In a word, I run no danger where the Earl might incur great peril." "Alas!" said the Countess of Derby, "all this generous reasoning may be true; but it could only be listened to by a widowed mother.

Selfish as I am, I cannot but reflect that my kinswoman has, in all events, the support of an affectionate husband--such is the interested reasoning to which we are not ashamed to subject our better feelings." "Do not call it so, madam," answered Peveril; "think of me as the younger brother of my kinsman.

You have ever done by me the duties of a mother; and have a right to my filial service, were it at a risk ten times greater than a journey to London, to inquire into the temper of the times.

I will instantly go and announce my departure to the Earl." "Stay, Julian," said the Countess; "if you must make this journey in our behalf,--and, alas! I have not generosity enough to refuse your noble proffer,--you must go alone, and without communication with Derby.

I know him well; his lightness of mind is free from selfish baseness; and for the world, would he not suffer you to leave Man without his company.
And if he went with you, your noble and disinterested kindness would be of no avail--you would but share his ruin, as the swimmer who attempts to save a drowning man is involved in his fate, if he permit the sufferer to grapple with him." "It shall be as you please, madam," said Peveril.