^>.

IMAGE EVALUATION
TEST TARGET (MT-S)

^g?

i/j

1.0

I.I

1.25

^1^ liil
i 1^ |||£

1.8

U 1 1.6

Photographic

Sdences
Corporation

'<^ ^

<i^"^ Y '

'<*)

23 WiST MAIN STREET

WEBSTER, N.Y. MS80

(716) 872-4503

€^,

C/j

CIHM/ICMH

Microfiche

Series.

CIHM/ICMH
Collection de
microfiches.

Canadian Institute for Historical Microreproductions / Institut Canadian de microreproductions historiques

Technical and Bibliographic Notes/Notes techniques et bibliographiques

The Institute has attempted to obtain the best
original copy available for filming. Features of this
copy which may be bibliographically unique,
which may alter any of the images in the
reproduction, or which may significantly change
the usual method of filming, are checiced below.

D
D

Coloured covers/
Couverture de couleur

r~~| Covers damaged/

Couverture endommag^e

Covers restored and/or laminated/
Couverture restaur6e et/ou pelllcul6e

[T7[ Cover title missing/

1^^ Le titre de couverture manque

Cartes g6ographiques en couleur

Coloured ink (i.e. other than blue

Encre de couleur (i.e. autre que bleue ou noire)

I I Coloured maps/

I I Coloured ink (i.e. other than blue or black)/

I I Coloured plates and/or illustrations/

Planches et/ou illustrations en cculeur

Bound with other material/
Reli6 avec d'autres documents

Tight binding may cause shadows or distortion
along interior margin/

La reliure serr^e peut causer de I'ombre ou de la
distortion le long de la marge intirieure

Blank leaves added during restoration may
appear within the text. Whenever possible, these
have been omitted from filming/
II se peut que certaines pages blanches ajouties
lors d'une restauration apparaissent dans le texte,
mais, lorsque cela Atait possible, ces pages n'ont
pas 6t6 filmAes.

Additional comments:/
Commentaires suppl6mentaires:

L'Institut a microfilm^ le meilleur exemplaire
qu'il lui a 6t6 possible de se procurer. Les details
de cet exemplaire qui sont peut-Atre uniques du
point de vue bibliographique, qui peuvent modifier
une image reproduite, ou qui peuvent exiger une
modification dans la m6thode normale de filmage
sont Indiqu6s ci-dessous.

□ Coloured pages/
Pages de couleur

□ Pages damaged/
Pages nndommagdes

r~n Pages restored and/or laminated/

D
D

Pages restaurdes et/ou pellicul6es

Pages discoloured, stainad or foxei
Pages ddcoior^es, tachet6es ou piquies

Pages detached/
Pages d^tachdes

Showthrough/
Transparence

Quality of prir

Quaiitd in^gale de i'impression

Includes supplementary materit
Comprend du materiel suppi^mentaire

I I Pages discoloured, stainad or foxed/

I I Pages detached/

I I Showthrough/

I I Quality of print varies/

I I Includes supplementary material/

Only edition available/
Seule Edition disponible

Pages wholly or partially obscured by errata
slips, tissues, etc.. have been ref limed to
ensure the best possible image/
Les pages totalement ou partiallement
obscurcies par un feuillet d'errata. une pelure,
etc., ont M filmies A nouveau de fapon d
obtenir la meilleure image possible.

This item is filmed at the reduction ratio checked below/

Ce document est film6 au taux de rMuction indiquA ci-dessous.

10X 14X 18X 22X

12X

16X

20X

24X

26X

30X

28X

32X

ire

details
es du
modifier
er une
filmage

The copy filmed here has been reproduced thanks
to the generosity of:

Library of Congress
Photoduplication Service

The images appearing here are the best quality
possible considering the condition and legibility
of the original copy and in keeping with the
filming contract specifications.

L'exemplaire filmA fut reproduit grAce d la
gAnArositA de:

Library of Congress
Photoduplication Service

Les images suivantes ont StS reproduites a* ' ': le
plus grand soin, compte tenu de la condition et
de la nottet6 de l'exemplaire filmA, et en
conformity avec les conditions du contrat de
fllmago.

les

Original copies in printed paper covers are filmed
beginning with the front cover and ending on
the last page with a printed or illustrated impres-
sion, or the back cover when appropriate. All
other original copies are filmed beginning on the
first page with a printed or illustrated impres-
sion, and ending on the last page with a printed
or illustrated impression.

The last recorded frame on each microfiche
shall contain the symbol — ^^ (meaning "CON-
TINUED"), or the symbol V (meaning "END"),
whichever applies.

Maps, plates, charts, etc., may bn filmed at
different reduction ratios. Those too large to be
entirely included in one exposisre are filmed
beginning in the upper left hand corner, left to
right and top to bottom, as many frames as
required. The following diagrams illustrate the
method:

Les exemplaires originaux dont la couverture en
papier est imprimis sont film6s en commengant
par le premier plat et en terminant soit par la
dernlAra page qui comporte une empreinte
d'impression ou d'illustration, soit par le second
plat, seion le cas. Tous les autres exemplaires
originaux sont fiimis en commenpant par la
premiAre page qui comporte une empreinte
d'impression ou d'illustration et en terminant par
la dernlAre page qui comporte une telle
empreinte.

Un des symboles suivants apparaitra sur la
derniAre image de cheque microfiche, selon le
cas: le symbole -^ signifie "A SUIVRE", le
symbole V signifie "FIN".

Les cartes, planches, tableaux, etc., peuvent dtre
filmfo d des taux de reduction diffdrents.
Lorsque le document est trop grand pour Atre
reproduit en un seul clichA, il est filmA d partir
de Tangle supArieur gauche, de gauche d droite,
et de haut en bas, en prenant le nombre
d'images nAcessaire. Les diagrammes suivants
illustrent la m^thode.

errata
i to

9 pelure,
on d

32X

1 2 3

4 5 6

;

to.

ALDEANE.

^^"

A NOVEL.

BY LAUEA/^EESTON

ALTIIOU OF -Yn UUNDB," BT(\

■■>"

^^hk.\\

^ NEW YORK:

A. ROMAN & COMPANY, PUBLISHERS.

SAN FRANCrSCO:

417 AXn 419 MONTGO.\[RRy ST.

1808.

•ym

■'•■J
"J

K nti-HMl iicconlli.i: to A.'t of Cnsross ii. the yciir ISfiO, by

A. KOMAN & I'O-

in ll.c CUtU-s Olllc oi the District Court of the United 9tnto» for the

SniitlK'in OistHot of N^'W Voik.

Cir.vp.

II.

III.

IV.

VI.

VII.

VIII.

JX.

XI.

XII.

XIII.

XIV.

XV.

XVI.

XVII.

XVIII.

XIX.

XX.

XXI.

XXII.

XXIII.

XXIV.

'y.

the yciir ISfi?, by
I United States for the

OlU.

CONTEIS'TS

I. Mrs. N'evi.vs declakes her Poweh 5

II. COU-NTERI'LOTS J4

III. AnTnuu's Kari.y r :tion 20

IV. Xew Faces and New Fkie.nds 27

V. Small CiiAX(iE.s and One (iRKAf CiiAstiE ?i\

VI. What Arthur's Caution availed 4:{

VII. Aldeaxe takes a Journey and fint'S a Home .)9

VIII. A Slioiit M vstkry go

IX. (JRASSMEKE en

X. " January and Ma v " go

XI. An Une.vpectbd Arrival gg

XII. A War op Words 90

XIII. A Truce proclaimed 108

XIV. Aldeane learns a Secret -[w

XV. A Second Secret told 123

XVI. Doubt becomes Certainty 129

XVII. A Momentous Inteuview 135

XVIIT. Two Important Letters 141

XIX. The " Merry Wedding " 150

XX. Leonore's Strange Lover ]r,7

XXI. Leonore's Little Secret j 04

XXIL The Old Arbor at Grassmere n3

XXIII. The Voice in the Storm i8«

XXIV. What tur WKDDiNa Morning nuoutiiiT id,-,

C'UAP.

XXV.
XXVI.

xxvir.

XXVIII.

XXIX.

XXX.

XXXI.

XXXII.

xxxiir.

XXXIV.
XXXV.

XXXVI.
XXXVII.
XXXVIII.

CONTEXTS.

Pauk

A Long Axn Fatkfui. Tale '-!•'

TiiK Ci.osK OF TiiK Fatf.i'ui. Rlcouo -•"■'

TllK PROOIUNd Kl.OWEU -'"'2

ALDEANE KETUIINS TO TUB NoUTll "**0

A THEASCnB FOUND -**^

The 'lOVERNEss resumes ueu Duties -9*»

The DnooriNO Flower iadeh 305

ReTUIHUTIOX BEdlXS ■'!''

William Ake.sdell's Narrative ^'-•'»

Important Coruesponhence ■*'**^

Alueaxe'S Mission- and its Uesilts •'555

A Tardy Explanation ''^1

Father and Daughter at Home 370

Conclusion ^^"^

Th.
tFu' sii
oach
tain i.
engro!
a wild
that r
in the
the he

The
the sin
I'ustoir
lioarts

111)011 t

Thei
to do I
Massac
haps, b
would
ins woi
severit;
glowini

Paur

'Ji:!

iOORn 2:*<"i

'J(!2

mi 2«0

289

Dltiks '^9fs

305

315

VK 325

348

KSII.TS 355

301

,MK 379

397

A L D E A N E

CIIAPTEIi I.

MKS. .NKVIXS DKCLAIMCS IIER POWKI!.

TiKn'Gii tlie wind without l)k>w its slr.r.Iost blast aii.l
t!u. snow canu' c(-asd,>ssly, wliilo tl.o hitter coKl pointc.l
oach flake with ice as it fell, the inmates of the moun-
tain farm-house heeded it ,.ut little, so deeply wre they
engrossed in their own thuusrhts and pursuits. It was
u wddly-stormy night, but not more tieree were the winds
that ruled it than the thoughts of some who gathered
in the comfortable sitting-room around the blazin-r lire on
the hearth-stone.

There are times when the wan-ing of the elements seems
the signal for the rending asunder of bonds of duty, or
custom, and especially for the deep bitterness of injured
liearts to find vent in passi.M.ate words. Thus was it
upon that temi)est-ridden night in which our story opens.

There had been an unusually large quantity of work
to do upon the farm that day, and at best an estate of
Massachusetts -res is not easily managed. It was, per-
haps, because o. that, and a foreboding of the toil' that
^vould come with the snow-ch;d morrow, that Jonas Xev-
iiis wore upon his ever-scowling brow a irown of unusual
seventy, and sat moodily by the firo gazing into the
glowing coals.

.1 Li) i:a si:.

Tic was not at any tiim' a pleasant man to look iit ;
llicrc wiTi' too many \v,\\>\\ ami cnirl limn iiiun liiin sal-
low count ■.•nunoo; his Hinall gray oyi's ol'tin ilasliiil too
ticrccly licncatli liis heavy lirnws; aml,ali(>ve all, his nerv-
ous lips were too deeply sinister in their ever-fhaiii.Mn.;jt
rurvoH. Hut with all tliis, he was not an ugly man ; so
far as regular features, luxuriant iron-gray hair, and u
tall, well-Unit figure eould make him so, Jonas Xevins
was a liandsome man.

So thought his wife, a fair-haired woman of thirty-live,
who sat opposite to him, glancing at liini furtively some-
times, hut appearing to he almost totally engrossed by
lier knitting.

That night the face of Mrs. Xevins was one worthy of
more than passing notice. Not for its beauty — tlutugh it
was evi(h'nt that slic liad onoc been beautiful, though
care and grief had long striven to deny it — but for the
expression of determination tliat rcstecl upon her thin lips
and strangely contrasted witli the meekly droojiing eyes,
an<l the almost timid glances that turned from them upon
the stern occujiant of the opposite chair.

I have described first the ehU'r members of this fireside
group, performing thus my easiest task; far beyond de-
scription l)y a few jioor words were those others — young
Arthur Cluthrie and liis sister Aldeane.

Equidly beyond such description were they, although
most strangely unlike. The boy was tall, dark, and
strong in appearance, while the girl was exceedingly
fair and delicate, and, altliongh but three years younger
tliau her brother, presenting a strange contrast of child-
ishness in comparis(m. lie was then about fifteen, and,
in spite of a growth verging already upou six feet, was
still but a boy in appearance. There was much of the
unconthness belonging to boyhood on his well-knit figure,
and of boyish beauty in his smooth, dark face, shaded by
black, loosely-curling locks. His eyes were bent upon

.1 Liu:.\ si:.

lilt niiiii t(i liMik at ;
ii'l liiii'H i|Hiii liin nal-
cM (ifU'ii lliislu'd too
i|,ali(ivi' all, his norv-
tiu'ir I'Vcr-fliaiii.Mii'j;
i(»t an iij^ly man ; ho
roii-i;ray liair, and a
im so, Jonas Novins

wnniiin of tliirty-livi',
t liini tiirtivih sonie-
totally i-nirrossi'd by

IS was one Avortiiy of
its bt'auty — thouLfh it
L'on beautiful, thouLfh

dony it — bnt lor the
t(Ml upon li( r thin lips
[it'i'kly drooi>injj; oycs,
irni'd iVoni tliem uj)oii
hair.

embers of this fireside
task ; far beyond de-
' those others — young
me.
1 were they, althouQ;1i

was tall, dark, and
t^irl was exeeedinyly

three years younger
iigc contrast of ehild-
cu about fifteen, and,
ly upon six feet, was
lere was niueli of the
on his well-knit figure,
, dark faee, shaded by
eyes were bent upon

h.s book; bn wh..„,af last, he raised them for a tnoment
o glan.-e at his nster, they were revealed in ma.Miiti.vnt
"••••ord with the tropi,.,! b.,,uty of his faee. Thev were
truly glorio,,. oys ; large, bla.k, an.I fiery; thoron.rhlv
.^xi.ressive o( the strong, proud spirit of ,|,..ir possessor
.1 l.<.y were eys that had gained for Arthur ( Jiithrie the
■-"Plaeable hativd of his step-father, for thev, though his
tongue had b..,.„ g„a,,K,., ,..,1, had reveale.i tlu- di:trust
and M'orii m which lie lield hi,,,.

Hut, althoii^h Jonas Xc.vins hated his stop-son, he did

»"t, <-ould not, hate the chiM wlio sa( by his side \s I

haye said before, she was fair and delh-a'te, and this, with

the p,.rfect gra... of lier figure, sec,ned at first her only

claim to beauty. Il.-r ..ys wen- ndecd softly brown and

tender, but it was only under the infincnee ofsome strong

o-vc.tement that tliey became beautiful. But in her ,.0?-

s.ye moments, an<I they w.-re many, there stole oyc>r the

.ountenanoe of Aldea.i,- <^uthrie a rare ...xpression of

peaceful hope, which irradiated lier plain features with

an ahnost dnme light, and, in the heart of her mother

gaye her the name of tlie " Peace child."

Ami in that house she was the "Peace child," not only
m name, but in fact. More than once had she i.ncon-
nonsly quelled the eyil passions of Jonas Neyins and
e fiery temper ol her brother; but on (his night, in
I'lissful unconsciousness that such infiuence was needed
she bent oyer the book from which her l>rother was alsj
rojulmg, his dark cheek almost touching hers

They were eyid.-ntly obliyious of the"time, for they did
not eyen glance up when the clock stnu-k nine. Not so
howeyer, was their step-father, who had for some mol

Z^^ ""■^''^' '''''^""^^ *'^^'"' •'^"'1 ^^-''^ th^'» «=»^i.

"Are those children to stay up all night; are thev

neyer going to bed ?" ^ uity

"Vos, it^is now time," replied Mrs. Xeyins, quietly.

g A LI) /CA .VE.

" Artliur Al'liaiif, .li.l yn\i imt litar linw late it In? An-
ycinr Ifswnis rvady l«>r to-iiu>rrow V"

"All rca.lv, inntlicr," ictiinud Arthur, colUctiiii,' liis
l.thiks, anil, iWr tin- rn>l tiiiif, «)l)scr\ in;; tlic unusually
inoo.ly liU'i- of his st»'i>-t!itlu'r, while AltU-aup lighted the
bnlrooin candles, and l>adc her mother "(Joud niyht."

She niurmurcd the words to .Mr. Nevins also, hut he
ilid not ajuu-ar to lu-ar either her voice or ArthurV, and,
treinhliu!,' with cold, each hastened across the wide hall,
and uji till' stairs into their own rooms, leaving their
mother to a task vhich wiis to decide their lutnro.

Hut they kmnv nothing (.f that, and were haiipily asleep
helbre one word was spoken in the room below. Indeed,
tor !V full hour, Jonas Nevinn sat silently before tlie fire,
nnd his wife steadily knitted on, waiting and jireparing
her answer for the words she fell certain he would speak.
.\nd she was not wrong, for when she had grown al-
most weary of waiting, he looked up, frowningly, and

said : —

" Have you thought of that matter I spoke to you of::'
Have you tliought of what is to be done with that buy?
for, by heavens, lie shall not stay here to madden me
with his insolent eyes."

" No, he shall not stay here," she said quietly, " but we
will not speak of him lirst ; we will speak of my dauglUer."

" Your daughter!" he said with a sneer.

Mrs. Nevins raised lier eyes to his face and said firmly.
" Her daughter then. The daughter of my sister, whose
heart you broke." •

She saw him turn deadly pale, but over his well-trained
countenance passed neither an exi)ression of terror or sur-
prise, and presently he laughed as lie said : —

" I suspected that before^ I thought that boy and girl
could not be the children of one mother. But how can
she l)e the child of your sister, whose heart I broke?
Where did I ever see your sister ?"

sonii
" \\

'♦]
is (h
in a

"I
u \v< I

'II
tho.i

" wli
"I
"It
guilt
Til
fear,
of pn
-I
prool
sand
man
than
He
uj>on
"L
oath.
"Y
answ(
signal
•'I
her tl
upon
It ^
mome
Jonas

how lati' it is? Arc

.rtliiir, collcctiiiii liin
rvin;; tlif miuMiiilly

AltlfJint' liulitcd tin'
uT " (looil niiilit."

Nfvins also, Itiit lie
ticf or ArtlmrV, aiitl,
across the wiiU- hall,
rooms, Icav'mu; tlu-ir
Ic tlioir luturi'.
1 win- liaindly aslfcp
■ooiii l)clo\v. IiiiK't'd,
kiitly bciorc tlic fire,
aitinu- and |irci)arin};
rtaiii 111' would speak,
n hIu' had urowii al-

u]), frowniiijily, and

or I spoke to you of'::'
done with that boy?
hon- to madden mu

said quietly, "l»ut we
[leak of my daughter."
I sneer.

s face and said firmly,
■r of my sister, whose

t ovor his well-trained
ession of terror or sur-
lie said : —

ight that boy and girl
(lother. But how ean
•hose heart I broke?

A 1. 1> i: .\ s r..

"In her linnie," she answere<l finnly, though there was
soniclhing in his look whieh caused her heart to beat wildly.
" Vou knew her in \,„t|, Carolina, where she died."

"How many times nn.re shall y(Mi tell me the Woman
is (h'ad?" he asked. " JJut liow was I to see your sister
in a place where I never was?"

" Mut where was '/" She arose and whispered

a Word in his ear,

'I'lie utterance h.id evidently shocked him fearfully,
tho.igh he still strove to hide it "(Von. her.

"What do you nu-an ?" he saiil with a forced laugh;
"what are ynii prating and whispering about?"

"'I'he trulh,"she s.iid, as (piiefly and lirndy as ever.
"It Im useless for you to deny your identity or your
guilt. I have proof, overwhelming proof, of both."

Then, for the first time, she saw him give one sicjn of
fear. " Proof! proof!" he g.ispe.l, " there can be no si-u
ol proof!" and then he cursed himself, his fi)lly, and hei"

"I have the proof," she reiterated slowly. "I have
proof enough hero to award you a punishnient a thou-
san<l tinu's more severe than you drew upon that innocent
man twelve years ago. A thousand times more severe
than the law could ever levy on him."

Ho sprang up furiously, and threw Ids hand heavily
upon her shoulder.

" Let me si-o wh.it you have," he cried, with a horrible
oath.^ " (iive it to mo, or I \\\\\ kill you to get it."

" Vou could not wrest it from me by killing me," she
answered, as unmoved as over. " My death would be the
signal fi)r the mine to explode beneath you."

•' I have a mind to risk that," he muttered, releasing
her then, however, and eatehing up a pai)er she throw
upon the table.

It was not long nor closely written, but in the few
moments it took him to become master of its contents,
Jonas Xevins, outwardly, at least, became a changed man.'
1*

ALDEANE.

IIo heat his hrow witli liis o])oii pahn, aiul rrroaiied in an
nsony of fear, then PU(l(U>uly ho Hinicd to liis wife, and
besonsilit her not to ruin liiin, to believe him penitent, to
spare liim, for God's sake to spare him.

Then, for the iirst time, she U)st her ealmnoss. Then she
broke into bitter invectives and terrible threats, and still
the miserable man bent down before her and prayed her
to spare him.

It was some time before she -would answer a word to
that. " You are in my power," she said. " I can crush
you with a wave of my hand. Liviniic or dead you are in
my power. Where do' you think are the originals of those
jKipers I have copied for you?"

" With— with hhn, perhaps," he said.
" Xo," she returned, incautiously, " I woidd to God
they v,-ere, that I could ttnd him anywhere upon the earth,
to give them to him. But they are safe."

" But you can have no object in using them against
me!" he 'exclaimed eagerly. "Your only object would
be to clear his name, if he were living to need it. But
think, think at what a price you would do it now."

" The price is nothing," she said^ " the gain is every
thing."

" For that child," he said.
" For that cliild," she answered him.
I have said that Jonas Nevins was in form and feature
a handsome man, but I have not before said what power
of expression those features held ; that night his face had
been almost demoniacal in 'its hate and rage, but after
these words it softened into almost heavenly tendernes-s.

" Ah, the child ! the child !" he said, " if you could but
prove your words, the gain would, indeed, be great for
her; but ycu can not, you know."

She did know it. She had ever known that the proofs
slie held were not so complete as she had said. They might
convict him, but there was grei.t danger they would not.

ALDEA^ E.

, and proaiipcl in an
icd to )iis wife, and
ivc him penitent, to
II.

•ulninoss. Then she
ble threats, and still
her and prayed her

1 answer a word to
said. " I can crush
; or dead yon are in
he originals of those

lid.

, " I would to God

ihere upon the earth,

afe."

using them against
r only object would
ng to need it. But
lid do it now."

"the gain is every

tn.

1 in form and feature
"ore said what power
at night his face had
and rage, but after
eavenly tenderness,
id, " if you could but
indeed, be great for

nown that the proofs
lad said. They might
nger they would not.

She knew this, and he liad grown cool enough to know it
too.

"Xo," he continued eoolly, "there is not proof enough
here *o justify any jury in returning a verdict againsl
me, but there is enough to prejudice an ignorant connnu-
nity, and still not enough to give that child her rights."

His wife was almost stunned by this sudden exhibition
of calmness, but she was determined not be baffled by it.

" That proof would do more than you will admit," she
said ; " but as he can not l)e found, I liave no wish to use
it against you, if you will do your duty by his child, and
by mine."

" By yours," he cried ))assionateiy, " I will do nothing
for him. I hate him. Take what you like for her, but
nothing for liim. Not one cent, not one crust of bread
for him."

