ea which his honest affection prompted. He had no fears of what
she dreaded. He trusted that before long he should obtain his
promotion, and then, in these piping times of peace, he might expect to
remain for some time on shore, and be able to occupy his Highland home.

"I dare not pledge my troth, but there is no one for whose happiness I
can more earnestly pray," said Stella, looking at him with her bright
eyes beaming as the most ardent lover could desire. Will that satisfy
you?

"Yes, dearest Stella because I know that you would not trifle with one
who has given you a true and faithful heart," answered Alick. He had
never before uttered such words, and the tone of his voice showed the
deep feeling which prompted them.

"I believe you," she said simply.

Alick would rather have had a more demonstrative reply. A rough road
strewn with branches, and other impediments to their progress, was not
favourable for such a conversation. Still, as Stella had not objected
to the terms he had applied to her, he had no reason to complain. They
rode on for some time in silence. Stella was the first to break it.

"Mr Murray, you need not feel yourself bound to speak to my father on
the subject, indeed I would rather you should not," she said. "He pays
me the compliment of putting full confidence in my discretion, and
leaves me to act as I consider right. I suspect that his affection
prevents him from believing me otherwise than perfect, and he thinks,
consequently, that I am incapable of doing anything of which he would
not approve."

"In my eyes, too, you are perfect, Stella," said Alick. "That by your
own reasoning is the best proof of affection."

"I do not doubt yours, Mr Murray, I am sure of it, and I am more than
grateful," answered Stella, looking up at him. "Still affection should
not blind us to the faults of those we love, as in time the tinsel must
wear off our idols, and disappointment, if not a painful reaction, will
be the result."

"But all idols are not tinselled," said Alick. "The spotless Parian
marble--"

"I object altogether to idol worship," interrupted Stella. "I desire to
be loved for myself, I own, but I would be so with all my faults and
failings known. Could I be sure of them I would tell them to you, but I
cannot boast of having attained to the height of wisdom, and learnt to
know myself. I must leave to you the task of discovering them, and the
means for their correction; only l