And that you may own this, I will forthwith not only seal the warrants, to the great endangerment of my precious fingers, but also read the same from end to end, as well as the despatches thereunto appertaining." A mother is easily appeased, even when most offended; and it was with an expanding heart that the Countess saw her son's very handsome features, while reading these papers, settle into an expression of deep seriousness, such as they seldom wore.

It seemed to her as if the family likeness to his gallant but unfortunate father increased, when the expression of their countenances became similar in gravity.

The Earl had no sooner perused the despatches, which he did with great attention, than he rose and said, "Julian, come with me." The Countess looked surprised.

"I was wont to share your father's counsels, my son," she said; "but do not think that I wish to intrude myself upon yours.

I am too well pleased to see you assume the power and the duty of thinking for yourself, which is what I have so long urged you to do.