elling
him to buy of other jobbing houses, until his indebtedness to him
would be but nominal. He was very well assured that the young
merchant could not stand it over a year or two, and for that length
of time only by a system of borrowing and accommodations; but as to
the result he cared nothing, so that he effected a good sale of a
bad stock.

Notwithstanding such an unpromising condition of his affairs, even
if fully known to Mr. Lester, that gentleman would not have strongly
opposed a union of his daughter with Mr. Fenwick, had he been a man
of strong mind, intelligence, energy, and high-toned principles--for
he was philosopher enough to know that these will elevate a man
under any circumstances. But Fenwick had no decided points in his
character. He had limited intelligence, and no energy arising from
clear perceptions and strong resolutions. He was a man fit to
captivate a young and innocent girl, but not to hold the affection
of a generous-minded woman.

In the natural order of events, such a circumstance as a marriage
union between the daughter of Mr. Lester, and an individual like
Fenwick, was not at all likely to occur. But a meddlesome woman,
who, by the accident of circumstances, had found free access to the
family of Mr. Lester, set herself seriously at work to interfere
with the orderly course of things, and effect a conjunction between
two in no way fitted for each other, either in external
circumstances or similarity of character. But let us trace the
progress of this artificial passion, fanned into a blaze by the
officious Mrs. Martindale. After having agitated the heart of Mary
with the idea of being beloved, while she coolly calculated its
effects upon her, the match-monger sought an early opportunity for
another interview with Fenwick.

"I have seen Mary since we last met," she said.

"Well, do you think I have any thing to hope?"

"Certainly I do. I mentioned your name to her on purpose, and I
could see that the heart of the dear little thing began to flutter
at the very sound; and when I bantered her, she blushed, and was all
confusion."

"When shall I be able to meet her again?"

"Next week, I think. There is to be a party at Mrs. Cameron's and as
I am a particular friend of the family, I will endeavour to get you
an invitation."

"Mary is to be there, of course?"

"Certainly."

"Are you sure that you can get me invited?"

"Yes, I think so. Mrs. Cameron, it is true, has some excl