"I never steal folk's swords!" said the peer, with the same imperturbably nonchalant air; and then turning to Dr. Wilbraham, he went on: "Dear Dr. Wilbraham, do let me see that book you talked of yesterday; for as you go to Greenwich to-morrow, I shall never behold any of you again, I am sure."
The good chaplain, who had remained silent ever since he had been in the room, not at all understanding what was the matter between Lady Constance and the young knight, although he evidently saw that they had from the first been both agitated and embarrassed, now rose, and went to search for the book which Lord Darby required, very willing to get away from a scene he did not in the least comprehend. To make way for him, however, Sir Osborne raised his cap and plume, which had hitherto lain beside him; and as he did so, the sapphire ring that had been given him by Lady Katrina Bulmer met the eye of Lord Darby, and instantly produced a change in his whole demeanour. His cheek burned, his eye flashed, and, starting upon his feet, he seemed as if he would have crossed over towards Sir Osborne; but then recovering himself, he relapsed into his former somewhat drawling manner, took leave of Lady Constance, and, without waiting for Dr. Wilbraham's return, left the apartment. A moment after, the physician also rose, in his usual, quick, precipitate manner, saying that he must depart.
"But, doctor! doctor!" cried Mrs. Margaret, the waiting-woman, seeing him proceeding towards the door, "you have not told me how I am to manage my mistress."
"I can't stop! I can't stop!" said the physician, still walking on out of the room. "What is it! What is it?"
"Nay, but, doctor, you must tell me!" cried she, running after him. "Indeed, I shall not know what to do with my lady." Still the doctor walked on, giving her, however, some necessary directions as he went, and Mrs. Margaret following for a moment, left the two lovers alone.
Darnley felt that it was one of those precious instants which, once lost, rarely if ever return; but an irresistible feeling of anxiety tied his tongue, and he could but gaze at Lady Constance with a look that seemed to plead for pardon, even for what he felt. The fair girl trembled in every limb; and as if she knew all that was passing in his mind, dared not look up but for a single glance, as she heard the last words hang on the physician's lip, as he began to descend the stairs.
Darnley raised the glove that lay beside her. "May I--may I have it?" said he.
"Oh, Darnley!" she replied; and happy almost to delirium, he placed the glove in his bosom, and pressed an ardent kiss upon her hand.
"Go!" cried she; "for heaven's sake, go if you love me! We shall meet again soon."
The knight obeyed, almost as agitated as herself; and passing out of the room just as Mrs. Margaret entered, he followed Dr. Butts, whose steps he heard descending the stairs before him.