use of, and succeeded in making my peace with
her, though, I believe, in her own secret breast, she considered Miss
Saville's safety dearly purchased at the expense of her favourite
whittle. As I approached the sofa again, the following words, in the
harsh tones of Mr. Vernor's voice, met my ear:--

"I have ascertained our carriage is here; as soon, therefore, as
you feel strong enough to walk, Clara, my dear, I should advise your
accompanying me home; quiet and rest are the best remedies after such an
alarm as this".

"I am quite ready, sir," was the reply, in a faint tone of voice.

"Nay, wait a few minutes longer," said Lucy Markham kindly; "you are
trembling from head to foot even yet."

"Indeed I am quite strong; I have no doubt I can walk now," replied Miss
Saville, attempting to rise, but sinking back again almost immediately
from faintness.

"Can I be of any assistance?" inquired I, coming forward.

"I am obliged to you for the trouble you have already taken, sir,"
answered Mr. Vernor coldly, "but will not add to it. Miss Saville will
be able to proceed with the assistance of my arm in a few minutes."

After a short pause the young lady again announced her readiness to
depart; and, having shaken hands with Mrs. Coleman and Lucy Markham,
turned to leave the ~126~~room, leaning on Mr. Vernor's arm. As I was
standing near the door I stepped forward to hold it open for them, Mr.
Vernor acknowledging my civility by the slightest imaginable motion of
the head. Miss Saville, as she approached me, paused for a moment, as
if about to speak, but, apparently relinquishing her intention, merely
bowed, and passed on.

"Well, if it's in that sort of way fashionable individuals demonstrate
their gratitude for having their lives saved, I must say I don't admire
it," exclaimed Coleman, who had witnessed the cool behaviour of Mr.
Vernor and his ward; "it may be very genteel, but, were I in your place,
I should consider it unsatisfactory in the extreme, and allow the
next inflammable young lady who might happen to attract a spark in my
presence to consume as she pleased, without interfering; and peace be to
her ashes!"

"It was most fortunate that I happened to have that thick shawl in my
hand," said I; "in another minute her whole dress would have been in
a blaze, and it would have been next to impossible to save her. What
courage and self-command she showed! she never attempted to move after I
threw the shawl around