For once in his life his father was overcome, and bending down his head upon son"s neck, he wept.
Lord Sunbury gazed around him for a moment; but then turning to Lady Helen Oswald, he said, "I have much to say to you, but it must be in private. Nevertheless, even now, let me say that your motives have been explained to me; that I understand them; that she who could sacrifice her heart"s best affections to a parent in exile, in poverty, in sickness, and in sorrow, has a greater claim than ever upon the heart of every n.o.ble man. You have, of old, deeper claims on mine, and by the ring upon this finger, by the state of solitude in which my life has been pa.s.sed, you may judge that those claims have not been forgotten--Helen?" he added, taking her hand in his.
The Lady Helen turned her head away, with a cheek that was glowing deeply; but her hand was not withdrawn, and the fingers clasped upon those of Lord Sunbury.
The Earl smiled brightly. "And now, my lord duke," he said, "I besought your lordship about an hour ago to suspend your decision upon a point of great importance. Did I do right?"
"My lord," answered the Duke, gaily, "I hope I am not too quick this time; but my decision is already made. Wilton, my dear boy, take her--take her--I give her to you with my whole heart!"