uld remain altogether strangers, living in a style
which wealth only could sanction. Mr. Harland, the gentleman with whom
Ernest had corresponded, moved in the circles of fashion and
distinction, and he introduced his friends and acquaintances, being
himself a frequent and agreeable visitor. Ernest received our guest with
elegance and politeness,--these attributes were inseparable from
himself,--but there was a coldness and reserve that seemed to forbid all
approach to intimacy. Fearful of displeasing him, I repressed the
natural frankness and social warmth of my nature, and I am sure our
visitors often departed, chilled and disappointed. The parlor was lined
with mirrors, and I could not turn without seeing myself reflected on
every side; and not only myself, but an eye that watched my every
movement, and an ear that drank in my every word. How could I feel at
ease, or do justice to those powers of pleasing with which nature may
have gifted me?

Sometimes, though very seldom, Ernest was not present; and then my
spirits rebounded from this unnatural constraint, and I laughed and
talked like other people. The youthful brightness of my feelings flashed
forth, and I forgot that a _clouded star_ presided over my young life.

CHAPTER XXXII.

I would not give the impression that, at this time, I felt hurt at the
coldness and reserve of Ernest, as exhibited in society. I was fearful
of displeasing him by showing too much pleasure in what did not appear
to interest him; but when the door was closed on the departing guest and
he exclaimed,--

"Thank heaven! we are once more alone!"

I could not help echoing the sentiment which brought us so close to each
other, and rejoiced with him that formality and restraint no longer
interfered with the freedom of love and the joys of home. He never
appeared so illumined with intellect, so glowing with feeling, as in
moments like these; and I was flattered that a mind so brilliant, and a
heart so warm, reserved their brightness and their warmth for me. If he
was happy with me, and me only, how supremely blest should I be, with a
companion so intellectual and fascinating! If Edith were but near, so
that I could say to her occasionally, "How happy I am!" if Mrs. Linwood
were with me to know that nothing had yet arisen to disturb the heaven
of our wedded happiness; if excellent Dr. Harlowe could only call in
once in a while, with his pleasant words and genial smiles; or kindly
fee