i J^' m^ ^ r^ H LI E. RARY OF THE UN 1VER.SITY or ILLl NOI5 .N \ ^ BSI THE LITTLE WIFE. THE LITTLE WIFE; AND THE BARONET'S DAUGHTERS. BY MRS. GREY, AUTHOR OF "the YOUNG PRIMA DONNA," AND "tHE DUKE.' IN THREE VOLUMES. VOL. I. LONDON: SAUNDERS AND OTLEY, CONDUIT STREET. 184L LONDON : BLATCH AND LAMPERT, PRINTERS, GROVE PLACE, BROMPTON. 8^^ V. 2 THE LITTLE WIFE, ■>■ "! " Oh I she's a winsome wee thing, She's a handsome wee thing ; Oh ! she's a bonny wee thing, This sweet wee wife of mine." THE LITTLE WIFE, CHAPTEH I. " As years past on, how fair the stripling grew; All that was lovely in his face was seen; His stature tall, his brow of Parian hue. And bright and noble was his infant mien ; A more endearing tiling scarce lived, I ween. For in his soul the pure affections shone ; High talents, e'en with modest pride serene, While truth and dauntless courage were his own." "My dear lord, I am truly sensible of your kindness — your never-failing consideration of me and mine ; and you must not deem me un- grateful, if I hesitate in accepting the offer you VOL. I. B Z THE LITTLE WIFE. have just made with regard to Reginald; but forgive me when I say, that I think there are some great objections to the plan you propose." " None but what I can easily combat, I am sure," exclaimed the Earl of Elmsdale ; " for I duly considered the proposal before I made it. It was not without mature deliberation on my part that I arranged this scheme ; and I feel that there is every thing to recommend it. From the acquirements which my godson has made in modern languages, he is well qualified for the situation he will fill. And then, my dear Stan- ley, recollect how it will benefit his health ! Change of air and climate will be every thing for him ; — and his manners — his general know- ledge of the world, all will improve by the foreign expedition I have planned for him." The father sighed ; and after a pause, caused by painful rumination, he again spoke. '^His health! — yes, that indeed is a point which would fain make me hesitate in my de- THE LITTLE WIFE. 3 cision. The air of the continent might per- chance alter the tendency of his constitution, which I tremble to believe inherits delicacy ; it might perhaps prevent the approach of that insidious — that dreaded malady ; one which has already proved such a foe to my happiness. But should Reginald accept the offer, and ac- company you in your embassy as private secre- tary, would it not take him out of his sphere — raise him beyond the level of his birth ? in short, my dear lord, would it not make him what I have always looked upon with commi- seration — I might almost say contempt — what is familiarly called * a fish out of water ?' I have a horror, a dread, of all such elevations — such transplantations from the natural soil, which seldom prosper, and often tend to engender dis- content, and too generally disappointment. Why should not my dear boy follow in my footsteps, and qualify himself to take my place when I am gone ? Where could he be more happy B 2 4 THE LITTLE WIFE. than in this lovely, peaceful spot, which must ever be so full of interest, as belonging to one whom he reveres so deeply as your lordship? Depend upon it, my kind and excellent patron, that such a life will ensure his happiness more securely, than the aggrandizement you so gene- rously ambition for him. I am one of those who always tremble at so sudden a change from one station to another. I am an old-fashioned man, and my notions are perhaps as antiquated as my habits are simple; in these days, when equahzation and liberty of thought and action are the reigning principles, no doubt they may be deemed absurd — obsolete. I am all for pre- serving distinction between the different ranks of life, being thoroughly convinced that half the miseries, heart-burnings, and vice, of which we now so constantly hear, arise greatly from that spirit of proud defiance — of rivalry in every class. Those were happy days in my opinion, my dear lord, when inferiors looked up THE LITTLE WIFE. 5 to those in higher stations with reverence — with a sensation almost approaching to awe ; and grovelhng as it may appear in this enlight- ened age, I still feel a pride in being your ser- vant ; and such I shall ever glory in calling myself, although indeed I have had every rea- son for exchanging that epithet to one of a more exalted nature — that of your friend." Lord Elmsdale pressed with affection the hand of the good man, but his argument, sen- sible as it was, did not serve to convince the Earl, for he continued to urge the subject till at last his eloquence and numerous fair reason- ings prevailed; and he wrung from Mr. Stan- ley a consent — although a reluctant one — that the young Reginald should accompany him in the capacity of private secretary, Lord Elms- dale having been lately appointed ambassador to the court of Naples, to which place he was shortly to depart, accompanied by the youthful being whom he had lately made his bride. b THE LITTLE WIFE. To introduce my readers to more intimate acquaintance with tlie characters I have just presented to their notice, it will be necessary to state, that the Earl of Elmsdale had been conversing with the person who filled the situa- tion of land-steward to his princely domain. This good man was born on the estate, and his present important — and, in his opinion, most honourable — situation, was earned by his integrity and faithfulness. He had rendered himself of no slight estimation to the late lord and his successor ; and was justly ranked and considered by them as a valuable friend. Stanley had married about twenty years before, a young person, governess at that time to the sister of the present Earl ; but short lived was the happiness he derived from this union. She died of a rapid decline, leaving to her bereaved husband one little boy, only two years old. This child was ever one of great promise and beauty, and had been from THE LITTLE WIFE. 7 his infancy mucli regarded by the noble family. At the period when we are about to introduce him, he had attained the age of nineteen. A more promising youth could scarcely have been imagined. He was tall and gracefully formed, and there was in the expression of his coun- tenance — his lofty brow, and beautifully chi- selled features — an aristocratic bearing, which seemed to claim a higher station than the one to which he belonged. Why should there be such a fascination in beauty? — why should that, which is so perish- ing, be regarded by us with feelings approach- ing almost to idolatry ? And why is the pride of the eye — the delight of the senses, so often converted into a lure, which leads to false hopes, deceitful wishes, and often even to destruction ? Had Reginald been a common-place youth — had he not possessed the extraordinary personal advantages which nature so freely bestowed 8 THE LITTLE WIFE. upon hinij perhaps his patron, though equally kind and friendly in his intentions, would not have wished to draw him from his own sphere of life — would have concurred in his father's wish that the youth might be qualified to tread the steps, in which he had so honorably walked before him. He would have thought it but natural and expedient — ^just what he himself should have desired ; but struck by the per- fection of the form and countenance, added to the extreme talent and ability which he discovered in the youth, the Earl could not help arranging in his own mind, that the plod- ding life of a steward to a country estate — the hum-drum sameness of its proceedings, was too little distinguished for one calculated in every way to reach some higher destiny. Lord Elmsdale lived so much in the world, that we cannot wonder at his attaching greater importance to the things belonging to it, than did the humble-minded Stanley; who looked THE LITTLE WIFE. V upon it at a distance, with fear and trembling for those he loved, who were in the midst of its rapid turbulent stream. The Earl had formed various plans for the young Reginald. First he thought he should place him in the army, but to that his father had a decided, an irrevocable objection. Then the church! And as ^his idea did not meet with any opposition, it was arranged that he should forthwith go to college. Mr. Stanley could not but rejoice that such a prospect was opening to his son, although he had some anxiety about him at this present time, on the score of his health ; for notwith- standing the tall and manly appearance of Reginald, and a complexion which seemed to defy sickness, his father, who had watched him from his birth with an eye of anxious solicitude, terrified himself into the belief that a violent cold, which terminated in a cough, and hung b5 10 THE LITTLE WIFE. about him with some tenacity, was the forerunner of every dreaded evil. His mind, by this cir- cumstance, was in a state more calculated to receive the arguments which the Earl so elo- quently poured forth, in order to gain his con- sent to a plan, which promised excellent results for Keginald ; and as amongst the acquirements of the young man. Lord Elmsdale discovered that he was conversant in a most unlooked for manner in modern languages, the career of diplomacy seemed to open before him. As my readers will have perceived, the father shrunk with intuitive dread from the idea of parting with his son ; and had it not been for the phantom consumption, which was always haunting his imagination, and which he trusted a more genial climate might scare away, no power would have tempted him to allow Regi- nald to enter a sphere which to him appeared encompassed with so many dangers. Stanley was a man of a very reflecting mind ; THE LITTLE WIFE. 11 and although his life had been passed in com- parative seclusion, his opinions were clear, and he was quick sighted in his perception of cha- racters. He had seen enough of men and manners in their various situations, to feel con- vinced, that the world did not improve the real happiness of those whose career he had progres- sively watched. He had seen many raise them- selves to higher stations — barter certain peace and contentment for a feverish life of ambitious aggrandizement ; but it had not come under his observation to mark in many, what he considered an increase of solid advantage and felicity. With augmented worldly prosperity, feelings and wishes were engendered, which before never entered the imagination — a yearning for excite- ment — anxious desire for those objects which were all bounded within the limits of this existence. He also possessed strong /eligious sentiments. Though his state was prosperous, inasmuch as 12 THE LITTLE WIFE. he had arrived at the utmost point of his ambi- tion by his honourable, excellent conduct, where- by he made himself of the highest importance to his much -loved patron, his heart had tasted the bitterness of sorrow ; and although he had bowed beneath it with Christian resignation, still it had left a wound which time even — that general physician to the afflicted — was never able quite to heal. He had loved his lost wife for many years, ere he dared to aspire to her hand. At length every obstacle was overcome ; he had the glory and happiness of calling her his own, and per- fect was his felicity. But it was as short-lived, as full of joy; for at the end of two years her health began to de- cline, and on the day the blooming Reginald attained his second birth-day, his dying mother, having blessed him— pressed him in her feeble arms— strained her dim eyes to catch a parting glance of her treasured boy, breathed her last. THE LITTLE WIFE. 13 leaving to her adoring husband this one pre- cious pledge of an affection so tender. Deep and lasting was the grief of the be- reaved man ; but he did not mourn as one who had no hope. It was some time perhaps, be- fore he could divest himself of the selfishness of his sorrow; it was his own individual pri- vation, for which, in the bitterness of his spirit, he groaned. It was long ere human nature would yield, before he could resign her without a murmur into the hands of his God, and say- in the language of a devout believer of old, " It is well." But the time did arrive when even so it was, when — his heart exposed with all its wounds — he sought the only healing source ; and there he found balm, strength, and faith, even to repeat those three little words, in firm reliance and trust. He ceased to fix his thoughts on the one cold, dark spot, which contained his lost treasure. In the brightness of heaven he 14 THE LITTLE WIFE. now contemplated her. There, surrounded by- happiness and glory, in his mind's eye he pic- tured her; and by his own life of patient piety, he was by faith, preparing himself to be received by her blessed spirit in those realms of bliss. But there was one tie which bade him linger in a world, which otherwise would have been to him a weary pilgrimage. — His boy ! — truly a strong, a binding link ; the treasured child of her he loved so well — so fondly ! And from his earliest infancy Reginald, gave indications of sweetness and loveliness — oh ! too rarely seen ! Beautiful was he indeed in his childhood. His fair bright locks, falling so gracefully from his high white forehead, and shading with its luxuriance his neck and shoulders — his skin of transparent whiteness ! — and then the tint, so like the blossom of the peach, which tinged his soft, round cheeks ! Who had ever looked upon the boy Reginald, without a softened feeling pervading the heart ? THE LITTLE WIFE. 15 '^ God bless the child!" seemed to rise from the lips of every one, who gazed upon that little countenance of beauty and angelic goodness. And this is not a fanciful picture. Many who read these lines, may revert with delight to some fair being who is now their own joy and pride, upon whom their hearts are fixed with an in- terest which is their dearest enjoyment. And some mourners may perchance be reminded by this picture, of a bright object who is now no longer with them. But let them not weep. The child that is gone is now far happier — far more beautiful and bright in its Father's man- sion, where it waits for those upon whom its young affections were so sweetly fixed on earth. Anxious was the charge of such a precious, lovely legacy; and every feeling of Stanley's affectionate nature became centered in the boy. He felt almost afraid when he disco- vered the depth of this love ; for might not he also be called away — might not his heart ]6 THE LITTLE WIFE. again be left desolate? And tlie father looked with trembling dread upon this bright child — too bright, almost too beautiful, for an earthly- sphere. A widowed relative of his late wife, with her two children, had resided with Mr. Stanley ever since he had been deprived of the mother of his boy; and Mrs. Bruce had truly filled that place ta the young Reginald. It was not until he had nearly attained his seventeenth year, that a sudden illness deprived the little party of this valuable and excellent woman. But her children still remained with Mr. Stanley, who willingly promised their dying mother to be to them henceforth as a father. To Mrs. Bruce, Reginald owed many of the advantages of education he possessed. Her mind was highly cultivated, and she had taken the utmost pains with the three children ; and having in her early days lived much abroad, she was enabled to instruct them in those mo- THE LITTLE WIFE. 17 dern languages, now so necessary to complete a useful education. Edward was two years older than Reginald, his sister AKce six months senior to our hero ; but as girls generally advance in early life be- yond the other sex, it seemed as if there existed a still greater disparity in their ages. She was of a quiet — a thoughtful disposition ; mild, gentle, and enduring; ever the little nurse — the protectress as well as companion of the beautiful babe, although her stature was more diminutive than his own, and her looks, had it not been for a degree of anxious tenderness which mingled in their expression, were almost as childish. It was a pretty sight to watch their move- ments; and the soft, attaching nature of a woman's heart, might be traced even in the baby affection which evinced itself in every action of the little Alice, towards her fondly loved companion. 18 THE LITTLE WIFE. It seemed as if self never once entered her imagination ; his pleasure was her sole object — his approval her dearest delight ; her attachment had something in it of idolatry. And thus they continued to grow up together, until from the child, Alice became the devoted, loving woman. And Eeginald? — was he equally fervent in his affection ? — His feelings we can scarcely define. He had been so accustomed to indulgence — to consi- deration, ever since he had opened his eyes in this existence, that although he loved his kind young friend most warmly — although he felt that she was necessary to his happiness, being ever so ready to contribute to it ; still, perhaps, her tender attentions had been so unremitting, that they were deemed by him almost as a matter of course. Indeed, such a rich torrent of gratification 6ver flowed upon him, from every side, that the devotion of his little com- panion, though fondly appreciated, did not THE LITTLE WIFE. 19 make so strong an impression on this favoured child, who was smiled upon by all around. As Alice advanced in years, she became a truly amiable, feminine creature. Warm and enthusiastic in her feelings, but with a degree of diffidence in her own attractions, which kept her ever in the back ground. She had always looked on Reginald in the light of a being of a superior order. — As for herself, she was only worthy of being his de- voted slave. Poor girl ! as years rolled on, and her senti- ments became more matured, it terrified her when she began to think, how absorbing were the feelings she experienced towards him. It mattered not then, for they were together ; she could be to him what she ever had been — his friend — his companion, one who had become necessary to his comfort and happiness ; but she knew that the time would arrive when they must part ; that the hints which Lord Elmsdale had 20 THE LITTLE WIFE. always given, of undertaking the regulation of Reginald's career in life^ would lead to a sepa- ration ; and this idea made the pale roses in her cheek, fade to a still fainter hue. CHAPTER IT. " Leave us not, leave us not ! Say not adieu ! Have we not been to thee Tender and true ? Leave us not, leave us not ! Can thy heart roam ? Wilt not thou pine to hear Voices from home 1" It was a brilliant morning in early spring. Reginald had wandered into the pretty garden, by which the steward's picturesque abode was surrounded. He had passed a sleepless night ; for only on the previous evening were Lord Elmsdale's plans communicated to him, and even 22 THE LITTLE WIFE. SO soon as the following day, he was to accom- pany his patron to London. This intelligence had filled his heartVith va- ried emotions. There was much of joy amongst these sensations ; but still, as ever in the cup of life, joy and sorrow were very equally blended. Fervently as he had longed to emerge from his present retiremient, to taste the varied de- lights of a world, which at a distance he con- templated with wonder and admiration ; still .now the ardently desired moment had arrived, and he was about to leave the father whom he loved with veneration, as well as affection — the happy home in which he had been nurtured with such kindness — his young companions — he became sensible of the hazard that threaten- ed his future happiness. And of Alice, the sweet partner of his youth- ful days, he thought with a saddened, softened feeling, which presented her image to his imagi- nation, in a manner more tender than it had THE LITTLE WIFE. 23 ever before appeared to him. With his mind absorbed by these reflections, he was looking round with a sorrowful heart, upon objects to which he must so soon say farewell, when sud- denly his eye fell on the graceful outline of a kneeling figure — the slender form of his gentle cousin, bending over a bed of violets, searching within its leaves for their hidden treasures. Reginald paused for a moment, and gazed upon the fair girl. He well knew how she was em- ployed ; she was seeking the offering which she so constantly presented to him every morning, when they met at breakfast. He felt very sad. This was the last time, for many a day, that she would be employed in this sweet service for him. *^ I wonder if she knows I am to go so soon," he thought ; " should the news have reached her, her regret will surely equal mine." With a noiseless step he approached, and Alice started on feeling two hands encircling 24 THE LITTLE WIFE. her slender waist ; but it seemed as if by instinct she recognized the privileged transgressor, for she did not turn to look at him ; she appeared to busy herself more assiduously in seeking for the flowers. " Alice — dear Alice ! " exclaimed the youth, " why do you not speak to me ?" and he gently raised her from the ground. But she still was silent, and averted her head ; and when Reginald at length looked into her face, he saw that it was deadly pale, and that her eyes were red with weeping. He well knew the cause of her grief, and pressed her affection- ately towards him. His over-charged feelings made his own tears ready to flow, but he checked this demonstration of weakness. " Alice," he said, *^ this is very fooHsh ; you ought to rejoice with me that I am going !" '' Eejoice !" she exclaimed, in a tone of the deepest sadness. "Yes," he continued; "though the separa- THE LITTLE WIFE. 25 tion is a painful struggle ; yet you should con- sider, dear girl, what an advantage it will be to me — what a career is open to my view ! You know, Alice, that I have been discontented and restless lately. I have an ambitious spirit ; my night and day dream has, for some time, dwelt on the idea, that by my own exertions, I might have it in my power to raise myself, to be the architect of my own advancement; and now what a commencement is before me ! To have the opportunity of beginning life under such fortunate auspices ! Do you not remember, Alice, when your dear mother used to tell us of the delights of Italy, when she described its stores of rich science, the ardent longings with which she inspired me, to visit ihat region of beauty and learning ? And now the opportunity has occurred. My wishes are about to be re- alized; and when I am treading that classic ground, how will her every word be remem- bered ! Each association will be doubly inte- VOL. I. c 26 THE LITTLE WIFE. resting, from the recollection of having learnt to appreciate the works of genius and taste, from her refined mind, and the instructions she bestowed upon my youth ; and on my return to you, my Alice, and when again I sit with you, under this our favourite tree," — and as he spoke he gently led her to the rustic bench, which their own hands had helped to construct, and placing himself by her side, continued — " I shall then be no longer the frivolous boy ; my conver- sation merely connected with the tame details of home pursuits. Only imagine how delightful it will be, to discourse of countries and king- doms — of courts and society ! I shall then indeed be worth listening to, Alice." Alice only sighed, and shook her head. ^* It is selfish, no doubt, in me, Reginald, to regret your departure ; but selfishness is, I fear, more or less the besetting sin of every heart. And yet I fancied, as far as you were concerned, I could not accuse myself of the feeling. 1 still THE LITTLE WIFE. 27 believe it has nothing to do with my present un- happiness ; because, if I thought this plan would be really advantageous to you — productive of ultimate prosperity, though I might grieve for my own loss, I should have rich consolation in store, to compensate for the present privation of enjoyment." " And why should it not be so, Alice ?" inte- rupted Reginald, almost impatiently. " Why, Reginald, what agonizes me, is, the doubt which I cannot help feeling, that your present prospects will afford as much brilliant joy as you expect. I dread for you so many trials ; and amongst them, that of bitter disap- pointment. Will it make you happy to leave us all — to live with people of such different minds — whose pursuits, whose ideas are all so new to you — so foreign to the habits that have been inculcated from your infancy ?" "But the Earl, Alice — you have always admired his character, have you not ? — and c 2 28 THE LITTLE WIFE* it is under his guidance, that I shall place myself." ^' Yes," replied Alice, sighing deeply ; " the Earl is a good and wise man ; but your father is my model of every thing that is virtuous and ex- cellent — how superior to any one I have ever seen ! — Oh, it was my hope, that you would en- deavour to imitate him, and be contented to lead a life of usefulness such as his ; which although it might not lead to further advance- ment, would have at least insured peace in this world, and I firmly believe a well grounded hope of happiness hereafter. But in the turbulent, noisy scenes in which you are about to mix, how can tranquillity of mind be preserved ? — I shall ever tremble for you, Regi- nald; my heart will be with you as it has always been, but with fear and dread will it throb. You will be exposed to temptation — perils innumera- ble : and you will not have your Alice by your THE LITTLE WIFE. 29 side, to admonish, soothe and counsel you ;" and here her tears impeded her utterance. " No, T shall not have her with me for a brief space," exclaimed the young man, with fervour, pressing affectionately the hand, he held in his ; ** I shall not have the real presence of my loved companion, to be my guardian angel ; but your remembrance, my sweet Alice, which like the air I breathe, will never cease to hover round me as my safe-guard, my protection. I merely leave you for a short space, but it is in the hope of meeting you again, more worthy of your re- gard. Believe me, I shall never see one whom I can admire and love more fervently than yourself." They were both silent for seme moments, during which time Reginald's eyes were fixed upon the pensive countenance of Ahce, and as he again spoke, he pressed her more fondly towards him, and whispered in her ear, '' When I return, sweet girl, it will be to ratify 30 THE LITTLE WIFE. an engagement we so often made in our child- ish days. Yes/' he continued to the blushing Alice, " you know I always called you my little wife — you will promise me, will you not, to ful- fil our plighted vows, when I return to claim you after a year or two of probation, which I trust indeed, may not be passed unprofitably." Alice spoke not, but large tears continued to drop from her eyes, and she shook her head de- spondingly. At length she replied, '* You know not what you ask, Reginald ; it is not for me, to listen to vows of such youth and inexperience." " What do you mean, Alice ?" he exclaimed indignantly ; " you are indeed treating me like a child. Do you think that at my age I do not know my own mind, when I again declare, that never can I love any one as I do you ?" Alice smiled sadly through her tears. '' Too happy shall I be, my dear Reginald, if I am deceived. I do not hesitate to say, THE LITTLE WIFE. 31 how truly joyful my heart will feel, if ever you return with your present singleness of affection, to claim the poor Alice as your bride ; but I never expect it will be so. Nay, do not interrupt me ; let me say all, and then my heart will be relieved. Unmaidenly as it may appear, I scarcely blush when I declare that my love is truly, faithfully yours ; it has ' grown with my growth, and strengthened with my strength.' But I know how different is the enduring love of a woman, to that passion, which though called by the same name, beats so different a measure in the heart of a nian. I do not expect the same from you : the circumstance of your case must, in a degree, alter the aspect of your ideas. You will have all the world before you, from whence to choose the realization of your beau-ideal of perfection — you will see varieties of forms and characters — the beautiful, the talented, the high born! You will view every object through a different medium ; and remen^ber these my al- 32 THE LITTLE WIFE. most parting words ; my sinking heart forbodes that although you will ever kindly remember me as your sister — the fond companion of your early days, yet, Reginald, I feel as certain as that these flowers will fade, that the hour will come, when you will cease to wish to claim the lowly Alice as your bride." Eeginald would again have interrupted her with his vehement protestations, but she con- tinued, '^ Do not think that I shall even upbraid you. As long as you are happy, prosperous, and estimable, I will endeavour to be content ; for in whatever relation you may be to me, you must continue always the object of my warmest interest. The fibres of my attachment have twined too closely round my heart ever to be wholly disentangled. But there is one event which I could not support — which would bow me to the earth with sorrow — would make me shun the face of nature ! Light would be dark- THE LITTLE WIFE. 33 ness to me, every hope would be crushed, if hereafter I had cause to think less honourably of you ; therefore, my dearest Reginald, be virtuous, be good ! In the midst of prosperity and dissipation do not forget the precepts — the example of your father !" Reginald was much affected by her words; and Alice, warmed by the enthusiasm of her feelings, still went on to say, with an energy of manner which gave greater force to every word she uttered, *' Endeavour, dear Reginald, to walk in one path — the path of virtue; and then whatever happens, you will be able to look back on the part, you have acted, without shame or fear ; but as you value your liberty — your happiness hereafter, avoid every approach to evil. Vice, we are told, always creeps on by degrees, and insensibly twines round us those concealed fet- ters, by which we are at last completely bound. You will think me tiresome, but you know I c 5 34 THE LITTLE WIPE. am a few months older than you are, and there- fore feel privileged to prose. And, oh ! Regi- nald, recollect that you have been brought up in the fear of God. Let not the world lessen either your love, or your awe, for your Father in heaven. This is my dread — my horror, that, in the tempestuous torrent into which you will be plunged, the glare, the attractions, will en- gender forgetfalness of the only one real sup- port through life. I could talk for ever on the subject, although I see that it creates in you impatience. You think I doubt your strength of mind, but you will convince me, I trust, that my fears all arise from the over anxiety of my heart." They were here interrupted by the approach of Mr. Stanley, and the conversation termi- nated. CHAPTER III. *'0h! she's a winsome wee thing, She's a handsome wee thing, Oh! she's a bonny wee thing, This sweet wee wife of mine!" ''Stanley," said Lord Elmsdale, as they were walking over the domain, on the day pre- vious to the Earl's departure, "I have never asked you whether you were not surprised to hear of my marriage, after having played the character of bachelor for so many years, and turning a deaf ear to all the wishes and solicita- tions of my family?" " I own, my lord, that I was taken by sur- 36 THE LITTLE WIFE. prise, but greatly I rejoiced; for my feelings all incline towards a life of married happiness. In short, I cannot imagine felicity perfect with- out it." '* Indeed, my good friend, you would deem me romantic ; and that would be absurd at my age, verging towards the sober era of forty, if I allowed myself to dilate upon the theme, and describe to you all the charms and perfections of my little Countess; and I'm afraid, Stanley, with your sober sound sense, you may have thought it rather rash and ill-judged, to have chosen a partner, between whose age and my own there is such disparity. Seventeen, and seven- and-thirty — a startling difference you will say : and you would be still more shocked were you to see Lady Elmsdale, for she looks even younger than she really is ; and her tastes and pursuits are many of them as simple and child- ish as her appearance. But still I'm rejoiced to say, there is more depth of character in her THE LITTLE WIFE. 37 than any one would imagine. Sound sense, and strong principle, are points in her character which will develope themselves, as age and ex- perience temper the vivacity of her present feel- ings. Giddy and baby-like as she appears, I am convinced that she possesses more real judg- ment, and sterling rectitude, than many a graver and more reflecting looking person. However to you, Stanley, from whom I would conceal nothing, I must confess that she will require a little management — a little tact, in directing her in her present path; and perhaps the feeling of anxiety which I experience about her, enhances the interest and tenderness I feel towards my youthful, charming, and certainly rather way- ward, wife." " But, my lord, pardon me for thus intruding my opinion — pardon my saying, that I almost wonder at your accepting this foreign mission — that you should take so young and inexperienced a bride out of her own country. I should have 38 THE LITTLE WIFE. imagined^ in my ignorance, that in this her beau- tiful home, she would be far happier, and that you would have more leisure and opportunity, to form the sweet character, which, by your de- scription, seems merely to require proper and careful cultivation, to become everything that is charming and desirable in a woman." " Then you will be surprised, Stanley, when I tell you that she is my sole motive for accept- ing this very irksome appointment, although of course I feel flattered at its being pressed upon me, as it is at this moment one of peculiar delicacy and importance. 