'
'The cause has taken a deep root, and has spread its branches far and
wide,' said Lord George to his secretary. 'This is a pleasant hearing. I
thank Heaven for it!'
'Amen!' cried Gashford with a solemn face.
'You do not understand me, my lord,' said the widow. 'Pardon me, but you
cruelly mistake my meaning. We know nothing of these matters. We have no
desire or right to join in what you are about to do. This is my son, my
poor afflicted son, dearer to me than my own life. In mercy's name, my
lord, go your way alone, and do not tempt him into danger!'
'My good woman,' said Gashford, 'how can you!--Dear me!--What do you
mean by tempting, and by danger? Do you think his lordship is a roaring
lion, going about and seeking whom he may devour? God bless me!'
'No, no, my lord, forgive me,' implored the widow, laying both her hands
upon his breast, and scarcely knowing what she did, or said, in the
earnestness of her supplication, 'but there are reasons why you should
hear my earnest, mother's prayer, and leave my son with me. Oh do! He is
not in his right senses, he is not, indeed!'
'It is a bad sign of the wickedness of these times,' said Lord George,
evading her touch, and colouring deeply, 'that those who cling to the
truth and support the right cause, are set down as mad.
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