The Mysteries of the Court of London — page 346: what you’re looking at

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

THE SAFE AND THE CASH-BOX 315 a voice which was tremulous, and so low as to be scarcely audible, ‘‘I leave England to-morrow —I set out to re- join Zoe.” “Lord Octavian,’ replied Christina, scarcely able to keep back the tears which ineffable emotions sent up to the very brims of her eyelids, “ you are now performing the noblest part, you are taking the most generous course which you could possibly adopt, and Heaven will bless you.” ‘“‘ Alas! Christina,’’ said Meredith, in a low, deep voice, as before, “‘ happiness and duty do not always go hand in hand.” ‘‘ Yes, you will be happy, Lord Octavian,” replied Chris- tina, impressively, ‘‘ because your conscience will tell you that you are acting rightly, and because Heaven, which ever succours good intentions, will give you strength to perform your duties thus. You will go to the amiable Zoe, you will rejoin her, you know how deeply and fondly she loves you —”’ “Enough, Christina!’ interrupted Octavian, now with a gust of vehemence. ‘“ Speak not thus, or you will deter me from my purpose.” ‘“‘ Heaven forbid! ”’ cried the young maiden, emphatically. ‘“* My lord, in Zoe’s name I thank you for this noble resolve that you have adopted. And now let us retire hence.” “What, not another word before we separate, Christina? ’’ said Octavian, again speaking passionately. ‘‘ No word of hope, no word of promise —”’ ““ My lord,” she interrupted him, and it was now with a certain friendliness of manner, blending with true maidenly dignity, “ you have resolved upon a good deed, you are at length doing an act of justice; for Heaven’s sake mar it not by any weakness or folly now. Let us at once retire, my lord. And if you need one word, yes, just one word, let me bid you rest assured that you shall have my prayers for the welfare and happiness of yourself and your amiable wife.” “Christina, you are an angel,’ exclaimed Meredith. “ You inspire me with courage to do my duty. And _ be- lieve me it shall be performed.” Without another word Lord Octavian gave his arm to Christina, and led her forth from the conservatory. She ECORNICLOOOKS (CO)