Another great source of protection lay in the composition of the character of the gifted ally.
Mary Douglas was possessed of a temperament most keenly sensitive to the finest perception of poetic feeling.

Life to her was music and poetry.

A beautiful picture either called forth joy or sorrow; a pathetic song thrilled her soul with well timed vibrations of feeling; a touching story brought tears to those lovely eyes, that would move one with pity.
Thus was concealed the sympathy for Lady Rosamond, as none would sacrilegiously question those motives save in playful reminder from Captain Douglas, who bowed in fond adoration to the shrine of his sister's loveliness and goodness.
The entrance of Mr.Howe changed the current of conversation.

Politics naturally took the lead.

The House of Assembly being now three weeks in session, having opened April 15th, many important discussions took place.