 to allow me a few moments
private conversation; which, as he could not refuse it, obliged old
Crofts, and that formal blockhead his son, to leave us alone together. I
then represented to him how greatly his character must suffer should the
affair become public. That tho' I believed myself he was really ignorant
of the circumstances which gave you, from the moment of your father's
death, an undoubted claim to the whole of his fortune, yet that the
world will not believe it; but will consider him as a man so cruelly
insatiable, so shamefully unjust, as to take advantage of a defenceless
orphan to accumulate riches he did not want, and had no right to enjoy.
I added, that if notwithstanding he chose to go into court, he must
excuse me if I forgot the near connection I had with him, and appeared
publicly as the assertor of your claim, and of course as his enemy.

'The Marquis seemed very much hurt at the peremptory style in which I
thought myself obliged to speak. He declined giving any positive answer;
saying, only, that he must consult his wife and his son. What the former
said, I know not; but the latter, generous in his nature, and adoring
_you_, protested to his father that he would himself, as your next
nearest relation, join in the suit against him, if the estate was not
immediately given up. This spirited resolution of Lord Delamere, and the
opinions of several eminent lawyers whom Sir Richard was sent to
consult, at length brought Lord Montreville to a resolution before the
expiration of the two days; and last night I received a letter from him,
to say that he would, on Monday next, account with you, and put you in
possession of your estate; the management of which, however, and the
care of your person, he should reserve to himself 'till you were of
age.'

'Good God!' exclaimed Emmeline; trembling, 'am I to meet my uncle on
Monday on this business?'

'Yes; and wherefore are you terrified?'

'At the idea of his anger--his hatred; and of being compelled to live
with the Marchioness, who always disliked me, and now must detest me.'

Lord Westhaven then assured her that he would be there to support her
spirits. That her uncle, whatever might be his feelings, would not
express them by rudeness and asperity; but would more probably be
desirous of shewing kindness and seeking reconciliation. Yet that it was
improbable he should propose her residing with Lady
