The Works of George W. M. Reynolds — page 73: what you’re looking at

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

56 REYNOLDS’ WORKS you, Mr. Gunthorpe, but also that my aunt, Lady Mac- donald, may write and ask you to come and dine with us.” ‘But where is Holborn?” asked Lord Saxondale. ‘ At the West End here, we know nothing of those regions.” ‘“T thank your ladyship for your kindness,” said Mr. Gunthorpe, not taking the slightest notice of the imperti- nent young aristocrat, nor yet appearing the least abashed by the supercilious treatment he received. ‘“‘I shall be delighted to form the acquaintance of Lady Macdonald.” Then, turning toward Harold, he said, ““ When your lordship honours me with a call, perhaps it will be before twelve, as I have a great deal of business in the City, and shall be engaged there every day from noon till five.” ‘“ Before twelve? ”’ echoed Lord Harold Staunton, again rendered quite aghast. ‘“‘ Mr. Gunthorpe, you must pardon me, but I[—I-—am not up, usually speaking, at that hour.” ‘Oh, well, then, I must endeavour to make an arrange- ment more suited to your convenience,” said the old gentle- man. ‘“ But I will let you know.” He then bowed once more, and hastened away from the box. “Well, wasn’t I right?” exclaimed Saxondale. ‘“ Did you ever see such a figure of fun in all your life? ” ‘Your lordship should remember,”’ said Florina, in a tone of firm rebuke, “‘ that Mr. Gunthorpe is a friend of my uncle’s. Besides, he is an old gentleman, and should be treated with respect. Look,’’ she added, handing Edmund the letter which was addressed to herself and over which she had just glanced her eyes, ‘ you see what my uncle says.” Lord Saxondale took the letter, the laconic contents of which were as follows: ‘“ Naples, May 23, 1844. “My pEAR NiEcE: — The bearer of this is my intimate friend, Mr. Gunthorpe, who for many years has been the most considerable English banker in Naples. He has now retired from business, and is returning to England. .I know that you will show him every becoming attention. ‘“ Your affectionate uncle, EKAGLEDEAN,” CONNIE NOOO KS (E(@)