"I am glad you are not too unhappy to guess so well; perhaps you can now describe a picture."
"That I will, dear aunt; and it shall shew you the death of a brave man. He is commanding a large fleet, and fights against an enemy with the most determined courage. At the moment I have selected, he has received his death-blow, and has hastily covered the stars and different orders on his breast with his handkerchief; fearing the sailors might be appalled if they knew their commander had fallen. A friend stands by, and holds out his arm to support him."
"You so often give us battles," said Alfred; "and they all seem so much alike."
"What was this gallant seaman in appearance?" asked Mary.
"He was a pale, emaciated looking man, and had lost an arm."
"You have told us now, Willie; and I think mama is ready to speak next."
"If you like, my dears, I will do so; and shall give you an account of a royal levee. It did not take place in London, although it was held by an English king, and he was surrounded by his own people. The place in which the scene is laid is an old palace, and is a most interesting building, although there is nothing grand in its appearance. The old walls in every part of the edifice seem to have been beautified for the reception of the present tenant. The hardy forms and strongly marked features of the assembled crowd, soften into an expression of the deepest satisfaction as they welcome their sovereign; and his gracious manner and friendly attentions, shew that he is much gratified by his greeting."
It was a long time before the children could give a satisfactory answer, and they begged their mother to describe the person of her hero.
"He was remarkably handsome; and I remember my mother describing him the first time she ever saw him, when he was quite a young man."
"Stop, mama; if grandmama saw him, we know who it must be."