The Mysteries of the Court of London — page 139: what you’re looking at

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

PHILANTHROPY 117 geance the most implacable which had in reality taken place. It was therefore with the ease and respectful courtesy of a polished gentleman that Arthur Eaton congratulated Lady Holderness upon her marriage; and, turning toward her husband, he said, “‘ I now have the pleasure of renewing to your lordship in words those felicitations which I have already conveyed in writing, upon your elevation to the peerage.” ‘‘T thank you, my dear Arthur,” returned the nobleman, “‘for the letter which I received from you on the subject. I regret that your father is not at home, that 1 might have the opportunity of expressing my gratitude toward him for his recent kindness toward me. But in surrendering the pension which he condescended to allow me,” continued Lord Holderness, his tone and manner acquiring a certain degree of hauteur, ‘ that pension which he lately aug- mented so considerably, I am bound to testify in writing the deep sense that I entertain — ”’ “Surely, my dear Lord Holderness,” interrupted Arthur, *“‘ this is not the most suitable time to converse upon matters of business.”’ “It is precisely that I may feel the true independence of sincere friendship,” exclaimed the nobleman, ‘‘ that I am anxious to throw off as much as possible, and likewise as soon as may be convenient, the weight of obligation which presses upon me. This relief will my mind experience so soon as I shall have written a few words to your father. Will you oblige me with writing-materials, Arthur? ” “Tf your lordship be determined to make this visit one of business as well as of friendship,’ said the young gentle- man, “I cannot resist your purpose any further. I will therefore ring for my writing-desk — ”’ ‘Or stay,” interrupted Lord Holderness. ‘‘I will not give you so much trouble, and, moreover, I would rather be alone for a few minutes while penning the letter. Allow me, therefore, to retire to the library. I know the way — There, do not think of accompanying me any farther.” ae And, gently pushing Arthur back, as the young gentleman courteously opened the door for him, Lord Holderness hurried from the apartment. The moment the door closed behind him, the Honourable COMmiclsoo CO