
"I will."
is my
"That
would

you

good Harry.

do

any

thingI

But

asked

I suppose
Ah!

you.

if
well,it is good to have one friend,
no more.
Look, Harry! if it is not near
o'clock!

Did

you

know

that

here

And
nearlythree hours?
you nothingbut a cup of tea !"

has

one

eleven

had
you
I have

been

given

"What

else do you think I have wanted?"

your club you would have had cigars
and broiled
brandyand water, and billiards,

"At
and

bones, and
know

oysters,and

all about

it. You

tankards
have

of beer.

been very

patient

with

If yon go quick,
me.
perhapsyou will not
be too late for the tankards and the oysters."
"I

have

any tankards or any oysters."

from her
cigarsand brandyand water. there long,gettingup occasionally
Go quick,and perhapsyou may not be too late." seat,once
or twice attemptingto write at her
"
I will go, but not there. One can not change desk,lookingnow
and then at a paper or two,
one's thoughtsso suddenly."
and then at a small picture
which she had,but
' '
Go, then ; and do not change your thoughts.
passing the long hours in thinking in long,
Go and think of me, and pityme.
should she do
thoughts. What
Pityme for sad,solitary
what I have got, but pity me
with herself,
her title,
and her
most
for what I with herself
have lost." Harrydid not say another word,but money ? Would
it be stillwell that she should
took her hand, and kissed it,
some
tempt?
atand then left her. do something,that she should make
or should she,in truth,abandon
all,as
Pityher for what she had lost ! What had
she lost ?
What
did she mean
by that ? He the arch-traitor did, and acknowledge that for
knew well what she meant
her for her foot there could no longer be a restingby pitying
what she had got. What
with
had she lost?
She placeon the earth ? At six-and-twenty,
had lost him.
and
Did she intend to evoke his pity youth, beauty,
wealth
at her
command,
for that loss ? She had lost him.
Yes, indeed. must she despair? But her youth had been
the loss was
Whether
her beauty had lost its freshness ; and
he stained,
or no
to regret,
one
would not say to himself; or rather,
he, of as for her wealth,had she not stolen it? Did
the weight of the theft sit so heavy on
not ; but such as it not
course, declared that it was
incurred. He was
the her,that her brightest
thought was one which
was, it had been
now
her
abandon
it?
to
prompted
propertyof Florence Burton,and,whatever happened,
and
he would be true to her.
As to that idea of givingup her income
Braher
herself
Julia
he
and
himself
also.
again
If
Perhaps
pitied
house,
calling
so, it is
to be hopedthat Florence may
know of bazon,though there was somethingin the poetr
never
such pity. Before he went
and againfor half an
to bed,when
he ry of it which would now
such
hour
she
his
he
was
inserted
it
in
his
relieve
her, yet
hardlyproposed
praying on
knees,
never

"Then

it is

"

"

prayers

that the

might make

him

God
true

in whom

he

believed

in his faith to Florence

Burton.

to herself as a
course
which she had lived had

romance,

to

laugh at

it

reality.The world in
taughther to laughat
even

while she liked its

beauty; and she would tell herself that for such

would
a one
as her to do such a thingas
this,
CHAPTER

XVI.

be to insure for herself the ridicule of all who

knew

THE

KIV^LS.

and

her

name.

her sister?

What
What

would Sir Hugh say,

Count PaterofF and the

What
all the Ongar tribe,
Ladt
Ongak
sat alone,long into, the night,faithful Sophie?
when Harry Clavering
had left her.
She sat who would reap the i-ich harvest of her iusani-

CLAVEEINGS.

THE

70

placein

provideher

latterwould offer to

These

ty ?

would

all agree

ing
destiny.She could bear the idea of walkinto
she
had
a
s
said,
penniless the
forth,
street,without a crust ; but she could not bear
she

when

idea of being laughed at

the

unfit for him?

tainted and

as

gard
There

any

longer any
thing of which

"

it

was

that.

look

not

Julia ?

there.

he

she

for his

as

it,and

less
un-

love,did he
loved her

hand

ately,
passioncalled her

more

once

separate

aware,

he

though

as

to

was

her
pressed

not

kissed

and

got

And

speak

and

Had

still?

thing

no

was

ting them
be her fit-

would

that such

herself

ers
the oth-

asylum,and

convenient

some

should it be that he should

How

not

as
In such a case
love her?
his,love might
her onlyescape was
her,in her position,
hatred
turned
have
been
to
or
solitude
of
her
the
enmity ; but it
It
was
tion
posiby marriage.
called himself her
He
not so with him.
her ; its solitude,
the was
or
which maddened
between
could there be friendship
friend. How
of breakingthat solitude by the presence
necessity

To

of those who

er
Wheth-

odious to her.

were

without

them

love ?

much
with her
terness And
then she thought how
the biton
alone,feeding
With
all his
wealth she might do for him.
or to be comforted
of her own
thoughts,
his
talent
studies
and
was
and
odious
falsenesses
flatteries
Clavering
the
fulsome
Harry
early
by
his way in
not the man, she thought,to make
of Sophie Gordeloup,she could not tell. She
come
the world by hard work ; but with such an inbut she hated
hated herself for her loneliness,
he might shine
she could give him
herself almost worse
for submittingherself to
as
of his nation.
He should
the proud ones
of Sophie Gordeloup. Why
not
the society
among
to Harry Clavering go into Parliament, and do great things. He
give all that she possessed
better to be

It were

income, her

herself,her

"

and

horses
would

not

pastures and

rich

It should

should be lord of all.

the world
oxen, and try whether
she had done
be better to her when

word

of

once, but she would

all be his without

had

She

reserve.

been

nary
merce-

for that

atone

now

She

but

learned to laugh at romance,

had

While

stillshe believed in love.

going
laughed at

was

on

she
settlement,

her

to

as

had

had told herself that

and

romance,

learned

had

hate

to

house

the

and

fields

bargain and wide-spreadcomforts of Ongar Park.

that

had

walked

it all

among
it would
be a

But

her to

She

despised.

alone,and

gloryto

by
self
her-

She
open-handed,undoubtinggenerosity.

so?

him

see

go

Sir

with Giles at his heels,

was
boldlygivinghis
worldlyprosperity
every thing. forth,
Hugh then had stood by her with truth,for orders,changing this and improvingthat. He

he

had

in this world

state

understood

well

into it with

enter

of

health,had

close

make

the

matter, and could

Ongar,in

Lord

zest.

in

been

not

positionto

the dower

to
as
stipulations

his

in the

proposedwife becoming a widow.

"No, no ; we won't stand that,"Sir Hugh had
all hope,of course,
said to the lawyers."We
that Lord Ongar may live long; no doubt he'll
turn
over
a
new
leaf,and die at ninety. But
of his

event

in such

as

case

fettered."

The

this the widow

had

widow

Julia had been made

and

advantage of
had

such

an

farewell to

"

the

Bolton

Harry in

"

and

farewell there with

in
display

she

had

errors, let him

no

do with

and

have treasures,as other

that the flavor would

and

had

women

bade

come

that the ashes would

to

cease

them,

to the apples,

tween
gratebe-

her teeth.
She

still

loved

him, and why

should

it not be so?

could go before God's altar with him without

herself with a lie. She could put
disgracing

bade

the

that she had

same

Street

when

the full
But

arrangement.

in love

would

fettered, She

to understand

for

Gubby and the rest of them what he

pleased! And then the parson'swife would be
the house
to her, and
glad enough to come
would be full of smilingfaces.
And
it might
be that God would be good to her,and that she

be

not

been

be rebuked

Enoch

her hand
in his,and swear
honestlythat she
She had
garden. She had told would worship him and obey him.
herself then, even
then,that she would have been dishonest ; but if he would pardon her for
could she not reward him richlyfor such
better liked to have taken him and his love,if that,
only she could have afforded it. He had not pardon ? And it seemed to her that he had
dreamed that on
leavinghim she had gone pardoned her. He had forgivenit all,and was
from him to her room, and taken out his picture graciousto her,coming at her beck and call,
she

believed

not

must

would

with her

his presence.
of his offer about the

And

she had

thought

over

and

"Yes," she would say;

He would have given me
loved me.
to relieve me, though nothing was

"that

again.

in

now

kissed it,biddinghim
passionwhich she could not

and

money

and
this,
But

to

fatal that she must

now

re-

as

thoughhe
enough

woman

she knew

liked her presence.

to

How

Of

course

could it be otherwise ?

yet he spokenothingto her of his love.

the

old

understand

that he liked it.

old

days there

had

been

with

bashfulness of that kind.

He was
to tremble and doubt before a woman.
had

dayshe

that she

had

been

wondered

"

one

no
man

In those

readyenough
that

him

not

who

ready
just

so

had

from

come

of repaying
it.
to
opportunity
And
she was
and her old lover
again free,
was
again by her side. Had that fatal episode to
so

her

was

he loved her.
In

all he had
to come

She

over
man

She had, at any rate, been

him in return."
loved once
; and she almost wished that she had
have an
that she might now
taken the money,

in her lifebeen

with
sitting

had

his books should know so well how

himself master of a girl's
heart.
ture
Na-

make

had givenhim
some,

lie sat

that art, as

withholdingit from

near

her,droppingonce

she does
many.
and

giveit

But

now

again half

THE

CLAVERINGS.

words of love,hearing
her references to the old
times ; and yet he said nothing.
But

how

he to

was

widow

hnt

was

And

with what

speak of love

of four

face could

who

to one

fearful

standing?
againask for

now

Another

since last it

refused to him ?

It

thus

could she have looked him

his

hour

to her

answer

by

went

waitingfor

was

been

before

her bed,during which

to

hand, knowing that ithad been filled so full maiden

her

attempt,that which she had thoughtof

making. How
face againhad

months'

he

71

her

in the

refusal ?

she took

her
half

self
her-

cruelly-used
asleepin

the

above ; and duringthat time she tried

she arguedto herself when
she excused him in to bring herself to some
steadyresolve. She
that he did not speak to her.
As to her widowhood,would remain in London for the coming months,
was

herself

to

it

Thinking of it,she

was

cast

a,

thing

her weepers

was

of

scorn.

from

her,

chamber

that he

so

would

to her ifhe

mightcome

remain

pleased. She
ject
though she were subof Sophie Gordeloup.

even
there,

and

walked about the room, scorning

the hypocto the daily
attacks
risy
of her dress. It needed that she should submit
She hardly
knew why, but in part she was afraid
herself to this hypocrisy
before the world ; of Sophie. She had done nothingof which Sophie
but he mightknow
for had she not told him f
knew the secret.
She had no cause
to
that the clothes she wore
index of tremble because Sophiemight be offended. The
no
were
"

"

her

of her

feelingor

heart.

She

had

been

had

woman

seen

her in

of her saddest

some

ments,
mo-

enough,base

and could indeed tellof indignities

which
enough,vile enough to sell
herself to that wretched lord. Mean, base, and
would have killed some
But those she
women.
vile she had been, and she now
confessed it; had borne,and had not disgraced
herself in the
but she was not false enough to pretendthat she bearingof them.
But still she was
afraid of
mourned
the man
wife mourns.
as
a
Harry Sophie,and feltthat she could not bringherself
stood
to dismiss her friend from her house.
might have seen enough to know, have underabsolutely
that he need not reshe would remain,because Harry
gard Nevertheless,
enough to perceive,
her widowhood.
in London, and could come
to
was
Clavering
And
If that were
the her there.
to her money
!
To her house
she
as
at Ongar Park
his
as
stumbhng-block,might it not be well that the would never
go again,unless she went
first overture
should come
from her ?
Could
wife. The
place had become odious to her.
she not find words to tell him that it might all Bad as was
her solitude in London, with Sophie
Could
she not say to him, "Harry Gordeloup to break it
be his?
and perhaps with Sophie's
brother to attack her,it was not so bad as
Clavering,all this is nothing in my hands.
Never
Take it into your hands,and it will prosper."the silent desolation of Ongar Park.
Then
it was
that she went
tempted
to her desk,and atagainwould she go there,unless she went there
She did write to in triumph as Harry'swife. Having so far reto write to him.
solved
herself and all
him 11. completed
she took herself at last to her room, and
note, offering
that was hers for his acceptance. In doing so, dismissed her drowsy Phebe
to her rest.
mean

"

"

to be

to be honest, and yet not overbold

and yet not unfemiaffectionate,

Long

she

she strove
;

nine.

hand, while
which

her head
sat,holding

attemptedto

the other

would

not

move

length,quicklyit flew
few lines

am

now

over

across

the
the

with

one

the pen

use

At
paper.
sheet,and a

there for her to peruse.

"
Iknow
she had written,
HarryClavering,"

"

were

fear that others will be able to

Harry,I

have

loved

never

any

one

down

be asked

the reader must

now

at once

into the

to travel

country,that he may

how

Florence

Burton

was

to return

to her father's house

see

passedthe same
evening
Florence's last
at ClaveringRectory. It was
nightthere,and on the followingmorning she
Florence had

not

as

at

Stratton.

factory
yet received her unsatis-

repeat it.

letter from Harry. That was

to arrive
morning. At present she was,
following
under the influence of
her letters,
as regarded
in so esthat one which had been satisfactory
pecial
that the coming letter
a degree. Not

but

the

and women
doing what men
say no
should 4o. Xou may, perhaps,
say so
you so well
; but if you do,I know

do not

And

hard

an
wom-

of

me

that I

you.
that

on

the

"

one

now

on

its route

"

was

of

nature

to

her
or to make
disturb her comfort permanently,
you be my husband ? You well know
I should not make you this offer if I did not intend in any degreeunhappy. "Dear
fellow; he
he is overworkinghimself."
be careful,
that every thing I have should be yours. must
letter would produce
to feel that I can make
It will be pleasant
Even the unsatisfactory
to me

Will

some

the evil I have

for
reparation

done.

As

nothingworse

than

this fro4n her ; but now, at

she
in

a
of which I am writing,
was
you. the moment
that well.
of happy thoughts.
You yourself
know
must
together
Yours,alparadise
spect
if you will have it so, Julia."
Her visit to Claveringhad been in every resuccessful. She had been liked by every
She took the letterwith her,back across the
and took with her one, and every one in return had been liked by
to her seat by the fire,
room

for love,I have

never

loved any

one

but

Claveringhad treated her as though

daughter. The rector had made her
prettypresents,had kissed her,and calltdher
ship
the end of it, his child. With Fanny she had formed a friendthin wispof paper, and, lighting
to endure forever,let destiny
which was
burned to
watched it tillevery shred of it was
"
ash.
If he wants
an
me," she said,"he can separatethem how it might. Dear Fanny! She
time the littleportrait
same
; and there
er.
she sat,lookingat the one and readingthe othfolded the note up into a
At last she slowly
at the

come

and take

me

"

as

other

men

do."

It

was

her.
she

had

Mrs.

were

had

wonderful interview

Fanny
respecting

this very day,and was

her mind because

on

friend what

had

confidence

she could not tellher

learned

had

usual
quieting
dis-

at this moment

happened without

She

breach

of

great deal

matI wish to consult you on a certain ter,

can
give me five minutes of your

"
"

if you
time."
"To

at

consult me, Mr.

Saul?"

hard pressedat
I am
learning " Yes, Miss Burton.
of whom
I can
else
and
I
know
than
one
no
she was
better
instructed woman
a
they present,
if I can not ask it of you.
edge
ask a certain question,
In generalknowlwhom
she had met.
were
if you
me
and in intellect she was Fanny's superior,I think that you will answer
truly,
think
ence,
Florall.
I
do
fool
but
not
at
no
answer
me
was
you would
thoughFanny Clavering
;

though in
Clavering,

"

CLAVERINGS.

THE

72

when

she

had lacked
thither,

came

such

livingin

which

of

matters

most

had

house

flatter me,

thing
some-

"

givento

tell

or

me

me
"By telling
questionfirst. You

want, if it could be again taken from her.

had
excellent a woman
mother was
as
as

dear

sent

forth

and

I do

to her

as

familyof daughtersinto

in Stratton

but the house

the

like Clavering

not

was

had been

Burton
She

knew

that

enough to

under
sojourn

You

now.

tell each

other

every

what

know," said Florence, doubtingas

thing
might best say, but guessingsome-

of that which
"

She

her

derstand.that
un-

such

she

coming.

was

that I asked
will have told you, perhaps,
tell you
to be my
Did she ever
wife.

Florence looked into his face for

?"

few

without

answering him, not knowing

such a question. " I know that

moments

Mrs. Clavering,how to answer

as
Harry'swife ; and, she has told you, said he. "I can see that it
when
therefore,
theypressedher to come
again is so."
"She has told me," said Florence.
in the autumn, she said that she thought she
'
She could understand,
that
would.
Harry
Why should she not ? How could she be
too,
with you so many
different in many thingsfrom the men
who
was
hours, and not tellyou that
had married her sisters,
and she rejoiced
that it of which she could hardlyfail to have the remembrance
a

roof,with such

clever

I do not

"

and this
Rectory in the littleways of living,
Florence

"

thing."

ever

world,
know
that any one ever
not
objectedto
or specially
vulgar;
being ignoi-ant,
a

friends

untruth."

could I flatter you ?"

ask you my
but I must
and Fanny Claveringare

Flatter you ! how

had been
her ; or, I should rather say, something
feel the
givento her of which she would greatly
Her

an

'

woman

"

her fitter to be

make

must

'

was

Poor

so.

But

Florence

Had

must

we

return

for

intei-view which

he been

often present with

more

safer for her.

it might have been

like them

to the

moment

has

been

mentioned.

had
Florence,duringher sojournat Clavering,
intimate with Mr. Saul, as well as with
"And
Fanny. She had given herself for the time
had so far hope."
to the schools,
and matters
heartily
scolded

that Mr.

Saul

had

on

to say farewell to the

children,and walked

as Fanny had
by herself,

When

she

rectory,she

Mr.

met

Green.

Saul,who

to

"

you," he

so

"I

back

finished her work.

half

mile from

knew

the

his way
I should meet

was

her.

If I

were

her

before

not

eyes

return
"

How

"

With

"I

I may

I to

you ?"

answer

the truth.

Only with

the truth.''

say that she thinks that you

think that.
can

secret,but I ask
she will

hope that

love ?"

my
am

should

women

on

you to betrayno
advice.
Can I

it."
forgotten
"Forgotten it!
not

whether

me

Saul!"

want

you for your

ever

tell

as

has

No, MissBurtqp;

have

she

can

Do

you believe that men

forgetsuch thingsas that ?

or

Can

Do
forgether brother?
you ever
you think
No,
said,
might say good-by." peopleever forgetwhen they have loved?
I have not forgotten
her.
Yes,indeed,Mr. Saul for I am going,in I have not forgotten
to-morrow."
that walk which we had down
this lane togethtruth,
er.
"
I wish you were
There are things
which men
never
forget."
staying.1 wish you were
Having you here is Then he paused for an answer.
goingto remain with ns.
and you do more
Florence was
lected,
good here,pervery pleasant,
haps,
by nature steadyand self-colout

the

not

still about

was

' '

her

will you

now,

"Mr.

one

soundly. "It's a great

signthat he thinks well of you,"Fanny had said.
before
"It was
the onlysignhe ever
gave me
On the
he spoke to me
in that sad strain."
afternoon of this,
her last day at Clavering,
she
had gone over
to Cumberly Green with Fanny
occasion

were

it might be otherwise ; but seeingme

daily,
she does from
she
day to day, of course
spoken of me to her friend."
"
Yes, Mr. Saul ; she has told me of it."

derful
won-

become

witli her
progressed

here, if I

from

gone

that I

"

"

"I
have

than you will elsewhere."

will not allow that.
Tou
father and

and
that
forget

mother."

and you will have a hu.sband soon."

if all goes
"not soon; someday, perhaps,

"Yes;

"No,
well.

But

that.* I

mean

mean

to

be back here often before

to be here

littlevisit,
if mamma

can

in

October,justfor a

spare me."

"Miss
serious

Burton,"he said,speakingin a
all his tones were
but
tone
serious,

which

he

"

now

adoptedwas

more

solemn

to be

she at
before

felt that she

once

was

bound

she

gave him
any answer.
wary
She had half fancied once
or twice that Fanny
thoughtmore of Mr. Saul than she allowed even
herself to know.
And
Fanny, when she had
of such a marriage,
spoken of the impossibility
had

alwaysbased

that

very
that

peopleshould
of living a reason
her prudence,was

than

wait

"

as

the
not

the
on
impossibility

marry
which to

without the

fact

means

Florence,with

all

sufficient.Fanny might
she also intended to wait. Latterly,
not

THE

CLAVERINGS.

73

than once
?
Even Julia Brabazon
to loved Hari-y
too, Fanny had declared more
Clavering
Florence her conviction that Mr. Saul's passion
sold herself to
a creature
so base that she had
had been a momentary insanity
which had altogether such a thingas Lord Ongar for money and a title,
but so grand in her gaitand ways, so Florence
passedaway ; and in these declarations
Florence had half fancied that she discovered
had been told,
that she seemed to despise
the earth on
some
which
she trod
she had
tingeof regret. If it were so, what was
even
to say to Mr. Saul ?
she now
Then
loved him.
as Florence
thoughtof what
"

"

think

"You

ued,
then.Miss Burton,"he continJulia Brabazon might have
? I ask
no chance of success
she had lost,
she wondered

that I have

"

because if I felt certain that this

question,
I should be wrong
so
to remain
quitecertain,
It has been my firstand onlyparhere.
ish,

the
was

I could not

and

if I

But

But

I should become

to

remain

here

unfit for my work.

I
shall be better away."

comingthe
be-

joy,her

Brabazon

of what

sadlyvicious.
cess,
givenher her sucly
triumph! It was sure-

vice had

great

for her to deal

not

Julia
hopelessly,

so

that woman's

her

leave it without bitter sorrow.

were

born

women

"

had, and

that there could be

hardlywith

for her who

"

was

the faults of
all
enjoying

robbed
the other ! Julia Brabazon had been her very
so, and
"But
why ask me, Mr. Saul?"
good friend.
I think that you can tellme.''
"Because
But why had this perfect
lover come
to her,
"But
wliy not ask herself? Who can tell to one so small,so trifling,
so littlein the world's
as
truly

you so
"You

sure

were
"

she

would

That

do ?"

can

advise

not

that she would

is what

am

account
to do

me

that if yon

rejectme?"

I would

of
blessings

she,and givento
Oh, Harry

as

of his love?
could

advise."

"

she do "for him

Miss Burton.
I will take your advice.
Now,
You say you
God bless you.
may
will be here in the autumn
tumn
; but before the auI shall probablyhave left Clavering. If

she took out

good-by,and

dear

that would

Harry! what
be

return

for such

that letter that had

and

her all the treasure

great goodness? Then

ter,
lethis last letter,
that satisfactory

good enough

"

those faults had

which

read

it and

declared

been

read

it

to

be fect,
pershe

again. No;

did not want Fanny or any one else to tell her

farewells will be for very long,
but I shall that he was
true.
Honesty and truth were
intercourse hei-e." written on
to be
alwaysremember our pleasant
every line of his face,were
Then
he went
toward
on
Cumberly Green ; heard in every tone of his voice,could be seen
so, our

she walked into the vicarage in every sentence

his hand.
that came
from
well
She knew
Dear Harry ; dearest Harry !
thinking that no girlhad ever
been loved by a more
true.
that he was
single-hearted,
ed
pure-mindThen
she also sat down and wrote to him, on
gentleman than Mr. Saul.
As she sat alone in her bedroom,
five or six that her last nightbeneath
his father's roof
hours after this interview,
she felt some
self
regret wrote to him when she had nearlypreparedherthat she should leave Claveringwithout a word
for her bed ; and honestly,
out of her full
ed
to Fanny on the subject. Mr. Saul had exactheart,thanked him for his love. There was no

and Florence,
as
was
grounds,

"

promiseof

no

secrecy from

her ; he

not

was

that she should be coy with

need

him

now,

for

"Dear
promises. But she felt not she was his own.
Harry,when I think
and
the less that she would be betrayingconfidence
of all that you have done for me in lovingme
that I can
to speak,and it might even
be that her speaking choosingme
for your wife,I know
the matter
would do more
harm
than good. never
on
you."
pay you all that I owe
doubtless witli Mr. Saul,
rival claimants for the
Her sympathieswore
the two
Such were
but she could not therefore say that she thought hand of Harry Clavering.
Fanny ought to accept his love. It would be
best to say nothing of the matter,and to allow
his own
Mr. Saul to fight
battle.
XVn.
CHAPTER

such

to exact

man

turned

she

Then

to

her

own

matters, and

.that every thing was pleasant.

good the world had been to her to give

there she found

How

lier such
owned

as

love,when

call such

!
Harry Clavering

She

all her heart the excellence of being

with

in

make

lover

man

her

girlmight be

between
comparisons

though she knew

She

own.

that she

him
was

allowed

could
and

Mr.

to

but

not

Saul,

making them

on

HER

LET

THAT

KNOW

YOD'rE

THERE.

had passedsince the eveningwhich

A WEEK
and he had
Harry had spent in Bolton Street,
He
had
not againseen
professed
Lady Ongar.
for not going there
to himself that his reason
the non
was
performanceof the commission
-

which

ence
had givenhim with referPateroff. He had not yet succeeded
in catchingthe count, though he had

Lady Ongar
to

Count

hardlyworthy of her thoughts.

and twice
plain,uncouth, with littlethat twice asked for him in Mount Street,
It appeared
that the
Mall.
Pall
in
the
club
the
of
about
him
at
was
brightness
bright
except
and was very
to Mount
went
Street,
his piety. Harry was
like the morning star. count never
There was
other
some
He looked,and walked, and spoke as though rarelyseen at the club.
did
a
nd
not
he
which
than
club
frequented,
Harry
common
he were
something more
godlike
ry's
and the ring know what club. On both the occasions of HarHis very voice created joy,
men.
had
the servant
the music of
Street,
as
to Florence
callingin Mount
of his laughter
was
pointsthat

Mr. Saul

were

was

"

the heavens.

What

woman

would

not

have

asked him

to go

up

and

see

madame

; but he

74

CLAVERINGS.

THE

had

declined to so,
He

he

was,

that
pleading

however, driven

go direct to

must

he

ried.
hur-

was

resolve that

to

otherwise

Sophie,as

he

could find no means

of doing as he had promised.
She probably
might put him on the scent
of her brother.
But

there had

had
had

not

been another

acknowledgedit

not

ry
Har-

why

reason

Street,though he

to Bolton

gone

He

himself.

to

did

not dare to trust himself with

Lady Ongar.

feared that he would

on

and

be led

betrayFlorence

to

sacrificehis

at Julia's feet and

was
Hugh Clavering

with

Hugh

was

London,

was

man

up in

now

Sir
his brother Archie.
who strained an income, that

him

and sufficientfor a country genman, to the very utmost, wanting to get out of
to give. He
than it could be made
it more
was
handsome

was

not

debt,or indulgehimself with

to be in

man

to be paidfor
presentpleasures

taughthim

funds

was

there
shillings

honesty,in spitemany

out of the

of a worldly
possessed
and
kept him from that folly,
the value of independence.
to appreciate
fully
But he was
ever
rememberinghow
He

of future years.
wisdom
which

throw himself

to

"

He

self
betrayhim-

to

Sir
and

in

are

pound, and

how

contrary. He felt many pence in a shilling.He had a great eye

into his
and looked very closely
accustomed but repentant to discount,

of all his resolutions to the

when

there

the

as

He searched for cheapshops; and some

began to say of him that he had found a
ation cheap establishment for such wines as he did
glassoffered before his lips. From such temptknows
In playingcards and in
not drink himself!
as that the repentantdram-drinker
never
that he must
high,
fly. But though he did not go bettinghe was very careful,
playing
neither was
after the fire-waterof Bolton Street,
never
thing
riskingmuch, but hoping to turn somehe able to satisfy
himself with the cool fountain
by the end of the year, and angry with
to

having resolved

when
might feel,

dram-drinker

he is called upon
abstain,

the full

to sit with

bills.
men

He was
wretched at this himself if he had not done so.
of Onslow Crescent.
he was, but one whose heir
ill-satisfied
with himself and others,and
man
Burton.
for
Cecilia
not
was
no
fitting
companion
quarrelwith him, if only he
The world,he thought,had used him JU.
He
enough. He had alwayshad a
time

could
she

have

been

when

to Julia Brabazon

true

well-nighpenniless.It was
that he had regardedher.
money
was

her

An

"

been

now

free

with which

man

he had

free from

"

those

that he

for her love and

would

have

soughther.

fault that he had

loved

false to

that she had

and

him, and

thi'own

herself before

he

had

in

known

back

come

Or had. he
ventured to think
Julia had

Or could he help himself

that his love

whom

now

him?

because he had
wrong
that he loved another when
him ?

Was

money
it his

her, that she had been

been

found

he

chains

it would

for her

not

Had

for her

again have asked this woman

love,in spiteof her past treacheiy
; but
been

for

truth
first?

ed
desert-

if he

belongedto
The

world

now

her
had

house

moderate

before him.

season

come

; or,

as

had

been
latterly

And

season.

Lady

meditatingwhether
BerkeleySquare might not be

in

arrangement

was

would
than

more
considerably

For

him.

longed
be-

to pass in this year that

at
not
to come
to London

Claveringwas
and that Sir Hugh
house

soon

BerkeleySquare,which

duringonlya part of the

case,
it had

The

die

house in town,

lived
Lady Claveringhad usually

thereduringthe
now

in

probably

would

him, and had belongedto his father

to

Stratton,the

fettered himself at

he would
have

not

unamiable

would

himself, he

make
a

all,
the
let.

the diflerence of

thousand

would

take

year

to

lodgings.

idea of givingup London

had no
in the
But why keep up a
springand earlysummer.
house in BerkeleySquare,as Lady Clavering
He

did not
He

use

it?

partlydriven

was

to this

by

desire to

been

of his brother.
When
very cruel to him, and he could not go to shake off the burden
Crescent
Onslow
and behave
Archie chose to go to Claveringthe house was
there prettily,

hearingthe praisesof
of
He

knew

rightcourse,
him

Florence

with

all the

dor
ar-

discreet lover.

but

once

fact of his

well
and

what

yet

to him.

That

and
Hugh'sposition,
would

he did

communicate

open

not

to

have

he made

it worth

follow it.

been

Let

his

brother.

Archie

Lady Ongar

the

when

he

was

the

was

of
necessity

Sir

he could not avoid it unless

his while

with his
to quarrel
obedient,
ringingthe bell
told,
lookingafter the horses,
spying
perhapssavingas much money as he

engagement, and the danger would about,and

be over, thoughmuch, perhaps,of the misery cost. But the

was

matter

was

ley
very different in Berke-

Let him write to her and menmight remain.

tion
Square. No elder brother is bound to find
the fact,
littleimmaterial
breakfast and bed for a younger brother in London.
bringingit up as some
and she would
understand
And yet from his boyhoodupward Archie
accident,
what he meant.
But this he abstained from
had made good his footing
in Berkeley
Square.
to himself that he
In the matter
deed
of the breakfast.
doing. Though he swore
Sir Hugh had inwould
dash
not
not touch the dram, he would
of late got the better of him.
The servants
down
the full glassthat was
held to his lips.were
no
kept on board wages, and there were
He went about the town very wretchedly,
ing
lookBut
household accounts.
there was
Archie's
for the count, and regardinghimself as a room, and Sir Hugh felt this to be a hardship.
marked
The presentwas not the moment
out for sorrow
man
for actually
by the
specially
cruel hand of misfortune. Lady Ongar,in the driving
forth the intruder,
for Archie was
now
'mean time,was
under
his brother's
him, and was waxing up in London, especially
expecting
angry and becomingbittertoward him because auspices. And if the business on which Captain
he came
not.
now
was
intentcould be brought
Clavering
"

'I

THE

CLAVEEINGS.

75

"
the standingin the world
a successful issue,
What
that ?
matters
Engagementscan be
would be very much
of that young man
altered. broken as well as made.
You
have this great
he would be a brother of whom
Then
Sir Hugh advantageover every one except him, that you
might be proud ; a brother who would pay his can go to her at once without doingany thing
That girlthat Harry has in
way, and settle his pointsat whist if he lost out of the way.
them, even to a brother. If Archie could induce tow may perhapskeep him away for some time."
"I tell you what,Hugh, you might as well
ed
Lady Ongar to marry him, he would not be calland look call with me
the firsttime."
upon any longerto ringthe bells,
"
after the stable. He would
have bells of his
So that I may quarrel
with her,which I certainly

to

own, and stables too,and

of his own
to ring them

perhapssome
and

was
therefore,
expulsion,

The

tillArchie should

have made

not

to take

his

attempt upon

Archie

place
"

Sir Hugh would admit

whereas
Archie himself seemed
the iron

of

No,

me.

ter
you'dbet-

giveit up."
"Afraid!

Lady Ongar.
But

should do,or, rather,she with

: if you'reafraid to go alone

captain

look after them.

She

delay,her

afraid!"

I'm not

can't eat you.

that with

Remember

needn't stand on your p'sand q's,

as
to think that you would with another woman.
She knows
strik- what she is about,and will understand what she
not yet quitehot enoughfor ing.

was

It would

be

postpone the work

he
better,

had

no

to
suggested,

till Julia could

be

coaxed

you

has

to

give.

get

well

as

All I

what

as

she is

expectedto

say is that if she acceptsyou,

will consent that she shall go to Clavering
much
she pleasestill the marriage
as
can

in the autumn.
He
to Clavering
could Hermy
he thought,
down
do the work better,
at Clavering
as
But Sir Hugh was
gether takes place. It couldn't be done, I suppose,
altothan in London.
tillafter a year ; and in that case
she shall be
of a different opinion. Though he had
down

alreadyasked
when

his

the idea had

that she

sister-in-law

to

married
Clavering,

Here was
glad
up, he was
declined the visit. Her coming be led to the

had

very well if she acceptedArchie ; but

he did not want to be troubled with any renewal

might be

Lord

responsibility
respecting
her,if,as was
she should rejecthim.
The
probable,
stilllooked askance at Lady Ongar, and

prospectfor Julia Brabazon to

ried
altar,at which she had mar"

same

Ongar, by

Archie

twelve
Clavering,

after her firsthusband's

months

death,and

tle
lit-

years after her firstwedding !

did not quite
of the position
peculiarity

of his
more

Clavering."

at

first come

than

more

The

two

make itself
apparenteither to Hugh or to Archie ;
of a but there was
wish to take up the armor
one
pointwhich did suggestitself
her
brother
in
favor.
If
married
the
Archie
to
at that moment.
her,
paladin
younger
"I don't suppose there was
Archie would be the paladin; though,indeed,
any thingreally
in that case
no
paladinwould be needed.
wrong, eh ?"
"
"
She has onlybeen a widow, you know, four
Can't say, I'm sure,"
said Sir Hugh.
world

Hugh did

not

for delay.
months,"said Archie,pleading

"

"

It

Because

"

"

think it very odd if any fellow came

over."
was
my before the season

"Archie, you
Archie
was

could

angry.

see

are

I don't know

"
"

and

by his brother's brow that Hugh

and
say thingsthat for folly

beyond belief. If you can't

of Julia's position,
I'm not
peculiarities

absurdityare
the

pointthem out to you."

of course, havingso
She is peculiar,

money, and that

for her life. Of

months,Hugh
"

no

placenear
course

own

Clavering."

that

she

his

weight

own

put her in the

much

was

the

"

and
weigh themselves,
say;
their own
know
weight,and shove themselves
aside as being too lightfor any real service in
This they do, though they may
the world.
but

fluster with

they do

their
in the

noses

try to look

as

voices,and walk about with

air,and swingtheir canes, and

largeas they may.

it ; and

and theyknow
large,
and
till theyring the bells,

If you wait
are
buzzinground her you won't
have a chance.
You'll find that by this time
and
next
year she'll be the top of the fashion,
if not engagedto you, she will be to some
one
if Harry were
else. I shouldn't be surprised
after her again."
"
down at
He's engagedto that girl
we
saw
her.

he

"

men

their

If it had been four daysit need have made

difference. A home, with some
to supone
port

And

how
How
he did this
of the two.
Archie Claveringdo do it I can
as

heavier

ing
go-

much

Guilford all her

discovered

fair accuracy.
and he found
scales,
such

it'speculiar. But four

her,is every thingto

put himself into the scales and

with

not

!"

lots of fellows

he

manner

see

to
"

I wouldn't

were

and
weighedhimself,

"

fool,said Sir Hugh

about that.

up to Her-

You

''

"If

I shouldn't like

trouble myself
you
Judge not, thatyou be not judged."
in it at
whether
there is much
of delicacy
""Yes,that's true,to be sure,"said Archie ;
and on that pointhe went forth satisfied.
all."
"I don't see why she isn'tto be treated like
But the job before him was
a
peculiar
job,
If you were
well knew.
In some
to die,you'd and that Archie
cable
inexpliany other woman.
won't be delicate ; will it ?"
"
Delicate !" said Sir Hugh.

look
and

shove

themselves

look

on

one

They do not
consequently

after the

horses,
that the

side,so

forth and do the

weightsmay come
who had dulyweighArchie Clavering,
ed
could hardly
bringhimself to believe
himself,

heavier
work.

that

Lady Ongar

would

be fool

and farm
Archie

enough

year, with
and giveit all to him
in Surrey,

hitfi"! Seven thousand

to marry
a

who had, so
Clavering,

to say,

no

"

park
him,

weight

THE

76

CLAVERESrOS.

for one, could

all! Archie Clavering,
bringhimself to believe it.

not

at

and
found

though Hermy

by

out

had

Archie

as

was,

scales,lighterthan

his invisible

for

her,

it."

I know

so

ble;
thought it possiyet Hermy, her sister,

But

vigorously. " Hugh managed all that

"
She don't lose any of it because she enters
does she ?"
herself for runningagain,
"Not
a shilling.That's the beauty of it."

"
ter's
Was
somethingof her sisyou ever sweet on her before ?"
Oh laws,
"What!
before Ongar took her?
was
by no means
She hadn't a rap, you know, and knew
of weight,with money,
no.
light who was a man
well as any girlin London."
his feet how to spendmoney
as
and position,
and firm ground beneath
"Faint
he also thoughtthat it might be so.
"It's all to begin then,Clawy; all the upto
fair lady,"said Archie
heart never
won
a
hill

Julia,stillshe must

know

And

nature.

who

Hugh,

"

"

Iiimself a dozen
The

Kag.

Rag

times,as he walked down

his club,and there
was
could

he

friend there whom

to

the

was

work
''

tially.
confiden-

consult

to

be done

Well,yes

?"

; I don't know

dles.
Dooup-hill.

about

?"
do you mean
by up-hill
thousand a year
that seven

What

"I mean
ain't
No ; faint heart never
won
a fair lady;
to be pickedup merelyby trotting
they who repeat to themselves that adage, usually
easy
tryingtherebyto get courage, alwayshave faint along the flat. And this sort of work is very
I take it unless,
hearts for such a work.
Harry Claveringnever
up-hill
generally,
you know, a
thoughtof the proverbwhen he went a-wooing. fellow has a fancy for it. If a fellow is really
he likes it,I suppose."
But CaptainBoodle of the Rag, for Captain sweet on a girl,
"She's a doosed handsome
Boodle
always lived at the Rag when he was
woman,
you know.
but

"

Newmarket,

not at

Boodle

knew

Boodle

was

Boodle

and

Boodle

had

"

Doodles."
"I don't know
any thing about it,except
thai I suppose Ongar wouldn't have taken her
if she hadn't stood well on her pasterns,and

He would
go to
the campaign with him.
had
arrange
of that hectoring,
none
domineering much

Hugh
with

gar'smoney
for his

in

or

tain
Harborough Capthing or two, and Captain

quitethrew

never

his brother.

along,resolved

went

other race-courses,

Market

his fast friend.

way which
intercourse
he

at

or

neighborhoodof

the

would

she

that when

Lady On-

She

he had

give his

of her

know

Archie, as

his,and when

was

wife,he

off in his

And

sister

her.

never

brother's

your

"

thought
wife,you

is,in the way of looks. No doubt

and
that's a great thing.
straight,

that

"

nins

side of the post."

go the wrong
for running straight,
let me
alone

won't

"As

ess
count-

elder brother

breedingabout

some

for

that."

"
cold shoulder.
Well, now, Clawy, I'll tell yon what my
chie ideas are.
When
Boodle was playingpoolat the Rag, and Ara man's
tryinga young filly,

joinedhim
admits

his hands can't be too light. A touch too much

ly
; but poolis a game which hardof confidential intercourse as to proposed will bring her on her haunches,or throw her

wives,and Archie was obligedto remain

all the afternoon.
He cunningly,
quieton that subject
however, lost a littlemoney to Boodle,
for Boodle liked to win,and engaged himself to
dine at the
dinner

almost

in

step. She

of her

iron in her
which
about.

mouth.

requires

to

man

a.

But

should
That's

hardly feel
the

know

the

of work

sort

well what

he's

his friend.

Their

got to do with a trained

that
mare, I always choose that she shall know

unless
silence,

when

I'm there !

table with

same

they ate

out

when

Do

I've

you

understand

me

?"

"Yes; I understand you. Doodles."

"I always choose that she shall know
that
I'm there."
And
peated
Captain Boodle, as he rethese manly words with a firm voice,
of the viands.
as desirability
shame in not havingthis put out his hands
as
though he were
handling

other
made
to each
or
they abused the cook,some
pithysuggestionas to the expediencyof
this or that delicacy,
in
bearingalwayssteadily
view

the

cost

Boodle
that because

or

as

well

had

no

it was

dear.

To

dine with the

luxury at the smallest expense was

belongingto him, and of which
proficiency
was
very proud.
utmost

he

the horse's rein.

"Their mouths
fine then,and theygenerally
want
to the

up

bit,d'ye see

has been

? up to
trained to her

are

never

to be

the bit.

so

brought
When

work,and knows
But after a while the cloth was
ter
gone, and the what she's at in her running,she's all the betheads of the two men
for feeling
fellow's hands
she's going.
were
a
as
broughtnear together
Boodle did not speak She likes it rather.
the small table.
It givesher confidence,
over
tillhis brother captainhad told his story, and makes
her know
where she is. And
look
a word
had pointedout all the advantagesto be gainto her fences,
ed,
here,Clawy, when she comes
and
give her her head ; but steadyher firat,
explainedin what peculiarway the course
and made
the whole thing make
her know
that you're there.
Damme
lay open to himself,
;
whatever you do,let her know that you'rethere.
clear to his friend's eye.
"They say she's been a little queer, don't There's nothing like it. She'll think all the
counselor.
of the fellow that's piloting
more
And
her.
they?" said the friendly
"
Of course
look here,Clawy; ride her with spurs.
ways
Alpeopletalk,you know."
"
I
ride a trained mare
with spurs.
Let her
Talk,yes ; they're
talkinga doosed sight,
a

mare

should say.

There's

no

mistake about the

ey,
mon-

suppose?"
"Oh, none,"said Archie,
shakinghis head
I

know that they're

if she tries to get
on ; and
her head,give 'em her. Yes, by George,
give
'em

her."

And

CaptainBoodle

in his energy

THE

CLAVERINGS.

77

twisted

himself in his chair,and

said Doodles,
close
broughthis her know that you're
there,"
round,so that it could be seen by Archie. into Archie Clavering's
ear
damme, let her
;
Then he produceda sharpclick with his
Archie started and
tongue, know that you'rethere."
and made
the peculiar
jerk with the muscle of did not like the surprise,
breath in
or the warm
his legs,wherebyhe was
accustomed
to evoke
his ear ; but he forgavethe offense for the wisdom
heel

"

the

of his
agility
at
triumphantly

Clavvy, and

horses. After that he looked

his friend. "Give
'em her,

of the words
Then

he

that had

walked

been spoken.
by himself,
repeating
invaluable teachingsof his

home

she'll like you

the better for it. againand againthe

it."
friend.
It was
thus that CaptainBoodle instructed
his friend Archie Clavering
how to woo
Lady
She'll know

Ongar;

then that you

mean

and

Archie,as he listened to his friend's

wisdom, felt that he had learned a
"That's
the way I'lldo it.Doodles,"
great deal.
he said,"and
word I'm very
upon
my
much
to you."
obliged
words

"

of

That's

CHAPTER
CAPTAIN

XVIIL

CLAVERING

MAKES

HIS

FIKST

TEMPT.
AT-

the way,

breakfast on
DcEiNG
the followingday
you
depend on it.
may
that you're
there. Let her know
from the hour of one
which means
tilltwo, for
that you'rethere.
the glasses
She's done the filly
of iced gin and water
had been many
work
Archie
before,you see, and it's no good tryingthat
Clavering was making up his mind
Let

"

her know

"

again."

that he would

believed that he
CaptainClaveringreally
learned
way

good deal,and

to set

about

that he

the work

knew

now

before him.

had
the

What

Bolton

to be admitted.

make

once.

He

would

day,and

make

an

beginat

Street on

that

If not admitted

another

to

go

attempt

he
to-day,

would

attempt to-morrow, and, if still

sort of spurs

he was
to use, and how he was
to
on, I don't think he did know ; but
detail as to which he did not think it

he would write a letter ; not a letter

unsuccessful,
which accordingto Archie's
an
containing
offer,
that was
a
ideas would
her know
not be letting
that
there in a manner
sufficiently
necessary to consult his adviser. He sat the he was
potential,
whole eveningin the smoking-room,very silent,
but a letter in which he would explainthat he
for wishing to see his
drinkingslowlyiced gin and water; and the had very grave reasons
he drank the more
and dear connection.
more
assured he felt that he near
Lady Ongar. Soon

put them

now

understood

the way

attempt the work

in which

before him.

he

"Let

was

to

her know

after two

he sallied out, and

He was
aware

he also went

hair-dresser's.

to

that in

doing so
the letter,

I'm

he said to himself,shakinghis head

he was
there,"
hardlyobeyinghis friend to
should observe him ; as this sort of operation
rather under
gently,so that no one
wpuldcome
with a light
the head of handling a filly
"yes,let her know I'm there." At this time
ly
touch ; but he thought that he could in this
CaptainBoodle,or Doodles as he was familiarhad again ascended
the billiard- way, at any rate,do no harm, if he could only
to
called,
room,

and

that I'm

was

hard at work.

"Let

her know

the instructionshe had

remember

there,"repeated Archie,mentally. in

Every thingwas

contained

in

that

precept.

presence
three when

of the trained
he found

himself

received when
It

mare.

was

nearly

in Bolton

Street,
Lady Ongar might be

And

he, with his hands before him on his having calculated that
knees,went throughthe process of steadying
a
more
probablyfound at'home then than at a
horse with the snaffle-rein,
stead
to the door,injusttouching the later hour. But when he came
of knocking,he passedby it. He began
curb,as he did so, for security.It was but a
motion of his fingers,
and no one
that he had not yet made
could see it, to remember
up his
but it made
him confident that he had learned
mind
he would bring it about
by what means
"
his lesson.
he repeated
know
that he was
Up to the bit,"
certainly
; "by that she should
little turn up the street,
George,yes; up to the bit. There's nothing there. So he took
like it for a trained mare.
Give her head,but away from Piccadilly,
througha narrow
passage
steadyher." And Archie,as the words passed that there is in those parts,and by some stables,
his memory
and were
and again to Bolton
into Piccadilly,
almost pronounced, and down
across
had made
seemed
to be flying
over
some
successfully
digiousStreet;during which little tour he
pro".

fence.
in the

He

and
saddle,

legs. That was

the spurs! He
She should know

leaned himself back

seemed

to hold

little up

firm with his

his mind

duty to

that

the way to do it. And

She
then
must
would
not
forgetthe spurs. know that he was
his firstvisit.
that he wore
a spur, and that, this,

if necessary, he would
it. Then
use
little
his
click
a
with
gave
tongue, and

it could

teach her that

hardlybecome

greatlesson

on

this

his
sion.
occa-

undoubtedlybe

taught to
taught on
That lesson should quickly
and,althoughhe had almost
there,but

not

so

he, too, precedehis offer ;

acute
hoped in the intervalbetween two of his beakers
observer might have seen the motion of his heel. of gin and water on the previousevening that
and win it altogether
Two hours after that he was
stillsitting
in he might ride the race
the smoking-room,chewing the end of a cigar,during this very morningvisit he was about to
he had begun to
when
Doodles
down
victorious from the make, in his cooler moments
came
billiard-room. Archie was half asleep,
and did refiect that that would hardly be practicable.
before she would
must
"Let! The mare
of his friend.
not notice the entrance
get a gallop
an

be in

door,intendingto givethe
should find her in to-day.

at the

gallopif he

He gave his name, and was shown

into Lady Ongar'sdrawing-room.
was

not

but
there,

she

soon

came

mare

at once

up

Lady Ongar

down, and

with

smile

for

her

en-

Gaptala Clavering

tered the

expected that she was to meet another man.

had come
to her
she thought,
Harry Clavering,
"I'll be down
at last.
at once,"Lady Ongar
had said,
the girland then standing
dismissing

So Archie

condition to be broughtout.

knocked
a

CLAVEEINGS.

THE

78

makes

her face and with

moment

before her mirror

hair,obliterated as

far

as

as

it

she smoothed

might

be pos-

hia firstAttempt

sible the

uglinessof her

cap, and shook out the

A countess, a widow, a woman
servant
who took the captain's
of the world who had seen
name, and the maidenough to make
but her composed under all circumstances,
who
carried it up to her mistress,
would
one
the gentlemanbefore she did say
who did not see
a trained mare
had called her
as Doodles
gar,
she stood before her glassdoubting
and trembling
mistake,and Lady Onso, there had arisen some
down from her chamber above.
like a girl,
when she heard that Harry
as she came
an

room

outstretched

hand.

on

Between

the

ant
man-serv-

folds of her dress.

"

"

THE
was
Clarering

CLAVEEINGS.

for her
waiting

some

of this trouble

below. We mayhave spared herself

had she known
the real

name

of her visitor.

Then, as

down

the

tliat she

surmise

would

she

she reflectedhow
stairs,

him.

He

came

she would

ceive
re-

had

"

well how

his turn

playthat part.

to

to show

now

if there

was

ever

between
friendship

some

Yes ; it

eagerness

to be any

them.

was

of friendship,

thingmore than
she changed all

But

door.

she put her hand upon

the lock of the
honest and
She would be honest to him

true.

She

should

know

this

as

"

in truth

was

it.

What

gladto
cared

see

she

him, and

he

for the

now

he told Doodles
must

the

go

from that which

languagesomewhat
differing
Doodles
had used,that her filly
dayswere gone
this

that .she

was

now

passedthrough her

trained

mind

as

mare.

her

hand

All
was

the door ; and then she opened it,with a

face and ready hand,to find herself in
smiling
on

the presence

"

know.

Then

the
something

been

he

knew

that he

she bowed
matter

is

nonsense

again
.

with them

at Claveringsince you
came
home,
if I can
find out what it
Julia ; but hang me
"It ain't Hermy;
silent.
is!" Stillshe was
that I must say. Hermy always
speaksof you as

thoughthere

had

This

assurance,
to the
flattering

been

wrong."
any tiling
have been
say, must
ladywhom he was about to

never
we

may

court.

"Hermy

alwaysgood to

was

me, "said

Lady

Ongar,smiling.

"By George,she alwaysdoes. If there's

any thingwrong, it'sbeen with Hugh ; and,by
George,I don't know what it is he was up to

in

by,and

"

"Stuff and

all down

and the usual coynessways of women

es
of feminine coquetry ? She told herself also, when

common

afterward

himself.

on

mischief,
you

slowly "There's

staid away
from her,and
she would be cold to him
cold and formal as
the railway
she had been on
platform.She
knew

79

first came

you

; of course
"

you

home.
know

It wasn't

my

thought that any thingwas

CaptainClavering."
doing,
"I think Hugh had been losingmoney,
never

ing
do-

that."
your
I do

bear with a sore head

in the
justat that time. There was no living
house with him.
I dare say Hermy may have
indeed.

He

was

like

of
CaptainArchie Clavering.
serve told you all about that."
captainwas sharp-sighted
enough to obthe change in her manner.
The change,
"Hermione
is not by nature
tive
so communicaas you
indeed,was visible enough,and was such that
are. CaptainClavering."
''
it at once
knocked
out
of Archie's breast some
Isn't she ? I should have thoughtbetween
sons sisters ; but of course
that's no
business of
portionof the courage with which his friend's lesThe outstretched hand
had inspired
him.
mine."
Again she was silent,
awfullysilent,
the smile gave placeto a
fell slowlyto her side,
and he became
that he must
either get
aware
look of composeddignity
which made Archie at up and go away or carry on the conversation
To do either seemed
feel that the fate which called upon him to himself.
to be equally
once
in itself hard.
and for a while he sat there almost
And she difficult,
was
countess
a
woo
walked slowlyinto the room
before she spoketo gaspingin his misery. He
was
quite aware
that as yet he had not made
her know
that he
him, or he to her.
"
!" she said at last,
and
there.
He was
was
not there,as he well knew,
Captain Clavering
of surprise
than of welin his friend Doodles' sense
of the word.
"At
there was
much
come
more
in her words as she uttered them.
is
any rate,there isn't any good in quarreling,
Julia ?" he said at last. Now that he had
"Yes, Lady On
Julia,that is; I thought there,
,
I might as well come
asked a question,
and call,
we
as I found
surelyshe must speak.
"
weren't to see you at Clavering
I think,"
when
There
is great good sometimes,
we
were
all there at Easter." When
she had been living
said she,"in peopleremaining apart and not
in his brother's house as one of the family seeing each other.
Sir Hugh Claveringhas
he had called her Julia,
deed,
Inwith me, that I am
The
as Hugh had done.
not quarreled
aware.
since my
there
have
been
no
connection between them had been close,
and it
marriage
had come
to him to do so.
of quarreling
between
But I think
He had
us.
means
naturally
thoughtmuch of this since his present projectit quiteas well that he and I should not come
and had stronglyresolved
had been initiated,
together."
" But
vering."
not to lose the advantageof his former familiarity.
he particularly
wants
you to go to ClaHe had very nearlybroken down
at the
"Has
he sent you here as his messenger?"
had
onset,but,as the reader will have observed,
"
recovered himself.
Sent me ! oh dear no ; nothingof that sort.
"
You are very good,"she said ; and then as
If
I have come
hook.
on
altogether
my own
he
find
must
he had been some
time standingwith his right Hugh wants
some
a.
messenger
hand presentedto her,she justtouched it with one
else. But you and I were
alwaysfriends,
her own.
at this assertion she opened her
you know"
"There's nothingI hate so much
as stuff
largeeyes widely,and simplysmiled; "and I
To this remark she thoughtthat perhapsyou might be glad to see
and nonsense,"
said Archie.
quiet.Captain me if I called. That was all."
simplybowed,remainingawfully
feltthat
in truth awful.
"You
her
silence
are
was
very good.CaptainClavering."
Clavering
"
She bad alwaysbeen good at talking,
and he had
I couldn't bear to think that j'ou should be
paused for her to say something; but when she here in London, and that one shouldn't see any
"doosed
bowed to him in that stiff manner
thingof you or know any thingabout you. Tell
do for you ?
stiff she was
and
me
doosed
stiftj
impudent
too,"
now, is there any thingI can
;
"

The

"

"

"

"

CliAVERINGS.

THE

you want
any body to settle any thingfor
you in the city?"
"I think not,CaptainClayering;thank you

Do

daisies.

very much."
"Because

I should be

so

deed.lie.
I should in-

happy;

much

nothingI should like so

myself useful in some way.
thingnow ? There must be so

There's
to make

as

his lady left alone in the country?

lady! But your English ladies like the
country. They are fond of the fields and the

"And

Poor

there any
to be looked

about

after

"

"JVIylawyerdoes

and

money

Isn't

they say

; I like the

; but I think

us

the

damp, and

are

Then

shoulders

shruggedher
"Tell

often

they

and
houses,and the people,

fields
The
pave.
rheumatism
at all."

the
not

much

all that."

So

Me

I love

the little woman

and

shook

herself.

Julie ; which do you like

truth,
the country?"
or
I'm not in,I think."

all that,
CaptainClavering."best,the town

"Whichever
such harpies. There is
Ah ! justso.
Whichever
and all for doing things
charges,
3'ou are not in at
to me."
that would only be a pleasure
present. That is because you are still idle.
"
You have not settled yourself!" At this referter
I'm afraid I can't employ you in any matence
of Lady Ongar settling
that would suit your tastes."
to the possibility
?" Then againthere herself.
Can't you indeed,now
CaptainClaveringprickedup his ears,
ginning
beand listened eagerlyfor what might come
was
next.
was
a
silence,and Captain Clavering
fellows

"Those

no

are

"

end to their

"

think

to

work

willingto

else ; but he

that
hard

could not

he

must

He

go.

talkingor

at

was

any thing
ground for
thoughthe

He

of

onlyknew
without

woman

one
a,
way in which
young
husband
could settle herself.

must
You
wait,my dear,a littlelonger,
just
little longer,
tillthe time of your trouble has
were
starting
that he had not
must
aware
passedby."
go, though he was
made
the slightest
"Don't talk such nonsense, Sophie,"
said the
even
preparationfor future
obedience
to his friend's precepts. He
began countess.
"Ah
! my dear,it is no nonsense.
I am
to feel that he had commenced
ways
alwrongly. He
should have made
her know
that he was
there
tellingher.Captain Clavering,that she
from the first moment
of her entrance
into the must
time
go through this black,troublesome
He must
she can ; and then nobody will enretreat now, in order that he
as quick as
room.
joy
the town
much
de rich and beautiful
casion.
so
as
might advance with more force on the next ocHe had justmade
up his mind to this,Lady Ongar. Is it not so, CaptainClavering?"
and was
Archie thoughtthat the time had now
self
come
doubtinghow he might best get himthat his love
out of his chair with the purpose of going, for him to say somethingpretty,
so
when
sudden
relief came
in the shape of another
might begin to know that he was there. "By
visitor. The
door was
thrown
George,yes, there'llbe nobody so much admired
open and
Madame
when
she comes
out
again. There never
was
Gordeloup was announced.
the
little
admired before
said
before
that
"Well, my angel,"
woman,
any body so much
runningup to her friend and kissingher on is,when you were Julia Brabazon,you know;

allowed

work

to him.

if

no

He

"

"

either side of her face.

she

Then

had

she turned

though
only just
gentleman,and courtesied to him.
holdinghis hat in both his
as

seen

round

My

I shouldn't wonder

if you

didn't

come

strange quiteas strong as ever."

vering
"As
CaptainClastrong!" said the Franco-Pole.

out

the

hands

bowed

to the littlewoman.
"

and

"

that has

woman

admired

sister'sbrother-in-law.
ing,"
CaptainClaver-

than

been

married

is

"A

alwaysmore

meess."

"Sophie,might I

ask you and CaptainClavering

Madame
to be a littleless personal."
Lady Ongar.
Gordeloup."
"There
is noting I hate so much
Sir
as
CaptainClaveringbowed again. "Ah!
your
"
Go's brother,"said Madame
ing!
notmeesses," continued Madame
Gordeloup. "I am
Gordeloup,
Your
English meesses
give themselves
very gladto see CaptainClavering
; and is your
sister come?"
such airs. Now
in Paris,or in dear Vienna,
"
No ; my sister is not come."
in St. Petersburg,
or
they are not like that at
"
all. There
bodies
Lady Claveringis not in town this spring,"
they are nobodies
they are nosaid the captain.
; but then they will be somethingvery
Then
I do pityher. soon, which is to be better. Your Englishmeess
"Ah!
in town.
not
There is only de one placeto live in,and that is so mucli and so grand ; she never
be
can
is London, for April,May, and June.
ma,
Lady greater and grander. So when she is a mamshe lives down
in the country by herself,
Claveringis not coming to London ?"
"
"
said the and looks after de pills
Her littleboy isn't quitethe thing,
and de powders. I don't
like that.
I don't like that at all. No
captain.
; if my
"Not
husband had put me
into the country to look
quitede ting?" said the Franco-Pole
in an inquiring
after de pills
not
and de powders,he should have
voice,
understanding
exactly
the gentleman's
had them all,
all himself,
when he came
to see
language.
and my sister does me."
As she said this with great energy, she
"My littlenephew is ill,
not think it wise to bring
him to London."
chie's
opened her eyes wide,and looked full into Arsaid

"

"

"

"Ah!

that is

is in London

pity.And

Sir Go?

"Yes," said the captain;"my

been

up

some

Sir Go

?"

time."

face.
who
CiiptainClavering,

brother has

hat in his two

was

with
sitting

his

hands between his knees,stared

at the littleforeigner.He had heard before of

THE
tlieirhusbands,
but
poisoning

women

heard

Nor

had

he

had

never

advocate

woman

CLAVERINGS.

the system as
often heard a woman

81

hold

Lady Ongar'shand

of

of life! But what

expedient.
you
vocatecooing,
adwith rhymes and

"it

"

call

is the

salt

love,booing and

about de moon,
verses
go back to pap and panade,and what
Miidame Gordelonp now
wants
on this mata house,
displayed
you call bibs. No ; if a woman
and
with
allusion
which
an
let
her marry a
was
and
de
live
so
to
ed
pointtev,
something
very
on,

system with the vehemence

any

of his own
position
special
Lady Ongar agree with

to the

Did

law.

which

it is

to

sister-in- husband
her ?

He

if

or

let him

But

children,

have

to

want

man

be shut up in a
felt as though he should like to know his Julia's country house,when
every thingyou have got
that matter.
of your own
on
I say it is bad. "
opinions
think
will
CaptainClavering
CaptainClaveringwas heartily
"Sophie,
you
sorry that he
said the countess, laughing.
in earnest,"
the fact of his sister-in-lawbeing
had mentioned
are
a

marry

wife.

to

"

"

So I

am

boil all the

in

"

It is all wrong.
You
pot before you put

earnest.

of de

out

water

gigotinto it. So the gigotis no good,is

toughand dry,and you shut it up in an old
house in the country. Then, to make
matters

left

the

you talk about de fields and

pretty,
'Thank

I know.

I
you,'

fields and de daisies

are

should

de daisies.

so

at

ClaveringPark.

How

It

could he make
married

were

it

he would

was
derstood
un-

not

of

shuttinghis wife up at Ongar Park?

don
to LonLady Clavering,
you know, does come
he said.
generally,"

'De

"Bah

!" exclaimed the littleFranco-Pole.

good !

"And

as

say.

nice and

so

think
"

home

at

unfortunate.
that if he

most

town

; but

daisies.

no

In France

supposed,be different.
of his

"No

He

and
ignorance,

one

did

ever

try

said
to

never

should be

happy,if

one

will

he do if I

ever

you, I would
"Don't
say

"

her."

Archie shook hands with her,and then made

his bow

nothing.

knew

better.

were

almost
that,"said the captain,

to

has got every

de fields and de

who

woman

If she wants
them

of her

own

"

yes, of her

de town, she has got that too.

Coaches
go and buy them.
Parties
she

"

one,

she
daisies,

has

"

"

as many
two, thi'ee,
every night,

please. Gentlemen

who

as

will be her humble

slaves ; such a plenty all London.

want
can
one
to be alone,no
come
"

Or if she

you
wife

be all alone in the country, while de husband

about in the town, and make
an
ery
eye to evto

made

''

the

his way
He
An

"Not

all."
"Of

would

for

the door

self
trust him-

admirer,"said Sophie,

one

was

closed.

admirer of whom ?"

of me;
oh no; I am
me?

not

argument, but, bowing again,

off.

come

was
as

Archie

see."

renew

soon

as

got

If she wants
she can
Jewels
there theyare.

own.

all I

ladyhe

"

Why should a
thingmarry again?

revoir,my

walk

"

passionately; don't say that."

"
Ha, ha ! but I do say it.

Gordeloup.
"and
she said,
friend,"
It is not good for de
say.

Madame

to

phie!" "Au
up, Soremember

you

And no
shut up ?
If I were
shut you up, my dear.
giveno one a chance."

would

were

"

aware,

shut

"No, indeed;M. Gordeloup

What

it must, he
ever,
how-

was

for me, I

married,unless I had ray wife with me

said CaptainClavering.
where,
every
Bah-ah-ahl"
the lady.
ejaculated
CaptainClaveringcould not endure this any
say."
of the lady
was
now
quitein the dark, longer. He felt that the manner
CaptainClavering
and he
and began to regardthe littlewoman
natic.
as
a luwas, to say the least of it,unpleasant,
that he was
"When
she spoke of the pot and the perceived
doingno good to his own
ed
So he rose from his chair and muttercause.
he vainlyendeavored to follow her ; and
gigot,
words with the intention of showing
that she had got among
the daisies,
he was
some
now
his purpose of departure.
and
at a loss than ever.
more
Fruit,
vegetables,
said Lady
"Good -by. Captain Clavering,"
cnt flowers came
up, he knew, to London
larly
reguwhen
the family was
from Clavering,
in Ongar. " My love to my sister when you see

Suppose you go down, my love,and walk in de

and send them up to
and pickde daisies,
fields,
mo
by de railway!' Yes, that is what I would

not

in

danger at

CaptainClavering! Sophie,you

get your head full of the strangestnonsense."

"

Ah

give
had

me

he

will you
What
You see.
! very well.
if I am
right? Will you het? Why
and had his head
his new
on
gloves,

got

smellingwith stuff from de hair-dresser?

like that? Does
No."
he come
Does
should
she
alwaysperfumed
marry?
Why
"But
she might be in love with somebody,"he wear
shinylittleboots to walk about in de
said the captain,
but humble tone.
in a surprised
morning,and make an eye always? Perhaps
"Love
! Bah ! Be in love,
so that she
yes."
may
be shut up in an old barrack with de powders!"
his boots or his eyes."
I never
saw
I see many
The
I see them.
things. He
way in which that word barrack was
nounced, "But
proI tell
for his own.
and the middle letters sounded,almost come
to have Ongere Park
''
gere
to have Onlifted the captainoff his seat.
Love is very you yes.
Ten thousand will come
Park
?
To
have
not
Ongere
when
the
is
Park.
imagination
Why
pretty at seventeen,
himself
will make
man
and when
a
life is one
and all de money
tellinga parcelof lies,
To like people oh yes ; to be very smell a great deal."
dream.
near

her.

all

"

"

fond of your friends

"

"

as

am

to

oh yes ; to be most
"You
think much
tached
athere
she
is
Julie"
necessary."
got
my
F
"

more

about

all that than

CLAVERINGS.

THE

82

Very well. There are fellow to let the grass grow under my feet. I've
I, my dear?
from her house."
already. There is Edouavd, and there is onlyjustcome
well?"
and
"Well,
this Claveringwho you say is a captain
;
"That's
nothing much to tell the firstday,
there is the other Claveringwho goes with his
"Do

three

in the

nose

think himself

air,and who

fellow because

learned

he

clever

"

you know.
"Did

his lesson at school

";""
let her

you

know

you
did you

therS?

were

let her know

Damme,
did not get himself whipped. He will be That's the chat.
there ?"
you were
whipped yet some
day,perhaps."
vering
In answer
to this Archie attempted
to explain
Captain ClaSophie,hold your tongue.
that he
and Harry
that he was
not as yet quitesure
is my sister'sbrother-in-law,
had been successful in that particular
; but in
Claveringis my friend.
"
middle
of
Doodles
his
the
was
friend
what
of
he
sort
Captain
story
Ah, friend ! I know
and on this
better to have a park called off to exercise his skill again,
much
How
wants
to be.
in a ditch occasion to pick up two shillings."I'm
than to work
and plentyof money
sorry
tenant,
lieuas
a very young
do
the for you, Griggs,"he said,
But
he
know
not
!
and make
a railway
life
he
had
his
whose
last
he
be
taken,
more
with
put
a
woman.
up
Perhaps
may
way
and whose
I should say cue with a look of ineffable disgust,
at home, as you say, in the ditch.
had pocketed;"I'm
Doodles
to him, 'My friend,
sorry for
you will do well in de ditch shilling
the
fellow
but
must
a
play
if you work hard ; suppose you stay there.'
very;
game,
you,
* "You
to like my
don't seem
Whereupon Griggswalked out of
cousin,and, if you know."
to show
that
the room
with a gaitthat seemed
about him."
will talk no more
we
you please,
ideas upon that matter, though
he
had
his
He
don't
him?
own
should
I
like
not
"Why
Doodles
he' did not choose to divulgethem.
from me."
to get any money
want
returned to his friend.
cattle
"With
"That
will do,Sophie."
instantly
"
it's no
use
But this of that kind
trying the waiting
Very well ; it shall do for me.
"
You should make your running
other man
here to-day. He is a dodge,"said he.
that comes
and

"

"

"

fool."
"

at

"He

did

learn his lesson without

not

"

ping."
whip-

"Nor

with
he

know

not

what

do with his hat.

Come, Julie,will you take

melancholyfor you to

It is

does

nothing. He

learned

to

trust

to bottom

to carry you

out

me

"

No

He

is a fool. should

for

to

a
a

horrid littleFrenchwoman

have

servant?"

friend.
heard

friend she

drive ?

go alone ; I came
And
Shall we go ?"

was

in !"

"What;

whippingeither."
have

there

But

came

"No;

once, and

through."

Very likely."

Such

her talk.

seemed,who

creature

kind

Yon

of confidential

called her Julie.

I had to go away and leave her there,

of course."
"
Ah ! you'll
have to tipthat woman."

they
gether. "What, with money?"
SophieGordeloup tospised " r shouldn't wonder."
Lady Ongar, as she submitted,de"It would come
herself for her submission ; but what was
very expensive."
"A
and then,you know.
She
tenner
she to do ?
It is sometimes
cape
now
very difficult to eswould
do your business for yon.
Give her a
from the meshes of friendship.
and then offer to lend her the monwhen he leftBolton Street,brooch first,
ey.
CaptainClavering,
You'd find she'll rise fast enough,if you're
went
down to his club,havingfirstgot rid of his
boots and new
gloves. He sauntered any hand for throwinga fly."
shining
into
the
billiard-room
Oh, I could do it,you know."
knowing that his friend
up

ask you for a drive.

did go. Lady Ongar

and

"

would

be

there, and there

he

found

Doodles

"Do

it

then, and

let 'em

both

know

that

I'lldivide.
And,
you'rethere. Yes,Parkyns,
His brother
Clavvy,you can come in now in Griggs's
place."
back,and armed with his cue.
that he saw
the moment
himself for the
him,presented Then CaptainClavering
captain,
stripped
"Does she know you're battle.
the cue at his breast.
there,old fellow ; I say, does she know you're
with

his coat

there?"
whole

the
off,

The

room

done

thingwas

sleeves of his shirt turned

was
so

full of men,

and

the

that Captain
publicly

CHAPTER

XIX.

Claveringwas almost offended.

THE
BLtJE
POSTS.
Come, Doodles,you go on with your game,"
"
turned
Oh ; SO you 'ave come
said he; "it's you to play." Doodles
to see me.
I am
so
and scientifically
to the table,
pocketedthe ball glad." With these words Sophie Gordeloup
ball welcomed
on which he played; then he laid his own
Harry Claveringto her room in Mount
close under
the cushion,picked up a shillingStreet earlyone
terview
morning not longafter her inwith CaptainArchie in Lady Ongar's
and put it into his waistcoat pocket,
holdinga
On the previousevening Harryhad
lightedcigarin his mouth the while,and then presence.
back to his friend.
he came
"Well, Clavvy,received a note from Lady Ongar,in which she
him for having left unperformedher
how has it been f
upbraided
commission
with reference to Count Pateroff.
"Oh, nothingas yet,you know."
The letter had begun quiteabruptly. "I think
Haven't you seen her?"
'
I'm not the it unkind
of you that yon do not come
to me.
Yes, I've seen her,of course.
"

"

"

'

THE

CLAVERINGS.

83

and which Harry did

affectionate,

as

at all

not

understand,
"I

have

for troubling
apologize
you,"he

to

began.
Trouble,what
me

here.

come

You

You

give

the trouble to
not

If you

am

denly,
smiled,and sat herself down sudherselfalmost fall into her special
letting
in the sofa.
Take a chair,
Mr, Harry;

Then

she

"

corner

then

we

"I

talk

can

"

comfortable."

more

to see your brother. Can

especially

want

giveme

you

have

early,and I have
are
so
contented,

come

crinoline.

got my
I."

It is you

trouble.

no

Bah !

trouble ?

' '

What

his address ?"

Edouard
certainly
; Travelers'
"

Club."
"But

he is

"He

sends

want

every day for his letters. You

him.
\Vhy?"

to see

Harry was
answer.

"Ah

him

owe

would
write

at

littleprivate
business.
little money,

to

him.

want

him,

to

confounded,having no

once

"
littleprivate
he said.
business,

' '

not

there."

never

and

see

he

there is paper and pen

your letter this day."

will see you.

and ink. He

did
Harry,nothingsuspicious,

I asked
and

yon

to

see

you have not

here.
Once I was

been

and wrote a note

count
that he was
be- him.
half,

certain person on my
Twice he has
done so.
in truth out.

He

came

"

You

in which

as

he

I will go to you
will name
a

yon
You

There

shall get

bid,

was

simplytold

he

desirous
specially

"if you

do not

or
afraid,
Ha, ha !

am

of

the

seeing

"where,"said Harry,

any

place."

Gordeloup'shabits,
again the next eveningat nine,and I was then
We, knowing Madame
You
understand
it may feel littledoubt but that she thoughtit her
and had gone
to bed.
ill,
I dutyto become
all,and must know how this annoys me.
acquaintedwith the contents of
thoughtyou would have done this for me, and the note before she sent it out of her house,but
This
I thoughtI should have seen
J."
also know
that she learned very little
we
you.
may
from it.
note
he found at his lodgingswhen he returned
said Sophie,
home
the following
"It shall go, almost immediately,"
at night,and on
morning
he went in his despairdirect to Mount
when
the
closed.
was
Street,
envelope
Then Harrygot up to depart,
to the Adelphi. It was
not yet ten
on his way
havingdone his
'
Gor- work.
o'clock when he was shown into Madame
What, you are goingin that way at
You are in a hurry?"
deloup's
presence, and as regardedher dress he once ?
Madame
did not find her to be quitepreparedfor morning
rather,
"Well, yes ; I am in a hurry,
and
visitors. But he might well be indifferent on
Gordeloup. I have got to be at my office,
er's
brothfind
out
here
to
that matter, as the ladyseemed to disregard
the I onlyjustcame
your
up
circumstances
On her head she wore
address." Then he rose and went, leaving
altogether.
what he took to be a nightcap,
thoughI will not the note behind him.
self
undertake
that
she had slept
to
Then Madame
speakingto herGordeloup,
absolutely
say
a lout,
in that very head-dress. There were
frillsto it,
in French, called Harry Clavering
and a certain attempt at prettinesses
had been
awkward
boy, and a pig.
a fool,
an
overgrown
"

'

She declared him to he a pignine times over,

so
; but then the attempt had been made
and after
so
ignorantof then shook herself in violent disgust,
ago, and the frillswere
that it hardly that betook herself to the letter.
starch and all frillishpropensities,
made

long

The letter was

at any rate dulysent to the
pretendto decency. A great white wrapper
Mr. Beilby's
also wore, which might not have been count, for before Harry had left
to him
had it not been so long worn
that chambers
that day, Pateroff came
on
objectionable
with
other
in
the
itlooked like a university
room
the
there.
same
at
sat
collegesurplice
Harry
end of the longvacation.
Her slippers
had all men, and therefore went out to see his acquaintance
used for
the ease which age could givethem, and above
in a littleantechamber that was
As
he
of
walked
from
the
least
room
the slippers,
did
one
such
to
it,
neatness,
say
purposes.
could

she

not
to

predominate.But
be quiteat her ease
and received

Sophieherself seemed to the other,he was

of the
ciencies,
in spite
and difficulty
of these defiour

pointedwelcome, which

hero with
can

an

eager

hardly describe

color

was

But when

conscious

high in his face

he had done

of the

task before
as

he

so, he

delicacy

him, and

the

openedthe door.

saw

that the count

alone.

not

was

whom

he

gentleman was with him,

fore
to Harry, and be-

did not

whom
had

introduce

say that which

could not

Harry

Nohody

ever

was

we

napkin over

his

"

lap.

"Captain Boodle,

are

such

in

his

ranged
and

said the count

me," said the count, "but

"Pardon

with slow exactness

waistcoat

he

to communicate

in railroad hurry.

Try me,"

; Blue

can
you eat beefsteak,"
Posts' beefsteak ?"

said Doodles.

"That's

all.

Try

me."

"
I will try you, and I will try Mr. Clavering.
I and my friend. You are not engaged
would eat a horse if he had not a bullock,
and
Schmoff
You dine with me
? No, I see.
to-morrow
of
if
he
had
not
You
know
and
a
Posts.
the
a
a
the
Blue
piece
jackass
my firiend at
horse."
Blue Posts?"
"
I did eat a horse in Hamboro'
We
once.
Harry said he did not know the Bine Posts.

haste

"'

CLAVERINGS

THE

84

as

"Then
will be
Come
and

the Blue

shall know

you

your
and see.

You

instructor.
You
love

try. You

Posts.

drink

beefsteaks.

eat

Come

glassof port wine

one

claret.

with

But you shall love it when

No.
your cheese.
at the Blue
Posts.
you have dined with me

altogetherafter the Englishway,

will dine

We

besieged."

was

said Schmoff, very slowly,

in a deep
of his
voice, speaking from the bottom
chest,and frowning very heavilyas he did so.
The exertion was
so greatthat he did not repeat
So much

bass

it for

considerable time.
God we are not

"Thank

is the best way in the world when

it is the count, as
"Ah!
quitegood. It is quitegood at the Blue Posts them.
which

Seven

quitegood !

"

when
a

late ; an
Now
I must

minute.

ruined
Then

o'clock.

minute

extra

go.

You

fined

are

glassof portwine
Ah

! yes.

am

already."

the

soup

was

besieged now,''said
handed

Pateroff,holdinghis watch in his fear you will have any of Schmoff's

Count

round

to

that is good
Albert,my friend,
to the
My complirnents
soup ; very good soup.
Mr. Clavering,
excellent Stubbs.
th\gxcellent
I am
Stubbs is the cook.
quiteat h^me here,
and they da their best for me.
You need not
This

horse."

all very

and HarryClavering
pleasant,
sat down
to his dinner prepared to enjoyit;
say a word to him.
about him
He had nothingfor it but to go to the dinner, but there was
a
sense
during the
On that same
whole
time that he was
and to the dinner he went.
ing,
evenbeing taken in and
the evening of the day on which
and that the count
would cheat him and
he had
cheated,
seen
Sophie and her brother,he wrote to Lady actually
escape aw ay from him on that evening
of writing without his being able to speak a word to him.
manner
Ongar,using to her the same
that she had used to him, and telling
her that They were
dining in a publicroom, at a large
table which theyhad to themselves,
he had done his best,
that he had now
him
while others
seen
whom
he had been desired to see, but that he were
Even
diningat small tables round them.
if Schmoff
and Boodle
had not been able to speak to him.
He was,
had not been there,he
however, to dine with him on the following
day, could hardlyhave discussed Lady Ongar'sprivate

hand,bolted

and

would

of the

out

before

room

call in Bolton

Harrycould

was

as that.
The count had
sible affairs in such a room
posbrought him there to dine in this way with a
him over, preo'clock,
Harry,having the premeditated
purpose of throwing
tending

Street as

soon

as

after that interview.

Exactly at

seven

fear of the threatened

at

the Blue

middle

fine before his eyes,

to give him the meeting that had been

for,but intendingthat it shonld pass by
Count Pateroff. and be of no avail. Such was
saw
Harry'sbelief,
the same
gentleman and he resolved that,though he might have to
was

Posts; and there,standingin the

of the

room,
Pateroff

With

Count

whom

Harry had

he
was

asked

the

seize Pateroff by the tails of his coat, the count

Adelphi,and whom
Colonel Schmoff; should not escapehimwithout havingbeenforced,
and also a little Englishman with a knowing at any rate to hear what he had to say.
In the
time the dinner went on very pleasantly.
neck,and whiskers cut very mean
eye and a bull-dog
short and trim
"Ah!"
said the count, "there is no fish like
a
the
horsy little man, whom
count also introduced.
"Captain Boodle ; says salmon earlyin the year; but not too early.
he knows a cousin of yours, Mr. Clavering."
And
it should come
alive from Grove, and be
Th^n Colonel Schmoff bowed, never
having cooked by Stubbs."
"
and our
And
eaten by me," said Boodle.
yet spoken a word in Harry'shearing,
old friend Doodles with glibvolubility
told Harry
said the count, "and
"Under
my auspices,"
how intimate he was
with Archie,and how he then all is well.
Mr. Clavering,
a littlebit near
knew Sir Hugh, and how he had met
vering,the head ?
Not care about any particular
Lady Clapart?
and how "" doosed" glad he was
to meet
That is wrong.
Everybody should alwayslearn
what is the best to eat of every thing,
and get it
Harry himself on this present occasion.
"And
boys,we'll set down," said if theycan."
now, my
the count.
"There's
just a little soup, prin"By George,I should think so,"said Doodles.
tanier; yes, they can make soup here; then a "I know I do."
the count

seen

at

introduced

now

as

"

of

salmon

; and

after that the beefsteak.

"
Not to know
the bit out of the neck of the
salmon from any other bit,
is not to know a false
beefsteak ?"
Not to distinguish
note from a true one.
a '51
but simply wine from a '58,is to look at an arm
Schmoff neither smiled nor spoke,
or a legon
his head gravely,
bowed
and sitting
down, ar- the canvas, and to care nothing whether it is

cut

Nothing more.

Schmoff,
my boy,can

you

eat

THE

drawing, or

in

of

CLAVEEINGS.

drawing. Not to know

other beefsteaks,
is to
is the same
thingto you.

85

in the world,because he never

digestion
says
good of any thing. Ah ! to digestis to be
there is no
say tliat every woman
happ}'. Believe me, my friends,
Only, Stubbs will let you have his beefsteak if other way not to be turned out of Paradise by a
him
his master.
or
With
fierytwo-handed turningsword."
you will pay him
it is not alwaysso
the beautiful woman
not
"It is true,"
said Schmoff; "yes,it is true."
I believe you," said Doodles.
"And
how
always. Do I make myselfunderstood ?"
"
"I'm
Clear as mud," said Doodles.
vering
quile well the count describes it don't he,Mr. Clabe
? I never
looked at it in that light
along with you there. Why should a man
; but,
of eating what's nice. Every body after all,
ashamed
is every thing. What
is a
digestion
does it."
horse worth,if he won't feed ?"
"
"
I never
said HarryNo, CaptainBoodle ; not every body. Some
thoughtmuch about it,"
and some
do not know
it when
it
not get it,
can
in their way.
"That
comes
is very good," said the great preachThey are to be pitied. I
er.
out

Stubbs's beefsteak from

any

"

"

"

"

do

from the bottom

pitythem

there is

poor fellow I

one

of my

heart. But

pitymore

even

than

they."

"Not

thingin

to

think

about it if there be

There

about

the world.

You

it

is the best

ever

will be made

necessity.A

think

to

friend of mine

gestion.
somethingin the tone of the count's told me he did not know whether he had a diI said,you are
like the
simplepathos,and almost a melody,
My friend,
which interested Harry Clavering.No one knew
husbandmen
ings.
bless; you do not know
your own
better than Count
Pateroff how
all the
to use
A bit more
steak,Mr. Clavering; see, it
inflections of his voice,and produce from the has come
to prove that you have the
up hot,just
phrasesbe used the very highestinterest which
There was
in the conversation for a
a pause
theywere capableof producing. He now spoke
of his pityin a way that might almost have made
minute or two, duringwhich Schmoff and Doodles
sensitive man
is it that you
"Who
a
were
weep.
very busy givingthe requiredproof;
and the count
was
pityso much ?" Harry asked.
leaningback in his chair,
"The
who
said the with a smile of conscious wisdom
not
his face,
man
can
on
digest,"
count, in a low clear voice. Then he bent down
lookingas though he were in deep consideration
his head over the morsel of food on his plate,
which he had justspokenwith
as
of the subject
on
"The
much
a tear.
so
though he were desirous of hiding
eloquence. Harry did not interrupt
!"
As he repeated
the the silence,
who can
not digest
he was
man
allowinghis
as, foolishly,
words he raised his head again,and looked round
mind to carry itself away from the scene
of enjoyment
words

at

"

was

all their faces.

that

was

present,and trouble itselfwith

Gott,yes,"said Schmbff,the coming battle which he would be obligedto

Schmoff
and even he appearedas though he were almost
the first to
was
fightwith the count.
moved
of his inward indifference.
from the deep quietude
I was
eatinga horse at Hamspeak. " When
boro'
he began.
talk of blessings
"Ah!
! What
is
a blessing
"Schmoff,"said the count, "if we allow you
said the count.
"I do not know
to get behind the ramparts of that besieged
digestion!"
city,
whether
thought of it,Captain we shall have to eat that horse for the rest of
you have ever
Boodle ? You are young, and perhapsnot.
Or
the evening. Captain Boodle,if yon will believe
It is a subject
?
for two hours.
worthy of
you, Mr. Clavering
me, I eat that horse once
! Do you know what
Ah ! here is the port wine.
ing,
Now, Mr. Claveryour thoughts. To digest
"Yes, yes

"

mein

"

"

it means

It is to have the

and the shade

this is the wine

sun
alwaysshining,
alwaysreadyfor you. It is to be should drink above

and to be greetedwith kisses.

smiles,
sounds,to sleepwith sweet
cool
dreams,to be touched ever by gentle,
soft,
with

met

It is

to

hands.
were

hear sweet

It is to be in Paradise.

in Paradise.

Adam

and Eve

was
Why ? Their digestion
eat bad fruit
theytook liberties,

for cheese
two

"

'Si.

glassesof

'34.

No

man

If you

port after that,then have '20."

want

had certainly
been hardlytreated.
scarcely
spoken a word duringdinner,
and should, I think,have been allowed to say
something of the flavor of the horse. It did
that
not, however,appear from his countenance
he had felt or that he resented the interference,

Schmoff

He

had

good. Ah ! then
thingsthey could not digest. They what we
call ruined their constitutions,
their thoughhe did not make
destroyed
any farther attempt to
and then theywere
juices,
expelledfrom enliven the conversation.
gastric
Paradise by an angelwith a flamingsword. The
They did not sit longover their wine,and the
angelwith the flamingsword, which turned two count, in spiteof what he had said about the
"
digestion
! TherS came
a great indid not drink any.
CaptainBoodle,"
claret,
ways, was indigestion
"
because
the
cooks
the
earth
must
he
were
upon
said, you
respectmy. weakness as well
bad,and theycalled it a deluge. Ah ! I thank as my strength. I know what I can do, and
If I were
like you
God there is to be no more
a real hero,
deluges. All the what I can not.
from this^ Macbeth could not sleep. English which
evils come
means, if I had an ostrich in
"

"

His wife my inside

the supper, not the murder.
I would drink till
twelve every night,
It was
the supper again. and eat broiled bones till six every morning.
talked and walked.
Milton had a bad digestionbecause he is always But alas ! the ostrich has not been givento me.
It

was

BO

cross

"

; and your

must
Carlyle

have

the worst

As

common

man

am

prettywell,but I have

CLAVERINGS.

THE

86

little

will have a
heroic capacities.We
chasse,and then we will smoke."
How
Harry began to be very nervous.
no

he to do it ?
to him

It had

through every

that the count

for

moment

any
that he

publicroom,
what

and

to

give him
He

privateconversation.

They

angry.

intend

and

that meant.

and
ill-used,
to go

were

he

knew,
The

and

was

er
clear-

ner
of the din-

minutes

ten

did not

cheated

was

clearer and

become

count

ing
wax-

smoke

in

would

be

spare
think,make

moments

And

for

little odds

counting up
these

life for
satisfactory

man

that is

not

at

all

things do not, I
a

young

young

man.

theyare

the

when you
very devil ! Better have no digestion
such a life as
are
living
fortythan find yourself

Captain Boodle would, I think,have

happierhad he contrived to get himself
employedas a tax-gathereror an attorney's

felt that !

was

been
a

thoughthe knew,

or

hunting,to
your

clerk.

sit there

this occasion

On

Doodles

went,

soon

as

had

ing
brought the Colonel been expected,and Harry found himself smokwith the two foreigners.Pateroff was
Schmoff with him, so that he might be sure of
no
lence.
but sat with his cigarin his
some
longer eloquent,
allyto remain by his side and insure sited
And the count, doubtless,
had calculamouth
silent as Colonel Schmoff
as
himself.
It was
that when CaptainBoodle went, as he soon
evidentlyexpected of Harry that he
would go, to his billiards,
he,Harry Clavering,should go.
No !
would feel himself compelledto go also.
"Count," he said at last,
"you got my note?"
It should not result in that way.
in the
solved There
seven
or
were
eightpersons sitting
HaiTy retill he

went,

and

had

that he would
to

ifhe

perform,and

to
compelled

were

Colonel

He had his mission

go.
he would performit,
even
not

do

so

in the presence of

Schmoff.

besides the

room

"Your

to which

Harry

note, Mr.

Clavering! which note?

have had the pleasure
of
to-daybut for that."

Oh yes ; I should

not

He could not sit long seeingyou here

went.
soon
of a cigar,
"Can
without
simplegratification
you give me

Doodles
with the

party of three

belonged.

five minutes

in

private?"

"What!
here! this evening!after dinnow!
ner
gin and water or other comfort of that kind,
?
Another
time I will talk with yon by the
even
though the eloquenceof Count Pateroff
hour together."
might be excited in his favor. He was a man,
"
with
I fear I must trouble you now.
I need not
even
indeed,who did not love to sit still,
An active little remind you that I could not keep yon .yesterday
the comfort of gin and water.
thing
man
was
CaptainBoodle,always doing somemorning, you were so much hurried."
anxious
"And
I am
to do somethingin his own
or
now
having my little moment
of comfort!
line of business.
Small speculations
in money,
These
specialbusiness conversations
him
concocted
after dinner are so bad for the digestion!''
to leave the risk against
so
as
smaller than the chance on his side,
constituted
"If I could have caught you before dinner.
trade
in
trade
I would have done so."
Boodle's
and
that
he
Count
Pateroff,
Captain
;
"If it must
was
and, to a certain
be, it must.
indefatigable,
ingenious,
Schmoff,will you

extent,successful. The worst of the trade was

this ; that though he worked
at it above twelve

wait for

me

ten

minutes

than ten minutes."

I will

not

the count
his watch.

as

And

be

more

he made

ests
this promiselooked at
day, to the exclusion of all other inter"Waiter,"
come he said,speakingin a sharp tone which Harry
inhe could only make
out of it an
life,
which would have been considered a beggarlyhad not heard before," show this gentleman
failure at any other profession.
When
he and me
into a privateroom."
Harry got up
netted a pound a day he considered himself to and led the way
to assure
out, not forgetting
have done veiy well ; but he could not do that himself that he cared nothingfor the sharpness
To do it often required of the count's voice.
every day in the week.
And then,in spite
exertion.
of all
what is it?" said the
"Now, Mr. Clavering,
unremitting
his care, misfortunes would come.
"A
cursed
count,lookingfull into Harry's
eye.
"I will tell you in two words."
nobody had ever heard the
garron, of whom
"
In one
with
if you can."
! If a man
name
mayn't take a liberty
"I came
such a brute as that,when is he to take a liberty?"
with a, message
to you from Lady
So he had expressedhimself plaintively,
Ongar."
himself,when on some
gar?"
endeavoringto excuse
"Why are you a messenger from Lady Onoccasion a race had been won
outside
by some
"I have known her long,and she is connecthorse which
ed
Captain Boodle had omitted to
safe in his betting-book.
He was
with my family."
make
ed
regardby his friends as a very successful man ; but
Why does she not send her messages by Sir
To
I think myself
that his life was a mistake.
her brother-in-law ?"
Hugh

hours

in

"

"

live with one's hands

ever

daubed with chalk

"It is

hardlyfor

you

to

ask that?"

into
to be always spying
to ask
that.
I have
billiard-table,
"Yes; it is for me
stables and rubbingagainstgrooms, to put up known
Lady Ongar well, and have treated her
I do not want to have messages
with the narrow
counterwith kindness.
enlodgingswhich needy men
at race
If you are
to be day after day on
senger,
mesa
meetings,
by any body. But go on.
the rails running after platers
and steeple-chasers,
giveyour message."
to be conscious on all occasions of the expediency
"Lady Ongar bids me tellyou that she can
not
are
of selling
beast
when
see you."
you
your

from

a,

THE

CLAVEEINGS.

87

She shall see me !" another messenger came

But she must see me.
to say that hope
across
to you that she declines to
I am to explain
Could
was
past,and that the child had gone.
Count Paterofif,
do so.
as
vering
derstand Mrs.
unover
Surely,
Claveringcome
again,
Lady Clayou must
"

"

"

"Ah!

I understand

bah!

thing in
such matters
as these,
better,
perhaps,than you,
Mr. Clavering. You have givenyour message.
Now, as you are a messenger, will you give
every

speak them

to

man

interferes with

My message is this :
that it
compliments,
me

see

better for

"

when,

"

; do
tell her

me

for

you

a
instance,

for

"It

was

left them.

When

me.

she

^'Bnt
"

him

that it

knew

the

his wife had

as

was

ing."
com-

and

there

of which

think

not

he

that evil will

He

did.

ny.
Fannever

to him."

come

will feel this,"

said the rector.

"I

with

soon

alwaysfearingit,"said

was

I do

to think

seems

"Peel

was

Poor

at once.

alwaysfeared,"said

daughteras

"Indeed,I

"And

my

heard his

blow

to his

rector

He

"

"

will go

myself. I

her

do it better if I ask

can

dear littleboy !"

and he had been,mind,my

that poor lord died
friend for many
years before her ladyshiphad
name

understand ?

with
ladyship,
for

I shall wish to make

"No, I think not.

something,and

take

will be better for her to

her,and

i-ec-

tor.

for tea

its nature."
will dependaltogether
on
an,
Sir,I never send uncivil words to a wombe tempted to
I may
though sometimes

"That

man

"You'll

"

mine?"
"

in a sad way ?
have your dinner first?" said the

was

"

it,papa

do not

Of

he will feel it."

course

think he would

not

"

that
deeply,

He is a
nothing is if there were four or five of them.
you know
I ever knew.
Who
and need know nothing. I did my best then to hard man
; the hardest man
him playingwith his own
be courteous
to Lady Ongar, which she returns
ever
saw
child,or
occurrences

were

by shuttingher
that.

not

am

"

door in my face. I do not mind

with any
But tell soft word
angry with a woman.

other?

Who

ever

to his wife ?

But

she has heard what I now

say to for this child was his heir.
ter now, and I pityhim."
betshe
I
do
think
not
doubt,
will,
by you,
of it ; and therefore I shall do myself the
Mrs. Claveringwent
across

her that when

her

honor

of

have

of Stubbs's

another

long." As
voice

again. and

her door

presentingmyself at
Mr. Clavering; au
Good-night,

revoir ;
little dinners

we

will

before

spoke these last words the count's

again changed,and thq old smile had

was

he

returned to his face.

