A SURPRISE.
The severe mental suffering that he endured during the half hour that was occupied in walking from Brown's hotel to the office of Mr. Emerson, may easily be conceived. On reaching that gentleman's place of business, Maurice learned that he was not within, but would probably return immediately. The young viscount was painfully conscious that the clerks answered his inquiries with a pointedly cold brevity. He saw them glance at each other, and one of them shrugged his shoulders, and gave a low whistle as Maurice seated himself to wait. The blood mounted to his face at this indignity, and rage took the place of mortification; but he could only nerve himself to endure with assumed composure the scorn he so little deserved. It was half an hour before Mr. Emerson entered.
"The business which brings me here is so important that I took the liberty of waiting," said Maurice, rising.
Mr. Emerson answered, stiffly,—
"Have the goodness to walk into my private apartment."
Maurice obeyed.
Mr. Emerson was one of those reserved men who never choose the initiative in any transaction. He motioned Maurice to take a chair, then seated himself in the attitude of a listener.
"I am placed in a position which renders explanation very difficult," commenced the viscount.
Mr. Emerson assented by a half bow, but did not in any manner assist the speaker.
"Nothing could have astonished me more than the letter I have just received from you," continued Maurice.