For Foster and his attendant, they know not Tressilian by sight, and I can easily give them some reasonable excuse for the appearance of an unknown stranger." The lady paused for an instant, and then replied, "If, Varney, it be indeed true that Foster knows not as yet that the man he saw was Tressilian, I own I were unwilling he should learn what nowise concerns him.

He bears himself already with austerity enough, and I wish him not to be judge or privy-councillor in my affairs." "Tush," said Varney, "what has the surly groom to do with your ladyship's concerns ?--no more, surely, than the ban-dog which watches his courtyard.

If he is in aught distasteful to your ladyship, I have interest enough to have him exchanged for a seneschal that shall be more agreeable to you." "Master Varney," said the Countess, "let us drop this theme.

When I complain of the attendants whom my lord has placed around me, it must be to my lord himself .-- Hark! I hear the trampling of horse.

He comes! he comes!" she exclaimed, jumping up in ecstasy.
"I cannot think it is he," said Varney; "or that you can hear the tread of his horse through the closely-mantled casements." "Stop me not, Varney--my ears are keener than thine.