When he was
alone at Athens, he did nothing but write. George says that all his
former works are nothing to what he has written now.'
'He is very engaging,' said Lady Annabel.
'I think he will be such a delightful companion for papa. I am sure
papa must like him. I hope he will stay some time; for, after all,
poor dear papa, he must require a little amusement besides our
society. Instead of being with his books, he might be walking and
talking with Plantagenet. I think, dearest mother, we shall be happier
than ever!'
At this moment Herbert, with Cadurcis leaning on his arm, and
apparently speaking with great earnestness, appeared in the distance.
'There they are,' said Venetia; 'I knew they would be friends. Come,
dearest mother, let us meet them.'
'You see, Lady Annabel,' said Lord Cadurcis, 'it is just as I said:
Mr. George is not here; he is having tea and toast on board the brig.'
'I do not believe it,' said Venetia, smiling.
They seated themselves at the breakfast-table.
'You should have seen our Apennine breakfasts in the autumn, Lord
Cadurcis,' said Herbert. 'Every fruit of nature seemed crowded before
us. It was indeed a meal for a poet or a painter like Paul Veronese;
our grapes, our figs, our peaches, our mountain strawberries, they
made a glowing picture.
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