Harry shook hands with him and walked
that the
away homeward, not without a feeling
to the end.
count had got the better of him, even
He
had, however, learned how the land lay,
"

and

could explainto Lady Ongar that Count

PateroflF now
to

knew

her wishes

and

was

ined
determ-

found

soon

mother's

She

there had

time

there

that the poor

child

ing.
morn-

a
upon her suddenly
look of age, which nothingbut such a sorrow
as
this can produce. Mrs. Clavering
was
surprised

But

to see

the

come

that she had dressed herself

morning,as

her

was

since
carefully
even
daily,

to do

custom

room,
alone ; and that she was
not in her bedwhich
she
but in a small sitting-room

when

"My

In the

was

been with her in the

Claveringhad

Mrs.

Sir

when

Hugh

was

not

at the

Hermione," said Mrs. Clavering,

poor

coming up

to her and

"Yes, I am
theytroubled

DESOLATION.

bereaved

sittingby herself,
old housekeeperaway from

the

generallyused
park.
XX.

park alone,

poor

her ; and there were

no
traces of tears then on
her face,
when
though she had wept plentifully

them.
disregard

CHAPTER

the

herself in the

room.

having driven

heard him say a

he will be hit now,
He will be hit hard

poor
you

"

to

takingher by the hand.

enough. Why have
come
acro.ss
again?"
poor

But it was
"Did
griefdown at the
you not send for me?
must
Of course
we
whether you sent orno.
great house of Clavering; and grief,
quiteright,
Square, I should come when I heard it. It can not be
suppose also,at the house in Berkeley
from his country home had
as soon
as the news
good for you to be all alone."
reached Sir Hugh Clavering.Little Hughy,
"I suppose he will be here to-night?"
his heir,
dead.
was
Earlyone morning, Mrs.
"Yes, if he got your message before three
at the rectory,received a message
o'clock."
Clavering,
"
from Lady Clavering,
begging that she would
Oh, he will have received it,and I suppose
the
to
she
on
will come.
You think he will come, eh ?"
he
house,and,
there,
go up
arriving
found
doctor

mean

was

was

very ill. The

and had recomthen at Clavering,
mended

that a message
should be sent to the
father in London, bogginghim to come
down.

"I

"

m.ained

for two
Lady Clavering
justbefore dinner on the

with

hours ; but

or

same

three

day

He

tellhim
be

another

will be
who

does

sure

to

come

not

now,

will tell him?

before he
some

like

coming

one

comes

to

to tell him?

me.

Hermione."

Some one
must
Should there

They

have

sent

message."

"Hannah
was

He

know.

country."

"And

not

he will come."

course

do not

to the

This

when
message had been alreadydispatched
Mrs. Clavering
arrived. The poor mother was
in a state of terrible agony, but at that time
there was
yet hope. Mrs. Claveringthen re-

Of

"

was

nah
Hanshallbe at hand to tellhim."
who had been in
housekeeper,

the old

CLAVERINGS.

THE

familywhen Sir Hugh was

it,Henry shall come

the

you wish
I
here.

am

if

and remain

so, if it will be

he will do

sure

"Or,

born.
down

comfort."
be rough
"No; he would, perhaps,
Clavering. He is so very hard. Hannah
do it.

Will you

She

before her

woman

loved

had

it seemed

of her husband

thinkingmore
she

lost.

her

hand, and

left the
should

that she

time

of the

very

than

had
Clavering

Mrs.

her and taken

' '

sat

was

"

'

He

scolded
And

helpit?

he

know

'

my

such

there

know

because

me

He

ling
poor darcould
How

will

turn

how

hard

do

If she could induce

Then

in the

the elder

fly
lady

the littlefellow whose

together over

met

this !

as

Do

"

Of

you think it will make

it will make

course

it be otherwise

He

had

He
His

is

him

fresh

as

now

that it shall

months
then

all make

Meeny

had

him
I

exertion like that

some

had

been

"He

only shook

At

at

firstit is best
You

once.

had

Meeny

went."

died when

old.

he

will,

oppress him.

not

he will determine

who

though he

to God's kindness
to relieve
trusting
too, Hermione, should determine

littlegirlwho

and

as

well."

so

sorrow,
You
us.

"But

How

said so."

never

hard ; and then he has such

He
will thrust it off from

so

should

We

unhappy.

got used to the fear."

thought so, and

power.
determine

our

him

?"

also ; but not yet,my

dear.
have its way."
to let sorrow

a.

him

often that the child would

so

griefwill be

never

He

said

will have

when

that would be better

weep for the child,even
than this hard,persistent
fear as tOk what her
husband would say and do.
So theyboth went
stood

home

come

unhappy?" Lady Claveringasked.

the mother

to

and

"

in

he is."

and therefore
Any thingwas better than this,
Mrs. Claveringasked the poor woman
to take
her into the room
where
the littlebody lay in
its little cot.

and

out

me

Oh, Mrs. Clavering,you

now.
altogether

not

scolded

other but he.

none

was

before because

me

strong. My darling!

not

was

to

and

room

be

still should

by
in silence when Lady Claveringspoke
so sitting
again. "I suppose he will turn me out of his die.
"
house now,''
she said.
"Who
will do so?
Hugh?
Oh, Hermoine, had
"
how can
j'ou speak in such a way ?
"

is made

publichouse."

the

gave orders that Sir Hugh

by his carriage.What must the
she feared that
selfish; but she knew
also wife think of her husband,when
her child,
mothers
as
always he would be angeredby littlematters at such a

Yet, at this moment,

down

if he

from

"

that she had

bairn

Mrs.

wondering,
this,

immobility
wretched,frigid
angry

she did so, at the

of the unfortunate

perhaps somewhat

was

do

she would

Lady Clavering well knew her to be

and
listless,
thingsweak, to be worldly,

knew

in many

love.

shall

her understand ?

make

Claveringpromisedthat
as

Mr.

to

to it.
Then theyturned to go back into
vering
and as they did so Lady Clasitting-room,
behind
for a moment
lingered
; but when
she was
again with Mrs. Claveringher cheek
stilldry.
was
"He
will be at the station at nine," said
am
Lady Clavering. " They must send the broughfor him, or the dog-cart. He will be very
answer

the

born

before the

littlemore

member
re-

been

boy,

than twelve

did

not
expect that; but
head,and went out of
never
spoken to me one

his

short

had thus been brought to an

the room.
He has
sufferings
word of her since that.
I think he has forgotfort
"My poor dear,what can I say to comten
Mrs. Clavering,
she asked this,
as
Meeny altogethereven that she was ever
you ?"
knew well that no
comfort could be spoken in here."
"
words; but
if she could onlymake the sufferer
He cannot
forget
theboywhdwashis heir."
end.

"

"

"Ah!

weep!
Comfort

"

"

!'"said the mother.

There

is no

that is where

which

to me

would

itis.

He will say words

you creej) if you could
his heir. Archie
was
darling

make

comfort now, I believe,

in any thing. It is long hear them.
Yes, my
since I knew any comfort
not since Julia went."
will marry now, and will have children,
and
"
Have you written to Julia ?"
his boy will be the heir. There will be more
"
No ; I have written to no one.
I can
division and more
not
for Hugh will hate
quarrels,
"

I feel

write.

though ifit were

as

again I could

back

But

boy!

my boy!"
in her eye.

my
tear

"I

will write to

"and
"

He

I will read

No, do

nothingnow
should

she

would
Who
"

not

"Yes,

her.

care

was

not

Mrs.

Of

course
care

Clavering
;

not

care

"

I do not

What

is the

me.

Julia

use

she will

home
not

we
care.

for me?"

If you lived far away

for me.
It is justthe custom

in this that Mrs.

was
something so
Claveringcould make no

he

is

have

ever

wife

hard.

do for him.

can

It is
He

pityhe
nothing
wanted
a boy
a

wants

been

in the estate,and now

that
taken from him.
Mrs. Clavering,

I often wish
It would
of wise and
of the

so

married, for he

after him

come

gloryhas

cares

for you, Hermione

?"
because
of the
are
here;
you

thing." There

that

angel. Why
came

understand why."

"Because

to

of the houses.

would

his brother now."

letter."

quarrelwith

because

of the
true

said
Julia,"

to

for me, or for my

she
?
When
care

see

not

nearness

you

her

bringhim
My boy !

should

is there that will

Do

stillthere

you my
read it me.

not

has made

to

write of it.

not

two

that I could

be bootless here to

lovingcounsel
ladies

die."

repeat the words

with which

endeavored

to

the elder

comfort

the

what were
younger, and to make her understand
the duties which stillremained to her,and which,
if

they were rightly

performed,would,in their
soften the miseryof her lot. Lady
performance,
Claveringlistened with that dull,useless attersuch
tion which on
occasions
sorrow
always
givesto the prudentcounsels of friendship
; hut

THE
she

CLAVERINGS.

89

band, had lost. To

thinkingever and always of her husof his expected every thing.
watching the moment

was

and
return.

In her heart she wished

not

on

come

evening.

that

At

that he

at
last,

her

her
To

child had

him

he had

been

all and

his heir and

been

The boy had been the

might the prop of his house.
past only link that had stillbound them together.

half

send away her visitor. Now

he was
no
longerany
gone, and there was
will be here soon, if be comes
to-night,"link between them. He was gone, and she had
Claveringsaid," and it will be better that nothing left to her. He was gone, and the

nine,she exerted herselfto

He

"

Lady

he should

find

alone."

me

father

it be better?"

"Will

also

was

heir,and

any

in

alone

with

no

world,without

the

She

to his house.

prop

thoughtof all this as she heard his stepcoming

here ?
I slowlyup the stairs. Slowlyhe came
frown and shake
were
along
would sooner
be alone when he comes.
night. the passage, and though she dreaded his coming,
Goodbe
You
have been very kind to me
it almost seemed
never
as though he would
; but
Things are done kindly there.
you are alwayskind.
the
she was
When
he had entered the room
alwaysat your house,because there is so much
love there.
You
will write to Julia for me.
first to speak.
Oh, Hugh !" she exclaimed,
He had closed the door before
Good-night." Then Mrs. Claveringkissed her "oh, Hugh!"
and went, thinkingas she walked
home
in the he uttered a word, and then he threw himself
candles near
dark to the rectory,how much
she had to be into a chair. There were
to him,
"

Can

Yes,yes.

how

not

you see
his head if you

he would

"

thankful in that these words

her poor neighborhad
full of love.
For

the

had been true which

spoken.

with eager
alone,listening
her husband's wheels,
and

door.
heart
took

She
sank

within

on

the

her

to

the

as

she

driven up to the
but her
corridor,
did so, and

of the balustrade

tightlyhold

almost

coming had
rapidgratingon

for his

she had

to

she

that his countenance

had' indeed

his half-stunned

at last been

of

see

He

for the sound

dog-cartwas
out

ran

she could

and

altered.

of the blow.

at last she had

she heard

gone
the gravel as the

was

Lady Claveringsat
ear

told herself that the hour

by,when

house

and

half hour

next

Her

The
made

it and

spoken of

his heir hit him

It

was

hard,

the violence

face showed

had

selfishman
harsh,cruel,
to

had

Although he bad
expectedit,the death of

suffer.

hard, as the

had said.

rector

asked the father.

past four,I think." Then there

was

was

and Lady Claveringwent

again silence,
up to
her husband and stood close by his shoulder.

support At last she ventured

With

to

put her hand

upon

him.

her, she

miseryheavy upon
she
how
to the sadness was
trusting
thinkingat this moment
chiefly
of the moment
to producein him, if it were
mightsoothe him. She laid her hand upon his
it softly
to
but for a minute,somethingof tender solicitude;
and by degreesshe moved
shoulder,
but she remembered
that the servants would be his breast.
he raised his own
Then
hand, and
He did it
fore with it moved
hers from his person.
there,and knew that he would not be soft beherself.

For

down

moment

to meet

him

thoughtof

also

stricken

did he die?"

"When
''

been

ning
run-

all her

own

of

"

also that the housekeeper

She remembered
and she
received her instructions,
feared to disarrange
the settled programme.
So

gently
; but

she went

Lord

them.

had

what

was

the

use

of such

nonsense

that ?

as

said the wife,"and the

giveth,"
Sir Hugh
away." Hearing thi,s.
made
with his head a gesture of impatience.
of the Lord," continued
he should come
Blessed be the name
up to her,and standingthere
low and almost
she stilllistened. The house was silent,
and her Lady Clavering. Her voice was
as
and she repeatedthe words
were
acute with sorrow.
She could hear
ears
trembling,
self.
of the old woman
the movement
set hershe gently,though theywere
a task which she had
as
as
trembling,
Lady Claveringknew, made her
the hall to meet
her master.
"That's
all very well in its way," said he,
Sir
way down
? I hate
of it now
had learned his child'sfate already"but what's the special
use
Hugh of course
back to the open

door of the room, that

her retreating
stepmightnot be heard by him as

"The

Lord

taketh

"

as
who had met him ; but twaddle.
bear one's misfortune
One must
of such telling
I don't believe that kind of thing
best can.
one
ceremony
should be performed.She felt the cold air come
makes
it lighter."
ever

from the servant

it

well

was

in from

that the

opened

the

front

door,and

she heard

"They

say it

does,Hugh."

"
Ah ! theysay ! Have they ever tried? If
he entered.
Then
she heard the murmur
of Hannah's voice ; you have been living
up to that kind of thing
that is,as
be very well
but the first word she heard was
in her husit may
band's all your life,
But it won't give
is Lady Clavering?" well at one
time as another.
tones, "Where

her husband's

heavyquickstep as

"

Then

the

answer

that he

was

and
given,

was

the wife knowing

coming,retreated back

to

her

chair.
But
was

hat
that

me

back my

back again;
come
; he will never
that he's in heaven."
may think
But
"If that is enough for you, let it be so.
don't talk to me of it. I don't like it. It doesn't
but

stillhe did not

come

quiteat

once.

He

we

pullingoff his coat and laying aside his

and gloves. Then came
suit
upon her a feeling
at

such

I only had one, and he has gone.

alwaysthe way." He spokeof the child
She
not his and hers.
as
having been his
of affecthe want
understood
and
felt
this,
they

time any other husband and wife

been at once
in each other's arms.
a

would have
And at the moment

she

thoughtof all that

boy."

"No, Hugh

me.

It is

"

90

CLAVERINGS.

THE

tion which

it

said nothing ing,but she neither spoke nor thoughtof that.

and going out into the pasShe rang the bell,
sage
the order on the stairs.
do ? It was
not
gave the servant

conveyed
; but

she

of it.

"Oh, Hugh
our
"

; what could we
fault."
Who
is talkingof any fault ?

nothing as

to fault.

He

"It

said

I have

and

always poor

was

''."".."!//

"'The

Lord

is no
good my stayinghere,"he said.
will go and dress.
It is the best not to
think of such things much
the best.
People
"I

"

'

giveth,and

the Lord

taketh away."

The Claverings,
have been so
generally,
sickly.
Look
at myself,
and Archie,and my
sisters. Well, it can not be helped. Thinking
of it will not bringhim back again. You had

fools. If I were to sit still,

and think of it for
what good could I do?"
a week
together,
how
"But
not to think of it
that is the

better tell some

thing."

strong.

came

away,

one

to

get

me

somethingto

of course, without

She herselfhad eaten

any

eat.

dinner."

nothingsince the

mom-

call that

of course,
heartless,

but then

peopleare

"

"Women
and
dress,

are

then

I suppose.
different,

go down

to

I will

the breakfast-room.

THE

CLAVEKINGS.

91

Tell Saunders to get me a bottle of Champagne. here,"he said. "Get

I will
up, Hermione.
You will be better also if you will take a glass not have
you so foolish. Get up, I say. I will
''
of wine. "
have the room
closed tillthe men
come.
"
the first word he had spoken which
It was
Oh no !"
showed any care for her,and she was
grateful " Get up, I say, and come away." Then she
As

for it.

he

go, she

to

arose

close to

came

rose, and followed him out of the chamber,and

when
he went
to change his clothes she returned

again,and put her hand very gentlyon his

"
Hugh," she said,"will you not see

him
arm.

the

to

in which

room

he

had

him?"

There

"What
good will that do ?"
"
I think you would regretit if you were
to
let them take him away without looking
at him.

and

broughther up a morsel
glassof wine,sayingthat her

He

that she would

is

prettyas he laysin his littlebed.

so

would

thoughtyou
He

was

with

come

gentlewith

more

and

she led him

to

me

see

her than she had

to the

away

him."
which

room

had been their own, and in which the child had

died.
almost angrily,
as he
"Why here?" he said,
entered.
"I have had him here with me
since you
He

I will not have this room

more

any

member
re-

that."

She led him up to the foot of

the littlecot,which stood close by the head of
her own
chief
bed,and then she removed a handker-

layupon

which

the child's face.

!" she said,

ing
and,throwaround his neck, she wept violently
For a few moments
he did
upon his breast.
not
disturb her,but stood lookingat his boy's
''
face. ' ' Hugh, Hugh, " she repeated,
willyou
?
Do be kind to me.
not be kind to me
It is
not my fault that we
childless."
are
ger.
lonStillhe endured her for a few moments
He spoke no word to her,but he let her
with her head upon his breast.
remain there,

Oh, Hugh ! oh,Hugh

her

"

arms

Dear

Hugh, I love you so truly!"

is nonsense,"said he, "sheer
sense."
nonHis voice was
low, and very hoarse.

"This

"

do you talk of kindness

Why
"

Because

"

What

"I

am

so

Then

he

but with

you wretched ?"

that;but if you will be gentle

mean

shook

Then

no, not that."

what is it you

Any

him, not

that you

you mean
?" he said.

if not
you live,
'f

her from

action.
persistent

Do

"Oh
"

"All

want

to

she eat the

wine, and

allowed

food,and drank
old

the

drop of

take

to

woman

her

away to the bed that had been preparedfor her.

she saw no more
for four days.
Of her husband

Where

would

here ?"

where you
this is

Archie would

and

During the

days,and

tillher husband's

presence she almost feltthat it would be well for

her if those dayscould be prolonged.But she
knew

the hour
and

"You

said to the
"

You

Mr.

at which

she took

arrived.

will

her husband
and

come

at once

had then

all that could not

"I
"Yes," he said,
But

had

yon

he
she

the circumstances

of

house,and the declaration he

that he would

made

him?"

in

"

Claveringremembered

But

see

turn,
re-

when

left the parsonage.

hour or two ?"
an

she

rector,as
come

would

to be at home

care

will

his last visitto the

will

not

there.

return

be considered.

now

come

across

better tell him,

see

this
so

ing.
even-

that he

if he would rather

me

he will see
Of course
you.
that he ever
you will not remember
offended you ?"

Oh, he will see

"

And

you.

Mrs.

to

her

that if her
to

"

you should

used

I wonder

that you

Come

thingsnow.

and let me
this,

"
"

be

go

elsewhere

with

the sea^side
"

her ; and she

in her letter to show that

glad

to accompany

arguments
arrangement as this had better be made.

an

will be with my
she will understand

You

and

her

sister would

place,perhaps,on

some

many

such

talk of such

three

next

With

givenorders.
already

at the
return. Lady Claveringremained
rectory,and in the comfort of Mrs. Clavering's

she would

please,
onlythat

nonsense.

for the funeral.

return

reference to that he had

but
want

away
All this
go to my room.
istrash and nonsense, and I hate it." She put
back with careful hands the pieceof cambric
from

lady,tillyou have
fast so long must

To

"

Claveringhad written both to Julia and

Harry,and the day of the funeral had been
settled.
Harry had alreadycommunicated his
violently,
intention of coming down ; and Lady Ongarhad
to Mrs. Clavering's
letter,
saying that
go up to replied
oifer to go to Clavering
Park,
she could not now

stay with me."

should

desired

be alone."

Do not leave
me, it will comfort me.
here all alone,
has been taken
now
my darling
from me."

''

of food and
master

always."

Then

wretched."

have I done to make

do not

town

the old housekeeper

take it.

so," said Hannah.

be bad

But

leave you, my

not

need not be troubled to

?"

now

with

me

done

drank alone.

her.

down,

went

in which

came.

''

I will

found

wept, while he

On the next morning a note was broughtto her,

ed
Sir Hugh told her that he had returnshould not be here now," he said,
dering.
shudIt was
to London.
that
necessary, he said,
"I wish he had been moved
before I he should see his lawyer and his brother.
He

went."
"

and

sat

dined and

"

pected,
ex-

she

and
myself,

coldness."

will

This

not

she
sister,"

why

had

said ;

I do not write to

think that it comes

had been written before

from

Lady

Harry Clavering.
when
he got to the great
which she had moved, and then,seatingherself
Mr. Clavering,
in
into the room
shown
hands
with
her
closed
a
was
on
immediately
chair,wept violently,
house,
upon her face.

"That

comes

of

me
bringing

Ongar saw

which the baronet and his younger brother

were

92

THE

CLAVERINGS.

finished
time since,
sitting. They had,some
dinner,but the decanters were stillon the table
ing
before thera.
"Hngh," said the rector,walk"I
his
elder
to
briskly,
grieve
nephew
up
for you.
of
I grievefor you from the bottom

as I should have
as deeply
nothingoccurred to separateus ; but

I feel for her

had

done
1

can

feel for him."

not

"

do," said Harry.

is your cousin,
and perhapshas been

"He

your friend?"

heart."

my

"

He and I have never

"No, not especially.
glass pulledwell together; but stillI pityhim deeply."
Then Archie
"He
is not my cousin,but I know
him betwill fetch you one."
ter
or Archie
there,
and passedthe decanter
than you do,Harry. He will not feel much
looked out a clean glass,
will be for his heir,not
and his sorrow
tice.
himself,
; but of this the rector took no directnofor his son.
He is a man
whose happiness
does
It has been a blow,my poor boy a heavy not depend on
the life or death of any one.
"
None
heavier could
He likes some
blow," said the rector.
people,as he once liked me ; but
has

"Yes," said Hugh, "it

blow.

Sit

down, uncle.

been

is

There

heavy

clean

' '

"

have fallen.
do

as

But

our

"We

are

be

must

cut

our

sayingthis,intended
He

was

sincere

as

sorrows

from

come

en,
Heav-

I do

think

not

that he

loved

ever

human

any

and must be accepted." being. He will get over it,

and he will simply
blessings,
all like grass,"
said Archie,"and
wish that Her'mymay
die,that he may marry
down
in our
turns."
Archie,in another wife. Harry,I know him so well !"
to

as

put

on

his best behavior.

"Archie

how

"

he knew
of

"Come, Archie, none

to

said
that,"

be.
his brother.

It is my uncle's trade."
"Hugh," said the rector, "unless
"

will marry now," said Harry.

he can
to have him.
get any one

Yes, if

There

very few

are

who

men

can't get

wives,

of
to be one
fancyArchie Clavering
them.
He has not humilityenough to ask the
you can
think of it so, you will find no comfort."
of girlwho
sort
would
be glad to take him.
"And
I expect none, so there is an end of Now, with his improved prospects,
he will want
Different people think of these things a royal
that.
or somethingnot
much
short of
princess
it. Money, rank,and blood might have done
use
differently,
you know, and it is of no more
for me
to bother you than it is for you to bother
before,but he'll expect youth,beauty,and wit
me.
ry
My boy has gone, and I know that he now, as well as the other things. He may marwill not come
I shall never
after all,
for he is justthe man
back to me.
have
to walk out of

another,and it is hard

bear.

to

offense to you, I would

it in my own
If I
way.

no

and
Take

a
arm

bear

to

to talk about

were

justnow, it would be
humbug. No offense to

I hate

the

bug,
humyou.

wine, uncle."

some

the rector

But

But, meaning
be left

did

Archie

as

grass

sooner

but I

could

presence, and therefore he escaped as soon

he could.
He spoke one word of intended comfort

Lady Clavering,and

to

the

then

church

day with

some

the cookmaid

under

his

his wife."

as

"Perhaps he may find somethingbetween a

princessand a cookmaid."
I hope,for your sake, he may not ; neither
a princess,
nor
tween."
a
cookmaid,nor any thingbe"

in that

drink wine

not

can

returned

"

as

He

Ongar.
to

has my leave to marry to-morrow. Lady

If I had my
wish, Hugh should have

his house
"

rectory.

full of children."

Of course, that is the proper

thingto

sav,

Harry."
"I

won't

stand

that from

Wlrat

CHAPTER

I say, I mean
better than you."

XXI.

"

WBONG

TES,

; CEKTAINLT

had

Clavering

Haket

WSONG.

heard

the

Street

to

report

the count.

with
the

news

come

same

tor, and

Harry

knew

found

mistress.
have
As

what
her

had

Had

alone,having asked
Gordeloup was

such

he entered
full of the

been

the

case

and

gone away,

left his message

the room
his mind

the

sei-v-

with
he

his

would

untold.
rally
natu-

was

from Clavering. Count

tidings

his message had lost some

of their
importancethrough this other event, and the

Pateroffand

emptinessof
of
subject

Ongar.

the childless house

conversation

"I

knows

From
you, Harry?
whom,
?
But come, I will do you

that

then,if
justice,

pitymy

and

must
"

fightfor
Or work

"Or
occurred at the park. and no

Madame

whether

ant

one

to Bolton

to him in the morning, and on

evenirighe called on Lady Ongar.
Mrs. Clavering's
letShe also had the'trreceived

had

news

me

Lady Ongar.

yon,
no

believe you to be simple enough to wish

The
sort of castle in
any thingof the kind.
the result of his negotiationthe air which you build is not one
to be had by
letter with the inheritance,
but to be taken by storm.
You
His_^mother's

his littlecousin's death before he went

of

Won't
from

not

; and

between
sister

was

him

win

it in

lord

ever

way

off your own

bat ;
his castle than

prouder in
you

do all

of

manner

yon

attack

"

enormous

Sophie Gordeloup
you
and

she. When

help

"

"

well to your
Archie ; an.dyou
means

You

poor me, for instance ; and

dragons shall I say that
is the latest dragon? and

wish

which

day to day
forth and
sally

deeds.
magnificent

distresseddamsels

Lady engineer;

said
greatly,"

some

sat

you sit in those that you build from

in your imagination. And

the first

and

it."

for it."

your

enemies,such
cut

down

coming

as

Hugh
ests,
for-

enormous

miracles

as

an

and then you fall gloriously

in love.

is that

lastto be,Harry?"

THE
"I

accordingto

CLAVEEINGS.

93

all

that speak to him then. He still

had the other man,
precedent,
a foreigner
"
Colonel Schmoff,perhaps."
said,fool that he was.
"
'
Yes ; Colonel Schmoff.
He kept Colonel
No, Harry,no ; you shall take your young,
fresh,generous heart to a better market than Schmoff by him, so as to guard him from being
that ; not but that the distressed damsel
will questioned."
remember
what might once have beeu."
ever
That is so like him.
Every thinghe does
He knew that he was
playingon the edge of he does with some design with some littleplan.
moth
a
as
precipice that he was fluttering
Well, Harry,you might have ignoredColonel
suppose,

be done

must

with tlie distressed damsel,"he

"

"

'

"

"

"

round

a,

He

candle.

knew

that it behooved him

to tell her all his tale

now

at once

and

Florence Burton ; that if he

Schmoff for what

Stratton

to

as

could

tell it

"I

and
last,

at

room

the pang would

be over
and the danger me, you
But he did not tell it. Instead of telling
do to men
he thoughtof Lady Ongar'sbeauty,of his
"You
it,

know

now,

earlylove,of

he not
which
him

that he

not

Archie
have

did not

of another's
as

His

in this other case, the

would so willingly
have
had
possessed,

with all that she

him

before he had

In all his love

but

ever

heart.

love whom

But

been

been

"

him

loved

by

Burton.
told himself,

had

ever

him, Harry?
of

nonsense

no

loved with

he

courteous

said that he

to you

his tale should

which

had

been

once

all his

and once
courteous.
"Yes; once insolent,
forgiventhe one for the other,"

have

He then went on to say that you made

him
for his civility
by shuttingyour
poor return
door in his face,
but that he did not doubt you
"

would

think better of it when

had heard his

you

Therefore,he said,he should

again. That, Lady'Ongar,was the whole

call
of

it."

was

thinking asked

this

was

the time

came

to her

than

of anger.

be told.

very

"
"

"
fortunately"withShall I tell you
gone with him most unmisfortune
that had never
Harry ?" Again her

"What

carried him

Lady Ongar,however,soon

mine, and

do not believe him, Harry."

"And

thingshad

paralleled.It was thus he

remembering that now

of

concern

no

interview."

memberedmessage.
re-

had been his first

instead of
in which

now

falselyhe

he had

'

endowed

he

so

"

that Julia Brabazon

love,the

before

woman

Florence

seen

forFlorence

told himself

so

"I

and

desires did not lie in that

But

who

Henry,

as

was

requiredan

Were

money.

wives

many

He

childrenas Priam, it would "be no

as

many
offense to him.
him

his cousin's inheritance,

hear,which

want

spoken the simpletruth.

covetous

to marry

line.

quarrelwith

his

been

he had
was

talked

fighting."

no

"

into another

very angry" "with

of what he would

of the power and place

"Oh no; we were
friends again very soon.
it now
tell you that there was
were
thing
someopen to But he bade me
her for her hand.
When
he had
importantfor him to say and for you to
have

ask

to

was

that there shall be

me

sort

cared."

out

interfered with him."

will not

Promise

thought,that

and

have

come

wealth,yet

would

declared

been his had

I think he

Stratton.

to

gone
if not of her

might have

what

to

then he

"

who

gone.
own

I should

got the count

away
"But
the actual brink of the precipice.

"

question
;
cheeks

was

his intention

what

face became

red

as

but the color which

was

rather

was,
she
now

that of shame

his intention ?"

in his power ;
you believe that I am
think
that
how
about the dragon,"said she,"or, rather,to make
he
has
been
you
my lover ;
in your eyes, so that you might believe
about the dragon'sbrother,
at whom
to lower me
you were
all that others have believed
bound to go and tilton my behalf ?
all that Hugh
Have you

from

To make

"

or
tilted,

"I

are

you

knight?"

recreant

said he, "but

the
tilted,"
that he will not regardhimself
professes
killed.
In other words, he declares that
will

have

Claveringhas pretendedto believe. That has

been his object,
on
he-dragHarry,and perhapsyou will tell

she

as

as

"Does

threat ?"

"

He

he

He

will

said

me?"
came

an

he send

me

Lady Ongar,
angry spot on
that message

he has had."

know

all,
why
as

the old

droppingwill

is ever

story,that the drop which

but
threat,

I think

such
"

it so."

find,Harry,that I will not

see

And,

the stone.

wear

should your faith in

me

be

as

hard

after
even

stone?"
you believe that what
effect?"

"Do

does not send it as

means
partly
"

see

spokethere

each cheek.

success

"Lady Ongar!"
"You

will

he

what

me

you."

see

"That
and

as

he

he said had

It is very hard to look into another

him; heart; and

the dearer

and

nearer

any

person's

that heart is

culty.
and that should he. force himself into my presence, to your own, the greater,I think,is the diffihe calls
I know
that man's heart^what
I shall know
how to punishsuch an outrage.
his heart,but I don't know
If he sent me any message, let me know
yours."
For

it.''
"

he
To tellthe truth,

speakto
civil to
time in
and

me

were

all,
though he

When

vain,he

asked

there

at

me.

came

I had

to

was

to
unwilling
anxious

for him
inquired

to me

dinner.
four of us, of

me

most

was

to

be

with another
So I went, and
I could
course

be

man

as
not

moment

or

two

Claveringmade
speak,he

no

went

you surmise of him be true,he must

"
very devil. He can not be a man
''
he
be ?
w
hat
matters
which
Man
or
devil,
Which is the worst, Ham-, and what is the dif"

some

he did
answer, and then, when
back from himself to the count.

If what

"

94

THE

ference ?

The

Fausts

of

to teach
Mephistopheles

day

this

guileor

them

CLAVERINGS.

want

"

no

harden

to

I do not

There

believe that there

such

are

men.

have

would

you

in your intimacy
with
persist

thought about it,Hany, or

it. It is,I think,very

not

understand

understood."
easily

be one."

may

"You

their hearts."
"

you should
woman."

why

such

What

"One, Harry!

cousin
is your
What
Count Paterotf ? Are

Lord

was

Hugh ?

What

You

her.

same

know

her to be

gar,
vultreacherous,
false,

You
covetous,unprincipled.

is this

all of the

they not

"

Ongar

You

say she is

like

not

can

dragon."

dulging "A
simply of indragonto you, I said."
w
ithout
You
and
one
not pretendthat she is a lady,
can
utterly
appetites,
incapableeven of the idea of yet you put up with her society."
generous feeling,
"
Exactly. And now tell me what you would
caringfor any one ? Is it not so ? In truth,
; hard
their

nature

stone, desirous

as

"

own

this count

is the best of the three I have named.

With

him

would

woman

stand

have

better chance

than with either of the others."

if that
"Nevertheless,
a

'"He shall be a devil if you say so.

He shall
be any thingyon please,
he
has not
so
as
long
made
you think evil of me."
he has not done

"Then

I don't

that."
what

care

he

has done,or

what

he may do.
Tou would not have
him, would you ?' This she asked with

throwingherself

energy,
with her elbows

seat

her face
more

on

her

than

once

that the

the

on

when

forward

he

which
attitude,

see

me
a

den
sud-

from

her

had

"You

became

there ;

her

so

well,was

hardlybe guidedby my

will

in such

put

you

I be
to

me

the

promise.

Why

should you

see

him, if you

"I know

no

What

he

truth,there is

says about
of
his
scheme.
part

simplysome
his scheme

In

reason.

Lord
You

Ongar
see

no

is

I to
I

when she has given

forgetthat she did
sorelyneeded such

Can I tell her to her face that she is

and

do

Or

company?
this world

believe that

you

onlywith

associate

peoplein
they love

those

esteem?"
I would

"

not have

one

I did not love and

for my intimate friend

esteem."
that

"But, Hany, suppose

no

loved and

one

esteemed

down at
you ; that you had no home
Claveringwith a father that admires you and a
mother that worshipsyou ; no sisters that think
be

to

you

whom

you

you
would

almost
can

it

not

comrades

with

and

esteem

love ; suppose

Sophie Gordeloupor

melted

it.

He

made

"

But

it is

the truth.

so

she
Julia,''

with

How

none

how

of stone

if

ing
com-

"Julia,"he
said.

I better than

am

with

"

got up, and,

round to her, stood over

her.
said,"it is not so with you."

IS

with

mutual

regard and
no
self-confidence,
high hopes of
of choosingcompanions
power

can

was

no
perfect,

work

it be with you then ?"

have been
His heart must

what

is,Harry ?"

Am

thingsthat you say of her,and that

therefore I will for the future dispense
with her

this had

reason.

againsther

all these

do not wish

it?"

so

when
gi'eatservice,

services ?

Nay, emulation,no
promise, I will your own, no
"

"

door

part from her."

easy to say part. Am

you
It is

offense ?

guided?

I will be guided by your

If
bid
me
see
him, I will do it
opinion.
you
to me."
though,I own, it would be distressing
make

me

whom

By w/hose,then, will

"

have

how

no

opinion you

matter."

Harry,since

But

me

done
already

been

customary in his eyes.

now

"

and restingwhom
table,

she had

hands,as

I would

his motive, he is I to bar my

was

devil."

"No,

do."

me

"

"

That

her,and

is his scheme ?"

What
why should I not associate with her ?"
"Simply this that I should be frightened ' Better than her ! As women, you are poles
into becoming his wife.
asunder."
My darlingbosom
"But
friend Sophie,who, as I take it,has not quite
as
"we
dragons,"she said,smiling,
terms
with her come
managed to come to satisfactory
together."
"
and I have no doubt her pricefor asDo you mean
that you have no one to love
brother
sistance
has been high has informed me
more
you?"
"

'

"

"

"

than

once

much

that her brother

honor.

The

desires to do

me

so

count,perhaps,thinks that

Yes,Harry,that

I have

none

to love

is

me.

justwhat

I do

mean.

In

playingmy cards
and rank,but
money

bagatellewithout any I have won

my stakes in
dearest Sophie have lost the amount
tion,
ten times told in affecmy
self
herand that generalunpronounced
to feel that she can do better with me
seems
friendship,
in my widowed
which creates the fellowship
and
to take
esteem
of men
state,than if I were
in the world.
another husband.
fectionate
I have a carriage
and
women
They are so kind and so afdriven about with grand servand am
ants;
horses,
; are they not ?"
At this moment
and people,as they see me, whisperand
tea was
broughtin,and Clavering sat for a time silent with his cup in his say that is Lady Ongar, whom
nobody knows.
hand.
She, the mean
while,had resumed the I can see it in their eyes tillI fancythat I can
with her face upon her hands,which
hear their words."
old position

he

can

aid from

such
manage
his sister ;

"

and

entered
"But
she had abandoned
when the servant
it is all false."
It is not false that I have
is false?
the room, and was
"What
now
lookingat him
sitting
his eyes averted from
I have done that which has
deserved this.
as he sippedhis tea with
"I can
her.
not understand," at last he said, mado me
a fitting
companion for such a one as

THE

CLAVERINGS.

though I have not done that

Sophie Gordeloup,
think." "
which perhapsthese people
ing
He paused againbefore he spoke,stillstandher

near

"Lady Ongar

the rug.

on

said.

"Nay, Harry;
friend who

Lady Ongar when

not

Let
dare

can

to call

by my

me

whose

I shall be

mouth

we

are

feel that I have

me

one

name

pleasedto

"

hear

You need not fear that I shall think

my name.
I will not take it as
that it means
too much.
He

did
Burton

to minute

become

not

all that he had

gone

with

on

go

he told himself
villain.

to that with

come

to

his

ence
Florto say to her.
stillpresent to his mind, and

was

minute

would

how

him, that

But

He

it had

he would have

had

think

must

for

difficulty."
be

must

you

good

and make yourself

like
and considerate,
will know you are
But people
brother to me.
me

not

and
brother,

sake.
me.

would

be better than

"Was

But

remember

must

you

for my
desert

must

you

as

"Yes

or

Any thingthat peoplemight

I wrong

wrong,
"I did
And

all that

lejveme

not

he

say

that."

to kiss your

hand?"

certainly
wrong;
wrong
but unmindful."

that he

now

in the world that he

Stratton.

in my

"Yes,

in truth what

speech,or
from

know

not

But, Harry,you
me

spare

"Spare you, Julia?"

"Yes, Harry,spare me;

it used to mean."

what

meaning

and

me,

to

togetherthus.
from

old friends?

"he

"

95

that

"

is,not

it,"he said,"because I love you."

spokethe tears stood in both his eyes.
love me, and I you ; but not with
show itselfin that form.
That

; you

love that may

given

was

the old

never

has

been lost.

love,which
That

I threw away, and which

end when I
at an

was

"

down

lence,
I am
but you will remember
not angry;
by her in sijilted
you.
that that love exists no longer? You
ing
swearlookingaway from her at the fire,
lain, will remember
to himself that he would
not become
a vilthat,Harry?"
and yet wishing,almost wishing that he
He sat himself down in a chair in a far part
to

sat

had the courage to throw his honor overboard.

half turninground toward her,he took
last,

At

of the room, and two tears coursed

down
his cheeks.
She
stood over

took her first by the wrist watched

her hand, or, rather,
tillhe

could

he did

so

possess himself of her

he touched her hair and

she let her hand

and

drop tillit

"Julia,"he said,"what

hand.
her

comfort

to

make

cheek, sad

rested in his.

I do

can

As

him

did not

"I

you.

The

old love is

will not the less be friends."

we

to

mean

will be

"Come, we
you sad,"she said.
no
longer. I understand it all.
it is with

how

he wept.

as

their way
and
him

I know
but
lost,

Then

he

rose

and takingher in his

suddenlyfrom his chair,
her
and
to his bosom,
holding
arms,
closely
pressedhis lipsto hers.
He was
still
so
quickin this that she had not the

She did not answer

him, but looked
you ?"
the table into
away from him as she sat, across
"Julia,"he said again,"is there
vacancy.
any thing that will comfort you ?"
she did not answer
him.
He

will understand

her,and

was

fiilse almost
He

it.

to which

He

equallyto

knew
her

satisfactory
answer,

but

answer

the

as

how

it

and

asked

be made

was

with

was

Florence.

to

had

that his

reader

if she had the wish to restrain him.

power, even
But she struggled
in his arms, and held her face
his pashim as she gentlyrebuked
sion.
"No, Harry, no; not so,"she said,"it

aloof from

this instant

at

was

questionhe

there could

the fact that that

well

as

that he

aware

that the

knew

one

it all

understood

But

true

and

safetylay in

all but

must
"

was

not be so."
so
; it shall be so ; ever
stillholdingher in his
he was

Yes,Julia,yes

alwaysso."
arms, when

And

the door

"

opened,and with stealthy,

cat-like steps Sophie Gordeloup entered

impossible

the

Harry immediatelyretreated from his

her
and Lady Ongar turned
comfort me ? Tell me
position,
upon
her
with
and glared
I will be comforted ?" But he had not designedfriend,
angry eyes.
upon
with "n
"Ah!"
said the littleFranco-Pole,
this. He
to bring her into such difliculty
as
He had drifted expression
had not intended to be cruel.
of infinitedelighton her detestable
"
is it not well that I thus
into treachery
ah ! my dears,
her, visage,
unawares, and was torturing
not because he was
announce
wicked,but because he was
myself?"
weak.
He had held her hand now
for some
No, " said Lady Ongar," it is not well. It
minute or two, but stillshe did not speakto him.
is any thing but well."
Then
he raised it and pressed
it warmly to his
"And
why not well,Julie? Come, do not
and
is onlya cousin,
be foolish. Mr. Clavering
lips.
"
does
it
What
too.
handsome
she
her
from
seat
a
cousin,
No, Harry," said,
jumping
very
and drawingher hand rapidlyfrom him, "no; signify
before me ?"
"It signifies
Let it be Lady Ongar
nothingbefore you,"said Lady
It shall not be like that.
if
the
sound
of
the
other name
again
brings Ongar.
for her to

give.

Could

she say, "Yes, you can

that you yet love me, and

room.

"

back
Let

too

it be

the memory
of
closely
Lady Ongar again. I

that it will be better."

walked away from him across
followed her.

other
can

stand
under-

she
As she spol,ve
the room, and he

alone

are

But

"

Come,

come,

"Nonsense

or

"

dear,that
Julie,
no

left to

me

nonsense,

I be

of my

body."

is nonsense."

I would

privatewhen I please. Will

Madame
Gordeloup,what is your

you

angry with you who

"

be

angry?"he asked her.

"No, Harry; not angry. How should

"Are

Julie "
before the servant,
"It would signify
nothingbefore any

days.

you

wish to
tell me,

at
pleasure

the present moment?"

"

is to beg your pardonand

My pleasure

to

CLAVERINGS.

THE

96

Your
poor friend.
is out, and Bessy-letme in. I
told Bessy I would go up by myself,and that is

forgiveyour

say you must

fine man-servant

too late I beg pardon."

come
stillup."
I am
as
late,certainly,

all. If I have
"Not
"

too

And

I wanted

about the

to ask you

pictures

said,perhapsyou would go

You

to-morrow.

perhapsnot."
piaveringhad found

morrow
to-

"

himself

awkwardlysituated while
explainingthe

thus

was

Gordeloup
having

of her

causes

into the

unannounced

come

to be somewhat

Madame

room

as

soon,

he took his
as he found it practicable,
therefore,

Julia,"he said,"

"

leave.

is with you, I will

But you will let me

"

Madame

as

loup
Gorde-

go."

now
see

?"

soon

you

Yes,very soon ; that is,as soon as I return

from Clavering. I leave town earlyto-morrow
morning."
"
Good-by,then, and she put out her hand
to him frankly,
As he
smilingsweetlyon him.
felt the warm
her
hand
of
he
hardly
pressure
knew whether to return
it or to reject
it. But
"

"

he had

too far

gone

for

now

firmlyfor a moment
again upon him, oh
her head
seen

heart.
from

look
she

earlier

had

when

she

That

understand

nod

now

told

all the

evening,of

her wretched
"We

her countenance

was

worn

that fatal

on

that made

smiled

so

different

How
that

She

own.

and nodded
passionately,
He had never, he thought,
or
so lovely,
more
light of

him.

at

woman

and he held
retreat,

in his

it

him,
bound

sorrows

to her.

of hers said

that his

other

the

No

; it was

he had

whom

toward

Lady Ongar

be exhibited

treacherymust

toward

"

and
befriend,
whom
he now, in his distress,
do we not ?
Yes ; althoughthis spiteful
woman
imagined to be the
dearer to him of the two.
He should,according
stand
has for the moment
come
between
us, we underAnd
Ah ! to his custom, have written to Florence
each other.
is it not sweet ?
a day
two before he left London, and, as he went
or
the troubles of which I told you ; you, you have
had deteimined
cured them all." All that had been said plainly to Bolton Street,
to do so that
and Harry had not
in her farewell salutation,
ed
evening on his return home ; but when he reachhis rooms
he found it impossibleto write
dared to contradict it by any expression
of his
much.

so

each

now,

woman

countenance.

such

"By, by, Mr. Clavering,"said Sophie.

"
Good
evening, Madame
Gordeloup,"said
Harry,turningupon her a look of bitter anger.

would

Then
and

lover.
joyousthriving

THE

DAT

OP

XXII.
THE

which

in Bolton
But

what

he

He

was

his

and
position,

bound

he had

her.

That

which

she

Claveeing-,when

Haket
had
not

his

Bolton
been
in

journeydown
to himself.

away
in which he

to

Clavering with much

Whether

or

no

he

was

fort
com-

now

to

at any rate he was

not
villain,
without
capableof doing his villainy

villain

extreme

remorse

not

to

seem

should

walked

scene

was
interrupted
by Sophie Gordeloup,
happy frame of mind, nor did he make

as
regarded

be

he

Street after the

be

him

and
to

be

of mind.

agony
even

free himself from

to him

to

was

to

vain

to

his

He

not

he had
And

was

her
treating

of

his memory
and
he must

do

so

journeyhe

attempt

amused

Julia?

what

once

her,he had simplyinsulted

with
contentment
gratified
greeted him as he was
leaving

had

The

had

regardto
at

to tellher that in

look

Julia.
had

curred
justoc-

treated

bound

on

in

do

to let her know

possible. Early In

started

had

to

the hardihood

him.

her,and
with as little delayas
the morning before he
did make

not
write,

letter would

tormented
now

not

to

rob

an

attempt,

but
Florence,

to

get itselfwritten.

to inform

her that he

himself

w'ith her sorrows, and that

her by the exhibition of his love.
injured

then that horrid

whose pryinjr
Franco-Pole,

that he
yet possible

altogetheruntrue

hardlyoccurred

It did

he
was

to do

wont

was

Street ?

was

Of that contentment
from

he say to her that

could he tell her that

her, and speak as

after that
impatience,

her,clung to

FUNEEAL.

could
How

he

as

CHAPTER

be false?

of his

"

with the heart of

What

letter.
not

he loved

he went, leaving the two women

together,
home
to Bloomsbury Square
not

walked

to

sworn

to

Florence.

think that he

the contract

by

which

because she
eyes Julia had dared to disregard,
It had been proud of his love ! If she had not been

could
he was

the case
there,
might have been
he thoughtof this,
as
forgotto

easier.
remind

Harry,
himself

THE

CLAVERINGS.

97

him he would
that if Sophiehad not interrupted
On the following
and
day was the funeral,
floundered on from one dangerto another
Harry went with his father and cousins to the
tillhe would have committed himself more
oughly child'sgrave.
thorhe met Sir Hugh in the
When

have

tfeanJiehad done,and

have

made

dining-room in the great house the baronet

is it
hardlyspoke to him. "A sad occasion,
But even
not?" said Archie; very sad;very sad." Then
to break as it would be to keep them.
such promises
? Was
er
as it was, had he not made
Harrycould see that Hugh scowled at his broththere not such a promisein that embrace,in the
hatinghis humbug, and hatingit the
angrily,
word or two which he had spoken more
half-forgotten
because,in Archie's case, it was doubly
in his arms, and in the parting humbug.
while she was
heir to the property
Archie was now
even

which
promises

it would

have been

shameful

as

"

He could not write that

grasp of his hand ?
letter then,on that morning,hurried as he was

and

of his journey; and

necessity
that it should
for Clavering
resolving

he started

and again had

Clavering,

be written

about Lady Ongar. Indeed,he had been

commissioned by Julia to press upon
specially
her sister the expediency
of leaving
Clavering

with the

from his father's house.

sad
It was
a tedious,
silent and out of

was

he

journeyto him, and

when
spirits

he reached his

home

; but he had gone there for the purpose of

his cousin's funeral,
and his mood
not at
was
firstnoticed,
as it might have been had the
different.

been

His

that well-known

wore

which

is found

of

sorrows

father's countenance

look of

nity
customary solem-

to be necessary

his mother

and

on

such

sions,
occa-

still thinkingof the

was

had been at the

who
Lady Clavering,

rectoryfor tlie last day or

sion
occa-

to the title.

After

for

while.

"
Have you seen Lady Ongar since she heard
of the poor child's death ?" his mother asked.
"
Yes, I was with her yesterdayevening."

This

Harry went
to

had been

to

Lady

see

endure

sation
conver-

that last

earlyon

eveningin Bolton Street,

long before Madame
Tell
Gordelouphad made her appearance.
her from me," Lady Ongar had said,"that 1
"

will go any
go with me
her this

as

"

where that she may wish if she will

she and I alone ; and,Harry,tell

though I

meant

it.

I do

why

I know

all her letters when

that he
"

her

sees

This

task

the result he

and

I do not write

HaiTy was
was

myself.

bound

he

is

to perform,

now

to communicate

he might
the answer
to Lady Ongar
delivering
"
Do you see her often ?" Fanny inquired. would be another thing.
"What
do you call often?
No; not often.
Lady Claveringlistened to what he said,but
he pressedher for a replyshe shook her
I went to her last nightbecause she had given when
" And
her three or
head.
?"
I have seen
commission.
me
a
why not,Lady Clavering
"
four times altogether."
Peoplecan't alwaysleave their houses and

Lady Ongar.

to

give;

The

it.

mean

She will understand

with

two.

the funeral

message

but

Is she

"

handsome

as

as

she used to be ?" said go away,

"

Fanny.
"I

used

"You

have

tell; I do not know."'

not

can

to

think

been

never

she

course

is handsome.

There

has

doubt about that; but when

a
deep mourningone hardlythinks
beauty." Oh, Harry,Harry,how
a

is in

woman

about

her

I should

done

so

now

very handsome, Sir Hugh remain

her

Harry."
"Of

Harry."

But

have
"

here

has not told

"

He

"

If he

thoughtthat you could

is,before long. Will
?"
at Clavering
that he means
to go."

that

me

stays,I suppose you will stay; hut if

he goes up to London
again,I can not see why
you and your sistershould not go away together.
but
She mentioned
Tenby as beingvery quiet,

she would be guided

so false ?
by you in that altogether."
Harry.
thoughtyoung widows were alwaysparticularly "I do not think it will be possible,
that I am
trulyobliged
charming,"said Fanny; "and when Tell her,with my love,
about Lord Ongar one does not
remembers
to her,but that I do not think it will be possible.
one
think of her beinga widow so much as one would
She is free,
you know, to do what she pleases."
do if he had been different."
"Yes, she is free. But do you mean
"
"
I don't know any thingabout that,"
I mean, Harry,that I had better staywhere
said he.
is the use of a scene, and of being
and
that
I
What
He felt that he was
he
am.
dered
blunstupid,
about it,
but
in every word,but he could not helphimself. refused at last ? Do not say more

could you be
I

"

"

"

It was
that he should talk
impossible
ny
Lady Ongar with proper composure. Fanthat the subject
saw
annoyedhim and that

about

it made him
' '
She wrote
about

cross, and she therefore ceased.

very nice letterto your mother

the poor child,

and about her
"I wish with all my

the rector.
Hermione
"

could go to her for

I fear that he will not

Clavering."I

do

not

let

said
sister,"

heart that

time."

her,"said Mrs.

understand

it

all,but

between Hugh
says that the rancor
her sister is strongernow
than ever."

Hermione
and

"And
out

Hugh

will not be the firstto

"
said the rector.
of his heart,
G

put

cor
ran-

tellher that itcan

when

not be so."

after a while
she suddenlyasked him

ised to

do,and

This
a

Harryprom

risingto
question."

was

go,
Do

remember what I was

sayingabout Julia
and Archie when you were here last ?"
"
Yes,I remember."
"
It seems
Well,would he have a chance?
of her now than any one else."
that you see more
" No
I should say." And Harry,
chance at all,
he answered, could not repress a feeling
as
of most unreasonable jealousy.
"
chie.
littleof ArAh!
you have alwaysthought

you

is changed now, Harry,

Archie's position
Of course
darlingwas taken from me.

since my

CLAVEBINGS.

THE

98
he

Hugh,

will marry, and

think,would

"

like

I have

had

Hugh," said his wife.

secret,

no

"Let
it. He
hear what he has to say,"
said Sir
me
him to marry Julia. It was he proposed
i
t
he
has
likes any thing
unless
never
proposed Hugh.
"
himself."
Lady Ongar thoughtthat it jnightbe well
"
that her sistershould leave Clavering
for a short
It was he proposedthe maniage with Lord
time,and has offered to go any where with her
Ongar. Does he like that ?"
"

for a few weeks.

That is all.''
Well,you know, Julia has got her money.
"
And
why the devil should Hermione leave
Harry, as he heard this,turned away sick at
her own
house ?
And
if she were
to leave It,
The poor baby,whose mother was now
heart.
buried
that
been
should
she
that
ing,
mornwith
had
has misconducted
a
woman
to
only
him,
why
speaking
go
herself?"
and she was alreadymaking fresh schemes
Julia has got her money !
for familywealth.
"Oh, Hugh!" exclaimed Lady Clavering,
in her sorrow, to
That had seemed to her,even
self,"
"Lady Ongar has never misconducted hersaid Harry.
be sufficient compensationfor "allthat her sister
""Are you her champion?"asked Sir Hugh.
had endured and was
enduring. Poor soul !
"
he
should
have
As far as that,
reflect
I am.
She has never
as
did
not
conducted
misdone,
Harry
she was
that in all her schemes
only scheming
herself;and what is more, she has
used since she came
to been cruelly
home."
for that peace which might perhaps come
satisfied. " And
whom
said Sir Hugh,
her if her husband were
"By
by whom?"
why
she asked.
should not Julia take him?"
steppingclose up to his cousin and lookingwith
"
said angry eyes into his face.
I can
not tellwhy, but she never
will,"
At that moment
the
But Harry Claveringwas
not a man
to be intimidated
Harry,almost in anger.
into the
door was
by the angry eyes of any man.
opened,and Sir Hugh came
"By
"
that you were
I did not know
room.
here," you,"he said,"her brother-in-law
by you,
who made up her wretched marriage,
and who, of
Sir Hugh said,turningto the visitor.
' '

'

"

"

"

here without

I could not be down

few words

all

the most
bound to protecther."
others,were
"Oh, Harry, don't,don't!" shrieked Lady

sayinga

Lady Clavering."

to

' '
I suppose, justat Clavering.
The less said the better,
"
fense
perious
Hermione, hold your tongue," said the impresent, said Sir Hugh. But there was no ofin the tone of his voice,or in his counteand
nance,
husband; "or, rather,go away
"

and

Harry

took

the words

meaning

as

leave

'

'

Lady Claveringthat
telling

was

"

And

tell Lady

you

that?"
"

you
pissthat her
asked

Hugh

going or

of solicitude to

matter

to say to Harry
or two
better be said in private."

"
go if you are going to quarrel.
Sir Hugh, "I will trouble you

"Harry," said
go down

stairs before

If you

me.

will

step

these

his

of
questions
"

what

come

be
Sir

as

cousin,there

of intended

doubt
to insult me
you intended
by
you said up stairs." The baronet began
in this way after he had carefully
shut the door,
and had slowlywalked up to the rug before the
"No

why

going should

not

you?" Now,

of offense in his tone

much

word

breakfast-room.

she go, and where?

and
proposedit? And how does it
should

have

was

not

I will not

had

Clavering into the breakfast-room I will come to you."

HaiTy Claveringdid as he was bid,and in a
go,"said few minutes was joinedby his cousin in the

woman.

"Why
to

that I would

told him

I have

the poor

' '

soon

to

shoidd

why

as

be better if she left home

she can, she would

for a while."
as

I have

us.

Clavering,which

none.

and
fire,

fense
of-

had

"Not

there taken

his

all;I intended

at

position.

to take

the

part of

in his eye, and in all his bearing. an ill-used woman

whom
yon had calumniated."
turned
his back upon his wife,and was
"Now
look here,Harry,I will have no interhad
He
ference on your part in my
ing,
either here
lookingfull in Harry'sface. "Lady Claveraffairs,
and

"

obligedto you," he said, or elsewhere.

doubt,but it is

doubt,is much

no

have interfered
is itthat you specially
her to leave her home at such a
to recommend
"

why

but

time

Harry had

not

spokenas

without having made

mind

own

did

He

to say.

for his cousin

at

he did to Sir

Hugh

calculation

in his

some

to the result of what

as

he

was

was

was

very

fine

no
fellow,

in order.

After

what

you

to set

have

just

here in my absence."
"Neither
in your absence

not

to come

nor

in your

ence."
pres-

"As
to the latter you may
do as you please.
His object And
his cousin's anger.
now
I will simply
touchingmy sister-in-law,
recommend
fairs."
afsimplythat of carryingout
you to look after your own

was

too timid

from

message

Harry, " sent by me."

"Upon my word
what

care
not, as regardedhimself,

or

presentwas

"It

are

part of your business

about

Lady Ongar'swish, and he had thought that perhaps

Sir Hugh might not objectto the proposal
which his wife

not

said before Lady Claveringyou will do well

this ?"

as

house

my

You

the message

you three?"

him.
said
sister,"

to make

her

to

"

I shall look after what

"

Of

I dare
in the

she
"

is very kind.

unless itbe

Lady Ongar
say you

affairs!"please."
and her life since her marriage
know

world, and I do

as

not

suppose
from her.

And
you will learn much
tweenfool of you once, and it is on
be-

secret

may

do

so

again."

any body
that
it likely

little as

She made a
the cards that she

CLAVERINGS.

THE

99

his interference could be eiBcacious only

Why could he not have held his
that you have any attairs in tongue when Sir Hugh came
"I don't know
ing
in,instead of makthat vain suggestion
I have been given
as
to Lady Clavering?
which any one
can interfere.
this trouble was
but an
But even
addition to
that you are engaged to marry
to understand
him.
How
that young ladywhom
your mother broughthere the great trouble that overwhelmed

that you would brook no

"You said justnow
interference in your affairs. Neither will I."

If that be so, I do not

to dinner.

day

one

when

see

for

evil.

was

he to escape the

which
position

he had made

for himself in reference to Lady Ongar ?

As
to become
reconcile it to yourself
you
he had promisedto himself
the champion,as you called it,of Lady Ongar." he had leftLondon
how

can

"I

said any

never

"Yes, you did."

"No; it was you
her champion."
was

thingof

that he would

the kind."

tell her

asked

who

whether

me

nightand

same

thing as to Florence
passed,and the next day

nighthad

; but
was

the

nearly

gone, and no such letter had been written.

As he sat with his father that evening,he

you said you were."

So far as to defend her name

"And
"

write to her that

every

I heard

when

told the

story of his quarrelwith his cousin.

shruggedhis shoulders and raised his

"
than I am,"
your impudence is beautiful. eyebrows. You are a bolder man
"
I certainly
I?
he
should not have dared to
do
said.
knows
her best,
Who
you think,you or
advise Hugh as to what he should do with his
Whose sister-in-law is she ? You have told me
I was
Now
mit, wife."
cruel to her.
to that I will not subit traduced

by yon.''

heavens!

"By

and
"I

His father

have

I did not advise

"But
to me."
require
you to apologize
and
been
I
had
to
no
to
nothing
talkingto her
make,
apology

retract."

to say

I shall tellyour
and shall warn
misconduct,
"

father of your gross

Then

him

that you have

his son
out of

made

puppy, and if your

name

not

were

I would tell the grooms

ray own,
you off the place."
"

the
to

same

as

"
"

Of

them."

is

has
to

been

If he

that
were

recommending

that,
you

would

not

take

man."
peculiar
rightto be peculiar.Every

acceptsuch usage

in the world."

as

is customary

"

don't suppose that it will signify

much,"
"
To have your cousin's doors
barred against yon, either here or in London,
said the rector.

will not
Oh

wish you
I shall go.

course

man

is bound

man

"

go !"

Now

had

onlysaid

it.

"I

order,you know, the grooms would

not obey. They would a deal sooner
horsewhip
Sometimes I think theywill,
when I hear
you.

speakto

Hugh

"But
"No

horsewhip

Which

you

to do this or

about

it amiss ?"

it necessary for me
to turn
house.
You are an impertinent,
overbearing

my

you that he

to

mother

my

him.

What

would

injureyou."
no, it will not injureme ; but I do not
to think that I have been unreasonable."

keep

here ?"

The nightwent by,and so did the next day,

opened the door,and Harry and still the letter did not get itself written.
passedthrough it,not without a cautiouslook On the third morning after the funeral he heard
his shoulder,
his that Sir Hugh had gone away ; but he,of course,
over
so that he might be on
if any violence were
fjiiard
contemplated. Bat did not go up to the house,remembering well
not to
Hugh knew better than that,and allowed his that he had been warned by the master
cousin to walk out of the room, and out of the do so In the master's absence.
His mother,
and some
tercourse
inhouse,unmolested.
however,went to Lady Clavering,
And this had happened on the day of the funeral
between
the families was
renewed.
!
had
Harry Clavering
quarreledthus He had intended to stay but one day after the
with the father within a few hours of the mobut at the end of a week he was
stillat
ment
funeral,
in which theytwo had stood togetherover
he said,and
the rectory. It was Whitsuntide,
the grave of that father's onlychild ! As he he might as well take his holiday,
as he was
thoughtof this while he walked across the park down there. Of course
they were glad that he
he became
sick at heart. How
vile,
wretched, should remain with them, but they did not fail
and miserable was the world around him ! How
with him were
gether
not altoto perceivethat things
the peoplewith whom
vicious were
he
terribly
right; nor had Fanny failed to perceive
mentioned
was
Florence's
dealing! And what could he think of himr that he had not once
self of himself,
who was
since he had been at the rectory.
engaged to Florence name
Burton,and engaged also,as he certainly
"Harry,"she said,"there is nothingwrong
was,
to Lady Ongar ?
Even his cousin had rebuked
between
you and Florence?"

me

Sir Hugh

then

"

him
would
And

for his

to Florence;
treachery

his cousin
then

what

have

said had

good had

he

but what

he known
done"

or

all ?
rather

''

What
"

should
there be wrong ?
! what
do you mean
by wrong ?"
I had a letter from her to-day,
and she asks

Wrong

evil had he not done ? In his attempt on

where you are."
behalf of Lady Clavering
had he not,in truth,
"Women
!
expect such a lot of letter-writing
laid But I have been remiss,
I know.
interferedwitliout proper excuse, and fairly
I got out of
himself open to anger fi'om his cousin ? And
I came
my business way of doingthingswhen
he felt that he had been an ass, a fool,
ceited
condown
a
here,and have neglectedit. Do you
what

ass,

that he
thinking

could

producegood,

write

to

her

to-morrow, and tell her that she

THE

100
shall

hear

from

me

I
directly

CLAVERINGS.

get back

to

"But

why

should you not write to her from

here ?"
"

getherright. Things were

He

town."

had

and
Florence,

Fanny felt that

to

get you

can

this

was

and not at all like such

not
a

do it for me.''
at all like

lover

as

er,
lov-

her broth-

Harry,'*Bhe Baid," there

is

neither

the

burdensome

more

Because I

written

to

right.
by no means
Lady Ongar nor to

longerhe put

off the task the

did it become.

tellinghimself that he would

tillhe got back to London.

On the daybefore he went, there

nothingwrong between

you

and

He

was

now

write to neither
came

to him

Florence ?'*

had been.

While Florence had been at Cla- a letter from Stratton. Fanny was
with him
ters, when
he received it,and observed that he put it
had been most constant with his letand Fanny had often heard Florence boast into his pocketwithout
opening it. In his
of them as beingperfect
in their way.
She did pockethe carried it unopened half the day,till

er

he
vering

not

say any

ment,
thing farther at the present mothat thingswere
not alto-

but she knew

he

was

ashamed

almost in

of his

own

weakness.

with himself,
he broke
despair

At

last,

the seal

THE

CLAVERINGS.

101

It will be over before long,and then,

mother,
ing
and forced himself to read it. There was nothI will tell you."
It conin it that need have alarmed him.
tained if possible,
"
Harry,you are not goingto fightwith
hardlya word that was intended for a

Hugh?"

rebuke.
"I wonder

Not that I should

Fightwith Hugh ! no.
mind it;but he is not fool enough for that. If
she said.
"It
weeks without writing,"
odd to me, because you have spoiledhe wanted fightingdone, he would do it by
so
seems
me
by your customary goodness. I know that deputy. But there is nothingof that kind."
and on the
She asked him no more
ble
when
other men
questions,
theyare engageddo not trouOn his
London.
to
returned
he
letter
next
with
constant
morning
themselves
writing.
knew
he
to
at
which
table
he
once
found
note
to Cecilia is pera
Even Theodore,who according
fect,

why you should have

been

"

two

whole

would not write to her then very often ; be from Lady Ongar,and which had
afternoon.
now, when he is away, his letters are only that
"
at once."
Come to me at once
three lines. I suppose you are teachingme not
all that the note contained.
to be exacting. If so, I will kiss the rod like a

only

come

and

"

child ; but I feel it the

good

lesson has not

was

the

because

more

That

enough."
Then she went on in her usual strain,
telling
CHAPTER
XXIII.
him of what she had done,what she had read,
and what she had thought. There was no suspicion
MUD.
CUMBEELT
LANE
WITHODT
THE
hint at jealousy.
in her letter,
no
no
fear,
And
for jealFanni
she should have no farther cause
ousy
Clavering, while she was inquiring
had not been
and
! One of the two must be sacrificed,
of her brother about his troubles,
For some
fice.
it was most fitting
that Julia should be the sacriwithout troubles of her own.
days
come

soon

self!
Julia should be sacrificed Julia and himBut stillhe could not write to Florence
"

aware^

almost

"

aware

"

that

the thingsthat
Saul's love was
not among
to say that this
were
past. I am not prepared
loyed
unalan
conviction on her part was
altogether

Mr.

could not
He
to Julia.
words
send soft,
pretty,loving
stillregardwhile the other was
trouble,or that there might have been no
one
woman
ing
of silent melancholyabout
him as her affianced lover.
faint touch of sadness,
But Mr. Saul was
from
Florence
it
been
this
otherwise.
"Was
letter
ing?"
mornhad
her,
your
undoubtedlya trouble to her ; and Mr. Saul
Fanny asked him.
with his love in activity
some
troublewould be more
"Yes; it was."
she received mine?"
than Mr. Saul with his love in abeyance.
"Had
"
If you
she had.
"It would be madness
either in him or in me,"
I don't know.
Of course

till he

had

written

bringhimself
to

past she had been

to

post,of

sent it by

she

course

got it."

Fanny had

She mighthave mentioned

it,perhaps."
"I dare say she did.
I don't remember."

not

with

his

"

need

"Well, Hariy,you
I love the

because

me

wife.

your

You

not

girlwho

would

not

be
is

cross

going to

be

like it if I did not

no

said

herself very often ; "he has

But she thought
the world."

to

in
shilling
in these

more

days of

the awkwardness

of

of his rusty clothes,

or his abstracted
manner
; and for his doingsas a clergymanher
admiration had become very great. Her mother
or
gait,

and cautioned her ;

saw
something of all this,
vering.
deceived Mrs. Clabeing called cross."
butTanny'sdemure manner
"
I know that
of course
"Suppose I were to say that I hated your
Oh, mamma,
I'm sure I do ; and you are going any thingof the kind must be impossible
; and
beingcross.
about

care

"I

her."

hate

away to-morrow
nice word to me

Harry threw
in

You

too.

have

hardlysaid a

since you have been home."

himself back into a chair almost

despair. He

not

was

enough

to
hypocrite

his heart within him was

say nice words when
He could not bring
himself to tend
prethat thingswere
pleasant.

not at ease.

"

If you

in trouble,
Harry,I willnot go

are

on

teasingyou."
"

he said.
trouble,
not I helpyou?"
No one
can
"No; you can not helpme.
But do not ask any questions."
help me.
Oh, Harry! is it about money ?"
"

in

am

"And

am

he does

sure

longer." When

of it himself any
Mrs. Clavering
said this,

think

not

she had

all right. The

had believed that it was
that Fanny had been
reader must
not suppose
There had been no hypocrisyin
a
hypocrite.
the
At that moment
her words to her mother.
not among
conviction that Mr. Saul's love was
garded
past events had not reached her; and as reshe
she was quitesincere when
herself,
be impossaid that any thingof the kind must
sible.

can

"

"No,
ey."

no;

it has

nothing to do with

mon-

It will be
had

remembered that Florence Barton

advised Mr. Saul to

Claveringand

"You

have not

"No;

I have not

But I will not

not

seek

another

home.

ence?" solemn,earnest,
with Florman
thoughtful
quarreled
really
a

Fanny,do

try again,and that Mr.

Saul had resolved that he would do so, resolving

leave
also that should he try in vain,he must

matter

as

this ,)vasa

phase of

He

was

; to whom

lifevery

such

serious,

with her at all. causinginfinite present trouble

quarreled
nay, causing
answer
and,to the same
more
extent,capableof
questions.And, tribulation,
speak of this to my father or causinginfinitejoy. From day to day he went
"

i02

CLAVERINGS.

THE

tions
about his work, seeingher amid his ministraalmost daily. And
never
during these

days did

of pence collected from such parents as could

He had never
reverted to that other subject.
pay.
But

he say a word to her of his love,

never
pleaded and
day in which he had plainly

when

since that
his

in the

cause

Florence

Burton

To

muddy

lane.

had

spoken of it,and

he

no

but

one

been true to her trust ; but,

certainly
all that,
Fanny'sconviction was
notwithstanding
had

It

was

now

givingway to the early

summer
the springhad itself arrived.

was

think,in these latter years.

strong.

very

troubles she

ence
Flor-

that it was
coming,
questionedHarry about his
had been thinkingalso of her own.
the middle of May, and the spring

yet Fanny knew

she had

The

almost

fore
be-

It is so, I
sharpnessof

Florence had counseled Mr. Saul to try again, March

and Mr. Saul
but

he

was

nothingin

preparedto

was

hurry.

make

He

attempt;

himself

thoughtmuch
himself

before he could prepare

matter

the

allowed

who

man

do

to

of the
to

recur

prolongsitselfalmost throughApril; and

then,while we are stillhoping for the spring,
there falls upon us suddenlya bright,
ous,
dangerdeliciousgleam of summer.
The lane from
no
Cumberly Green was
longer muddy, and
Fanny could go backward and forward between

sometimes,whether
subject
; doubting,
the parsonage
he would be rightto do so without first speakand her distant school without
ing
to Fanny's father ; doubting,afterward,that wading for which
feminine
apparelis so
his cause
whether
he might not best serve
One evening,just as she had finished
by unsuited.
But
her work, Mr. Saul's head appearedat the
askingthe assistance of Fanny'smother.
he resolved at last that he would
depend on school door,and he asked her whether she were
to

the

himself

alone.

As

to the

rector,if his suit

to

about to return

fault againstMr. Clavering as

a
Fanny were
eyes and heard
that fault had been already
committed.
Fanny'sfather,
day was come.

home.

As

soon

as

she

saw

his

his

voice,she feared that the

She was
preparedwith no new
But Mr. Saul would not admit to himself
that
answer, and could only give the answer
she had given before.
that it was
fault. I fancy that he conShe
had always told
a
sidered
himself to have,as a gentleman,a right herself that it was
to all
as
impossible
; and
other questions
to address himself to any ladywith whom
about her own
heart or such
he
thrown into close contact.
I fancythat he
she had put such questions
was
like,
away from her
as
being unnecessary, and,perhaps,unseemly.
ignoredall want of worldlypreparation never
for a moment
and should therefore
attemptingto placehimself on a The thingwas impossible,
pleted
footingwith men who were richer than himself, be put away out of thought,as a matter comand at an end.
but stillfeeling
But now
the time was
and, as the world goes, brighter,
himself to be in no way lower than they. come, and she almost wished that she had been
"

If any

woman

thought his

so

lived

as

to

line better than

show

their

that she

line,it was
joinher lot

to
open to him to ask such woman
the misfortune
If he failed,
to his.

and

his ;

"Yes,
"

Mr.

I will walk

Then

own

resolutions.

Saul,I have justdone."

with

you, if you will let me."

words of experienced

Fanny spoke some

wisdom

to two or three girls,

in order that she
might show to them, to him, and to herself that
she was
ing
quitecollected. She lingeredin the
though he had learned to love Mrs. Claverher kindness
for a few minutes,and was
to all room
dearly appreciating
very wise and
those around her, her conduct to her husband, very experienced. "I
am
quite ready now,
So saying,she came
all her genuinegoodher solicitudein the parish,
forth upon
ness, Mr. Saul."
the green lane,and he followed her.
stillhe was
to trust to her for any
averse
They walked on in silence for a little way,
Though Mr. Saul was no
part of his success.
and then he asked her some
about
ence
about Florknight,though he had nothing knightly
question
Burton.
him, though he was a poor curate in very rusty
Fanny told him that she had
unfitted for heard from Stratton two
clothes and with manner
strangely
days since,and that
well.
communion
with the outer world,stillhe Florence was
much
I liked her very much," said Mr. Saul.
which he desired to
had a feeling
that the spoil
"So did we all. She is coming here again
win should be won
by his own spear, and that
in the autumn
his triumph would lose half its gloryif it were
fore
; so it will not be very long beHe
was
not achieved by his own
no
you see her again."
prowess.
that may be I can not tell,
"How
but if you
coward,either in such matter as this or in any
that he see her that will be of more
When
circumstances demanded
other.
consequence."
shall all see her,of course."
should speak he could speak his mind freely, ' We
"It was
and sometimes
not without a
with manly vigor,
here,in this lane,that I was with
her last,
and wished her good-by. She did not
certain manly grace.
How
did Fanny know
that it was
coming? tell you of my havingpartedwith her,then ?"
"
Not especially,
that I remember."
She did know it,though he had said nothingto
"
his
communications.
her beyond
usual parish
Ah ! you would have remembered
if she had
He was
often with her in the two schools ; ofttold you ; but she was
en
quiterightnot to tell
i-eturned with her in the sweet springevenings
you." Fanny was now a littleconfused,
so that

which

the

misfortune,as

he well

was

definite in her

more

hard to bear.

it was

And

knew,

as

to

was

one

the mother,

"

"

'

along the lane that led back

from

Cnmborly Green

the littleamounts

to the

rectory she could

with her
; often inspected
of parishcharities and entries

meant.

for

some

calculate what all this

exactly
Saul walked on by her side,and
moments
nothingwas said. After a
not

Mr.

THE

CLAVERINGS.

while he recurred again to his partingfrom

"
Florence.
I asked her advice on that occasion,
she gave it me
assured
an

and
purpose

or
simplenegative,

replyto
"

she
"

she
"

ask

his

person

giveany

asked."
question
is alwaysclear
Burton

had

to

hope for

thoughtthat
favorable

more

She

can

suit to you again."

not have said yes to

can

not

have

done

do

did not

She

yourself.And
there is

matter

no

ask

now

she

almost

might

answer

if

I know

Yes;

might have
declared

talked

necessary
so, and

was

what

what

I must

I have

made

now

remain

not

told that I may

at

do, if such
mind

up my

if I
Clavering,

hope that

never

will be best

come
will be-

you

wife."

my

was

with him.

angry

is to he your answer.
I can
as to that.
am

Mr. Saul
that,

"

She

simplyhade me
right. On such a

was

"But,Mr. Saul"
But
before you
"Well; I am
listening.
how all-important
speak,remember
your words

with propriety will be to me."

"
No ; they can

can

''

hope ?"
His voice was
so
solemn,and there was so
much
of eager seriousness in his face,
that Fanny
could not bringherself to answer
him with
that was
in her mind
quickness. The answer
to have

he

as

Of course you must know

she said.
for yourself,"

!"

to whom

one

her

air been

"

in what

he

which

for her,he
feeling

She felt that this

for his health.

fore
myselfbut to yourself.Thereture
you the question.May I ven-

address
I

so

so.

from

changeof

some

was

in the words
his

and talked of
reasonable and tranquil,

and

going away

"

I had asked her if she

urged my
"

refusal to

calm

says."

venture

the

Florence

language; but now

spokeof himself and of

then,that you
if
even
friend,

sure,

truth out of your

gettingthe

are

it be

are

I like

his

clear

"

You

will do that.

who

clearly with
voice.

and

103

any

be

not

As regardsmy

all-important."
rest in

and
presenthappiness

this

world, they will be

that

nothingyou

can

Of

so.

say

or

course

I know

do will hurt

me

yond
be-

But you

might helpme even to that

farther and greater bliss. You might help me
I also might helpyou."
too in that
as
"
in truth this : ' ' How
she began again,
and then,
was
can
to try
But,Mr. Saul
you ask me
who has but seventy pounds a feeling
that she must go on, she forced herself
to love a man
ing?"
to utter words which at the time she felt to be
year in the world,while I myself have nothBut there was somethingin his demeanor
commonplace. ' Peeplecan not marry without
that
in
its
almost
was
income.
did not think of such
Mr, Fielding
an
something
grand
gravity which made it quiteimpossiblethat a thingtillhe had a livingassured to him."
she should speak to him in that tone.
But he,
of that,
"But, independently
might I hope ?"
asked
his
waited
for
an
answer
having
question,
; She ventured for an instant to glanceat his face,
and she was
well aware
that the longershe delayed and saw
with a
that his eyes were
glistening
the weaker became the groundon which
wonderful brightness.
it,
"
she was standing.
How
I answer
can
you farther? Is not that
"
It is quiteimpossible,
"she said at last.
reason
enough why such a thingshould not be
"
If it really
be so
if you will say againthat even
discussed?"
it is so after hearingme
out to an
it is not reason
end, I will
"No, Miss Clavering,
enough.
that.

"

"

"

'

"

"

"

desist.
and

In that

case

I will desist and

leave you

leave Clavering."

If you

were

to tell me

that you

could

love

never

gard
personally that you could never rewith affection,
that would
he reason
"Oh, Mr. Saul,do not do that for papa's
me
sake,and because of the parish."
why I should desist ; why I should abandon all
' ' I would
do much
for your father,
and as to my hope here,and go ^way from Clavering
ever.
forI love it well.
I do not think I can
the parish
Nothing else can be reason enough. My
how well I love it. It being poor ought not to make
make
you understand
you throw me
that I can
to me
never
If it were
seems
so that yon
again have the aside if you loved me.
for any placethat I have for this. loved me, I think you would
to say
it me
same
feeling
owe
There is not a house,a field,
a green lane that
be ever
so poor."
so, let me
"

me

me,

"

"

"

is not dear to

firstlove.

firstlove will

that it makes

It is like

me.

people

some

come

With

"I

renewal of the passionimpossible."

say that it would be so with

but it seemed to her that he intended
himself,
He

did

not

that she should

so

"I do not see

she said.
"If

you

yourself,
you

understand him.
ing,"
why you should leave Claver-

knew
would

the nature

of my

the less because

you

are

"

But

like me

do you

to
yourself

effort if I had

at all ?

me

Would

such

an

income

love

Can you
you

make

bring
the

you thought
could you
riches,
as

If I had, such
necessary ?
him whom
me
as
teach yourself
to regard
you
to love better than all the world beside ?
were

regardfor

it should

be

why
oughtto

see

do not like you

strongly
poor."

so

so.

that question
I call upon you to answer
me
truly; and if you tell me that it could be so, I
and I will not go away."
will not despair,
cessity.
neI

be any such
do not say that there
If I were
As he said this theycame
to a turn in the
strong,there would be no
But I am weak
weak in this ; and road which broughtthe parsonage
such need.
gate within
under such control as is their view.
I could not hold myself
Fanny knew that she would leave
he him there and go in alone,
When
wanted
for the work I have to do."
but she knew also
had spokenof his love for the place for the that she must say somethingfarther to him hein fore she could thus escape.
there had been something of passion
She did not wish
parish,
"

"

THE

104
to

give him
to

iiim that

an

him, and stillless did she wish to tell

he might hope. It could not be possible

that such

engagement should

an

that she could

to think

lover such

be

provedunhappy, and
ap-

quitecontented

Mr. Saul.

as

be

self
bringher-

she

could

nor
by her father,

with

ference spirited
indifresolution. She would not tell herself
positive
that it was
that she should love him.
impossible
She went
up at last to her room
doubting,

of her

assurance

CLAVERINGS.

he

When

had

firstproposedto her she had almost ridiculed his

there was
Even
in her heart.
now
proposition
and
somethingm it that was almost ridiculous;
yet there was somethingin it also that touched
The
man
her as being sublime.
was
honest,
good,and true perhapsthe best and truest man
She could not bring
that she had ever known.

ill at

have

To

ease.

longkeptfrom

her mother

such

would

make

cret
se-

her

life unendurable

But she felt that,in

to her.
mother,only one aspect of the
affairwould be possible.Even though she loved
him, how could she marry a curate whose only
income was seventy pounds a
year ?

speakingto

her

"

CHAPTER

ish
herself to say to him any word that should banhim forever from the placehe loved so well.

say.

to wait your
' '

It would

be

for

for it would

I am
heartless.
utterly
you dearly. I will not

not

to

prove me
heartless.

be

I love

not live
say that I can
gards
you ; but it is my one great hope as rethis world,that I should have you at some

too

day

prone

as

to

and

my

SPY.
at

body
ClaveringPark,some-

as

certainly
rel
quar-

Archie

as

hope ; but

tle
to the ti-

Sir

should

have

be the case,
would not doubt.

Hugh

that of which

had

been

robbed,would

make

him

hate Archie.

self
he him-

of itselfbe

enough
But,nevertheless,
to instigate
at this present time, he continued
his brother in that matter
of the proposedmarriage
with Lady Ongar. Hugh, as well as others,
to

felt that Archie's prospects

It may
be that I am
and that he could demand
i
f
that
altogether
were
surely,

own.

should become

presumptiveheir

best knew

Archie

That

soon

property. That such would

those who
ter
not be bet-

without

future

with his brother

Mr. Saul,that you should

better,

me

baby died

the father of

think of this any more."

No, Miss Clavering; that would
not

the

RUSSIAN

hinted that Sir Hugh would

time."

own

' '

"

When

heart well enough to

your own
to
on
me, you. should do so,"he went
"If you do not, say so, and I will be content

answer

not

THE

If you know

"

XXIV.

were

proved,
im-

now

the hand

of

of seeming propriety
wealthylady with more
time."
words to
They had than would have belongedto such a proposition
while the poor child was
to the gateway, and he paused as she
now
come
living. No one would
understand
this better than Lady Ongar, who
put her tremblinghand upon the latch.
knew so well all the circumstances of the family.
"I can not say more
to you now," she said.
let it be so.
I The day after the funeral the two brothers re"Then
turned
But, Miss Clavering,
and Hugh spokehis
shall not leave this placetillyou have said more
to London
together,
"
mind
in the railwaycarnage.
And
It will be no
than that.
I will speak the truth to you,
even
good for you to hang on about Bolton Street,
though it may offend you. I have more
off and on, as though she were
than I have ever
of hope now
had before
a girlof seventeen,"
more
he said.
learn to love me.
hope that you may possibly,
"I'm
In a few daysI will ask you again whether
I
"I
quite up to that,"said Archie.
of course.
I understand
may be allowed to speak upon the subjectto must let her know I'm there,
would

beyond hope,you
tell me
so
by this

have

found

"

Now
I w^llsay farewell,
and may
your father.
this that my
God bless you ; and remember
"

only earthlywish
hands."

Then

he

went

and
lodgings,

own

ambition

and

his way
the

on

she

is in

entered

your
toward his

should she"now do,and how should she

would have gone to her

What

When

mother.
she

that she could not

it not
she

her mother

would

why don't you do it? I

when
we
go to her once
about it before in London."

speak

to

man, in what way should she

self
?
She could not tellherthat question

regardedthe

So I did go to

"

well too,
long,when
"

But

her,and got on

that
considering
another

you

woman

thoughtyou
talking

were

with her very

been there

I hadn't
came

in."

didn't tell her what

you

had

come

about?"

"No,

her

should ask her how

to

meant

parsonage

gardenby herself.
She
carry herself?
mother
at once, were
words
resolve what

all that."
"Then

at

pop

not

once

know, hasn't

exactly. You
to

been

see

it doesn't do to

widow

like her.

dead

six months.

Ongar,you

One has
littledelicate In these- things."
"
Believe me, Archie,you had better give up
that she loved Mr. Saul ; and yet, if she
all
possible
imdid not love him
if such love were
notions of beingdelicate,
and tell her what
surely
answer

to be

"

said as much
and fairly.You
to you
want
at once
not
plainly
clination
We, however,may declare that that inmay be sure that she will not think of her former
to ridicule his passion,
to think of him
husband,if you don't."
who had no rightto love,was
as a man
"Oh, I don't think about him at all."
gone
"
that right,
Who was the woman
forever. She conceded to him clearly
there?"
you say was
"

why

had

she

"

him?

and knew
knew

and

that he

that he

was

had

exercised

good,and

in him
recognized

it well.

true, and

"

She

honest,

also manly courage and

man

That littleFrenchwoman
"

is her

Sophie she
name.

calls her.

They

are

bosom

"

the sister of the

SophieGordeloup
friends."

THE
"

CLAVERINGS.

sisterof that count ?"

The

105

of putting
necessity
money

in his purse

was

grievanceto him,and it occurred to him

keepingHer- that it would be a grandthingifhe could induce
his brother to help him in this special
mione down in the country."
matter.
"The devil she did ! What business was that If he could only make
Hugh see the immense

; his sister. Such a woman

She said ever so much about your
"

for talking
!

Yes

sore

is Julia's dofng."
advantageof an alliance with the Russian spy,
think
Julia
I
don't
didn't
so.
to the
Hugh could hardlyavoid contributing
"Well, no,
the understandingthat
I don't know how
of course
on
expense
say a word about it. In fact,
heard such a woman
all such moneys
it came
But you never
to be repaid when
the
were
up.
That

of hers ?

"

talk

to

But
"

ugly,old,hideous

an

"

the two

little creature!

Russian

always together."

are

spy'swork
result.

had

Russian

been

broughtto

spy !

There

cessful
suc-

in the

was

find that Julia very sound of the words somethingso charming

If you don't take care
you'll
that it almost made Archie in love with tfhe outlay.
to the count while you are thinking

is married
about
Then

it."
Archie began to consider whether

might
scheme

not

well tell his brother of his

as

with

reference

to Julia.

at great lengthwith
friend,
CaptainBoodle,he had

the conclusion that his safest

present

Having

the matter

course

his

female

he
charms

cusseda
dis-

to

would

be

of

womanhood,

lady affected
; but

fidential
con-

come

Russian

deloup
SophieGor-

spy too !
but very

few

retained
certainly

yet he

the affairthan
a

man

Archie

nor

of the

had her presence

as

special
ure
pleasfelt infinitely
with
more
pleased
with

any

he would have been had

she been

The intrigue
was
deeper. His
-spy.
of delight
in the mysterious
wickedness of

lia'ssense
Gordeloup,and creep into Juthe thingwas
enhanced
aid. Now, on his return
by an additional spice.
by that lady's
about at once
to London, he was
to play It is not givento every man
to employthe services
Russian lady-spy
that game, and had already
of a political
in his loveprovidedhimself
The partingwith
with funds for the purpose.
affairs! As he thoughtof it in all its bearings,
ready money was a grievousthing to Archie, he felt that he was almost a Talleyrand,
or, at
what
though in this case the misery would be someany rate,a Palmerston.
Should he tell his brother?
If he could reppalliated
resent
by the feelingthat it was a bona
transaction. He would be lessening
the matter
in such a lightto his brother
fidesporting
himself by a judicious
the odds against
the funds for purhedging as to induce Hugh to prodfuce
chasing
of his bets.
"You
stand to lose somethe spy's
the whole thingwould
must
thing
services,
that has rarely
to win," be completewith a completeness
alwaysby the horse you mean
Doodles
had said to him, and Archie had reche doubted.
ognized been equaled.But
Hugh was a
the propriety
of the remark.
He had, hard
man
a
hard, unimaginativeman, and
with some
himself
refuse to believe in the
therefore,
might possibly
altogether
difficulty,
provided
with funds,and was
preparedto set about his Russian spy, Hugh believed in littlebut what
dame he himself saw, and usually
as
soon
as he could find Makept a very firm
hedgingoperations
to

bribe Madame
favor

"

Gordeloupon his return

alreadyascertained her

to London.

He

his money.

grasp upon

"
That
Madame
through
Gordeloupis alwayswith
Doodles,and had ascertained by the unparalJulia,"said Archie,tryingthe way, as it were,
leled
of his friend that the ladywas
before he told his plan.
acnteness
''
It
beautiful
she will helpher brother'sviews.
have
would
been
Of course
to
a Russian
spy.

had

address

"

"

have

seen

Archie's face when

"

this information

I'm

nof

so

sure

.Some

of that.

of these

ain't like other women

at all.
whispered into his ear in privateat the foreignwomen
made
as though he had then been
chib. It was
deeper.
They go deeper a doosed sight
"
with some
Into men's pockets,
greatturf secret,unknown
acquainted
you mean."
world in general.
What
to the sporting
"They playa deep game altogether.
This question
"Ah!"
he said,
do you suppose she is,
?"
now
"no
drawing a long breath,
ward
Archie asked in a whisper,
bending his head forby George,is she ?"
had
been
told
toward
his
The same
in
where
brother,
though there was no
story
eveiy
was

"

"

"

for the last half one

of the littlewoman
or
I am
not
untruly
years,whether truly
ed
to say ; but it had not hitherto reachprepared
Archie Clavering
; and now, on hearingit,

London
dozen

in
becominga participator
secrets of Europe.
the deepestdiplomatic
?"
"By George,"said he, is she really
he felt that he

was

"

I've
"

"

every

thing.

She's

years.
are

doubt

no
"

"Oh, I've

"

And his respectfor the little woman

a
rose
thousand per cent.
"That's
"and
what she is,"said Doodles,
it'sa doosed fine thingfor you, you know ! Of
and that will be
course
you can make her safe,

else in the carriagewith them.

What
she is?
A thief of some
Russian
heard

All the
Russian

ably.
probroguery."

spy."
of that for the last dozen
in London

uglyold Frenchwomen
accordingto
spies,

know
say ; but the Russians
If
better than that.
money
who
they employpeople
Archie

kind

she's up to any

how

what
to

use

people
their

theyemployspies,

can

spy

feltthis to be cruel
"

something."
but he
cruel,

very

nothingfarther about it. His brother was

and quiteunfitted
obstinate,
pigheaded,
stupid,
It was, alas,
for affairsof intrigue.
the by nature
said

Archie resolved at once that he would use

certain that his brother would provide
no
money
great advantagewhich chance and the ingenuity
of his friend had thrown in his way ; but that for such a purpose as that he now
projected
;

CLAVERINGS.

THE

106

friend
consolation grateful

of this,
he found some
but,thinking
in the reflection that Hugh would
with

him

in his

great secret.

I suppose

that.

spy, he and

he should have bought the Russian

grateful
friend,
say; mind

"

that."
par- you remember
ticipator
''
When
Yes,I'llremember

be

not

be

good a

as

way

it would

any."

as

"It's the only way, unless you want

out
her to
rejoice
togetherin privacywithTriumviri might be ringfor the servant to kick you out of the house.
any third confederate.
A B C, among
the
as
very well ; Archie also had heard of triumviri ; It's as well understood
and three were
but two were
none.
peoplewho do these things. I should say take
company,
his pigheaded jewelry
instead of money
if she were
Thus
he consoled himself when
any thing
Doodles

would

brother

his
expressed

but

disbelief in the Russian

Russian

spy; but they understand

that you may
go farther
with others."

thing so

spyThere

the

well

with

said between
them
them than
was
nothingmore
Archie's admiration for Sophie became
still
and,as they partedat
the'railwaycarriage,
the door in Berkeley Square,Hugh swore
to higher as he heard this.
"I do like people,"
in said he, "who
himself that this should be the last season
understand
what's what,and no
in

which

he would

After

this he

on

mistake."

club,and finally
arrangedwith

"

Oh

that the firstvisit to the spy should be

the following
morning. After much

"

consultation

have
house

no

to his

down

made

in London.

But

there,
Doodles

his brother

"

have

or

went

harbor
must

it

house

all.

at

of his

own

agreed between them that

paved by a diplomaticnote.

was

the way should be

The
diplomaticnote

therefore written

was

with her you

even

be very

must

ful."
care-

Archie

Then

by

yes ; that's a matter of course."

When
I was
for the last time that
declaring

she would
word
on

find me
a grateful
friend,
justat the
I would put down
the four fivers
grateful
the table,smoothing them
with my
hand

like that."

Then

Doodles

acted the part, putting

the word gratea great deal of emphasison

Doodles,and copiedby Archie.
ful
"
he went through the smoothing ceremoas
ny
CaptainClaveringpresentshis compliments
with two or three sheets of club note-paper.
to Madame
Gordeloup,and proposes to call upon
her to-morrow
If you
morning at twelve o'clock,if ' That's your game, you may be sure.
ing
that hour will be convenient.
CaptainClaverput them into her hand she may feel herself
Madame
loup
Gordeis- desirous of consulting
obligedto pretendto be angry ; but she can't
sult
affair of much
be angry simplybecause you put your money
on
an
importance." "Conwhen
she got on her table.
!" said Sophie to herself,
Do
me
that,old fellow?"
you see
Archie declared that he did see it very plainly.
the letter. "For
what should he consult me?
It is that stupidman
I saw
with Julie.
Ah!
"If she does not choose to undertake the job,
she'll merely have to tell you that you have left
The stupid
shall come."
man
well;nevermind.
The
commissioner, therefore,who had taken somethingbehind you."
"
But -there'sno fear of that,
the letter to Mount
I suppose ?"
Street,returned to the club
"I can't say.
Her hands may be full,
with a note in which Madame
pressed
exGordeloup
you
she may
think you
don't go high
her willingness
to undergo the proposed know, or
'

Archie

interview.
from

felt that the letter

letter

gave him
kept it as a treasure

in his

"

angeredhis

friend

"You

her head,you know,"

"

Of

by

mustn't

the

your money
said Doodles.

not ; but when

course

shall slipthe notes

of
repetition

chuck

the time

into her hand

"

on

at

yes,

great deal.

near

her

It'salwaysdone

in

way."
"But
perhaps

she wouldn't see

them, or
from."
wouldn't know where theycame
"
Let her alone for that."
"But
I must
make
her understand what I
of her

I ain't goreturn,you know.

ing
giveher twenty pounds for nothing."
"

in

down

sum

"She

course."