" Y'ou have all that once Avas mine," she said. "You
have all save the pitiful sum I would not take from him.
That shall not be used. You shall buy my silence. You
shall educate my son."

Oh ! with what hate he looked at her, and at the papers
he held. " There is enough here to ruin, if not to con-
vict me," he thought, and then he told her she should
have what slie wished, that he would educate, and clothe
and feed her son. " And may his learning be his curse,"
he said passionately. "May his clothing make him a
leper, and the food poison him."

Mrs. Xevins smiled derisively. " You must give me a
bond," she said. " I will not take your simple word."

" I will sign no bond, that would be equal to a confes-
sion," he answered ; " and you shall hold no such weapon
as that against me, woman."

But she was inexorable and conquered. He read the
bond she placed before him, and would have signed but
she stayed his hand. " The witnesses," she said, " the
witnesses. We must have witne«sc-» to this."

ALDEASE.

She eallocl in two sorvaiits who wore passing thronoih
the hall to their rooms. They wonclorincly saw the
master sign his na>ne, and then affixed their own to the
document, of which Mrs. Nevins immediate 'y took posses-
sion.

" And now, ' good-niglit,' " she said, when they were
gone, " and remember whether I live, or die, you are in
my power. I shall send my cliildren away next week.
Attempt to injure them, and forgetful of all save the di-,-
grace of that innocent mail, and my sister's wrongs, I M'ill
set the hand of the law upon you, and you shall be known
for the villain you an"

In another moment lie was alone.

The very air seemed full of horrors. He could not for
some moments move from the spot in which she had left
him. His face lost the last trace of defiance, and became
ghastly white. He sank into a cliair at last, and cowered
over the fii-^. that sunk first into a mass of glowing
embers, and then whitened into cold ashes. Yet still he
sat there. The rats played noisily around the wainscot-
ing, and the mice nibbled industriously in the closet, but
he heeded them not. His past life, of wliich he seldom
thought, and never without the utmost horror, M'^as stand-
ing before him, all its days blackened by a crime, which
had blotted out one young life, that he had loved as man
never loves but once. In his heart there had been one
green spot, but the hand of Cain had seared it. Love-
enters once into the heart of every man. It had crept
into that of Jonas Nevins, and by i<^s unblessed ardor
had cursed it forever. All tliose things arose before him,
as he sat regardless of the cold, with M'hich he shivei-ed,
or of the time, that on the *;ible wings of night was
hastening to open the golden gates of morning.

At last he muttered, almost inarticulately, " Good God,
that she should know it ! What a fool I have been never
to have destroyed those cursed letters ! They have

ruine

ore passing tlirough
ondcrincfly saw the
xod thtir own to the
iccliatc 'y took posses-
aid, Avhon they wore
re, or die, you are in
ren away next week,
ill of all save the di.s-
sistor's Avrongs, I M'ill
d you shall be known

rs. He could not for
in which she had left
defiance, and became
• at last, and cowered
t a mass of glowing
d ashes. Yet still he
around the wainscot-
isly in the closet, but
', of wliich he seldom
3st horror, w^as stand-
ed by a crime, which

he had loved as man
t there had been one
had seared it. Love-
r man. It had crept
' i^^s unblessed ardor
ings arose before him,
:h M'hich he shivei-ed,

wings of night was
of morning,
julately, " Good God,
ool I luive been never
letters ! Thoy have

A LDEANE.

ruined me; it must liave been fatality! But I will
destroy 1 hem to-night, before 1 sleep!" and seizin^ the
candle he passed into the hall and was soon groping his
way up the garret stairs. The wind blew out the candle,
and shivering with cold and superstitious fi'ar, he returned
to liglit it, but found not one live eml)er. At last a
light was procured, and he again ascended the stairs.
The garret was a large open place, and the candle could
cast but a tliekering ligiit over its gloom. A rat ran
over his feet as he entered. Tiie place, to his heated
imagination, seemed peopled with liorrible demons, and
lie shuddered as lie heard his footsteps break the still-
ness.

lie hurried to a corner of the room, and nearly
stumbled over some dark object, lie stooped to examine
it. It was a small iron box, the lock was broken, the
contents were gone, save a little strip of paper. He held
the candle up before it, and with half-frenzied brain saw
written, in a hand that he had well known in by-gone
years, and wl'.'oh he had hoped never to see again, the
sentence : " Ketribution is hastening upon thee."

" O God !" gasped Xevins, " What can this mean !"
and, sitting down on an old trunk, he gave way to the
deepest emotions of horror and fear. At last he arose
and began to search in all the corners and crevices of the
I'oom for the missing papers, but all in vain. His candle
flickered in the socket, and he was obliged to desist.

The box was there — but the papers, the proofs of his
guilt, were gone.

CHAPTER II.

COIXTKRI'I'OTS.

Abovt fifteen miles south of the mountain farm-house,
and at nearly the same distance from Hoston, stood a
handsome residence, well known in the vicinity as Rose
Cottage, and alihough in the winter season it appeared
to have no claim to the name, as early as the month of
June until late in the autumn, it became most appro-
priate. .

But even when devoid of its summer garniture Rose
Cottage was a handsome building, its walls of gray stone,
ornamented with lanciful windows and piazzas, and sur-
mounted by small turrets, rose grandly above the snow,
appearing to otfer shelter and comfort from the cold and
storm without. Even the grounds presented none of the
desolation common to most gardens during the winter of
a northern clime. There were few straggling shrubs to
bestrew the snow with dry, crisp branches and unsightly
stalks, but rich, ever-verdant hedges of holly, bestrewn
with their scarlet berries, encircled the dwelling and its
appurtenances from the desolate waste of snowy fields
without, and stately cedars ' guarded it from the shrill
winds and induced hundreds of tiny, busy winter birds to
trill their soft notes within their branches, and to keep
around Rose Cottage one ceaseless reminder of the by-
gone summer.

Some three weeks after the memorable night on wlucli
Mrs. Nevins had declared to her husband her power, a
.nuUleman walked thoughtfully up and down oue of the

one

and

sum

((

a nii

rule

Till Til

illilll

iug 1

ountain farm-house,
)m liostou, stood a
:hc vicinity as Kusi*
season it appeared
ly as the month of
)eoamc most appro-

mcr garniture Rose
walls of gray stone,
id piazzas, and sur-
dly above the snow,
t from the cold and
resented none of the
luring the winter of
straggling shrubs to
.nches and unsightly
J of holly, bestrewn
the dwelling and its
iste of snowy fields
I it from the shrill
busy winter birds to
•anches, and to keep
reminder of the by-
able night on which
usband her power, a
md down one of the

ALDEANE,

most pleasant of all the pleasant rooms of Kose Cottage.
It was known us "Mr. Asliton's room" and was neither
l)arlor, smoking-room, nor library, but partook of the
character of all, for there were elegant articles of furni-
ture on eveiy hand, cases of books i)etween tlu' windows,
and smoking materials on every table, liesides which
tliere were i)ictiues on the walls, guns in every corner,
and numberless indescribable articles on every hand.
At first siglit, one would have declared it the lounging
apartment of a wealthy bachelor, but its possessor^-as
in fact a widower, having but little to remind him of his
one short year of wedded life except a dausjliter, the
portrait of whom hung over the mantel and seemed to
watch him Avith its laughing blue eyes as he walked
slowly to and fro.

Most naturally this daughter was the darling and
pride of his heart, and often he paused and ghmced
fondly at the portrait. It bore a striking thou'--li
softened likeness to himself. The large blue eyes wen^
identical in color and expression, the long flowing curls
of the child M-ere of the same golden-brown hue as his
own luxuriant hair, the well-defined features were soft-
ened models of liis own, but the tiny rose-bud mouth
was a beauty peculiar to the face of the child, the beauty
that with her voice and smile she had inherited from
her dead mother.

While Mr. Ashton was still pursuing his thoughtful
walk, a light tap sounded on the door of the apart!inent,
and an old woman, evidently the housekeeper, obeyed his
summons to enter.

"I'm sorry to disturb you, sir," she said, "but there's
a man here that wants to see you."

"Show him in," answered Mr. Ashton, who made it a
rule to see every one that asked for him, and a few
nuniites later a tall, rough-looking man entered, and bow-
ing to Jlr. Ashton said, " I have come at last, sir."

iiL

ifi

ALDEASE.

"Why, Im.U'v!" oxolaimod Mr. Ashton. "Wliat have
yon flom' to yourself? Slmt the (h).)r smkI sit dowii by
the firo ; it's w bit tor cohl ihiy."

The m:in .li.l as directed, \ooV.\\\% sharply a.onud him
like one aeeiistonied to observe every thiiKj:.

" And now," said :^lr. Asliton, " what have yon got

for me V" ,- i u

"It may b.' nmch, or m may be nothinfr, replied the
man doubtfully; "but she seemed to think 'em a good

deal."

"She!" exclaimed ^\\\ Ashton, "Whom do you

mean?" . , ^

" She as found em after I had been pcerm' and ])ryni
thrr.U'di that house for more 'n tliree months. Just my
luck to Tuteh him and watch him and gain nothin', while
she, who suf''.eeted nothin', stumbled right on the whole

proof at once."

" Who St un;t)lcd npon it ? Speak more plainly, man :
interrupted ^Nlr. Ash'ion impatiently.

" Why, his wife, sir ! his wife. She Avent up to the
garret one day, and by accident like I liappened to go up
the stairs and stand by the door. There wasn't any
thin<r hai)pened for p, while, and then all at once, when
phe was in a dark corner of tl»e place, I heard her cry out
sharp and low, like one surprised and horritied, and then
I saw lier lift a little box, and rush to a window with it,
and then she cried out again and said, —

"'My God! this v/as his.'"

" And then for a long tinje she just stood still and looked
ivt it and tiien in a frantic way she tried to break it open
but it was iron and would not yield. But she thought her-
self alone in the house and cared for nothing. She took
up a bar of iron that lay there, and I swear to you, sir, 1
couldn't have done it my self, she wrenched open the lid
with such force that the contents liew f.ir and wide."
" What was in it ?" asked Mr. Ashton breathlessly.

\shtoii. "What have
l.iur Diiil Hit ildwn l»y

r sli:ir|ily n.o'iiul him

ry ihinjjc.

"what have you got

iioth'msx," n'i>lk'(l the
1 U) think 'em a good

m, " Whom

do y

K'on pccrin' ami jjryiu'
ree montlis. Just my
iiud gain \iothin', whiU?
led right on the whole

ik more plainly, man

iv.

She went up to the
ve I happened to go up
Dr. Tliere wasn't any
then all at onoe, wlien
ice, I heard her cry out
and horrified, and tlion
sh to a window with it,
said, —

st stood still and looked
e tried to hreak it open
i But she thought her-
for nothing. She took
id I swear to you, sir, I
; wrenched open the lid
flew far and wide."
Ashton breathlessly.

A Kl) H A Si:.

"I'apers, sir, |);ipers ! Notliing els*' as I saw. Aiul
that woman, sir, crouclied down by the window and read
'em as if slu" was going mad, and calU-d out, ' t)h, my
sister ! my poor murdered sister,' in a way just tit to make
even a delectix e's lieart break."

"What!" cried Mr. Asiiton. " Is that man's wile !ier
sister. It can not be, tlie very stones would have crieil
out against the enonnity of such a marriage."

" It ajjpears 'twas quite accidental," returned the man
comiHisedly, as if tlius to account fur tho sib-nce of the
stones. " Slie met him on the road somewhere. J'lob-
ably he didn't know her, any more than she knew him,
and he was kind to her sick child. She was a good-
looking woman, with the signs of money about her you
see — and lie was a deceivin' villain, and so she married
him."

" Poor woman ! ])oor woman I" ejaculated ^Ir. Ashtou.

"And you may well say that," said the detective, in
liis passionless voice. "A jioor woman she is in more
ways than one, robbed of her money, health, and peace.
Hut though those letters seemed to break her right down
when she read 'em first, they gave her the upper hand of
him. She put 'em all hack but one. I've got 'em here.
But that one mastered him I'm safe to say, for the next
night I was called in to witness some bond between 'em —
I'd just got those letters safe into my pocket with a string
tied round 'em — and the next week her two children was
sent off to school. He'd bought lier silence, you see."

" That relieves my mind of a heavy weight," said 3Ir.
Ashton. " 'Twould never do for the matter to be brought
forward now. But where are those letters."

The detective took from his pocket a small parcel and
handed it to Mr. Ashton. He opened it hastily, and took
out four short notes which he read attentively.

" These prove something," he said, " but not much.
Not much. She has the missing link in the chain of

A LD RAN n.

ovicU'iu'c, >lu only one of inupii importance. \Ve must
luive it. I will go to her."

I?ut the di'toctivc interposed in his ever-quiet voice.
" Mrs. Nevins wouldn't turn traitor to her husband, sir,
luitil he does tu her. And you \vouldn't want to ruin an
innocent wt/uian by inplieatin' her in his crimes I s'posc V"

" Of course not. But that letter I must have."

" All in fjood time, sir, wh'?n yo\i'r«! ready to bring the
suit on, for instance. She isn't a woman to be terrified
out of it, and it's as safe with her, or rather with Lawyer
Ilalcombe, for I traced her there the next day, as it would
be with you."

" But I must have it !" reiterated Mr. Ashton.

" Very well, sir," returned the detective, "but you'll
only make an enemy of a friend by forcing that paper
iVoni its ))iesent possessor, for she looks upon it as the
guardian of her diildren. If I was a lawyer, sir, I should
say ' bide your time,' but as I am oidy a detective, sir,
I'll get the paper for you if yiu like."

" No," said Mr. Ashton, after a long pause, " I see the
wisdom of your advice. The cause at any rate must be
ours. It would be ours even if that paper was destroyed.
You have left the service of Nevins, I suppose."

" Yes, sir," answered the man with a short laugh,
" was took uncommon bad after iinclm' the letters, and
couldn't stay. Good servant thf ugh. Go back at any
time. No policy to quarrel there you know."

"Then I have nothing to do but pay up my arrears,"
fjaid Mr. Ashton, " and wisH you a better job next time.
You'll bear this matter in mind though, and be ready
when called upon."

" That I will, air," answered the detective, counting the
coin Mr. Ashton laid before him, and shortly thereafter
bowing himself out, to partake of a lunch in the house-
keeper's room, bt " re setting out for Boston.

When left alone, Mr. Ashton re-read again, and again.

the Jel

angi

knot

his 1
11

utte

it.

I'll 8

extr.

scho

I'ilb

.1 A D HA XE.

portanoc. We must

his ever-quipt voico.
■ to her husband, sir,
Idn't want to ruin an
his prime's I s'posc V"
I must have."
u- rpady to brinjx tlie
Dman to bp territied
r rather with Lawyer
next day, as it would

Mr. Ashton.
pteptive, " but you'll
y forcing that paper
looks upon it as the
I lawyer, sir, I should
only a detective, sir,

ng pause, " I see the
<! at any rate must be
paper was destroyed.
, I suppose."
with a short laugh,
Kim' the letters, and
gh. Go back at any
)u know."

pay up my arrears,"
better job next time,
lougli, and be ready

'tective, counting the
ad shortly tliereailer
a lunch in the house-
' Boston.
;ad again, and again.

the letters which Imd luen given him, and at last laying
tlipm in a small iron box, jilaeed thpm in a safe, sayin't; to
iiiinseli; " Hcst tlu-rp for a tinu', and then we shall see, Mr.
.N'pvins; avp sliall spp."

For a second time on tlmt moniing wpre his retlootions
<listurl)e(l l)y a knock up. ■ tlu' door. He oiM'ncd it, and
took from the hand of a sprvant a number of lettpis.
(ilancing hastily over tlie address of each, he broke the
seal of the smallest, fondly murmuring. " My darlinu'," and
smilingly perused the missive. Hut the smile soonfaded
away a"d .1 look of eager attention succeeded. " Most
renuirkable ! rpally pxtraordinary !" hp mutterpd more
than onpp, and yet the words which caused them were
but few and simple.

" My darling father, I have such a delightful thing to
tell you," began the second paragraph of his davighter'rt
letter, "Mrs. (irenville lias given me sucli a nice room-
mate, and I like her already so much better than I did
that cross Jennie Grey that was here last year. And sho
has such n pretty name, Aldeane Guthrie, and though she
isn't so pretty as some folks, she hjvs such a ma;/>nyu-eHt
brother, and his ?iame is Arthur. And, pa, what do you
think, Aldeane livps onlj '"iu'cu miles from our house, but
I don't think she'll go home again soon, for she has a step-
father, and I know he's hateful. And I know I heard
you talking about him to some man once, when you were
angry, and sent me out of the room for going in without
knocking, and I am very sorry I did it, ])a, I am sure, and

his name is Xevins, and "

But ^h\ Ashton read at that time no farther, but gave
utterance to a variety of expressions of astonishnu'iit.

" And this is as it ought to be," he said at last, " and
I'll see these children, and befriend them too. What an
extraordinary thing that they should be placed at that
school. There must be a providence in it. At anv rate
I'll sec the.. ."

C 11 ATT Ell III.

AIIIIUK's KARLY CAITION.

And Mr. Asliton kept liis promise. He »li<l see those
«-)iil(lr(Mi. Xot iiiime.liiitely, l)Ut at\er IJelle bad written
i'noiiijli of them tor liim to know them well, ami even
then he (li<l not yield to his lirst inelinatioii to make a
pretext for seein;,' tliem at sehool, hnt wlien Hose t'ottn^te
M-as Avorthy of its name, and tlie <,'lorious summer had
made all the surroiindinu: eountry beautiful, he liad
written to his (hiusrhter to brinu; them l>ome for the vaea-
tion. And after some hesitation, knowing that the doors
of their oAvn home were virtually barred a<;ainst tliem,
they had oomo, and enchanted Helle by their injoymi'iit
and admiration of her lovely home, and Ijer lather by
their own eharms of apjiearanee and manner.

Belle Ashton was right in saying that her father loved
Aldeane (luthrie from the first moment he saw her.
There was something about the ehild whieh irresistibly
attracted him. It was the same with most jieople, but he
did not know that, and with wonder questioned himself
as to w hat it eould be in her face or manner that so
powerfully intlueneed him. '

He fancied at times that the face and manner were not
altogether unfamiliar to him, and yet he was certain he
had never seen the ehild before, and at last referred to the
apparent familiarity, by the real sympathy by whieli he
was attracted toward her and wliich led him to feel and
act toward her as an old and attached friend.

And this feeling was increased by the knowledge he

TION.

!. Ill' (Vu\ sec those
M- IW'llc bail writtoii
hem will, and cvi'ii
H'l illation to make ii
wlicn Hose Cottnicc
lorioiis Humnicr liail
' hpautiful, he liad
n lionu' lor the vaca-
)winp that the doors
larri'd a<iainst tlicm,
! by tht'ir onjoynu'iit
■, and hor lather by
niannor.

that hor father loved
onieiit ho saw lii-r.
Id which irrenislibly
I most ]>eoplc, b\it he
• questioned liiinselt'
I or manner that so

ind manner were not
ct he was certain he
at last referred to the
mpathy by which he
1 led him to feel and
•d IVii'ud.
v the knowledge he

A L l> i: A X K.

gained of hor during three vacations Hubsofniontiy spent
at ins lious,, fur i.fvor once duriiii,' that ]>rn,„l had Mrs
Xevins .larod to have hor .l.ildron h..ino, and, oxoopt
upon rare visits to IJoston, she never saw thvjni.

I iiavosaid never, hut onoo, iudood, Arthur" vontmod
within what was indeed to him a lion's don, and that was
when, luiving liiiisiied the (M.urse at IVotosscu- (Jronviiie'H
ho hositatod as („ (Wllnwing his mother's instructions,
which wore fur him t.. outer cull, .r,. at once, for h.- romom-
borod that his i.aternal fortune was extromelv small, and
tliat Aldoane was altogotlur un[)ruvidod lor, and altliiMK'h
had he boon alone in the world ho would nut have
<loubted for a moment what course to take, ho tluModit it
now a duty which ho owed Aldoane to retain ~sulli-
oiont jiroporty to secure hor from want, and therefore, lu-
• lotorminod to see his mother and h^arn hor reasons ihr
advising him to expend all, or at least tlie bettor part of
what he possessed, in securing an education. True, up to
this point— and far beyoml it— he had ambitiously desired
to lit himself for tiie practice of law, and Jie knew his
mother held the same views for him, but prudence
whispore.1 that it would be bettor for Aldoane to live in
peace, beholding her brother a morohant's clerk, than to
struggle with poverty, while ho was eiuU.avoring— vainly,
perhaps— to open a way to liinie and aflluence through'
long years of penury and obscurity.
_ This, in substance, he said to i\[r. Ashton one even-
ing, during the soconil vacation spent at Rose Cotta<rc
and announced his intention of going homo to ascertain'
the exaot jiosition in which ho stood. This Mr. Ashton
highly aj.proved, and otlbred him the best horse in his
stables lor the journey.

At break of day he was in the sad lie, bearing a hope-
ful, joyous heart an<l Aldeane's t.-arfully given love
toward his mother. The sun rose apace, and throw the
scorching heat of August upon the earth, but Arthur's

A IDE AXE.

roiid for the inoHt p.irf hiy throutfh \\w woo.l«, and h«
Joiiii.l the n<l«- .l»'li<zhttiil,;in<l with the ciilliusiiiMii (.fl)()y-
IkxmI tlinnirlil <>rili«' liiiiiity ai-.Miiiil liiiii, iiml oflittli' I'ls.-
iiiilil familiiir olijtrts chiiiiu-.l Iuh attcnlion :iii<l asHiir«'<l
liiin (hat in- was «liavviiiji lu-ar honu'. TIhtc lay the
litlU' villav,'!- of Ilayfuld towanl the ri^ht, and ronHpifti-
oiis anion;^ its iiiiiiihh- dwi-lliiif,'H arose tho wliitc-spiml
••liiirfh in whi«h hf had mo otVon Hat lu-Hidf his niotliir and
nistor, listrnini,' wearily to tlio in'osy dis< oursort of good
ohl EldiT Maynard, and t lure, a little farther on, was
the tall tin^'er-post, pointin-j; wpeetrally towanl Uoston,
and tho villa<,'e hi-hind, and lastly arose in the distanee the
fall ehinuievf* and the gabled roof of the houHe ho had for
ten yearn ealled hin home.

He di<l not remember, then, liow little of a home it had
been to hint, or how the ehildhood whieh might have
I)assed joyously within it had been made a i>eriod of
constant terror and gloom, nor did he think of him who
liad oeeasioned this, bnt with the «oiv? Mother npon bin
lips, as it was within bin heart, rnshe'l into the hot
kite'hen in which, through an open win.low, he bad seen
liis mother toiling.

I'oor sold, how overjoytnl she was ! how she embraced

Inm and wept over bitn \ This was the one solo drop of

joy that had sweetened her bitcer eup for month*., yet

even as she tasted it she looked around with sudden

terror that it would be dashed from her lips.

Arthur noticed it with a j)ang at his heart that showed
its presence in his liice, but iie would not speak of it.
The time was not yet come to dwell upon sorro^y, for bis
mother, in a low voice, was rai)tur()U8ly exclaiming, how-
tall he b^d grown, and how handsome, and how good,
too, .she was sure. And then, with sudden fear, she
asked foi . Ideane. Was she ill, or what liad brought
lum here ?

Artlinr answered smilingly that Aldeane was quite

well, a

loved,
stronpf
leaving
Iktc on
" V. .
painfull
have ha
now."

