to
shake hands with Mrs. Fortescue, and then took his leave, promising to
return in the evening.

As may naturally be supposed, many weeks followed of delightful
intercourse; Mr. Barclay, when ever it did not interfere with his
duties, was the constant attendant of Ethelind, and Beatrice; he spent
every evening at Mrs. Fortescue's cottage, affording much speculation
to the village gossips, as to which of the two young ladies would
ultimately become the curate's choice. With their aid he carried out
his much cherished object of establishing a Sunday School, and
everything was going on quietly, till, at length, an unusual bustle
was observed in the village; artizans of every description were sent
from London, and the news was soon spread, that after the necessary
repairs and preparations were completed, the family might be expected.

This was anything but welcome intelligence to Ethelind and Beatrice,
who feared all their enjoyment would be disturbed. When Mr. Barclay
came in the evening, he confirmed the report and little else was
talked of.

"It is really provoking," said Ethelind "I am quite of Beatrice's
opinion, and think great folks anything but desirable in such a small
place, at least, to people circumstanced as we are."

"I am of opinion," said Mr. Barclay, "you will find it quite the
reverse."

"Shall you remain as curate," asked Mrs. Fortescue.

"Frederic Eardly purposes to make poor Bennet his curate."

"But if he is so ill he will not be able to do the duty," said
Beatrice.

"It is not hard, and Eardly is well able to do it himself."

"But will he," said she, "I really feel curious, to see how this
embryo bishop will get on, as I suppose nothing less is the object of
his taking orders."

"Oh, Miss Trevor, judge not so harshly. Is it not possible that in
singleness of heart, he may have gone into the Church, unmindful of
all but the sacred calling? I do not pretend to judge, but I believe
no worldly honour or pecuniary consideration influenced his choice, as
I know his grandfather left him quite independent."

"Oh, don't tell me, Mr. Barclay, it is very unlikely; but it is
natural that you should take his part because--"

"Because, what?" responded Mr. Barclay, "do you think money or
interest would prompt me to say what I don't think or mean?"

"No," said Beatrice, "I think you the last person in the world to
truckle to the great,--but no more of this; what kind of a being is
this Frederic E