The hall echoed with his words, “Long live the heir of Lovel!”
The Baron took Edmund’s hands in his own:
“Let us retire from this crowd,” said he; “we have business of a more private nature to transact.”
He led to the parlour, followed by Sir Philip and the other gentlemen.
“Where are my other children?” said he.
William retired, and presently returned with his brother and sister. They kneeled to their father, who raised and embraced them. He then called out, “William!—Edmund!—come and receive my blessing also.”
They approached hand in hand, they kneeled, and he gave them a solemn benediction.
“Your friendship deserves our praise, my children! love each other always! and may Heaven pour down its choicest blessings upon your heads!”
They rose, and embraced in silent raptures of joy. Edmund presented his friend to Sir Philip.
“I understand you,” said he; “this gentleman was my first acquaintance of this family; he has a title to the second place in my heart; I shall tell him, at more leisure, how much I love and honour him for his own sake as well as yours.”