" Wh

natural

"Oh,

of pride

the man

" Jonas

care tor

excel lent

" Yes,

lion, for

feeling s

nierly. ]

" lie c

ish enouf

love, wlu

"1 slu

from a rii

"Oh d

to sehool

kin's lirn

speculati(

proved e:

"That

aft'airs," i

already s

mother, y

I was lef

I iho wooils, and he
(• fiitliii>i!iMii of l)t)y-
um, iuiil »i' littli' i'l>««'
1 tent ion and asKUi»'<l
)nu'. Tlurt- lay the
n)j;l>f, uiul t(iiiH|)icu-
OHi' tlio wliitt'-Hjiin'il
wii'uU' Ills niotli*'!- and
V dis('i)ur><c'rt of gixxl
it lie farther on, wan
■ally towanl r>oston,
)Sf in the diHtancf thi-
' the liouM' he liad for

it tie of a homo it had

I whirii niijfht have

II made a ])eriod of
he think of him who

voiJ Mother upon hin
rushel into the hot
window, he had seen

s ! liow she embraced

s tlie one soU' drop of

r enp for ni(tnlh(<, yet

around witli sudden

I her lii)rt.

liis heart that showed
ould not speak of it.

II upon sorrow, for his
ously oxelainiini;, how
Isome, and liow good,
I'ith sudden fear, she
or what had brought

It Aldeanc was quite

well, and beeoniing h.i.'Ii a neholar. a..,! was so nin.-h
Iove.l. Why, h.. belii'ved that it woiiM breakeven thn
strong heart ..f IVofessor tJrenvilie ifnhe should sp.j.k ..f
leaving hini, and I hen he a.lded mure gravel v, " Ihit I eame
Ji«'re on especial l)UNiness, mother. Is Mr. Nt-vins in ?"

" Ves," NJie answered, her eu|„r coming and .r„i„,,
painfully. - irpun almost any ollurdav, <larliiig, I would
haveha.l y„u all to myself, for he sehh.m is at home
now."

"Who takes care of the liirm, then ?" was Arthur's
natural (pu'stion.

" < Ml, y(.u know," answered Jiis mother, with a little flasli
of i)ride, which, to one, knowing her history and that of
the man of whom she spoke, was most curicMis to behold,
"Jonas Nevins was always too much of a irentleman td
•■are for the details of a farmer's Vitv, but' he is a very
excellent business man."

" Ves, I believe that," returned Arthur, with satisfac-
tion, lor he hoped from his mother's tones that a better
feeling subsisted between her and her liusban.l than for-
merly. But she divined this, and (piiekly undeceived him.
" lie certainly is doing well by the property I was fool-
ish enough to intrust to him," she said, " but I doubt, my
love, whether it will ever do us any good."

"1 should not think he would ae.piire much wealth
from a rugged farm like this," said Arthur.

" Oh dear, no ; but he sold a part of it just as you went
to school, and drew tliat moiu'v I had invested in Dur-
kin's firm just before our malriage, and entered into
speculations, in which he is still engaged, and which have
Itroved exceedingly remunerative."

"That is fortunate, mother; but now about my own
aflairs," and he repeated at some length what h'e had
already said to Mr. Ashton, concludiii!?, "And now
mother, you have told me often, that by iny father's will
I was left five thousand dollars, to be given into my

ALDEAFE.

Innds Avhon I arrivea at the age of twenty-ono an.l that

tean Jule I was tc. .. .auoatoa and supporte.l Irora the

other share of the ].ropcrty."

" Y<.u are quite ri^l.t, my .on," slu> ansAvercO^
"Does Mr. Kevins understand this V" asked Aithm

lookh.. intently at his mother. "And ^."- --;*;; "
tand 0.nt this ;ame matter of .nyyor^ ^X^:''' '

Hlthou-h she >vas not mentioned m my tathei s am 1 .
" S,e was not born until sonve montlm alter his death,

'^^^2Zr, I know that ; hut does Mr. Nev-
i.s unde,-stan:i what he is bound to do f.n- me, and ex-

''"it:^^ '^d^Mi: Nevins, fi™ly, though her face was
verv mle- "he understands all, perfectly, and he is
p , W o fulfill liis duty. He is pledged, I say," she
^Jjit^d, with exeiteinent, " and if 1 were to die to-da> ,
you and AUie will be safe."
' ;"";:;>k"^^::-^cl her funlvely, and drew closer to

" >ad o alive he daiis not deceive me. I have tha
.vrSi by his own hand that would ariBe to eondemn

^" S^o furned'euddenly away from him, leaving him pale
an^sta Xd. The cJuse of her warning was soon ap-
;^raman.ste^.a.h^-Pon^^

Arthur knew it was Mi. ^ tv ins s , ne ^^

„c,-, lugh hi. d«» a. least ,va. far mo,e hke that 0. a

gentleman tha
not aware tliat
cast a glance t
the kitchen.

" She did no
his liand, M'hic
nnex])ected by
than Jierself."
"Ah!" said
ously.

Mrs. Nevins

from behind hi

perfectly to un<

avoid.

"Ah!"herei

"Yes," return

you of the tern

plied as well to

"Ah!" repea:

cing curiously a

" Now, sir," e(

if you intend, o

terms of that wi

" Your mothei

sarcasm, " that j

by this time bo 1

pel mc to observ

"That is not 1

" and even if it v,-

waste my little p

by your words, o

has existed betAV(

if, through it all,

justice to her el

be esteemed by t

Nevins looked

mo, and tliat
teii iVoia llic

■red.

•iked Artluir,

es he vuider-

(S to Aides' ue,

cr'swill?'

er his death,"

oes :Mr. Nev-
r me, and cx-

i her face was
iy, and he is
d, I say," she
to die to-duy,

Irew closer to
jered eagerly.
?. I have that
e to condemn

aving him pale

; was soon ap-

poreh.

id trembled too

iwell. "I will

Ills mother, and

\rthnr saw that
e that this prep-
(ol'tened him.
ungracious man-
re like that of a

ALDEANE.

gentleman than Arthur had usually belield it "I was
not aware that your n,other was expecting you," and ho
cast a glance the reverse of pleasa.it in the direction of
the kitchen.

"She did not expect me," returned Arthur, extendincr
h.s hand, which was coolly accepted. "I came quite
unexpected by her, to see you perhai,s more particularly
than Jierselt.' '

oul'l"^^'" '"^''^ ^^'' ^'"'""' '""''"'^ ^' ^'^ •■''^'^^•' ^'"-i-
Mrs Nevins came to the door, and looked at him
from behind her .on with a glance which he seemed
perfectly to understand, and which he was powerless to
avoid. '

" Ah !" he repeated once more.

" Yes," returned Arthur. « Of course I need not remind
jou of the terms of my father's will, and tJ.at they a,>
phed as well to his unborn child as to myself"

"Ahi;- repeated Mr. Kevins m a strange voice, glan-
cing curiously at his wife. ^

" Now, sir," continued Arthur, respectfully, " I ask vou
if you intend, of your own free will, to carry o.t the
terms of that will ?" ^

" Your mother tells me," answered Nevins, with quiet
sarcasm "that you are to be a lawyer; if so, you should
by this time be lawyer enough to know that vou can com-
pel mc to observe the terns of that will." '
"That is not to the point," returned Arthur, quietly
and even If it were, you may readily suppose I would not
waste my little patrimony in litjgation. Now bein<r sir
by your wonls, obliged to refer to the unhappiness whieh
has existed between yourself and my mother, I ask you
If, through ,t all, your honor leads you to do this act' of
justice to her children, which is their right, but would
be esteemed by them a^favor V"
Nevuis looked at him for some moment* with motions

AIDE AN E.

„,,on his face Avliich oven the quick eye of his .lUc.stioiR.r
loiihl not c-lvarly ivad.

» You huvo a bold fare a.ul a ready lon-ue, ho said
•It hvsl » Y..(i Mill make- a -..od lawyer ; and as 1 have
'told your mother beture, I am perleetly willing you sIumuu
iH-eomc one. Your hills, and Aldeane's, will he didy

lionored." .. .„ ., , , ^

lie looked at hi« wife, and hit his hps till the hlood
started " I am goini? to I'.oston," he said sud(huly, in
the midst of Arthur's aeknowledgments, and, without a
word more, or even a nod of his head, he descended the
stops and walked to the stables.

I'resentlv they saw him gallop down the roa<l.
"I am so -lad to have you to myself!" said Mrs.ISov-
ins fondly, leading hi-r son into the sitting-room. " 'i ou
will stay here to-night, darling, and sleep m your old

chamber." , , , , • •

" Yes " said Arthur, thoughtfully ; for tliough Ins m-
torviow'with liis step-father had terminated much niore
a-rooably than he had dared hope it would, he still had
the painful consciousness that Mr. Kevins had consented
to do his duty under compulsion, and not of his tree will;
and more than once that aftenioou he spoke of rojocting
his aid altogether, and of taking his chances in the world
with no further preparation than he thou possessed.

But his mother actually shed tears when ho spoke ot
this, and, before he parted from her upon the following
morning, made him promise that he would abandon the

wild idea. , , i i

And upon his retuni to Mr. Ashton, that clear-headed
man of Ijusinoss echoedliis mother's advice, and a mouth
later Arthur Guthrie entered college.

<
(
I

fl
t
t(
h

P<
ff<
fe
sh
ini
m(
th(
wi
ret
at

anc

era

whi

Jier

ANE.

cinick cyo of liis <iiiestimuT

1 a loady toii-^'uo," lie saul
;()(),1 Unvyir; aiul as 1 have
l.orl'cc-tly willinj^ you slicuM
kI Aldeauf's, will hv duly

il bit his lips till the blood
lostou," ho said Kuddi'uly, in
)\vU'd<riiK'iits, and, witlio\it a
his head, he descended the
(les.

allop down the road,
u to niysein" said Mrs.Kev-
nto the sittinit-rooni. "You
ling, and sleep in your old

ightfully ; for thou<!;h his in-
r had terminated much more
ed hope it would, he still had
at Mr. Kevins had consented
ilsion, and not of his free will ;
tenioou he spoke of rejectin«jc
iking his chances in the world
1 than he then possessed,
shed tears when he spoke of
from her upon the followinj?
se that he would abandon the

Mr. Ashton, that clear-headed
mother's advice, and a mouth
ed college.

CHAPTER IV.

NEW FACKS AXD NEW FRIENDS.

Gu^lS: m Slldc^f ;" r "^""^^^"^ ^' Arthur

<Iui..yastha:;^,Sc:'^^S^r^K^;^•;^«V^■

cnt ways and diflorpnt r,ln/ ' "* ^^''^"* '^"*«r-

--a ^n the hXJo r^::r rn^^^

^ and encountered all difficulties Jfth a w^ll' *'^'"''
them, and thus when Aldeane G J il at t^ 177'^''
teen, carried wifli Jm^ ♦ . i> «nuic, at tne age of six-

feel in but few ofl.T -f V ' ''''*'' * P"^« ^e covild

fHe i^netnh*;.;.:i,^^rrc;S,r:; "'^ '-^'^ " '^"'

impressed with this tharkn • ^' ""■'■*' '^ '»»«'»

mestic life LUe cd h- .?'''"' '^^'^^^hing of her do-
the academyln w i i Z I '1^*'"" '^ •'""*'^'- ^^^^^^^^ i"

-md at tl p n ^'•"^^'■.7" "^"'•^ b^'«utiful with every year
•piay ucl, and elegant osUunes, which, as well

ALDEaNE.

as the blonde beauty of her faee, seemed to separate her
eompletely from the plainly dressed figure .v'hich was
conerally to be found at her side. Yet m this fi-ure, and
the faee belon-in- to it, there was a certain beauty Bueh
as had marked her ehildhood-a beauty not so showy,
observers remarked, but which would certainly prove
more lasting than that of the belle and heiress, Miss

Ashton. ,

They said of the latter, too, that she was a good-
natured, handsome girl, but that for a half hour's sensible
chat her little friend was infinitely to be ]>reterred, and
that if one would hear a sonata well played, or a song
well sung. Miss Aldeane Guthrie would certainly do both
for YOU if asked in a secluded room, where her touch and
her voice were in no danger of being destroyed by the
gaze and the comments ofan admiring throng.

So those two friends, so different yet so loving, had
each her certain refutation among their schoolmates and
friends, and especially among the few young people who
had shared and brightened their holiday times.

Chief among these had been a young gentleman named
Morgan, the only son of a neighbor of Mr. Ashton s,who
had not only been a friend and playmate of belle from
her babyhood, but Arthur's friend during his term at
college. Having graduated the year before, and since
that pursued the study of medicine, he was about to de-
part for Europe, partly to continue his studies at the
different capitals there, and partly to make the grand
tour for his especial 'pleasure. ^ . ,

Kathor imfortunately for any scheme of professional
improvement that might have been in the mind of Fred-
eric Morgan, his proposed companion was devoted,
wholly and confessedly, to pleasure. He was a young
rrc.ntleman from Canada, the nephew and heir of a Mr.
'Uaymond, an old .ind esteemed friend of the elder Mr.
INIor^an. Until this summer, when he came to Morgan

^>
tl
t]
ki
hi
til
an
lie

to
wa
M'ii

sill

der

strc

alsc

sad.

thes

NE.

ICO, soemcfl to poparatc her
drcsscil figure -which was
ido. Yet in tliis tii^uro, and
; was a certain beauty, such
I— a beauty not so showy,
ich would certainly prove
;he belle and heiress, Miss

;oo, that she was a good-
hat for a half hour's sensible
finitely to be ])rcferred, and
»nata well played, or a song
hrie would certainly do both
1 room, where her touch and
r of being destroyed by the
1 admiring throng,
different yet so loving, had
imong their schoolmates and
g the few young people who
•heir holiday times,
pn a yoinig gentleman named
cighbor of Mr. Ashton's, who
and i)laymate of Belle from
8 friend during his term at
i the year before, and since
aedicine, he was about to de-
, continue his studies at the
a partly to make the grand

r any scheme of professional
ivc been in the mind of Fred-
id companion was devoted,
> pleasure. He was a young
ic nephew and heir of a Mr.
>emod frien<l of the elder Mr,
cr,

when he came to Morgan

-A.LDEANE. ^

ALDEANE.

all, when one evening there came into liis face one that
was utterly new — perhaps to her lace, perhaps to her

only.

IJelle Asliton had been bantering her old friend \\\)o\\
the probability of his bringing a Avife from Europe, and
he had laughingly replied that he should bo loo much en-
gaged in study to think of such a thing, but that doubt-
less his friend llaymond would bring home some fair
creature to be the envy and admiration of all her trans-
atlantic sisters.

"I," exclaimed the young man, suddenly looking up,
" I shall never marry."

"Why not," cried Frederic IMorgan, while the young
ladies glanced at him in surprise.

It was then that Aldeane Guthrie saw that strange,
new expression rest upon his face. It was one of abject
loathing. Of what ? of himself? of marriage ? He did
not say. But the expression had been upon his face, and
though a mischievous smile immediately succeeded it,
Aldeane had seen it and it haunted her for days.

" Oh, I see you were joking, " said Frederic Morgan,
after a moment's pause for Ids answer, " but I warn you
not to speak such heresy before the ladies, it won't do,
will it, Arthur?"

" I must confess," said the latter, " I am surprised at it,
after hearing the unbounded admiration he expressed for
your cousin a short time ago."

" Miss Greyson is certainly very beautiful," said Mr.
llaymond quietly.

" And so your cousin has arrived," cried Miss Ashton,
turning toward Frederic Morgan. " What a tiresome crea-
ture you are not to have told me about her before, when
you know I am so anxious to hear all about her ! Is she
pretty ?"

"You have heard Raymond's verdict," returned her
friend, provokingly evading a direct reply. " Now do,

th
wl
in
ed
ac
wl

th(
ev(
wh
pic

ma
or
par
in (
adr

will

tha

tha
<(

Ash

NE.

lie into his face one that
lier face, perliaps to lior

ering her old frioncl ujton
a Avit'e from Europe, and
ic should be loo much en-
1 a thing, but that doubt.
Id bring liome some fair
[miration of all her trans-

aan, suddenly looking up,

INIorgan, while the young

<c,

iuthric saw that strange,

ice. It M'as one of abject

If? of marriage ? lie did

ad been upon his face, and

mmediately succeeded it,

nted her for days.

^, " said Frederic Morgan,

answer, " but I warn you

)re the ladies, it won't do,

tter, " I .am surprised at it,
clmiration he expressed for

very beautiful," said Mr.

rived," cried Miss Ashton,
n. " What a tiresome crea-
me about her before, when
lear all about her ! Is she

d's verdict," returned her
, direct reply. "Now do,

AIDE AXE.

pelle, spare mo the task of eulogizing a youn-r Judv -'.o
IS my iUtlu.r's «-ard, and therefore n;ay, Ibr a^long s'pia-
sterliood, l)e left to my tender mercies."

"You provoking creature, I don't i)elieve you admire
her a bit !" cried Miss Ashton, witli perhaps not so muel,
indignation at this circumstance portruycMl in her face as
perfect generosity would Jiuve admitted of.

"In.leed I do," returned i^Iorgan somewhat more

j seriously. "I tliink her a beautiliil little creature- -is

I pretty-yes, (piite as pretty as tluit wax doll I once .r'av..

you." •■' '

" Your memory must be excellent," returned IJelle svith
a blush and a smile.

"Oil it recalls to me events even more distant than
that, he re])hed teasingly ; "I can remember quite wc'Il
when we one day played truant together, and bein- lost
111 the woods, were about to make ourselves a iivin-r
edition of that picture over the table, and the robins were
actually thinking of looking for leaves to cover us with
when — "

A firm pair of white hands over liis mouth, and
then a struggle with the possessor thereof, durin<r which
everyone laughed a great deal, except Arthur (luthvio
who for some reason looked very red and not at all well
pleased.

And this often occurred at such times durincr the re-
mamd..r of the vacation, without his at all knowing whv
or any other person appearing to notice it. He wis
particularly fond of Frederic Morgan, who as his senior
in college had oflen been of great service to him, and he
admired his companion, but he was undeniably pleaded
when he bade them farewell upon the deck of the steamer
that was to bear them to Europe upon the day before
tliat in which he returned for his last year at Harvard

And, oh dear, I'm dreadfully lonely !" sighed Belle
Ashton upon the evening of that day, as she sat alone

ALDEANE.

with her friend in Iho empty parlors, lookinp: out njwn
the moonlit RcoiR', and Ahli'iuie (Juthric echoed the words
in her heart an<l hent her eyes that none iniglit sec the
tears that glistened in tliem.

"Do you know," said JJelle, after a silence which for
her was very long, " do you know, I don't exactly liko
the companion Fred li:>s for his travels? Mr. George
Raymond may be very handsome, and very rich, and
very excellently educated, l.iiL there is something about
him I don't like,"

"Why surely you can have no fault to find with
hira ¥" asketl Aldeane, in her usual ready defense of the
absent. " 1 am sure he is a i)erfect gentleman."

" Oh, 1 have nothing to say against that," replied Belle,
"and of course yon phi>uld defend him, for he is very liko
your brother," and then she blushed vividly, and laughed
as if in some slight confusion,

"I do not think hira at all like Arthur," answered
Aldeane, " except that ))Oth are dark. But now that
you have spoken of it, Belle, I will own that there is some-
thing about Mr. Raymond that ])uzzlcs me, and that I
really wish he had not gone with Mr, Morgan,"

"Mr, Morgan would doubtless thank you for your
solicitude," replied Belle, laughingly, and then she
suddenly approached her friend, knelt down beside her
and clasped her arms about her waist,

" Speaking of Frederic Morgan " she said softly, look-
ing somewhat doubtfully into the eyes of her friend, " I
have a seci-et to tell you."

" A secret," asked Aldeane wonderingly, and then as
she noted the changing color that came and went upon
her face, she added archly, " can it be, dearest, that he
has taken your heart with him ?"

"Oh, no," she replied with a quick laugh, "but it is
something you will think much worse than that ; he has
taken the portrait you had taken for me in your gradua-

tic

tol

S!li

slu

cas
ey.
1
the
fou
ure
the

•lors, lookiiifX out upon
ithric c'l'hoiMl tliP words
at none iiiiglit st'c the

ler a silence which for
w, I don't exactly iiko
I travels? Mr. George
le, anil very rich, and
ere ia Koniething about

no fault to find with
ill ready defense of the
ct gentleman."
inst that," replied IJclle,
I hiui, for he is very like
icd vividly, and laughed

like Arthur," ansM-ered
! dark. l>ut now that
I own that there is some-
puzzles me, and that I
Mr. Morgan."
SB thank you for your
hingly, and then she
, knelt down beside her
vaist.

m " she said softly, look-
le eyes of her friend, " I

)nderingly, and then as
lat came and went upon
1 it be, dearest, that he

quick laugh, "but it is
worse than that ; he has
1 for me in your gradua-

ALDEANE.

I rcalli/, really

tion dress. Pray don't be angry, love
told him I ooiildn't, woHl(ln''t spare it."

Al.leanc (liitlirie dropped her face upon her hands as if
in sudden fright, and ].resently raised it erinisoued as she
said, " It was wrong, very wrong, Helle. lie would not
have dared to do it, if you had not encotiraged liini."

"He left an equivalent," returned Belle demurely, as
she arose and kissed her friend, " lio really did, he was
so coiiseience-strieken " and dropping a small ivory case
in her lap, Helle glided from the room.

Aldeane Guthrie trembled as she looked at the little
case, and not daring to oim^u it, nor to leave it for other
eyes to see, hastily placed it in the pocket of her dress.

IJut hours later, when she had tremblingly looked upon
the bright, handsome young face portrayed within, it
found a safer resting-place— a place among the few trcas-
ures possessed by her— and who shall say but that it was
the most precious of them all.

CHAPTER V.

BMAI.r CnANOKS AND ONB OUKAT CIIANOE.

Six um-vfiitful montlis passod by. During tlmt, time
Arthur (JiUlirie pur«tu'(l liis «tiulk's, and Aldi-ane was :i
teacher in tlio scliool in which whc liad been so htnjjc a pii-
l)il. Sl\c was contented witli her work in life and pursued
it steadily, scUbun yielding to the temptation which existed
for her to draw i)aiuful contrasts betwei'U her own dull
round of duties, and that of pleasure foUowed by lier
friend Miss Ashton.

For thouuh the one was a poor teacher and the other
a beam iful hi'ircss, they were friends still— the denrest and
tlic b(-t, and it was Belle's greatest pleasure to spend the
long >:iturday8 in Aldeane's little room— the same they
had for so many years shared together, or to take her for
a long drive into the country, where they could talk
together cheerfully of the happy past, or hopefully of the

future.

Tlien there was the Christmas week passed with Arthur
at Rose Cottage, what a happy time that was ! what a
Itreak in the monotony that seemed to settle for the win-
ter blankly upon her ! and then to be broken in the spring
by an interruption, that 'was as sudden and terrible as a
thunderbolt.

A telegram was placed in her hands one blustery morn-
ing in March, containing but six words : " Your mother is
dying, come home," and in an hour later Aldeane Guthrie,
almost wild with apprehension and dismay, was seated iu
a stage-sleigh and was on her way to lier unloved home.

il
i

ti
1'

ci
ai

St
St

it
oi
si
d.
h<
til
lu
it

OUKAT CIIANOB.

l)y. DiiriiiJ? llmt time
dii'H, and Aldt'auo was a
■ liiul lu'oii so limj; a pu-
work in life and pursntd
ti'inptation whioii (!xi»trd
1 bc'twoi'U her own didl
casure followed by lier

or teacher and the other
ids still — the denrest and
•st pleasure to spend the
le room — the same they
'ether, or to take her for
where they could talk
past, or hopefully of the

week passed with Arthur
T time that was ! what a
led to settle for the win-
be broken in the spring
sudden and terrible as a

lands one blustery morn-
words : " Your mother is
iir later Aldeane Guthrie,
nd dismay, was seated iu
ly to lier unloved home.

