the fashion of the wealthier classes of that day;
and, Mildred as she threw herself upon a capacious sofa, could not fail
to recognise in the formal portraits that were suspended to the
pannelled walls, that she was in the dwelling of a family of some pride
of name and lineage.

After a short interval, the proprietress of the mansion entered the
parlor. She was a lady of a kind and gentle aspect, apparently advanced
beyond the middle period of life; and her features, somewhat emaciated,
gave a sign of feeble health. She was attired in dishabille, hastily
thrown on; and there was some expression of alarm in the unreserved and
familiar manner with which she approached Mildred, and inquired into the
nature of this early journey.

"I hope no unhappy accident, my dear, has driven you at this unusual
hour to my poor house? You are heartily welcome. I fear to ask what has
brought you."

"My brother and myself, madam," said Mildred, "have had a most
adventurous night. This letter will explain. General Marion was so kind
as to commit us to your hospitality."

The lady took the letter and read it.

"Miss Lindsay, my child, I am truly happy to serve you. You have had an
awful night, but these times make us acquainted with strange
afflictions. This young gentleman, your brother, is he your only
attendant?"

Mildred began to communicate the details of her journey, when she was
interrupted by her hostess.

"I will not trouble you with questions, now, my dear. You must have
sleep; I dread lest your health may suffer by this harsh exposure. After
you have had rest, we will talk more, and become better acquainted.
Judith," continued the matron, addressing a servant maid, who had just
entered the room, "attend this lady to a chamber. Mr. Henry Lindsay, I
believe--so General Marion calls you--my son Alfred shall take you in
charge."

With these words the good lady left the room, and in an instant after
returned with the youth who had first appeared at the door. Upon being
introduced by his mother to the guests, he lost no time in obeying her
orders in regard to Henry, whom he had conducted out of the room at the
same moment that Mildred followed the servant towards a chamber.

The entire day was spent by our party in recruiting their strength,
towards which needful care the hospitable hostess contributed by the
tenderest attentions. On the following morning Mildred, although
refreshed by the slumbers of the long interval, sti