UNIVERSITY OF N.C. AT CHAPEL HILL 00022274762 £ THE MYSTERIES OF LONDON, Digitized by the Internet Archive in 2011 with funding from University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill http://www.archive.org/details/mysteriesoflondoOOstep THE MYSTERIES OF LONDON; OR REVELATIONS OE THE BRITISH METROPOLIS. TRANSLATED FROM THE FRENCH BY K, STEPHENSON. LONDON: PUBLISHED BY J. S. PRATT. MDCCCXIiVXI. m ^fu^k-- 4 • ! THE MYSTERIES OF LONDON. CHAPTER I. On a Sunday evening in the month of Novem- ber, the brave Captain Paddy O'Chrane was seated in the parlour of the 'Crown Arms,' before a Ga- ble, upon which was displayed a huge bumper of gin and water. Paddy O'Cbrane was an Irishman, six feet high, with a n)03t attenuated waist, set off to the best advantage by a blue coat with black buttons, while his lower extremities were cased in deer-skin breeches, buckled upon home made stockings. Enormous shoes, stained with a specimen of every soil in the metropolis, covered his feet. On the opposite side of the parlour, there was seated an individual about forty years of age, clothed in apparel which, though unostentatious, indicated the man of ease, with a sincere and calm expression of countenance, and an eye whose fix- ed, dilated, and meaningless pupil proved that the power of vision had fled for ever. He was a frequent visitor at this tavern, and was known by the name of Tyrrel the blind man. Mrs, Burnett, was seated on her throne in its 8 MYSTERIES appropriate position behind the bar, which she condescended to leave at intervals, and whisper graciously to Captain Paddy, who was evidently a favourite customer of the landlady. Between the doors a maid was standing — a maid whose beauty of countenance and symmetry of form would have showered into her lap countless ingots of gold, in those days when artists were princes, and lavished upon their cherished models the most extravagant wealth. She was of unsurpassed loveliness. Her profile recalled to mind those perfect models in which the ancient masters embodied their dreams of beauty, while upon her brow were traced the severe lineaments of dignity and reserve. A score of individuals, whose disordered cos- tume bespoke watermen of the Thames, now crowded into the tap- room, and immediately call- ed for unmixed gin, which they imbibed in copi- ous draughts, standing before the bar. Susannah, my darling, exclaimed the captain, mix me sixpence worth of gin, cold without ■■ adding thereto the faintest idea of a lemon. The beautiful maid to whom the order was ad- dressed, did not apparently hear it, for she re- mained immovable. I'll be hanged if she will hear me, grumbled the captain, I shall appeal to the landlady — Mistress Burnett ; Mistress Burnett ! The queen of the 'Crown Arms' entered with the majesty of gait becoming her sovereignty, mingled with the modesty of demeanour which wa=? du-i to her guests. Mistress Burnett was short and plethoric, and her red face was enhan- OF LONDON. 9 ced in brilliancy by a full muslin cap, which tow- ered two feet from the top of her head. I'll be drawn and quartered, mistress, if I have not sung out, Susannah, at the top of my lungs ! but you might fire off a forty eight pounder in her ears, and the devil take me if she would stir any the more for that. Susyl screamed Mistress Burnett, in a shrill tone. A tremendous motion agitated the eyelids of the blind man. The maiden stirred not! Mrs. Burnett rushed towards the girl, and shaking her roughly by the arm, exclaimed, What vou lazy piece, will you not move when gentlemen call ? The motionless form of the maid now suddenly started back, while her face became purple with emotion. A faint smile visited the lips of the blind man, while his hands sought each other, as if thoughts not entirely unpleasant were passing through his mind. Susannah soon resumed her attitude of silent indifference ; the fire faded from her dark eye, and her features resumed their usual expression of haughty reserve. The courage of Mistress Burnett now revived. What ! she exclaimed ; give bread to a poor wretch like this: harbour a miserable beggar, who repays your hospitality by displeasing your customers., and ruining your establishment. Mistress Burnett, exclaimed the captain, from his place •, it was not my intention to kick up such a row ; leave the girl alone, and give me my drink, if you have any compassion on my stomach. 10 MYSTERIBS The landlady obeyed, but revenged herself for the cool impertinence of the captain, by adopting the invariable gesture of vulgar women in such circumstances, and thrusting her clenched fist un- der Susannah's nose. The girl smiled haughtily; and the blind man swallowed his wine at one draught, exclaiming : 1 would not exchange my enjoyment this evening for a hundred guineas. Five o'clock now sounded from the tavern time- piece ; the gang in the tap- room moved from their position, .muttering inaudible words; while one of them, a tall fellow, of herculean proportions, thrust his head into the parlour- door. The cap- tain arose, suddenly. Well, well, Turnbull, you scamp, he grumbled, while buttoning his light blue coat, in military fashion. Susannah! Susannah! — She won't hear me, you see, Mistress Burnett; I shall return this evening, my good lady, if, the devil do not fly away with me. Have my drink ready — sixpence worth of gin, you know, cold without, with the faintest idea of a leoion. The captain now took his cane and descended the steps of the tavern, while the gang of water- men preceded him, directing their course toward Thames street —the only large avenue between the Crown Arms and the river — singing lustily, as they went, and affecting the gait and peculiar- ities of inebriated men. Captain O'Chrane fol lowed them some twenty steps behind. While passing the Custom-house door, where a group of revenue officers were snuffing in the fog, and puf- fipg out the smoke of contraband cigars, the gal- OF LONDON. 11 lant captain touched his hat, in a courteous man- ner. Merry fellows, merry fellows, Mr. Bitern, said he, pointing to the sailors. Yes, yes, merry rascals, Mr. O'Chrane. A devil of a fog, added the captain. A fog for the devil, sir. The captain soon overtook the sailors in a de- serted alley, which leads from the foot of Botaph- lane to the Thames; and the party proceeded along the narrow street in the deepest silence, until they reached a dilapidated staircase, which was seldom used on account of its proximity to the Custom house steps. The captain threw around him a penetrating look, but he detected no suspicious looking object, for, having made a signal to his sailors, he then slowly descended the steps. Who wears the cloak tonight ? demanded the captain. The two men who left the ranks. Sawnie and Patrick, keep a sharp look out my boys ; hurry for the vessel. The two guards remained on the top of the stairs — enveloped their forms in the ample cloaks which they carried under their arms, and lay down motionless upon the ground. The remainder of the company, in equal parties, took possession of three sharp built, low, black looking boats. Oars ready ! said the captain in a low tone, as he seated himself in the admiral's barge, ply away ! and the suspicious fleet left the shore in silence, threading its way through the craft of every ima- ginable shape and size which crowd the