Ainsworth William Harrison - Chetwynd Calverley стр 12.

No more on this subject before mamma, I pray, Sir Bridgnorth! said Mildred. It would be painful to her.

I will be careful. he replied.

Mrs. Calverley came to say that luncheon was ready. And they went into the house with her.

IV. PORTRAITS

Mrs. Calverley did not produce quite so favourable an impression upon him, though he thought her very beautiful, and very clever. She seemed to him wanting in heart perhaps designing.

Taking this view of her character, he came to the conclusion that she had married Mr. Calverley for his money, and possibly might have alienated him from his son.

Three or four of Mildreds admirers called during the afternoon, and they all seemed surprised at finding Sir Bridgnorth so much at home at Ouselcroft. They could not believe that Mildred had accepted him yet it looked rather like it.

The young lady, however, did not trouble herself much about them; but, leaving them to stroll about the garden with Mrs. Calverley, she took Sir Bridgnorth to the library, telling him she wanted to show him a picture.

It was the portrait of a very handsome young man, painted by a well-known artist of the day. The features were regular and finely formed, and very haughty in expression. The likeness was excellent, and Sir Bridgnorth recognised it at once.

Tis your brother Chetwynd, he said, and wonderfully like him. I should have known it anywhere.

He was extremely handsome then, observed Mildred; but I fear he must be much changed now. At that time, he thought he should have all his fathers property, and expected to marry the beautiful Teresa Mildmay.

Yes; I know the story, said Sir Bridgnorth, and do not wonder at his vexation at the double disappointment. He has suffered much for his hasty temper. Things look very dark just now; but let us hope all may come right in the end.

She then drew his attention to another picture. Your father. Yes; I see. Time was, when I should have turned away from his portrait; but I have quite forgiven him now.

Since poor papas death, Mrs. Calverley cannot bear to look at that portrait, remarked Mildred. But for my entreaties she would have it put away, and she now rarely enters the room.

That is not surprising, said Sir Bridgnorth. The portrait awakens painful memories.

But I am always pleased to look at it, and I loved papa dearly! said Mildred. I often come here by myself, and think I am with him.

At this juncture, their discourse was interrupted by the sudden entrance of the very last person they expected to see.

V. THE POCKET-BOOK

It was Chetwynd.

He looked pale and haggard, and his features had a sombre and stern expression, very different from that depicted in the canvas before them.

He closed the door after him as he came in, and started on perceiving Sir Bridgnorth, whom he evidently had not expected to find there.

Uttering an exclamation of mingled surprise and delight, Mildred sprang towards her brother, and flung her arms round his neck. While returning her embrace, he said in a low voice, Who have you got with you?

Sir Bridgnorth Charlton, she replied. He takes great interest in you, and has just been making inquiries about you.

Not many minutes ago, I told your sister it would give me sincere pleasure if I could render you any service, said Sir Bridgnorth. I did not expect so soon to have an opportunity of saying the same thing to you. I beg you will look upon me as a friend.

I am greatly beholden to you, Sir Bridgnorth, replied the young man. I have very few friends left.

Mine are not mere idle professions, as you will find, if you choose to put them to the proof, said Sir Bridgnorth.

You speak so earnestly and so kindly that I cannot but credit what you say, rejoined Chetwynd; and I am the more inclined to believe you, since I have never done you a favour. Indeed, if my recollection serves me right, you have more reason to dislike than to befriend me.

Your sister will tell you that the past is forgotten.

Sir Bridgnorth has a noble heart, said Mildred. You may speak freely before him. He knows all that has occurred, and is aware that you have refused to accept any allowance from Mrs. Calverley.

And I may add that I sympathise with you, said Sir Bridgnorth.

What has brought you back so suddenly? said Mildred. Are you in any difficulty?

In a most desperate difficulty, he replied. I want two hundred pounds, and must have the money by to-morrow morning. I could procure it at once from Carteret; but I would rather shoot myself than accept a farthing from Mrs. Calveriey. Can you help me?

I can, interposed Sir Bridgnorth, quickly. Luckily, I have the amount about me. In this pocket-book, he added, producing one as he spoke, you will find the sum you require. Repay me at your convenience.

A thousand thanks, Sir Bridgnorth? cried Chetwynd. You have, indeed, conferred a very great obligation upon me, and I shall not speedily forget it. Ere long, I hope to be able to return you the money.

Dont trouble yourself on that score; but let me see you soon. Come to me at Charlton.

I cannot promise to visit you immediately, Sir Bridgnorth, replied the young man.