The Castle of Wolfenbach, page 69 by Eliza Parsons
<< Return to Title Details & Download70
enna,' replied the Lady, 'informed me, he returned there soon after the Count carried my sister into Switzerland, and in a short time quitted the ambassador, and talked of visiting Asia, and remaining abroad some years; since which we have never heard of him, whether he is living or not.'
Some company now broke in upon them; and an engagement in the evening prevented any particular conversation.
The following day they were to dine with the Countess De Bouville. Matilda, for the first time in her life, took some pains with her dress, and felt an anxiety about her appearance; yet, unconscious of her motives, she attributed them solely to a desire of pleasing the Marchioness. When they arrived at their hotel, the Count was ready to conduct and introduce them. The Countess received them with pleasure. 'I know,' said she, 'my good friends, you rejoice with me on the return of my son. We are a family of love,' added she, turning to Matilda, 'therefore you must not be surprised to see us a little intoxicated with joy on meeting again after so long an absence.' 'Indeed, madam, such affectionate feelings do you great honour.'
Adelaide was all transport, which was soon after rather checked by the introduction of the Marquis de Clermont and his son: the young men ran into each other's arms. 'A thousand welcomes, my dear De Bouville, I impatiently longed to see you.' 'I believe it,' returned the other, with a smile; 'you had powerful reasons, and I have shortened my stay in England considerably on your account.' 'Apropos,' said the Marquis; 'how do you like England, my young friend?' 'So well, Sir,' replied the Count, 'that I could be contented to pass my life there in the bosom of my friends. I consider the English as the happiest people under the sun: they are naturally brave, friendly, and benevolent; they enjoy the blessings of a mild and free government; their personal safety is secured by the laws; no man can be punished for an imaginary crime, they have fair trials, confront their accusers, can ev