t-born
and heir? Do these respective heirs and highly-favored children strive
to further the wishes of those deeply interested parents, especially
mothers? In a more particular sense, did Captain Trevelyan take any
steps to advance the scheme which lay near her ladyship's heart?

Fanny Trevelyan was also busily occupied in watching the daily progress
of her fond projects. She was not overjoyed in fond expectation, yet was
contented to await the result of daily companionship for an indefinite
period, as Maude Bereford was to remain until her presence was demanded
at the castle. Still the young hostess gave herself no uneasiness about
her brother's affairs. If he would form an attachment to Maude Bereford
it would be a source for much rejoicing and happiness. She was
altogether unconscious of the counter plots or schemes laid to thwart
her own. Mr. Howe was vastly entertaining in his endless variety of
diverting moods, making himself by turn the especial cavalier of every
lady in the company. To Lady Trevelyan he was doubly considerate and
devoted. Captain Trevelyan knew the motive and warmly appreciated it. He
had many times wished for an opportunity to return such passing acts of
kindness, yet in vain. Captain Douglas fully sustained his former
reputation for satirical jests and well-timed jokes at the expense of
his friends. Frequently those whom he regarded _most_ received attacks
in proportion to the value of such regard. Formerly to Lieutenant
Trevelyan and his friend Howe were daily administered doses of almost
equal quantity and in double proportion to those outside the household.
Yet who did not admire the gifted, manly, and handsome son of Sir Howard
Douglas? Who was not ready to welcome him with heart and hand around the
festive board or social circle? Who has not become infected by his
jovial, gay, happy, and generous nature? Truly, Captain Charles Douglas
was a worthy son of an honored race--the royal house of Douglas. In the
midst of such a company of "tried friends and true," the days and weeks
must have flown rapidly away while enjoying the hospitality of Trevelyan
Hall.

Fanny Trevelyan, admired, petted, and caressed, had still the same
childlike nature when friendship had been matured by daily
companionship. Mary Douglas was charmed with the sweet and engaging
manner which was at first attributed to a want of confidence. Frequently
she spoke to Captain Trevelyan concerning his "child sister," as she
pl