XXV. CAPTAIN DANVERS BRINGS DISTRESSING NEWS.
Leaping from his steed in the court-yard of the old Hall, Captain Danvers inquired for Lady Thicknesse; and learning that she was with Lady Barfleur, in the drawing-room, he hastened thither, and found the two ladies in question, with Lord Courland, Sir Bridgnorth, and his brother Scrope.
His looks caused general consternation, since all could perceive from them that some direful calamity-had happened.
Lord Courland rushed up to him, and, taking his hand, said:
“You bring us bad news, I'm afraid, Captain Danvers?”
“I do, indeed, my lord,” he replied in a sorrowful tone; “very painful news.”
At these words, the whole party gathered round him.
“To whom does your bad news relate?” inquired Lady Thicknesse.