[In the Irish Brigade by G. A. Henty]@TWC D-Link bookIn the Irish Brigade CHAPTER 2: A Valiant Band 3/29
Nevertheless, indolent as he was, James felt that the words were a reproof; that, although he had at first liked him, there was in reality little in common between him and this energetic young fellow; and the next time he came, he received him with much less cordiality than before; while Desmond, who was beginning to tire of the companionship of one who lacked, alike, the fun and humour, and the restless activity of his comrades, Patrick and Phelim; and who saw that the professions of James's friendship were but short lived, came over to Saint Germain less frequently, until, at last, he only rode over with his colonel, or when some duty called him there. "So you have been a failure, Master Kennedy," the counsellor who had first spoken to him said, one day, when the change in the king's manner became evident to them all. "I am afraid so, sir," Desmond replied with a smile.
"I have no doubt that it was my fault.
Perhaps I was not patient enough with him; but, indeed, my efforts to rouse him to take exercise, to practise in arms, and so on, were so ill received, that I felt I was doing more harm than good." "I was afraid that it would be so," the other said, regretfully. "You see, during his later years, his father gave up his time almost entirely to religious observances; and, consequently, the lad's life was very dull and monotonous.
Constitutionally, he undoubtedly takes after his father, who, with all his virtues, was at once indolent and undecided.
We have observed, with regret, his disinclination to bestir himself in any way.
<<Back Index Next>> D-Link book Top TWC mobile books
|