He was the guard
of the Album, and was strictly enjoined never, for one instant, to
remove his eyes from the precious volume from the moment he was
placed on duty, until relieved.
Well, there we were, some dozen of us, collected about the table;
Lady Holberton looking triumphant, Mr. T----- very proud; and there
stood the page of the Album, dressed in his Paduasoy gown, with
eyes fastened on the book, according to orders, while he supported
its gorgeous case in his arms. Some remark was made as to the
extraordinary manner in which the precious Autograph had been lost,
and then found again. My blood actually boiled, as one of the
company turned to me and asked in a suspicious tone, if I did not
know more of its history than I chose to confess? My indignation was
boundless; fortunately I could produce the friend walking with me in
Piccadilly, and the artisan's family at Clapham, as witnesses in my
favor. Miss Rowley was standing near me at the moment.
{Paduasoy = a strong corded or gros-grain silk fabric, traditionally
associated with Padua, Italy}
"Still, Mr. Howard," observed that lady; "I really cannot see why you
should resent the insinuation so warmly. Now, do you know, I am not
at all sorry to have it in my power to declare that I have some
knowledge of the fate of that paper during its eclipse."
All eyes were instantly fixed on the speaker.
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