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DUTY AND INCLINATION.
155

in perspective. Thus was his mind absorbed, still fearing and doubting whether even this last resource might not be too late to avoid a danger every moment awaiting him, the arrest of his person.

Rising in tremulous agitation from his seat, at the bare idea of an event that would so painfully betray to his Angelina the worst, he would have fled precipitately into the street, in order to put his design into immediate execution; but in this he was prevented by the sudden appearance of a man at the door of his apartment. In the disordered state we have described him, he could suppose no other than that he was a law-officer come with the intention he dreaded. Starting back, and changing colour, he eagerly inquired his business.

The sound of voice was not unknown to him; and upon a nearer examination, his alarm gave way to surprise, upon his recollecting to have seen the person, thus abruptly intruding, in the service of his father.

"I hope no offence, sir" said he; "I was told below that your honour being at home, I had only to knock at this door to be admitted to your presence."

So deeply occupied had been De Brooke with