When she listened to the explanation of his most suspicious, and even hostile proceedings against her nephew; when she was told the dangers he had exposed himself to, to shield that nephew; and considered his generous forbearance with regard to the Duke his father; when she comprehended all his late exertions for the reputation of the one, and the rights of the other:—she was in an ecstacy of amazement; and with all the usual ardour of her nature exclaimed,
"How is such a man to be sufficiently admired! How can he ever be repaid for such unexampled friendship?"
"I believe it will be in your power," replied the Pastor, gently smiling.
"In mine, Mr. Athelstone?"
"Yes, give him Cornelia! and I am mistaken, if he would accept the future Empress of Germany in exchange."
A full explanation immediately ensued. And, after having mutually agreed, not to notice the latter discovery to Cornelia, until the Duke should avow his sentiments to her guardians; Mr. Athelstone, and the happy mother parted; he, to his midnight orisons; and she, not neglectful of the same, but also to plan every comfortable accommodation for the reception of him, whom she now hoped, would be her second son-in-law.
CHAP. XXVII.
The next day rose in storms. The sky was covered with clouds, flying before the wind in infinite volumes of rolling blackness. The sea raged against the beetling rocks of Lindisfarne, as if it menaced the existence of the island; and the fishers, who had prepared their little barks all along the beech, for embarkation at the dawn, were seen on every side, drawing them ashore, to prevent the mischief which threatened such small craft, from the beating of the waves.