wharfs 12 MISTERISS on both sides of the Thames, now gliding beneath Ihe bow of some huge leviathan of the deep, now sliding along the sides of some puffing steamer, while their oars were occasionally entangled in the innumerable ropes and cables that fastened this multitudinous coileetion of vessels to their moorings. The three boats bad new reached the channel of the river, and began mysteriously to glide up the stream. One of the boats now shoved off for South wark; the second parted the waters of the river in a di- rect course for the city ; but the captain's boat continued to pursue its way up the stream. The solitary boat now lefs the middle of the river and shot into that labyrinth of large steam- ers, lighters, pleasure-boats, and huge packets, which obstruct thtir approach to the shore. Charlie skilfully applied the oar, Turnbull seized the helm, and the boat landed in safety at the foot of Temple Gardens, in a small harbour pro- tected by a high house, built partly on stakes and partly on the ground. Upon the side of this house one of the green lights was suspended. The captain groped his way along one of the hugo beams that supported the building, until his hands discovered a wire to which a ring was at- tached : he pulled the wire and the sound of a bell was distinctly heard in the recesses above. A moment intervened and a creeking noise, like that of a trap moving upon rusty hinges broke upon the silence, which was followed by the question, in a suppressed tone. Who is there ? OF LONDON. 16 Fellow, my brave comrade, fellow, replied the captain, giving the pass word ; and how are you, my honest and worthy Master Gruff, and how is the excellent Mrs. Gruff. The ceremonious greeting of the captain was interrupted by a heavy bale a.f merchandise, sus- pended from a rope above, swinging against him as he stood in the boat. Very good, excellent, my brave Gruff; you'll slide through that trap door yourself in the same way one of these foggy evenings. The captain moved back while speaking, and the men released the bale from the hook, deposited it in the bottom of the boat and the rope again ascended. It smells of musk, ssid Tom ; there must be some gentleman's valise in the bale ; fasten the valve, Charlie, before the boat is loaded. The valve plays like a charm, Tom ; but de- liver me from a cold bath to night. A second bail now found its way down, and was placed in the boat; up went the rope, and five bales successively descended through the trap. Down the stream the smuggling fleet now steered ; the tide run with them •, the oars were plied by vigorous arms, and they soon glided be- neath the monumental arches of London Bridge. The fog, borne up byastrong breeze now revealed the forests of slender masts, with their countless sails and ropes, while the water began to reflect the distant lights of the city. The boat now left the middle of the stream in order to improve the shelter afforded by the mer» 14 MYSTKRIE? chantman ; Charlie had dropped his oars ; they were but a few yards from the stairs whence they had embarked, while the two other boats lay mo- tionless in their wake. Mew, Snail, mew as if you were born a cat. Instantly, a noise wonderfully resembling the cries of the feline tribe, was heard from the bot- tom of the boat, which was responded to in a few seconds by a deep bark from the shore. Hang it, grumbled the captain ; we are shut out this time, But after all, that devil of a Sawnie barks so much like a cur, that I cannot tell whe- ther it is he or one of hi3 fellow quadrupeds in the street. Strike up your cat like notes again, Snail. The signal was again repeated, and was again answered by the inimitable bark. There is no mistake ! muttered Turnbull ; 'tis Sawnie himself, and ths Cu3tom-house boats lay between us and the shore. The devil take the officers 1 one would think that we were smugglers, said the captain. Come boys, we must turn about and try to land above the bridge; the breeze is diminishing and the fog thickens ; pull away, pull away ! The three boats moved off simultaneously, but as the boat of O'Chrane left the dark shadow of the ship, a black bark was seen crossing beneath the vessel's prow. Boat ahoy ! cried an imperious voice. Hard up, Tom ; pull Charlie, as if the devil was in your wake ! said the Captain, in a low tone. The boat answered the vigorous efforts of the OS* LONDON. 15 aiiors, and shot like an arrow for the shore ; but i heavy grapple fell over its gunnels, and instantly irrested its course. Cleave it in two ! sung out the captain. Tom seized the axe and applied it lustily. It's a, chain, or I'll be damned, muttered he, in smo- thered rage, Boat ahoy ! was again heard, No response was given. The chain which held the grapple was now stretched, and the boat was suddenly drawn towards the ominous object from which the imperious voice proceeded. The cap- tain thrust his hat over his brows, and secured his cane in his belt. Every man for himself. I'll be hanged if I wished to take a bath this evening ; move off, Charlie ; raise the valve ; heave away, Tom; save himself who can. Tee bottom of the boat now suddenly and mysteriously disappeared ; men and bales were both ingulphed ; and the grappling of the revenue officers caught only the shell and ribs and skele- ton of the boat, from which everything valuable had been stripped. The two other craft, improv- ing the confusion created by this melee, escaped to the shore, and the drenched crew of the admi- ral's barge soon joined their companions. As for the brave Captain Paddy O'Chrane, he went peaceably to his own house, exchanged his moistened garments for a coat of unsoiled blue, breeches of spotless deer- skin, and again directed his footsteps to the Crown Arms, where we first introduced him to the reader. As he was enter- ing the parlour) a scene similar to the one we have 16 MYSTERIES already rehearsed, was again repeated: the vulgar imprecations of Mistress Burnett were received by her singular maid with dignity, hcvutcem\ and disdain. No conduct could more incense the low bred mistress of the hosterly ; she raised her hand, and struck with violence the pale cheek of the maid. In the same position in which we left the blind man, he was seated, upon the re-appearance of the smuggler. He evidently heard the blow, for rising suddenly from his seat, he stretched forward his neck as if he would extract from one sense the service of two, while upon his countenance, which was ordinarily calm, werenowimparted the lines of anxious sympathy. Leaving Thames street, Susannah pursued the same path over which we have already followed the watermen, and soon entered the narrow lane which leads directly to the bank of the river. The blind man rushed forward to join her. Where are you going ? he asked, with deep anxiety. To the Thames, said the girl, without arresting her course- These were the first words which Tyrrel had ' heard from her lips. The sad melorly of her voice harmonized with the melancholy beauty of her features. To the Thames! repeated Tyrrel. Have you any thoughts of death ? I have. Why do you resort to such an awful expedi- ent ? OF LONDON. 17 I have no hope for the future, no shelter for the present. I will give you shelter — I will restore hope to your heart. Susannah hurried on her walk, saying, in an indignant tone, I am not for sale. God forbid, my girl ! 