But more than this, the possible consequence of a duel in the present instance burst upon his mind.

He had the warmest admiration for Lady Lucretia, though his feelings were not those of a lover; and he knew that, however her haughtiness might endeavour to disguise it, she was impressed with a tender regard for Count Malvesi.

He could not bear to think that any misconduct of his should interrupt the prospects of so deserving a pair.

Guided by these sentiments, he endeavoured to expostulate with the Italian.

But his attempts were ineffectual.