'Tis on her account that I consent to banish myself. However, I must give you the whole history of my love affair from its very commencement, and tell you in what manner this fair vision first glanced across my path. I shall relate to you all without any disguise, and then you will be able to enter into my views and ideas upon this theme, to me so intensely interesting." THE LITTLE "WIFE. 39 Mr. Stanley assured the Earl how deeply he entered into every feeling of his patron^ on that and all other subjects that in any way related to him ; and Lord Elmsdale immediately com- menced laying open to his faithful friend, every detail respecting his late marriage. " During the whole of last summer my visits to Windsor Castle were frequent ; business, as well as royal hospitality, drew me constantly to that regal spot. I had one morning escaped from the usual equestrian party, and was en- joying a solitary ramble in the beautiful forest. Deeply absorbed in thoughts, neither gay nor particularly agreeable, and in the deepest soli- tude of the park, I was suddenly startled from my reverie, by the mirthful sound of youthful voices, and the tramp of horses' feet. " Laughter, which struck like music on my ear, resounded through the sylvan scene. In my opinion, there is as much that marks the high-born and the low, in the sound of a laugh, 40 THE LITTLE WIFE. as in the tone of a voice. There is a laugh — a joyous ringing laugh, which strikes melodiously on the senses ; whereas the coarse, harsh sound, which merriment sometimes produces, is equally grating and discordant. I looked towards the spot from whence the voices proceeded, and soon I saw advancing, three of the sweetest girls I ever beheld, riding upon small, hand- some ponies. They all appeared to me to be much of the same age — quite young, sixteen or seventeen. They were riding with all the vivacity of their years, and their cheerful voices were like those of the wild birds of the forest, who sung above them. '' As they passed, I could not help checking my horse, and standing still to gaze upon them. They did not seem to heed me, but went on in all the happy insouciance of innocence. They were beautifully mounted on their diminutive steeds; and there was something altogether in their appearance which looked distinguished THE LITTLE WIFE. 41 above the common level ; and there was also an air of respectability in the aspect of the old, grisly, gaunt groom, who accompanied them on a handsome horse, and watched every motion of his young charges, with eyes of anxious vigil- ance. I returned to the castle with my mind full of the idea of these lovely Hebes, wonder- ing who they could be. I had no opportunity of making inquiries on the subject. " At dinner by chance I found myself seated by a gentlemanly, elderly man, whom I had often noticed as a guest at the table ; but I had never happened to be introduced to him, or to have heard his name, although when my eyes had fallen on his countenance, I ever remarked its benign and amiable expression. My head still ran on my morning adventure ; and it sud- denly occurred to me, that my neighbour might be a resident in that part of the country, and could satisfy my curiosity. 1 turned to him, and after a little desultory conversation as a 42 THE LITTLE WIFE. prelude, said : ' By the bye, as you tell me you live near Windsor, perhaps you will be able to enlighten me on a subject, on which I feel a little inquisitive. Do you know the names of three young, very young ladies, who ride in the park, mounted on very clever ponies V " The gentleman smiled, and coloured faintly. " ' Describe them rather more accurately,' he said. " * That I can scarcely do,' I answered ; ' I can only say, that they were the most pic- turesque, interesting-looking creatures I ever beheld ; particularly one, whose fair hair was floating in the breeze, and whose smile dis- closed a set of teeth of the most dazzling white- ness.' " There was a peculiar expression in the coun- tenance of my auditor, whilst I thus spoke. ' I think you know who they are,' I con- tinued, beginning to guess from this circum- stance, that the fair girls bore some affinity THE LITTLE WIFE. 43 to himself; * but to finish the description,' I added, ' they were accompanied by a groom, who looked like Cerberus himself. He watched the young ladies, with an eye like that of a lynx, and if I mistake not, they took a mis- chievous pleasure in frightening him out of his wits ; for I saw by their sly glances at each other, also cast back upon him, that all their feats of agility were practised, in order to elicit some exclamation of dismay and ad- monition from him, which however only had the effect of increasing their mirth. " My neighbour now laughed heartily. " ' I believe I must plead guilty to your pic- ture/ he said, ' and own myself the proprietor of those madcap girls. I cannot mistake your description of the old groom, although the flattering manner in which you speak of my daughters, might have equally applied to many of the fair equestrians who resort to the forest . But I do believe old Richard is a complete 44 THE LITTLE WIFE. original, and cannot be mistaken. He was formerly a dragoon in my regiment, and my servant twenty years during my military career ; when I relinquished the service, I bought him his discharge,, and as he has been with those children ever since they were born, he con- siders himself in the light of a privileged person ; and indeed, although they love to tease him, they are all, not only rather afraid of, but extremely attached to, the old man.' *^ Thus commenced an intimacy which was not to terminate here. I found that the father of my little forest friends, was a Colonel St. Clair, an officer of some distinction, and pos- sessing an independent fortune. A wound received at Waterloo had disabled him, and he had for many years left his profession. He w^as a widower, and resided with his three daugh- ters, in a beautiful cottage close to Windsor Park. Before we parted that evening, I re- ceived an invitation for which I must own THE LITTLE WIFE. 45 I gave not a few hints, to visit him at his abode, and he promised then to introduce me to his little girls. " Certainly, Stanley, I am almost inclined to believe in the saying, that there is a fate in matrimony; if such an epithet can be at- tached to anything, it surely may to such events, such extraordinary unions do take place ! I am an example of the waywardness of the fickle goddess. I, who after living in the world so many years, the sole arbiter of my destiny, free to choose amidst rank and beauty — that the grave, the proud, and the fastidious Lord Elmsdale, for such I believe I am con- sidered amongst the fair sex, should be en- slaved in the most romantic first-sight manner by a mere child. " The wisest men are often the greatest fools in love," interrupted Stanley, laughing. " Forgive me, my dear lore', for the rudeness of the adage, but involuntarily it escaped my Ups." 46 THE LITTLE WIFE. The Earl smiled in good part, and continued. " Well, the next mormng, the very moment I could make my escape, I was on my way to the abode of the Colonel, and it was quite surprising, at the same time almost humiliating, when I detected the very boyish impatience with which I urged my horse, until I arrived at the desired goal. It was one of those fairy- like villas, with which that recherche neigh- bourhood abounds. Its outward appearance . was only that of a picturesque cottage, — within all was comfort and luxury. Truly, every object around, breathed of elegance and refine- ment. If I admired the fair girls in their habits and round hats, frolicking in all the unrestrained mischief of spirits, rendered still more buoyant by the influence of fresh air and exercise, how much more feminine and lovely .did I think them, in their simple, lady-like morning-dresses. The two youngest were strikingly handsome girls — very tall, and well THE LITTLE WIFE. formed for their ages ; but the Mdest, who at first I affronted by considering the youngest, was the one, whom I found had made the deepest impression upon my imagination. *'And yet she was not so beautiful as her sisters. Her stature was small and delicate, and her complexion very pale ; but there was an expression, an indefinable charm about her mouth, whenever she smiled, which seemed to throw a gleam of light over the whole coun- tenance, and animated every feature, which appeared to me far more lovely than the most perfect regularity of beauty. As she flitted with me amongst the luxuriant plants and shrubs, which blossomed in such profusion in the richly cultivated parterre, she seemed to my mind, so young — so soft — that I could compare her only to a mellow ray of morning sun, which shining on the sweetest flowers, imparts to them its gentle brightness. '"'* But I must try to relate my story, in as few 48 THE LITTLE WIFE. words as possible, and not enter into every detail of my courtship ; for perhaps I should only display my own weakness, and at the same time exhaust your patience as a listener. From this moment, I became a constant visitor at Forest Cottage, and you may remember that I established myself for the rest of the summer, at a villa in the neighbourhood. The reason for so doing, I at first persuaded myself, was to fa- cilitate my attendance at the Castle; but I found that an irresistible influence drew me for ever to the cottage, where my presence was always hailed by its fair inhabitants, with a degree of pleasure, more flattering to my heart, than I am able to express. One litttle smile from that quarter, made me prouder than the most ho- nourable distinctions. " There was something very interesting about the whole party ; much of simplicity, combined with good breeding, and refinement, pervaded the group. Colonel St. Clair, wrapped up in THE LITTLE WIFE. 49 his children, had devoted his every thought and attention to them. I discovered that they had received every advantage of education — that they were accomplished, and well informed. The only error into which the colonel had fallen, was that of over-indulgence ; and perhaps the eye of a critic might have detected the want of the ten- der influence of a mother's care, who, whilst she checked the lavish fondness of the father, might at the same time have brought before their young minds, that example of feminine submis- sion and gentleness, which imperceptibly be- comes impressed upon the hearts of children, who are so fortunate as to possess a mother, to whom they can look as a guide and a model, which it would be their ambition to emulate. " The three sweet girls were wild from excess of happiness and liberty ; and Colonel St. Clair, though he always intended some time or another, to check this exuberance, never yet had courage to arrest their career of gleeful joy. He was VOL I. D 50 THE LITTLE WIFE, for ever putting it oiF, till they were a little older, when he had formed some grave plans of inviting a strict maiden sister^ to come and reside with him, to assist in keeping the three merry girls in order. '^ But he was so happy in their happiness, that he was always deferring the evil day, and the young creatures became daily more wild. Well, to be brief, — after a few months, I found that there was no retreat for me — that heart and soul I was enthralled by the wild charms of the sweet Nina St. Clair ; and he who had ac- quired the character of a grave statesman, on whom the eyes of his country had been fixed, with some degree of interest, lived but in the smiles of this young girl. '^ "What was I to do ? I began for the first time to consider the folly of my position, and I made a hasty journey to Paris, in order to collect my ideas, uninfluenced by the atmosphere of fascination, which I seemed to breathe in her vi- THE LITTLE WIFE. 51 ciniiy. But soon did I ascertain the real ex- tent of my feelings. I found that my peace of mind was gone, beyond recal. At first, I re- joiced that I was free to throw myself at her feet. But then again I considered what might be her feelings. Could she give her young affections to one almost old enough to be her father ? And then thoughts rushed upon my mind, which made my cheeks burn with pain- ful emotions. My position in life ! Might she accept me only for this worldly consideration ? I paused again, and made some vain and feeble attempts, to chase the subject from my imagina- tion. But it was of no avail ; and after a few feverish days, I was on my way to England, and in a most incredibly short time, my carriage might have been seen stopping at the gate of the forest cottage. There, to my dismay, I found that the family had gone to the sea-side for change of air, as one of the young ladies was not quite well. d2 UNIVERSITY C ILLINOIS LIBRA 52 THE LITTLE WIFE. " ' Wliich of the young ladies ?' I eagerly enquired. '^ I was told that it was the eldest ; and al- most sinking with agony and terror, I imme- diately pursued my way to E-amsgate, and there I found my Nina looking pale and languid. " But how can I express the joy and exulta- tion of my heart, when I discovered, that I had been the cause of her suffering ! My abrupt departure had distressed the kind heart which had learnt to love me. In short, I found that I was the object of her first, fresh feelings — that she loved me truly, warmly, and with the dis- interestedness of her nature. You may imagine my ecstatic surprise ; — I who had never dared to hope to receive the first incense of such a pure and youthful heart." Lord Elmsdale paused. The overflowing of an emotion, replete with grateful happiness, rendered him silent for some moments ; and as his companion looked upon his noble coun- THE LITTLE WIFE. ,53 lenance — at once an index of a mind so honour- able, a disposition so kind, so excellent, so generous ! — he could not agree with his patron in thinking it at all extraordinary, that a girl of seventeen, should surrender, without hesitation, her love to such a being. The Earl continued : " You know the sequel. We were married, much to the astonishment of many. And now I will tell you my reasons for going abroad :— In my own opinion, my little wife is perfect. I should be satisfied never to see her different to what she now is ; but perhaps in the world in which she will have to move, she may not be considered sufficiently posee^ for her present situation, which draws invidious eyes upon her. She loves the country with all her heart, and country amusements are her dear delight. I really believe, were I to bring her down to this place, her excess of happiness would be too great. What an artificial world this is, Stanley ! It i^ natural to the young and innocent, to revel 54 THE LITTLE WIFE. in the simple pleasures, which instinct has' im- planted in their breasts ; but still, if we live in the vortex of society, they must be checked, restricted ; every feeling seems as if it ought to be new modelled — at least, if I am to judge by the opinion of my old aunt. Lady Grantham, whom I have certainly always considered a sensible person, and who takes great interest in the improvement of my little Countess ; and even my own dear sister. Lady Julia, I know, thinks that Nina ought to be a little different — more circumspect — less childish ; in short, they want to make her quite the reverse to the charming being who stole my heart, from the very circumstance of her being totally unlike any other creature I had ever seen. Her charm consists in her originality, her freshness — so un- like the tutored young ladies of the present day, who have always proved to me antidotes to love. With all her wildness, there is a grace and elegance in every action, however much it THE LITTLE WIFE. 55 may militate against " les bienseances de la societe" my old aunt's favorite expression, and at the sound of which Nina shudders. This mis- sion to Naples was pressed upon me by govern- ment, and I have accepted it, although it is peculiarly irksome to me to leave England ; but I thought perhaps it might be beneficial to Nina. I want to make her perfection in all ways, to every eye ; and a residence abroad, having to play Madame I'Ambassadrice, may teach her how to become a fine lady, and initiate her more quickly into the ways of the world ; and also draw her for a time from those amusements in which she delights, and which are, perhaps, too childish and trifling for the wife of a man of seven-and-thirty, who is unfortunately in a rather prominent position. Poor little thing! she had formed such plans for the summer— such joyful schemes, it is really cruel to frustrate them. The pleasure of her life at Elmsdale !— 56 THE LITTLE WIFE. her flowers, her ponies ; and all her projects of usefulness, I will say, as well as enjoyment — and truly I live in the hope of seeing my sweet wife hereafter, not only the ornament of this my favorite home, but the benefactress — the truly estimable mistress of the place, for her heart is all right. 1 trust I am acting for the best, and that the result will prove such as I ardently desire." Mr. Stanley did not presume to argue on the point. He felt the utmost veneration for the opinion of the Earl, therefore he imagined his every act mast be right ! But still, in his plain manner of judging, he could not help thinking how differently the idea suggested itself to his mind. But then he did not live in the ivorld; and in his simplicity it struck him, that it was like brushing the down from the peach, robbing it at once of its mellow beauty, thus to endea- THE LITTLE WIFE. Ot vour, prematurely, to teach worldly-mindecl- ness to a young creature, whose greatest charm seemed to consist in her freshness and unsophis- ticated heart. D 5 CHAPTER IV. "On his bold visage, middle age Had slightly pressed its signet sage, Yet had not quenched the open truth, And fiery vehemence of youth." * * . * * * " What a union of all the affections and pov/ers, By which life is exalted, embellished, refined. Was embraced in that spirit !" Reginald's Letter. " My Dearest Alice : '* At length the journey is over, and I seize the first moment of solitude, to commence ray letter. I promised my dear cousin, to make a faithful record, of all my thoughts and actions ; and how sacred do I consider every vow which THE LITTLE WIFE. 59 I have breathed to her ! I could dilate for ever on the grief that filled my heart, almost to burst- ing, when I parted from all the loved com- panions of my home. It is a relief to me thus to pour forth my griefs. Your image, sweetest Alice, as I left you weeping in my father's arms, haunts my imagination — and that dear, excellent father ! so indulgent — so kind ; who, in parting with me, I am aware, has made so great a sacri- fice ! But what a comfort in leaving him, to know that there are those remaining with him, who will be truly his affectionate, and devoted children. You, a tender daughter ; and Ed- ward, with his steady, quiet disposition, not only his constant companion, but a useful assistant in his occupations. / ought to have filled that place; and many a time my repentant heart upbraids me, for the yearning I have had to go from home — that restlessness which prevented my pursuing contentedly, the calm and even path that was before me. 60 THE LITTLE WIFE. *'Why should I have aspired to a higher sphere than that in which my father has gained the love and respect, of all who ever knew him ? Oh ! that I may never draw upon my head re- tribution, for having cast away the life of calm- ness and peace that was within my reach ! I rely upon you, my kind Alice, to describe to me, every expression of the countenance of my beloved parent ; and should you detect the most trifling trace of a wish on his part that I should return, to acquaint me immediately; and with- out hesitation, will I relinquish every ambitious hope — immolate all my airy-built castles on the shrine of filial duty. Oh ! how T would inveigh against that demon, in the shape of a feeling, which set me at variance with my condition in the world — made me almost look with contempt on that state of life, and sphere of action, which Providence had allotted to me ; and encouraging every real or supposed evil, preyed upon my mind, and made me pine for some change of situation I THE LITTLE WIFE. 61 "But no more of this — the deed is done — I have embarked upon my new mode of existence ; it must therefore now be my endeavour, to acquit myself honourably in the path which I have chosen. *^It would be impossible to describe Lord Ehnsdale's kindness during our journey. i\.t first, with thoughtful consideration, he turned from me, and busied himself with his book, giving me time to indulge in sorrow, which in vain I endeavoured to repress. There cer- tainly never was so charming a person as this friend of ours, and so handsome, so distinguished, so imposing in his appearance ; yet with man- ners so mild and conciliating, that without losing one particle of respect, even the most humble must feel at their ease before him ; such is the effect of his benevolence of heart. " I do not wonder at his Countess having, without hesitation, surrendered her young heart to him, although he is twenty years older than 62 THE LITTLE WIFE. herself, for he is certainly superior to all. Such a character I may have dreamt of as per- fection in a man ; but in Lord Elmsdale, it is indeed embodied : and my feelings towards him are even more than those of affection ; respect and admiration are so blended; and with all his superiority — his wisdom, he is so gentle, and unostentatious of his merits. But that, I imagine, is ever the case with true greatness of soul, a mind superior to vanitjs governed by principles of uniform rectitude and inte- grity. He is one who in no situation of life would be ashamed to perform his duty, and act his proper part with firmness and constancy. True to his God — faithful to his friends — generous to his enemies — warm with compassion to the unfortunate — self-denying to private interests and pleasures, but zealous for pubHc interest and happiness — magnanimous without being proud — humble without being mean — just without being harsh — simple in his pleasures THE LITTLE WIFE. 63 — manly in his feelings ! On his word you can entirely rely; his countenance never de- ceives — his professions of kindness are the effusions of his heart ; in short, he is one, who, independently of every worldly advantage, you might choose for a superior, trust as a friend, and even love as a brother. " You will smile, Alice, when you read this,, and I can almost fancy that I hear you exclaim, ' Reginald, as usual, is in his heroics,' But in this instance, believe me, I have not exaggerated in my description — I have not said a word too much ; such a man as the Earl, must be honored by every one, as I honor him. But I will no longer linger on a theme, upon which, however, I should be never weary of dilating. I shall go on cir- cumstantially to describe the dramatis 'personce of this new stage of my life. I must begin methodically, and thus continue my narration. " It was not until some hours after I left 64 THE LITTLE WIFE. you, that I began by degrees, to feel some enjoyment in the journey, which was certainly as agreeable as, under every circumstance, it possibly could be. Lord Elmsdale soon put me completely at my ease, and conversed in a most familiar manner. His love for my dear father, makes him regard me with peculiar kind- ness, which is another debt I owe to the very best of friends. " Our journey was performed with the utmost expedition. Lord Elmsdale seemed to be flying upon the wings of impatience. Not a moment was to be lost; and I could plainly perceive, that on one occasion, when we were obliged to wait for a relay of horses, he was more annoyed and chafed at this contretemps, than I could have imagined such a trifle would have made him ; and as we approached London, the almost nervous anxiety which he exhibited, did indeed surprise me ; — he who is generally so calm, stately, and self-possessed, and from THE LITTLE WIFE. 65 whom one could hardly expect common feelings. He looked constantly at the hrequet clock, which swung before us ; and several times told the post-boys, who, I thought, were driving at a most rapid j)ace, to go still faster. " At length, as if suddenly recollecting that I was with him, and perhaps seeing by my coun- tenance, something of what was passing in my mind, he said, with a smile, and a faint colour passing over his countenance, " ' Reginald, I see that you wonder at all this haste ; but you must remember that I am a very newly married man, and to tell you the honest truth, I am all impatience to see my young bride again. The reason which makes me particularly anxious to get on at this moment, is, that she does not expect me till dinner-time ; but I have expedited my journey, in order to surprise her just before she goes out in the car- riage. However, that provoking delay at the last stage, I fear will frustrate my scheme, and on my 66 THE LITTLE WIFE. arrival, I shall have two or three hours to wait, before she returns, which will be an age of dis- appointment to me. Now Reginald, I have let you a little behind the scenes. I am perfectly convinced, you would have as soon suspected your friend the Earl, of such soft weakness, as of his being guilty of treason, or any other crime of equal magnitude. You have always looked upon me, I dare 'say, in the light I am viewed by many, as a man absorbed in politics, in worldly considerations ; but my heart, I fear, is quite as full of the infirmities of human nature, as those who more constantly betray the dictates of the feelings, which are indigenous to the nature of, I should imagine, every man.' " ' Oh I my lord,' I exclaimed, with warmth, * all those who know you, have good reason to be convinced of the kindly affections of your heart.' " ' But they little know its weakness,' inter- rupted the Earl, with a smile ; ' however, there THE LITTLE WIFE. 67 is a charm in the foible, which I would not re- linquish, for all the self-command of the greatest Stoic that ever boasted philosophy. I rather hug the weakness to my heart. But this is a bad lesson to you, Reginald, to whom I ought to inculcate, nothing but rigid strength of mind, and contempt of human foibles. But here we are in London — in a few moments we shall be in Arlington Street ;' and Lord Elmsdale did not seem inclined for any more conversation, so eager was his look of expectation. "At length the carriage drove into the street. " * She is not out, I am happy to say,' he exclaimed, ^ for there is her carriage ;' and I saw a splendid equipage, the horses of which were pawing the ground with impatience, and seemed with difficulty to accommodate them- selves to the stationary position, to which the coachman wished to rein them in. "'Her ladyship is at home ?' the Earl said quickly, as we entered, to the porter ; an old 68 THE LITTLE WIFE. servant, so antiquated in his appearance, that it might have been imagined, that he and his antique -looking seat, had been in that place from generation to generation. "'Yes, my lord/ he grumbled out, 'her ladyship is at home, although the carriage has been at the door, two hours and five minutes by my clock — and the young grays are in to-day, my lord,' he added, in a peculiar tone of voice, as if he fain would excite in Lord Elmsdale, a portion of the dissatisfaction he thought fit to entertain, at this dereliction of punctuality in his lady. However, his words did not appear to produce the slightest eifect ; and I had reason to know that the Earl was blessing any chance which had been the fortunate means of detaining Lady Elmsdale from taking her accustomed drive." And here we shall take the narrative into our own hands, as we can more fully detail many events, which were too minute to be dwelt upon by Eeginald in a letter. CHAPTER V. " A beautiful and laughing thing Just in the first apparelling Of girlish loveliness." Mechanically, Reginald followed Lord Elmsdale's steps ; curiosity was mingled with a degree of nervous trepidation, at the idea of his first introduction to the fair lady of his patron. The groom of the chambers, who preceded them, threw open the first door, upon the land- ing, and they entered a drawing-room ; but the servant, saying that he believed that his lady was in her morning -room, went on, continuing to 70 THE LITTLE WIFE. traverse several apartments, until they reached the one, in v/hich they expected to find the Countess. They sought in vain for the fair being, who was the presiding goddess over all this splen- dour ; but in this room, she had evidently been sitting, for it was strewed with the litter of feminine employment. The piano -forte was open, and music scattered in all directions : drawing materials were also laid out ; the disco- loured water, and the brush, still left in it, shewing they had just been used; and a drawing was on an easel, before which. Lord Elmsdale stood for a moment, in delighted contemplation. " Good girl !" he exclaimed ; " she has really been hard at work — what talent she has ! Do look, Reginald ; is not this a masterly perform- ance ?" And Reginald, who was himself something of an artist, was amazed at the boldness of the style, and well executed design ; and when he THE LITTLE WIFE. 71 looked round, and beheld the intellectual — we may say, almost classic appearance, which every occupation of the Countess's morning studies demonstrated — the books — the various signs of study ! the idea which our hero had formed of her — that of a gay and giddy girl — seemed in a moment to vanish, and a sort of awe-struck sen- sation pervaded his feelings ; he began to ima- gine that he was about to be ushered into the presence of a majestic Corinne — an inspired Sappho ! '' I thought her ladyship would have been here," said the groom of the chambers, " for she passed the morning in this room, but I sup- pose she is now in her boudoir;^' and he pro- ceeded to that apartment, which was divided fr«m the others, by a conservatory, through which there was a passage. No sooner had he- opened the door, than the merry sound of a youthful laugh, rang upon thei; ears, and Lord 72 THE LITTLE WIFE. Elmsdale, saying, " Very well, Stevens, you need not go any further," dismissed him. Eeginald was about to follow the servant, when the Earl whispered to him, " No, come with me ; you shall see her at once, without any formal preparation." As they walked along this little paradise of fragrance, the happy destination of many a pet singing bird, the musical voice which had before met their ear still continued its merry notes. The Earl laughed, and said, " I wonder with what frolic she is amusing herself!" and at that moment he opened the door. I believe, if we could have read Reginald's thoughts, we should have found, that the awe which had been previously inspired, by the im- pression he received in the room of study, began to be less overpowering, from the instant he heard this childish laughter, so little in accord- ance with the science, and even poetry, of the pursuits in which she had been engaged ; but THE LITTLE WIFE. 73 his astonisliment was something far beyond description, when his eyes fell upon her, whom he had pictured to himself, under so different an aspect. Truly, had he not seen the female figure start up, and fly towards the Earl, who pressed her in his arms, he could not have imagined that it was Lady Elmsdale. Even then the thought darted across his mind, that it must be one of her younger sisters ; and not until Lord Elmsdale had presented her to him, by her title, did he in the least recover from the mystification, into which his senses had fallen. We must now record, with somewhat of confusion, the occupation of the bride of a man, perhaps one of the most distinguished of his age, for refinement and wisdom ; at least to whom Reginald had always looked up, as the Socrates of his limited acquaintance. He beheld a little fairy-hke looking being, who, had it not been for her womanly dress, one might have imagined scarcely fourteen years VOL. I. E 74 THE LITTLE WIFE. old^ seated on a low stool, close to a tub, busily employed, with the assistance of two female servants, in washing a wretched little spaniel, who sat shivering and whining, with great dis- gust, at these ablutionary proceedings. The occupation seemed to afford great amusement to the young lady ; but not so to the smart lady's maid, whose exclamations of ^' Dieux, Miladi, quelles horreurs que vous avez faites ! II eut bien mieux valu avoir envoye cette petite bete au Lavoir. D'ailleurs, ce n'est pas la, une occu- pation de tout convenable, pour Madame la Comtesse !" shewed it was evidently against her inclination that she had been enlisted into the business. Lady Elmsdale and her attendants were so engrossed by this important task, that they neither heard nor heeded the opening of the door ; therefore the two intruders stood for a few moments unperceived, watching their proceedings. But the instant the Countess turned her head, and saw her husband, who had advanced close behind her, she was in his THE LITTLE WIFE. / O arms, uttering an exclamation of delighted joy. She had not even waited to detach from her hands, the soapsuds with which they were co- vered, but threw her arms round his neck, and almost smothered him with kisses. Reginald, who had not seen much of conjugal life, might indeed have been surprised at these warm de- monstrations of affection ; but in describing the scene to his cousin, it seemed that her actions appeared to him. too childish. Beautiful he would have thought them, from a daughter to a father ; but not the sort of accuiel which, in the romance of his fancy, he might have anticipated from a wife to a husband — not sufficiently dig- nified for wedded love. But the Earl seemed perfectly satisfied ; and it would be difficult to forget the ray of satis- faction, which beamed from his countenance, as he pressed her to his heart. After the surprise and delight of the meeting were over, the little lady appeared to remember e2 76 THE LITTLE WIFE. the extraordinary occupation from which they had disturbed her ; for she laughed and blushed, when she thought how she had been caught. She hastily wiped her pretty fingers, still drip- ping with soap and water, and sparkling with diamonds and other precious stones, on the coarse apron which she had on, and had evi- dently borrowed from one of the housemaids, affording a ridiculous contrast to the splendid purple velvet dress she wore. She untied it, and threw it, looking a little ashamed, on one side. She then pulled down her sleeves, which had been tucked up to her elbows, and endeavoured to adjust in a degree her locks, which had been put into some dis- order, by her having leant over the steam of the hot water, in which she had been persecuting the unfortunate animal. Reginald, who remained in the background, watching the scene with amusement, could not help smiling at the confusion of her looks. It THE LITTLE WIFE. 77 certainly gave her a great air of prettiness, although he thought it far too infantine for his preconceived style of feminine beauty. His ideas reverted to his dear Alice ; his notion of everything delightful in a woman, was con- nected with her dear image ; and there certainly never were too such opposites in appearance, as Alice and the Countess. The Earl looked on with undisguised plea- sure, evidently enjoying the contemplation of the little embarrassment, which his sudden ap- pearance had occasioned. " What new pet have you got, Nina ?" he said ; " for in its present miserable plight, I can hardly distinguish to what species it belongs ;" and he pointed to the dog, which was standing shivering and dripping. " Oh !" she exclaimed, with animation, " the most beautiful creature you ever beheld !" Certainly, just then, its perfections "were not very perceptible. 