At that moment dinner was announced. Ernest arose: "Stop, my friend, (said he) this day ends all other distinctions between us; my heart swells to imitate your's; henceforth be always near me; teach me by your example to be loved in my youth, and revered in my decline of life, like you." Yes, you are the father of my affections, the friend of my friend," putting his hand into the Count's, who pressed it with both of his; "no longer my steward, but my companion and benefactor."
Ernest, overcome by emotions that swelled to his throat, and almost burst his bosom, had just strength to pull open a button or two, and sunk into a chair:—"Too much (said he, sobbing) it is too much, this graciousness!" A friendly shower of tears fell down his venerable face, and relieved the oppressed heart; neither of them had dry eyes for the moment.
"Come (said Ferdinand, trying to recover himself) come, the dinner waits, we dine together," taking Ernest by the arm.
