The Mysteries of the Court of London — page 159: what you’re looking at

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

MR. RIGDEN’S OFFICE | 133 “Such, I believe, are the facts,’ said the attorney. “But what then? ” “Simply that Miss Foster lies under the deepest obliga- tions to the Marchioness of Bellenden, and that her ladyship consequently exercises a boundless influence over the girl,”’ continued Caroline. ‘‘ This influence can of course be brought to bear upon George Woodfall; and now I will ask you, Mr. Rigden, whether you have not found the young gentle- man hanging back somewhat during the last few weeks? ” ‘““ Well,” said the lawyer, in a deliberate tone as he took a pinch of snuff, ‘‘ since you mention the fact, I must confess — indeed I cannot conceal from myself — that Mr. Woodfall has not appeared so particularly urgent of late as he was at first, and he has moreover hinted that he experienced some reluctance in disturbing Lord Florimel in the enjoyment of the peerage, although he would certainly like to adjust the matter of the fortune in an amicable manner.’ ‘“‘ Now, will you believe Mr. Rigden,’’ demanded Caroline, “that some secret influence has been at work? ”’ ‘“‘ But wherefore should the Marchioness of Bellenden interfere? ”’ cried the attorney. ‘“‘ Is it because I am Lord Montgomery’s solicitor and engaged against her ladyship in the memorable case which has been so long pending be- tween his lordship and her, and which now verges toward a close? I can scarcely think that a lady who is so celebrated for her many virtues, her amiability, and her generous feel- ings can possibly stoop to such meanness as to exercise her influence over Woodfall, simply because chance has made me his professional adviser.”’ ““ We will not stop to inquire into motives, Mr. Rigden,”’ said Caroline; ‘ but we will fix our attention upon facts. it is clear, then, that the marchioness has used her influence to some little degree to prevent Mr. Woodfall from being too precipitate in the business — ”’ “‘ But she has been absent for some weeks,” observed Rigden. ‘“‘‘True. Miss Rose Foster has, however, remained at the priory, in the care of a trusty old housekeeper, during the visit of Lady Bellenden to the country,” said Caroline; “‘ and Mr. Woodfall has of course visited the girl frequently. The marchioness has no doubt corresponded with Rose, and the advice insidiously conveyed in her ladyship’s letters COMNMUC OOO) SS mn