A LD i:a X E.

Unloved, and yet so eatterly looked lor. " Vonr molluT
is dyinir, c.mc lioine." Huu" tl,.. words l.iinied into l„.r
l>r.iiii; .111,1 iluMi sin. won.lcred why tlu y li.id lucn sent to
iicr by Dr. Mn.iisun instcid of ."Mr. Neviiis, .-ind tinii lirr
hciirt lail.d licr at (lie idea of meetiiii; h.r euld, st.iii
8te|>-rather, and then as she th<)Ui,'lit of her niothi'r, was
overwhelnie(l with ^'rief iit her eondition.

It seemed an njjje to the anxious traveler, ere the well-
known vilIaL;c api.tared in view. It was indeed evenin.'
and almost dark, so early had the jrniy twiiiirlit hidd»'ii in
lis eheerless eloisti'i-s tl,c sunbeams that had vainly
struf;<rled with the wiinl and wleet for existenee. It \mm
ubout ten minutes' walk from the viila-;e to the farm, l.iit
although Aldeane was almost benumi>ed with cold,' she
was j.reparing to start briskly forward; when some' one
tonehed Ikt, and h.oking u|> she saw Arthur, unusually
pale and grave, standing beside her. " I hoped, almost
expeeted,you would be here to night, so I eame to meet
you," he said as he stoc.jK.d to kiss her, then turned away
struggling with emotion, absently folding Aldeane's shawl
closer around her, for she shivered in the cold evening air,
and with a leeling of undelined alarm,

"How is mother?" she (pieried anxiously, as slie ob-
served his emotion.

He drew her hand within his arm, walked on a il-w
steps, and then answered, "Aldeane, she will never led
sorrow or pain again. I trust our mother is in lieaven."
The announeement of death, no dillerence how gently
it may be imparted, or however well we may considtr
ourselves prepared for it, always falls ui)on'us with a
shock. Especially did it upon Aldeane, for unconsciously
during her solitary journey, she had been treasuring
hopes that her mother's danger was exaggerated, atid
that a daughter's loving care would eventually restore
her to healtii. "When, then, she heard that she was dead,
it seemed as if the e(jld jAIarch wind had swept all the

A LDEANK.

hrightiicHH txwiX joyonBiioKS awny, nn<l llint life was liLo
the «lr(!ir, Hiiowy WiiHtc luCon) licr. TfUilfSH Holm kIiooW
luT frniiif, whicli pcrccivinir, Arthur ciKlfuvoritl to cliaii!;*'
to n more lualtliy tlovv of tcnrn, by ricoiiiitii)j^ the liiht
moini'iitH of the (U-pnrti-d. llo had rcc-civi'd a iiicnhii^'o
thi' prcviouH anttrnoon from \\h' onino hniul wliich liml
I>(>niu'il ht-r own, ami tukiiii; tho fvcriinj^ Htat^c had arrived
that iiioriiin}; to Hiid her uneoiiHcious — dying of un at-
tack of brain fever.

For hours lie remained hcHide Iier, lioping for one look
or word of reeo^nition, and at last he was rewanled.
{Suddenly she opened her even, called his name, whinpered

brokenly, "The paper, at Mr. *iv " and immediately

ex])ired.

The doctor and Arthur were alone witli her at the time,
and Aldeano amid her grief was glad that this was so,
that the man who had darkened ho many years of her
mother's life was not present to cant a Bliadow upon her
peaceful death.

By this time they had rcacheu the house, and striving
to compose herself, Aldeane suflfered Arthur to lead her
into the sitting-room in which wc first saw them, and
there standing before the fire was Mr. Nevins.

lie started as Aldeane entered, apparently unable to
recognize her, but when she said, "Mr. Kevins, I am
Aldeane Guthrie " at the same time extending her hand,
ho took it mechanically, while his face flushed crimson,
as h ) looked upon her. lie answered curtly her inquiries
concerning his welfare, and pointing her to a chair by
the fireside, left her and 'Arthur alone, saying he Avould
order some refreshment for hi"r. His manner was almost
kind, and as she sank upon t»'C seat he h.-xd designated,
she asked herself the question, "Have we not judged
him too harshly ? Perhaps it is only his manner, his heart
may be good."

At this stage of her reflections, she was interrupted by

lai

niM

hei

wli

l.al

tea

diti

sun

the

whi

by-i

The

witl

SOIll

as t

face

a h.i

avoi

disc(

smili

yean

heart

look

unrel

she ]

dernt

gaze

besid

with

mour

ALDEANR.

, niul tlint life wnn liko
r. Ti'iirlfRH Hdlm kIiooU
iir ciKlt'iivoritl to cIiaiiL;*'
, by ri'<'<iuiitii)i^ the liiht
lail rccc'ivfil a nu'RHUf^o
itnino hntul wliu-li liiiil
rcniiig Htatje hud anivo<l
Hciou8 — <lying of un ut-

liiT, liojiiiijj for one look

last he wttn rcwanltfl.

llo<l his iiaino, wliiHjU'n'd

" and ininii'diattly

)np -nitli lior at the titnr,
I phid tliat tliiH was so,
I HO many years of her
L'iiKt a Bliadow upon licr

the house, and striving
red Arthur to lead her
vc first saw them, and
1 Mr. Nevins.
1, apparently unable to
id, "Mr, Kevins, I am
me extending her hand,
is face flushed crimson,
ered curtly her inquiries
iting her to a chair by
alone, saying he would
His manner was almost
seat he had designated,
" Have we not judged
[ily his manner, his heart

she was interrupted by

A h„r, who forced her to ,bi„k a glass of wine, for she
^as look.ng eKceed.Mgiy pale and haggard, and inde..d

s ■ was ,,„„e a.nt In.n. inanition an.l fa.igu.. She „

•laMde her heavy wrappers, and ...deavored ,o .at of

. <-d stn.„gth or the many trials that it would y.-t bo

lot to pass through. M,.t wh,.n she thought , f her.

.. v..uld have weieonu..! her h.une so gi.adly, ,vi„.;

'••''" "•" •"amn.ate in the ehan-L.T above, he risini:

K.,lt> alter havn,g eaten a little, that she eo„ld per-
the'li;.:] "'" ^'^ "'"•>' '"'^' "•'•" '^ '-J^ at

Atl.T a little, th.y ascended the cold staireas,., thro,.c.h
wuoh the wind was whistling. Just as it used 'to d., 1.
by-go„o years, and stood without the death-chamber.
J he door w.as a little ajar, and they saw Mr. Nevins
w. hm, stan.l.ng at the bureau, apparently searching for

as they entered, and turne.l towanl them, hi„ tl„she.l
<Hce wearing a look, half .lefiant, half frightened. W

avoSinr"'' '" ''■*' ''" ^"^"'' "'■^'"""-•y ""-»- to
Ai,proaching the bod, Arthur drew down the sheet an.l

sX'i: t^"/? '' '•" '''''''^ "^«*h-' peaceful ::;

vea s ° xl ^""l »"tT""Wed sleep she had known for
years. A sense of painful desolation fell u,,o„ Aldeane's
hc^-t as she gazed upon the white, upturned face, w ! so
look Mas changeless at her presence. It seemed as if an
unrebnting hand was snapping her very heart-strings as
Hhe pressed her lips to those, so unresponsive to tlurten-

ZToi ti? *"r\T«"^'-^>'' -^1— teredthe
ga/o of those who had returned to their lonely watch

w=tlhl'rir- "^^^-■f to them was .aer^>d: a;d
mo™! ^ "'"^''^""^ '''^^ «*«-^ -^^^' to let the

ALDEANE.

Aldoane was very tired, grief and fatigue l-.ad severely
tried her frame, ami not wishing to return to the witling-
room slie turned aside to her own room, and entering,
found a iire burning briglitly upon the liearth she only
remembered as dark and cheerless. A servant was busily
engaged in arranging the room for her reception. She
looked at Aldeane with some curiosity as she entered, and
after a stare, prolonged to such a length that its object
became quite uneasy, said :

" May be you're her daughter ?" pointing in the direc-
tion of the room in which Mrs. Nevins lay.
Aldeane articulated a faint " Yes,"
" Ail ! I thought so, " continued the M'oman loqua-
ciously. " You look som.? like her, and 'twill be a bless-
in' for you if you're had" as good. She was a powerful
nice woman, to be sure. I've heard her speak of you
often, and of her son, too. She was 'mazin' proud of
him. Dear ! dear ! it's a good mother you've lost— laws
a me, it does seem dreadful that she's dead and gone.
But I didn't mean to make you cry, miss. Now, do
cheer up ! We must all come to it sooner or later, and
we all know she was ready for it. Can't I do any tiling
more for you ?" she queried, ' >oking around the warm,
cosy room with an air of pride.

" Yes," replied Aldeane, " you may send my brother to
me. Ask him to come up to my room, and to bring with
him some paper, pens, and ink, and then, as you ha\e got
every thing so nice, I shall not need you any more to-
night."

" Very well, ma'am," 'said the really kind-hearted girl.
" As you. don't want me any more I'll go 'long down and
see how the Avidderer is a comin' along. Nice man he is,
to be sure! Mighty sorry she's dead, I reckon. He
hasn't wanted her dead ever since I've known 'em ! Oh !
no, of course not !" and she smiled ironically as she left
the room, leaving all the bitter feelings that had been

■\

fi
d

d
tl
di

v<
to
h(

m
til

SUi

as
]{c
lie
bu
syi
lie.i
her
wri
tioi
lett
wh;
of:
Ale

pro
thin

upon

NE.

[ and fatigue liatl severely
sr to return to the »lt ling-
own room, and entering,
. the hiarth she only
A servant was bu^<ily
I for her reeeption. !She
iriosity as she entered, and
h a length that its object

)v ?" pointing in the direc-

Nevins lay.

Yes."
;inued the M'oman loqua-

her, and 'twill be a bless-
;ood. She was a powerful
; heard her speak of you
»he was 'niazin' proud of
L mother you've lost — laws
hat she's dead and gone.

you cry, miss. Now, do
i to it sooner or later, and
[• it. Can't I do any tiling
' >oking around the warm,

ou may send my brother to
ny room, and to bring with
, and then, as you ha\e got
ot need you any more to-

hc really kind-hearted girl,
iiore I'll go 'long down and
tin' along. Nice man he is,
she's dead, I reckon. He
ince I've known 'em ! Oli !
smiled ironically as she left
;er feelings that had been

ALDEANE.

composing themselves to rest, battling in Aldcane's heart
AMth renewed vigor at tlu-so signiti.-ant words

Arthur soon appeared, bringing with him th(> article's
sheJ.a.l^nu-nt.oned, asking fbr what purpose they were

"To write to IJelle, of course," answered Aldeano
c rawing her chair near the table, and absently examitr:
the paper. " I am nearly worn out, already 1 Mother'':;
death was such a dreadful shock to me. It seems bu
to'te ;;'' that I saw her well and happy. Belle remlrS
hi" Iw"' ' ""''' ^''^'^'- ""'' ' ' -'^'' «•- --

" I wish she w%as," replied Arthur. " But

it is

mucj use for you ;o;;i;;toi;;*';:eomrr, ;:;;::

tlun^ she could reach here until the day after the funeS

^hveVf r ^; ''' -7"^^"-"^^'' ro" know. I .vished it
delayed a day longer, but Mr. Kevins would not listen to
such a proposal."

" I presuine he desires us to leave the house as quickly
as possible," returned Aldeane, bitterly. " I shall fro to
iose Cottage before I return tA school so I w tr£ c
IMle and tell her of our affliction, for, indeed, I ^1:^2
burden ny Jieart to some one, and she, I know will
sympatln.e with me. There is a load of 'sorrow in my
heart which it seems as if I shall always carry with me
her commiseration m.ay Hghten it," and she be^an to
ZT'f ,f •■^'^"^f t meditating in silence until the cessa-
litter wt' r^'^ ^^ratching of the pen denoted that the
le ter was finished. He read tlie offered ej.istle; then
while she sealed and directed it, fell agaili into a "t
of musing, which lasted until a deep-drawn sigh from
Aldeane aroused him.

in^ ff tnl'r"''','' ^'"'*? ""^'"'^'^^ " ^ ^'^''' ^""^ think-
ing of mother's last words, and I car not but think it

providential that they were not heard by Kevins for I

think that paper is some disclosure concerning liim."

ALDEANE.

" Some disclosure, Arthur," said AhleaiH-, wondcr-

ingly.

" Yes," he returned, " I have heen t^iinkins of him
much of late, and I have a thousand suspicions of liini— *aU
unjust, perliaps, but very real. You do not believe iu
natural antipatliies, I believe," he asked, turning towanl
lier suddenly.

" No, I do not think I do," she answered, hesitatingly.

" But I can assure you, Aldeane," continued Arthur,
earnestly, " that a natural antipathy exists between that
man and me, and the only barrier that stood between our
hatreds is f^one. I am passive still, I can not but V)e pas-
sive, but he will work — he is working even now. I feel it.
I know it. I am awaiting liis attack. My mother knew
it would come. That paper in Lawyer Evans's hands is
to prepare me for it."

" You are excited and nervous, to-night," said Aldeane,
soothingly. " The events of the day have been too much
for you, dear brother. I can not think that Vm. Neviiis
will injure us, for in injuring you he injures me. Wo
will never be divided, brother."

" Thank yon ft)r that promise, my darling," he said,
kissing her fondly. " I will remember that, whatever
happens." And years afterward he did remember it;
years afterward when she, perhaps, had forgotten that
she had ever uttered it.

He left her then, taking her letter with him, promising
to send it by a man who would pass Rose Cottage the
next day.

After a 8lce])le8S niicht Aldeane descended to the
sitting-room, where she exchanged formal good-mornings
with Mr. Nevins, after which he questioned her in an
interested manner concerning her school, her position, and
many minor details, all of which greatly surprised
Aldeane. Naturally frank and unsuspicious herself, she
always believed others possessed of tlie same qualities,

bu
foi
ne:

sell
thii
in 1
i
tre;
mo
hot
eon
tak(
she

of]

hon

and

lear

wit 1

ecnn

prou
thee

the i

deUc

perc(
draw

prect
she V

])itifu
shoul

plent
lately

siiid AldeaiH', wondcr-

hoon t'.iinking of him
\(\ suspicions of liim — 'all

You do not believe in
c asked, turning towanl

B answered, hositatinsjly.
ane," continued Arthur,
ithy exists between that
r that stood between our
ill, I can not but V)e pas-
king even now. I feel it.
tack. My niotlier knew
Lawyer Evans's hands ia

, to-night," said Aldeane,
day have been too much
)t think that V.v. Nevins
on he injures me. We

se, my darling," l»c said,
Mnember that, whatever
rd he did remember it;
lajis, liad forgotten that

tter with him, promising
[ pass Kose Cottage the

eano descended to the
ed formal good-mornings
le questioned her in an
• school, her position, and
rhich greatly surprised
unsuspicious herself, she
d of tlie same qiaalitics,

ALDEAKE.

but as slie looked upon the man before her it was impossible
for her to .l.vest herself of the conviction that his kind-
ness was all assunuNl to serve some vile purpose

He at length .-.sked her how she would like to exchange
school-teaching fur housekeeping, hinting verv plainly
tha he considered it her duty to take her mother's place
in the household.

Al.leane would also have thought so, had he ever
treat.,! her with the interest an<l affection due her as her
mo her s child. But as he had, on the contrarv, treated
both Arthur and herself, heretofore, witli the inost bitter
contempt and dislike, she felt under no obligations to
take the place of a housekeeper under his control. So
she replied that "she must, of course, linish out her vear
at school, and besides that, she was perfectly ignorant
of liousehold details, and that she would be of no use at
home."

Mr. Nevins did not seem at all bafHed or discouraged
and returned, that as for that matter, she would sw.n
loarn all that was necessary, and he would supply her
with good servants-that she ought to practice domestic
ecuomy, for he supposed some fine city beau had got her
prcn.sc already, and if not, that there were plenty in
the country that would bo g.ad enough to get lier

The hght bantering tone in which he spoke, as well as
the speech itself, sounded exceedingly heartless and in-
debcate to Aldeane. A slight sneer curled her lip, which
perceiving, Mr. Nevins endeavored to dispel by suddenly
drawing out his purse in a most unaccountable and un-
precedented fit of liberality, and asking her how much
she would require to obtain mourning garments

Aldeane's lieart swelled with a feeling of scorn at this
pitiful bribery, and with iiulignation and shame that she
should be Its object. She replied proudly, that she had
plenty of money for the purpose, as her salary had been
lately paid her.

ALDEAKE.

Mr. Ncvius re]>lacc(l his purso, witli a look of gratifica-
tioii, and as Art liiir cmUtcmI sat down to tlic brcaklhst-
tal)li' scaiToly lu-odinu; his sahitation. The nii-al was
l)as,s('d in siiiMu-i', !ind soon after it Avas ended, the host
left them, seeming ill at ease in Arthnr's presence; they
could not hut notice this, and with feelin>:;s of deej) dis-
trust noted it down as evidenee, that he contemplated
some mischief aj^ainst Arthur, which would of course
also involve Aldeane. Its exact nature they taxed their
minds to the utniost limits of conjecture to ascertain, but
could in no degree determine. Arthur's visit to the
lawyer had b<'en made to no purpose, lie was danger-
ously ill, and at such a time when his death was moment-
arily exj)ected, his son could not be consulted upon any
business matter, liowevcr urgent. So, unwillingly, Arthur
was obliged to postpone the iiiquiries and investigations
lie had determined to nmke. He was assured of the hearty
assistance of his old friend Charles Evans, and was con-
tent to let the matter rest for a short period.

Mourning garments, by Arthur's orders, liad been pre-
pared at the village for Aldeane. With a sad, and heavy
lieart she ajjpeared in them at her mother's biuial, and
bent over the yawning grave in which was soon inclosed
that one who through life had so fondly cherished her.
Ah, Aldeane, well might you bewail that tender mother.
With her, was liome, and peace, and love all buried.

There was left the walls of strangers, and their shelter
and kindness, nothing more, sad hei'rt, nothing, nothing
more.

And what for Artluir? Scarcely these in such full
measure as came to Aldeane, but full measure to over-
flowing of the world's cimiity and hatred, and he knew
that the hand to mete it out to him would be that of his
step-father, Jonas Nevins.

TE.

, with a look i)f gratifica-
clown to tlic brcaklhst-
itatiuii. The im-al was
r it was ciulol, tlie lio^t
Arthur's prost'iieo ; thoy
rith tVoliuj:;s of <li'i']) dis-
0. that lie coutt'injilatrd
which would of course
; nature they taxed their
njecture to ascertain, but
Arthur's visit to the
iirpose. lie was daiiger-
■u his death was niomeut-
t be consulted upon any
, So, unwillingly, Arthur
[uiries and investigations
was assured of the hearty
rles Evans, and was con-
short ])eriod,

ur's orders, liad been ]tre-

With a sad, and heavy

her mother's burial, and

which was soon inclosed

80 fondly cherished her.

BWfiil that tender mother.

and love all buried.

rangers, and their shelter

d heart, nothing, nothing

rcely these in such full
•ut full measure to over-
md hatred, and he knew
him would be that of his

CITAPTER VI.

WHAT Anxiiru's cautiok availed.

The morning after the funeral, Mr. Xevins informed
Arthur that lie desired an interview of five minutes with
hun, and that he should advise, but not insist, that Aldeano
should be absent.

Never perhaps were two men more directly contrasted
than the two she left together at the breakfast-table
rising after pouring tlic coffee and excusing herself ni.on'
the p ea of a violent headache, which was indee.l more
rral than such excuses generally are. Jonas Nevins had
of late rapidly grown old, with such age, as deep and
anxious care, and doubtfully held prosperity often brin<^s.
\U looked nervously at the young man opposite him as
If measuring his strength both of body and mind

'lou are a handsome fellow," he said at len-th
Yo-r mother did well to be proud of her only clnhf"
Her only child!" exclaimed Arthur. "Is Aldeane
tlien not my sister ?"

"Wliat a sharp lawyer this man will make," cried
Kevins in affected admiration, "to have had his father's
will before his eyes all these years and never to liavo
suspected that !"

Arthur looked at him in dumb amazement which ha.l
not ong m it any clement of unbelief, for su.hh'nly a
hundred things which had puzzled him were explained.
Jiut If Aldeane was not his sister, who was she?

This was the first question he found breath to ask, and

ALDEANE.

m Ncvins. l.olia.l boon watching him narrowly as if to
learn whotlior the inform:.tion ho volunl.Hn-oa vvas uulood
new, answero.1 him readily, "The e.act relationship
existing between you and the young lady I can not
explain. However I believe there is some relationslnp.

'Do you mean

to say, sir, that my mother never

explained it to you?" asked Arthur doubtfully, thinking
to himself that doubtless the paper she had left with the
lawyer would do so fully to him.

"You know your mother was not inclined to trust mc
voluntarily with any secret," answered Nevins, shrugging
his shoulders, ami taking a position with his back to the
fire, whence he looked at Arthur, who toyed with his cup
and spoon thoughtfully. " Of course," he continued with
a smile of triumph, " she could not long deceive me as to
Aldeane's real position." ,,

« I can not imagine how I have been bUnd so long,
mused Arthur, and then he hurriedly said something of
the necessity of keeping this from her.

" W V as to that," said Mr. Nevins very coolly, I was
about t. .ecommend to you, that she be told immediately,
that she may ot once recognize the iact that she has no
claim upon you."

« You mistake, sir," answered Arthur lifting his head
and looking at him proudly. " Aldeaiie has every claim
upon me. I consider her a sacred trust left to me by my

dead mother." .

« Estimable woman !" said Mr. Nevins, with a little sigh
and another shrug of his shoulders. "Very estimable
woman, but mistaken on some points. For instance, I think
she should have explained Aldeane's position to you.

Arthur coincided in this opinion more closely than ho
could remember having ever done with any expressed by
Mr Nevins before, but he said nothing, and his step-
father continued : " I hope, at least, young man, that she
informed you perfectly of yours."

it
a;
in
te

in
WJ

bli
clii
vil

est
he

tio
sat
tin

obi

pat

to (
fair
him
in (
you

ling him narrowly as if to
e volunU'orod was inflocd
'Tlic e;:act relationsliip
3 young lady I can not
LTf in some ri'lationsliip."
, that my motlu»r never
thur doubtfully, thinking
iper she had left with the

18 not inclined to trust mc
iswered Nevins, shrugging
iition with his back to the
ir, who toyed with his cup
lourse," he continued with
not long deceive me as to

lave been blind so long,"
irriedly said Bomethuig of
rora her.

sjevins very coolly, " I was
at she be told immediately,
ze the fact that she has no

ed Arthur lifting his head
" Aldeanc has every claim
jred trust left to mo by my

Ir. Nevins, with a little sigh
oulders. "Very estimable
points. For instance, I think
Icanc's position to you."
inion more closely than ho
lone with any expressed by
aid nothing, and his step-
; least, young man, that she
u-8."

