Forgetting everything
except the person who addressed him, he offered her his hand, and
advanced to the group which surrounded the piano.
CHAPTER II.
_The Moth and the Flame_
THE next morning was passed by the Duke of St. James in giving Mr.
Dacre his report of the state of his affairs. His banker's accounts,
his architect's estimates, his solicitor's statements, were all brought
forward and discussed. A ride, generally with Miss Dacre and one of her
young friends, dinner, and a short evening, and eleven o'clock, sent
them all to repose. Thus glided on a fortnight. The mornings continued
to be passed in business. Affairs were more complicated than his Grace
had imagined, who had no idea of detail. He gave all the information
that he could, and made his friend master of his particular feelings.
For the rest, Mr. Dacre was soon involved in much correspondence; and
although the young Duke could no longer assist him, he recommended and
earnestly begged that he would remain at Dacre; for he could perceive,
better than his Grace, that our hero was labouring under a great deal of
excitement, and that his health was impaired.
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