I suppose she
coupleof hundred before the
so.

she's to do any good. After

explainthat she shall have

when

won't

the

marriagehas

take the money

and

cfi;."

come

do

nothing,

will she?"
"Oh

no;

theynever

spoiltheir

own

sell you like that.

if they were

It

business

play that

to

it worth
But

you

that."
Archie
careful;do remember
shook his head,almost in anger, and then went
for his night's
home
rest.
On the next
morning he dressed himself in
his best,and presentedhimself at the door in
Mount
Street exactlyas the clock struck twelve.
He had an idea that these peoplewere
tilious
very puncmust

that

want

think

bit you'll
be able to

would

think so?"

you

"Oh

about

the

his

tipher again,of

I should

endofnextmonthif

the table."
"Do

have

to

mean

If you can
make
game.
little her while,she'll do the work for you.

comes

with

pressure perhaps."
"It would be better to leave them

his

givingsa
spy should be managed. Doodles had his misthat Archie would be awkward, and almost
cautions.

But

"Again!

must
breastcftit-pocket.

that he and
necessary
discuss the manner
in which

became

friend should

enough."

spy addressed

"

It then

"

self
to himpositively
alreadydiplomatic
rank,and he

Russian

be

as

French

to

time.

embassador

with Madame

perhaps some

Who

could say but that the

might have

an

appointment

Gordeloupat half past one

emissaryfrom the Pope!

"

or

He

had resolved that he would

not take his left
first; tellher that gloveoff his hand, and he had thrust the notes
and that she will find you a^ in under the palm of his glove,
thinkinghe could
you expect her aid,
to

"

You

must

explainthat

at

THE

CLAVERINGS.

107

easier from

there,should they be rakingfire of those terribly

sharpeyes. " And
he could do from
mence
now," said Madame
Gordeloup,"you can comHe knocked
his waistcoat-pocket.
at the door,
What is the business ?"
to consult me.
That was
Ah ! what was
the business ?
now
knowing that he trembled as he did so, and felt
he found himself to be the difficulty.
considerable relief when
the proper way
In discussing
to which he was
He
alone in the room
shown.
of tenderingthe bank
notes, I fear the two
knew
that men
with intrigues
ways captains
alhad forgotten
the nicest point of the
conversant
go to work with their eyes open, and, whole negotiation.How was he to tellher what
he began to look about him. it was
that he wanted to do himself,
and what
at once
therefore,
into some
that she was
hooved
Could he not put the money
to be required
to do for him ? It beient
convenat once ?
now
him above all thingsnot to be awkward
!
There,in one
liiding-place
them

at

get

wanted

in

moment, than

"

the spot in which she would

That
seat
corner, was
herself upon the sofa. He saw
plainlyenough,
the marks thereon
as with the eye of a Talleyrand,
of her
moment

it for the
while

with
such

inches

smoothing of
had

but

measure,

plan as

"

ing,
feel-

doing great

to the

to

have

be

himself

spyHe

at once

in the presence
saw

and that she

dirty,
her the better

on

of

"

"

female Russian

differ much
felt,

well?"

Lady Ongar is a pei'son whom I have known

for a long time,and for whom
I have a great
I may say a very deepregard."
What
she has! and
"Ah!
a jointure
yes.
what
and thousands of
a
park! Thousands
I
poands^and so beautiful! If I was a man
should have a very deep regardtoo.
Yes."

that the Bussian spy was very

but he liked
a night-cap,
wore

that account.

"

the Knssian

"

why

you."

well"

"Well"

found

to

come

my

Julie.

I know
Of course
What, Julie ?
Julie and I are dear friends."
"
So I supposed. That is the reason

of
utility

it seemed

because

time,

dor
French embassa-

The

"

diplomatic
thingto do ! But while this
backward
and forward
grand idea was stillilashing
his brain,
the door opened,and he
across
such

valuable.

thing
some-

might even now be coming. ." Well ?"

I think,
Madame
Gordeloup,
you know
brother's sister-in-law.
Lady Ongar ?"

to
up his mind
the pages of a book,not

between

ward
not to be awk-

"

to

near

the bank-notes
was

how

Well

himself,

the table

he

But

!" she said ; and there was

Her
in her tone.
almost of crossness
"

doubt,was

no

made

almost

well-defined

seized the

suitable for
on

that
employed,

so

note

any
a

few

things.He
slipone

chair

placea

to

cleared

and

he

sitting.So

constant

he i-emembered.
?

most

"Ah!

beautiful
had

creature

"

is she not ?"

I
as
Florence,
she should be used to see her, in the long summer
possible,
evenings!
with
Her lovelyhair was
all loose to the wind,and
arrayedin diamonds and pearlear-drops,
her as might be ; but failingshe would sithour after hour looking,
as littleelse upon
oh,at the
Have you seen the stars in Italy
that costume, which might be regardedas the stars !
?"
tumbled
couldn't say that he had,
a
Captain Clavering
appropriateevening spy costume
and a dirty
white wrapper, old cloth but he had seen
them uncommon
way
brightin Nornight-cap,
and objectionable
when he had been fishing
there.
slippers,
stockingswere just
?" continued
"Or the moon
what they should be.
garding
Sophie,riot re''
"
his answer.
Ah !" said the lady," you are CaptainClaAh ! that is to live ! And
vering. Yes,I remember."
he,her husband,the rich lord,he was dying,
"I am
It was
CaptainClavering.I had the honor in a littleroom justinside,
you know.
But when
of meeting you at Lady Ongar's."
melancholy.
CaptainClavering.
very
"
And
she was
an
now
on
lookingat the moon, with her hair all
you wish to consult me
and Sophieput her hands
You
affair of great importance. Very well.
disheveled,"
up to
Will
sit
down
there."
her
"she was
consult
me.
own
justlike a
you
dirty
night-cap,
may
And
Madame
Gordeloup indicated to him a Magdalen ; yes, justthe same
justthe same."
and far removed
The
and the
to herself,
exact
chair justopposite
strengthof the picture,
of
the
nature
from that convenient spotwhich Archie had prewere
drawn,
perhaps
comparison
pared
Archie ; and indeed Sophieherself
for the smoothing of the hank-notes. lost upon
to the tone of her words,
trusted more
Near
to the placenow
assignedto him there probably
than to any idea which they contained ; but their
table whatever, and he feltthat he would
was
no
and she felt that if any thing
be so completelyraked by the tone was
in that position
perfect,
he would talk now.
fire of her keen eyes that he would not be able could make him talk,
' '
I have alIn
Dear
his battle upon good terms.
! you don't say so.
to carry on
me
tions,
of the lady's
loup."
Gordeadmired her very much, Madame
wavs
therefore,
very plaininstrucspite,
of
he made an attempt to take possession
"Well?"
the chair which he had himself placed; bnt it
he
spy should,
from other women.

in her attire

if you

seen

her in

If

"

"

"

"

embassador was probably

The French
in the
was
an ineffectual attempt, for the spy was
very
"
and if Archie was
next
vering;
street already,
to tellhis
There, Captain Claperemptory with him.
there; there; you will be best there." tale at all he must do it now.
Then

he did

as

he

was

bid,and

seated

himself,

"

You

will keep my

he asked.
out at sea, with nothingbut an
as it were, quite
"
and
with
Is it me
no
around
of
ity
possibilhim,
ocean
carpet

of

his
manipulating

notes

except under

the

of

me

secret if I tellit you?"

you ask that ?

that I tell a

Did you

secret
gentleman's

ever

hear

I think

CLAVEEINGS.

THE

108

If you have a secret,and will trust it me,

that will be good ; if you will not trust me, that
will be good alsu."
I will trust you.

course

is

why

"

"

that custom

saw

she took his

handy,certainly.I never

before.

Let

hand, and

with

me

look.''

her

own

Then
hooked

"Ah!
fingerclawed out the notes.
five,
ten,
fifteen,
twenty pounds. Twenty pounds is not
but it is very nice to have even
that
a great deal,
"Then
not a littlegirl.
out with it. I am
and two make
You need not be bashful.
Two
alwayshandy. I was wanting so much money
will make
it handy
four. Iknowthat.
as that myself;perhapsyon
Butsomepeople wantthem
So speak out
that too.
to me."
iive. 1 know
to make
what you have to say."
Upon my word, I shall be most happy.
to
to
I am goingto ask Lady Ongar to
Nothing on earth would give me more
ure."
pleas-

"Of

have

That

Ah ! that is very

"

not.

here."

come

' '

"

"

marry me."
' '
of
Ah ! indeed ; with all the thousands
tiful
pounds and the beautiful park! But the beauhair

is

than

more

all the thousands

pounds. Is it not so?"

"Well, as to that,theyall

go

of

together,
you

know."
"And

that is

so

which
separated,

lucky!

they was

to

be

you take?"
grinnedas she asked

little woman

The

If

would

and

"

'

And you want

to
me
"
'That's justit again.

to

this

you

marry

you ?"

helpyou?"

said
rich,"
George,I ain't.

word, if you'llstick

see

me

to

me, you

through it,and all that kind

came

too

littleway ;
a very
the spy.
I ain't rich,indeed."

"

with Julie's money?"

and

you ought to know,

the heir to
Gordeloup,that I am now
the familyestate and title."
"Yes; the poor littlebaby is dead,in spite
of the pills
and the powders,the daisies and the
Poor little baby !
!
I had a baby
buttercups
yes;

"

Madame

of my

my

to be

mean

once, and

own

Madame

know, and

there

spiesperhaps
well.
"Twenty

country goes

so

"Oh^ah

"Well?"

"Upon

their business

"But

ease, and only muttered

the truth of his love for Julia.

you want to get her

that's justit."

"And

"Tes;

might do
pounds in

all

ill at

somethingabout

this spy did her business ; but now

upon him suddenlyan idea that

this you are

all understood
"By

and Archie,had he at
question,
her character,might at once
have put himself
on
a pleasant
footingwith her ; but he was still
confused

"Fiftypounds would giveme more pleasure;

gun
justtwice as much pleasure." Archie had beto rejoice
of
at the safe disposition
greatly
the money,
and to think how excellently
well

her

to

eyes,

that died also."

upon
Where-

Gordeloup,puttingup
wiped away a real tear

her hand
with

the

"
And
bank-notes which she stillheld.
I
to remind Julie that you will be the heir?"

am

friend ;
find in me a most grateful
thing,you'll
"
friend."
And
She will know
all about that already."
Archie,
indeed,a most grateful
debarred from attempting "But
I will tell her.
from his position
he was
It will be something
as
to
the smoothingprocess, began to work
say, at any rate,and that,perhaps,will be
under the glove
the difficulty."
with his rightfore finger
on his
I didn't look at it in that light
"Just
left hand.
so!
of

have

"What

you got there?"

said Madame

before."

"And
I to propose it to her first?"
am
Gordeloup,looking at him with all her eyes.
discontinued the
"Well, I don't know.
Perhaps,as you are
CaptainClaveringinstantly
it might be as well."
work with his finger,
and became
so clever,
fused.
conterribly
had
"And
at once?"
Her voice,
on
asking the question,
'
seemed
him
and
it
that
You see, Madame
to
become
Yes,
sharp
certainly
; at once.
;
very
in that awkward, Gordeloup,
there may be so many buzzingabout
if he brought out his money
'

barefaced way, which

now

seemed

all the
display

she would

to be

wrath

her."

sary,
neces-

of which

it not
spy could be capable. Would
be better that he should let the money rest for
Russian

the

present,and
?

at

any
book!

"Exactly;

have

Ah,

how

he

rate

one

note

to

his

between

the pages

of

of them

some

perhaps will

twenty pounds handy. Some

will buzz better than that."

"
promise of gratitude
wished that he had slippedmore

trust

and

than

more

Of

mean

that for any thing

beginwith."

littlecompliment to

Oh, ah

"

I didn't

course

than

And

justa
when

littlecomplimentfor
will it be

making

ning.
begin-

progress

got there?" she demanded

and going on ?"

"
Making a progress !"
again,very sharply.
"
"
Yes ; when will the compliment become
a
Oh, nothing."
"It is not
nothing. What have you got littlebigger? Twenty pounds! Oh, it'sjust
take off your
for a few gloves,
there ?
If you have got nothing,
you know ; nothingmore."
than that,of course,"
said
"Nothing more
glove. Come."
became
Captain Clavering
very red in the poor Archie.
at a loss what to say
face,and was altogether
"Well, when will the compliment grow bigger
"What

or

do.

asked.

have

"
"

you

Is it money
Let me
see

you have got there ?" she

how much.
Come.''

"It is justa few bank-notes I

be

handy,"he

said.

put in here

to

?
of

Let

me

see.

pounds,what

have you
if you can

seen

Julie has

seven

thousands

call,
per annum.
that beautiful park? Oh

make

And

you

her to look at the

moon

And

with

THE
her

hair down

will that

see

her,Madame

will be

there

her every day,always. I

and to-morrow, and the
to-day,

see

day."

"You

the

as

farther

a,

then he could not but reflecthow much

been said at the interview about money
"

for her,and how

very little had
money
been said as to the assistance to be given as, to

about

"

the return

might

poundsmerely
fifty

And

had

her!

next

demanded

Gorde-

loup?"
"See

she had

member

am

beginning.

will you

When

the determined tone in which

ment
compli-

know."

ashamed, you
"

When

oh !

"

bigger? Twenty pounds!

grow

109

CLAVEEINGS.

word

say

then at

afternoon."
"What!
for twenty pounds I

once

this

"

had
for

sands
thou-

Seven

of

been

for the money.

laid down, no times fixed,
no
to

be made

No

plan

facilities

ply
He had simto him.
making love suggested
paidover his twenty pounds,and been desired
he was
bringanother fifty.The other fifty

to
pounds per annum
; and you give me
What
It
pounds!
Fie,Captain
Clavering. to take to Mount Street on the morrow.
twenty
is only
if she were
this ! That
to requirefifty
justfor me to speak to you
pounds every day,
is all. Come, when will you bringme fifty
?"
and declare that she could not stir in the matter
for less?
Doodles,no doubt,had told him that
"By George" fifty!"
these first-classRussian spiesdid well the work
"Yes, fiftyfor another beginning.What!
thousands of pounds per annum,
for which they were
and make
seven
paid; and no doubt,if paid
Madame
for fifty
to
her
You
have
!
own
a
tariff',
Gordeloup
according
diificulty
handy
pounds
with fiftywould work well for him ; but such a tariff"as
way with your glove. Will you come
?"
pounds to-moiTow
Archie,with the dropsof that was altogether
beyondhis means ! It would
sirous
he imperatively
perspiration
standingon his brow,and now denecessary that he should come
of getting
distinct settlement with her as to price.
out
to some
againinto the street,
ised
promthat he would come
againon the followingThe twenty pounds,of course, were gone ; but
would it not be better that he should come
to
day with the requiredsum.
"Just
for another
with her before he gave
final understanding
beginning! And now, some
good-morning.CaptainClavering.I will do my her the farther fifty? But then,as he thought
with Julie.
Julie is very fond of me,
of this,
that she was
he was
too clever to
aware
possible
and I think you have been rightin coming here. allow him to do as he desired.
If he went into
But twenty pounds was
that room
for a beginning."
with the fifty
too little,
even
pounds in his pockets,
greedy, or in his glove,or, indeed,any where about his
Mercenarywretch ; hungry,
of the harpy person, she would have it from him, let his own
woman
ill-conditioned
altogether
breed ! As Archie
Claveringlooked into her resolution to make a previous
bargainbe what it
there her greed and her
almost
rose
gray eyes, and saw
might. His respect for the woman
hunger,his flesh crept upon his bones. Should to veneration,but with the veneration was mixed
he not succeed with Julia,
how much would this a strong feeling
of fear.
excellent ladycost him?
umph
But, in spiteof all this,he did venture to tri"

"

"

As

soon

made

as

he

was

gone

the excellent

lady

intolerable

an

and

shruggingher

and

down

the

close round

grimace,shaking herself
and walking up
shoulders,
with her dirtywrapper held

room

her.

"

Bah

!" she said.

"

littlewhen

he

met

Doodles

at

the club.

spy, and had paid

enrolled in the corps
her twenty pounils,
and was
of diplomaticand mysteriouspersonages, who
had

employedthe Russian

!"

do their work by mysterious

agencies. He did
of not tell Doodles
thought of the heavy stupidity
or
any thing about the glove,
her late visitor she shruggedherself.and shook
the money
the way in which
taken from
was
herself againviolently,
and clutched up her robe
him ; but he did say that he was
to see
the spy
stillmore
closely."Bah !" It was intolerable again to-morrow, and that he intended to take
should be such a fool,
to her that a man
with him another present of fifty
even
pounds.
And
though she was to make money by him.
"By George,Clavvy,
you are going it!" said
should conceive it to be Doodles, in a voice that was
envious
then,that such a man
delightfully
that he should become
the husband of to the ears
he heard
of CaptainArchie.
When
possible
thousand
with seven
a woman
pounds a year! that envious tone he felt that he was entitledto
Bah!
be triumphant.
Archie,as he walked away from Mount Street,
found it difficult to create a triumphantfeeling
within his own
He had been awkwai'd,
bosom.
XXV.
CHAPTER
slow,and embarrassed,and the spy had been
TOU?
MEN
SAT
WOtTLD
OF
WHAT
for him.
He was quiteaware
too much
of that,
'
and he was
also that even
the sagacious
aware
Haekt, tellthe truth tell me all the truth."
Doodles had been wrong.
There
dience
had, at any HarryClavering was thus greeted when, in obefor making a difficulty
from Lady Ongar, he
to the summons
rate,been no necessity
And

as

Bah

He

she

'

"

about the money.

The Russian spy had known
her business too well to raise troublesome
ples
scruon

that

her trade he
a

fear

came

article too

point. That she was very good at

was
preparedto acknowledge; but
upon

him

fer his
costly

that he
own

would

purposes.

find the
He

re-

went

to her almost

on
immediately

his return

to

London.
It will be remembered

that he had remained

Claveringsome days after the departureof

Hugh and Archie, lackingthe courage to face
his misfortunes
boldly.But though his delay
at

THE

110

CLAVEEINGS.

arguments which

"

selfish.
it be
heart
poor,

by

Which

rightfor

knew

he

of them
him

be

to

did he

false and

love ?

Could

give his hand without his

?
Could it really
be good for Florence"^
that she should be taken
Florence,
injured
who
had ceased to regardher more
man

than all other

to

women

not
now, would
other deceit ?

Were

he to marry
than
worse

that deceit be
would
Or,rather,

her
the

that be deceitful,

not

whereas the other course

would
simply
unfortunate
unfortunate through circumstances
for which he was
blameless ? Damnable

be

"

False,cowardlylogic,
by which

arguments !
male

seek
jilts

to

their own

excuse

all

to
treachery

themselves and to others !

Thus
during the second ten minutes of his
walk, his line of conduct became less plainto
he was
racked
him, and as he entered Piccadilly
with doubts.
But instead of settling
them
in
his mind, he unconsciously
allowed himself to
dwell upon
to

how

the words
his

excuse

he

with which

to
treachery

would

tell her

spokenwords,for that
written

that he
skill,

to her

not

"

who

had

own

seek

thought
face with
but with

"

unworthy of

was

and
unworthinesa,
in all

He

he could not do

that his love for her had

his

he would

Florence.

her

ness,
good-

fallen off'through

had

returned

to one

respectsless

than she,but
perfect
who in old days,as she well knew, had been his
firstlove. Yes ; he would say all this,
and Julia,

been

was

it had not been easy to him

cowardly,
He
despisedhimself for not let her anger be what it might, should know that
he had said it. As he plannedthis,there came
full -expressedaffection
having written with warm,
to Florence,
clear truth to him a littlecomfort,for he thoughtthere was
and with honest,
Half his miseryrose from this feeling something grand in such a resolution.
to Julia.
Yes;
he would
do that,
of self-abasement,
even
and from the consciousness
though he should lose
that he was
weak
weak, exactlyin Julia also.
piteously
Miserable clap-trap
! He knew
in his heart
that in which he had often boasted to himself
and his arguments
that he was
false,
strong. But such inward boastingsthat all his logicwas
bad.
are not altogether
They preserve men from baseless. Cease to love Florence Burton ! He
succumbing,and make at any rate some attempt had not ceased to love her,nor is the heart of
be

to

coward.

"

to realize themselves.

that he is

The

brave,will

man

who

self
tells him-

strugglemuch

before

he
"

but the man

does so tell
who
never
flies;
will find flying
himself,
easy unless his heart be
of nature
had come
the moment
very high. Now
either for flying,
or
not flying
; and Harry
lutely
swearingthat he would stand his ground,resotook his hat and gloves,
and made his way
to Bolton

But
from
He

as

Street with
he

arguingthe
knew

to stick to

what

he

went

matter

his

was

Florence,not

sore

could

heart.
not

keep himself

within his

duty. It
only with

own

was

breast.
his

his word

duty
and

made
any man
needs must turn

so

like

weather-cock

that it

itselfhither and

as the
thither,
wind directs,
and be altogether
beyond the man's
control.
For Harry,
vrtth all his faults,
and in
was
No
a
man.
spitepfhis present falseness,
man

ceases

need

cease

to love without
to

love

without

No

cause.
a

cause.

and
may maintain his love,and nourish it,
it warm
he may
as
by honest manly effort,
his
probity,
that he had
the

glareof
him, and he

courage,

or

his honor.

It

ceased to love Florence

the candle

had

been

was

; but

man
man

keep
his
not

that

brightfor
had scorched his wings. After all,
embrace
of which he had thought so
too

hand,but with his heart. It was his duty to as to that

of which was
tell Lady Ongar that not only his word was
at much, and the memory
sweet
so
and to ask her parit had simplybeen an accibut his heart also,
to him and so bitter,
dent.
Stratton,
don
for the wrong that he had done her by that
Thus, writing in his mind that letter to
he walked
Florence
For some
honest
as
which he knew, if he were
ten minutes
an
caress.
throughthe streets his resolve was strong to do man, he would never allow himself to write,he
this manifest duty;but,gradually,
as he thought reached
ranged
Lady Ongar'sdoor without having arof that caress, as he thoughtof the difiicultiesof
for himself any special
line of conduct.
the coming interview,
he thought of Julia's
We must return for a moment
to the fact that
as
high-toned
beauty perhapssomething also of Hugh and Archie had returned to town before
her wealth and birth
stillas
and more
gaged
strongly
Harry Clavering. How Archie had been enhe thoughtof her love for him, false,
the reader,I hope,will
on
treacherous,
great doings,
his

"

"

selfisharguments offeredthemselves to his mind

remember

; and

he

may

as

well be informed

THE
that the

here

poundswere
fifty

and
Street,

Mount

the spy without much

that Archie in return

dulytaken

extracted

were

from

him

to

by

I do
difficulty.

not know
obtained any immediate
aid or valuable information from Sophie Gordeinformation
loup; but Sophie did obtain some
she found herself able to use
from him which

As

Ill

CLAVEEINGS.
how

he to

was

himself for that embrace ?

excuse

rate,speakto me," she said,standing

quiteerect,and lookingas a Juno might have
"

At any

looked.

"

I have

this Florence

ask

is

question.Who

the

?"

Burton

is the

"She

at least that
will acknowledge

You

rightto

of Mr. Burton,
of
daughter

Strat-

with referenceton."
position
''
ed,
And is that all that you can tellme ? Come,
to love and marriage
was
being discussalso of the divine Julia, Harry, be braver than that.
I was not such a
and the position
Are you engagedto
er.
with you.
coward once
Sophiehinted her fear of another Claveringlov-

for her

purposes.

own

his

did Archie think of his cousin Harry?

What

engaged

he's

"Yes, Lady Ongar,I am."

said

This

was

matter

to

known.

No

had

secret

been

familyof Harry'sengagement.
fair assistant that Miss

Burton

made

in the

Archie

told his

had

"Then
and

have

you

now

we

had

your

revenge

on

me,

she stepped
quits."So saying,

are

self
from the middle of the room, and sat herHe was
left
on her accustomed seat.
tended
there standing,
and it seemed as though she infarther notice of him.
He
to take no

Sophie back

which

and she soon

found it worth her while to attend,
learned from Archie all that Archie knew about
all that could
And this was
Florence Burton.
be

her ?"

marry

girl,"

another

"Why,
Archie,openingwide his eyes and his
mation.
mouth, and becoming very free with his inforto

down

go if he
of it all.

end

ceived and
re-

been

and there would

pleased,
The
would be
difficulty

might

he

mightat

write to Florence

once

be

an

over,
in what

ture languagehe liked.

fuIt would simply
be a little
ClaveringPark openly as Harry's
and his escape would
not
wife,and, "by Jove, you know, he can't episodein his life,
have been arduous.
be coming it with Julia after that,
you know."
But he could not go away from her in that
Sophiemade a little grimace,but did not say
He could not bringhimself to leave the
much.
She,remembering that she had caught way.
farther word.
She had
without some
Lady Ongar in Harry'sarms, thoughtthat,"by room
Was
it not incumbent
on
Jove," he might be coming it with Julia,even
spoken of revenge.
after Miss Burton's reception
Park.
him to explainto her that there had been no
at Clavering
few words that revenge ; that he had loved,and suffered,
and
some
Then, too, she remembered
had passedbetween
her and her dear Julia after
thought of anger ; and
forgivenwithout one
loved again?
brace,
that then he had unfortunately
Harry'sdepartureon the eveningof the emwords in which to tell
and perceivedthat Julia was
in ignorance Must he not find some
of the very existence of Florence Burton, her that she had been the light,
and he simply
even
though Florence had been received at the the poor moth that had burned his wings?
''
formation
No, Lady Ongar," said he, ' ' there has been
park. This was information worth having into be used I
Her respectfor Harry no revenge."
"
will call it justice,
if yon please.At
We
rose
immeasurably. She had not given him
much
credit for so much audacity,
to complain."
so
gallantry,
any rate, I do not mean
"
If you ever
and so much skill. She had thoughthim to he
he began.
injuredme
"
like the rest of them.
I did injure
a
you,"said she,sharply.
pigheadedClavering,
He
not pigheaded; he was
If you ever injured
was
a
promising
me, I forgave
you freely."
"I
did injure
As she spoke she
; she could have liked him, and peryoung man
haps
you
aided him
to
onlythat he had shown so rose from her seat,showing how impossible
which she had attemptstrong a determination to have nothing to do her was that tranquillity
ed
Therefore the information should be
with her.
"I did injure
jury
to maintain.
you, but the inused.
used ; and it was
in life,
and sat lightly
to you early
came
at

"

"

"

' '

"

"

"

'

The

reader

will

understand

now

what

Lady Ongar demanded

Harry Clavering. ' ' Harry,tell me the
the

truth which

tell me

all the truth."

meet

to

him

She had

in the middle

come

of the

was

from
truth ;

forward

when

room

him
spoke these words, and stood looking
the face,
not havinggivenhim her hand.
'
"What
truth ? said Harry.
Have I ever

on

you

in

"

"Lies
tell

lie?"

can

have

But

he knew

well what

be acted

as

was

as

told.

me

I asked you

can

not

to

call

believing doing more,

"

could

well

done

you had learned

be undone."

he said,
coming
Julia,"
No, not Julia. When

'

requiredof him.

few months

this young

"

"

told you
the truth

ladyat the placeyou went

the firstyoung
to
ladyyou saw ! I had not
done you much
harm, Harry. But that which

she

''

Within

you.

to love

have

me
so

up
you

to

her.

were

done, but that I thought my

You
of service to you.
think that I had heard of this then ?"

Harry, might

now

here before

longing,
so, hoping,
much
than I
more

be

love

do not

is Florence
Who
Burton ;
"
it all,then,and
She knew
Oh no."
''
had
settled
for
him
tiiemselves
No.
It is odd that I should not have known
without
things
the necessity
of any action on his part. It was
hear that she was
sister's
at my
it,as I now
odd enough that she should not have learned it house ; but all others have not been as silent as
but at any rate she knew it now.
We
And
are
before,
quits,
Harry; that is
you have been.
it was
well that she should have been told ; only all that I have to say. We are quitsnow."
who

me

and

at

once.

what?"

CLAVEEINGS.

THE

112
"I
and

have

intended to be true to you

to you

"

"Were

true when

you

the other
how

night?"
he had
greatly

true

when

woman

He

you
in ?

acted

you

the tears

How

as

did

you

could he

"

tempted.

in your arms
you not made

me

Had

Were

you
that

as

think

me

I might glory in lovingyou, and that I

might show her that I scorned her when she
cy,
thoughtto promise me her secrecy her secreashamed
of what she had
as
thoutihI were
that

seen.

ashamed

not

was

world

it,I

known

ashamed.

'I have

have said,' and him

and
with

hire

only.

He

have

long,'I

all
been

should

done

made

could

no

''

I said to

no

to her ?

for him

at

present,

words in which

to

speakto

you would come

over, and I wept for poor
I thoughtthafmy lot was
much
so

the funeral
as

than

But

hers.

what

peoplehave
has done

they deserve,

such

no

when

Hermy
happier

wrong

as

It
done,is not crushed as I am crushed.
just,Harry,that the punishment should
from

come
"

myselfthat

was

Hermy, who

and

you, but it has

come

Julia,it was not meant

Well, we will let that
Harry,all that I have

"

say,

herself with composure, but the

she fell back upon the
as

seat

vain

the sob which

with which

her

she

"Julia," he said,"look
"No, Harry; there
no

"

cost her

In

"

heavily."

very

to be so."

pass.
said

I
"

not

can

nn-

all that I did

more

hidingher

face.

at

such

true

so

"

to

be

no

such

more

not

think I would

rob that

Mine

for you may

tender and true; lint,
alas,truth has
when it can
avail me
me
no
longer."
is hers.

"Julia, if you

will say that you

be both
to

come

love me,

it

shall avail

understanding.You

you."
sayingthat,yon

"In

here no more.
Had
go from me, and come
been for that other nightI would stillhave

do

You

me.

feet,and grasping girlof what

was

must

Not more
than I love you."
or truly
tenderly
Nay, Harry,your love to me can be neither
tender
will I permitit to be ofnor
fered
nor

"

stant
in-

an

let us, at any

me;
each other at last."

rate, understand

knowledge

had

effort to restrain.

an

kneelingat

was

at the hand

must

much

too

have thought and

not
say, but which you must
her eye, and she knew that she known
when you were
here last. I can not bid
love you."
She endeavoredyou believe that I do not"
longer stand before him.

justheard

he

he then did
not

dim

to

great and

Burton, and

sult
in-

no

bent
incum-

her.

and
attempt failed,
sofa he

it not

to tellher that the wrong

his agony was

and he could find

quick,clear voice ; but at the last word there

the strength
of
a quiverin her tone,and
came
her countenance
and there was
tear
a
quailed,
which

Was

her ?

to Florence

But

him

with
face,and utteringher syllables

that he had intended

he embraced
him

on
was

is to be my husband, have
"
not be ashamed.'
was

at
spoke,standingup, looking

she

firm

not

loved

at last I need

now

So much

Had

then.

not

"

should

with his hands.

her understand
when

"

the

his cheeks

make

could not explainto her

been

held

came

and pressingaway
sobbing violently,
from

to her."

treat

Listen

me.

to

me

continuingto illI hardlyknow

are
now.

when it began,for,at first,

I did not expect that
regardyou as a friend. But I you would forgiveme, and let me be dear to you
I used to be ; but as you sat here,have no rightto such friendship.I have sinned
as
lookingu])
and gone astray,and am
into my face in the old way, it ciime
a thingvile and
on
me
that it might be so ; and
polluted.I sold myselfas a beast is sold,and gradually the feeling
I told myselfthat if you would take me
have treated me
I might
as I treated myself."
men
Have I treated you so?"
be of service to yon, and I thoughtthat 1 might
"
did you treat forgive
How
this money
Yes, Harry ; you, you.
myselfat last for possessing
and kissed if I could throw it into your lap,so that yon
when
in your arms
me
you took me
me
knowing,knowing that I was not to be might thrive with it in the world ; and I said to
I have
O God, I have sinned.
myselfthat it might be well to wait a while,till
your wife ?
I should see whether you really
loved me ; but
sinned,and I am punished."
that burst of passion,
and though I
"No, no," said he, "risingfrom his knees, then came
"
knew that you were
it was
not as you say."
proud to feel
wrong, I was
It is all over.
"Then
how was
it,sir ? Is it thus that you that I was stillso dear to you.
understand
those to whom
We
each other at last,
and you may
treat other women
^jour friends,
is
What
did
There
be
declare
?
to
between
mean
friendship
nothing
forgiven
go.
you
you
it not

endeavored

to

"

"

"

"

to

me
"

I loved

"Yes,

with

disgrace that
"

But

us."

think?"

That

I had

not

should

And

finish my

in that

next

was

week

so

had

now

resolved that Florence must

complete my by the board. If Julia

degradation.should be his wife,and

heard of this Florence

and, Harry,that night

bed.

He

you."
love that should

Burton

happy in

when

you

my

were

and

all the

the

world;in

would

he

would

he would

Burtons, and his

care

the matter
what

stilltake him

go
she

face Florence

and all
family,
treachery.What
might say ? His
thing completed.

own

of his

the world

there for that sad ceremony, I was

happy treacheryto Florence was a
here,happy and proud. Yes, Harry,I was so Now, at this moment, he felt himself to be so
devoted to Julia as to make him regardhis engagement
proud when I thoughtthat you stillloved me
loved me
in spiteof my past sin,
that I almost
which
to Florence
as
one
must, at
He thoughtof his
forgotthat I was polluted. You have made all hazards,be renounced.
of the
remember
and I shall not forgetit again." mother's sorrow, of his father's scorn
me
it,
down

"

"

It would
away

at

have been better for him

once.

Now

he

was

had he gone
in a chair
sitting

dismaywith
him

which

Fanny

tale which

would

she would

hear

ing
concern-

believe to be

so

CLAVEEINGS,

THE

bethought of Theodore Burton,and

impossible;
brother

of the infamywhich
kindness ; he thought
would be attached to him, and resolved that he
heart did not
bear it all. Even if his own
must
him

move

could he hinder

act,how

to

so

and

givingcomfort

from

she would

But

seWsh

not

say the words.

he, and

than

She

less

was

thinkingwas

was

"

trying

might be best for them all,but,

''
what might be best for him.
all,
Speak
"and
to me," he said,
acknowledge that you
wronged me when you thoughtthat the expression
of my love was an insult to you."
shallI say?"
It is easy to say speak. What

of Cecilia and her outraged to think what

and
capable,

was

that

of which

deep,unquenchableanger

the

113

self
himthis

happinessto

who was before him?

Injury,
wrong,
and broken-hearted wretchedness he could not

above

"

that you will be mj

"Say

woman

wife."

No, I will not say it." She

and took her hand
her chair,
"

againfrom

rose

from him.
this part was
as
away
open to
prevent ; but,therefore,
" I
and think over all
Men would say that he had
will not say it. Go now
him as the other.
dignation
that you have done ; and I also will think of it.
done this for Lady Ongar'smoney ; and the inWhat
evil comes, when evil has
able to regardthis God helpme.
with which he was
been done ! But,Hariy,I understand you now,
for his mind declared such acfalse accusation
cusation
and I at least will blame you no more.
Go and
to be damnablyfalse gave him
some
"

"

when you see her,

say of him what they see Florence Burton ; and if,
pleased. He was about to do the best within you find that you can love her,take her to your
and bo true to her. You shall never
hear
his power.
the best,
but it was
was
Bad, alas,
heart,
Go now, go ; there
another reproachfrom me.
of no avail now
to think of that.

People might

comfort.

"Julia,"he said,"between us at least there

nothingto be forgiven."
"There
is nothing,"
said she.
' '

And

true

there shall be

to you

"

now

love.

broken

no

am

ever."

as

"

He

that.

be for you

have,both of

We

but
badly,

speak,but

for that

not

rebuke

to

us,

reason

me

with

playedour
need

game
both be

we

moment

though he

going

were

without another

i-oom

alongthe passage and turned

her standingat the door of
at him, and it seemed that her
looking

the stairs he

saw

him
imploring

were

spiteof

the words

I will be
was

as

he left the

As he went

word.

eyes

It will not

pauseda

truth to Miss Florence the room,

Burton?"
"

to

on

And, what,then,of your

to be said."

is nothingmore

shall be

to

true

her,"he

the firstthat I

to be

that she had

ever

true

to

spoken.

her in

and
loved,

And

"

said to himself.

"

She

I will be true

ruined

and broken-hearted.
In your folly
to her."
you
He went out,and for an hour or two wandered
thoughtthat wealth was better than love;and
about the town, hardlyknowing whither his
I,in my folly I thoughtthat one love blighted
might be mended by another. When I asked stepswere takinghim. There had been a. tragic
"

Miss Burton
of another

can
''

not

You

to be

my

Now

man.

wife you
that you

were

the wife
free

are

seriousness

in what

which
again evening,

marry Miss Burton."

and

make

him

seemed

had

occurred

feel that his

to him

him

to cover

youthwas

this

with care,
gone from

her,Harry."

At any former periodof his life his ears

him.
"There
in such a case.
with prideto hear such a
no
must
would have tingled
do not know her,and can not understand^
You
woman
as Lady Ongar speak of her love for him
how good,how perfect
she is. She is too good in such terms as she had used ; but there was no
to take a hand without a heart."
for pridein his bosom.
Now
at least
room
now
what would men
"And
he thoughtnothingof her wealth or rank.
He
say of you?"
"I must bear what men
I do not supand
between whom
say.
pose thoughtof her as a woman
must

marry
shall be

that I shall be all

your love.

When

happy
"

thingshave

not

even

once

with

gone

wrong
without showing the
they can not be mended
patches. But yet men
staythe hand of ruin for

himself

there existed

to
as
so strong a passion
other,
impossiblethat he should marry anit.
even
though his dutyplainly
required
The grace and graciousness
of his lifewere
over;

make

it

while,tinkeringhere and puttingin a nail but love still remained to him, and of that he
and cobbling
make
the most.
All others whom he rethere,
stitching
must
garded
; and so thingsare
would revile him, and now^ he must live
kepttogether. It must be so for you and me.
Give me
for I have never
ceived
defor this woman
alone. She had said that she
your hand,Julia,
him.
you, and you need not fear that I shall had injured
Yes,indeed,she had injured
do so now.
Give me your hand,and say that him ! She had robbed him of his high character,
of his unclouded brow, of that self-pride
you will be my wife."
"No, Harry; not your wife. I do not, as which had so often told him that he was living
but I will not
that perfect
girl,
She had
a life without
you say, know
reproachamong men.
rob one that is so good."
him
in
to
which
state
a
brought
miserymust be
' ' You
bound to me, Julia. You must do his bedfellow,
are
and disgrace
his companion
; but
You have told me
that you love stillshe loved him, and to that love he would
as I bid you.
a

me

; and

I have

that I love

none

told you
other

and I tell you now,

I love you
^have never
I have loved you.
Give

as

"

"

loved any other as

me
Then,coming to her,he took
your hand."
her hand, while she sat with her face averted
from him.

"

Tell

me

that you will be my wife."

H

be true.
he to
how was
And as to Florence Burton
settlematters with her ? That letter for which
he had been preparing
the words as he went to
come
before the necessity
for it had beBolton Street,
"

did not
irrevocable,

now

appear

to him

to

114

CLAVERINGS.

THE

Mr.
one
In the office at the Adelphi was
At any rate,he did not attempt ears.
easy.
brother now
occuthat night.
Walliker,who had a yduilger
pyingthat desk in Mr. Burton's officewhich had

be very
it

on

belongedto Harry Clavering. Through Bob

Walliker,Mrs. Burton learned that Harry did
CHAPTER

not

XXVI.

THE

MAN

DUSTED

WHO

BOOTS

HIS

HIS

WITH

HANDKEKCHIEF.

When

Florence

had written three letters

either

last of these

The
after the

with

name

received by him
letters,
chapter,he
It stillremained

afraid to read.

been

opened
un-

known

was

Clavering;
men

connectingHarry Clavering's

that of the rich and

noble

Burton

widow.
to her

wrote

written to Theodore's

had

wife.

described in the last

scene

it
from

she also learned at last that the young

in the office were

Burton

London

to

in replyto Lady Ongar. Then

Mrs.
a word
Harry without receiving
son
of them, she began to be seriously
py.
unhapTheodore,as Florence

to

had

and

when

to the office even

come

that he had returned

Mrs.

Burton, though she

and
dearly,

had

loved

had

Harry

respects liked
many
of her sons-in-law,
had,

perhapsin

in his pocket. But Florence,

though she him better than any
felt some
from the first.
nevertheless,
unhappy,was not even
misgivings
yet jealous. Her
had she Florence was brighter,
and cleverer
fears did not lie in that direction,
better educated,
nor
such
uneasiness.
He
than
her
elder
and
therefore
when
to
sisters,
naturally
tendency
any
she thought; or if not illin health,then
it had come
asked in marto pass that she was
was
riage
ill,
illat ease.
Some
trouble afflictedhim of \yhich
somewhat
by a man
higher in rank and
he could not bringhimself to tell her the facts, softer in manners
than they who
had married
there had seemed
to be some
and as she thoughtof this she remembered
her her sisters,
reason
had felt that it
stubbornness
the subject
of their marfor the change ; but Mrs. Burton
own
on
riage,
and blamed
herself in that she was
not
was
a ground for apprehension.High rank and
not
with him to comfort him.
If such comsoft manners
fort
now
always belong to a true
may
would avail him any thingnow, she would
heart. At firstshe was
unwillingto hint this
be stubborn no longer.When
but at last,as her susthe third letter caution even
to herself;
picions
broughtno reply,she wrote to her sister-in-law,
ly,
grew, she spokethe words very frequentMrs. Burton, confessing
her uneasiness,and begnot only to herself but also to her husband.
ging
for comfort.
SurelyCecilia could not but Why, oh why, had she let into her house any
him occasionallyor, at any rate, have the man
in mode
of life from those whom
see
differing
to be honest
and good ?
Or Theodore
How
might do so she had known
power of seeinghim.
was

"

"

of

as

he would

course

thing ailed

him

would

be

at

truth ?

But Cecilia,
when
Somethingdid ail him,

that

the ofSce.

If any
all the

Cecilia tell her

she

began

did not

to fear

find it very

would

her gray hairs be made

to go in sorrow
the grave, if,after all her old prudence and
all her old success, her last pet lamb should be
to

returned

the mother's

to

side,ill-used,
maimed,

and blighted
1
easy to tell Florence all the truth.
Theodore
when
at
But there was
Stratton,
though
Burton,
jealousy

jealous. Old Mrs. Burton

had become
alarmed,and was ready to tear the
head if Harry
of Harry Clavering's
eyes out
Florence

should

be false to her
of

misfortune
had

daughter. This

which,with

all her

was

of
son

Her

as

had

very

angry with him

absence from

for his

good,"he

no

yet known

ly,
children had gone out into the world steadibut
making no brilliant marriages,
prudently,
into
falling

never

such misfortunes
there
such
she

had

been

vain,and

left to

that
the

wear

"

that the fault

mothers.

What

if

at

young
willow

lady
; but

visited her

never

disposedto think and

in the
lay chiefly

was

last,when

roof,and
perhapsto say
imprudence of
her

work

in

been so nearlybroughtto a successful

should
close,
miseryand disappointment

this line had

also upon

come

what

turned
to

had
shown

the office.

real

her lamb

In such

case

Mrs.

had
tidings
as

will do

But

does
his

ger
an-

most
disgustas regardedHarry,and alwhen Harry
despairas regardedhis sister,

been

week

himself at the

in town, and yet had not

But at this time

Adelphi.

Lady
that

"Can
not you go
dailyin their mouths.
"
It is very
to him, Theodore
?" said his wife.
"
easy to say go to him," he replied. If I made
it my business I could,of course, go to him, and

name

doubt find him

no

but what
to the

"You

more

if I

could

water, but I
could

is such

"

had not

He

to

speakto
woman's

determined

was

I do?

can

make

come

to Mrs.

yet been allowed

to

Burton

which

reach Florence's

May

you

can

try."

see

not

him

of Florence."

idea," said the

him ?" Cecilia

to do so ;

lead a horse
him drink."

can

who would not

"When
a ewe
may say, was
every proper incentive to
suffer' without
has failed him, he is to be
lamb
bleatings
many
the rightway by the mention of a
considerable exercise of her maternal energies.

And

be

nounced
unan-

"He

wort means."

her

and

' '

to

and

said to his wife.

Burton, we
see

inclined

long

"

had

sorrows

know

had

since his return

been

Burton
had heard no
word of
She heard of Theodore
any mistakes.
that a young lady Ongar, though the clerks in the ofBce had
around her

loved in

here had

he received his mother's

Harry

seen

Clavering. He

brood,Mrs.

not

from

nothing. No daughter not

and no
hers had been misused by any man,
misused any one's daughter.
of hers had ever

Burton

"

had
letter,

not

was

"That
husband.

and
dr^ty

bition
am-

broughtinto
!"
name
girl's
if
urged. " Yes
"

catch him ; but I do not advise you to

CLAVERINGS.

THE

After that

letters for the husband

the two

rame

and wife,each of which

to the

shown

was

other ; and then for the firsttime did either of

them receive the idea that Lady Ongarwith her

might be

fortune

of

cause

"I. don't believe

whose

cheeks

and

half with

shame
such

pet with her

closely

as

"Very trnly
yours,

with

When

Harry had been

been taken so
already

another

"I

brother!

of that kind

earlyday
day after.

leave you to name

an
the next day,or the

Theodore

Burton."

Cecilia'sletter reached
Florence's heart

ry, poor

Well, my dear,"said Mrs. Burton, who'

"

should

and
Stratton,

any letter from Ha,rsom.

sank low in her bo-

without

post came

morrow,
to-

"

or

anger.

him
suspected

have

not

and
best,

their sister.
of it,"said cilia,
Ce-

burning,half

were

had

"

her heart

to

you say when I shall find you at home ? If you

and dine with us we
shall like that
will come

miseryto

word

115

of baseness," watched

daughteranxionslywhile

her

she

was

"
had not told
He is not readingthe letter. Mrs. Burton
said Theodore,very slowly."
her
and
of
her
letter
to
be
ish,
foolHe
idle
Florence
said
Cecilia.
son
own
; and now,
base,"
may
tain
received no answer, looked to obbut he is not base."
havingherself
"
I must
some
at any rate go after him now," said
replyfrom that which her daughter-

Theodore.
be true

I don't believe this

"

I do not

it.

believe it.

"Is

I do not think it is true.

of weakness

I have

vain,but

in him.

seen

is weak

He

said that he

I think

so.

he is true."
I can not say

than that I

more

each other when

to

You

''

will

course, has troubled

he would come
sure

the whole

has become
to show

to

if you

us

his

own

so.

and
simplyidle,

other

no

go'

was

to her lariib.

threatened

were

the field of action.

on

ence
Flor-

her, but she longedherself

with

She

felt that she

which

we

had

if he has any such trouble,

you
and I feel sure
that he would
of it,
aware

think?"

I will

she made

up

her mind.

London

to go to

want

speak

Mrs. Burton

as

in the management

Florence was aware

daughters,
simplyrequireda littletime he-

own

that her mother

"

It is not

"

for the

that

pleasureof it,

mamma."

It may
reference to

nothing. But
oughtto be made

do yon

autocratic
usually

been

of her

"I

of that.

know

what

yet, my dear.
But
to your papa before dinner."
I don't know

siderationfore
con-

that he is ashamed

trouble with

some

home, of

here ; and

were

if

Theodore imaginesthat he

himself here because

be that he has

At firstshe

think that she herself would

Well,mamma,

"

she
truth,"
of
not seen
him, and this,
us very greatly.I feel quite

I think,
should bringyou,
this,
does

eager

"

terms that she

strongest

tell you

have

"We

only under

strain

great alarm.

annihilate any man

by her words
thing and looks who would dare to ill-treat a girlof
hers.

to Florence,
immediately
ing
press-

"I

that

that Cecilia

eager to know the truth

if
to utter her loud maternal hleatings

might go

if she thinks that any

her invitation in the

use.

you

felt sure

knew

in that

some

She

any wrong
to be

but

could almost

come

Cecilia wrote

said.

"

near

er
ask her if you like. I doubt wheth-

can

disposedto

they are engaged?"

is amiss with him."

could

Is

up ?

come

she will come."

"She

written

would have

to London.

peopleshould be

alwaysbetter that

She

matter.

the influence of

"Yes."
"
And "mayI ask Florence to
it not

and
read it slowly,

the

was

was

that yon

the letter."

see

much

will write to your mother?"

You

London," said

to

any thing the matter

justnow ?"
exactlythe matter,mamma,

Mrs. Burton

,
sure

go

"Not
can

was

think so."
"

go

there

should

It is not the kind

I should have

true.'*
"

to

me

Florence.

Oh, Theodore."

am

sent.

"Cecilia wants

"

"

"I

if it should

"

"

and

lieve in-law had

be-

I won't

But

know

"Nor

I do

course
"

that,my dear."

yet merely to

Of

long to

course

you

do

see

him

"

though

of

!"
^whyshouldn't you ?"

him

see
"

Cecilia is so very prudent,and she

here."
she
she would
Much
if
thinks
that
were
more
it will be better. And
said,
you
you
Florence not have pressed
arguingin the same way, and pressing
it,unless Theodore had thought
to come

to London.

Mr. Burton

mother,but

he wrote

My

dear

"But

so

did not at
the
"

"

tell

send

once

note
following

Adelphi

Clavering,

to notice your continued

to his
reply

"

to

Harry:

May,

I have been

absence

from the

186-.

sorry

too !"

thoughtTheodore would

"I

have written to

me."
"

But

"I

he writes

so

seldom.''

expecteda letterfrom

written
office,

him

now,

as

I had

to him."

"
About
and both Ceciliaand I have been very sorry that
Harry,do you mean ?"
to us.
But
I
have
discontinued
"Well
coming
you
yes. I did not mention it,as I was
But I saw
should not have written to you on this matter, aware
I might make
you uneasy.
to interfere in your own
that you were
not wishing
unhappy at not hearing from
concerns,
with refhad I not desired to see you specially
erencehim."
"
sister. As I have that to say to
do let me go."
to my
Oh, mamma,
"

you

concerningher which I can hardlywrite, "Of course you shall go, if you wish it;but
with me
an appointment
here,or let me speak to papa before any thingis quite
will decided."
Or, if you can not do that,

will you make

at my house ?

THE

116

CLAVERINGS.

it. Of
t)f the cowardice of declining
did speakto her husband,and it be guilty
low
a personal
quarrelwith Burton he was not afraid.
arrangedthat Florence should go up to OnsBut JMrs. Burton, though she He felt,
Crescent.
indeed,that he might almost find relief
in the capability
of being himself angry with
had been alwaysautocratic about her unmarried
make
self. any one.
But he must
had never
been autocratic about herpositively
up his
daughters,
vote
debefore such an interview. He. must
When
she hinted that she also might go, mind
and
himself either to Florence or to Julia ; and
not approved,
she saw
that the scheme
was
Mrs. Burton

was

the one or the

to abandon
to be so govhimself
allowed
if we
erned
were
to ? a young
after all,what does it come
by impulse that he had pledgedhimself
gentleman
to her that he
to Lady Ongar, and had
sworn
does not write to his sweetheart for two

she at

all

or

I used to think

three weeks.
There

"And

look

as

if I

wrote

myselfthe

once

best

month."

was
no
penny postthen,Mr. Burton."
I often wish there was none
now," said

That

Burton.

Mr.

would

"It

he did not know

said Mr. Burton, "and, other.

afraid,"

lover in the world

"

it.

abandoned

once

and Florence

matter

would
the

less did he

knew

law, sayingthat she would

the third

day from
Claveringand

Has
male

days
have

on
go up to London
In the mean
time ry
Har-

that.
Theodore

Burton

had

him

"

"

know

And

promise.

In his dilemma
there

he

and

Wight;

performanceof
the firstthat

been

Lady Ongar had

days. The servant
to the Isle
gone, he believed,
that Madame
Gordeloup had

v/ith her.

earlyin

that he

the

did at last go to Bolton

found

for three

said that she had

gone

had

she

think

he

for the

to love !

sworn

and
Street,

of

did

"

that she looked

"

left town

met.

it ever
been the lot of any unmarried
reader of these pages to spend three or four
in London, without any thing to do
to
to get through them
by himself and to
that burden

hers.
She, it is true, had
entirely
at his word, but not
altogether

be

taken

back to her sister-in- he had

wrote

how

had

not

cided,his
de-

therefore

was

He

that

four

or

She

to be

was

followingweek.

back in town

This

was

on

with the adand he was

that he could not
ditional
aware
shoulder,
Thursday,
tillafter Juburden
of some
ery, postpone his interview with Burton
lia's
terrible,
wearing misfrom
which
there
be
he
his
went
So
ing
to
to
no
seems
return.
road,
club,and nailaway
and out of which there is apparently
himself as it were
made
to the writing-table,
no
escape ?
That was
condition for some
an
HaiTy Clavering's
appointment for the following
morning. He
few days after the evening which he last passed would be with Burton
at the Adelphi at twelve
of Lady Ongar
and I will ask o'clock.
in the company
He had been in trouble,he said,
and
man
whether,in such a that trouble had kept him from the office and
any such unmarried
for him any other alternative from Onslow Crescent.
there was
plight,
Having written this,
it off,and then played billiards and
but to wish himself dead ? In such a condition a he sent
and
smoked
and dined,played more
billiardsand
man
can
simplywalk the streets by himself,
declare to himself that every thingis bad, and
smoked
and drank tillthe usual hours of night
and worthless.
He wishes himself
had come.
He was
not a man
who liked such
rotten,and vile,
dead,and calculatesthe different advantages things. He had not become what he was by
He may the while
acid and pistols.
of prussic
passinghis earlier years after this fashion. But
at his club,may
his misery requiredexcitement,
take his meals very punctually
and billiards
and drink his bitter beer or
with tobacco were
better than the desolation of
smoke
his cigars,
ing
solitude.
brandy and water ; but he is all the time wishhimself dead, and making that calculation
On the following
morning he did not breakfast
of achieving
that desirable tillnear
eleven.
to the best way
as
Why should he get up as long
condition
result.
Such was
as it was
to obtain the relief which was
Harry Clavering's
possible
As for his office,
the doors of that place to be had from dozing?
As far as possible
now.
he
closed againsthim by the preswould not think of the matter
tillhe had put his
were
absolutely
ence
When
he attempted hat upon his head to go to the Adelphi. But
of Theodore Burton.
sit the time for taking his hat soon
a word, or
to read he could not understand
came, and he

have

his

on

"

for

with

minutes

ten

book

in his hand.

No

started

on

his short

journey. But

even

as

he

He longed to walked,he could not think of it. He was

to him.
occupationwas possible
poseless,
purbut he did not even
as a shipwithout
a rudder,
self
himgo again to Bolton Street,
telling
that he could onlygo as the winds
If there,he could act only as though
do that.
might
had

Florence
so

yet he had

sworn

He
of the two

deserted forever ; and if he

for life. And
be infamous

been
would

acted,he

to Julia that such

hardlydared

he loved.

The

to

was

it all had

heavy upon him that he could take

in the thoughtof his love. It must
no pleasure
alwaysbe all regret,all sorrow, and all remorse,
become

Then

so

there

came

Burton,

odore
upon him the letterfrom Theand he knew that it was
sary
neces-

that he should

Nothing could
an

be

see
more

the writer.
than
disagreeable

How

weakness!

his intention.
effort to

ask himself which

miseryof

direct him.
one

seem

to use

he

did hate

And
it.

such
to

for his

On

an

pointonly did he
to have
resolve.
If Burton attempted
a
with him any thinglike a threat,
he would
overcome

resent it.
instantly
at twelve
Punctually

and
office,

was

one

he walked into the outer

told that Mr. Burton

was

in his

room.
"

said Walliker,
Halloo,Clavering,"
who was
his back to the fire,
"I thought
had lost you for good and all. And here

with
standing

but he could not allow himself

interview,

himself

yet he hardlymade

we

Iyou

are

come

back

again!"

Harryhad alwaysdislikedthis man,

hated him

than

worse

'.'
Yes,I

ever.

117

CLAVERINGS.

THE
and

not

now

that account

on

it easier for him

was

here," reply.
"
believe I
Say that you will come

to

am

said he, "for a few minutes;but I

need not trouble yon."
said Walliker; and
old fellow,"
"All right,

"

to

if you

Even
put it off."

said Burton.

this

us

have

evening,''

an

ment,
engage-

"
I have none,"said Harry.
Harry passedthroughinto the inner room.
"
to us, and all
Then
said
to
see
Harry,"
am
say that you will come
you,
very glad
to will be well."
Burton, risingand givinghis hand cordially
pliance
Clavering. "And I am sony to hear that you
Harry understood of course that his comwith this invitation would be taken as
have been in trouble. Is it any thingin which
we
implyingthat all was right. It would be so easy
can
helpyou?"
and any other answer
"I hope Mrs. Burton is well,"said Harry, to accept the invitation,
difficult!
But
was
so
yet he would not bring
hesitating.
himself to tell the lie.
"Pretty well."
the children ?"
"And
"Burton," he said,"I am in trouble."
"
The
"What
is the trouble?"
man's voice
bad
well.
are
a
Quite
They say you
very
was
now
fellow not to go and see them."
changed,and so was the glanceof his
"
of anger
There was
none
said Harry.
I believe I am
a bad fellow,"
no
expression
eye.
" Sit
of
his
will
best
but
countenance
the
It
to
come
sweetness
be
as
yet
down, Harry.
;
Is there any
that was unusual to him,
was
a sweetness
at the pointat once^will it not ?
gone
when he
but which
stillwas
at his command
thingwrong between you and Florence ?"
"
needed it.
do you mean
What
by wrong?"
"I
should call it very wrong
hideously " I can not tell you all here. If you will let
I will tell you
between
after
all
that
has
to you this evening,
me
come
passed
you,
wrong, if,
Will
there should now be any doubt as to your affection every thing to you and to Cecilia too.

then

"I

"

"

"

"

"

for each other.

with
"

should

her,I
You

"I

will

think

there
I

have

to

old

peopleat

home

Come,

honest

No

after dinner

you dine with u9?"

when the children

are

in

he went, leavingon the mind of

Burton
an
impressionthat,though

bed."" Then
Theodore

I hate

man.

Florence,mind

not

"

that you are untrue to Florence,and are passing

your time with that ladywho is the sisterof your

righthave theyto ask how

XXVII.

CHAPTER
FRESHWATEE

cousin's wife."
I pass my

GATE.

Pateeopf, Sophie'sbrother,was a
who, when he had taken a thingin hand,
liked to carry it through. It may
"Donotbeunjust, Harry. Ifyousimplytell
generally
of this turn
that your visits to that Jadyimply no evil to perhapsbe said that most men
are
sister,
I,knowing you to be a gentleman,will of mind ; but the count was, I think,especially

"What

time ?"
me

?"

Certainly. Will

report has reached

"

come

much
heart may
never
amiss, his mother had
something was
Harry,let me tell been wrong in her fears respecting
Lady Ongar.

my

all at once, like an

and secrets.
subterfuges

"

God

such

hope,Harry, that

you
the

"

that hitherto
blushes among
us.

I thank

bleed for her.

arise you let me

"
my sister.
to blush for her."

have

no

to

now

were

disown

almost

never

not.
been

have

And

If such doubt

CotiNT

man

my
take your word for all that it can
paused,and Ha?ry hesitated and

"Nay, dear

friend

mean."
could not

brother

He
swer.
an-

eager in this
who had many

respect. And
irons in the

as

he

who
fire,

was

not

made

one

either

little efforts,
or
any great efforts after
he was justified
thingsaltogether
beyondhis reach,.
the bairns,
in expecting success.
As
to Archie's
and kiss
and
knew
the man
who
Cecilia too, and sit with us at our table,
courtship,
ifeally
any one
talk as you used to do, and I will ask no farther and the woman,
and who knew any thing of the
would have prein general,
of women
nature
questionnor will she. Then you will come
with Doodle's
Even
back here to your work, and your trouble will dieted failure for him.
in the race.
be gone, and your mind will be at ease ; and, aid he could not have a chance
Harry,one of the best girlsthat ever gave her But when Count Pateroff entered' himself for
will be there to worheart into a man's keeping
those who knew him would not
the same
ship
prize,
back
when
is
of
his
failure
and
turned
to
as
a thingcertain.
swear
speak
yon,
your
that any one
who says a word againstyou shall
The prizewas
too great not to be attempted
and no friend of by so very prudenta gentleman. He was less
be no brother,
and no sister,
and did
hers."
impulsivein his nature than his sister,
had dusted his not open his eyes and tallijwith
who
And this was the man
wateringmouth

have

"

thought you
and kiss
Onslow Crescent,

of

us

"

come

as

once

we

both

many

to

more

"

with his

boots

Harry

had

regardedas being on

hardlyfitto
man

was

and whom
pocket-handkerchief,

be his friend !

knew

that the

noble,and good,and

generous, and
also that in all that Burton

and knew
did his
said he simply
true ;

He

that account

dutyas

brother.

But

of the
his

seven

thousands of
he

quietway

all the

advantages to
at what

and had
life,

rate

made

in the deed of Lord

poundsa

year ; but in

weighed and calculated

be gained,
had even ascertained

had

he

could insure the

himself certain that

lady's
nothing

Ongar'smarriagesettlement

THE

118
entailed

any

his widow's

on
penalty
pecuniary

marriage. Then he had

we
know, to Ongar Park, and as
from the lodge to the house and
second

CLAVERINGS.

gone down, as
he had walked

that there
her

heard

nothingleft for

was

her but to make

yet shining. Then she

the story of Florence Burton, and again

hay while

the

was

sun

her side. She

on
she thoughtthat Fortune was
with what
and told told the story of Florence Burton
had looked around him complacently,
result we know ; and was
himself that the placewould do vevy well. For
quitesharpenough to
tended
of the pigheadedthe Englishcharacter,
in spite
perceiveafterward that the tale had had its inhe would
lutely
as
of many Englishmen,he had
even
ness
effect,
though her Julie had resoing
declined to speak either of Harry Clavermuch
have said himself
admiration, and he
back

again,he

"

"

"

of Florence Burton.
or
thought that the life of a country gentleman,
Count
Pateroff had again called in Bolton
with such a very
with a nice placeof his own
a
nd
had again been refused admittance.
Park
and
so
nice placeof his own as was
Street,
Ongar
his It was
suit
him
well
in
to him to see by the servant's manner
would
nice
plain
an
income,
very
that it was
intended that he should understand
declining
years.
certain aids
that he was
not
to be admitted.
Under
And
he had certain advantages,
which had come
such circumstances,it was
that
he
toward his object,
to him from
necessary
his pursuit,
either abandon
or
that be
circumstances ; as, indeed,he had also certain must
must
disadvantages. He knew the lady,which was
operate upon Lady Ongar through some
He knew
much
than her personal
of the lady'sother feeling
self.
in itself much.
regardfor himand had that cognizanceof the saddest
He might,perhaps,
have trusted much
to
history,
which in itselfcreates
circumstances
his own
of her life,
eloquenceif he could have seen her;
but how is a man
to go
to be eloquentin his wooing
an
intimacy. It is not necessary now
back to those scenes
which had disfigured
the if he can
the lady whom
he covets ?
not see
last months
of Lord Ongar'slife,
but the reader
There
is,indeed,the penny post,but in these
will understand
had then occurred
that what
daysof legalrestraints there is no other method
a
possible
footingas a suitor. of approachingan unwillingbeauty. Forcible
gave the count
And
the reader will also understand
the disadvantages abduction is put an
end to as regards Great
Britain and Ireland.
which had at this time alreadyshown
So the count had resort
themselves in the lady's
refusal to see the count.
to the post.
It may be thoughtthat Sophie's
His letter was
fore,
standingwith
very long,and shall not,therebe givento the reader.
He began by telling
Lady Ongar would be a great advantageto her
brother;but I doubt whether thebrother trusted
Lady Ongar that she owed it to him for the
either the honestyor the discretion of his sister. good services he had done her,to read what he
He would have been willingto purchasesuch
him.
He then gave
might say, and to answer
her various reasons
assistance as she might give,not in Archie's
why she should see him,
in languagewhich
other things,
pleasantway, with bank-notes hidden under his pleading,
among
glove,but by acknowledgments for services to she could understand, though the words were
be turned into solid remuneration
when the marriage
purposelyas ambiguous as theycould be made,
should have taken place,
had he not feared that he had possessed
and did possess the power
that Sophiemight communicate the fact of such
of doingher a grievousinjury,
and that he had
and
acknowledgmentsto the other lady tnakingher abstained,
hoped that he might be able to
own
bargainin doingso. He had calculated all abstain for the future. She knew that the words
that he contained no threat
to the conclusion
this,and had come
that,taken literally,
they
the reverse
had better make
direct proposalto Sophie; were
of a threat,
and mounted
no
to a
and when Sophiemade a direct proposal
also all that he
to him, promise; but she understood
pointingout to him in glowinglanguageall the had intended to imply. Long as his own letter
fine thingswhich
such a marriage would give was, he said nothingin it as to his suit,
confining
vouchsafed to her a word qf himself to a request that she should see him.
him, he had hardly
answer.
"Very well,"said Sophie to herself,But with his letter he sent her an inclosure
Then
both know what we are
in which his wishes
we
longerthan the letter itself,
very well.
about."
were
explained.
clearly
This inclosure purported
to be an
Sophieherself would have kept Lady Ongar
expression
of Lord Ongar's wishes on
from marryingany one had she been able. Not
as
subjects,
many
would be so serviceable
even
a brotHer's gratitude
to Count Pateroff
theyhad been communicated
in the latter days of the lord's life; but as
to her as the generous kindness of a devoted
friend. That she might be able to sellboth her the manuscript
in the count's
was
altogether
services to a lover,
and also to keep Julie from
and did not even
writing,
pretendto have been
of circumstances
to Lord Ongar'seye, it simplyamountwas
a lucky combination
subjected
ed
marrying,
which did not occur
to her tillArchie
to the count's own
versations.
story of their allegedconin his glove. That
to her with the money
There might have been no such concame
versations,
she was
and
now
or their tenor
ferent
might have been very difcomplicated
playing,
game
that Harry Claveringwas
the great
from that which the count
was
aware
or
represented,
in her way.
A woman
the statements
and opinions,
ifexpressed
even
at all by
stumbling-block
less clever than Sophie would hai^e perceived
Lord Ongar,might have been expressedat times
that Lady Ongar was
ry
when
attached to Harstatements
no
or
opinionscoming from
violently
when
could
of
and
sho
him
be
did
But as to these
see
it,
Sophie,
thought
;
any value.
"

"

"

"

"

"

119

CLAVEEINGS.

THE

she told herself that Florence Burton

if theycould have been verified loneliness,
conversations,
from Lord Ongar'smouth when
could not want
as having come
Harry'slove as she wanted it.
who
in full possession
of such faculties as he There could not be such need to this girl,
he was
and
and
and
all
would
have
amounted
father
that
to
mother,
brothers,
possessed
possessed
nothing with Lady Ongar. To Lord Ongar youth,as there was to her,who had no other
alive she had owed
obedience,and had been arm on which she could lean,besides that of the
she had acknowledged her
To Lord Ongar dead she owed no
for whom
obedient.
one
man
and would not be obedient.
love,and who had also declared his passionfor
obedience,
her. She made no scheme to depriveFlorence
Such would have been her feelings
as to any
tude
solidocument which could have reached her,purportingof her lover. In the longhours of her own
within her own
she never
to contain Lord Ongar'swishes ; but this
revoked,even
of a nature which made
her spedocument was
cially bosom,the last words she had said to Harry Clasuch
the
exercise
of
to
antagonistic
vering. But not the less did she hope that he
any
It was
and that she might
from the grave.
to her again,
marital authority
very might come
long,and went into small details details which learn from him that he had freed himself from
that unfortunate
a
were
engagement into which her
very small ; but the upshotof it all was
and
falseness to him had driven him.
tenderingof great thanks to Count Pateroff,
It was
after she had answered
Count Paterthe expression
of a strong wish that the count
"

"

should

marry
be the

would

O. said that this off's letter that she resolved to go out of town
for three or four days. For some
short time she
"O.
for his had been minded
and not
be the safest course
to go away
altogether,

his widow.

said that this would

"

honor."

own

that in

he took my hand, to return tillafter the autumn

; but this scheme
take this step I gave him
graduallydiminished itself and fell away, till
that she would come
back after
"O. commissioned
to speak she determined
me
O.

said,as

promisingto

great comfort."
to

J. in his

of

course

It

to this effect."

name

Lord

Julia.

the

"

only thingfor J.'s name."

was

answered

was

course
on

three

or

four

and

in
anxious
was

to

Then

to

came

her

Sophie" Sophie,whom

Sophie
she despised

hated ; Sophie,of whom

she was
so
rid herself that in all her plansthere

littleunder-plot
to that effect , Sophie,
to be dishonest to her in any

some

whom

days.

devoted

her

"

Lady Ongar

strain for many

pages.
the letter as follows :

same

O.

The

Ongar, and the J. was of

all in French, and went

she knew

"Lady Ongar presents her complimentsto

profitable
; and
way that might make dishonesty
and begs to return the inclosed
Pateroff,
before Sophie had left her,Sophie had engaged
valueless.
which is,to her, perfectly
manuscript,
herself to go with her dear friend to the Isle of
and now
more
Lady Ongar must still decline,
of course, Sophiewas
to
Wight ! As a matter
Pateroff.
to receive Count
stronglythan before,
be frank on this expedition.On such expeditions,
" Bolton
Street,May, 186-."
Sophiesare alwaysfranked as a matter of
She was quitefirm as she did this. She had course.
And
aginable
Sophie would travel with all imdoubt at all on the matter.
She did not feel
no
luxury a matter to which Sophiewas
that she wanted to ask for any advice.
But she by no means
indifferent,
thoughher own private
did feel that this count might stillwork her additional
life was
conducted
with an
that was
economy
But, although all these good
woe, that her cup of soitow
mightnot not luxurious.
and that she was
even
yet be full,
sadly sadly thingscame in Sophie'sway, she contrived to
of love and protection. For aught she make
in want
it appear that she was
devotingherself in
that was almost sacrificialto the friend
ment,
a manner
knew, the count might publishthe whole stateand peoplemight believe that those words
of her bosom.
At the same
time Lady Ongar
from her husband,and that her husband
sent
came
to the count
a few words,as
a message,
by
had understood what would be best for her fame
his sister. Lady Ongar,havingtold to Madame
The
and for his honor.
whole thing was
a
Gordeloupthe storyof the document which had
threat,and not to save herself from any misery reached her,and having described her own
swer,
anwould
she have succumbed
to a menace
much
commended
was
by her friend.
; but
that the threat might be carstillit was
You are quiteright,
ried
possible
dear,quite.Of course
Count

"

"

"

out.

She

was

in
sorely

want

am

fond of my

brother.

Edouard

of love and protection.

always been the best of friends.

and

But

I have

that does

At this

time,when the count's letterreached her, not make me think you ought to giveyourself
Harry had been with her ; and we know what to him. Bah ! Why should a woman
giveaway
them.
She had bid him
had passedbetween
is a fine fellow. But
every thing? Edouard
go to Florence
and
Florence

and marry
and love Florence
her in desolation. That
had been her last command
But we
to him.
She had
mean.
all know what such commands
She
not been false in givinghim these orders.
The glow of
had intended it at the moment.
"

"

"

leave

in her bosom, and

had been warm
self-sacrifice
she had resolved to do without that which she
wanted
But

in order

when

she

that

another

thoughtof

might

have

it.

it afterward in her

what

is that ?

Fine

fellows like to have

themselves."
money
"Will
you tell him, from
that I will take it as

all the

me," said Lady

kindness on his
part if he will abstain from coming to my house.
I certainly
shall not see him with my own
sent."
con"

Ongar,

and probably
Sophiepromised,
gave

the message
Edouard of
Lady Ongar'sintended visitto the Isle of Wight,
; but when

she

also informed

CLAVEBINGS.

THE

120

him the day on wTiicU theywere

telling
going
and the precise
of the hotel
spot,with the name

on

and

the

eveningof

she

their firstday,Sophie left her,

Ah!
hour.

alone for nearly an

was

happy could she have been if Han'y Clahaps'

veringmight have been there with her. Perin which .Harrymight
a
had given her.
day might come
At the western
end of the Isle of Wight, and
bring her there. In such a case Atra Cura
the farther shore,about three miles from the would be left behind,and then she might be
on
happy. She sat dreaming of this for
pointof the island which we call the Needles, altogether
still away.
known
to all above
an
there is a littlebreak in the cliff,
hour, and Sophie was
she did all too
When
which
Sophie returned,
stay-at-home Englishtravelers as Freshwater
Here there is a cluster of cottagesand
Gate.
soon, she explainedthat she had been in her
and
She had been very busy, and now
few
and
a
two
bathing-boxes, ready bedroom.
inns,
access
by easy ascents to the breezydowns on had come down to make herself comfortable.
air blows with
On the next evening Lady Ongar declared
either side,over which the sea
At one
self.
her Intention of goingup on the downs
all its salt and wholesome
sweetness.
by herof these two
inns Lady Ongar located herself
They had dined at five,so that she might
after six she
mouth, have
and Sophie^ and all Ereshwater,and all Yara
long evening, and soon
which

at

theywere

stay,she went

to

of the island were

and all that end

the fact that the rich widowed

to

whom
come

on

littlebeyond how

which her dearest friend

the commission

alive

started.

spectingfar as
re-

countess

the

If I do

"

The

more

the stories

are

venomous

character

inn-keeper.In
had

was

on

is

mine

presentcase

in the way

come

to be

the

somethinga
that account

; but

of wealth
no

there

such
was

little odd, and

the

more

to

an

godsend
supposed

the visitor

welcome.
.

Sophiewas
in the world

not the most

for such

delightful
companion
place. London was her

she herself had

as
sphere,

understood

are

not

back

island.
not

make

To

the

people after you."

with a laugh,Lady Ongar
to the
downs, and walked
the extreme
point of the
themselves

Needles

her way.
as all the

and
througha fort,

These

rocks

are

she did
now

proached,
ap-

travelers know,
stay-at-home
down

to the fort she did not

But turninga littlefrom the highestpoint

go.
of the hill toward the cliffson her left hand, she
descended

till she

"

claiming
deshe could look down

reached
on

the

spot from

which

pebblybeach lying
three hundred
fset below her,and on the
againstthose husbands who keep their some
wives in the country. And
she had no love for soft shiningrippleof the quiet waters
as
they
the sea specially,
themselves with a pleasantsound on the
sances moved
regardingall winds as nuiexceptingsuch as had been raised by her long strand which lay stretched in a .linefrom
and thinkingthat salt from a saltcellar the spot beneath her out to the pointof the islown
and.
efforts,
convenient than that broughtto
The eveningwas
almost
and
parent
transwas
more
warm,
her on the breezes.
It was
the end
in its clearness,
now
and very quiet. There
near
of May, but she had not been half an hour at was
sound
of a breeze.
When
she
no
even
the inn before she was
loud in demanding a fire; seated herself close upon the margin of the cliff,
and when
the fire .came
she was
unwilling to she heard the small waves
moving the stones
leave it. Her gesture was
which they washed, and the sound was
the
as
magnificentwhen
Lady Ongar proposedto her that she should sound of little children's voices,\erj distant.
What
bathe.
! put her own
dear little dry Looking down, she could see throughthe wonderful
her
into the cold sea !
She
own
will,
body,by
bles
transparency of the water, and the peband shook herself,
out
below it were
and, withbright as diamonds,and the
shruggedherself,
sands were
burnished likegold. And each tiny
speakinga word, declined with so much
eloquencethat it was impossiblenot to admire silent wavelet,as it moved up toward the shore
Nor would she walk.
On the first day, and lost itselfat last in its own
her.
stretched
effort,
ed
itself the whole
duringthe warmest
part of the day, she allowlength of the stand. Such
herself t6 be taken out in a carriage
brightnesson the sea-shore she had never
ing
belongseen
to the inn ; but after her drive she clungto
nor had she e.ver listened as now
she listened
before,
the fire,
and consumed her time with a French
to that infantine babble of the baby waves.
She sat there close upon the margin,on a seat
novel.
Nor was
Lady Ongar much more comfortable of chalk which the winds had made, looking,
don.
in the Isle of Wight than she had been in Lonand forgetting
for a while that she
listening,
The old poet told us how Black Care sits was
Lady Ongar whom people did not know,
modern
behind the horseman, and some
poet who lived alone in the world with Sophie Gorwill some
and whose lover was
dess deloupfor her friend,
trothed
beday describe to us that tenible godshe takes her placewith the stoker close
to another woman.
as
She had been there
to the fire of the locomotive engine. Sitting
perhapshalf an hour,and had learned to be at
with Sophieopposite
home
her perch,
to her,Lady Ongar was
on
there in comfort,
sitting
not happy,even
though her eye rested on the with no desire to move, when a voice which she
lines of that magnificentcoast.
Once indeed. well knew at the first sound startled her,and
"

when

get as

before nine I shall send the

are
againstthem,the more
they Consentingto this
money
her way
amine made
spend,and the less likelyare they to exnp
their bills. A rich woman
toward
on
altogethersteadily

without

I will

Sophie,who had
three miles,lifted

had
heard that the distance was
told,
strangetales were
''
l
ike
up her hands in despair. If you
parts. Inn-keepers

such

told

apt

down

said.

visit to these

such visitors.

to

break

not

Needles,"she

CLAVEEINGS.

THE

she rose quickly

to her feet. "Lady Ongar,"
the
said the voice,"are you not rather near
edge?" As she turned round there was Count

121

shall not
certainly

"I

than I
"

There

are

few words

ther
you; nor, farI listen to you."

excuse

helpit,shall

can

which I must say."

"
I beg that you will leave
Count Pateroff,
Pateroff with his hand alreadyupon her dress,
This is treacherous and unmanly,and can
that no danger might be produced by the me.
so
do you no good. By what rightdo you follow
suddenness of his speech
she said,
"There is nothingto fear,"
steppingme here?

"Lady Ongar,

are

you

not rather

near

the

edge?"

"
I follow you for your own
back from her seat. As she did so, he dropped
gar
good.Lady Onit
his
hear me
to
his hand from her di-ess,
and, raising
; I do it that you may
say a few
words that are necessary for you to hear."
head,lifted his hat from his forehead. "You
will excuse
that is,
Lady Ongar," he said, "I will hear no words from yon
me, I hope,
"

"for

having

you."

taken

this mode

of

speakingto

none-

willingly.By

know

me

this time

you ought to
and to understand me."
She had be-

THE

122

CLAVEEINGS.

rest here while yon

walk up the hill very rapidly,
and for a remain,or will you let me
that she would
he had thought
return alone?"
or two
failed her,
I have found you with
"No, Julie,not so.
escape him ; but her breath had soon
and she found herself compelledto stand while
In London, you see, I
too much
difficulty.
to

gun

moment

he

regained his placebeside her. This he had

minutes
and for some
done without an effort,

not

could

Here, for

find you.

not

listen to

must

Do

me.

you

not

minute,you
know, Julie,

that your character is in my hands?"

both silent. "It is very beautiful,"
No
"In
thank God,
said,pointingaway over the sea.
never;
your hands?
she answered.
?"
But what if it were
"Yes
it is very beautiful,"
never.
"
py?"
"Only this that I am forced to play the
Why did you disturb me when I was so hapstill recovering his only game
Chance
that you leave open to me.
But the count
was
this
i
n
such
to
made
answer
and
a
and
no
me
question.broughtyou
together
breath,
way that
on
again, nothingbut marriagecan be beneficialto either
When, however, she attemptedto move
he put his hand upon her
itill
of us ; and I swore
the hill,
to Lord Ongar that it should
breasting
I mean
be so.
that it shall be so, or that you
irm
very gently.
"Lady Ongar,"he said,"you must listen to shall be punishedfor your misconduct to him

theywere

at last he

"

"

"

for

tne

Why

moment.

do

not

it without

and

quarrel?"

me."

to

"Yon

that I
If you mean
it is true enough."
"

from you,

both insolent and false. But

are

listen

since you are here and I can

not avoid
I know what your threats mean."
you.
"I have never
threatened you.
I have ised
"Why should you want to escape? Did I
promBefore this,
hurt you ?
have I not tected
but have used no threats."
ever
proyou my aid,
"
?"
Not when you tell me
that I shall be punyou from injury
ished
" No
You protectme !"
But to avoid no punishment,if any be
?
never.
not escape

can

to me,

"

' '

Yes

I ; from your husband,from yourself,in your power, will 1 ever

the world.
You
do not know
in your company.
You
not
all
Did
that
I
have
done
for
read
what
and
yet,
you.
papers you please,
you
and

"

from

what

"

Lord

Ongar

"

I read what

' '

What

think

it

pleasedme
Ongar

his

were

Do

Ah

you

words?

own

to

Do

that Lord

write.''

pretendto
speak as he

not

not

know

that

you

those

recognize in the world ?"

not

know

Ongar,you

! yes, Lady

choose to fabricate,
but you
frightenme into complianceby doing
I have,at any rate, spirit
so.
enough to resist
such attempts as that."
"As
alone
at present,you are
you are living
will not

you

did
Do

them

to be true."
"

Their

truth

That

falsehood

is

nothing to

indifferent
altogether

They are
way."
"

or

to

"You

are

would be very well if it were

There

now

we

to remain

thinking,
then,of

alone."
no

"If

I were,

speak no

does

that

farther word

concern

to you.

possible
;
the

at

are

content

am

second

riage
mar-

?"

me.

either

me

"And

will

but it is not.

nJay write of me to
whatrepeat of me ever

stories you may

it pleasedyou

speaks there?
them

said?"

had

willingly
placemyself

you?

But

If you follow
fai-ther by

into the inn,or persecute me

me
der
top, forcingyourself
upon me, I will put myselfun-

of the police."
the protection
she walked on as quickly
as
Having said this,
her strength
the easier. It would
would permit,while he walked by
her side,urging npon her his old arguments as
not be for the firsttime."
"That
is
falsehood."
As she spoke she to Lord Ongar'sexpressedwishes,as to his own
and at last as to the strong
steppedbefore him, and looked into his face efforts on her behalf,
vrith eyes full of passion. "That
is a positiveaffection with which he regardedher. But she
walked with a hand restingkepther promise,
falsehood.
I never
and said not a word in answer
than an hour they walked
to it all. For more
on your arm."
his face the pleasantest
There came
smile
side by side,
and duringthe greater part of that
over
You forget
as he answered her.
escapedfrom her. From
every thing," time not a syllable
"
he said
she kept her eye warilyon
moment
to moment
every thing. But it does not matter.
Other people will not forget. Julie,you had
him,fearingthat he might take her by the arm,
and

it will be easier.

honor

Will yon let me

No !
?

offer you my arm

but I think you would walk
to

have

Be

it

the
so

"

"

better take
better

husband.

for your

me

You

than
wife,and happier,

will be
be

or

attempt some

violence with her.

But he

was

and too fullyconscious that no

this,
such proceeding
his part could be of any ser\-on
"
Count Pateroff" down to ice to him.
Look down there,
He
continued,
however,to speak
the edge. If my miseryis too greatto be borne, to her words which she could not avoid hearing,
I can escape from it there on better terms than
hoping rather than thinkingthat he might at
last frighten
her by a description
of all the evil
you propose to me."
as

my
otherwise."

"

Ah

That

is what

we

you

call poetry.

can

Poetry which

is not
"

on

well."
Sir,will you allow

the rocks

"

so

me

to pass

on

it

But
within his power to do her.
he showed that he knew
nothing
of her character. She was
whom
not a woman
in prose it any prospect of evil cottldpossibly
into
frighten
a distastefulmarriage.
while you
Within a few hundred yardsof the hotel there

this as you do,you

is very pretty,and in saying
divine. But to be dashed over
make
yourself
the cliffsand broken

too wise for

in

was

actingthus

"

THE

he was
Burton believed,
as
false,
still,
or spurnedout of the
good to be cast aside,

and at this pointthe pathtaken

fort,
by Lady Ougar led into the privategroundsof

been

is another
the inn

she

which

at

without

the

staying.Here

was

his hat as he did so, and

left her,raising
her ajgain
before she
that he hoped to s^

count

saying

leftthe island.
"If

do

you

123

CLAVERINGS,

ence
so,"said she,"it shall be in presAnd
so
can
protect me."

of those who

theyparted.

farther

some

attempt to

too

way,

him.

save

When
Claveringhad left him Burton went
back to his work, and after a, while succeeded
in riveting
his mind on the papers before him.
with him, but ho did it,
It was
a hard struggle
and did not leave his business tillhis usual hour.
It was
past five when he took down his hat and
fore
his umbrella,
and,as I fear,dusted his boots behe passed
out of the office on to the passage.
As he went he gave sundrydirections to porters
his wont, and then walked off,
and clerks,
as was
intent upon his usual exercise before he should
his home.

reach
But

he had

with reference
to determine on much
his
Florence and Harry before he saw

to

wife.

How

take

the

was

place,and
?

meeting of

in what

If there

were

his anger, in what way

if necessity
for vengeance,

be avenged ?
for
to

than

man

the

who

woman

dear

There

eveningto
it be

menced
com-

for
cause
indispensable
should he show it,and

should his sister

how

is

difficult
nothing more
of injuries
done
redressing

is very

to him

near

Ijhpwhole

him.

to

the

should

way

theoryof

and very
Christian

and forgiveness
becomes
broken
meekness
to
abpiecesand falls to the ground almost as an surd
even
theory,

What
an

man

ever

the idea of such

forgavean insult to his
at

his sister because

injuryto

he

himself that to forgivetrespasses is

Without

duty?
such

taught
religious

But

ment's
mo-

declares to himself that

man

trespassesas those

generalorder.

had

argument, without

an

thought,the

wrong.
wife or

not

are

what

included

in the

is he to do ?

Thirty

was
easy, and, unless the
years since his course
he could in some
sort
sinner were
a clergyman,

his craving
for revenge by takinga pistol
satisfy
in his hand and having a shot at the offender.
method

That

CHAPTER

XXVin.
But

CECILIA

WHAT

BUKTON

DID

was

HEE

FOK

what

can

soon

as

Harry Claveringhad

Mr.

Burton, and had

from

went

away
phi,feelingit to
should

ment,
to

do

so.

stay. He

same

ing,
even-

the offices at the Adel

it

ever

there at that inobe within his power

another

reasonable,
un-

?" A
such

thoughtful,
dent,
pruas

was

Theodore

that it is not

with his

tack
givento him to atto fly
at his enemy's
fists,

and carry out his purpose after the manner

throat,
has probablysomeof dogs. Such a one
thing
round his heart which tells him thatif so
attacked he could defend himself;but he knows
that he has no aptitudefor making such onslaught,
and is conscious that such deeds

of

arms

Nor did Burton

In many,
expect that he should "would be unbecoming to him.
haps
perin most of such cases, he may, if he please,
understood,from what had passed,
of it;
of his

lover had fallen

which he could not cate
extrihimself without great suffering
and much

he
sister,

was

that her

aware

from
difficulty,

struggling. But

Burton

was

of somethingcynical
on
spite

believed
character,
and

"

he

his work

should

if not the whole

trouble,
piuch of Harry's
and though he did not despair
behalf
on
into

his

quiteimpossiblethat

be

recommence
even

made

declared that

he would be in Onslow Crescent that

he

now

painstaking
man,
Burton,feels

As

he do

and

and sufficed.
satisfactory

SISTEK-

IN-LAW.

promise to

doubtless barbarous

but it was

well also

of

man

well of mankind
men

as

who,

in

the surface of his

But any aid that

to the laws.
have recourse
him
is
distastefulto
the law can
altogether
give
of her that is so dear to him
him.
The name
should be kept quietas the grave under such
blazoned through ten thousand
not
misfortune,

columns
There

man
generally,

individuals.

Even

though Harry had done amiss,he might be

ence
saved. And
thoughHarry'sconduct to Florhave
been
have
might
bad,
nay,
might

and

"

for the

amusement

of all the crowd.

nothing left for him but to spurn the

but with his thoughts;
not with his foot,
is

the bitter consciousness that to such ing

spumold way

the sinner will be indifferent. The

was

and unreasonable
barbarous certainly,
in it that has been
was
a satisfaction

there

; but

often

THE

121

wanting since

the

went
pistols

of

use

CLAVERINGS.
of

out

of his dinner.
and

fashion among
us.
All this passedthrough
Burton's mind

always
coming down

His

bore

wife understood
him

with

such

at

this

well,

moments,

hind
bein the dressing-room
parlor,and ministeringto his
I fear'he took some
he with
wants.
advantage of her
eager for bloodshed
he
with children
he deemed
to be perfect,
goodness,knowing that at such moments
a wife whom
could grumble and scold without danger of conwho
tradiction.
in his eyes were
graciousas young
But the institutionwas
established,
gods,with all his dailywork which he loved as
rebelled against
itstraditional
he
and
Cecilia
never
do
but
as
workers
thought
always ;
yet,
good
of laws.
On the present day he had much
to say
of Florence,
he thoughtof the possibility
as
treacheryon Harry'spart,he regardedalmost to her, but even that he could not say without
he was
few symptoms of petulant
weariness.
to which
some
with dismay the conclusion
"I'm
afraid you'vehad a terrible long day,"
that there could be no punishforced to come
ment.
the offender to the she said.
He might proclaim
"
I don't know what you call terribly
world as false,and the world would
laugh at
long. I
short.
fender.
find the days teiTibly
I have had Harry
and shake hands with the ofthe proclaimer,

walked home.
him to be a man

would

One

not

he

as

to him

tlie back

supposed

have

"

"

sit togetherwith such

To

man

on

with me,

I told you

as

chief,
handker-

I should."

well.

in

one
"Well,
Say
word,dear,that it
utary,is all right if it is so."
reasonable,
nay, sal"
what on
under such a grievance. There are sins,
But it is not all right. I wonder
he felt,
which the gods should punish with instant earth the men
do to the boots,
that I can never
in walking." At
and such sins as this was
of get a pairthat do pot hurt me
thunderbolts,
she was standingover him with his
such nature.
His Florence
pure, good,loving, this moment
void of all suspicion,
less
faultslippers.
true, herself totally
'
ner,
in heart as well as mind, the flower of that
Will you have a glassof sherry
before dinBurton flock which had prosneredso well
that
dear; you are so tired."
she should be sacrificed thrOTgh the treachery
"Sherry" no!"
of a man
"And
what about Harry ?
You don't mean
been
who, at his best,had scarcely
worthy of her ! The thought of this was almost to say "
I'lltell you what I do mean
for him, and he gnashed his teeth as
"If you'll
too much
listen,
he went on his way.
he described to her as well as he
to say." Then
But yet he had not givenup the man.
Though could what had reallytaken placebetween him
and Harry Claveringat the office.
he could not restrain himself from foreshadowing
"He
not mean
the miserythat would result from such baseness,
to be false ifhe is coming
can
demn
here,"said the wife.
yet he told himself that he would not conbefore condemnation
ry
"He
does not mean
to be false;but he is
was
necessary. Harence. one
who
of those men
be false without
can
Claveringmight not be good enough for FlorWhat
man
was
good enough for Florence ? meaning it" who allow themselves to drift away
But still,
if married, Harry, he thought,would
from their anchors,
and to be carried out into
not
make
who is seas of miseryand trouble,
because they are not
a bad husband.
Many a man
careful in lookingto their tackle.
I think that
prone enough to escape from the bonds which
he has undertaken
he may stillbe held to a rightcourse, and thereto escape from
fore
to endure
them before they are
riveted
I have begged him to come
is mild enough
here."
under their endurance
"I am
when
tened
that you are
sure
they are once fasright,Theodore.
He is so good and so affectionate,
not of
and he made
was
Harry Clavering
upon him.

bane!

of

powder,

seemed

or

to him

fighthim
to

over

be

"

"

'

"

"

"

"

such

that Burton

nature

that it would
even

though her

was

tell himself

clever,that he

soft in manner,

himself

much

so

"Yes;

cape,
es-

too

one

of

!"

us

half.

That is justthe
easilyby
here.Cissy. I'll tell you
I will not see him myself

of escape must
lay danger. But look
of outragedlove. what I mean
water
to do.
way

through the fire and

That Harry Claveringwas
he

could

be well that his sister should

was

tender

gentleman,that

by

nature

at

"

ate,
affection-

any

not

rate,not

see

him

at

at first.

all.

I had
Probably

You

ter
bet-

shall talk to him."

heart,anxious to
"By myself!"
high ambition. " Why not. You and he have alwaysbeen
Burton
knew
well f and he partlyrecognizedgreat friends,
and he is a man
who
can
speak
the fact that Harry had probably
fallen into his more
than to another man."
openlyto a woman
"And
what shall I say as to your absence?'^
present fault more
by accident than by design.
deceiver.
Tell him
"Just the truth.
not a skilled and practical
was
that I am
Clavering
maining
reAt last,
in the dining-room
he drew near
to his own
because
as
I think
door,he resolved on the line of conduct he his task will be easier with you in my absence.
and
please,good-tempered,

would

of

of

He would
tell his wife every
pursue.
she should receive Harry alone.

thing,and
He
was

was
a

weary when

little cross

he

with his

reached

home, and

fatigue. Good

man

he was, he was
apt to be fretfulon the first
of his return
moment
to his own
house,hot with
as

tired
walking,

with his

day'slabor,and

in want

He

has

got himself into

some

mess

with that

woman."
"With
"

Lady Ongar?"

Yes ; not that her

us, but I suppose

"Horrible
!"

woman

"

name

mentioned between

was

it is so.

"

wicked,wretched

ture
crea-

CLAVEEINGS.

THE
"

nothing about that,nor,

I know

do

"My dear,you
if I had

But

"

have

must

married

who

man

she wants

suppose

is

am

told that she

to
was
arranged that when Harry came
door,Mrs. Burton should go up alone to the
remaining
drawing-roomand receive him there,

dead,and

with

now

husband."

young

If I

I would say as littleas

you, Cissy,
about her.
She was an old friend of

were

might be

"

Harry's
"

She jilted
him when he was
know that longbefore he had

quitea boy; I

"

"

And

"

cousin.

she is connected

with him
so

her be

ever

bad,I

should

''

You

till he
her husband in the dining-room
down
Twice
stairs
while sitting
should come.
after the cloth was gone she ran up stairs with
the avowed
purpose of going into the nursery,
that the room
but in truth that she might see
and that
that it looked pretty,
was
comfortable,
the chairs
The

can't suppose, Theodore,that I want

her name.
I'm told that nobody

to mention

arrangedas

to be convenient.

understood the

little

smiled but said nothing,and his

manoeuvre,
went
resolute,
wife,who in such matters was
and

ture.
her farther littlechanges in the furni-

made

visits her."

ever

so

were

two

who
drop asleep. 'Theodore,

that."

even

the

eldest children were with them in the

she started on her second erand when
rand
parlor,
Cissy reminded her that baby would be
throughhis
ence."
Flor-

our

seen

Let

they

It

that I have

dear!"

