astle._]

Curiosity led her to a closer examination, when she again saw lights
issue from several windows; this confirmed her in the belief that some
part of the building was inhabited. She then entered the gate, which
led to the entrance, and gently rapped at the door; an elderly woman
made her appearance, seeming somewhat alarmed. Fostina informed her
that she had lost her way, in returning to the village, and seeing the
light in the forest, she had succeeded in finding their residence. The
good lady, after hearing the story of the young stranger, bade her walk
in and be welcome.

With trembling steps Fostina entered the castle, and following on
through a long entrance, she found herself in the presence of several
persons, who were seated in a small but neatly furnished apartment. On
being conducted into the room, Fostina found herself kindly received by
the family, and after briefly relating to them the circumstances, the
kind lady immediately summoned the servant, and a table was quickly
spread before the stranger.

After partaking of the repast which had been prepared, Fostina remained
a while with the family, and then obeying the signal of Mrs. Cameron,
her friend, she was conducted through a long suite of apartments, and
entering a small retired room, bade her good night.

Fostina, being left alone, consoled herself with the idea that she was
now among friends. She gazed with feelings of curiosity mingled with
surprise, on seeing the extreme neatness and great taste which had been
displayed, in the arrangement of furniture and other articles, in the
apartments through which she had passed, and wondered why this place of
seclusion had been chosen by her new-made friends.

The exterior of the building bore an ancient appearance, and a part
seemed to have already fallen to ruins, while the interior appeared to
have been lately repaired, and well fitted up for the comfort and
convenience of its present occupants.

Fostina, after recalling to her memory the circumstances of the
preceding day, soon composed herself, and fell into a quiet slumber.

On the following morning, when she awoke, the sun had risen, and the
walls of the tower echoed with the sound of bells. She arose, and
hastily preparing herself, was soon summoned to breakfast with the
family, which consisted of Mr. Cameron, his wife, and servant.

After remaining some time, Fostina made known her intention to depart,
upon which Mr. Cameron inquired