ALDEANE,

'I think I can hardly

Arthur glanced at liim keenly,
be mistaken as to that," he .<aid.

Mr. Nevins nodded gravely, and drew from his pocket
a well-filled wallet. " Of course," lie said, as he opeiu-d
It, "you are prepared to acknowledge these cluuns ] hold
agamst you?" and he i)hiced before the astonislied young
man a series of papers which ho recognized as the quar-
terly school-bills of himself and Aldeane.

" These l)ills are doubtless genuine," he said at length,
in as calm a voice as he could assume, " but I can iiot"seo
why they are placed before mo to-day."

" For settlement, sir, for settlement," said Mr. Nevins
grandly. « These bills, sir, you doubtless know, will bo
handed you for settlement from your estate."

Arthur Guthrie rose from his seat, his eyes absolutely
blazing with passion. "I deny the validity of your
claims, sir," ho exclaimed, "and I denounce you as a
villain."

Nevins shrugged his shoulders and smiled in tlie cool-
est manner. "I told your mother you would do that,"
he said.

"My mother was never a party to this shameful decep-
tion," exclaimed Arthur. « Do you, sir, ignore a conver-
sation wliich took place between us upon this subject
three summers ago?"

"I remember," he replied, " that about that time I was
obliged, by my promise to your mother, to aid in a very
pardonable deception which she practiced upon you."

" \yhat do you mean ?" asked Arthur.

" Simply that your mother well knew that I intended
to carry out your father's will merely to the extent of a
fair division of the interest of the actual property left by
him would allow. That share would, perhaps, iind you
ni clothes ; but I am not quite sure of it, as I observe
you like to dr* ■( well."

Arthur made no reply.biit looked at him from liead to

ALDEANE.

foot ; but fio far from appearing unraKy under the Hcru-
tiiiy, he continued: "1 don't (h'liy but ihat 1 have done
well by your father'H property, but that is no reason why
I should waste the proceeds of my labor upon you, n«.r
do I intend to do so."

Arthur Guthrie was silent for full fifteen minutes, dur-
ing which tune Mr. Nevins carelessly Inunmed a tune and
pared his finger-nails, observing his victim, however, with
a glance that never faltered.

" I told you, three years ago, that I would never by
law enforce my father's will," said Arthur, at last, " and
in what you have to-day told me of Aldeane, the truth uf
which I can not doubt, 1 have an additional reason lor not
doing so. What is the total amount of these bills ?"
" Something near seven thousand dollars, I believe."
" Interest and all ?"
" Interest, of course."

Again Arthur was for a long time silent. Ilis first im-
pulse was to offer no terms to this man until after he liad
seen the paper left with Mr. Evans, and had consulted
Mr. Ashton, but fearing that in ease of this delay Nevins
might inform Aldeane of the false position which she had
BO long held, and which he resolved should never become
known to her until the whole mystery could be explained,
he at length said :

"Upon one condition, and one alone, Mr. Nevins, I
will pay your unjust demand, and that is, that henceforth
you maintain entire silence regarding Aldeane, and never
breathe to any soul, most especially to herself, one word
of what you have to-day told me."

" Why, really, the matter is nothing to me," said Nev-
ins, readily adding, with a grim sort of enjoyment, " It
will take all your little fortune, eh ?"

To this Arthur deigned no re])ly, but said: "You will
understand, sir, that you have given me a promise? to-day,
or, rathei-, that I have purchased it with a bribe."

.■if
l.e

as
an

thf

j>oi
tio

sill

gri
uni
cin

lier

a 1
slia

HWC

it ii
sitii
sha

the

((

qui(

iier
— 1(

UE.

£» unraKy under the Hcru-
t'liy hut lluit I liiivc tloiic
but that 18 no reason why
f my hibor upon you, nor

r full fifteen minutes, «lur-
lessly hummed a tune and
; his victim, however, with

), that I would never by
said Arthur, at last, " and
le of Aldeane, the trutli of
n additional reason for not
mount of these bills ?"
sand dollars, I believe."

; time silent. Ilis first im-
this man imtil after he liad
Evans, and had consulted
I ease of this delay Nevins
ilse position which she had
>lved should never become
lystery could be explained,

one alone, Mr. Nevins, I

md that is, that henceforth

•arding Aldeane, and never

cially to herself, one word

ne."

nothing to me," said Nev-

ira sort of enjoyment, " It

S eh?"

■e])ly, but said : " A^ou will

given me a promise? to-day,

ed it with a bribe."

ALDEANE.

Nevins colored to (lie temples. "At le.ist," he said,
••ilicr a pause, " if tlu-iv is silence upon my j.art there must
I>e on youi's."

Arthur nodded contemptuously. " You may be sure I
shall be siKnt until you s|.eivk. I shall be too careful of
Aldeane's jieace for that."

" l>y the way, I luivo something more to say of
Aldeane," said Nevins, thoughtfully.

Arthur looked at liim, but he did not seem able to speak
as readily as he wished. " I wish," he sai.l at last, abruptly
and plamly enougli, "to .idoj)! Aldeane."

Arthur looked at liim in intense astonishment. "To
that I will never consent," he exdainu'd.

" I do not see that your consent would be of much im-
portance," retorted Nevins. " I shall m.-ike the proposi-
tion to Aldeane, and it is for her to refuse or .accept, as
she pleases. I shall, of course, represent to her that the
greater i)art of your debt to me has been inc^urred by her,
and that by becoming my daughter, and utterly renoun-
cmg you, she will free you from the necessity of navincr
her share of it." i J o

" You may spare yourself the trouble of making such
a i)roposition to Aldeane," said Arthur fii-mly. "She
shall never accept it."

" I shall spare no trouble to insure her welfare," an-
swered Nevins. " I have a peculiar affection for lier, and
It is for that reason I assented so readily to your propo-
sition ; I am as anxious as you .are that her pe.ice of mind
shall not be disturbed. I am also anxious to jilaco her in
the position for which slie was designed by birth."

" You know, then, who and what slie is ?" cried Arthur
quickly.

"Oftliat T sliall say nothing, but wliatever might be
her birth, I offer to jilace her now in an enviable j.osition
■ — to ninke her my heiress."

" 1 decline the honor fig her," sai.l Arthur.

ALDEANE.

" You arc promatnro," answiTotl Novinc, frowning,
will myself npciik to Aldt-iinc tliis nl^ornoon."

" Altlcan*' will be true to lierself and to nio," anHW» rid
Arthnr |)roudly.

"It iH a matter of ])erfeet indifference to me," mused
Nevins, as Arthur wilh«lrew. " I have at least by this oiler
established the name of a model steivfather, and should
she accept she will bo mifjhtily useful as the mistress of
my town establishment ; and if I should die, as I suppose
all men must — thoujih it is a decidedly unpleasant ar-
rangement — why there would be a sort of poetical
justice in leaving my money to her."

But there seemed no probability that ho would ever
be called upon to do that, for Aldeanc (luthrie, after
having been informed by Arthur of the course Nevins
liad taken, could not for a moment think of assuming
toward him the relationship he proposed.

" My dear brother," she sobbed, " I know I am selfish
in impoverishing you so, but I can better do that than
dishonor you by taking that man's name, and accepting
his bounty."

" Far better, my darling, far better," he answered, with
a fond embrace. " Follow my fortunes, dearest. Poor as
they may be, they Avill at least be those of an honorable
man."

And something of this, in her just indignation, she
told Mr. Nevins that afternoon, to which he coolly re-
plied, that he had done his duty, and that she might
pursue the course she had chosen without hinderance
from him. •

And the next morning before its owner arose, Arthur
and Aldeane Guthrie, left the farm-house forever, and
hastened fronj its coldness and gloom to the warmth and
light of Rose Cottage.

pen
was
his
]{os
SI
Mrs
ing
Grc'

like
as m

seem
"(

lilUgl

judi(
"I
fat he
in he
"I
l)ears
shoul
but li
shall

0(1 Novinc, frowning. " I

is nl^omoon."

eir and to mo," answorod

lifToronoo to mo," mnsod
havo at loast by tliiw ollor
1 Htop-fathcr, and sliould
uaoful as the mistross of
I should die, as I siipposo
docidodly unploasant ar-
bc a sort of pootioal
hor."

lility that he would ever
r Aldoanc (iutlirio, aftor
lur of the course Nevins
)mcnt think of assuming
proposed.

3cd, " I know I am selfish
I can bettor do that than
m's name, and accepting

letter," lie answered, with
brtunes, dearest. Poor as
, be those of an honorable

her just indignation, she
n, to which he coolly re-
uty, and that she might
losen without hinderance

e its owner arose, Arthur

farm-house forever, and

gloom to the warmth and

CIIAPTKR VIT.

AT.nEA.\E TAKES A JOJUNKV, AND FINOH A HOME.

FoiK months later Artlmr Guthrie was an almost

penniless St udont in a law o<H«e in IJoston, hi. stei^father

was m undisputed posNossion of the greater portion of

lis property, and Aldef>ne was spending the vacation at
Itoso Cottage.

She had just entered with ]\[is8 Ashton from a call at
Mrs. Morgan's, and was silting upon the piazza discuss-
ing the manners and appearance of her niece, Miss Auuio
Greyson.

"She is certainly very beautiful," said Aldeane.

" Ves," returned her friend, "as Fred once said, she is
like a lovely dall, and my opinion is, she has also about
as inuoli licart and brain as a doll."

"Why, I am suit," said Aldeane reproachfully, ".she
sooins to like every one."

"Certainly, she does," she returned, with a merry
laugh ; " she has not animation enough to support a pre-
judice."

" I wonder Mr. Morgan did not return liorae when his
father died," said Aldeane, bending low over some trifle
in her hand.

"I wondered at it too," answered Belle, "but it ap-
pears that Mr. Morgan expressed a wish that his son
should complete his tour. I am sure poor Fred can have
but little heart for it. I wish he would come home. I
shall bo so loiuly, when you are gone."

A LJ) iJA y I'-

Al.U'an.! pn-sH..,l tlio l.nn.l of lu-r fii.^i..!. " My 'l'^'-
lovo," sii.l slu', "wli:it will be joiir lomlim^s to iniiuV"

" Aii.l ytt yoii :uv triad to >,'o," Hiii.l n»lli'.

"Almost," hI.o anHWoiv.1, "or, at liii>t, I am i,'lml that
Pn.rossor (Jiviivillc consiacnMl mo worthy of the situa-
tion." . , ,

"What did hu say the hi.lyV iianio was." asUcl

Ikllc. .,

" Arenddl, Uvh. John Aroiuk'll. Slic was once a \<n\M

of his." „ .,,,,,

"The name soctna quite familiar to mo, sai.i I. olio,
"but of oourwo I oau not know hor. I am surprisod that
Arthur has oonsontod to allow you to go so far from

Aldeano smiled. " It really is not such a Ions distance,
Belle, and as North Carolina is our native State, it is
natural we should have some inclination for it. Dear
Arthur ! 1 hope you will be very kind to him, IJelle, when

\ am gone." ,, - ., ■.

Hel'le reddened and smiled. "I can hardly fad to bo
That," she replied, " every one likes him but that horrible
Nevins. Do you know, Aldeano, Charley Kvuns told
papa that he believes Nevins bribod that clerk ho dis-
charged soon atU«r his father's death, yes, actually bribed
i.im,'to give him that paj.or your mother loll with him, for
not a trkee of it could b(> found. 1 never saw papa in sueh
a way about any thing."

" Hush," said Aldoanc warningly, " it is indeed a very
Htrange thing, but we odght not to talk of it. Unfor
tuiiatoly ^Ir. Evans was a very eccentric man, and used
to iiiid' the slnuigost hiding-places for most valuable

pajjors."

"Yes," inlorruptod Hello, "Charley used to tell
Arthur when he was at college, that the l>usiness never
would bo straightened if he died of apoplexy, as there was
every Indication he would. But how provoking to think

-' I' n h:.[ .\'^.

■V fri.'iKl. " My <l<in-
l(tmliiu;<-< to iniiu'V"

li.i n.Hi'.

Ua>t, I am i,'l!i(l that
WDi-tliy uf till' fitvia-

iianu' wuH

anki'tl

Slic wan oiici' a impil

r to mc," sai<l I idle,
, I am siiiprisi'il tliat
nil to go m iar from

it Hiich a Iniiu; «Ustanei',
;)iir iiativo State, it is
•linatioii lor it. Dear
iiicl to him, IJulkv when

I can liarclly fail to Tie
8 him l)ut tiiat horril)lu
0, Charley KvaiM toKl
bod that i-lerk lie diw-
th, yos, ai'tuaily brilii'tl
uitlicr k'll with hiin, for
lU'VtT Haw i)ai)rt in wm-h

ly, " it is iiulcod a very
,'to talk of it. Uiifor
'pi'titric man, and used
ices for most valuablo

Charley nscd to tell
liat the business never
f apoplexy, as there wan
how provoking to think

l:;'';,';;;":' ' ''"i.-,..' ■< ,.,. .,,

"»i-atl,M, Aitlmi-,",.ii,IAI.I,... M„,„ ,■ „ ,.

".-;;f:i.:'r;c;i::-;-:::, «..-...-

l,.rt 1. I- 1 • , ■-' ' ' "^' '"*' lovo and friends she hid
1; a Whind, with stron, hope, for the future. „„d ncl weiik

With the pre..ite.st anxiety, Hc-Ile ,hou,.ht of her frie,.d

i'.m„us. l>ays seemed to i.ass like loii-r dr..,..-,- ... i
;- she mipatiently awaited a etter t o n t ^' "''^'

my cuhest opportunity. I aniy.d here three days ^gu.

ALDEANE.

My adventures on tho journey are too numerou. an tuc
o nu-ntion. So I will pass them by. I lonnd myself
after a long jolting ride, in a miserable .tage-e<.aeh, me
' e ron^hes of roads, at Loring. It was about e.ght
oVlook in the evening, but the heat wlueh had nearly
"ut'oeated n^e thn.ughout the day, did not seem m e
S^^st degree diminished. 1 had expected t., hud ,uU.
H lann. town, as Loring is the county seat. It is n lact
^'Z ; «mall village, and an ancient am glo.uny-
Wkin.^ Vlaec-at least as 1 viewed it by the bnlhant hght
oth Summer moon. I was about to inqu.ro for the res -
dene of Mr. Arendell, when a negro man approached,
td ask d if I was » Miss (Guthrie." I replied tha I was
: the. said " Mass John had sent him ^r -e -ul ^'d^^
have come himself, if he had been at honje. ^-'^^
knowing who Mass John might be, I ^^'''^ ^''"^ ^'''^''^^r:^
he meant Mr. Arendell. " I mean de Colonel, ma'am, de.e
an" no Mr. Arendell now." I laughed at the earnes nes
with which he spoke, and was a httle surprise.! at he
TearcMng glance'with which he regarded "- I pmn ed
out mv fu-.rage to him. It was soon placed at t] . back

:?\rln^^, in which I ^^^^^^^T\^Z
drove rapidly out of the town. I asked L ncle Adam for

thatproled\obe the driver's --' l-^^- ^^^^^ ^ J
,ro '"Bout two miles, miss," was his reply. I was very
t;;d to know that I was not to live in the htUe dingy
place we had left. After driving through hick ^^oo.ls
•or some distance, we ascended a gentle elevation and we e
n s ght of Arendell House. It is a large white mansioi^
"itMna..as on every siVle, .almost covered with climbing
roses'and flowering vines. The long windows, shad.^ by
Venetian blinds, reached to the ground, and as we ap
p^ched I saw ; gentleman, with a long -;i I'^P^;;^
hand step out of one of them, and join a lady as ho as as
riding upon the piazza. A moment afterward the car-
;!age stepped at thi gate. The gentleman was there, and

ALDEANE.

loo iiumci'oii:> and trite
by. I found mysolt",
i-iiblo gtiige-i-oarh, over
;. It Wiis about oight
it'i\t which had noarly
, did not socm in thi-
\ expected to find (initc
uity seat. It is in liiet
in ancient and j^looniy-
l it by the brilliant litiht
It to inqnira for the resi-
iies^ro man approached,
." " I replied that I was.
it him for mc, and would
at home."' Not exactly
je, I asked him Avhether
I de Colonel, ma'am, dere
ughed at the earnestness
a little surprised at the
retrarded mc. I pointed
soon placed at tl 3 back
d seated myself, and wo
I asked Uncle Adam, for
name, how far wc had to
as his reply. I was very
a live in the little dhigy
lUg through thick woods
gentle elevation and were
is a large white mansion,
)8t covered with climbing
long windows, shaded by
> ground, and as we ap-
ith a long reed pipe in his
and join a lady who was
lonient afterward, the car-
I gentleman was there, un-l

assisted mo to ahght. He introduced himself as Colonel
Arendell He ,s about fifty years old, tali and thin, like
most ot the natives of the South. His hair is thi„ a„,l
gray; us comple.vion sallow, and his whole a|,,)ean,nce
somewhat meager. He has a careless and happy expression
of countenance, and his good-humored snnle, as well as
the words wuh which he greeted me, prepare.l me for u
smcere welcome from the other members of the famiiv
As he M^>!come.l me, I for the first time thought of nf;
travel-soiled aj>pearance; but it was too late to^remedv ft
now; so in some confusion I followed him to the house
and was introduced to xAIrs. Arendell. She is a fine hand-
some womaiu I have somewliere seen a face much 'resem-
t'lmg hers, but I can not remember where. She is much
younger than her husband, and far more ehnrant. I saw
at a glance that she was a Northerner, and ^immediately
tclt as ,f I had foun.l an old friend. Her manners are so
winnmg and charming that I soon became perfectly at
case in her com,>any. She conducted me to the supper
able, which M-as most temptingly spread; on returning to
the parlor, a young lady about fifteen years old, arose to
meet mc. > lu

" >ry stop-daugliter, Leonoro," said Mrs. Arendell
I wish I could j)Iace Leonoro Arendell before you in
all her beauty; my description can never convey to vou
the mdescribable charm an.l grace that surrounds her
She IS small, and delicately formed; her complexion is
as iair as a pure white lily, with a tint of rose over-
^i'l-oudmg It like a halo rather than a definite color
J or coral lips, when parted disclosed small even teetli
ot pearl-hke whiteness; dark glossy ringlets ri.,ple over
lior brow, and fall over her shoulders, in a irraeeful
shower. But this beauty of person, is ,iothingTn com-
parison with the loveliness of soul that beams throu-rb J.er
speaking eyes. Tenderness of heart, witii no traces of
a strong mind, are visible in every action.

ALDEANE.

She seemed very clad to see me, and s,>oke frequently
of the ,>l''=vs"-e >:ho antieipated in a-am p"'-s">"S '"r
favovite^tudy, musie. I asked »- ^-v on, .t ^^
shK-e she had h-ft school. She rephed : '''^^^^^
n.onths. I am so ,lad to be at homes though x ._^
that I know nothu„s Miss Guthne. 1 don't ^^^^
at all, and I a,n not jroing baek agam. I am sure >ou
e-m teaeli me all I want to know."

I velired earlv to rest, and greatly fatigued with my

Txious to know how I am situated. My room is very
h "e and pleasant, handsomely furnished, and Us wm-
do^H command a tine view of the surrounding eon tiy

I stood for some time at the window, watching the sun
as it arose slowly above the belt of p nes that bounded
Uie hori.on-then tempted by the cool "--^J - , -
the dcwvfrasrraneeof the garden at my fe..;t, I descc ukd
W ^iU?i-ed it. It was a perfect thicket of roses. Roses
erX arbors and border the walks, -"/'"S "P ^
cloud of perfume, and producing a scene ot luxunant
beauty almost indescribable.

llxV.A down the graveled path to he S'^te th n
turned to look at the house. It arose white and stately
fi^m almost a forest of trees-mhuosas, oaks, maples,
nnTcedxrs, the latter in such numbers that they totally
dlel ed the idea of lightness and cheerfulness with which
te ™lly conceive Southern houses to be simounded.
A\roifa/..a encircled the house; a variety o creeping
plans ntwinedthe lattice before ^^\^^.^^^
* ^ Ued honeysuckle still was blooming; but Sinnng ha
borne awav with her all other blossoms. Ihe long
!reen Venetian blinds were thrown back ; and I caught
Sht of a room-liaudsomely furnished, with Brussels
c'u-pet -ieh brocade, and lace curtains, velvet chairs and
o Is and a superb piano. Another apartment also
c^H^^Ld upouthe'pia..i It was the sitting-room; look-

iinil sjioko firquontly
ii'^ain pursuing lur
icr how lonj: it w:tH
oplii'd: "Only thiro
lome, thouijb pa says
1 don't like KalcigU
gain. I am snro you

tly fatigued with my
I suppose you are
■d. ^ly room is very
irnished, and its win-
iirrounding eountry.
low, watehing the sun
af pines that boundeil
cool morning air, and
t my feet, I descentled
liieket of roses. Roses
walks, sending up a
a scene of lu.\uriant

ath to the gate; then
rose white and stately
nhuosas, oaks, majjles,
nbers that they totally
cheerfulness with which
uses to be surrounded.
:; a variety of creeping
)re them; the ^sweet-
)ming ; but Spring had
blossoms. The long
«n back ; and I caught
rnished, with Brussels
•tains, velvet chairs and
nother apartment also

the sitting-room; look

A L D HA NE.

mg delightfully cool, its floor covered with matlin- the
wmdows hung witii green hn.ea.h. and lace, a nimilK.r
ot white cane-chairs were scattered over tiie room I
presently saw one juisIumI through the wind-.w, and was
loilowe.! by Colonel Arendeli, sn.okin- with an aj-n.-ar-
ance o/ the most intense enjoynienf.^i very long reed
pipe. ([ hav« discovered that tiiis j)ii.e is his constant
ronipanion and solace.) Not wishing to ho seen I
turned into a side path, bordered by'hiirli rose-bushes
and gained a little ascent, from which I could see, at the'
hack of the house, a river llowing. Jiolk., you know that
we have often read of the silvery waters of the South
] fam would support this illusion, but candor compels
me to own that this stream is narrow and turbid ; the
wide, sand-washed banks, indicate that it does ikH al-
ways flow on in the same narrow channel, but occasion-
ally bursts forth, flooding the surrounding country with
Its angry waters. I observed that at a short distance
stood an immense and wide-spreading oak; indeed, so
tall is it, that even in this region of foi-ests, it marks 'the
place for miles around. I soon stood beneath its shadow
It crowns a slight eminence, from whence I could see the
dwelling-house, the long row of negro cabins behind it
aiKl catch glimpses of the sullen river beyond them all!
It M-as a beautiful scene. Tlic green coniHelds on the
opposite side of the river, which is si)anned at this point
I'y a slight Avooden bridge, waved luxuriantly in the
morning light ; the laborers liad early begun their toil,
and with monotonous, yet cheerful songs, were performin.'
tlieir tasks ; from the kitchen to the house, women were
hurrying to and fro in their bright homespun dres,ses ;
their black faces rendered even darker by contrast with'
their many-colored turbans. I was lost in contemplation
ot the scene, and conjecturing the many tales this same
old o.ak could tell me of the events that had taken place
beneath its shadow if the voice of fabled time could be

ALDEANE.

given to it, when I was aroused by a child's vole, angrily

exelaiming :— r t c^ T «;il i"

" I will ride ! I'll tell my mamma of you ! so I w m .
I looked up the path, and saw a little girl runur:.-
rapidly and passioi ^.ely in the direction m which I «toou
occasionally stopp... to stamp her feet, and repeat tl>e
words that had first arrested my attention. She was
about four years old, and a true type of ^o"ther« beau j
a perfect bnmette with dark fiery eyes, and a wild, mirth-
ful expression. Her jetty curls, were thrown back Irom
her dark face and crimson cheeks. She was dressed in a
Bhort blue frock, that was blown ^^^^ ^/^^^ ""^'^f
breez-c as she continued unwittmgly and hastily to ap-
proach me. A negro woman appeared at th« ';-;^,«* «
lalk, calling loudly, "Oh-h! Miss Jessie! Oh-h! Miss
Jessie ! doi^t tell your mar, and I'l give you a ride

I still stood beneath the great oak, and when the c1 ild
came near to mo, I stepped forward to ™-^'t hc;is w-ith a
cheerful smile, saying, "What is the matter i W ho is it
that won't let you ride ?"

