The General coolly mentioned the two
enemies who had fallen by his pistol, and Maurice shouted about them
as if they had been two rabbits, but she knew enough of Gilbert to be
sure that what he might do in the exigency of self-defence, would
shock and sicken him in recollection. Poor Fred! how little would
she once have believed that his frightful wound could be a secondary
matter with her, only enhancing her gratitude on account of another.
That was a happy evening; Maurice was sent to ask Ulick to dinner,
and at dessert drank the healths of his soldier relatives, among whom
Mr. Kendal with a smile at Ulick, included Bryan O'More.
In the universal good-will of her triumph, Albinia having read her
precious letter to every one, resolved to let the Drurys hear it,
before forwarding it to Fairmead. Lucy's neglect of that family was
becoming flagrant, and Albinia was resolved to take her to make the
call. Therefore, after promulgating her intentions too decidedly for
Algernon to oppose them, she set out with Lucy in the most virtuous
state of mind. Maurice was to ride out with his father, and Sophy
was taking care of grandmamma, so she made her expedition with an
easy mind, and absolutely enjoyed the change of scenery.
The war had drawn every one nearer together, and Mrs. Drury was
really anxious about Gilbert, and grateful for the intelligence. Nor
did Lucy meet with anything unpleasant.
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