r presence here, the
better. Beatrix would die before she would knowingly betray you; but she
might do it unconsciously, in which case she would never forgive
herself," gravely replied Captain Pendleton.

"Well, I am sorry not to see her. But at any rate, after I have gone I
wish you to send her this shawl, with my love, by some safe messenger,"
Sybil requested, smiling sadly.

"I will be sure to do so. She will be glad to get the old heirloom,
which she has been bewailing ever since it was lost; and she will also
be well pleased to owe its restitution to you," replied the Captain; and
then, surmising that his guests might like to be left alone for an hour
or two, he arose and retired from the room, cautioning Sybil to turn the
key to prevent the intrusion of any one who was not to be let into the
dangerous secret of her presence in the house.

Three precious hours of each other's exclusive company the young people
enjoyed, and then Captain Pendleton tapped at the door to announce the
approach of the village doctor. Sybil unlocked the door, and hastily
retreated into her withdrawing room, where she remained during the
doctor's visit.

As soon as the physician departed, Aunt Margy came in with fresh water,
clean towels, and everything else that was necessary to make the inner
chamber comfortable and pleasant for the occupation of Mrs. Berners.

When the early dinner was ready, Sybil took hers with her husband at his
bed-side.

And from that time, as long as they remained at Captain Pendleton's
house, they ate their meals together.

Twelve tranquil days they passed at Pendleton Park. Their secret was
well kept, at least during their stay at the house.

On the thirteenth day, Mr. Berners being sufficiently recovered to bear
the journey, the fugitive pair prepared for their new flight.

Upon this occasion their disguise was admirably well arranged. They were
got up as mulattoes. Their faces, necks, and hands were carefully
colored with fine brown umber; Sybil's black tresses were cut short and
crimped; Lyon's auburn hair and beard were also crimped, and dyed black;
Sybil was dressed in a suit of Margy's Sunday clothes, and Lyon in a
holiday suit of Joe's.

Serious as the circumstances were, the lady and gentleman could not
forbear laughing as they looked into each other's faces.

"When we introduced mask balls into this quiet country place, we had no
idea how long the masquerading would last, so far as we were