His heart warmed to his son and heir—no one knew how dearly he loved him, nor how completely his life was wrapped up in him. Then he heard a cab drive up to the door. Surely that must be Lance.
He listened in impatient suspense—he heard whispering in the outer hall, as though some consultation were being held.
"What in the world is the boy making a mystery over?" he asked himself.
Then he started from his chair in unutterable amazement.
Before him stood Lance, Lord Chandos, holding the hands of the most beautiful girl he had ever seen in his life.
CHAPTER X.
A SHOCKED FATHER.
"I am quite sure of one thing," Lord Chandos had said, as they drew near London, "and that is, Leone—if my father sees you before my mother has time to interfere, it will be all right. He can resist anything but a pretty face—that always conquers him."
"I wish," said Leone, with a sigh, "that I were less proud. Do you know, Lance, that I cannot endure to hear you speak as though I were to be received as a great favor. I wonder why I am so proud? I am a farmer's niece, and you are the son of a powerful earl, yet I—please do not be offended; I cannot help it—I feel quite as good as you."