and reared a gentleman; as such he would scarcely do anything
mean. And, after all, it is with me that he must rise or fall. His
very intellect must tell him that. But again I ask, do not strive to
prepossess me against him. I am a man who could have loved a son. I have
none. Randal, such as he is, is a sort of son. He carries on my projects
and my interest in the world of men beyond the goal of the tomb."

Audley turned kindly to Randal.

"Well, Leslie, what report of the canvass?"

"Levy has the book, sir. I think we have gained ten fresh votes for you,
and perhaps seven for me."

"Let me rid you of your book, Baron Levy," said Harley. Just at this
time Riccabocca and Violante approached the house, both silent. The
Italian caught sight of Randal, and made him a sign to join them. The
young lover glanced fearfully towards Harley, and then with alacrity
bounded forward, and was soon at Violante's side. But scarce had Harley,
surprised by Leslie's sudden disappearance, remarked the cause, than
with equal abruptness he abandoned the whispered conference he had
commenced with Levy, and hastening to Randal, laid hand on the young
man's shoulder, exclaiming, "Ten thousand pardons to all three! But I
cannot allow this waste of time, Mr. Leslie. You have yet an hour before
it grows dark. There are three out-voters six miles off, influential
farmers, whom you must canvass in person with my father's steward.
Hasten to the stables; choose your own horse. To saddle, to saddle!
Baron Levy, go and order my Lord's steward, Mr. Smart, to join Mr.
Leslie at the stables; then come back to me,--quick. What! loitering
still, Mr. Leslie! You will make me throw up your whole cause in disgust
at your indolence and apathy."

Alarmed at this threat, Randal lifted his accusing eyes to heaven and
withdrew.

Meanwhile Audley had drawn close to Lady Lansmere, who was leaning, in
thought, over the balustrade of the terrace. "Do you note," said Audley,
whispering, "how Harley sprang forward when the fair Italian came in
sight? Trust me, I was right. I know little of the young lady, but I
have conversed with her. I have gazed on the changes in her face. If
Harley ever love again, and if ever love influence and exalt his mind,
wish with me that his choice may yet fall where I believe that his heart
inclines it."

LADY LANSMERE.--"Ah, that it were so! Helen, I own, is charming;
but--but--Violante is equal in birth! Are you not aware that she i