ity of gesture and gentle expression was a subject of
admiration. Her winning smile was greeted by recognitions of deep and
respectful courtesy on the part of the gentlemen.
"My Lady, fortune has at last condescended to favour me by your
appearance among us," said Mr. Trevelyan, rising and advancing towards
Her Ladyship, while a blush suffused his handsome face, hastily making
its way with deepening colour, showing the clear and open hearted spirit
of the young Lieutenant. "We now have hopes of a speedy restoration." Mr.
Trevelyan then related the foregoing sallies to the fair arbitress, who
listened with keen relish and enjoyment. "As I have arrived at this
unfavourable moment," said Her Ladyship, "I will try to end the matter
satisfactorily to all parties. His Excellency being one of the chief
actors, shall forfeit his liberty by devoting an hour in satisfying the
present demands of the company. Mr. Trevelyan also, will only extricate
himself from his present position by giving one of his many excellent
renditions from Shakespeare or any of the favorite authors. Do you not
all agree to this decision?" As Lady Douglas glanced towards her daughter
Mary, she read in those beautiful eyes a mischievous flash directed
towards Miss Douglas. "If I judge aright there is yet another to be
brought to hasty retribution," said the former. "Pardon me, but I think
your Ladyship is rather severe," said the youthful lieutenant with a
boyish flush of youth upon his brow. "I beg that the penalty imposed upon
Miss Douglas may be something which rests upon her direct choice."
"Treason within the camp," exclaimed Captain Douglas, in his military
tone. "Trevelyan, beware, you are being caught in a pitfall." Lady
Douglas smiled as she turned to Miss Douglas, saying "Mr. Trevelyan's
request shall be granted, you can choose your own task of imposition,
music, reading, or any other pastime." "The matter is settled, thanks to
her Ladyship," exclaimed Sir Howard, "and I beg leave to withdraw to
mature my views for the coming lengthy topic of this evening." The hour
being announced warned the ladies to prepare for dinner, the group
separated leaving the verandah to the romps of two favorite hounds, a
spaniel, and a pair of tame rabbits.
While preparations are thus going on in the different apartments of
Government House, a carriage arrives with its occupant, Mr. Howe,
private secretary to Sir Howard. The carriage, a handsome one, is driven
by a
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