1 love and will not sell myself. Is that the only reason? asked Tyrrel, in a ton© of great surprise. Yes. The girl was now hastening over the short in- terval which separated her from the river, when the blind man seized her by the arm, and asked, with a tone^of great anxiety. Would not shame deter you from soiling your- self? Shame ! she repeated ; no. How then were you educated in childhood? exclaimed Tyrrel, astonished. Eiucated S My mother abandoned me in in- fancy : my father was a jew, and hung at Tyburn as a thief. Have you learned nothing, then ? I know how to live. My father was rich, she added, in a tremulous tone ; before he was hung, I was taught to dress, dance, and speak many of the continental tongues. Do you speak the truth ? I am going to drown myself: why should I lie? The wandering rays of light from a neighbour- ing house fell upon the faces of the actors in this B 18 MYSTERIES singular scene. The beautiful features of the despairing Jewess exposed a supernatural tran- quillity, while the eye of Tyrrel sparkled with a strange fire. But if I should restore to you the life you led in your father's house ? What, my life ? the life of other day3 ? I will restore it. The girl hesitated for an instant, fixing a pene- trating gaze upon the countenance of her compa- nion ; but suddenly disengaging her arm, she ap- proached the river, saying, No, no ; all this has been promised to me before : my soul and body belong to him. Girl, I am bl'nd. The words reached the ears of Su?annah, as sbe was balancing over the parapet, beneath which rolled the dark waters of the Thames. She start- ed back. Blind ! she repeated ; then what can yen want of me ? I want your determination, your spirit. Susannah dropped her head upon her bosom. One day, she muttered, I fell dying with famine and fatigue, upon the threshold of that woman, who has abused me ; in exchange for my liberty she gave me bread ! nothing but bre: d ! Why cannot I be a servant agnin ? Do you accept, then ? asked Tyrrel. What am I to do ? The blind man drew from bis pocket, a well filled purse, and placed it in Susannah's hand. Hear roe. said be • T purchase you not f or myself, I am blind ar>d feebie but for others: foran asso- ciation which is far seeing and powerful. I know OF LONDON. * 1& you better than ycu know yourself. I know what you are capable of accomplishing. Let our inter- view be kept in inviolate secrecy, Faithful obedience : an entire surrender of your own wiii; such are the services required. This night you may rest where inclination shall prompt ; to-mor- row morning knock at the door, the number of which is upon this card ; the door will be opened ; you will enter, and assume overall it contains the authority of mistress, for that house is yours. Farewell, Susannah, we sh^li meet again. CHAPTER II. About the time that Captain Paddy (XChrane escaped an arrest, in the manner that ducks escape a shot, Stephen Macnab, a Scotsman by birth, and a physician by profession, who, if he should live two months longer would be twenty four years of age, gave an arm to each o? his cousins, to conduct them to Temple Church. These two cousins went regularly on the first Sunday of every month to the sanctuary, in order to hear a sermon from the Rev. John Butler, and to unite their voices in any of the pulsus which might, be sung upon the occasion. The elder of the cousins was named Clara; the younger, Anna; their fa- ther, a justice of the peace for the county of Dumfries, resided at Lochmahen, and rejoiced in the name of Augustus Macfarlane. But few prettier girls than Clara and Anna could be found either in city or country. As they glided along the 20 MYSTERIES pavement, or tripped over the heather, their ap« pearance involuntarily recalled those forms, in which the burin of Thompson has embodied the Minna and Brenda Troil of the "Ariosto of the North." There was, however, nothing of north- ern coldness in their style of beauty. They were radiant belles from the south of Scotland, with all the grace of a wild flower, the eye of a gazelle, and a smile like a sunbeam. Clara had the haughtiest look, the loftiest brow, and the most melancholy expression. She was the Minna of Scott. Cheerful timidity was the emotion which most frequently beamed from the childlike coun- tenance of Anna. Fancy mingled no dark colours in the joyous picture she painted of a happy fu- ture. No sad thought had left its outlines upon that careless brow, and that large black eye, which danced and sparkled beneath those long curved lashes, knew no other tears than those flowing from intensity of joy, which dry upon the cheek, and leave no furrows in the soul. Such was Brenda. As they draw near the church, the young phy- sician discarded his gaiety. Fivo years passed at the university, had somewhat chilled the religious xeal he had brought with him from his native soil ; he was an excellent Christian, but still a long: sermon, with an indefinite number of psalms did not appear to him the very height of human felicity. My dear cousins, said he, suddenly, while pass* ing from Fleet street into the Inner Temple, I am a careless fellow. OF LONDON. 21 Why so ? asked Anna, who alone ' heard the remark. Because I have forgotten that it is indispensa- ble for me to call on one of my patients. Stephen pronounced the last word with empha- sis ; the patient, in question, was his first and the only one. You can make the visit to-morrow, suggested Anna. To-morrow ! it may be too late. What shall we do Clara ? asked the youngest sister. Stephen has a business call to make, and we shall be left alone. Our cousin can call for us when his visit is terminated. Certainly, said Stephen : I shall be gone but a moment. They now reached the steps of the church ; the sisters withdrew their arms from their protector. Anna entered the church, evidently disappointed at the desertion of their companion ; while Clara followed her cheerfully, and Stephen remained at the door. *Clara is singularly given, thought he, to meditative moods, and she sacrifices my so- ciety with marked indifference. Suppose I go in. A multitude had been assembled in Temple Church during the whole day ; but it was now exclusively occupied by the small flock of habitual worshippers, composed principally of that ^sex, whose activity of affection, and gentleness of cha- racter, renders them peculiarly susceptible to re- ligious emotions. It was in the choir of this church — one of the oldest relics of Gothic archi- tecture in the metropolis, and distinguished by 22 MYSTJE.R1ES many of ths peculiarities of a Roman Catholic chipel, that the small congregation was now as- sembled. Nothing occurred during the earlier moments of Stephen's observations. The fair cousins- kneeling amid a throng of devotees, were absorbed in spiritual exercise The pastor, stand- ing on the diminutive pulpit, that was placed against one of the wails of the sanctuary, enunci- ated a psalm which was sung in chorus by the entire congregation, A profound silence ensued, devoted to individual communion and personal supplication with the Supreme Ruler of the uni- verse, when the devout worshippers arose from their knees and stood upright. It was not until thi3 change took place in their posture, that Stephen was able to discern the faces of the two sisters. Before she seated herself to listen to the remaining service?, Anna ex- changed glances, and smiles of recognition with acquaintances around her, while her sister fas- tened an indifferent and abstracted gaze upon the same pillar, against which Stephen himself was leaning, An instantaneous shudder shook her frame ; her head sunk involuntarily, and an un- natural paleness expelled ail the colour from her complexion. She has recognized me, was the self compla- cent reflection of the young physician, and by an instinctive movement he concealed his face be- hind the pillar, and waited for several minutes before he again advanced his head with great precaution, Tire girl was still standing in an erect attitude, although all around her were seated, and the ©F LONDON. 