The Works of George W. M. Reynolds — page 307: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

290 THE COURT OF LONDON musing tone, as if he deliberated upon the point, instead of having already made up his mind to it. Then consulting his watch, he said, * It is now past three o’clock. Tell the young ladies that, in order to avoid unpleasant observation, I will meet them at five punctually on the shore of the lake — near that old jetty which we see yonder,” he added, after Sweeping his eyes around in search of a specific place of appointment. ‘“ Your message shall be faithfully delivered, and I promise you the girls shall be punctually there. But may I hope, indeed, am I to understand from the remark you have just made, that you do not purpose to vex and annoy our dear princess|—— ‘“ Madam,”’ interrupted the baron, sternly, for the mingled hypocrisy and effrontery of the woman was more than he could patiently endure, ‘‘ you must be well aware that I have learned too much to believe for a single instant that you or the three sisters have any regard, love, or pity for the princess. Nevertheless, madam, I do not object to inform you that it is my intention to deal delicately, warily, and cautiously with her Royal Highness in respect to the terrible things which have come to my knowledge. I will even add that provided the Misses Owen follow in all things the course which I shall presently point out to them, they shall, at least until to-morrow, be guaranteed against exposure to the princess.’’ ‘“ Ah! this is most kind, most considerate on your part,” exclaimed Mrs. Ranger. ‘‘ But, my dear baron, will you not tell me exactly how matters stand — ”’ ‘““T have no more to say at present,’’ interrupted the royal equerry, with a coldness and sternness that precluded any further observation on the harridan’s part. ‘“‘ We are both about returning to the villa,’ he added, ‘ but there are different paths to reach the same point.”’ Thereupon he quickly passed Mrs. Ranger by, and ha- stened along the main road toward the villa, while she took the path across the fields. For the present we will follow Bergami, who, on reaching the villa, immediately sought the princess, and this was the first time he had found himself alone with her since he had been in her service. She was in a parlour the window ol which opened on the lawn in front of the house, and com- | EONMICELNCO KS m