A Silver Brand — page 51: what you’re looking at

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

A SILVER BRAND. 43 the baron. “Stephano has neglected himself too long. Jam sorry that he will miss your acquaint- ance, Mr. Dalberg. Must you really leave us to- © morrow 2” : “T think if is really imperative. Iam the loser that it should be so,” returned Aubrey, “especially when I should enjoy another sunset from those olorious Heights.” “Why not have it,” suggested Roderich, care- lessly. “Thereisa charming moon. And it would be no great hardship to ride away just before mid- night. You would gain the same starting hour from the city.” oe | aes “How pretty it would be! Ishould like it of all things,” responded Aubrey. “I think it would be something to remember all a life-time to ride from hence under a midnight moon, through the silence of sleeping towns.” “T should like it myself. What says my father and Herr von Schubert?” responded Count Roderich, © laying with the golden spoon lying on the pearly rim of his coffee cup. The baron shrugged his shoulders carelessly. “Tt matters naught to me, since I-am not asked to brave the chill and damp of the night air. Boys will be boys, Isuppose. I confess I have. lost my sentimental admiration for moonshine.” “Might I accompany you?” smiled Lady Theresa, . addressing her brother, but looking at Aubrey. The latter colored a little with sheer pleasure. Had the wine and the brilliant lights given him an intoxicating thrill? He was inclined to believe him- self already half in love with the beautiful woman. He gave her his arm, and she accepted it, although Von Schubert was offering his.. The latter turned away, a satirical smile on his lips, while a black frown crept over his forehead. The baron followed the youthful pair with ap- proving eyes. He and Roderich exchanged a swift and meaning glance, and both hastened to the little - parlor whither Lady Theresa directed Aubrey’s steps. The lady sank down into the pile of velvet cushions which formed a tede-a-tete sofa, Her com- Gomicbooks (Efe)