times more than half hinted to me; he is so run at, and
perplexed, and misguided by strangers that can have no good intention in
coming to see him. There is Mr. Tyrrel, over at the Dove Cote at this
very time, on his third visit, major, in less now than two months past;
yes, let me see, he brought the news here of the recapitulation--I think
you military call it--though, heaven knows, I have but a poor head for
these bloodthirsty words--I mean the taking of Charleston; three times
has he been here, counting from that day. Where he comes from, and who
are his kith and kin, I am sure I don't know."

"Tyrrel, ha! yes, I have heard of him to-night, for the first time,"
said Butler.

"He must be a rich man," continued the hostess, "for he travels with two
white servants, and always pays his way in gold. One of his men is now
in the house; and, between you and me, major, this man is a very
inquisitive sort of person, and would hardly be taken for a serving man;
and he is a cautious fellow too, although there is a good deal of
swagger and bullying about him, which might deceive one at first sight."

"Here, in the house to-night?" inquired Butler.

"Speak low, major, the man is now walking the porch before our windows."

"What does Mildred say of this Tyrrel?" asked Butler.

"Has she been here lately?"

"The good lady never stirs from home whilst Tyrrel is at the Dove Cote;
for fear, I believe, that he will follow her, for they do whisper about
in the neighborhood--though I don't say it to alarm you, Mr. Arthur,
that this man is of the high quality, a nobleman, some say, and that he
has come here a-courting. Only think of the assurance of the man! But if
he was a prince, and every hair of his head strung with diamonds, and
Miss Mildred was as free as the day you first saw her, I can say with
safety he would find but cold comfort in that game; for she despises
him, major, both for himself and for his tory principles. She does hate
him with a good will. No, no, her heart and soul are both where they
ought to be, for all her father, poor man, and this rich gentleman! Oh,
it is a cruel thing that you and our pretty lady cannot live quietly
together; but Mr. Lindsay is past talking to about it. I declare I think
his mind is touched: I positively believe it would kill him if he knew
all that has passed in this house; but he is, in the main, a good man,
and a kind father, and is very much to be pitied. I see you are sad and
sor