Page:Paul Clifford Vol 2.djvu/92

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PAUL CLIFFORD.

as suddenly as it is raised!—and he—ha!—how firmly he holds that little hand. I think I see him paddle with it; and then the dog's earnest, intent look—and she all blushes! though she dare not look up to meet his gaze, feeling it by intuition.—Oh! the demure, modest, shamefaced hypocrite! How silent she is!—She can prate enough to me. I would give my promised garter, if she would but talk to him. Talk—talk—laugh—prattle—only simper, in God's name, and I shall be happy! But that bashful, blushing silence—it is insupportable. Thank Heaven, the dance is over! Thank Heaven, again! I have not felt such pains since the last nightmare I had, after dining with her father!"

With a face all smiles, but with a mien in which more dignity than he ordinarily assumed, was worn, Mauleverer now moved towards Lucy, who was leaning on her partner's arm. The Earl, who had ample tact where his consummate selfishness did not warp it, knew well how to act the lover, without running ridiculously into the