The story
was believed, because the world were always puzzled at Lady Aphrodite
being the cause. The Baronet proceeded with promptitude to make the
version pass current: he indicted 'The Universe' and 'The New World;'
he prosecuted the caricaturists; and was seen everywhere with his wife.
'The Universe' and 'The New World' revenged themselves on the Signora;
and then she indicted them. They could not now even libel an opera
singer with impunity; where was the boasted liberty of the press?
In the meantime the young Duke, once more easy in his mind, wonderfully
recovered; and on the eighth day after the Ball of Beauty he returned to
the Pavilion, which had now resumed its usual calm character, for fresh
air and soothing quiet.
CHAPTER XV.
_Arundel's Warning_
IN THE morning of the young Duke's departure for Twickenham, as Miss
Dacre and Lady Caroline St. Maurice were sitting together at the house
of the former, and moralising over the last night's ball, Mr. Arundel
Dacre was announced.
'You have just arrived in time to offer your congratulations, Arundel,
on an agreeable event,' said Miss Dacre.
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