which to have made profitable must have cut just across his own park; subscribed to a book society, and was eloquent about encouraging genius; had a newly invented stove in his hall; and novelty to him was what antiquity was to the other—each, like charity, covered a multitude of sins. But, above all, Sir Walter's great pride was his son, who, already far beyond his competitors, gave assurance of the distinguished career he ran in after-life. Two things were at this period necessary for Montague Delawarr,—to get married, and returned for the county.
The Baronet's dressing-room had a view of the castle. No wonder that Lady Alicia suggested herself to his mind. Montague was now in the country; and if St. Valentine could aid St. Stephen, why married he intended to be, some time or other; so the letter of proposal was written, and the result had been as favourable as they could wish.
Seven o'clock came, and with it Sir Walter and his son. The dinner-bell to-day was indeed to be "the tocsin of the heart." With something more like emotion than she had ever felt in her life before, Lady Alicia Lorraine made her appearance, and a very fair appearance it was;
