The very best
antidote to love is a visit to London. You will see other men, you will
learn to know your own power; and all these idle fancies will be
forgotten. Aunt Dorothy, what say you to the trip?"
"Oh, sir, I am always ready at the post of duty. Juliet wants a little
polishing--she is horribly countryfied. When shall we prepare for the
journey?"
"Directly. I will write to her Aunt Seaford by tonight's post. She will
be delighted to have Juliet with her. The little sly puss is the old
lady's heir; but she is quite indifferent to her good fortune."
"I never covet the possession of great wealth," said Juliet. "Mark
Hurdlestone is an awful example to those who grasp after riches. I do
not anticipate much pleasure in this London visit, but I will go, dear
papa, as you wish it."
"There's a dear good girl!" and the old man fondly kissed her. "I wish I
could see the rose's blush once more upon this pale face. You look so
like your mother, Julee, it makes my heart ache. Ah! just so thin and
pale she looked, before I lost her. You must not leave your poor old
father in this cold-hearted world alone."
Juliet flung her arms round his neck. "Do not make my heart ache, dear
papa, as I know not how soon we may part. You once loved poor Anthony,"
she whispered: "for Julee's sake, love him still."
"She will forget him," said the Captain looking fondly after her, as she
left the room, "she will forget him in London.
Pages:
345
346
347
348
349
350
351
352
353
354
355
356
357
358
359
360
361
362
363
364
365
366
367
368
369