"My
"

old

an

I suppose, speak and think after that fashion when

ventures.
satisfiedwith their own
are

heard."

I don't know

and

"

I need not have believed.

"

as

you."

125

At last there

the knock

came

at

the door

which told someShe needn't be a bit the worse

that aca knock
the expectedknock
on
count.
thing
I hear that there is a woman
of the hesitating,
Whenever
unhappy mind of him
whom
started on
I alwaysfeelinclined to go
who
had
and Mrs. Burton
nobodyvisits,
rapped,
and pay my respectsto her."
"Tell him justsimply
her business.
why you
"

"

how
"Theodore,

can
you say so?"
suppose, is justwhat Harry has
If the world and his wife had visited

"And

I
that,

done.

Lady Ongar,there would

not

have

been

all this

trouble now."
Mrs.

"

alone,"said her husband.

Clavering?"Cissyasked,"and
I
mayn't go?"
her father said,
"It is Harry Clavering,"
"and you may not go.
Indeed,it is time 'you
there

are

"Is

it Harry

"

Burton

of

undertook

course

the

task

went

else."

somewhere

It was
assignedto her,though she
Harry Clavering. He had not spent
and many
a
pleasantday since he had left Mr. Beilby's
trepidation,
that he had
fears lest the desired object
should he lost through officesin the morning, and, now
he did not expect to
her own
With
maladroit management.
to Onslow Crescent,
her, come
doubt as to the thingto be spend a pleasant
there was
at least no
evening. When I declare that
done
hesitation as to the desirability
of seto any firm resolution,
no
curing as
yet he had not come
Harry Claveringfor the Burton faction. I fear that he will be held as beingtoo weak for
in such pages as these.
Every thingin her mind was to be forgivento the r61e of hero even
to the
Harry, and he was to be received by them all Perhaps no tenns have been so injurious
with open arms
and lovingcaresses, if he would
of the novelist as those two words,
profession
hero and heroine.
In spite
of the latitude which
cure
onlyabandon Lady Ongar altogether.To seher lover for Florence was
terpretatio
inMrs. Burton's is allowed to the writer in puttinghis own
singleand simpleobject. She raised no questions
upon these words,somethingheroic
within her own
if he attempt to paint
breast as to whether
is stillexpected; whereas,
now
Harry would make a good husband.
Any such from Nature,how littlethat is heroic should he
to
How many
swered describe !
questionas that should have been asked and anyojing men, subjected
before he had been acceptedat Stratton.
vering
the temptations
which had befallen Hariy ClaThe thingto be done now
whom
cate
how many
was
to bringHarry
men
you, deliyoung
and
since such terrible
would
and Florence together,
number
reader,
among
your friends
A man,
have come
out from them unscathed?
dangerswere intervening to make them man
and wife with as littlefarther dellay
love
can
as
might be you say, delicate reader, true man
which

her husband

did

with much

so

nervous

"

"

"

"

"

possible.The
to her.

When

love it was
heart to

ofLady Ongar was

name

went

men

within

astrayin

odious

matters

of

the power of Cecilia Burton's

; but she could not pardon

forgivethem

women

that

so

sinned.

jilted
HaiTy,and

that

This

countess

had

but

one

say, and
was

woman
are

ever

he

cease

one

at

"

no

So you
conviction

has
does
does he cleanse his heart of

false.

When

all his heart and

to love

time.

convinced ; but

so

more

loved with

^but

"

true

man

all his soul

"

when
circumstances
that passion
run
cure
against
enough to seher condemnation.
And, since that,what him, and he is forced to turn elsewhere for his
terriblethingshad been said of her ! And dear, life'scompanion
?
as
Or is he untrue
a lover
uncharitable Cecilia Burton was
apt to think, in that he does not waste his life in desolation
evil was
of women
when
?
Or does his
because he has been disappointed
spoken of women
once

was

"

whom

she

be smoke

did not
without

that there could not

know
this woman
fire. And now
"

and wanted a
witha large
a widow
fortune,
business had any widow
husband 1 What
to
It is so easy for wives to
want
a husband?
was

and die away because another

old love perish
if
has creptinto his heart ? No ; the firstlove,
that was true,is ever there | and should she and

he meet

years, though their heads

their cheeks wrinkled,there will

after many

be gray and

THE

126
stillbe

dies,unless
usage.
usage

never

be

by downright ill
ill
murdered, but even

so

succeed in that

often fail than

enterprise.How, then,could Harry fail to

the

returned
told

him, with

all her

him

her lieart stood toward

how

thoughtthat I
altogether.A man, though he may
The
should be devoted onlyto one.
But

it is not

be

to

that not from love

"

?
him

excuse

love many,
man's feeling

marry should
alry,
but
from chivonly,

he is

whom

to the woman

be this

she

and
stillyoung, stillbeautiful,
tery,
and all her flatcharms

to him

her

and

to

and.

come

will go with

perhapsyou

or

me

her at the station?"

Burton

said that she

understand

not

will

Yon

Monday.

on

then ?

meet

"

love

when
first,

loved

he had

whom

woman

will be here
see

murdered

It be

It may
will more

their hands

that love

Methtnks

moment.

as
passion

of the old

touch

for

meet

CLAVERINGS.

"You

do

that it
think

not

coming,but I

was

did

soon."

so

was

it too

Harry,do

soon,

you ?"

No," said Harry,but

"

his tone

rate,he had

belied his

sertion.
as-

pretendedto
any
displayany of a lover's rapture at this prospect
of seeingthe lady whom
he loved.
At

Sit down, Harry. Why

"

that,and

look

not

do you stand like

Theodore
says
at heart.
Is it a

comfortless ?

so

that you have some

trouble that you can

trouble
tell to

friend such

as

duty,he will be am ?"

"
It is very hard to tell. Oh, Mrs.B.urton,
I
all hazards,to defend
broken-hearted.
Por the last two weeks I
am
her from every misadventure, to struggleever
that no wind
have wished that I might die."
be happy, to see
that she may
that no
"Do
be
not say that,Harry; that would
blows upon her with needless severity,
near
her, wicked."
raveningwolf of a misery shall come
clean
Wicked
I have been so
as
that her path be swept clean for her
or not, it is true.
manhood, and
preparedalways,and at

from

from

"

"

as

be, and that her roof-tree be made

may

upon

quiteindependentof
be

done

is much

There

rock.

love.

without

it is this which

love

man

firm
is

of this which

of itthat may
is devotion,and

much

"

This
to

owes

the

who

woman

wretched

that I have

myself.

I could

how

to

hold

write

to

Florence."
"But

not?

why

all

You

that you

mean

not

can

that.

mean

that it is not

so, and I will

Theodore's
forgiveness,
forgiveness,

once

once

do not

Yon

false to Florence

are

promisedto be his wife,a'ndhas not Harry,say at

forfeited her right. Doubtless Harry Clavering promise you
has

known

not

bring myselfto

not

her

for any thingelse.

forgiveness
Lady Ongar'sdrawing-room. Oh, Harry,say any thingbut that." In answer
that to this Harry Claveringhad nothingto say, but
Doubtless he should have known
at once
it necessary that he
sat with his head
his duty to Florence made
and his
restingon his arm
should declare his engagement, even
though,in face turned away from her.
Speak,Harry ;
doing so, he might have seemed to caution Lady if you are a man, say something. Is it so? If
it be so, I believe that you will have killed her.
can
Ongar on that pointon which no woman
But the fault was
endure a caution.
ing,
hers,and Why do you not speak to me?
Harry Clavershould have remembered

this at the firstmoment

our

in

of his weakness

'

"

the caution
have

not

not have

her

needed.

was

returned

No

to Bolton

doubt

Street.

he

should

He

should

himself
qozened himself by trusting
of

assurances

friendship
; he

his love for the

kept waim

should
to whom

woman

to

have

tell me
Then
her

his
suppressing

his

himself to make
how
was
owed, not suffering
comparisonsto her injury. He should have love
been chivalric,
sworn
manly, full of high duty. He
should have been all this,
and full also of love, trath

as

them,

see

As

are

he entered

at once, and

husband.

have been
not

the

hero.

But

men,

often heroic.
he

room

then looked

saw

round

quicklyibr her
am
so
glad

she gave

him

her

had

emotion

been

tillhe

treated

when
himself,

to

become

would

came

to

the history

Then
and

second

her ; how
he had
that she had in

wife,that for her sake

lovingany other
he spoke of his first days at
his earlyacquaintance
with Florence,
himself

told her

love ; how

check

by

he knew

that lord's

keep

Stratton and of

with

all his story,not looking

face,not changing his voice,

of the present days. He described to her

he had loved Julia Brabazon,and how his

woman.

Mrs. Burton

"Harry,"said she, "I

again,"and

he

is the truth."

in the

once

hand

and then he would

what

he told her

how
it had

from

different had
grown

been

his

and
gradually

his confidence,
tillhe felt sure
girlwho was so often near him
which used to make him feel that it was
ant
pleaswould,if he could win her,be to him a source
of joyfor all his life. "And
to be near
her. He took her hand and muttered
so she shall,"said
and then looked Cecilia,
word of greeting,
with tears running down
some
her cheeks ;
"
Theodore
is not
round again for Mr. Burton.
"she shall do so yet." And
he went on with
here,"she said ; "he thoughtitbetter that you his tale,
sayinghow pleasantithad been for him
and I should have a littletalk together.He said tofindhimselfathomein
Onslow Crescent ; how
and having
you would like it best so ; but perhapsI ought he had joyedin callingher Cecilia,
her infants in his arms, as thoughtheywere
not to tell yon that."
" I
do like it best so
much
best.
I can
And he told
already
belongingto him.
partly
her how he had met
the young widow at the
speakto you as I could hardlyspeakto him."
"
is it,
What
having employedhintselfon her behalf
Harry,that ails you ? What
station,
has keptyou away from us ? Why do you leave at her sister's instance ; and how cold she had
She been to him, offending
him by her silence and
poor Plo 60 longwithout writingto her ?
to

see

you

hand, and

once

smiled

on

with theft

him

"

sweet

look

no

that the

sweet

to

CLAVERINGS.

THE
sombre

pride.

Mrs. Burton.

"

False

1"

woman

do
Oh, Cecilia,

broken-hearted angel
!" Then
my lost,
slie turned away heuface and wept.

exclaimed

darling
"

her

abuse

not

" I
tillyou know
all."
say a word
that she is false,"
said Mrs. Burton,with

do

"

"

not

know

137

her

"Cecilia,"he said,attemptingto approach

with his hand, without
risingfrom his

Then

is not false,"chair.
indignation. "She
it is mine."
Harry ; " if there be falsehood,
"No, sir;when I desired you
and
said
she
It
because I thoughtyou were
how
different
he went
was
on,

was

when

vehement
said

he

next

her.

saw

that her solemn

had

almost

been

forced

then he

return, with no
She has deserved

on

"You

But

"

she

was

that
false,

she

now,

ton.
no
friend,"said Mrs. Burher,"said Harry; "you do

motionless

been

has

After

ever

without

and
motionless,

"

miseryshe

own

her,and
stricken by the

was

wretchedness
of his countenance.
the very first
rich by marrying she rose
quicklyfrom her chair,and

might become

word.

while he turned his face toward

in her

even

false from

not

so,
brother.

husband
in his
lest you should meet
my
he should spurn you."
But Harry Claveringstill sat in his chair,

of

wrath,and

wrong
If any woman
her.
it is she."
sinned against,

weak

so

her.

know

not

to be

I did not think that there could be a thing

as
Perhaps you had better go
you.

derstood
un-

haughty manner
her by the mode

other friend to meet

her
"

How

and

to call me

"

Suddenly
coming

that she did not love ?

Will you speak close to him, threw herself on her knees before
after
that
for
her
?
think of it." him.
Oh,
"Harry," she said,"Harry,it is not yet
Harry,
up
"
Be our
est
I will speak up for her,"said Harry; and
too late.
own
Harry again our deara

man

"

it seemed

now

for the firsttime that

of his old boldness

had

returned

Harry. Say

something

to

"I

him.

this

What

yon ?

to

woman

that it shall be

What

is

she done

for

so.

has

as
you
yon, that for her you should throw aside such a
Is she noble,
and good,and
because
she
has
suffered
few
have
as
women
as our Florence?
one
say,
is? Will she love
been made
and because she has reto suffer,
as Florence
pented pure, and spotless
called on to you with such love as Florence's ? Will she bein ashes as few women
lieve
are

will speak up for her,althoughshe did

repent." And
for her,he
less of shame

with his feeling

now, as he warmed
uttered his words faster and with
in his voice.

He

described

in you

how

and

Florence believes?

as

she believes

nothingof this,
nothing,if you will onlysay

shall know

gone again and again to Bolton Street,that you will be

till till tillsomethingof the I will remember
thinkingno evil,
him.
He
old feelinghad
back upon
afterward.
come
he had

"

No

true.

shall

one

know,

it onlyto remember

"

Think

of

and

ness
your good-

it,Harry ;

in his story,but I doubt whethbe no falseness to one

who
How
he told all the truth.
could he tell it yon.
er
Harry,you will not
all ?
How
could he confess that the blaze of blow ?"
to be true

meant

ry,
Yes, Har-

yet. She knows

has been

there
so

us
destroy

can

false

all at

to

one

ty,
Never before was
man
to take
womanhood, the flame of her beauso supplicated
fire engendered by her mingled into his arms
youth,and beauty,and feminine
rank and suffering,
him and burned
had singed
purity! And, in truth,he would have yielded
him up, poor moth that he was?
then
"And
would not have yielded
as, indeed,what man
said he, that
that she had
had not Mrs. Burton been interrupted
at last I learned,''
in her
the woman's
and

the

"

"

"

loved
"

me

And

than I had

more

is Florence

prayers.
she has

to suffer because

love of you to her love of money f"

do not understandit

her
postponed
"Mrs.

"

believed."

Burton, if you

that I
now, I do not know
Florence alone in this matter

tell you

can

and

I have

think that Florence

settled. Let
"You

more.

been
is too

The
heard
step of her husband was
and she,rising
from her knees,
stairs,

"Do
whispered
quickly,

is altogether
good. said

Lady Ongar has been wrong,

I sometimes
wrong.
good for me."

the

upon

two

me

have

Theodore,as

' '

Mrs.

been
he

did you

Why

tell him

not

tell him

when
a

you
long time

that it is

gone."

are

together,"

in.

came

leave us, then,so long?" said

Burton,tryingto smile,though the signs

of tears were, as she well knew, plainenough.

" It
is for her to say that,ifit be necessary."
"I thoughtyou would have sent for me."
' '
I have told you 'allnow, and you will know
"Burton," said Harry,"I take it kindlyof
to see your wife alone."
why I have not come to you."
you. that you allowed me
have

"No, Harry,you
Have
your
me

not

told

me

all.

"Women

always understand

that she should be bes^"said he.

woman
you told that
wife?"
To this question
he made
mediate "And
imno
you will

answer, and she

; have you told her you
"I did tellher so."
"And

these

will

you

repeatedit.
would marry

"Tell

and

her?"

''

answer

Not

to-morrow.

"Florence

keep your

word

to her?"

come

me

ray
"

will be here

why should

"And

ry,
again to-morrow, Har?"
question

Monday."

on

he not

come

when

is here ?" asked Theodore,

in an
Harry, as he heard the words,was struck with
that there should be such vehemence,such
awe
tone.
he will come;
cilia
as Ce"Of course
but I want
anger, in the voice of so gentlea woman
do you mean
"Answer
him againfirst. Do I not, Harry?"
Burton.
me, sir,
to
no

not

marry
answer.

things

"

this
"

"I

?"

countess

do not

speak,"she said.

"

But

stillhe made

Oh,

that you can

Florence"
oh,my

"I

wonder

hate

"There
"

Why

said
mysteries,"
shall be

no

ence
Florangry
to

see

Burton.

mystery,"said

his wife.

did you send him to me, but that there

are

"

Will you

Not

; but I will write to-morrow

to-morrow

early

to-morrow.

course

you
said.

have

her
occupied
together

things difficultto discuss among

come
to-morrow, Harry ?"

some

three ?

"

CLAVEEINGS.

THE

128

will go

will tell Burton

and

now,

every

ing
of

thing that

both took his

Good-night."They

hand,and Cecilia pressedit as she looked with

beseechingeyes into his face. What would she
ter
of the sisthe happiness
not have done to secure
whom
she loved ? On this occasion she had
descended low that she might do much.

"

her

CHAPTEK

Ongab, when

Ladt
at

the littlefort
the

PYTHIAS.

FKOM

she left Count

gardensbelongingto

since made

up her mind

Pateroflf

the

self
by herhotel,had long

that there should

at last

between herself and her

severance
positive
Sophie. Tor half an hour she had
been walkingin silence by the count's side ; and
though,of course, she had heard all that he had
sider
spoken,she had been able in that time to conmuch.
It must
have been throughSophie

be

devoted

that the count

had

heard

face

to

as

the effects of the insult she

and then,having,as
received,
and preparedherself
herself,
that was
to follow,
she descended

the cliffand entered

on

own

had

XXIX.

PAKTED

DAMON

HOW

of her

journeyto

She had

thi'eehours.

gressed
hardlyfelt the dusk growingon her as she proher way, with that odious
on
steadily
beside her.
She had been thinking of
man
and her eyes had accustomed
selves
themother things,
But
to the fading twilight.
gradually
she saw
the glimmer of the lamps
now, when
from the inn windows, she knew that the night
had come
upon her,and she began to fear that
she had been imprudent in allowing
herself to
had she sucbe out so late
ceeded
imprudent,even
in being alone.
She went direct to her
own
room, that,woman-like,she might consult

the

and encountered

room

the firstto

was

remember
for

to
likely

for the
to the

her friend.

speak;and

The

scene

sittingfriend

the reader will kindly

that the friend had

ample reason
companion Lady Ongar had

knowing what

been

it were, steadied

meet

upon

the downs.
"

"

Julie,dear,how late you are, said Sophie,

rather irritated in having
as
though she were
been kept so longwaitingfor her tea.
"I am
late,"said Lady Ongar.
"And
don't you think you are imprudent
all alone,you know, dear ; justa leetle imprudent."
"

Isle of

than that,Sophie
Wight; and, worse
"
this purI have
she thought,have instigated
been
Very imprudent,indeed.
suit.
I crossed the lawn,and
In that she wronged her poor friend. thinkingof that now
as
I have been very imprudent
Sophiehad been simplypaidby her brother for found how dark it was.
enabled
him
but
I
have
information
to
such
jury."
range
aras
escapedwithout much in;
giving

must,

as

this

meeting. She had

not

ed
counsel-

even

Have
"Escaped! escaped what?
Lady
you esSophie caped a cold,or a drunken man ?"
from her bosom.
gar
Then
she sat down,
should be expelled
Both, as I think."
Lady Onwould find this task of expulsionthe less and,havingrung the bell,
she ordered tea.
"
voted
There seems
difficultin that she had come
to loathe her deto be somethingvery odd with
on
friend,and to feel it to be incumbent
you,"said Sophie. " I do not quiteunderstand
Now
had
her to rid herself of such devotion.
you."
'
did you see your brother last ?" Lady
in which it might be done.
arrived the moment
When
And
yet there were difficulties.Two ladies Ongar asked.
My brother ?"
living
togetherin Kn inn can not,without much
send down
to the landlord
that is disagreeable,
did you see
"Yes, Count Pateroff. When
sayingthat they want separate rooms, because him last ?"
"
Why do yon want to know ?"
theyhave taken it into their minds to hate each
"
there would, moreover, be someAnd
other.
thing
of course
as
Well,it does not signify,
you
But will you say when you
awkward in sayingto Sophiethat,
though will not tell me.
her bill should be paid" for will see him next ?"
she was
discarded,
"
How
No ; Lady Ongax had
I tell?"
this last and only time.
can
that
would
"Will
that
.She
it be to-night?"
not do.
alreadyperceived
with Sophie after that fashion.
would not quarrel
?"
Julie,what do you mean
"
that I wish you would make
She would leave the Isle of Wight oflrthe
him
Only this,
informingSophiewhy understand that if he has any thingto do confollowing
morning early,
cerning
to the little
she did so, and would offer money
me, lie might as well do it out of hand.
Franco-Pole,
presuming that it might not be For the last hour
"
Then you have seen
him ?"
to the Franco-Pole to be hurried away
agreeable
so
from her marine
or rural happiness
quickly. " Yes ; is not that wonderful ? I have seen
him."
But in doing this she would be careful to make
"And
Sophieunderstand that Bolton Street was to be
why could you not tell him yourself
closed against her forever afterward.
With
what you had to say ?
He and I do not agree
neither Count Pateroff nor his sister would she about certain things,
and I do not like to carry
And you have seen him here
ever
againwillingly
placeherself in contact.
messages to him.
dark as she entered the house,the on this sacr" sea-coast?"
It was
"
walk out, her delaythere,
and her return havIs it
Exactlyso ; on this sacrd sea-coast.
him

to follow

Ongar, in

blind

Lady Ongar.

But

wrath, determined

now

that

"

'

"

"

"

"

that I was
that he shonld have known
and
at
known the very inn we were
?"
known, too, whither I was goingto-night
"
He would learn that from the servants,my

here

"

!"

brother is here,Madame

Gordeloup."

You
know
brother is nothingto me.
and he can
well that.
He can
come
go when
to be
here to follow you
he please. I come
"

My

"

has been

He

doubt.

good enough

threats
with mysterious

amuse

me

would

do to

if I would

punishme

to what

as

not

to

he

companion

"
"

suggestedSophie.
his part.
on
very flattering

Exactly.It was
do not intend
certainly
"

to become

obligeyou

to

to

"

You

"

At

now

with me, if you

shall go back

eighto'clock

"

wish it."
and

morning

in the

see,
wanderbeen ing
"

eleven ; while you have

about alone with my brother

his wife."

and

you
you,
rack.
in this detestable bargo and leave me
I will be revenged."
If I am
here alone,

say you

his wife ?"

"Become
I

here,alone

leav^me

you

"Your

"

dear."
"
No

And

"

odd

not

129

CLAVERINGS.

THE

it is now

in the dark!
! you like better that young Clavering
morrow
He is younger.
has the other sweetheart.
No, I will not go so earlymorning as that. Totill
is Saturday ^you was
to remain
That is true."
"
Upon my word, yes. I like my cousin, Tuesday."
"Ah

who

"

better than

much
Harry Clavering,

I like your

that has not much

brother ; but,as I take it,
with it.

do

your brother's
them ; but I wish

he could be made

You

may do
to-morrow."
eight
"

speakingof

was

I do not understand

threats.

to

you

please. I

well.
You
go
will pay for the

"Very
And

as

who

shall go

at

eight,veiy well.
heels' when you are

at
'

understand that if he has gone. Lady Ongar?"

"I have already
ordered the billup to-morrow
better go and do it.
sooner
morning. If you will allow me to oifer you
marry the first

to

any thing to do,he had

I would
As for marriage,

plowboy I could find in

"Julie,you need not
"

I will have

will have
she

from

rose

be

of

have

have

and

"

nonsense

betrayed
you

knew

is that all?

And

and
island,

detestable

you

for the loss of all my time?

is to pay me
I have devoted myselfto you.
that.

Who

Tell

me

Who

me
for that ?"
Madame
I, certainly,

will pay

"

here,though

Not

''Not you!

coming here

was

talk.

?"

upon my track
I desired to avoid him."

London

"

"

what

set him

You

"

walked

betrayed
me,

"Betrayed you!
In what

you

and

to

"

pleaseto follow.
Twenty poundsI What
you

is twenty pounds ?
No, I will not have your twenty pounds. And
which
about the she pushed away from her the two notes
the table.
there shall Lady Ongar had alreadyput upon

end of it."

an

"

when

and I
of your Julie,
As she said this

you."

her chair

You

"

room.

insult him."

more

no

more

iio

that will bringyou

twenty jiounds,

the fields."

to this

time

for

"

You

will

Gordeloup."

for my
pay me
year I have been devoted to
will not pay me, and you send me
not

whole

I told my brother.
That
You
you !
talk of betraying
! away in this way

?
By Gar,you will be made
to pay
throughthe nose."
Julie,
you sometimes are a goose."
GorAs the interview was
no
doubt; but,Madame
becoming unpleasant.
"Very often,
will be geese apart for Lady Ongar took her candle and went
we
deloup,if you please,
away to
ofiense

is my

and then you

"

"

the twenty pounds on

bed, leaving

the future."
if you
"Oh, certainly
"

where.

any

go where
loss."

me.

The

choose

can

world is open

into society.I
please

to
not

am

me

at

would

but she
Ongarwell understood,
to her temper. Such
injury
from such a woman.
be expected

to

was

"I

want

onlywant

you

you

to be at

to understand

she
loss,"

"

And

"

said.

You

said

of the waiters
notes

And

such

was

justnow that
was
glad to

sav, open

to you, and

it would be
hear it.

no

when
Sophie,

the result.

and

she

left alone,
got up from her seat, and stood
culations.
for some
the rug, making her calmoments
on
That
about

Lady Ongar

Count

should

PaterolTs presence

angry
had expected,
but she had

not

be

very

Sophie

expectedthat

her

to such extremity

of banishment
that she would pronounce a sentence
after all,
it might
for life. But, perhaps,

pun-

is,
Society

ing."
you will lose noth-

would go into
intended.

was

for my brother?" friend's anger would be carried

ft)be punished

am

and I
isliment,
you

lea*e it to the mercy

that the
were

that after what

has this eveningoccurred between your brother

had better cease."
and me, our acquaintance

as

not

probable,
imit to her pocket. It was
that Madame
she thought,
Gordeloup

pocketfor which theywere

the

table

restore

the chances

All this Lady

the

that the money

bringherself to pick

she knew

room

there,but she could

it up and

my

could bear itwithout

revenge
"
I do not

she left the

was

hurt

not

can

friends

As

I do wish it."

"

"It

to

wish it."

be well for
shonld

Sophie herself

that such

This

be carried out.

fool of

sentence
a

woman,

income,her park,and her rank,was

committed myself? I am not talked about for going to giveherself so said Sophieto herself
to a young, handsome,proud pig of a fellow
Why should I be
my lovers by all the town.
who had already
No."
shown
so Sophiecalled him
at a loss ?
"I shall return to London to-morrow
by the himself to be Sophie'senemy, and who would
told them
I have already
find no placefor SophieGordeloup
earliest opportunity.
certainly
mouth within his house.
to go to YarMight it not be well that
so, and have ordered a carriage
the quarrel
should be consummated
at eight."
now, such
''

Of

course

is open
society

to

me.

Have

I with

her

"

"

"

"

THE

130

CLAVEKINGS.

after long calculation

a little despondent
compensationbeingobtainedas might possiblycame
knew
a
be extracted?
good "Sophie herself might acknowledge herself to
Sophie certainly
and weeping on her
of
be wrong, begging pardon,
deal which it might be for the convenience
friend's neck.
ihe future husband to keep dark,or convenient
Perhaps itmight be worth while
for the
should

future wife
not

know.

that

the

future husband

might

Terms

be

How

and

this idea occurred

as

farther calculationin bed.

some

drawing
yet had, Sophie,softly

Damon

the notes

Then
toward her as a

parted from Pythias.

althoughLady Ongar had refused to pay any

thing beyond that trumpery twenty pounds.
Terms
might be had ; or, indeed,it might be
her anger was
that Lady Ongar herself, when
over, might sue for a reconciliation. Or Sophie
"

to make

Sophieherself be-

might have done,and hidingthem

cat

about

her person, also went

where
some-

to Tier room.

In the

morning Lady Ongar preparedherself

at eighto'clock,
starting
and, as a part of
that preparation,
had her breakfast brought to

for

her up stairs.

When

the time

was

up, she do-

131

CLAVEHINGS.

THE

the way
to the
on
yourself
by your prositting-room
ceedings."
you are disgracing
she found Sophiealso prepared
I ?"
In saying
for a journey.
am
Oh ! disgracing
myself,
from
the
herself
let
You
will
too.
"lam
me
this,
up
among
Sophie
going
go?"
picked
and recovered her seat.
"I am
said Sophie.
dressing-cases
said Lady Ongar.
I proposeddisgracingmyself! Well, I know
very well
Certainly,"
is the most talked about in the
whose disgrace
to yon to do so yesterday."
"You
should not be so hard upon your poor world,yours or mine.
Disgracing
myself"and

scended to the
and
carriage,

loup,

there

"

''

' '

friend,"said Sophie. This

said

was

in the

from you ?

did your husband

What

say of you

ers,
himself?"
Lady Ongar'smaid and of two waitand Lady Ongar made
no
reply to it,
Lady Ongar began to feel that even a very
the short journeymight be too long. Sophie was
When
they were in the carriagetogether,
herself on her
in a dickeyor now
maid being then stowed away
quiteup, and was wriggling
tude
which her late attirumble
her clothes,
behind,Sophie again whined and was
seat,adjusting
the
should
be
hard
had
in
most
not
not
so
graceful
disarranged,
-repentant. "Julie,you

hearingof

upon your poor Sophie."

"It seems
that the
to me

manner.

"yes,you
see,"she continued
! I have only
of disgrace
me
were
spokenby you."
pulsive.
im"Then
I will beg your pardon. I am
disgracedmyselfby being with you. Ah !
As for being
I do not restrain myself. When
I very well. Yes, I will get out.
I like it. I
I
shall
whenever
I
know
what.
If
said
I
be
I
am
not
quiet,
quiet
angrj' say
any
words
that were
and
know when to talk and when to hold my tongue.
wrong, I will apologize,
knees."
on
beg to be* forgiven there
Disgrace!" So saying,she steppedout of the
my
she
the
adroit
little
as
trived
conwoman
And,
spoke,
leaningon the arm of a boatman who
carriage,
to get herself down
had come, to the door,and who had heard her
upon her knees on
the floor of the carriage. "There; say that I last words.
be imaginedthat all this did not conam
tribute
forgiven
; say that Sopliieis pardoned." It may
The
little woman
had
calculated that even
much
of Lady Ongar.
to the comfort
should her Julie pardon her,Julie would hardly
They were now on the little pierat Yarmouth,
condescend
who
to ask for the two
ten- pound and in five minutes
every one there knew
hardest

"You

things

shall

"

Tell

shall see.

said

"

"

"

she

notes.

determined that
Lady Ongar had stoutly

But
there

should

be

farther

was,

some

and

knew

also that

between
disagreement

there

her

and

had

been

the little

had
foreigner.The eyes of the boatmen, and of
and of the other travelers,
and of
quarrel the drivers,
could hardly
be vouchsafed to her than that afforded
the natives going over
to the market at Lyby Sophie'streacheryin bringingher mington,were all on her,and the eyes also of
brother down
to Freshwater.
all the idlers of Yarmouth
She was
too
who had congregated
to be there to watch
the dispatchof the earlyboat.
strong,and too much mistress of her will,
cheated now
out of her advantage. "Madame
But she bore it well,seating herself,
with her
Gordeloup,that attitude is absurd : I beg you maid beside her,on one of the benches on the
will get up."
deck,and waitingthere with patiencetill the
"Never
tillyou have pardoned me."
boat should start.
never
tered
Sophieonce or twice mutAnd Sophie crouched stilllower,tillshe was all
the word " disgrace
!" but beyondthatshe
the dressing-cases
and little bags at the remained silent.
among

reflected that

no

and
intimacy,

better occasion

n,

for

"

bottom

of the

carriage.

say the

"

I will

not

get up

They crossed over

the littlechannel without

'

words, Sophie,
dear,I forgive a word,and without a word made their way up
to the railwaystation.
you.'"
Lady Ongar had been
I fear you will have an uncomfortaThen
ble
too confused
to get tickets for their journeyat
it will be very short. It is Yarmouth, but had paid on board the boat for
drive.
Luckily,
her
the passage of the three persons
only half an hour to Yarmouth."
herself,
"
And I will kneel again on board the packet
maid, and Sophie. But, at the station at Lywhat you call,
platform and mington,the more importantbusiness of taking
; and on the
and
in
in the railway
the street.
I tickets for the journeyto London became necessary.
carriage
will kneel to my Julie every where tillshe say,
Lady Ongar had thought of this on
'
her journeyacross
the water, and, when
at the
dear,I forgiveyou !'
Sophie,
"Madame
Gordeloup,
pray understand me;
railwaystation,
gave her purse to her maid,
between
there shall be no farther whisperingher orders. The girl took three
you and me
and then going gently
first-classtickets,
intimacy."
up to
"No!"
Madame
Gordeloup,offered one to that lady.
said SoNo farther explanation
is " Ah ! yes ; very well ; I understand,"
phie,
not.
"Certainly
come
taking the ticket. "I shall take this;"
necessary, but our intimacyhas certainly
and
to an end."
she held the ticket up in her hand, as
"It has."
she had some
though
specially
mysterious
pose
pur,
it.
in accepting
"
"Undoubtedly."
tillyou
"

"

"

"

"

"

"
"

Julie 1"
That is such

She
nonsense.

Madame

Gorde-

got into the

Ongar and

her

same

with Lady
carriage

maid,but spoke no word

on

her

THE

132

CLAVEEINGS.

she
At Basingstoke
journey up to London.
for which Lady Ongar's
a glassof sherry,
for
maid paid. Lady Ongar had telegraphed
phie
lier carriage,
which was
waitingfor her,but So-

had

betook

herself to

"cabman, ma'am

Sophie,"
had

cab.

"

stop. It will be half

or

better

Shall I pay the

"

?" said the maid.

giveme

Yes,"said
You

crown.

the half crown."

The

maid

did so, and in this way the careful Sophieadded

and above the
to her store, over
another shilling
twenty pounds,knowing well that the fare to
Mount

Street

was

but prone rather to

self-confidence,
and anxious for the aid of
lean upon his friends,
counsel in di"Sculty.
ed.
"What
the devil is a fellow to do?" he askthe vice of

"Perhaps I had better give it all up.

Every bodysays that she is as proud as Lucifer ;
and, after all,nobodyknows what rigsshe has
been
But

Doodles
who

by

thrown

was

the view

means

no

He

inclined to take.

was

in the field

he

eighteen-pence.

up to."
this was

never

out

at

was

which
a

man

because
gave up a race
the start, having perceived

that patiencewould

achieve

as

much,

He had ridden many

perhaps,as impetuosity.
of them.
He
a waitingrace, and had
won
some
was

CHAPTER
DOODLES

IN

XXX.
MOUNT

never

when

the

so
score

sure

was

of his hand

there is any
He
with him.

fightwhile

STKEET.
was

maxim

at

billiardsas

strong againsthim.

ways
"Al-

fightleft in you,"
never

surrendered

CaptainBoodle had, a bet as lost tillthe evidence as to the facts was

be imagined,discussed at great length quiteconclusive,and had taughthimself to regard
as
may
mer
and with much
so remote, as
a kind
frequencythe results of the forany chance,be it ever
with the Russian spy, of property.
negotiations
captain's
' Never
his answer
to Archie's
and it had been declared strongly
by the latter
say die,"was
and ultimately
admitted by the former, remark.
"You
captain,
see, Clavvy,you have still a
know what a
that those results were
not satisfactory.
Sev- few good cards,and you can never
enty
tillyou have popped yourreallymeans
poundshad been expended,and, so to say, woman
self.
she was
As to what she did when
nothing had been accomplished. It was in vain
away,
it thought that and all that,
has got
to have
that Archie, unwilling
a
woman
you see, when
that
thousand
in
it covher
seven
he had been worsted in diplomacy,
a
own
ers
argued
right,
year
of sins."
with these political
a multitude
personages, and especially
"
Of course, I know that."
with Russian
political
personages, the ambages
"And
that
the
were
preliminaries
why should a fellow be uncharitable?
were,
every thing;
is to believe all that he hears,by Geoi-ge,
ranged If a man
arin fact,the whole,and that when they were
done.
Doodles
For my part
the thingwas
provedto they'reall much of a muchness.
I never
believe any thing. I always suppose
not done, and
ilemonstration that the thing was
for mere
to win ; and though there
that seventy pounds was
too much
every horse will run
he said,speakand again,that's the surest
ing
may be a cross now
preliminaries.
"My dear fellow,"
line to go upon.
in his voice,"where
I fear with some
scorn
D'you understand me now?"
Where
Archie said that of course
he understood
him ;
are
you? That's wliati want to know.
All but I fancy that Doodles
had gone a little too
This was
true.
are
you ? Just nowhere."
Gorde- deep for Archie's intellect.
that Archie had received from Madame
"I should say, drop this woman,
mation
and go at
loup in return for his last payment was an intithe
widow
could
be
at once."
that no immediate
at
yourself
day
ent
presAnd
lose all my seventy pounds for nothfor a renewal of his personalattack
named
ing!"
the countess, but that a day might be
upon
"You're not soft enough to suppose that you'll
to Mount
named
when
he should next
come
of course, beingmade
that he ever
Street: provision,
sured
get it back again,I hope ?" Archie ashis friend that he was
should come
with a due qualification
under his
not
soft enough
for any such hope as that,and then the two
basis on which Archie
mained
reglove. Now the original
silent for a while,deeplyconsidering
to cany on his suit had been arrangedto be
was
the posture of the affair. " I'lltell you what
to know
that Lady Ongar should be made
this,
in
which
dles
DooI'lldo for you,"said Doodles ;
and
the
that he was
and, upon my
there;
way
had illustrated this precept by the artistic word,I think it will be the best thing."
"
stillfresh in
And what's that ?"
and allegorical
of his heel was
use
"I'll go to this woman
Archie's memory.
The meeting in which they
myself."
''
had
liad come
to that satisfactory
What"
to Lady Ongar ?"
understanding
"
and now
June
taken placeearly
in the spring,
ciples
No, but to the spy, as you call her. Prindid
and
the
the best for this kind of work.
are
countess
never
was
coming on,
certainly
there.
If When
that her suitor was
has to pay the money
not as yet know
he
a man
himself,
make
to be done by the Russian spy it can
never
so
good a bargain as another
any thingwas
Captain

Clavehing

and

'

' '

"

"

should

be

done

and
quickly,

Doodles

did

not

can

make

for him.

That

stands to

reason.

expressinghis opinionthat his And I can be blunter with her "about it than
frienfl was
can
at it,
"putting his foot into it," and you can
go straight
you know ; and
of this,
she won't get any mon"making a mull of the whole thing." Now
you may bo sure
Archie Clavoringwas
not eaten up by .ey from me, unless I get the marbles for it."
a man
refrain

from

"

THE
"

You'll take

CLAVEEINGS.

with you, then ?"

some

Well, yes ; that is,if it's convenient. We

were
talkingof going two or three hundred
ty
pounds,you know, and you'veonlygone sevenas

yet. Supposeyou hand

she gets it out of

me

over

she made an appointmentwith

following
day.
On the following
day at the same

him

for the

ness,

"

thirty.If

133

the odd

came

He

had

and

shown

was

up

avoided
scrupulously

hour

into her

any

dles
Doo-

room.

smartness

of

that a Newmarket
costume
apparel,
calculating
isn't Boodle."
the most
would be,of all dresses,
efficaciousin
my name
There
much in this that was
her with an idea of his smartness
as
distasteful filling
was
; wherehimself much
but at last he submitted, Archie had probably
to CaptainOlavering,
injured
by
and handed over the thirty
pounds to his friend. his polishedleather boots,and generalnewness
Then
there was considerable doubt whether the of clothing.Doodles,therefore,
wore
a cut-away
embassador
should announce
himself by a note, coat, a colored shirt with a fogleround his neck,
me

easy, tell me

decided at last that his arrival should

but it was

old brown

trowsers

that fittedvery

round
tightly

and was
careful to take no gloveswith
expected. If he did not find the lady at his legs,
home
with a small bullet head,
the him.
He was
or
a man
or on
disengagedon the first visit,
his hair cut very short,
and had no
second,he might on the third or the fourth. who wore
He was
er
other beard than a slight
a persistent,
sured
appendage on his lowpatientlittleman, and ashis friend that he would certainly
He certainly
did possess a consideradame
Machin.
ble
see
look of smartness, and when he would knit
Gordeloupbefore a week had passedover
their heads.
his brows and nod his head,some
men
were
apt
be

not

the

On

of his first visit to Mount

occasion

to think that it was

not

easy to get

on

the soft

her reStreet,
Sophie Gordeloupwas enjoying
treat side of him.
in the Isle of Wight. When
with
he called the
Sophieon this occasion was not arrayed
second time she was
in bed,the fatigueof her that becoming negligence
which had gracedher
journeyon the previousday the day on which appearance when CaptainClaveringhad called.
she had actually
risen at seven
o'clock in the She knew that a visitor was
coming, and the
white wrapper had been exchanged
She questionably
morning having oppressedher much.
had returned in the cab alone,and had occupied for an ordinary
dress. 'This was
er
rathregretted,
herself much
the same
on
than otherwise,
evening. Now that
by CaptainBoodle,who had
she was
it was needful
to be partedfrom her Julie,
received from Archie a description
of the lady's
that she should be occupied. She wrote
and who
had been anxious to see
a
appearance,
tial
confidenthe spy in her proper and peculiar
habiliments.
long letter to her brother much more
than her letters to him
been
It must be remembered
had lately
that Sophieknew nothing
him how much
she had suffered on his
of her present visitor,
and was
telling
altogether
and describing
to him with great energy
that he was
in any way connected with
unaware
behalf,
the perverseness, malignity,
and generalpig- CaptainClavering.
headedness
of her late friend.
Then
she wrote
"You
are
CaptainBoddle,"she said,looking
letter to Mrs. Burton,whose name
an
hard at Doodles,as he bowed to her on entering
anonymous
and address she had learned,
after having ascerthe room.
tained
from Archie the fact of Harry Clavering's "Captain Boodle,ma'am, at your service."
In this letter she described the
"Oh, CaptainBood-dle ; it is Englishname,
engagement.
wretched wiles by which that horrid woman,
I suppose?"
"
to keep Harry and
Lady Ongar,was straggling
ma'am, certainly.Altogether
Certainly,
Miss Barton
"It
is
but
it
is
out of
English,I believe. Our Boodles come
apart.
very bad,
"
littlewoman.
She has Warwickshire ; small property near
true,"said the diligent
ton
Leamingin his embrace ; I know
been seen
it." After
I'm sorry to say."
doosed small,
that she dressed and went
into society She looked at him very hard,and was
out
gether
altothe society
of which she had boasted as being
unable to discover what was
the nature
to the house of some
of or probablemode of life of the young
fore
beman
hanger-on
open to her
and whispered,
and
her. She had lived much
some
in England, and
embassy,and listened,
old sinner jokedwith her, had known
but she
laughed when some
Englishmenof many classes,
"

"

"

"

"

"

"

and talked

poetry to

and

11

lame,but who
glassof wine and

who was foolish

could not remember
that she had ever
young man
had some
he who
with such a one
as
money, and got conversant
cake for nothing,
and so
before her.
Was
he a gentleman,or

very busy; and on her return home palcu- be

lated that her cab-hire for the eveninghad been
was

judiciously
spent.
so

great

next

that when

morning

at

But

her

had
diligence

CaptainBoodle

twelve o'clock she

been

called the
was

stillin

bed.

Had
she been in dear Paris,
or in dearer
Vienna,that would have not hindered her fmm
the visit;
but in pigheaded
London this
receiving
could not be done ; and,therefore,
when she had
dulyscrutinized CaptainBoodle's card,and had

learned from the servant

desired to see herself on

that

very

CaptainBoodle
busiparticular

"A

house-breaker?
"

near

words

Leamington,

after him.

"But

"

Oh

doosed

she

become
was

now

might he

small

erty
prop-

said,repeatingthe

!"

my visit to you,
do with that."

ma'am, has nothingto

"Nothing to do with the small property."

"Nothing in life."
what may it have
"Then, Captain Bood-dle,
to do

with?"

Hereupon Doodles took

chair,not having

been invited to go throughthat ceremony.

cording
Acto the theory
created in her mind at the

CLAVEEINGS.

THE

134

this man
not at all like an English uncle ?
Sir,I do not understand you not at
was
instant,
all. Nor do I know why I have the honor to see
what
somecaptain. Captainis an unfortunate title,
nate
unfortuBood-dle."
to the foreign
count
equivalent
you here.Captain
Even Doodles,redoubtable as he was
even
in this respect,
that it is easily
adoptedby
that he was
come,
overmany whose claims to it are very slight.Archie he,with all his smartness, felt
and that this woman
for
had
too much
was
leather boots,
with his polished
Clavering,
idea
him.
He
he
could
to
her
as
was
looked like a captain had come
altogether
perplexed,
up
she re! The more
garded not perceive
of a captain ^but this man
whether,in all her tirade about the
little property, she had reallymisunderstood
him, the stronger in her mind became
the idea of the house-breaker.
him, and had In truth thoughtthat he had been
ma'am, is of a very delicate talkingabout his uncle,or whether the whole
"My business,
But I thing was
of a nature
nature
cunning on her part. The reader,
very delicate indeed.
the world, perhaps,will have a more
correct idea of this
think that you and I,who understand
each other."
tain.
to understand
lady than CaptainBoodle had been able to obcome
may soon
She had now
risen from her sofa,
and
"Oh, you understand the world. Very well,
sir. Go on."
was
standingas though she expectedhim to go ;
but he had not as yet opened the budget of his
"Now, ma'am, money is money, you know."
"

"

"

"

"

"

'

goose is a goose ; but what

"

And

"

Yes, a goose is a goose, and

not

geese.
"

Nobody,ma'am, would

you a goose."
It would
I hope not.

Englishman would

not

be
say

so

of that ?"

peopleare

some

Will

you

an

go

here,ma'am," said he, "to speak to

CaptainClavering."
my friend,
and
you can go back to your friend,
tellhim I have nothingto say. And
than
more
the woman
intensified
that^CaptainBood-dle""
the

on?"
"

"I

I think

have the

you

LadyOngar?"
' '
Knowing who

of knowing
pleasure

in a most disgusting
with the
manner,
of annoying him ; of that he
purpose
become
than that,his
"more
quite sure

name

evident
had

"

?" said

am

think of calling
you about
"Then

even
uncivil,

it.

business.

Sophie,almost

ing.
shriek-

"

sendingyou
tellhim

here is

an

impertinence.Will you

that ?"

"No, ma'am, I will not."

mind had
continued the
or two Sophie's
"Perhaps you are his laquais,"
been concerned
with her dear Julie, inexhaustible Sophie,"and
to come
are obliged
very much
fairs when he send you?"
but had not been concerned at all with the af"I am
when
man's laqnais,
of CaptainClavering,
no
ma'am."
and,therefore,
" If
it is
was
mentioned,her mind
Lady Ongar's name
so, I do not blame you ; or, perhaps,
and did not
to the quarrel,
went
your way to make your love third or fourth hand
away altogether
down
in Warwickshire
refer itself to the captain. Could
it be
?"
once
"Damn
that this was
it possible
said Doodles,who
Warwickshire!"
an
attorney,and was
that Julie would
was
be mean
enough to make
put beyond himself.
"With
all my heart. Damn
claims upon her?
Claims
Warwickshire."
might be made for
the horrid woman
than those twenty pounds. " And you," And
more
grinned at him as she
And
she said,"do you know
the leetle property,
repeatedhis words.
Lady Ongar ?"
"
and the uncle,if you wish it ; and the leetle
I have not that honor myself."
"
Oh, you have not ; and do you want to be nephew and the leetle nephew and the leetle
introduced ?"
nephew !" She stood over him as she repeated
ture
futhe last words with wondrous
"Not
and
exactly not at present; at some
rapidity,
self,
day I shall hope to have the pleasure.grinned at him, and grimaced and shook herBut I am
that she and you
tillDoodles was
bewildered. If
altogether
rightin believing
what are you going to
this was
are
a Knssian
spy he would avoid such in
very intimate ? Now
do for my friend Archie Clavering
?"
ties
future,and keep himself for the milder acerbiof Newmarket
and the easier chaff of his
"Oh-h-h
!" exclaimed Sophie.
"Yes.
What
club.
He looked up into her face at the present
are
you going to do for my
friend Archie Clavering? Seventypounds,you
to think of some
words
moment, striving
by
which he might assist himself.
He had as yet
know, ma'am, is a smart bit of money !
"
A smart bit of money, is it? That is what
but any such
performedno part of his mission,
wickshire."
out of the quesperformancewas now
entirely
you think on your leetlepropertydown in Wartion.
The woman
had defied him, and had altogether
" It isn't
longs
thrown
Claveringoverboard. There
ray property,ma'am, at all. It beto my uncle."
was
fartherquestion
of her services,
and therefore
no
"
he felt himself to be quiteentitled to twit
Oh, it is your uncle that has the leetle
"Lady Ongar."
During the last day

' '

"

"

"

"

property. And

what

Lady Ongar?

What

had your uncle to do with

is your uncle to your

friend Archie ?"

"
"

her with the

' '

And

payment she had taken.

about my friend'sseventypounds
?"

said he.

ma'am
Nothing at all,

'
How about seventy pounds ! a leetle man
nothingon earth."
all this rigmarole comes
here and tellsme he is a Booddle in Warwickshire,
'

"

Then

why do you tell me

about your uncle and his leetle property,and
Warwickshire?

how

What

have

I to do

with your

and says he has

leetle

property,and asks

me

an

uncle with

how

about

very

seventy

CLAVERINGS.

THE

pounds !

13r"

that he might as well take

ask you how about the pobut began to perceive
liceman,
his departure. The woman
will you say then ?"
was
natic,
probablya luand his friend Archie had no doubt been
send for him, and you shall hear what
deceived when he was sent to her for assistance.
grossly

SupposeI

what
"You
I

say."
"No,

such

to take away

not

I send for

you.

leetle

when
policeman

is not a
Booddle,in Warwickshire,
Suppose you go to your friend and
that he have

He

as

terrible

madwoman

man.

be

tell him from

had

some

pounds might

afraid.

be

ftiintidea that the

recovered from

enty
sev-

such

buttin the recovery his friend would

exposed,and

he

saw

that the money

must

be

very bad

At any rate,he had not been soft

Mercuryin abandoned.
the worst MercuryI ever see.
his affairs of love
enough to disposeof any more treasure.
i'erhapsthe Warwickshire Mercuries are not
ma'am," he said,
"Good-morning,
very curtly.
Booddle,
"Good-morning to you. Captain Booddle.
very good. Can you tell me. Captain
how they make love down in Warwickshire ?"
Are you coming againanother day?"
me

chose

man

am

"

"And

is all the

that

satisfactionI

"Not

to

am

"

have ?"

You

that I know

of,ma'am."

I like
to stayaway.
said you was
to have satisfaction? your friendthe better.
Tell him to come
and
Very littlesatisfaction I should think you ever be handy with his glove. As for you, suppose
as
a Mercury."
have, when you come
you go to the leetle property."

very vpelcome

are

"Who

"

friend

My

know

to

means

about
something

seventy pounds."

that

Then

Captain Boodle

went, and, as

soon

as

he had made

his way out into the open street,

stood still and looked around
him, that by the

"Seventy pounds! If you talk to me any

of seventy pounds,I will flyat your face." aspect of thingsfamiliar to his eyes he might be
As she spoke this she jumped across
certain that he was
in a world with which
at him
made
as
While
in that room
with
though she were reallyon the pointof attackinghe was conversant.
him with her nails,
and he,in dismay,
retreated the spy he had ceased to remember
that he was
"You
and yonr seventy pounds! in London
his own
to the door.
London, within a mile of
! What
within a mile of Tattersall's. He had
mean
mens
Oh, you English
you are ! his club,
Oh ! a Frenchman
would despise
to do it. Yes ; been, as it were, removed
to some
strangeworld
more

"

or

Russian

all down
beel.

or

You

and

Pole.

in black
know

can

never

and

But

the tact, and courage, and acuteness

it in which
you
you want
natural
like
butcher's
him had not been of avail to him.
to
a
white,
"

and
nothing,
speak,and

understand
never

can

head

ing,
noth-

hold

but the head

Madame
him

"

Gordelouphad opened a
a

world

new

of which

new

world

to

he desired to make

farther

he began to
experience. Gradually
why he had been desired to prepare
some
eating. Gradually
shop dash,smash,crash- all the pretty things himself for Michaelmas
So can
an
Englishman. idea about Archie's gloveglimmered across his
gone in a minute !
the
Your seventy pounds ! You will come
was
again to brain. A wonderful woman
certainly
In her energy
Russian
for seventypounds,I think."
a
me
phenomenon which in future
spy
and had exhibited her years he might perhaps be glad to remember
she had acted the bull,
that he had seen
ing
in the flesh. The first raceidea of the dashing,
the smashing,and the crashhorse
which he might ever
and name
hiniown
by the motion of her head and the waving
call the Russian
self he would
of her hands.
certainly
Spy.
And you decline to say any thingabout the In the mean
time,as he slowlywalked across
to himself
seventy pounds?" said Doodles,resolvingthat BerkeleySquare,he acknowledged
that she was
not mad, and acknowledged also
his courage should not desert him.
that the less said about that seventy pounds the
Whereupon the divine Sophielaughed."Ha!
thence he crossed Piccadilly,
and
ha ! ha ! I see you have not got on any gloves,better. From
sauntered down
St. James's
Street into Pall
Captain Booddle."
in his mind how he would carry
I don't wear
Gloves
no.
Mall,revolving
gloves."
''
Nor your uncle with the leetle property in himself with Clavvy. He, at any rate, had his
he wears
Warwickshire ?
a
CaptainClavering,
ground for triumph. He had partedwith no
You
your tongues.
A bull
of a bull.

have

can

no

break

all the china in

no

understand

"

"

"

' '

"

"

wit that
stared money, and had ascertained by his own
available assistance from that quarter was
to
no
"Perhaps
his friend had in
and she apbe had in the matter which
it is in your waistcoat pocket,"
proached
hand.
as
him fearlessly,
though she were
hours after this when
the two
It was
about to deprive
him of his watch.
some
"
friends met, and at that time Doodles
was
I don't know
what you mean," said he,retreating.
up to

glove. He
at

is

handy man."

Doodles

her,understandingnothing of this.

his eyes in chalk and the profitable

of
delights
ness
like
pool. But Archie was too intent on his busihandy man,
my
you are
to pay much
friend the other captain,
regardto his friend'sproper
so
you had better go
"Well, Doodles,"he said,hardly
Yes, you had better go to Warwickshire. avocation.
away.
In Warwickshire,I suppose, they make
ready waiting till his embassador had finished his
"Ah!

not

have four stroke and laid his ball close waxed

to one
of
"
have you seen her?"
go away and the cushions, well,
"Oh yes, I've seen
ing
her,"said Doodles,seatget fat."
himself on an exalted bench which ran round
Doodles understood nothing of her sarcasm.
("or your Michaelmas
months

to

get fat.

dinners.

You

Supposeyou

CLAVERINGS.

THE

136

She's

to

of that

like

me

This

brick."

tendered him

now

ladyin

of
ter
bet-

very wonderful way.

was

had failed to hit

lieutenant who

young

ball,and
captain's

the

self

the
Gordelonp,and got altogether

'ee,GriftRs,
you

Thank

'un.

rum

stand

always
said to

the truth out

wormed

had
really

that he
Madame

said Archie.

"Well?"
"

anxious eyes, stood

with
Archie,

the room, while

before him.

ling
shil-

very bitter look.

"
said Arcliie,
She is queer,"
"certainly."
"Queer! By George,I'll back her for the
with

about

queerestbit of horseflesh going any way

diggings. I thoughtshe

these

mad

was

at

first,

but I believe she knows what she's about."

"She
knows what she's about well enough.

onlyget

can

work."

to

dear fellow.'"

"

Bosh, my

"

Why

bosh ?

''

Bosh

What's up

Bosh

Bosh

went, and,

he

Down
for

if you

all the money,

She's worth
her

?"

now

Me

play,is it?"

to

finding a good open

not

ion,
hazard,again waxed himself to the cushdeed
of Griggs,who did ininfinitedisgust

to the

hit the ball this time,but in such

life from

the loss of another

make

to

way

as

Griggs's

of certainty. I don't
three a matter
original
think it's hardly fair,"whisperedGriggs to a
"friend, a man
playingalwaysfor safety. It's
I like,and I sha'n't play at the
not the game
"

"

table with Doodles

same

thing,and

did.

never

She got your

you.
your glove,didn't she ?"
it there."

"Well, I did put

course

what

was

got itall out of her.

if I

once

went

there.

But, by George,what

Swore

at

at me
to my very face."
swore
?"
you ! In French,you mean
in French
mo
at all,but damned

not

downright English. By George ! how I did

and every body belongingto me.
laugh me
I'm blessed if she didn't."
' '
There was
nothinglike that about her when
I

her."

saw

didn't

"You

turn

her

inside out

done; but stop half a moment."

a

as

Then

Burton, was

her inside out

as

to
to tell it,

she

as
himself,

far

whom

woman

he

and

for

was

true

as

He

he

had
able

was

teemed,
thoroughlyes-

convinced

that

any respect for

had laid bare to her all his weakness,

He

him.

she

moment

had spurned him.

It
againreconciled herself

that she had

save

future
to

be the

both him

and her sister

misery that she had even

to
implorehim to be gracious

takingthat
to

from

away

man.
wretched,pitiable

I've to him, struggling

to

I tell

he went

and,havingdone so, was

could no longerentertain

scended, from
he de-

I've done.

told the truth of

chalked away at his cue hastily,

eted
pock"You
shillingor two, and returned.

didn't turn

CONFESSION.

Clavering, when

Crescent after his interview with Cecilia

Onslow

in

"

CLAVEKING'S

HAKET

Hakkt

a woman

XXXI.

CHAPTER

that I should

She

she is !

"No,

I knew

did.

you

find out what

"

do any

her out."

under

from

out

"Of

to

moan

laughingat

She's been

money

don't

I've found

out what?"

"Found
"

She

"

to his seat.

back

more."

any

bosh," repeatedDoodles,coming

all

"It's

surest

"

which

path

to her mind
to her

seemed

descended
con-

ence,
Florthen

object
; but not the
must
despisehim.

there, less did he feel that she

to a
going Having promisedhis hand to one woman
that he loved
whom
he still professed
as
dry woman
There's your thirty
pounds back, dearly he had allowed himself to be cheated
as that table.
And
that
it to another.
he knew
and, upon ray word, old fellow,
you ought to into offering
the cheatinghad been his own.
It was
he who
thank me."
had done the evil. Julia,
did thank him, and Doodles was
in showingher affecArchie
tion
not
references
for him, had tendered her love to a man
without his triumph. Of the frequent
you,

Olavvy,there's nothing to

be done

If you'd kept on
and there never
was.
she'd have drained yon as dry
yourself

"

"

"

to

Warwickshire

endure,he
to

said

Michaelmas

came

to talk

he

had

been

forrfedto

to Archie
frequently

of the Bnssian

perhapsalso to one or two other* gf his

he began to convince himintimate friends,

spy, and
more

which

nothing,nor yet of the reference

he
as
dinners;and, gradually,

whom

she believed

to walk

to

be free.

straight.He had

He
not

ed
had intendallowed

self
him-

enamored of the wealth possessed

by
who had thrown
herself at his feet
this woman
But he had been so weak
that he had fallen in
his own
despite.
to be

THE

There

is,I suppose, no

of average talents and

does not early
in life

with

career

or

more

education

average

layout for himself some

career
precisionsome

less

and
is high in its ten,dencies
and to which he is afterward
aspirations,
which

he

the circumstances
himself.

shapesfor

In

of

amount
any prescribed
will endeavor to reach,
or

of them

should

be, before he could

had

pelled
com-

of the life

doingthis he

self
attempt,perhaps,to laydown for him-

not

may

fate of both

of his purpose in
make any definite statement
noble in its Onslow Crescent.
The last tender of his hand

"

which

to compare

137

possessedLady Ongar. At any rate he must, he thought,

who
and finally
see
hei',
arrange with her what the

man

yonng

CLAVERIKGS.

which

success

he

and he could not reto Julia,

been made
new
his former promiseson Florence's behalf
tillhe had been absolved by Julia.
his beThis may, at any rate,be pleaded
half"that
on
in all the workings
of his mind
at
this time there was
ity.
very littleof personalvan-

the very pathway

vain he had been when
by which he will strive to be successful ; but he
Very personally
will tell himself what are the vices which he will Julia Brabazon
the beautiful and noble-born
even

"

avoid,and

the virtues which

what

he will strive Julia

did this with

loved him; but that
men
ever
yonng
than it had been done by Harry knocked
the head
on
precision

more

and
Clavering,

few with more

self-confidence. Men when theyare
life he had been successful so the conquest which

Very earlyin
successful

only from

not

him

self
Since that there had
emancipatehimabsolute control,His love to Florence

to

his father's

It had
ther'sj)art.

any interference on his faseemed

to be admitted that

he

than his

also from

better than
father,
the other Claverings the jewelof the race, the
the familywould in future
Claveringto whom
years look up, not as their actual head,but as
was

better

man

hard-working man, not

truthful,
after money,
though conscious that
was
worthy of his hire,and conscious
the better the work

est,
hon-

an

laborer

also that
be

all these
found

that he had

bear all blows.

and

resolves

himself

borne

it well,as

And

now,

all these

broughtby

his

the character
his
He

himself all this.

telling
between
comparisonruthlessly

the

which

he

and that which

own

did not

others

as

intended
had

now

himself.

excuse

and
ourselves,

I think that

had

he

We

to

make

earned.
justly
are

told to love

it is hard to do

so.

But

had

too

much

merly
forof

to
posMron,

his

mit
ad-

say to himself that,

heart,he thought he
he thoroughly
but,nevertheless,
own

seen

that he had

not

returned

not

her when

from

she had

returned.
had

he went

remiss in

not

was

did draw

who
was

would

his

had

to

He

woman

there

"

after

weakness

the

promisedto write,and that he would

do this very night. He had failed to make
cilia
CeBurton understand what he intended to do,
fore
having,indeed,hardlyhimself resolved ; but be-

he
boastings,

own

that

"

or
Italy,

He

pass that he hardlydared to look in the

face any of his dearest and most intimate friends.

such

that Lord

tragedy,in

he knew

as

ten.
triumpliat StraiOngar's
he was
stillregarded

found

by

him
of

result.

and
open, honest,
considered himself

not

loved Julia the best ;

wished that she

so

"

himself

affection

such

to

vanityof that sort.

wonderful
he

vanity. He

of
far

as

had

when

wounded

"

to

no

stillloved him

with

his wages.
Then
he had encountered
a blow
from a false woman
and he had
a heavyblow
should

achieved

widow

covetous

the better should

done

to have

support. pain,almost

their strongest prop and most

assured
He had said to himself that he would be

man

led

had been

but he
satisfactory,
And

"

boasted

has
been

"

to enable

as

but almost

He

that she
at Clavering
vanityhad been speedily
by her conduct to him.
can
jilted
hardlybe vain of

Few

to attain.

had firstconfessed

"

botli resolve and

his desk with the pen in his hand

before him.
At

'

bed he would

to

explain to her his resolution. Immediately,

his return
on
therefore,
home, he sat down at

last the words

that

theywere

made

before

the
he

came.

and

commenced
worked

hardlysay

can

productof any

think that his mind

fixed resolve

the
more

the paper

writing. I

when
fully

the

despise pen was in his hands than it had done during

the hour through which
he sat listless,
others,as we are sometimes compelledby our
doing
convictions and self-judgment
will of his own,
"
to hate and
to have
own
nothing,struggling
ourselves.
but failing.
The
when
it was
to despise
Harry,aa he walked home
letter,
written,
this evening,was lost in disgustat his own
as follows :
on
was
we

never

never
hate,others,

He could almost have hit his head

the
or thrown himself beneath the
against walls,
conduct.

as

wagons

ashamed

he

was
passedthem,so thoroughly

of his

own

life.

Even

now,

on

'"'"
BInomslJury Fquare, Mny, 1S6-.
I said that I
"Dearest
Mks. BniiTON,
he would write to-morrow, but I am
writingnow,
home.
this immediately
return
Whatever
on
my
"

escapedfrom

Onslow Crescent else yon may think of me, pray be sure of this,
escaped without having declared any that I am most anxious to make yon know and
basely
at any rate as well
Twice
this day he had escaped, understand my own
on
position
purpose.

evening,he had

"

"

from Burton's office,as I

by subterfuges
; once
now
again from Cecilia's presence. when
long was this to go on, or how could life that

almost

and
How

he endurable to him
In

partingfrom

under

such circumstances?

Cecilia,and

promisingto

write at once, and promisingto come

againin a
idea in his head that
he had had some
few days,
he would submit his fate to the arbitrament of

do

myself. I

tried to

explainit

to yon

with you this evening,but I fear

Mr. Burton
I failed; and when
in 1
came
could not say any thingfarther.
that I have behaved very badlyto
"I know
I

was

your sister
"

never

become

that that is

very

even
badly,
thoughshe

aware

that I have

for
possible,

if she

done
were

so.

to

should
Kot

be my

THE

138
wife

her.

I believe yon do know

stood with Miss Brabazon

I had

terms

must

had

moment

deceive

make

can
tell her every thing. Florence must be happy if any woman
a man
think of me, I have never
happy. Of her of whom I am now
not
intention to
I know
well that I can
say that.
premeditated

I should

to-morrow

But, badlyas yon

for

CLAVEEINGS.

what

on

before

then,you

will

had

such

I be fool

ask,can

ing,
speak-

How,

enough,having
the two

choice,to doubt between

married,what-

she

marriage,and that when

her

might be, there

my feelings
after that you
cusation.
And

ever

was

self-ac-

no

know

How

is it that

j
!

between
and

all that

know

attachment,and she

that

told Florence

former

of my

littleof it.

thought but
jirobably
are

with

common

so

with

happened
me,
love is often stronger and
of a woman's
acceptancethan the first. At any
she
knew
it,and there was, so far,an end
rate,
had

as

second

And

of it.
I

that better than yon

talked it over

knows

one

for I have

"

; and

I don't blame

you to assist me.

Florence.
She

doing

was

my
she

what

best ; but oh, if she had onlybeen

what you%ncesaid to her !
"Then

Lord

Ongar'swidow

has

done

deemed

I have

guided by

away,
soon

returned; and

nothingwrong,

my
since her

with

me

But

as

has been

to

think
fear,
sqp Lady
house,and

her

determined

in the Isle of
she

as

will be

with

thing,and

know

in

to

have

eveiy
you
show this letter to her if you
Most

so.

Florence
must

course,

permission

my
think well to do

Haeet

Claveking."

he delivered himself

This
at

as

and affectionately
sincerely
yours,
"

duct
con-

now

her

see

send.

or

She, of

then.

you

I will

that I will either

After

Crescent

Onslow

to

come

Wight, but

returns.

is what

I believe she is

to do.

the next morning

Crescent,
takingcare not

in Onslow

the door

Burton
should
marriage,I imploreyou to believe to be there till after Theodore
sinned against
He
left a card also,
so
ously, have gone from home.
grievhas not sinned.
not
Well,as you know, I that it might be known
only that he had
It was
hardlyunnatural that I should brought it himself,but that he had intended

and
do so,

you

that she has been

her.

met

weakness

own

told to

now

begged Ongar before I can againgo to your

to tell you
that this
darling I write now chiefly

since her marriage. As to her

no
respect false,
earlyconduct to me, she did what many women
should do. But
have done,but what no woman
I blame her,knowing how terrible has
how can
been

no

I
every thing,will,
me, I feel that I must

heard

For
differently.

Burton, though I fear you think illof

that as far as you know,
her,you must remember

I,she

not

now.

rightto expect
she should.
But, if I understood you aright
evening, she,as yet,has heard nothing of
that I have

aware

shall have

en
oft-

so

dear Mrs.

or

you.
take me

would

that you wish that our

engagement
should go on.
Dear Mrs. Burton, I love you so
dearlyfor wishing it ! Mr. Burton, when he

ence
Flor-

even

with you
how I have

will remember

you

not

"

I do

nothing to

Florence

I know

"

ious
also,how very anxunderstood,
delayin our marriage. No

you

all this is

her all that I have

to avoid

was

en
heav-

things this
for not
she think of me
change happens all this. What must
I
could
and a man's
her
But
not
to
!
bringmyself
writing
could I tell
more
worthy to write in a false spirit
; and how

Some

men

Such

between
and dishonor,

honor

whether
well

am

vice and virtue,

between

hell ?

"But

turn
placebetween me and Florence tillthe reof Lord Ongar'swidow.
Up to that time
I had
us.
every thing had been fair between

took

doubts

man

as

connected.

are

we

whether

But

foolish or wise,T went to

unnatural,
I thoughtat firstthat she must
know

or

often.

Mrs.

ural
nat-

her

he

to be

Burton
and

went

of that fact.

aware

wandered

Then

about,and

passed his
when
they are

do
day in misery,as such men
thoroughlydiscontented with their own conduct.
it ; This was
But she did not know
the Saturday on which
Lady Ongar
and so, havingnone
her that she could love, returned with her Sophiefrom the Isle of Wight ;
near
wronged but of that prematnre.return Harry knew nothing,
hardlya friend but myself,
grievously
by the world and her own relatives,
thinkingthat 1and therefore allowed the Sunday to paps by
amend
with her wealth she could make
Street.
to : without going to Bolton
day
some
On the Monshe
Dear Mrs. Bur- j
for her former injury,
letter from home
me
morning he received
her sister knew

as
my engagement
had met
Florence.

it

of

well,and

"

ton,I think you will understand

that

see

"I

am

is free from blame.

she,at least,
not defending myself; of course

this should
I had

But

still so
When
seek
to

me

she

have

she left
some
"

been

loved her

dearly!

had

it now, and will

when

me

it
to

dearly!

effect

me

all

"

home
This

me.

not

die.

natural that I should

was
she returned
love. When

that in spiteof
through it all,I

false and

on

traitor.

her faults
I

it necessary
it to be necessary,

made

jsuppose

I do love her

like that does

I found

loved

and became

so

Love

else

one

without

which

Mrs.

Ithat
;

to

"

could have

done

what

did.

his love to
Mrs.

Burton

Cecilia had

imploringher

Florence,if she would

would

know

in London
he would

read

as
"

come

that

to

venture

what

must

give
to do

be his

his return, and she

or send to Onslow

on

was

the former

over.

and

longerleSter,

it
over, till she nearly knew
her husband's return.
She

in heart,by heart,before
nature, in mind, in acquirement,
Florence is the better. The man
who marries
well understood that he
In

day.
line to

to say whither
he was
gone, and
should be back by Wednesday night or

yielded firstbusiness
Imight be sure

she

to

Burton
he

I say that! love her still; but I know well Crescent as soon
of the two. I
that Florence is far the nobler woman
Harry'sletter
never

him

should go

at
for one
Clavering,
any rate
the Monday, sending a
on

"

Florence

that he

he did

Thursday morning,and
so.

induced

or

would

be very

hard

THE
He

ha"l been

inclined

CLAVERINGS.

139

forgivetrue character. Can you believe any good of

tells you to your face that he is
who
forgivea man
the silence,
the absence from the oiBce,an^ engaged to two women
?"
at once
of courtesy to his wife,till Harry
the want
"I think I can,"said Cecilia,
ing
hardlyventurhad confessed his sin ; but he could not endure
to express so dangerousan
opinionabove
Harry.

upon

for
Clavering

had

what

that his sister should

had

who

whether

been

remiss

to

seek the hand

himself

declared
he would

to

"

take

of

be

to

it,or

in

that

her breath.

man

doubt

"And
who

one

any

seek it for her, in her ignoranceof all

should

His

the truth.

the other

wife,on

' '

deceived

having been

day," the

some

"He

! that is so different ! I

Ah

hand, simply it,but

her,and

to

the return
Burton

is

will

would

the

to

cure

the

be

man

to

it
band.
hus-

any thing
he has returned
a
"

keep

other

misery." But

to this.

"To

be

so

not

even

had

better take her

not

his

mind, Florence
punishment,and be quitof
own

him."

woman

explain

not

can

would
forgivea man
any
mitted
nothing." To this she subheard the rein silence,
proof
havingprobably
ter.
before,and he went on to finish the let"Not
defendinghimself!" he exclaimed,
then why does he not defend himself? When
that you

a woman

tells me

man

that he does

not, or

I know
that he
himself,
without a sparkof spirit."
don't think

"I

fortable
com-

every thing,"he said.

weak that he does
miserably

know

now

her

her, the happinessof

submit

not

all in
know

pleaded to

man

good

present is

at

"If the

had

wife

is not

she must

of

that it is different."

know

you
I know

rejectedwas

course

if she is told when

But

secret.

and

Of

"

think

you

?"

so

comfort
and
looked to Florence's
happiness. "
of thing,
That Florence should not suffer the pang
and
all to Cecilia.

would

what

did

letter shows
in

"

Such

dog.

in which

one

No
he

not

can

fend
de-

fellow,

sorry

Harry. Surely that

spirit."

that of

is

as

not

can

I should
should

man

be ashamed
be in

ever

defend

himself.

to

see

position
No

man,

rate,should admit himself to be so placed.

that he should go on with his engagement

at any

Cecilia had
narrated to him
with passable Wish
what
had occurred up stairs,
while he
! I do not wish it at all. I am
fidelity
sorry for
alone
in the dining-room. That
Florence.
But the
She will suffer terribly.
was
sitting
loss of such a lover as that is infinitely
a lescer
she, in her anger, had at one moment
ed
spurnHarry Clavering,and that in the next she loss than would be the gain of such a husband.
back
had better write to Florence,and tell her
You
had knelt to him, imploringhim to come
to

Florence

those

"

tell to her

not

with Lady Ongar,

she described

little incidents

two

far

as

she did

she

as

accurately. "I

knew

to come."

not

Harry'sadventures

husband.

"Oh, Theodore!"
is my advice."
'But there is no post between

"That

them,

can't make

'

any
life I can't,"said

this and Monday,"

Cecilia,
temporizing.
"
"
it is for a man
If I know
to
Send her a message by the wires."
Burton.
"You
behave
like a knave
in such matters,
not explainthis by a telegram,
can
ill,
falsely,
Burton
he is so behaving." So Theodore
Theodore.
Besides,why should she not come ?
If you were
to
spoke as he took his candle to go away to his Her coming can do no harm.
of all this,
work ; but his wife had induced him to promise tell your mother
it would
now
vent
preof thingsever
the possibility
that he would
not write to Stratton or take
beingright."
tillthey had waited
that is,this thing,
will be
never
"Things
any other stepin the matter
for
letter.
said
he.
hours
Harry'spromised
right,"
twenty-four

apologyfor

him

; upon

my
what

said

"

The

expired,and

were
on

before the

letter came

the

hours
twenty-four

Burton,on

Saturday,found

himself

his return

"

But

home

called upon

to

and
every

let

us

see.

if you

thing.

She will be here

on

day,
Mon-

think

it best you can

tell her
Indeed, she must be told when

confession.
she is here,for I could not keep it from her.
read and pass judgmentupon Harry's
"
I could not smile and
talk to her about him,
ling
What righthas he to speak of her as his darher think that it is all right."
fessing and make
Florence,"he exclaimed," while he is con"
Not you ! I should
be very sorry if you
his own
knavery?"
"But
if she is his darling"" pleadedhis could."
"But
I think I could make her understand
wife.

Trash ! But the word from him in such

letter is simplyan additional insult. And
about this woman
who has
what does he know
He
vouches for. her,but what
back?
come
Just what she tells him.
he know of hor?
can
"

a,

He

is

simply

"But

you

that she should

"

"

fool."

can

not

dislike him for

not

decide

upon

him altogether."
I think I could make
"And
that she ought to do so."

believing

"

with
breaking
her understand

Theodore?"
you wouldn't do that,
would,if I thoughtit my duty."
But, at any rate,she must come, and we
But
I

can

talk of that to-morrow." '

the letter
As to Florence's coming, Burton

her word."

had given
said he,holdingdown
Cecilia,"
by that argument about
spoke,"you are so carried away by^your way, beaten,apparently,
little
wassaid about
and your fear lest a marriage thepost.Onthe Sundayvery
love for Florence,
avoided the
talked of should not take HarryClavering.Cecilia studiously
which has been once
"

as

he

that
place,

you

shut your

eyes to

this man's^

and
subject,

Burton

had

not

so

far decided

on

CLAVERINGS.

THE

uo
as
droppingHarry altogether

to

express

such

any

to make

him

ious
anx-

After

decision.

all,

who could
as
a bold,bad woman,
her womand
anhood
her
sell
her
and
beauty
forget
sex,
There
for money.
might be such a
There
here and there,or such a man.
woman
of her mind

droppingmust be the work

of Florence herself. On the Monday morning
murderers
in the world,but the bulk of
Cecilia had a farther triumph. On that day her were
made
is
mankind
not
subjectto murdererSj^
meet
to
husband
having
was
engaged,
very fully
considered the possibility
and engineers,Florence had never
a synodof contractors,surveyors,
liable to such a
of tlie remainingthoroughfaresthat she herself- could become
to discuss which
that
the day came
And
when
misfortune.
the
then,
down
knocked
should'
be
n
ot
by
of London
sen
choher confidence in the man
she was
self
himabsent
could
not
engaged,
and
he
coming railways,
love
hers
Such
as
unlimited.
her
was
therefore
It
ranged
arwas
by
the Adelphi.
from
she had to do
rarelysuspects. He with whom
that Mrs. Burton should go to the Padshe could
therefore
a
nd
dingtonStation to meet her sister-in-law. She was Harry Clavering,
she
was
be
deceived.
supported
not
with
ence,
FlorMoreover,
the
firstword
therefore would have
and a self-confidencewhich did
of impressing by a self-respect
and the earliest opportunity
such

droppingor

not

who
that a man
not
at firstallow her to dream
"Of course,
her.
wish
leave
to
would
had
loved
her
ever
once
her
of
this
man,"
say something to
you must
as holy as
to her as though a sacrament
ter. It was
said her husband,"but the less you say the bethad passed between
them,
self." that of the Church
she must
be left to judge for herAfter all,
bringherself to think
such as this in all affairs and she could not easily
In all matters
the

with her

new-comer

ideas.

own

"

had been
as
nothing to
tween that that sacrament
and of conduct beof tact,of social intercourse,
there was
Mr.
nevertheless,
But,
and man,
and woman,
or
Harry Clavering.
man
man
in his domestic
to be
somethingwrong, and when she left her father's
Burton was

eloquent

apt

and
discussion,
the final
to

arrangement

his wife.

much,

"

sometimes

He
no

almost

of them

enunciated

was

severe

of
principles

egy
strat-

doubt,to her benefit;but

foughtthe
actually

but

left
generally
she

battles.

house

Stratton,she

at

well

was

that she

aware

tidingsthat might be
prepare
evil.
She could bear any thing, she thought,
dings
tiwithout disgracing
herself;but there were
which might send her back to Stratton a
clining
broken woman,
fit perhaps to comfort the defit
but
father
and
of
her
mother,
years
herself for

must

nothing else.

for

she sat at
as
closely
could not
but
much
morning,
A PACKET.
PACKS
UP
PLOEENCE
BUETON
when
Burton
be gained by watching Florence
Though
nobodyhad expressedto Florence at Florence wished to conceal her thoughts. Many
Stratton any fear of Harry Clavering's
perfidy,messages were sent to Theodore,to Cecilia,and
ton
to others of the Burthat young
messages
easy in her to the children,
lady was not altogether
and she
clan who were
in town, but not a word was
Weeks
and weeks
mind.
had^jassed,
said of Harry Clavering. The very absence of
Her mother was
ifestly
manhad not heard from him.
days his name was enough to make them all wretched,
uneasy, and had announced,some
and anbore it as the Spartanboy bore the
her surprise
noyance but Florence
lieforeFlorence's departure,
Her

XXXII.

CHAPTEE

mother

watched

her

her breakfast that

in
Wlien

son.

not

having heard

Florence

from

as
inquired

her

to the

eldest

her mother put the question

expectedletter,
aside,saying,with a little assumed irritashe liked to get an answer
that of course
Ijility,

of the

to

her letters when

she took the trouble

fox beneath

subject

to

write

his tunic.

keep herself
been

she had
and

restrained

"If

he is

as

she

was

from

Mrs.

Burton

could hardly

but
burst'ofindignation;

stronglywarned

her

by

herself till Florence

husband,
was

said she, as
playingher false,"
alone

her

with

old

gone.
soon

husband, "he

ney shall suffer for it,though I have to tear his face

day for Florence's jourand
with my own
lady became more
fingers."
wished
she
.
that
plainly
more
showing
"Nonsense, my dear nonsense."
uneasy,
But
"It is not nonsense, Mr. Burton.
A gentleher daughterwas
not going to London.
man,
determined
said
indeed
is
allowed
be dishonest
she
He
be
to
to
!
to
a
s
was
quite
Florence,
go,
lie is a gentleman!
to my girlbecause
nothing to allthis. Her father was also uneasy,
I wish there was
no such thing as a gentleman
and neither of them had for some
days named
est
honher lover in her hearing. She knew that there
so I do.
Perhaps there would be more
ter
betthen."
It was unendurable
men
to her that
Was
sometliing
wrong, and felt that it was
them.

And

drew

wlien

the

nigh,the old

"

"

that she should

go to London

and learn the

of
girl

hers should be

so

treated.

Immedijatelythe arrival of the ti-ainat the

truth.

on

and
Florence
less prone toauspi-London
No female heart was
over
platform,
espiedCecilia,
There was
a specinn than the heart of Florence Burton.
cial
Among in a minute was in her arms.
intimate
tenderness in her sister-in-law's
she had been most
those with whom
caress, which
nothinghad occurred to teach her that men could at once told Florence that her fears had not been
be

or
false,

women

either.

When

she had lieard

without

cause.

Who

has

not

dings
felt the evil ti-

conveyedby the exaggeratedtenderness

Harry Claveringthe story of Julia Brabakiss ? But while on the platform
and
zon, she had,notmaking much arcu.sationagainst of a special
the portersshe said nothing
of herself.
the sinner in speech,
put Julia down in the books amiu^
from

THE

CLAVEEINGS.

141

"
She asked after Theodore,and heard of the railway
No, I can not say that. I hope itis not so.
"
with a show of delight. He'd
Indeed,I do not think it."
confederaoy
"Then
what have I to fear?
Does she oblike to make
a line from
ject
Hyde Park Corner to
the Tower
of London," said Florence,with a
?
What has she to do
to his marrying
me
smile.
Then
she asked after the children,
and between us ?"
"
She wishes that Harryshould come
for the baby; but as yet she spoke no
back to
specially

word

of

HarryClavering. The

trunk

and

her,and Harryhas been unsteady.He has been

the

with
found,and the two ladies were
cab, and had started. Cecilia,may

at last

bag were

packed into a
when
they were seated,got hold of Florence's
hand,and pressedit warml}'. "Dearest,"she
said,"I am so glad to have you with us once
again." " And now," said Florence,speaking
' '
with a calmness that was
tell
almost unnatural,

forgivehis

can

All the truth ! What a demand it was.

And
less would
yet Cecilia had expectedthat none
be made
Of course
Florence must
upon her.
that there was
have known
somethingwrong.
Of

she would

course

her
upon
all the truth."

ask

arrival.

"And

tell

now

It
very weak.
if you
indeed
"

the truth had

now

home

come

fore
Florence,and she sat thinkingof it long beshe spokeagain. This widow, she knew,

was

and Harry had loved her before

very wealthy,
he had come
firstlove
to Stratton.
Harry's

had

come

to make

and

b^ck free" free

marry.

Ongar

to wed

again,and able
might love
had Florence to giveto any
weighed with this? Lady

the fortune of the

What

that could

man

diately
to her lover imme-

as

he has been

weakness."

Somethingof
to

all the truth."

me

often,and

her

be all rightyet,Flo,it may

be

she

man

Florence
had already
very rich;
heard all this from Harry was very rich,was
and was
clever,
beautiful;and, moreover, she

me

was

"

it reasonable
had been Harry's
firstlove.
Was
"Oh, Florence!"
"The
her puny attractions,
truth,
then,is very bad,"said Florence, that she,with her littleclaims,
should stand in Harry's
such a
gently. ' Tell me firstof all whether you have
way when
Is he ill?"
him.
seen
him ! And
across
as for his
prizeas that came
with us
"He
was
on
might it not bo strengthrather than
Friday. He is not weakness
ill."
weakness
the strength
of an old love which he
"
Thank
God for that. Has any thinghapfree
that the woman
was
pened could not quell,now
to him?
Has he lost money?"
For herself had she not known
to take him ?
No ; I have heard nothingabout money."
that she had onlycome
second ? As she thought
'

"

"

"

"

"

Then

he is tired of

Tell

me.

You know me
one.
my own
I can bear it. Don't treat me
a

coward

"No,
of you.

Friday
"

as

of him

at once,

me

you know
though I were

low
had

it is not that ; it is not that he is tired

If you had heard him speak of you on
that you were
the noblest,
est,
purest, dearThis

was

part,but what lovingwoman

have

endured

what

is it?" asked

with

his

noble

bride

greatfortune,and of her

"

?"

best of women."
her

well

so

to

it

that bride's

"

' '
I wish I had known
stand upon her claims.
she
voice
soft that Cecilia
in
a
so
sooner,"
said,

strained her

imprudent on
could at such

and

her
insignificance,
that
birth,herdoubtful prettinessprettiness
vantages,
been doubtful to herself,
of her few adever
she told herself that she had no right
own

wish

I had

ears

known

to catch

it sooner.

the words.
I would

not

"I

have

come
prudent.
up to be in his way."
"
But you will be in no one's way, Flo,unless
Florence,almost
sternly." Look here,Cecilia ; if itbe any thing it be in hers."
"
I will put
I will not be in hers,"said Florence,
And
touchinghimself or his own character,
in spite
of any thingmy brother may
and raising
her liead
speakingsomewhat louder,
up with it,
Though he had been a murderer,if that in prideas she spoke. " I will be neither in
say.
I would
I will hers nor in his.
I think I will go back atonce."
were
not leave him.
possible,
leave him unless he leaves me.
Where
ventured to look round at
never
Cecilia,
upon this,
is he now, at this moment?"
her,and saw that she was very pale,but that
Mrs. Burton had not re"He
is in town."
gether.
ceived her eyes were
dryand her lipspressedclose toher of his journey
to
It had not occurred to Mrs. Burton
Harry'snote,telling
before she had left home.
Now
that her sister-in-lawwould take it in this way
at
Clavering,
this moment
it was
for
in
her
that she would express herself as being willing
Onslow
waiting
Crescent.
to giveway, and that she would at once
render
sura

moment

"Then

to be

"

"And

I to

am

tell

not

you
should tell you

see

how

me
"

him?

Cecilia,
why

it is ?

In such

I know

Why

you do so to me ?"
heard of Lady Ongar?"

not

can

have

her lover to her rival. The married

can

should tell you every thing at

that you are not a coward.

once, because
"You

case

she who

an,
wom-

band,
alreadyhappy with a hushavingenlisted all her sympathieson the
side of a marriagebetween Florence and Harry
could by no means
bring herself to
Clavering,
was

No one liked success

better
agree to this view.
her yes. She treated Harry than Cecilia Burton, and to her success
would
consist in rescuingHarryfrom Lady Ongar and
very badlybefore her marriage."
"
back to London, a widow."
She has come
securinghim for Florence. In fightingthis

"Heard

''

I know

of

"

she has.

And

Harryhas

gone

back

to tell me
Is that it ?
her ?
Do you mean
tEat Harry and Lady Ongar are to be married ?"
to

battle she had found

her

Lady Ongar
and
Hany

"

that she would

of course, and

himself too, as

have

against

then her husband,

she

feared ,

CLAVEMNGS.

THE

142
and

also slie must

now

her

among

the idea of
You

Oh,

said.

in my

place."
"But

peoplecan

theyfeel the

alwaysjudgebest

not

What

most.

should

you

when

her

So I do

"

Career !

"

sister-in-law.

said,"I

know

not

to

want

hear of

to

Men

careers.

that

When

she

"
she
Cissy,"
gave it back.
that I ought to go back.
I doj
him, and I am glad that he has

see

away."

gone
"

But

"Yes,

I hate

"

on

she folded it up and

think of

and of his future career."

"

direct contradiction

happiness."

is his

ever,
meeting,howpointfrom
had finished it,

so

lieved
dure
en-

"

cause.

wrong," she
do, if you were

and said
it thoroughly,

also

not

so

you are
feel as I

would

she could

such

in
failing

I think
Florence,
"

Florence

reckon

opponents. But

you do not
dearest."

"But
you said you
unless he left you."

givehim up?"

to

mean

would

leave him

never

"
He has left me."
careers, or should not want them.
who
him
to marry
a woman
Could itbe good for
"No, Florence,not so. Do you not see what
that he knows you are the onlywoman
has been false who has done as she has, simply be says
ness
that can
make
him happy?"
because she has made herself rich by her wicked-

do not

want

"

"

Do

believe

you

"He

in riches yourself?"

much

so

has

make
If he loves her

"

"He

said Florence.
He

me.

seen

all the

best,I

will not blame

knew

story. It is

told

me

stilllikes

his fault if he

not

had

before he

her

quitehonest, and

was

him,"

not

matter.

no

said that ; but if he

He understands

had,itwould
well

how

it

He

is.

says that I could not take him now, even

How
could
not.
came
to me, and I can

if he
I?

What

love

me

! wish

to marry
loves another

who

"

who

man

does

I know

when

"

not

that

I am
regardedsimplyas a barrier between them
when
the first
by doing so I should mar his fortunes ?
theyreached Onslow Crescent,
half hour was
to
as
Cissy,dear,when you think of it,you will not
spent with the children,

her the best. "

When

whom

"

could not but observe

Florence

from

their mouths
banished.

was

the

name

she

But

that

even

Harry Clavering
playedwith Cissy and I

their little presents from

Sophie,givingthem

wish

of

it."

"Mar

his fortunes!

It would

done

if

she

behoof,sweetlyas

terrible crisis in her

no

her.

Not

might have

one

come

life had

own

tear

in

' '

secret.

Come

I have

somethingto

nurse

took

the

up with me
show you,

baby

at the

Sophie were

"

their brother.

"But

had

at

same

As I

he will sufi^ertoo
You

he

with
from

to her room,

must

show

of

having run

out

of

ence.
to avoid the arrival of Flor-

says he

will be

back

after one

What
need
was

whose
way

"Perhaps he has gone to tellthem

change in his prospects."
"

No, dear, no
feelings.Head

rate,too much
does

; you

If there is

more.

not

wish

that she has

has not

Then
over

known

his
to

how

change,he is,at any

spenkof it. He
It is simply this

of it to

it himself.
thrown

of this

do not yet understand

and you will know
letter,

he

ashamed

"

herself in his way,

her."

"

and

he

to avoid

read the letter very slowly,

ing
gothan once,
of the sentences
more

Florence
most

what were
to learn from them
struggling
reallythe wishes of the writer. When she came
of Lady Ongar,she beto Harry's
exculpation
and

and

remained

to tell her

came

there

alone

that her brother

till Cecilia
had

turned.
re-

weeping there may have been

be told.
Indeed,as I think,
much, for Florence was
a
girl

not
not

education

had

brought her into the

not

of

sensations. The Burtons

hysterical
were
who sympathized
with
active,
energetic
pgople,

each

other in labor and

success

"

and

in endurance

also ; but who

had little sympathy to express
for the weakness of grief. When
dren
her chilhad

stumbled in their

play,bruisingtheir
barkingtheir little shins,Mrs.
Burton, the elder,had been wont to bid them
them what their legswere
for ifthey
rise,asking
could not stand.
So they had dried their own
little eyes with their own
little fists,
and had
little noses, and

day."

his

speak
would

note

in I got
that,I

an

see

ever

What

Cissy and

sent

and the note was, in

They went up stairs,
the
letter,
"I hope there is
r
ead
before
fact,
said Florence.
nothingwrong at the parsonage,"
"You

would

him?

see

away

see

hardlyacquithim

even

time

"

at the moment

good. Who

prices
ca-

her money

and

"

town

all for her

the world

on
Friday.
you the letter which he wrote to me
ness
busiHe has gone down to Clavering on some
there
Mrs. Burton, in her heart, there
for one day."

could

and

"

thinkthat
really

not

last ; and

"

into my room
;
she said,as the

can

father,
Why, his own
say of him ?
mother,and sisters would disown him, if
theyare such as you say theyare."
Florence would not argue it farther,
but went

came

Harry, but, before you

as

if no
self-denial,

bear to suffer ?"

can

yet
upon
moistened
her
Cecilia was
partly would do him any
eyes, and
be done
that Florence's weeping would
to him again,or
aware
now

them.

I tell you
it,and he wishes it too.
that I had him here,and I know
it. Why should

Stratton ; and
sat with the baby in her lap, you be sacrificed ?"
"
What
is the meaning of
kissinghis pink feet and making little soft
noises for his

make

do wish

learned

to understand

were

to be borne

come

to Florence

that the rubs of the world

in silence.

This rub that had

of grave import,
and had
deeperthan the outward skin ; but stillthe

gone
old lesson had
Florence
and
lying,

rose

was

its effect.
from

to
yourself

commit

the bed

preparedto
him

come
as

to

which she was

on
"Do
not
down.
any

thing,"said

Cecilia.
"I

understand what

that

means," Florence

THE

CLAyERINGS.

"He
thinks as I do.
But
never
He will not say much, and I shall say
mind.
less. It is bad to talk of this to any man

answered.

"

to

even

Burton

brother."

