Mistress Dorothy of Haddon Hall; Being the True Love Story of Dorothy Vernon of Haddon Hall (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos, missing text or index. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. 1902. Not illustrated. Excerpt: ... chapter xxi. the meeting at the hazel copse. The truly remarkable dwarf that Sir Falconer brought to the Hall proved to be a particularly amusing elf, being quick at repartee, full of quips and cranks, and exceedingly clever both as a juggler and an acrobat. As a musician, too, he could have held his own with r good many, while the sweetness of his voice astounded all who heard him sing. As might be supposed, he soon ingratiated himself with the household, though Dorothy herself, as well as old Madge, regarded him with unconquerable repugnance.Diabolo, of course, must have been aware of this; but did everything he could to make himself agreeable to both of them. He paid Doll the most flattering compliments. He composed ballads in favor of her hair, her eyes, and her beauty, and he was never tired of assuring her that he was her slave, her dog. But while his antics and his wit made her laugh, she could not get over the feeling of dislike and mistrust with which he inspired her. A fortnight passed, and there was scarcely a day that Sir Falconer did not plead to Dorothy to consent to a betrothal, and urge her father to allow the marriage to take place, either at the same time as Margaret's or very soon after. She, on her part, argued against hastiness. She reminded him that they were both young, and could afford to wait, and that she wished to preserve her freedom for some time longer. Needless to say, this did not please him; but he recognized that she had a will, and it would not be wise to too stoutly oppose it. But he was troubled. He seemed to have something on his mind, and at last suddenly announced that affairs of moment called him away; but, beyond saying that he was going into Lancashire, he volunteered no further information. A little while before his d...