w that I
went so far. But I have fancied that he looks a little worn, and
suffering."

"Poor Audley!" said L'Estrange, in a tone of deep affection. "I will
sound him, and, be assured, without naming you; for I know well how
little he likes to be supposed capable of human infirmity. I am obliged
to you for your hint--obliged to you for your interest in one so dear to
me."

And Harley's voice was more cordial to Randal than it had ever been
before. He then begged to inquire what Randal thought of the rumors that
had reached himself as to the probable defeat of the government, and how
far Audley's spirits were affected by such risks. But Randal here,
seeing that Harley could communicate nothing, was reserved and guarded.

"Loss of office could not, I think, affect a man like Audley," observed
Lord L'Estrange. "He would be as great in opposition, perhaps greater;
and as to emoluments"----

"The emoluments are good," interposed Randal, with a half sigh.

"Good enough, I suppose, to pay him back about a tenth of what his place
costs our magnificent friend. No, I will say one thing for English
statesmen, no man amongst them ever yet was the richer for place."

"And Mr. Egerton's private fortune must be large, I take for granted,"
said Randal carelessly.

"It ought to be, if he has time to look to it."

Here they passed by the hotel in which lodged the Count di Peschiera.

Randal stopped. "Will you excuse me for an instant? As we are passing
this hotel, I will just leave my card here." So saying, he gave his card
to a waiter lounging by the door. "For the Count di Peschiera," said he
aloud.

L'Estrange started; and as Randal again took his arm, said--

"So that Italian lodges here? and you know him?"

"I know him but slightly, as one knows any foreigner who makes a
sensation."

"He makes a sensation?"

"Naturally; for he is handsome, witty, and said to be very rich--that
is, as long as he receives the revenues of his exiled kinsman."

"I see you are well informed, Mr. Leslie. And what is supposed to bring
hither the Count di Peschiera?"

"I did hear something, which I did not quite understand, about a bet of
his that he would marry his kinsman's daughter; and so, I conclude,
secure to himself all the inheritance; and that he is therefore here to
discover the kinsman and win the heiress. But probably you know the
rights of the story, and can tell me what credit to give to such
gossip."

"I know this at lea