“Then, to return to the Annalys,” said Ormond, “I never saw Sir Herbert till now—I like him—I like his principles—his love of his country—and his attachment to his family.”
“He’s a very fine fellow—no better fellow than Herbert Annaly. But as for his attachment to his family, who thanks him for that? Who could help it, with such a family? And his love for his country—every body loves his country.”
“More or less, I suppose,” said Ormond.
“But, upon my word, I entirely agree with you about Sir Herbert, though I know he is prejudiced against me to the last degree.”
“If he be, I don’t know it, sir—I never found it out.”
“He will let it out by and by—I only hope he will not prejudice you against me.”
“That is not very easily done, sir.”
“As you have given some proof, my dear boy, and I thank you for it. But the Annalys would go more cautiously to work—I only put you on your guard—Marcus and Sir Herbert never could hit it off together; and I am afraid the breach between us and the Annalys must be widened, for Marcus must stand against Sir Herbert at the next election, if he live—Pray how is he?”
“Not strong, sir—he has a hectic colour—as I was very sorry to see.”
“Ay, poor fellow—he broke some blood-vessel, I think Marcus told me, when they were in England.”