The fair of May fair - University Library

4 HEARTS AND DIAMONDS.
sciousness of Isabella's humiliation, of my own
isolation, of Clendennis's absence, pressed hea-
vily on my spirits ; and grievously indeed did
I long for the hour of my return to England.
Five minutes, ten, a quarter of an hour
elapsed,—and Lady Stratherne did not make
her appearance. At length growing uneasy at
her delay, I was about to enter the chamber,
when, to my great surprise, Prince Ernest
coolly stepped forth, with his hat on his head,
and after uttering an ironical compliment of
adieu, and an inquiry whether I had any com-
mands for Spa, which place he should reach
before morning, advised me to go and tender
my services to my friend. " Trust me, I
shall be careful to tranquillize any surmises
my sudden departure may have excited in
the mind of my Lord Clendennis," said he
with a sneer, " by informing him that I was
not even admitted to the honour of supping in
your Ladyship's company."
He disappeared along the dark arcade, while
I hastened into the room he had quitted ; nor
did it surprise me to find Isabella seated beside
the table, with her face hidden on her arms, that