Chapter 57

_Lily_. Wish we could find her somewhere. 'Tis so sad Not to have any mother! Shall I ask This gentleman if he knows where she is?

_Julian_. No, no, my love; we'll find her by and by.

BERNARD. and another Gentleman talking together.

_Bernard_. Have you seen Seaford lately? _Gentleman_. No. In fact, He vanished somewhat oddly, days ago. Sam saw him with a lady in his cab; And if I hear aright, one more is missing-- Just the companion for his lordship's taste. You've not forgot that fine Italian woman You met there once, some months ago?

_Bern_. Forgot her! I have to try though, sometimes--hard enough: Her husband is alive!

_Lily_. Mother was Italy, father,--was she not?

_Julian_. Hush, hush, my child! you must not say a word.

_Gentleman_. Oh, yes; no doubt! But what of that?--a poor half-crazy creature!

_Bern_. Something quite different, I assure you, Harry. Last week I saw him--never to forget him-- Ranging through Seaford's house, like the questing beast.

_Gentleman_. Better please two than one, he thought--and wisely. 'Tis not for me to blame him: she is a prize Worth sinning for a little more than little.

_Lily_ (_whispering_). Why don't you ask them whether it was mother? I am sure it was. I am quite sure of it.

_Gentleman_. Look what a lovely child!

_Bern_. Harry! Good heavens! It is the Count Lamballa. Come along.