Page:Vivian Grey, Volume 2.djvu/233

From Wikisource
Jump to navigation Jump to search
This page has been proofread, but needs to be validated.
VIVIAN GREY.
223

even lose the consciousness of identity of persons. At this moment, it was clear to Vivian that Cleveland was under the influence of the extremest passion: his eyes rolled widely, and seemed fixed only upon vacancy. As Vivian was no friend to scenas before strangers, he bowed to the two gentlemen, and saluted Cleveland with his wonted cordiality; but his proffered hand was rudely repelled.

"Away!" exclaimed Cleveland, in a furious tone; "I have no friendship for traitors!"

The two gentlemen stared, and the pen of the writer stopped.

"Cleveland!" said Vivian, in an earnest whisper, as he came up close to him;—"for God's sake, contain yourself. I have written you a letter which explains all—but—"

"Out! out upon you! Out upon your honied words, and your soft phrases! I've been their dupe too long;" and he struck Vivian with tremendous force.