143

privateaffairshad kepthim
It

to the hands

was

that

such

matters

away from the office.

of Theodore Burton
himself

also received his sisterwith

declares

affection which

misfortune.
'overwhelming

He

that

for management,
and
for farther
necessity

came

therefore there had been

no

explanation.Harry Claveringwould of course

leave the house,and there would be an end of
her lips,him in the records of the Burton
family. He

pityfor

kissed

ceptional
ex-

some

would have come

and made his mark
a terrible
him, for he would generally
and he put his hand
but justtouch her forehead,
mark, and would have passedon. Those whom
he had bruised by his cruelty,
embraced her. "Did
and knocked over
behind her w*st and partly
must
Cissyvnanage to find you at the station?"
by his treachery,
get to their feet againas
best theycould,and say as littleas might be of
"Oh, yes easily."
"
is no good their fall. There are knaves in this world,and
Theodore
thinks that a woman
for any such purpose as that,"said Cecilia. " It no one can
right
suppose that he has a special
is a wonder
to him, no
doubt,that we are not to be exempted from their knavery because he
now
wandering about London in search of each himself is honest. It is on the honest that the

which

was

with

rare

"

"

other

and

"

"I

of him."

think

knaves

would

she

if I could have been

have got home

That was
in this
Burton's theory
prey.
He would learn from Cecilia how Florence

quickermatter.

there,"said Burton.

self
bearingherself;but to Florence heror nothing,if she bore
little_
with patienceand dignity,
he believed she
as
we, Florence f The difference would have been
that you would have given a porter sixpence,would, the calamitywhich had befallen her.
and I gave him a shilling,
But he must write to his mother.
The
old
havingbespokenhim

"We

were

in

cab in

one

minute

was

weren't

"

before."

would say

Stratton must

peopleat
Theodore's time

And

"

he

I
"That

was

worth

said Florence.
suppose,"
depends,"said Cecilia.

the

pence,as
six-

to

what

mother,unless
"

How

did

Florence

be left in the dark

not

He

going on.

was

must

write to his

he could learn from

his wife that

herself had

communicated

to

them

at

the

home
the fact of Harry'siniquity.
But he asked
synod go on ?"
"The
synod made an ass of itself as synods no questionas to this on the firstnight,and on
the following
ply
having simalways do. It is necessary to get a lot of men
morning he went off,
been told that Florence
had
seen
togetherfor the show of the thing,otherwise
Harry's
that she knew all,
and that she was
the world will not believe. That is the meaning letter,
rying
carBut the real work
of committees.
herself
like
must
an
always
angel.
I'll go
Come
be done by one
"Not
two
like an angelthat hopes?"said Theodore.
or
men.
"

"

get readyfor dinner."

and

had thus
"Let her alone for a day Or two,"said Cecilia.
subject the one real subject,
have a few days
"Of course
she must
altogetheravoided at this first meeting
with the man
tell you that you
of the house,and the evening to think of it. I need hardly
will never
have to be ashamed
of your sister."
was
passedwithout any allusion to it. Much
and much was
said of the
made
of the children,
The Tuesday and the Wednesday passedby,
old peopleat home ; but stillthere was
and thoughCecilia and Florence,
when together,
sciousness
cona
them all that the one
matter
of discussed the matter,no change was made in the
over
importancewas beingkept in the background. wishes or thoughtsof either of them. Florence,
but now
that she was
in town, had consented to remain
They were all thinkingof Harry Clavering,
The

"

been

mentioned

one

no

his

They

name.

unhappy
they were
through his fault,but no one
that

and

all knew

blamed
him.
He
received in that house with open arms,
in their bosom, and had stung
had been warmed
all smartingfrom
them ; but, though theywere
the sting,
they uttered no complaint. Burton
had made up his mind that it would be better to
ing
pass over the matter thus in silence to say nothhad been

"

farther of

had
go

come
on

as

Harry Clavering.

till after

heavy-hearted

to see

him.

Harryshould return,on

altogetherthat his troth

him, and that he was free,but
him

"

avail.

no

the

derstanding
un-

that she should not be called upon

He was to be told that she forgave

meetingbetween

And

then

returned

was

that in such
them

to

cumstances
cir-

could be of

little packetwas

made

How
it
to be given to him.
was
up, which was
that Florence had broughtwith her all his presents

misfortune

and

But

all his letters?

there

they were

them.
with
and,sitting
by herself,
They must bear it,and in her box up stairs,
upon
before.
Harry had been admittedweary fingersshe packedthem, and left them

the footing
of a paid packed under lock and key, addi-essed by herself
Burton
as
to Harry Clavering,
Esq. Oh, the misery
indeed,
footing,
and
with
of packing such
a
though with a much smaller salary
himself,
parcel! The feeling
This position
does it is never
encountered
had been accorded
inferiorwork.
which a woman
by
He chucks the things
to him, of course, through the Burton
a man.
togetherin wrath
interest,
into the London

clerk

"

on

the

oflSceon

same

understood that if he chose to make

and it was
he could rise in the business as
himself useful,
Theodore had risen. But he could onlydo so
For the lastthree months
of the Burtons.
as one
he had declined to take his

that
salary,
alleging

"

the lock of
hand

hair,the lettersin

that have taken

so

much

the

ian
prettyItal-

happy care

in

the jeweledshirt-studs,
which were
writing,
that gave them.
firstput in by the fingers
They
other
and givento some
thrown together,
are
the

THE

Ui
to deliver.

woman

torture.

of the

But

the

CLAVEKINGS.

over
girllingers

her

She reads the letters again. She thinks

of bliss which

moments

lias given. She

is loth

to

each

the

but
shirt-studs,

that.

As

for the lock of hair

little toy been

maidenly

looked

last,and the

I'lorence Burton

answer

would not,as yet,look upon

"

constrains her at

reserve

Harry

makes

"

understand

doubtless

it had

burned.

Cecilia said but littlein

part with every thing.

est
smallone
would fain keep some
thirig-^the
tilla feeling
of
of them
all. She doubts

She

he would

ing of

up

was

at
to

it,and
be

as

liack in

to this.

the matter
Theodore
town

on

as

did

She
ence
Floralso.

Thursday

Packet.

with careful,
coveted trifle,
fingers,morning. He could not, probably,be seen oi
painstaking
is put with the rest,and the parcelis made complete,
heard of on that day,because of his visit to
and the address is written with precision.Lady Ongar. It was
absolutely
necessary that
"

"You
him

Of

course

will hand
; and

you

can

not

to him

must

ask

to return
of my letters,

see

him," said Florence.

what

I have

him, if he
them."

has

to

send to

kept any

She said noth-

he should
to

Onslow

once
were

more

see

Lady Ongar

before he could

come

of becoming
Terrace,with possibility
the old

all to love.

Harry Claveringwhom
But

Mrs. Burton

they
by

would

THE
no

all

give up

moans

It

hope.

but
say any thing to Florence,
that good might come.

CLAVERINGS.

useless to

was

145
and

ways

into

came

she not

Alas,and

head.

her

late with

too

thoughtof

alas !

?
project

her

of that
in spite
however,that he

Why

had

littleaccident.

; but

not

It appeared,

fortably
goingon comleft London, could

not

was

Harry,when he
quiteimaginehow such

Was

had believed

Clavering
comfortably

at

on

curate

as

a project
then, as she thought of it all,

And

other men,

from
feelings

stillhoped that he might go

she

violent discomfort

it on

Tuesday or earlyon the should have arisen tliatthe rector and the curate
If the
have been
each other.
should be unable to meet
Wednesday,when it might possibly
it was
executed ?
But
a
projectwhich she reader will allow me, I will go back a littleand
must
have kept secret from her husband, of explainthis.
have approved;
what
The
reader alreadyknows
which he would by no means
Fanny's
and as she remembered
this,she told herself brothers did npt know
namely,that Mr. Saul
well that things
it was
should
that perhaps
had pressedhis suit again,and had pressedit
as
she not

"

take their
she had

course

own

without

such interference very

he also knows

and
strongly;

that

Fanny's

contemplated.

of the second offer was very different

reception
from her reception
of the first. She had begun
On the Thursdaymorning there came
to her a
letter in a strangehand.
It was from Claveringto doubt
her firstjudgment
to doubt whether
Mrs. Clavering
mother.
from Harry's
wrote, as to Mr. Saul's character had not been unjust
at her son's request,to say that he
she said,
to doubt whether,
as
in addressing
her,he was not
that his love for her was
confined to his bed, and could not be in right,
was
so
seeing
strong
London
he expected. Mrs. Burton
she did not like him better
to doubt whether
as
soou
as
that he was
and
than she had thoughtshe did
not to suppose
was
to doubt whether
reallyill,
of the familywere
to be frightened.
From
in
none
an
curate was
engagement with a penniless
ihis Mrs. Burton
learned that Mrs. Clavering truth a position
utterlyto be reprehendedand
knew
nothingof Harry'sapostasy. The letter avoided.
Young pennilesscurates must love
as

"

"

"

"

"

write as soon
to say that Harrywould
on
he himself was
able,and would probablybe

went

as well
soifiebody

as

rectors.

in London

earlynext

the end of it.

was

no

could

He

week

was

only listen

and

any

turn

of
Florence,
pale. Now,

remain in London.
rate, she must
Mrs. Burton's
projectmight, after
but
feasible,;

then

before

rate

what

angry with her?

which never
yet had

Th^t
come

was

upon

at any

a,

She did not

at

that he would

should

was

to be

his fate.

tell her mother

tune
misforwhat

her

were

to have

SHOWING

-WHY

HAEEY
THE

AT

The

letter-which

WANTED

KECTOKT.

had

the jiarsonage had been

beggedhim to come

had

trouble had

WAS

Harry to

Fanny put
put off her
she

from
to

his mother,and
Claveringat once,

upon them
father had

from

on

answer, and he had said

wishes.

in her

and
confidence,

that it should be

his suit.
or

He

own

was

impatientin

off'the interview

was

his

woman,
does not

vyho was

doings.

final resolution till it was

five

"

too

againwhen

she doubts whether

love,is inclined

But

with her mother

she loves

partsout of six

of whom
she is thinking.When
man
is lost,
the cynicssay.
I
doubts,-she
The rector and the curate had had
Mr. Saul.
that when a woman
simplyassert,
beingno cynic,
there had been
in which
an
The more
interview,
high doubts,she is won.
Fanny thought
words,and Mr. Claveringhad refused to see Mr. of Mr. Saul,the more
she felt that he was
not
in great trouble,the man
Saul again. Fanny also was
for which she had firsttaken him
that
and the parishwas, as it were, in hot water.
he was
of largerdimensions
as
regardedspirit,
Mrs. Clavering
thought that Harry had better manhood, and heart,and better entitled to a
down
to
run
Clavering and see Mr. Saul. woman's love. She would not tell herself.that
acceded to his mother's she was attached to him ; but,in all her arguHarry,not unwillingly,
ments
of this
with herself againsthim, she rested her
request,much wonderingat the source
misfortune.
As to Fanny,she,as he benew
lieved,
objectionmainlyon the fact that he had but
had held out no enconragement
to Mr.
ened
seventy pounds a year. And then the threatSaul's overtures.
When
Mr. Saul had proposed
the attack that was
to be final,
came
attack,
to her
making that firstoffer of which Harry upon her before she was preparedfor it!
had been aware
nothingcould have been more
They had been togetheras usual daringthe
steadfast than her rejection
of the gentleman'sintervening
time.
It was, indeed,
impossible
hand.
Harry had rejiardedMr. Saul as little thattheyshould not be together. Since she had
less than mad to think of such a thing,
but, firstbegun to doubt about Mr. Saul,she had been
of him as a man
in
different
his more
than heretofore in visiting
the poor
thinking
diligent
very
as

come

His

source.

an

pected
unex-

quarreledwith

toward

when

before Mr.

so
man

came
upon her
but illpreparedfor him.

A
or

told herself

sired
deShe thoroughly,

late,and Mr. Saul

summoned

her mother

of this tillshe had

own

hurried

never

CLAVERING

cause

againin a few days what

how to
She hardlyknew

her mother

Saul renewed
XXXIIL

no

ask her

promisedherself
CHAPTER

pleadedhis

speak to

once

doubt,givinghim

all,be

her.

beneficed vicars and

the matter, and the fact that she had a secret

made her very wretched.
She had leftMr. Saul
in

if her husband

be
really

course,

young

well !

so

littlefeverish,
but there

for alarm.

cause

at

"

as

then Mr. Saul

And

the

woman

"

"

"

CLAVERINGS.

THE

U6

attendingto her school,as though she so boldly. If you feel for me that love whicli
would enable you to acceptme
the duty which would specially
as your husband,
recognizing
he. it is your duty to tell me
he hers if she were
such a one
as
to many
so
your dutyto me,
and to your God."
And thus theyhad been broughttogethermore
to yourself,
had seen, and
AH this her mother
than ever.
Fanny did not quite see the thing in this
and yet she did not wish to contradict
had trembled ; but she had not thought light,
seeing,
At this moment
she forgotthat,
in orit wise to say any thingtillFanny should speak. him.
der
to put herself on
firm ground,she
perfectly
Fanny was
very good and very prudent. It
how
should have gone back to the first hypothesis,
could not be but that Fanny should know
the
and assured him that she did not feel any such
such
As
must
be
to
a
marriage.
impossible
Saul
the matter.
Mr. Saul,whose intellect was
on
regardfor him.
rector,he had no suspicions
himself an ass on one
had made
occasion,and more
acute,took advantage of her here,and
and

in

were

"

there hud

been

himself

made
It

end of it.

an

an

last walk

Saul

curate

He

the attack.

him.
forgiven

looked

rector

than
hardlymore
in Cumberley Lane

was

had been

ass

thus that the

was

It

As

therefore the fact of his having

and
invaluable,

was

at it.

days since

ten

Mr. Saul

when

did it againon

the

the
newed
re-

same

at the same
hour of the day. Twice
week,alwayson the same days,he was in the
and on these
chapelup at this end of the parish,
days he could always find Fanny on her way

spot, and

chose
was

believe that that matter

to

conceded

now

to him.

of her affection

He

knew

what

he

doingwell,and is open to a chargeof soime

Jesuitry."Mr. Saul,"said Fanny, with grave
prudence,"it can not be rightfor people to
when
they have nothingto live upon."
marry
When
she had shown
him so plainlythat she
had no other pieceleft on the board to playthan
the game may
be said to have been won
this,
on
was

his side.

If that he your sole objection,

said he, you
he put his head in at the dittle can
not but think it rightthat I and your father
school door and asked for her,her mind misgave should discuss it." To this she made
no
reply
"

"

"

When

home.
her.

He had not walked home with her since, whatever, and they walked along the lane for a
though he had been in the school with her considerable way in silence. Mr. Saul would
often,had alwaysleft her there,
going about his have been glad to have had the interview over
own
business,as though he were
feelingthat at any future meeting he
by no means
now,
desirous of her company.
would have strongerpower of assuming the poNow
the time had
sition
and

and

come,

Fanny

feltthat she

not

was

she took up her hat,and went

knowing that there was no escape.
But

"

Miss

of what

but have

not

could

"You

not

thought of it,"he continued.

dismiss it altogether
from

your

thoughts."

it

pleadfor
accepted lover.
and

an

and

wise

was

in

far committed
have

now

the
But

would

do

desired to get
of love
to take

word

"

feel

to

farther than

go

he

have

some

response

this,as is not

likely,
un-

happy indulgencesof
Mr. Saul abstained,

abstaining. She

had

not

so

herself but that she

drawn

back, had he

might even
pressedher too

I have

"

' '

what

she said. hard.

For hand-pressing,
and the titillations
thoughtabout it,of course,"
And what does your mind say ? Or, rather, of love-making,
Mr. Saul was not adapted; but
does your heart say? Both should speak, he was
man
who, having once loved,would
a

but I would
"I

"
hear the heart first.

sooner

sure, Mr.

am

"In

Saul,that

it is

love

way impossible?"

what

"Papa

would

"Have

you

not

asked

which

him?"

words

mother's

no

counsel.

Why

one.

man,

"No;

should

she

I,when

I have
I knew

to
struggling

self
forthcoming. It seemed to herbeing carried away by this
she had suddenlylost her remembrance
negatives. The more she struggled
she failed,
and at last gave it up

more

spoken in despair. Let

was

by

was

of all

that it it

words

some

not

she

because
the

find

might stillhold her ground,but the

were

that

how
she
Fanny blushed as she remembered
had permittedthe days to go by without asking
her

too long to be completed

way, however, was
without farther speech. Fanny, as she

walked, was

allow it."

dear,no."
Or Mrs. Clavering?"

"

the end.

to

on

possible."
The
quiteim-

"Oh

to

to

"

than

would

man

her lipsa decided

hand,perhaps,and

from

you thought her

To this she made
from

was

acceptedlover

an

Another

Clavering,"said
he, "have

sayingto you?"
with the pointof
no
atiswer, but merely played
the parasol
which she held in her hand.
"Yon
can

of

prepared.
to him, now.

out

Mr.

Saul

say what

he

would,

that they should be married.

impossible
his arguments
about duty were
nonsense.

All
impossible?"
who
May I speak to Mr. Clavering?"To this It could not be her dutyto marry a man
Fanny made no immediate answer, and then Mr. would have to starve in his attempt to keep her.
Saul urged the questionagain. "May I speak She wished she had told him at first that she
is

"

to

your father?"
Fanny feltthat she

she

did not

did not love

was

such

answer

refusal of her
did

not

said,"if
no

to assent.

mean

you

rightto

regardme

refuse

me

even
assenting,
a question
by

in that
an

he
Clavering,"
have
affection,
you

"Miss
with

that she

mediate
imwould go to her mother

permission
; and yet she

this

him, but that seemed

The moment

now.

request. I tell you

was

to be too

and tellher every

said he,"I shall

"Miss Clavering,"
father to-morrow."
"

No, no," she ejaculated.

''

I shall

do so, in
certainly

late

in the house she

any event.

thing.

see

your

I shall

either tell him

147

CLAVEBINGS.

THE
that I must

"
to me
leave the parish,
explaining
Mamma, Mr. Saul has been speaking
"
go, or I shall ask again."
"
You can not,of course,
remain here in the hope that I
Has he,my dear ?
to let me
his son-in-law.
become
it
he
chooses
to
You will not now
if
speak to you, but he
help

to

him
may

him

I must

why

that I ani to

go?" Fanny was again ought to know that it is very foolish.

her as to either ative
end in his having to leave us."
failing
memory
negaffirmative that would be of service.
"That
is what he says, mamma.

tell me

It must

her
silent,
or

would
stay here hopeless

"To

Now

me.

to he
impossible

hopeless.Now

not

am

be

full

am

He

says

"

go away unless
"Unless what?"
must

"

"
that he shall remain
Unless I will consent
hope. I think I could be happy,though I
"
had to wait as Jacob waited."
here as
ny?"
"And
lover. Is that it,Fanperhaps have Jacob's consolation," "As your accepted
said ITanny. She was
lost by the joke,
and he
knew
it. A grim smile of satisfactioncrossed
"Yes, mamma.",

of

"

his thin face as he heard it,and there was

else
What
"Then
he must
a
go, I suppose.
"
of triumph at his heart.
I am
of
?
I
be
both
for
shall
can
us
feeling
hardly
sorry
say
any
the patriarchs
his sake and for your papa's." Mrs. Clavering,
fitted to be
as
were
patriai'ch,
"
of cJd,"he said.
and saw
looked at her daughter,
Though the seven
years as she said this,
should fce prolongedto fourteen,
I do not think at once
that this edict on her part did not settle
I should seek any Leah."
the difficulty.
There was
that in Fanny's face
of farther
They were soon at the gate,and his work for which showed trouble and the necessity
that evening was
done.
He would go home
to
explanation. " Is not that what you think
his solitary
at a neighboring
room
farm-house, yourself,
my dear?" Mrs. Claveringasked.
and sit in triumph as he ate his morsel of cold
"I should be very sorry if he had to leave
mutton
He, without any advantage the parishon my account."
by himself.
of person to back him, poor, friendless,
hitherto
"We
all shall feel that,dearest;but what
a

conscious

that he

social
ordinary

unfitted to mix

was

he had

life
"

in

even

the heart of the

won

can

do ?

we

remain

I presume

don't wish him

you

to

your lover?"
don't know, mamma,"
as

said Fanny.
had feared.
Clavering
give
your
she tendered it to him with her eyes fixed Indeed,from the firstword that Fanny had spoken
" I
she had almost been
the presentoccasion,
on
hope we understand each
upon the ground.
''
To her
You may, at any rate, sure
of the facts,as they now
were.
other, he continued.
understand
ter
this,that I love you with all my father itwould appear wonderful that his daughshould have come
heart and all my strength. If thingsprosper
to love such a man
as Mr.
with me, all my prosperity
shall be for you.
If Saul,but Mrs. Claveringknew
better than he
fairest

he

woman

had

hand

me

will

"You

seen.

ever

he
parting,"

at

"I

whereupon
said,

It

then

was

Mrs.

as

"

there be

for me, you shall be

no
prosperity
only consolation in this world. You are
Alpha and my Omega,my firstand last,my
and
Then
had

he

turned

away

concerned,no
lipswere
to her.
longerpossible
She
must

into the

went

at

herself first to remain

"

the

that she

knowing

allowed

; but she

half hour

some

interview she knew

The

use.

make

for

as

any

in her

bedroom, preparingthe words that she would

own

been

house

seek her mother

once

there
far

lips. As
negativewas

her

her

much

difficult than

more

mind

wished to say.
her mother's

to what

as

be

it would

She waited

step on

it was

cult
diffi-

againsthim.

much

that you wish him

has said to you?
to
"

At

hear

"Do
to remain

acceptinghim.
eh, dear?"

severance
per-

you mean, my dear,

here after what he

would

That

be tantamount

understand

You

ny
that,Fan-

"I
"

have

that she

tillshe should

the stairs.

"

high spiritto back it.

and would at once
have accepted
surprised,
the idea of Mr. Saul becoming her sonhad not the poverty of the man
been so
in-law,

suppose it would,mamma."
And
is that what you mean
?

tell

her

up her

women

and
capacity,
She was
grieved

me

said to him
last walk with Mr. Saul ; and
of it was
that she could not quite think from

before
worst

would

far perseverance will go with

with high mental
joined

how

my
with
ginning
be-

all." but not

every thing,my
and left her,and

my

"

negativefrom

no

come

end

my

the whole

of it.

yourself? What
the

answer

you

est,
Come, dear-

What

have you
has he been led to

have

givenhim

to-

day?"
"He

last Mrs.

says that he

means

to

see

papa

row."
to-mor-

"

and then Tanny,

"But
is he to see him with your consent?
Claveringcame
up to dress,
into her bedroom,abrupther quickly
following
ly
Fanny had hitherto placed herself in the nook
which
looked out into the
of a bow window
began :
to
and
"I
she
want
to
said,
garden,
there,
"Mamma,"
speak
thoughshe was near to the
her mother was
which
much."
at
dressing-table
sitting,
very
you
herself as almost to hide
she could so far screen
"Well, my dear."
she was
her face when
"But
treat
speaking. From this reyou mustn't be in a hurry,mamma."
claring
her mother found it necessary to withdraw
Mi's. Claveringlooked at her watch,and dethat it stillwanted three quartersof an
her; so she rose, and, going to a sofa in the
be
and sit beside
would
that
she
not
hour to dinner,
promised
room, bade her daughter come
"

very much

in

hurry.

her.

"A

doctor,
my dear,can

never

do

any

CLAVEEINGS.

THE

148

able to come
will tell him
that night,so that Fanny was
she said," unless the patient
jiood,"
told Mr. Saul that he down to dinner without fearingany farther scene
every thing. Have yoii
f " on that evening. But on the followingmorning
as coming from you, you know
may see papa
she
nor
was
did
that.
I
she
tell
him
not
at
I
did
not
prayers,
appear
"No, mamma,
told him that it would be altogether
present at the breakfast table. Her mother
impossible,
asked
and she immediately
to her early,
went
because we should be so poor."
that
she
should
himself."
if
it
considered
was
"He
that
have
known
to
necessary
ought
"

I don't think

"But

he

thinks

ever

of such

see

Saul

her father before Mr.

But

came.

this

of her.
"Papa says that it is
required
I
said Mrs. Clavering.
of the question,"
told him
so
myself,"said Fanny, beginningto
be no
there must
But that is nonsense
whimper. "And
ments,"
engage; Is it not, Fanny ?"
said Mrs. Clavering. "No, mamma.
he means
"What
is,not that people,if they
I haven't engaged myself. I told him it was
fond of each other,ought to marry at once
are
when
papa thinks that Mr. Saul
they have got nothing to live upon, but impossible.""And
Mrs.
leave him," continued
must
that they ought to tell each other so, and then
Clavering.
I
I suppose he thinks that
"I knew papa would
to wait.
he content
say that; but,mamma,
To this
shall not forgethim for that reason."
some
da)'he may have a living."
Mrs. Claveringmade
and have
no
"But
reply,and Fanny was
Fanny, are you fond of him
I can't tell you quite was
to show that he didn't out

thingsas that,mamma.
what he said,
but it went
regardmoney at all."

not

"

"

"

allowed

you ever told him so?"

"I have never
told him
"But

fond of him

are

you

Fanny

so, mamma."

made

?"

To

answer, and
it all. She felt no
no

this tion
quesMrs.

now

remain

to

Saul

stairs tillMr.

up

had

and

come

Very

gone.
after breakfast Mr. Saul
soon

His presence
the servants

the rectory was

at

so

did

come.

that

common

to
inclination
not generallysumm.oned
were
Claveringknew
his arrivals,
but his visits were
made
to pointout
in announce
to scold her daughter,
or
even
often than
foolish Fanny had
to Mrs. Claveringand Fanny more
very strong language how
On this occasion he rang the bell,
her affections to the rector.
been in allowing
to engage
a man
shown
The
merely by askingfor them.
thingwas a and asked for Mr. Clavering,and was
misfortune,and should have been avoided by into the rector's so-called study,in a way that
of Mr. Saul from the parishafterthe maid-servant
felt to be unusual.
And
the
the departure
his first declaration of love.
He had been allowedrector was
sittinguncomfortablyprepared for
for the sake of the rector's the visit,
gar.
to remain
not having had his after-breakfast ci-

comfort,and the best

Mr.

That

Fanny

Saul

endure

must

with
would

not

must

must

be made

now

absent lover to which

an

of it.

certain,and
go was
ment
the weariness of an attachnow

It

consent.

her father

very bad, but Mrs.

that she could make
it

was

Claveringdid not think

better by attemptingto
renouncingthe man.

scold her

daughterinto

"I suppose you would

to tell papa
like me
all this before Mr. Saul comes
to-morrow?"

"If you think it best,mamma."

you mean, dear,that you would wish
accept him, only that he has no income ?"
"And

to

I think so, mamma."

H:ive you told him

"

"

"I

did

so?"

tell him

not

so, but he

understands

it."
you did not tell him
think of it again."
But

had

Fanny

determined

make

no

to

that if he were
sure, mamma,
I should accept him.
he has
"But
"I
your
to

that.

no

so, you

surrendered

to

sending the garrison up

go

had

induced

been

not, and would

to declare

that he

be, angry with Fanny;

not

left to such indignation

Saul was
he
as
himself
on
to express.
thought it incumbent
In his opinion,
the iriarriage
not
was
impossible,
only because there was no money, but because
Mr. Saul was
Mr.
Saul, and because Fanny
Claveringwas Fanny Clavering. Mr. Saul was
all that could be
a
gentleman; but that was
There is a class of country clergysaid of him.
men
Mr. Claveringwas
in England, of whom
Mr. Fielding,
another,
one, and his son-in-law,
which is so closely
allied to the squirearchy
as
to possess a double identity.Such
clergymen
not only clergymen,but they are
are
country
gymen
gentlemen also. Mr. Claveringregardedclerof his class
of the country gentlemen
class as being quite distinct from all others,
and as being,I may say, very much
higherthan
but Mr.

"

"If

wns

He
was

might still

herself now, and

farther attempt at
"I am
the wall.
well
It is

ward,
off,like Ed-

only because

consent

and

not

told him

tell him

papa's.

all others,without

another.

There

that ?"

any thing without

said he should
He

between

complaintto

help for

it.

was

them
make

papa to-morrow, and I could not prevent feel themselves

possible."
it was
I did say that I knew
that there was
quiteimmischief

tion.
ques-

meeting his brother rectors and

ing
vicars,he had quitea different tone in addressthem, as theymight belongto his class or to

which
The

reference to any money

When

offense in this.

no

'

The

clerical country gentlemen understood

it all as
leth
secret signor shibbothough there were some

income."

you have
would
not

"

theywere

; but

the outsiders

of arrogance,

and

had

no

did

not

aggrieved. They hardlyknew

inner clerical familiarity
to
not admitted.
But, now that

an

there wns
no
a
circle
done, and there was
young curate from the outer
Mrs. Clavering told her daughter demanding Mr. Clwvering's
riage,
daughter in mar-

that she would

wns

talk it all over

with the

vector

and

that without

in his pocket,
shilling

THE

very

felt that the eyes of the offender

Claveririg
nuisance
be opened. The
was
to him
great,but this openingof Mr. Saul's eyes

was

Mr.
must

duty from which

He

greetedhis

curate

of the purpose
burden of the
But

Saul.

though he

as

of the

were

unaware

to be thrown

gentlemanwas

not

coarse

upon Mr.
long in

his shoulders.

from

cnstingthe burden

as

present visit. The whole

storywas

that

"Then,

entered,and

curate

"Mr.

I ask

And
"Of course
now
you had not.
you againto giveher up."
"
"I shall not do that,
certainly.

he could not shrink.

the

when

got up

141)

CLAVERINGS.

venient
Saul,you must go ; and, inconvenient,
inconit will be to myself terribly

Mr.

"

ask

must

allow you

not

can

to

you

he said,"I have come

"If I say
to ask your
Clavering,"
school ?"
permissionto be a suitor for your daughter's
''

hand."

Of

once.

my daughter
remain
she will ht-

to meet

As long as you
any more.
debarred from goingto her
be debarred from

at

go

and
school,

you

will

cominghere."
I will

that

seek'her

not

It is out of the

I will not have it.

the

at

question

by the that you should remain in the parish. You

abruptnessof the request. " Quite impossible,ought to feel it."
stant
"Mr. Clavering,
Mr. Saul,"he said "quiteimpossible. I am
my going I mean
my inI have not
told by Mrs. Claveringthat you were
of which
speaking
going" is a matter
and I must
to Fanny again about this yesterday,
yet thought. I must consider it before I give
have
been
that
I
think
behaving
you
very
you an answer."
say
said
"It ought to requireno consideration,"
badly."
"
?"
Mr. Clavering,
at
In what way have I behaved badly
from his chair
"none
rising
hind all not
and
earth !
Heavens
"In
moment's.
a
endeavoringto gain her affections beThe

rector

almost

was

taken

aback

"

"

"

"

my

"But,

back."
Mr.

gain them

Why,

how
Clavering,

otherwise does any

How

otherwise

could

man

gain

word

more

"
love.
If you mean
any woman's
I
don't
Mr.
think that
"Look
Saul,
here,

to

"

you
I won't

But

upon?
one

did

what

suppose
you were
discuss it. I will
a

upon
You

me.

subjectwhich

must

excuse

me

to live
not

is

say
distasteful

so

if I leave

you."
view
for an argument between
and from this interMr. Saul tlien departed,
necessity
this point. That you can not
on
had arisen that state of things in the parish
Mrs. Claveringto call
which had induced
marry Miss Claveringis so self-evident that it
come
does not requireto be discussed. If there were
Harry to their assistance. The rector had bethe subject
than any of
on
more
nothingelse againstit,neither of you have got
energetic
I have not seen my daughtersince I them had expected. He did not actually
forbid
a penny.
hear me
if you
heard of this madness
out
his wife to see Mr. Saul,but he did say that Mr.
sir since I heard of this madness, but
Saul should not come
to the rectory. Then
please,
of there arose
tells me
that she is quiteaware
ces,
to the Sunday serviher mother
a questionas
with such a propand yet Mr. Clavering
course
would have no interthat fact. Your coming to me
osition
if it is nothingworse.
tercourse
is an absurdity,
with his curate.
He would have no inM
r.
of
Saul.
mediate
imdo
he
would
fix
two
Now
one
with
him
unless
an
must
things,
you
that this shall be
either promiseme
You
must
day for going,or else promise that he
leave the would think no
end altogether,
of Fanny. Hitherto he
or
more
at an
you must
had done neither,
and therefore Mrs. Clavering
parish."'

there is any
you and me

"

"

shall
certainly

"I

hopes

as

promiseyou

not

that my
be at

had

sent

for her

son.

daughterwill

they regard your

end."

an

the
Then, Mr. Saul,

"

sooner

you

ter."
go the bet-

CHAPTER

XXXIV.

Saul's

MR.
abode.
Mr. Saul's brow as
cloud came
across
"This
When
is
the
words.
he heard these last
Harry Claveringleft London he was
way
in which you would send away your groom, if not well,though he did not care to tell himself
that he was
ill. But he had been so harassed
he had offended you," he said.
"
of himself,
and
was
so ashamed
I do not wish to be unnecessarily
harsh," by his position,
unable to see
"and what I say to you
said Mr. Clavering,
as yet so
any escape from his

dark

I say to you not as my curate, but as to a

hand.
unwarranted suitor for my daughter's

now

most

Of

course

at

can

not

day'snotice.

But

as
your feelings

you

aware

"

And

"

gentlemanought to

that is to be my

"What
I have

answer

been

did you

at

make

once."

onlyanswer?"
expect?"

thinkingso

much

of the
lately

that I
I might get from ypur daughter,
other calculations. Perhaps I
have not made
had no rightto expect any other than that you
answers

have

now

givenme."

he

out

worn

was

sore

with

an

fatigueand

most
al-

On his arrival at
asked him if
at once

with trouble.

turn you out of the parishthe parsonage, his mother

that well enough. he was
and received his
I know
ill,

should go

that you

that
misery,

petulantdenial
That

countenance.
ill-satisfied

somethingwrong

between

him

there

and Florence

with
was

she

she was
but at the present moment
suspected,
into that matter.
ry's
Harto inquire
not disposed

love-affairshad for her

but
great interest,

Fanny'slove-affairsat
paramount
become

the present moment

weri'
in her bosom.
Fanny,indeed, had

very

to her father.

since Mr. Saul's visit

On the eveningof her conversa-

troublesome

THE

150

CLAVERINGS.
Of
has

prospectof

no

"

living.

I can't conceive

wicked

would

I should say that he

nothingto live on.

"

They

him.

she can't marry

course

have

how

man

do such

can

and
thing,"said Harry,moralizing,
for

moment

house

like

his

"

sins.

own

getting
for-

Coming

and in such a position,

this,
and then undermining a girl's
when
affections,
he must know that it is quiteout of the question
that he should marry
her ! I call it downright
wicked.
It is treachery
of the worst
sort,and,
is of course
the more
coming from a clergyman,
into

to

be condemned.

I sha'n'tbe slow

tell him

to

mind."

my

"You

will

with
gain nothingby quarreling

him."
"But

how

can

helpit,if I

to

am

see

him

at

all?"
"

The

that I would

mean

great thing is

to

should go away as soon

as
all idea of seeingPanny
father will have

no

be

not

make

rough with him.

feel that

him

and
possible,
again. You

he

renounce

see, your
with him at all,

conversation

and

it is so disagreeable
about
the services.
day,
They'llhave to meet in the vestry-roomon Sunand they won't speak. Will not that be
terrible ? Any thing will be better than that he
should remain
"

And

here."

what

will my father do for a curate ?"

can't do any thing tillhe knows
when
Mr. Saul will go.
He talks of taking all the
"He

mother, and

morning,
following
bravery,and services himself.
"He
couldn't do it,
mother.
Mrs. Clavering had been disposedto think that
He
must
not
not
wounded
her daughter's
heart was
deeply.think of it. However, I'll see Saul the first
of her marShe had admitted the impossibility
riage
thing to-morrow."
The next
with Mr. Saul,and had never
insisted on
day was Tuesday,and Harry proposed
of her attachment
the strength
to leave the rectoryat ten o'clock for Mr.
sooner
; but no
Saul's lodgings. Before he did so, he had a
she told that Mr. Saul had been banished
was
who
from the house, than she took upon herself to few words with his father,
professedeven
deeperanimosityagainstMr. Saul than his son.
mope in the most love-lorn fashion,and behaved
herself as though she were
the victim of an all- "After
that,"he said,"I'll believe that a girl
! People say all
absorbingpassion.Between her and her father may fall in love with any man
word
the subject
had been spoken,and
of things about the follyof girls;
but
on
manner
no
to her mother
she was
even
silent,
nothingbut this nothing short of this^would
respectful,
and subdued, as it becomes
that it was
daughtersto be who have convinced me
possiblethat
are
hardly used when they are in love. Now
Fanny should have been such a fool. An ape
like a man
Mrs. Claveringfelt that in this her daughter of a fellow" not made
with a thin,
her well.
hatchet
was
not treating
face,and unwholesome,stubbychin.

tion with her

Fanny

on

the

"

had carried herself with

"

"

"

But

for him

to say that she

you don't mean
?" Harry said to his mother,when

alone

were

on

"Yes, she
as

eveningof
for

cares

can

"

It is the oddest

she
tell,

life. I should
the world
"

the

One

for
never

cares

for him

was

very much."
knew
in my
the last man
in

very good young man."

' '
But girls
don't fallin love with

see

men

an

"

far

as

I know

goose."
perhapswrong."

my word, I've never

from him except about

Upon

word

As

ass.

can't say Bo ! to a
"There
I think you are

is the

You

he is such

him, he

ever

tell,
Harry.

can

has talked her into it."

He

"But

of that kind."

success

"

his arrival.

thing I

heavens!"

Good

they

him, certainly.As far

said he

have

cares

been
the

able to

parish.

get
Ho

uncompanionablefellow. There's
Fieldingis as active a clergyman as
Saul; but Edward
Fieldinghas something to
most

he is Edward

because

say for himself"

"
Saul is a cleverer man
than Edward is,
but
they're
good,mother."
"I hope theydo
for that and other things his cleverness is of a differentsort."
"It is of a sort that is very invisibleto me.
together.
he hat got none
"Bnt
of the other things.But what does all that matter?
He hasn't got
What
that he was
let to stay here a shilling.When
a pityit was
I was
a
curate, we didn't
"

"

after he firstmade
"It's

fool of himself."

too late to think

of that now,

think

Harry.

of

that." Mr. vering

Claas
doing such things
onlybeen a curate for twelve months.

had

fiijii CijAVJtcaiNGS.

during that

and

time

had

become

engaged

to

which

of every one
his present wife with the consent
work
"But
concerned.
clergymen were
gentlemen
to ; I

What

own

walked

remain

confused

"

ever

above papers
productcould ever

always
finished,

never

open,

books,and
lookingas though no useful

with

books

come

of allowinghis
bachelors,

prevails
among
to

"

above

papers

be made

to

forth from

come

But
there Mr. Saul
such chaotic elements.
away upon his mission.
that he should be engaged composed his sermons, and studied his Bible,
farce it was
when
and follpwedup, no doubt,some
the affairs of other people,
special
darling
straight
affairswere so very crooked ! As he pursuitwhich his ambition dictated. But there

make

his

will

indeed."
don't,
this,
Harrywent

After

to

what the Church

I don't know

then.

151

in which Mr.
up to the old farm-house
and acknowlhe thoughtof this,
living,

did not

he

eat his meals

; that had

been

made

impossible
by the pileof papers and dust ; and
self
his boiled rasher,
his chop,therefore,
or bit
or
edged.tohimself that he could hardlymake himof pig'sfry,was
for him on the little
in earnest about his sister'saffairs because
deposited
tried to fillhimself
of his own
He
and there consumed.
troubles.
dressing-table,
and
with a proper feelingof dignified
wrath
Such was the solitary
man
apartment of the gentlewho now
rate
high paternalindignation
againstthe poor cuaspiredto the hand of Miss Claand at the back of it all, vering; and for this accommodation, including
; but under it all,
of "10
and in front of it all,
there was
ever
present to attendance,he paid the reasonable sum
He then had "60 left with which
him his own
position.Did he wish to escape per annum.
from Lady Ongar; and if so, how was
clothe himself like a gentleman
he to do
to feed himself,
it? And ifhe did not escape from Lady Ongar,
a dutysomewhat
neglected and performhis
Saul

was

how

was

"

"

charities !
up his head again ?
He had sent a note to Mr. Saul on the prehe looked around
as
him,
vious
Harry Clavering,
of his sister. The walls
eveninggivingnotice of his intended visit,felt almost ashamed
and had received an answer, in which the curate
and stained in many places;
were
whitewaslied,
had promisedthat he would be at home.
seemed
He
and the floor in the middle of the room
had never
who
has
before been in Mr. Saul's room, and
What
to be verry rotten.
man
young
as

how

were

to hold

ever

he

entered it,
felt
incongruouswas

suitor
had

he

the idea of Mr.

his sister. The

to

stronglythan

more

things comfortable
had
a people who

himself

ever

Saul

as

house

^weltever

In comfort
Mr.

his sister?

ror

would

like such

Saul,however,came

Claveringshad always forward with no marks of visible shame on

around
them.
They face,and greetedhis visitor frankly with
lived

ever

Brussels

on

open

"You

hand.

down

came

from

his
an

London

I suppose ?" said Mr. Saul.

yesterday,
"
Just so,"said Han-y.
not
Sevres china were
familiar to them ; but
"Take
a
seat;"and Mr. Saul suggestedthe
lacked any thingthat is needed
arm-chair,but Harry contented himself with
they had never
"
clerical world.
of the others.
I hope Mrs. Claveringis
for the comfort of the first-class
one
Mr. Saul in his abode boasted but few comforts.
well?"
"Quite well,"said Harry,cheerfully.
"And
sister?
He inhabited a bigbedroom,in which there was
Quitewell,
your fatherland
"I would
vast
and a very small grate the thank you,"said Harry,very stiffly.
a
fireplace,
down to you at the rectory,"
said Mr.
modern than the have come
more
grate being very much
fireplace.There was a small rag of a carpet Saul,"instead of bringingyou up here; only,
deal as you have heard,no doubt, I and your father
the hearth,and on this stood a large
near
had a difference." This Mr.
table
of unalloyeddeal,withput have unfortunately
a table made
and then
mendacious
forward
Saul
said
without
a
paint,
putting
apparent effort,
tense
preany
any
in the direction of mahogany.
One
left Harry to commence
the farther conversation.

carpets, and

had

chairs.

seated

Ormolu,

themselves

in

cious
capa-

hangings,and

damask

"

"

"

wooden

arm-chair

Windsor

in its way

was

"

very comfortable
the use
of Mr.

"

to
appropriated

Saul himself,
and two other small wooden chairs
flanked the bther side of the fireplace.In one
distant

corner

in another

stood

distant

Mr.

corner

Against

the

Saul's small

bed,and

Of course, you know

about?" said Harry.
"Not
what

wall

stood

come

here

but
any rate,not so clearly
wish you to tell me."
have gone to my father as a suitorfor

exactly
; at

sister'shand."

rickety my

I'm

I would

stood his small dressing-table. "You

deal press in which he kept his clothes.

Other
One
of the large
furniture there was
none.

what

"

"Yes,
"

Now

I have."
you

must

know

that that is altogether

talked of.
be even
impossible
I
need
a
nd
in
the
wide
father
not tell you
embrace
"So
closed,
says.
your
permanently
was
placeda portionof Mr. Saul's librarybooks that I was very sorry to hear him speakin that
which he had brought with him from college
; way."
be in
and on the ground,under this closed window,
"But, my dear fellow,
you can't really
You can't suppose it possible
that he
were
arranged the others,making a long row, earnest?
which
stretched from the bed to the dressing-would allow such an engagement?"
I have no answer
"As
I fear,to the attacks of
to the latter question,
table,very pervious,
and certainly
the fireplace
mice.
The
to give; but'I certainly
was
was
am
big table near
covered with books and papers
and,alas ! with in earnest."
windows

facingtoward the farm-yardhad

been

"

thingnot

"

to

"

"

"

dust ; for he had fallen into that terrible habit

"

Then

I must

say that I think

you

have

THE

152

gentlemanshould

of

the conduct

idea of what

erroneous

very

^AVERINGS.
a

said Mr. Saul,

Stop a moment, Clavering,"
and standingwith his back to the big
rising,
fireplace."Don't allow yourselfto say in a
hurry words which you will afterward regret.
"

I do

"

I don't

not

am

to have

want

intended to

have

think you can

here and tell me
that I
not

an

up, and

head,you
rightcan

that

"What

you

have

"

without

it.

"

myselffor

to

for

moment

"

or

most

he

would

of the

heard

himself

in

as

have

pressed
arrangement, ex-

satisfied. One

sort

some

better than

been

it is understood

the rector

no
rightto marry her in such
out
with your fathei-'sconsent or withIt is a thingwhich I have never
posed
pro-

condition

see

com-se

on

in the worlds'

interview.

two, but

that Mr.
hardlybe expected
could take himself away instantly,
without
for a hole in which to layhis head.

I should have

"

she'll

sure

an

then it could

ling
shil-

for

thingfarther that I can do for

happy. Mr. Sanl did not
that Harry Claveringcould do any thing
him, and then Harry took his leave. The

argument with you ; month

if you have any thingto say

had better .say it to her."

wish

to

sense

If there is any
you, I shall be

gentleman."

"
but you must give it up ; that's all.
"
If you mean
Give what up ?
giveup your
do that. She may
shall never
I certainly
sister,

give me

much

too

rector,when

come

after that I'm

and
quiteimpossible,

is

have

be."

to her."

said.

that he is not

Saul
ing
look"

Of

her?"

to see

to this,
plained
Harry explace,expressinghis
opinionthat Mr. Saul would,at any rate,keep
his word. "Interview,
indeed!" said the rector.
"It is the man's audacitythat most
astonishes

what

It passes

me.

dare

can

In

had

answer

taken

to think

me

such

to propose

how

such

fellew

thing. What

is it

proposedto yourself?"that he expects as the end of it?" Then Harry

before he spoke, endeavored
Mr. Saul paused a moment
to repeatwhat Mr. Saul had said as
but he was
expectations,
looking down at the dustyheap upon his table, to his own
quiteaware
his father understand
that he failed to make
as
though hoping that inspiration
might come
understood
them
to him
from them.
I will tell you what I those expectations
as he had
when
the words
from Mr. Saul's own
have proposed,"said he, at last,
"as nearlyas
came
I can
Harry Claveringhad acknowledgedto
put it into woi'ds. I propose to myselfto mouth.
have the image in my heart of one hnimin being himself that it was
not to respectthe
impossible
"And

what

have you

"

whom

love above

can

all the world

Deside ; I

hope that I, as others,may

to

propose

day

some

I so love may become

marry, and that she whom
my wife ; I propose to bear with such courage as
certain delay,and probable
absolute
I can
much
failure in all this ; and

I propose also to expect

no, hardly to expect that that which I will
do for her,she will do for me.
Now
you know

poor curate.
To Mrs. Clavering,
of course, fell the task of
explainingto Fanny what had been done,and
what

"And,

"

"

of this,
all my mind, and you may be sure
that
I willinstigate
your sister to no disobedience."
she will not see you again."
coui"se
I shall think that hard after what has passed

"Of
"

between
see

of

course

; but I

us

shall
certainly

"And,

must

you

"But

lie comfortable
"What
"The
time
"

it,I will go

at the

end

of

two

months.

comply with this,I hope my requestto

As
see

your

before I go will not be refused."

It could do no good,Mr. Saul."

sister once
"

go away,

and

he

not

are

to

meet

course

I would

nor

papa

"But

doubt

your

if he

comes

word

for

what

I do

can

to

me?"

Fanny, almost whimpering.

has said that he will not, and
either."

doubt

we

do

not

his word
I

am

sure

you

need

Whatever

not.

body may say, Mr. Saul is as much a gentleman

as
though he had the best livingin the

diocese.

I will go in two months' time.

home
to go to, and no
other
of livelihood ; but, as your father wishes

to

moment."

word

other

is

not, if you and papa say so."

told your papa that it will onlybe
and that then yon can
necessary to tell you this,
if you jilease.
go to your school just as usual,

any

well.

no

I have

"That

father should
my
this way."

does your father mean

by 'at once?'"
the better ; say in two
months'
farthest."

Very

means

and

sooner

at

I have

that you

not

can

parishtogetherin

in the

on

go

Of

"

"He
It

He

"

months."

tw o

of course, you

"

asked

mean.

be done.

before that."

Neither

leave us."

So your father says."

leave us at once, I

"

endeavor

not

clandestinely."
under these circumstances,
Mr. Saul,

her

to

goingto

was

my dear, at the end of

"Very well,mamma."

No

one

knew

ever

hair's breadth

him
do

break

his

any thing
else that he ought not to do."
And Fanny,
she pronounced this rather strong eulogium,
as
began to sob. Mrs. Claveringfelt that Fanny
and almost ill-natured,
was
in speakheadstrong,
ing
in this tone of her lover,
after the manner
not

"

"

or

"

"

in which
be

"

she had

been

treated ; but there could

Mr. Saul's virtues,

and
discussing
it would
do great good and, as I therefore she let the matter
"To
me
drop. If you will
take my advice,"
she said,"you will go about
think,no harm to her."
justas usual. You'll soon re.
"My father,I am
sure, will not allow it. your occupations
in that way."
Indeed,why should he ? Nor, as I understand, cover your spirits
no

in

use

"

"

would
"
"

my sister wish it."

Has she said so?"

Not

to

"iny idea of

me
a

that
has acknowledged
between herselfand you
marriage
; but she

"I

don't want

Fanny

"

to

but,if you

recover

wish

my

said
spirits,"

it,I'llgo

on

with the

schools."
It

was

quite manifest

now

that

F.innyin-

CLAVERINGS.

THE

tended

to play the r6]e of a broken-hearted

lady,and to regardthe absent Mr. Saul

yonng
with

153

blame

not

her.

fault there

Whatever

Then

is all mine."

be
may
of what

he told her much

devotion.
That this should be had occurred in Bolton Street.
We
passionate
may
pose
supof
that
b
cause
esaid
mad
that
he
Claveringfelt to be the more
caress
cruel,
nothing
such tendencies had been shown before nothing,
no
perlwps,of the final promisewhich he
the paternal
sentence
againstMr. Saul had been made to Julia as he last passedout of her presence
her own
had begun
passed. Fanny, in telling
tale,
; but he did giveher to understand that he
had in some
by declaringthat any such an engagement
way returned to his old passionfor
Mr.

so

was

"

She
impossibility.

an

have

to

had not asked perwhom

he had firstloved.
missionthe woman
She had
I should describe Mrs. Claveringin language
a lover.

Mr. Saul for

hint that she

givenno

I to lead the reader

even
too highlyeulogistic
were
hoped for such permission.
that was
done which
to believe that she was
to such
averse
altogether
now, when
she herself had almost dictated,
from a
she took upon
would
her
to
as
accrue
son
advantages
But

herself to live

badlyas
!

she

ill used

were

castle among
in this way she would

And

deeplyin
nf all

though

as

heroine in

love with

Mr.

Saul ;

that the edict of banishment

that which

brilliant as

so

make

now

with

be- the late earl.

come
really

almost
which, Mrs. Clavering

would,perhaps,have

marriage

as

nines
Apen-

the

the

Mrs.

he

might

widow

grandlydowered
Claveringby no

of
spised
de-

means

thinking
worldlygoods; and she had,moreover,
better
idea that her highly-gifted
an
was
son
regretted
forth. It adapted
to the spendingthan to the making of

had gone
to have leftMr.

been better

the
It had come
at
to be believed
money.
Saul to go about the parish,
and to have laughed rectorythat thoughHarry had worked very hard
Fanny out of her fancy. But it was too late at college as is the case with many highly-born
for that,
and Mrs. Clavering
now
said nothing young
doubtedly,
gentlemen and though he would, unfarther on the subject
to any one.
hard if he were
continue
to work
"

"

On

the

day followinghis

Harry Claveringwas
go back to-London
; and
ill in bed.
Then
it

to
was

mother

to write to Mrs.

he told his mother

the letter

it, and

see

Burton
he

was

desirous

was

and
speciallyworded,Mrs. Burton

on

the next

day he

that he

got his

was

certain that he

When

very anxious
that it should

"

the

"

there

be

to make

as

had, of course, been

now, if Harry were

trouble on that score

to

Florence

in truth too ill

was

excel

never

of the

would

There
but
this,

regret.

be

But

over.

Claveringallowed
be

But

Lady Ongar, all

matter, she knew

should

claims

to

more

to marry

Mrs.

When

to think

London, though not ill enough to

"
create
alarm.
Why not simplylet me say that
you are kept here for a day or two ?" asked Mrs.
Clavering.
to

to come

congenialoccupations such as
like nevertheless,
he would
greatlyin any drudgerythat would

among

and
politics

be necessary for the making of money.

then,also, had been something to be proud of in

; and

written

so

thrown

too unwell

"

part of his troubles.

written

was

visit to the farmhouse

unwell

held

as

poor
self
her-

ence's
that Flor-

paramount.

she thought farther and thought

And
when
she knew also that Harry'shonor and
seriously,
that he should be
Harry'shappinessdemanded
his hand
had been
"Because
I promisedthat I would
be in true to the girlto whom
Onslow Terrace to-morrow, and she must
not
promised. And, then,was not Lady Ongar's
ed
think that I would stayaway if I could avoid it." name
tainted ? It might be that she had sufferThen
in this. It might be that no
Mrs. Claveringclosed the letter and
cruel ill-usage
directed it. When
Mrs. Clavering
she had done that,and put such taint had been deserved.
it the postage-stamp,she asked,in h. voice
could plead the injuredwoman's
when
cause
on
Intended
that was
to
be indifferent,
whether
speakingof it without any close reference to her
in London
Florence was
own
belongings
; and,hearingthat she
; but it would have been very
her
that
the
had there been no Florence
to
letter
was
even
grievous her,
surprise
so, expressed
should

said
"

and

be written to Florence.

not

"My

engagement

with

hope

nothing
wrong

you
this tion
quesimmediate
no
answer, and Mrs.
afraid to presfeit. But after

recurred

he

to

the

To

subjecthimself.

"Mother," he said,"thingsare
and

Florence

been

"

do

mean

Then
not

hardlv be

to

between

wrong

I done ?
a

"My
As

for
who

man

has

It is not

you
know
worse

pause.

|be
true

about

Lady Ongar?"

Of
heard,mother?
what you have heard,but

have

than the truth.

is that

But

yon

course

it can
must

should

son

as

woman

make

to whose

in doubt.

was

true

late in the

him

to

father had

littlebefore my
she
darling,"

her, Florence

her."

Harry,do not say that. What

?

the world

came

his sister and

"A
have

by marrying a

evening,when
ting
justleft him, and, sitwith her hahd upon his,spoke one
word,
which perhapshad more
weightwith Harry than
any woid that had yet been spoken. "Have
dear?" she said.
you slept,
She

has she done?"

simplytrusted herself to

"Dear
you

what

It is rather what

false

his fortune

me."

"Oh, Harry!
she has

between

?" said his mother.

Harrymade

"

Burton,"

character

there is

Florence

while

in the case, that her

Burton

Mrs.

Harry.
I

Clavering was
a

was

; will you

"My
where

own

your

father
"

said,

not ?"

in."

came

you will be true

Then
there was

Harry,tell me

to
a

that you will

truth is due."

mother,"he said.
will,
own
boy my darling
boy my own true
My
serve
gentleman!" Harry felt that he did not debut praiseundeserved,
the praise;
though

"I
"

it may

"

be satirein

"

is often very
disguise,

useful.

154

CLAVERINGS.

THE

CHAPTER

the next

On

XXXV.

day Harry

but
better,

not

was

the doctor stillsaid that tliere was

for

cause

no

great catch for Archie,"said Harry.

"

It's a

"

Archie

Clavering is

Clavering.
"They say
rector,who

fool,"said Mrs.

he understands

then left the

said
yacht,"

the

room.

rector's news
Sir Hugh
The
all true.
and
from a low fever,
was
suiFcring
down
to the Park, and had
Claveringhad come
kept out of his room.
his intention of going to Norway in
and it announced
and
He
was
would
restless,
not sleep,
vited
time before he could return to Jack Stuart's yacht. Archie also had been inmight be some
to join the party. Sir Hugh intended to
London.
in about a week, and had not
Earlyin the day the rector came into his son's leave the Thames
mation
thought it necessary to give his wife any intibedroom, and told him and his mother,who was
of the fact,
till he told her himself of
which he had just heard from
there,the news
"
He
the great house.
took,I think,a delightin
home," he bis intention.
Hugh has come
" and
is
going out yachtingfor the rest of being thus overharsh in his harshness to her.
said,
the summer.
They are going to Norway in He provedto himself thus not only that he was
is going with
be master
without
Jack
Stuart's yacht. Archie
master, but that he would
known
Archie was
to be a great any let or drawback,without compunctions,
and
them."
Now
without excuses
for his illconduct.
There
in a yacht,cognizant of ropes, well up in even
man
should be no pleaput in bj'him in his absences
and spars, very intimate with bolts,
and
booms
hands a tiller came
when
as
to whose
one
naturallythat he had only gone to catch a few fish,
horse to the his intentions had been other than piscatorial.
as did the saddle of a steeple-chase
They are going He intended to do as he liked now and always,
legs of his friend Doodles.
alarm.

He

was

his sister had

better be

' '

to

fish,"said the

he intended

and

rector.

that his wife should

know

that

yachtis only a river-boat such was his intention. She was now childless,
to keep
or just
bigenough for Cowes Harbor,but noth- and therefore he had no other terms
thing more," said Harry,roused in his bed to with her than those which appertainedto her
necessities for bed and board.
There
excitement
the
some
was
by the news.
"I know
nothing about Jack Stuart or his house, and she might live in it; and there were
said the rector; "but that's what
the butchers,and the bakers,
and other tradesboat either,"
men
He's down here, at any rate,for
to supplyher wants.
Nay, there were the
theytold me.
old carriage
with him."
and the old horses at her disposal,
I saw
the servant that came
"What
shame
it is, said Mrs. Clavering if they could be of any service to her.
Such
a
Sir Hugh Clavering'sideas as to the bonds
shame."
"a scandalous
were
his going away?" said the recinflicted upon him by his marriage vows.
"You
mean
tor.
"I'm
It was
going to Norway next week."
his leavingher here by thus Sir Hugh communicated
"Of
I do
his intention to
course
all alone.
He can
have no heart
after his wife within five minutes
of their firstgreetherself,
ing.
she has done.
as
losingher child,and suffering
"

Jack

But

Stuart's

"

"

"

"

"

It makes

ashamed

me

"You

can't alter

of my

dear.

He

has his

and his bad,and the bad

good qualities
far the

by

"
"

more

I don't know
He

does

after him

get into debt.

not

though he

is

cruel.

hard

Not
for

is

He

will not

are

that I like him.

Ongar,and
worse

am

then

"

want

I detest

fortable
com-

so

Vith me, and

to quarrel
quarrelwith him."
him," said Harry,from beneath

that

this Slimmer,
week."
a
"

"I

"

the

he

don't

be tronbled with him

for he

means

Not

"Live

here,as

any

more

to be off in less than

may

see

difference to her.
he's in
inore

England,and

ever

since Julia

that it will make

He's

never

with

her

I should think she

comfortable without

him

much
when

must

be

than with him."

we

suppose

We
of

coast

scend
conde-

not

shall be

back

before

talkingof puttingin on the

probably
to Brittany. I shall be back,
the hunting. As for the partridges,

are

Normandy somewhere,and
down

run

at any

she has done

would

before October."

rate,for
the game

here that

mfifried. I don't

He

hood,
any part of his doingsby a falsethis questionwith exact
answered

'

"No.

what Is she to do ?" asked Mrs. Clavering.

And

screen

be gone?"
Clavering's
theorjshould be no lying

you

that there

of them.

October."

to

won't

long will

these matters

in the conduct

bedclothes.
"You

from spending
spending money

part of Sir Hugh

was

to

as

for how

him

from

always truth.

feel that he wants

I almost

"And
It

to

never

in his presence.

"

than

men

keep

rather
or
money
which isn't his."

family

before him ; and,

he does nothing actively

It will

going too.

his

was

that there

moment

are

has."

will leave the

man,
of Lord

Think

remember
you'll

Hugh.

He

well off as it

as

ones

conspicuous."
he
any good qualities

destroythe property.

To Norway,Hugh ?"
I and one
"Yes; why not to Norway?
or
two othershave got some
there.
Archie
fishing
"

name."

own

him, my

"You'll

they are

he away

"I

suppose I
Then
October."
she would

has gone so much

to the devil
worth comingfor."
not

have

returned,and

four months!"

if I
shall,
he

left

considered
have

decided

don't

come

back

till

that
her,calculating
the matter
that

no

before he

good could

THE

CLAVERINGS.

165

his any body would have been so cruel as you are

her from complaint. She knew
self to me."
Then
she broke down and burst into
now, and would no doubt reconcile herto it quickly perhapswith a few tears, tears.
"
which
would
not
Have you done,Hermy?" said her husband.
hurt him if he did not see
to

come

purpose

"

them.

"No,

But

this blow

bear

could
Clavering
husband

his

than

more

Lady

"

I've

done."

not

again,"said he.
she had done, and
truth,

Then

go

on

than she could

But, in
should have grudged repeather last accusation.

was

"

more

"Why she

bear in silence.
her

almost

was

tripabroad,seeing that

his

could

You're

only

very, very

cruel."

jiresence in England could hardlyhave been a

solace to her,it is hard to understand.
Had he

remained in England he would rarelyhave been

rfitClavering
Park,and when he was at the Park
he would rarelyhave given her the benefit of

"

"

You

"And

said that before."

I'llsay it again. I'll tellevery

I will.

so

and

I'll tell your

uncle

at the

body,

rectory,

he shall speakto

''

you."
here,Hermy, I can

Look

bear

deal

of

women
ai'e
from you, because
some
nonsense
togetherhe was
they were
in gloomy givento talk nonsense
usuallyscoldingher,or else sitting
; but if I find you telling
most tales about me
out of this house,and especially
as
silence,
though that phaseof his life was alI'lllet you
him.
He
to
to
was
or
so
ally
unusuinsupportable
my uncle, indeed to any body,
in his intercourse with her, know what it is to be cruel."
disagreeable
would think,
than you are."
that his absence,
be prefmust
one
erable "You can't be worse

his

society.When

to his presence.

But

women

bear

can

thing better than desertion.

any
but

Crneltyis bad,
than cruelty,
and desertion
neglect. To be treated as

neglectis worse

worse

than

even

though she

existence,or

in

not

were

as

though

I supthat's all. And

as
pose
try me
said all that you've got to
you have now
will regardthat subject
as
say, if you pleasewe
had said all that
finished."
The poor woman
"Don't

"

could say, and

she

had

farther

no

of

means

In
her thoughts she
the war.
dured, carryingon
simply to be ento be forgotten,could do so ; in her thoughtsshe could wander
and, as far as possible,
than even
was
more
Lady Claveringcould bear forth out of the gloomy house in the night,and
left perishin the damp and cold,leavinga paper
without
her husband
complaint. When
she might turn
she sat meditating how
behind her to tell the world that her husband's
hei",
not
She was
a woman
crueltyhad broughther to that pass. Or she
againsther oppressor.
who
knew
would go to Julia and leave him forever.
lia,
Juapt for fightingunlike her sister,
stillreceive her.
she thought,would
But
well how to use
the cudgelsin her own
behalf;
made
she was
timid,not giftedwith a full flow of as to one thingshe had certainly
up her
dependent; mind ; she would go with her complaintto Mrs.
words,prone to sink and become
with all these deficiencies
but she
she
even
Claveringat the rectory,let her lord and master
in whatever
form
he might
make
stand againstthe show
his anger
felt that she must
some
she
be
to
which
now
to
was
subjected. please.
outrage
her a
The next day Sir Hugh himself made
"Hugh," she said,when next she saw him,
"
which somewhat
softened the aspect
that you are
mean
going to proposition
you can't really
her existence

were

nuisance

"

leave
"I

from

me

said

this time tillthe winter?"

tillOctober."

Well"

"

I said that I
I

"I

not believe

to think

will be

if you
I won't stand it."

here,Hermy,

Look

names

"And
to do ?

of

I won't

; I

it,Hugh

that you

myself
"

say."

can

stand

voice,with

so

"

"

cruel."

take

to

Julia here?"

Have

not ?
She'll come, I'm sure,
she knows that my back is turned."
"I've never
thought about asking her at
least not lately."

calling

"

Yes ;

why

when

it either.

What

I to be here in this dreadful

How
would
house all alone ?

Am
a

he did in his usual

somethingof a smile on his face,and speaking

oblivious of the
as
though he were altogether
of yesterday.' ' I was thinking,
scenes
usuallymean
Hermy,
he said,"that you mighthave Julia down
hero
not bring while I am
can
away."
.

and
going,

was

This

of affairs.

the winter."

nothingabout

"

what

"

"

"

Would you bear it for one

I won't remain
alone four or five?
like it?

am

rack
bar-

"

"

you

month, let
here,I tell

so

No,

of

course.

It

now.

seems

But you
that she

might
never

as

goes

well do
to

On-

will.
never
Park,and, as far as I can learn,
goingto see her myself"
you that fairly."
"
do you want
You going to see her ?"
Where
to go ?"
"I don't want
to go any where,but I'll go
"Yes; Lord Ongar'speople want to know
I will indeed.
and die
I'll whether she can be induced to giveup the place
somewhere
away
1 have
that is,to sell her interest in it.
or
destroymyself, something."
"Psha!"
promisedto see her. Do you write her a letter
What
and tell her that I want to see her,and ask
it'sa joke to you.
first,
"Yes, of course
gar
I'm

"

"

"

"

have
any

I done to deserve

thing that
of Hughy

you

Have

this ?

told

not ?

me

ever

done

my darling so it is; and it's

cruel of you, and not like a husband ; and it's
not
manly. It's very cruel. I didn't think
"

"

her also to

come

here

as

soon

she

as

can

leave

It's all because London."

"But

wouldn't the

you?"
"
Well, one

lawyersdo

would think

so

it better than

but I

am

com-

CLAVEEINGS.

THE

156

"
apologyfrom
Why couldn't I go to Brighton?" said
Coui-ton family. They fancythey've Lady Clavering,
boldly.
said Sir Hugh.
believe
I don't choose it,"
"Because
upon her,and, by George ! I

missioned

to make

the whole
been

hard

her

liind of

for
I may
be able to say a word
If she isn't a fool she'll put her

they have.

After

that she

did

the

to

go

rectory,and told

ten
Claveringall her troubles. She had writto you."
her
down
to
and
however,
in
her
come
having,
sister,
delayedthe
anger
pocket,
Lady Claveringliked the idea of having her doing of this for two or three days,and she had
from Lady
not
not at this time received an
answer
sister with her, but she was
quite meek
hear
from
her
sister till
her
Nor
did
she
the
now
receive
to
Ongar.
permission
given
enough
It was on the day
She
after Sir Hugh had left her.
full compensationfor the injurydone.
as
to the recbefore his departurethat she went
said that she would
do as he had bidden her,j
tory,
this
I
herself
driven
to
of rebellion
act
and then went back to her own
grievances.
finding
"
I will never
if she would come
for by his threat of Moor
Hail.
don't suppose Julia,even
ge
I
there
she
find it very pleasantto live there unless
am
a littletime, would
dragged
by force,"
said to Mrs. Clavering.
in such a placeas this,all alone."
wouldn't
be all alone when
"I
don't think he means
"She
that,"said Mrs.
you are
and then again i Clavering. "He
with her,"said Hugh, gruffly,
to make
only wants
you
used to understand
that you'd better remain
at
the
went
out, leavinghis wife to become
Park."
her misfortune by degrees.
It was
not
that Lady Clavering
But if you knew what a house it is to be all
surprising
alone in."
should dislike her solitude at ClaveringPark
that Sir Hugh should find
Dear
But
House, nor surprising
Hermione, I do know !
you
the placedisagreeable.The house was
to ns oftener,
and let us endeavor to
a large, must
come
with none
of the pretti-make
it better for you."
building,
square stone

myself too.

Mrs.

"

"

"

of modern

nesses

country houses about it.

from the

gardenswere

away

desolate

park

fiat

The

windows.

came

house,and
close

up

rooms

the

around

The

cold,
the

largeand lofty
of a largehousehold,

were

But

"

"

furniture

one."

there

and

"

entered

the

did

ever

she

rooms

lanes in the old

tit a

that

small

ground

front door
than

half

floor.

wilderness

to

of

will

be reached.

to

was

"I

Nor

she
her'days

never

and

door;
absences

so

it

let out

was

to

came

of the lord of the

pass

I'm

what

submit

would

be mad

I should

me

Mrs.
much

the
that

band
husthat

of
this,

it ; but it

some
telling

Mr.

tell him

course.

at

Clavering
once

longer. Of

that I
he

course

with

to kill
rage, but if he were
like it better than having to go on
I'm sure
he is only waitingfor

Clavering said

comfort

all

I'll ask

to it any

come

to do that.

it all without

to

can

my own
wretched

he'd do if he knew

speak to him, and

not

so

ashamed

telling
you

to hear

all ; but when

familycarriage,she

side

duringthe

at

home

own

poor dear!"
sometimes
think

"My

never

"

hard

so

she did so, in this way.

being dragged about the parish me to die."

stairs

preparatoryto

alone

through the

pass

by which the
Throughout more
down

the

on

hall

came

is

heavy,and the hangings

when alone
Lady Clavering,

generallywas

she

be

to

I don't know

old and

was

not

How

house,justbecause

my
bear it.

not

can

ought

dark in color.

I do that?

can

has made

very excellent for the purpose

but with nothingof that snug, prettycomfort
which solitude requires
for its solace.
The
were

how

to his uncle's

all that

she

but there
poor woman,
she could say.
She had

could
was

to
not

strongly
plan of having Lady Ongar at
cumstances,
Under
such cirthe Park,thinkingperhapsthat Hari-y
would he
any of the lower windows.
that Lady more
safe while that ladywas
there can
be no wonder
at Claveringthan
Claveringregarded the placeas a prison. I he might perhapshe if she remained in London.
But Mrs. Claveringdoubted much whether Lady
wish you could come
upon it unawares, and see
"I don't Ongar would
such
how gloomy it is,"she said to him.
consent
to make
visit.
a
let alone
She regardedLady Ongar as a hard, worldly,
think you'dstand it alone for two days,
sinned againstperall your life."
woman
pleasure-seeking
haps
if you like,said he.
I'llshut it up altogether
in much, bijt also sinningin much
self
herI to go?" she asked.
to whom
"And
where am
the desolation of the Park would
Hall if you please." be even
unendurable
than it was
"You
can
more
to the
go to Moor
the

shutters

were

not

even

moved

sion,
man-

from

advocated

the

"

"

"

' '

"

Now
a

Moor

small

Hall

was

small

house, standing on

elder

sister.

But

of this of

course

she

said

Sir Hugh, in that nothing. Lady Claveringleft her somewhat

which lies north of Dartmoor, quieted,
if not comforted,
and went back to past,
and
the Holsworthyregion,
her last evening with her husband.

propertybelongingto

part of Devonshire
somewhere

near

and as
perhaps as ugly,as desolate,
"Upon second thought,I'll go by the first
vering train,"
he said,as he saw
her for a moment
remote
fore
beas
Lady Claany part of England.
had
heard
of Moor
much
she went
"I shall have to be
Hall,and
up to dress.
dreaded
it as the heroine,
made
to live in the
off from here a littleafter six,
but I don't mind
Thus
she was
to be deprived
big grim castle low down among the Apennines, that in summer."
dreads the smaller and grimmer castle which is of such gratification
there might have been in
as
exist somewhere
known
to
with him on the last morning ! It
higher up in the breakfasting
mountains.
mightbe hard to say in what that gratification
which

is

THE

CLAVERINGS.

have consisted. She must

by this time
of
have learned that his presence gave her none

357

would

in Jack

Stuart's little boat.

Jack,the

dition

He
pleasures
usuallyexpectedfrom society.
her in every thing. He rarely
vouchsafed
slighted

the

noble
and

friend

as

said,knew

for the masters

nothing of

who

were

the matter,
hired for the

their only objectwas

to
sailingof such crafts,
all keep out as long as possible,
with an eye to their
to lier those little attentions which
It might be all very
and
ed
women
perquisites.
expect from all gentlemen. If he handwages
who
had nothing in the
her a plate,
well for Jack Stuart,
cut for her a morsel of bread
or
from the loaf,
he showed by his manner
and by world to lose but his life and his yacht; but his
his brow that the doing so was
nuisance to noble friend thoughtthat any such venture
on
a
At their meals he rarelyspoke to her, the part of Sir Hugh was
him.
simple tomfoolery.
fore But Sir Hugh was
obstinate man, and none
an
havingalwaysat breakfast a paper or a book behim, and at dinner devotinghis attention to of the Claveringswere
easilymade afraid by
a
dog at his feet. Why should she have felt personaldanger. Jack Stuart might know
herself cruelly
illused in this matter
of his last nothing about the management
of a boat,but
breakfast
so
cruellyill used that she wept Archie did. And as for the smallness of the
afresh over it as she dressed herself
he knew
of a smaller craft which
had
seeingthat craft',
she would lose so little? Because
she loved the been out on the Norway coast dui"ing
the whole
So he drove that thought
loved him,though she now
man
thoughtthat of the last season.
We
I fancy,love away from his mind, with no strong feelings
iihe hated him.
of
very rarely,
toward his noble friend.
those whose love we have not either possessed
or
gratitude
And
then,for a few moments, he thoughtof
expected or, at any rate,for whose love we
it has once
home.
liave not hoped ; but when
.What had his wife done for
existed, his own
illusage will seldom destroyit. Angry as she him, that he should put himself out of his way
for her?
She had broughthim no
with the man, ready as she was
was
to complain to do much
of him, to rebelagainst
him
She had added nothingeither by her
perhapsto separate money.
herself from him forever,
nevertheless she found
in the world.
wit,beauty,or rank to his position
that she should not sit She had givenhim no heir.
What
had he reit to bo a cruel grievance
ceived
the morning of his going.
from her that he should endure her comat table with him
on
monplace
shall bringme
of coffee as I'm
and washed-out,
"Jackson
a cup
conversation,
dowdy
he said," and I'll breakfast at the prettinesses
?
ing
Perhaps some
dressing,"
momentary feelfor
club."
She knew
that there was
of compassion,
no
reason
some
twang of conscience,
his heart,
at his club was
he thought of it all ;
came
across
as
this,except that breakfasting
with his but,if so, he checked it instantly,
in accordance
more
agreableto him than breakfasting
wife.
with the teachingsof his whole life. He had
made his reflections on all these things,
She had got rid of her tears before she came
and had
down
and
to dinner,but still she was
melancholy tutored his .mind to certain resolutions,
and almost lachrymose.This was
the last night, would not allow himself to be carried away by
and she felt that somethiiig
special
ought to be any womanly softness. She had her house, her
said ; but she did not know
What she expected, carriage,her bed, her board,and her clothes;
how very littleshe herself had conwhat it was
that she herself wished to say. and,seeing
tributed
or
the common
for
termined
I think that she was
to
an
fund,her husband deopportunity
longing
that in havingthose thingsshe had all
given.
him
to forgive
onlythat he would not be forIf he would have spoken one
soft word
that she had a rightto claim.
Then
he drank
and went
into the drawinghave acceptedthat one woi'd a glass of sherry,
to her, she would
with that hard smile upon his face which
He
room
an
as
apology; but no such word came.
accustomed
he was
to wear
when
he intended to
his wine
to her at dinner,
sat opposite
drinking
his
that
wife
she
to
and feeding his dog; but he was
no
more
might as well make
cious signify
grathe best of existing
and not cause
necessary
unto her at this dinner than he had been on
things,
trouble by givingherself airs or assuming
any former day. She sat there pretendingto
that she was
and then, to
unhappy.
eat, speaking a dull word now
and she had her cup
He had his cup of coffee,
which his answer
was
a monosyllable,
looking
or
two littleattempts
one
from under her eyes, through the of tea, and she made
at him
out
whether
at
w
as
ing
movto see
sayingsomething special something that
any feeling
candlelight,
him ; and then, having pretendedto eat a might lead to a word or two as to their parting
;
and she was
she left him to himself. but he was
careful and crafty,
coupleof strawberries,
and she failed. He had
awkward
and timid
the last. There
not
however, this was
Still,
been there an hour,when, lookingat his
for an embrace
for hardly
would come
moment
some
he would be watch, he declared that it was
ten o'clock,
and
cold half-embrace,in which
some
it might
that he would go to bed. Well, perhaps
of
farewell.
a
forced to utter something
He, when he was left alone,first turned his be best to bringit to an end,and to go through
have
done with it! Any
of Jack Stuart and his yacht. this embrace, and
mind to the subject
to be spoken on either side,
letter
from
that
was
tender
word
a
received
that
a
He had on
day
clear to her,must be spoken in that
that he was able it was
now
noble friend
a friend so noble
last farewell.
There was
a tear in her
with Sir Hugh Clavering
to take libertieseven
"jye as
"

"

"

"

"

"

"

"

"

"

"

in which
was

his noble friend had

fool to trust himself

on

that he

told him
so

long

an

expe-

she

rose

of her

to kiss him
own

; but the tear

and
good will,

was

she strove

not
to

there

get rid

CLAVERINGS.

THE

158

without
so that he could not esc^e
shoulders,
almost
was
forehead
and her
rose, and,havinglit for himself a bed-candle,shaking her off,
she
said,
his
bosom.
"you
"Hugh,"
he
on
said, resting
was
Good-by,Hermy,"
ready to go.
for what I said to
be angry with me
his
not
in
must
candle
the
w
ith
hand,
submittinghimself,

of it without his

As

seeingit.

he

spokehe

also

"

to the inevitable embrace.

"Good-by, Hugh;
said,puttingher arms
"

pray take

care

of

and

bless

God

his neck.

round

you," she

"Pray

"

yourself.

All right,"
he said.

be

was

His

with
position

the

awkward,and he wished that it might

over.

But

"

"And
like your

"

Husband

candle

you."
Very well,"said he,
Hugh,"

said

"

I won't."

she, "of

course

I can't

going."

and Wife.
"

Oh yes, you will,"

said he.
I can't like it ; but,Hugh, I will not
think illof it any more.
Only be here as much

"No,

she had a word prepared

which she was
when you come
home."
as you
can
determined to utter
that
creature
weak
"All
right,"said he; then he kissed her
poor
she was.
round his forehead and escaped
She stillhad her arm
from her,and went
his
"

CLAVERINGS.

THE
as lie went, that she
himself,
way, telling
fool.

That

the last he

was

of her

saw

was

before his

"

between

sun

glanced upon her

from the porch,and

forth

her curtains

"

the

descend

should

the

say not.
My idea is that
ghost of chance,and that,as

haven't

done

I have

"But
"You

great

thingall

his

may

done

this

time,you

you
you
need

"

something,"said Archie,

seventy pounds.
well give it up, for she
as

means

Harry."

to marry

and drive himself

steps,and get into his dog-cart,

any

trouble "J'ourself
now.

not

thinkingof

earlysummer
him
saw
come
eyelids,
as

haven't

yachtingcommenced; but she

poor fool!
was
up by times in the morning,and,peeping
out

"

159
'

"No!"

"But
I tell you
she does.
While yoii've
Then, when the sound of the gig
no
longerheard,and when her eyes been thinkinghe's been doing. Prom what 1
could no longercatch the last expiringspeckof hear,he may have her to-morrow
for the asking."
his hat,the poor fool took herself to bed again
and cried herself to sleep.
"But
he's engaged to that girlwhom
they
had with them down at the rectory, said Archie,
away.
could be

"

in

CHAPTER

tone

a,

should

XXXVI.

Burton
CAPTAIN

CLAVEEING

The

MAKES

HIS

Archie

yachtingscheme was
by his brother Hugh.

he

make

can

come,"
that

thingwas
boat

said

as

ATTEMPT.

"

first proposedto

showed

with

What

he'll let

does that matter

thousand

seven

gone

forth,the

good as arranged."Jack

finds the

and

men, and I find the -gruband

"
and pay for the fishing,
said Hugh ;
need not
make
any bones about it."

wine
"

damages,that
Archie
more

"

so you
Archie

he

did

You

don't suppose

slipthrough his
promisedto marry a little
peoplechoose to proceed
a

year

"
because he had
Jack says that fingers
berth for you, and you'd better girllike her?
If her
the elder brother,
againsthim they'llmake
understanding

thus

horror

what

toward Plorence
regardany inconstancy
the part of Harry Clavering.
on

his edict had

when

LAST

which

him

pay

swinging

is all."
not

than

like this idea

at

intent

his

ever

on

and
all,
own

came
be-

monial
matri-

prospects. He almost thoughtthat he

right to Lady Ongar's money, and he
did think that a monstrous
certainly
injustice
done to him by this idea of a marriagebetween
was
her and his cousin.
I mean
to ask her,
I've gone so far,certainly,"
said he.
as
had

not
disposedto make any bones about it as
regardedhis acceptance either of the berth or
of tlie grub and wine, and as he would be expected
to earn
his passage by his work, there
for any scruple
"You
do as you like about that."
no
was
can
arose
necessity
; butthere
the question
whether
he had not got more
portant ' ' Yes,,
imof course
I can
do as I like ; but when
fish to fry. He had not as yet made
in for a thing,
he likes to see
a fellow has gone
his proposalto Lady Ongar; and althoughhe it through."He
still thinking of the
was
knew
that he had nothingto hope from the seventy pounds which
he had
now
and
invested,
Russian
Spy,nevertheless he thought that he which he could now recover onlyout of Lady
hand at the venture.
might as well try his own
Ongar'3pocket.
"And
to say you won't come
His resolution on this head was
to
alwaysstronger
you mean
after dinner than before,
and generally
became
Norway ?"
vanced, "Well, if she acceptsme
stronger and more
strong as the evening ad"
If she acceptsyou," said Hugh, " of course
that he usuallywent
so
to bed with a
but supposingshe don't?"
firm determination
"to pop," as he called it to you can't come;
"In
that
his friend Doodles,earlyon the next
but
day ;
case, I might as well do that as any
said Archie.
distance affected him as well as the hour of the thingelse,"
Whereupon Sir Hugh
would join
to Jack Stuart that Archie
signified
day, and his purpose would become surprisingly
cool in the neighborhoodof Bolton
Street. the party,and went down to Claveringwith no
When, however,his brother suggestedthat he misgivingon that head.
another
Some few days after this there was
should be taken altogether
away from the scene
and of little dinner at the military
of action,he thoughtof the fine income
club,to which no
and his friend
admitted but Archie
was
one
Ongar Park with pangs of regret,and ventured
these prandialconsulta"But
Whenever
tions
there's this Doodles.
upon a mild remonstrance.
Archie
the
bill.
There
said
he.
were
affairof Julia,
held,
paid
know,"
you
all offj"said Hugh.
but the
"I thoughtthat was
were
no
spoken terms to that effect,
"
seemed
to come
to both of
Oh dear,ho,not off at all. I haven't asked regulation
naturally
them.
her yet."
Why should Doodles be taken from his
vote
"I know
you've not, and I don't suppose billiards half an hour earlier than usual,and dewill."
a
portionof the calculating
powers of his
you ever
it. I brain to Archie's service without compensation?
"Yes, I shall" that is to say, I mean
of a hurry
And a richer vintagewas needed when so much
advised not to be in too much
was
of which
the burden
that is to say, I thoughtit best to let her settle thought was
required,
allow to fall on his
Archie would not of course
down a littleafter her first seeingrae."
friend's shoulders. Were
not this explained,
"To
from her confusion ?"
recover
reader would regardthe devoted
"Well, not exactlythat. I don't suppose the experienced
of Doodles as exaggerated.
she was
confused."
friendship
was

"

"

"

"

CLAVEEINGS.

THE

160
"I

shall
certainly

with
Archie, looking

ask her

to-morrow," said
of

cast
thoughtful

through the club window

be hurryingthe matter
may
can't help that."
He
spoke

tenance
coun-

into the street.

"It

but
little,

"

in

somewhat

self,
boastful tone, as though he were
proudof himthat he had said the same
and had forgotten
words

you're there

that

her know

of his absence

nor

evening when

her

made

that

on

wife,
his lips

her to be his

asked

he had

the last words

that's had

"

She had not

London.

from

had partedfrom
since^he

him

seen

and

twice before.

or

once

"Make

On the followingday at two o'clock Lady

on
alone in the front room
Ongar was sitting
Of Harry
the ground floor in Bolton Street.
illnessshe had as yet heard nothing,
Clavering's

heard

she had

from

request. She,indeed,had then

this

"
ton.
bade him be true to her rival to Florence BurSince I fathomed
said Doodles.
every thing,"
She had told him this in spiteof her love
that woman
in Mount
Street,I've felt that you
off your own
the score
must
make
bat,if you're of her love for him and of his for her. They
"

"

to

two, she had

it at all."

make

well,"said Archie,who knew

of pleasingencouragement
that the amount
which he mighthope to get from his friend must
depend on the praisewhich he himself should
did bowl her over
bestow.
"Yes, you certainly
did that

"You

kind

"That

of

within

thingjust comes

my

line,"said Doodles,with conscious pride."Now,

marry
be half

word I believe I should

rae, upon my
afraid of doing it myself."
"I've

kind

of that

none

Archie.
"It

in your
for me,

more

comes

said Doodles.

"But

said,could

but

truth

of what

write

to

had

she

not

said.

had

for him

tillhe should

as

written

And

me.

so.

for what

as

As

she

which

sat she held

now

Because

"

He

has had

her down

among

of

If

thing,what
I wonder

"

is

man

woman

going

all ouv
be

to do

that kind

she likes

"

She

but that

nothing.

means

She

knows

what

she's

now, bless you, and she'll look to the future.

who'll have the Claveringproperty
It's ray son
You see what a
and be the baronet,not his.
at

stringto my

bow

this

When

somethingof
last

to

be

over, Doodles made

resolution that it should be the

lost its

was

not

on

that

novelty,and

sufficient to

subject. The matter

the pricepaid to him

secure

his attention any

"

Street

Mount

had

written

as

"

Friday morning.
My heart is so

"

Julie,

"

silence longer.What
not keep my
has been be made
as
ours
friendship

can

minute

Oh

no

my Julie will not turn

has been so true to her
too

"

at least in

not

"

from
ah !

"

friend,

her

such

at
"

What

He
my
is a fool ; that is all. If you shall wish it,
I will
never
speak to him again. What is my brother
to me
compared to my Julie? My brother is

nothing to

quarreledwith
follow

to

tie him

not

is

He
Mon

we go to that accursed
Julio has
because my
and he arranges himself
there

island

me

"

What

us.

up by the
whom
no

man

Bah!

I tellhim

me.

accursed

"

brother?

ments
mo-

justfor

oh yes, at such moments!

word
or
a littleindiscretion.

angry
it after all about

was

island

banquet was
a

eaten

had

that is."

affectionate

more

bosom, which is filledwith love for my Julie.

him,''asked the

him, I fancy,in her calf days ;

by no qualms

of the old ties.

renewal

Sophie therefore

deakest

die all in

my
And

an

did like

driven

such

who

craftyDoodles.

from

her escape

on

vfiih the

so

'

people, to
married

and

"Dearest

can

be safe ?"

can

whether

?"

mean

going to

justas though theywere

to-morrow.

follows

sad that I

"

"

be

letter in her hand

was

longfor a

not

was

Sophie ;

says about Harry

a fellow can't

he ?"
in that way
can
of the other girl,
you

on

go

Hugh

or

to

was

had

it

But

it,you know,

"

what

could
her

"

"

Clavering,why, d

to

her fate.

of her heart to

soon

friend

no

She

justbeen broughtto her from Sophie

from
her poor famished,but indefatigable
said Sophie. Sophie she had not
of feeling,"
since they
seen
and then
had parted on
the railwayplatform,
supposedto be made in lasting
way, I dare say," the partingwas
what I like is a enmity. Desolate
she was, she had
gratulated
conas

I shall go early that is,as

I've looked through the papers and
few letters. Yes, I think she'll see
a

hope

not

overtures.

come

her,and let her know

to

man

could

no

questions. She had

placeconfidence.

no

"

She

she could

what I call a touch

herself much
little bit of management
morrow?"
and
of the diplomatic.You'll be able to see her toSophie's
friendship,
"

become

now

acknowledged the

not

She could make

She could ask

send

he

him.

in whom

askingLady Ongar downright to

to

as

wife;

only wait

well."

uncommon

and

Dieu,no.

could I do ?

leg in
one

tie up

can

is very hard

He

I could

his London

to

club;

by the leg.
tie up.

Do I wish him for your husband ? Never !

at four,"
longer. " I shall be here to-morrow
he said,as he rose from his chair with the view
Why should I wish him for your husband ? If
of retreatingto the smoking-room," and then
I was
I should wish you for
a
man,
my Julie,
"

we

shall know

all about it.

Whichever

way

it's

be, it isn't worth

thingas that in hand

your

give her her chance

to-morrow, and then have

to

done

with it."

that those

were

any

while

keepingsuch a
longer. I should say

declared
Archie,in replyto this,
his sentiments,and
exactly

then

to prepare
himself in silence and
away
solitude for the next day'swork.

went

myself. But
have

him

not, and why should yon not

am

whom

you, with your

would have any

you

like the best?

beauty,and money,
man

that I liked

for did I
know, of course
Clavering to whom
young
"

wishes
a

fool

"

to

render

such

not

"

see

your

and

If I

was

I
youth,

every thing.
? It is that
little heart

itself not the captainwho

"

fool 1 but the other who

is not

is
a

THE
but
fool,

there is

no

Phoebus."

CLAVERINGS.

finefellow and so handsome ! Yes, himself. Was it not manifest that

vering
Harry Cladoubt as to that. He is beautiful as
a gentleman,
was
to shine among
qualified
"

good-naturedou

[Thiswas

part of Sophie,who, as the reader may

the

Harry Claveringherself.]
Well,-whyshould he not be your own ? As
she would
do all in her
your poor Sophie,

for

of rank

and fashion,
but not qualified
to
his way by his own
? In saying
diligence
this of him, she did not know
how heavywas
the accusation that she brought against him
men

make

ber,
remem-

hated

"

161

but what woman,

within her own
the man
she loves ? Were
he to

breast,
accuses

she love. There

power to assistthe friend whom
marry Florence
is that littlegirl ^yes ; it is true as I told you. Burton,would he not ruin himself,
and probably
But littlegirlscan
not have all they want
ways.ruin her also ? But she could givehim all that
al"

deceiver. These men

who
Phoebus are always
deceivers.
But you need not be the one deceived
yoij,with
He

are

is a gay

beautiful

so

as

"

money, and
call rank.

and your
what
your beauty,
No, I think not ; and I think

he wanted.

Though Ongar Park to her alone

was, with its rich pastures,and spreading
oaks,
and lowing cattle,
desolate as the Dead
Sea
shore for him

and for her with him

would it
be the very paradise
suited to them ? Would
put up with it,as othef .little it not be the heaven in wliich Such a Phoebus
firstlearned how
have done,since the men
should shine amid the gyrations
of his satellites?
girls
and if you will A Phoebus goingabout his own
to telllies. That is my advice,
field in knickerbockers,
your

"

you
that littlegirl
must

let

giveyou good assistance.

and do not
think of all this,
Julie,
your Sophie. I am so true to you that I

me

"

banish

live without

not

can

word

and

can

Dearest

Send

you.

and I will come

permission,
kneel at your feet. And, in the
am
your most devoted friend,

back

me

of

to you

one

and

"

"

not

possess a
make
her

with

attendant

would
satellites,

which,as she thought,might

divinity
happy. As she thoughtof all this,

and asked herselfthese questions,

there was
inner conscience which told her that she had

love
time,I rightto Harry's

aii
no

Harry'shand; but still

she could not cease
Sophie."
to long that good things
to her,though those good things
might come
had not been deserved, Alas ! good things
of this letter,
was
not
Lady Ongar,on the receipt
deserved
not at all changed in her purpose with reference
too often lose their goodnesswhen
to Madame
As she was
with Sophie's
Gordeloup.She knew well enough they come.
sitting
and would
letter in her hand, the door was
heart was
where her Sophie's
placed,
opened,and
yieldto no farther pressure from that quarter; CaptainClaveri#gwas announced.
had its effect. Captain
but Sophie's
Archibald Clavering
ed
nevertheless,
reasoning,
was
againdressin his very best,
ty,
but he did not even yetshow
She,Lady Ongar,with her youth,her beauher wealth,
and her rank,why should she not
for the busines.s
by his demeanor that aptitude
could ijiake
have that one thingwhich alone,
her now, in hand of which he had boasted on the
she did see, or as she thought previous
as
eveningto his friend. Lady Ougar,I
happy,seeing,
"she saw, that in making herselfhappy she could
think,partlyguessed the objectof his visit.
do so much, could confer such great blessings
She had perceived,
or perhapshad
unconsciously
She had alreadyfound that felt,
on the occasion of his former
on him she |{)yed?
coming,that
self the visit had not been made simply
the money
she had received as the priceof herfrom motives
had done very little toward making her of civility.
She had known Archie in old days,
of his vestments
happy in her presentstate. What good was it and was aware that the splendor
and
had a significance.
and horses,
to her that she had a carriage
Well,if any thingof that
footmen six feet high? One pleasant
word kind was to be done,the sooner
two
it was done the
from lipsthat she could love
of better.
from the lips
that she could esteem
he said,
would be
man
or woman
as soon
"I
as he was
"Julia,"
seated,
worth it all. She had gone down to her pleasant hope1 have thepleasureof
well ?"
quite
seeingyou
that it
I thank you," said she.
"Pretty well,
placein the country a placeso pleasant
mean

or

'

"

"

"

had

of its

fame

gone

the

among

"You

luxuriantly

English country gentry ;

to be happyin the
expecting
there,

seats
pleasant

she had

own

of the

told him
for

have been

out

that she had

day or two, and

of

town, I think ?" She

been in the Isle of

then there

was

Wight

short silence.

all her own

I heard that you were
"When
it was
gone,"
; and the
been to her so unutterably
sad, he said,"I feared that perhapsyou were ill!"
of its desolation,
that
"Oh dear,no, nothingof that sort."
so wretched in the severity
"I am
she had been unable to endure her lifeamid the
so
glad,"said ArchiSk;and then he
silent again. He had,however,as he was
shade of her own
trees. All her appleshitherto was
that
feeling

mere

whole

thinghad

had turned

to ashes

between her teeth,because

her fate had forced her to

alone.

them

him

"

But

attempt the eatingof

if she could

givethe fruit to to calculate how he could best use the standingapplesover, so that ground that he had made for himself.
" Have
?" she asked.
and not hers,then would
you seen my sister lately

if she could make

the

theyshould all be his

of the sweetness
to.her some
there not come
of them ?
the juice
She declared to herself that she would
tempt this man
not

a
into
great deal of expression
aware, thrown
his inquiries
after her health,
and he had now

to be untrue

to his

that in doing so she would

L

so

were
troth,

of

"Your

sister?

no.

She is

alwaysat

I think it doosed

vering.
Cla-

of Hugh, the
wrong
not
there,while
way he goes on, keepingher down
It isn't at all my
it he is up here in London.

benefitIidea
greatly

of what

husband

oughtto

do."

CLAVERINGS.

THE

162

never
can
such a thing as you mean
"But
I suppose she likes it,"said Lady Ongar.
if she likes it,that's a different thing, take place."
"Yes
it can.
there was
other
anThen
Why can't it? I ain't in a
of course," said Archie.
I'll wait your own
time,and do just
hurry.
pause.
Don't say no
here whatever you wish all the while.
rather lonely
"Don't
you find yourself
Julia.''
without
about
asked.
it,
thinking
sometimes?" he
"

"Oh,

all

be

would

not

him.

"Very lonelyindeed,"she said; "but

soon

over

that it is the fate of widows

then I suppose
be lonely."