78 THE LITTLE WIFE. *' To tell you the truth," she continued, " it arrived just as I was going to step into the carriage, a present which you know I have been long promised, from the Duke of K ; the greatest love that ever was seen. — I could not resist the pleasure of washing it myself, to make it quite nice and clean, before it became my constant companion, and also that it might look to the very best advantage to be exhibited to you. But now, Lisette, you may just take it away, and be careful that both you and Ellen dry it properly, and then brush it well ; and do not forget to put on these ribbons," and she tossed a quantity of cherry-coloured bows to- wards the French woman, who, with a shrug and gesture, which evinced contempt for the employ- ment, desired her assistant handmaid, to extri- cate the Httle miserable wretch from its watery position, and then proceeded to place a large cloth over it. In this occupation, the Countess could not THE LITTLE WIFE. 79 resist giving a little assistance, and would have aided in the process, had not M'amselle Lisette, heartily sick of the business, hurried off the girl, who held the dog in her arms, and mutter- ing something about " Miladi " and '* ridicule^^ left the room. All this time, Reginald remained quite unper- ceived by Lady Elmsdale ; for although the Earl had mentioned his name, and in a manner presented him to her on their first entrance, in the confusion and surprise at the unexpected sight of her lord, even if she had for a mo- ment heeded him, so soon was he forgotten. The Earl had seated himself upon a sofa, and drawn her towards him; but suddenly recol- lecting that the young man was in the room, he said, " Nina, you have not yet welcomed my godson, Reginald Stanley !" Poor Reginald was placed in such a manner, that he could see distinctly ir. a mirror opposite the countenances of both. He had already felt 80 THE LITTLE WIFE. nervous at the idea of being brought forward to her notice ; therefore his feelings may be ima- gined, when he heard Lady Elmsdale exclaim, '^ How tiresome? — is he come?" and at the same time he perceived that she made a grimace, which was plainly indicative of the words, " What a bore 1" The Earl was immediately aware that she had no idea that Reginald was in such close vicinity, and looked anxious and fearful, lest she should say anything that might further distress him. He therefore rephed quickly, " Yes, love, he is here — in this room ;" and he turned towards him, adding, " Reginald, let me introduce you again to the Countess. I think she must have had some of those soapsuds in her eyes, when I presented you before, for she does not appear to have seen you ;" and he looked grave and annoyed. Lady Elmsdale instantly started up, and ap- proached towards the young man. She looked THE LITTLE WIFE. 81 very red, but advanced, and held out her hand, saying gently, " I beg your pardon, Mr. Reginald Stanley ; you must forgive my forgetfulness." And at this moment, there was an air of such sweetness in her manner — an expression, so softened, in her countenance, that it was impos- sible, but that the chafed feelings of Reginald must have been soothed; impossible not to forgive the little gesture, which had just be- fore, caused the warm blood to rise to his cheeks. But, however, he still continued to look rather mortified, and no wonder ; we must recollect that his life had been passed in such retirement, that he lacked experience in all ways. Time alone would give him that self- possession, and confidence, so absolutely neces- sary, to render his situation bearable in the sphere in which he was henceforth to move. He saw that the Countess was looking at him with a scrutinizing glance, as if she were read- e5 82 THE LITTLE WIFE. ing his very thoughts ; and as she continued to speak^ her tone became more kind and familiar, at every word. *^ I assure you, Mr. Stanley," she said, '* I have heard so much of your father, that I am most anxious to show every attention to the son of a friend, whom Lord Elmsdale so highly prizes. You must excuse the cold reception which I gave you ; but I was so taken by sur- prise, that I own I did not even see you. But I have been quite busy in your service ; order- ing, and seeing, that your rooms were commo- diously prepared for you ; and I hope you will find them very comfortable. I will shew them to you!" she exclaimed, with childish eager- ness ; and was advancing towards the door, when the Earl interposed, saying, with a smile, " No Nina, I cannot spare you just now, to act the part of groom of the chambers. I will summon Stevens, who will perform his office." Accordingly the bell was rung, and Reginald THE LITTLE WIFE. 83 was soon installed in his cliarming new apart- ments^ which consisted of a bedroom, and sitting- room adjoining, fitted up in the most luxurious manner. It was indeed a contrast to one, who had, all his life, been accustomed to the unosten- tentatious accommodations of a cottage home. Every thing here breathed of refinement and splendour; but were his feelings those of in- creased delight ? On the contrary; he felt oppressed by the atmosphere of grandeur, and bewildered by its glare; and when he found' himself alone, and the obsequious, and really civil Stevens, having informed him, that a footman would attend for orders, and in future be at his command, had withdrawn, he felt relieved, ard threw him- self into a large arm-chair, and began, with a heart full of bitterness, to ruminate on his pre- sent position. What a change had a fe w hours wrought ! His brain still whirled from the effects of the 84 THE LITTLE WIFE. rapid journey, and oh ! how diflferent was every object round him, from his own dear home ! The magnificence which met his eye, only made him feel the more lonely, stamping, as it were, his insignificance. How he missed the looks of affection which had ever beamed upon him un- til now ! The Earl he knew was all kindness ; but sad- dened by his retrospect of home, he forgot the sweet conciliatory manner of the Countess, and only remembered the expression of her counte- nance, when his arrival was first intimated to her. His heart, which was a very proud one, began to swell; and indignantly he thought, ''.She evidently considers my presence an annoy- ance — this baby-lady is probably full of caprice, which when uninfluenced by the presence of the Earl, she will make me feel — no doubt she thinks T am de trop. Oh ! that I were at home, in that happy peaceful home ! Why did my am- bitious spirit ever tempt me to wish to leave it ?" THE LITTLE WIFE. 85 And the tell-tale mirror had conjured up to his imagination, phantoms of mortifications, which completely destroyed his present peace of mind. He could indeed exclaim, " Oh ! there are evil hours in our life, When but a thouglit, a word, a look, has power To dash the cup of happiness aside, And stamp us wretched ! " And he made all sorts of rash determinations to escape, as soon as possible, from any further humiliation, by returning to Elmsdale. His disagreeable meditations were interrupted by the entrance of a servant, who came to inform him that dinner would be ready in half an hour, as his Lordship was obliged to go down to the house. Therefore he was foiced to dress, and prepare himself for the dreaded ordeal, which he felt the dinner must make him un- dergo. How his heart sunk at the idea of that ceremony ! By anticipation ne felt the eyes of all the numerous servants fixed upon him — the 86 THE LITTLE WIFE. supercilious looks of Lady Elmsdale watching his awkwardness — the breaches of etiquette of which he might be guilty. He was suffering, poor youth, already, for his presumptuous folly, in wishing to exalt himself; and at that moment, completely identified what his father would have styled, " a fish out of water." CHAPTER VI. " I gaze upon a face as fair As ever made a lip of Heaven Falter amid its music-prayer. The first-lit star of summer even Springs not so softly on the eye, Nor grows with watching half so bright ; Nor mid its sisters of the sky, So seems of Heaven the dearest light ; Then murmur where that face is seen. Thy youth's angelic dream was of that shape and mien." How very narrow are the limits of human fore- sight ! Our ideas may be compared to a person groping about in the dark. We feel at one moment, perfectly convinced upon a particular subject, and believe we have but one course to 88 THE LITTLE WIFE. pursue ; when suddenly, in our obscurity, we knock our heads against some impediment, and are beat back by the blow, to the point from whence we first set out. The most inconsistent idea in life, is to expect consistency in man ; for w^e know that he is entirely dependent upon circumstances, and it is to be feared that he ever must be inconsistent, unless he contrive to take in the present, past, and future at a glance. But certainly it is surprising, how our opinions change — how totally our views of things, alter in the shortest lapse of time. It would be amusing to write down the thoughts that occur, in order to look over them afterwards, and examine in what respect we may have advanced, and how receded. When we left Keginald, he was suffering agonies of mind from wounded pride, and dis- appointed expectations. He dressed in haste, in the very best attire his wardrobe afforded ; and having caught a view of himself in a long THE LITTLE WIFE. 89 glass that hung provokingly before him, he ex- perienced a feehng of dissatisfaction. He need not have done so, for seldom did a mirror reflect a handsomer person ; but his opinion of himself, had fallen considerably : he felt more sad than ever. '' I know Avhat makes me feel so weak," he thought. '' I believe I have been accustomed all my life to be too kindly treated— too highly estimated, and I am aware that the effects are pernicious to me. Praise was the food on which I subsisted ; and the nourishment, though delightful to the taste, I begin to discover is not invigorating to the mind. I feel that it will be difficult to live without the kind words, the looks of affection, which were always ready to be bestowed by every one. For the first time, I shrink under the idea of my own insignificance, and tremble at the fear of cri- ticism. Here I feel that every one looks superior to myself." 90 THE LITTLE WIFE. Poor Reginald, it was even with envy that he recollected the elaborate dress of the smart gentleman, yclept — the groom of the chambers. There remained in his imagination, a confused vision of his radiant waistcoat and gold orna- ments ; and when he looked down upon his own attire, it was with a feeling of despair at its plainness ; and a morbid state of mauvaise honte was gathering upon him to a painful degree. As he was standing, still anxious to linger — to put off the moment when he must encounter the dreaded ordeal — he illustrated almost laughingly the truth of the idea, that imagination, like the setting sun, casts a glow over the prospect, and which, lending to every object a brilliant colour- ing, regains its true tint as the sun sinks. " Such, alas ! Are the illusions of this Proteus life ! All, all is false ; through every phasis still 'Tis shadowy and deceitful." THE LITTLE WIFE. 91 This perhaps may be considered a grave and high-flown way, of placing the wounded feelings of a shy youth, making too serious a matter of trifles; but we all know too well "that trifles make the sum of human ill." Thus from circumstances insignificant in themselves, spring many of our most painful feelings through life. Even misfortunes, in which we can trace the di\dne origin, are sometimes easier to bear than irritating trifles, which spring from the deceitfulness and vanity of the world, or from the consciousness of our own weakness and frailty. Filled with these disturbed thoughts, our hero followed the servant, who ushered him into the room in which the family assembled. He found it empty, and that was a temporary relief; but in a few moments he heard the voice of some one approaching, which was certainly musical in its every key ; and in 92 THE LITTLE WIFE. another instant, the door was thrown open, and the Countess entered, followed by the Earl. Her appearance electrified him, so totally did she seem altered. Although of fairy-like proportions, when it pleased her fancy to assume it, she possessed a peculiarly graceful and dignified carriage, which gave a distinguished air to her whole bearing. She was beautifully drestin a simple demie toilette; her hair, splendid in its colour and quality, was arranged in a manner which conveyed to the mind the idea of one of the beautiful statues of the Grecian Venus ; and she carried a bouquet formed of the choicest flowers, in her hand. Lady Elmsdale was preceded by the little dog ; which, having also made its toilette^ like its mistress, was equally improved in beauty ; and it was cer- tainly a most perfect little animal, might have passed for the original of the renowned little spaniel, represented in the picture of Charles the Second, from which such a numerous race THE LITTLE WIFE. 93 of long-eared and patrician lap-dogs have ^sprung. The Countess immediately advanced towards Reginald, and in the most familiar manner, as if she had known him for years, said, ^' Now, Mr. Stanley, you must give me your opinion of my pet. Did I not say truly, when I pro- nounced him to be beautiful ? Even Lord Elmsdale cannot help admiring him ; and I never can get him in general to be rapturous on the subject of my favorites. But," she continued, "we must have a council of war to decide upon his name ; that will be a matter of great moment, and I shall expect your assist- ance and most deliberate consideration." The Countess continued thus to rattle on, with great animation and good humour. With real kindness and warmth of manner, she en- quired concerning the elder Mr. Stanley ; and then politely expressed her hopes, that Re- ginald approved of the arrangements she had 94 THE LITTLE WIFE. made for his comfort. In short, she succeeded so completely in restoring his self-complacency and ease, that even before dinner was an- nounced, the weight that had pressed so griev- ously upon his heart, was gradually lightening, and his embarrassed feelings rapidly changed to those of sunshine and pleasure. It may appear childish and frivolous ; but poor human nature caused him to feel relief in remarking, that distinguished and handsome as the Earl looked, his dress was perfectly plain — quite as much so as his own ; and although some of the servants out of livery, were far more magni- ficently equipped, by the contrast, he became aware, that upon a really distinguished person, simplicity of attire rather renders more con- spicuous the superiority in the appearance of the wearer ; and experience afterwards taught him that an elaborate toilette only serves to render vulgarity more striking. The dinner passed with much less gene than THE LITTLE WIFE. 95 Eeginald had expected. He had so often dined with the Earl of Elmsdale, that the splendour of all around was not quite new to him ; but his eye could not fail to be dazzled by the beauty of all the appointments of the dinner table. To one accustomed only to the commonalities of life, the table of the great is, at first sight, like the realization of a banquet described in a fairy tale. The magnificence of all around — the resplendent plate — the costliness of the viands — the sparkling of the cool wines, pre- sented in the beautifully-formed glasses — the noiseless attendance of the well-trained servants — every thing so totally unlike the dinner-table of usual life, at which often all is noise — smell — clatter — confusion, and disorder. Young Stan- ley could not avoid being struck by Lady Elms- dale's manners, whilst she did the honors • of the table. Nothing could exceed her ease and grace, or the lady-like attention she evinced towards him as her guest; but what most asto- 96 THE LITTLE WIFE. nished him, was the way in which she entered into the conversation which the Earl had com- menced with Reginald. She was no longer the childish girl, but the well-informed, intel- ligent woman ; and as he listened to the sound sense of her remarks, and detected a profound- ness of acquirement, which he never could have imagined that she possessed, no longer did he wonder that she should have proved so attractive, even to such a man as Lord Elms- dale, for, Proteus-like, she could assume any character that best suited her present fancy. CHAPTER Vir. " Think you a little din can daunt mine ears? « • * « * « « « • • And do you tell me of a woman's tongue, That gives not half so great a hlow to the ear, As will a chesnut in a farmer's fire?" "By-the-bye, Nina," said the Earl, "when the servants had withdrawn, and the conversa- tion become more famihar, " you Lave never told me, dearest, how you and my aunt Grantham have been going on during my absence." '* Oh, my dear lord !" she answered, laugh- ing, and looking rather confiised, " pray change the subject. How true it is that perfect happi- VOL. I. F 98 THE LITTLE WIFE. Aess cannot be the lot of mortal man or woman; for the firsj; time since your return, I begin to feel that I am one of Eve's unfortunate posterity. — Oh ! the sound of that name !" she exclaimed, putting her fingers to her ears; "do let us talk of something else." " My dear love," the Earl replied, with much earnestness, " you really are very absurd upon that subject — it is your only weak point. When you are a little older, Nina — a little wiser," and here he smiled, " you will be able to appreciate her intentions better. Depend upon it, my aunt means everything for the best; and from her knowledge of the world, her opinions ought to be respected." The Countess did not appear the least con- vinced by this argument. Compressing her lips into the same expression of disgust, that had so electrified Reginald a few hours before, and shrugging her pretty shoulders rather impa- tiently, she said. THE LITTLE WIFE. 99 " How disagreeable well-intentioned people often take the liberty of making themselves !" and at the same time she brought her chair nearer to the Earl; and nestling herself close to him, and looking up into his face, with a coaxing, but at the same time most confident manner, she continued : " I have a long story to tell you, which I dare say will make you inclined to give me a good lecture. Do you know I believe I am at this moment in Lady Grantham's very worst books ? and, moreover, were it not that it seems to dis- compose you, I should not be in the least sorry if it prevented her in future ever taking the liberty of lecturing me again ;" and here the little lady drew herself up, and looked extremely dignified. The Earl appeared really alarmed. " My dear Nina, what do you mean ? I trust you have not been committing any folly or rude- F 2 100 THE LITTLE WIFE. ness towards my aunt; you know I have the greatest regard and affection for the old lady." " Well," she replied, " you shall hear the whole history, and judge for yourself. Yester- nay morning, after papa and my sisters had left me, I really was in very low spirits ; indeed I shed so many tears at parting with them, that I had a very bad head-ache." Even Reginald could not help smiling to him- self, at the tact which the Countess displayed by thus inlisting the Earl at once in her cause; for she commenced her narration in a most pathetic tone of voice, and already her lord seemed to sympathise in her sufferings, as he tenderly encircled her waist with his arm, and pressed her more closely towards him. ^^ Well," she continued, in a moment regain- ing her wonted cheerfulness, " I was lying on the sofa, trying by a little quiet, to get rid of my dismality, when, to my surprise and dismay — for it was much earlier than her usual hour for inflicting upon me her presence — Lady Grant- THE LITTLE WIFE. lOl ham was announced. I must say that I was not at all pleased ; but I was rising to receive her with all due deference, when she stopped me short, by saying, with that sharp wiry voice, that is always to me like a gimlet going through the drum of my ear, — " ' Pray do not move, Lady Elmsdale ; be still, I beseech you. I would far rather see you in that position of repose ; it is, I can assure you, much more lady-like, and also better for you, than the fidgetty, inconsequent ^ manner in which you are always running about the house, and rooms; and which, I shall just seize this oppor- tunity of hinting to you, is improper in every way. Such constant movement destroys the dignity of your address — deranges your attire — your hair, which I regret to say I seldom ever see in proper curl. Allow me to add, that it is childish, and not at all suited to the character of the wife of the Earl of Elmsdale.'" Here the Earl could not repress a smile, 102 THE LITTLE WIFE. which the little lady, who had her eyes fixed upon his countenance, perceiving, seemed to gain from it fresh spirit in narrating her story. ** This was very impertinent, I thought," she continued; "however, I am so accustomed to her lectures and rude speeches, that it did not make much impression upon me ; and I obeyed her by lying quite still upon the sofa, burying my face as much as possible in the cushions, in order to deaden the harsh sound of her dis- agreeable voice." "Naughty Nina!" and Lord Elmsdale en- deavoured to shake his head reproachfully. " Well ! Lady Grantham went on to say, ^ I paid you this early visit, having something im- portant to mention to you.* She uttered these words in such a terrible tone of voice, that in a moment I started up, trembling from head to foot. I thought she had some intelligence to communicate concerning you. She frightened me to death, and I besought her to tell me at once. THE LITTLE WIFE. 103 *' * It is not about Lord Elmsdale I came to speak, but of yourself — your proceedings/ " At these words, inexpressibly relieved, I sunk upon my couch, caring little what was to follow, so that it would only soon be over, and her Ladyship departed. But again she startled me. * In the absence of your Lord,' she resumed, ' I feel it my duty to admonish you ; and much do I regret to say, that last night, at the opera, you infringed every rule of etiquette and les hienseances de la societe; and I am certain, from my knowledge of my nephew's fastidious ideas, upon every subject connected with female dignity, that he would have par- taken of my annoyance, had he witnessed the circumstance to which I allude.'" Lord Elmsdale now in right earnest seemed uncomfortable, and was about to say something, when Nina prevented him. " Don't be alarmed ; you will see it will all end in just nothing at all. However, she really 104 THE LITTLE WIFE. made me dreadfully nervous ; I thought — what could I have done ? for since you went away, I have been behaving so extremely well ; no wo - man of ninety could have been more grave, steady, or circumspect. When you are present, I care not what I do ; for I know that if I am wrong, you will be the first to tell me of it ; but of course, when you are away — first of all, I have not the spirits to be gay ; and as I am aware it is your wish that I should look a little more posee, before all those old tiresome frumps, I assure you I endeavour to obey you; although it is rather hard work, to try to make myself into such a dull, disagreeable, and, to me, most odious and uninteresting character — that of a fine lady. " But to proceed. I begged Lady Grantham would inform me what she meant — what I had done. She made a most portentous pause — wicked old thing ! I verily believe the more to alarm me. At length the bubble burst ! THE LITTLE WIFE. 105 " * Last niglit at the opera, Lady Elmsdale ; I never was more vexed — discomposed — nay, mortified.' " ^ At the opera !" I exclaimed — * what can you mean V — for to tell you the truth, I had quite pleased myself by thinking, that never in my life had I looked so dignified, or so old- fashioned ; for do you know," and she laughed heartily, " I ordered a turban for the occasion ?" "You do not really mean to say that you were so absurd ?" interrupted Lord Elmsdale, much amused. " Yes ! and why not ?" she replied. " People quite provoke me by teUing me I look so young. I hate to be thought the youngest sister ; Clara is always taken for me, which offends me ex- tremely ; so I told the milliner to send me a very imposing head-dress ; and as I wished the girls to see as much of the opera as possible, I sat in the chaperone's seat, quite behind. In short, I performed the office to perfection ; so r 5 106 THE LITTLE WIFE. to what Lady Grantham could allude, was im- possible to enter into my imagination. She saw that I was perplexed, and very anxious to know what I had done, therefore kindly kept me in suspense for some time ; expatiating on the im- propriety of my conduct, till she quite put me into a fever. At last, what do you think she said ? — " ' I shall never forget how shocked I felt, when I saw you enter the box, accompanied by two ladies.' " ' They were my sisters !' I exclaimed, all the pride of my race flashing from my eyes, for I imagined she meant some affront to them. " ' I do not care if they had been duchesses,' she continued ; ' but had you looked round the house, your Ladyship would not have seen another box, occupied by persons of your rank and station, in which there were three ladies — three ladies !' she again repeated ; and I suppose, had she been writing the words, instead of THE LITTLE WIFE. 107 speaking tliem, there would have been at least a hundred notes of adrnkation placed after them, to note the excess of her disgust." '' And what did you say to this, Nina?" de- manded the Earl, quite reHeved at hearing the cause of the discussion, which seemed so serious in its commencement, and now fully en- tering into the ludicrous description given by the lively lady. "What did I say?" she repHed; "I really did not know whether to be most angry, or most amused ; but I believe the former feeling pre- dominated, for I exclaimed with much warmth, aUas, rather in a passion,—' Is that all ? If I had six sisters, I should have taken them every one. I wish. Lady Grantham, you would not terrify me for such folly and nonsense ; and, moreover,' I added, 'I am certain that Lord Elmsdale would have entirely agreed with me, that there was no impropriety in the act.' After saying these words, for the third time, I ensconced my- 108 THE LITTLE WIFE. self amidst my cushions, leaning my head upon one of my hands, so as completely to close one ear, and drawing the corner of the pillow over the other, in order to exclude as much as possible the sound of her voice. " She, however, went on, expatiating and lecturing upon the subject at great length. How it was, I cannot tell; but, what with my head-' ache, and the fatigue and excitement occasioned by her presence, an extraordinary sensation of drowsiness began to creep over my senses. The position I had taken, deadened the clatter of Lady Grantham's tongue ; and as slumber in- sensibly advanced, I half dreamt I was in bed, and that it was a stormy, windy night — 'rude Boreas most boisterous in his railings.' x'Vt one moment the squall rang shrilly — then the wind diminished into low rumblings — again it mounted into its high key, and then once more died feebly away ! *'And so on it went, until — until — what do THE LITTLE WIFE. 109 you think happened ? Now you need not look so much shocked— nothing very terrible, after all. I only fell fast asleep ; and when I awoke, my head-ache was quite gone, and what was far better still — so was your aunt ! And really, for the first time in my life, T felt obliged to her ; for no anodyne — morphine, or any of the new preparations, of the efficacy of which we hear so much, could have soothed me more effectually. On awaking, I found myself com- fortably tucked up, with my eider-down quilt over me, and Lisette hovering about, half frightened, I believe, at my long nap ; thinking, I suppose, that like the sleeping beauty, I was not to awake again for a hundred years ; Lady Grantham of course being the wicked fairy who had thus enchanted me. Now this is my confession, and I am ready to receive my condemnation, and scolding, upon the subject of my bad be- haviour ;" and she tried to look very penitent and meek. But Lord Elmsdale, who had cast no THE LITTLE WIFE. many a sly look of pleased amusement at Reginald during this relation, which had been told in a most witty and amusing manner, and rendered doubly ludicrous by watching the countenance of the fair narrator, in which there was a wonderful play of animation and humour, could only shake his head and laugh ; and then he said, endeavouring to look grave, '^ I can tell you, Nina, I shall be quite afraid to see my aunt ; depend upon it she is very much affronted. I am sure that during the course of her long life, no one ever presumed to fall asleep while she was speaking." '^ Oh, never mind !" replied the Countess ; " I will try to make up by the very best of behaviour, and undergo the most painful of penances, to atone for my sins. You shall ask her to dinner, and some of her stiff disagree- able favourites to meet her, and I will play my part to perfection. I will sit bolt upright, twirl my fingers, and not speak a word — nor THE LITTLE WIFE. Ill smile — nor look to the right or left ; and then she will go away, and tell everybody, that she really believes, that silly, incorrigible young creature, whom her poor dear nephew has been so foolish as to marry, is improving, and that her frequent admonitions are beginning at last to have effect." At this moment, the little dog, which had comfortably established itself on Reginald's knee, having heard something on the terrace, which attracted its notice, jumped up, began to bark, and ran towards the window. It was instantly followed by Lady Elmsdale, who, throwing up the sash, let it out, and was in a moment to be seen flying about the garden below, gambolling with her little favourite. Lord Elmsdale also rising, said, "I am obliged to go out, but I hope to be able to return shortly ; in the mean time, Nina will take care of you, Reginald. You will find that, merry and thoughtless as "she appears, she 112 THE LITTLE WIFE. does not lack information, indeed, has read more then most women of double her age. Her father is a man of some science ; and his chil- dren, who were always with him, acquired many of his tastes and pursuits ; certainly," he added, laughing, *'my little wife is a very eccentric mixture of the grave and gay ,* to look at her at this moment, you would scarcely believe what I have told you, of her attainments in serious knowledge." Lady Elmsdale was bounding over the flower beds, 'endeavouring to catch the little dog, which had run away with her richly laced pocket-handkerchief, and looked the very pic^ ture of sportive gaiety. They then followed her to the garden, and soon after, the Earl's carriage was announced. CHAPTER VIIL " The heart within thy guileless breast "Wakes to each touch of finer feeling ; We love what springs from source so blessed, Thy fervent soul's pure thoughts revealing." When the Earl quitted his lady, he had entreated her to return immediately to the house ; so calling the little dog, she proceeded up stairs, desiring Reginald to follow her. They found the apartment lighted, and the cheerful blaze of a fire, gave an enlivening aspect to all around. The Countess, who was rather chilled by her exposure to the cold air, seemed glad to seat 114 THE LITTLE WIFE. herself before it, and for a few moments she was quite silent, apparently musing. At length she turned to Reginald, and said quickly, *' I think as you are to be so much with us, and in a manner, you know, under my surveil- lance, I had better at once call you Reginald ; for I suppose it would come to that at last, and it is certainly much more agreeable. I do so love the name — Reginald!" she repeated, and indeed it did sound sweetly, for the voice of the Coun- tess was peculiarly harmonious. " I some- times think," she continued, " that I shall call Lord Elmsdale, Reginald ; but then again it appears almost too familiar in addressing him — not sufficiently dignified. Yet I am perfectly at my ease with my husband ; still in my heart, oh, how I do respect him ! I believe, Reginald, you fully appreciate the merits of my dear lord ; you think with me, do you not, that he is the most perfect creature that ever existed ?" He assured her, with warmth, that not only THE LITTLE WIFE. 115 did he love him, deeply and affectionately, but that he admired — he venerated him. "Yes!" she continued, her eyes filling with tears as she spoke; *' those who know him as we do, are