My Novel - Volume 06

Excerpt: ...seemed rather shy of her, -that might be from jealousy. As Randal gazed at the marchesa with more admiration than any woman, perhaps, had before excited in him, he heard a voice near him say, Oh, Madame di Negra is resolved to settle amongst us, and marry an Englishman. If she can find one sufficiently courageous, returned a female voice. Well, she's trying hard for Egerton, and he has courage enough for anything. The female voice replied, with a laugh, Mr Egerton knows the world too well, and has resisted too many temptations to be- Hush! there he is. Egerton came into the room with his usual firm step and erect mien. Randal observed that a quick glance was exchanged between him and the marchesa; but the minister passed her by with a bow. Still Randal watched, and, ten minutes afterwards, Egerton and the marchesa were seated apart in the very same convenient nook that Randal and Lady Frederick had occupied an hour or so before. Is this the reason why Mr. Egerton so insultingly warns me against counting on his fortune? muttered Randal. Does he mean to marry again? Unjust suspicion!-for, at that moment, these were the words that Audley Egerton was dropping forth from his lips of bronze, Nay, dear madam, do not ascribe to my frank admiration more gallantry than it merits. Your conversation charms me, your beauty delights me; your society is as a holiday that I look forward to in the fatigues of my life. But I have done with love, and I shall never marry again. You almost pique me into trying to win, in order to reject you, said the Italian, with a flash from her bright eyes. I defy even you, answered Audley, with his cold hard smile. But to return to the point. You have more influence, at least, over this subtle ambassador; and the secret we speak of I rely on you to obtain me. Ah, Madam, let us rest friends. You see I have conquered the unjust prejudices against you; you are received and feted everywhere, as becomes your...