"God knows, madam, I did try. I had perhaps a hearing from Sir Richard; but your brother's heart is as hard as the nether millstone."
"I fear John is too often mixed up in these disgraceful affairs."
"Why, Johnny," said Lady Florence, "I thought you would have been there?"
"And so I would, had I had my own way; but I was dragged off whether I would or no."
"Then you really think they will fight?" said a lady.
"I fear so, madam."
"But perhaps they may miss," suggested Ellen.
"Little fear of John," said Lady Florence. "But it is awful."
"Indeed, madam, I am—but, God love us! there goes one," said Mr. Power.
In fact, at the moment a clear ring of a pistol-shot was heard; and, ere any one could speak, in quick succession another echoed through the woods.