alone aware how transcendantly good — how truly kind he is. With all his great — his shining qualities, it is at home that he is most to be admired. His goodness to me Reginald, how can I ever repay it? — his indul- gence — his tenderness !" And here the pearly drops actually fell from her eyes ; and then she exclaimed, hastily brushing away her tears, from cheeks that were glowing bright, from the enthusiasm in- spired by the idea, *' How honored, how proud I feel, to have been thus chosen by him to be his wife ! I am indeed truly sensible of my superior hap- piness, and must humbly pray that such felicity may not make me forget myself — may not render me presumptuous — vain- glorious — that 116 THE LITTLE WIFE. my heart may not become proud and cold, like many of those with whom I am obliged to associate. God knows it will be my greatest glory to make my dear husband happy !" As Lady Elmsdale uttered these sentiments, so pure — so good, how did her countenance alter ! Her childish aspect seemed to vanish ; she was at once, the sensitive, the intellectual woman, with every soft and feminine feeling, beaming from her eyes. There certainly never was a countenance that changed so often, and so totally, in its expression. After a short pause, during which she ap- peared to be still musing on the subject, the Countess spoke. " I really believe Lord Elmsdale is happy — is satisfied with me ; and though he does seem anxious that I should alter in some respects, too well I am convinced, that he would much rather I remained even as I am, with all my imperfec- tions, than be like a heartless woman of the THE LITTLE WIFE. 117 world. Ah, Reginald !" she exclaimed, putting up again her little lip in a pettish manner; "I cannot describe to you, how uninteresting and stupid, and ill-tempered, and disagreeable, I find half the people in this grand monde. They are either so stiff and formal, that their pre- j sence absolutely freezes me to the chair on 'j which I am sitting, or else there is a sort of freedom of manner about them — a kind of slang — a bold recklessness, with which it is quite as difficult to compete, as the rigidity of the other extreme. And then again there is another description — a sort of person who emu- lates the character of a fine lady, and whose affectation of refinement, amounts quite as much to vulgarity, as the most genuine coarseness. However, I must say, of the three extremes, this offends me the least, for it brings with it amuse- ment, and often affords me a hearty laugh in my sleeve. It will be quite an entertaining occupation, to show all these different species 1 18 THE LITTLE WIFE. off to you, and have some one to help me to laugh ; for Lord Elmsdale will give me no encouragement. He is afraid of my becoming satirical, and he is so good himself, that he never abuses people, and cannot bear to hear others do so. I wonder, Reginald, whether you will be as surprised and disgusted with some characters as I have^been." E-egmald was so little au fait upon the sub- ject, that he was at a loss how to answer this question ; but as he looked at her speaking countenance, he thought it very probable that his ideas would generally coincide with hers. '' I believe, after all," she continued, "it is the fault in my education ; the fact is, we were brought up in rather a peculiar manner, perhaps one too independent for girls. We always lived with papa, and with grown up-people. He would never allow us to associate with com- panions of our own ages — we were with him constantly — read his books — heard the conver- THE LITTLE WIFE. 119 sation of his friends, and few besides. "We had not even a governess to direct our ideas upon the subject of womankind. He never checked our out-of-door amusements, and they were, per- haps, a little extraordinary for young ladies of the present day : boating, gardening, riding ! my father did not care what we did, so that we were only by ourselves. Our standard of hu- man nature, was fixed more from what we pic- tured in our imaginations, than from real life ; therefore I own I feel a Uttle puzzled and sur- prised, and I must say disappointed, to find so few amongst my acquaintance, who at all accord with my ideas of excellence in women. — Or men, indeed. But with the latter, I have more reason to be satisfied ; for I have met two at least whom I consider quite perfection, — my father and my husband ! No doubt, however, there are thou- sands of delightful people, whom I shall meet. in my career ; and I know I ought to change my habits, and bring down my high-flown ideas, in 120 THE LITTLE WIFE. a degree at least; for amongst the fine butterflies by which I am surrounded, I believe I am scarcely looked upon, as a being of their own species ; and that tiresome, excellent, horrible old aunt of Lord Elmsdale's, is always torment- ing him upon the subject of my sins, telling his- tories of my failures in etiquette, and want of retenue ; and I am sure, sometimes, by her man- ner of representing my conduct, almost annoys him. You see, Reginald, I have already become confidential with you, and let you into ' the se- crets of the prison-house,* " she added, as the door opened, and servants advancing with coffee, interrupted the conversation. A footman at the same time presented her with a roll of music. " Oh ! these are songs I ordered. Are you fond of music?" Lady Elmsdale inquired of Reginald; and as she returned her cup to the servant, she rose, and walked towards the piano- forte. THE LITTLE WIFE. 121 " By the bye," she exclaimed, stopping short, *' I cannot play to-night, for the instrument is dreadfully out of tune ; but if you like to bring me the guitar, I will sing you a little air." Ke- ginald gave it to her, and she swept her fingers across the strings. ^* How provoking !" she exclaimed; ^' this is also quite discordant, and I never could tune a guitar in my life ; my sisters always 'performed that office for me." And she was about to lay it down, when Reginald interposed, saying eagerly, '^ Allow me to do it for you !" " You ? — you don't mean to say, my dear Regi- nald, that you can play upon the guitar ?" Reginald smiled assent. " And can you sing ?" " We are all musical at home," he replied ; " and they have taught me to sing a little." Lady Elmsdale clapped hei hands with child- ish delight. " How charming ! — how fortunate ! — you will VOL. I. ' G 122 THE LITTLE WIFE. indeed be an acquisition. Can you sing a second, for that is what I have missed so much, since I lost poor Clara ? " Reginald told her he could ; and this seemed to gain for him a great increase of importance. " Now that you have the instrument in your hand, you must sing to me nrst," she continued. But he could not ; all the degree of confidence which he had acquired, seemed to leave him at •this request. He had only power to tune the instrument, and then resolutely returned it. In vain Lady Elmsdale endeavoured to prevail upon him; at length, pretending to be very angry, she said, " I see you are dreadfully obstinate, so I sup- pose I must set you the example." And she sang two or three little airs sweetly, with that clear young voice, so peculiar to her- self ; so like the carol of the lark, as, in the early day, it wakes all slumbering nature, with its joyous and melodious strain. THE LITTLE WIFE. 123 When she had finished, again she put the in- strument into the young man's hands, and then she insisted, in the most peremptory manner, that he should sing ; even stamping with her pretty Httle foot, in pretended anger, when he still resisted. At last, finding there was no escape, Reginald, with an effort, endeavoured to com- pose his nervous voice, and commenced a song, composed and adapted to the guitar, by his cousin Alice, to the following sad, though beau- tiful words. ' Once, and once only, let me speak Of all that I have felt for years ; You read it not upon my cheek, You dreamed not of it in my tears. ' And yet I loved thee with a love That into every feeling came; I never looked on heaven above, Without a prayer to bless thy name. G 2 124 THE LITTLE WIFE. " There is no shape that pain could take. No ill that would not welcomed be, If suffered but for thy dear sake — But they must be unshared by thee. " And yet we part ! — this very hour ! Ah ! — only if my beating heart Could break for both, there is no power Could force me with your love to part. " Farewell, — it is the heart's farewell — My summer-shine of love past o'er ; Only the pang of death can tell That of the words — we meet no more V CHAPTER IX. ** Amid the golden gifts which Heaven Has left, like portions of its light on earth, None has such influence as Music hath." • »■•♦« ** Music — oh ! how faint — how weak — Language fades before thy spell ! Why should feeling ever speak, When thou canst paint her thoughts so well.'" When Reginald first began to sing, his voice trembled with nervous trepidation ; but as he proceeded, his courage by degrees seemed to be restored ; or rather, his natural enthusiasm for music, soon rapt his senses in oblivion to every other idea. The melody of the song was beau- 1.26 THE LITTLE WIFE. tiful in itself- — the words truly touching^ and they completely brought back the thoughts of her, whom he had first heard warble the strain to his delighted ear. The notes appeared to take him to the scenes where he had last heard them. He forgot in whose presence he was singing; and instead of hurrying over a verse or two, as he at first intended, he went on, warming with the theme, until every stanza had been con- cluded. It was only when he had come to the last words, that he began to descend from the clouds, to which fancy had elevated him, and even remembered where he was. And then again all his confusion returned. He had placed himself in a position, so that his face was averted from Lady Elmsdale whilst he sung ; and so completely had he been engrossed by his own feelings, that he entirely lost sight of her, both in reality and in idea. But now that the strain was ended, and the inspiration of the moment vanished, then did he timidly turn THE LITTLE WIFE. 127 his eyes round, to note what effect it might produce upon her ; and how great was his sur- prise, on discovering that he had more than one auditor ! Lady Elmsdale was seated on a low ottoman, leaning her head on her husband's shoulder. He had entered unperceived by Reginald, and motioning him to silence, the Countess had made him sit by her, where they might both listen to him unobserved. Reginald was struck by the expression of her countenance. It was more than usually pale, and her eyes were filled with tears. "Reginald!" she exclaimed, holding out her hand most kindly towards him, " I thank you much. Your singing is quite beautiful — so beautiful that it has almost made me weep. Nothing affects my feelings so much as music ; but although it sometimes draws tears from my eyes, there is ecstacy in the sensation that causes them to flow. With everything that is beau- 12S THE LITTLE WIFE. tiful, pure, and delightful, music has ever been associated in my mind. What a transporting enjoyment it is !" she exclaimed, with fervour ; ^^ and how generally is its influence felt ! No heathen — savage even, ever pictured to himself a future heaven, but he placed music amongst the first of its delights ; and in our bright prospects of eternal bliss, music is always made a part, either real or emblematical, of our pro- mised enjoyment." How sweetly did her countenance beam, as she pronounced these words, so flattering to the feelings of the young man ! Lord Elms- dale joined kindly and cordially in the enco- niums, which his lady so lavishly bestowed upon his musical abilities, which, indeed, he fully deserved, for his talents in that science were very great. " I found that I could get away early," con- tinued the Earl, "therefore returned with all speed ; little did I imagine that there was such THE LITTLE WIFE. 129 a musical treat in store for me. I had no idea that you were so great a musician, Reginald; although you have a right to inherit the talent from your mother, who had one of the most splendid voices I ever heard." '' My aunt/' Reginald replied, " was also a very scientific performer, and she took great pains with us all." " But," said the Countess, " that lovely song — what is it, and who is the composer ?" Poor Reginald ! it was very absurd of him, but the question, simple in its nature, was never- theless unexpected ; and instead of answering immediately, he paused, and blushed, and looked all confusion ; and his discomfiture in- creased, by perceiving that his want of self-pos- session had brought upon him the inquisitive gaze of the Countess. " Will you give me the music of the song ?" she continued. **1 will endeavour to write it out for your G 5 130 THE LITTLE WIFE. Ladyship/' answered Reginald ; but I learnt it by ear ; it is a manuscript." " But by whom was it composed ?" she once more pertinaciously inquired. Again the tell-tale blush mounted to his cheeks, and he answered, in a hesitating manner, " My cousin, Alice Bruce/' "By-the-bye, I was very much struck with the improvement in Miss Bruce," interrupted the Earl ; " I should scarcely have known her again. She has a countenance which must in- terest every one, without being strictly beautiful ; and there is a softnesss and amiability in her deportment, which is very winning. She was always a sweet little girl; but I had no idea that she would have become so attractive a woman." Whilst the Earl spoke, Reginald unfortu- nately caught the eye of the Countess fixed upon him, and a sly half- smile played about her lips. She seemed as if she were penetrating THE LITTLE WIFE. 131 into his most inward thoughts; on perceiving this, his confusion became still more painful. Her quick tact soon discovered his discomfiture, and she immediately changed the subject. The remainder of the evening passed most agreeably, but without further incident ; and Reginald returned to his apartment in a very different frame of mind, to the perturbed state in which he had quitted it some hours before ! His mind was calmed of all the ruffled feel- ings that assailed him on entering the house ; the whole aspect of the scenes around him had again altered. And is this not a lesson to us that it is our duty, as well as our benefit, to check as much as possible those feelings of mur- muring, which are ever too ready to rise in our hearts, at every little cloud which chances to darken for a brief space our sunshine. Why should not we rather rely upon every event being properly arranged by One who knows, and has a right and authority over all our ways. 132 THE LITTLE WIFE. and whose goodness ever continues to preside over us, although his power may be exercised in a manner, which, to our blind eyes, is not understood? How changed were the sentiments with which he now reflected upon the Countess ! His mind was bewildered, when he thought upon her. What an extraordinary being she appeared to him! Made-up of contrarieties — such a mix- ture of childishness, and talent — acute sensi- bility, and liveliness of mind. He could easily discover that she had great depth of character, and a mind richly stored and cultivated ; but what struck him most, were the transitions in the aspects she assumed; never half an hour quite alike, but in all these varieties how charm- ing — how fascinating ! He thought it no wonder that the Earl, great and good as he was, should have been thus en- slaved; for intellect beamed through every — even wayward — fancy, of this singular little being. THE LITTLE WIFE. 133 She was not merely a baby beauty, formed to pass away an idle moment; but sound good sense, and a cultivated education, shone forth in every sentiment. She might have faults — foibles ; she required, no doubt, worldly wisdom, to give steadiness to her feelings ; but, even inexperienced as was our rustic hero, in most matters, he felt, while musing over the events of the evening, that he couid stake his exist- ence, that in purity and real excellence of heart, the young Countess could not be equalled ; and as he fell asleep, with these thoughts vivid in his mind, her image was almost as present to his fancy, as his own dear Alice. Sweet must have been his dreams, visited by two such visions ! ***** The morning light broke cheerfully into the pretty apartment of the embryo secretary. Strange were the feelings that assailed him on waking. All was confusion. At one moment 134 THE LITTLE WIFE. sorrow — regret — a yearning after those he had left; and then there was a dancing ray of plea- sure at his heart, when he remembered the fairy scenes of brightness that were around him. Reginald found, by the little French clock on the chimney-piece, that it was very early ; not a sound was to be heard in the house. A London household is not so soon on the alert, as was ever wont to be, the tiny establishment of Elmsdale Cottage. *'At home they are all up, and busy, by this time," thought he. " How well I can picture to my imagination every member of the family ! My Alice, in her garden, — her countenance so sorrowful ! Her love for me is so powerful, that every object around will bring to her remem- brance her absent cousin, and painful I fear will be her reflections !" And certainly there is more acute suffering to those who remain behind, after a separation, than even to the one who has departed. It is THE LITTLE WIFE. 135 human nature to be benefited by change. The rapid whirl of the journey — the fresh air through which we ghde so quickly — the variety of scene — the novelty ! all combine to invigorate and soothe the mind. But to those who are left, who can describe the void — the oppressing sen- sation of loneliness, which so painfully weighs down the heart ? " My poor cousin — my excellent father," con- tinued to soliloquize Reginald ; " how well can I imagine them, each with silent grief at their heart, thinking of the sad breach that has been , made in their hitherto happy party; and with tears in their eyes, looking round on every object — every memorial, which will so constantly pre- sent itself, of one whom they loved and cherished so fondly, and who has willingly deserted them ." And we may indeed imagine that poor Alice would feel his absence very keenly, for hers was comparatively a fixed — a secluded — a medi- tative life ; and now that she was almost the 136 THE LITTLE WIFE. sole companion of her own thoughts, if they were turned to ministers of sorrow, where could she be able to look for consolation ? From her earliest infancy, Reginald had been her engross- ing thought; to contribute to his happiness, her dearest pleasure ; and now she was writhing under the miseries of a first separation. Well might she exclaim, with her favourite song- stress, — " It wrings my heart to see each thing the same ; Tread over the same steps ; and then to find The diffe^'ence in the heart. It is so sad — So very lonely — to be the sole one In whom there is a sign of change." CHAPTER X. " My pride at noon, my vision of the night ; My hope at morn, my joy at lonely eve ! Now that thy tones of musical delight Are o'er, do I not well to droop and grieve V The abode of Mr. Stanley was a most pic- turesque-looking dwelling. It had been Lord Elmsdale's pleasure, to embellish and render it as commodious a residence as it was possible. Fain 'would he have done much more, but he was for ever checked and curbed in his desires, by Stanley, who, moderate in nil his ideas and wishes, clung pertinaciously to the simplicity^of his early life. 138 THE LITTLE WIFE. He was not one of those, who, with increas- ing prosperity, had with it, made the usual strides towards the luxury and desire of equalization, so prevalent in these days. Had he felt the slightest inclination to thrust himself forward, he might have held a position in society, far higher than that in which he contentedly remained ; but not the slightest desire had he to throw off the steward, in order to act the character of the gen- tleman. Notwithstanding this humility, from his peculiarly formed mind — his refined and cultivated tastes, he was ranked by all, who possessed the discrimination and feehng to appreciate his merits, as being in a grade far beyond the one to which he alone aspired. Steady to this principle of primitiveness, he preserved it in all his tastes and habits — even to his household arrangements. No foot-boy would he allow to take the place of "the neat- handed Phillises" who served his simple, but scrupulously well-appointed board. He had THE LITTLE WIFE. 139 resisted all innovations of luxurious and unne- cessary pieces of furniture ; but still there were some refined intruders, in the shape of expen- sive books — musical instruments — a few speci- mens of virtu, which gave evidence of the peculiar bias, ,and favourite pursuits, of the proprietor. Perchance, one or two master- pieces of paintings struck the eye, as a little out of character, with the simplicity of all around ; and rather evinced a struggle between natural refinement, and the desire to check the progress it so often most insidiously creates upon the mind; engendering expensive and luxurious ideas, from which it was Stanley's great am- bition to guard himself. His thirst for literature he had ample power to satisfy. The library at Elmsdale, and his patron's indulgence, afforded him full scope for luxuriating in this, his favorite pursuit. His wife had also been a woman of great talent and information ; and during the few years he 140 THE LITTLE WIFE. enjoyed her society, he had partaken richly of the feast of intellectual communion ; and since her death, in Mrs. Bruce, the bereaved husband found a companion, whose mind possessed rich stores of useful information ; therefore his ideas had progressed, and they imparted information to the children who were growing up around him. The pains taken with their education were infinite ; and perhaps rarely could there be found, even in a sphere where the most lavish expence had been bestowed, talents so cultivated and improved by useful knowledge, as those of the young party at Elmsdale cottage. It was in a room, which had acquired the name of the breakfast-parlour, a cheerful spot, from its aspect commanding the rays of the morning sun, and the window opening into the pretty garden, where Alice, seconded by her brother and cousin, had ever preferred taking their early meal ; — into this apartment we shall transport our readers. THE LITTLE WIFE. 141 All nature looked bright and beautiful ; but the countenances of those who were within the room, did not accord with the glad aspect of the brilliant spring morning. Alice was, as usual, presiding over the breakfast-table, and on either side, sat her uncle, and her brother Edward. But a " change" had " come o'er the spirit of their dream ;" it was no longer the joyous, hap- py hour, so loved by them all, when with light hearts they assembled round the table, after having, with their little household, poured forth their hearts in family prayer. It was at breakfast, that their happy and in- nocent plans for the day were arranged ; it was then that the letters and newspapers made their appearance, an event always so great an amuse- ment and excitement in the country. In the morning, the perceptions ar? generally more bright and clear — the heart more attuned to impressions of cheerfulness. The young people 142 THE LITTLE WIFE. were wont to be all joyfulness and smiles ; and Mr. Stanley, with the serenity which virtuous and religious hopes so surely inspire, f^^Hy participated in those fresh aiM glowing feel- ings, which seemed to overflow from the gay hearts of the loved beings who surrounded him. It was no longer, as formerly, the ^happy, cheerful party. All seemed grave, and tears were in the eyes of both Alice and her uncle ; and this emotion had been excited by a letter, which had just been received, and perused with no small degree of interest and anxiety. It was from Reginald. From what we have al- ready heard of his adventures, we may easily imagine its tenor : — a mixture of sadness and gratification — of despondency and gratulation; in one line a longing to return — in the next a bright gleam, displaying hopes and prospects, of future sunshine and happiness. THE LITTLE WIFE. 143 - " The tear-drop stands in either eye, And yet I cannot tell thee why, I am pleased, and yet I'm sad." It was the very picture of his own mind, poor youth ! — uncertain — unstable ; a strange combi- nation of good feeling, great talent, and excel- lence, but with a shade of irresolution, which might lead to error, and become his besetting infirmity. But as we have before observed, Reginald had from his earliest days been too deeply idolized — and when did^we ever see over-indul- gence fail to produce a baneful effect, an effect which, like the power of too bright — too continued sunshine on the flower, withers whilst it warms? When life continues to flow on, in one smooth current, unruflied by any gvief, and, when happy in himself, he can imagine nought but happiness around him ; how frequently do we 144 THE LITTLE WIFE. see the child of indulgence, wrapt up in his own gratifications, wholly engrossed by his individual enjoyments. Habituated from his earliest hours, to ^gratify every desire without control, how can we wonder at his not being fitted to receive the various trials, which this world ever must present, even to the most favoured ? By turning the eye too long from the dark side of life — by looking at the world only in one light, and that a flattering one, he forms a false estimate of human nature, and is of course wofully disappointed and deceived. Hence the bitterness of defeated hopes, and the expecta- tions which are blasted and destroyed. Perhaps no one had greater excuse than Stanley, for lavishing too much love upon his son"; for he was his all ! — all that was left to him on earth, on whom to pour forth the abundant tenderness of his nature. He stood in this world, an isolated being, as to kindred. His beautiful THE LITTLE -WIFE. 145 boy was his only tie. And such a child ! his countenance reminding him every moment of the wife, whom he had loved with so deep-rooted an affection. All men have their weak points ; and in the bringing up of his son, Stanley had certainly erred. Too much devotion to the youth, had ener- vated a character, which only required a little dis- cipline to have rendered it of a superior stamp. It would have been wiser, doubtless, had he less tenderly nurtured this lovely and cherished boy, — had he studiously endeavoured, from his infancy, instead of rendering every hour one of perpetual sunshine, to have warned him that the storm is hovering over every head, and that the clouds around, might burst even upon him — that the cup which is held forth to the whole human race, is mixed, and of its bitter ingre- dients, he, like others, must expect to drink his portion. Thus he ought continually to have impressed upon his mind, the necessity of mo- VOL. I. H 146 THE LITTLE WIFE. derating his high-wrought hopes, and by this means, sent him forth in the world, either to act or to suffer, according as Heaven should decree. However, we can all advise — we can arrange for others, yet fall into the very extremes which we have blamed in our neighbour. ** Alice," said Mr. Stanley, after an interval of silence ; ^^ on the whole, I think our Regi- .nald seems as happy and satisfied as we can expect." ''Yes!" replied Alice, in a faltering tone, and she rose hastily, and went to the window, averting her face, to hide the tears that were fast falling from her eyes. " But for our sakes," continued Stanley, ' for our happiness, would that he had been satisfied to remain ; for the blank which his absence makes in our existence, is painful indeed to endure. — You, my poor Ahce, how you miss him ! But we must hope and pray. THE LITTLE WIFE. 147 as every thing has been done for the best, that the result may repay us for what we now suffer. Reginald had become restless — he wanted change ; and my trust is, that a little experience of the world — the bitter disappoint- ments and mortifications it ever presents, and the little of true happiness, which a nearer acquaintance with it affords, may teach him the true value of his peaceful home. He needed to be tossed about, and buffeted on the waves of this tempestuous world ; hitherto he has sailed with too gentle a gale. He will soon find, that no earthly enjoyments are adequate, to the high desires and powers of an immortal spirit. Fancy at a distance, paints pleasure in far too splendid colours — a nearer view unveils its fallacy." " Oh, may it be so !" cried Alice, with fervour ; but she shook her head doubtingly. Her in- timate acquaintance with every thought and feeling of her cousin, rendered her less san- h2 148 THE LITTLE WIFE. guine than his father ; with all her tender love, she well knew his weak points, and trembled for his peace of mind. At this moment, a darkened shadow passing over the window^ told of the approach of another person, and a visitor presented himself at the open casement. Alice hastily endeavoured to remove the traces of her tears, as the stranger approached, and accosted them with much urbanity. He was a man of about eight-and-twenty, with nothing peculiarly striking in his appear- ance, excepting his mild and gentlemanly address. " I come, Miss Bruce," he said, " thus early, to claim the promise you were so obliging as to make me, when last we met — that you would introduce me to some of my sick pa- rishioners. Should you be now able to accom- pany me, I cannot express how grateful I shall feel: for I do not wish to delay any longer. THE LITTLE WIFE. 149 becoming acquainted with persons, to whom I hope to prove usefuh" Alice, whose heart and head were at this moment full of Reginald's letter, would fain have deferred this further exertion to her feel- ings ; but Stanley, through all his own loneliness of sorrow, at the separation from his son, had noted the pale cheek and abstracted eye of Alice, whom he tenderly loved, and hailed with satisfac- tion any circumstance that would serve as an in- terruption to her melancholy thoughts ; therefore he desired her to go instantly for her bonnet, and accompany Mr. Herbert, knowing well that she would soon be interested, heart and soul, in the occupation ; for lively were the feelings of compassionate solicitude, with which she regarded the poor inhabitants of the village of Elmsdale, to whom she had ever been the kind and assiduous friend. Lord Elmsdale had given her full power to act as her judgment thought fit; and her judicious 150 THE LITTLE WIFE. mind and generous heart, rendered her fully worthy of the trust. But, for the first time, she hesitated to set out upon the mission, although it was one of charity, from which she never shrunk ; and slow and lingering were the steps, with which she obeyed the order of her uncle. CHAPTER XI. " Oh grant me, heaven, some deep sequestered scene, Though calm not dull, and though retired, not mean ; With affluence blest to still the plaint of woe, With health to taste the pleasures I bestow ; To raise the opprest, to smooth the front of care. The deep-felt pang to soften or to share. Be mine the task insulted worth to clear, To check in pity's eye th' o'ershadowed tear ; Watch the first sound of want's complaining voice, And bid the mourner's drooping heart rejoice." Although Alice set out on her walk with a reluctant spirit, it was not long before her indifference melted, under the influence of 152 THE LITTLE WIFE. the peculiarly delightful manner and conver- sation of her companion. Gentle and soothing was the tane of his voice ; and she now remem- bered how forcibly its plaintive accents struck upon her ear, the Sunday before, when he had preached his introductory sermon to his pa- rishioners. She recollected how the sweetness and pathos of its sound, had vibrated upon her feelings. But it was with a vivid blush of shame, that she also remembered, that her imagination — her senses had been touched, not her heart ; that had been far away from the subject of her devotions ; and Alice, naturally religious, in all her views and ideas^ began to feel, with repentant sorrow, that she had erred, that she had allowed an idol to place itself in competition — even with her God. She was aware that since Re- ginald's departure, she had thought of nothing else — neglected every duty, to devote herself to the morbid satisfaction of indulging regret, unavailing as it was weak. THE LITTLE AVIFE. 