23 sermon had commenced. A mysterious power seemed to control her limbs and withstand her volition, and her piercing eye, sparkling with, supernatural fire, was fastened upon the pillar. How strange! thought the excited observer; such an expression I never saw upon her coun- tenance before ; can it be me upon whom she gazes with such a delirious eye? He now passed rapidly around the pillar, and found himself face to face with an individual who was leaning, like himself, against this sup- port •, the eyes of' the stranger were closed, but a faint saiile was playing about his lips, A shudder, which he found it iaipossible to repress, passed over the frame of Stephen. He turned agaii to seek the countenance of his mysterious cousin, but Clara had sunk into her seat, and it was the grateful smiie of Anna that responded to his gaze and shanked him for his presence. I am not the person my cousin was looking at, was now the disheartening reflection of Stephen. He remained for a few moments overpowered with the revelation that had so suddenly burst upon him ; he endeavoured to summon all the firmness of a resolute character to subdue his feelings ; he raised eyes of hatred toward the man who was his rival for the dearest prize : and matured thoughts of blood-stained revenge. Stephen was brave ; several duels in the university had tested his courage; but he was still a Scotchman, and the sword and pisto! seemed to him by no means the safest instruments to handle. The young physician viewed him with mingled spite, admiration, and envy ; the most extrava* 24 MYSTERIES gant vanity could not have been blind to the manner in which his own personal attractions were eclipsed by the nameless charms and graces of the Apollo before him, Jealousy served, more- over, to augment the fascinating appearance of the stranger, and to the excited fancy of his rival, the careless dreamer appeared to be one of those beings endowed with irresistible powers — that seductive magic of eye which renders powerless the shield of innocence, and puts to flight the angel guardians of virtue. To Stephen's eye he appeared an exaggerated Don Juan ; yet even Stephen was compelled to doubt whether that famous libertine possessed such unexceptionable whiskers, such faultless personal array. He could not even censure the scar which seamed the stranger's forehead, for the brilliant light which fell upon his forehead scarcely revealed the im« perfection to eyes so studious of blemishes as those now fastened upon him. It was only when the face was flushed by violent passion that this badge of heroism was conspicuous; and the brow of the dreaming statue was now as calm, as smooth, and as polished, as that of an infant. Stephen was obliged to appeal to his fancy for faults, and con- soled himself with the agreeable reflection, that the reason why he had so scrupulously concealed his eyes, was because they were deformed. Con- soled by this reflection, and a3 the sermon was nearly closed, he withdrew his attention from the dreamer to sean more closely the movements of Clara, as the congregation was about to disperse, The soul of Stephen passed into his eyes as the assembly arose. As Clara started upon her feet, OF LONDON. 2o *he cast another penetrating, passionate glance toward the pillar ; the jealous lover would have forfeited six months of his life could he have ap- propriated that glance to himself. He was anxious to discover its effect upon the stranger, and was humiliated to find that his eves were still closed in- reverie. He does not even see her, was his mental ejaculation ; he has vanquished her un- consciously; she loves and is despised. Strange as it may appear, the indifference of the stranger aggravated in a still higher degree the excited feelings of the lover. He was tortured with anger and shame, and, in the frenzy of the moment, envied those heroes of melodrama, who invariably carry a dagger "in their pocket, to stab themselves when the occasion requires. It was now late in the evening. That part of the church where the congregation was assembled was brilliantly illuminated, while the extremities of the building and the galleries were plunged in profound darkness. The handsome stranger, whoso dream was now occupied, left the position he had recently broken, and directed his steps toward a remote corner of the sanctuary. A man of mean habiliments and sordid appearance, whose covet- ous eye had detected the bank note which had been deposited Jin the contribution box, now fastened his gaze upon the stranger, and took such a direction as to meet him in the most de- serted and obscure part of the temple. A sudden thought flashed through the mind of Stephen He had seen enough of London to know that no place was too holy for malefactors to profane with crime. A frightful murder might be committed 26* MYSTERIES and both honour and heroism demanded that hi should leave no effort untried to save the life of his rival and foe. Dismissing all selfish feelings from his mind, he deserted the position he had hitherto occupied, and advancing beneath the shadow of the galleries, held himself in readiness to yield promp; assistance to the stranger. The unknown paced slowly the ai3le, stopped at inter- vals, and again moved forward, as if, like a finish- ed connoisseur, he was seeking the most favour- able position to hear in its perfection the distant notes of sacred harmony. At times, he would raise his eyes to admire the fantastic appearance of the Gothic arches, where here and there a ray ! of light threw a pale reflection info the surround- j iog darkness ; or, where the magnified shadows of ! remote objects played among the strange and whimsical carving of this order of architecture. He surveyed, with apparent delight, the forest of ; columns illuminated only on one side, and which ted like pillars of light rising from the ground, until they were lost in the vaulted arches ahove. Each step furnished him with a new and diversi- fied prospect; a gigantic kaleidoscope seemed to spread out before hi3 vision its infinite variety of grotesque forms and eccentric combinations. Our dreamer had only changed hia dream. He moved on, absorbed in these fairy visions, lost to himself and the world. The eyes of Stephen followed him with anxiety, but the darkness was so profound that no object could be discovered for more than ten paces, and in one of the capricious movements which the dreamer indulged, he entirely escaped from obser- OB 1 LON1>ON. 27 vation. His protector now moved in the opposite direction, to defeat, if possible, the plans of