Sir Howard, in playful military tone, “the enemy is preparing for action.  The only chance of success is thus—­retreat under cover of fire, or fall back on the strength of defence.”  “Your Excellency has a stronghold in the enemy’s quarter,” joined in Lady Rosamond, who had been seated at the side of Captain Charles Douglas, their eldest son.  “Before testing the strength of our forces let there be a short truce, on condition that His Excellency will give us the desired information this evening,” said Mr. Trevelyan, playfully endeavouring to conciliate Miss Douglas.  At this moment Lady Douglas formed an attractive feature to the group.  Her graceful form, dignity of gesture and gentle expression was a subject of admiration.  Her winning smile was greeted by recognitions of deep and respectful courtesy on the part of the gentlemen.

“My Lady, fortune has at last condescended to favour me by your appearance among us,” said Mr. Trevelyan, rising and advancing towards Her Ladyship, while a blush suffused his handsome face, hastily making its way with deepening colour, showing the clear and open hearted spirit of the young Lieutenant.  “We now have hopes of a speedy restoration.”  Mr. Trevelyan then related the foregoing sallies to the fair arbitress, who listened with keen relish and enjoyment.  “As I have arrived at this unfavourable moment,” said Her Ladyship, “I will try to end the matter satisfactorily to all parties.  His Excellency being one of the chief actors, shall forfeit his liberty by devoting an hour in satisfying the present demands of the company.  Mr. Trevelyan also, will only extricate himself from his present position by giving one of his many excellent renditions from Shakespeare or any of the favorite authors.  Do you not all agree to this decision?” As Lady Douglas glanced towards her daughter Mary, she read in those beautiful eyes a mischievous flash directed towards Miss Douglas.  “If I judge aright there is yet another to be brought to hasty retribution,” said the former.  “Pardon me, but I think your Ladyship is rather severe,” said the youthful lieutenant with a boyish flush of youth upon his brow.  “I beg that the penalty imposed upon Miss Douglas may be something which rests upon her direct choice.”  “Treason within the camp,” exclaimed Captain Douglas, in his military tone.  “Trevelyan, beware, you are being caught in a pitfall.”  Lady Douglas smiled as she turned to Miss Douglas, saying “Mr. Trevelyan’s request shall be granted, you can choose your own task of imposition, music, reading, or any other pastime.”  “The matter is settled, thanks to her Ladyship,” exclaimed Sir Howard, “and I beg leave to withdraw to mature my views for the coming lengthy topic of this evening.”  The hour being announced warned the ladies to prepare for dinner, the group separated leaving the verandah to the romps of two favorite hounds, a spaniel, and a pair of tame rabbits.