The Young Prima Donna (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1854 edition. Excerpt: ...at his countenance he would have made his harangue much shorter, for a dark storm was gathering upon the brow of the baronet, and at length he spoke in a tone and manner so sternly severe that Templeton trembled to his very heart's core. "Templeton," he said, "I shall never forgive myself for allowing you to take any part in the events of last night; however, I shall derive one advantage from it--it will teach me a useful lesson; that is, to avoid in future having anything to do with such a blundering idiot as yourself. You neea not think that I shall ever henceforward request your services. To think--and the very idea almost maddens me--that I should, with my eyes wide open, have committed such a deed of folly. To have brought her into the presence of such a herd I Fanny, indeed no wonder that she should shrink from her with shivering disgust. I have marred my own views by having anything to do with such a fool as yourself. So in future, Templeton, remember you may continue to eat my dinners, and for the sake of old compainonship I will remain your friend, but at your peril presume not to mention the name of that young lady except with the most profound respect; as for pronouncing it coupled with that of Fanny, if you wish to preserve any terms with me, you must avoid henceforth taking so great a liberty." Templeton looked very red, frightened, and angry, and endeavoured to bluster out a few deprecatory sentences; but Sir Francis interrupted him, and in a cold, calm manner began to speak upon some trivial subject. Templeton did not linger in Hill-street as he was wont to do. He was too glad to take his departure; and as he slowly and with a very crestfallen appearance paced his steps towards his club, he was musing deeply...