CHAPTER XII.
MICKEY FREE.
Nearly three weeks followed the event I have just narrated ere I again was restored to consciousness.

The blow by which I was felled--from what hand coming it was never after discovered--had brought on concussion of the brain, and for several days my life was despaired of.

As by slow steps I advanced towards recovery, I learned from Considine that Miss Dashwood, whose life was saved by my interference, had testified, in the warmest manner, her gratitude, and that Sir George had, up to the period of his leaving the country, never omitted a single day to ride over and inquire for me.
"You know, of course," said the count, supposing such news was the most likely to interest me,--"you know we beat them ?" "No.

Pray tell me all.

They've not let me hear anything hitherto." "One day finished the whole affair.