misapprehensions, to discharge his errand with fidelity to both sides.
Armed with this resolution, Solomon learned at Gran, to his profound gratification, that the old man still lived and discharged the duties of magistrate with eminent success. Lord Boppo now presented a countenance so grand and dignified, a figure so commanding albeit stooped, and a manner at once so strict and so gracious that his authority was felt almost without its exercise. A countenance broad, rugged, and open, seamed with conflicts more from within than from any impression of awe the outer world could infuse, an affability that won affection, and a gravity that inspired confidence, a combination of reserve and geniality, and an appropriateness of diction that expressed the full subject without redundancy, enabled Lord Boppo to guide the diversified society around him with a smoothness, and impressiveness that at once attracted and guided the community.
Lord Boppo received his friend with much grave courtesy. The presence of Solomon seemed to revive painful memories; and a shade passed over the veteran’s furrowed features. Solomon observed the sign; and approached his subject with great caution. “I have just arrived,” he said, “and I have entrusted my official duties to substitutes for the present, and perhaps permanently. I do not at present expect to return to the court or its employment.
“The sufferings of the people are great. Patients afflicted with every degree and kind of ailment crowd