It is

be over, and that it which

unless she could help woman

it should

partiesthat

"

he better for

felt that It would

Lady Ongar

"

'no

can

give

Ah,

to

of those

one

want

to

thinkingthan

what

it at the firstmoment."

think

you

Clavering,
things.Captain

more

so

because

now,

prised
you'resur-

little."

"
a little,
as our
ous
previWell,I am surprised
of a nature
to make
intercourse was
said Archie,bfiskly,
never
all,"
as this at all probable."
"unless theyare old and ugly,and that kind of such a proposition
widow
"That
was
has
become
a
widow
merely because I didn't think
a,
thing. When
that he had
so
after she has been married ever
years, it right,"said Archie,who, now
many
why then I suppose she looks to be left alone ; worked himself into the vein,liked the sound
"It was, indeed."
voice.
of his own
and I suppose they like it."
You must
"
"And
I don't think it rightnow.
Indeed,I can't say. I don't like it."
listen to me for a moment, CaptainClavering
"Then
you would wish to change?"
Believe me, any such
"It is a very intricate subject,
Captain Cla- for fear of a mistake.
and one which I do not think I am quite plan as this is quiteout of the question quite."
vering,
that last word she managed to use a
disposedto discuss at present. After a year or In uttering
which did make
of
voice
an
Most
I
shall
into
tone
impressionon
again.
society
go
two, perhaps
'
him.
I never
widows
can, under any circumstances,
do,I believe."
said become your wife. You might as well look upon
"But
I was
thinkingof somethingelse,"
because it will save
that as altogether
himself
the
with
to
decided,
point
Archie,working
up
great energy, but stillwith many signsthat he us both annoyance."
"
'I was, by Jove !"
You needn't be so sure yet,Julia."
ill at ease at his work.
was
"
And
of what
And, unless you will
were
Yes, I must be sure.
you Jhinking,Captain
to pro?"
promiseme to drop the matter, I must
tect
Clavering
"I was
myself desire my seiTants not to admit you
thinking of course you know, Julia,
the into the house again. I shall be sorry to do
that since poor little Hughy'sdeath,I am

I don't

"

that at

see

"

"

'

'

"

"

"

"

in for the title?"

next

Hughy ! I'm
at that."
rejoice

"Poor
to

Indeed

"

me

at

ous
gener-

that,and I think you

necessity."
He

have

the

on

it.

of my
there's the

score

But

"

is

None

no

of

that,I

"

borrowed

I'm

as

safe

as

or mortgaged an
shilling

wax

far

as

I don't suppose

he

acre

the

and
necessity,

fore
be-

now

we

shall partfrrends."
said he,in
friends,"

crestfallen voice,
and with that he took his leave.

believe."

too ; not

away from the title.

that is concerned.
as

that

from

me

I shall like to be

earth ; and the most

of it is entailed, It was
scheme
that Hugh would leave an acre

on

her from

save

he gave her the requiredpromise.

That's, well,"said she,tendering him
her
"

doubt

save

hand; "and

fact" isn't it?"

"There

did

will

tp went

fellows offered

two

the club

chances,I wouldn't

too

are

you

When

am.

dinner

sure

Norway

great comfort

him

to

Stuart's

of Jack

that he

yacht and

for his immediate

had

the

the

tripto

consolation.

ever

in his

life."
"I
"

of

are

both of

myself,though

now,
Look

a prudentman."
prudent. I will say
oughtn'tto say it.

should think he

We

Julia

London.

few

that

words

take
you'll

are

WHAT

And

"

uncommon

if

the best after all.

Mrs.

Burton, it may
which

"

any

her husband's

she

scheme

IT.

ed,
rememberof her

thought with

own

much

in which she could not request

assistance,
knowing well that he

bat that he would

days,because
because,would not only not assistit,
of it. But yet she could
man
askinga girl altogether
disapprove
tween not put it aside from her thoughts,
bethat
got a fai'thing
believing
I do,indeed ; it might be the means
them.
I think It'swrong
of bringing
ing
Harry ClaverIt certainly
and Florence
but it's differentnow, you know.''
together. Her husband had
condemned
was
now
thoroughly
very different now.
poor Harry, and
"CaptainClavering,"she said,"I'm sorry passedsentence againsthim ; not,indeed,openly
with such an
to Florence
but very often in the
herself,
you should have troubled yourself
idea as this."
hearingof his wife. Cecilia,
womanlike,was
"
Don't say that,
Julia. It's no trouble ; it's more
angry with circumstances than with the
with circumstances
and with
a pleasure."
offendingman

thingabout

it in the old

said

never

ABOUT

perhapsbe

in her heart

me

fond of you, though I

THOUGHT

ONGAK

LADY

had formed
justas I am, I'm
fellow in all
if I sha'n't be the happiest
scheme
of
a
I've alwaysbeen
I shall,indeed.
and
trepidation,

here

blessed

"

XXXVII.

CHAPTEE

was

us

"

you see, what's the use of a

to marry him if theyhaven't

"

"

THE
the

stood in Florence's way.

who

woman

CLAVEEINGS.
She

only be made to go rightat last. He

and had nice
good-lookingand pleasant,
could
in

Cecilia was driven to the execution of

plainly,
her scheme more
than she had intended.
quickly

willingto forgiveHarry,if Harry

perfectly

was

house,and

163

In the

was

time,Florence

mean

desk and

ways

her

wrote

took

letter.

her

out

In

little

tears,and

an

too
altogether

which none
can
valuable as a agony of spirit
understand but
lover to be lost without many
who have been driven to do the
straggles.So she women
eame,
kept to her scheme, and at last she carried it was it written. Could she have allowed herself
a

was

into execution.

her

to express

She started alone from

into
and,getting

'

her house
omnibus

one

have

ing,
morn-

been

it would
thoughtswith passion,

comparatively
easy

; but it behooved

Brompton, her to be calm,to be very quietin her words

had herself put down
the rising
on
ground in almost reticent even in the languagewhich she
out
oppositeto the Green Park.
Piccadilly,
Why chose,and to abandon her claim not only withshe had hesitated to tell the omnibus-man
but almost without an allusion
to
a
reproach,
While Cecilia was away, the letter
be explained
stop at Bolton Street can hardly
; to her love.
but she had felt that there would be almost a was
and re-written and copied; but Mrs.
written,
declaration of gnilt
in naming that locality.
that her sister-in-law
safe in this,
So Burton was
she got out on the littlehill,
and walked up in had promisedthat the letter should not be sent
front of the prime minister's house
tillshe had seen
it.
it was
as
then
and of the yellowpalacebuilt by one of
Mrs. Burton, when she knocked at Lady Ongar's
mex'chant princes,
and turned into the street
our
door,had a littlenote readyfor the servant
that was
all but interdicted to her by her own
between her fingers.Her complimentsto Lady
conscience.
and
She turned up Bolton Street,
Ongar,and would Lady Ongar obligeher by an
with a trembling
hand l^nocked
and
at Lady Ongar's interview. The note contained simplythat,
door.
nothingmore ; and when the servant took it
Florence in the mean
alone from her,she declared her intention of waiting
while was
sitting
an

at

"

"

"

in Onslow

Terrace.

She

ill at

knew

Clavering that he
ill,
though Mrs. Claveringhad
was

his illness was

had

not

written

to

that

now

Harry

indeed

was

"

very
her that

assured

ing
dangerous ; for Mrs. Claverherself addressinghei;
with
"

all the

old

warmth

of affection that

affection

and
familiarity

almost

was

with

"

than

more

in the hall tillshe had received an

she

shown

But

answer.

and there
dining-room,
for a, quarter of an hour,during
she remained
which
time she was
comfortable.
by no means
Probably Lady Ongar might refuse to receive
was

into the

her ; but should that not be the case

should
she succeed in making her way into that lady's
"

knew
should
she find the eloquence
It was
clear that Mrs. Clavering
presence, how
nothing of Harry's sins. Or,might it not be wherewith to pleadher cause ? At the end of
ing
the fifteen minutes.Lady Ongar herself opened
that Mrs. ClaverCecilia had suggested
possible,
the door and entered the room.
Mrs. Burton,"
might have known, and have resolved potentially
''
and
she said,
I am really
ashamed
that those sins should be banished,
to have
smiling,
sincere rebecome
pentance
keptyou so long; but open confession,
ground for some beautifully
theysay,
and the truth is that I was
Ah ! how sweet it would be to re?
ceive is good for the soul,
Then
she led the way up stairs,
that wicked sheep back again into the not dressed.
Burton
and
Mrs.
little
of
his
on
a sofa,
and placed
dock
and
then
him
to
a
placed
sheepfold,
pleasantherselfin her own chair from whence she could
wanderingpowers, to fix him with some
prudent domestic see well,but in which she could not be well seen'
clog,to tie him down as
and stretched out the folds of her morninghim the pride
and
make
be
should
tied,
^heep
and made her visitor thoroughBut all this had been part of dress gracefully,
ly
of the flock !
natural.

"

"

a,

"

Cecilia'sscheme, and of that scheme

for
impossible

was

the whole
to leave

it was

her to
It

truth.

unanswered

so

answer

itwithout
to
painful

was

kind

very
letter as

that she should

quiteimpossible

Harryin

the

"

old strain.

understand

ence
poor Flor-

nothing. According to Florence's

letter was
written under
view, Mrs. Clavering's
a mistake.
Harry had kept his secret at home,
and intended to keep it for the present. But
and Florence felt that it
the letter,
there was
knew

that,and
write of

It will be best that

at home

was

and

at

her

surmise that Lady Ongar's

We
may, I think,
open confession would do her soul but littlegood,
which is the firstrequisite
for
as it lacked truth,
all confessions.
felt that

been

of
reception

to her.

She knew

the

who

one

well who

the
'accurately

surmised

ciently
suffi-

but
visitor,

any

was
preparation
special

some

for the
and

had

Lady Ongar
to receive

dressed

ing
tellher

that she

ease.

had

'was

now

Mrs.

purpose

had

necessaiy
come

Burton,

for which

in
Upon the manner
whole,"Florence had said, Mrs. Burton had come.
herself
carried
which
she
of
rect
dinow
the
mighthang the
"and
then I shall be saved
pain' any
which was
so important
Her brother,decision of the question
communication with him."
this,
applauded to her whether that Phoebus in knickerbockers
Cecilia had repeated
to whom
lord of Ongar Park.
should or should not become
her face it and
"Let
his sister'sresolution.
she
maintain
must
effect
an
had
To
said.
"Let
he
success
live
it
now,
bear it,atad
down,"
and in
timentality
ascendencyduringthis coming inter-new,
her do it at once, so that all this maudlin senI should tell her the

"

may

be

at

an

end."

But

Cecilia the maintenance

and as Florence was

would not accede to this,
and had declared her purpose
in truth resolved,

on

must

of all

the outward

think

"

man

much
ascendency,
or

woman

little of the words

; and

she must

pends
deshe
use,

164

CLAVERINGS.

THE

and

little,
too,of her

minded
fully

own

that

might

be

that

Harry Claveringmight be

but
possible,

decided
would

have

Burton

wished

gether to
alto-

not

was

if

stranger."
and I are
"Harry Clavering
said Lady Ongar,changingthe
as she spoke.
altogether
,

her

She

own.

pension off that Florence

to

wealth,had

possible.But

such

whether

be well that she could abandon

it would

her

"

No, I know

longerthan

tertain
en-

Yes

"

not

before he

Tou

that.
I

have.

we

husband's

wishes, your

own

not

"

ing
pension-

the less did she

not

half doubts

some

-she

"
it."
If he had, you wouldn't mention
"I don't suppose I should,Lady Ongar

was

point. She wished

the other

on

with half her

been

She

purpose.

get the better of Mrs. Burton

to

of her voice
known

have

dreamed

Mrs.
business,

him

of that."

aware

am

ever

strangers,"

not
tone

of

Burton

going into
;

fore
longbe-

"

he had ever been to

Stratton.
giveup her own hope of happiness.Of Mrs.
Burton personally
The
she had known
of Stratton was
assistance to
name
an
nothing,and
and seemed
been spoken with
to have
havingexpectedto see a somewhat strong-featured
Cecilia,
and perhapsrather vulgarwoman,
and to the view
of enabling her to commence
her
hear a voice painfully
indicative of a strong work.
"Yes," she said,"but nevertheless he
and
mind, she was
agreeablysurprisedto find a did go to Stratton. He- went to Stratton,
and

"

pretty,mild

lady,who

that she

half afraid of what

was
"

doing.

I have

from

heard

"said
Mr.

your
from

Lady Ongar,
and I have
Clavering,

heard

' '

mine

from

him

accordance

with

the

those fifteen minutes

the

first showed

she herself

there he became

law,Florence

was

"

ton,
name, Mrs. Burour mutual
friend,
doubt

no

also."

This

little plan which

she had

for her

Mrs. Burton

silenced,
by
which

she

greatest

this
had

and at firstalmost
surprised,
open mentioning of a name

felt that

she

would

have

Ongar'sname

was

so.

from

Mr.

She

had

heard

Clavering.

' '

keep or

taken

sister is married
and

when

he

was

made
"

Hugh

Clavermy sister at ing,

at the rectorythere.
That was
fore
bemarriage." She was perfectly
easy
and

flatteredherself that the

I have heard

as

much

"

to

or

into his confidence

me

me

and

means

to

If he has

has not

taken

I be

is always
better than

Truth

"

This

is

lie
"

"

these

so

at least

ly
act different-

be better than

either."

matter. Lady Ongar, in which

not be silent.

Clavering,with

said Cecilia.

as

Burton, is that questionfair?

; but silence may

can

from Mr.

Mrs.

peoplesay, thoughtheysometimes

cendency
as-

complete.

was

me

Ongar."

with
living

was

my own
in her manner,
"

his first cousin,

Sir

to

'

doingwell to betrayhim ? Or
be any thing in such a secret specially
to myself,
interesting
why should I be
to tellit to you?"
I think the truth is alwaysthe best.
Lady

Lady
are

her.''

has told

He

has he told ypu whether

he
break that engagement?"

Is it fair either to him

connected,you know," said Lady Ongar. "My

sister-in-

to

you, should
said, if there can

We

it,Mrs. Burton."
engaged to

of that too.

aware

am

And

' '

the

in approaching. She
difiBculty

however, that it

of

aware

he also became

"Ah!

was

my

himself."

much

guidance.

own

"

during

laid down

am

"And

have

yon
she said in

with
acquainted

Burton."

hope you
for coming to you,
me
questions

will not be vexed

or

for

askingyou

"

"

"And

he was
very civil to me
immediately "Oh dear,no."
home.
return
"But
I can
my
not be silent.
Perhaps you may have
My sister-inheard that also.
He took this house for
law must
at any
what is to be her
rate know
me,
and made
himself generallyuseful,
fate."
as
young
"
men
ought to do. I believe he is in the same
Then why do you not ask him ?"
office with your husband; is he not?
I hope I
"He
is ill at
on

present."

not
may
idle?"

This

have

been

the

of

means

making

him

"111!

And
all very

was

well and

very

pretty,but

Mrs. Burton
she

was

was
beginningto feel that
already
doing nothingtoward fhe achievement

Where

is he ill?

Who

Lady Ongar, though she

says he is ill?"

did not

quiteleave
raised herself up and forgotall her
chair,
preparations. Where is he,Mrs. Burton ? I
her

' '

have

of his illness."
"
"
of her purpose.
I suppose he has been idle,"
He is at Clavering at the parsonage.''
she said,' ' but I did not mean
"
to trouble you
I have heard nothing of this. What
ails
about that."
Upon hearingthis.Lady Ongar him ? If he be reallyill,dangerously
I conjure
ill,
smiled.
This supposition
that she had really
But pray tell me
the truth.
you to tell me.
intended to animadvert
Let there be no
tricks in such a matter as
upon Harry Clavering's
idleness was
amusing to her as she remembered
this."
how littlesuch idleness would
ifshe could
signify
"Tricks,Lady Ongar!"
only have her way.
"If
be
what ails
tell
not

heard

"

HarryClavering

"

Poor

"

Perhapsnot"

ill,

me

Harry1" she

said. " I supposedhis him.

Is ho in danger ?"
sins would be laid at
But my idea is,
"His mother,in writingto Florence,says
my door.
will do any good at that he is not in danger,but that he is confined
you know, that he never
such work as that."
He has been taken by some
to the house.
ver."
fethat is,I

don't think Mr. Burton

has

such opinion; and if he had

can't
really
ever
"
"

say.

expressedany

On
received

"

come

to

morning Lady Ongar had

her sister,
beggingher to
ClaveringPark during the absence of
a

that very
letter from

THE
Sir

CLAVERINGS.

165

Hugh, but in the letter no word had been side of

illness. Had he been seriously, seated.
as to Harry's
least dangerously
at
"And
or
ill,Hermione

said

the

in which

room

Miss

Bui;tonhas

Lady Ongar

was

sent you ?"

have mentioned it. All this

would certainly
"No; she does not k^jowthat I am here ;
flashed across Julia'smind as these tidings
about
does my husband
kno'w it. No one
nor
knows
in it. I have come
to tellyou that before God this
Harry reached her. If he were not really
ii*he were, why should she betray
even
before this woman
? "If there
feeling
in it,"
she said,
had been much
resuming her
or
danger,

is

man

her

former
doubt

and
position

manners,
heard of it from my

have

hear

"We

that it is not

Mrs. Burton
not

him.

see

not

can

he

see

"

And,

"I

should

in

has

no

sister."

now

But

"

Yes, we

and

we

him

any

deal

by us."_
honestly

until

more

we

know

what

''

of

bound^

are

And

so

happiness."

think of that.

she

she had

that

ence
Flor-

all

things."
I love him too
as
fondly,
fore
bedo. I loved him first,

I.

am

perhaps,as

of Florence

of his hanpiness?"

is bound to think of that above

can

truth.Lady Ongar,we

husband

She has leairnedto love him, and

other chance

no

"

ued
dangerous,"contin-

but he is away,

engagedto becom^ the

Burton.

"

can

heard his name."

even

"

But,Lady Ongar""
"
"
Am
I the keeperof his honesty?"
Yes,you may ask the questionif yon will,
"From
what I have heard,I think you are.
and I will answer
it truly." They were
both
that I have heard falsely,
and confronting
If you will tell me
I standing
each other. " Or
now
will go away and beg your pardon for my intrusion.
I will answer
it without your askingit. I was
But if what I have heard be true, you
false to him.
I would not marry him because
must
not be surprised
that I show this anxiehe was poor, and then I married another because
ty
for the happinessof my sister. If you know
he was
But it does not
rich. All that'is true.
1 have loved
her.Lady Ongar,you would know that she is make me love him the less now.
too good to be thrown
aside with indifference." Jiimthroughit all. Yes, you are shocked,but
"
it is true ; I have loved him
gel
Harry Claveringtells me that she is an anthrough it all.
And
what am
I to do now, if he stillloves me ?
that she is perfect."
"
And
if he loves her,will it not be a shame
I can give him wealth now."
"
Wealth
will not make him happy."
that theyshould be parted?"
"
Men
"It has not made me
I said nothingabout his lovingher.
happy,but it may help
But with me, at any rate,
not alwaysfond of perfection.The
are
angels to do so with him.
be no doubt.
there can
It is his happinessto
fbr this world."
may be too angelic
"
bound to look.
He did love her."
which I am
Mrs. Burton,if I
"
So I suppose
or, at any rate,he thought thoughtthat I could make him happy,and if he
to

means

"

"

would

that he did."
He

"

did love

still."
leave to do so, Mrs. Burton."
afraid of
though she was somewhat
Cecilia,
He

"

the

has my

which

task

undertaken,and

had

she

was

I would marry him to-morrow,

broke your sister'sheartby doing
if I felt that she could do so more
to me,

come

though I

I believe he loves her

her,and

so.

But

than

I,I would

Will she say

"She

of beauty and
awed by Lady Ongar'sstyle
partly

leave him

to her,though I broke
spoken to you very openly.

I have

own.

my

much

as

would

as

that ?"
I do not know

act in that way.

demeanor, nevertheless felt that if she stilllioped what she would

'

say."

"Then
let her do so, and leave him to be
good,she must speak the truth out at
the judgeof his own
Let her pledge
ask Lady Ongar whether she
happiijess.
She must
shall come
from her,
held herself to be engaged to Harry Clavering.herself that no reproaches
to do any
once.

did not

If she

nothingcoirtd
this,

do

come

of

You

"

say

that,Lady Ongar, but

it?" she asked.

We

"

have

been

Mr.

engaged

also are

and

to marry

do you mean
told that yon

I been

done

fact

it is I who

to

have

seen

him

owe

him, he

I who

was

have

would

brought
every thing.
have

never

Miss Florence

ton."
Bur-

Who

so."

"And

Did you hear it from

told yon ?

who

Harry Claveringhimself?"
I did.

"

He

he is

I heard

why

"Then

must

it in

have

you

know.

engaged

part from him."

come

beyondhim

to

If he has told you that

me, he must also have

to marry
told you that he does not intend to marry Miss
to defend
It is not for me
Florence Burton.

him

or

to accuse

him.

Why

do

you

come

to

All

that

on

no

was

doubt true,but it did not

Florence's right. The

of
question

the

which

Mrs. Burton

wished

to

if
insist,

that Florence had

how, was this,
therefore
not sinned at all,and that Florence
ought not to bear any part of the punishment.

onlyshe knew

It

might be

be

excused

to
very true that Harry'sfault was
of Lady Ongar's
in part because

but why should Florence

greaterand primaryfault,
be the scapegoat?
"You

his

should

think

said
happiness,"

"That

me?"
"

true

thoughtof,never

Clavering."

touch

me

and
first,

into this trouble.

him
Had

has told you so ?"

and
"We
have heard it. I have heard it,
sister that I had
have been obligedto tellmy
"

pledgemyselfequally. It

I will

loved him

presentinterview.

the

of his honor

Mrs. Burton

is rather severe, Mrs.

as

well

as

at last.

Burton,consid-

ton,
said Mrs. Buring that it is said to me in my own house. Am
and forbearance,"
that his.honor will be tarnished
from her seat and comingover to the I so low as that,
rising
For mercy

THE

166

CLAVEEINGS.

to hold
that I have been taught
his wife ?" But she,in sayingthis,know from me
her name
and character in the highestpossible
thinkingof things of which Mrs. Barton
ther
esteem."
Mrs. Burton made
no
knew nothing.
attempt at far,
" His
with a low courtsaid she,"if
esy.
honor will be'larnished,"
speech,but left the room
he has promisedto
he do not marry heP'whom
she
Till she found herself out in the street,
welcomed by her father and
He
was
marry.

if I become
was

self
him-

house, and then he made

to their

mother

unable

was

to think whether

the had done

most

of her heart. But it was not his till harm or most goodby her visitto Bolton Street;
and
or
whether she had in any way served Florence,
he had asked for it,and had offered his own
whether
she had simply confessed to Florence's
to
his hand in return for it. Is he not bound
master

JM

promise?

his

keep

not

can

live with the

if he would

be bound

to

that." If you are

should know
that

you after any such fashion as

solicitous for his welfare,
you

of
reputation

only one course

open to him."
said Lady Ongar; "the
story,"
Has not somebody said that the

there is
old

story1

the

that

know

women

gods.

These

doomed

are

And

Inclined to be

are

than the

severe

what
"

men

much

broken

well

not

are

not

my
that I make

to

to me,

Lady

you.

That

all,Mrs. Burton
with
had tingled

it
ears

own

chance

to her that any

seek for

to

seem

and
woman,
of success.

man's

contending
It

rible
ter-

was

dear to her should

woman

ity
the audac-

And

love.

own

proclaimedher
Lady Ongar
had been terrible also to Cecilia,
feelings

She

was

with which

answer

answer

know

Her

another

small

so

more

hearts

she should
aware.

with
with

feel the latter to be the

as
Hany Clavering had been discussed
tending
grand prizefor which her' sister was con-

shame
as

sister's mise'ry. That

of her

herself would

when

case

to bear."

that is to be your

Ongar?"
"
No, that is

I do

of lovers ?
perjuries

Florence

was
man,
gentle-

"It is the old

gods laughat

rival the extent

had

that

aware

thingswhich

she

meddling with

was

foreignto

were

nature, and

her

But
Harry Clavering.which would be odious to her husband.
don
Parto you has been very explicit.
My answer
yet,was not the battle worth fighting? It was
er
if I say that it has been more
me
Explicitnot to be endured that Florence should seek aftof
than you had any rightto expect. I have told
this thing;but, after all,
the possession
preparedto take any step that the thing in questionwas the onlyearthlygood
you that I am
conducive
be most
that could give any comfort to poor Florence.
to the happinessof
may
I once
the man
whom
but whom
I have
for Harry,
Even
with all her partiality
injured,
Cecilia,
alwaysloved. I will do this,let it cost myself felt that he was not worth the struggle
; but it
what it may ; and I will do this,let the cost to
for her now
to estimate
him at the price
was
be what it may.
You
which
Florence might put upon him
not at
can
any other woman
is the

excuse

for

"

expect that I should love another woman

better than m3'self."She said this,stillstanding,
not

in her

in her

and
amounted

almost

that

she

would

the

worth
to

serve

and

You
the

be very

if the

was

After

herself

all this

far from

honest in what

this Mrs. Burton

was

He

such
she

to

there

But

got herself out of the

she found

be allowed

was

there,and the
was
saying.

she

been
ing
meet-

other way could

that Florence
vering.
Cla-

to Mrs.

tell Florence

now

that

ground for hope? Was it not the

that Lady Ongar had
spoken the simple
plaintruth when she had said that Harry

hard, very
excuse

could

had

of her

she knew

alreadywritten

have

to Bim

have

what

day

was

she

proved

worth.

Lady

feel

be done

had

that very
Ongar. In no
on

stop that letter which

And

fact

tell Florence

must

tell her

wbuld

destruction

the purpose which

I, oh reader,may

was
passion,nevertheless,

woman

with
she

ing
declar-

be of herself

immolate

passion.

she

made, and that

it should

remorse

for whom

man

not

himself

was

But

ner,
man-

which

price.

own

done,and

should exist,and
necessity
Florence Burton
destroyed must

see

in view.

that the
was

be

must

she would

twinge of

of Florence
had

ferocity.She

to

As

that

was

mence
vehe-

hesitation if the

would

without

there

littlewhether

of another.

without
so

eye

sacrifice

some

she recked
or

than
something more
In her voice,
tone.
in her

without

not

her

it not

to choose

to be

the

course

the best for him

hard, that

it should

also that men,

the perjuries
of lovers ?
true

as

be

which

She

as

was

And

so.

well

peared
ap-

It

gods,

wanted

to

back

given
Harry among them as one to be forto be pettedmuch, and to be loved
easily,
an's
always; but,in spiteof the softness of her womnature, she wished that he might be punished

'ifhe
sorely

did not

so

return.

It

was

opening which grievousto her that he should any longerhave

allowed her to go.
In making her farewell
Heavens
and earth !
in the matter.
a choice
indistinct apology was
he to be allowed to treat a woman
speech,she muttered some
as he
for the visit which she had been bold enough to
had treated Florence,
and was
nothingto come
'
'
make.
Not at all, said Lady Ongar.
You
of it? In spite
both of gods and men, the thing
have been quiteright; you are
fightingyour was so gi'ievous
to Cecilia Burton that she could
battle for the friend you love bravely
not
; and were
bring herself to acknovyledgethat it was
it not that the cause
of the battle must, I fear, possible. Such
thingshad not been done in
I should be proud to know
the world which she had known.
separateus hereafter,
who fightsso well for her friends. And
one
She walked the whole way home
to Brompall this is over
when
and has been settled,
in ton, and had hardlyperfected
any plan when
let Miss Burton
whatever way it may be settled,
she reached her own
door. If onlyFlorence
room

as

soon

'

as

"

an

'

THE

CLAVERINGS.

would allow her to write the letter to Mrs. Cla-

vering,perhaps something might

And

tell it also to her husband

she must

his brother,
who
in such
feelings
"

in

hard to do the thing

of it beforehand,
but it

to
impossible

secret from him

her to

keep the thinga

that it was

now

done.

had

idea of

no

sparingArchie's

matter.

She said

I don't remember
^indeed,
say."
refused you."

ly
exact-

"

It had been

without his knowing

he

in

storyof her morning'swork.

evening!

would

done

So she entered the house prepared

that way.
to tell the

the

be

167

what

it was

"But

she

"Yes,

she refused

that she did

after

soon

I think

me.

that I had

to understand

me

she wanted
to her

come

too

Ongar'sdecease."

"Then

she

that's all."

be

must

infernal

an

hypocrite,

But

of any hypocrisy
in this matter
the reader will acquitLady Ongar,and will

understand that Archie had merelylessened the

CHAPTER

XXXVIII.

of
severity

his

HOW

TO

DISPOSE

OF

fall

own

After that the two

by

clever

a,

brothers went

excuse.

to Boxall's

in

"WIFE.

the

city,and Archie,having been kept fagging

Sir Hugh came
When
sent in the eveningto dine by himself
was
up to town there did all day,,
not
remain to him quitea week before the day
club.
at his own
which he was
to leave the coast of Essex in
on
Sir Hugh also was
desirous of seeing
Lady
Jack Stuart's yacht for Norway,and he had a Ongar,and had caused his wife to say as much
time in the way
in that letter which
good deal tdido in the mean
she wrote
to her sister.
of provisioning
the boat.
Fortnum
and Mason, In this way
an
appointment had been made
no
doubt,would have done it all for him without any direct intercourse between Sir
without any trouble on his part, but he was
not
Hugh and his sister-in-law. They two had
Mason
to ttustany Fortnum
or
a man
never
since the day on which
as
met
Sir Hugh
any
to the excellence of the article to be supplied,had given her away
in ClaveringChurch.
'To
desired to have good Hugh Clavering,
to the psice. He
or as
who was
a man
by no means
wirie very good wine,but he did not desire to of sentiment,this signified
little or nothing.
knew
better When
one
pay a very high price. No
Lady Ongar had returned a widow, and
than
be when
Sir Hugh that good wine can
not
evil stories againsther had been rife,
he
bought cheap ; but thingsmay be costlyand had thoughtit expedientto have nothingto do
To such
with her.
He didnot himself care
much
about
yet not dear, or they may be both.
Sir Hugh was
matters
wont
to pay very close his sister-in-law's morals ; but should his wife
attention himself.
He had done somethingin become
much
aged
complicatedwith a sister damthat line before he left London, and immediately
in character,
of it trouthere might come
ble
his return he went
and annoyance.
Therefore he had resolved
on
to the work
again,
but never
that Lady Ongar should be dropped. But during
summoning Archie to his assistance,
the last few months
askingArchie's opinion as though Archie had
spects
rethingshad in some
been his head butler.
changed. The Courton people that is
he
to say, Lord
Ongar'sfamily-had givenHugh
Immediatelyon his arrival in London
his brother as to hi? marriage Claveringto understand that,having made
quiry,
incross-questioned
gar,
disposedto acquitLady Ontbey were
prospects. "I suppose you are goingwith us?"
and to declare their belief that she was
Hugh said to Archie,as he caughthim in the
hall of the house
in BerkeleySquare on the subjectto no
censure.
They did not wisli
his
arrival.
themselves
know
to
after
tween
as
no
her,
morning
intimacybe"
"
I thought
them
could now
be pleasant,
but they
Oh dear,yes," said Archie.
I have been getting had.felt it to be incumbent
them
to say as
on
that was
quiteunderstood.
The
of
his
much
that
Sir
had not
to
as
Sjr
Hugh.
Hugh
together."
getting
traps
my traps
told his wife,but he had twice suggested
or's even
togetherhad consisted in the orderingof a sailand three pairof that Lady Ongar should be asked to Clavering
with brass buttons,
jacket
In answer
Park.
to both these invitations,
white duck trowsers.
"
"You
had better
said Sir Hugh.
All right,"
Lady Ongar had declined to go to Clavering
"

"

"

"

with

me

going

to

come

am

into the

citythis morning.

Boxall's,in Great

Thames

Park.

Street."

hands

"Are
you going to breakfast here?" asked
Archie.
''
at the Union in
to me
No ; you can come

made

about

hour.

an

you

suppose

have

never

courage to ask Julia to marry you?"

I did,"said Archie.
did you get?" Archie
what answer

pluckedup
"Yes

"And
had found

the
alacrity

himself

obliged

attack upon

to

with
repudiate

his courage^ which

his

And

now

Sir

Hugh

from

the

same

was

about

was

that,and

she would
care

he

very

on

his

people,which
see

agreedto

his sister-

receive him.

harshness

own

goingto
it had

see.

not

He

to the

cared

occurred

to

an
wom-

nothing
him that

she did
But, in truth,
much, and when the hour was coming
Sir Hugh was to appear, she thought
care

much.

made ; but beyondthat, on which

brotfier
had so plaiijly
of the manner
which
not pleasingto much
was
the subjectwas one
'
him.
Well, what did she say to you ?" asked her to receive him.
'

commission

very hard in such matters,the

not made disagreeable
by any

of his

remembrance
whom

bad

Julia

idea of hisvisitwas

Courton

that he should

it necessary

in-law,and
To him, who

had

in which

He

had

it would

become
her
condemned

in that matter
insult to

an

CLAVERINGS.

THE

168

is

which any condemnation

to

as

and he had

woman,

so

"

ural
her,being her brother-in-law and her only nat-

male

friend.

In

without
lirst,
of

worst

should

him ; bat from the

he liad believed the
inquiry,

any

had withdrawn

her,and

would

been invaluable

have

Never

this ?
forgive
to

woman

from

never

such
forgive

wish to

to her.

an

She

Could

It

it would be despicable
in
offense which
forgive. Many had offended her,some
had injuredher, oiie or two had insulted her;
had so offended
no
one
but, to her thinking,
her,had so injuredher, had so grosslyinsulted
was

that
were

that he would not

attorney. Courton told me
to be made,
have allowed any such proposition

he had done.

place.
of

is indifferent
or
incivility
civility

"Their

to

?"
shouldn't you take the money
indifferent
me."
is
to
equally
money

But

"

an

as

the

use

all that kind

and
civil,

be

to

me," said Julia.

her to

her

to
disposed

seemed

had

They wish
thing."

not

was

offense.

accused them."

never

and theythink
they feel it themselves,
take
it
perhaps amiss if they
you might
to send you a. simplemessage
through an

But

her altogether if you

slightest
supportfrom

the

his support,
when
she

she

sorrow

been able to lean upon

have

him

her

have

"I

condemned

why

"The
"You
with the

In what

way, then,would
?
Before his am-

then

mean

Of

it?

to

than

more

won't

they can't make

wish to keep it."
they can make

placeif you

"Not

say that you

to

course

ten
lis-

you

part

you

sell

I do not, however, wish to be

ClaveringPark.
val she had made up her mind
this subject,uncivil,
and I will let you know
on
through my
and had resolved that she would,at least,
say lawyerwhat I think about it. All such matters
word of her own
best managed by lawyers."
no
are
wrongs.
"How
do you do,Julia?" said Sir Hugh,
After that Sir Hugh said nothing farther
with a step which was
about Ongar Park.
He was
well aware, from
walking into the room
perhapsunnaturallyquick,and with his hand the tone in which Lady Ongar answered him,
extended.
ject;
Lady Ongar had thought of that that she was' averse to talk to him on that subShe would givemuch
too.
but he was
to escape the touch
not conscious that his presence
of his hand, if it were
otherwise disagreeable
to her,or that
was
possible;but she had
itbecome

her to receive him

told herself that she would

best consult her

own

she would

resent

interference from

any

him

on

actual quarrel. So she any subject

because he bad been cruel to her.
no
dignityby declaring
and justtouched his palm.
little while,he began again about
So, after
put out her fingers
"
I hope Hermy is well ?" she said.
Hermione.
As the world had determined
upon
"
ly
Prettywell,thank you. She is rather loneacquitting
Lady Ongar, it would be convenient
since she lost her poor littleboy,and would
mate,
to him that the two sisters should be againintibe very glad if you would go to her."
Julia was
rich woman.
as
a
especially
"I can
not do that,but if she would come
to His wife did not like ClaveringPark, and he
I should be delighted."
did not like ClaveringPark hiftiself.
me
certainly
"You
it would not suit her to be in London
If he could once
see
get the house shut up, he might
after Hughy's death."
so soon
to keep it shut for some
manage
years to come.
a

"I am
I would go
not bound
to London.
"
any where- else except to Clavering.
"
You never
told."
I
to
am
Ongar Park,
go
"I have been there."
"

"But

they

say

you

do

intend

not

to

"Not

wife

was

him, and
burden

now

to

present,certainly.Indeed,I do

at

go there.

ever

I do

place."

if

you.
you

assume

some

"

interest in it-back
than

more

I do not know

to the

?
family

enable him

the value for it."

that I should

to sell it."

were

to

It

gether
his wife alto-

person, but he
established gether,
to-

merelyas

permanence.
Of course

"

sell your

another

in the firstinstance

to

"

burden

put off the

summer

arrangement, such establishment might be made

It is very pleasantto him.

justwhat they have told me.
that
to
partly that I want
speak to a portionof the expense
If you don't like the place,
why shouldn't might be possible but

They'd giveyou
"

on

have

to

they two

"That's
about

well to

his sister-in-law's shoulders.

dependent

not

like the

not

than

more

suit him

that he intended

thought that

I shall

no

it would

on

not

was

go

again."
suppose

His

"I

"

as.

such

This

would

he would

be
pay

small

a portion
as
portionas might

to live with credit before the world.

wish

I could think

and

that you

Hermy

he said.
togetherwhile I am absent,"
"I shall be very happy to have her,if she
to use
the
"Why not, if you don't mean
house ?
I might as well explainat once
what
will come
to me," Julia replied.
it is that has been said to me.
John Corn-ton, "What
I am
not quite
here,in London?
for the young
that she wishes to come
at
sure
you know, is actingas guardian
up to London
carl,and they don't want to keep up so largea present."
"1 iTave
understood
that she had any
placeas the Castle. Ongar Park would just
never
suit Mrs. Courton"
Mrs. Courton was the widowed
to being in town,"said Lady Ongar.
objection
care

might

be

"

"

mother

of the young

would

be very happy to
"Would
not such a

earl

"

"and

they

your interest."

buy
come
proposition
througha lawyer?"said Lady Ongar.
"
The fact is this theythink theyhave been
"

littlehard

on

"

you.

''

Not

formerly,
certainly
; but

"
her boy'sdeath
"
best
Why should his death make

now,

since

"

to

her

than

to

you?" To
reply. "If

Hugh made no
of society,
she could

more

this

difference

questionSir

thinking
you are
be nowhere safer from any

THE
such

with

than
necessity

CLAVEEINGS.

I never
go out
dined out, or even
spent an evening in company, since Lord Ongar'sdeath. And no one would come here to
where.

"ny

I have

me.

never

disturb her.

"I didn't mean

"I

don't

that."

quiteknow

I met

169

him, nor

the events

how

I married him,nor
any
happened since. My memory,

that have

of

is very good."
unfortunately,
"I

did all I could for you, and should have

been safe from your insolence."
"Yon
should have continued to
stay away
from me, and you would have been quitesafe.

what you did mean.

different causes, she and I are left pretty But our quarreling
in this way is foolish. We
without friends."
nearlyequally
can
be friends
never
need
you and I, but we
"
is not left without friends,"
Hermione
said not be open enemies.
Your wife is my sister,
Sir Hugh, with a tone of offense.
and I say again that if she likes to come
to
"
Were
she not,she would not want to come
to have her."
me, Iiehallbe delighted
From

"

Your

to me.

she

societyis

does not

than your
lives

or

come,

to which

own,

in

Loudon,

to which

in other country houses

she is

taken.

not

and there
altogetherat Clavering,

She
is

no

"My wife,"said he, "will

of

word

signof greeting. In spiteof

or

there except your uncle."

one

"Whatever

justlike other
"

Just like

shall remain

and

neighborhoodthere

is she has

"

other women,
no' doubt.
I
in town
for another month, and

Your

coming

home

need

make

had

his

not

temper

him
That

at

now

under

no

her

for

end.

an

he

own

fortable
com-

which

he

who

control

had

to

as

rid
getting
He

would

able
en-

of his wife

permit

never

her to go to her sister'shouse after the

I in which Julia had justtreated him.
difference,

keenness of reproachin her tone

much

so

spiteof

postpone his anger to his prudence.

to

When

was

money

his calculations

in

"

arrangements and the

littlescheme

was

suppose."
There

to

as

for his future ease

provision
he was
proposedto himself,
a man

after that

I shall go somewhere,I don't much

where.
If Hermy will come
to me
care
as my
guest,I shall be most
happy to have her ; and
the longer she will stay with me
the better.

caution

his well-considered

women."
some

go to the house
is insolent to me."
Then he
left the room
without farther

person who
took his hat,and
no

manner

gone Lady Ongar walked

and at first was
smiling,

was

room

about
well

she

spoke which even he could not but feel pleasedwith herself. She had received Archie's
and acknowledge. He was
with decision,
overture
but at the same
time
very thick-skinned
and would have left this unto such reproaches,
noticed with
courtesy,for Archie was weak, and poor,
had itbeen possible.
Had she continued
and powerless. But she had treated Sir Hugh
But she remained with scorn, and
had been enabled to do so withspeakinghe would have done so.
out
and sat lookingat him, saying
the utterance
of any actual reproachas to
silent,
with her eyes the same
readythe wrongs which she herself had endured from
thingthat she had alThus
he was
him.
He had put himself in her power, and
spoken with her words.
driven to speak. "I don't know," said he, she had not thrown
She
away the opportunity.
as

"whether

She

intend

you

that for

sneer."

had

told him

indifferent whether or no
perfectly
she offended him.
Only that she had believed
that the maintenance
of her own
forbade
dignity
it,she would have openly rebuked him, and

For

told him

could

No

that he

than

not welcome

was

from

treatment

worse

her

Hermy

about

you

from

"I

wish

such

no

her.

she could
"

It is

without

pleasedto call a sneer.

rid yourself
of her."
rightto

in her house.

be
could,as she thought,

he had deserved

enmity had injuredher,but

laugh at his presentanger.
to

what

to talk

to

thing,and

you

have

no

"

Hermione now
sorry.
But even
to that
as

was

to her.

despair. As thingswere

become

almost

goingon,

ter
necessary that her sis-

and Sir Hugh should be parted.Both

wish

it : and

if this

should
But

from

come

then
arranged,

were

must

mione
Her-

to her.

this she

soon

to think

came

again

Harry Clavering. How was that matter

and what steps would it become
to be decided,
her to take as to its decision ?
Sir Hugh had
proposedto her that she should sell her interest
in Ongar Park, and she had promisedthat she
would

his chair

now

with

ctond of

make

known

her decision

throughher lawyer.
this she
the

cheerful life."
from

about

say so."

rose

she did not

his friendship,

want

but she had

friend,
any loud abuse unbecoming
countess,a widow, or a lady.

she

hardlycome

did not

be his

not

as

Hermione

are

you

simplywish

You

her either

to

afford to

hard

that she

would

done this without

first it would

His

of her
At any rate,you are ridding
yourself
she
society;and if,under thos^circumstances,
likes to come
to me, I shall be glad to receive
ful,
her.
Our life togetherwill not be very cheerI ought to expect a
but neither she nor

He

and

was

well

was

aware

As

she

that matter

on

had

been

that she would

saying

never

sell

resolved that
property; but she had already

she would

at

once

without purchasegiveitljack,

"
'' I
how it is,
it not kept
were
see
can
money, to the Ongar family,
anger upon his brow.
has
that she might hand it over to Harry Clavering
not
said he; "because
gone
every thing
residence for his lordship.If he
with yourself,
smooth
you choose to resent it as a fitting

me.

upon

would
met

not

Lord

might have expectedthat

forgottenin whose house

have

you

might be there,lookingafter

you

about with the steward

Ongar."

"No, Hugh, I forgetnothing;neither

when

his

cattle,
going

subservient at his heels,

to the Enoch
justice
ministering
Gubbys
she would care nothing
for the wants
others,

and
of

CLAVEEINGS.

THE

170
of the Courton

any

to ba

not

the

to be

were

people.

But

such

no

if such

Park

of Ongar
destiny

in that Eden

Adam

went

were

if there

"

then

"

might talte herself

of
the rich blessings

the mother

of the littlelord

would

thoughhe
"

that unfortunate

stories about
telling

on

who

man

He'll be

had

continue

to

break

his

bones^

forout-of-door sports.
aptitude
carried home on a stretchersome
day,
no

and revel among

thither,
you know," said Doodles.
"
What
does it matter if he is ?" said Archie,
and with no difBcuIty
the placewithout delay,
as
found
to price.As to price had she not already
thinkingof himself and of the danger
boldly,
"
for him.
A man
to her to be too predicted
can
the money-bag that had come
onlydie once."
"
I
call
it
?
quitea temptingof Providence,"
heavy for her hands
But she could do nothing tillthat question said Doodles.
But their conversation was
she to settle it?
about Lady
was
chiefly
settled;and how was
Every word that had passed between h^ and Ongar and the Spy. It was only on this day
"

Cecilia Burton
in her

turned

been

she could

and

over

onlydeclare

that

over

to

be

submit

if he

could

that
to her visitor,
please. She would

Harry
requiredher submission,but

bring herself

not

own

should

as

to take

steps

to

Dopdles had

learned

self, truth offered his hand

her-

she had then declared

as

it must

her

had

mind, and

she

"

who
Archie,

said Doodles.

"It

would

FAREWELL

themselves

to
on

TO

day

go down

which
to

in

the two

Cla-

wish

wouldn't

Harwich,and put

BerkeleySquare was

those

ed
strew-

and
meat, and the bottled beer and fish in tins,

have

it all for the

There

that's

"

the game
to you.
I'm playing
uncommon
badly
this morning ; but the truth is,I'm thinkingof
for

women."

Now,

little money,

with portmanteaus, gun-cases, and fishingpart.

And
rods,whereas the wine and packets of preserved
the

not

up like the very

that; and the

worst

board Jack Stuart's yacht. The

hall of the house

me

know

gone

DOODLES.
on

cut

"I

of it is,tliat perhapsyou
I meant
on, only for me.
best,old fellow ! I did,indeed.

XXXIX.

CHAPTER

veringswere

did

regardedas specially
unfortunate,declined
look at the matter in this light
; but Doodles

mischief,"he said.

the

in

to be

insisted.

came

had

and
rejected,

"

secure

misery.

last

been

Captain Clavevingwas surprised

by the extent
It's a doosed disagreeable
sympathy.
deed,"
thing a very disagreeable
thingin-

of his friend's

to

At

that Archie

and

he would

Doodles

as

this

was
playing
reallycivil on his

was

persevere in

Spy,as though there

talkingabout
somethingin his

were

the
membrance
re-

and the. preparedsoups,

cigars,
of the ladywhich attracted him irresistibly
had been sent down by Boxall,and were
to the subject.He bad alwaysboasted
by this
time on board the boat. Hugli.andArchie were
that in his interview with "her he had come
off'
this day by train at 5 P.M., and
to leave London
with the victory,
did he now
nor
to make
cease
board. Jack Stuart was alto sleepon
readysuch boasts ; but stillhe spoke of her and her
were
there,
havingassisted in workingthe yacht powers with an awe which would have complete-,
round from Brightlingsea.
lyopenedthe eyes of any one a littlemore sharp
fast
On that morning Archie had a farewell breaksuch matters
than Archie
on
Clavering. He
at his club with Doodles,and after that, was
this subject
that he sent the
so intent on
havingspentthe interveninghours in the billiard- marker out of the room
so that he might discuss
There
had
been
it with more
room, a farewell luncheon.
freedom,and might plainly
express
his views as to her influence on his friend'sfate.
somethingof melancholyin this last day between
the friends,
originating
partlyin the failure of
Do
By George ! she's a wondeiful woman.
Archie's hopes as to Lady Ongar, and partly,you know
I can't helpthinking
of her at night?
perhaps,in the bad character which seemed to She keepsme awake-^she does,upon my honor/'
"
He has
I can't say she keeps me
clingto Jack Stuart and his craft.
awake, but I wish
been at it for yeqrs,and alwayscoming to grief, I had
my seventy pounds back again."
"
said Doodles.
He is justlike a man
I know,
"Do
you know, if I were
you, I shouldn't
has
who
been buntingfor the last ten years, and
grudge it? I should think it worth prettynearly
can't sit a horse at a fence yet. He has broken
all the money
to have had the dealingwith
every bone in his skin,and I don't suppose he her."
"
ever
a
saw
Then
good thing to a finish. He never
you ought to go halves."
"
knows
whether
hounds
in covter,
are
or
where
I would.
Well,yes onlythat I ain't flush,
His only idea is to follow another
When
thinks of it,her absolutely
they are.
one
taking
man's red coat tillhe comes
to grief and yet the notes
out of your waistcoat pocket-^upon
he will go on hunting. There are some
people my word,it'sbeautiful ! She'd have had it out
who never
will understand what theycan do and
of mine if I hadn't been doosed sharp."
what theycan't." In answer
Archie reto this,
minded
"She
understood what she was
tainly."
about,cer-

largebox

of

"

"

"

"

"

his friend that

Stuart would

have

on

this occasion

Jack

lent
advantageof an exceldry nurse, acknowledgedto be very great on
such occasions.
Would not he,Archie Clavering,be there to pilotJack Stuart and his boat ?
Doodles was melancholy,
and
But,nevertheless,
,

i,

the

"

did she not

or

to

I should like to know

What

do"

tell Lady

about you, I

mean

is this

Ongar
?

what

did she
she

after all."
"

And

took my money

was

I dare say she did,

for nothing."

THE
"Because

didn't go

you

CLAVEEINGS.

high enongh,you

"

And

then one person catches them, and

doesn't?" asked Archie.

know."
But

"

as

that

your fault.

was

went

high

as

told me."

you
"No

"

171

They teU

mediums

They must be
wouldn't
spirits

shouldn't indeed.

medium.

"But

"

in which

she

me

about my

had

some

I shall

never

at me,

and

swore

how

way
she abused

what

upon

Why

ministeror

of minds

theyhave.

people,I fancy,
or

hear of any
don't the

swell

spirits
go

to

of those fellows ?

some

the

them."

to

come

never

you

sort

cleverish

being a
a

prime

Only think

family. I

think she must have what a helpthey'd

be."
for disliking
"If they come
shire,
"Warwickfrom the devil,"
suggested
she said such awful hard thingsabout it." Doodles," he wouldn't let them
do any real'

"

reason
special

How

did

she

Warwickshire ?"
"
She did know
don't

you
idea about
"I

that you

from

came

If I tell yon
thingabout it.

didn't mention
of those

something, "
I have

leave them
But

it before,
because

sort

I don't

of

alone.''

what

do you
a

?"

mean

I dare say
"There
the

medium

or

"

he answered.

"But

media,or

had

ever
what-

to

them,"said Archie,

that the mediums

me

people,and
where.

ways
al-

are

that

The

thqycome from
Spy is a clever woman

body
no-

"
"

isn't much

doubt about

that,"said

admiringDoodles.
can't say

you
If I

she's respectable,
you
I wouldn't go to a
spirit,
such dirty
she
as
stockings

was

who

woman
as

it ought to be called."
"

poor
knows

deal about

it seems

know.

Doodles looked very solemn

I think she's

and

an

things. I don't preunderstand them, and it is better to

^tendto

good."
"I've heard

it.

is it?"

talk much

"

know

say any
her."

"What

"

the
forget

and

that it dependsupon what the

eat and drink,"
said Doodles,

me

medias

or

ber.
Clavvy,not if you rememyou didn't,
But the fact is,
I don't suppose
you could
if
go high enough. I shouldn't be surprised
such a woman
that wanted
as
thousands ! I

"

other
an-

wore

on."

"That's

What
does
nonsense, Clawy.
about a woman's
?"
stockings

care
spirit

What

! one of those spirit-rapping

"But
people?"
why don't theyever go to the wise people
Archie'shair almost stood on end as he
? that's what I want
And
he
to know."
as
asked the question.
asked the questionboldlyhe struck his ball
"
not the best of them, sharply,
quished
They don't rap nowand, lo! the three balls rolled vanthat is. That was
the old way, and seems
to
into three different pockets. "I don't
have been givenup.
believe about it,"said Archie,as he readjusted
But what do you suppose she did ?"
the score.
The devil can't do such thingsas
"How
did she know
that the money
in that,
there'd be an end of every thing; and
was
or
? How did she know
in the air,why should there bo
to spirits
as
your waistcoat pocket,now
that I came
from Warwickshire
? And then she more
than there were
four-andnow
spirits
had a way of going about the room
as
though twenty years ago ?"
she could have raised herself off her feet in a
"That's all very well,
old fellow,"
said Doodles,
And

"

"

"

' '

if she

moment

and
swearing,

had

And

chosen.

the rest of it
"

so

then

her

"but

unlike any other

you know."
woman,
"
But do you think she could have made
hate me ?"

you

and I ain't clever

every thing." Then

and
dropped,

Doodles

went

enough

that

back

to

derstand
un-

subjectwas

for

while to

of 'Jack Stuart'syacht.
perils
After the lunch,which was, in fact,Archie's
" Ah
there are such lots of earlydinner.Doodles
was
! I can't tellthat,
going to leave his
but Archie insisted that his brother capderstand friend,
thingsgoing on nowadaysthat a fellow can untain
should walk with him up to Berkel.ey
Square,
nothingabout ! But I've no doubt of

Julia

the

if you were to tieher up with ropes ever so,

I don't in the least doubt but what she'd get out."
and made' two or three
Archie was awestruck,

and

see

had

suggestedthat Sir

and

that Sir

this

"

the last of him

Hugh

was

into his cab.

would

Doodles
be

there,
Hugh
alwaysdisposedto

not

house
strokes after this ; but then he pluckedup his welcome his brother's friends to his own
modes
of
the
comfortable
after
most
and
asked
a
friendship
questifm
;
courage
that on such an occasion
do you suppose they get it from, but Archie explained
"Where
"

Doodles

?"

as

this there need

be

no

fear

on

that head ; he

and
going away together,
question."
of jollity
about the
do you think?" said there was
certain feeling
the devil,
a
"Is it from
of the ^vilOne in tripwhich wqulddivest Sir Hugh of his roughness.
Archie,whisperingthe name
"
And besides,said Archie,"asyouwill
a very low voice.
"
he'll know that you're
Well, yes, I suppose that's most likely." be there to see me off,
"
Convinced
do
not
to
deal
a great
Because
by
going
stay yourself."
they don't seem to
to walk up to Berkeley
Doodles consenteji
with it,after all. As for my money,
of harm
this.
she would have had that any way, for I intended
Square.
Sir Hugh had spent the greatestpart of this
to giveit to her."
"
his guns and
"
said Doodles, day at home, immersed
who think,
There are people
among
"
from any where, rods,and their various appurtenances. He also
don't come
that the spirits
had breakfastedat his club,but had ordered his
about."
but are alwaysfloating
"That's

justthe

and

his brother

were

"

"

THE

172
luncheon

to

be

for
prepared

him

CLAVEEmGS.

at home.

He

You

yes.

shalleat and drink ; but suppose you

into the kitchen."

BerkeleySquare at four, send that man
that he
taken by surprise
and had directed that his lamb chops should be
Sir Hugh was
so
ment.
self
hardlyknew how to act on the spur of the mobroughtto him exactlyat three. He was himdeloup,
Gorand it
He certainly
little late in coming down
had heard of Madame
a
stairs,
ten minutes
was
though he had never before seen her.
past the hour when he desired
had been familiar to
that the chops mightbe put on the table,
saying For years past her name
turned
that he himself would be in the drawing-room him in London, and when Lady Ongar had resolicitous
He was a man
it had been, to his thinking,
as
a widow
in time tb meet them.
had
of her worst offenses that this woman
paragus one
about his Iamb
chops,and careful that the assolicitous also as to that been her friend. Under ordinary
circumstances,
should be hot
his judgment would have directed him to desire
bottle of Lafitte by which those comestables were
the servant
to put her out into the street as an
to be accompanied,and which
was, of its own
if there was
and to send for the police
nature, too good to be shared with his.brother impostor,
But
it
the
the
Archie.
But as he was
on
might be poslandingby
certainly
sible
any difficulty.
that this woman
had somethingto tellwith
scious
drawing-room door, descendingquickly,conthe chops reference to Lady Ongar which it would suit his
that,in obedience to his orders,
he
he was
At the present moment
met by a servant
had been alreadyserved,
purposes to hear.
who, with* disturbed face and quick voice, was not very well inclined to his sister-in-law,
and was
told him that there was
a ladywaitingfor him
disposedto hear evil of her. So he
desired
into the dining-room and
on
in the hall.
passed
he
Madame
Then
"D"
Gordeloup to follow him.
it,"said Sir Hugh.
She has jnstcome, Sir Hugh, and says that closed the room
door,and standingup with his
back to the fireplace,
that he might be saved
to see you."
she specially
so
wants
"
from the necessity
of askingher to sit down, he
Why the devil did you let her in ?"
"
She walked in when
the door was
opened, declared himself readyto hear any thing that
his visitor might have to say.
Sir Hugh, and I couldn't help it. She seemed
"But
Sir 'Oo. You
to be a lady.Sir Hugh, and I didn't like not to
you will eat your dinner.

had

arrangedto

leave

"

"

let her inside the door."

will not mind

me.

I shall not care."

name?"
"Thank
asked the master.
lady's
you, no ; if you will justsay what
"
She said you have got to say, I will be obligedto you."
It's a foreignname, Sir Hugh.
The lamb
"But
the nice thingswill be so cold ! Why
she wouldn't keep you five minutes."
the
and
Lafitte
should
and
the
were
Nobody minds me."
chops,
you mind me?
asparagus,
tillyou have done
in the dining-room,
ing-room
I will wait,if you please,
and the onlyway to the dineign me
the honor of leavingme."
laythroughthe hall to which the for'
Sir Hugh,
Ah ! well,
ladyhad obtained an entrance.
you Englishmen are so cold and
ed,
allowceremonious.
But Lord
making such calculations as the moments
Ongar was not with
determined
face the enemy,
like that.
I knew Lord Ongar so well."
that he would
me
"
Lord Ongar was
and pass on
her prostrate
fortunate than I am;"
to his banquet over
more
and
"He
did kill himself.
who
was
a poor
man
body. He went quicklydown into the hall,
there was
encountered
by Sophie Gordelonp, Yes. It was alwaysthat bottle of Cogfiac. And
other bottles that was
still.
worser
who, skippingover the gun-cases, and rushing there was
through the portmanteaus,caught the baronet Never mind ; he has gone now, and his widow
It is she has been a fortunate
by the arm before he had been able to approach has got the money.
door.
the dininggfoom
Sir 'Oo,I will sit down here in
Sir 'Oo,"she said,"I
!
woman
You are going the arm-chair."
Sir Hugh made
with
to have caughtyou.
am
so glad
a motion
his hand, not daringto forbid her to do as she
away, and I have thingsto tell you which you
"
And you, Sir 'Oo
will not you
hear
must
minded.
^yes; itis well for you I have caught was
looked
Sir Hugh
as
though he sit down also ?"
you, Sir 'Oo."
'
in this feeling,
I will continue to stand if you will allow
by no means
participated
and,
hurry,begged me."
sayingsomethingabout his greatto go to his food.
that he might be allowed
"Very well; you shall do as most pleases
Then he added that,as far as his memory
sei-ved you.
As I did walk here,and shall walk back,
him, he had not the honor of knowing the lady I will sit down."
who was
him.
And
addressing
now, if you have any thing to say,
"You
in to your littledinner,"said Madame
said Sir Hugh, lookingat
come
Gordeloup,"
"
and I will tell you every thingas you
the silver covers
which were
hiding the chops
Sophie,
You
shall eat and the asparagus, and lookingalso at his watch,
are
eating. Don't mind me.
"
and drink,and I will talk. I am Madame
Gorperhapsyou will be good enough to say it."
deloup SophieGordeloup. Ah ! you know the
"Any thing to say! Yes, Sir 'Oo,I have
Count PaterThat is me.
Yes.
name
now.
somethingto say. It is a pityyou will not sit
"

What's

the

"

'

"

"

"

'

"

"

off is my brother. You know Count Pateroff?

He knowed
Lord Ongar,and I knowed-Lord Ongar.

We
now

well you

know

Lady Ongar.

that I
was

can

not gone

have

much

Ah!
to

stand
you undertell. It is

without seeingme

! Eh !

at

me.

"

your dinner.
"I will not sit at my diifnertillyou have left
to proSo now, if you will be pleased
ceed
"
"

"I

will

proceed.Perhapsyou

don't know

CLAVERINGS.

THE
that Lord

Ongar

died

in

these aiins."

And

Sophie,as she spoke,stretched out her skinny

into the
hands,and put herself as far as possible
attitude in which

it would

the head

be most

convenient

som.
dyingman upon her boSir Hugh, thinking
to himself that Lord
solation
Ongar could hardlyhave received much con-

to nurse

of

in his fate from

173

he too fond of his

Clavering. Not onlywas
to giveit away without knowingwhy he
money
did so, but he was
of that weakto none
ness
subject
by which some men are prompted to submit
to

Had

such extortions.

and

had

he would

dear
really

dealt with

have

never

he believed her

been

Lady Ongar

such

story,

to

him,

one

as

otherwise than throughthe

declared Madame
incident,
Gordeloup
that he had not heard the fact before.
"^No, police.
"
Madame
Gordeloup,"said he," if you don't
you have not heard it. She have tell nothing
I shall have you
He
die abroad,and she immediately
take yourself
to her friends here.
off,
has

back

come

nothingto
"But

any
I don't

deloup.

It is

this

with all the money ; hut she tell

body here,so I must tell."
how

care

he

nothingto

Gor-

Madame
died,

out of the house.

He
had

would have
he

"

But

What

good

as

"

sent

feared

not

retard his

me."

The lady,
yes. Sir 'Oo.
your wife,is
the sister to Lady Ongar. Is not that so ? Lady
"

put

for

that

constable at once,
he would

by doing so,

journey.
!" said Sophie,
whose

his

"

own.

Me

live with you before she was

married, Who shall touch me ?"
' '
Your brother and your cousin
so ?
My servant shall ;
have
all
the
both wishes to marry her and
police. Come, walk."
money.

put

out

as
courage was
of the house !

Ongardid

Is not that
Is not
to

that

so

Your

helphim, and

Warwickshire.
"What

brother

has sSnt

Is not that

the d"

has

to

come

the littleman

out

toward her

me

in her

of

as though he
expulsionby

if that will not

And

he

do,the
steppedover

himself intended

to

sist
as-

violence.

you are there ; I see you; and what

said Sophie. "You, and your valk! I

"Well,

?"

so

or

said Sir

is all that to me?"

next?"

tell you thingsfitfor you to know, and you

who did not quiteunderstand the story can
If I valk,I will valk to some
it.
pose.
purlady was telling
say, valk.
" I will
I
I do not often valk for nothingwhen
it is to
Sir 'Oo,what the d
explain.
eatingthe nice things am told" T-valk!" Upon this Sir Hugh rang the
you, onlyI wish you were
"
I care nothingfor
violence.
bell with some
the table. This Lady Ongar is treating
me
on
for your
for
or
bad
o
r
brother
bad.
treat
too.
servants,
She
bells,
your
your
very
my
very
My brother is Count PateroiF. We have been policemen. I have told you that your sister

Hugh,

as

the

"

put to,oh, such expenses for her ! It have

ruined

owe

ly
near-

don
journeyto your Lonher.
Then, for her, I

I make

me.

for
here altogether
what
to that accursed little island
go
all my
insult
Oh
it
?
where
she
!
call
me.
you
"

down

me

great deal of money,

I will valk."

valk.

into the room,

came

voice,desired him

"

and

you

say

"

Thereupon the servant

and Sir Hugh, in an angry

to open

the front door.

"Yes

vide,"said Sophie,who, when anger

Your brother and your cousin, came
time is gone.
apt to drop into a mode of
upon her,was
all comof Warwickshire,
out
and the littleman
ing
speakingEnglishwhich she was able to avoid
"
Sir 'Oo,I am
in her cooler moments.
going
to my
house,justas it pleasethem."
of
shall
hear
and
shouted
Sir
to
valk,
But what is this to me ?"
my valking."
Hugh.
you
"
I to take that as a threat?" said he.
" A
Am
greatdeal to you,"screamed back Madame
"
Not a tret at all,"said she ; " onlya promYou
ise.
I know
see
every thing
Gordelonp.
Ah ! I am good to keep my promises.Yes,
every thing. I have got papers."
down with
"
I make a promise. Your poor wife
Look
do I care
for your papers ?
What
and she shall hear too.
Gordeloup,you had better go the daises ; I know all,
here,Madame
That is another promise. And
your brother,
away.
and the littleman
the captain.Oh ! here he is,
You
not
are
"Not
Sir
going
'Oo,
yet.
yet,
"

open

"

"

"

"

"

to

away

you
"Look
want

Norway^
"

come

"I

want

; and

am

from
my

me

do you

mean

of Warwickshire."

ruined before out

her

here,madam,

money

know

I know

back."
that you

and
chair,

Remember,

and

everythingeverythingoh,such things!

ing
going,but justas she was passArchie
into the hall she encountered
gether
Doodles.
Sir Hugh, who had been altoat

"

in the newspapers, you

theywere all known
that ladyin
that kind of thing,
or
understand,
"

She had got up from

toward the door with

out

Sir 'Oo.
rights.

If

moved

the intention of

?"

"

had

meant

by the

loss to understand what she had

followed
out of Warwickshire,

man

and became
more
hei-into the hall,
angry than
that his brother had broughta
before at finding
row.
to-morlose all her money
a moment.
There is uncles to the littlelord ; friend to his house at so very inopportune
Yes.
his
face
in
so
The
was
wrath
plainly
I
would
much
they give me,
Ah ! how
yes !
that Doodles could perceive
it,and
wonder ? They would not tell me to go away." expressed
The
also
of the
wished
himself
in the estimate
presence
away.
Sophiewas perhapsjustified
to the gallantcaptain.
not
was
character
pleasant
Spy
she had made of Sir Hugh'sprobable
that he
the wonderful woman
of Was
ubiquitous,
from the knowledge which she had acquired
and
her
that so
encounter
should thus
again,
she had
nevertheless,
his brother Archie ;
of
he
had
that
the
all
after
spoken
ly
hardsoon
things
could
There
fallen into a great mistake.
do you do, gentle-? " How
this
her
less
on
morning
London
then
in
likely
have been a man
said Sophie. " There is a great many
men?"
to fall into her present views than Sir Hugh
Bolton

Street would

6ut,

CLAVEEINGS.

THE

174

here,and I

boxes

got room."

my crinoline have not

shook hands, firstwith

with

Then

she

Archie,and then with Doodles ; and asked the

shire.
latter why he was
not as yet gone to Warwicklooked up
Archie,in almost mortal fear,
his brother learned

Had

into his brother's face.

broughtmoney instead of seeking it ; and had,

of her own
in fact,
gone to her simplyin the way
to this
trade.
He did beginsome
preliminaries
and
was
but
the
servant
there,
as
explanation
;
out from the diningas his brother might come
and

room,

also he

as

that he

aware

was

could

woman

tellthe storymuch to his own

advantage,
seventy pounds? Sir Hugh hardly
that the he stoppedabruptly,
at
at finding
and,lookingpiteously
puzzledbeyondmeasure
Doodles, imploredhim to take the ladyaway.
knew the two men
; but,having stillan

eye

to

story of that

the
was

anxious
to
chops,was chiefly
Sophieand Doodles together.
dle,"
is my friend Boodle
Captain BooArchie, tryingto put a bold face upon

get rid of
"This

"

the crisis.

lady,will

her ;
his

knew

to

giveher

to

to see

come

if I

of the house

out

seems

has

"

oflf."

me

him, "said Sir Hugh.

for this

way

enough

He

kind of

"Very
get her

into Mount

"

said

make

I'erhapsyou wouldn't mind justseeingher

said Archie.
Street,"
"Who
I ?" said Doodles,electrified.
"
said Archie.
It is onlyjustround the corner,"
"

his lamb

perhaps he'll be

good

?"

arm

' '

to

fiiend

Your

can.

will

"Yes, CaptainBooddle,we

"Just

I want

yon ?

I do

"

phie.
go," said So-

bad house ; and your Sir 'Oo

like him at all. Lock-up,indeed !

This is

not

self.
be locked up himI tell you he shall very soon
I
There is what you call Davy'slocker.
know
yes."

I?" said Doodles.

"No, I don't
also trembled
when
he heard this
I did meet her once
fore,
beDoodles
particularly.
of the character
-in a casual way."
once
more
anathema,and thought'
justonce
and
is very good
of Jack Stuart and his yacht.
me
"Captain Booddle
said Sophie. " He come
to my house
friends,"
Pray go with her, said Archie.
and behave himself very well ; only he is not so
"But
I had come
to see
you oif."
"
" He
is in such
Sir 'Oo."
Never mind," said Archie.
as your brother.
handy a man
bless
old
fellow
Archie trembled,
and he trembled stillmore
know.
God
a taking,
you,
you
when his brother,turningto him, asked him if
good-by! I'll write and tell you what fish
what Turriper
he knew the woman.
we
get, and mind you tell me
Bedfordshire.
he
know
the
said
does
for
the
woman
well,"
Good-by,Madame
"Yes,
very
to
Sophie. Why do you not come
Gordeloup; good-by."
any more
?
You send your, littlefriend,
but I like
There was
see
me
no
escape for him, so Doodles put
You
when
hat
better
his
and
come
on
again
yourself.
preparedto walk away to Mount
you
you
the Spy as
Street with the Spy under his arm
return, and all that shall be made right."
But stillshe did not go.
She had now seatand beyond those of
ed
to whose
over
avocations,
herself on a gun-case which was
he had such strong
her diplomatic
on
a
resting
profession,
The
! He felt inclined to be angiy with,
suspicions
portmanteau,and seemed to be at her ease.
time was
and Sir Hugh',if he meant
of his parting
his friend,
but the circumstances
goingfast,
must
admitted
of
of anger.
to eat his chops,
eat them at once.
expression
hardly
any
"
into the street,"
he
See her out'of the hall,
"Good-by, Clavvy," he said. "Yes, I'll
said to Archie ; " and if she givestrouble,
send
write that is,if I've got any thingto say.
for the police.She has come
here to get money
"Take
of yourself,
phie.
care
captain,"said Sofrom me
and only that we
have no
by threats,
"All right,"
said Archie.
time, I would have her taken to the lock-up
"
Sir Hugh retreated into
house at once."
Then
Mind you come
and see me when you come
the dining-roomand shut the door.
back," said Sophie.
said Archie.
"Lock-up-ouse!" said Sophie, scornfully. Of course I will,"
"Who

know

"

"

her

"

"

"

"

"

"

"

"

"

"

"Whatisdat?"
"

' '

He

"And

means

Prison

prison
.

said
prison,"

I know

Tell

me

of

of state that he
to be made

in

now

who
a

can

?
prisoner

England?

is

Doodles.
be
likely

most

Is he

prison!
send

out

in

ister
min-

order for

me

Is there lettresde cachet

I think

deed
Prison,in-

not.

we'll make

Gentlemen,when

!"
"But
Madame
had
really,
Gordeloup,
you
better go
said Archie.
you had,indeed,"
"
You too
Did I bid you
you bid me
go ?
when
Did I not tell you
to me
?
go
you came
"

"

shouldn't

take

that all

they have
no

too

rightfor you yet.

so

easy.
we'll see

much
You

to

gain,
with

come

and
about it again."
your handy glove,
Then
Sophie walked off leaningupon the arm
of CaptainBoodle,and Archie stood at the door
watching them till they turned out of sight
round
the corner
of the Square. At last he
saw

them

no

more,

and

then

he returned

to

his

or

most
al-

brother.
And

as
no

shall see Doodles

we

more

"

we

will

now

no

more

bid him

"

illy.
adieu civ-

sit down

?
Was
I not polite
Did I send for
?
The pairwere
not ill-matched,
thoughthe
No.
to you ?
or talk of lock-up-ouse
police,
advantagein acuteness,
ladyperhapshad some
It is English that do these things only English."
given to her no doubt hy the experienceof a
longerlife. Doodles,as he walked along two
a

"

Archie

felt that it was

explain that
made

under

incumbent

his visit to her

on

house

other circumstances

"

him

had

to

been

that he had

sides of the square with the fair burden

his
on
arm, felt himself to be in soine sort proud of his

position,
though it was

one

from which

he would

have been sorry to escape, had

not

"

THE

CLAVERINGS.

escape

been

175

that
dearest,

bear it. I

not

can

hope

for

I onlywant
possible A remarkable phenomenon was the nothing
to have this settled,
uow.
Spy, and to have walked round Berkeley
Square that I may be at rest."
with such a woman
leaningon his arm might in
Upon this Mrs. Burton took the suffering
girl
in her arms
isfaction.
coming years be an event to remember with satand caressed her
tenderly.
-"My
In the mean
time he did not say love,"
said she,"it is not easy for us to be at
much
to her,and did not quiteunderstand
all rest.
You can
not be at rest as
yet."
that she said to him.
door

which
He

paused.
while

he

At last he

well

did not

the

door

to the

came

remembered,and
escape

then.

even

opened,and

was

then

he

After

those who

"I

I will be so, when

can.

is settled.'"! do

I know

that this

wish to interferewith his

fortune. There is my letterto his mother,and
I will go back to Stratton."
now
not

"Not
passingmighthave seen CaptainBoodle,
not
ton,
yet, dearest,
yet,"said Mrs. Burwith hesitating
row
steps,enter the nartakingthe letterin her hand,but refraining
lowed,from withdrawing
it at once from the envelope.
Sophiefolpassage before the lady. Then
and closed the door behind her.
As far " You must hear what I have heard
to-day."

were

slowlyand

this

as

view
story goes, what took placeat that internot be known.

can

Doodles,and

wish him

How

did you
Hugh to his

"

said

in the
"

us

happyescape.

to know

come

bid farewell to

as
brother,

that

soon

Archie

as

was

friend of

said Archie.
Julia's,"
haven't givenher money ?" Hugh asked.

was

You

"

Does she say that she loves him ?"

We
must
yes" she loves him.
doubt that."
;
"Ah!

?"

woman

dining-room.

She

"

Let

"

And

"

She

Oh

"

dear,no,"said Archie.

be

while,we

bid adieu to them

may

the

not

MRS.

BUKTON

he may

as

choose to decide.

myselfto

I will

FOUGHT

must

never

him.
him

see

It is
more

Stop,dear,stop. What

I will

enough

be

as

To

never.

"

untrue,but

if it be

fault

no

his?"'
fault of his that he went
to her when
he and I
we
gether
were, as we
were, to!"

"No
we

HOW

be

submit

it is.

XL.

It

herself
Florence,withdrawing
stillaround her,"no, it
was

say that I do not love him would

I will never
see him again."

also.

Florence,

that

arm

not

so

"

SHOWING

said

"No,"

of

CHAPTER

does she say of him ?"

he shall decide."

as

shall

Immediatelyafter that they got into their

the top,and,for
cab, the thingswere pitched
on

what

"

says what you also must say,

thoughit is hard that it should be so.

from
'

he

not

we

"

"

HEK

"

"

BATTLE.
"

"

Flokence,

and

I have

the

been

to Bolton

Lady Ongar."

seen

the first words

her

I have

Those

Cecilia Burton

which

were

spoke to

when
she found Florence in
sister-in-law,
drawing-room on her return from the visit

which

she had
had

had

made

to the

writing;and

been

addressed
was

ence
Flor-

countess.

stillbefore her the desk

on

Of

there has been

coarse

listen
Street,Flo,dearest,

which

the letter in its

she

lope,
enve-

would

ask

you to do
should shrink."

woman

"I

know

blood for
Do

not

that.
doubt

that

look at

nothingfrom

Florence,who
undertakingon

with

me

Cissy,it will not

melancholyeyes

kill me.

never

dreamed

of such

Cecilia's part,was

an

that kills one."

herself know

what

like

It is onlythe
"

Mrs.

had

which

would
give your Heart's
nothingwill be of avail now.

but as yet un"I will not look at you with

closed,
Clavering,
lyingbeneath her blotting-paper.
eyes, but you must listento me.
to

know

you

; but

me

fault ; but
that I

some

You

to me.

melancholy
She

does not

his intention is."

I know it,
and I know my own.
Read
letter.
Cissy. There is not one word of
made
will I ever
first effort was
to learn from her sister's anger in it,nor
utter a reproach.
what had been the result He knew her first. If he loved her throughit
tone and countenance
it was a pityhe could not be constant to his
of this interview ; but she could learn nothing all,
There was
radiance as of joy love,
from either.
no
even
though she was false to him."
which
tidings

at the

in Mrs.

face,nor

Burton's

there any
and

she heard.

was

"But

astounded

Of

course

there

her

my

written

thingof despair. Her voice was

almost solemn,and her manner

rious
se-

As far as I
you won't hear me, Flo.
learn tlie truth as I myselfmost firmly
believe

"But
can

"

was

all. "You
have seen
very grave, but that was
her?" said Florence,
rising
up from her chair.

"

when

to her on her return

to
other intention than that
old friend."

he

England, he
of visiting
an

went

had

no

odore,
The"But
what sort of friend,
have done wi-ong.
Cissy?"
may
But
I
"He
had no idea then of being untrue
will
it
to
so.
thought
know,
say
her the old intimacy
he saw
But when
best to try to learn the truth,before you wrote
yon.
That was
natural. Then he was
back.
came
to Mrs. Clavering."

"Yes, dear,I
I

"And
have

not

what

is

thptruth?

But

perhapsyou

learned it."

learned all that she could

tell me.
She has been very frank."
"
Well,what is the truth ? Do not suppose,
"I

think I have

dazzled
"

by

her

beauty."

Is she then

so

beautiful?"

"She

is very beautiful."

"Let

him

go

to

her,"said Florence,
tearing
walking

herselfaway from her sister'sarm, and

THE

176
the

across

be

end

an

with

room

"Let

step.

quick and almost angry

Cissy,there shall

her have

of it.

him.

I will

you

as

say, and if
thing,what

him
goes for every
chance could there be for such as me?"
"I did not say that beautywith him went

beauty with

Of

"

that it would
And

be

ought to
such

with

so

have
one

as

that

it is the

me

who

woman

"

that his mother

is

with her in her

own

me
preferred

rightto

"

"

"

world,I

He

his hand.

yet from
the old story how

pity,nor

he

when

shall not
the Devil

sick.

was

husband

to

as

as

know
monk

bed
accept his sick-

think that I

to

to

from

We

would be

he

than

am
me

marry

duty.

I will not

mother's

of

sense

her,and

to

rather be

would

"

even

I suppose

beautiful has

so

ing
spend this mornhouse, and then,as

have
or
allegiance,

thing.

same,

that he is there

Streefr^-"

such influences

to trust to

care

suspectshim

even

Now
you.
from Bolton

away

"

We

that he desires it.

know

not

I do not

take
!

and I will
plain,
every thing. I know that I am
"
in future
content
to think no
more
be
"

home

at

"

all the

him.

wonderfullyrich

"

Florence,you are unjust. You

suspectthat it is her money."
"

"To

know

for

known

I have to think of him ?"

do not

rightcan

What

she is rich also

then

do

not

left her,feel that he

it does.

course

"We

that,Cissy. If he could not

thing."

every

do

it
of any fault toward
condescend to solic-

not

If she is such

his love.

CLAVERINGS.

influence

owe

him

over

my
while

he is ill."
You

"

will make

less true to him

think,Flo, that

me

are

you

she is."

than

Let him

"
Perhapsit is so.
Florence,when she had got as far as that,
such truth as hers can
farther with
broke down, and could go on
no

Poor

have

what

good

me, I feel
to myself. I will

do him.

For

which
she had been about to thafit is my duty to be true
heart; at the cost
to indulge my
her future prospects. Mrs. Burton, not condescend
went on with her story, of my prideas a woman."
takingadvantageof this,'
"
I hate that word pride."
not
to assume
Oh, Florence,
struggling,
altogether
unsuccessfully,
declaration

the

make

calm

a
"

to

as

of unimpassionedreason.
he was dazzled
before,
"

"

oh!"

even

to

you."

No

"You

then he had

But

no

idea of

untrue

without

an

idea.

That

to

me

ined
perverse, and are determunfair.
I must
beg that you will
the end,so that then you may be
are

judgewhat

course
you
said with an

Mrs. Burton

This

take

it for

shame

no

I taken

I been
the

"Florence, you

able to

hate

not

to

shame

to

ought

to

my

follow."

said
Have

pleasureto myselfto regardhim as my future

husband,I have spoken of my love as being
alwaysproud of it. I have acknowledgedit as
I
openly as you can do yours for Theodore.
'
and will never
acknowledge it still,
deny it.
shame

in her company,
and
upon him when he was
embarrassed
became
by his positionbefore

transferred it from

be

take to

myselfgreat

brought so

when

low

I had

once

No.

that I have loved him !

should

he

"

From
or
coy about my love ?
I knew
that it was
in which

"
He thought of doing no
somethingless stern
to
see
injuryto you when he went
her; but
something of the feelingof his old loVe grew
"

love him."

love him?"

missisli

moment

air of great authority

she continued
in a voice Take

; after which

in
yourself,

her chair.

risingagainfrom
Florence,

; he was

to be

need

"Have

true
being un-

is worse."

hear

would

place."

"

"Dazzled!
"

"You

tone

I said

As

to

as

learned

for his

ask him
to

But I

should I

shame

ever

love,

that he had

think

myselfto another woman."

ward
he
Then
she walked the lengthof the room, backof his own
and forward,
with hastysteps,not looking
was
.aware
danger. He might, of
Florence
filled
whose eyes were
now
at her sister-in-law,
course, have been stronger." Here
exhibited a gestureof strongimpatience,
though with tears.
"Come, Cissy,"she then said,
she did not speak. " I am
ter
not going to defend
will make
end of this. Bead
"we
an
my letIiim altogether,
but I thinlv you must admit that
if you choose to read it though indeed it is
he was
hardlytried. Of course I can not say not worth the reading and then let me send it
what
stand
passedbetween
them, but I can underto the post."
how
to the old
Mrs. Burton now
easilythey might recur
openedthe letter and read
she would wish for a rehow naturally
scenes
ing
and almost unfeelit very slowly. It was
stern
newal
of the love which she had been base enough
in the calmness of the words chosen ; but in
to betray
! She does not,however,consider herry
self those words her proposedmarriage with Harat present engaged to him.
as
"I
That you
abandoned.
Claveringwas absolutely
It may be that she has know," she said, that your son is more
ly
warmmay know for certain.
asked him for such a promise,and that he has
attached to another ladythan he is to me,
hesitated.
If so, his stayingaway from us, and
and under those circumstances,for his sake as
his not writing
to you, can
be easily
understood." well as for mine,it is necessary that we should
"

"

"

"

"And

what

"He
would
"I

his

can
can

not

to

do

tillhe comes."

make

know

that.Cissy. Wait I must,

him,through
offering

freedom

which

I have

that he desires."

him

recur

Mrs.

Clavering,may

understand that he and

to

the past ?

I ask yon to
I are never

If he will send

me

hack

should any have been kept

any letters of mine
and the littlepresent which I once
gave him,
all will have been done which need be done, and
"

not wait without

mother,the

reason

Wait

Dear

part.

have been here before this had not illness to

preventedhim.
hut I

is it you would have me

do ?"
Wait tillhe is well.
He

is ill now.

so

much

"

all have

been

will receive in

said which
a

need

his
small parcel

be
own

said.

He

letters and

CLAVEEINGS.

THE

"
and have seen
There was
I have been to Bolton Street,
me."
completeness as of a business Lady Ongar."
of p. judgment admitting
finished
"No!"
absolutely
which did not at all suit Mrs. Burton's
"I have,Theodore,indeed."
no
appeal,
Mr. Burton
had been rubbinghis face veYiews. A letter,
hemently
quiteas becoming on the
ten,
with a rough towel at the moment
in
part of Florence,might, she thought,be writ-

the

which
gifts

177

in this

he has made

of

tone

"

"

would stillleave open

But
Florence was

which

door for

which
onciliation.
rec-

the

communication

had

been

made

to

he afiectedby it that
was
him, and so strongly
he was
and brought
to
stoppedin his operation
in this a stand in his movement, lookingat his wife

and
resolved,

sent.
the letter was
The partwhich Mrs. Burton had taken
herself.
conversation had surprised
even

She over the towel as he held it in both his hands.

" What
earth has made you do such a thing
on
had been full of anger with Harry Clavering
he said.
wrathful with him as her nature permitted
as that?"
as
"
I thoughtit best.
that I might
I thought
her to be,and yet she bad pleadedhis cause
with all her eloquence,
going almost so far in hear the truth and so I have. I could not
bear that Florence should be sacrificed while
to declare that he was
her defense of him
as
"

"

she was
to
truth,
prepared
any thingremained undone that was possible."
to givehim full absolution
"Why didn't you tell me that you were goif only he could be brought ing?"
without penance
back again into the fold. Her wrath against "Well, my
dear,I thought it better not.
I ought to have told you, but in this
him would be very hot should he not so return ; Of com'se
if he would
instance I thoughtit best justto go without the
than forgiven
but all should be more
ate
fuss of mentioningit."
onlycome back,and do his dutywith affection"
What
Her desire was, not
mean
and patientfidelity.
is,that if you had
you really
I should have asked you not to go. "
should be done,as that told me
that justice
so much
Florence should have the thing coveted,and
"Exactly."

blameless.

And,

acquithim

of blame

in
"

"

have

rival should not

that Florence's

cording "And
Ac-

it.

you

were

determined

to have

your'

"

arrangedby her own way.

"
I don't think,
feminine
Theodore,I care so much
logic,
Harry Claveringwould be all
do.
I am
last
about
women
at
own
he
as some
as
all
might
or
according
my
way
right
wrong
I alwaysthink your opinionis better than
sure
bear himself. She desired success, and,if she
give my own-;" that is,in most things."
was
could onlybe successful,
preparedto for"And
what did Lady Ongar say to you?"
would
not
she
And
even
thing.
yet
every
and was seated
self He had now
put down the towel,
though she admitted to hergiveup the battle,
in his arm-chair,
made
lookingup into his wife's
that Florence's letter to Mrs. Clavering
It might, face.
than ever.
difficult
the contest inore
" It would be
a long storyto tellyon all that
however, be that Mrs. Claveringwould he good
said."
she
clever
true
enough,
enough,
just
enough,
enough,
she civilto you?"
"Was
that such a letter as this,
coming from
to know
"
She was
She is a handsome,
not uncivil.
stances,
such circumand written under
such a girl,
she
prone to speak out what
should be taken as meaning nothing. proud woman,
to have
her own
and determined
ried
way
thinks,
Most mothers would wish to see their sons mared
should wealth throw itselfin their when it is possible
; but I think that she intendto wealth,
to be civil to me
be
personally."
not
Mrs.
but
might
Clavering,
possibly,
way ;
to the

such

arguments

mother

as

that.

as

"What

"

In the mean
time,there was before her the
to her husband
of explaining
terriblenecessity
edge,
the stepwhich she had taken without his knowland
him

the

she could sit down

historybefore

to

"

Theodore, she

"

in comfort.

dinner with him

to marry
She said

is her purpose now?"

is clear enough.

She

purpose

Harry Claveringif
so.

She made

no

she

secret

means

get him.

can

of what

her

tell wishes are."

that she must

she knew

of which

"Her

"

let us
"

mari-y him, and do not

trouble ourselves farther in the matter."
ence!"
Theodore ! Think of FlorBut Florence,

let her
Then, Cissy,

said,creepingin out of her own chamber to his

while he was washinghis hands,
dressing-room,
"lam
thinkingof her,and I think that
with me, but I have
be angry
mustn't
"you
Harry Claveringis not worth her acceptance.'
done somethingto-day."

why

"And

must

not

be

thieves.
the travelerthat fell among
as
It is
She is hurt and wounded,but not dead.

with She is

angry

you?"
know

"Tou

"

you

to

was

in

great blessing.He

therefore

"What

be

I don't

be."

with his work

was

mustn't

You

this" because

said he.
'That'sconclusive,"
to her that he

was

mean.

about
especially

angry"
want

what I

as

he

was

willingto

Lady Ongar have

they are

him.

As far

as

can

see,

fitfor each other."

"Then she went throughwith him, diligently,

tried
all
the arguments which she had used with
and
be,

had not been

often wont
be

fest
mani-

It was

goodhumor, which

but the oil

for you to be the good Samaritan,
which you should pour into her wounds is not
Let
a renewed
hope as to that worthless man.

to

playful.

do you think I've done?" said she.

M

Harry'sconduct,and
Florence,palliating
the circumstances of his

plaining
ex-

aldisloyalty,

CLAVERINGS.

THE

178
most

those circtimstances had in truth

as

"I

said.

she

think you are

"You
can't be

too

liard

too

hard

to be

comfort is not

curred.
oc-

when

had

is

one

diate
him," sorrowful."
false"No, indeed,"said

on
on

her

"Sorrow

brother.

I alwaysthink
while it exists. should not be killedtoo quickly.
forever that those who are imperviousto griefmust be
But you would not be angry with a man
But
have been false?
because he should once
imperviousalso to happiness. If you have
that he is false." "Do
we
do not know
feelings
capableof the one, you must have them^
we

liood,"hereplied. "No,

"But

said he.

not?"

not

mind;

never

must

we

also
capable

of the other."

wait,at any rate,till you get

said Cecilia.
would allow him
from Mrs. Clavering,''
before
she
an
visit?"
answer
Then,
your
" I do
that she has any answer
to
not know
to leave his room, she explainedto him what
herself and Florence, send to me."
had taken placebetween
"
Oh yes, she must
answer
and told him of the letter that had been written
you, if you will
Does

now.

Florence

know

That

way out
is left to her."

resolved that she would

was

Burton, when

Theodore

sign of

with

common

who

was

the

of those

one

moment

present

of it.

think
said

should

If she

accepts what

have

you

"
"

She

"

not but

can

accept it."

There
is
reply to you.
you have asked her to send to
you ; and I think you should wait, at any rale,
tillit reaches you here.
Mind, I do not think
will be of that nature, but it is clear
her answer
''

Then

she

must

the drawing-room,
somethingwhich

he reached

him, for he

At

aifection.

yet surrender.

usuallydemonstrative

not

are

as

up to his sister and kissed her.

the tenderness of love was
not

went

Such

not

"You

of

said he.
Clavering. "She is right,"
is the best that
of her difficulty
Mrs. Burton
But, nevertheless,

Mrs.

to
"

dinner

to

go

in

their

he

said

whatever it may be."

that you should wait for it,
of her
Then
Florence,with the concurrence

don
brother's opinion,
consented to remain in Lonwas
passingin his mind, nor
which
for a few days,expectingthe answer
simply raised her face to meet
she held it. would
be sent By Mrs. Clavering;and after
and pressedhis hand
his lips,
as
tween that no farther discussion took place as to her
What
need was
there of any farther sign bethem' than this?
Then
they went to trouble.

nothing of

what

She

did she.

dinner, and
silence.
on

was

had

their meal

there been

but,while

there,
might have

one

they remained

there

occurred

mark

that all

them

they were
alreadymade

to be

tea, and

at

led the

when

no

EETtnjNS

to his

TO

THE

TOLD.

Clateeing had spoken solemn words

which both he
mother, during his illness,

and

she

should

regardedas
not

forth.

the

on

promise that Florence

After that
by him.

deserted

be

cilia promisenothing more

Ce-

up her mind that there

farther discussion that night,
ence
Flor-

suddenlybroke

SnEEP

Haeet

spoken a word
that was
so
subject

the

THE

XLI.

to

the brother have

When
had

was

nothing else

to all their hearts had not Florence

way.

CHAPTER

stairs,

well with them.

not

was

during the eveningon

hear

in

this ;

seen

together down

among

would

Nor

almost

eaten

was

Cecilia's eye
every moment
A careful observer,
her sister-in-law.
Almost

for
subject

said between

was

them

days. Mrs. Clavering

promisehad been made,

few

was

contented

and

Harry himself,in the weakness consequent

his illness,
was
willingenough to accept

that the

ing
"Theodore," she said,"I have been thinkupon
the excuse
which his illness gave him for postmuch
about it,and I believe I had jjetter
poning
acti"n in the matter.
But the fever
t
o-morrow."
to
Stratton,
home,,
any
go
"

Oh

Florence.

continued
weak

in

had

no,"said Cecilia,
eagerly.

believe it will be

"I

me

to

own

that I should hide

Cecilia

feel that it will be well

myself."

at her feet in

was

Flo,"she

left

should,"mother's

him,

and

room,

he

when

sittingup

was

Florence's

in

his

letter reached

"I
the parsonage,
and with the letter,
it is very
the little
suppose
it ; but I am
fully.
unhappy,and, parcelwhich she herself had packed up so care-

bird,I

like the wounded

better that I

said,"is

not

est
"Dear-

moment.

this your

home

as

On the day before that a few words had

passedbetween the rector and his wife,which
will explainthe feelings
of both of them in the
matter.

you heard,"said he, speaking in a

hardlyabove a whisper,althoughno third
have more
homes
in the room,
"that Harry is again
have lighthearts may
who
person was
than one, but it is not so with those whose hearts thinkingof making Julia his wife ?"
"He
is not thinkingof doing so,"said Mrs.
to
are heavy. I think it will be best for me
Clavering." They who say so do him wrong."
go-"
said
It would
be a great thingfor him as reas
gards
"You
shall do exactly
you please,''

Stratton ?"
"When
I am
able to be happy,it is. Those

well

"Have

as

voice

' '

her brother.

"In

such

matter

I only wish
persuadeyou.
tend to comfort you."
to

"You

do

think

more

than

am

any

that

we

me.

"But
has

If I know

thing. Absolute

money."

try

could

that you
comfort
that
will
me
right,

comfort

doing

I will not

and

imme-

been

could
At
"

not

he is engaged
received here
"

endure

and Florence

Burton

his future wife.

to think that it should be
as

'
any rate,it is not true."
I onlytellyou what I heard,"said the

I
so.

rec-

THE

tor,gentlysighing,
partlyin obedience

CLAVERINGS.
to

179

his This very

day would

be

wife's
that

his son's reach.

be

day of

agony to her.

impliedrebuke,and partly
at the thought There had been for her,
doubtless,
many days
so grand a marriageshould not be within
of agony during
the pastmonth.
That the letter
that

aware

the

at

and that

The rector was

to
beginning
tune
Harry would hardlymake a for-

which he
profession
marriagewould be

had

true in all its words Mrs. Clavering

did not
doubt. That Florence believed that all was over
chosen, between her and Harry,Mrs. Clavering
was
as
was

rich

an
Florence had intended that she should
as
sure
easy way
of all the difficulties
which
such a failure be. But all should not be
over, and the days
promised. The rector was a man
who dearlyof agony should soon
be at an end.
Her boy
loved easy ways out of difficulties.But in such
had
and to her he had

out

promised her,

always

these his wife he knew was imperabeen true.

