Arnest

The two friends were in company with several others, and there was present a young lady in whose eyes Arnest wished to appear in as favourable a light as possible.

Lessons in Life, for All Who Will Read Them 1847

Mr. Wellford was present at this meeting, and marked the fact that the intercourse between Arnest and Marston was official only -- that they did not unbend to each other in the least.

Lessons in Life, for All Who Will Read Them 1847

Mr. Wellford tried in vain to induce Arnest to consent to forget what was past; but he affirmed that this was impossible, and that he had no wish to renew an acquaintance with his old friend.

Lessons in Life, for All Who Will Read Them 1847

So, on the next day, the old gentleman made it his business to call upon Arnest, who expressed great pleasure in meeting him.

Lessons in Life, for All Who Will Read Them 1847

The letter of Arnest was before him; he had turned it over by accident.

Lessons in Life, for All Who Will Read Them 1847

"They are no longer there, my friend," returned Marston, with visible emotion, now grasping the hand of Arnest.

Lessons in Life, for All Who Will Read Them 1847

Did Arnest rise higher in his self-esteem, or Marston gain additional self-respect?

Lessons in Life, for All Who Will Read Them 1847

"Reconciled at last," said old Mr. Wellford, when he next saw Arnest and heard the fact from his lips.

Lessons in Life, for All Who Will Read Them 1847

Arnest returned the pressure with both hands, his eyes fixed on those of Marston, until they grew so dim that he could no longer read the old familiar lines and forgiving look.

Lessons in Life, for All Who Will Read Them 1847

Edward Marston had his faults, and so had Herbert Arnest: the latter quite as many as the former.

Lessons in Life, for All Who Will Read Them 1847