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I had to regain my footing in society, and that could only be accomplished by being acknowledged by my father; and, as soon as that was done, I would call upon Lord Windermear, who would quickly effect what I desired. The next morning I was ready at nine o'clock, and set off with post horses, with Mr Masterton, in his own carriage.
In the mean time, the particulars of the duel had found their way into the papers, with various comments, but none of them very flattering to me; and I received a note from Mr Masterton, who, deceived by the representations of that class of people who cater for newspapers, and who are but too glad to pull, if they possibly can, everyone to their own level, strongly animadverted upon my conduct, and pointed out the folly of it; adding, that Lord Windermear wholly coincided with him in opinion, and had desired him to express his displeasure.
As for sending to Lord Windermear, Mr Masterton, or those who formerly were acquainted with me, my pride forbade it I would sooner have perished on the scaffold.
Lord Windermear was too much above me Mr Masterton was too matter-of-fact Timothy was too inferior and they were all men; but the kind soothing of a woman was peculiarly grateful, and after a sojourn of three days, I took my leave, with my mind much less depressed than when I arrived.
I must first have time to establish myself, and then Lord Windermear may find out his error as soon as he pleases." "Upon my honour, Japhet, you appear to be afraid of nothing." "I fear nothing, Tim, when I am following up the object of my wishes. I will allow no obstacles to stand in my way, in my search after my father." "Really, you seem to be quite mad on that point, Japhet."
The footman announced us "My dear Lady Maelstrom, allow me the honour of introducing to you my very particular friend, Mr Newland, consigned to my charge by my Lord Windermear during his absence. He has just arrived from the continent, where he has been making the grand tour." Her ladyship honoured me with a smile. "By-the-bye, Major, that reminds me do me the favour to come to the window.
His lordship alighted, was ushered up stairs, and into my room. There we stood, staring at each other. "Lord Windermear, I believe," said I, extending my hand. "You have recognised me first, John," said he, taking my hand, and looking earnestly in my face. "Good heavens! is it possible that an awkward boy should have grown up into so handsome a fellow? I shall be proud of my nephew.
"Windermear," said he, "I recollect one day, when I was praising you, said carelessly, `that you were a fine young man, but a little tete montee upon one point. I see now it must have been upon this." I made no reply; but it certainly was a strange circumstance that the major never had any suspicions on this point yet he certainly never had. We had once or twice talked over my affairs.
Harcourt then took his leave, and I returned to my father, with whom I found Lord Windermear. "De Benyon, I am happy to see you again," said his lordship. "I have just been giving a very good character of you to the general; I hope you will continue to deserve it." "I hope so too, my lord; I should be ungrateful indeed, if I did not, after my father's kindness to me."
Mr Masterton was then introduced: Lord Windermear shook hands with him, and after a short conversation took his leave. "Japhet," said Mr Masterton aside, "I have a little business with your father; get out of the room any way you think best."
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