only too sensible of your generosity. I only mentioned this to
set you at ease about any consequences which might result from my
reconciliation with my father. To the world I am Richard Smithson,
American citizen; but let me have the pleasure of being for the few
minutes I stay here Rudolf von Zwenken, who would speak to his old
father once more, and take a last farewell of him. How can you oppose
such a desire?"

"Your last farewells signify nothing; you always come back again."

"But if, in spite of your opposition, I go at once and seek my father
in the large drawing-room--I have not forgotten my way about the
house--who shall hinder me?"

"Do as you like; only I warn you you will find Rolf, who knows you,
with grandfather; and Rolf knows his orders, which he will carry out
like an old soldier."

"The devil take Rolf! What's the old ruffian doing here?" spitefully
exclaimed Rudolf.

"The old ruffian does all he can to cheer the declining years of your
father, whom you have rendered unhappy by your conduct."

"My misery would not be complete without your contumely," sobbed
Rudolf. "I came here so cheerful and well disposed."

"Mr. Rudolf," I said, "allow me to arrange an interview for you with
the General, since Miss Mordaunt declines."

"Don't you trouble yourself, Jonker van Zonshoven," retorted Francis,
in her most cold and haughty tone. "I do not decline, but I know
it is impossible, and therefore better to say nothing. Rudolf well
remembers I threw myself at the feet of my grandfather, and besought
him not to send his son into exile unforgiven, and it only added
to the pain and sorrow of the scene. Don't forget, either, that you
yourself caused the report of your death to be spread abroad. The old
man believed it, and I have since heard him say it was a comfort to
him. His fears lest you should be arrested, tried, and condemned,
were only set at rest when he heard the news. Would you renew his
distress, and put him to these tortures again?"

"It is true, too true--you are right," said Rudolf, quite breaking
down.

"But you shall not leave the house without some refreshment," returned
Francis in a kind tone, now she felt her victory to be certain; "I
will go and fetch you something to eat immediately. Cousin Leopold
will allow you to have supper and to repose yourself in his room."

Whereupon she left the room, and I was left alone with this singular
cousin of mine.

"Bah!" he said, "our Major is