"Why, what have you been doing there?" exclaimed the butler.
"Mr. Hedges, I've been waiting here--hiding, if you like to call it so,"
was the answer; and it should be observed that the man's manner, quite
unlike his usual rough, devil-may-care tone, was characterized by
singular respect and earnestness. To hear him, and not see him, you might
think you were listening to some staid and respectable friend of the
family. "I have been standing there this hour past, keeping behind the
pillar while other folk went in and out, and waiting my time to speak to
you."
"To me?" repeated Hedges.
"Yes, sir. I want you to grant me a favour; and I hope you'll pardon my
boldness in asking it."
Hedges did not know what to make of this. It was the first time he
had enjoyed the honour of a personal interview with Mr. Pike; and the
contrast between that gentleman's popular reputation and his present tone
and manner struck the butler as exceedingly singular. But that the butler
was in a very softened mood, feeling full of subdued charity towards all
the world, he might not have condescended to parley with the man.
"What is the favour?" he inquired.
"I want you to let me in to see the poor young earl--what's left of him."
"Let you in to see the earl!" echoed Hedges in surprise. "I never heard
such a bold request."
"It is bold. I've already said so, and asked you to pardon it.
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