She stopped suddenly, much astonished at my presence ;
looked up and down the path, as if uncertain which way
to run- then glanced at me bashfully, in childish confu-
sion twirling her fingers in her long curls.

T;epeated my questions ; and with tears starting to her
fine eies ; she replied, " Zettie won't let me rule andvna 1
saTd /might. Frank and Eddie have had a right smart
rile ; and I want one too." And she puckered up her face
to keep back the rising tears.

"Well' never mind, dear," I answered, " we will go
back, and see what can be done. Tell me your name,

'''" My n^me is Jessie Louisa Arendell. What is youi^ ?"
was her prompt reply, accompanying the question with a
dose sciutin/of my person. "You're the lady that s
going to teach us, ain't you?" she presently continued.

child's voice angrily

i of you ! so I will !"
a little fjirl ruiiiii-:;-
Lion in which I »tootl,
feet, and repeat the
attention. She was
e of Southern beauty,
es, and a wild, mirth-
re thrown back from
She was dressed in a
.ck by the mornini?
rly and hastily to ap-
red at the head of the
» Jessie! Oh-h! Miss
I give you a ride !"
k, and when the child
1 to meet her, with a
le matter ? Who is it

iiished at my presence ;
f uncertain which way
uUy, in childish confu-
ig curls.

;h tears starting to her
»'t let me ride ; andyna
lave had a right smart
be puckered up her face

mswered, " we will go
I, Tell me your name,

dell. What is yours ?"
ing the question with a
You're the lady that's
e presently continued.

ALDEAXE.

«Yes," I replied, unable wholly to repress a smile
and my name is (iuthiic." '

"HanMi't you any other name than that?" she ex-
claimed.

"Oh, yes, I am called Aldeanc Guthrie "

"Well, now, that's a mighty pretty name; prettier

than you are yourself!" ,i"n.inr

I was about to indulge in a laugh at her oddity, which

I could no longer restrain, wh.-n she exciai.ned : " " Ther

are P n,.k and Eddy ! Xow, Miss Uuthrie. can't I ,1:;:

I looked up, and saw just before me two pretty bov«
l.« Hdest about ten years old, the other abo .t two years
younger. The largest was dismounting a small 1
pony, wh.eh was hel.l by a negro wom^, who Z^^.
dently „.,lnlg,„. ;,. , ,u of sulks. The boys looke<l at
- cunously, and replied, "How d'ye?" to my sll!,:!

I,^sa,d: "Does Mrs. Aren.lell pennit Miss Jessie to

^;' Yc-s, ma'rm " was i,er nuutered response.
Zettie 8 ma.l to-d.-.y, and won't let her " said one of
tho W«. "Ma will scold her well, when :hl Z.t

'; Oh Miss Guthrie, can't I ride !" cried Jessie, a<.ain

saddt Th\'"" r-'" ' "'•''^''' •■»"^ ^''^^-i '-•• ""to he
sa Idle. She k.sse.l me joyously, and the sulky soryant

cd the pony briskly away. I now made someVro ""

oward an acquaintance with the boys, and fou.Ke^

polity and mtelhgent. Jessie soon reiurne,], yocifero ly

in-ocla.m.ng that she had h.cd "a mighty' nice he -"

1 he breakfast-bell sounde.l, and we iiWd towar ho

ouse, Jessie dancing along beside me, asking iLume "

ble questions, and the boys following us ^ovvImv

uudbashfuly. As we approached the- ouse 's'aw'coS

ALDEAKK.

iw\ an.l Mr^. Arcndi'll upon the i.ia/.za ; thoy Boomecl sur-
prise,] thiit I hn.l arisen so early, an.l mueh i)!eased that
1 ha.l already tiained the gcuMl-will of the ehildren.

Afn-r breakfast, CoU)nel Areiidell sauntered, pipe in
liand, out to the iields. " You see I have to work, Miss
(iuthrie," he said, hiughin-. " My wife will not tolerate
an overseer, and, in fact, they are a troublesomo set ot
fellows. I have no cause to love them."

Mrs Arendell and I rei>aired to the sitting-room, while
Leonore with a large bunch of keys, and followed by
a half-dozen negro women, went to the smoke-house ami
store-room, to give out supplies. " You see I am bring-
ing up Leonore quite a Southern housekeeper, said 31 rs.
Arendell, " though every one says she has imbibed many
of mv Northern proclivities."

Tlie day passed very pleasantly. Several ladies called,
and appeared very pleasant and sociable. The children are
quite intelligent and cood-natured, . I presume the task
of instructing them will not be very arduous. I believe
that I shall lind life in North Carolina more pleasant than
you predicted, though I will not promise not to get home-
sick and return to you.

This evening, as I was standing on the back piazza,
forming a wrelith from the sprays of multifloras that
creep over it, I saw Jessie apparently working earnestly
at the well, with a dipper in hand, endeavoring to obtain
water from the bucket. She did so several times, and
threw it on the ground, at the same time drenching her-
self plentifully. So intent .was she upon her work that
she did not observe me until I exclaimed : —
" Jessie, what are vou doing V"

"Giving my frogs' water, to be sure," she replied, con-
tinuing her exertions.

" What do you mean ?" I inquired, approaching her.
"The frogs are all thirsty of evenings," she replied,
"and thev come to the well to drink, and there isn't any

; «

n
\\

P'
di

111

m(
wi
soi
Ai

■a ; thoy Boomed sur-
mufh ])!oiV8Ccl tluit
fthe ohililivn.
I sanntcR'tl, pipe in
[ have to -work, M\m
wife will not tolerate
troublesomo set of

m."

e sitting-room, while
ys, and followed by
the smoke-house and
You see I am bring-
isekeoi»er," said Airs,
le has imbibed many

Several ladies called,
l)le. The children are
I presume the task
y arduous. I believe
la more pleasant than
mise not to get home-
on the back piazza,
i of multifloras that
ly working earnestly
endeavoring to obtaiin
ao several times, and
; time drenching lier-
3 upon her work that
iiraed : —

ure," she replied, con-

d, approaching her,
venings," she replied,
ik, and there isn't any

ALDEANE.

water 'round, you know, so I always give 'em some
ilere, Iittlofrogurv, hcivi" imsomo.

vou"" /T^"^'\ ""'!?"^'-"' ---ered, "Why don't
\<)ii get /ottif, or Aunt J{o.xv to i^ivt. them wat...-v >>
you are splashing yourself ail over'" ''

"Oh ! they all laugh at me, and say the fro<.s can <ro
t;. the nver ]]ut they don't like such dirty ^ate • £
su les, they d.>nt know the .v.y there; an<l 'two d b ;

" It would, indeed," I replied, laughin<r. «' But oomo r
tl.ey have plenty of water now » She hun,. i,n t h r
per, smoothed down her wet " coat '' a Z ?d d' "'"
dross, slipped her little hand into mine a' d u^ V'm "
- to the house. ^ M.., do you ^t; u! nk7 J^ '

wu hefas'j;;r ' ^\' ^""^'^" ^""' ^ -« ^^

with he., as w.th every other person and thing here

And now I must stop; „ot because I have nothin..
more to say, „r because I will pretend to fear tla you
wdl be weary of this letter, which already exceed -Tl -ea
sonable length, but because I have still to wr e to d2
A.thur, of whom I expect a full account when you writ^
With dearest love to him, your papa, and yolrser •
I remain ever

Your affectionate

A[,T)E.VNE.

CHAPTER VIII.

A SLIGHT MYSTEUV.

TiiK first Sunday aftt-r Aldcane arrived at Arcndcll
House— as hor now residoiice was familiarly oallod— she
accompanied the family to a camp-meeting which was
held in a grove some miles distant. Here, in the scene
of confusion incident to the occasion, was shown to her
the class of people among which she was thrown. The
highest and lowest grmles of society— the aristocrats and
the slaves— with the only intermediate one, the i)oor
whites— were amply represented; and slie learned, in
three hours, more of their characteristica than she could
have hoped, in ordinary intercourse, to do in as many

months.

Upon the w'^olc, she wac pleased, although she was
somewhat shocked at witnessing so boisterous and excit-
ing a scene where the people were gathered together for
religious exercises; but when she discovered that the
laughing and shouting and crying was so far from irrev-
erence that they were considered an important part of
those exercises, she could look upon them with some de-
gree of toleration, and find a curious admiration for the
excessive fervor, that had to her such unseemly time and
place of expression.

Upon the conclusion of the services, Aldcane was intro-
duced to a number of people who exchanged greetings
with the Arendells, and awakened so much interest and
attention, especially from the young gentlemen, that she

A LI> /JAX/:.

[II.

IV.

arrived at Arcndcll
Piimiliarly t-allod — bIio
vnu'otiiig which was
. Hero, in the Heene
on, was shown to her
lie was thrown. The
r — the aristocrats and
L'diate one, the j)oor

and she learned, in
ristica than she could
le, to do in as many

ed, although she was
» boisterous and excit-
gatliered together for
> discovered that the
was so far from irrev-
an important part of
[1 them with some de-
i>u8 admiration for the
ch unseemly time and

;es, Aldeanc was intro-

I exchanged greetings

so much interest and

g gentlemen, that she

was quite relieved to hoar lAIrs. Arendeli say, in answer

to a question from some one near: —

"No, we shall not stay for the next spr\'ioes; we have

so far to go, you know, (iood-bye ! Colonel Arcndcll

p'case take Miss Guthrie and Jessie in your carriage, the
rest of the cJiildren will return with me."

He bowed, an<l assisted Aldeane into the carriage;
then lifted in Jessie, who declared that she was "tired to'
death," and finally sprang in himself, and they soon left the
ground, proceeding for some time in silence. Jessie had
Ihllen asleep, and Aldeane was absorbed in thoughts of
the scene she had just witnessed, wh.en she was aroused
by the remark of Colonel Arendeli:—

" That must be a strange scene to one who has never
been in North Carolina or tlie South before."

" Or even to me that has, sir," she answered. " I was
born in this State, but remember nothintr of it."

"Indeed!" he exclaimed, seeming to bo much sur-
prised, while the color rushed to his lace. "In what
county y"

She mentioned it.

" Ah ! yes, she lived there !" he muttered. Then asked
" When did you leave this State ?'' '

" When I was about a year old."

"And your mother's name, before marriage, was "

"Ellen Deane, sir."

"Yes, yes. Have you any brothers?"

" One. Arthur."

" Will you favor me by letting me know your given
name ?"

" Certainly ! It is Aldeane,"

" Al— deane !" he reiterated, rising from his seat in tlie
carriage, as if in the greatest alarm and astonishment.
"Al— deane! Whom were you called after? It is a
strange name."

Aldeane was lialf frightened at his vehemence. She

AIDE AN E.

Haw that ho \vm\ hoard tho name before, but rcpliid as
calmly as* possible

" 1 oiicc ask«Ml my mother llu" same question tluit yoii
Jiave j>ut to me, sir, ai\il slie naid, ' Alter my sisur
Aliee, who before her marriage was almost ahvayw ealU«i
Al Deane, to disliniruiHli lier from a eouniu of tlie same
name.' 1 was al)out to ask more eoiieeniinj; my aunt wlieii
my mother letl the room, as if wisliinjx to nhun further
inquiry, and after tliat I never liad an opportunity of
maivinii any."

"Then it is your mother's death you mo\irn !" he said,
frianeint; at her bhiek dre.ss, with, Aideane tiiou<,'iit, a
relieved expression.

" Ves, sir."

For tlu' time he remained silent, ap])arently .i1)sorbeil
in painful thou<;ht. Alileane looked at him with wonder,
uiul euriosity ; Ins conduct was to her inex|)licable. At
hist she in(|uired:

"Did you know this Alice Deane, sir?"

He started as if the name hail been an adder, and had
Htunj; him, and lookinic at her with an expression she
could never forijet, said: —

" Why do you ask 'i Let the dead past bury its dead !"

" So Alice Deane is dead !" continued Aideane, unheetl-
inp; Ids question, or the remark th.it liad followed it, for
hhe felt positive that he liad once known her.

"Yes," he returned looking at her as if fascinated.
" Yes, yes, she is dead ! She died yoimg. She Mas
scarcely your age, young lady."

She was about to ask nfore concerning her aunt when
the carriage stopped before the gate of Arendell House.
Co' unci Arendell silently assisted Aideane to alight,
placed the still sleeping Jessie in her arms, and turned
into a narrow and shaded path, as if anxious to be
alone.

Aldeano was greatly perplexed by his conduct. The

onb
thai
t r.'iu
scji r
Mrs
A

Slllij

and

ings

niaki

Ilea

(lissa

invsl

hail I

she 1

subje

a gen

and i

towai

about

alarm

lie sail

For

at len

her.

His
moved
smoke,
and sa
inoderi
her bei
is like
father.'

bt'fori', hut n>j)liiil lis

imo question tliat you
lid, ' Al'tiT my sisUr
A uliniist ahvuyH calUil
ii couwiii of till' Kiiiiu-
iccniin^iny uuiit wiii'ii
siiin<; tu hIiuii furtiui'
lul ail opporluiiity of

you mourn !" ho Huiil,
I, Aldoane liiouj^lit, a

t, ap])arcntly a1)sorl)eil
•il at him witli wonder,
hiT iufxplicable. At

I', sir ?"

I'lii an adder, and had

ith an expression she

id past bury its dead !"
niied Aldeane, vmheetl-
at liad followed it, for
inown iier.

lier as if fascinated,
ied young. She Mas

corning lior aunt when

,te of ArendoU House.

d Aldeune to alight,

her arms, and turned

as if anxious to be

by his conduct. The

ALDEANE.

only solution of tho mystorv that she could frame was
that he ha.l once loved Alice D.-ane, and that some
tragical event had caused her death. Yet oven this was

scarcely sunici,.nt to explain his vio t ai;ilati.,n, an.l

.Mrs Nevn.s' evident .listressat the mention of her nam..
Aldeane de,M.h.d to question Colonel Arondell upon th..
stil.ject as soon, and as closely, as p..ssil,le. The aut u.nn
and winter passed, an,l spring had .-ast her vernal otrer-
ings over earth, before Aldeano foun.l an opportunity to
make further impiiries of him concerning her ivlal'ive
He avoKled any allusi.m to the subject, and much to her
dissatisfaction she still remained in the same state of
mystery and nn.-ertainty into which liis first conversation
nail thrown her.

It was on the afternoon of a day in early Ai.ril that
she found hers<.lf alone with him, and thought of the
subj.'ct that had so long perplexed her, and as he was in
il gonial, talkative mood, she hoped to elicit some true
aud interesting information from him, so she turne.l
toward him with the inquiry:—

"Colonel Arondell, will you not toll mo 8omothin.r
aliout my aunt Alice l"'

He looked up .piiekly with an expression of pain and
alarni. " Why do you ask, child y Lot the .load rest "
he said bitterly, '

For a moment Aldeane was silent. " I ask," she said
at length, " because a mystery has always c'nshroudod
Iter. Colonel Arondell, did you know her well';"'

His face was pale, and his hand trembled, as lie re-
moved his pipe from his mouth, and emitted a olou.l of
smoke. He watche.l it as it curled ffracefullv upwar.l
and said slowly : " Yes, I knew her. The family were i.i
moderate circumstances, and she was much admired for
her beauty. I have sometimes thoncfht your expression
i« like hers, otherwise you more closely resemble your
father." ^

A L III-: A A'/;.

"Oh, HJr! you must liiivo l'oii,"'ttfn liim," roturnol
AM«uiu>. "lliiivc luanl ll>:U Arthur is ii |.i'rHrl liW.-
IH'HS of him, ami h*- is vory thiriv iiu<l hiimlsomt— a iktIW-I
niiitniHt t(» IMC. Voii must fortifl !"

" Well, |.t rliaps I .h.," iu' iiiisworcd t«'«tily.

Ahli'auf, iu no (U'ltivc (lisnmratti'd, toutiiuuMl : "Was
Auiit Alifi' fvtr maniid ? l)i«l siu' iVn' lyu'rctti'd T

("t.l.iml Anuth'll was a>:iiiri wati'hiiiff tho |tn>i,'n-ss of
the smoke as it rose from iiis lijts, au<l Alfhaut- await in-,'
a nply, wli* n a sluwhiw darki-nod tiu' wiM<h>w, and >:ian-
oinu' n|> Alili-anc cau-ihl a jrlmipst- of tho lip;uro of a
jfontUinan wlio was no unfri'ijucut visitor, althoujili
evitionlly no vi-ry wtk-omi' out'.

Kcfore «hi' coiiltl Ivave tin- room, as she had fviry
doHiru to do, for slio ha«l an instinctivu and unfomituiahh-
disliko of liim, ho was standing at the door, howing and
emilinjx most graciously.

This man was not unhandsome or ungainly, yet he
carried himself as if he possessed a i)ainful conscioasncss
of being hoth. This ))erha|)S it was iu eonjunction witii
his exceeding fondness of tlashy dress and ornament, that
proved at once that he was not a gentleman, tliough he
claimed the name, and held the jiosition of one.

Aldcane had more reasons than her eyes gave her for
avoiding this man; for, altlioiigh he was old enough to
be her lather, he had foUowid her with covert, yet most
eager admiration, since their iirst meeting.

This day, however, it juoved that she had no need to
avoitl him, ibr he had called but for a moment, he said,
to have a word upon business with Colonel Arendell.
Tliis word he had, and then, with a bow to Ahleaue,
departed.

On his way out he met Leonore, who, with a cold
"Good-morning," waited Jbr him to pass by her, and
then, lounging into the room in her usual idle way, in-
quired : —

iittfn liiiii," ri'turnt'd
lliiir is II jH'rUrt lik*'-
l hiimlrtoiat— u piTt'ei't

'(•(I toHtily.

yd, fonlimUMl : " Was
«' «lio rrLfrcllftl V"
'liiiijf tilt' jiiotjiTss ol'
and Aldt-aiH- await in;,'
lie wiinliiw, ami fjlaii-
)Hc ()f llu' iip;mo of ft
cut vixitor, ultliouj^li

>in, as Hhe lia<l cvory
ivu uihI uiicoiHjui'iaMc
the door, bowing ami

■i or uufiainly, yet In-
V ])aiii<'ul coMscioiiHiu'Hrt
as in I'oiijuiK'tion witli
ess ami ornament, that
lit-ntloman, tliough lie
sition of ont'.
her t'yew tjave her lor
he was old enough to
with eovert, yet most
meeting.

at nhe had no neeil to
for a moment, he naid,
,'ith Colonel Arendell.
ih a bow to Aldeane,

lore, who, with a cold
I to i)ass by her, and
her usual idle way, iu-

ALDIJAXf:,

Jnair "V""f"^^""''"''' '^'•"•"J^ t<"--l«"-m his prom-
K_,m,>.-, and rel.eve uh of the sight of his seowling

Aldeane fhonght she sh,.„ld ,ather hav,. naid " Hinish-r

A . nd .11 s r..,.iy, wh.eh was n..t uttered imnu-liately but
with HJou- and grave reproof ^'

«::"'wt:!';r:;-l;;;;;^nn:"""^^"""--

Leonor.., said her iatlur, Hushing. slLditl y " [ .h,.II 1...

with m,. " «iw. I • ' '■'''•'' •'"»' ''« n"ir'-y

"Like lumv" i,, «,;,!, moodily; " who does like him-^
l>ut he was y„ur mother's cousin, Leonore, an.l for Z^

-yc.e..eer;ithar<Ilybeeomesustospe;kii/of. r

^'n, as to siKiiknig \\\ of him " r<.tm-., „i r „
•I iWfi^ » LL ' ''i"">ed J-,eonore. with

rtl. t.ous. IJut I ,n sure, ,,apa, when he was your over-

ALDEANE.

"Yon liave an cxoi'lloit m(>mory, Nora," said hor
father, and then turning to Ahleane, said, in an exphina-
tory -way: " Hhike was in truth a hard master; I used to
objeet in my own mind vt>ry much; but wiiat is the use
of keeping an overseer, if one looks to the work, or worries
over the punishment ? Of course, I let Blake have his
own way, as every proprietor should. He had his own
way — a pretty rough way, I am inclined to think now —
until I brought Ida to my home. She immediately con-
ceived a great dislike to him, and wished me to dismiss
him. I, however, was under some trifling obligations to
him, and could not do so immcd-ately. He obliginglv
proposed, on a few conditions, to free me of his presence.
A short time after leaving me, he commenced speculating
in slaves, and I l>elieve has done very well."

"What obligations were you under to him, papa?" in-
quired Leonore.

His face flushed darkly, as he replied : " One is always
under obligations to those who serve him, my dear ; you
would not understand me, Leonore, if I should explain.
It is merely business matters, nothing more."

Aldeane could not reconcile the words with the dark,
almost remorseful expression, that remained upon his face
during the remainder of the drive. The Arendells, as
well as other families, undoubtedly possessed secrets, and
Mr, Blake might be privy to them ; she was merely, how-
ever, a dependent in the family, and, therefore, had no
right to peer into any of its mysteries. She was indeed
treated by all as a beloved friend and equal. 7\rcnd(ll
House had become to her a pleasant home, though occa-
sionally events would transpire to mar her calm enjoy-
ments. Jessie was willful, Frank passionate, and liddie
dull and stubborn. They were all affectionate, and she
liked tliem well, yet they very often annoyed and grieved
her. leonore was always gentle and tractable, and had
made great progress in her .studies. Altogether Aldeane's

^LDEANE.

ry, Nora," said hor
', said, ill an cxplana-
anl masti'r; I uschI to
; but wiiat is the use
o the work, or worries
, I let Bhike have his
hi. He had his own
lined to think now —
Slie immediately con-
wished me to dismiss
trifling obligations to
itely. He obliginglj
ec- me of his presence.
)nnnenced speculating
•ry well."
ler to him, papa?" in-

ilicd : " One is always
e him, my dear ; you
e, if I should explain,
ng more."

words with the dark,
•emained upon his face
e. The Arendells, as
possessed secrets, and

she was merely, how-
md, therefore, had no
ries. She was indeed
and equal. 7\rcnd(ll
it home, though occa-

mar her calm enjoy-
passionate, and ICddie
I affectionate, and she
1 annoyed and grieved |
md tractable, and had

Altogether Aldeane's

position was a pleasant one. Frequent letters from TJelln

valued triend. Thus, atterf^lM^^^SriLmZS
the am.,,, «,,, ^ad rendered herself vahu>d and Slvc"

CHAPTER IX.

ton
saw

GKASSMERK.

One beautiful mornins in May, when the full luxurianco
of spvin<r had elotlK"<l the cartli in beauty, and when Al-
deane wTis reminded, with feelings akin to homesiekness,
of the oidy place where .^he ever liad before truly enjoyed
the beauties of nature, that paradise of her childhood, Rose
Cottage, and wondered if there could be another spot so
lovely. Colonel Arendell said suddenly, as tiiey were
seated at the breakfast-table, "It is your birthday to-
morrow, is it not, IVIiss Guthrie ?"

