Howard. The greatness of the cause was
sufficient motive.

As the story progresses we hope to give a few facts which will prove
what success awaited him. In the administration of this distinguished
military ruler, New Brunswick found a warm and true-hearted friend and
adviser--one whose memory is yet cherished within the hearts of those
who had once seen his benignant and happy smile. Such is a faint picture
of the domestic and political bearing of the gifted and distinguished
Sir Howard.

CHAPTER VIII.

BEREFORD CASTLE.

In a beautifully remote district, between the celebrated towns of
Hastings and Brighton, may be found the quaint old structure known as
Bereford Castle. From the style of architecture it may be dated to the
time of Edward the Third, bearing a striking resemblance to the castle
re-erected in that monarch's reign by the Earl of Warwick. The castle of
this period had degenerated or become more modernized. The closed
fortress was rapidly assuming a mixture of the castle and mansion.
Instead of the old Norman pile, with its two massive towers and arched
gateway, thick walls, _oilets_ and portcullis, Bereford Castle comprised
stately and magnificent halls, banqueting rooms, galleries, and
chambers. The keep was detached from the building, a stronghold in
itself, surrounded by smaller towers and the important and necessary
moat. During the civil wars it had stood many sieges, but, after
repeated attacks, in the course of time it fell into decay. Much labor
had been spent in repairing the part occupied as a residence until, at
the present time, it was in good condition. The fine old park contained
a valuable growth of trees--fir, spruce, pine, birch, elm, and the
stately oak--which grew in luxuriant profusion. The north side of the
castle commanded an extensive view of the surrounding hills, valley, and
the winding river, with its numerous small inlets and tributaries.

The owners of Bereford Castle prided themselves upon their extensive
gardens, for which purpose many obstructions had been removed. An
artificial labyrinth of choice trees was contrived with marvellous
effect, producing echoes of unceasing variety. In this enclosure,
comprising many acres, were the most beautiful designs of parterres,
borders, walks, galleries, cabinets, pavilions, porticoes, and many more
intricate inventions of landscape gardening. Fountains gushed forth with
untiring and fantastic wreaths of crystal foam; grott