"A gentleman, my lord," said one of the servants, entering, "is at the
gate, and wishes to speak with your lordship."

"Have you asked what is his business?" demanded the Earl.

"He will not mention it, my lord," replied the servant, "nor give his
name either; but he says your lordship told him to call upon you."

"Oh! admit him, admit him," said the peer; "put a chair there, and bring
some chocolate."

After putting the chair, the man retired, and a moment after returned,
saying, "The gentleman, my lord."

The door opened wide, and the tall fine form of Lennard Sherbrooke
entered, leading by the hand the beautiful boy whom we have before
described, who now gazed about him with a look of awe and surprise.

Little less astonishment was visible on the countenance of the Earl
himself; and until the door was closed by the servant, he continued to
gaze alternately upon Sherbrooke and the boy, seeming to find in the
appearance of each much matter for wonder.

"Do me the favour of sitting down," he said at length "I think I have
had the advantage of seeing you before."

"Once, my lord," replied Sherbrooke, "and then it must have been but
dimly."

"Not more than once?" demanded the Earl: "your face is somewhat familiar