s one reason why I have been thinking so deeply upon the matter.
That Gerald loves his pretty cousin, we know full well, and the
mortification of his being refused would be a heavy blow to our pride as
well. From a conversation with Sir Thomas a few weeks ago, he gave us
every assurance of an alliance of the families. Gerald is living on the
consummation of his hopes being realized, while I would fain remind him
of the line--'Hope deferred maketh the heart sick.'"

"Mamma, dear, you always seem to prefer the dark side," returned Maude.
"Let us change the subject, as it is surely unjust to Rosamond."

"It is to be hoped that your fond dream may serve you aright," said her
ladyship, with a tinge of sarcasm in her voice.

At that moment Maude Bereford arose and playfully approached the door
wherein stood the future Lord Bereford, the heir of Bereford Castle.

Tall, handsome, and affable, Gerald Bereford bore a strong resemblance
to her ladyship, but lacking that severity which predominated in the
latter. Bold, regular features stamped the face of the young man. There
was firmness about the mouth that indicated a strong energy and
perseverance, at the sacrifice of much feeling. On the whole there was
much in favor of Gerald Bereford's preferences; his clear, grey eye
showed keen intellect, combined with mirth and humor; a deep manly
voice, with purity of tone, spoke of truth and conscientious
convictions. Such was the character and personal appearance of the
nephew and favorite of Sir Thomas Seymour.

Maude led her brother to a seat beside Lady Bereford, and seated herself
on a stool at his feet.

"Is this not a golden evening, Gerald?" questioned the young girl,
looking up in her brother's face.

"Yes," replied Gerald, "but to enjoy the golden beauty, as you term it,
I enforce strict and immediate attention to my wishes, and request your
ladyship, and this little girl, will accept the escort of your liege
lord."

"My liege lord will need those gallantries in reserve," returned the
sister, in arch and naive tones.

Lady Bereford waived the imperative demand by desiring to remain. Maude
accepted the proffered arm of Gerald to stroll beneath the inviting
branches of the dear old oaks, so firmly interwoven in the scenes of
innocent childhood and succeeding girlhood. The tender, sensitive girl
loved her brother too deeply to believe that any could supplant his
place in the love of Lady Rosamond. Her true criterion was