visions of
disappointed hopes or vain delusions.

This happy family have realized their parents' wishes. Captain
Trevelyan's retirement was urged by an earnest entreaty on the part of
his mother. By it he could attend to the numerous requirements of the
estate, which had lately become an onerous duty devolving upon Mrs.
Trevelyan. The faithful steward of the family had grown old in the
service and not capable of managing the business as in the days of his
prime. Yet the fact only added to his reputation. Captain Trevelyan
advised in such a quiet and suggestive manner that the old servant
scarcely felt his growing inability. No discord prevailed. Moderation
was the true secret. The family of Colonel Trevelyan treated their
dependents with gentleness and kindness. Lady Trevelyan often sought
advice from them in such a way as both showed her confidence in their
opinion, and gained unbounded respect towards the relationship thus
existing between them. Mary Douglas at first seemed inclined to shrink
from the reserved demeanor of her ladyship, but further acquaintance
made her feel comparatively at ease. Really the present occasion
afforded opportunity for what may, with due propriety, be termed a
complication of plans, or more properly still, plans within plans. Lady
Trevelyan had formed her little plans. To do justice to her ladyship we
will not say that she formed it, but that she would very agreeably and
readily have acquiesced in the matter. Reader, we are half inclined to
keep her ladyship's--no, we will not say plan--fond dream--a secret.
Supposing that many of you are not considered temper-proof we dare not
provoke the multiplied assaults of hitherto amiable and patient friends,
therefore we will treat you fairly by taking you into our entire
confidence at present. Lady Trevelyan had soon learned to love Mary
Douglas with a feeling akin to her nature. She fondly watched every
effort or action in the movement of her favorite guest. Every playful or
fond gesture was carefully hoarded up as a store of treasures in the
mind of her ladyship. Faithfully did she note each mark of favor shown
at the hand of the genial young host. Lady Trevelyan was _only a woman_
as all others. Do not chide if she had set her heart upon one fond
thought--if she secretly hoped that Guy Trevelyan would endeavor to
secure for her another daughter in the beautiful Mary Douglas. Is a
devoted mother always rewarded for such anxiety towards her firs