tant questions certainly deserve some attention,
which, in justice to Mr. Howe and the parties concerned, and last, but
not least, the reader, this concession must be granted.

As admitted, the private secretary of Sir Howard Douglas entertained a
warm friendship towards Lieutenant Trevelyan, treating him with the
tenderness of a younger brother. Being constantly thrown in the society
of each other, there was much to be learned on both sides. That the
young lieutenant returned this friendship he took no pains to conceal,
knowing that in Mr. Howe he had an interested friend and adviser. For
some time in the past the keen eye of the former detected a sudden
strange and half concealed manner possessing his young friend, which
completely puzzled him: Various conjectures presented themselves, but
all unsatisfactory and vague. Still further watch was kept upon the
actions of Guy Trevelyan, but nothing appeared to solve the difficult
problem. An opportunity at last rewarded this perseverance. As explained
in a preceding chapter, one side of mysterious question was solved
without any effort or seeking the on the part of any one. By a mere
accident Mr. Howe learned the cause which had so deeply influenced the
course of Guy Trevelyan's actions, and, furthermore, his feelings. Here
was something gained: did it bode good or evil to the young lieutenant?

These were questions that revolved themselves in the mind of the
reasoner. Gladly would he do anything that would further the interest of
his young friend, yet there might be a likelihood of stretching this
prerogative if it in anywise interfered with the direct affairs of
another. Whichever view of the matter was taken difficulty arose on
every hand.

Let us hasten to the main point of the argument. That Lieutenant
Trevelyan loved Lady Rosamond with a pure and ardent love was a matter
beyond doubt. She was the ruling passion that influenced every action,
guarded or unguarded. It was this knowledge that now gave the secretary
so much perplexity. He entertained towards Lady Rosamond a kind and
friendly regard; he was willing to serve her under any ordinary
circumstances and in any friendly capacity. In the present instance Lady
Rosamond was under the charge and protection of Lady Douglas, who would
be, in a measure, responsible for any attachment thus formed while she
remained her guest. On this point were many conscientious scruples to be
overcome, which did not meet the approval