oodness of this
fine specimen of an English gentleman. The flashes of wit and graceful
repartees, mingled with sound judgment and truthful dignity,
characterized the nature of the gallant Sir Howard. He was ever on the
alert to minister to the wants of others. No one was neglected within
his knowledge or recollection. From his daughter beside him to every
guest around this festive board, none were allowed to go forth without
coming directly under his recognition. The stern realities of military
life through which he had passed, had in nowise interfered with those
social qualities which so endeared our hero to the hearts of all. In
Lady Douglas, Sir Howard found a faithful helpmate, a loving wife and
deeply affectionate and pious mother. Lady Douglas never wearied in
watching and caring for the welfare of her children. No mother could be
more amply rewarded in seeing her family grow up loved and honoured; her
sons true types of gentlemanly honour; her daughters having all those
graces which are desirable to beautify the female characters, and make
woman an ornament in her family and in society. "Mr. Howe," exclaimed
Sir Howard, glancing towards that personage, "you escaped a severe
ordeal by being tardy this afternoon. You have proved that every rule
has an exception, but I must be careful not to introduce any
comparisons;" thus saying, his Excellency directed his smile towards Mr.
Trevelyan. Seated beside Miss Douglas, the young Lieutenant once more
heightening the effect of his handsome dark eyes by the deepening colour
of his cheeks. "Come, come, Mr. Trevelyan, reveal what is hidden behind
His Excellency's smile." "Pardon me, Mr. Howe," said Lady Douglas, "I am
pledged to relieve Mr. Trevelyan of any further parley. A truce was
effected until the compromise is paid this evening in the drawing room."
"I thank your Ladyship," said the Lieutenant, bowing. "Then, Your
Excellency, that theory falls to the ground at present," said Mr. Howe,
"I am not classified as an exception." The secretary smiled as he
thought of the cause of his tardiness, and the sport his revelation
would make for the gentlemen, when the ladies had withdrawn. "My Lady
Rosamond is rather demure," said Sir Howard, smiling upon that young
lady with his truthful smile. "Really Your Excellency cannot forget that
I have been studiously trying to avoid any pitfalls." "Ah, you cunning
rogue, you are amusing yourself with the shortcomings of the party,"
returne