attractive and eligible young gentlemen worthy of the
hand of the fairest. Besides, there are many families holding high
position in New Brunswick, the descendants of persons of rank equal to
our own. Among these are gentlemen--brave, handsome, and equally
fascinating. It would indeed be a very extraordinary case if the Lady
Rosamond, with all her beauty and accomplishments, daily surrounded by
an admiring crowd, should not unconsciously fall a prey to her already
susceptible nature. Sir Thomas," continued her ladyship, with more
vehemence in her manner, "you do not seem to weigh matters as I do, or
you would certainly see the error you have committed--the great wrong
you have done to your child. Were I to disclose the facts, they would
astonish you, but if in the future, when too late you make such a
discovery, you will have only yourself to blame. That Lady Rosamond has
formed an attachment I am certain; of its value I am not prepared to
say; but, in honor to Gerald Bereford, I have a right to demand your
attention."

At this sudden declaration Sir Thomas was astounded.

"Where is the proof of this?" demanded he in startling surprise.

Her ladyship then referred to the letter--its unconnected and
half-hidden sentences--and expressed her firm conviction of the
certainty of those predictions.

Sir Thomas drew a sigh of relief when he found no stronger evidence
against the straightforward and conscientious spirit that had hitherto
pervaded his loved child.

Lady Bereford possessed the tactics of a clever reasoner. When she had
failed in bringing her own arguments to bear directly she had recourse
to more forcible measures. The mention of Gerald Bereford had
instantaneous effect. Sir Thomas' eye brightened with renewed lustre;
his whole expression betrayed the ruling passion within him. Her
ladyship took advantage of the situation.

"If you will empower me to act in this case there will be no further
trouble to be apprehended. Woman is the best judge of woman. Leave the
matter in my hands, Sir Thomas, and you will have no further anxiety. I
will assure you that Gerald will meet no refusal when he asks Lady
Rosamond to become his wife."

Sir Thomas yielded. He knew that in this lay his child's happiness,
which, as a parent, he was in duty bound to promote.

"Your ladyship is right," exclaimed Sir Thomas, "but in granting this I
request that you will not in any way shorten the visit of Lady
Rosamond."

"Rest ass