onest
viscountess had wisely sunk most of the money she had upon an annuity
which terminated with her life. However, there was the house and
furniture, plate and pictures at Chelsey, and a sum of money lying at
her merchant's, Sir Josiah Child, which altogether would realize a
sum of near three hundred pounds per annum, so that Mr. Esmond found
himself, if not rich, at least easy for life. Likewise there were the
famous diamonds which had been said to be worth fabulous sums, though
the goldsmith pronounced they would fetch no more than four thousand
pounds. These diamonds, however, Colonel Esmond reserved, having a
special use for them: but the Chelsey house, plate, goods, &c., with the
exception of a few articles which he kept back, were sold by his orders;
and the sums resulting from the sale invested in the public securities
so as to realize the aforesaid annual income of three hundred pounds.

Having now something to leave, he made a will and despatched it home.
The army was now in presence of the enemy; and a great battle expected
every day. 'Twas known that the General-in-Chief was in disgrace, and
the parties at home strong against him, and there was no stroke this
great and resolute player would not venture to recall his fortune when
it seemed desperate. Frank Castlewood was with Colonel Esmond; his
General having gladly taken the young nobleman on to his staff. His
studies of fortifications at Bruxelles were over by this time. The
fort he was besieging had yielded, I believe, and my lord had not only
marched in with flying colors, but marched out again. He used to tell
his boyish wickednesses with admirable humor, and was the most charming
young scapegrace in the army.

'Tis needless to say that Colonel Esmond had left every penny of his
little fortune to this boy. It was the Colonel's firm conviction that
the next battle would put an end to him: for he felt aweary of the sun,
and quite ready to bid that and the earth farewell. Frank would not
listen to his comrade's gloomy forebodings, but swore they would keep
his birthday at Castlewood that autumn, after the campaign. He had
heard of the engagement at home. "If Prince Eugene goes to London," says
Frank, "and Trix can get hold of him, she'll jilt Ashburnham for his
Highness. I tell you, she used to make eyes at the Duke of Marlborough,
when she was only fourteen, and ogling poor little Blandford. I wouldn't
marry her, Harry--no, not if her eyes were twice as