"
"I speak the words of truth and soberness, Lord de Burgh."
"Perhaps. I can't quite make you out. I am certain you have been in
worse trouble than even want of money. I wish you'd confide in me.
That's the right word, isn't it? Do you know, I can be very true to my
friends, and silent as the grave. I could tell _you_ everything."
"Thank you. I am sure you could be a faithful friend."
"Do you ever see Errington?" asked De Burgh, changing the subject
abruptly.
"Oh yes. He often comes here."
"Indeed? To see you, or Mrs.--what's her name?"
"To see Mrs. Needham," returned Katherine, smiling.
"Hum! I suppose he has a taste for mature beauty?"
"I do not know. At all events Mrs. Needham knows charming girls--enough
to suit all tastes, and Mr. Errington--"
"Is too superior a fellow to be influenced by such attractions, eh?" put
in De Burgh.
"I am not so sure;" and she laughed merrily. "I think there is one fair
lady for whom he is inclined to forego his philosophic tranquility."
"Ha! I thought so. Yourself?"
"_Me_! No, indeed! A young lady of high attainments and a large fortune."
"Indeed? I am glad of it. He must be awfully hard up, poor devil!"
"Mr. Errington can never be poor," cried Katherine, offended by the
disparaging epithet.
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