And she understood,
tive
too,the way
and powerful,
and he lacked the
courage to in which these dangershad come
upon him, and
that was
her judgmentwas
pleadfor a cause
generous.
prudent,but unnot heavyupon her son
her
graciousboy,who had ever been so good to her !
Mrs. Clavering
When
received the letterand It might be that he had been less diligent
at his
matters

as

"

parcelon

the next

morning, Harry Claveringwork than he should have been

that on that
With
the delightful
lege account farther delaywould stillbe necessary;
priviof a convalescent invalid,
he was allowed but Florence would forgivethat,and he had
in these daysto get up justwhen getting beup came promisedthat Florence should not be deserted.
more
comfortable than lyingin bed, and
Then
she took the parcelin her hands,
and
that time did not usually
tilleleven o'clock considered all its circumstances
come
how precious
was
had once
been its contents,and how precious
past ; but the postman reached the Clavering
by nine. The letter,
as we
parsonage
know, doubtless they stillwere, though they had been
addressed to Mrs. Clavering
was
thus repudiated
as was
! And
she thoughtof the moherself,
ments
also the outer envelopewhich
contained
the
hay,rather the hours which had been
packet; but the packetitself was addressed in passedin the packingof that littlepacket. She
Florence's clear handwriting
ing,
to HarryClaverwell understood
how
would
a girl
lingerover
Esq. "That is a largeparcelto come by such dear pain,touchingthe thingsover and
over
post,mamma," said Fanny.
again,allowingherself to read morsels of
"
the letters at which she had alreadyforbidden
Yes, my dear ; but it is something
lar."
particuherself even
to look,till every word had been
"
It's from some
tradesman,I suppose,"said again seen and weighed,again caressed and
the rector.
ets
againabjured. She knew how those littletrinkwould
have been fondled ! How
"No, it's not from a tradesman,"said Mrs.
salt had
and
been the tears that had fallen on them, and how
Clavering. But she said nothingfarther,
both husband and daughterperceived
that it was
the drops would have been removed.
carefully
not intended that they should ask farther questions. Every fold in the paper of the two envelopes,
with the littlemorsels of wax
justadequatefor
Fanny,as usual,had taken her brother his their purpose, told of the lingering
painfulcare
and Mrs. Clavering
did not go up to with which the work had been done.
Ah ! the
breakfast,
him tillthat ceremony
and
had been completed
parcelshould go back at once with words of love
removed.
Indeed,it was necessary that she that should put an end to all that pain. She,
"

still in bed.

was

"

"

should

Florence's letter in
study,

before she could

the

speak to

parcelcontained

him

she well

her

own

aboiit it.

knew, even

room

tear

"

before

little treasures

gentletear

"

in

her

sent

have

read ; and I need

thoroughly
hardlysay that the treasure was sacred in her
she had finished the perusal
of
hands.
When
was

had

What

the letterhad been

the letter there

who

"

these loved

thingsaway,

should

letters

again,and should touch

with fingersthat should

pleasurein the touching.She

her lover's words with

an

should

her
take

again read

Mrs.
delight.
enduring

as
Claveringunderstood it all,
though she
girlwith a lover of her own.

were

stilla

to think that the time

each eye.
She understood it all,and could
Harry was beginning
had come
in which getting
and weakness
of every word
fathom the strength
up would be more
which Florence had written. But she was such comfortable than lyingin bed,when his mother
"
I
Cecilia knocked at his door and entered his room.
as
a
woman
exactlysuch a woman
"

"

Clavering was just

goingto make a move, mother,"he said,
good enough, great enough, true enough, havingreached that stage of convalescence in
shame comes
that Harry'slove for which some
clever enough to know
upon the idler.
"
to speak to you lirst,
But I want
and his fancyfor
Florence should be sustained,
my dear,"
At no time would she said Mrs. Clavering. " I have got a letterfor
Lady Ongar overcome.
have been proud to see her son prosperous only you, or rather a parcel."Harry held out his
at once
of a wife's fortune ; but she hand,and,takingthe packet,
in the prosperity
recognized
the writingof the address.
would have been thoroughlyashamed of him
Burton had pictured
to herself.

Mrs.

was

had

he resolved to pursue

his

presentcircumstances.

But
corners

Dear

her tears

"

under
siichprosperity

though theywere

"You
"

there in the

of her eyes^-were not painful

now.
Florence ! She was sufiering
bitterly

tears.

know

from

whom

it comes,

Harry?"

Oh yes, mother."
do you know what itcontains?"
ry,
Harthe packet,
looked at it,
but said
stillholding

"And

nothing. "I know," said his mother,"

for she

180

CLAVERINGS.

THE

Mrs. Clavering
much
ter
When
was
settled,
so
Will you see her letrae.
ing
Again Harry held out his hand, went away about the affairs of her house, thinkwith
which
words
did
the
ter.
letshe
of
the
his
him
did
mother
as
but
so
not at once
loving
give
"
ence
to Florthat
strive
would
back
know
she
let
to
happiness
us
Firstof all,
give
dear,
my
Burton.
This dear girl to
understand
each other.
we
when he was alone,slpwly
is to be your wife."
dear
openedthe
she is inexpressibly
me
Hai'ry,
of
"
He
the
could
resist
shall
be
so."
not
it
temptation
parcel.
Yes,mother,
and of lookingagain at the things
"That
is my own
doing this,
boy ! Harry,I have never
has written and told
to

?"

me

"

"

doubted

you

have

"

"I

shall

see

cause

will remember."

every thingwould of
you not been ill,
before now."
As to
have been all right

course

will have

doubts

the

him
almost

of his

and
letter,

sat on

indignantat

words.
girl's

own.

At firsthe

while he read it.

made

with

There

his

were

lavender

short

some

he

hope

was

no

some

"

If

disappointed.

was

all scented
letters,

with

theyhad

been

from the casket in which

was

the rich bracelet which

ably preserved
prob; there was
and
little ceremony,
she had been given with some
his bedside
the cheap brooch which he had thrown to her as
that she would
and
and which she had sworn
a joke,
startled,
Then

the firmness

of her

She

gave

own

regretin doing so.

of the

value

the most

soft woman's

him

of all because

There

wail in her words.

But

were
fingers

for his love

she could

it

wear

which
pencil-case
while her
watch-chain,
him
touchinghis fingers,
caressing
while her words were
rebukinghim

up as though it every day";and there was

and
uttered no exfixed on to her
pression he had
quitedecided,
thing

were

note

words for himself.

few

own

was

that there

"

them

he

And

to him.

a hope
perhaps

"

of this assertion the reader

the correctness
handed

might be

idea

an

a
scrap containing
he had any such

unhappy."

Had

"

she had sent back

which

her letter. not without

you
that she has had

remember

But

you must
her
to make

doubted that you would

never

Now

rightat last.

be

the

it all as
He remembered
somethingwhich made him for his awkwardness.
unconsciously
long to get back the thingwhich the things
laystrewed upon his bed. And he
"
What
he had so nearlythrown away from him.
They re-read every word of his own words.
him with a doubt whether he might yet a fool a man
self
makes of himself !" he said to himinspired
which very doubt greatly
increased his
with somethingof the cheeriness of
at last,
succeed,
desire.
As he read the letter for the second
laughterabout his heart. But as he said so he
time,Julia became less beautiful in his imaginawas
quitereadyto make himself a fool after the
tion,
and the charm of Florence's character benot in
came same
fashion again,if only there were
his way that difficulty
of recommencing. Had
stronger.
it been possible
for him to write again at once
Well,dear,"said his mother, when she saw
that he had finished the second readingof the in the old strain,
without any reference to his
conduct during the last month, he would
own
epistle.
He hardly knew how to express, even
without waitingto finish
to his have begun his fooling
mother, all his feelingsthe shame that he felt,his dressing.
ed
and with the shame
something of indignation " Did you open the parcel?" his mother askthat he should have been so repulsed. And of
hour or so before it was
him, some
necessary
his love,
that Jem should he started on his mission.
too,he was afraid to speak. He was
"
willingenough to givethe requiredassurance,
Yes, I thoughtit best to open it."
"
but after that he would have preferred
And
have you made
it up again?"
to have
there

in them

was

"

"

been left alone.

him

without

between

But

them

his mother

farther

some

of agreement
which theywould

to the course

as

"

could not leave

word

Not

"Put
gave him
rounded

yet,mother."
it,dear."

And

this with
a

his mother

cupid in

littlejewel,a

mosaic

sm--

ed
pursue.
by tinydiamonds, which he remember"
Will you write to her,mother,
since he had firstnoticed
her to wear
or shall I ?"
ever
' '
"
I shall write,
Not from me, mind.
certainly^byto-day's
post. the thingsshe had worn.
"

I would

leave her

will you trust me

Come
to
giveit to you.
pack them ?" Then Mrs. Claveringagainmade
and added the trinket which she
up the parcel,
"I could go to town
had broughtwith her.
to-morrow, mother
could I not ?"
Harry at last broughthimself to write a few
"
Not to-morrow, Harry. It would be ish.
fool- words. "Dearest, deakest
Florence, They
will not let me out, or I would go to you at once.
Say on Monday."
"
And yon will write to-day."
and though I have not
My mother has written,
deed,
InI know
what it contains.
her letter,
"Certainly."
seen
not

it,without

an

hour,if I

an

could

of your unaltered

assurance

help

"

tion."
affec-

"

"

'

"
"

I will send
And

"

I have

"

You

at once,

line also
"

-just a

line."

indeed you may

?"
parcel
not opened it yet."

know

what

Harry

she
feelings,

"

it contains.

be

venture

happy

again. We
and have
post-ofiice,

to return

the

Send it back
till she

her

over

it registered."

parcel?

May

I do

I not

send

it

to

"

gets it Then

will send Jem

believe it all.

keep it. I shall be

in town, I think,on
Monday,and will go to
Your own, H. C."
Onslow Crescent instantly..
back,and imploreyou

If I understand

at once.

will not

into her hands

to the

the

there

worth

his

own

was

scrawled

all the rest

which
postscript

put together

note,better than

"

was

was

better than

his mother's

letter.

THE

CLAVEEINGS.

tetter than tftereturned packet. "I love no

better than you
half so well
one
no
one
ther
nei"

"

181

remaining effects of

his

journeyfor London.

started on
illness,

There

had

come

no

his
ther
far-

whether
letters from Onslow Terrace to the parsonnow, nor ever did." These words,
age,
at least to
whollytrue or onlypartially
so, were
and,indeed,owing to the intervention of
and were
the point,
taken by Cecilia Burton, Sunday,none
could have come
unless Florence
when she heard of them, as a confession of faith had written by return of post. Harrymade his
instant and plenary
that demanded
absolution. journey,
beginningwith some
promiseof happiness
The trouble which had called Harrydown
to
to himself,
but becoming somewhat
uneasy
remained,I regret to say, almost in as his train drew near to London.
He had beClavering
haved
that his prolonged
full force now
visit had been
and he knew that in the firstplace
badly,
its close. Mr. Saul,
brought so near
indeed, he must own that he had done so. To men such
had agreed
his curacy, and was already a necessity
to resign
is always
grievous.Women not unin some
on the look-out for similar employment
like the task.
To confess,
frequently
submit,,
other parish.And, since his interview with
and be acceptedas confessing
and submitting,
he had never
entered the rectory comes
to the feminine
father,
The
mind.
S'anny's
naturally
or spoken to Fanny. Fanny had promisedthat
cry of peccavisounds soft and prettywhen made
there should be no such speaking,
and, indeed, by sweet lipsin a lovingvoice. But a man
who
that he has done amiss without a pang
own
can
danger of that kind was feared. Whatever
who can so own
Saul might do he would do openly nay,
it to another man, or even
to
is usually
but a poor creature.
curity,a woman
But,though there existed this seaudaciously.
Harry
nevertheless thingsas regarded
and therefore
Fanny must now make such confession,
Mr. Saul had
he became
And then,for him, there
were
uneasy.
very unpleasant. When
she had agreed with
another task behind the one which he would
his courtship,
commenced
was
the idea of such be called upon to performthis evening a task
her familyin almost ridiculing
with her as
which would have nothingof pleasantness
in it
There had been a feeling
a lover.
to redeem
its pain. He must confess not only
to be
with the others that poor Mr. Sanl was
to Florence
where his confession might probatures
bly
pitied.Then she had come to regardhis overbut he must confess also to
have its reward
of grave import not indeed
matters
as
avowingto her mother any thingso strong as a Julia. This second confession would,indeed,
of his probut speaking
That,however,was to
return of his affection,
posal be a hard task to him.
On this evening
other objecno
to which there was
tion be postponedtillthe morrow.
as
one
himself
he
howhe
had
that
would go direct
than that of a want of money.
pledged
Now,
and this he did as soon
after
the
house
to Onslow Terrace,
about
as
she
went
though
moping
ever,
to he had reached his lodgings
as was
she were
possible.It
victim of true love,condemned
a
forever as though her passionwas
past six when he reached London, and it
run
unsmoothly
not yet eightwhen, with palpitating
for her, and she
was
for Mr. Saul were
heart,
too much
at Mr. Burton's door.
till death should relieve he knocked
were
waitingin patience
I must take the reader back with me for a few
of her parents. She
her from the cruelty
in order that we
plain.
rriinutes,
may see after what
never
complained.Such victims never do comfrom
received
letters
fashion
the
were
and
and
Clavering
But she moped
was
wretched,
Terrace.
On
that
ladies
in
Onslow
the
to
day
her mother
by
when
her,
questioned struggling
don
to go out of Lonmight in truth Mr. Burton had been required
find out how strong this feeling
and had not been
trains,
by one of the early
be,Fanny would simplymake her.dutiful promises
in the house when the postman came.
dutiful
Nothing
which
were
wickedly
promises
no

Mr.

"

"

"

"

"

"

"

"

"

"

that she would

never

mention

the

name

of Mr.

had

been

said between

Cecilia and Florence

as

hopes or fears in regardto an answer

mean
time,
Saul any more.
since that
from
duties
with
nothing,*at least,
Clavering
about
his
grim
energy,
went
parish
main
the rector's shortcomingswithout a conversation in which Florence had agreedto resupplying
each
of
few
but
for
in
London
a
all
days
to
been
have
yet
;
He would
glad preach
word.
the matter.
swer,
on
Any anand read all the services during them was very nervous
the sermons
would arfrom Clavering,
if sent at once
rive
these six months,had he been allowed to do so.
the
when
and
this
on
therefore,
schools
constant
morning,
the
more
He was
constant in
heard,neither of them
well-known knock was
He was
ous
than ever in his visitings.
very courteMr.

Saul,in the

to

their

"

"

to

Mr. Claveringwhen

their position
broughtthem

the necessities of

together. For

was

able to maintain

all But yet nothingwas

her

said,nor

calmness

perfectly.

did either of them

ently
unjustly.For rise from her seat at the breakfast-table. Presbundle
with
in
a
the
came
apparently
a line of
girl
a man
placedas Mr. Saul was placed,
when
she
stillsorting
which she was
lowedof letters,
follevel with that previously
conduct exactly
There were
two or three for
better that he entered the room.
and it was
is impossible,
and then two besides
in his duties than Mr. Burton, two for Cecilia,
should becojnemore
energetic
Florence.
For
for
the
all
that
packet
registered
understood
It will be easily
less so.
was
needed,and as Florence had
these thingsinterfered much with the generalthat a receipt
and
the writing,
she
address
the
this
recognized
seen
of the familyat the rectoryat
happiness
her
As
able
to
soon
signature.
give
was
hardly
time.
the maid was
as
gone, Cecilia could keep her
now
The Monday came, and HaiTy Clavering,
know those are from Cla"I
from the seat no longei',
and simplyinteresting
convalescent,
Mr. Claveringhated
this,

him"

CLAVERINGS.

THE

182

and
her chair,
she said,
risingfrom
vering,"

packetinto her

the

swept

loaningforward,covered the
"
hands.
Oh, Florence,let us
us

them at

see

If

once.

are

we

stinctively
inin the welcome

them

her

outraged
justice"was

been

said that

ing.
even-

be called upon
should
at least,

sins,and so much,
But
requiredof him.

I have

that

Harryreceived on

his

own

happy,let sin.

be

to

to

let have

"

that

said that he would

I have

lap,and,

letters with
see

Alas ! alas ! I fear that

ing
com-

Florence

to the side of the table.

round

he owned

no

certain degradation

attend him in that firstinterview after his

it." But Florence paused,stillleaning must
the hours that
reconciliation. Instead of this,
her treasures,and hardlydaring to show
Terrace were
it
be
that
he
that
in
Onslow
Even
might
her burning face.
evening
spent
yet
back
He
of
Cecilia
ovation.
as it were,
hours
went
to
one
Then
long
was,
sh,ewas
rejected.
looked at her sister with
her seat,and simply
put upon a throne as a king who had returned
know

us

over

did him
think I'll go up stairs,"from his conquest,and those two women
of
Flo?"
feet.
Cecilia
almost
his
afraid
at
was
honor,
kneeling
me,
you
reproachfully." Let me see almost as tender with him as Florence,pleading
"I

beseechingeyes.

"Are

said Florence.

'Ceciliaanswered

Then

the outside of them."

the

round

them

"

hands.

Clavering?"
the seal

cryingin

tears

each

miniite the

other's

two
''

arms.

"

"

How

Stratton ?"

to

one

it, said Cecilia,

through her

quite
"
sure.
perfectly

moment.

of

sure

was

I open this one from Mrs.

nodded her head.
Then

May

broken, and in

was

brought

never

to her

ter's his
into her sis-

Florence

were

women

Florence

table,and put them

doubted

it for

could you have talked of going

At last Florence got herself

own

false heart the fact of his illness

as

somethingof the pallor

of the sick-room left with him^
a slight
tenuity
in his hands and brightness
in his eye which did
him yeoman's service.
Had
he been quiterobust,
Cecilia might have felt that she could not
to herself the peculiarsoftness of her
justify
excuse.

There

was

"

words.

After the firstquarter of

supremelyhappy.
and

as

he

with his

sat

an

hour he

His awkwardness
arm

round

was

had

gone,
Florence's

mustered
away up to the window,and gradually
ter.
courage to break the envelopeof her lover's let-

had
waist,he found that the little pencil-case
ed
againbeen attached to her chain,and as he lookIt was
that she showed
that the cheapbrooch
not at once
the
down
upon her he saw
that the packet was
at once
to Cecilia,
nor
postscript
again on her breast. It would have been
could an observer have been there,
to see
was
opened. That last ceremony she did perform pretty,
in the solitude of her own
But before the skill with which they both steered clear of
room.
the day was
the postscript
had been
over
any word or phrasewhich could be disagreeable
ited.
to him.
One Inighthave thoughtthat it would
shown, and the added trinket had been exhib"I remember
it well," said Florence.
have been impossible
buke.
to avoid aiU touch of a re'
Mrs. Claveringwore
it on her forehead when
The very fact that he was forgiven
would
dined at Lady Clavering's. Mrs. Burton in seem
fault that required
we
to imply some
pardon.
all this saw
somethingof the gentle persuasionBut there was no hint at any fault. The tact
which the mother had used,but of that she said of women
excels the skill of men
; and so perfect
the tact of these women,
that not a
was
nothing. That he should be back again, and
should have repented,
word was
said which wounded
He
was
enough for her.
Harry'sear.
Mr. Burton
was
again absent when
Harry had come
again into their fold,and they were
Claveringknocked in'person at the door,but on rejoicedand showed their joy. He who had
this occasion his absence had been specially
and theywere
tifully
beauranged gone
arastray had repented,
tender to the repentantsheep.
by him with a view to Harry'scomfort.
"He
won't want
to see
this evening,"
he
me
had said.
"Indeed, you'llall get on a great
'

"

deal better without

man,

"Are

asked,when
were

me."

therefore had

mained
re-

at

home.

was

There
out

on

girllooked

at

him

by his

CHAPTER

at home
?" Harry
opened. Oh yes, they
was
no
dangerthat they

such

an

occasion

as

this.

pleasantly,
callinghim

she answered

him, as though she

XLII.

KESTITUTION.

the ladies

the door

should be found
The

He

away from home, and, not being a club

had dined most uncomfortably
at an eating-house.

Hakkt
a

staid

littlelonger,
at

and, in

littletoo

long with

his love

than
least,

had been

computed,

Theodore
met
consequence,
the Crescent as he was
leavingit.

"

Burton
This

in

ing
meet-

could hardlybe made

without somethingof
pain,and perhapsit was well for Harrythat he
taken into favor
into her favor as well as that should have such an opportunity
as this for getting
of her mistress.
it quickly. But when he saw
Mr.
over
He hardlyknew what he was
Burton
under
the brightgas-lamp,he would
doing as he ran
have avoided him, had it been
up the steps to the drawing-room. He was
very willingly
afraid of what was
to come, but nevertheless he
possible.
rushed at his fate as some
soldier rushes
young
"Well, Harry,"said Burton,givinghis hand
at the trench in which he feels that he may ably
prob- to the repentantsheep.
fall. So Harry Claveringhurried on, and
"How
are
you. Burton ?" said Harry,trying
before he had looked round upon the room
which
to speak with an unconcerned
voice. Then, in
he had entered,
found his fate with Florence on
to an
answer
inquiryas to his health,he told
his bosom.
of his own
of that confounded
illness,
speaking
name

as

too desired to show

"

him

that he had

again been

THE
fever

havingmade

but
deceit,

no
was

him

very low.

he made

intended

of the fever than

more

183
would

course

Clavering
may

that in

will you

have

come

Burton

asked.
It must
though the brother could not refuse to welcome
back to his home his sister's
stillhe
lover,

had almost

follows on

that

night.

of

of

man

And

in his voice

sarcasm

The

and
business,
had

there

now

as

"

misfortune. He did

rejoiced
wjjenTlorence

quitof him.
nearly

possible to Harrv
It

thought

that the engagement was

not believe in Harry as

been

be doubtful.

might have been

personalmeetingthe necessaryconfession
back to the shop?"
would not have got itselfadequately
spoken.
be remembered
he wrote his letter as
that, Thiriking,
perhaps,of this,

necessary.

"When,

He

CLAVERINGS.

he asked

been

was

so

how was he to
In what form of affectionor indifference

he to address her whom

was

that last

Harry's

to

as

Bloomsbury Square,July,186-."

but
easily
written,

after that ?

on

go

taint

date was

meetingcalled

He

his own,

of his

he had

at

his dearest Julia

difiiculty way
chambers in the Adelphi.
to ladies and gentlemen under such
stress,
"J can
hardlyquitesay as yet," said Harry, and did not address her
or any
name
by
any
thet.
epistill pleading
his illnegs. "They were
very
The date he allowed to remain,and then
much

againstmy comingup to
Indeed,I should not have done
so

got

to the

return

London

so

it had I

soon.

he went

very" very anxious

to see

Florence.

at once

away

in the

the matter

to

mon
com-

ofhis

subject.

felt

not

"

know, Burton,whether

out

I feel that I

I don't

ought to say any thing

what

has

been

it you at

owe

to tell you

once

historyduring the last few

from Clavering
and
to-day,

my

weeks.
I came
about that."
up
have since that been with Mrs. and Miss Burton.
suppose you have said what you had to
Immediatelyon my return from them I
say to the women."
sit down to write you."
"
Oh yes. I think theyunderstand me completely,
to you

"I

I hope that I understand them."

and
"In

that case, I don't know

thingto

say any
soon

as

you

that

illness by

can

Come

me.

that's all.

"

becomes

man

never

idle^"
remaining

Then
Harrypassed
escapedeasilyin that

think

of the

When

he had

step which
last

he

compelled to

was

he

must

next

Lady Ongar he

seen

After having said so much, Harry probably

felt that the rest of his letter would be
age.
surplusThose
it

take.

few

words

courtesy demanded
and

he went

"

would

requiredthat she

was

You

Burton

he walked home

as

think self
mybit strongerafter an

on, and felt that he had

interview.
But

that you need

to the Adelphi as

that he

after your
.that I should have

now

; but

had left seemed

should

that I became

soon

firstmet

all that

know.

But

say more,

with his confession.

on

know

tell her

should

engaged to Miss
marriage. I feel

own

told you

this when

yet,had I done so, it would

we

have

as
thoughI told it with a special
object.
serted
deI don't know whether I make
understood
myself
for her sake.
As yet that promisewould
in this. I can
onlyhope that I do so."
by her be supposedto be binding. Indeed,he
Understood
! Of course
she understood it all.
had thoughtit to be bindingon himself tillhe
She requiredno blunderingexplanation
had found himself under his mother's influence
from

her with

promise that Florence

at the parsonage.

Duringhis

to be

was

last few weeks

in

him

to assist her

London he had endured an agony of doubt,but

"I
in his vacillations the pendulum had always would
veered

toward
strongly

more

Crescent.

Onslow

Bolton

Now

Street than

swinging of the
forth
pendulum had ceased altogether.From henceBolton Street must
be forbidden ground to
in Onslow Crescent must
him, and the sheepfold
to

be his home
small
had

till he

should

stillbefore him
he walked

better do
eager

have

established

fold for himself.

peculiar
the

his final decision to the

As

the

was

home

But, as yet,he
task of communicating
lady in Bolton Street.

he determined

so

in the first placeby

he

as

to

that he had

and
letter,

of
the propriety

so

doingthis at

written is

more
a

degrading.The

word

to the
frequently

confusion

of its

I should

you,

perhaps,

not have left you so long in

that is,if there has been
suspense
suspense.
For myself,
I have to own
that I have been very
"

weak
will

than

worse

"

I do not

know

well
which

without

my
I have

weak, I

whether

prompt you

am

sure

to make

that I

will not

fear you will think.

old regardfor me

your
can

have

for me, but

any excuse
make
none
for

self
my-

suggesteditselfto

you
If you choose to think
heartless
if j^u
or, rather,

urgingit.
been

"

able so to think of me, no

written or spoken now, will

words

are

so

that is

and
thingcapableof permanent life,

it. It

us.

for this I should

that

made, are

mentioned

"I was
called down to Clavering
a few weeks
business in the family,
and then
ago about some
became
confined to my bed inso that I was
ill,
stead
of returningto town.
Had it not been

rate,he had to make those confessions of

which I have before spoken confessions which
with pen and
it may
be less difficultto make
but which,when
ink than with spokenVords,

that I had

uneasiness.

some

"

intelligence.

now

have been better for both of

been saved much
pain,and

have

he sat
return
to his lodgings
once, that on his,
down and wrote the letter before he went to his
written.
It was
bed.
not very easily
Here, at
any

wish

"I
You

from your mind.

believe that I need
will understand

parent. that I should

have

from

remove

of

mine,

that impression

write

nothingfarther.

what

I have said all

I to refer at
should make his confessions always by lengthto that which has passed between us.
Whether such AH that is over now, and it onlyremains for
word of mouth,ifitbe possible.
lives

man

to

say

were

CLAVEEINGS.

THE

184

and
We are quits
now, she had said,
to express a hope that you may he happy. wounds.
each other again, she had repeatedthe words over and over again
Whether
shall ever
see
we
her room.
to herself as she walked up and down
who
shall
f hut if we
do, I trust that we
me

say
May God bles^
you
may not meet as enemies.
Claveking."
Hakky
here and hereafter.

When

the letter

while

his

by

was

open

finished Harry sat for

window
looking at the

Yes, they were

good. She had ill

earlydays; but,as she had
herself so often,
she had served him rather
She
injuredhim by that ill treatment.

treated him
told

if the raflection of

quitsnow,

that fact could do

her

any

in her

than
the chimney-potsof his square, and
moon, oyer
had been false to him ; but her falsehood had
had
hitherto
life
it
in
as
thinkingof his career
him from a lot which could not have
of his earlier preserved
been fulfilled. The great promise
With such a clogas she would
fortunate.
been
days had not been kept. His plightin the have been round his neck ^with such a wife,
his
hopes
world was
now
poor enough,though
of fortune,how could he have
without a shilling
ried,
had been so high. He was engaged to be marNo!
the world?
risen
in.
Though she had
He
but had no income on which to marry
er
deceived him, she had served him.
Then, aftAh
it
wealth.
!
was
had narrowlyescapedgreat
the
had come
the tragedyof her life,
that,
hard for him to think of that without a regret;
of which she stillshuddered,
terrible daysin thinking
but he did strive so to think of it. Though he
the daysof her husband and SophieGortold himself that it would have been evil for him
those attacks
deloup that terrible death-bed,
which
had been
to have
depended on money
as to which
her honor,misery
misery,
upon
upon
procuredby the very act which had been to him
to any one, and as
she never
a word
now
spoke
himself
ers
feathin
the
have
dressed
an
injury to
would
resolved that she never
to which she was
which had been pluckedfrom Lord Ongar's
had sold herself for money,
She
speak
again.
wings it was hard for him to think of all that
but the punishment of
and had got the price,
he had missed,and rejoice
thoroughlythat he
offense had been very heavy. And
her
now, in
had missed it. But he told himself that he so
these latter days,she had thoughtto compensate
and endeavored to be glad that he had
rejoiced,
the man
she had loved for the treacherywith
soiled his hands with riches which never
not
That
which she had used him.
treacheryhad
he had
would
have belongedto the woman
been serviceable to him, but not the less should
loved had she not earned them by being false to
she would
the compensationbe very rich. And
him.
Early on the followingmorning he sent
Ah ! yes, she had always loved
love him too.
off his letter,
and then,puttinghimself into a
He should have it all now
him.
every thing,
Crescent.
The
to Onslow
cab, bowled down
that terrible
if only he would consent
to forget
him
when
to
sheepfoldnow was very pleasant
strive to forget
as she would
episodein her life,
"the head shepherdwas
ification
grataway, and so'much
it. All that should remain to remind them of
natural that he should allow
it was
Lord Ongar would
be the wealth that should
himself.
"

'

"

"

"

"

That

he

evening,when

he found

note

from

ease

with

at

had

she

seeing with
had

his

It

to his face

how
him.

answered

and
difficulty,

from

Lady Ongar.

short,and the blood rushed

ashamed

came

was
as

much
He

written

club,

had been her dream, and Harry had come

very
it seem
her with words of love which made
he felt
be a reality.He had spoken to her words

apparent
had

written

love which he
the dream

awkwardly.

in her words.
nothingawkward
I do
Harkt, We are quitsnow.
not know
why we should ever meet as enemies.
feel myself to be an
of
I shall never
enemy
there

But

henceforth belong to Harry Clavering. Such

was

"Deab

"

was

to her

was

forced to

now

dissipated.It
to escape

her

was

to
to

of

withdraw,and
not

lowed
to be al-

so
easilyas
penalty

As for him, they were

now
quits. That
being the case, there could be reason
why they
that !

should

quarrel.

should she do with her wealth,

now
I think it would be well that we should
yours.
and especially
how should she act in respectto
each other, and, if you have no
see
objectionthat placedown in the country ? Though she
to seeingme, I will be at home
any eveningthat had learned to hate Ongar Park duringher solitary
call. Indeed,I am
at home
always
you may
visit there,she had stilllooked forward to
be
in the evening. Surely,Harry,there can
the pleasure
the property might give her when
You
need
no reason
why we should not meet.
she should be able to bestow it upon HarryClavering.
not fear that there will be danger in it.
But that had been part of her dream,
"Will you givemy complimentsto Miss Florence
and the dream
now
over.
was
Through it all
Burton,with my best wishes for her happiness?
she had been conscious that she might hardly
Mrs. Burton
I have seen
Your
as
dare to hope that the end of her punishment
yeu may have heard,and I congratulate
you on
should come
and now
that
she knew
so soon
Yours always,
J. O."
your friend.
it was
As far as she could see
not to come.
The writing
of this letter seemed to have been that, there was
end to her punishment in
no
But what

"

"

there was
in
easy enough,and certainly
nothing
awkward
it that was
; but I think that the writer

had
had

prospectfor her. From her first meetingwith

H.irryClavering on the platformof the railway

suffered
done

in the writingthan Harry station,

more
his presence, or her thoughts
of him,had
his lon|;er
to her life had
epistle.But sufficedto give some brightness
producing
known
how
to hide her suffering,
and
of Sophie
enabled her to support the friendship

she had
had used

in

"

tone

which

told

no

tale of her

and also to supporther solitudewhen

Gordeloup,

CLAVEEINGS.

THE

185

been banished. But now

she of that opinion."I am
afraid theywill have
As she sat alone, thoughtme
any resource.
continued
uncivil,"
Julia,"as I
allthis,
on
she endeavored to console spoke rather
meditating
to Sir Hugh Clavering.
brusquely
herself with the reflectionthat,
after all,
she was
I am
not inclined to take
Sir

Sophiehad

poor
was

left without

the

one

whom

Harryloved

whom Harrywould
have chosen had he been free to choose.
But
the comfort to be derived from that was
very
poor. Yes, he had loved her once
nay, perhaps
he loved her still. But when
that love
"

but
Hugh Clavering,
to

reason

any

any stepsthrough
I do not know that I have

be angry with

the littlelord's

family."
"Really,
Lady Ongar, I think not. When
returned there was
some
your ladyship
tion
opposijected
rebut I really
do not
thoughtof for a while,

"

her

she had rejected

own
it. She had
to him, to her friends,
it,simplydeclaring
think it was their fault."
"
and to the world at large,
that she preferred
to
No, it was not their fault."
"
be rich.
She bad her reward,and,bowing her
That was
at the time
my feeling
head upon her hands,she acknowledged
that the indeed."

was

punishmentwas
Her

deserved.

"It

had

her note to Harry

writing.
TurnbuU,her lawyer. She
Harryon the eveningof the

that she received

had written,
but instead of
he
note from liim in which

to

was

send for Mr.

to see
expected
day on which she

said that
Mr.

he

would

Turnbull

to her

come

obeyingher

Ongar
"

of my

band.
hus-

As
word

I have
regardsall the Conrtons,
It is not to be
complaintto make.

of

no
pected
ex-

it is not desirable that theyand I should

be friends. It is impossible,
after what has passed,
that there should be -such friendship.
But
"

long. theyhave

before

instant in

the fault of Lord

was

first step after

; it was,

injuredme,

never

and I wish to

oblige

them.

Had Ongar Park suited me, I should

commands, and was with her on the morning doubtless have kept
it ; but it does not suit me,
afterhe received her injunction.He was almost
and they are welcome
to- have it back again."
was

more

perfect
strangerto her,having onlyseen

"
her
Has a pricebeen named. Lady Ongar?"
and
that
few
for
after
her
moments
"No
a
turn
reThere is to be
once,
priceneed be named.
to England. Her marriagesettlements had
of a price. Lord Ongar'smother
no
question
been preparedfor her by Sir Hugh'sattorney
to the place'or rather to such interest
; is welcome
in Florence it ha'd bebut duringher sojourn
come
I have in it."
as

"

necessary that she should

in London to look after her own
Turnbull had been recommended

employedby her

some

"

one

And

to pay

He

was

he

Ongar in

that

return.

An

had

suggestedMr. Turn-

terest.
will induce
imperativeinterest to look after his client'sinAnd

rent ?"

bull.

"
To pay no rent.
Nothingwould induce me
or to sell my
rightin it. I will
pru- to let the place,
dent,
also
recognizedit to be his have no bargainabout it. But as nothing

husband.

who

sensible man,

have

and Mr.
affairs,
yers
to her by law-

done

his

duty by Lady

me

to live

I am
there,

not such

dog

in the manger
If you will
as to wish to keep it.
have the kindness to see Mr. Courton's lawyer,

after her
tryingtime immediately
and to make
then been made by the
arrangements about it."
"
Courtou familyto giveJulia her income without
But,Lady Ongar,what you call your right
in the estate is worth over
if she would
surrender Ongar Park.
opposition
twenty thousand
with indigna- pounds it is,
indeed. You could borrow twenty
To this she had made
objections
of it to-morrow."
tion,and Mr. Turnbull,though he had at first thousand poundson the security
offer had

"

that
thought

she would

be wise to

complywith

' ' !ButI don't want

had done her work for her
to borrow twenty thousand
proposed,
with satisfactory
expedition. Since those days pounds."
''
she had sumshe had not seen
moned
No, no, exactly of course you don't. But
him, but now
I point out that fact to show the value.
Yon
with her in Bolton
him, and he was
would be making a presentof that sum
of money
Street.
have no
do not want
it who
"I want to speakto you, Mr. Turnbull,"she to people who
"
how
claim
I
don't
in
I
don't
down
see
that
about
they
really
upon
you.
said,
Surrey.
place

the terms

"

"

could take it."

like it."
like

"Not

is not

so

charming to

property that I don't

said,"I have
charming."

Park?"

that it is

alwaysheard
"It

Ongar

me.

want, and

It is
I

to

mean

it,I have

no

buy

can
really

terest
as tlmt
yoijr in-

doubt."

ing,called
sayingso.

sent

as

your

not

advise you to take any such step

I should be wrong,
not.
can

if I
lawyer,

did not

to

"

on

with

a
message
thoughtthat he was

me

from

placevery

indeed,I

"

would
me, offeringsuch a proceeding
"Exactly. They
Sir Hugh Claver- quiteso
Wjhatthe world
do so.
My brother-in-law,
have

to

would

wishes to have the

thought of
"But, my lady,she has never
for
it.
without
it
paying
Lady Ongar,
give getting
I

Ongar'suncles

"Lord

Mrs. Courton

much."

sort of

it up."
in

"

he

them

Peopledon't expect

such

pointout to you that

quiteromantic
would call Quixotic.

he

thingsas

"

that

"

they

don't,indeed."
very
as I
Such thingsshould
"People don't often have such reasons
to come, and so I told him.
silent
sat
said
Mr.
think
Turnbull
Lady
Ongar.
so, have,"
be done by one's lawyers.Don't you
for a while,lookingas thoughhe were
clared
unhappy.
Mr. Turnbull ?" Mr. Turnbull smiled as he demade
The proposition
to him was
one
was
which,as
that,of course, he, being a lawyer,
I

foolish

CLAVERINGS.

THE

186
he
lawyei-,

felt to be very distastefulto him.

that his clienthad no male friends in

He knew
whom

she

he felt that the world

and
confided,

wrong to trouble you with all this. If you

will let Mr. Courton's
lawyer know, with my
complimentsto Mrs. Courton, that I have heard
am

and that
would blame him if he allowed this lady to part that she would like to have the place,
I will be obligedto you." Mr.
with her property in the way she had suggested.I do not want it,
that
"You
will find that I am
in earnest,"she continued, TurnbuU
havingby this time perceived
to

my

"
and you may as well giveway
smiling,
with a good grace."
vagaries
They would not take it,Lady Ongar.
"

' '

If you will
At any rate, we can try them.
that I don't at all want
make
them understand
"

the

she

that it will go to rack and

there is no one to live there,I am

and
place,

because

theywill
Then

quitein earnest,took
do her bidding.

was

she had told her

of the

was

part

her head.
to

sure

odious

Mr. Turnbnll

again sat
what

words

silent and

happy,
un-

might best

he

his last and strongestargument

againstthis rash proceeding.

"Lady Ongar," he said,"in

not

double

are

reasons

What

"

do you mean, Mr.

?"
peculiar
position

is my

"The

world

herself

"I

no

merit

took

to her ever

since she had

been

endeavored

there,and had found

to

that the

wife would
that
not speak to her
clergyman's
her own
even
descend
housekeeperwould hardly con"

to

hold

with

converse

that she would

be

half formed

to

She felt

her.

"

TurnbuU?

What

will say that you have restored

afraid to keep it.

Ongar Park because you were

Lideed,Lady Ongar, you had

better let it

main
re-

it is."

as

Ongar Park,she
for that. The placehad

dog in the manger to keep

the
in
her
own
peculiar
place
possession.But she had
your
why you should thoughtsbeyond this resolutions only as yet

in.this way."

act

lawyeronly
running in

now

As for giving
up

bringforward

there
position,

plan which

establish herself

thinkingwith

having
leave,

In this interview

ruin

take it."

his

promisedto

as

surrender.

wider

She

had

robbed herself
ruined herself,
disgracedherself,
of all happinessby the marriageshe had made.
Her miseryhad not been simplythe miseryof
As might have been exthat lord's lifetime.
pected,
But an enduring
that was
over.
soon
wretchedness

had

after that from

come

which

nothingfor what the world says," she saw no prospectof escape. What was to be
she exclaimed,
and would be,in
from her chair
her future life,
left as she was
risingquickly
all
desolation ?
If she were
to giveit all up
"nothing,nothing!"
"You
should really
hold by your rig'hts the wealth that had been so ill-gottenmight
indeed.
Who
there not then be some
can
you should,
hope of comfort for her ?
possibly
say what
other interests may be concerned?
You
She had been willingenough to keep Lord
may
care

"

"

"

"

"

and use it for the purposes of

marry, and live for the next fifty
years, and "have Ongar's
money,
a family. It is my
duty.Lady Ongar, to point her own comfort,while she had stillhoped that

thingsto you."

these

out

"I

comfort

sure

bull,"she
demeanor.

from

come

it.

The

brance
remem-

are

you

"

duty.

She

as

turned

But whether I marry or whether I remain

I am, I shall giveup this place. And
as for
what the world, as you call it,may
I
will
say,

deny

not

might

Mr. Turnof all that she had to givehad been very

quiteright,
to maintain
to her,as long as she had hoped that
said,struggling
a quiet pleasant
You, of course, are onlydoingyour Harry Claveringwould receive it at her hands.

am

not

at

felt : that the fruit had

once

But

to ashes.

now

"

now

that

all

Harry

that she had no friend

was
now
gone from her
mediate
left to her whom
she could hope to make
happy
my imthe very knowledge of her
peoplesaid then made
by her munificence,

that I cared much

What

return.

had

for that

"

on

very unhappy. But I care

I have established my

And
burden
she
to her.
as
a
nothing for it wealth was
and that thoughtof her riches iii these first days of her
rights,
has been sufiicient. To me
it seems
that the desertion,
as she had indeed been thinkingsince
to
world,as you call it,has been civil enough in Cecilia Burton had been with her, she came
its usage of me
quisition.
lately. It is onlyof those who understand that she was degradedby their acshould have been my friends that I have a right
She had done that which had been
to complain. If yon will please
to do this thing unpardonably
bad,and she felt like Judas when
for me, I will be obligedto you."
in his
he stood with the priceof his treachery
If you are quitedetermined
about it "
hand.
He had givenup his money, and would
"I amquite determined.
What
is the use
There had been a moment
not
she do as much
?
of the placeto me?
I never
shall go there.
declared all her
in which she had nearly
What
is the use even
of the money
held back by
that comes
purpose to the lawyer,but she was
to me
? I have no purpose for it. I have nothher plans
ing
the feelingthat she ought to make
me

now.

"

"

'

it."

to do with

There

was

this which
"You

in
something

her tone

as

she said

well filledhim

should

with pity.
remember,"he said,"how

time it is since you became a widow.

will be differentwith you soon."

"My

them to him.
certain before she communicated
She must live. She could not go out and
And
then
hang herself as Judas had done.
short there was her title and rank,of which she did

"

clothes will be

if you
different,

that,"she answered, "but

there will be any

other

Things

I do hot know

changein

me.

not

know

whether

divest herself.
mean

that

But I

some

one

from

it
She

whom

was

within

sorelyfelt
in her

her
the

power
want

present need

to

of
she

she
council ; of some
friend to whom
could trust to tellher in what way she might

might ask

THE
best atone

now

i'lans

for the

throughher

CLAVEELNGS.

evil she had

head

which

done,
thrown

]87

that it will

theyowe

never

to

occur

them

to

think that

thing. They will have forgotten

aside almost as soon
and will take what they
all their cautions,
as
made, because she saw
that theywere
ing
impracticable.She even longed get as though it were simplytheir due. Nothin these days for her sister's aid,though of old
astonishes me
the fear people
as
so much
she had thoughtbut littleof Hermy as a counfeel before a thingis done when
I joinit witli
selor.
She had no friend whom
she might ask their want
of surprise
or admiration afterward."
unless she might stillask Harry Clavering. In this way even
Theodore
Burton
had resumed
If she did not keep it all,
his terms
of intimacy
with Harry Clavering.
might she stillkeep
something enough for decent life and yet
that she had
comfort herself with the feeling
Harryhad told both Cecilia and Florence of
her sin ?
and they
And what would be said of hiS intended visit to Bolton Street,
expiated
this great Surrender ? had allbecome
the
her when she had made
confidential
on
subject.
very
we
Would not the world laugh at her instead of In most such cases
may suppose that a man
ran

were

us

any

"

"

"

her
praising

that world

"

to which

as

she had

does

say much

not

to

one

of the love

woman

which another woman

has acknowledged
self.
that she did not care what
for himassured Mr. TurnbuU
Nor was HarryClavering
to
itsverdict about her might be ? She had many
at all disposed
doubts. Ah!
why had not Harry Clavering make any such boast. But in this case. Lady
ton.
But her punishment Ongar herself had told every- thingto Mrs. Burremained true to her?
and she
and had
She had declared her passion,
had come
upon her with all its severity,
acknowledgedto herself now that it was not to declared also her intention of making Harryher
husband

he avoided.

if he would

known, and there

take her.
was

Everythingwas
of sparing
possibility

no

Lady Ongar'sname.
"If

ONGAK'S

LADT

REVENGE.

nightwhich Harry had

the

At last came

He

Street.

for his visit to Bolton

with
forward certainly

had

pleasureto

no

I had

for such

XLIII.

CHAPTER

ed
fixed
look-

her I would

been

not

have

the interview,
friends."

that the time for it had come,

"They might be friends without
and,
to think that Lady Ongar had been
now," said Cecilia.
was
disposed
"
unwise in askingfor it. But he had promised
Hardly. If the awkwardness were

meeting

now

that he would

go, and there

possible
es.

no

was

asked

meeting,"Cecilia said. The three

for Mr. Burton
were
at this time sitting
together,
joinedthem in their conversation.
rarely
"I don't know," said Florence. "I do not
see
why she and Harry should not remain as
a

over

at once, it would

think

cape.
He

she is

be

never

not got
I almost

got over.

right,thoughif I

her I

was

That was Florence's

dined that evening in Onslow Cresent, should long to have it over."
the
tween
beall
his
in
matter.
sat
with
Harry
established
where he was
judgment
now
again
ly
them, like a sheepas he was, very meekHe had again gone up to the
old comfort.
some
had kissed them
not without
enjoyment of his sheepchildren's nursery with Cecilia,
"

home

in the establishment.

there

as

though

himself

made

cots,and

all in their

It

with

was

been

had

there

quite at

no

them

dreadful

dom,

that he
but stillfeeling

half

past eighthe

been

told that

cab

a sheep. At
having already
waitingfor him at the

was

started up,
was

altogeth-door. He pressedCecilia's hand as he went,

er
his feelingthat he had before him
ton
and even Mr. Burindicating
with Cecilia and Florence,
affairof
round
some
to
an
himself
be
magnitude,and then,of course,
brought
was
allowing
had a word or two to say to Florence in private
ry
Harto a charitable view of Harry'scharacter.
the landing. Oh, those delicious private
in the on
this day had gone to the chambers
on
often during
the need for which comes
so
with
words,
and,
walking
an
hour,
away
Adelphi for
those short halcyondays of one's lifetime !
Theodore Burton,had declared his intention of
so
to say like They were
If you were
pleasantthat Harry would fain
workinglike a horse.
ed
have
returned
to
said
Burton.
be
repeatthem after he was seatbetter,"
would
it
a man,
perhaps
dream

Lady Ongar.

about

It

was

so

"

ry;
"I must leave you to say that,"answered Harmyself
"for the present,I will content
with the horse." Burton was willingto hope,
to fall into his
more
and allowed himself once
about the business
old pleasant
way of talking
under the
other subject
no
as though there were
sun:

keen

So

at the

about

presentmoment

and
railways,

was

was

of
the folly
ridiculing

he
thanks,"

said.

done,and thanks
upon all our work

the

are
so

o"ar

much

those

thinghas

due, peoplewill
as

to

very

were
ing
gowho feared that the railwayprojectors
shall never
get any
"But
we
too fast.

"When

collecthis thoughts.
Lady Ongar,when he entered the room, was
little
a
in her accustomed chair,near
sitting
for him

work-tablewhich she alwaysused,and did not

It was
soft
a
him.
rise to meet
prettychair,
Metropolitan
He

full of manifold interest.

in his cab ; but the inevitablewheels carried

and he was
in
with cruel velocity,
onward
Bolton
Street before the minutes had sufiiced
him

matter

and

with

with

easy, made
no

arms

to

Harry

been

hoop.
spoken of

look

visits to Bolton

of course

when

its

back

impede

knew

the

chair

comfort
graceful

Street.

he entered ; and

lounging,but

for

the circlesof

She

lady's,

well,and
in

was

though he

some

had

of his

seated there
was

not

suf-

CLAVERINGa.

THE

188

in the secrets of feminine

experienced
ficiently
to

know

care, he

with

did

she

perceivethat
charming,not onlyby force of her

but

aid also of her dress.

by the

deep mourning

in

"

nor

in the

was

very

yet she was

And

an

is not

plaint
com-

as

beautiful than

is she

had

was
"

he himself.

as

She

Vane," he said.
If she is

like?

Vane

Miss

what

Lady Ongar

was

bit like Constance

what

in their

this at once, and

that

of the fact

"Then

deepestmourning;

polesasunder

as

were

Harry felt

indistinct notion

beauty, well aware

own

thing about her of which

there any

was

Burton

tire Florence
at-

that she had dressed herself differences.

at once

used

to

more

be,she

be made by those who

do must be lovely
indeed."
might fairly
"She has no pretensions
of that kind,"said
complainon such subjects.Her dress was high
round her neck,and the cap on her head was
Harry, almost sulkily.
ful!"
^'1 have heard that she was
a widow's
so very beautiindisputably
cap ; but enough of her
liness
brown hair was to be seen
to tellof its rich loveLady Ongar had never heard a word
She
to about Florence's
as
so made
beauty not a word.
; and the black dress was
of her form ; and with
knew
show the full perfection
nothing personallyof Florence beyond
that gracefulfeminine brightwhat Mrs. Burton
had told her.
But who will
it all there was
ness
and money
that
that care
and
her
littledeceit
sary
necesnot
the
can
was
forgive
alwaysgive,
without care
which will not come
and money.
to her littlerevenge?
she had thought,
said
"I
don't know
to surrender
It might be well,
how
to describe her,''
when
her income, and become
and
after,
hereI
the
time
soon
come
dowdy
Harry.
hope
poor
may
but there could be no reason
why Harry you will see her,and be able to judgefor yourself.
"
It fehaU not be my fault if
I hope so too.
Claveringshould not be made to know all that
"

"

"

he had
'

'

lost.

I do not
"

Well, Harry, she said,as he steppedup

her and

took her offered

to

like her. "

I do not think you can fail to like her. She

and that will go farther with you
is very clever,
than mere
beauty. Not but what I think her
"

hand, I am gladthat
congratulate
yon
you.
Better late than never, eh, Harry ?"
very" very pretty."
"
How
he to answer
her when she spoketo
She reads a greatdeal,
Ah ! I understand.
was
him in this strain ?
"I hope itis not too late, and that sort of thing. Yes, that is very nice.
the words were
he said,hardlyknowing what
But I shouldn't have thought that that would
which were
much
have taken you.
You
used not to care
coming from his mouth.
"Nay, that is for you to say. I can do it for talent and learning not in women, I mean."
that.
And
said Harry,looking
"I don't know about that,"
heartily,
Harry, if you mean
why
not ?
foolish.
Why should I not wish you happy ? I
very
"
have alwaysliked you
have alwayswished for
But a contrast is what you men
alwayslike.
sincere Of course
I ought not to say that,but you will
your happiness. You believe that I am
of what I am
know
when I congratulate
thinking. A clever,highlyyou, do you not ?"
'
will be a
educated
like Miss Burton
Oh yes, you are alwayssincere."
women
"
I have alwaysbeen so to you.
As to any
much
better companion to you than I could
have been.
You
I am
see
beyond that,we need say nothingnow.
sincerity
very frank,Harry."
self,
I have always been your good friend
about himto the
She wished to make him talk freely
best of my
his future days,and his past days,while he
ability.Ah! Harry, you do not
know
how much
I have thought
of your welfare
as
was
simplyanxious to say on these subjects
how much
mind
I do think of it. But never
! The excitement
littleas possible.Poor woipan
Tell me
that.
of having a passionwhich
she might indulge
somethingnow of this Florence
have

"

that I may

come

"

"

"

'

"

"

Burton

of yours.

Is she tall?"

I believe that

Lady Ongar,when

she asked this question,

knew

well that Florence

was

was

over

with

her

at any

"

rate,for the

her game
present. She had played

and had lost

short of stature.

from
woefully; but before she retired altogether
said Harry.
she could not keep herself from
the gaming-table
"No, she is not tall,"
"What
a little beauty?
Upon the whole, longingfor a last throw of the dice.
I think I agree with your taste.
The most lovely
"These
things,I fear,go veiy much
by
that I have ever seen have been small, chance,"said Harry.
women
and perfect
in their proportions.It is
to suppose that you
"You
do not mean
me
bright,
has a perfect
That would
figure. are takingMiss Burton by chance.
very rare that a tall woman
Julia's own
to her as to yourself."
figurewas quiteperfect. "Do you be as uncomplimentary
"
remember
Constance' Vane.
Nothing ever exceeded
Chance,at any rate,has been very goodto
her beauty." Now
Constance Vane
in this instance."
me
'
who had in those days been ConDo not suppose that I
stance
Of that I am
she,at least,
sure.
but
who
the
stout mother
It is not onlythe paradise
now
was
that.
Vane,
am
doubting
"

"

"

'

of

of

two
a

or

three children

whom
girl,

Harry

had been

"

had

admired.

nor

waxen

known, but had

But

she

was

doll that you

ther-liked
neithat you

as

are

the interiorleaves of

and

she had

and

hardlyever

blush rose,

her angry

with herself.
to be at ease

was

conscious that

uneasy,

She had

and made

termined
deespecially

during this meeting,and

off in
anjj^alling

that

respect

thoughtin her head, on her part would put into his hands the power
word on her lips. She and which she was desirous of exercising.
had

never

but the pandemonium

gained,
escaped!" Then she laughed

but the laughter

was
highlyslightly,

ion
bred,and belongedto the cream of Englishfasha complexionas pure in
; she had possessed
itstints

have
have

THE
"You

CLAVERINGS.

189

determined to rebuke me, I see," become hardened

and shall fall into
to it all,
If you choose to do so, I am
endurable
mode
of life in time.
But I
pared some
preto bear it.
if I haye a defense,can look forward to nothing. What future have
My defense,
are

said he.

is
"
"

"

that I

one

use."

not

can

I ?

Was

And what would be your defense ?"

I have said that I can not use it?"

there

as

less
friendany one so utterly
kind cousin has done that

ever

Your

am

for me ; and yet he came

here to me
the other
understand it all! What
day,smilingand talkingas though he were sure
to say is this
that when your good that I should be delighted
you mean
by his condescension.
of Plorence Burton, I do not think that he will ever come
stars sent you in the way
again."
"
I did not know you had seen him."
you had been ill treated by her who would have
"
made your pandemonium for you, and that she
Yes ; I saw him, but I did not find much
"As

if I did

not

"

therefore she who

and behaved so
came
first,
rightto find fault with you
obeyedyour good stars and

"

have

can
badly,

no

in that you have

done so well for

yourself.That

call your defense.

if you had
perfect,
of Miss

Burton
home.

return

not have

was

me

when

me

It would

have

was

forted
com-

not mortal.
any rate,it was
such wounds
mortal ? When
are

?"
skin-deep
"I can say nothingas
"
No, Hariy,of course

when

should

You

you want.
There

I have
was

this

which

be

you

they

"

"And

did you show it?"

speakthese W9rds,because he would

her,nor

vanity. "Do

of

melted
was

sorrow

him

have

for him to
implied; but it was impossible
He remained
a thoughtof them.
silent,
therefore,
takingup some toy from the table into
his hands,as though that would occupy his attention.

so

much

to
flattering
Lady
Ongar,"
that,

am

used

that I endured"

"

"

deny it altogether.I

do

of your
think that there is one who knows
"
storywho believes ill of you.
"
I could tellyou of one, Harry,who thinks

not

very illof me
in this room.

"

nay, of two

; and

theyare

both

how you used

Do you remember
conceited bit of Latin
that terribly
to teach me
Nil conscire sibi? Do you suppose that I can

fool.

I sat

throughthose

creature's bed

at

of your modes

every harsh
of lifewhen

terriblenightsby that poor

that the
of you when I knew

"

day was coming.

Harry,when I counted

am

"

than

to think of you

word

last

that.

to talk of it

am

wor^e

"

have I got in the

I do say it. What
them
count
world that is worth having? My possessions
up
and a damaged
thousands a year
ever
so many
are
you when I came

deny

fool I

savings. I

"But

name.

gret
re-

at

he exclaimed.

"I

express that

in

could not but be

say

did not

triumph

I wa"
thinkingof you when I stood up in church to be
married
thinkingof that offer of your little

want."

the tone

in that there

not

to
willing

He
not

part which these words would

own

"But
what
say any thing?
And
I
happy,and have all that not?

nothingthat I

so

he

was

his

to

spoken which

was

how

say nothing.

can

you

in
reality

once, and the more

which
in her grief
his

to that now."

made

fortunate and

are

"
But I know
she is. What
that
a comfort
and I never
will be to you ! I am
not clever,
should have become
learned. Oh dear ! I had
but one merit,
Harry I was fond of you."

avoid

more

than

Why

"

on

But

ever.
that,how-

"

wound."

"At

won't mind

can

is very learned and very clever ?"

I did not quite
say that."

over

was

his visit. We

talk about somethingbetter than

Hugh Clavering
duringthe few minutes that we
have together can
not ? And so Miss Burton
we

word

"

that there

"You

are

me

which
known that the wound
that is,if there
been cured

to have

wound."
know

you

you after my
that you should

and told

me

husband.

given had

is what

We

perfect,
Harry,

I first saw

It is odd to

written to

me

be

to
onlywhispered

when

abroad with my
I had

It would

relief from

thoughtof you always,

up my gains. I never
Ah ! how I thought of

now.

to this house in the carriage

which you had providedfor me, when I had left
you at the station almost without speaking a
word to you ! I should have been more
gracious

had I not had you in my thoughtsthroughout

And
home from Florence.
my whole jom-ney
after that I had
the

priceof

without

my
shame.
!

You

some

comfort

shame

in

believingthat

might make

Oh, Harry,I
will never

have

you
been

understand

rich

appointed
dis-

what

"

I think of my

that I never
grow paleas
fault? I am thinkingof it always,and my
heart is ever becoming palerand paler. And
I wish I could
of others
to the treatment
as
w
hen. I was fool
I sufiFered
know
what
make
you
boast
own

"

felt when

firstthat evil

woman

told me

of Miss

Burton."
"

Oh, Julia,what am I to Jay?"

can
say nothing; but I wonder

"You

that

you had not told me."

"
How could I tellyou ? Would it not have
in Surrey. The
that
to
to
place
enough
go
vain enoughto have thought
seemed
that I was
I
thinks
that
who drives me no doubt
coachman
on
of
who
let
guard?"
and
servant
the
your
putting
y
ou
my husband,
poisoned
mind.
Do not
But never
not?
"And
ed
abandonbe
an
why
to
me
in
now
supposes
just
you
I
As
said in
I
that
am
rebuking
you.
suppose
because you are here."
woman
and there is no place
are
if
I
we
quits
with
letter,
now,
be
will
my
"You
me, perhaps,
angry
now
are quits
on. either side. We
and will die for scolding
;
are morbid
say that these .feelings
and
rewarded."
I
has
but
are
am
Which
punished you
They show the wealiness
away.
this. Of
he could not answer
Of course
ill usage you have suffered."
from 'the
come
hard pressed
Of
for words.
he was
I shaU course
donbt.
in
no
"You
are
part,
right

CLAVERINGS.

THE

190

that he had
he conld neither acknowledge

course

rewarded,nor
punishment of which

been
him

also.

she

had

This

share

with

the

revenge
attack him.

to

of the

fallen upon
which

spoke had

she

was

intended

that

assert

That

she

will bid her take it,

You

cruel.

though more
will you not?"
"
I am
sure

she will take it without

bidding

'

on

my part."
"
And tell her not

to write me
any thanks.
ter
She and I will both linderstand that that had bet-

ed
punishbe omitted.
If,when I shall see her at some
rewarded,was very natural. Had
her after her future time as your wife,it shall he on her finger,
he been less quick in forgetting
marriage,he would have had his reward without I shall know that I am thanked." Then Harry
"I did not mean
her thoughts, rose to go.
by that to turn
any punishment. If such were
I have
with her on that account ?
who shall quarrel
you out, but perhapsit may be as well.
but
and
for
not
can
to
no
more
as
I have been very frank with you,"she continued.
say ;
you, you
"Indeed, why should I not be so? wish that the penance should be over." Then
muttered
her hand, and vrith some
People talk of a lady'ssecret,but my secret has he pressed
she
did not
bade
her
adieu.
made
from
That
I
?
Again
was
been no
secret
farewell,
you
under
rise from her chair,
what I will call an error,
hut, nodding at him with a
to tellit under
let him go without another word.
sweet smile,
and it is that that has made
was
your fault,
should

think that he had

and

in truth been

not

"

"

"

quits."

us

"I

know

that

have

behaved

badly to

you."
"

But

I had

then,unfortunately,
you know also
bad treatment.
Well, we

CHAPTER

that

deserved

XLIV.

will
SHOWING

HAPPENED

WHAT

OFF

HELIGOLAND.

it. I have bean very candid

say no more'ahout
with you, but then I have injured
one
no
by my
candor.
in reYou have not said a word to me
ply

DcmiNG
the six weeks after this,Harry Clabers
veringsettled down to his work at the chamin the Adelphi with exemplary
diligence.
; but then your tongue is tied by your duty
in town
Burton
gether,Florence,
to Miss
having remained a fortnight
your duty and your love toand having
of course.
It is all as it should be, and
afterHan-y'sreturn to the sheepfold,
I will have done.
When
now
are
acceptedLady Ongar'spresent not without a
you to be
married, Harry ?"
long and anxious consultation with her sister'
in-law on the subject ^had returned in fully
No time has been fixed. I am
restored
a very poor
happinessto Stratton. Mrs. Burton was
man,
you know."
and Mr. Burton
When
mischief is done, at Ramsgate with the children,
Alas ! alas ! yes.
way
how
badlyall the thingsturn out. You are was in Russia with reference to a line of railfrom Moscow
to
which was
beingprojected
rich,ana yet we can not help
poor and I am
Astracan.
It was
each other."
now
September,and Harry,
"
I fear not."
in his letters home, declared that he was
the only
Unless I could adopt Miss Burton, and be a
It was
hard upon him
person'left in London.
harder than it was
You would shrink,
ever,
howmuch
sort of mother
to her.
upon the Wallikers
from any such guardianship
whom
Fate retained in
men
on
my part. and other young
But you are clever,
town
a man
Harry,and can work when
given to shooting
; for Harry was
and will make
If Miss
accustomed
to pass the autumnal
a
man
you please,
your way ?
Burton keeps you waitingnow
by any prudent months in a country house. And then,if things
"

"

'

"

"

"

"

"

fear

on

am

as

her

part,I shall

not

think

so

well of her

inclined to do."

"The

Burtons

all prudentpeople."
are
her,from me, with my love,not to he
prudent. I thoughtto be prudent,and see

"Tell
too

has

what
"

of it."

come

I will tell her what

chanced

to

have

go
had

way

his

instead of

another,
shooting down at

his heels ; or, if not so this year, he

have been shootingelsewhere with the

own

friends

As

you

accept a littlepresent from

sake,will ask
any rate,for my

me

Will

You, at

her to do

admiring

Park

him
would

his

own

Ongar
at

with

one

"

prospect of these rich joys for years

say."
"Do, please;and, Harry, look here.
she

had

he would

to

come.

promisedto stick to the shop,

stickingto it manfully. Nor do I

it was, he had

and

was

think that he allowed

his mind

to revert

to

those

which might have been his at all more

privileges
Give her this it is only a trifle,"
and she put frequently
than any of my readers would have
box which was
her hand
small jewelers'
done in his place.He was
on
a
to the shop;
sticking
"
close to hor arm
tion
and, though he greatlydisliked the hot desolaupon the table, and tellher
of course
she knows all our story,Harry?"
of London
in those days,being absolutely
afraid to frequenthis club at such a periodof
"yes, she knows it all."
"Tell her that she whom
the year, and though he hated Walliker mortally,
you have rejected
so.

"

"

sends

it with

have

her kindest wishes to her whom

taken."

he

was

fullyresolved

to

go

on

with

his

might be his fate ?

"No, I will not tell her that."
Perhapsin another ten years he might he carrying
"
that Russian railway
Why not ? It is all true. I have not poisoned
on
throughthe deserts
the little ring,as the ladies would have
of Siberia.
Then
there came
to bin*.suddenly
done some
centuries since. They were
and
grander tidingswhich disturbed all his resolutions,
then than we are now, and perhaps
hardly
changed the whole current of his life.
worse,
you

work.

Who

could tell what

CLAVEEINGS.

THE

At first there
the

came

telegramto

him
country,desiring

but
Clavering,

not

to the message

at

from
to

once

had

had

ed
Addany reason.
these words : ' ' We
are

were

at the parsonage" words evidently

added
thoughtfulness.But before he had left
"

the office there came

to him there a young man
from the bank at which his cousin Hugh kept
his account, telling
him the tidings
to which the
telegramno doubt referred. Jack Stuart's boat
and his two cousins had gone to
had been lost,
their graves beneath the sea!
The
the boat,and Stuart himself,
with

of

master
a

boy, had

from

child to

givinghim

allwell
in

him

down

to go

191

that of Sir Hugh.

the loss

mourn

sister.

Sir Hugh
with

friendshipgoes
could

like true
with

be

had

Claveringwas

in the world
What

man

or

of

at

men

few

Claverings.Stuart,it seemed,
had -caused tidingsof the accident to be sent
and to Sir Hugh's
to the rector of Clavering
At the bank they had
bankers.
ascertained
the

that their late customer's

and their messenger

firstto
the

he would

had

from

loved

never

thence

his cousins.

and
disliked,
greatly

have

to

disliked had he

not

that account

shocked when

The

the younger
despisedhim.
was

he firstheard

he

days

would

"

doubt

about

the

known,

when

fact.
had

that both brothers

what

It

had

stated
distinctly

perished. Harry

received

he

do

of

so

without
; and

sorrow

there would

be

Thinking of all this as he was

Clavering,
Harry could not

but

knowledge
ac-

that the loss to the world

had

not

been great ;

he did

the

message

away
able.

but,even

while

carried

himself this,
telling

had
from

home, that no trainwould take him tillthree in

at
the afternoon,and had therefore remained

how Florence should bear her

speculate
but this idea he swept
Lady Clavering,
he was
from his thoughtsas quickly
as
as

had
tidings

The

pressibly
inexlate

happened. The lad said that there could,as he

had
The
imagined,be no mistake.
message
from Holland,but of that
come, as he believed,
he was
not certain. There
could,however,be
no

to

honors

the less on

not

down

waves?
talk of

was

Adelphi.

Harry had

end.

the

his club would

in town, he would not allow himself to take comfort in

thereuponbeen sent, the prospect of his heirship.Once, perhajis,

BloomsburySquare,and

elder he had
But

cousin

an

miss
would

brightbecause Archie

The
other sailors whom
been saved.
they any pretense at the tenderness
had with them, and the ship's
of Archie's memory
steward,had perished then even
with

would

woman

beneath
sleeping

Clavvyfor a

poor

as

"

HaiTy

them
all
among
feel any thing
And it was the same

loss.

Who

Clavering?

score

friends
; but

men

no

would

find the world to be less

Some

had

such

who

one

for his
grief

Archie.

Archie

was
ried
unmar-

doubt whether

but

not

there would

There

no
brother,

no

"

the

on

had

rector

them.

could

there

was

his wife

the parsonage very

late that the

been

disturbed

in his bed to receive

to Lady
widow, but this
not do till the next
morning. But
little sleepthat night for Mm
or for
knew
well enough that the
! He

It

his

was

Claveringthe
he

reached

previousnight" so

property was

dutyto

fact that she

entailed.

strengthwhat it was

make
was

He

known

felt with

to become

blow,and to become also

whole
Claveringproperty.

sufficient

baronet

sudden

the

owner

the

He

was

at

of
not

slow to think of the removal to the great house,

hardlybring of the altered prospectsof his son, and of the
for himself
would
affect mode of lifewhich would be fitting
himself to think how this matter
the
he had
Before
future.
came
his
in
to
morning
When
he
explain
himself.
attempted
absence to an old serious clerk there,he spoke meditated who should be , the future rector of
the office ; but he could not remain
head was
confused,and he could

of his

own

return

farthest.

He

His

officeas certain. He
in a week at the
supposed,

to the

should be back,he

now.

and
Clavering,
to

the

thinkingthen of his promises Not that he was

ize
at what
Burton, and had not begun to realwas

had

made

some

calculations

expediencyof resuming
a

heartlessman,

his
or

as

hunting.

that he

joiced
re-

happened. But a man's

to Theodore
ideas of generosity
in life would
change as he advances in
the fact that his whole destiny
self
said something,with a long age, and the rector was old enough to tell himbe changed. He
had
that
that
this
which
had
happened
misfortune
curred,
ocboldly
thing
face,of the terrible
could not be to him a cause of much grief. He
but gave no hint that that misfortune
to love
loved his cousins,
or pretended
self. had never
to himwould be importantin its consequences
he
did
after
a
His
cousin's
wife
them.
his
love,
had
reached
he
It was not till
lodgings
wife of the
to his own
in
but
remembered
that
he
that
speaking
fashion,
in Bloomsbury Square
affect Herthe baronet,and that way in which this tragedywould
now
father was
his own
her widowof
hood
t
o
did
he
not
for
scruple
speak
And
then
a
ment
momione,
he was
his father's heir.
of coming happiness.
lieved
as a period
he thought about the property. He be"
said Mrs. Clavering.
She will be cut to pieces,"
of that he
but even
entailed,
that it was
"
attached
to
him
as
as
She
was
earnestly
t
o
unentailed,
not certain. But if it were
was
well."
He
it?
deavored,though he had treated her always
enleft
have
cousin
his
could
whom
"I believe it; but not the less will she fed
however, to expelsuch thoughtsfrom
which
her
; and her life,
release,
unconsciously
erous
his mind, as though there was somethingungenwill gradually
become
think
has
been
wretched,
tried
to
He
them.
very
in entertaining
in doing that he could easy to her."
of the widow, but even
could not denythat this
Even Mrs. Clavering
tellhimself that there was much groundfor
not
be so, and then they reverted to matters
would
less
had
had
ever
wife
joy
No
genuine sorrow.
"I
concerned themselves.
closely
than Lady Clavering which more
from her husband'ssociety
had

suppose Harry will marry

tiiemother.

"No
The

doubt;

rector

at

pity,is

will stillcall him

it not?"
thinls-

was

"

wife
hardlya fitting

was

with his altered prospects. Ah

son

said for his walk

now?"

once

While

it is almost

we

as

"

Florence

ing that
his

CLAVEEINGS.

THE

192

for

! what

across

they were

future incumbent

the

parkto

the

was

stillsleeping
in unconsciousness

Mr.

dreaded
Claveringgreatly
before him, and had made

was

great house.

should be the
who
discussing
of the living.
Lady Clavering
of her fate.

the task which

little attempt

self
grand thingit would have been if the Clarer- to induce his wife to take the office upon hercould
to him that it would
; but she had explained
ing property and Lady Ongar'sjointure
be more
!
have gone together
seemlythat he should be the bearer of
the tidings. "It would
"Not
seem
a
that you were
pity at all,"said Mrs. Clavering.
him a
"You
will find that Florence will make
wanting in affection for her if you do not go
his wife had said to him.
That the
yourself,
vei7 happy man."
^I dare say.
"I dare say
Only he would rector of Claveringwas master of himself and
who knew the family
no
one
hardlyhave taken her had this sad accident of his own actions,
clined
happened before he saw her. But if she will ever denied,but the instances in which he demake
him happy,that is every thing. I have
to follow his wife's advice were
not many.
It was about eighto'clock when he went across
never
thoughtmuch about money myself. If I
find any comfort in these tidings,
it is for his the park. He
had alreadysent a messenger
I would sooner
remain
with a note to beg that Lady Claveringwould
sake,not for my own.
This was
As he would come
as I am."
not altogether
untrue, and be up to receive him.
very
he had said,perhaps she would see him'
thinkingof the big house and the early,
yet he was
in her own
The poor ladyhad,of course,
hunting.
room.
"What
will be done about the living?" It been greatly
frightened
by this announcement
;
was
earlyin the morningwhen Mrs. Clavering but this fear had been good for her,as theyhad
asked this question. She had thought much
well understood
fully
at the rectory; the blow,dreadabout the livingduring the night,
and so had
sudden as it must
stillbe.Would be somewhat
the rector,but his thoughts
had not run
in the
less sudden under this preparation.
When
direction as hers.
He made
Mr. Claveringreached
same
diate
immethe house the servant
no
and then she went
with her was
in waitingto show him up stairs to the sitting-room
on
answer,
which Lady Claveringusuallyoccupied
question. " Do you think that you will keep it
in your own
hands ?"
when
alone.
Slie had been there waiting
''
"Well
I am
too idle for him for the last half hour.
Mr. Clavering,
no; why should I?
about it as it is. I should be more
what is it?" she exclaimed,
he entered with
so under
as
these altered circumstances."
of death written on his visage. ' In the
tidings
I am
would
do
if
sure
of
name
thing
you
heaven,what is it ? You have someyour duty you
resolved to keep it,but I don't see why you
to tell me
of Hugh."
"
should do so."
Dear Hermione," he said,
takingker by the
hand.
"Claveringis a great deal better than Hum"
said the rector.
Humbleton
the
Is he still
What is it? Tell me at once.
bleton,"
was
of the parishheld by Mr. Fielding,
name
his alive ?"
a

"

"

"

'

' '

son-in-law.
But

The

the idea here

put forward did

still held her

rector

by the hand,but

He had been tryingas he came

spoke no word.
the idea which was
running in Mrs. Clavering'sacross the park to arrange the words in which
"
mind.
Edward
and Mary are very well off,
he should tell his tale,
but now
it was told without
she said.
"His
own
property is considerable, any speechon his part.
"
and I don't think they want
sides,
He is dead.
any thing. BeWhy do you not speak? Why
he would hardly
like to giveup a family are you so cruel ?"
living."
"Dearest
fort
Hermiote,what am I to say to com"
I might ask him, at any rate."
you ?"
"I was
he might say after this was of littlemovering, What
thinkingof Mr. Saul,"said Mrs. Clament,
not

suit

"

boldly.
"

for she had

Of Mr. Saul !"

The

imageof

rector of Clavering,
perplexedthe
egregiously.
"

No

Well
one

between

yes.

"

He

is an

Mr.

Saul,as
baronet

new

them

case, he and
is no gobd

for

"In

moments.

Fanny would

The

fond of him."

word,I

my

can't understand

"It

is so; and
there can
character,
rector made

as

be

to
no

the excellence
doubt."

To

answer, but went away

that he might prepare
dressing-room,
no

asked the

keeper.
house-

that

It
course
marry.
fact that she is very

the rector.

bell,
"

of

the
concealing

the

rang
"

excellent clergyman.their master's fate.

there was
silence
"And
Captain Archie?"

few

He

then,when the servants were there the old

maid
he
housekeeperand Lady Clavering's
told to them; rather than to her,what had been

deny that." Then

can

"Upon

fainted.

and

said
it,"

own

shook his head, and

rector

knew

that the rector

Then

they took

room

"

up his

into his

wife

himself

task had

across

the housekeeper

now

onet.
the bar-

the poor widow to her

should I not rather call her,as I

the
to speak
may venture
of his slave than the poor widow
this the

was

the enfranchised
truth,
"

and

hat,promisedthat he

the

ing
rector,tak-

would

send his

their mistress. His morning's

but it had been easily
been painful,
to

THE

CLAVEIilNGS.

193

accomplished. As he walked home among the when you were born. But I don't think at all
oaks of Claveiing
Park,he told himself,
no
doubt, about myselfin this matter.
I am
too
old to
that theywere
all his own.
now
to change my manner
care
of living.It won't
That day at the rectorywas
very sombre,if affect me very much.
Indeed,I hardly
know
it was

sad.
'actually

not

The

greater part of the

yet how it may affectme.

Your

mother

thinks

morning Mrs. Clavering

passedwith the widow, I ought to give up the living.If you were
her sofa,
she wrote sundryletnear
and, sitting
ters orders,
Harry "
"
to those who were
connected with the family.
I'm very glad,sir,
that I am
not."
The longestof these was
"I suppose so.
to Lady Ongar,
And thereis no need"

in

"

'

who

was

said

''
that
Lady Clavering,

Tenby,and in that there

at

now

there is no

tainly
cer-

need.

You will be able to do

that her sister prettynearly
pressingrequest from Hermione
what you like about the
property.
would come
to her at ClaveringPark."Tellher,"I shall not care
to interfere."
be

over

now."

But

be

sure

need

have

"But

no

how

"

must

She

to her sister.

come

fear on

Mrs.

here,when

"It

the

to her husband

broughther

of

knew well that she

to

another

to
alluding

not

was

husband

and

to

She has her settlement. Eighthundred

She'll not be a rich woman
heir sister. I wonder where she'lllive.

the master

of

year,
like

As far
that goes, she might stayat the house,if she
likes it. I'm sure your mother wouldn't object."
as

Harry on this occasion asked no questions

but he also had thought
of that.
living,

the two

that his mother

he

knew

would

his sister should

sucli a

no

personalobjection

could

feel any

not

understand

strongregardfor

man.

Edward

Park.
Clavering

befriend

that his father

take his mother's advice. As
ultimately

he had
baby. regardedhimself,
beyond to Mr. Saul,though he
how

would

also

her
"

er
wheth-

any difference to you, you

of the propertyis entailed.

Everyacre

of .them gone,"she He knew well

gone!" Mrs. Clavering Mr. Saul, and

to her

I wonder

fit about the

Of poor Archie no one had said a word

that one word spokenby the housekeeper. For
her,it had been necessary that she should know
Twice

can't make

"Both

tears.
hysterical
said,"both of them

wasnow

It feels strangenow, but

to it.

I think it is.

you may want it. Yoirr husband's relations are

sion
are
theynot ?" But this alluyour dear friends,

who

sir.
will,

you

know.

that head."

I invite her

can

She will

"

Clavering. "You

house is not my own

?"
"Pray do not talk in that way, Hermione.
The house will be your own
for any time that

but
brothers,

Yes

said nothing you will soon

Clavering
get used
merelyurged the request he lefta will."

come," said

to

all her anger

Mrs.

of Julia's anger.
that Julia would

was

would
Fielding

make

better neighbor

in the

at
the parsonage, and
then he thought
day Mrs. Claveringwent over
er
Aftto the bighouse,and on her second return,late whether an exchangemight not be made.
in the evening,
When
she
she found her son.
that,and before his mother's return from the
been some
few words
there had already
arrived,
great house,he took a stroll throughthe park
with Eanny. Fanny altfagether
declined to disthe subject
between him and his father.
cuss
on
"
You have heard of it,
Harry ?"
any of the familyprospectsas they were
"
from the banker's." affected by the accident which had hnppened.
to me
Yes; a clerk came

her mind

To
"

Quiteterribleto think

is it not?
Dreadful,

of!"
"Indeed it is,sir. I was never
so shocked
in my life."
" He
would go in that cursed boat,thoughI
advised againstit,"said the
know
that he was
holdingup his hands and shaking his
father,
head.

"And

gone at
"How

once

now

both

of them

gone

both

"

mother

now.

When

and
I had written a line,
fainted.
Of
she
bad
news
she expected
I
can
do
hardly
I
could
nothing.
say
course,
and
She asked the question,
that I told her.
well
then saw by my face that her fears were
went

morning

in the

"

"

gladwhen she
my word,I was
the best thingfor her."
did faint ; it was
for you."
"It must have been very painful
and the rector shook
"Terrible" terrible;"
Upon

founded.

"

his head.
your
"

as

It will make

young
"Am

in your
a

I?

man

as

was

so

terrible thai

its

No
tragicelement.
thoughtsabout Mr. Saul

own

with it.

"What

would

he think

of this sudden

death of the two brothers ? How

he feel it?
If she could be allowed to

would

talk to him

on

the

matter,what would

of their fate here and hereafter ?

to the

great house
the widow

to

Would

he say
he go

offer the consolations

?"

Of all this she

of

thought

of Mr. Saul as rector of

; but no picture
er's
or of herselfas mistress in her mothClavering,
itselfto her mind.
house,presented
Harry
found her to be a dull companion,and he,perhaps,
tention
consoled himself with some
personalatthe oak

to

upon

him

now

than

trees,which

theyhad

ever

loomed larger
done before.

On the third day the rector went

up

to

don,
Lon-

greatdifferencein
So to say, you

The

are

myself."
N

connected

all

sir !
life,

I believe I

doubt she had her

as

tragedywas

It was
leavingHarry at the parsonage.
and
necessary that lawyersshould be visited,
that such facts as to the loss should be provednt.
were
capableof proof. There was no doubt at

Harry."
prospects,
And

the

only feel

much

her

is with

could

to
religion

!"
does she bear it?"

"Your

she

about

as

young

as

to

the fate of Sir

escape

of Mr.

Hugh

and

his brother.

Stuart and of two

of those

of a
employedby him preventedthe possibility
The vessel had been. caught in a gale
1doubt.

THE

194

CLAVEEINGS.

and had foundered.

off Heligoland,
They had
allstriven to get into the yacht's
boat,but those
who had succeeded in doing so had gone down.
ers
The master of the yachthad seen the two brothperish. Those who were saved had been

they had

off the spars to which

pickedup

There

themselves.
way of the
Nor was

baronet,and

new

there

I can
myself,

take

she

ever

must

much

so

come

how

to

by 'the elders.

it discussed

bear to think that I should

not

the results of this dreadful

in
delight
; but

therefore

fortune
mis-

keep myself from

feelingthat we may

I to

am

by Sir being made happy by the

?
be married without farther delay
After
nothing now
left no will all that has passed,
nothingwill make me hap2}y

either

Poor Archie
should

and
consideration,
Claveringto hear

difiBculty.

no

will made

any

Hugh or his brother.

and that he
to leave,

accept this view of thingswithout

tachedFor
at-

doubt in the

no

was

The better part

understand what ' me' means.
she will not
of ' me' is so prudentthat I know

had

have

But neither had there been

comfortable
permanently

tillI

call

was

not remarkable.

much

nor
in the power of Sir Hugh to bequeath,
own.
My mother has already
you fairly
my
here in about
for a will on his part. said that she hopes you will come
there any greatcause
shall have
as
we
he left a son, his son would have inherited a fortnightthat is,as soon

was

Had

can

"

every thing. He
and his vrife was
On
as

even

or

fallen tolerably,
into
had, however, died childless,

providedfor by her

marriagehe had made

his

small

the amount

his wife's friends would

as

settlement.
settled

accept,and

no

will write

placesagain; but she

our

herself before

that

time.

have

line to your brother,

addressed to the
which I suppose will find him.
I have
office,
written

written also to Cecilia. Tour

no doubt,
brother,
the news
first through the French
Having
but a very
the rector returned,newspapers." Then he said a little,
been in town for three days,
of life,
mating
of the title; but little,
to their future modes
as
justintibeing then in full possession
that
her
this he did not assume
tillafter the second Sunday
to her,and no
more,
destiny
which brought might probably
call upon her to be the mother
from the date of the telegram

who

one

increase

the

the

knew

he would

after his death.

the amount

will hear

of

news.

In the

time

mean

to whom
to

expectedthat

man

Harry
were
tidings

concerned.

one

any

the

had

written to Florence,

future

The

On

impoitantas

as

She had

left London

news

the

barpnet.
had
the

reached

on
Clavering

followingSunday

parishhad no
the subject
was

doubt

every
heard of it,
but

day.
Saturone

in

nothing

said in church on that day.

quiteconfident that she had on
,very triumphant,
ing,
jiothingnow to fear from Lady Ongar or from The rector remained at home duringthe mornand the whole service was
having not onlyforgivperformedby
woman,
any other living
but havingsucceeded also in Mr. Saul.
But
the second
on
"en Harry his sins,
Sunday Mr.
herself that there had been no sins Fieldinghad come
from Humbleton, and
over
.persuading
with her brother he preached a sermon
the loss which
the
to forgive having quarreled
on
half a dozen times in that he would not accept parishhad sust"ined in the sudden death of the
"

her

arguments

on

this matter.

He

too would

two

brothers.

It is

perhapswell

that such

mons
ser-

should be preached. The inhabitants of

was
forgiveHarry had forgivenhim
quite
would have felt that their late lords
readyto omit all farther remark on the matter
Clavering
but could not bring himself,
when urgedby Florence, had been treated like dogs had no word been
said of them in the house of God.
The nature
to admit that her Apollohad been altogether
"

"

"

godlike. Florence had thus leftLondon

she and

in triumph, of their fate had

gone with a conviction

remain apart for some
must

but she had

Harry
time,which

forbidden

even

the

common

that

of a burial service.
It is well that
ceremony
in- some
definite
from the
respect should be maintained

ured
probablymust be measby years. " Let us see at the end of two
years,"she had said; and Harry had been

low in station toward those who

when

no

respecthas been

are
high,even
deserved;and, for

notice
sake,it was well that some
in Claveringof this death of
the head
of the Claverings
with her now ?
; but I should not
gistic
Harry of course began his letter by tellingmyselfhave liked the duty of preachinga eulowith the usual amount
the lives and death of Hugh
her of the catastrophe,
on
sermon
had
ing
What
of epithets.It was very terrible,
awful,shockClaveringand bis brother Archie.
the saddest thingthat had ever happened ! either of them ever done to merit a good word
in a desperate
The poor widow was
an
state,and from any man, or to earn the love of any womselves.
? That Sir Hugh had been loved by his wife
all the Claveringswere
nearly beside themthis had been duly said,
of the woman,
not at
But when
he had come
from the nature
home
all from the qualities
Both of the
allowed
himself to go into their own
of the man.
he wrote, " to think
brothers had lived on the unexpressedtheoryof
question. I can not fail,"
it concerns
backs
of this chiefly
or rather as
as
consuming,for the benefit of their own
you
I suptheir own
the greatest possible
it concerns
myselfin reference to you.
bellies,
pose and
Indeed
of those good things which
I shall leave the business now.
fortune
amount
think
that
father
to
I doubt whether
seems
my remaining might put in their way.
my
there would
and my mother agrees
either of them had ever contributed- any thing
be absurd,
with him.
As I am
the onlyson, the property willingly
to the comfort
or
happinessof any
without a profeswill enable me
to live easily
ture,
sion. human
being. Hugh, being powerfulby naI say 'me,'of course
and havinga strong will,
When
had tyrannized
you will

forced

to

be

content.

But

how

would

"

"

"

it be

the widow's
should

be taken

THECLAVERINGS.
over

all those who

to him.
subject

were

Archie,probably,
more

giftedas was his brother,

had been milder,we
and less actively
softer,
hateful ; but his princiour
ple
of action had been the same.
Everything of

not

for himself!

Was it not well that two such

should be consigned
to the fishes,
and that
the world" especially
the Clavering
world,and

men

that poor

widow, who

now

195

felt herself to be

so

good than harm

unless,
indeed,
in giving
caflculation,
award on this subject,
the permanent utility
all truth,
and the permanent injuryof all
should

take

into

"

our

falsehood.
Mr. Fieldingremained

at the parsonage during

the greater part of the following
week,and
then there took placea great deal of family
conversation

wretched when her periodof cominexpressibly

fort
the future incumbent of the
respecting
in truth onlycommencing was
was
it not living.At
these family conclaves,
however,
well that the world and Clavering
should be Fanny was
not asked to be present. Mrs. Clavering,
well quit
of them ? That idea is the one which
who knew well how to do such work, was
would naturally
have felt inclined to put gradually
one
bringingher husband round to endure
into one's sermon
such an
occasion ; and
on
the name
of Mr. Saul.
Twenty times had he
then to sing some
either to asserted that he could not understand it but,
song of rejoicing
;
"

"

do that,or to leave the matter

But

not

so

are

such

alone.

whether

preached,and

sermons

or no

he
possible,

such

understanding
might ever be
it as true
beginningto recognize

was

after that fashion did the young

clergymanthat the thingnot understood was a fact. His
had married the first cousin of these Cla- daughterFanny was positively
in love with Mr.
deed Saul,and that to such an extent that her mother
veringsbuckle himself to the subject.He innot

who

either inwardly
had, I think,but littledi"Bculty,
believed her happiness
to be involved in it. "I
with his conscience,
with
or outwardly
can't understand it upon my word I can't,said
his subject.
He possessed
the power of a pleasant, the rector for the last time,and then he gave
There was
the means
of givingan
now
easy flow of words,and of producingtears, way.
if not from other eyes, at any rate from his own.
for the lovers,
and that provision
ample provision
He
drew a pictureof the littleship amid the was to be given.
ger
Mr. Fieldingshook his head
stance,
storm, and of God's hand as it moved in its annot,in this inof that
for Mr. Saul,
as to Fanny'spredilection
upon the waters ; but of the cause
divine wrath and its direction he said nothing. thoughin discussing
that matter
with his own
he
Then, of the suddenness of death and itsawful- wife he had shaken his head very often,
JjBt
he said much, not insisting
it now
"ness
as he did so, shook
with reference to the proposed
of repentance for salvation,
the necessity
as
on
change. He was very well where he was. And
concerned.
far as those two poor sinners were
althoughClaveringwas better than Humbleton,
No, indeed ; how could any preacherhave done it'was not so much better as to induce him to
the occasion by tellingthrow his own
that ?
But he improved
familyover by proposingto send
lent
those around him that they should so live as to Mr. Saul among them. Mr. Saul was an excelIf that
but perhapshis uncle,
who had
be ever readyfor the hand of death.
clergyman,
where
then indeed would be the given him his living,
were
might not like Mr. Saul.
possible,
decided in these conclaves that Mr.
to Thus it was
victoryof the grave ? And at last he came
and lord whom
Saul was to be the future rector of Clavering.
the master
theyhad lost. Even
time poor Fanny moped
In the mean
ed
wretchfor him. The heir had
here there was no diiBculty
such glorious
in her solitude,
no
and then the father and his brother.
anticipating
gone first,
them would not pitythe bereaved
Who
joysas her mother was preparingfor her ; and
among
"

"

"

"

"

them
with energy for his departure
Mr. Saul was preparing
Who
mother and the widow?
among
into foreign
with affection the babe
would not remember
parts.
spect
whom
theyhad seen at that font,and with rerule theyhad
the landlord under whose

lived ?

How

Farmer

be to ask those

pleasantit must

which
questions

no

Gubbins,as

one

he

rise

can

sat

to

answer!

been vouchsafed
power of attention had
somewhat
be
to
moved, but
felthimself
to him,
and allowed
released himself from the task,
soon

XLV.

CHAPTER

with
by,listening

IS

MAD

SHE

what

Ladt

Ongak
Mrs.

was

at

Tenby

and
letter,
Clavering's

when

she

ceived
re-

had not heard

of the fate of her brother-in-law tillthe news

The
She had gone down
reached
her in that way.
The
generous.
a kindly
rector was
with no attendant but one
rector would allow him to inclose that littlebit to a lodgingat Tenby
herself for the great
out
maid, and was preparing
of common
land,that was to be taken in,withof her propertywhich she meditated.
The
surrender
rector
rent.
his
to
adding any thing
Hitherto she had heard nothingfrom the Courand thingswould
would be there on audit days,
the
when
tons or their lawyeras to the offisrshe had made
Gubbins,
be very pleasant. Farmer
about Ongar Park ; but the time had been short,
tears
of the
his mind

to

run

away

man

into other ideas.

and

preacher's
slightmurmuring gurgle
done
work, as she knew, was never
sponsiveand
head
lawyer's
his
by
shook
own
way of a rewas
heard,
had
in
to
She
in
he
Tenby,flying,
a
gone
was
conhnrry.
wail ; but at that moment
ness
loneliness of London
to the lonelithe
from
of
comfort
truth,
the
himself
coming
on
gi-atulating
but expecting
she knew not
of the sea-shore,
the new
reign. Mr. Fielding,however, got
would take
the
from
She
comfort
what
change.
it
and
did.
sermon
;
great credit for his own

THE

1!)6

CLAVEEINGS.

with her

and there would,as she to her as it had been.

Her sisterwould be now
no
carriage,
be exciteftient even in that. She would
restored to her,and her solitude would probably
thouglit,
be at an end.
And then the very excitement
take long walks by herself" she would read
and
self
herthe
occasioned
she
to her. She
would
news
if
was
bring
study,
by
salutary
possible,
nay,
Hitherto
she was, in truth,
habits of industry.shocked. As she said to her mal^,
to some
she would try she felt it to be very dreadful. But, nevertheless,
had failed in every thing,but now
the day on which she received those tidings
of success
if some
mode
might not be open to
"

what

too,on
She would ascertain,

her.

and
respectably
much
so
only
keep

she could live

sum

would

and

smallest

without

penury,
of Lord

out

Tenby had

hitherto her life at

But

successful.

been

not

longerthere even
People stared

Solitary
days
they had been in London.
it to
at her more
; and,though she did not own
of
her
the
comforts
missed
she
greatly
herself,
As for reading,
I doubt whether
London
house.
better by the sea-side than she
she did much
were

than

had

done in the town.

Men

that

theywill read,and

think

have

who

and
so

women

say

I mean,
those,

"

ing
raiding believ-

habit of

no
acquired

the work

days that

must

"

to

task of

facultyof reading,the

absolute

attempts it.

who

woman

habit be

going

If

have

man

readingtillhe

of a tear,some
Some
feeling
drop that was almost a tear,came
she thought of his fate. How
to her eye as
foolish he had alwaysbeen, how unintelligent,
how deficient in all those qualities
which recommend

be

circumstances

women

in his favor.

of the power which he

hateful,
by reason
whereas
Archie
not
hateful at
was
possessed
;
and was
disagreeable
simplybecause nature
all,
And then he had
had been a niggardto him.
himself to be her lover.
There had
professed
much
in this;for he had come, of
not been
the

Let those who

are

ponder this well.

not old,by no means

in

habits ; but

new

than

the
old

not

excitement

to her relief.

had

It

he

suitor !

the

Lady Ongar

felt

ers
broth-

of moment,
I think
than any other for

that

more

HarryClavering?

who

"

are

self
too old to clothe hershe

was

was

old

enough

of much

matter

her.

would

relief.
had

Her
so

whom

"

her

in those

with

with her also ?

come

figureof

ly
lateknew

it

"

The

not

measure

full home

been

all,

Burton.
in those

she had

have

have

them

Florence

days when

poverty would

brother-in-law it sounded
she had

them

have

! ifshe could have been true to him

Claveringwas

latelybeen

he would

Now

share

earlydays
his

him
Now

as

from

and
Ah

thinkingthat theywould become

reachinghim from her hand.
have them
all,but would not

"

very well
still he would
a

!
Clavering

also who

These

the fate of the two

the fate of poor Archie.