the assassin, but the wretch csuld not be found. In great perplexity of mind, he reflected whether the emergency would not justify an interruption of the religious services, that the aisles of the church might be lighted, or whether he should not wait until some signal should inform him where his assistance wa3 required. Tbe first plan was un- questionably the safest, but Stephen's sslf posses* sion was unequal to such a conspicuous part, and he waited, oppressed with anxiety, fancying the dying struggles of a murdered man were ringing in his ears. Wrapped in these new reflections, a slight and suppressed noise reached his ear. like the writhing of a body upon the matting. The unknown re- mained motionless, but cool self possession, and a rallying of all his mental and physical energies, now supplanted the pleasing fancies of his dream; he turned his head with a slow but continued motion, and discerned a dark object creeping stealthily toward him. The wretch wishes to realize my imaginings, he intends to murder me. He waited with a cautious eye the approach of the assassin, who, creeping nearer and nearer, by slow progression, suddenly pounced upon his in- tended victim ; the unknown, by a convulsive start, avoided the blow, and the dagger of the murderer was buried in the back of the chair where the stranger had been seated ; the villain now attempted to ri36, but he found his wrist grasped as if by an iron vice. Ouff, groaned he in pain, I thought there was 28 JtYSTERIES but one grip like that in the world ; and as he drew near his face to that of the straDger, the antagonists, with eyes which had become accus- tomed to darkness, recognized each other. Boblantern, muttered the dreamer. Mercy! mercy, your honour! exclaimed the assassin, falling upon his knees, I do not know you. The wrists of the wretch were released, hut he clasped his hands in a supplicating manner. My good master ! my good Mr. Edward ! he said, in a supplicating tone, in that dress, your form is as delicate as a female's. I did Dot re- cognise you. Is that a good reason for committing murder in a church ? I was hungry, my good master. You do not give ns a benefit often ; living is dear in London ; if it were only as cheap as as it is yonder, in Scot- land. Silence! said the Other, imperiously. What are your comrades doing ? Not much — not much ; living is very dear. Come to-morrow, and you shall bo paid. But beware ! no more of these tricks, Master Bob. Mr. Edward walked toward the choir, and Bob followed him with the sneaking mein of a dog that had been whipped. Stephen, wearied with his unavailing efforts to discover either the assassin or the victim, had re- turned to the choir of the church, where the con- gregation was now preparing to depart. He was agreeably surprised to see the stranger return, escorted by the auspicious individual who had ex- OF LONDON. 29 cited his fears. The danger having now passed, his hatred and jealousy returned with redoubled power, and he repented of his former anxiety, The name of dreamer could no longer be ap- propriately bestowed upon Mr. Edward; he walked with a firm step and inquiring eye of a man in the active possession of his Various powers. He halted for an instant before the assembled au- dience, and throwing away the glove with which I he had grasped Boblantern, drew another upon his hand. While putting on his glove, Falkstone discovered the fair girl who had appeared to him during his dream ; but he did not observe Clara, whos8 eyes were nevertheless, fastened upon him, Mr. Edward raised his glass to his eye, and beckoned to his slave. Do you see that beautiful girl, standing near the pulpit. 1 see several. The prettiest ? That is a matter of taste. The one now dosing her prayer-book? The gir^-who carries round the box? Precisely ! You will follow her and report to me to morrow where she resides. The subordinate gave a signal of assent ; and Mr. Edward now walked toward the door, passing close to Stephen, and entirely indifferent to the glance of hatred which the young doctor cast upon him. Clara still followed him with her eyes. He had hardly left the church, when Stephen approached Boblantern. The name of that man, said he. 30 MYSTERIES What man? The one to whom von spoke this moment. He is not a man, said Bob, emphatically, but a gentleman. » His name? I do not know. Stephen now dropped a sovereign into the open palm of Bob. That is a better way of asking a question, said he, depositing the gold in a safe place ; you want to know that gentleman's name, do you ! Yes! Well, lam not acquainted with it, God bless you, young gentleman ; and the assassin disap- peared. CHAPTER III, On the same evening that the events we have already recorded transpired, there was a magni- ficent bail given at Trevor House, the residence of Lord James Trevor, who had within a few years played a brilliant and distinguished part in the political world. Upon the accession of the Whigs to power his lordship had withdrawn from public life, and his house became the rendezvous of the leading spirits of the Tory party. Lord James was a widower, and lived with his sister. Lady Campbell, who had kindly superintended the education of Miss Mary Trevor, the ouly.child of the Count. In 1820, Lady Campbell had been the most distinguished belle in the fashionable OF LONDON. 31 world. There was near her a loadstone, whose power no heart could withstand. Miss Mary Trevour had just reached her eigh- teenth year. She was beautiful, but of that frail Jethereal beauty which looks down upon you from ifhe canvas of Reynolds, or is not unfrequentiy seen through the window of an emblazoned equi jpage, and beneath the vaulted roof of Westmin- ster. Her complexion was of such dazzling and [transparent purity, that the azure of her tender and languid eye tinged with blue its delicate lid, while the outline of every vein couM be distinctly traced on her polished temples. Her stature was tall and extremly slender ; hair of light auburn fell over her cheeks, which were sometimes tinged with a rosy hue ; her smile was that outgushmgf of joy which curls the lips of a child, but in her serious mood, a trembling line was traced from each corner of hsr~ mouth, which gave to her features the expression of hauteur and disdain. Every graca^ and accomplishment which the most finished education can give, had perfected a bein^ "whom nature had so eminently adorned. With all these charms of person and graees of mind, the daughter of Lord James was the undoubted heiress of thirty thousand pounds a year ; and the adoration which, in any circumstances, her beauty alone would have commanded, was in creased by that tribute which is never withheld from a magnificent dowery. The individual who had distanced all competi- tors, in the struggle for her favour, was a young gentleman of moderate fortune but of princely birth : the son of the late Count of Fife, Frank 32 MYSTERIES Peroival by name. The distinguished favour be- stowed upon this suitor by the young lady her- self, and by her aunt also, had driven all rivals from the field, when a new champion appearingin the person of the Marquis of Rio Santo. The dazzling and incomparable Marquis of Rio Santo, who danced athwart the fashonable sphere in 183 — , was an actual living and breath- ing distingue — every one remembers his oriental