CHAPTER X.
THE INTERVIEW.
In a small but handsome reception room adjoining the library of Bereford Castle sat its stately mistress, with an impatient and eager look upon her countenance.

Trifling with a pretty trinket which she has in her hand, her ladyship is apparently ill at ease.

Something has given cause for annoyance and grave deliberation.

An anxious and hasty glance towards the door, shows that a visitor is momentarily awaited.
Taking advantage of these moments, I will occupy them in dilating upon a few of the qualities and characteristics of the distinguished occupant.
Lady Bereford was a woman of shrewdness and capacity, possessing a subtle weight of influence that bore with irresistible force, and was stoutly prepared to resist an opposing element in any quarter.

The daughter of a London barrister of considerable reputation, her ladyship dwelt with pride upon her fond preference for the legal profession.