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Printed by C. and J. Adlard, Barbolomew Close.

THE IDLER REFORMED.

CHAPTER I.

We oft by lightning read in darkest nights;
And by your passions I read all your natures,
Though you at other times can keep them dark.
JOHN CROWNE.

The winter months fleeted quickly by, the beautiful spring dawned, the trees were bedight with roseate blossoms, and the first early flowers pierced from their snow-bedded cells. London was again peopled with gay, expectant persons; hearts already tried came to renew pleasure or hope, young feet prepared to join the saloons of mirth, and the season was predicted likely to be a splendid one. Foreigners flocked to London, some

from curiosity, some from choice, some to admire, some to wonder at the sight of the greatest city in Europe, displaying, in a few months, all its beauty, fashion, rank, art, and science.

In a splendid morning room, situated in one of the finest squares, sat the most beautiful of brides, Anna, Baroness de Scala; her unique and somewhat classical attire, the languid grace of her figure, the beams of intelligence from her dark, lustrous eyes, would have been a portrait fit for any artist to study; and there sat the bride, wondering if she should enjoy the approaching festivities of the season. Perchance other thoughts there were in that graceful head, perchance recollection was wandering amidst other days, but once more the baroness, with a hasty movement of impatience, seemed to shake off the burden of thought, and turning to an escrutoire, she was soon busily en

gaged in replying to many sweetly-scented gilt-bordered notes.

"I have obtained tickets for the opening of parliament," said the baron, entering the room; you will enjoy the sight, dear one!

"

England is a glorious country, and to see the nobles of the land, to read their hearts through their words, to understand the thrilling pleasure of being looked up to by so intelligent a populace as the English, all this can be conceived when we stand in the noble houses of parliament."

Anna fully

agreed with the baron, and looked forward with enthusiasm to the appointed day.

"What do you mean to do with Eldrido ?" asked Anna of the baron.

"The Spanish youth rescued Rosa at the risk of his life; he is attached to me, and I shall retain him near me."

As you please," said Anna; " but you

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