And
how
would
it affect

readingof

the letter from

when

indeed

was

that is

something for

offered to link his lot with hers.

hitherto been matter

'

dead,and

when

even

most

She had her books around her ; but,

difficulty.
of her books, she was
in spite
sadlyin want of
came

has

all those to whom

Lady Ongar,indeed, them

even

doing so

some

who

; but

will feel

woman

"

him

to find that the

case

habit
in his

sooner

the very memory

derness
somethinglike a tenHugh was disagreeable,

nay,

making of shoes shall him well

the

young,
was

shall

But

shoes than leafn the adequate She had desired to giveHarry allthe good things
And worse
again under of the world; thinkingthat they would become

pleasantto

more

book.

"

to

men

of his deficiencies created

; if the

no

acquiredthe

not

old,he

be

old age learn to make

of a book.
use
such

Alas !

there,of all tasks it is the

not

difStult.

any other of the

Poor Archie !

throughthe pages of a book must be, of all tasks, man

within the grasp of the man
Of
the most certainly

of

to her than

'had passedat Tenby.

be, of all works,the easiest. It

of all works
it
be work, theythink,b,ut
be the easiest of achievement.
Given the course, for her money

may

or

she

half-formed

wealth.
gar's'

On

less wearisome

was

feared

well

now

of her retribution

to her at last !

Sir

Harry

She tried the name, and found that

And
she thoughtof the
very well.

the

that he

man

and

of his

nature,and she

bear it with

would

a
becoming
body
proudwith all the pride manliness. Sir HarryClaveringwould be someof outward
life ^had both,by a stroke of the
of
in his county would
be a husband
winds,been turned into nothing. A terrible whom his wife would be proud as he went about
retribution had fallen upon her enemy
for as
his tenants
and his gamekeepers,and
among
she had ever
ing
her enemy
regaidfed
Hugh Claverlooking
perhapson wider and 'better journeys,
She took no joy up the voters of his neighborhood. Yes,happy
since her husband's death.
There
in this retribution.
was
no
feelingof would be the wife of Sir Harry Clavering. He
who would
triumph at her heart in that he had perished.was a man
delightin sharinghis
She did not tellherself that she was glad,either house,his hopes,his schemes
and councils with
for her own
sake or for her sister's. But mingled his wife.. He would find a companion in his
she felt there was
with the awe
wife.
He
would
do honor
a somethingof
to his wife,and
relief. Her presHe would like to see her
make
much
of her.
unexpressedand inexpressible
ent
life was
had
then,if children came, how
very grievousto her,and now
go bravely.And
occurred that which would open to her new
hopes tender he would be to them ! Whether Harry
and a new
mode
of living. Her brotheHn-law
could ever
have become
to a poor
a good head
had oppressedher by his very existence,and household might be doubtful,
had
but no man
he was gone.
Had
she had no brother-in- ever been born fitter for the position
which he
now
thus that
law who
called upon to fill. It was
turn
was
now
ought to have welcomed her,her reto England would not have been terrible Lady Ongar thoughtof Harry Clnveringas she
seen

in

two

men

lustyhealth

so

"

"

"

"

THE

owned

herself that the full

to

justretribution had
Of

she would

course

She wrote

Park.

go at

to her

of her

measure

home

come

CLAVERINGS.

to her.

him

her

on

was

there when

and

Mr.

Fielding
preachedhis

; but she did not

he

went,

nor

see

she

was

seen

Mr.

mon
ser-

Clayeringbefore

who
Clavering,

Mrs.

was

day up

Claveringhad

not

She is handsomer

Claveringsaidto

spent some

some

the

Mrs.

great house.

arm

his

upon

of that embrace

think

And

to her.

that she had

and tried to
shoulder,
as
though it had been
how

she did remember

she

to the sounds
listening
window,"
of the wheels which took him off,
and watching
his form as long as her eye could rest upon it.

had stood at the

Ah

falsehoods she told herself

! what

of

now

seen

"

than ever
she was," Mrs.
ty
rector;"but itis that beau-

carry into middle

loveliness of youth." Lady

which
not

the

her

Lady Ongar her love to him, and of his goodnessto her

was
greatlyastonished at pious falsehoods which would surelytend to
short a time had made.
spirit.
bringsome comfort to her wounded

hitherto

since her return, and

the change which so
"

at the

she did remember

But
had

quencesweet
present to hear. the elo-

periodof every

she had besought

She did not remember

ference.
attempt to repress the evidencSs of his indif-

an

of the younger
clergyman. Till after
she
that Sundaythe only member
of the family
had

of himself.

care

how coldlythat embrace

had been
now
those words had been
how completely
received,
how he had left her
taken as meaning nothing,
ly
quickbut without
house
not onlywithout a signof affection,

hours after her own

letter. She
very many
the rector started for London,
there when

not

to take

sistersayingso, and

day she started. She started so

journeythat she reached the

the next

last embrace
hardly-permitted

Clavering

to

once

197

women

and
life,
Ongar's

But

her

sister could

praisesof Sir Hugh.

to be,she resolved
was
bear

"

them, and

hardlybear
that she would

it

how

bear them

contradict them

not

bear the

to

she found

When

; but her

almost
in doing so was great,and was
-when firstshe met
struggle
stately
Mrs. Clavering. It was on the morning of her too much for her.
" He
and condemned
had judged
me
when
Julia
me," she
marriagewhen theyhad last met
of
"and
matter
said
as
a
like
at
would
look
that
she
therefore,
Brabazon
last,
was
resolving
cold and

was

manner

"

countess,and that

her

enough for

to be

should be

countess

could not

happiness.She

but

course,
met

as

we

we

such friends when

not

were

last

we
"

marriage.

be before my
much
t
here
was
Julia,
used

to

for which you

"But,
remember this now, and was unwillingat first
owed him gratitude."
ness
make confession of her failure by any meek"
will say nothingabout that now, Her"
We
It behooved her to be proud,
of conduct.
this
how
new
know
my."
at any rate tillshe should
to

why your mouth should be

because he has gone.
on
a
subject
new
Lady
that
should
I
have
between
thought
had
taken
you would be glad
place
Claveringknew all that
'herand Hariy. It behooved her,therefore,to to acknowledgehis kindness to you. But you
were
alwayshard."
hold her head on high.
I am
hard."
Mrs.
ing"
ClaverPerhaps
week
the
was
over,
But, before
And

Lady Claveringwould receive her.

that this
than probable
it was
more

"I

then

know

do not

such

closed

"

" And
here since
twice he asked you to come
had broken
come."
would
not
but
the
and
you
your return,
poor
by her kindness,
Lady Ongar'sspirit
I have
"I have
come
now, Hermy, when
who had so much to bear had brought
woman
be
of
use."
I
that
might
herself to speak of the weight of her burden. thought
' '
before.
He feltitwhen you would not come
called her

for

'

will stSl call her

we

so"

Lady
occasion,
Julia had, on one
he did."
lowedI know
this had been alClavering,and for the moment
think of the way
ed
widowto pass without observation. The
then

lady was

But
possible.

was

name

Claveringmade
"

present,and

her littlerequeston the

what the custom
know

be," she said,"but

do not

call

onlybe remindingHermy

his

me

so

you
subject.

ment."
of her bereave-

wei-e

"I

may

justyet.

"I

Street.

that.
as

so

never

I also have

me

more

She

also.

What

it

come

when
by-and-by,

we

Her

are

your

settled."

not

to bear

has

had

come

want

"

in

come

him

wise
no-

to go.

him

at

thinkingof

to her from

well

as

thing to keep

sister had not been

which

why

discuss

better not

had

you have borne

fault."
own

is

Let

ton
of his visit to Bol-

could understand

had much

"No, indeed ; I did

thinkingof it always,"said Julia.
would
have givenany
name
doubt she is; but stillthe new
"No
home."
it
And, indeed, perplexes
would wound her.
"

but

not

manifested

hitter."

think,dear,we

you.
from

could

he had

the occasion

on
feelings

afterward Mrs.

quite

I do not

It will

notice of the

no

soon

Lady Ongar
in which

the suffering

the loss of

This,
her sister her husband,but of her former miseries.
Lady Ongar had trulysaid that
she did not explain. "No," Lady
bereavement.
however,
of
her
thinking
as
was
yet always
have nothingfor
it was
as
thoughthe husband she Ongar continued to say, "you
To her now
She
men.
had lost had been a paragon among
his
his
manliness,
him
of
could only remember
ed"and
of presence which he possessa dignity
power"
the fact that to her he had been every
vain caution
She thoughtof that last and

thing.

which she bad given him when

with

her

which

to blame

whereas
yourself,
If

I have

much

to remain

gether,
toindeed every thing.
will
be
better
for
it
us
I
we
as
hope
may,
both that by-gonesshould be by-gones."
"
to speakof
that I am never
Do you mean
"

Hugh ?"

we

are

CLAVEEINGS.

THE

198
"

No,

by

no

intend

means

that ;

but

and
yielded,

that you should not refer to his house."

"You
toward me.
I think he did not quite
feelings

I have

now

the sort of life that I led while

understand
husband

alive,and

was

Therefore

amiss.

judged me

he

that

have

I would

of

Three
of
the

to me.

use

have

they may have it. It is

hate the place."
very generous,"said Mrs.

said

beea

Clavering.

when the quesdays after this,

tion
ed,
leavingClaveringPark was beingmootor

no

; I have

"You

by-gones be

"

four

sister started

elder

to
as
difficulty

be distasteful

soul ! did not

She, poor

death.
been

distasteful

made

solitude which

she

somewhere, and live

as

not

was

be sufficient. She did

could live with her
wish

to

"

Then
No, that would not affectmy income.
paused,not knowing how to go on with the

'

'

that
allege

it steps in
"Who

She

during

there

would

go

away

best she

might upon her

very much, but it would
how she
not see, she said,

because
sister,

she

did

not

to be

live in

so

dependent. Julia,of course, would

styleto which she could make no pretense.

the

course

it all.
that.
How

either

of them

about

her

of her

money,

time, did she

and

half-formed
then

down

come

resolution

that I

givesuch

to

as

I feel ?

How, indeed,can

me

advice

of what

does he know

Of

me?

ought to keep

you, "said Mrs. Clavering.

"Exactly. That is justwhat he says. But,
Mrs. Clavering,
I care nothingfor that. I care
nothingfor what any body says or thinks. What
what theysay ?"
is it to me
"
I should have thoughtit was every thing,"

she

sister.

nothing nothing at all." Then

and was unable to express
againsilent,
She could not bringherself to declare
it i"

was

too, for the first herself.

from that
altogether
had been, as it were,

what

he understand

can

advise

can

?"
I expect that any one shall understand me
" But
derstand
it is possible
that peopleshould misun-

Mrs. Clavering,
who was
present,as was also
Lady Ongar, declared that she saw no such
Sisters together,"
she said," need
difficulty.
her
s.aid
hardlythink of a diiference in such matters."
Then
it was
that Lady Ongar first spoke to
"No,
"

that

lawyertells me

It is his business
But

you, take any

without advice."

were

a matter
importsfnt

is there

Mrs.

Ongar," said

"

Clavering,I would not,ifI

her forever by the

endured

had

lifetime !

her husband's

jointure. It

her after her husband's

to

income,"said

that will not affectyour

But

Hermione.

An offer had been made to her she

matters.
money
by Mrs. Claveringto remain at the great house, storyof her puipose.
that the place
"If I may
but this she had declined,
alleging
say so, Lady
would

said her sister.

have givenit back!"

"Yes

my

by-gones."

had

back the

given them

rather

would

in words

"

that self-condemnation

of her

duct
con-

own

which
was
now
high horse on which she
weighingso heavilyupon
compelledto mount herself while in Mrs. Cla- her. It was not that she wished to keep back
"
I think I must
vering's
explain,"her own feelingseither from her sister or from
presence.
said she," somethingof what I mean
but that the words in which to
to do
Mrs. Clavering,
"

about

that is. I do not think that

my money,
there will be much
difference between me
and

Hermy

in that

"That
"

respect."

is nonsense,"
said her

There

will be

said Mrs.
that that need

difference

Claveringasked.
sister,
fretfi"lly. They must acceptit.
in income
tainly,"do ?
cerThey can not make me
"

"
but
Clavering,

create

any

wantiiTgto her.
express them were
"And have they acceptedthe house?"

I do not

uncomfortable

see

ing."
feel-

one

doesn't like to be

they

can

If I refuse

lawyer pays in to my bankers,

compel me to have it."
are not going to givethat up too ?"

Courton's
"

not

But

to

take the income

if I do

Mr.

dependent,"

said Hei'mione.

else

call it mine

not choose.

they can
"Only

What

Mrs.

which

you
said hef sister.

"
^not more
shall not be asked to give up any of
I will not have his money
I am.
said Julia,with a smile
from beinga scandal to
than enough-to keep me
independence,"
a melancholy
smile,that gave but little sign of his family. I will not have it. It is a curse to
within.
pleasantness
Then, on a sudden,her me, and has been from the first. What right
face became
"The
^because
cause
beand hard.
stem
fact is," have I to all that money, because
she said,"I do not intend to keep Lord OnShe could not finish her sentence,
self
but turned away from them, and walked by hergar'smoney."
'
Not to keep your income !" said Hermione.
to the window.
"
No ; I will give it back to them
at
or
Lady Claveringlooked at Mrs. Claveringas
mad.
least the greater part of it. Why
should I though she thoughtthat her sister was
ing,
"Do
keep it?"
you understand her?" said Lady Claver"
It is your own," said Mrs. Clavering.
in a whisper.
"
I know
it is my
that.
I think I do," said the other. " I think I
own.
"Yes, legally
And
when
there was
whether it know
Then she
what is passingin her mind."
some
question
should not be disputed,
I would have foughtfor followed Lady Ongar across
the room, and,
it to the last shilling.Somebody I suppose it takingher gently
by the arm, tried to comfort
the lawyer wanted
the her
was
to keep from me
to comfort her and to argue with her as to
to do.
placein Surrey. I told them that then I would the rashness of that which she proposed
not abandon my right
to an inch of it. But they She endeavored to explainto the poor woman

"You

"

your

"

"

"

"

'

"

"

"

"

"

THE

how

it

that she should at this moment

was

wretched,and
would

CLAVERINGS.

anxious

do that

to

be

which,if done,

And

"

"

199
it be

not

can

she
if,after all,

?
prevented
Only think
to give up her jointure
!
not think she is mad, do

were

put it out of her power

afterward to make
Mrs. Clavering,
you do
It shocked the prudence you?"
of Mrs. Clavering-^this
idea of abandoning
Mrs. Claveringsaid what she could to
of which was
the elder and weaker sister on this
money, the possession
ed
question-

herselfuseful in the world.

fort
com-

subject,

by no one.
They do not want it.Lady Ongar,"she said.
"That has nothingto do with it,"
answered
the other.
but what it
nobodyhas any suspicion
fairly
your own."
But does any bodyever thinkhow I got it?"
said Lady Ongar,turningsharply
round upon
"And

to her
explaining
to
likely

that the Courtons would

be at all

not

take

advantageof any wild

the part of Lady Ongar,and then
on
generosity
she walked home across
the park,meditating
on
the character of the two

sisters.

is honorably
and
"

Mrs. Clavering. "You

dare

to tell me

which

it became

it had

become

not

can

bear

awed
found

mine

"

yours
I will not."

CHAPTER

"

fashion ?

XLVL

GOKDBLOtrP

MABAMB

BETIRES

FKOM

BBITISH

DIPLOMACY.

it,and

She was now

The
reader must be asked to accompany me
violence that her sister once more
to that room
in Mount
Street in which
into silence,
and Mrs. Claveringherself poor Archie practiced
and whither
diplomacy,
so

much

in answeringher.
difficulty
have been the past,"
said
may

"Whatever

she, "the

"

after such

speakingwith
was

do you
you
you
you think of the way in
?
Could you bear it,
if

what

is how

questionnow

to do

the courageous
those moments

Doodles

carried

was

in which

he

prisonerin

last

was

of

seen

us.

alone before her desk,

Spy was now sitting
for the future."
with all her energy- writingletters
scribbling
"
I had hoped,"continued Lady Ongar,without
on
no
foreignpolicy,
doubt,to all the courts of
what was
said to her," I had hoped Europe,but especially
to that Russian court to
noticing
which
her services were
to make
due.
more
especially
every thingstraight
by givinghis money
You
I mean, and
hard at work, when
know
there came
the
She was
to another.
to whom
does Hermy. I thought,when
I returned,sound of a step upon the stairs. The practiced
so
of the Spy became
ear
that,bad as I had been,I might stilldo some
erect,and she at once
But it is as they tell us in knew who Was her visitor. It was
with
not one
good in the world.
would much
the sermons.
whom
One can
not make
or who
was
avail,
good come
diplomacy
I have done evil,
and nothingbut likely
to have money
out of evil.
readyunder his glovefor
I
from the evil which I have done.
her behoof.
"Ah
! Edouard, is that you ?
Qvilhas come
from it. As for being am
Nothing but evil will come
glad you have come," she said,as Count
useful in the world,
I know of what use I am
! Pateroif entered the room.
"
When
hear how wretched I have been,
women
Yes, it is I. I got your note yesterday."
ways
"You
themselves
I
are
will
be
sell
to
as
good very good. You are alunwilling
they
went
on
Then she made her way to the door,and
did. "
good." Sophie,as she said this,
with her letters so rapidly
that her
left the room, going out with quietsteps,and very rapidly
hand
seemed
about the paper wildly.
to run
closingthe lock behind her without a sound.
"
she flungdown
her pen, and folded the
such as that,"Then
I did not know
that she was
which
she
had
been writingwith maron
velous
said Mrs. Clavering.
paper
' '
about
She has never
quickness. There was an activity
Nor did I.
spokenin that
the best

The

"

"

"

before."

way

"Poor
those
than
"I
never

there

Hermione, you
whose
are
sufferings

soul!

see

in the world

are

worse

know,

lost what

"

said

I have

Lady Clavering." She

lost
"

She has lost what I am

self-esteem.
lose,her own
"

should be

off my

written

yours."
don't

which was
in all her movements
the woman
"
"
she
that
wonderful to watch.
said,
There,"
is done ; now
talk.' Ah ! I have nearwe
ly
can

good to

her.

We

brother

He

never."
sure

you

never

But, Hermy,
must

all be

will
you

good

her. Will it not be better that you should

stay with us for a while" both of you."
to

"

this morning.
fingers

Her

ters.
smiled,but said nothingabout the let-

any way

"So

allowed

never

to her

you

are

himself

to

allude

in

duties.
professional
going to St. Petersburg?"he

said.

"Well

"

yes, I think.

Why

should I remain

with both hands

and
spending money
At this idea the brother
throughthe nose?"
here at the park?"
"What!
seen
for you at the rectory, again smiled pleasantly.He had never
will make room
"We
be
to
his
sister
as she now
culpably
e
xtravagant
it."
like
if you would
"
I shall be better described herself. " Nothing to get and every
Oh no, I will go away.
she went on saying.
I suppose she will not be like that often,thingto lose,"
away.
affairsbest,"he anknow
"You
swered.
your own
will she ?"

She was much moved justnow."

about her income ?
And what does she mean
earnest."
She can not be in
"She is in earnest now."

here

"
"

"Yes, I
here

know

I should

my
be

buildingthere;"and

own

affairs.

taken away
she

If I remained
to that black

in
pointed

the direc-

CLAVEEINGS.

THE

200
tion of the

fronts

which
workhouse,

Mount

upon
take

Street.

would

You

"

! it is well for

she must
must

starve

are

one

The

brother

and

almost

rapidlyas she
and
fools,

bulls.

as

yes,

Men,

I shiver when
the

game ! Yes ; and

You have destroyed

"

awkward

as

them

"

I hate

I look out

nation
ugliest

them

Oh, how

its blackness.

at

And

Leave

trains

all thingsin
putting

was

always puttingthings in
alone,where I am

your

"

But

train.
cerned.
con-

Yes, I

all.

get

did you come

to that placein the
ruined by that journey.
I am

why

accursed

"

island ?

ruined.

am

do your
"And

ing.
noth-

her

!"

not

"

You

work

own

will

You

from
shilling

not.
"Certainly

It is

theyunderstand

I hate them

"

They

bulls

as

train for you.

"
You
are
"

children,
theyare all alike. Look
out there.
Though it i'ssummer,

women,

the street

at

I hate

written.

had

when

"

were

talkingin French,and she spokenow

beasts and

hardest of all

as

sisterwere

are

After all
you think nothingof that.
that I have gone through,
to have nothing; and
Ah! that is the
brother!
through you
my

too

or
clever,

country if I

call clever."

you

as

of mine

"

Such

^yes,starve

"

Yon

to be

woman

in this accursed

starve

what

not

playyour

to

way

mine,but
"

smiled again.
The count
"
clever for that,
Sophie,I think.

"Ah

Your

what has become

to

come

out."

me

"

gloomily

so

not

penses."
ex-

enough

to

aid."

my

is that all from

to

for my

clever

are

without

help me

not

even

Well!

brother?

"They are not without merit. They have And, now that theyhave drowned themselves^
the two Claverings the fool and the brute,
and
got money."
"
Money yes. They have got money, and she can do what she pleases
since
"She
could always do as she pleased
theyare so stupidyou may take it from under
their eyes.
They will not see you. But of Lord Ongar died."
"
hearts they will give you nothing.
their own
Yes ; but she is more
lonelythan ever now.
I That cousin who is the greatestfool of all,
You see that black building"the workhouse.
who
Dieu!
call it Little England. It is just the same.
might have had every thing mon
yes,
The
naked, hungry,
poor wretches lie at the every thing she would have givenit all to him
en
door,and the great fat beadles swell about like with a sweep of her hand ifhe would have takinside."
himself to a littlebrown girl
it. He is to many
turkey-cocks
' ' You
have been here longenough to know, who has not a shilling. No one but an Englishman
"

"

"

"

"

"

"Yes, I
this

have

made

have

could make

rate."

at any

been

long too long. I

wilderness,
stayinghere in
here

life a

my

country of barracks.

for it?
and

she

fault

has

yours

"

"And

back

came

"

And

because

thrown

me

you

have

I got

of that woman,
That

over.

yours !"
have sent for

"

what

is your

to tell me

me

that

Ah

! I

And

sick

am

"

follies so abominable
I

sick when

am

it!"

signs of

grief

unmistakable

which

Sophie gave
could hardly have

these.

as

I remember
a

self-interested.

been

But, in truth,she suffered jminin seeinga good

game spoiled. It was not that she had any wish
Had he gone to
for Hariy Clavering'swelfare.
the bottom

of the

in the

sea

his

boat with

same

the tidings
of liisfate would have been
again ?"
cousins,
I sent for you
that you
to her rather than otherwise.
But
"No, Edouard.
pleasurable
that I might when
she saw
such cards thrown away as he had
might see your sister once more
"

once

see

more

brother."

my

This

she

said

leaningforward -on the table,on which her arms

and lookingsteadfastly
into his face with
rested,
justmoist,with a tear in each.
eyes moist
Whether
Edouard was
too unfeeling
to be moved
whether
he gave
or
by this show of aifection,

that
in his hand,she encountered
which a good playerfeels when
suffering
behind the chair of one
who playsup to
held

trump, and makes

"

credit to his sister'shistrionic powers than

I will not say, but he was
those of her heart,

more
to

to her appeal.
altogether
irresponsive
will be back againbefore long,"
he said.

"Never

I shall

I will soil

guttersno

more.

and

how

now

back to this accursed

come

again. No, I am goingonce

myselfwith the mud

country never
for all.

"You

"

and

has she treated me?"

shruggedhis shoulders.

"And

you

"

how

has

she treated you ?"

"Never
mind me."
'

'

Ah

would

! but I
not

let

me

"

It

was

my

mind

must

you.

Only that you

manage, it might be yours now

did you come
down to that

way

"But

she is there

go now, when you

"No, I will not
"And

"

in

herself

by

"

Ten

"

do

can

af that

"

harm

no

place

Will you not

hie.

?"

go now."
year she will have

taken

some

for her husband."

one

What

is that to

for you
I were

ever

wife,I

should

may

And

as

to

why

"Because
had

own

aces.

is it called ?

what

' '

yes, all. Why

accursed island?"
"

"

"

his adversary's

may
marry himself to the devil if he
it is nothingto me," said the count.

"He

please

of its other

for the sake of Julie ;

Edouard

came

kingsand

he sits

tricks of his

no

of

sort

not

me

here,Sophie,

me

at once, if

think of Lady Ongar againas my

noftell
not

you."

tell me

it would

been

But look

well understand

there

do
she

your

"

me

no

would

sister?"

good.
have

If yon

been

my

wife now."

"Edouard!"
to

that

alone,Sophie."

over

the brother's brow.

play my

And

there

Leave

game.
came

frown

"

What

I say is true.
But I do, not want to
of that.
Each of us was

reproachyou because
pla\ing his own game,

and

your game

was

not

THE

CLAVERINGS.

201

Tou
are
goingnow, and if I play up her face to be kissed. He embraced her in
and turned to leave her.
the manner
againI can play it alone."
proposed,
Upon hearing this,Sophie sat a while in But before he went she made to him one other
"You
will play it petition,
him by the arm
looking at him.
she did so.
silence,
as
holding
alone,"she said at last. " You would rather
Edouard,you can lend me twenty Napoleons

my

game.

my

game

"

do that ?"
"

Much

"

And

if I playany game at all."

rather,
you will giveme
somethingto go ?"

"Not
"

tillI

You

will not

"Not

half

Sophie,are
"And

nothing.
I

stay and

sou

for you to
fool to ask

I shall remain

going to

remember

paidyet,but
I am
all,

she

to have

He

must

am

Do

No.

you

I have not

hundred

and,
Say should
somethingfor your

francs

year

of it!

none

says
for

me

pay
action.

paid. One

I will be

yours, will you do

it become

ey?"
mon-

I shall

lawyertells me.

action

thousand
seventy-five

after

for

here.

I will bring my
leave it all to you.
those daysin Florence

expenses.

not

stay.

or

go
me

"

the

as

lend your sistertwenty

Napoleons!"

lend money.

never

It is a

rule."

?"

sou

fool who knows

a
a fool
need not look at me like that.

bringmy

my

and

"

not

are

you
You

do

that if I

been

not

"

you

?"
Petersburg

"No, Sophie. I

afraid.

not

am

"Not

sou."

one

at St.

am

"No, Sophie,no."

"

"

"Will you giveme

I
five? I anf so poor.
have almost nothing."
"
Things are not so bad with you as that,I

hope."
' '
Ah ! yes, theyare very bad. Since I have
been in this accursed city"now, this time,what

have

got ?

Nothing nothing.
"

She

was

to

be all in all to me, and she has givenme

ing
noth! It is very bad to be so poor.
Say that
er."
five Napoleons oh my brothyou will giveme
"

stillhangingby his arm, and,as

she did so, she looked up into his face with tears
She

was.

he regardedher,bending down
smile Came
hers,a slight
upon his
Then
he put his hand into his

in her eyes.
his face over

As

countenance.

pocket,and,takingout his purse, handed to her

five sovereigns.
"
she said.
think I am
Only five,"
"
he
matter?"
Only five," answered.
"
oh my brother." Then
A thousand thanks,
I will stay. Yes, I will bring my
"Then
All the world shall hear,and theyshall she kissed him again,and after that he went.
action.
She accompanied him to the top of the stairs,
and yourself.
me
know
how you have destroyed
sister?"

"Nothing

nothing. Sophie,do you

fool enough to bargainin such a
all

at

"

his head
and from thence showered blessings
on
afraid
that I will not
I am
all
Iwill spend all
all; tillshe heard the lock of the door closed behind
money.
him.
When
he was
locked
altogether
and I will be revenged."
gone she uninner drawer in her desk,and,taking
au
"You
thingto
may go or stay,it is the same
I will take my leave." out an uncompletedrouleau of gold,added her
me.
please,
Now, if
Ah

! you

think

""

spend my

"

"

you

And

brother's

got up from his chair to leave her.

he

The

sovereignsthereto.

he had

sum

exactlywanted to make up the

of twenty-five.
She counted
"
number
same."
required
Quite the
them half a dozen times to be quitesure, and
I will stay, and she shall hear my
"Then
in paper, and sealed
hour.
She then rolled them carefully
name
every day of her life every
each
she said,
the
"Ah!"
that
at
that
of
littla
end,
of
and
sick
packet
shall be so
you
m_e
"
ing
was
they are very nice. Nothspeakingto herself,
that"
Oh, Edouar'd!"Tbis last appeal
else Englishis nice,but onlythese." There
made to him because he was
alreadyat the door,
"It

is the

givenher

thingto you?"

same

was

"

"

"

and could not be

in
stopped

any other way.

say,
my sister?"
you
what would I not giveto

else have

"What

were

many
the drawer

to

rolls of money
of the desk
"

there before her in

or
ten,perhaps,

some

after another,
ing
lookthroughher fingers,
passingthem lovingly
ing
are
ungrateful. at the littleseals at the ends of each,weighsure
them in her hand as though to make
ceeded
Now, having sucAll men
are
ungrateful."
done to them in her
in stoppinghim, she buried her face in that no wrong had been
againstanother
It absence,standingthem up one
of the sofa and wept plentifully.
the corner
of
the
same
that
were
her
before
to
length.We
see
her
they
acting
be presumedthat
must
that Sophie
be
G
ordeloup
brought
sure
thrown
quite
been
have
may
altogether
away ;
brother must
no
sovereignswith her to England when she
very good.
but the actingwas, nevertheless,
with Lady Ongar after the earl's
over
"
to St. Petersburg,"came
If you are in truth going

Oh, Edouard,

"

it not

all those riches yours? Has

dearest wish?
Edouard, you

he

"I will
said',

au

revoir."
"I

not

am

bear
torn

bid you adieu

going. Yes,
pieces. All

lean

am.

week.

Then

each

she

of his

are

one

death, and that the hoard before her contained

raged.
out-

she

had

collected

during this her latest visit to the "accursed"

country which

she

before

she

But

was

goingto leave'.

started she

was

resolved to

going"perhaps

am

adieu.
My brother,
on

affections
on

"perhapson Monday
hand

my

she took out

simplythe plunderwhich

Edouard,I

heart is being
country longer. My

Yes, I

If not"

now.

These

twelve.

my

this
to

been

see

Monday

make

one

more

which,but

But I go in truth.

wealth

ting
got up, and, put-

to lie open

lifted the servants

shoulders,

attempt upon
a

that

mine

of

ago, had seemed

She had learned from

few weeks

before her.
in Bolton

Street that

Lady Ongar

TPIE

202
was

with

and

she

CLAVERINGS.'

at ClaveringPark,
Lady Claveiing,

addressed

letter to her there.

tetter she wrote

in English,
and
appeal all the pathos of
capable.

This

she threw

her

which

into

she

Deaeest

wish

"

from

to go away

me

186-.
Street,October,
I do not think you would

Julie,

this

countryforever

two

three

"

pounds be

hundred

to

my

Julie ?
"Shall

I come
to yon? Say so; say so,
I will go at once, if I did crawl on ray.
knees.
Oh, what a joy to see my Julie ! And
do not think I will trouble you about money.
and

was

"Mount
""

would

No,
Not

"

your Sophie will be too proud for that.

word will I say but to love you. Nothing

word' of farewell to her I will I do but to printone

without one
on
forever,
kiss,
my Julie's
love so fondly. Yes,I have loved you with all forehead,and
then to retire forever,asking
I am
for her dear head.
forever. God's blessing
going away
my heart,and now
each other once, and have
"Thine
Shall we not meet
Sophie."
alwaysthine,
"

"

No

embrace?

one

trouble

will be

much

too

Lady Ongar, when she received this letter,

little perplexedby it,
not
a
feelingquite
Only say, Sophie,come
it. It
in what way she might best answer
sure
"I must go, because I am
so poor.
Tes, I
the special
of her position
that there
was
severity
not live longerhere without the means.
I
can
she
was
no
one
to whom, in such difficulties,
not ashamed
to say to my Julie,
who is rich,
am
could apply for advice.
Of one
she was
thing
No ; nor would I be ashamed
that I am
poor.
she would
never
that,willingly,
quite sure
to wait on my Julie like a slave ifshe would let
her
devoted
see
again
Sophie. And she knew
Julie was
with me
because of
me.
to

for that.

me

journeywill

No

be too

long,

was

Julie.

to your

"

My

angry
it my fault that he came
littleretreat,
where we were
so

brother!

my

in

us

upon

Was

our

happy?

Oh

knew

his

coming

all.

I knew

I told him

no.

for

was

where

brother

my

Why

am

him ?

was

thrown
! he

of my Julie
worth that

not

before

has

pig.

ruined

those who

are

will not

wish

to

from SophieGordeloup.
separated
"
May I now tell my Julie in what condition

is her

She will remember

how
poor friend?
that my feet brought me
to England
I had said farewell forto England, to which
ever
it

deserved

Every

one

of her

had wished her to come, and the expense

coming had been paid for her over and

again. Lady Ongar

over

money, and
immediate

knew

was

"

have

knew

that she had

also that she wotild have

to law

recourse

me.

separatedfrom my Julie but for

Well,I can go away, and in my own
there

much.
No

from her ;
no
money
none, but had received
false.
assertion in her letter was
deserved

woman

she had

"

countries
be

come.

nothing nothingat

he

Ah

"

to

the heart

was

my poor Julie ! But

heart,and the pearlwas
"

But

not

that the

that

suggestedto her,with

No

that he could

for her.
get more
she had been telling
her storyto some

doubt

attorney,

ed,
might thus be extractdragging her Julie's name
of that
all she knew
through the mud, telling
wretched Florentine -story. As to all that Lady
Ongar had no doubt,and yet she wished to send

in the

hope that

had

lawyerwould
of success,
probability

if any

and

the

had

money

been

woman

money
England, where people must be rich
is ready to
There are services for which one
like my Julie before they can
eat and drink.
if
almost any amount
of money
give
payment,
I thought nothingthen but of my
Julie. I
that that money
be sure
one
can
payment
only
road
the
make
merchandise
not
to
on
stopped
for the
will be taken as sufficient recompense
what
coming.
you call a bargain about my
service in question.SophieGordelouphad been
No ; I came
at once, leaving
all things-ymy
tle
litbut
useful.
She had been very disagreeable,
affairs in confusion,
because my Julie wanted
She had done things
she had been useful.
to come
! It was
in the winter.
me
Oh,
which nobody else could have done, and she had
that winter ! My poor bones shall never
get
fordone her work well.
That
she had been paid
it. They are
racked still with the pains
there was no
for her work over and over
again
winds
which
have given them.
your savage
doubt ; but Lady Ongar was
to giveher
willing
And
Ten
it is autumn.
months
have I
now
farther payment, if only there might be an
been here,and I have eaten up my littlesubstance.yet
end of it. But she feared to do this,
dreading
do not
Oh, Julie,
you, who are so rich,
the nature
and ctinningof the littlewoman
of
know what is the
Sophie!
to

"

"

"

"

"

"

poverty

"

told

lawyerhave

me

but aVi English that

"

me
me.

every
He

justto
said

let him

lawyer went
of this,
and

think
how

much

there
among
so

She

not

would

have

scorn

And

She

must

why

I have

payment

must
to

be

made,

farther threats.

Julie
this,

at last wrote

and

as

an

secret compensation

should

then

Thinking much

to her

knowledgment
ac-

Sophieas

ceed
proof all

follows

action
so

Madame

"

now

go

at

and

last

beg

Because, she

Julie too well.

You, who
rich,would miss it not at all. What
her

such

"Lady Ongar presentsher compliments to

Gordeloup,and must decline to see
Julie will Madame
Gordeloupagainafter what has passed.
my
her Sophie
Lady Ongar is very sorry to hear that Madame
an

that ; and

expended,and

nothing left.

her friends.

But

take

of services for which

pay
giveit

But if
away.
will remember

she have

loved

have
are

is

yer,
French law-

action.

an

No, Sophie will

no.

not

should

somebodyshould

He

make

with her Julie.

the

"

lest she

says the law would

offered me
the money
himself,

thing.
have

your

Gordeloupis in want of funds.

Lady Ongar might have

Whatever
been

sistance
as-

willing

feels that she is prohibited

now
givingany by the allusion which Madame
Gordelouphas made to legaladvice. If Ma-

to

she
afford,

from

THE
dame

on

Ongar

be

Gordelouphas legaldemands
which
said by a lawyerto
are
Lady Ongarwould strongly
recommend
Gordeloupto enforce them.

CLAVEEIKGS.

Lady

Madame

o"f

What

almost wept at her

gone, and

was

But

of whom

The

she

her

her heart.
her

to

but

"

she have

asked

the rector

I do with a lawyer? Oh,

my
be angry with your poor servant.
not to ask for money, but for a kind

I write

now

for

"

word

one

of kindness

and love to your

story

to

the

doubt,was

or

doubted
greatly

tor's
rec-

To

creet
dis-

her

own

littlewas

perhapsdue.

she

should

have

complimentspresentedto
by the countess with whom

called Madame

That

and
Gordeloup,
her

by the

this

appealLady.Ongar

but

she

sent

Mr.

commissioned

no

direct

swer,
an-

TurnbuU, her

to call upon Madame

and pay
lawyer,
Gordeloup
that ladyone hundred pounds,takingher receipt

Julie'sletternearlybroke
little credit was
For sincerity
due

be

him.

here.
your feet and kiss them if you were
"Yours
till death,even
thoughyou should
advice?
Sophie."
of stillbe hard to me,

Her

some

was

to

not

word

for the

the

Sophie!

spoke

should

and when
she received her Sophie's
discretion,
to
she hardlydared to break the enverejoinder,
lope.
Poor

my

tion.
discre-

own

told all the

no
letter,

but
letter,

nothing;he

brother

"

have

Gordeloupto

wife?

knows

was

"

could

she

It

ever.
by return of post. She Sophiebefore she have gone forever yes, forI
Julie
lie
would
at
Oh,
oh,
angel,
my
crueltyafter the letter

doubted
greatly

Could
Madame

own

own

he

"

do
friend,

This she wrote,actingaltogether

on her
sent

lawyer

valid,stranger.

"ClaveringPark,October,
186-."

judgment,and

The

203

an
wom-

Lady Ongar,in

same.

her letterto

that the woman

explained
lawyer,

in question
and explained
also
Florence,
she might pretend that she had farther

had been
that

useful in

claims.

"If

so," said Lady Ongar,"I wish

can
prosecutethem at

to tell her that she

you
law if she

pleases.The money I now giveher

made for certain services rendered
gratuity
husband
she had been on
such closely
familiar
in Florence duringthe illness of Lord Ongar."
tender feelings
terms, did in truth wound some
This commission
Mr. TurnbuU
executed,and
within her breast.
Such love as she had been
Sophie Gordeloup, when taking the money,
able to give,she had givento her Julie.
That
made no demand
for any farther payment.
she had alwaysbeen willing
to rob her Julie
Four days after this a littlewoman,
carrying
to make
milch-cow
of her Julie to sell her
a
in her hands,might have
a
very big bandbox
Julie
with
to threaten her Julie
to quarrel
to scramble with difficulty
been seen
out of a
her Julie,
if aughtmight be done in that way
boat in the Thames
up the side of a steamer
her Julie^ nay, to destroy
her Julie,
to expose
bound from thence for Boulogne ; and after her
"

and

with whose

is

"

"

"

"

"

"

if money
all this did not
to be so made
was
hinder her love. She loved her Julie,and was

there climbed up an active littleman, who, with

mand
peremptory voice,repulsedthe boatman's deten
broken-hearted that her Julie should have writHe
also had a
for farther payment.
"

to her in such

she
own

had

strain.

bandbox

much
acute when
more
were
feelings
that she had damaged her
to perceive
came
which
she
affairs by the hint of a menace
and must
Business is business,
thrown out.

But

"

her

of
precedence

take

in this hard

aware.

two

and

all sentiment

in which

bread

is

romance
so

been

wrong.

her
applied

mind

of the

she had

error

at

to the

once

his arm,
And

no
belonging,
doubt,to the
it might have been seen
little man, making his way to

that the active

the

table at which
the clerk of the boat was
of his own
purse paid the passage-

out
sitting,

for two
passengers
money
and
And
the head, and legs,

sary.
neces-

Of that Madame
Gordeloup was well
And therefore,
havinggiven herself but
ness,
short minutes to weep over her Julie'shardshe

had

world

on

little woman.

"

our

neck

to

Paris.

of that little

like to the

were

man

of

through

friend

head,and legs,and neck

Doodles,alias CaptainBoodle,

of Warwickshire.

tification
rec-

Yes, she

made.

about the lawyer

certainly
wrong
so
But then these Englishpeoplewere
of a hint,such
! A slight
suspicion
"

CHAPTER

XLVn.

pig-headed
as
a

that she had made, would have been taken by

ing
Frenchman, by a Russian,by a Pole,as meanmore

no

than

it meant.

bulls ; the men

like bulls" bulls !"
sat down
She at once
are

in such

an

women

and wrote

are

another

ecstasyof eagerness

all

AT

the elder Burtons

Friend," Tour coldness kills me"

"Deak
I have deserved it. If
killsme ! But perhaps
I did deserve it.
demands
legal
I said there were
! Oh no.
demands
Legal
none.
there are
demand
your poor friend

the fact that

THEMSELVES

the

had

to

be

Had

not

as

weeks

past,had
snbliriie
in her wrath

her husband

legally?a journey, beinguseless

as

ized
real-

be ed
acceptty.
pure divini-

againto

That
a
man
againsthim.
treat her daughteras Florence
treated !

ten,
Strai-

hardlyas yet

Harry was

almost

at

unnaturally,
Being slow people,

not

the Burton Penates

among
Mrs. Burton,for some
grown

of the
tidings

Florence

reached
cousins,

to

of her heart.

can

SETTLED
BEOTORT.

the whole
familywas,
letter"another
thrown into great excitement.

which she had made,

the evil impressions
sions
the natural effuwith
almost
it
that she wrote

What

THE

with
Harry'sletter,

When

fate of his

remove

No,

THINGS

HOW

glish
these En-

"But

and the

SHOWING

in

should
was

live and'

about

forbidden

regard

to be

such

to the ex-

THE

204

CLAVEEINGS.

First had come

the letter from Harry,and
she would have gone up to London
penditure,
that she might have told Harry what she thought then,after an intervalof a week, another letter
from Mrs. Clavering,
Then
that Harry was
of him.
the news
came
pressingher dear Florence
' ' We
think that at presto go to the parsonage
ent
again a, divinityan Apollo,whom the Burton
said Mrs. Clavering,
all ought to be together,"
I'enates oughtonly to be too proudto welcome
we
"

to

them

seat among

And

Apollowas to be
god firstbecame

an
a

When

the
stilla

was

of the elder Burtons

as

and

therefore we

want

you

to be with

suppose I
Mrs.
said Florence.
go, mamma,"
of opinionthat she certainly
was
ought

It

that this us."

news

Apolloindeed !
god again,there

the minds

cloud upon

"

this other

came

now

very flattering. "I

was

'oughtto
Burton

"You

to go.

at
ladyship

write to her

should

to be
was
divinity
once,"said Mrs. Burton,mindful of the change
but a god with so
which
had
taken
A god in truth,
sustained.
place. Florence,however,
deed,
inaddressed
vering,
annual
income
her
to Mrs. Clamoderate
as heretofore,
an
unless,
letter,
very
those old Burtons made it up to an extent
thinkingthat a mistake on that side
the other.
on
which seemed to them to be quiteunnatural ! would be better than a mistake
the Burtons,of course, It was
not
for her to be over-mindful of the
There was
joy among
dimmed
rank with which she was^bout
somewhat
but the joy was
to be connected.
flections
by these rethat
of their Apollo. "Ton
won't forgetyour old mother
to the slight
now
means
as
ton,
A lover who was
not an Apollomight wait ; but, you are
going to be so grand?" said Mrs. Burthere was
as Florence
was
as
danger
leavingher.
they had learned already,
in keepingsuch a god as this suspendedon the
"You
only say that to laugh at me," said
Florence.
I expect no grandness,
and I am
tenter-hooks of expectation.
the farther news
there came
! This
But now
sure
you expect no forgetfulness."
The solemnity
Apolloof theirs had reallya placeof his own
consequentupon the firstnews
He
the
the
of
est
elditselfoff,
of
the
accident
had
and Florence
was
gods
Olympus.
worn
among
of a man
of largefortune,
and would be found the familyat the parsonage
son
happy and
declared that he
baronet!
He
had already
comfortable.
Mrs. Fielding
stillthere,and
a
was
that his father wished
would
at once
Mr. Fieldingwas
expectedagain after the next
marry
abundant
that an
income
him
to do so, and
Sunday. Fanny also was there,and Florence
would be forthcoming.As to his eagerness for could see duringthe firsthalf hour that she was
immediate
in or out
Mr. Saul,however, was
not there,
an
marriage,no divinity
very radiant.

the

to

the

by which

means

"

"

"

could behave

of the heavens
him

again

to

that virtue had

of his

better.

Old

Mrs.

ing
through the process of takher heart,remembered
that

she went

Burton,as

been

his

backslidinghad

before the

even

come

with only this

eager, affectionate divinity,
careful looking
againsthim, that he wanted some

these,his unsettled days.

after in

do think that he'll be

as

fond of his

as

other man, when

said Mrs. Burton.

any

down,"

he has

as

she

elated at the prospect of the good

lot.
to fall to her daughter's
desired
coveted

would

When

her

across

from
men

than

fear God

much

For

in which
"No

path and

and

demanded

had

mind

that.

their

three weeks!

"

month

manner

she
Stratton,

that he

and

had

desired

Florence

should walk

had been followed

their husbands.

fear,and

now

But
had

then
come

nothingmore

by

had

in the

We

come

mother

my

begun

said

could not have

to

think

of such

at Stratton."
are

so

don't know

should
what

where

we

going

are

I suppose."
go abroad at first,
That would
then?
onlybe for

so."

or

Only for
and the

nothing in a
shootingnext

of course, we
that rible
ter- next winter

goldenprosmight
pects. we
be Lady Clavering,
house,and

very slow at Stratton!"

so
very fast at Clavering!

are

you

her sisters and

these

She

has

Nobody

"And

"

path which

Harry no," said Florence.

That's what
why no?

"And

"
of the other young
had learned the secrets of their profester^
sion

who

it may
be in about
"
he said at the firstmoment
now,
he could have her to himself.
suppose

"

"

thingyet
"They

come

daughter

almost

proposes."

herself

Claveringhad

Harry

her, after the

at

the

"I

them

by

from

nothing. For her daughtersshe But,Harry,we

onlygood,substantial,
painstakingto live."

husbands,who
business.

on

things which

were

she

tled
set-

once

was

that Mr. Saul

once

received with open arms

which were
arms

was

"Oh

side
fire-

own

blot

at

nothing of his coming fortune.

too open.
three weeks

"In

It will not, I hope,be taken

that
character of this mother

had

Florence

I really

' '

well be said

as

yet knew

as

days all,and by Harry with

ed,
warm-heart-

"

and it may

"

as

month

month.

If

for all the win-

mean

not?

spring. Why
we

are

One
back

can

see

for the

year, that would do ; and then,

I should say
should come
here.
that
well

is,the

winter after the next ;

at the big

stay with them

her daughtershould
could look about us, yon
then we
because
I should like a place near
to this,
ClaveringPark ! She could not but be know.
elated at the thoughtof it. She would not live
of the hunting."
but the consciousness that it would be
she heard all this,
became
to see it,
when
Florence,
she had
ence
was
that in talkingabout a month
so
aware
pleasantto her in her old age. Florhad ever
been regardedas the flower of forgotten
herself.
She had been accustomed to
and now
she would be taken up into holidays
the flock,
and to honeyof a month's duration,
moon
fitted to such vacations.
A month
accordingto her deserts.
highplaces,
trips
That

of

THE

CLAVEEINGS.

205

the longestholiday
heard of in the
ever
chambers in the Adelphi,or at the house in
She had forgotten
Onslow Crescent.
herself.
It was
not to be the lot of her husband
to earn
his bread, and fit himself to such periodsas

Mrs.

had
Clavering

knew

that she had

business might

herself fixed to

was

Then
Harrywent
req^uire.

on

describingthe tour which he had arranged

he only suggested. But it
which,as he said,
ed
was
quiteapparent that in this matter he intendbe

to

paramount.

Florence

indeed

made

to the
subject
at Stratton.

The

"

"

But

it would all be very nice.

go on to Rome
suit the next
she declared that it would
"

year

no

higherauthorities

at Stratton
and Florence found

approvedalso,of
a

course,
daywith

suddenness

Immediatelyalmost

her.

that bewildered

as

"

soon

as

gan
had been extorted from her she beto be surrounded with incipient
preparation

the consent

"

for the event,

in Paris
objection.To spend a fortnight
the Alps before the cold weather
to hurry over
in Florence,
and then
to spenda month
came

against
her,Florence

hope,and surrendered,
of the higherauthorities
approval

"

no

turned

never

three weeks

which,about

that it would

up her mind

made

to

come

to

as

had

she
since,

pass.

in the priOn the second day of her arrival,

vacy
of her bedroom,Fanny communicated
to
her the decision of her familyin regard
to Mr.

Saul. But she told the storyat firstas though

said Harry. this decision referred to the livingonly as
Suit ten thousand fiddlesticks,"
"But
it is October now."
though the rectorywere to be conferred on Mr.
"And
therefore there is no time to lose."
Saul without any burden attached to it. " He
said Fanny, " and
world
but
has
the
in
the
been here so long,dear,"
dress
one
"I haven't a
the peopleso well."
understands
ry,
I have on, and a few others like it. Oh, Har-

better than

this.

"

"

said Florence.
"I am
so delighted,"
best thingpapa could do
the
it
is
That
"I
from
sure
weeks
then
now.
am
four
Well,say
that is,if he quitemakes up his mind to give
it the seventh of November, and we'll
will make
himself."
onlystay a day or two in Paris. We can do up the parish
troubled
This
Florence,who did not know
If
to
in
Paris next year
you'll
agree
May.
could hold a living.
that
a baronet
I'll
that, agree."
how

can

you talk in that way ?"

"

"

"

Florence's breath
her,and she could agree
But

agree

to

nothing tiU she

to

away from
nothing. She did
taken

was

had

talked into

is
There
true.
you say is undoubtedly
for hurrying. It is not
absolute necessity
of life and death. But you and Harry
afi'air

"what
no
an

engagedquitelong enough now,

don't
really
do

you

make

to

weather
"But
"I'm
see

as

see

she

sure
a

it,my

will wish

young

I mean, you
what I
know

you
is married the better.
a

If

time

have
will just

comfortable before the cold

yourselves
begins."
will be so surprised."
mamma

Han-y is

so

and

why you should put it off.

asks you, you

he

hold

"

mean

"

Ton

Florence,that
compliment,

so

so

he is so

As
preferments.

doubt

to papa, the

onets
barhold

has been

with him whether he would wish to giveup the

sometimes,you know,
But he willpreach
work.

though of

he will not be able

course

unless Mr, Saul lets him.

to his own
has a right
and

he

can

No

to

do that

but the

one

pulpitexcept the
times

preachthree

likesit."
petuous " And suppose the bishopwanted
im-

eager" and
th'atthe sooner he
can't but take it as

know, and

livingif he pleased.A great many

of them do
clergymen,and some

are

tor
rec-

op,
bish-

year if he

You

dear.

of that sort

man

is dead ?"

Hugh

"

have been

giveup being a clergyman

must

that Sir

now

And
then Fanny, who was
Oh dear,no."
it all.
ecclesiastical
s
ubjects,
explained
great on
mother-in-law," Even though he were to be a peer, he could

been

doing so by Mrs. Clavering.

said her future
"My deal-,"

thoughthe

"I

eager."

to

preach

four times ?"

couldn't do it

"He

"

at

'least I believe not.

wants to preachat all

see, be never
this so that does not
such
as
in
a
place

But,you
not

"

"

signify."
I do."
"Of course
and live here,in
will Mr. Saul come
"And
Believe me,
"
And you should reward him.
?"
house
this
be delayed."
it will be best that it should not
said Fanny,
"
Some day I suppose he will,"
Mrs. Claveringhad present in
or no
Whether
farther
of
blushing.
the possibilityany
her imagination
"And
you, dear?"
Ongar, I
result from
"

danger that might

Lady

failed in
if so she altogether
say, but
Florence.
to
idea
communicating her
ence,
at once,"said FlorI must go home
"Then
of her
terrors
driven almost to bewail the

position.

he."

that may

how

"

I don't know

"

Come, Fanny."
I don't,
Florence, or

will not

"Indeed
you.
never

Of
had

course

any

secret with

I would

asked

Mr. Saul has

you

about

tell
I

me.

that

"

and tell your have I?"

at once
write home
"You
can
I say, and I
"No; you were very good."
that
You can tellher all
mother
again twice again.
he asked me
"Then
wish
If
me.
with
you
am
sure, she will agree
tween
such a quarrelbecame
there
oh,
then
And
Mrs. Burton myself.
it,I will write a line to
It was
so terrible. Do
and
him
papa.
And
it.
wish
would
Florence said that she
know, I believe they wouldn't speak in the
begin,you know, to get your things you
can
we
of them has the
vestry! Not but what each
don't take so
readyhere. People
of the other. But of
opinion
possible
do."
When
highest
nowadays as they used to
"

"

long^out

all that

206

THE

Mr. Saul couldn't marry

I think of it it really
seems

course

When

CLAVERINGS.
for Lady Clavering,
saw
having inquired

and

on

a
curacy.
that he must

found that
soon
have been mad."
the presence of the younger
was
a relief to
one
"
But you don't think him so mad now, dear." him.
Lady Claveringwas so sad,and so peevish
"
He doesn't know a word about it yet not
in her sadness
so far as
so broken-spirited,
He hasn't been in the house since,
and
the great enfranchisement
a word.
yet from recognizing
that
had
that with her alone he
to
come
her,
papa and he didn't speak not in a friendly
way
both the sisters together. He

"

"

"

till the

"

news

drowned.

Then

he

"

Hugh's being

up to papa, and, of
But he stillthinks
took his hand.

course, papa
he is goingaway.
''

of poor

came

And

came

"

is he to be told that he needn't

when

go?"
"That
to do

is the

I,for

sure

Mamma
difficulty.

it,I believe.

But

what

one, can't think."

have

Mrs.

"

Tou

"

then."
Lady Clavering,

"That's
mamma

now

worse.

not quiteso
thingto it.

much

"

but the next

She'll know

"

But

what

what

is she

Mr. Saul."

to say to

do

"But
It

you will?"
odd.
so

He

felt.

would

The

so.

"

round

will have
and

But

him

when

to

"

say he didn't

I don't
is

mamma

was

much

so

of love

out

"

in love

him

see

press
ex-

as

was
least,

become

she had

as

done

in his mind

for

he left her she

spoke one

it.

she

"Harry,"
to

come

she is to be

at

all the effects of

existed between

had

that it would

between them

be sad,was
this,
it seemed to Harry that

; but

course

feelingwhich

to do this

it.

Such

and

see

fectually
ef-

; but when

which

dispelled

must

ask

Miss

I hear that

me.

rectoryto-morrow."

the

as

idea,at

an

moment

said,"you

across

them,

him

word

said that he would

Harry of
"

send her.

She

will

her,as I should
do
but for poor Hermy's position.You
will
explainthis,
Harry." Harry,blushingup to his
declared that Florence would require
forehead,
and that she would
no
explanation,
certainly
make the visit as proposed. " I wish to see her,

he
not

Harry

why

not go to

can

much.

so

"

I may
It

and

At any rate, the nature

after that make, and

"

to

across

the

great house

no

her now,

see

Mrs. Clavering

with

I think that she understood

Fanny.

of the visit she

and
to-morroiV,

not

chance."

after this that Florence

week

nearlya

was

it went
before,

if I do

And

have another

never

will it ?"

know," said Fanny.

to

what

was

would
having the living

bit."

he

him

minute, if that

all words

occas'ion

an

freed herself from

understand

be awkward."
in

idea of

won't make
"

unable to

"

to turn

would

weigh with
"

that.

me."

"That

that

course

Mamma

seems

were

know

?"

told him

never

Supposehe
want

"

love him

"

of

matter

Burton

say ?"

to

"Well, Fanny, you ought to

suppose you
' '
I have
"

she is mine,

as

himself almost

That

such

Julia had

She's your

"

"

difficult.

should,on

and

great deal

found

sympathy which he felt. But with

Lady Ongar he had no difficulty.
Lady Ongar,
her sister being with them in the room, talked
been
to him
as though there had
never
easily,
make
between
them
to
two
tion
conversathing
any

difficulty."
Clavering."

no

call her Mrs.

mustn't

have
the

will have

she will say I'm

Claveringwill

"

would

doubt

was

she trembled

called upon to
much
at the

I suppose
I'm sure
I don't know
^but I supShe was goingto see her great
pose coming ordeal.
he'll come
rival her rival,
to the rectoryas he used to do."
who had almost been preferred
"
How
to her for
happy you must
be,"said Plorence, to her nay, who had been preferred
"

"

"

"

kissingher.

To

this

demur.
under
that,

the altered circumstances

strange

so

changed his
There

being

came

to

her

Saul

of the case,

might have

She

had

to be taken
"

on

up to call on the
the two widowed

stillremainingthere when

were

It was
only on
Clavering.
arrival that Harryhad seen
had

gar. He
he went

across

it would

not

she

the

fore
day beLady On-

thoughtmuch of the matter before

to the house,doubtingwhether

better to let Julia go without

her with a farther interview.
But he
troubling

had
the

not

to

seen

tidingsof

been

she

so

her bereavement

had

come, and
not be well that he should

let his cousin's widow

for her

been

The

her own,

of her

peoplesaid
heart,wished

was

whom

would

have
had it

him.

Was

in
Florence,
that, she might

saved from this interview.

three ladies from

the

ladies at the great house

the small

she
man

and

treacheryto

own

beautiful as

the bottom

whom

woman

to be his wife at this moment

rectory found the

in
sitting
together

fused
drawing-room. Florence was so conshe could hardly bring herself to
as look at
or
so much
Lady Clavering,

that

speak to

Lady Claveringsince Lady Ongar.

even

he felt that it would

about

not

two

this

the firstlove of the

regardedas

now

have

And

own.

had been

see

been

be

then

her

to

she

great trial awaitingFlorence

ladies at the great house

ladies who

Mr.

as

mind.

was

Burton.

It

telligible
short space of time, and whose claims as
some
Fanny made some uninwas
undoubtedlypossibleto beautyand wealth were so greatlysuperior

and knew
sister,

by

the other.

She

shook

hands with the elder

that her hand

was

then taken

Julia at first spoke a very

few

and Fanny sat herself

Claveringwithout words to Mrs. Clavering,
her his sympathy. And it might be down beside Hevmione.
Floi-ence took a chair
offering
and was
left there for a few
better,
also,that he should see Julia once again, at a littledistance,
if onlythat he might show" himself capableof minutes without notice.
For this she was
very
able to fix her eyes
and by degreeswas
meeting her without the exhibition of any pethankful,
culiar
emotion

He

leave

to the house,on the face of the woman

went, therefore,

whom

she

so

feared to

THE
see, and

yet on whom

was
Clavering

weeds.

She had

she

so

desired to look. Lady

of

widow's
ill-arranged

mass

assumed

in all its

those paraphernalia
ugliness
of
which

or^erthat

for

207

than we are,"continued
that,after all,
theyare juster
and truer,though
Lady Ongai- "juster
no
doubt,
grotesque not so tender-hearted. Mr. Stuart,

outward

have been condemned

women

CLAVEEINGS.

woe

to wear, in

"

would

have
his

save

to
willing

been

because
friends,

drown

the fault

himself
in

was

to

some

time

theymay be shorn of all degreehis. I don't know that I should have

sex.
Nothingcould be been able to do so much."
more
"In
such a moment, it must
have been so
proper or Unbecomingthan the heavy,
blackness in which Lady diflScultto think of what ought to be done."
drooping,
shapeless
had enveloped herself. But Lady
Clavering
Yes,indeed ; and there is but littlegood in
You know this place,
Ongar,thoughalso a widow, thoughas yet a speculating
upon it now.
charms

the

of their

''

widow

of

dressed
had

"

twelve

not

in

been

months'

was
standing,

but
weed?,no doubt,

in weeds

which

do you not
?"

the

"

house

and the gardens

I mean,

cultivated that theywere

"Not
as
as she answered
good
very well." Florence,
She was very beautiful.
Florence this question,
"Take
began againto tremble.
owned to herself,
she sat there in silence,a turn with me, and I will show you the garden.
as
that Lady Ongarwas the most beautiful woman
ence
My hat and cloak are in the hall." Then Florso

flowers.

as

had
But hers was not the
ever
seen.
her,tremblingvery
got up to accompany
beauty by which,as she would have thought, much inwardly." Miss Burton and I are going
would
have been attracted.
out for a few minutes,"
said Lady Ongar,
Harry Clavering
Lady Ongar'sform,bust,and face were, at this addressingherself to Mrs. Clavering."We
almost majestic,
whereas the will not keep you waitingvery long."
periodof her life,
softness and
the
"We
in no hurry,"said Mrs. Clavering.
were
are
grace of womanhood
charms which Harry loved. He had sometimes
and found herself
Then Florence was carried off,
said to Florence that,to his taste,
Cecilia Burton
alone with her conqueredrival.
almost perfect
was
"Not that there is much
to show you,"said
as a woman
; and there
could be no contrast greate"than that between Lady Ongar
indeed nothing;but the place
she

"

"

Cecilia Burton

and

Lady Ongar.

But Florence

that the Julia Brabazon

of
did not remember
three year's
since had not been the same
as the

Lady Ongar whom

now

she

be of

must

and
else,
doubt

no

more

if you

interest to you than to any one

fond of that sort of thing,

are

make
will.

you

it all that is charming."

saw.

ence.
"I am
minutes
When
they had been there some
very fond of a garden,"said Florand
beside Florence,
sat
Lady Ongar came
whether I am.
"I don't know
Alone,by
doing the
moving her seat as though she were
I think I should care nothingfor the
Florence's
natural thing in the world.
most
myself,
Eden in all England. I don't think I
tion
heart came
to her mouth, but she made
a resoluprettiest
would care for a walk throughthe Elysianfields
bear herself
that she would, if possible,
' ' You
a
have been at Claveringbefore,I by myself. I am
chameleon,and take the
well.
I live. My future
think,"said Lady Ongar. Florence said that color of those with whom
as I take it. It'sa
she had been at the parsonage
during the last colors will not be very bright,
Easter.
"Yes, I heard that you dined here gloomy placeenough,is it not ? But there are
the onlythings
fine trees,
are
This she said in a
brother-in-law."
with my
you see, which
command.
not
which
one
can
was
possibility
by
that
low voice,
any
seen
Clavering
Lady
having
''
Given good trees,taste and money may do any
engaged with Fanny and Mrs. Clavering. Was
I have no doubt you'll
as
thing very quickly,
sudden ?"
it not terribly
"

sudden," said Florence.

Terribly

"

The

two

Had

brothers !

you

find."

Yes

; he

"

here when

was

"

I dined with your

at

sister."
"Poor

to do

"

present.

I should think

do with

thing to

much

I shall have

don't suppose

with it

Clavering?"
"

"I

tain
Cap-

not met

will have

that you

There, Miss

it.

every

Burton,I

Is it not odd that thej brought

you here to show you this very spot,
and to make
to you my confession here,and to
whose
their
that
and
friend,
gone,
word
of confidence,
if
from
you, here,one
yachtit was, should have been saved ? They get
Florence was
it
me."
will
trembling
bly,
admirabehaved
give
Mr.
Stuart
you
say, however, that

fellow!

should have

begginghis friends to get into the boat first.

staid by the vessel when the boat was carried

He

But

away, and he was saved in that way.

to do the best he could forthem.
meant
doubt

no

"

But

of that."
how dreadful his
do not

think

as

did

we

not

at

the

moment

so

There's
be !"

must
feelings

jnuch of

Men
do.
They have so much
Don't you think
their minds.
"

these

more
so

?"

quiteknow

he

to

outwardlyas

employ

Florence
what

she

well

as

inwardly. "You

as I had
a story
my story
?"
with
in
Harry
Clavering
conjunction
once,
"
I think I do,"said Florence.
"I am
sure
you do,"said Lady Ongar. "He

know

"

has told

me

things always true.

but said that she

men's feelings,
" But
I think
the
case.
that such was
supposed

thought about

now

as

far,I mean,

that you
It was

do, and
here,on

what
this

he

says is

spot,that I

and told him

gave him back his troth to me,
of his love,
because he
that I would have none
two years ago.
Now
That is barely
was
poor.
no
he is
longer. Now, had I been true to

poor

him, a man'iagewith him

would

have

been,in

THE

208

CLAVEEINGS.

She then took

here may be -happymarvels."
any woman
the Florence by the hand,and,drawingclose to her,
up the dearest heart,
"
You will think
sweetest temper, ay, and the truest man
that, stoopedover and kissed her.
"
o
f
but I do not
and
s
aid
him
have
me
a
that
instead,
won
fool,
she,
"Well,
course,"
you
in tears,
for that."
and
Florence now
he has been the gainer. I doubt whether I ever
care
was
a

prudential
pointof view,all that

could desire.

I gave

"

should have
will do

you
from

in words ; but she presshappy,but I know that could make no answer

ed
lowed
the hand which she stillheld,and then foljusthere that I parted
her companion back into the house.
er
Aft"
that parting,
said Florence.
that the visit was
soon
broughtto an end,and

him

made

It

so.

was

him."
has told

He

' '

of

me

the three ladies from

"I

will allow

you

be made

not

' '

I think

''

You

illof

no

not

ara

But

said
I

evil,as
whom

"

me

saw

I have

said that there

never

Miss

any fault."
others have said so.
was

XLVm.

CONCLUSION.

Btikton

Florence

to say that Mrs.

in
which

making

at

and

by

means

her

taken upon
have

before he

; but Mrs.

confident

so

it seemed

herself
culty
diffi-

no

Saul the communication

could

rectory,as the rector's

future son-in-law
no

To

the

to Mr.

needed

now

was

had

Claveringwould

be

ceived
re-

successor

Claveringwas

of her

own

powers.

though the undertaking

foolish to talk to you in this which
No doubt I am
she had in hand, was
surrounded
one
sired with difficulties. Her husband,when the matter
way, and I have not yet said that which I deIt is simplythis that I do not
made
to say.
her unat once
was
derstand
being discussed,
that he would
not relieve her by an
begrudge you your happiness. I wished the
same
happinessto be mine, but it is not mine. offer to perform the task. He had been made
It might have been,but I forfeited it. It is to break the bad news
to Lady Clavering,
and,
self
past,and I will pray that you may enjoyit long. havingbeen submissive in that matter,felt himYou will not refuse to receive my
able to stand aloof altogether
as to this more
tions
congratula?"
difficult embassy. ' I suppose it would hardly
"
Indeed I will not."
do to ask Harry to see him again,"Mrs. Clavering
"No,

Burton, but

CHAPTER

love.

you

again,free as I am, and when

it
I saw
was
him, thinkinghim also to be free,
of old days should
strange that some
memory
But the fault,
if fault
back upon
us ?
come
mine."
there has been,was
he

across

of

you do not.
I take it,of

sure

less of him

rectoryreturned

'

Florence,
proudly.

am

to think

one

body, much

any
When

"

him,

the

their house.

do

"

because

any
other day."

is well.

That

Burton,if the park to

farther

illof him

to think

happened the

what

word

to say one

me

Miss

And,

has.

he

sure

am

as

"

'

"Or

to

think of

me

as

friend of your husband's?"

had

said.

"Oh

no."
is

"That

gardens,and
when
perhaps,

we

now

you
children

and

I have

all,then.

may
are

are
your
I may
come
againto
will have me."

go

shown
in.

them

"

if you

rector

and he

In truth I

hope so."
enough

is odd

"It

that I would
tillI went

never

there

before those two

I had

ever

heard

to

that I said to him

go to ClaveringPark
his wife.
That was
see

can

not

have
and

of which

was

the making of the proposition

longerbe delayedwith prudence,Mr.
summoned
"Dear
was
by a short note.
would you
Saul, If you are disengaged,
"

to

me

at the

rectoryat eleven to-morrow?

Yours

ever, M. C."
that he would come.
and

breakfast

Mr.

Saul

When

of

course

the to-morrow

over, the
off somewhere

was

rector

said
had
and

"

think what

should have made

you

retired up
with Fanny and Florence,
Fielding,
so that theymight be well out of the way.
stairs,
They knew, all of them, what was about to be
done,and Fanny behaved herself like a white
ficial
lamb, decked with brightribbons for the sacrialtar.

prophecycomes

all the wonders

on

one

times,
some-

in ?

we

go
of the

connected

with it

I know

to

may

attend your

career

her it

was

sacrificial morning

solemn,and very trying

"
in such
I don't think that any girl
was
ever
said to her sister.
before,"
position
sjie
''
A great many
girlswould be glad to be in
Mrs. Fieldingreplied.
the same
position,"

aught. No doubt there would

if one
could
more
wonderful,
ransack the private
historyof all tlie Claverings "Do
for the last hundred years. I hope,Miss Burton,
which

To

very sacred,
very
the nerves.
"

garden,

be other wonders

that any marvels

Mrs.

in her turn ; and when

fullymatured, and the time had

submitted

as
we
can
fancythat
poor brothers perished before treasures of proprietorship,
of Florence Burton.
And yet, men
circumstanced would
so
do, while Maiy

I suppose.
Well, shall
shown
the wonders
all
you

told you

better,

about the
again Harry took themselves
long grounds of the great house,countingup their

It was
since
not very long ago.
died. But that was
not quitetrue,
my husband
for here I am, and he has not yet got a wife.
But it was odd,was
it not ?"
say that."
" A
of
spirit

do it much

replied. Then

no

arrived

once

indeed,it was

"

Mk.

would
had

in which

come

hope you will.

Lady Ongar.

"I

the scheme

day, come
here, could
place, Saul

Lady Paramount
runningabout the
see

the

you

Some

You

"

dear,"the
Claveringhad
my

To me
there is something
you tliink so ?
almost humiliatingin the idea that he

should be asked to tnke me."

THE
"

Fiddlestick,
Mrs.
my dear,"
replied

ing.
Field-

"

the
Mr.

209

CLAVERINGS.
much

that will not

I suppose

time that I have

little

affectme

for

"

to remain

Saul came, punctual as the church clock,

think it will affect you, and hope that
"We
he had the regulating
wishes you to acceptthe
and was
it may.
Mr. Clavering
himself,
into the rectory
where Mrs. living."
dining-room,

of which
shown

was
Clavering

"
alone. He looked,as he
?" And for a moment
sitting
To acceptthe living
did,serious,
ill dressed,
and like even
Mr. Saul looked as though he were
prised.
surcomposed,
a gentleman. Of course
he must have supposed
that the present rector would make
some
change
"Yes, Mr. Saul."
in his mode
of living,
and could not be surprised " To be rector of Clavering
?"
that he should have been summoned
"If you see no objection
to the recto such an arrangetory;
ment."
but he was
that the summons
surprised
" It
should have come
from Mrs. Clavering,
and not
hut as strange
is a most munificent offer,
from the rector himself. It appeared to him
And
it is munificent.
as
Unless,indeed
that the old enmitymlist be very enduringif, then some
glimpseof the truth made its way
self
even
could not bringhiminto the chinks of Mr. Saul's mind.
now, Mr. Clavering
"
to see his curate on a matter
of business.
Mr. Claveringwould,no doubt,have made
"It seems
time
a
since we
have seen
the offer to you himself had it not been that I
long
you here,Mr. Saul,"said Mrs. Clavering.
speak to you about dear Fanny
can, perhaps,
"
Yes ; when
I have remembered
how often better than he could. Though our prudencehas
I used to be here,my absence has seemed long not been quiteto your mind, you can, at any
ject
and strange."
rate,understand that we might very much ob"
there was
ing
nothIt has been a source
of great grief
to me."
to her marryingyou when
"And
to me," Mrs. Clavering.
for you to live on, even though we had no
to yourself
personally.
"But, as circumstances then were, in truth objection
both
Common
Mr. Clavering did objecton
"But
it could not be avoided.
prudence
made it necessary. Don't you think so, Mr.
grounds."
"
that he had done so ; but,
I was not aware
Saul ?"
is now
made by him
I must
if
to
"If you ask me
answer
according
so, no such objection
idea is that a child should he
ideas.
should
not
Common
me.
or
My
own
prudence
by
my
heart,and to indulge
at least not according allowed to consult her own
it necessary
have made
that
in doing so she
with
her
of
Common
view,
own
choice,
to my
provided
prudence,
things.
such different things! does not prepare for herself a life of indigence,
different people,
means
be a life of misery; and of course
with your ideas which must
But I am
not going to quarrel
also
that there be no strongpersonal
Mrs.
providing
of common
Clavering."
prudence,
Mrs. Clavering had
objection."
begun badly,and was
"A
life of indigenceneed not be a life of
She
of it.
should have said nothing
aware
from the misery,"said Mr. Saul, with that obstinacy
about the past. She had foreseen,
which formed so great a part of his character.
ble
the danger of doing so, but had been unafirst,
"I
future.
the
rush
into
Well, well."
at
once
to
golden

ever

"

"

"

"

"

"

hope

shall have

we

at any
quarreling,

more

no

"

am

she said.
rate,''
shall be

"There

on

none

Clavering,
you must
sayingso, that I intend

not

Mrs.

me

part. Only, what is the

my
suppose, from

my

sions.
giveup my pretenA word from your daughterwould make
do so, but no words from any one else."
stancy
"She
ought to be very proud of such conon

no

stand
Saul did not underit. ,"I don't
ing
know whether you have heard that Mr. Claverintends to" giveup the living."
"I have not heard it. I have thoughtit
that he would do so."
probable
"
He has made up his mind that he will. The
he must neglecteither
fact is,that if he held it,
We will not stop at this
that or the property."
ideas must
to examine what Mr. Saul's
moment
have

been

as

"But,

but
indigent,
are

use

to be made

of all our

am

erable.
not at all mis-

miserable

by that,

?"
teaching

able."
rate,a, competence is comfort-

at any

to

and I have
your part,Mr. Saul,

doubt she will be."

and made
this,

very
If we

"

comfortable

Too

Mrs.
exclamation,
at

her

had gone

!"

As Mr.

taste.
daughter's

too far

Saul made

Claveringcould not but

now

But

the

this
der
won-

matter

of receding.
for any possibility

Mr.

no

replyto

' '

You

will not

refuse it,I hope,as it will be

by what
accompanied
"No, I will
giveher and me

not

you say you stilldesire."

refuse it. And
God
may

grace so to use the riches of

that they become not a stumblingblock to us, and a rock of offense. It is possible
that the camel should be made to go through
It is possible."
the needle's eye.
this world

"

The

position,
you know, is not

of the property, wealth."

exigencies
It is to
time for the performance
no

one

of

great

to the

"
hitherto had
me, who have barely
tell your husband
Will
of
the
for
fallen
means
some
you
support.
had
as
that I will accept,and endeavor
from me
share of the rector himself.
the
to
years past
not to betraythe double trust he proposes to
to take some
"He hopesthat he maybe allowed
confer on me ? It is much that he should give
t
he
he
to
means
but
resign
part in the services,
his daughter.She shall be to me bone
to me

which would leave

of such clericalduties

living."

210

CLAVEEINGS.

THE

of my

bonO)and flesh of

my flesh. If God will of religion.It should be the firstconsideration

his grace thereto,
I will watch over her, with all of us at all times.
But she has never
that no harm shall come
nigh her. I love been used to men like Mr. Saul."

giveme
so

the appleof jny eye ; and I am thankful

should be made
very thankful that the rich gift

her
"

as

"

Nobody can denythat

' '

Yes,he

should

to me."
"

' '

that you love her,Mr. Saul."

going to
am
sure
ruption,whether
But,"continued he,not marking her inter-

"that
and

othAr trust

is

one

tender

care

was

But

I don't know

"

quiteunderstand

what

I do.

quiteone

He

isn't

*"

"How

"

gentleman.

gentleman; God forbid that I

that he is
now
not,especially

your sister.

marry

you
think

stillgreater, t
"I
and even
sort."
a

requiring
closer sympathy. I shall feel that the souls of
these peoplewill be,as it were, in my hand,and
that I shall bo called upon to give an account
more

is

say he

he is

earth

on

herself to look

at

she

him

have

ever

can

in that

I mean."
of

our

brought

light!"

""There's

sir. And,
no
accountingfor tastes,
he's to have the'living,
there will be
as
all,
And
nothingto regret."
she,also,will be with me to helpme."
"
to
When
Mrs. Claveringdescribed this scene
No, nothingto regret. I suppose he'll be
her husband,he shook his head,and there came
up at the other house occasionally?I never
could m^ke any thingof him when
much
his face a smile,
in which there was
he dined at
over
of melancholy,
"Ah
haps,
! yes, that is all the rectory; perhapshe'll be better there. Peras he said,
He will settle down
when
he's married,
he'll get into the way
as other
very well now.
men
do, I suppose, when he has four or five of drinkinga glassof wine like any body else.
the ideas Dear
children aroun^
him."
Such were
Fanny,,1hope she'll be happy. That's
which the experience
of the outgoingand elder every thing." In answer
to this,
Harry took
clergyman taught him to entertain as to the upon himself to assure his father that Fanny
would
be happy ; and then they changed the
ecstaticpietyof his younger brother.
It was
Mrs. Claveringwho suggestedto Mr.
and discussed the alterations which
conversation,
Saul that perhapshe wy)uld like to see Panny. they would make in reference to the preservation
and
This she did when her storyhad been told,
of pheasants.
he was
if
Mr. Saul and Fanny remained
long together
preparingto leave her. " Certainly,
she will come
to me.
that occasion,and when theypartedhe went
on
ing,
"I will make
ofi'about his work, not sayinga word to any
no
promise,"said Mrs. Claver"
self
but I will see."
Then she went up stairs other person in the house,and she betook herand
fast
feet
could
her
her
to the room
where the girls
the
her
to
as
were
as
sitting,
carry
lamb was sent down into the drawing- own
She said not a word either to her
sacrificial
room.
" I
to Floi-ence as to
or
room.
mother,or to her sister,
suppose, if you say so, mamma
"I think,my dear,that you had better see
what had passed at that interview; but, when
him.
You
will meet
then more
comfortably she was first seen by any of them, she was very
afterward."
So Panny went into the drawing- grave in her demeanor, and very silent. When
her father congratulated
her,which he did with
room, and Mr. Saul was sent to her there. What
able to assume,
he was
as
cordiality
passedbetween them all readers of these pages as much
will she kissed him, and thanked
him for his care
will understand.
Few young ladies,
I fear,
this she did almost
envy Fanny Claveringher lover ; but they will and kindness ; but even
I see how it is to be," said
and
remember
that Love will stillbe lord of all,
solemnly. "Ah!
" There
to be no
are
the old rector to his wife.
they will acknowledgethat he had done much
his
to deserve the success
in lifewhich had come
in more
cakes and ale in the parish." Then
I will strive.

I will strive

of their welfare.

"

after

"

"

"

his way.
It was

wife reminded

long before

himself

the old rector could

either to the

new

rector

Mrs. Clavering
had
Qwr-JB-law.

tajrenup Fanny's part,and had

^sumed

now
so

or
so

cile
recon-

his

new

mother's

upon

very

luckyto

my

word, I

can

"

such

She has been taken

"gratifying

to see

he should

when

runningabout

take

placein

have

his feet.

said
Mr.

lot of children

Then

can

about very

run

only
soon,"

said the old rector.

Mary Fielding,
Fanny said little
sister,
but to Florence,
nothingof her coming marriage,
who, as regardedthat event, was in the
did exshe frequently
press
same
as
position
herself,
her feelings,
declaringhow awful to her
the responsibility
of the thingshe was
about
was
ence,
"Of course that'squitetrue, said Florto do.
To her

or

"

"but

it doesn't make

one

doubt that

Fanny.

"

it does almost
think of it,

side of
by the religions

said Harry.
character,"
And
no
"Yes, of course.
me

would

one

an

her

to

he himself had

of what

assistant ; but, is rightto marry."

not understand
"I
don't know," said
Fanny I

have

not, indeed."

can

Saul's ways

warmly

that Mr.

was

him

change which

begin to
completelyhope that they'll

interest in her coming marriage,

Clavering,or Sii'Henry,as we
call him, had found himself obliged
to
may now
abstain from repeating
to her the wonder
with
which
he still regardedhis daughter's
choice.
But to Harry he could stillbe eloquenton the
subject." Of course it'sall rightnow," he said.
"He's a very good young man, and nobodywould
work harder in the parish. I alwaysthought
I
a

of the

doubt

it is very
so much

that she thinks

"

Then,

if I

were

Mr.

make

Saul,I

you think of it at all."

"Ah!
that shows that

him.

He

me

"When

doubt."
would

not

let

stand
you do not underwould be the firstto advise me

CLAVERnSfGS.

THE
to hesitate if he
don't

know

thought that

that I

can

that

"

"

quiteexpress

that

"

what

knew, I

we

mean."

think that

those ciicnmstances Mr. Saul won't

that
that
that "

"

"

"

as

we
"

"

"

weighs most with such old women

Good-by,Harry."
Good-by,Julia. I hope that I may yet see
you and Hermy, happy before long."
are.

it is too serious for laughingyou

Oh, Florence,
Then Florence also hoped that
indeed."
it is,
"I
"

"

in which
might come, and that shortly,
Saul might moderate his views,though she'
not express herself exactly
as the rector had

time

Mr.
did

in
Stratton,

remained

this Florence

order that she

to her of her freedom

self
and that she might prepare herfather,
wedding. The affair with her was
hurried that she had hardly time to
much

and

for her

so

in

giveher mind to those considerations which

It
on Fanny'smind.
weighingso heavily

were

about

much

dream

I will

hear of my

never

my own
"Poor

a
whisper,
drag me down;

And, Harry,tell your

her occasionally
once
that,so that she need

happiness,
Harry.

of it sometimes
But

got now.

at least not on

what

with her mother

shall

you

"

back

went

might pass

comes

have

you

"

Immediatelyafter

don't know

There

done.

to

dare say we shall staythere,'

cause
simplybeshall he there.
That is the consideration

which

"Under

211

"

such

as

for this

answer

ed
beingdownheartshe added,
account,"
times
Hermy may some-

but I will do my best.

wife that I shall write to
a

"

year,

or

somethinglike

not be afraid.

Harry."
"Good-by,Julia."
her
on
Immediately

And

so

Good-by,

theyparted.
Tenby, Lady

arrival at

tention
by Cecilia,Ongar communicated to Mr. Turnbull her inBurtons,especially
of givingback to the Courton
for extension of their views
family
not pnlythe placecalled Ongar Park, but also
in regardto millinery,
seeingthat Florence was
of
the whole of her income with the exception
and heir of a baronet.
to njarry the eldest son
awed almost into eighthundred
a
year, so that in that respect
And old Mrs. Burton was
she might be equalto her sister. This brought
upon
by the reflections which came
acquiescence
there was
down
to Tenby, and
and of Mr. Turnbull
she thought of the breakfast,
her when
the countess
the presence of Sir Henry Clavering. She at interview after interview between
land the lawyer. The proposition,
however, was
from Ramsher daughter-in-law
summoned
once
and was
refused
made
her exto the Courtpns,
that
all
absolutely
and
felt
perience,
her
to
assistance,
gate
from the wedding breakfasts
Ongar Park was acceptedon
by them.
gathered
would hardlycarry behalf of the mother of the presentearl ; but as
of so many
elder daughters,
of the present occasion.
regardedthe money, the widow of the late eail
her throughthe difficulties
brother that
assured by the elder surviving
was
doubted her rightto it,or would be a
still at the no
one
sisters were
widowed
The
two
it from her.
with
"Then," said
Sir Henry Clavering,
party to accepting
great house when
in my hands,
"it
will
accumulate.
but
Ongar,
to
Lady
Stratton, they
Harry and Fanny, went
leave it as I pleasein my will."
and I can
left it on the followingday. The father and
control you," said
"As
one
can
to that,no
on
to bid them
farewell,
son
went up together
who
went
to Tenby to see
her
brother-in-law,
to
and
of their departure,
the eve
press upon
not be angry if I advise
that they her; "but you must
fact
the
and
over
again,
over
them,
Such
of Clavering you not to make
any such resolution.
stillto regardthe Claverings
were
have good results." This good
hoards never
friends.
and
relations
nearest
their
Park as
this was
however, did come from the effort which
result,
eldest sister simply cried when
The
was
the
woman
making"
broken-spirited
with
poor
tears,
cried easily
plenteous
said to her
and at last a close friendship,
her seemed to be that an intimacy,
tillthe weeds which enveloped
was

felt by all the

that there

was

need

"

damp

erto
fountain. Hiththe ever-running
her
been
had
onlyrefuge; bilt I
to weep
from

think that

even

this had

become
already

formed

was

between

her and

the relatives of

her deceased lord.

able
prefer-

And

now

my

storyis done.

My

readers will

understand what would be the future life

life. Lady Ongar assured easily
to her former
pletion
of
c
ed
allClaveringand his wife after the comstill
Harry
he
was
as
(jlavering,
Sir Henry, or Mr.
birth
of
the
and
the
in
tour
of
that
ways
alItaly
that she would
tillafter their departure,
the tour
"
for which made
the
And
kindness.
preparations
heir,
his
remember and accept
shorter than Harry had intended.
somewhat
to us?" said he.- "Certainly;
you will come
ing,
of course, gave up to him the shootHis
be
will
father,
She
when I can make Hermy come.
and the farming of the home
farm,and,
And
here.
is
then,
the summer
better when
of the property.
casion after a while,the management
it." On this ocafter that,we will think about
believing
Sir
o
ccasionally
preached
Henry
cheerful
herself,
she seemed to be quite
oftener than he
himself able to preach much
fection
all the frank afand bade Harry farewellwith
of the
s
ome
and
did
portion
performed
usually
of an old friend.
service.
morning
Bolton
btreet,
"I have givenup the house in
said Theodore Burton,in answer
"Oh yes,"
she said to him.
his wife,
from
remark
comfortable
to
some
to live i
" And
where do you mean
for Florence.
well
has
done
"Providence
very
suit
Hermy.
it
"

"

"Any

where; just as

may

We are going And Providence has done very well for him
?
"What difference does it make
also ; but Providence was making a great misto me
and thoughTenby seems
to Tenby now,
him to earn his bread."
take when he expected
I
ever
attractions as any place
to have as few
END.

By Miss
These Novels form

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She cares to teach,not how dishonestyis alwaysplungingmen
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unreal beingwho is to be the *' example" of .the story,but how
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every
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PERSONAL

RECOLLECTIONS
OF

DISTINGUISHED

GENERALS.

WILLIAM

By

F. G.

SHANKS.

PORTRAITS.

12mo, Cloth,Beveled
Without fear

or

er
favor he exhibits to the readhe

them

Edges,$2
For

fresh,
racy,

criticism

self,
him-

00,

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readable
thoroughly

the

of the day
men
leadingmilitary
generals,
just
at least those who
"not
on
parade,but in undress uniform."
foughton the Northern side
in the recent
tary
He aims to illustrate not only their great milito Shanks,
us
straggle commend
whose " Personal EecoUections of Distinguished
their menbut more
tal
particularly
qualities,
Generals" is a work calculated to create a sensaand characteristics. His pages
tion,
peculiarities
will be found to contain many facts about some
but by no means
pleasantto the reader,
ofScial reportshave
of the parties
of the great battles which
to some
whose merits and
pleasant
demerits are discussed. N. Y. Day Book.
left untold,
with such recollections of our generals
It is not onlypleasantreading,
but contains
as history
proper will not perhapscondescend
facts about
valuable history,
and to embrace
besides giving
to record,
us a most
singular
graphic
and strange stories about great and distinct conception
of the personalcharacters
great campaigns
and idiosyncrasies
of the greatheroes of the
men.
a

of

group

as

saw

on

"

"

"

Mr. Shanks's book is a

fine excepremarkably
tion

generalworthlessness of

to the

works

war.

Brooklyn
Eagle.

"

The

sioned
occa-

It is a relief to come
by our late war.
unexpectedlyupon it in the Dismal Swamp of
contemporaneous history.N. Y. Heratd.

are
more

"

His book
and

bears

of careful tion,
preparacareful study of the facts

the mark

of much

gatheredand reportedby him in the field. He

has no hesitation
in condemning generals
who
favorites ; but,so far as we
have been popular
have observed,
generally
givesin such instances

of these reminiscences

matter

fresh,and

is altogether

is extremelyinteresting.
The

ecdotes
an-

and are
fore
therepersonal,
intimately
than ordinarily
N. Y.
interesting.
"

Express.
A

very readable

volume

of

interesting
really

which
personalreminiscences,
and

severe

one

of the most

for

criticism of characters
remarkable

independent

and

actions is

books of the

day.
"

GeorgetownCowier.
of censure
the verdict of the best-instructed officers It is the most_thoughtful volume
have
we
of the events
familiar with the inner history
seen
on
topicsconnected with the war, and,as a
referred to. Whether
extollingor condemning,generalthing,the most honest.
ing
ChicagoEvenhe is alwaysinteresting,
because he tellsold and
Journal.
facts in so fresh and vigorousa manner,
new
Decidedlythe most readable book pertaining
and with such apparent sincerity.
N. Y. Evening
to the war
that we have seen.RoxburyJournal.
Post.
He has brought togethera great quantity
of
of the most
One
gossipyand interestingmatter that could have been obtained onlyby a
books
called out by the recent
and he
war.
Albany close and accurate observer in the field,
"

"

"

"

Journal.
A

tellswhat

book

Mr.

of

great interest. Boston

"

has

Shanks

collection

added

much

to

of a
Transcript.
our

national

task.

man
"

he wishes to tellwith the careless

who

is perfectly
at home

in

ease

difficult

Boston Traveller.

the pen-portraits
tained
conby publishing

related. Mr.
Dazzlingrecollections honestly
N. Y. Citizen.
in this volume.
honest in his stateShanks means
to be perfectly
ments,
and damages several heroes by his descriptions
Nothing that we have seen so clearly
presents
the characters and peculiarities
of our leading
and criticisms. He givesa ludicrous
Press.
to many
generals. Hartford
things which would bo serious
coloring
He writes well,
and freely,
criticisesearnestly
in some
men's hands,and the reader soon
comes
bebut not maliciously,
and has altogether
interested.^(Si.ioiBS ChristianAdvocate.
givenus
"

"

volume

which

readers.
"

will find many

Baltimore American.

Published

Haepee

" Bbotheks

by

and

well-pleasedA valuable contribution to our

ChristianAdvocate.
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"

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London Review.

Boston Transcript.
indeed
^have so much
no
woman
charming and high-minded Few women
living
"
her was in itselfa UberaJ education ; strength
that to know
as
er
and, more than that,she nevGeorge Eliot,"
woman
allows it to degenerateinto coarseness.
With allher
and we are inclined to set an almost equally
highvalue on
so-called "masculine" vigor,
she has a feminine tenderof "George Eliot." For
ness,
with the writings
an acquaintance
of educating
which is nowhere shown more
than in her
those who read them aright
theypossess the faculty
plainly
of children.
the intellect,descriptions
in its highest
sense, of invigorating
givinga healthy tone to the taste,appealingto the nobler
Saturday Review.
and
its impulsesaright,
of the heart, training
feelings
'

It

was

once

said of

a very

"

"

in every mind the consciousness

She looks out upon
the world with the most
entire
awakening or developing
and
than the pleasures
enjoymentof all the good that there is in it to enjoy,and
of a cravingfor somethinghigher
the be- with an enlEirged
realize,
compassionfor allthe illthat there is in
rewards of that lifewhich onlythe senses
either whimpers over the sorof a nobler nature than can be graspedby it to pity. But she never
Hef m a destiny
experienceor demonstrated by argument. In reading rowfiillot of man, or snarls and chuckles over his folhes
and littlenessesand impotence.
them
to be raised above, the low groundswhere
we
seem
has
and the sunlight
the atmosphereis heavy and tainted,
Macmilla^s
'Magazine.
veils of mist, and to be set
blinding
to struggle
tlirough
air is fresh and bracing,
Eliot's"
books the efFecJ
where
the
In
is produced by
"George
the
ranges
higher
upon
the most delicate strokes and the nicest proportions.In
where the sky is brightand clear,and where earth seems
and women
at home.
her pictures
fillthe foreground,
men
while
near
of less account than before and heaven more
thin fines and :feintcolor show us the portentous clouds
feel the grandeurofjnountain
And as, by those who really
voice is heai-d
a
solitudes,
hushes

the

speakingto

the heart,which
and
meanness,

of fortune
them

and
whispersin which vanity,

or

circumstance looming
in the dim distancebehind
their heads.
She does not paintthe
over

and

their petty suggestions:world as a huge mountain with pigmiescrawling

or scrambling
to make
up its rugged sides to inaccessible peaks,and only
paltrypurposes of a brief and fitful
their flesh more
less for their pains
or
of the mighty tearing
Each
in the presence
lifelose their significance
in reflections
rounded and allof "George Eliot's" novels abound
by which they are surtypes of steadfastness and eternity
that beckon on the alert reader into pleasantpaths and
; so, on those readers who are able to appreciate
*
fieldsof thought.
of feeling,firuitful
independenceof thought,a rare nobility
a iofty
man
sympathywith the joysand sorrows of huand an exquisite
"
Spectator.
ert
not failto excan
George Eliot's" writings
nature,
the good effects " George Eliot" has Sir WaJter Scott's art for revivifyand purifying
influence,
ing
invigoratiiig
an
terest
the past. You plungeinto itwith as headlongan inimpression.
of which leaves behind it a lasting
as into the present. For this she compensates
by a
Worcester Palladium.
wider and deeperintellectualgrasp.
"George Eliot,"or whoever he or she maybe, has a
Reader.
airof intense reality
ever
to whatan
wonderful powef m giving
is
differentphasesof outward life,
character
with
whatever
Her
portrayed.
acquaintance
is
presented,
scene
and the working of the
feeling
and the power of analyzing
mind, are alike wonderful.
Evening Telegraph.
Philadelphia
self-interestare wont
and as for them the

She resembles Shakspeare in her power of delmeation.

Examiner.
actionon the part of each of
this characteristic
"
ture
George Eliot's"novels belongto the enduringliterathe members of the dramatis personee that we feel not
not for the fashionableness
durable,
of
also
b
ut
country"
our
and
consistent
throughout,
even
onlyan interest,
for the texture of its stuff.
admiration for " George EUot" above allother writers. of itspattern,but
an
It is from

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