dam."

I imagined that this answer did not perfectly satisfy her; yet she
received it with a certain air of acquiescence. She was silent for a few
minutes, and then, rising, said, "Excuse me, sir, for a few minutes. I
will write a few words to Mr. Welbeck." So saying, she withdrew.

I returned to the contemplation of the picture. From this, however, my
attention was quickly diverted by a paper that lay on the mantel. A
single glance was sufficient to put my blood into motion. I started and
laid my hand upon the well-known packet. It was that which enclosed the
portrait of Clavering!

I unfolded and examined it with eagerness. By what miracle came it
hither? It was found, together with my bundle, two nights before. I had
despaired of ever seeing it again, and yet here was the same portrait
enclosed in the selfsame paper! I have forborne to dwell upon the
regret, amounting to grief, with which I was affected in consequence of
the loss of this precious relic. My joy on thus speedily and
unexpectedly regaining it is not easily described.

For a time I did not reflect that to hold it thus in my hand was not
sufficient to entitle me to repossession. I must acquaint this lady with
the history of this picture, and convince her of my ownership. But how
was this to be done? Was she connected in any way, by friendship or by
consanguinity, with that unfortunate youth? If she were, some
information as to his destiny would be anxiously sought. I did not, just
then, perceive any impropriety in imparting it. If it came into her
hands by accident, still, it will be necessary to relate the mode in
which it was lost in order to prove my title to it.

I now heard her descending footsteps, and hastily replaced the picture
on the mantel. She entered, and, presenting me a letter, desired me to
deliver it to Mr. Welbeck. I had no pretext for deferring my departure,
but was unwilling to go without obtaining possession of the portrait. An
interval of silence and irresolution succeeded. I cast significant
glances at the spot where it lay, and at length mustered up my strength
of mind, and, pointing to the paper,--"Madam," said I, "_there_ is
something which I recognise to be mine: I know not how it came into your
possession, but so lately as the day before yesterday it was in mine. I
lost it by a strange accident, and, as I deem it of inestimable value, I
hope you will have no objection to restore it."

During this speech the lady's counten