So situated was the elder Darnley on this occasion; and his situation was truly lamentable. He had set up an opposition to his son’s inclinations, and he had not the power to carry forward the opposition triumphantly and successfully, nor had he the wisdom and discretion to make a speedy and prudent retreat. There would have been a great saving of painful feeling if, when he saw that his opposition was and must be fruitless, he had gently given way. He now felt the awkwardness of the position in which he had obstinately placed himself, and the young man also felt that he had an advantage over his father, which advantage he could not but use, yet he used it gently and gracefully. Modulating his voice to its mildest tone, and taking by gentle force his father’s hand, the young man said: “If, sir, you will not speak to me, will you hear me?” The father’s eyelids moved rapidly and his lips were compressed, and he said with something of an effort, “Certainly.” “Then, sir,” replied the young man, “I must say that, while I am grieved that you should regard Miss Primrose with such altered feelings, since I feel myself satisfied that her conduct has been perfectly correct, and that her mind is pure, I consider that I am so much bound by the engagement which was made some years ago, as if our correspondence had never been interrupted. I am convinced by the most unequivocal testimony that Miss Primrose did not decline the correspondence, and that her situation in London, under the patronage of the Countess of Smatterton, was altogether involuntary and painful. The reports which have been circulated here concerning the young lady, are not only absolutely false, but they have not even the shadow of a foundation. They are altogether a malicious invention, and that for the vilest of purposes.” Mr Darnley the elder here shook his head, and directed to his son a look of compassion, and a smile of incredulity, and said; “Foolish boy! How easily those artful people can impose upon your ignorance and simplicity.” Robert Darnley returned the smile of incredulity and said; “But I have other evidence than that of Miss Primrose or her father.”