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The Virginians: Virginian

The fame of the Virginian has preceded him.

The tales told of his wealth have rolled up until he has become a veritable prince with gold uncounted, numberless acres of land, slaves, tobacco-fields--diamond-mines if you will. As Aunt Bernstein has spread some of these tidings, she begs her nephew not to disgrace her by contradicting them, and therefore what can he do? There is no choice but to live the rich Virginian, spend money freely, gamble as does all the world of fashion, and these things Harry Esmond Warrington proceeds to do. It is not a difficult role to play. All Tunbridge is at his feet. Jewelers, drapers, dancing-masters wait on him. He gambles and wins--continues to gamble and win. He becomes known as the "Fortunate Youth." Everything he touches turns to money.

But the lad does not become a profligate; there is too fine stuff in him. He is foolish, mayhap; but he is ever an Esmond and a Virginian. Men like him because he is honest; women because he is chivalrous. Again and again Aunt Bernstein tries to break off his engagement to Maria. She even appeals to that lady herself. But Maria will not give up her treasure. A rich and handsome young husband is no easy prize to win. She has Harry's word and she will hold him to it.

The baroness is in despair. She will send Maria home and Harry to London on some trumped-up errand or other.