"
"The cards are quite artistic this year," said Lady Esmondet; "but of
yours, I think the one from poor Marie Perrault the most
_recherchee_."
"She encloses me a few lines; poor girl, she makes a great fuss over
the few bits of gold I sent her. I have just read a letter from Mrs.
Wingfield; after a good deal of chit-chat she says: We are staying at
the Lord Elton's place, Surrey, and are quite lively over the
Trevalyon's 'Hidden Wife' story; the men are mad that he runs loose,
while they are held in bondage with the fetters that he should be held
in also. I declare, god-mother dear, one is inclined to think envy is
the motive power that rules the human family."
"Indeed, yes; envy, hatred and malice are a prosperous firm who will
not fail for want of capital."
"This Major Delrose, that the Marchmonts named, must be a sworn enemy
of poor dear Lionel?"
"He is, and of years."
"Ah! an intuitive feeling told me so; and at Rose Cottage; and the
woodland at the outskirts of our grounds hides it from the Hall; and a
man and woman could meet and plot unobserved; but, god-mother mine,
let us away to dress; the first bells are sounding their sweet musical
invitation, and I shall try to forget Mrs.
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