153 These reflections quick as thought, rushed upon her mind, as she walked by Mr. Herbert's side, and heard him speak in that mild per- suasive manner, on subjects that had formerly so deeply interested her, — the sick and suffering of the village. How often had she fervently longed, that the parish might have the blessing of a pastor, who would really feel solicitude in their concerns, spiritual as well as temporal ; for the late in- cumbent had been infirm and old, and for some time past, the duty was but indifferently performed. Now, her most sanguine wishes seemed likely to be reahzed. Mr. Herbert at once enlisted himself, heart and soul, in the cause, which, with solemn feelings of the awful responsibility of the charge, he had undertaken. But at this moment she was full of apathy, and she shuddered when she thought of her coldness, and inwardly lifted up her heart, praying for strength to overcome a weakness, H 5 154 THE LITTLE WIFE. which, by thus indulging, had become even culpable. But then again, Keginald's image would intrude itself. What would she not have given to see him in the situation which this stranger now filled ? But had he gone into the church, this was not the living that Lord Elmsdale destined for him. It had been long promised to Mr. Her- bert, who was the son of an old and esteemed friend of the Earl. '^ What a beautiful — what a picturesque place this is !" exclaimed Mr. Herbert, as they passed through the park, and arrived at a spot, where, through an opening of the plantation, a sudden view of lovely scenery, burst upon the sight. Lofty mountains, the base of which were covered with woods — a cultivated valley winding along — the bright variegated tints of its meadows and fields, with here and there a little white cottage, embosomed in trees ; all these softer features, finely contrasting with THE LITTLE WIFE. 155 the awful and sterner character of the sur- rounding landscape. No wonder that an unaccustomed eye was struck by the splendour of the scene, which was one of almost unequalled beauty ; for Alice, who had ever since her infancy beheld it, never looked upon this peculiar view, with- out sensations rendered almost holy, by excess of admiration, intense and fervid ecstacy. An inconsiderable, but impetuous river, rushed from the mountains above, meandering through the beautiful little valley, and continuing its course through the park. The ground fell beautifully down towards it ; and on the oppo- site side, rose fine woods of birch, the boughs overhanging the river. A rustic bridge added to the picturesque appearance of the landscape. The river, after being enlarged by many streams from the neighbouring hills, flowed about half- a-mile to the lake below, which, from the front of the house, was seen in full beauty. The 156 THE LITTLE WIFE. mountains were covered with trees, some rocky and barren to the water's edge ; while the rugged summits of them all, presented every variety of fantastic outline. " But what must this be, when the leaves of summer have covered those beautiful trees ! T do not wonder," Mr. Herbert exclaimed, as he lingered a moment, and examined with attentive admiration, the shape and beauty of an ancient oak of magnificent dimensions, "at the strong and unaffected interest which English country- gentlemen take in their trees. There is cer- tainly something, as an author remarks, '^ august and solemn, in the great avenues of stately oaks that gather their branches high in air, and seem to reduce the pedestrians beneath them to mere pigmies. An avenue of oaks and elms is the true colonnade that should lead to a gentleman's house ; as to stone and marble, any one can rear them at once — they are the work of a day ; but commend me to the colonnades that have THE LITTLE WIFE. 157 grown old and great in the family, and tell by their grandeur how long the family have en- dured, — 'A living gallery of aged trees.' " '' Lord Elmsdale," replied Alice, " possesses that feeling to the most enthusiastic excess ; it is with great difficulty that he can be persuaded to have any trees cut down. To some he looks with reverence, as having been planted by his ancestors; to others, with a kind of paternal feeling, as having been planted by himself; and he declares that ^he feels a kind of awe in bringing down, with a few strokes of the axe, what it has cost centuries to build up.' I con- fess 1 cannot but sympathize perfectly in this feeling, and I never see a fine tree hewn down without concern. As you are also an enthusiast upon the subject, do not those lines of Thomp- son please you much ? — they begin, I think, in this manner, — 158 THE LITTLE WIFE. "Welcome, ye shades! ye bowery thickets, hail! Ye lofty pines ! ye venerable oaks ! Ye ashes wild, resounding o'er the steep! Delicious is your shelter to the soul. As to the hunted hart the sallying spring." "They are, indeed, beautiful, Miss Bruce;" and Mr. Herbert was silent for some minutes, and then he continued — " It would be difficult for me to express how happy I feel at this moment. What a highly favoured mortal I am ! for I have truly gained the summit of the wishes, which for many years have been my greatest ambition — my most san- guine hope. The extent of my pictured felicity was to have a living of my own; and if in my dreams I formed its structure, my most glowing imaginations could not have offered a result so perfect — so lovely as this. I feel as if I had entered Paradise. A life of usefulness — of peaceful enjoyment, is, I trust, before me." Alice, as she looked upon the benignant coun- tenance of her companion, now lighted up by the glow caught from the feelings which inspired THE LITTLE WIFE. 159 him, could not but feel deeply interested. Mr. Herbert, pursuing the train of his thoughts, went on to say, " My clerical life has hitherto been spent amidst the gloomy precincts of a college ; and to find myself thus suddenly transported to scenes of brightness and natural beauty — at the same time whilst my eyes are thus feasted, to inhale the pure sweet air of the mountain breeze — to scent the balmy fragrance of all around, almost appears to me too charming a picture of exist- ence for reality. But," he continued, after a pause, which remained uninterrupted by his companion, *' I only trust I may be sufficiently grateful to the source from whence I derive all this bliss, and endeavour by a conscientious dis- charge of the most important of sacred duties that I have undertaken, to render myself at least not unworthy my vocation." The attention and interest of Alice became more and more drawn towards the speaker ; she 160 THE LITTLE WIFE. felt at once confidence, 'and the assurance , that in him she might acquire a valuable friend. "Would that he had been here before!" she thought ; " what a companion — what an example would he have proved to Reginald !" And truly, what the youth had lacked most in the life he had led at home, was companionship with more varieties of characters of his own age. He had scarcely ever associated with those, whose society could be of any advantage to him, save his two cousins ; and they were both too partial to be useful in the improvement of his mind. They thought him perfection; therefore not seeing his errors, how could they point them out ? - Edward was a quiet, grave youth, amiable and good, but the very reverse in disposition to the impetuous Reginald. His tastes were pure and humble, and he had no thoughts of aspiring beyond the sphere in which he had lived so happily. It was one possessing kindred sentiments — THE LITTLE WIFE. 161 ideas J refined almost to verging on the romantic — acute sensibility, tempered by sound sense, and a knowledge and experience of the world, that ^vould have been the friend to gain an ascendancy over the mind of our hero, and impart a healthy tone to his feelings. x\lice sighed sadly, as she thought of all this. Unavailing regrets would intrude themselves, and. she felt more than ever oppressed ; but after walking some time silently by her companion, she remembered that she was guilty almost of rudeness towards Mr. Herbert, and tried to rouse herself to the necessity of exertion; and it w^as some relief to her when they arrived at a small gate that led into the village. There her thoughts were soon diverted into the channel which chased away, for a space, every other reflection; for in the midst of her poor neighbours, her own srlfish feelings — thoughts and sorrows, were always forgotten. The time now passed quickly, and with vivid satisfaction ; for it w^as indeed delis^htful to find 162 THE LITTLE WIFE. how completely Mr. Herbert at once entered into her own views and sentiments, with regard to many who were suffering, bSth from mental and bodily anguish. She saw that he could administer solace to every variety of sorrow ; for whilst, with liberality which sprung from the dictates of a generous soul, assisted by the wel- come appendage of a good income, he was enabled to supply their temporal wants, at the same time he endeavoured to instil into their minds that peace, which none of the things of this world can bestow. His were not specula- tive ideas^ of benevolence, but an active prin- ciple, flowing from his heart, as from a fountain, whence all the virtues of benignity, generosity, and compassion issued, as so many native streams. Every moment that now elapsed, brought with it delight to Alice ; and when she returned home, after some hours thus profitably spent, her feelings were refreshed and invigorated. The weakness that had obscured her usually strong and well-directed mind, she had now the power THE LITTLE Yv^IFE. 16^ to shake off. She remembered, that even to the most insignificant mortal, important duties are assigned ; and she recollected that all hers had been neglected — forgotten ! She thought of her dear delightful uncle, who, in the midst of all his own regrets, seemed to think most of those which she endured. She had been unmindful of his feelings — selfish — weak ! She would rouse her slumbering energies, she would be herself again ; the path of duty- must be performed, and that alone. Duty, "I call thee: I myself commend Unto thy guidance from this hour ; Oh! let my weakness have an end! Give unto me, made lowly wise, The spirit of self-sacrifice; The confidence of reason give ; And in the light of truth thy bondman let me live." It was with softened fee]i')gs, that Alice thought upon Mr. Herbert, as he bent over the bed of sickness, or endeavoured, by words that were eloquent, though simple, to comfort 164 THE LITTLE WIFE. some afflicted soul ; the expression which beamed from his countenance, seemed to say, — "I come to soothe the anguish of your souls, And teach your steps to know the paths of peace." She felt assured, that all her plans of benevo- lence and amelioration, for which she had so long unavailingly sighed, were about to be accom- plished ; she had still something to live for. Compassion for the wants of others, is truly the sun that enlivens and cheers the abodes of men. Full of these ideas, Alice again returned, with renewed ardour, to the discharge of all her cherished duties ; repeating to herself, as she prepared to meet her uncle and brother at their noon-day repast, these words, which the improved state of her mind, and the occurrences of the morning, suggested pertinaciously to her imagination, — " Say, shall the joy, (Pure as the sacred source from whence it springs, Which then exalts the soul,) shall this expire? Forbid it Heaven ?" CHAPTEE XII. " As early as I knew This town, I had the sense to hate it too." ***** " There was a grace Peculiar to herself, ev'n from the first ; Shadows and thoughtfulness you seemed to trace Upon that brow, and then a sudden burst Of sunniness and laughter sparkled out, And spread their rays of joy fulness about." The letters which now arrived at Elmsdale, from Reginald, were most interesting, from the naive descriptions which he gave of the scenes around him. For the most part, they contained glowing accounts of his happiness ; although at times they were tinctured by feelings of partial gloom. But these sombre shadows became gra- 166 THE LITTLE WIFE. dually less frequent. He expatiated with the utmost warmth upon the kindness, both of the Earl and his Countess. The family still con- tinued in London— their continental journey had been deferred by business^ which still de- tained Lord Elmsdale in England. At first it was a source of regret to Regi- nald, for never having before visited the great metropolis, this was rather a trying moment to make his first appearance, in the noisy and tur- bulent vortex of this modern Babylon. To arrive in London, for the first time, in the height of its season, must be most striking to the uninitiated. The confusion — the whirl — the dissipation — even the business of amuse- ment, doubtless appears as laborious and fa- tiguing, as any other description of hard labour. Then the society ! so different from that which Reginald had believed he should find it, gave a bouleversement at once to all the ideas which he bad formed in his mind. In his innocence, he THE LITTLE WIFE. 167 fancied, that the great — the estimable, must be the good — the talented ; but noY\^ his Levvdldered eye, beheld in the world of fashion, into which he was introduced, persons courted and con- sidered, who possessed very different qualifica- tions to those he had always admired — so ex- alting both to the heart and head. It seemed as if light articles alone could float on the stream of fashionable life ; the lighter the more buoyant, and the more they were upheld. And of what use was a cultivated mind ? This was the idea that presented itself to his surprised and startled imagination — of what avail infor- mation, learning, strong sense, and great abili- ties, when such empty-headed coxcombs, whose conversation was all froth, not one solid idea interrupting its frivolous current, and whose sole merit seemed to consist in their elaborate dress — their well trimmed whiskers, were court- ed and caressed, and considered the very mag- nates of the London world ? 168 THE LITTLE WIFE. Our mystified hero listened and stared, with unfeigned country amazement, much to the dehght of the Hvely little Countess, who greatly amused herself, by watching the astonished ex- pression of his countenance. And how heartily would she laugh, when she contrived to draw him out, and elicit from him, remarks full of naivete, and to which even Lord Elmsdale could not help listening, with a degree of curiosity and entertainment. The Countess's favourite occupation now, was trying to further surprise, and bewilder him ; and she always endeavoured to play oif, in his presence, any persons whose peculiarities or ab- surdities, she was certain would strike his un- sophisticated mind. Lord Elmsdale would fain have endeavoured to check the vivacious little lady. He knew that her heart was kindness, and goodness itself; but she was very young, and also very clever, and her singular education had given a pecahar bias to her mind, which THE LITTLE WIFE. 169 rather induced a contempt for any thing like inferiority, and a great susceptibility in discover- ing it in those with whom it was her lot to asso- ciate. She owned also a quick perception of the ridiculous, which Lord Elmsdale, who was all charity and benevolence, was anxious to curb ; dreading that it might engender a spirit of satire, a habit which he considered not only illiberal, but unchi'istian-like — nay, even un- feminine. But still there was so much fun and frolic in all that Lady Elmsdale did ; she was so really witty, and entered with such lightsome glee into all the absurdity, the minauderies of fashionable life, that even her more prudent Lord could not at times resist participating in it; but in the midst of a laugh which one of her sallies might have elicited, a cloud would come over his countenance, and he would shake his head, al- most angry with himself, for giving even tacit encouragement to a tendency which his better VOL I. I 170 THE LITTLE WIFE. judgment told him might in time increase, and be carried too far. One morning, as she was sitting before him at their breakfast table, looking, as she ever did at that early hour, so fresh and fair, like "The bright morning star, day's harbinger," the Earl gazed with softened pleasure on her smiling, happy countenance, upon which the ills of life had not yet left one trace — one cloud. He was silent for some moments, with his eyes fixed upon her speaking face, whilst she con- tinued to talk gaily on, of all her projects for the day ; amongst which was a dinner party that she had formed for that evening : but this sub- ject seemed to recal the Earl from the very pleasant reverie in which he had been indulging, for he immediately looked more serious, and said, " By-the-bye, my dear Nina, this is all very well between ourselves, but pray let me beseech THE LITTLE WIFE. 171 you to behave properly this evening, and do the honours of your house with dignity." " Why should you doubt it ?" replied Nina, laughing ; " if you like, I will wear my turban again, and put on an air of pomposity, that will quite astonish you." " I really am not joking now," continued the Earl, gravely. '' You know this has been your own invitation to my aunt ; I had no hand in entailing upon you, what no doubt you consider an infliction; therefore, you must at least en- deavour to make yourself agreeable to the old lady." '' Fear not," said Nina ; " I am prepared for every thing." ^'1 must confess, I think you have asked a most extraordinary party to meet her. You seem to me to have picked them out of the most opposite sets. They will all look with horror upon each other, and vote^ the whole aflfair a nuisance. You ought to learn, little lady, that I 2 172 THE LITTLE WIFE. the great art in making society agreeable, is by judiciously mixing people together. Never think of asking those, who may probably look askance at the person who chances to sit next to them at dinner, and consider themselves quite contaminated by the vicinity. Lady Gran- tham will feel horrified at being obliged to breath the same atmosphere as the Stapletons ; and the vStapletons will think they have lost caste, by being asked to meet the parvenus, Mrs. Delagrace and her husband." Nina was much amused. " Never mind, my dear lord," she exclaimed ; "what can it signify for once? You know we are going abroad, and all my sins and gaucheries will be quite forgotten, ere I return. To tell you the simple honest truth, it has all been arranged with the view to one end — and that is, pour m^amuser. If you knew how Reginald entertains me ! It is better than any comedy, to watch the countenance of amazement, and THE ilTTLE WIFE. 173 sometimes of horror unfeigned, with which he examines people. Brought up as he has been, at that primitive country place — drawing all his ideas of human nature from books — having seen but one model of a gentleman, and that one much too perfect to be met with again in the world," and here she looked proudly upon her husband, " he is utterly confounded by the novelty and absurdity, of the characters, with which he meets in every direction. Now I wish to shew him specimens of different kinds of monsters, and watch the effect they will produce upon his astonished senses — of course, I do not include your aunt among these bipeds." Lord Elmsdale shook his head, half smiHng, half reproachfully ; and on Reginald at this mo- ment entering the room, the subject changed into another channel. CHAPTER XIII. "Oh! then, I see Queen Mab hath been with you, * * * she comes ! » » » * » Drawn with a team of little atomies." The hours were becoming bright and joyful to our hero. Every day that passed, reconciled him more to his new mode of life. Indeed it would be impossible to imagine a more delight- ful entree into the world. Lord Elmsdale, who from his infancy had regarded him with interest, now treated him as if he were a young brother -, and although his situation was ostensibly that of secretary, as yet his services had been little required, though he was most anxious to be employed by his patron; for it was his THE LITTLE WIFE. 175 proudest ambition to render his talents in any way useful. His mornings he always intended to pass in the library, or in Lord Elmsdale's study, where a clerk was generally engaged in. transcribing papers, and who was deputed to initiate Reginald into the business of his secre- taryship. But he had often many interruptions to these studies. The window of the room in which he worked, opened upon the terrace leading to the pretty garden — a real treasure to a London mansion, and his thoughts were too often distracted by the sight of Nina flitting backwards and forwards ; and not unfrequently did she put her head into the open window, and call him away to assist in some scheme which at that moment was her hobby. She had soon discovered that he was ex- tremely clever in more than one way. No one possessed such a profound knowledge in the management of birds, and the various pets with which she had filled the house and garden. And 176 THE LITTLE WIFE. then, in the arrangement of her flowers, who had such exquisite taste ? — and she had always vases to fill, or birds to instal in new cages, or some occupation of this sort with which to em- ploy him : and how could Reginald resist the sweet voice which called to him, in a playful, but peremptory tone, to put down his pen, and follow her ? And when graver pursuits were the order of the day, his services were equally in requisition. If she found any difficulty in her German exer- cise, Reginald was as useful as a dictionary. No one arranged her drawing materials so commo- diously, or mixed her colours with so much judgment. Then again, in her musical studies, he was a perfect treasure. She soon discovered that he was a very superior musician to herself, his voice so fine that it was a treat to listen to it ; nothing afibrded her more pleasure than to accompany him on the piano-forte, and it required some persuasion to induce her to THE LITTLE WIFE. 177 mingle her voice in duets with his, as she loved to listen to the uninterrupted cadence of the splendid notes, and the singularly well-taught manner in which he performed every song. And then again, the guitar ! — he played much better than Nina, and he was for ever called upon either to tune it, or to place her pretty fingers on the strings when some difficult pas- sage occurred. — A dangerous occupation, it may be imagined, when the youth of the musician is considered ! ***** " Reginald," cried Lady Elmsdale, as she one morning suddenly burst into the study, in which he was writing, " my new ponies and phaeton are at the door. Such loves — such exquisite little beauties ; and is it not provoking ? — Lord Elmsdale was obliged to go down to that tire- some Foreign Office, and I fear I shall not be able to drive them to-day, as he says that I must have a gentleman with me the first time, in I 5 178 THE LITTLE WIFE. case they might not be quite quiet. How tor- menting ! I wish all politics and diplomatics, and all that stupid business^ had fixed them- themselves upon any shoulders, save those of my husband ; they invariably interfere with everything that is the least agreeable," and the poor little Countess looked half ready to cry. But in another moment, her countenance cleared up, and she exclaimed : " By-the-bye, why can't you go with me ? Not that there is the least occasion for any one to have the sUghtest fear of my not being able to manage them. I have been accustomed to drive ever since I could hold reins. I made my first dihut in a goat-cart; then I was promoted to a donkey-chaise ; and afterwards, to my own little pony carriage at home. I can tell you there is not a better whip in London ; and of course you know something of the science, do you not ? and could assist me ill ,case of any dilemma ? — not that there is the most distant chance of my feeling at a loss. THE LITTLE WIFE. 179 However, at all events, go I must, and will," she continued, as Reginald began to endeavour to persuade her to wait till the morrow, when Lord Elmsdale would be at leisure to accom- pany her. '' It is all very well for you to preach," she continued ; " you may possess more patient qualities than are in my composition. I can- not endure putting off— suspense gives me a perfect fever : so mind you are ready, Mr. Reginald ;" and she darted off, and returned so quickly, that her movements might indeed have been compared to a flash of lightning. " Xow," she exclaimed, '' let us be off." Certainly there never was seen a prettier turn-out. It was truly a fairy equipage ; every part so beautifully appointed : ponies, harness, outriders, all en suite. Nina was in perfect raptures. With the fresh and joyful delight of a child, she looked again and again at her beautiful toy, stroked and patted, and even 180 THE LITTLE WIFE. kissed her new pets; and at last, when she had taken her seat, and in a very scientific and experienced manner gathered up the reins, and brandished the light whip, with which she was to admonish the little animals, Reginald, before he placed himself by her side, could not help pausing for a moment, to gaze with an eye of admiration upon the tout ensemble. She looked truly the little fairy queen, formed to guide, with her small, but skilful hands, the tiny steeds. She wore a pale pink bonnet, which cast its soft tint of rose upon her fair cheeks, also gently flushed by pleasure ; Hghting up her eyes, which sparkled from the pleased emotions with which her bosom was filled. Her mouth was dim- pled with smiles ; never had she looked sweeter — more fascinating; and Reginald thought it would be almost a sin to spoil the effect, by taking his seat by her side ; all was before in character, every thing in minature. He felt that he should be like a monster in that small vehicle. THE LITTLE WIFE. 181 Fain would he have walked, as a captive in olden times, by the side of her diminutive triumphal car ; for an instant he was quite lost in pleased contemplation, from which reverie he was soon roused, by Nina's exclaim- ing, impatiently, " Come, make haste, and get in, Reginald ;" and in another moment he was seated, and giving a flourish with her whip, off they dashed. The ponies, though full of spirit, were beau- tifully trained ; Lord Elmsdale had laboured to make them all perfection, and their education had been conducted with the utmost care. Ever attentive to the slightest wish of his dearly loved little wife, he had bestowed both time and attention to please her in this instance. *' How beautifully they go," she exclaimed, in ecstatic delight : " dear, kind Lord Elmsdale ! Reginald, I shall just drive them round the Park, to give them a little trial, and accustom my hand, and then we will turn their heads towards 182 THE LITTLE WIFE. Whitehall ; it will be just about the time when my Lord will be leaving the Foreign Office, and we shall meet him. I am sure you will not mind my asking you to give him up your place." To this proposition Reginald, of course, readily assented. And now they were in the Park, which, although it was rather an early hour, began rapidly to fill. All eyes were soon fixed upon the new turn-out, which certainly was unique ^ and many an admiring glance, a rude stare, and glasses innumerable, were turned upon the elegant young Countess. Nothing could be more graceful than the manner in which Nina acquitted herself in her new character ; for while, with skill and dex- terity unlooked for in one so young, and delicate in appearance, she perfectly managed the ponies, there was no trace approaching to masculine in her mode of driving ; she was lady- THE LITTLE WIFE. 183 like — feminine as ever. But little did she heed the flattering manner in which her ap- pearance was hailed ; she was entirely absorbed in the innocent pleasure with which her new acquisition had inspired her ; and perhaps never was there a Countess born, who so little valued general adulation, as herself. Perchance the feeling might be all to come : we trust it may never arrive. Her present state was very beautiful ; for at the period to which we now allude, in the singleness, and peculiar freshness and purity of her mind, the delight produced by admiration, arose from one source alone ; sweet, blessed stream ! that which, as an earthly sentiment, is most to be prized. To this young being, her husband was her all — her world ! her spotless mind untainted by example, unperverted by the false medium — by which the heart too often is biassed, from the effects of neglected education — unguarded childhood — companion- 184 THE LITTLE WIFE. ship with precocious and sometimes vicious associates — it was truly innocent. We cannot call it passionless, for she loved most intensely, but it was with the pure flame, which from its very purity was hallowed. The world — the deteriorating world — might, at some future time, engender a taste for its vain incense, but now in her husband's eye alone she sought for praise. His smile of satisfaction was applause so dear — so all-sufficient to her heart, that she never saw, nor heard, nor heeded any other. Primitive, indeed, was this feeling ; and like many other valuable qua- lities, it is becoming obsolete, in an age when matrimony appears to be quite going out of fashion — not, as it used formerly to be, in the course of nature; in the year 1841, is it not considered a regular barter — a question of mer- chandise ? The affection Nina felt for her husband, was chaste and exclusive, as the love so beautifully THE LITTLE WIFE. 186 described by Milton — the first bright flame which ever wafted the fragrant essence of con- nubial tenderness — the first which emanated from the mortal soul; and truly, with the then spotless Eve, did her feelings harmonize in the sentiments poured forth, in those beau- tiful lines so familiar, probably, to every reader, but still from their harmony always pleasing to the ear : with sincerity her heart could respond to the effusion of devotion there described. " My author and disposer, what thou bidd'st Unargued I obey : so God ordains ; God is thy law, thou mine : to know no more Is woman's happiest knowledge, and her praise. With thee conversing, I forget all time ; All seasons, and their change, all please alike. Sweet is the breath of morn, her rising sweet, With charm of earliest birds ; pleasant the sun When first on this delightful land he spreads His orient beams, on herb, tree, fruit and flower, Glistering with dew : fragrant the fertile earth After soft showers ; and sweet the coming on Of grateful evening mild ; then silent night, 186 THE LITTLE WIFE. With this her solemn bird, and this fair moon, And these the gems of heaven, her starry train : . But neither breath of morn, when she ascends "With charm of earliest birds ; nor rising sun Of this delightful land ; nor herb, fruit, flower Glistering with dew ; nor fragrance after showers ; Nor grateful evening mild ; nor silent night, With this her solemn bird; nor walk by moon, Or glittering starlight, without thee is sweet." But I have made a strange digression, from Hyde Park, to the garden of Eden — extraor- dinary, indeed, from its melancholy contrast, of perfect happiness — perfect innocence — perfect beauty— a cojitrast truly to the garden in which men and women walk, in the nineteenth cen- tury ! The scale is surely fallen from their eyes; they have indeed tasted of the tree of knowledge ; they can distinguish good from evil — but how do they use this superior wis- dom ? Alas — alas ! it does but heap upon their own heads, misery and destruction ! CHAPTER XIV. " Rien ne prete plus au ridicule, que cette manie de «e croire audessus de ce qu'on est, de s'attribuer un merite qu'on n'a pas, de se persuader qu'on fixe tous les regards, que Ton soumet tous les coeurs; tandis qu'on est a peine remarque des gens senses, et que les autres ne nous dis- tinguent que pour s'amuser a nos depens, et nous designer comme I'objet de leurs railleries, et le jouet de la societe." * ♦ » * » "Oh! wad some power the giftie gic us, To see oiursells as others see us, It would frae monie a blunder free us, And foolish notion." But to return to the young pair, who as yet bore more resemblance to our original parents, in their unmixed state of bliss, than the world in general; inasmuch, as they had not yet fallen 188 THE LITTLE WIFE. under the withering power of the tempter. Hence, happy and guileless in their innocence, they drank freely of the cup of enjoyment which was held to their lips; and as merrily they wended their way through the intricacies of carriages, horses, and pedestrians, the sweet peal of Nina's gay laugh might have been heard by those who passed her. Reginald's naivete^ as we have before said, afforded her no slight amusement : not that he at all aimed at anything approaching to witticisms ; he merely uttered his thoughts aloud, and they were very original. From having lived so com- pletely in retirement, everything he saw, struck him as "passing strange." Not only was Nina much entertained by his remarks, but there was a little feeling of childish pride, at her own superior worldly wisdom. She had learned, indeed, to distinguish in a degree between nature and art ; And whilst Reginald was extacising over the extraordi- THE LITTLE WIFE. 189 nary tint and beauty of a complexion, which had dazzled his astonished eyes, as some fair lady passed them, the deceptive shade of a crimson blind also lending its influence, to enhance the effect, she could detect that the roses and lilies had been bought. And then the horrified ex- pression of his disgust, at the appearance of some well-known exquisite, whose dress, man- ners, and general tournure, had long passed current as the perfection of ton, and upon whose model all the rising generation of dandies had formed their costume and address ! To his un- accustomed eye, the elaborate attire — the studied air — the grimace of refinement, of many of the men, who were considered quite of the " right sort" by the London belles, were, to his untutored senses, objects of ridicule, almost exciting his laughter. There was something, he thought, so unnatural in their appearance — so unlike men! — a species of biped, which had a strange intermingling of the ourang ©U; 190 THE LITTLE WIFE. tang in their nature ; so entirely did they appear to him disfigured, rather than improved, by the perfect distortion of the human form, which they presented. But Reginald was a complete " country cou- sin." He had a great deal to learn. He had to discover that men in London, and men in the country, are quite a different genus; and iu the bewilderment of his ideas, he gave utter- ance to all his astonished thoughts : this was delicious to Lady Elmsdale. But for a few mo- ments, nothing had occurred to call forth any further exclamation ; and Nina was fearing that all her fun was over, when Reginald exclaimed, really in a tone almost of concern, — " Do look at that poor woman, Lady Elms- dale," at the same time directing his glance towards an open carriage, that was passing. " I always think her so very interesting ; and I am sure she must be a great invalid." Lady Elmsdale looked quickly round. THE LITTLE WIFE. 191 " I have often observed her before/' he con- tinued, "when I have been riding with Lord Elmsdale, and always wondered who she was ; she looks so languid and drooping." "Do you mean Mrs. Delagrace ?" exclaimed Nina, staring with anything but a sympathetic gaze. " I mean that lady, " exclaimed Reginald, pointing to the same carriage, which had turned, and was now coming towards them, and dis- played to their full view a fashionable-looking woman, enveloped in the folds of a splendid