" Yes, sir," replied Aldeane, " but how did you dis-
cover it ? I am sure I have told no one !"

" I must have learnt it from some one," n-turned the
•Colonel, a confused expression passing over his counte-
nance, " for you see I know it. Let mo see, yo»i will be

eighteen." .

" Yes, sir," replied Aldeane, stdl more surprised, tor
she had supposed the fiimily considered her older.

" Oh, I know how pa found it out," cried Frank ; " you
have a 'volume of poems. Miss Guthrie, with your name,
and the date of your seventeenth birthday, written on
tlie ily-leaf ! It was given to you by Miss Ashton."

" Yes, oh yes ! That must have been the way," re-
turned Colonel Arendell, laughing; glad of ti: "l)poi-
tunity to equivocate. " But, Krivnk, you seem to have
learned the lesson, as well as I did."

"Well!" said Frank, coloring, "'twas such pretty
writing, and besides Miss Guthrie showed me Miss Asli-

A LD BAN E.

LX.

■hen the full luxuriance
beauty, and when Al-
akin to homesickness,
id before truly enjoyed
■ of her childhood. Rose
uld be another spot so
uddenly, as tiiey were
t is your birthday to-

but how did you dis-
lo one !"

me one," n-turned the
issing over his countc-
Let mo see, yo»i will be

:ill more surprised, for

idered her oldei*.

lit," cried Frank ; " you

iithrie, with your name,

th birthday, written on

1 by Miss Ashton."

ve been the way," re-

II <i; glad of ti; oj)poi-

tvnk, you seem to have

id."

ijT, "'twas such pretty

ie showed me Miss Asli-

ton's likeness; and she is the prettiest young lady I ever
saw. Oil ! she is a beauty !" ^

"Yes,"ehimed in Jessie; "she's a heap prettier than
M.SS Aldeane, for she's got curls and blue ev..s "

.<,,/^"rT". ''"*'' "'>' ^''■""•'" i"tern.pted Mrs.'Arendeil
"Miss Gnthne may not like them. fer brown e^e a e
- pretty as Miss Ashton's blue, if you wouM ll^ ,.- Ik

"Xo, they ain't; and Miss Guthrie's mouth is as bi..
j.ga.n as M.SS Ashton's," returned Jessie, shakin. "•
load,,,„u ly; "and she's mighty good too, for"^M
Aldeane told „u. so, and I want to see her "'

"Well! my ehild," said the colonel, "I'm afrai.l '
your desire w.ll not soon be gratified. But we e

s,x.ak.ng of your birthday. Miss Guthrie ; we must h^^^^^
It. UJ.at do you say to a visit to Grassmere?"

Aldeane had often heard this ,,laee spoken of as an
e.ue belonging to Colonel Aren.lell, soml tM-elve miles
wl-'l T ^^'"\"^^^'^».V« represented as exeeedinglv
.he inwardly hoped the proposition would meet witli
!wd:-'"™" '"' "' •""'' ''■°™ '^^'^^'^'' ^'^^ -^■

"Oh, yes! let us go to Grassmere! Tlie apples and
phims are getting ripe there. Uncle Adam told me

" What do you say to it, Ida?" queried Colonel Are.-

V ,'''''; ^'''" ''''"''^ '^'^^ t*^ SO, Miss Guthrie v»

1 es, indeed, sir !"

"Well, then, by all means let us go. It is a very
pleasant place," said Mrs. Arendell. ^

"Hurrah, for Grassmere !" sliouted Frank, dashin<r out

ot the room, to indulge more freely in his exclamations

ot joy and triumph: while Eddie secretly thou-ht of

he promised respite from books with the greatest do-

ALDEANE.

fJo it was

All ciitcri'd into the plan with enthusiasm,
doeiiled that they wonkl go.

The next morning at dawn, Jessie entered Aldeane's
room, bringing a little hook-mark, which under Leonore's
tuition she had Avorked; her fingers were still sore from
the pricks they had received.

Upon her desceni to the piazza, the hoys presented
her with two beautiful bouquets, s[)arkling with dew.
Frank vaiidy endeavored to press upon her acceptance
his new riding-whip, while Eddie brought her the new
'' Reader " he hud lately commenced, and ussured her
that he should be most happy to give it to her, if she
would only keep it out of his sight, Leouore presented
her with a set of jet jewelry, and Colonel and ]Mi-8. Aren-
dell with something still more valuable, in the form of a
chain for her watcli. Aldeane rejoiced at receiving these
presents, not because of their intrinsic worth, but that
they were assurances of the love and esteem of those she
was most desirous to please.

At an early hour the carriage, and the ponies for
Frank and Eddie, were at the g.ate. The boys were
mounted long before the rest of the party were ready to
start, and were prancing up and down the gravel walks
laughing, shouting, making themselves greatly in the
,way, and intensely annoying.

Aunt Roxy placed a bountiful supply of provisions in
the carriage, exclaiming, "Ugh! it's no use trustin' to
dem ar niggers, they're just sure not to give yer any
thin' but liap-jacks an' pone, an' may be a bit of fried
chicken. Here's de goo'd things right in dis basket !
Now you, Jule, don't you go hookin' the cakes, and you
Ad im, jest as shua as you tech one drop of that wine, I
hoi)e 'twill i)isen yer ! That's sartain I" )

Colonel Arendell and the ladies, to the great joy of the
buys, were at last seated in the carriage, and they were
soon cii route for Grassmere. A pleasant drive of nbout

lUliusiiiKm. 'Jo it was

<sif entered Aldeane's
which under Leonore's
:8 were still sore from

;a, the hoys presented

sparkling with dew,

i upon her acceptance

brought her the new

iced, and assured her

give it to her, if she

t. Leouore presented

Jolonel and j\Irs. Aren-

iiable, in the form of a

liced at receiving these

nnsic worth, but that

lid esteem of those she

e, and the ponies for
gate. The boys were
he party were ready to
down the gravel walks
iselves greatly in the

supply of provisions in
it's no use trustin' to
e not to give yer any
may be a bit of fried
? right in dis basket !
kin' the cakes, and you
»ne drop of that wine, I
tain!" ;

, to the great joy of the

arriagc, and they wore

)k'asant drive of iibout

AIDE AXE.

f no hours brought then, to their destination. The house

u-ry hu<., .i„i„„„ „,.,„i,- ,,„„.„ ,„ ,1,^ - ,,.,;'; "'

'"■"• '•'"•'■'■•■'I »itl, ,-liml,ins n.w» ami h,n,in,. .

" ""'>• »'■ "■>• i— ..-1 .n, uh": a'Zod V ;',n"

over which time Juid cast a mantle of de.-.v . ^ '

o'^cc. amid the vernal Uo.:^^^^;^:^

...nded It. A wild trumpet-vine had essayed to ,i^J

Z^^'^l'T^^ of beauty, and hLl pl^^l^
"oceedt CI. It ha.l crept over the walls and roof leavin.r
''owever, parts of the rough bark visi).',- ^^S, . , 1 '^'
o;.^ grimly tVom the verdant framing. P^:^ "^
v."e floated upon the air, and drooped with n h ho i
h-om apertures in the roof. It was a bea f ob^^
1". tot..lly m,.ompatible with those surrounding, it "^ '
Ihe housekeoper-a little thin, nervous muhmo' wom-

ZT^ " y ■' ""'« "^'^^••"'^■^' ™^'t thorn at tlu. Z
.cm ingly overjoyed at their unexpecte : arrival. "' '
ilere, you .lube and Andy!'' she exclaimed "whir's
ur manners ? Take your young mass'rs' horl. ^ ^i
'"' t, if you don't move a loetle faster I'll ,.,,11 ..ii i

;:;j;;em thick heads o'youn.:,^;.JKl^^^^

cd Jessie out of the can-iage, "how yer ha ^rown
c yer old Auut Samiry seed ye last ! I'm ri.-ht^ gbd

tu see yer, Mass'r John an' Miss Idy, and Mi^ J^

T«

ALDEANE.

l)e house 18 fit for yor to walk right hiterjust the same
as if 1 kiiow<l you was a comin'."

Aunt .^amira stopped hor voh.bility, having cxhauste-<
hor breath, and ^Irs. Arondell replied to her greeting, and
those of the other servants, as she led the way to the par-
l..r a large, handsome room, well furnished, but, after the
manner of a past age, every thing was dark, heavy and
substantialA The ehildren soon went out to go w>th the
negroes infeareh of ripe fruit; and after the ladies had
rested. Colonel Arendell said:—

" Ida, I am going to show :Miss Guthrie over the house.
AVill you come with us?"

" Spare me the infliction !" replied ^Irs. Arendell, laugh-
in.r " It is too warm for such exercise. Leonore and 1 will
look around Aunt Samira's domains while you are gone.

» Come, then, Jdiss Guthrie. I don't think you will hnd
it very fatiguing!" said the colonel, as he led the way up-
Bfiirs " There are some curious things in this old housi-,
at least so they seem to me. It is the house in which
my parents lived and died. This is the room they usu-
ally occupied, and their shadows do so still. Don t shud-
der. 1 do not mean their ghosts— but merely their por-
traits, which arc lifelike." ., ^ • , i
The room was large, and well but gloomily furnished.
A high-posted bedstead, with crimson curtains, stood in
one corner, and between the windows a large old-lasli-
ioned bureau. High-backed chairs, grim and black witli
•icre were scattered about the room ; above the mantel-
pTece, which was very long, and low, hung two oil-paint-
ings-the portraits of the departed owners. Mr. Aren-
dtai appeared to be about of the same age as the son who
was now contemplating him; possessing, too, m a great
decrree, the same physiognomy ; the same calm gray eyes,
the same high forehead and light, wavy hair; but the
firm, sternly-set mouth, which gave so much expression
to the count.niii.ee of the father, was wanting in that ot

inter, just the same

y, having cxhaiisti-d
to her j.Troeting, an<l
I tlicway to the piir-
nished, but, iiilvr tlic
I'as darlc, heavy, and
It out to go witli the
after the ladies had

ithrie over the housse.

^Irs. Arendell, huigh-
e. Leonore and 1 will
wliile you are gone."
I't think you will iind
as he led the way up-
ngs in this old house,
9 the house in which
s the room they usu-
so still. Don't shud-
-but merely their por-

it gloomily furnished.
«on curtains, stood in
ows a large old-fash-
, grhn and black with
m ; above the mantel-
r, hung two oil-paint-
i owners. Mr. Aren-
nc age as the son who
Gssing, too, ui a great
1 same calm gray eyes,
,, wavy hair; but the
e so nuich expression
,as wanting in that of

ALDEANE.

but .hoy „„„ „„„y J, „>:-,„„7 '"«■ '"«'■ .n»tmme„„,
JN o , never smee I have been marned Mv fi..«,t ^f

Wot L r r ■'«■»'■?'■' ™"' too „„„,. Mttef Ll

"•-> n..i\t It tnen I" she exclaimed "T t^^v,^ *u

Si :,rvor r°" '^"t^ ""'■^» ••■--"■*-

he reu :j , :, V "'' ' '".'''' ■•" *" '■'""" !««"■« "o gol"

ALDEANE.

safp opcniiiod a ^\m-o. ltd ween two book-slu'lvcs ; upon it

Htnoil !i portfolio full of pajn'rs.

"llm>, in this room," said Colonel Arendcll, "was the

foul(>st disjrriico, openly branded \\\>on my family. Oh !

William, William! I believed yon cuilty thoul 'Twould

almost be a comfort to believe it still.'

Aldeane was distressed at the tone of despair, and the

remorseful manni'r in whieh these words were sjtoken.

Looking? up. Colonel Arendell read these emotions in her

face. "We will go now. Miss Guthrie," he sai<l. "Do

not be frightened, child. To you I speak in enigmas.

Well! 'tis better so. You do not now understand mo,

but you will at some time. Yes, yes !"

He arose and paced the apartment excitedly, while
Aldeane regarded him with perplexed and sorrowful
looks. At length she said, " Come, sir ! let us not stay
here longer ! The very air seems chilled ! I can not
dwell with mysteries. Come. Do come away I Let us
go Avhere there is sunlight and air."

" Yes, wc will go now. The mystery will be unraveled
at some time, my child. Do not speak of this before ray
family ; I am always calm before thetn ; but a visit to
this place always unnerves me." He passed his liand
over his face; Aldeane noticed that it was white and
trembling. She was deeply aiVected by his emotion, and
thou"-ht "there must indeed be some great cause to
to produce so strange an effect upon one who possesses
so gay and careless a temperament as he always

exhibits." . ^ ^^ e K^

They left the room, and with a feeling of relict Al-
deane issued from the gloomy place, yet with a thrill of
terror, that prompted her to look back as she crossed the
threshol.l. Colonel Arendell noticed it, .and taking her
hand led her down the stairs, ^saying; "Your face is
blanched, and your hands are cold with horror at my
mysteries. This is needless. Call back color and

tiro.

)k-HlK'lvcs ; upon it

\ron(l('ll, " was tlio
1 my iiimily. Oh I
It y thou! 'Twould

of (lespah-, and the
'onls -were 8i)(»kon.
'SO emotions in her
if," ho sai<l. " Do
spoak in onijjmas.
ow undorstand me,

nt excitedly, while
xed and sorrowM
Kir ! lot us not stay
■hillod! I can not
ome away ! Let us

ry will be unraveled
k of this before my
em; but a visit to
;e passed his liand
, it was white and
by his emotion, and
me great cause to
, one who possesses
ent as he always

'celing of relief Al-
yct with a thrill of
■k as she crossed the

I it, and taking her
ing-j "Your face is

with horror at my

II back color and

-^ L ni::A NE.

are too

iip-stairs. ' ' ""'^' *''<^ gloomy scene

"i-H tne first time I came lii.i-<. i„. *\
pi-o|)er to turn nale in onn nf H ^''""- '-

tI.o reason a.,d ., i ?,. '" ''""'"'' ""•' ^^■''"" I ^^^cd

most dren^l'fh t V ''""• '^"'^^''"•- '^' ''« tol.l rn. ho

hon.ih,o^;:::',r;:^.:r:;;;:;7;:;^7M ten times „,„.,

or three ot'^c^ olV.mh .Z :Vt V' ^'"''''' '•*"'' "" '" ^^^'o

fr<^ --II believe h^r;-:,?::;::!:;,^^^^^^

-re mere fieU; ;^:i* r^L^^' ^'T ^^'^^ -^"^

though he goes through v I, T *'^^/I'".*/ «"PPose; but
been able tS frighten mo o"': " ''' '"^"^ '^^ ' '^'^ "--•

an^:;;:;:ri;:;:r^;!r *^'7"^ °'*^« ^'-- -^

where they fo .T the , T"* ''^ *''« <lining-room,
lioxv's eare seemed to h " , ''"""^'^^^'^ ^Proad. Ann
i'"I"od it had bTe. , ' ^'"" "-^P^"^!^'! i" vain, and

boon bro Jht in S ' • ' "" "'" ^"'''^^^^ «^ ^'^libles had

J "^'^'^") "'••I at last observofl • " Wr.ii i t

do M'oiider, if flat ole flml 1? ^'^t«- Well! now I

fare, quicker 'n lightni,.'. "Bv^. hear f'^ ^"" '"'"'^" "!' ""

ALDEANE.

rhil.lron, whil.- Undo A.lsim ntivsUed himHolf with ii
I'lii'^H ofwim- iiml Home coM chickiii. 1

Dinner was at last conolu.Ud, af/.l aftor numorou.
t.>astH to AMcanc'rt b.'alth and i.ros,,onty ha.l been
drunk; all i.n.pan-.l lor a ran.l.lc over the f^roun.lH
Thcv proved to be very beaiitifnl and extensive, t ohn.el
Arendell and Aldenne were walkin-,' to.trether; they
reaehed the vine-o'er-rown arb..r. Within was a eruni-
blin.' seat; she entered and sat down ; the eolonel stood
befon- lier. She instinetively felt that he alone eould tell
the history of the old plaee ; therefore she saul :—

"Why have you suttered this j.laee to deeay, C olonel
Arendell, when you have kept all Hurroundinj; it ii. sueh
excellent rej.air ? Do you fancy this wild beauty V

" Somewhat," he replied, glancinji back. Ihs wile and
Leonorc were discussinjr Honu- lu.usehold matter with
Aui>t Samira, near the house; the children were playin-
at 8omo diHtance. " I do not let this ruin stand tor that
alone," he continued ;" but because I can not hn<l it in
mv heart to pull down this ancient arbor, in whuh 1 so
often r)laye.l in childhood. Neither will I assist it to
remain, since here was passed the bitterest moments ot
my life This spot is intimately associated with memo-
ries of one, whom I have not seen for years. We parted
in anc'or, but we had loved in chil.lhood, and even now
my heart is burstinjj with the memory and reality ()1
love, llemorse, too, for a deed <lone by the instigation
of one who should have led mc from all evil, is eating

my heart away."

"And can you not repair that evil?" questioned

Aldeane. , on i.

"Not now! not now! Why do you ask mc? he
replied fiercely smiting his forehead with his open hand.
" I'.ut it shall be done," he continued more gently. " Soon,
soon! But not now. I can not do it now, my child.
You have seen me in my true character to-day, a creature

a
h
it
ill

en
III

.i'l
bii

Iiei

his

wJi

den

thn

in 1

wre

phu

dec!

the

musi

"Ic;

your

rose-1

hair.

led himHolf with a

f(l iil'tor mimoro\j!<
osjH-rity had bci'ii
oviT the fjrouiiilH.
?xU'nsivt'. Cohnu'l
ig t()i;<'tliiT ; tlu'j'
VVithiM was a criim-
; the foloiu'l stood
t he alone coiiUl tell
•c she Haul : —
;c to deeay, Colonel
rroundin<jj it in Hueh
wild beauty?"
Imek. His wile and
(ehold nuitter, with
lildren were iilayint?
I ruin stand for that
I ean not find it in
arbor, in whieh I 8o
r will I assist it to
itterest monu'iits of
lociatcd Avith m(>mo-
r years. We parted
ihood, and even luiw
nory and reality of
c by the instigation
om all evil, is eating

,t evil?" questioned

I you ask mc?" ho
[ with his open hand,
more gently. " Soon,
lo it now, my ehild.
'ter to-day, a creature

ALDEANE. >,^

of passionate impulses, and n.orbi.I fi...li„.,, r,,,,„ .,

„ii,iii\ ('.veiled lo-(ljiv !ii'<" iwii.illi. I

-n-ti:;;:;;;::;;'iT:;:^,/:;;7i::;::-;'«

"»pt'>veived ha.l joined th..m » V..„ b ' '''"'

h,,/i;. ^ ^-' ^ '< t } ou speak to him again, while we are

-i-hadtheiiuric r^ii^i::';;"^^^--'''^-"'

'l^--«"o joine,! Leonon. and Mr An, IT'"''"'- ^^'■
tl-ough theflower-ganlen .„K ift."^' , .'" " '^'""^
i» "..e of the arho,; em/'i^'r"'' ;'''■" ^'"!"^
^ayly, she lbun.l an. .10 e„:;.I .'nie t J" l"'""""-
wreaths and bouquets the .„»:.?, '''''""""'K' "'»<>
l.lneke,7 T- . V''"*""^ numerous blossoms they had
piUfKed. Jessie, Leom.re, and Mrs A.v... i n '"-y "^^
deeked with wreaths m.l V ^^■'-'"•J^'H, were soon

.1 . . "'^'"^"S "1" Aldeanc was abonf tn. ^i...

t lie remamn.r flowers jisi.lo «.i> t • *'""^^

"Oh • A[i«. r II ' ''" '^™'''^ ^'velaimed:-

musfLvetnet;;^::'' ^'^^ ^^-'^ ^'y "^-rs. You
''•■ur. with the inquiry: " Will that ioT'> " '" ^''^

A Li) E AXE.

"N..." ftiiswoml Mrs. AiviuI.H. "It in too great a
coiitnis'l; h.M.Us, wliili' uii.l liliK'k iirc too wmibor."

"I will lultl Homc jjoldcu-liiiirli'd violi-ts tlicn. I cnn
not wfar sraycicoli.rrt yi't !" an.l licr c-yos tlllcl with tears
ns «lie tiionylit of her motlier, whose favorite flowers »he

then held.

The Huiiuner nfteriioon was waninif. The snii was
pil.linj-' tlie rou.^'h trunks of tiie old Irei'S, and li^'htln,^'
up as witli fire the hirj^e windowH of the luausiou, when
Frank ran uj) to tell theni that tin- earriajre would soon he
nady. Tiu-y repaired to tiie house to partake (.f some
sliu'lit refreslunent, and soon after departed, leaving Aunt
Samira, Tnele Charley, th.' overseer, and the sahle erew,
they professed to govern, in great delight at their mus-
ter's eoninu'ndation.

All seemed in exeellent spirits, and the ride homo,
enlivened by jests and laugiiter, passed quiekly. Stdl,
thoughts of Colonel Areiidell's strange eonduet through-
out the day would intrude upon AhUane's mind. It
seemed searcely possible that the man who was now
heartily participating in the merriment of those around
hira, without one shade of gloomy thought upon his
countenance, could bo the same who, at numerous tunes
throughout the day, hud betrayed such serious and
troubled emotions. Yet she liked him better in the real
character of which she had caught momentary glimpses,
than in the gay dissemblemeat in which he usually

appeared. i • om i

" IIow have you enjoyed jourself. Miss Guthrie? he
asked, as ho assisted her to alight on their arrival at

Arcndell.

" Excellently, but very strangely, for I have passed
through a labyrinth of riddles,"

" They will all be solved at some time. But not now !
not now !" he replied, a troubled look passing oyer his
face. " Go into the house, my dear, the dew is falling. 1

(•r

an
lie

It is too ji;roat a

too HOlllltlT."

)litH tlii'ii. I I'iin
■IS tilh'il with tcar.i
iivoiitc tloworrt hIu;

jf. Till- Sim Wiis
InvH, and li}j;hting
llu- iniiiisioii, wlu'U
iatit' uoiiltl siiou l)e
to jiartakc of f>omo
irtt'd, li'aving Aunt
uid tlu' sal)lf crow,
■liglit at their mus-

nd tlu' ride homo,

HC'd quirkly. Still,

;e condiu't through-

.hU'uno's mind. It

man who was now

■lit of those around

thought upon his

at numerous times

8uch serious and

in better in the real

lomentary glimpses,

which he usually

, Miss Guthrie ?" he
on their arrival at

, for I bave passed

imc. But not now 1
ok passing over his
the dew is falling. 1

Ann EA ^E, ^g

Aldcane took .Tessie'H hand, and. sadiv perplex..!
.■ntered the house AHer s„, ,, ...,.si.. „..i ,1 |,,ci.,y

;'•"' "♦ •' l.'t.- hour she retired to rest, having well enjoyed
her eighteenth hirthdav. ^ ^

CIIAPTEli X.

"JANUARY AND JIAY."

Quite unconsciously to herself lier piquancy and grace
upon that evening luid won for Aldeane more admiration
than any beauty of face or form could possibly have
done. More than one young gentleman returned to his
home witli visions of her as its loved and loving mistress.
But these, young as they were, for some time at least,
kept their own counsel, and it M-as oidy from the most
unwelcome source that Aldeane Guthrie received any
intimation of her power.

