younger brother, she would not for a moment have allowed them the means of confirming their passion for each other, if she had not been already in the secret of the elder brother. This was his intention to persuade their aged grandfather to transfer his own heirship to Arthur, which he considered it a fortunate circumstance was in his power, with the exception of a very small estate, tied inalienably to the heir of that ancient and distinguished family. He knew that his mother's large fortune was not more than sufficient to maintain the dignities his father's admirable diplomacy had achieved, since he had maintained the honour of his country by expending the full amount of his income, save a very few thousands bequeathed to his younger son, whom he also considered (and very justly if he did his duty) as a charge on his country. At this time there was no reason to doubt that a young man so courageous, clever, and active, would get forward; but, since the country was at peace, and the late transaction had called up the warmest feelings of a most affectionate brother, who, having lost a father he idolized, a mother scarcely remembered yet sincerely lamented, and a sister fondly beloved and still regretted, felt as if he could never sufficiently evince the affection he felt for the only tie of his existence—the brave and noble boy, who from his cradle had held him inestimable, judging of his brother's nature by his own generous, unselfish spirit. Whilst a boy, Lord Meersbrook had been under the care of his grandfather, who
