, hope never comes." Nor was the fact
unknown to the dutiful and amiable wife. It grieved her deeply to
witness such an exhibition of true love and tenderness without its
receiving equal return. With heroic bravery she endeavored to reward her
husband by little acts of thoughtful kindness greeting his return from
the turmoil of political struggles. Pleasing surprises often met his eye
when least expected. Many pretty trinkets made expressly for his use, by
the fair hands of Lady Rosamond, were placed in careless profusion
around his private apartments. These trifling incidents were an
hundredfold more worth to Gerald Bereford than the most well-timed and
flattering acknowledgments of the many who daily courted his friendship.
Thus did her ladyship strive to make amends to her husband without
having recourse to deceit. She returned his caresses, not with a fervent
love, but with a feeling that such generous love exacted her sympathy.
In the tenderness of her heart some recompense must be made. Would she
ever learn to love her husband as he indeed deserved to be loved? When
would the hour arrive when she could say: "Gerald, I love you with my
entire heart and soul; I live for you alone; none other can possess the
great love I bear for you, my husband." Those questions were frequently
present in the mind of the devoted wife of Gerald Bereford. But he knew
it not. He was in blissful ignorance of the fire within as he fondly
dreamed of the pleasing graces of his lovely wife. He had no reason to
be otherwise than happy.

Lady Rosamond Bereford was above suspicion. She had no desire to possess
popularity outside her own household. The flattery of the opposite sex
was lost upon her. The false smile of base and unprincipled men found no
favor in the sight of her ladyship. She discountenanced many practices
sanctioned by the usages of good society. Virtue was the true criterion
upon which was based her ladyship's judgment.

It is almost needless to add that congratulations reached Lady Rosamond
from the family at Government House in Fredericton. It was not a matter
of surprise to Lady Douglas. She had too much confidence in the
character of her relative to doubt her resolution. Mary Douglas fondly
clung to the hope that her companion would, by some unforeseen power,
avert the threatening blow. She betrayed no astonishment. Though daily
expecting the sickening news of the marriage, the private secretary of
Sir Howard almost stagg