t myself in
the dark groves of chestnut and olive, the last words still ringing in
my ears--"Whatever your griefs, they are as nothing compared to mine."
Such complete pre-occupation had his agitation and trouble over my mind,
that it was long ere I could attempt to recall how I had evoked this
burst of passion, and by what words I had stirred him so to address me.
Suddenly the truth flashed boldly out; I perceived the whole nature of
the error. He had, in fact, interrupted iny explanation at a point
which made it seem that I was seeking his grandaughter in marriage. Not
waiting to hear me out, he deemed the allusions to my name, my family
arms, and my fortune, were intended to convey a proposal to make her
my wife. Alas! I needed no longer to wonder at his repugnance, nor
speculate further on the energy of his refusal. How entertain such a
thought for his poor child! It were, indeed, to weave Cyprus with the
garland of the Bride!

Impatient any longer to lie under the misconception--at heart, perhaps,
vexed to think how wrongfully he must have judged me when deeming me
capable of the thought--I hastened back to the Villa, determined at
once to rectify the error and make him hear me out, whatever pains the
interview should cost either.

On gaining the house I found that Sir Gordon had just driven from the
door. Miss Howard, who for two days had been indisposed, was still in
her room. Resolving, then, to make my explanation in writing, I went to
my room; on the table lay a letter addressed to me, the writing of which
was scarcely dry. It ran thus:--

"My dearest Friend,

"If I, in part, foresaw the possibility of what your words
to-day assured me, and yet did not guard against the hazard,
the sad circumstances of my lot in life are all I can plead
in my favour. I have never ceased to reproach myself that I
had not been candid and open with you at first, when our
intimacy was fresh. Afterwards, as it became friendship, the
avowal was impossible. I must not trust myself with more. I
have gone from home for a day or two, that when we meet
again the immediate memory of our last interview should have
been softened. Be to me--to her, also--as though the
words were never spoken; nor withdraw any portion of your
affection from those you have rescued from the greatest of
all calamities.

"Yours ever,

"Gordon Howard."

The mystery gre