Ainsworth William Harrison - Chetwynd Calverley стр 24.

In look, bearing, physiognomy, costume, manner, he differed from the present generation. But there was no better gentleman, no cheerier companion, no stauncher friend, no better rider to hounds, than Sir Leycester Barfleur, the last of the old Cheshire squires.

II. A CONSULTATION

Lady Barfleur was not well enough to appear; but Emmeline and Mildred, who had been impatiently expecting his visit, received him in the drawing-room.

They were attired in deep mourning; and, though there was no personal resemblance between them, they looked like sisters.

After some inquiries respecting Lady Barfleur, and messages of condolence to her, Sir Bridgnorth looked at Mildred, who interpreted his glance correctly, and said:

You may speak freely of Chetwynd before Miss Barfleur, Sir Bridgnorth. She takes great interest in him.

A very great interest, added Emmeline. I hope you bring us some news of him?

Very little, replied Sir Bridgnorth. And what I do bring is not satisfactory. You desire me to speak plainly about your brother, Miss Calverley?

Most certainly! she replied.

Well, then, you may remember, when I accidentally met him at Ouselcroft, I gave him a pocket-book, containing a certain sum of money?

I am not likely to forget your kindness, replied Mildred.

It appears there was rather more in the pocket-book than I thought, pursued Sir Bridgnorth bank notes to the amount of three hundred pounds. I mention this, because your brother has most scrupulously repaid me the exact sum, of which he kept a memorandum.

He behaved like a man of honour! cried Emmeline.

Undoubtedly. But I did not want the money back. I want to assist him. I want him to come to me to talk to me.

Will he not do so? said Mildred.

I fear not. I suspect he is still in difficulties.

If so, he must be got out of them, and you must manage it, Sir Bridgnorth, said Mildred.

But I cant manage it, my dear young lady. I dont know where to find him.

But he must be found! cried Emmeline.

Easily said; but not so easily accomplished, rejoined Sir Bridgnorth, smiling at her vivacity. I have used every endeavour, but can obtain no clue to him.

Is he in London? asked Mildred.

I believe so, he replied.

Surely then he can be discovered? she remarked.

I have not succeeded in discovering him, that is all I can say, rejoined Sir Bridgnorth. And I have really taken a great deal of trouble in the business. He has been remarkably successful in hiding himself.

Do not keep anything back from me, I pray you, dear Sir Bridgnorth! said Mildred. Is he without resources?

I cannot imagine so, he replied. He must have had some funds to enable him to repay me, unless and he paused.

Unless what? said Mildred.

You enjoin me to speak the truth, replied Sir Bridgnorth; and I will do so at the hazard of giving you and Miss Barfleur pain. My idea is that he has lost money at play. Mind, I have no proof of what I assert. It is simply conjecture.

I fear you are right, Sir Bridgnorth, said Mildred, heaving a deep sigh.

In your opinion, Sir Bridgnorth, said Emmeline, who had listened anxiously to the discourse in your opinion, I say, has Chetwynd lost a considerable sum of money at play?

I fear so.

Has he paid it?

I fear not.

There was a pause, during which the two young ladies regarded each other wistfully.

At length, Mildred spoke.

Sir Bridgnorth, she said, Chetwynds debts of honour and she emphasised the word must be paid, and shall be paid, at any sacrifice, by me! You will do me the greatest kindness by finding out exactly how he is circumstanced, what he owes, and, especially, what are his debts of honour.

Emmeline looked earnestly at Sir Bridgnorth, as if she felt equally interested in the inquiry.

Sir Bridgnorth was evidently troubled, and for some moments made no answer.

Excuse me, my dear Miss Calverley, he said; if your brother is in a scrape, I think he should be allowed to get out of it as he best can.

No! exclaimed Mildred, decidedly. It is not like me, Sir Bridgnorth, to give such advice.

No! added Emmeline, equally decidedly. He must be freed!

Upon my word, said Sir Bridgnorth, surprised, whatever may have happened to him, this young man cannot be called unfortunate.

Then act as a true friend to him, dear Sir Bridgnorth! said Mildred. Make immediate arrangements to get him out of all difficulties. You will incur no personal responsibility.

None whatever, said Emmeline.

Sir Bridgnorth was much touched.

I think you had better leave him to himself, he said. But, since you wont, I must needs help you Ill do all I can. But I cannot proceed as expeditiously as I could desire. I have reason to believe Chetwynd is living in London under a feigned name. Since all private inquiries have proved unsuccessful, I will cause some carefully-worded advertisements to be inserted in the newspapers, that may catch his eye and bring him forward. Could he be made aware that a beautiful young lady takes an interest in him, I am sure he would speedily reappear. But fear no indiscretion on my part. Nothing shall be disclosed till the proper moment arrives. Then, addressing Mildred, he added: As soon as I can ascertain the amount of his debts, I will let you know.