ABSTRACT
Shortly after Buchanan’s departure, Lady Margaret had recovered from her indisposition. She was tranquil, and had retired early to rest. The next morning she was in her brother’s apartment, when a servant entered with a letter. ‘There is a gentleman below who wishes to speak with your grace.’ ‘What is his name?’ ‘I know not, my lord; he would not inform me.’ The duke opened the letter. It was from M. De Ruthven,a who entreated permission to have a few moments conversation with the duke, as a secret of the utmost importance had been communicated to him that night:b but it was of the most serious consequence that Lady Margaret Buchanan should be kept in ignorance / of the appeal. The name was written in large characters, as if to place particular emphasis upon it; and as unfortunately she was in her brother’s apartment at the moment the letter was delivered, it was extremely difficult for him to conceal from her its contents, or the agitation so singular and mysterious a communication had caused him.
