The Mysteries of the Court of London — page 53: what you’re looking at

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

THE PORTRAIT 35 of the Indies would be pauperism in comparison there- with.” ‘Tis thy love only which I seek, Eleanor,” responded the treacherous criminal, as he strained that confiding and noble-hearted woman to his tainted breast. They now resumed their seats upon the sofa, composed their countenances and their feelings as well as they were able, — and oh, how different were those feelings that ani- mated them! — and they then began to settle their plans for an early flight from the British capital and from the English shores. But in the midst of this conversation the Earl of Desbor- ough entered the room; and, actually torturing his inward being with the efforts that he made to assume a calm and even smiling exterior, the deeply to be pitied nobleman said, “ That young artist, Eleanor, in whom, as you are aware, I have taken some interest, has brought a portrait which he wishes to exhibit to us. He assures me it is one of rather a startling character, though merely a portrait; but more, he will not tell me until he removes the cloth which covers it. Will you not gratify his very pardonable vanity by con- senting to inspect this work of art? And perhaps Mr. Wake- field will likewise honour him?” added the earl, turning toward Ramsey. ‘‘T should have much pleasure, my lord,’ replied this individual, who invariably found some handy excuse for avoiding a meeting with any strangers who visited the mansion, “‘ but I have a letter to write, of some importance, too, and I perceive,” he exclaimed, glancing toward the time- piece on the mantel, “ that I shall scarcely be enabled to save the post.” Thus speaking, he bowed and quitted the room. “ You will accompany me, Eleanor, to the parlour, where Mr. Woodfall is waiting my return and your presence? ”’ said the earl, taking his wife’s hand. “Oh, certainly, if it will give you pleasure, Francis,” she replied, a sudden emotion of pity, and even of remorse, springing up in her bosom at the idea that in a few hours she was to desert and abandon for ever the husband whose conduct had been characterized by unvarying kindness, generosity, and indulgence toward her. The earl grasped her hand somewhat tightly, as if with (C(O) Anyi } KS \