"O, father," said the terrified girl, "it was with mother's knowledge and consent."
Brandon could not speak a word.
"This lady, sir," said Merton, fiercely, advancing to the count, "is my affianced bride."
"Your bride—eh?" cried the count, "when she has just come to say—yais—to my ardent love suit!"
"What does the gal say? what does the gal say?" asked uncle Richard, interposing.
"Speak, Julia," said her father, sternly, "and weigh well your words. I will not force you to fulfil a contract against your will—the penalty and contingency of such a refusal have been provided for—but pause before you reject the son of my old friend for a foreigner—a man with whom you can have had but a few days' acquaintance."
Julia averted her eyes, and blushed scarlet, but placed her hand in that of the count just as her mother entered the apartment.
"Enough," said young Merton, "I am satisfied. Come, father, let us retire—our presence here is only a burden. O, Julia!" he added, in a tone of deep feeling, "little did I expect this at your hands. I have looked forward to this meeting with the fondest hope. It is past—farewell—may you be happy."
"I shall be very happy to see you again—nevair!" said the count.
"O, as to that," said young Merton, approaching him, and addressing him in a low tone, "I think you, at least, have not seen the last of me, monsieur. At any rate, you shall hear from me soon."