He thought he might at some time relate the incident to Cordelia; but under no circumstances would he tell the story to the earl, unless he should be asked; and he did not think that likely, as he had no idea that the grandson would let out the secret of his ruffianism.
Arrived at the castle, the first person whom he met was the very one whom he was most eager to see--the old steward, Michael Dillon.
“Michael, I have had nothing to eat since early morning, and I have had a long hard walk.”
“Bless my soul! And bless you, too, Master Percy! You couldn’t have come at a more fortunate time. When the old lord is alone with no company, he likes his dinner early; and we’re just after carrying it in. So come along to my room and eat with me--unless you prefer to try the upper table.”
“Mercy, no! What should put such an idea into your head?”
“Why, it wouldn’t be the first time, not by a number; and, besides, I have a fancy that the old lord rather likes it.”
“But never when Lord Oakleigh is at the castle.”
“Oho, he isn’t here! Thank fortune he’s gone.”
“Aye, that I am--bag and baggage--he and his rascally valet with him.”
“He came home at noon with his arm in a sling. He said a horse had kicked him and hurt him sorely, and he had his things packed up and a trap to take him over to Burton, where I believe he said he was going to spend the night with a friend. He is off for Oxford to-morrow.”
“Was the earl very sorry to have him go?”
“I should say not. He makes the good old man very unhappy when he is here; and yet I sometimes think he hates to see him going, being so sure that he’s going to new mischief. Ah, he’s a bad lot! I’m sure I don’t know who he takes after. His father was one of the finest gentlemen I ever knew, and handsome as well; and his mother was a born angel. There couldn’t be a sweeter, purer, or a nobler woman than she was, though she was a bit proud. When I tell you that she was just as beautiful as is Lady Cordelia, and just as good, you’ll understand what I mean. Who in the world there ever was in the old earl’s family, on either side, like him, I’m sure I don’t know. It’s one o’ them marvels, Master Percy, that you’ve got to take as they come, and make the best of ’em.”