When all had been
detailed, and the conduct of Pickersgill duly represented, Lord B.
acknowledged that, by attacking the smuggler, he had laid himself open
to retaliation; that Pickersgill had shown a great deal of forbearance
in every instance; and, after all, had he not gone on board the yacht
she might have been lost, with only three seamen on board. He was amused
with the smuggling and the fright of his sister; still more with the
gentlemen being sent to Cherbourg, and much consoled that he was not the
only one to be laughed at. He was also much pleased with Pickersgill's
intention of leaving the yacht safe in Cowes harbour, his respect to the
property on board, and his conduct to the ladies. On the whole, he felt
grateful to Pickersgill; and where there is gratitude there is always
good will.
"But who can he be?" said Mrs Lascelles; "his name he acknowledges not
to be Pickersgill; and he told me confidentially that he was of good
family."
"Confidentially, my dear Mrs Lascelles!" said Lord B.
"Oh, yes! we are both his confidants. Are we not, Cecilia?"
"Upon my honour, Mrs Lascelles, this smuggler appears to have made an
impression which many have attempted in vain."
Mrs Lascelles did not reply to that remark, but said, "Now, my lord, you
must decide--and I trust you will to oblige us--treat him as he has
treated us, with the greatest respect and kindness."
"Why should you suppose otherwise?" replied Lord B.; "it is not only my
wish but my interest so to do.
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