“You must admit that among the military staff of Sir Howard Douglas there are many attractive and eligible young gentlemen worthy of the hand of the fairest.  Besides, there are many families holding high position in New Brunswick, the descendants of persons of rank equal to our own.  Among these are gentlemen—­brave, handsome, and equally fascinating.  It would indeed be a very extraordinary case if the Lady Rosamond, with all her beauty and accomplishments, daily surrounded by an admiring crowd, should not unconsciously fall a prey to her already susceptible nature.  Sir Thomas,” continued her ladyship, with more vehemence in her manner, “you do not seem to weigh matters as I do, or you would certainly see the error you have committed—­the great wrong you have done to your child.  Were I to disclose the facts, they would astonish you, but if in the future, when too late you make such a discovery, you will have only yourself to blame.  That Lady Rosamond has formed an attachment I am certain; of its value I am not prepared to say; but, in honor to Gerald Bereford, I have a right to demand your attention.”

At this sudden declaration Sir Thomas was astounded.

“Where is the proof of this?” demanded he in startling surprise.

Her ladyship then referred to the letter—­its unconnected and half-hidden sentences—­and expressed her firm conviction of the certainty of those predictions.

Sir Thomas drew a sigh of relief when he found no stronger evidence against the straightforward and conscientious spirit that had hitherto pervaded his loved child.

Lady Bereford possessed the tactics of a clever reasoner.  When she had failed in bringing her own arguments to bear directly she had recourse to more forcible measures.  The mention of Gerald Bereford had instantaneous effect.  Sir Thomas’ eye brightened with renewed lustre; his whole expression betrayed the ruling passion within him.  Her ladyship took advantage of the situation.

“If you will empower me to act in this case there will be no further trouble to be apprehended.  Woman is the best judge of woman.  Leave the matter in my hands, Sir Thomas, and you will have no further anxiety.  I will assure you that Gerald will meet no refusal when he asks Lady Rosamond to become his wife.”

Sir Thomas yielded.  He knew that in this lay his child’s happiness, which, as a parent, he was in duty bound to promote.

“Your ladyship is right,” exclaimed Sir Thomas, “but in granting this I request that you will not in any way shorten the visit of Lady Rosamond.”

“Rest assured,” cried her ladyship, “that no such demands will be made.  The happiness of her ladyship will be our sole interest; kind and friendly advice, with gentle admonition, is the only safeguard.”

When Lady Bereford had gained the case (according to her legal version) her manner changed as if by magic.  Gay smiles played over her features with inexpressible delight; her voice was soft, smooth, and bewitching with sweetness.