"I did but observe, ma'am, that the Duke of Hamilton's particular friend--who is also in my humble opinion and in the opinion of many others, the greatest of living Englishmen--chances to be at this instant staying in Bath." "The Duke's particular friend! Then of a surety, 'tis somebody whom also we are acquainted with, my dear,"--turning to her husband. "Somebody doubtless in the world of mode and fashion; and 'twould be vastly odd if we had not come across him." "We can scarce claim to be acquainted with all his Grace's friends," objected Mr. Bryce mildly. "Well, well--that's as may be. But who is the distinguished person, Jack?" "None less than General Moore himself, ma'am." Mrs. Bryce held up startled hands, and vowed that the most ardent wish of her heart was to set eyes on this Hero of heroes, General John Moore, whom by a succession of mischances she had hitherto failed to meet. "Though in truth, 'tis no such marvel, since the General is for ever away across the seas, fighting his country's battles," she added. "Except in the year of the Peace, when each time that I would have seen him fate prevented me. And he is in Bath at this moment, say you? General Moore--that was Governor of St. Lucia, and that was under Sir Ralph Abercrombie, both there and in Egypt! And that Denham Ivor was under also, in both places! General Moore, his very own self!" "Ay, ma'am!"--when Jack could edge an answer in. "And if you desire to find another, who reckons General Moore to be the foremost English soldier of his time, and to be one of the noblest of men, why, I've but to refer you to Ivor." Mrs. Bryce did not seem quite convinced even yet. "And you are not seeking to take me in, Jack! You are not jesting?" "'Tis no matter for jesting, I do assure you, ma'am. The name of so gallant a hero as John Moore is not to be handled lightly." "He has been of late in command at Brighthelmstone, and there is talk of his being sent to Chatham," observed Mr. Bryce. "For my part, had I the choice, I would fain follow him to the world's end," murmured Jack. "And now I bethink myself!" exclaimed Mrs. Bryce. "Was not that a Mrs. Moore, whom in the Pump Room yesterday forenoon Mrs. Peirce introduced me to, saying that I should feel myself honoured, knowing her son's name? I protest. I had forgot the matter till now, having my attention drawn off, and not thinking of the name of General Moore." Mr. Bryce intimated that his wife was in the right. He, too, had exchanged a word with Mrs. Moore; and he had imagined that Mrs. Bryce understood who she was. General Moore's mother was the widow of a very able Glasgow physician, also a successful author, as he proceeded to explain.