“By all means, if Amy would like it; I think it would do you good, my love. Lionel will be here presently, and he and I can chat whilst Mr. Tallant is engaged with you.”
“I hope her ladyship will pardon the liberty I have taken,” said Mr. Tallant, “and your lordship too.”
“Certainly,” said Amy, “kindly ring the bell, my love.”
One of the matched ones came presently and brought her ladyship an Indian shawl, followed by her ladyship’s maid, who brought a light Tuscan hat; and then the Countess and her brother went out upon the terrace, whilst the moon was beginning to show itself through the evening clouds and in the lake beneath.
Whilst they were on the terrace the vicar of Brazencrook, who had been visiting in the neighbourhood, made his appearance, and he and the Earl becoming interested in an abstruse topic upon which the parson desired reference, they adjourned to the library, leaving the Countess and her brother alone.
CHAPTER XII.
“WHAT THE MOON SAW.”
“The amount is too large,” said the Countess; “too large, I am sure, even if I asked his lordship to assist me.”
“I must have it, and you must get it,” said Richard Tallant.
“Indeed!” said the Countess; “you are very peremptory.”
“As peremptory as Fate,” said the other.