"But even Italy one tires of," said Lord Effingham, rising to depart after a lengthened visit; "and I confess I am ready to try England, at least, while summer and the novelty of my late revered uncle's villa last; besides, had I been undecided, your presence would have fixed me."
Lady Desmond smiled.
"I fear I frightened away a very studious young lady, whom I found deep in the perusal of some trash—Dickens, I believe," taking up the number Kate had been reading.
"My cousin, Miss Vernon—poor Kate is not in the mood for any profound literature; she has had great sorrows. But I trust you will sometimes look in on us, it will do us both good."
"I shall certainly make my début in the, to me, new character of consoler."
And he bowed ironically.
"My sweet god-daughter will teach you not to be satirical—she is so good."
"Your god-daughter! why you could not have learned your own catechism when she was christened."
"I was very young, and was only a proxy; but I have called her my god-child ever since."