Suddenly it occurred to
her that it might concern the safety of some of her political
friends. She therefore followed the messenger to a small
apartment where the refreshments were prepared, and from which
the general company was excluded. She found an old man, who, at
her approach, rose up and bowed profoundly. His appearance
indicated a broken constitution, and his dress, though sedulously
rendered conforming to the etiquette of a ballroom, was worn and
tarnished, and hung in folds about his emaciated person. Lady
Bothwell was about to feel for her purse, expecting to get rid of
the supplicant at the expense of a little money, but some fear of
a mistake arrested her purpose. She therefore gave the man
leisure to explain himself.
"'I have the honour to speak with the Lady Bothwell?'
"'I am Lady Bothwell; allow me to say that this is no time or
place for long explanations. What are your commands with me?'
"'Your ladyship,' said the old man, 'had once a sister.'
"'True; whom I loved as my own soul.'
"'And a brother.'
"'The bravest, the kindest, the most affectionate!' said Lady
Bothwell.
"'Both these beloved relatives you lost by the fault of an
unfortunate man,' continued the stranger.
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