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VIVIAN GREY.
131

if I cannot assist you in managing the nation, I perhaps may in managing the family, and my services are at your command. Believe me, you'll have enough to do: there, I pledge you my troth. Do you think it a pretty hand?"

Vivian did think it a very pretty hand, and he performed due courtesies in a very gallant style.

"And now, good even to you," said the lady; "this little gate leads to my apartments. You'll have no difficulty in finding your way back:"—so saying, she disappeared.