on them in a spirit of the blackest
vengeance. Independently of this, we feel it necessary to say here, that
he was utterly devoid of domestic affection, and altogether insensible
to the natural claims and feelings of consanguinity. His uncle abroad,
for instance, had frequently urged him to pay a visit to his relatives,
and, of course, to supply him liberally with the necessary funds for the
journey. To every such suggestion, however, he gave a decided negative.
"If they wish to see me," he would reply, "let them come and see me: as
for me, I have no wish to see them, and I shall not go."

This unnatural indifference to the claims of blood and affection, not
only startled his uncle, but shook his confidence in the honor and
integrity of his favorite. Some further discoveries of his dishonesty
ultimately led to his expulsion from the heart of that kind relative, as
well as from the hospitable roof of which he proved himself so unworthy.

With such a natural disposition, and affected as he must have been by a
train of circumstances so decidedly adverse to his hopes and prospects,
our readers need not feel surprised that he should return home in
anything but an agreeable mood of mind.

CHAPTER IV.

Woodward meets a Guide--His Reception at Home--Preparations for a Fete.

Woodward rode slowly, as he indulged in those disagreeable reflections
to which we alluded, until he reached a second crossroads, where he
found himself somewhat at a loss whether to turn or ride straight
onward. While pausing for a moment, as to which way he should take, the
mellow whistle of some person behind him indulging in a light-hearted
Irish air, caused him to look back, when he saw a well-made, compact,
good-looking young fellow approaching, who, finding his attention
evidently directed to him, concluded his melody and respectfully touched
hia hat."

"Pray, my good friend," said Woodward, "can you direct me to Rathfillan,
the residence of Mr. Lindsay, the magistrate?"

"Misther Lindsay's, is it?"

"Yes; I said so."

"Well, I think I can, sir."

"Yes; but are you sure of it?"

"Well, I think I am, sir."

"You think! why, d--n it, sir, do you not know whether you are or not?"

"May I ax, sir," inquired the other in his turn, "if you are a religious
character?"

"WHy, what the devil has that to do with the matter in question?" said
Woodward, beginning to lose his temper. "I ask you to direct me to
the residence of a certain