know me well--and I have a large acquaintance--are kind enough to excuse
my way. And to think that villanous horse, which I had just bought out
of Lord Bolton's stud (200 guineas, ma'am, and cheap), should have nearly
taken the life of Charles Haughton's lovely relict! If anybody else had
been driving that brute, I shudder to think what might have been the
consequences; but I have a wrist of iron. Strength is a vulgar
qualification,--very vulgar; but when it saves a lady from perishing, how
can one be ashamed of it? But I am detaining you. Your own house, Mrs.
Haughton?"

"Yes, sir, I have just taken it, but the workmen have not finished. I am
not yet settled here."

"Charming situation! My friend left a son, I believe? In the army
already?"

"No, sir, but he wishes it very much."

"Mr. Darrell, I think, could gratify that wish."

"What! you know Mr. Darrell, that most excellent generous man. All we
have we owe to him."

The gentleman abruptly turned aside,--wisely; for his expression of face
at that praise might have startled Mrs.

Haughton. "Yes, I knew him once. He has had many a fee out of my
family. Goodish lawyer; cleverish man; and rich as a Jew. I should like
to see my old friend's son, ma'am. He must be monstrous handsome with
such parents!"