Indian shawl, and who was not sitting, but almost lying her full length in th^ barouche; there certainly was an air of languor overspread- ing her whole appearance, which gave every in- dication of petite sante. She was accompanied by two most elaborately dresse'. children; and her arm tenderly encircled the waist of the little girl who was seated by her side.] It was really a very interesting picture; quite 192 THE LITTLE WIFE. a vision of repose, after the noisy animation of the passing scene. "Capital!" exclaimed Nina; and she could have clapped her hands, had they not been full of reins and whip ; " she is one of my very best characters — my charming Mrs. Delagrace ! Her absurdities have afforded me more amusement than all the rest of the people put together, for she is genuine in her way ; her forte is the per- sonification of a would-be fine lady, and she acts up to the role most admirably. I am very proud of her," she continued ; ** she is one of my choicest of pet-monsters, and you will see more of her at dinner to-day." Whilst she was thus speaking, the carriages had nearly approached each other; and the little boy, who was sitting opposite to his mama, attracted by the sight of Lady Elmsdale's ponies, suddenly jumped up, to take a nearer survey of them. Mrs. Delagrace was not aware, of who or what had called forth this sudden movement; THE LITTLE WIFE. 193 she only felt that the child had trodden very violently on her foot, which was rather tender, and further tortured by a tight satin shoe. Nothing could have happened more propi- tiously for shewing her off to Reginald ; for in a moment the delicate die-away creature, was restored to the strength and animation of the rudest health. With a heightened colour, and sudden start, she grasped with a firm hand the crimson velvet dress of the luckless boy, and forcing him back into his seat, said, in a voice which sounded sharp and loud, ^'Alphonso, you naughty boy, sit still ! Have I not always told you that if you even move in the crrriage, you shall be well punished ?" The discomfited Alphonso coloured violently, but immediately settled himself, and his crimson velvet; and as quickly did his mamma fall back into all the pleasing languor of her former posi- tion ; her countenance in a moment returning to its sweet, placid, listless composure— her veil VOL. I. K 194 THE LITTLE WIFE. drooping over her eyes — her feathers hang- ing mournfully on one side — all en suite; and as a handsome man passed the carriage, and gave an admiring stare into it, she fondly pressed the little girl towards her, and said in a voice '^ sweet as the southern breeze,'* — " Sweetest Meliora, kiss your hand to Captain Sylvester." Reginald looked truly aghast. He hardly knew whether to laugh, or feel sorry. It was such a complete houleversement to the rather romantic ideas he had formed of the lady ; and as, unperceived by her, they glided past, he ex- claimed, " Well ! I am surprised ; I should have imagined that nothing could ruffle the placidity of her mood." " But, after all," said Lady Elmsdale, " I be- lieve her to be a very good woman, au fonds. She is an excellent wife, to a husband old enough to be her father ; she is really devoted to her children; and were it not for her pretence of THE LITTLE WIFE. 195 over-wrought languid softness, there would be no sin in telling a fidgetty child to sit still ; nature will be nature; and we have all our irritable moments, I suppose. I only quarrel with her, and people in general, for wishing to assume a degree of perfection that is unnatural. It is a species of hypocrisy, in short ; and there are various descriptions of this vice. One kind we practise towards ourselves, without, I believe, any intention of being deceitful; I mean the endeavour to appear what we really are not. People have different objects in view, in thus seeking to deceive themselves and others. Some try to think themselves more learned — more beautiful ; Mrs. Delagrace's ambition is to im- press upon people in general, the idea, that she is the most refined of the refined." " But," said Reginald, " is she consistent in this attempt at fine ladyism, or is it only in the Park that it displays itself ?" " Oh! no," replied Nina; "the character is b:2 196 THE LITTLE WIFE, thoroughly supported. I wish you could see her house ; — it really is the palace of fine fur- niture. I must allow that the taste of its deco- rations is really good, but too grand and gaudy — too much for effect ; not a thought for com- fort ; though still it is all in tolerable judgment. The day I called upon her, she expected me. I had an appointment with her husband, to see his collection of fine pictures, of which he imagines himself to be a great connoisseur. When I first entered the room, into which I was ushered,! was quite struck by the coup d^osil; the chastened light — the well-disposed arrrangeraents — and above all, the lady herself, who, as I advanced, at first, did not seem sensible of my approach. She was seated on a low ottoman, surrounded by her beautiful children. The group was worthy the pencil of an artist. Her dress, al- though elaborate, was strictly in proper colour- ing ; rich, though apparently simple. One lovely girl was most gracefully presenting a THE LITTLE WIFE. 197 choice bouquet to her mother; another httle love, seated at her feet, leant her head fondly against her knee, her dark curls falling in wild profusion over the white dress upon which she reclined. A boy, in a sort of fanciful archer's dress, stood at a little distance, in a most pic- turesque attitude; he held a bow in his hand, which he playfully pretended to point at the group. Your friend, the unfortunate Alphonso, had mounted upon the ottoman, and was appa- rently amusing himself by playing with the ringlets of his mamma, who ever and anon cast back a look of fond chiding upon the pretty trifler. I, you know, who always look upon everything that is beautiful, with the eye of a would-be artist, quite paused to feast my eye upon the group. On perceiving me, Mrs. Dela- grace disengaged herself frcm the party, and rose to do the honours. Then immediately was the charm dispelled; her voice — her actions were affected — manieree; the children all ap- 198 THE LITTLE WIFE. pearecl to return into ordinary beings. I was soon obliged to follow old Mr. Delagrace, who hobbled off to shew the way into the next room, where I found a really splendid collection of pictures. Whilst I was examining them, a loud peal was heard. Why, I do not know ; but I happened to cast my eye through the half- opened door, which led into the apartment where I had left Mrs. Delagrace ; and first I saw this lady rush to the window, and heard her exclaim : 'Lady C , I declare !' then in great haste* she resumed her seat on the ottoman; and then, to my ecstatic amusement, she said to the children : * Come, every one of you, fall again into your places ;' and in another instant, like a scene in a hallet, the well-trained little animals put themselves into their different posi- tions. The bow was bent. Alphonso was wan- toning with the well-disposed curls of his mamma, which, however, he had skilfully learnt not to discompose by his manoeuvres — the THE LITTLE WIFE. 199 bouquet was offered; the little girl did not even forget to remove one of her long plaits, which was not quite in its proper position, and place it gently over her right shoulder^ It was the most perfect piece of dramatic effect ever witnessed — quite unrivalled, I am certain. The young performers must have been famously drilled ; for then, again, I saw the same smile — the same turn of the little heads ; all was exact, even to the position of the pointed foot ; and what I had admired so much, was com- pletely artificial." Reginald laughed heartily at this most amus- ing description. '^It is almost too like fraud to laugh at," continued Nina ; " but still my risible faculties are ever excited at the remembrance of it, for certainly there never was luch a droll sort of conceit,- it gives Mrs. Delagrace a claim to the most conspicuous place in my mena- gerie of monsters. But, joking apart, serious 200 THE LITTLE WIFE. reflections have mingled amidst all the mer- riment which this farce drew forth ; for I assure you, although perhaps you may not credit it, I can moralize. It is sad for the poor pretty children, who are training up in artifice. They will become either the chief of arch- deceivers ; or, perchance, all this mum- mery may fortunately have the effect of pro- ducing quite a different bias, and put them so completely out of love with affectation, that they may fall quite into the opposite ex- treme." "But!" she exclaimed, stopping suddenly in her speech, and turning rather red, "there is Lady Grantham's carriage coming. Let us get out of the Park as fast as possible, for she is quite certain to have some fault to find, if she sees me here without Lord Elmsdale." Thus saying, she made her way rapidly towards Cumberland Gate, which was the nearest egress she could attain ; soon they THE LITTLE WIFE. 201 were whirling through the streets, and ad- vancing towards Whitehall, and Nina's atten- tion was wholly engrossed in looking for her lord. "Now Reginald," she said, 'Mo you not see him ? Keep your eye on that side of the street, and I will watch the other. There he is !" she at length exclaimed, pointing to the outline of a figure at a distance moving to- wards them, whose identity perhaps no eye. save her keen glance, could have detected. " Now I must shew my little beauties off to perfection," were her words, as she reined the ponies in, and touching them sligiitly with the whip, accelerated their pace. It proved, indeed, to be Lord Elmsdale ; and her heightened colour, and the bright gleam of her eyes as he approached, tola truly the tale of aifection that animated her heart, which was full to overflowing with gratitude towards the K 5 202 THE LITTLE WIFE. husband, who wa§ the author and promoter of all her happiness. Lord Elmsdale's countenance gave indication of no less pleasing emotions ; with pride and delight he watched her approach, and with alacrity sprang into the place, beside his own sweet Countess, which Reginald, on his reach- ing them^ immediately vacated. CHAPTER XV. " I know that all beneath the moon decays, And what by mortals in this world is brought, In time's great periods shall return to nought." ****** " Thorow earth and waters deepe, The pen by skill doth passe : And fealty nyps the worldes abuse, And shoes us in a glasse, The vertu and the vice Of every wight aloye." So far had been written, when a break oc- curred in the detail, and an interval of some time elapsed, before an opportunity again pre- sented itself for continuing my story. During this space, I perused, for my own edification. 204 THE LITTLE WIFE. several of the new novels of the day, and the consequence has been, that I am dissatisfied with the plan that I had laid, for the continua- tion of the narrative. It had been my intention to give a detailed account of the dinner party — the guests which Lady Elmsdale had selected, with such mischievous variety, and from whom she had anticipated such amusing results ; I had intended to have given some specimens of the society in which she mixed ; but my late studies have altered the course of my ideas. I do not know whether it has had the same effect upon my readers, but it struck me as most peculiarly wearisome, to be forced to wade through whole chapters, and long pages, filled only with the sayings and doings, of some of the most tiresome, and offensive of human beings. Not only are we bored to death by them in real life, but we are obliged to yawn over their stupidity, and worthlessness, in every novel which we take up, for the amusement of a THE LITTLE WIFE. 205 passing hour. The vapid, insignificant dandy, who talks, and thinks, and boasts, of nothing but himself, is often-times the most conspicuous character in the plot, or some equally unsa- tisfactory personage ; the delineation of whose career, can be productive of no striking effect, either as to amusement or usefulness, even granting that the sketches are true to nature. In my opinion as much license ought to be granted to novel writing, as is allowed in poetry. Fiction is ever more attractive for being highly coloured. Romance must be blended with excitement, to render the narrative piquant and interesting. Novel writing has completely changed its character. From its high-flown, elaborate style, it is now fallen into the opposite extreme ; from improbabilities, always palpable, sometimes gross, now, in their place, we find nothing but the hum-drummeries of reality. Novels now are generally jmitations of some powerful writer, 206 THE LITTLE WIPE. or writers, whose masterly hands have swept a new chord, with singular and astonishing effect ; but which, when drawn by the feebler hand of the copyist, have dwindled into maw- kish attempts, at portraying scenes, of which many can only form their model by hearsay, and others, with better opportunities perchance of observation, have not the ability to handle properly. How seldom do we now — except in a few solitary instances — meet with a novel whose soul-stirring interest, absorbs and rivets the attention. Who does not remember the de- light with which formerly they devoured one of those productions, which even now can be read with the same thrill of excited interest, that in younger days agitated, even to ecstacy ? But the case is totally altered. Our teeming press, which produces so much, labours in vain, to bring forth food, which will really amuse the mind ; and perhaps it THE LITTLE WIFE. 207 is much better that so it is. Novel reading, like dram- drinking, grows upon the taste^ and prevents the enjoyment of a more useful style of literature ; the present style of composition, which inundates the reading world, will probably at length work out the ruin of the trade, and from sheer disgust at their vapidity, perhaps people may turn to something better. Should such be the case, the novel-writers of the nine- teenth century, may have written, at least, to some good purpose. After all, that to which we especially allude, the writing at any particular vice or person, is not of the slightest use. The folly or sm we aim at humbling, is hardly ever taken personally, by the individual to whom our shafts are directed. The most cleverly constructed cap seldom fits the head for which it is intended; therefore, we had better choose some more amusing theme, and keep our bitterness and verjuice to ourselves. 208 THE LITTLE WIPE. We fear it is too often with malicious intent, that satirical works are written ; we all love to pick, either privately, or openly, at the faults of others ; all, in every grade and station — from the high to the low— from the grave to the gay — from the wise to the foolish ! — the cloven foot of malice will creep out, even where we least expect to find it. Where can we ever hope to escape its poisonous breath? — We might as well expect to live upon the ocean's edge, and determine not to listen to the breaking waters ; we must hear it, we feel it constantly, and I fear custom soon makes us lose all idea of the real guilt, attached to slander; " Whose edge is sharper than the sword; whose tongue Outvenoms all the worms of Nile ; whose breath Rides on the posting winds, and doth belie All corners of the world!" . In a frivolous, fashionable, polite circle, the attacks are more to things external, such as THE LITTLE WIFE. 209 the person — fortune — pedigree of their subject ; follies which merely amount to nothing, saving the loss of time, and words, that render the satire of them more idle than injurious ; but in society a little more rational, as if the rank weed flourished better, the richer were the soil, it is the character — the conduct — the vital interests of life, which are invaded ; and I am now quoting some of the sentiments of a writer, who attacks, with much severity, some of what may be called the minor vices of human nature. There is, alas ! none so prevalent, as that of detraction — the real gratification which people seem to feel in exposing each other, repeat- ing every luckless word, ascribing thoughts, motives and feelings, where the plain act is all that can be really known; it is a fearful fea- ture encountered in society. This is indeed all bad, but too true ; and its consequence is to loosen the bond of kindness, between man and man — excite prejudices and 210 THE LITTLE WIFE. suspicions, which wound, and then harden the feelings. Thus have I digressed. 1 meant but to have said a few words, but I find my thoughts have carried me from one subject to another — far beyond my original intention. I must crave the pardon of my gentle readers. I intended merely to say, that I had gained experience from going over the same ground, which they probably also have passed, and would fain save them from the ennui^ under which I la- boured in my progress ; humbly endeavouring to amuse them, without fatiguing their patience by a repetition of scenes, occurrences and charac- ters, which it may be their fate to stumble upon, in their almost daily walk. In a novel, we may expect extremes ; the most vivid colouring is quite allowable. We all make up our minds to be little astonished ; and certainly, though we may be somewhat amused for a short time, by the occurrences THE LITTLE WIFE. 211 of fashionable life, we all get heartily tired of its sameness and fripperies. It would be rny ambition to take a higher flight — but I do not pretend to possess the pen of an Edge- worth — a Bulwer — a James ! or many others, whom I could now name, whose writings are my admiration. I can only now go on, and do the best I can with my story, assisted by the new light which has lately burst upon my perceptions. CHAPTER XVI. " See where around the silent votaries sit, To radiant beauty blind, and deaf to wit ; Each vacant eye appears with wisdom fraught ; Each solemn blockhead looks as if he thought. Here coward insolence insults the bold, And selfish avarice, boasts his lust of gold; 111 temper vents her spleen without offence. And pompous dulness triumphs over sense." " Well," exclaimed Nina to Lord Elms- dale, as they sat at breakfast, the next day; *^ how do you think our party went off last night ? In my opinion it was a complete and total failure. You will, I dare say, exclaim, that it succeeded admirably well." THE LITTLE WIFE. 213 " Certainly, Nina, it was a great relief to me that there were no storms among such a variety of conflicting elements. I expected, at least, some thunder and lightning ; and that by bring- ing such discordant people together, there would be some painful jars ; but quite the con- trary, they seemed to keep each other in order, which enforces the truth of the argument, that ^ discords well managed, often produce the finest harmony.' " ''Yes," cried Nina, laughing at the recollec- tion ; " Lady Grantham's stiflhess and frigidity spell-bound even Lady C — , and kept Mrs. Delagrace in such order, that she ^/as almost lady-like. Captain Sylvester was himself as usual — as conceited and egotistical ; nothing will daunt him: but he had nobody to draw him out, and he is never half so delightful, as when assisted by Mrs. Delagrace's notes of admiration. She was much more sparing of them ; and when they did escape, were pro- 214 THE LITTLE WIFE. nounced in a less audible, and emphatic tone of voice. Oh ! I was disappointed ! Reginald hardly once opened his eyes wider than usual. Upon my word," she continued, turning towards him, " I shall be quite sorry, when you become accustomed to absurdities. Your freshness has been my greatest amusement lately, and has assisted in keeping me alive, amidst all this uninteresting confusion. But most certainly, the party was dreadfully stupid, and all my own fault ; perhaps, for my sins, I was well punished, for I arranged the whole affair in mischief, and had not thrown in one single soul, whose society could have afforded any rational amuse- ment." "I am delighted it has so happened, my dear Nina; it is my great desire, that you should gain experience in society : and I am not at all sorry ,^j little lady, that you should obtain it, at some slight cost and sacrifice. There is nothing like gentle discipline, for thoroughly opening the eyes." THE LITTLE WIFE. 215 " Upon my word," cried the Countess, shrug- ing up her shoulders ; " I have some difficuUy in keeping mine open, in what is called the elite of London society ; it is to me so insupportably dull and heavy. I really sometimes long to get up, and jump over the ottoman, and invite my guests to do the same, just thoroughly to awaken them. I really am thinking seriously of sending for Boh Shorty and learning to play at whist. Lady L — and Mrs. H — , and all the young married women I meet, sit down to their rubber, regularly, every night ; and certainly, it seems to have the effect of keeping them on the qui vive, to judge by the animation of their countenances." Lord Elmsdale shook his head. ^« No ! no, Nina, for mercy's sake, fall asleep — jump over the ottoman — do anything, but I beseech you, put off the evil day of systematic card-playing. I cannot describe to you, how I dislike to see a woman, most particularly a young 216 THE LITTLE WIFE. one, sit down to play with a regular set of performers. It appears to me, almost as unfe- minine, as if she were to appear booted and spurred, with coat, waistcoat and etcs. In my opinion, there cannot be a more unpleasing sight, than to watch the proceedings of a card table, where there are women concerned. You see a pretty creature, all smiles and softness, take her seat ; watch her as the game proceeds. If she happen to have winning cards, all well and good — the smile continues, but the excite- ment unnaturally flushes her cheek, and there is a feverish sparkling in the eye. But, should she lose, then the reverse is painful. The brow contracts — a look of anxiety succeeds, and the smile now is forced, to hide the disappoint- ment, and too often, the annoyance, not only of losing her money, but frequently of being taken to task by her partner, rudely and harshly; and, extraordinary to say, in a manner, in which he would have blushed to indulge, at any other THE LITTLE WIFE. 217 time. But at whist it seems the privileged mo- ment, to be bearish with impunity. Sometimes the luckless dame has her legitimate mate for a partner, and then indeed, there is little quarter given to her. To most people the game of whist, is a tolerable trial of the temper. I remember the time, when the sight was new to me, that I was surprised to see a man, who in ordinary life, was gentlemanly in his manners and ideas, at cards completely change his cha- racter, and become irritable, quarrelsome, and cross to a disgusting degree. And that a woman should subject herself to any thing so disagree- able, as to be liable, not only to meet with what I call, impertinence, but also to be mixed up in the paltry squabbles of the other players— to hear unpleasant discussions, which assume the character of quarrels ! — No, defend me from seeing my wife a regular card player ! At any rate, wait till you grow old and ugly, dearest, and never let me see that young countenance, VOL. I. ^ m- 218 THE LITTLE WIFE. undergoing all the perplexed changes, which I have watched with pity in many a fair face/' Nina was much amused at the disgust which Lord Elmsdale seemed to entertain, upon the subject of lady- whist-players, and was still more so, when she heard Reginald also add with much earnestness, *' I assure you, my Lord, the very same ideas struck me, as I stood over the card-table last night. I could not help thinking how rude the gentleman, who wore the star, was to Lady C — . I quite felt for her, she looked so hot — so unlike what she was when she first sat down ; her very hair seemed to come out of curl, with agitation. I thought how little I should like to see any one, in whom I was interested, in such a situation ; it certainly places ladies too much on an equaHty, and in the power of those with whom they play ; at least, as far as the faculty of annoyance seems to extend." " Yes, Eeginald," replied Lord Elmsdale, THE LITTLE WIFE. 219 as he rose from the breakfast-table ; " let men play and fight it out amongst themselves, if they choose ; but, I trust, no wife of mine, will ever subject herself, to be a partaker of the acerbities, of the far-famed game of whist. Indeed, if ladies could only see how very un- becoming is the occupation — how unlike them- selves they look while thus employed, I am sure they would soon cease to exhibit themselves thus in public. It will be all very well in a quiet manner, at home, when you are a dowager, but you can amuse yourself better till then." " I see that you are both against me, and that I must give up Bob Short," exclaimed Nina, laughing, as Lord Elmsdale left th'5 room ; " it is very hard upon me. The only prospect that I had formed as a relief against my ennui T'' And then she paused for a moment, as if reflect- ing ; and when she again spoke, her coun- tenance wore a more serious aspect than it did before. " The fact is," she continued, as if L 2 220 THE LITTLE WIFE. pursuing aloud the train of her ideas, " the life I lead in London does not suit my taste in any- way. I dare say, you will scarcely credit it, Reginald; for I make no doubt, the opinion you have formed of me, is that I am a frivolous, little, foolish creature, more in the butterfly line than any other, and that my mind is as light as my actions." Reginald, shocked at such an imputation, so foreign from his thoughts, in vain endeavoured to interrupt her ; but she said, *' Never mind fine speeches, — you must think me rather childish sometimes ; but I should be quite different, if I were in the sphere for which I pant — my own beautiful country home ! There I feel I might really be of some use. I should be in a conspicuous — a respon- sible situation; the eyes of many would be upon me, looking to me for example, as well as for support and assistance. I should rise in the morning, my heart beating with the hope of THE LITTLE WIFE. 221 having, at least, the power of being able to perform my duty. My home at Elmsdale, is my legitimate post ; here 1 feel but as a stranger — a sojourner. Once estabKshed in the coun- try, you would see what a different person I should become. I do not mean to infer that I should be less gay in spirits than I am now ; on the contrary, I am sure that my grateful happiness, would render me even more joyful. I should be light-hearted as the lark, when it first wings its musical flight, up into the morn- ing sky. — I feel that I should be better — wiser than I am here. I am aware that all the worst frailties of my nature, are being nurtured in the atmosphere of the society in which I now breathe. I know I am becoming uncharitable, satirical ; and that, with all your politeness, I am £ure you cannot deny." ''A little original and droll in your estimate of human nature ; uncharitable you cannot mean to be. Lady Elmsdale." ^^Oh, do not smooth over my failings. I 222 THE LITITE WIFE. know it is very wrong. I suppose my per- fections are peculiarly alive to the ridiculous ; and unfortunately, I do not sufficiently keep in mind, the parable of the Mote and the Beam. I am always looking round for subjects, which my imagination may caricature ; it is my greatest amusement — a bad habit, to use the mildest term. I often feel ashamed of myself; and this very morning cast my eye over this passage of Bouilly, which made me blush ; if I do not check myself, I may in time be able to apply it to njy own case. I will read it to you, al- though you will say that it is rather severe, as you are all upon the soothing system ;" and she read the following sentence. " On ne rencontre que trop souvent dans la societe, de ces esprits malfaisants, qui dechirent par instinct, mordent par habitude ; et qui, pour un bon mot, se font un jeu cruel de trahir la confiance, d'outrager I'amitie, de critiquer le pouvoir, et d'insulter au vrai merite." THE LITTLE WIFE. 223 ^' You have indeed met with the very ex- treme of the vice/' exclaimed Reginald, almost indignant that she should have thus misrepre- sented herself; " you speak of those cases where ill-nature — a deliberate desire of giving pain — an envious wish to depreciate what they cannot reach, expends itself in bitter and indiscrimi- nate sarcasm; such mischief as you have de- scribed, arises from the depths of a malignant heart — not from such a one as yours, dear Lady Elmsdale." Nina seemed lost in thought ; during which time Reginald's eyes were fixed upon her coun- tenance. Perhaps in his gaze there was a degree of intensity — of fervour, which might have startled Nina, had she encountered it ; but she never looked — nor scarcely thought of him ; her mind was fall of another subject. "Oh, this odious foreign embassy," she ex- claimed ; '^ how I do detest the idea of it ! Why did my dear Lord accept it ? — and the provoking 224 THE LITTLE WIFE. part of the business is, that he says, it was entirely on my account — in order to give me an insight into the world ! — I, who want to have as little to do with the world as possible. My idea of happiness, is a beautiful place in the country, with the power of drawing round me, people whose society is really desirable. I am not one of those who think that ^ for want of company, welcome trumpery;' in my opinion, there is no time, so thoroughly and miserably wasted, as the moments that are squandered, with those who are indiiferent, and wearisome to our taste. — But of course it is all right, and I must yield with a good grace. Lord Elmsdale must know best. And now come, Reginald," she cried, springing from her seat, her countenance again assuming a totally diiferent character, from pen- sive reflection to child-like vivacity, '^ let us go into the garden, — a cart-load of new flowers has arrived, and I have quantities for you to do." THE LITTLE WIFE. 225 And what were Reginald's reflections ? — Per- chance he thought that there might be many women, who were in reality more perfect than Nina, for she was very young — very inexperi- enced ; but no doubt, if thus he argued, he added this codicil to the remark, '' With all her little faults, may she never change — may she ever be as charming, in innocence and candour, as she is at this moment !'* L 5 CHAPTER XVII. " She loves him, with that excellence That angels love good men with." " Such a man Might be a copy to these younger times." Perhaps, in the same manner as the looker- on, generally sees the best of the game, the reader, casting his eye of prudence with an an- ticipative glance, over the future events of the story, may think that the present was rather an imprudent position for two such very young creatures ; and that it was hardly consistent with Lord Elmsdale's good sense, to expose them to dangers, which might ensue, from being thus so intimately thrown into each other's THE LITTLE WIFE, 227 society. Prudence might suggest that it would have been as well, had he remembered the ex- treme youth of his wife, and the somewhat disparity of their ages ; but his own mind was so completely free from guile — so benevo- lent and exalted, that evil thoughts, especially of those whom he loved, were slow to find an entrance into it ; and we rejoice to say, as far as Nina was concerned, there was little of peril to anticipate. Her ideas of the human species, called man, were very exalted, and highly wrought. Her taste had been formed, from the first dawning of reason, by her father, who was almost unequalled in his gentleman -like feeling, and exquisitely cultivated mind ; thus did she learn to fix her standard of perfection on a very elevated pin- nacle. She had mixed but little in the society of young men ; and as chacun a son gout, it was certainly not hers, to admire many of those whom she had met, in her short experience 228 THE LITTLE WIFE. of life. Somehow or other, she had always looked upon them as inferior ; and Reginald, much as she liked him, she considered as some- thing even younger than he really was. In the purity and childishness of her heart, he filled the vacant place of her sister, Clara. This sister had ever been her kindest and most useful companion, devoting herself to her dearly -loved Nina; who, from the smallness of her stature, and the sweetness and playfulness of her ways, seemed even younger than the graver girl, who was her junior, though only by one year, and regarded her with a degree of tender considera- tion, as well as affectionate attention. And even when in the school-room, during their study of history, whilst her two sisters were rapturous in their admiration of some of the young heroes, whose deeds of glory had attracted their youthful fancies, Nina's enthu- siastic fervour was ever excited by some graver — more matured character ; and whilst the THE LITTLE WIFE. 229 beauty of an Alcibiades, or an Alexander — the heroism of a Gaston de Foix — the devotion of a Cymon, fired their imaginations, and elicited energetic commendation, it was amusing to hear Nina, with all her sprightliness and fun, which rendered the contrast of her ideas still more striking, choose her pattern for perfection, in a far more stern — a grander — a more imposing scale. She used to say, " I can never admire, where I do not deeply venerate. Give me such a man as Aristides ; one act of his alone, dictated by a mind so just — so powerful, eclipses in my ima- gination all the impetuous deeds of your Alci- biades — your Alexander ! How I could glory in being the wife of such a man as Coriolanus — the Nina of a Rienzi;" and her expressive countenance, lighting into all the enthusiasm with which the idea inspired bor, imparted to it a character, noble as the feelings which dic- tated her words. 