When making his usual “rounds” to the patients, he came laughingly to Charley’s bedside one morning, and jocosely observed, as he passed on, “I will not prescribe for this case to-day,” and placed in his patient’s hands the King’s pardon!
Surprised beyond measure, Charles read the document time after time, as if distrustful of his senses, and then begged permission to leave the prison walls immediately!
The good doctor smiled, and at last permitted it; and Charles, weak, pale, and subdued in spirit, put on his best clothes, and was soon on his way to Dame Worthington’s.
It was past the time for dinner.
He saw by the light in the parlour that some one was there!
The door stood ajar.
He went into the passage, and noiselessly entered the parlour!
At the harp sat Clara, and behind her Augustus Fumbleton, Esq., who was pressing her to sing.
She hesitated much, and begged to be excused.
As there were no other persons present, her beau impudently attempted to kiss the player.