A Silver Brand — page 50: what you’re looking at

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

49 A SILVER BRAND. eye flashing ominously, his hand outstretched. But immediately the latter fell heavily to his side. __ “What matter? an unbidden guest may bring goood luck!” he muttered. And then he spoke aloud, authoritatively, to the chief waiter. “Lay another cover. And bring a fifth chair— Herr von Schubert will grace our festive board with his august presence.” | | Von Schubert bowed still in that cool, formal fashion, which is more irritating to a nervous mood than the most provoking speech. “Indeed, my lord baron, I did not imagine you would slight the august individual whom my hum- ble person represents at Schwarzenberg Heights. And therefore I came hither when the unusual preparations gave me to understand that a banquet was to be given in the American gentleman’s honor. Ihave no doubt the butler forgot to deliver your request for my presence.” The baron gnawed impatiently at his under lip - ere he made reply. But Lady Theresa interposed her clear, sweet voice: | “One may well be pardoned for forgetting a little item of etiquette at such atime. Methinks the old Schwarzenberg heir-looms must themselves rejoice to see the light once more. Herr von Schubert, will you take the seat at my left, and enjoy the unusual sight of festivity in the old walls?” | “Thanks, fair lady,” returned Von Schubert, gallantly. i And throughout the Leet Ge entertainment that followed he devoted himself to the girl, notwith- standing her own sweetest attentions were bestowed upon the American. “I trust your brother is improving,” he said, as they rose at length. | “Alack, poor Stephano! I’m afraid it is the con- trary,” returned she. “He was naturally anxious to join us here, and to claim the acquaintance of Mr. Dalberg. He made the attempt to leave his couch, and fainted, I fear that it will be long ere he is free to come and go about the house.” | “Imust have the physician here again,” spoke Eomichboo cS com: