Joseph Wilmot, or, The Memoirs of a Man-Servant — page 265: what you’re looking at

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— nner 252 confusion in which joy and anxiety were likewise commingled. “We would not let you be disturbed, Joseph,” said Sir Alexander, “after your fatigues of last night: but now that you are up, you can follow us. We will return to breakfast presently.” Having thus spoken, the Baronet gave his arm to Miss Vennachar; and they walked forth from the tavern, followed by the valet, Grace, and my- self. I half understood the meaning of what was to take place: I was not however certain, and did not like to inquire of Grace—much less of the valet. But the maid, though naturally reserved and taciturn, could not help speaking on this occa- sion; and in a low hurried whisper she gave me to understand that the marriage was to be at once solemnized. I was rejoiced at this intelligence, which confirmed the half-suspicion I had already entertained ;—I was rejoiced, I say, because I felt that in another half-hour Emmeline would be altogether beyond the sphere 'of the overbearing tyranny of her uncle and cousin. CHAPTER XLVIII THE HOTEL AT PERTH. THE marriage was solemnized—Emmeline was now Lady Carrondale—the lovers were rewarded for their faith and constancy; and I was infinitely rejoiced at beholding this triumph and this happi- ness. We returned to the little inn; and after breakfast, Sir Alexander Carrondale took me aside, and spoke to me in the following terms :— “You are aware, Joseph, that Mr. Duncansby is lying ill at Perth. Though sufficiently recovered to be out of danger, and even to be beyond the fear of a relapse—or at least I sincerely hope so— yet some days must still pass by ere he will be convalescent. Were he in any real peril, rest assured that I should not think of abandoning him: but as he is in a condition which leaves no farther apprehension in my mind, I may safely entrust him to the care of one towards whom he himself entertains a kind feeling, and who I am sure reciprocates the sentiment. That person is yourself, Joseph. Of course you have no thought of returning to Inch Methglin; and it now becomes a duty as well as a pleasure on my part, to pro- vide for you. I propose in the first instance that you shall be the bearer to Mr. Duncansby of the happy intelligence that Miss Vennachar has this morning become Lady Carrondale. You,” con- tinued the Baronet, with a friendly smile, “who have so generously and so enthusiastically borne a part in the circumstances which have led to this crowning of my happiness, are the most proper person to convey the glad tidings to one who will rejoice to receive them.” “Tt will indeed afford me, sir, great pleasure,” I said, “to convey this intelligence.” “I was sure that such would be your feeling,” observed Sir Alexander. “You will give this letter to Mr. Duncansby. I therein tell that worthy gentleman that you will remain with him at Perth until he shall be entirely convalescent. When he is able to return to Edinburgh, you will retrace your way to Carrondale, and take up your JOSEPH WILMOT; OR, THE MEMOIRS OF A MAN-SERVANT. abode at the castle. Some of the rooms are already fitted up—several domestics whom I have engaged are there; and you will present this letter’—at the same time handing me another—“to my in- tendant. You will find, Joseph, that I have appointed you his deputy: for henceforth you shall no longer fill a menial position, nor wear the badge of servitude. Your duty will be to assist the intendant in supervising the proceedings of the work-people engaged in the repair of the castle, and in overlooking the domestics while putting the rooms in order. Your salary shall be liberal; and you may rest assured that I shall al- ways have a regard for your welfare.” I thanked the Baronet in suitable terms for his kindness and handsome conduct towards me; but he rapidly cut me short, and proceeded as follows :— “T am about to proceed with her ladyship to England, by way of Glasgow ; and we shall pro- bably remain in the southern kingdom for two or three months—as her ladyship would naturally seek to avoid the chance of falling in with her relatives of Inch Methglin, until their first feelings of resentment shall have subsided, and perhaps the way for a reconciliation paved. I have already sent for a couple of grooms from the castle, to take back the three horses to Inch Methglin ; and they shall have instructions to bring your boxes with them on their return.” In the meanwhile a post-chaise and four, which had been sent for from a town about five miles dis- tant, arrived at the village of Carrondale: and Sir Alexander, accompanied by his lovely bride, and at- tended by his valet and Grace, took his immediate departure for Glasgow. I mounted the horse which the valet had ridden during the past night from Perth; and set out towards that'town. The distance was soon accomplished: and on arriving at the hotel, my prompt inquiry was relative to Mr. Dun- cansby’s health. I received a satisfactory response, and ascended to that gentleman’s chamber. He was lying in bed, propped up with pillows; and his countenance showed that he had indeed been dangerously ill. His features however expressed a real pleasure when he beheld me; and they became animated with infinite delight when I imparted the intelligence of the bridal. “God bless you, young man,” said Mr Dun- cansby, “I all along knew that Inch Methglin would be outwitted, and that so much love on the part of the Baronet and Emmeline would have their reward. And so you aided and managed the flight? It was gallantly and nobly done! You have proved faithful throughout—and you will have your recompense. But let us see what Sir Alexander says in his letter to me :”’—then having read the communication, the lawyer went on to observe, “To be sure! it is much better that they should go and spend the honeymoon afar from the chances of annoyance on the part of the Inch Methglins. Depend upon it, the Chief will for- give his niece in the long run: but even if he should not, it will be of no consequence, after all his tyranny and selfishness. As for Lennox, I have no doubt he will rave like a madman when he hears of his cousin’s marriage. And so you are going to remain with me until I am con- valescent? Well, I accept your services: indeed I am glad to have you with me. You can read OOO S (C(O) im