2S9 THE LITTLE WIFE. Unlike the generality of human beings, Nina had really found that which had ever been the object of her young desires. She had married the man, in her estimation, the very counterpart of one of her favoured models. She looked up to her husband, with that degree of affection and admiration, rendered still more intense from the natural enthusiasm of her disposition. She considered him perfection, and no one could wonder that she did so. Though there was certainly a difference of age between them, it never struck the beholder. Nina might some- times be thought too young — too childish, to have taken upon herself so serious an engage- ment as matrimony; but it would have been impossible to have said, that the Earl was too old for her ; for although seven- and-thirty, he did not look it. It was hard at first to tell what to admire most in him — his noble and exalted countenance, or his manners, always so concilia- tory, at the same time so high-bred; and a THE I.ITTLE WIFE. 231 mind embellished and cultivated to the very ut- most extent. But, on a familiar acquaintance^ those who knew him intimately in his domestic circle, soon learned to love and admire, above all, those feelings which flowed from his noble heart; and it was in private life that he shone forth superior to every other person. Nina, therefore, was safe ; her heart guarded by a shield, which rendered her invulnerable to every other feeling — her eyes covered by the veil of affection, which made all appear in an obscured light, when compared to the husband whom she thought truly incomparable. "Would that we could say as much for Eegi- nald ! — But, unfortunately, the bias of the soul of man is not, Hke the softer sex, devoted — con- stant, in weal or in woe ! — At least, such is their nature when all is right within. I do not mean to say there are not many sad exceptions. We have often to sigh over failures in the character of those, whom we had imagined patterns of female 232 THE LITTLE WIFE» excellence. But man is evermore the slave of im- pulse ; his passions more impetuous — more easily excited. He is ofttimes wild and intractable in his nature. Education rectifies, in a great mea- sure, this inherent corruption. Should he have been so fortunate, as to receive early lessons of piety and religion, these valuable auxiliaries may further soften and subdue — refine and exalt his mind. Still he is, in general, too open to receive the temptations with which his position as a man surrounds him. His career is, indeed, a vortex; snares and trials encompass him on every side ; and once launched on its tempestuous current, with what insidious steps does he advance to- wards forgetfulness of all the virtuous principles inculcated in his early youth — unless, indeed, he manfully clings to the assistance of reflec- tion, of self-denial, and of firm integrity. Reginald ought to have been guarded from much evil, for virtue had been the image pre- sented to his mind, ever since he could distin- THE LITTLE WIFE. 233 guish goodness from vice. And had he not also love to add to his safeguard? — had he not pUghted his faith ? — breathed vows of constancy to one most deserving of his devotion ? — Her image ought to have been his guardian angel. To do him justice, far was it from his thoughts, poor youth, to be untrue to Alice. Could he have imagined that such an event was even within the verge of possibility, that such a presumptuous feeling as now began to agitate him, could have found entrance to his heart — that such a fatal passion could in- sidiously have crept into it, gladly would he have sacrificed his every hope and expectation — flown to the uttermost parts of the earth — hid his guilty head from every eye ; any act of self-devotion, would he have performed, rather than expose himself to a snare, which was even worse than death itself. But truly the tempter walks abroad with subtle and noiseless steps, " seeking whom he may devour," and preying too successfully on 234 THE LITTLE WIFE. the unfortunate, whose mind is vacillating, or not firmly fenced against the inroads of his attacks, by that stability of principle which alone has power to repel his machinations. Of what avail are the most shining and at- tractive qualities, unless, combined with them, is that mental fortitude, which is like the castle r built on the rock, defying the attacks of sur- rounding waters — that moral courage which is connected with precept, and founded on religion ? This, and this only, erects that brazen wall, which we can oppose to every hostile attack ; it clothes even a young man, in the vortex of worldly temptation, with an armour on which its fascinations will spend its shafts in vain. To the absence of this mental courage, we may trace the disappointments, which blast the hopes of many an anxious friend and parent, whose anticipations have been bright and san- guine for the child of their afiections. To sail on the tranquil unruffled lake, and to steer a safe course through a troubled and stormy THE LITTLE WIFE. 235 ocean, require different talents ; and, alas ! hu- man life far oftener resembles the tempestuous sea, than the smooth water. Unless we be well-armed and fortified against the tempest, how can any frail mortal, hope to struggle through the waves and shoals, that are for ever impeding our progress ? And thus it is in life ; unless armed by the breastplate of firmness and principle — however good may be our hearts, and our intentions — how can we expect but to fall, when assailed on all sides, as we ever are, by the temptations of " the world, the flesh, and the devil ?" Had Reginald been obliged to describe his feelings, it would have been impossible for him to date accurately, the period from which he first began to regard Lady Elmsdale with any sentiment, save that of the most respectful re- gard. His secluded life had prevented his seeing much of female society ; and the Countess was so different from any woman he had ever before beheld, that at first he was not particu- 236 THE LITTLE WIFE. larly fascinated by her. She seemed to him to want the repose — the placidity which charac- terized Alice. He looked upon her as a mere child — engaging and sweet, but still a child ; and although her kind manner soon softened the painful effect, which the grimace of disgust he had detected on the announcement of his arrival had produced on his mind, still its recollection would now and then recur ; and sensitive, and alive to any thing approaching to a slight, un- consciously had the volatile Nina, planted a thorn in his mind, which it was some time before even her kindness could extract; and ever and anon, as circumstances occurred, con- tinued to give him a momentary pang. But there was something about this young being certainly most irresistibly fascinating — a charm quite indescribable; for it was not her beauty or her grace. Others might be far more lovely, as to form and feature, and yet not have possessed her peculiar attraction. There was an enchantment, we may say a romance, about THE LITTLE WIFE. 237 her, which by degrees, and on a nearer ac- quaintance, forced itself upon the imagination of the young secretary ; and he felt surprised and angry with himself, when he remembered that the first time he had seen her, he did not think her even pretty. Indeed, although Nina was considered by those beautiful who loved her, it was not the beauty to attract a stranger, for she was so pale — so delicate ; and the contrast of her gaiety and volubility, with her coun- tenance, at times so full of feeling and deep thought, rendered her almost an enigma, and produced a singular impression upon the mind. But as her various attractions developed them- selves, Reginald was, insensibly to himself, surprised, bewildered — then charmed and fascinated ! But still, for some time, it was as an amiable child that he admired her. However, soon he discovered the deep feeling which actuated her nature — the womanly tenderness — the ardent devotion, with which she could love. — And, 238 THE LITTLE WIFE. then, tlie bright flashes of her wit — her talent, quite dazzled her astonished senses, and her sweetness ; and, again, her kindness to all she loved ! This was, indeed, most bewitching ; and though her elastic spirits did lead her into excessive gaiety, and her lively imagination carry her to the perilous verge of satire, a graver shade upon the countenance of her hus- band, would check her in the midst of the most exuberant glee ; for to please him was her dearest law. Soon — too soon, Reginald's admiration be- came exalted. No longer did he regard her, as at first, merely as a fair marble statue, which the art of the sculptor had formed pleas- ing to the eye, and on whose contemplation our senses love to dwell ; he now began to gaze upon her in the light of a charming wo- man, one replete with every perfection most attractive to a man. CHAPTEE XVIII. " Trusting aiFection, confidence, The holy and the deep ; Feelings which rained sweet influence; It is for these we weep. Maiden, I pity thee ; thy trust Too short a life hath known ! Too soon thy temple is in dust, Thy first fond faith o'erthrown." Long did Reginald exist unconscious of the destruction which the contemplation of Lady Elmsdale's attractions, was but too certain to bring upon his happiness. But if, at this mo- ment, any one had admonished him to beware, how indignantly would he have shrunk from 240 THE LITTLE WIFE. the bare idea of such a result ! Nina, he ima- gined, was so completely enveloped by a veil of respect and veneration, as the wife of his best and most honoured friend, that he would have considered it profanation, worse than guilt, to have dreamt that it was even possible, that a being could exist, so presumptuous as to dare to raise his eyes towards her, with any feeling, save that of reverential admiration. He flattered ■ himself that the pleasure he felt in doing ho- mage to her attractions, arose solely from a just tribute to her merits, and the kindness she evinced towards him. But the letters which he addressed to his home, began to assume a diffe- rent tone; rarely did they now contain, as formerly, expressions of regret and sorrow, at his separation from the dear friends of his childhood. His epistles were now vivid de- scriptions of the gay scenes which daily passed in his existence, and which seemed one of constant pleasure and excitement; and were THE LITTLE WIFE. 241 half filled with the perfections of Lady Elms- dale. But still, strange to say, these letters were generally adressed to Alice. At first their pe- rusal continued to afiford pleasure to her affec- tionate heart. She rejoiced that he was happy, and that every one about him was kind to him ; but at length a feeling, which in its early exist- ence she could not define, rendered her restless and uneasy, after the receipt of one of these eagerly desired despatches. How tenacious is the heart that loves — how soon it begins to throb with doubts and fears ! It was difficult even to herself, to understand what it was that caused the painful sigh to heave — the cold, damp feeling of despondency which seemed to paralyse her whole fi'ame, or which crept with painful shudderings over her senses, after the perusal of one of Keginald's letters. It was whilst sitting on her favorite seat — that cherished bower which his own hands had VOL. I. M 242 THE LITTLE WIFE. helped to construct, in her days of happiness, that she read over for the twentieth time, a letter which she had received that day from her cousin. It ran thus, — *' At length it is decided, dearest Alice, that we are to leave England next week. I know not how to account for it ; but my feelings have certainly undergone a great change, and I hardly know whether to hail the alteration with satis- faction, or not. I almost fear I am growing lukewarm as to ambition. The life of pleasure and luxury I am leading, is not a strengthening stimulant; I now view the idea of quitting England with comparative indifference. How- ever, when I get out of this enervating town, I expect that my enthusiasm, and thirst for in- formation and adventure, will return. — How we all change in this world ! Girouettes, indeed, we may well be called. "When I first came to London, how I panted to get out of it ; how THE LITTLE WIFE. 243 uncongenial was all around to my every taste and feeling ; how completely out of my element did I feel ! — Every moment I considered wasted, spent far from Elmsdale, and its loved inhabi- tants. But the case is altered; for, though 1 love you all dearly as ever, I have not that yearning towards home, which made the first hours that I spent here so very wretched. I am contented — almost happy, in my new situation. Indeed, I should be worse than ungrateful were I otherwise — did I not estimate the advantage of my present position, and acknowledge the unvaried kindness and indulgence of Lord Elmsdale, and his charming lady. ^' Alice, I think with shame, of the blindness, to use the mildest term, the obtuseness which rendered me insensible to her attractions, when I first described her to you. F?r pity's sake, burn all the memorials of my ignorance, and hardness of heart, in not at once perceiving that she was perfection. I actually blush with M 2 244 THE LITTLE WIFE. shame and confusion, when I remember the cold and criticising manner in which I described her. Dear Alice ! I wish you could see and know this sweet little creature. At first, I think I told you, that I hardly thought her pretty — now I pronounce her to be beautiful; and you would perfectly agree with me ; for she is just what your pure and refined taste must often, in your imagination, have embodied as most lovely and attractive in a young girl. " You will smile, perhaps, at what I am now going to say, and perchance you will smile in disdain, at what you may deem fri- volity. I never, till now, could imagine that I should have been able to appreciate, and to acknowledge, the great advantages of dress. Certainly, it improves even natural beauty, and casts a glow of refinement over the wearer; it just creates the difierence which the exotic claims over the garden flower. ^*I cannot enumerate how often, my dear THE LITTLE WIFE. 245 Alice, I long to see you attired as Lady Elms- dale ; indeed, I have pleased myself by choos- ing a few dresses for you, which I shall shortly despatch. I wish you could see Lady Elms- dale's exquisite little foot ; but I make no doubt it is greatly improved by the beautiful form of the chaussure, I often smile when I think how perfectly satisfied you have always been", dear good Alice, with the clumsy per- formance of the village shoemaker. Before I came here, I never thought of the shape of a foot, and have no accurate remembrance of yours ; but I am sure it must be small. Send me your measure, and you shall have some shoes, with the dresses, from Lady Elmsdale's own artiste. "But I am dwelling too long on what you may deem folly and vanity ; and after all, the personal attractions of Lady Elmsdale are of little consequence — a mere matter of taste. But I could dilate for ever on the beauty of 246 THE LITTLE WIFE. her very peculiar mind — the excessive amia- bihty of her disposition, and the real goodness of her heart. The liveliness of her imagina- tion may sometimes carry her away; and lead her, with the unrestrained freedom of thought and speech, of one who has ever been indulged, to broach opinions, and form conclusions, which are too near the verge of satire, to be quite within the pale of Christian charity ; but she has that within her, which is certain to correct this tendency, even were she unchecked, by the fear of offending the sensitive benevolence of all Lord Elmsdale's ideas. She longs to be settled at the Castle, and sighs for the innocent enjoyments of a country life; truly, in all her purity and sweetness, she would seem like a second Eve in that terrestrial Paradise. "What a friend and companion would you find in her ! — indeed, you would be a mutual improvement, one to the other. She would THE LITTLE WIFE. 247 learn from you, my amiable cousin, that sta- bility of character, which perhaps she still needs. Your prudence and discretion, would be a sweet lesson to her ; and from the Countess you might acquire — I scarcely know how to express it — for why should I wish you diife- rent? — How could you be improved in good- ness — in amiability ? If I were to say what just glanced across my mind, you might think me foolish — trifling; and in scorn, perchance, you might exclaim, ' Reginald has learnt to value the empty vanities of the world,' so I will change the subject. " No one could surpass you, dear Alice, in excellence, and I will pay you a great com- pliment. I think you could render Lady Elms- dale even more perfect than she is, and that is saying a great deal, I can assure you; but I cannot add any more at prese.it. I hear her voice — she calls me ; and when can I ever resist her summons ?" 24S , THE LITTLE WIFE. And why did Alice feel pain after tlie pe- rusal of this letter? — why did her eyes at one moment fill with tears, and in the next a bright flush diffuse itself over her pale cheeks ? There were many expressions in it that were soothing towards herself; still she did feel an acute sense of anguish, as she sat deep in absorbing meditation ; and if we could have read them, her thoughts ran very much thus, — "Well do I know Reginald — too accurately for my peace of mind; for did I not possess that knowledge, I might still dream on, and retard the moment of awakening. — But, no! the vision has already vanished ; and though I feel overwhelmed, it was not unexpected. He knew not his own heart, when he told me that he regarded me with more than the love of a brother — he knew not his own feelings. In this retirement, he had hitherto seen no one whom he considered superior to myself; THE LITTLE WIFE. 249 but now, as I foresaw, the case is totally- altered ; he has beheld many who surpass me in attractions — in beauty. The indescribable charm, with which I have ever heard, fashion and elegance surround a female, must be a striking contrast to a simple girl like my- self." And here poor Alice smiled ; but it was a bitter smile, for mortified affection was mingled in the feeling, from which it was pro* duced. " He remembers me in my countrified attire, and compares me in his mind with the graceful, well-adorned, form of this high-bred Countess. He recollects even my poor, ill-made shoes, with contempt, while gazing with delight on her Cinderella slippers." Again AHce sighed deeply. " My prophecy is accomplished. — I told him so — but, oh!" she thought, as she pressed her hands tightly over her throbbing heart, " for myself I care not what I suffer. I can M 5 250 THE LITTLE WIFE. tutor my feelings to be ever submissive to the decrees of Providence ; but, poor Keginald ! how I tremble for him ! — Well do I know- how uncontrollable is the nature of his feel- ings — how little of self-control he has ever possessed. God grant he may never be tempted, to commit the sin of placing his affections, where love would be indeed a crime." Her thoughts were becoming too overpow- ering,— "Indifference, dreaded power! * * « * » * » » "Who can describe the hopeless, silent pang, With which the gentle heart first marks her sway ? * * * » » "Too faithful heart! thou never canst retrieve Thy withered hopes : conceal the cruel pain ! O'er thy lost treasure still in silence grieve; But never to the unfeeling ear complain : From fruitless struggles, dearly bought, refrain ! Submit at once — the bitter task resign, Nor watch and fan the expiring flame in vain ; THE LITTLE WIFE. 251 Patience, consoling maid, may yet be thine, — Go, seek her quiet cell, and hear her voice divine." Fearful of the approach of her uncle, who would have been alarmed at the appearance of her agitation, Alice flew to the shelter of her own little room ; and there, on her knees^ she prayed for the safety of one, whom she loved with feelings as tender and disinterested, as ever found a resting place in the devoted heart of a woman. CHAPTER XIX. " Her cheek is pale ; her mouth is wrought With lines that tell of care and thought; But sweet, and with a smile, that seems To brood above a world of dreams. And with an eye of that clear blue, Like Heaven when tears are shining through ; The pure, the spiritual, the clear, Whose light is of another sphere." Whilst Reginald was creating for himself an idol, in the form of the truly elegant and attractive little Countess, there was one who looked upon the quiet, unobtrusive "garden flower," with a degree of interest, which in- creased, the more her humble merits developed themselves. Mr. Herbert had lived in the THE LITTLE WIFE. 253 world ; his accustomed eye had rested on every style of beauty — he had mixed in various sets of society — fashionable life was not strange to him ; and his perceptions had become steady — clear-sighted. He had looked on lovehness, in his first youthful days — had admired its charms, with all the fervour of a young and ardent mind. Station had its delights, plea- sure its passing triumphs ; but the first vivid dream of life was gone, and though still young, he had gained experience from the world — the gaudy, shallow world — unsatisfying ever! Drink of its fill ever so freely, unless the draught be mixed with other hopes, how fa- mished is he who quaiFs it, even if he drain it to the very dregs ! Mr. Herbert had discovered, that those pleasures which are even the most attractive to the senses, have no link which connects them, with anything like permanent felicity, but generally prove but a transient glow — 254 THE LITTLE WIJ'E. an evanescent gratification, which leaves the heart feeble — exhausted — unsatisfied ! He had long sighed, for the very existence which it had been his favored lot to attain ; but still there was one desire unfulfilled, and when he first looked round on his new home, he felt that he must have a partner, to share it with him. And where was he to look for her, whom he had seen in his dreams, as the ideal image of the wife whom he should choose, as the partaker of his happiness? It was here, in this wild, sequestered spot of loveliness, that he foun^ all that he imagined perfection, embodied in the gentle Alice. He marked her tender, afiectionate nature — at the same time, the strengthened culture of her mind; he disco- vered that her education had been well regu- lated, her pure and excellent heart well di- rected ; and no doubt, to all this he added personal attractions. But his ideas of beauty- were simple as his tastes. He thought more THE LITTLE WIFE. 255 of the mild radiance of the mind, kindling an expression of countenance, of far greater value in his eyes, than the most perfect re- gularity of feature and symmetry of form. And now, indeed, did Mr. Herbert think himself most fortunate; for here, amidst flowers and sweet shrubs, in this most beautiful and pic- turesque of all places, far distant from the general haunts of men, he had discovered truly a gem, in the sweet fair being, in whose dove- like eyes, and soft smile, he identified the very personification of her, whom in his wishes he had prayed to find. There was something in the thoughtful, quiet grace of her countenance, a degree of pensive sweetness, which had made a deep impression on him, from the first moment he had seen her. On a nearer acquaintance, how did the charm increase ! he was indeed enchanted — surprised. Here did he find a forest flower, adorned with all its native simplicity ; but strange were the 256 THE LITTLE WIFfi. Stores of information — of deep, enlightened thought, which breathed in the modest recesses of her soul. He heeded not the want of fashion — of tournure, which, to a criticising eye, she might perchance have lacked ; he only saw that she looked lady-like, and scrupulously neat in her simple attire ; and when he gazed upon that lofty, intellectual brow, and marked the bright flush which occasionally animated her complexion, when a feeling of admiration, or enthusiasm, agitated her heart, Mr. Herbert thought that never, in the most courtly circles, had he seen one, who in his opinion was more attractive. What a happy life was now his — too happy ; for alas ! — alas ! — well we know, that it is not for us, miserable descendants of Adam, to expect a paradise on earth. We must be content to catch such fleeting moments of joy, as may be within our reach, in this ever-chequered ex- istence ; grateful ought we to feel, that it is THE LITTLE WIFE. 257 SO ordained, and that we do not wholly chain our foolish, wilful, hearts to such an unstable anchor. Eather let us thank God that so it is, and that we are brought, though ofttimes, sad to say, unwillingly, to look higher for substantial happiness. " On earth There is nor certainty, nor stable hope. As well the weary mariner, whose bark Is tossed beyond Cimmerian Bosphorus, Where storm and darkness hold their drear domain. And sunbeams never penetrate, might trust To expectation of serener skies. And linger in the very jaws of death. Because some peevish cloud were opening, Or the loud storm had bated in its rage : As we look forward in this vale of tears. To permanent delight — from some slight glimpse Of shadowy unsubstantial happiness." For a short space, bright and Joyful were the hours, which flew so swiftly to Mr. Herbert. His abode was merely separated by a plantation, from the dwelling of Mr. Stanley; and very soon 258 THE LITTLE WIFE. he found himself almost a daily guest, within the walls of the cottage. In the old man, there was a kindred spirit, assimilating with his own; and he was immediately able to ap- preciate those qualities, which had laid hold, so strongly, on the affections of all who knew him. Mr. Stanley was not slow in returning the good opinion of his new acquaintance. It was a great delight to find in this retirement, one whose enlightened mind, could enter with him upon topics, so full of intense interest. Hence the new rector became almost domesticated in the steward's family ; and as Alice every morn- ing looked forth from the latticed window of the breakfast- parlour, to inhale the sweet scent which the morning air wafted, from the roses and honey-suckles, which flourished in pro- fusion on the walls of the cottage, she generally had to welcome the approach of their early visitor, who always came with some application THE LITTLE WIFE. 259 to herself; either to beg that she would ac- company him, upon some visit of charity and usefulness, or to perform some act, in the ac- complishment of which, she alone could aid him. The first shade which obscured the brightness of his present content, arose from observing, on a more intimate acquaintance with Alice, that her spirits were very uncertain ; indeed, that sometimes they were weighed down, by melancholy ; and after a period of anxious observation, he felt convinced, that some pecu- liar subject, must have saddened her young life ; and the more his feelings became engrossed by an attachment, which was hourly gaining a powerful ascendancy over his heart, the stronger his curiosity became excited, as to the cause of her depression. Week after week succeeded; and whilst he daily felt that she was dearer to him, he marked, with sorrow and disappointment, that 260 THE LITTLE WIFE. her cheek grew still paler — her countenance more sad. He redoubled his kind attentions. How he watched her every look — how he longed to ask her to reveal to him the secret of her grief ! But he dared not, for gratefully as she looked upon Herbert, though her manner plainly evinced how much she respected, nay, even admired the virtues of his character, still he felt that there was a calmness — an ease, in her intercourse with him, which did not at all as- similate with the more ardent feehngs which beat in his breast ; and in the timidity of his growing love, he feared that she might deem it presumptuous, were he to endeavour to sound the inward recesses of her mind. But whence arose this evident disquiet ? All around her seemed smiling. Her excellent uncle looked upon her with the fondest affection ; her brother anticipated her slightest wish — every object appeared to love her ; her birds — her pet animals, all seemed to hail her approach with THE LITTLE WIFE. 261 joy; she appeared to have no cares, but those which carried with them a sweet compensation. The air of her garden, was heavy with the per- fume of her cherished flowers ; her poor neigh- bours received from her own kind hand, every solace, which she was empowered so freely to bestow ! What then could make her sad ? And Mr. Herbert felt his heart throb painfully, as the thought crossed his imagination — *' Can it be that she loves another, and that I must relin- quish my bright project of bliss ?" CHAPTER XX. Oh, let me entreat thee- For where thou art, there is the world itself, With every several pleasure in the world; And where thou art not ." "Nina," said Lord Elnisdale, as he en- tered in haste her dressing-room, where she was standing, already dressed for dinner ; " I have been detained by business, which makes me so late; very annoying intelligence has just reached me. Mr. A — , the member for E — , has died, poor fellow ! very suddenly ; and I shall have to go down to Elmsdale for THE LITTLE WIFE. 263 the election, — there is to be a fierce contest for the county. There is no help for it ; but 'tis most mal-a-propos just at this moment, when we are on the very eve of our continental expedition." Nina fiew towards him, and threw her arms round his neck. " Then take me with you, dearest, I beseech you," she exclaimed, in the most persuasive accents, " You know not how miserable I am when you leave me — and do let me have a sight of that beautiful Elmsdale, about which you talk so much, and which Eeginald is always describing in so rapturous a strain. I shall then have something to think of, with pleasure, when I am abroad — a home to which I can picture my return. Now, I pray you, do not say ' No,' " she conti :.ued, playfully putting her hand on his mouth, to prevent him continuing a speech, which was prefaced by a portentous shake of the head; "I behaved 264 THE LITTLE WIFE. very well the last time you went — made no complaints, because you asked papa and my sisters to stay with me, and I thought it might appear unkind and ungracious towards them ; but I can tell you, I did not like it at all, and almost cried myself ill with vexation at being left behind." '* My dear Nina," Lord Elmsdale began, — but Lady Elmsdale, not liking the tone of voice, in which he commenced his speech, interrupted him ; saying, with rather a petulant air, something between determination, coaxing, and entreaty, " I will not be refused ! — And poor Reginald — we can take him with us," she added, seeing that Lord Elmsdale was evidently giving way to her importunity ; " it will be so delightful for him to see his father, poor fellow ! and his lady-love ; for I know his aifections are all fixed on Alice Bruce, whom you praise so highly ; so, my dear Lord — my darling hus- band — don't refuse your own little Nina, and THE LITTLE WIFE. 265 let me go with you," she coDtinuecl, in a most pathetic tone of voice, tears half filling her eyes. '^ My sweetest Nina, nothing would give me more pleasure, than to take you with me, for well you know, that I am always wretched when I am away from you ; but I do dread the fatigue — the long, hasty journey ! Remember you are not very strong, notwithstanding your elastic spirits, which make you forgetful of yourself; recollect to what you have to look forward — how many a weary mile you have to journey, before you reach Naples ; and I know that if you were at Elmsdale, no little bird would be wilder. Never for a moment at rest, perching here and there, and every where, climbing moun- tains, and scaling rocks ; and then you would knock yourself up, and I should be nervous and wretched, at the idea of taking you out of England, weak and languid. If I were to let you go, I must have all the ponies unshod, VOL. I. N 266 THE LITTLE WIFE. every boat taken off the river, for you would attempt every thing. You would be, " Over hill, over dale Thorough bush, thorough briar, Over park, over pale. Thorough flood, thorough fire." " Nonsense, dear ; you talk to me, as if I were really a baby," said the Countess, half offended ; but she soon smoothed her ruffled feathers, and continued, — " I intend to be very prudent — very wise, I assure you, at Elmsdale. I mean to assume quite a different character, and become quite dignified and solemn." And now that the little lady saw, by her husband's countenance, that he was relenting, and that she had the game nearly in her own hands, she rattled away with increased con- fidence. " I can assure you, it is my intention to pack THE LITTLE WIFE. 267 up all my follies in a parcel, before I set off, and send them directed to Lady Grantham ; so you will grant my request — will you not ?" And now she detected a smile, a look, which at once told her, that she had gained her point ; and the happy girl, after having given him two or three warm embraces, flew out of the room, rushed down the staircase, and in another in- stant, had gained the apartment, where she knew she should find Reginald, waiting for her appearance before dinner, and throwing hastily open the door, exclaimed, " Such good news ! — such delightful news ! We are all to go to Elmsdale to-morrow, for a fortnight !" Strange inconsistency ! — There was a time when Reginald would have hailed this intel- ligence with unmixed satisfaction ; but now, how was it that a feeling, which at first he mistook for surprise, seemed to interfere with his joy?