He had always been extremely wealthy, but his wealth had been increased in a sudden and unexpected fashion.

On one of his estates in the north a vein of coal had been discovered, which was one of the richest in England.

The proceeds of it added wonderfully to his income, and promised to add still more.

No luxury was wanting; the duchess had all that her heart, even in its wildest caprices, could desire.

The duke loved her with as keen and passionate a love as ever.