The Buccaneer - A Tale

De Guerre was particularly struck, during the brief repast that

followed, by the extraordinary change in the manner of his companion,

who, from being an animated and sensible speaker, upon matters connected

with the state, had become more like a mystified and mystifying

preacher than a soldier, but whose out-pourings were listened to with

reverence and attention by the company. The Cavalier felt himself ill at

ease in his presence, and but for a governing motive, hereafter to be

explained, would have withdrawn from the house when the supper was

concluded, despite the specious invitation, and much pressing to remain;

he, however, accepted the apartment provided for him by Sir Robert

Cecil. The ladies, attended by their women, withdrew immediately

afterwards, and, as Lady Frances kissed her friend's cheek, she

whispered,-"Didst see how Major--plague upon me to forget his name--eyed both you

and the handsome stranger?" And then she whispered so as to be quite

inaudible, ending by saying--while Constantia affectionately pressed her

hand,-"Ah! those holy eyes of blue, remaining so silent and so fixed, do more

mischief than my poor little brown ones, that are ever roaming about

seeking what they can devour, but securing no prey."