ough, he is responsible
for every grievance, real or imaginary, under which his constituents
are daily groaning. The party with whom he was associated was daily
becoming unpopular--a crisis was at hand--a dissolution was expected.
Another appeal to the country would probably take place. Her ladyship
was not a politician; she understood not the measure so proudly
discussed by the wives of statesmen and representatives. Still she could
not but feel a desire to share in the interests of her husband. In the
bustle and turmoil of busy life she felt grateful. Excitement fed her
inquietude; it bore her along upon the breast of the dizzy waves. It was
well that Lady Rosamond was thus occupied. She gave grand and sumptuous
dinner parties, and entertained her guests with balls on a scale of
princely magnificence. Her luncheons were indeed sufficient to cheer the
most despondent and misanthropic. Gaiety in its varied forms
predominated over Lady Rosamond's establishment.

Gerald Bereford was proud of the homage poured at the feet of his
beautiful wife. Her praise was music in his ears. He listened to the
flattering courtesies with childlike pleasure. Her happiness was his.
Often when overcome with the cares and anxiety of public affairs a smile
from her ladyship had a charm like magic. A quiet caress was sure to
arouse him from the deepest apathy.

Lady Rosamond strove hard to repay her doting husband. Every attention
was paid to his wishes. He knew not what it was to suffer the slightest
neglect. Gerald Bereford was happy. His happiness was often the subject
of comment of the associates of his club. His wife's unassuming beauty,
her grace and virtues, attracted many who were solicitous to cultivate
her acquaintance.

"How did you manage to secure such a prize, Bereford? She is the most
beautiful woman in the United Kingdom," exclaimed a gentleman to Gerald
Bereford, after being introduced to Lady Rosamond at a ball given by the
French ambassador, where, without any conscious effort, she had been
pronounced the most attractive amidst a bewildering array of princely
rank, wealth, dignity, youth and beauty.

None could deny the assertion. The rich and elegant black velvet robes
worn by her ladyship displayed the beautiful transparency and form of
her snowy arms and shoulders. Flashing jewels lent a glow to the lovely
face, reflecting their purity and priceless worth.

In the midst of her greatest triumphs Lady Rosamond felt her