maintained that Trevelyan is a scion of the
old stock, that he possesses the same qualities that distinguished his
father. It would indeed be a source of regret were all to be
disappointed by his retirement," said the Colonel, in a tone of deep
earnestness.

"If the family resources are large he may have sufficient reason for
such an act," ventured the General interrogatively.

"Sir Guy Trevelyan," said the Colonel, by way of explanation, "owns a
fine old estate in Hampshire, which yields a moderate income. His only
son will be his direct heir, and Captain Trevelyan can at any
opportunity enjoy the ease and retirement of private life."

"I should not be surprised were he to avail himself of the departure of
the regiment," exclaimed the general, adding, "there is not much
distinction now to be gained in the service. Captain Trevelyan might
remain an honorable officer in His Majesty's service for years to come
and not attain the position marked out by his distinguished parent."

Many remarks were thus applied to this officer by the gallant colonel of
the 81st Regiment. Every sentence showed not only the high esteem in
which Captain Trevelyan was held by the veteran of Waterloo, but the
fears entertained by the latter in regard to his rumoured retirement.

Not long after the above conversation took place Fredericton was to
witness another departure--the gallant 81st, under orders, were to be
relieved by the 1st Battalion of the Rifle Brigade. The same formalities
of interchanging regrets were to be passed between those departing and
the citizens. The same congratulations were to be presented in
appreciation of the high esteem entertained towards the entire regiment
in the presentation of testimonials and other marks of respect.

The morning preceding the departure of the company to which Captain
Trevelyan was attached, afterwards formed an important one in his life.
Colonel Creagh's fears were realized by intimation from Captain Trevelyan
with intention to make application for a discharge immediately on his
arrival in England.

After long and grave deliberation he had fully made up his mind, while a
letter received from his sister gave twofold assurance of the great
delight which such news communicated to the family.

As this young girl will now be introduced to the reader, we take the
liberty of inserting the letter, showing the tenderness of feeling
existing between the brother and sister, the fond anticipation