magnificence ; all the world knows that he spent five hundred thousand francs a month, three mil- lions every winter ; and yet the marquis was no nabob. December came one year and brought not Rio Santo with it •, he was not visible in any of his wonted haunts; he wa3 not installed in hi3 palace on Pall Mall. The Jockey Club veiled its face, as if it were rolled into a single sportsman. Hyde Park put on mourning, and the corps cU' ballet, at the King's Theatre, danced a funeral step^to his lamentable memory. "What had be- come of Rio Santo ? was he dead ? was he ruined ? There is no need of people, like the marquis, living long ; they condense a year into a day, a life into a year, which they pass iD some city, and then disappear, but the odour of their memory recnains. Every man who carries a riding whip, and lifts his hat as he pronounces his name ; and when his exploits are mentioned, the ladie3 cast down their heads, and attempt to smile. As if Rio Santo had not created sensation enough in the fashionable circles, he was now taken up by the all-prevailing voice of the political organs, It was whispered in the clubs, and in- OF LONDON. 33 sinuated in the newspapers, that the marquis was a secret envoy from a foreign court, of the highest rank, and intrusted with a most momentous and confidential mission. None could assert the fact positively and precisely ; on that account it passed cttj#kftt as an undoubted truth. Whigs and Tories contended for the first interview. Tuirty invita tion3 crossed each other, signed by distinguished names, backed by palaces and millions. Rio- Santo wa3 in no hurry to choose ; he was satisfied that his society was courted, and after waiting a suita- ble time, and making an excursion to Richmond, he ordered his carriage one evening to drive to Derby House. Lady Ophelia Barn wood, Countess of Derby, was a widow of a knight of the garter. Her for- tune surpassed tbat of the bankers in Thames- street. She was twenty five years of age, and was univap3allyackao>vied»ed to be theloveliest woman on King's Road : a long avenue, thickly peopled with charming worsen. When Rio-Santo was announced, a perceptible emotion ran through the double rank of ladies who crowded the fashiona- ble saloons of the countess. The first rank trem- bled with a delicious curiosity ; the second rank advanced fifty dowager faces above the fresh countenances of youthful belles, as the secondline fire their guns above the shoulders of the first in some military manoeuvre. Rio- Santo entered. He proved to be a handsome man, but there wag some disappointment because his tout ensemble was not more romantic. At the fir3t glance there Was a general astonishment that, although the c 84 MYSTERIES marquis was irreproachable, he should have suc- ceeded, without possessing anything positively en- chanting, in wresting the sceptre of Parian fashion from our countryman, Lord Seymour. They ex- pected, in fact something more ineffable, and bis first appearance did not equal the excited expect- ations of the fashionable world. But when the marqu ; s opened his lips, a reaction immediately! commenced ; the hearts of the young belies were subdued by his electrical words, and the dowagers regretted that the happy time was past when ^hey also were capable of being electrified. The Countess of Derby was the first lady in London, who was subjugated bv the irresiatablej marquis. No scandal had hitherto sullied the spotless fame of a lady who was admired for the excellence of her taste, the delicacy of her wit, and her devoted attachment to the memory of her do ceased husband, one of the noblest peers of the realm. She also had the reputation of elevation mind, severity of principle, and coolness of heart, But no shield of principle, or virtue, was proof against the facination of the marquis. He flung himself at her feet, and the conquest wa8 achiev- ed. he of CHAPTER IV. All London was talkingof the marriage between I Rio-Santo and lady Ophelia Barnwood. It was] fgarded universally as an excellent match, •vertheless, the marriage did not take place. OF LONDON. 35 Rio Santo proclaimed that lie had been discom- fited. Some believed bini, but the opinion of most was, that he had succeeded too well. The marquis had now become thoroughly ac- claimated. The superiority which had been con- ceded to him in Paris, was ratified by the universal voice of fashionable London. It was admitted that he was deserving of his glory. His society was courted in every circle. The rival aristocra- cies disputed for his favour. The charming wives of bankers and millionaires, would have compro- mised themselves with pleasure, if they could have succeeded thereby in inspiring with envy the haughty dames of Belgrave Square. When the marquis first met Miss Mary Trever the features and light locks of the belle made little impression upon his imagination. The young heiress felt timid and irresolute in the pre- sence of an individual of such a peculiar reputa- tion. They met a second time, Mary sang, but her sweet voice merely reached the ears of Eio Santo ; the marquis spoke and his grave and vi- brating voice afteoted painfully the ear of Miss Trevor. A third time they met in the drawing- room of the Countess of Derby. The marquis was this evening pale and. silent, and cast about him a vague and abstracted gaze. Miss Trevor was sealed by the side of her confidential friend, Miss Diana Stewart, the cousin and youthful companion of Frank Percival, who was detained from the side of his betrothed, by an unavoidable absence on the Continent. The young ladies were of course talking of the lover. Rio Santo was leaning against a column which partly concealed him from MYSTERIES observation, and near enough to overhear the con- versation near him «, but he was too much absorb- ed in revery, and too anxious to improve the mo- ment of repose which tha curiosity of the crowd had allowed him, to profit by the advantages of his position. Insensibly the young ladies who had commenced their conversation in a low tone, raised their voices, for they were unconscious of the presence of the marquis, At the moment of which we are speaking, Rio- Santo wa3 dreaming, and his dream was of love. In that mirage which is presented to the eyes of the soul, he saw a fair child who raised toward him a confiding, tender, angei like and appealing look.. The orchestra was performing a melody composed on these simple and touching chords which the inspired bards of Ireland find among the heath of the Green Isle, It seemed as if the tune had some most intimate association with the heroine of the dream, for the countenance of Rio Santb expressed melancholy joy; and when the orchestra drowned in its last tones the voice of the singer, a tear found its way through the long lashes of his downcast eyelids, while the name of Mary trembled on his lips. Poor Mary ! poor Mary ! exclaimed at the same time. Miss Diana Sceward, I perceive that you are deeply in love. The name of Mary roused Rio Santo from his reverie, and his eyes fell directly on the graceful profile of Miss Trevor. Miss Trevor, after some hesitation, replied to her cousin by saying, I am, at least, very sad OP LONDON. 