Chapter 61

LADY GERTRUDE _and_ BERNARD.

_Lady Gertrude_. I have found an old friend, father. Here he is!

_Lord S_. Bernard! Who would have thought to see you here!

_Bern_. I came on Lady Gertrude in the street. I know not which of us was more surprised.

[LADY GERTRUDE _goes_.]

_Bern_. Where is the countess?

_Lord S_. Countess! What do you mean? I do not know.

_Bern_. The Italian lady.

_Lord S_. Countess Lamballa, do you mean? You frighten me!

_Bern_. I am glad indeed to know your ignorance; For since I saw the count, I would not have you Wrong one gray hair upon his noble head.

[LORD SEAFORD _covers his eyes with his hands_.]

You have not then heard the news about yourself? Such interesting echoes reach the last A man's own ear. The public has decreed You and the countess run away together. 'Tis certain she has balked the London Argos, And that she has been often to your house. The count believes it--clearly from his face: The man is dying slowly on his feet.

_Lord S. (starting up and ringing the bell_). O God! what am I? My love burns like hate, Scorching and blasting with a fiery breath!

_Bern_. What the deuce ails you, Seaford? Are you raving?

_Enter_ Waiter.

_Lord S_. Post-chaise for London--four horses--instantly.

[_He sinks exhausted in his chair_.]