Scarcely was this duty accomplished, when Count Alteroni's carriage drove up to the door. It was, however, empty, having been merely sent to fetch Isabella home.
The Signora took leave of Mr. Gregory, and bade a tender adieu to Richard, who handed her into the vehicle.
The carriage then drove away.
Richard passed the remainder of the day with Mr. Gregory, and returned home in the evening deeply affected at the misfortune which had overtaken an amiable family.
But Markham, on his arrival at his own house, was doomed to hear tidings of a most unpleasant nature.
"Mr. Tracy's footman has been here with very disagreeable news," said Ellen, the moment Markham entered the sitting-room. "Had I known whither you were gone, I should have directed him on to you."
"Mr. Tracy's footman!" exclaimed Richard. "Why—he was here last evening, with a letter from his master inviting me and Mr. Monroe to dine with him next Monday——"
"I am aware of it," interrupted Ellen. "And you declined the invitation."
"Yes—because I do not seek society," observed Richard. "I wrote a proper answer: what, then, did his servant require to-day?"
"It appears that a young person in whom you felt some interest——"