37 since hia departure, and wait with great impa- tience for his return, Rio Santo listened with? rapture to the harmony of a voice, which had passed idly from his ear the night before; but its sweet and gemle tone now touched some chord in his memory, which had been mute for years. He now started from hia concealed position. The pale face of Miss Trevor became suddenly purple; she suspected that her answer had been overheard, and she was seized again by that instinctive fear which the presence of the marquis had already inspired. She pressed Diana's arm. Come, let us go, said she, drawing her astonished friend toward the room where the company were assembled. Was there a viper behind your chair? asked Miss Stewart, gaily. Hush ! Diana turned and perceived the ardent look Gf Rio Santo, following her retreating friend, and she too became serious. How he stares at you, said she ; his eye seems to dart a ray of fire. Mary trembled still more, Rio Santo quitted his position, and stretched himself in the fauteuil, which Miss Trevor had occupied, and only deserted it for the concert- rootn, when a crowd of whi3t players invaded his retreat. Within a few days, Rio Santo was pre« sensed to Lady Campbell and Lord Trevor. The former was precisely the woman to appreciate the varied accomplishments of the elegant marquis. She was not a little flattered by the assiduous court which he paid her, as she foresaw that her 38 MYSTERIES fashionable consequence would be augmented thereby, Trevor House became at once the re- sort of the most beautiful and brilliant of the highest circles of the metropolis. Every one co- veted an introduction to the distinguished family; and the young noblemen whom we have said arri- ved in London at the same time with Rio Santo, were among the first to claim the honour, Major Broughhaoi, Doctor Mellum, Sir Paul Water- field, and the handsome Cavalier Angelo Bembo, were people of too much importance to be refused admission anywhere. Hardly-were they presented at Trevor House, before they surrounded Lady Campbell, and paid her the most devoted homage. Between these four gentlemen, there was that fa- miliar acquaintance which was naturally formed from their associating in the same circles, but there was no marked degree of intimacy. There was, nevertheless, a wonderful concert in the manner in which they endeavoured to secure for Rio Santo the favour of Lady Campbell ; it might, however, have been the result of chance. Mis3 Trevor could not remain long insensible to the charm3 of a man who was so extravagantly eulogized by an individual, to whose opinion she had from childhood deferred. She felt an ad- miration for Rio Santo, which was still mingled with an indescribable fear — a fear, however, which was no longer repulsive. She was convinced that the marquis loved her, and when that assurance is lodged in a female heart, the period of indiffer- ence is already passed, and the heart is opened for the admission of love. During the first interview, Mary was perfectly OP LONDON. 39 amazed at the honesty and eloquence of her aunt ; but being weak, and accustomed to appropriate the thoughts, and defer to the opinions of her aunt, she easily allowed herself to be persuaded. The fact may seem strange, but it is one of daily occurrence. Rio Santo was therefore permitted to declare his sentiments to Miss Mary Trevor — the same night the young lady dreamt of Frank Percival. We must confess that the young nobleman se- | lected an unfortunate period for his travels ; but | misguided parents, anxious to show their superior I wisdom, almost invariably postpone a suitable marriage, under the pretext that it is not yet time. Poo? wisdom ! poor pretext ! there is a time to be happy ! Frank was formally engaged to Miss Mary Trevor, with the approbation of all the relatives of the parties; but both were so youog, that the marriage must be postponed a year. How could Frank endure the delay ? One of his friends adviaed a journey to Switzerland. He remained abroad a year exactly ; for he ordered post horses at Geneva in such a manner, that he could reach London on ths three hundred and sixty-fifth day. It would have been difficult for a lover to have been more punctual. As he was sailing up the Thames, although there was a dense fog, he inter- rogated with his looks all the boats going and coming from Greenwich, that he might recognise the charming face of his beloved. He saw no- thing, however, but strange countenances, tarpau- lins, sailor jackets, and on the decks of the 40 MYSTERIES steamers, many old ladies, with poodles in their laps. Bat when he reached home, the house- keeper presented him with a billet-doux eight days old, inviting him to spend the evening with Lord James Trevor, Frank had scarcely time to arrange his toilet for the ball. CHAPTER V. The magnificent architecture of Trevor House rises between a l park and a garden, that stretch along Norfolk-street. The principal front is sur- rounded by a beautiful grove, beyond which ex- pands a plot of green verdure encircled with thick shrubbery, designed to conceal the wall that separates it from the ample garden. It is one of those old and splendid palaces that makes us regret the -princely style of former days, and throws into the shade the comfortable mansion of modern London. Oa the erening in question, the lofty windows of the front building were brilliantly illuminated, and the poor sentry that guarded ihe statue of Achilies — erected in honour of the Duke of Wel- lington — might have descried through the leafless branches of the surrounding trees, the light of the lamps, softened by the intervening drapery. The hour for the ball had now arrived ; the apartments were gradually filling with guest?, and the orchestra, filled by Angelini, the king of quadrills, until he was dethroned by Julian, the ©F LOND«K. 41 Frenchman, were now preluding some low and unrefined dotes. The dance had not yet com- enced ; but each saloon, and particularly the drawing room of Lady Campbell, presented a brilliant array, not unlike a basket of flowers, waiting for some crowning roses or carnation.—- There was a hum of conversation around Lady |Campbell and Mrs. Trevor, who received most gracefully the compliments and salutations of their guests — the agreeable occupation of the pre- siding lady, from ten o'clock until midnight on the evening of a ball. For our own part, we should perfer to mount guard for the same space of time over the s T atue of Achilles. The ball now opened. The Cavalier Angelo Bembo led out Miss Trevor for a quadrille •, there was a general movement in toe apartment, and the scattered groups mingled together. Without loosing her male attendants. Lady Campbell found herself surrounded by a brilliant circle of matrons, ose age does not forbid them to indulge occa- sionally in the dance, but who dare not patronize the amusements to too great an extent — a class which furnished Balrac with the type of his admi- rable delineation of the lady of thirty. The quadrille was now ended, and Cavalier Angelo Bembo conducted Miss Trevor to her t ; but she had barely recovered from her fa- tigue, before the usher announced the honourable name of Frank PercivaJ. The delicate colour faded from Miss Trevor's cheek. She was pale as marble; and she placed her hand upon her heart, which was beating violently. 