"I won't be discouraged," said Beppy. "I am certain the right will triumph. What do you think, papa?"
Dr. Byrom made no response to this appeal.
"Your papa has great misgivings, my dear," observed Mrs. Byrom; "and so have I. I should most heartily rejoice if the danger that threatens us could be averted. Rebellion is a dreadful thing. We must take no part in this contest. How miserable I should have been if your brother had joined the insurgents!"
"Happily, Teddy has more discretion," said Dr. Byrom, casting an approving look at his son. "Some of our friends, I fear, will rue the consequences of their folly. Jemmy Dawson has joined the Manchester Regiment, and of course Dr. Deacon's three sons are to be enrolled in it."
"Were I a man I would join likewise," cried Beppy.
"My dear!" exclaimed her mother, half reproachfully.
"Forgive me if I have hurt your feelings, dearest mamma," said Beppy, getting up and kissing her. "You know I would do nothing to displease you."
"Jemmy Dawson will incur his father's anger by the step he has taken," remarked Edward Byrom. "But powerful influence has been brought to bear upon him. A young lady, quite as enthusiastic a Jacobite as you are, Beppy, to whom he is attached, has done the mischief."
"Indeed! I should like to know who she is?" said his sister.
"Nay, you must not question me. You will learn the secret in due time, I make no doubt."