idlers stood around about, viewing the entrance of the visitors, for it
appeared as if there were a revel of some kind going on. Ellen's heart
sank within her, as she heard the carriages rolling and dashing across
the pavement, for she felt that amid the bustle of company and splendor
her poor appeal might be entirely unnoticed. As she waited, she saw
several of the persons assembled thrust; rudely back by the soldiers
that were on guard, and when she advanced a step or two for the purpose
of entering, a brute in human shaped pushed her with a blow of the
end of his musket back against the pillar. He was about to repeat
his violence, when the poor creature fell on her knees before him and
screamed--

"Sojer darlin', don't stop me! I'm only goin' in to plade fur my
husband's life, an shure you wont prevent me? I've traveled many a wairy
mile to get here in time; an' oh! fur marcy's sake let me pass."

At this moment the carriage of the eccentric and beautiful Lady ------,
one of the wildest, strangest, and best-hearted females of the Irish
Court, set down its lovely burden. She had seen the whole transaction
of the sentinel, and heard Ellen's pathetic appeal, and her heart was
instantly moved in her favor, for the example of fashion had not yet
frozen up its finer feelings. Partly through the workings of a softened
heart, and partly to make what was then all the rage, a scene or
sensation, she resolved instantly to get her admitted to the presence
of the Duke--nay, to present her herself. She was well known to be
a favorite, and whatever whim of hers took place, no matter how
extravagant, was sure to meet his hearty concurrence. She desired Ellen
to rise and follow her; and the poor creature's eyes streamed with tears
as she invoked a fervent blessing on the head of her lovely protectress.
While passing up the grand staircase, amid the wondering gaze and