42 MYSTERIES She was unable to encounter the gaze of her betrothed, She could not respond to his compli- ments. She stammered a few unintelligible words in a broken voice. Frank was overpowered with fear and astonishment. He attempted to speak but in vain. Lady Campbell touched his arm slightly with her fan. Did you have a pleasant journey? she asked, but suddenly changing her tone, added ; Not to- night ; not to night, I pray you. She is observed and so are we. Frank was involved in a mystery. To morrow, continued Lady Compbell, in a voice so compassionate, that Frank was at once enlightened. To morrow I will explain all to you. Believe me ever your friend. The poor, child has suffered much and struggled much. Frank was now wandering through the room endeavouring to repel the painful suspicion which had been awakened wichin him. The reception of Lord Trevor had been cordial, and the words of Lady Campbell, admitted of several construc- tions ; but could he mistake the coldness of Mary a coldness which was so much in contrast with the cordiality of former days? Frank struggled in vain; the evidence of inconstancy was over- powering. His friends came forward to greet him. What, really from the Sicnplon ? asked one. You must show me your album, Percival, said another. How sad you are looking said a third ; are you already acquainted with — With what ? asked Frank, with anxiety. OF LONDON, 43 Poor feliow! muttered hia friends; there is nothing certain — mere rumours — flying reports. What reports. They say — but perhaps it is a lie — but they do say that Mi33 Trevor is about to be married to Bio Sauto. Frank passed his hand over his brow. And who is Rio Santo ? he asked. His friend looked upon him in amazement. Have you not heard of Rio Santo ? he said ; of whom the people speak in Switzerland? Rio Santo is a marquis ; a pheenix Farewell, Perci- val ; Sir Paul is making me a sign that a fourth hand is wanted at whist. Frank was struck dumb by this new discovery. Good evening my dear friend, exclaimed a falsetto voice in his ear ; it is an age since I have seen you, as I was saying yesterday. I am sure that you have been enjoying yourself in Switzer- land. I speak seriously, but you look sad \ 1 suspect you have been told that Rio Santo- Is it true ? muttered Frank. I do not know that ; dear Rio Santo under- stands devilish well how to conduct these affairs ; besides, my dear friend, he has more millions than you have hundreds — he is irresistible, upon my word. Lanture3 Luces whirled upon his heel and departed. Frank moved about like a man in a trance, but soon felt the arm of a lady upon his own. Mr. Frank Percival, said the Countess of Derby you are unfortunate, very unfortunate ; for doubt- less you already know 44 MYSTERIES 1 believe I know all, my lady, was the response. All ! no 4 Mr. Percival, you do not know all. Hear me, I am unhappy myself. I should like to relieve your trouble Frank did not understand her ladyship. A sad smile came over the countenance of the countess. Perhaps I can afford you the means of opposing Rio Santo, for he cannot be conquered by ordinary weapons. Rio Santo again ! murmured Frank, who felt in his heart a boundle39 hatred. Call on me to morrow, added the countess ; what I have to tell you must be said in private, and in a whisper, and with only two present; and even then she who speaks runs some danger as well as he who listens. To morrow, Mr. Frank Percival,, and she bowed gracefully and left him, as if the conversation had been on the most frivolous topica. Frank however, had not equal control over himself, and his distress of mind could be read in every feature. He continued to walk, seeking some place to lean against, or seat to fall upon. The loud and monotonous tone of the usher now announced, emphatically — Don Jce Maria Telles de Alarcon, Marquis of Rio Santo. The name of Rio Santo, pronounced in such a pompous manner, grated harshly upon the ears of Percival, and echoed like discordant music in his heart ; while he was seeking his hated rival, fate cast him into his presence. Frank trembled with rage and ferocious joy. He advanced to the door OF LONDON, 45 of the room where Lady Camphell and Miss Trevor were seated. Rio Santo appeared immediately. He was a man of tall stature and heroic countenance, but delicately moulded, and marked with that serene tranquillity which is so frequently seen on the facea of Italians, such as an old master would give a hero, king, or demi-god. He wore a black mustache, curled in the Spanish style ; his hair fell in natural curia, exposing a bold and haughty forehead, while his eyes, beneath the arch of his thick eyebrows, charmed and overpowered all upon whom they fell. There was but one defect in his distinguished physiognomy, and that was, the seal of sensuality upon his lip. The gait and mein ot Rio Santo was proud and kingly, his costume was striking from its unstudied elegance —three sovereign orders shone upon his breast. Tae name of Rio Santo created a restrained murmur through the fashionable assemblage.— Some ladie3 missed the figures of the quadrille ; others forgot to answer the questions which were addressed to them. Frank Percival could not' be compared with his brilliant rival in external advantages. Rio Santo was one of those men on whom age makes no impression, whom time seems to forget in its progress. It would have been difficult to tell precisely how many years had passed over his head, but ho no longer possessed that flower of youth which bloomed in Frank's features. Percival fixed an intent gaze upon the marquis, whom he interrupted in the narrowpassage opened by the company. At the first glance it seemed to 46 MSSTEBIES him that the countenance was not unfamiliar ,but this conviction was sharp and fugitive. What made the deepest impression upon Frank, what he observed with the most passionate jealousy, was the extraordinary beauty of Rio Santo ; and, in proportion as fear took possession of his soul, his hatred increased. Frank's eyes were still fixed upon the marquis, as he prepared to obstruct his progress. His rival at first slackened his pace, then stopped entirely, as his eyes sought for Lady Campbell and her niece — he did not even notice the indignant countenance of the young man be- fore him. Yonder, marquis, yonder, exclaimed the offi- cious Lautures-Luces, pointing to the apartment where Lady Campbell was stationed. All the ladies have been protesting against your delay.-— Wiil Percival, ceare3t, have the kindness to allow the marquis and myself to pass ? Frank moved not, but continued to gaze upon the countenance of the marquis, with an expres- sion of ferocious disdain. Rio Santo replied to the silent challenge of Frank by a profound and courteous bow. I will endeavour, said he, to obtain the honour of an introduction to Mr. Frank Percival ; and before Lantures Luces had rendered his situation worse by his excessive eagerness, the marquis made an imperceptible signal with his head, to which a person who bad entered the room replied ; and before whom everybody seemed to give place with ostensible condescension. This individual, whom we have already introduced to the reader, and whose elegant ball costume could not disguise OF LONDON. 47 great natural disadvantages of face and figure, now advanced, with bis head upright, and his eyes fully opened, but without noticing or saluting any of the numerous throng. It was the blind man of the Kings 1 Arms Ta- vern. At the gesture of R