* 268 THE LITTLE WIFE. ** Is it not charming?" Lady Elmsdale con- tinued; ''I shall see that beautiful place, and you will introduce me to your excellent father, whom I long so much to know." Here Reginald's eyes sparkled with the feel- ing of aifection, which this idea excited. " And also," she added, looking at him side- ways, with a sly glance of intelligence, " I shall be able to form my own opinion of your Alice. — Dear Reginald, you need not blush and look so confused," she added, in a sweet tone of encou- ragement ; " why be ashamed to own so natural — so lovely a feeling? I honour you for it. Lord Elmsdale has often told me much of the amiability of the chosen of your heart ; and the very knowledge of your attachment, has greatly tended to increase the interest I have for you. I know, by my own feelings, the intensity of the love, which can glow in a young heart ; I trust mine has been softened and improved, since the THE LITTLE WIFE. 269 sentiment has gained an entrance into it. Rather be proud of loving, as the object is so estimable." But still her words did not reassure Reginald. He turned his eyes away, that they might avoid the bright enthusiastic radiance which flashed from those of Lady Elmsdale. He felt that in that glance, there was peril to himself, which as yet he could scarcely define ; and it was an inexpressible relief, when the entrance of Lord Elmsdale, put an end to the conversation. CHAPTER XXI. " What a goodly prospect spreads around, Of hills, and dales, and woods, and lawns, and spires. Happy Britannia ! where the Queen -of Arts, Inspiring vigour. Liberty abroad Walks, unconfined, even to the farthest cots. And scatters plenty with unsparing hand." The next morning all was delightful hurry and confusion. Nina, too happy to sleep, was up with the lark, the true emblem of her young and joyful heart. Lord Elmsdale was pressed for time; and ever watchful of his precious little wife, he judged that it would be less fatiguing for her, to travel early, and finish the day's journey in good time. THE LITTLE WIFE. 271 SO that she might have a long night's rest, to re- cruit her for the next day's travel. It was a lovely summer's morning, and Nina was in the wildest spirits. Light was the bound with which she sprung into the carriage, which the anxiety of her attentive Lord, had rendered still more commodious, by every description of cushion, at all which luxuries she laughed in scorn. " Why should I have all these unnecessary comforts ?" she exclaimed ; " because I am little, you think that I am not strong, which I can as- sure you is a very great mistake." Keginald had also his place in the britscha, and a dangerous one, methinks, for it was oppo- site to Lady Elmsdale ; his eyes could rest upon her unceasingly, and never did she look more attractive than in this her moment of perfect happiness. It seemed as if Cupid and all the little loves, nestled in the dimples, which her smile created, round her pretty mouth. 272 THE LITTLE WIFE. Away they flew, with all the agreeable speed of four horses ; not as Mr. Weller describes it, in the way we are fated to travel on the very same road, '^ in a harm cheer, lookin' at brick walls, or heaps o' mud — never comin' to a public house — never seein' a glass o' ale — never goin' through a pike — never meetin' a change o' no kind, (horses or other vise) but always comin' to a place, ven you come to one at all, the werry picter o' the last, vith the same p'leese men standing about, the same blessed old bell a rin- ging the same unfort'nate people, standing be- hind the bars, a waitin' to be let in ; and every thin' the same, except the name, vich is wrote up, in the same sized letters as the last name, and vith the same colors." Their broad highway, led through some of the finest scenery in England. Let us traverse the wide world over, and we shall find that we can easily meet with grander, and more stupen- dous features of landscape — our senses may be THE LITTLE WIFE. 273 bewildered^ our imaginations awe- struck, by tbe more majestic forms which nature often chooses to assume; but where, but in England, can we find scenes, upon which the eye and heart, equally rest, with such placid — such grateful contentment — from which we can trace causes and effects, so soothing to the feelings, as in our own loved country ? No w' onder that poetry has breathed over, and sanctified the land, the very air of which, is laden with the balmy scent of pasture, and the honey-suckled hedge. With all the delightful freshness of youth, to whose perceptions everything seems new, Nina, and the young Secretary, regaled their eyes, by dwelling upon all the varied scenes they passed ; from the lordly repose of stately groves, and magnificent parks, to the humble straw-thatched cottage, its little garden and clustering wood- bine ; they hailed with pleasure the sweetness and freshness of the country, which seemed ab- solutely carpeted with verdure. Jjf 5 274 THE LITTLE WIFE. Thus luxuriously they sped along, in the days when travelling was a real holiday, to those who had not, by constant habit, been surfeited of its pleasures — days that are all well nigh over I The commencement of every journey now, may be compared to setting off in a steam-packet — the same odious noise, bustle, confusion and smell. The rail-road is certainly a most admira- ble, important invention; but to poor stay-at- homes, who travel rarely, the little agremens of an expedition, are entirely at an end ; the feeling of peace which one might experience, in leaning back in a comfortable carriage, leaving behind, for a brief space, all home cares and vex- ations, and the sensation of passing through the air, with the rapid, though soothing pace of four horses, the heart becoming lighter at every mile, is nearly done away with, by the diflferent nature of an excursion in these days. Is it not a grievance, too, to think of all those THE LITTLE WIFE. 275 abodes of comfort, yclept inns, once the ani- mated scenes of life, and cheerful bustle, but now deserted ? — the half-closed windows, the melancholy stillness, affording a striking con- trast to the gay hilarity, the hospitable stir of former times. And who is there who cannot enter into the the words of our much-admired and often- quoted author, who speaks of the delight of the feelings of something like independence, and territorial consequence, which occur, when, after a weary day's journey, the traveller stretches himself before an inn fire ? " Let the world go on as it may," he continues ; " let kingdoms rise and fall ; so long as he has the wherewithal to pay his bill, he is for the time being, at least, the very monarch of all he surveys. The arm- chair is his throne, the poker is his sceptre ; and the parlour, whether large or small, his undis- puted empire. It is a morsel of certainty, snatched from the uncertainties of life — it is a 276 THE LITTLE WIFE. sunny moment, gleaming out kindly on a cloudy day; and he who has advanced some way on the pilgrimage of existence, knows the import- ance of husbanding even morsels and moments of enjoyment." Must we not almost become pathetic in our lamentations on a subject, which, though the boast of the age in which we live, threatens so surely, the extirpation of the olden style of tra- velling ? Soon shall we see no more of those well-appointed stage-coaches, which seem always to carry animation along with them, and put the world in motion, as they whirl along ; the horn, with its cheerful sound, creating expectation in almost every bosom. In short, do we not again enter most fully and tenderly, into the outraged feelings of the redoutable Mr. Weller, when he exclaims ? — " As to the honour and dignity o' travellin', vere can that be vithout a coachman ; and wot's THE LITTLE WIFE. 277 the rail to sich coachmen and guards as is some- times forced to go by it, but a outrage and a insult? And as to the ingein — a nasty wheezin', creakin', gaspin', puffin/ bustin' monster, al- ways out o' breath, vith a shiny green and gold back, like a unpleasant beetle in that ere gas magnifier. As to the ingein, as is always a poiirin' out red hot coals at night, and black smoke in the day ; the sensiblest thing it does, in my opinion, is, ven there's somethin' in the vay, and it sets up that 'ere frightful scream, vich seems to say, * Now, here's two hundred and forty passengers in the wery greatest extremity o' danger, and here's their two hundred and forty screams in vun.' " Ought I not to crave my readers, to grant a thousand pardons, for having thus so long, left the beaten track ; particularly when every one agrees in considering, that nothing is so tiresome in a novel, as digressions. x\ll must approve of 278 THE LITTLE WIFE. the rail-road fashion in writing, if not in travel- ling : a novelist ought therefore to go straight on, without making any unnecessary stoppages, or deviating from the regular line of road. To make up for lost time, my narrative shall proceed without any further delay. CHAPTER XXII "The stately Homes of England, How beautiful they stand ! Amidst their tall, ancestral trees, O'er all the pleasant land. The deer across their green sward bound, Through shade and sunny gleam ; And the swan glides past them with the sound Of some rejoicing stream." It was on the evening of the third day, that the admiring and happy trio, found themselves fast approaching the splendid domain of Lord Elmsdale. It was situated in one of the most picturesque parts of the country. As they descended a hill of considerable 280 THE LITTLE WIFE. steepness and length, a prospect of extraordinary beauty burst upon their view. A winding river pursued its silver-tracked way. In the back- ground, rose the grand, majestic mountains, bold and rugged in their splendour ; and at their base were woods and dales, and ever and anon a bright spot of cultivation — a spire — a hamlet ! The curling smoke, sending up its shadowy form from the lonely cot, relieved the scene, from the sterner grandeur of some of its features. Lord Elmsdale bade the drivers stop, that he might, with a heart swelling with pride and pleasure, introduce this fair scene to her, upon whom with such delight he bestowed it; and as, with the young wife he so fondly loved, he gazed upon this magnificent prospect, and could say, "All this is thine," his emotions were sweet — were overpowering. And again, when his eye caught a glimpse of his own fine, old, castellated mansion, what a train of by- gone, but ever returning, feelings, gushed upon his THE LITTLE WIFE. 281 memory ! — In one quick thought, it darted back to childhood, *' singing of boyhood back — the voices of his home." And then rapidly it flew on to his present moment of happiness. He had returned to his cherished home, prosperous — full of joy, and not as formerly — alone I and this conviction made every object appear to shine forth with greater lustre; all nature seemed to look even more beautiful — more green the verdure, brighter the leafy foliage of the woods; never had he so proudly valued his princely possessions. With those we love, a desert may be robbed of its gloom ; then can it be wondered, as Lord Elmsdale looked on all that surrounded him, that, with Nina at his side, it did indeed seem a Paradise ? And she gazed, and almost wept, with that mixed feeling which will always thrust itself between our perfect joy. With ecstacy she contemplated all that was before her, and she could have wept to think that she was so soon 282 THE LITTLE WIFE. again to leave it — merely to be a brief visitor, where she felt she could never be weary of living for ever. " This is sublime, as well as beautiful !" she exclaimed, as with an eye of taste and science she marked the features of the prospect ; and whilst proceeding, she went on to say : " If you would let me live here, my dear Lord, you would find me soon a different being — no longer foolish and frivolous. Here I feel I should become both wise and good, for I should be happy; and depend upon it, happiness is very often the support of goodness. Ungrateful — unnatural as it may appear, I am unsatisfied with the world in which I have lived lately ; the existence is to me an artificial one. If I do right, whilst in its vortex, I only act mechani- cally ; here, I know I should be virtuous, from feelings of religious duty. My love for my God would be daily, hourly increased, by con- stant admiration of the beauteous, bounteous THE LITTLE WIFE. 283 works of his creating hand. — But here we are !" she exclaimed, as the carriage stopped at the park gates. Lord Ehnsdale's journey had been so sudden, that the announcement of his arrival could only have preceded him by the morning's post, and Nina had entreated him not to write. In vain he told her, that it would be the death of Mrs. Wilson, the housekeeper, if they came upon her thus suddenly. She had lived in the family for generations, and well did Lord Elmsdale know every turn of her ideas ; all her agonies on the subject of taking off covers — bringing forth the best china — dismantling the mirrors of their temporary coverings — making everything look the very best ; — the tortures she would endure at the idea of the bed-hang- ings having been taken down, and the carpets taken up — and this, too, on the first arrival of a bride ! He anticipated a fit of apoplexy, or the jaundice, at least. But Nina begged so hard that she might 284 THE LITTLE WIFE. have her own way this time, and anticipated with such mischievous glee, the astonishment and consternation they would create, that as usual, he gave in to her will ; therefore, we may imagine the astonishment of the old woman who issued from the lodge to give them ingress. Completely mystified was she when she beheld her Lord, who nodded kindly to her ; and when she saw seated by his side, one, whom, we con- clude, instinct at once told her, was the new Countess. They were soon before the entrance of the Castle. The bell was rung ; and after a little delay, the housekeeper, accompanied by another domestic, slowly and consequentially opened the door, little dreaming whom she had to wel- come, and supposing they were only some occa- sional visitors, who often solicited to see the place. It was with something approaching to a scream, that she recognized her Lord ; and then her countenance depicted a strange mixture of THE LITTLE WIFE. 285 delight and vexation : but as her eye fell upon the Countess, the latter feeling seemed to pre- ponderate — she was immoveable and speech- less. Lord and Lady Elmsdale descended from the carriage, and the former, taking Nina under his arm, advanced towards the good woman, whom he shook cordially by the hand. "WeU, Mrs. Wilson!" he exclaimed, ''you don't seem the least glad to see us ! — Are you displeased that we should have stolen a march upon you ?" " Oh, my Lord !" she answered, still looking unappeased, *' you are the master, and at liberty to do what you think fit, — but — " .^Here Lord Elmsdale stopped short her speech; saying, in almost a deprecating tone : " I was obliged to come down to the election ; and Lady Elmsdale was so anxious to see all her friends in the country, that she insisted on accompany- ing me. And now I must present her to you. 286 THE LITTLE WIFE. —My good Mrs. Wilson, you must promise to love your new young lady, even as you did her, in whose honoured steps I trust she will follow." Tears filled Mrs. Wilson's eyes ; she sighed, and shook her head, and then murmured, " In time — in time, perhaps !" Nina, with a grace that dignified the action, kindly taking her by the hand, said, with her sweet voice, which ever found its way direct to the heart, — " Mrs. Wilson, I already feel that I know you well; for Lord Elmsdale has long since introduced you to me, in the most flattering manner. Do not be distressed ; I am come pre- pared to be dehghted with everything at Elms- dale ; I am only too happy to find myself here." Tears again sparkled in the eyes of the attached creature, but they were now those of pleasure ; she fixed her sensible gaze on the fair THE LITTLE WIFE. 287 youug creature, as if she would fain read her inmost character. She had heard of her ex- treme youth ; she had feared she might be too childish for her beloved and revered Lord ; but there was something in the expression of the countenance of the young Countess, in the manner pervading her whole demeanour, which seemed at once to reassure her ; and scarcely could she refrain ejaculating, from her relieved heart, '^ Thank God, if her looks do not belie her, she is worthy even of his love." But then, again, the fussy anxiety of her calling, rushed with full force upon her mind, as she ushered them into a drawing-room, and the dismantled state of her beautiful apartments flashed upon her recollection — and then the overwhelming idea, that there was no dinner prepared ! It was really hard upon Mrs. Wilson ; it was like taking a beauty by surprise, before she had pulled out her curl-papers ; or drawing up the 288 THE LITTLE WIFE. curtain, when a piece is about to be'represented, and the arrangements of the stage, in order to create efFect, not concluded. " Indeed, my Lord," she said, with the free- dom of an old and privileged servant, " how could you be so cruel as to come upon me thus unawares ? — and the first time, too, that you bring your Lady down to Elrasdale — such a dis- honourable way of treating your bride — nothing prepared ! For your own credit, I wonder at you, my Lord !" she added, again waxing very wroth. "Not a bell rung — not a single ox roasted — half the carpets up— not a window- curtain in its proper place — the hangings, in what are to be her Ladyship's apartments, every one down ! It was only on Saturday evening that I said to Martha, the head housemaid, * It is of no mortal use to let the sun eat the colour out of those beautiful blue damask curtains in my Lady's rooms ; we must just on Monday begin to have them^all taken down ; and more's THE LITTLE WIFE. 289 the pity/ I said ! ^ and why my Lord goes into those foreign parts, it is beyond my poor igno- rant head to fathom ! And sure enough, on Monday they began, and a pretty state the rooms are in, I can tell you ; and so beautiful as they are when in order, just fit for my young Lady." "Oh! never mind, my good Mrs. Wilson," said Nina ; " if you could only imagine how charmed I am to find myself here, in any way, you would know how little I care for such minor inconveniences. Everything that meets my eye, looks so beautiful — so far exceeds my anticipa- tions, that I feel I shall never be able to tear myself away." Mrs. "Wilson seemed a little comforted; but again she appeared ruffled, when the idea of dinner rushed before her startled imagination. " But dinner, my Lord — what am I to do about dinner ?" VOL. I. o 290 THE LITTLE WIFE. "There, again," said Nina, coming forward as mediatrix, " you may set your heart at rest ; for Lord Elmsdale, fearing that we might discom- pose you, proposed that we should dine at the last stage." " Therefore, Mrs. Wilson," interposed the Earl, '^ you must give us a magnificent tea. I know well how famous you are in your arrange- ment of that meal." Smiles were beginning to return to the per- turbed countenance of the old lady, when Reginald entered, and was warmly greeted by her. "Mr. Reginald," she said, "you are really very much altered in a short time. — What a place London is for changing people ! How pleased your father will be to see you, and Miss Alice, and Mr. Edward ; they are all very lonesome, and a sight of you will do them a power of good." And away she bustled, to make her hasty THE LITTLE WIFE. 291 preparations for the comfort of the party — to lament, and to rejoice — to scold, and to order ; and on the whole, not knowing whether to be very angry, or very much pleased. 2 CHAPTER XXIII. " And light alike of heart and step, she bounded on her way, Nor dreamed the flowers that round her bloomed would ever know decay ; She had no winter in her note, but evermore would sing (What darker season had she proved?) of spring, of only spring." Nina had made Reginald promise, not to go down to the cottage, until she was ready to accompany him : she longed to witness the sur- prise and pleasure which his unexpected appear- ance would create, and she had some little curiosity to see the meeting between the lovers. Reginald fain would have had it otherwise : THE LITTLE WIFE. 293 he would have preferred going alone — but how could he contradict any wish of the Countess ? And the Earl would rather have seen his little lady resting quietly upon one of her luxurious sofas, after the fatigue of so long a journey. But in vain he hinted, that it would be better to allow her young friend to go alone to the cot- tage ; she had set her mind upon* her little plan, and fortunately for the accomplishment of her wish, at that moment a gentleman, to whom LordElmsdale had written, arrived, on business connected with the event that had brought him so suddenly into the country ; so she made her escape, promising to bring back the party from the cottage to tea. How happy was this fair young creature, as she glided through this splen.Tid specimen of one of the lordly domains, justly the glory of England, and which, for beauty, extent, and scrupulous good keeping, are not to be met with in any other country ! The one we now mention 294 THE LITTLE WIFE. possessed all the attractions of park scenery, added .to its own natural advantages. All exis- tence seemed animated ; every object breathed of sweetness and repose. To a lover of the country as enthusiastic as Nina, we may imagine the feeling of liberty — of perfect ecstacy, which danced at her heart. And her companion — he had his throbs of joy. He felt that it was to his home — his own childhood's home, — that he was returning ; and the idea brought with it a rush of all his best affections. But he was nervous and excited ; and Nina remarked, as they drew near, that his cheeks flushed, and his voice trembled. The cottage stood within the park, and from its picturesque appearance, added to the beauty of the general effect. It was partially screened by a few magnificent trees, which spread their broad branches, as if in protection, as well as affording an embellishment to this humble dwell- ing. The building was low ; it stood in the THE LITTLE WIFE. 295 midst of a garden, which, could scarcely be equalled in the beauty of its arrangements, and the choice and luxuriance of its flowers, which now bloomed in all the pride of summer. They came upon it rather abruptly, at the termination of a shady walk, and a gate led at once into this little paradise of sweets. The Countess paused in delighted surprise ; she hardly expected to see the air of refinement which met her eye ; — it was indeed like fairy- land. Reginald seemed rapidly to traverse with a glance the whole scene. He looked for the moving objects that were wont to enliven the picture. All at first was still and tranquil ; but in another instant, a form was seen to issue from the open door of the cottage. It was Alice ! — sheheldabaskev,with gardening scissars, in her hand, and stood for a brief mo- ment, as if in admiration of the spot, which her creative hand had helped to make so lovely, and then approached to where they stood, partly 296 THE LITTLE WIFE. concealed by the foliage of a tree. She was even close to them, and still unconscious of their presence, when a voice, which pronounced her name, made her start violently. The poor girl gazed round her with a bewildered air ; and when at last she saw from whence the sound proceeded, her first impulse was to throw her- self into Reginald's arms. But the surprise was too sudden — too much for her. She had not been well, was weak and languid ; and the un- expected reaction of her feelings was more than she could bear — she had fainted. And now a scene of confusion ensued : an affrighted scream from Nina, when she saw the pale face of the insensible girl, was heard through the casements of the cottage ; and Mr. Stanley, followed by a stranger, immediately joined the group. What an unexpected vision met his eyes ! His son — his dear and only boy, for a sight of whom his heart had so ardently yearned ! — and the joy which he would have otherwise felt, damped by THE LITTLE WIFE. 297 the spectacle of poor Alice, whose death-like countenance presented itself to his startled view. " Dear father !" exclaimed the agitated Regi- nald, " I ought not to have done this." And poor Nina felt that she had been the cause of this sad finale. Mr. Stanley seemed overpowered between joy and anxiety ; while the other individual, who had joined the party, helped to raise the fainting girl, and laid her on the seat of her favourite bower. Nina followed, and kneeling by her side, lifted the drooping head upon her bosom, and with her own hands bathed her temples with water. This was a sad frustration of the little drama, which with such delight she had arranged. The actors and actresses had all fallen into disorder. Alice soon opened her eyes, and fixed them with a bewildered stare on the trembling Coun- tess. Stanley had been so absorbed by the surprise, which all these unexpected events had o 5 298 THE LITTLE WIFE« occasioned, that he had scarcely heeded Nina. He saw that a female form was supporting his niece ; but he concluded, if he thought at all, that it was a young acquaintance of Alice, who had lately come to live in the neighbourhood ; and it was not until he followed her surprised glance, that he also looked upon her, in whose arms the head of Alice was resting, and he was indeed amazed. Soon the mystery was solved : Alice suddenly raised herself, and casting an unsettled, wild glance around her, again fixed her eyes upon Nina, and exclaimed "Lady Elmsdale !" Her portrait had been too well described by Reginald, to be for a moment doubted. It is easy to imagine all that followed. The little Countess had bungled the business com- pletely, and her abrupt arrival had produced a strange mixture of gratification, embarrassment, and mortification. Mr. Stanley began to fear that he had been wanting in respect — in courtesy, THE LITTLE WIFE. 299 to the lady of his beloved patron, in having thus so long totally disregarded her presence ; she, whom he longed to love and honour, for the sake of him whose name she bore : and Alice felt humbled and distressed, that she should have exposed so completely the hidden secret of her heart. Reginald had also his vexations and heart- burnings, and Nina saw them all. With the grace, the sweetness, which no one had the art of using more skilfully than herself, she did much, in a very short time, to remedy in some measure what her inadvertence had occasioned ; and with an amiable candour, which won for her every heart, blamed herself bitterly for what she had done. She looked so lovely, as she pressed with real affection Mr. Stanley's hand in both of hers, that the good man felt tears of pleasure fast rising in his eyes. "With the freedom of a sister, she threw her arm round the waist of Alice, kissed her pale 300 THE LITTLE WIFE. cheek, and begged her not to blame Reginald, taking upon herself the sole cause of his abrupt appearance. In short, she had a kind word, a sweet look, for every one, and all soon began to feel the influence of her irresistible manner. Truly may we declare, that manner is the moral grace of the mind and of life ; and surely it is one of the most valuable of external graces — far more lastingly attractive than the most exquisite beauty. Like civility, it "costs nothing, and buys everything." But where was Reginald, during this scene ? He was standing, with his arms folded, leaning against a tree, his countenance very pale — and to the casual observer, there was not much of joy in it ; but that might be attributed to the agitation of the preceding moments. His eyes were generally bent to the ground ; but when he did raise them, they were not fixed, as Lady Elmsdale supposed, with fondness upon Alice, THE LITTLE WIFE. 301 but wandered with a peculiar expression, now upon herself, and then upon his cousin. Perhaps indeed he was contrasting their seve- ral merits, and we fear at this moment particularly, the comparison was invidious ; for Lady Elms- dale was, by the fate of chance, looking her very best. An air distingue was peculiar to her at all times. She had commenced her journey so sud- denly, that no time was allowed for her to make any alteration in her usual recherche style of Lon- don dress. She was therefore in all the elegance of a Hyde Park toilette. One of Carson's prettiest little bonnets decorated her head ; her delicate tinted silk dress was made after the last fashion, and fitted beautifully to her figure. She was interested by the passing scene, and excitement had lent the brightest roses to her usually colour- less complexion. Her eyes sparkled with the feelings which she wished to express ; and her mouth, which was ever decidedly her best feature, smiled softly and sweetly, as with kind- 302 THE LITTLE WIFE. ness mingled with respect, she endeavoured to propitiate his father. And Alice — poor Alice ! how did she look ? With pale cheeks, languid, downcast eyes, and countenance perplexed, her fair hair — for they had removed the garden bonnet to give . her air, when she fainted — dishevelled, and not, as a heroine's ought to have been, in becom- ing disorder ; her dress was plain and un- adorned — to use the proper term, unfashionable, and from the force of contrast, certainly did not look its best; and Alice, though possessing a greater share of natural beauty than Lady Elmsdale, at this moment must indeed have been obliged to relinquish the palm. We are not one of those, who declare that beauty unadorned is always most adorned; on the con- trary, we assert that there is a certain radiance which refinement casts over its object, which is dazzling and captivating to the eye, however un- stable and evanescent it may prove ; and we are THE LITTLE WIFE. 303 fearful that the reflections of Reginald, whilst he weighed in his mind the several merits of the two fair girls before him, were not favorable to the cause of his poor cousin. The plain truth was, that he had never loved her,- but with the calm kind feeling of a brother to a sister, one whose peculiarity of disposition rendered her more like an elder sister. He did not in the least understand his own heart, or his own sentiments, when he had rashly plighted vows of constancy to her. Poor boy ! we cannot but pity him, even whilst we blame. His had been a fearful ordeal. Unaccustomed to any sphere, save the contracted one of his own home — unused to the experience of female attractions — without preparation, h? was at once plunged into scenes which, to a youthful mind, are generally deemed those of enchantment and pleasure. He was thrown conjpletely and entirely into the society of a young creature, possessing fascinations which might have moved 304 THE LITTLE WIFE. a stronger mind. The poor father ! well might he tremble when he gave up his child, when he allowed him to wander from that path which, although it led to no great eminence — no wide-spreading lordly views, might have con- ducted him assuredly to a prospect of smiling peace — of calm and tranquil happiness. Oh ! if we could bear in mind, that elevation in life is no security against the severer evils of the world, but rather, in most cases, a fearful in- crease of their bitterness, we might perhaps save ourselves and others, from many unneces- sary strivings and disappointments ! "We do not wish to censure Mr. Stanley harshly; his had been an amiable weakness, founded on his own humility of heart ; for it was his patron, to whom he looked up as the wisest and best of men, that had proposed this plan for his son; and although his judgment pointed out the defects of it, still he thought THE LITTLE WIFE. 305 it must be well^ as Lord Elmsdale had formed it. But I am now alluding to parents who make it an object — a pursuit — or even a desire, to bring up their children above their birthright, and who seek advantages for them in a higher sphere, totally forgetful of that first principle of their profession, the renunciation of " the pomps and vanities" of this world. Yet daily, to obtain this perishable object, do we see principles sacrificed — peace of mind disregarded — contamination risked — usefulness abridged — duties neglected — doubtful practices connived at — selfish expenditure encouraged, and the bosom harassed with perpetual struggles be- tween opposing fortunes !• — And why do we ambition all this? — Only to obtain for those for whom we would lay down our very lives, a place in this short-lived world, which may probably lead them into the midst of perils, and very likely lay the foundation of sins, which 306 THE LITTLE WIFE, may draw upon them the awful sentence, eternally excluding them from happiness in the world to come. There was another of the party from whose eyes the scales had fallen, which, until this moment, had shaded from them every prospect, but that of smiling happiness. It was Mr. Her- bert, who had helped to bear Alice in his arms — whose very soul sickened at the sight of her pale, lifeless countenance ; and who now, in the person of the young, handsome Reginald, beheld the development of the secret which he had so long wished to fathom. It was with a sharp pang at his heart, that he felt he had now dived into the mystery of the sorrow, which had clouded the mild countenance of her whom he had learnt so deeply to love. He had dreamt his short dream of happiness, and as quickly had it vanished. Now, having done as much mischief as it THE LITTLE WIFE. 307 was possible, Nina began anxiously to endea- vour to mend the business : taking Mr. Stanley by the arm, she said, '' Now, my dear Sir, we must return to the Castle. Lord Elmsdale will be all impatience to see you — and you also," she continued, turn- ing to Mr. Herbert, to whom she had been presented. '^ I trust you will accompany us. I can answer for the anxiety my Lord feels, to renew his acquaintance with you. Reginald, I shall leave you with your cousins. INIy folly has spoilt the pleasure which I had anticipated, for this evening, in making you all return with me to Elmsdale ; but Miss Bruce, I see, will be all the better for a little tranquillity, and quiet talk with you." Then, taking kindly the hand of Alice, she bid her good nightj and begging her to be with her early the next morning, pursued her way with Mr. Stanley, who, pleased and gra- 308 THE LITTLE WIFE. tified, suffered himself to be led off by his lovely conductress. Mr. Herbert followed them through the shrubbery, and then, making some excuse, took his leave and returned to his home. END OF VOL. I. LONDON : BLATCH AND LAMPERT, PRINTERS, GROVE PLACE, BROMPTON. lEsm