The Works of George W. M. Reynolds — page 145: what you’re looking at

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128 REYNOLDS’ WORKS manner,” proceeded the earl, “‘ and therefore come with me and I will introduce you to the ladies and my son.” Thus speaking, the earl opened a casement reaching down to the ground, and which therefore served the purpose of a glass door, affording egress upon the grounds. Christian followed with a heart palpitating violently. A thousand hopes and fears swept in a few moments through his mind, for he knew that now was the crisis to decide whether he should retain the post so eagerly sought, or whether the earl should think fit to decline his services. “My dear Ethel,’’ exclaimed the old nobleman, hastening toward the countess, ‘“‘ I am going to do what I have said. I shall write my memoirs. I have engaged a secretary, he is fully competent, we begin work to-morrow morning, and as he is a very genteel youth, I want to introduce him,” Lord Osmond fancied at the first glance which he threw upon Christian that he had seen him somewhere before, but did not instantaneously recollect the how or the when. But Isabella’s astonishment — and we may add her pleasure — were great indeed on perceiving Christian Ashton diffi- dently advancing behind her uncle, and on hearing the old nobleman proclaim that he had engaged him as a secretary. “Why, Cousin Bella!” said Lord Osmond, suddenly re- membering where he had seen Christian, and now turning to Miss Vincent, “ this is the very young gentleman who acted so nobly three or four weeks back at the review.”’ “-Hey! — what?’ cried the earl, in astonishment, but by no means in dissatisfaction. ‘‘ Mr. Ashton the one who chastised that impertinent coxcomb? How was it you did not mention his name, Bella? ”’ ‘““T did mention his name, uncle,” answered Miss Vincent, with a modest blush. ‘‘ I told you it was Mr. Ashton, with whom I happened to be acquainted.” ‘Yes, I remember perfectly well,’’ said the Countess of Lascelles, ‘‘ that Isabella mentioned Mr. Ashton’s name.” “Then I had forgotten it,’ exclaimed the nobleman. “ But it is no matter.” “JT am pleased to meet you again, Mr. Ashton,” said Lord Osmond, frankly proffering his hand to our young hero. Isabella also gave him her hand, and again did the modest blush appear upon her countenance. Lord Osmond observed that tremulous confusion on her part, but affected not to CONNIE NO KS m