Upon the following day, accompanied by the children,
she went a short distance up the river in search of yellow
jasmine, which they assured her grew there in great
quantities, and the party having pursued their search
together in vain, the boys left her and Jessie, asking thorn
not to leave the spot, and promising soon to return with
the floral treasure.

Being slightly fatigued Aldeane suffered Jessie to wan-
der a short distance iVom her, and sat down at the foot of
a large beech-tree which overhung the water. Fearing
Jessie might go too far, she turned to look after her, when
a voice speaking her name startled her violently.

"I did not know you were here," she involuntarily
exclaimed, starting to her feet, f^nd regarding the intruder
with no flattering expression.

" Pardon me," returned Mr. Blake, for it were he. " The
boys, whom I met just now, told me you were here, and I

in
le:
kii
an

hei

th£

(

tov
fut

alai

"Li

lias

me;i

whi

surr
((

rapii

mon

and

that

I lo^

say

Jessi

leave

lie

had <

said t

instai

ALDEANE.

piquancy and grace
me more admiration
Duld possibly liave
man returned to liis
and loving mistress,
some time at least,
only from the most
utlirie received any

lied by the children,
• in star'.h of yellow
rew there in great
ursued their search
I Jessie, asking them
soon to return with

ififered Jessie to wan-
t down at the foot of
the water. Fearing
look after her, when
er violently.
^," she involuntarily
'garding the intruder

for it were he. "The
you were here, and I

O„o,nomoi,t! Co niomcnt, JMis» (Jntlnio I l,,..ri" I,.

SifcMiop:!."''"'' ^"^ ""'^ ""» "»w""-» "'■ ■■■?

Even at that moment, wlien sIip wna i,«ti

n.on.<.« „,•„,„ .„,,„ai„,„„„., with ' U'l, ^0 ^ oTn
and admiration. Allow me tl.,.,. Af? '», ^ ^' ^^^^'"n

I ove you „„,, ,,„a „,,. ,,,„ ,„ „7; : J"'

sav „„ ""'•'■ 'J"' *° '■'■I'"'-"' »"l' <liS"ity ■' Pray

My no nore B,r, u can never bo;" an.l callin' to

ALLEANE.

asked you to love me, thoujjli if you shoulcl marry me, 1
liiivc no fear but my constant kindness would lead you to
do so. Your love I do not exact, although I at k you to be
my wife."

" You are very kind," returned Aldeane, with a curling
lip, " but I am too young to consider the possibility of
marrying without love."

" Ah, Miss Aldeane, that is so very uaturul !" he ex-
claimed in atfected admiration; "but really one of your
amiable disposition could not fail to love one to whom
you were advantageously married."

Aldeane looked at him a moment with flashing eyes,
and then most quietly said: "You wish, sir, to remind
me that I am a poor governess, and you a rich planter."

" Oh, no ! no !" lie returned earnestly ; " believe me that
I have no wish to remind you of any tiling unpleasant in
your own position, while I may surely be excused for wish-
ing you to remember whatever is agreeable in mine."

"1 remember both," she answered, "but neither in-
fluence me. It (!an be no secret to you, ]\Ir. Blake, that 1
possess a natural antipathy to you, as real and strong as
if I were a victim of your enmity and malice."

Strangely as she looked at him, his head drooped, and
every vestige of color forsook his face. "Pardon me,"
she added quickly, though she could imagine no reason
for tl^ sudden change in him. — " pardon me if I have
spoken plainly, but it is better so at such a time. Ter-
liaps I ought to thank you, Mr. Blake, for the honor you
liave done me. At any rate i do so, while I must decline
it." And again she attemptbd to leave him.

" Wait, wait !" he exclaimed huskily, once more detain-
ing her. "Indeed, Miss Aldeane, I do love you; just
considor the matter for a moment oow ! Pray do. Per-
haps you refuse me, because I was once Colonel Areiidell's
overseer, but I was also the cousin of his flrst wife ; the
family is unexceptionable, I assure you !"

to
ra

sil

de
Bl

lea

ela
bol

(pii

Hot

tlia
mil]
fort
you

it s
mig
excl
wori
mys
is it

"Iv

thinl
dos!'
be, a

A L D EA NIS.

ihoukl marry me, 1
} would lead you to
ugh I at k you to bo

janc, with a curling
• the possibility ol'

y uaturul !" he ex-
really one of your
love one to whom

with flashing eyes,
vish, sir, to remind
yrou a rich planter."
v; " believe me that
thing unpleasant in
be excused for wish-
eeable in mine."
1, "but neither in-
u, Mr. Blake, that 1
? real and strong as

malice."

head drooped, and
ice. " Pardon me,"

imagine no reason
ardou me if I have

such a time. Per-
^, for the honor you
vhile I must decline
ve him.

y, once more detaiu-
do love you; just
w ! Pi-ay do. Per-
e Colonel Arendell's
■ his tirst wife ; the
)u !"

Aldeane could not restrain a smile, and thouo-Ji it

iapklly :i!. '"' '" l'™^'^"'' ^'"^^ '"' '''^^'"^-^"^

" Besi.los, Miss Aldeane, just think, I hold as good a po-
.t on „, Hocety as the Arendells themselves, and I ass u^
you I am nnicii wealthier."

"I am really anxious to return to the liouse," said Al-
kit yoi;.'" "^ *'' "'^ '''''' po«sible-by allowh.g L to
"That you may consider what I liave said," he ex-
claimed, eagerly. " Really, Miss Aldeane, in usticeto
both ot us, you should do that." "^

;' I have given tiK, subject all the consideration it re-
;!;nLyyo:""^'''"^^'"'^'^- -I— tandlwm
He seemed then, for the first time, to be more an-^rv
tlurn gneved " You are very proud, and very deS
n."od ' he saal. " I have known those'of your b L b .
'-V w .0 were so but if all was known, you miH.t find
yourselt with httle cause to despise an alliance wUh me " >

bhe saw the word liar, written upon his very ikce an",l
It suddenly flashed upon her that if she knew aU so
might find abundant cause to despise him. " {^l.,t '' 1
exclaimed with a reeolloetion of Colonel Ar'ende I's
vords, « did you, too, know my family ? ()h wln# tL
mj.te.y concerning them; iLow [hereis;! W
IS It? Pray, what is it ?"

"List to me," he replied, drawing a step near her
I will tell you, if you will become my wife "
•| My curiosity is not so great," she answered.

think of .!rt.^'"'^'i^\.r"!'^ ^' *" y«"' ^^'"'^ ^'^1^'^"'^;
t unk of all the wonderful tales you have read of the dis-

closnres of seore(s, and tiien ima^-ine what the benefit will

be, and then you will fall sliorf of t!ie rojility "

ALDEANE.

Aldeane looked at him with Avidcly dist'-udcd oyes.
«I do not exaggerate," he continued. '• I can tell you
what you would give worlds to know." He paused and

looked at her. ^

" You shall say no more to me," she presently said. i
am happy and contented in my ignorance."

" But you can no longer be iu ignorance that a great
benefit is within your reach, if you believe my word to
be that of an lionorablc man."

Ho knew that it was likely she had heard that ques-
tioned, yet he was mad enougii in his earnestness to

Bpeak of it.

" I will question Colonel Arendell," she thought. " I
there is a benefit within my reach, he will tell me so. I
know in my case, Arthur would not have me sacrifice
myself to this designing man ;■' and so once more she
gave him to understand that his s.iit was hopeless.

« I shall take further opportunity of assuring myself
of that," he said with .i minister smile, as he heard the
boys crashing through the underbrush, " and again, Miss
Guthrie, I should advise you to consider tiie subject

well."

He bowed, and disappca it d. The boys coming up
wth their arms full of wild jasmine, were surprised to
find that their governess took but little heed of it, but
h^-ni^d them home, exclaiming that she was tired, and
("Witirming her words, upon her arrival at the house, by
h.v.V ning to her room, and rt>maining there for hours.

Strangely enough, amid all the excitement and passion
in which she entered the 'room, and without owning to
herself the slightest reason for the act, she took from its
resting-place the ivory case Belle had dropped upon her
lap one memorable summer eve ; she looked long and
thoughtfully upon the portrait 't contained.

"What a frank, honest face," she mused, "how kind
he used to be ; I wonder if he would be now, or if even

he,

ins
bee
lac(

!«;

beli
deci
T
had
cam

•non

wou

less

jure

been

to h(

them

mind

All

tlian,

pecte

tioniu

to roi

left b;

An(

Avlien

endca

thougl

she ht

relief,

missed

eutirel

1 dist'Muled eyes,
od. '• I can tell you
tr." lie paused and

L' presently said. " I

ranee."

lorancc that a great

believe my word to

had heard that ques-
n his earnestness to

," she thought. "T
le will tell me so. I
:>t have me sacrifice
d so once more she
; was hopeless.
' of assuring myself
liU', as he heard the
ish, " and again, Miss
onsider the subject

Oie boys ccttning up
ne, were surprised to
little heed of it, but
it she was tired, and
rival at the house, by
12 there for hours,
ccitement and passion
id without owning to
act, she took from its
ad dropped upon her
she looked long and
(utained.

e mused, "how kind
Id be now, or if even

A LDEANE.

ho, in my position, would find some cause or excuse for
msult^ " and then, passionately oxelaimin. that s fht
Wen that day n.„,t.d, she clasped her hands ovt h e r
lace, and burst into tears "vumi

heltr%Tnriihk"rf I^^7-f ^''^' ^"^' *^^^" ^ «"^-i-^

txlici that lilake had sought deliberately to ensnare an.l
deeeive her, seized upon her mind

The longer she thought of this, and the opinion sho
had formed of her unwelcome admirer, the mo "she e
came convinced of this. ^'

"He must think me the weakest of all Aveak-minde.l
^omen," she .aid more than once, "to suZse " ft I
would niarry him, even for the wealth of the Ind es m el

u^d'up^-^^d ^^^' ^^^ -y^tery he ^^
jured up, and then remmdmg herself that if there hid
been any secret existing that could be of possible benefit
to herself and Arthur, her mother wouldlux> inform"
tl^mof u,she endeavored to dismiss the subject wtr

And this she succeeded in doing to a far greater decree
tha.1, in any weak-minded woman, eould have been'ov
pocted, after she had written to Arthur, and wi ho i m n"
-.ung her reasons, urged him to prompt Cha les Eva s"

riwH ^-^^1-«.*« d--er the paper that hLfb:
left by their mother in his father's chai4

And so she said nothing to Colonel Arendell- and
when Arthur's reply to her letter arrived, saying that ^
endeavors to discover the paper had b^en^n'va n, Vh,
though , with some amusement, of tiie secret with wh ch

iief 1 1\: zr; t-"^^*^^^ '"^ -^-^ tinnkinL^w;;:

uuct, that 31i. Blake had not again adverted to it dis
missed the matter from lier miiid, and devoted h^l-sef
entirely to her somewhat harassing duties.

CHAPTER XI.

AX UNEXPECTED ARRIVAL.

The heat was intense. Man, beast, and herb seemed
fainting beneath its ferveney. The sun poured Ins fiercest
rays down throu«;ch tiie mimosas, oalvS, and cedars wliuli
surrounded Arendell House, peered boldly into the dark-
ened rooms, and filled with blinding light the wide pia/.-
/.!is. It was, indeed, one of the most oppressive days of
what had been an uinisually warm season. The inmates
of the liouse, both white and black, had retired to the
coolest parts of the house or grounds, and performed their
duties wearily and unwillingly.

In the parlor were Ahkane and Leonore, vainly en-
d^ voring to concentrate their wandering attention upon
a new and diilicult piece of nnisic. Leonore sat at the
piano, playing discordantly and looking very discontent-
ed, and wondering greatly why her mother had insisted
upon her taking a lesson upon that particular morning,
when it would have been so easy to have postponed it to
another day. Breaking the rule for once could do no harm.
Aldeaue inwardlv thought the same, as she corrected her
pupil's fre<iuent mistakes, and emphatically played oyer
the difficult parts which Leonore insisted upon playing
wrong. A cloud rested upon the faces of both.

« My dear Miss Aldeaue, do let me rest a little Avhile,"
exclaimed Leonore, at length. " I declare, this dreadful
lesson makes me faint even to look at it. As tor you, I
should think you would die, with that black dress on, thiu
as it is. Do vou know, when grandpapa died, about two

yea
gre;

and

((

Rwei
robt

SOHK

norc

anxii

"'J

Leon

hesto

if vol

and c

ii'om

windc

usual

Fred !

Uef

Leono

}ier ha

ward 1

"f dus

'uiggy

tJie gri

Yes,

the tw

• lark w

and Av

\\atche

In a

and wit

why, bl

:i.

IIVAL.

,8t, and herb seemed
un poured Ins fiercest
ks, and cedars which
boUlly into the dark-
light the wide piaz-
st oppressive (Lays oi"
season. The inmates
k, had retired to the
}, and performed their

1 Leonore, vainly en-
lering attention upon
Leonore sat at the
(khig very discontent-
• mother had insisted
t particular morning,
I have postponed it to
)nce could do no harm.
e, as slie coi'rected her
)hatically played over
insisted upon playing
aces of both,
ne rest a little Avhile,"
; declare, this dreadful
at it. As for you, 1
Kit black dress on, thin
dpapa died, about two

ALDEANE.

yearsago— Ihadnever seen ffrinflm.vi ,.^ i
«^-st trouble was l.tm^r:^l2.^1^^^^^^^^
an.I insist uj.on my doing so also. 1 detest black " "'
1 pray y<.u may never be call..! nj.on to wear"it " .n

wei^d Aldcane, with a sigh, glancing at the lit c ihi^"
robed lorm beside Jicr, and, as she was ubou o un .
«ome penitent excuse for spcakin-. upon so ,," f. ^ " 'u'

,oct,ad.lingeneonragi„g,y:^^On.;hJi;:„Li::t.:w
n :>utr?"''*-V--""-^- Youknowyourmaminais^

"The onl r," '"•?" V^""' >•""•• »''"-'t <or '""Sic."
Ihe only talent that I have, unfortunately," remarked
Leonore, parenthetically. ^' ••^maiKea

Aldeane laughed cheerfullv " \V<01 1 +1,

;-.o. „u .he ,„„,.o ,„.i,., „;i-, ,. r • *ro ^:''„r

II you please." " ''«■*»"»

Witli a weary sigh, Leonore turned on the piano stool

ttr^t^^r^ ""''^'"^'''^ ''-'' «•-« ofien'wTi::iri'

lion the page of music to the scene beyond tJie o,„n
.^ow. .Suddenly Aldeane was startled by t e "
usual^exclamation," Good Heavens! Uncle Fr^ - Un^lo

^ liefore slie could ask the meaning of these interjection.
j.eono.-e, overturning the piano-stool and an ottCn i i'

aid the window for a solution of the mvstery. A cloud

" clust was slowly subsiding in the ro^d ; a^iorse a d

'..,.,?y were standing before the gate, and hurrying p

tJie gravel walk was Frederic Mor-^an ^

Yes, though he was darker and^uich changed durin..

.k wh^kers and heavy mustache, she recognized hin';;
d with feelings she could not herself comprehend
^^ atched his approach. ' ^"^"<.,

•m^witHr"' '''• '^'"'^ ^'"" ^^•^^'»™' ^" t'^*^ om tones
and with the same joyous laugh as of yore, "Ah Leonore -

why, bless me, how you have grown; andso jt ""w

ALDEANE.

your old uncle at a plance ! AN'hcre is your mother ?"
Tlipn followed the sound of embraeinc;, and the next mo-
ment his quiek step was heard upon the pia/za.

" Why Fred ^Morgan ! where did you come from ?" ex-
claimed Mrs. Arendell, as she appeared at the door of
the sitting-room. " Dear me, how delighted I am to see
you, and how you have changed !"

"Where have I come fromV" answered lier bro:lier,
returning her cordial embrace. " Why, just from P2ng-
land, to be sure. I went home, and found e erybody
away, gone to the White Mountains again, I >elieve.
So as nobody expected me home, I thought they ne.>dn't
know of my being in the country. So, instead of writn ;c
to them to come home, I embraced the only chance I
could hope to get for some time, and ran down to see
you."

" Well, I am delighted to see you ; and how long arc
you going to stay?" inquired Mrs. Arendell, anxiously.

" Now, that's a pretty question to ask a man, the min-
xite he gets into the house," returned Mr. Morgan laugh-
ing ; " but to satisfy you, I'll tell you. Two or three weeks
at the longest. I must really begin to jjractice this fall ;
I've been studying famously while in Europe, attended
lectures and walked hospitals enough to make me a first-
rate physician, though I don't suppose I shall be. But
here are Frank .and Eddy ! How do you do, sirs ? Don't
you know your Uncle Fred ? And there is little Jessie.
She's as pretty as a rose-bud ; and so like sister Jessie was

Ida !"

" Yes," replied Mrs. Arendell, with a sigli ; " but how
are ma and Annie, pretty well ?"

" I haven't seen them, you know, but I believe mother
is well ; Annie is a weakly little thing, it is for the sake
of her health that they have gone to the mountains this
summer, I think. But, Ida, where is Arendell ?"

" Out in the fields, somewhere. Here Jule, go look for

as Aldi
"Let n:
differen
gan."

Mr. J!

nouncec

elaiuiini

I am ve

like all 1

I did no

to greet

Aldea

had foun

hand tlia

"You mi

nizing yo

re is your mother?"
iiic;, and the next mo-
1 the piazza,
you conae from ?" ex-
cared at the door of
delighted I am to see

[iswcred her bro'lier,
Why, just from Eiio;-
md found e erybody
ains again, I >elieve.
thought they iR->du't
So, instead of writn;c
ed the only chance I
and ran down to see

u ; and how long are
Arendell, anxiously.

ask a man, the min-
h\ Mr. Morgan laugli-
. Two or three weeks

to ])ractice this fall ;
; in Europe, attended
;h to make me a first-
pose I shall be. But
3 you do, sirs ? Don't

1 there is little Jessie.
3 like sister Jessie was

ith a sigli ; " but how

, but I believe mother
ling, it is for the sake
to the mountains this
is Arendell?"
Here Jule, go look for

ALDEA yR.

,^<«ii. ^vii thou lovest mo ' Inf w.„ i

F 'VA. ui tstape, but found upon trial thit tl.,. a .
oneninc infn tlw. i..,ii , t , , "'' ^"^ floor

Bide. She td W 7 7] ? '" ^"'"^^ *''' "P"" t'"^t

" Al, ! Mi», r.„tl,rk., „rc ,„„ here r .aid Mr,. Awndd]

.n»..gyo„ at o„c»; ,„„ are .oc„a„go,,-:;;£;.- '::.':S

ALDEANE.

-" ghiiiciii<j; at her l»lack

lionny brown curls, iiml-
dn'.-^s.

" My mother w (h'lu!," ^lio r(|ili»'<l, sadly.

"Ah," ii""l li''^ *'y^' truvcrwi'd rajudly over her I'aci- and
lijjiiri'. _ ,

" Why, you soem to \w qtiUf old friends !" intorruptctl
]Mrs. Arendill, in astonishment.

"Certainly we are," replied .Mr. Morgan. " I've' known
J\Iiss (Jiithrie those six years."

" Wliy AMeane, how is it you have never mentif>n«'d
liimV" inquired Mrs. Arendell.

"I had not the least idea that Mr. :\lor,«?an was your
1)rothor, and therefore, hud no reason for doing ho," re-
turned Aldeano.

" lie is my step-brother," replii'd :MrH. Arendell. " I am
jilad you know eaeh other so well. Aldeaue, I belii've,
lias been a little honu'siek of lato; it will do her good to
talk of old times, r.nd mutual friends."

" Well, really, this is a surprise !" exclaimed a voice at
the door, and in a moment more Colonel Arendell was
Hhakins the hand of his brother-in-law Avarmly. " Why,
Fred ! how are you ? You're the very last person I
should have expected to see ; but none the lesa welcome
for that ! How lont; have you been here?"

"About half an hour."

" A half hour ! and I sui)pose Ida and Leonore have
kept you talking ever since. I wonder they ever thought
to send for me ?"

" I don't know that I fhould have done so, had not,
Fred inquired for you," said Mrs. Arendell, laughing.
"But Fred, I suppose you would like to rest a littl;-
before lunch, which will i)e ready in an hour. Here Julc,
take Mr. Morgan to his old room ; and Pete, take back
the hoi-sc and buggy to Loring, and tell Aunt lloxy to
come."

" I wonder," thought Aldeane, as :Mr. Morgan Icil the

uifiiig at her l»latk

1, sa.lly.

illy over hiT face ami

tVieials !" iutomiptttl

[organ. " I've Uiiowii

avo ncvor meutioiuil

Mr. ^l()r,>?an wan yoiir
M)i» lor doing ho," rv-

]MrH. Arcndoll. "lam
. Altloanc, I hclii'vo,
it will do her gooil to
Is."

' exclaimed a voiei' at
Colonel Arendell was
law M-armly. "Why,
le very last person I
none the less welcome
n here ?"

la and Leonore have
ider they ever thonght

lave done so, had not,
s. Arendell, laughiiitr.
1 like to rest a littl;-
1 an hour. HereJule,
; and Pete, take back
,nd tell Aunt lloxy to

IS Mr. Morgan left the

A LDEANE.

■"" ", I r..ally ^u,^uU^r what h,. thinks of n,e or nf

::;;;i,:;:;:^"'';\»';'r''''''-^'""'!r»::;i:':::r

'"nest poverty is never a dist^nice I{ift..r f.. I .

■•- wc-ak, p.u.nle ,L.dings, she hastilv h-r I , « '

Mr. Morgan, as he stood heforo the glass in his dress
ug-roon,, thought, "What can Ahleanf (..thrie .'^
. tan ,t he that she is the governess Ida wrof to no
ahout i She may be; he has lost her n.othor, and tit

^o;;i:^^:S"''^"r'''"*'-''"^''''^'--

1 >von(ic'i wiiat Arthur IS doni" T u-i^li I i... i *i ■

j-'Yi-tGrenville'swhenlwal^-I^^;: '7C;::
1 '"ked as pron.l as Lucifer to-d.ny. I p.-osume she tho ;ht
^^l.o must show me, that she eonsi-Lrs her.-.elf as loo ft
;-r, but she doesn't, or she woul.l not ta o s cf ten

lost yot. I must consider the best wav to brin<r l.l
•■"•oun.I. How foolish she is I ronllv 1 ^.T "
sensible." ^ thought her more

some water." ' '""' "' '" "^"'^''^'^"^' '^"^^ ^'^--^ -ith
" Well, Jnlius Ca^sar!" exclaimed .Mr. .Mor.ran « how
re you, and all the other braves, and wanC kin"
and heroes, getting along ?" ' = '

H ell, u s cheering to hear that. I supp,>se some of

ALDEANE.

you have hcon sold 'down South,' bIiicc I was here hist,

'Phi' hoy looked at him, with a morry twinkh- lu hn
PVcsaHho ni-lh-d: "No,Kah, Miss My Nvouhln't low
dal an' :MisH Ahloauc, I trll you, w<.uhl ^o hkhj it too.^^
"'Slu- would, I'h ? 1 low lohfr has Hhu bmi hero, Juh; i
" A year dis hery mouth, Huh."
" Ah ! and is she visiting horo. '

« No Mass'r Fi-fdcrii', whe am de fjohorupss, and is
mi,d.ty'i,oart, 1 kiu tell ye, aud Mass'r IMake thinks so
too' She toM him sonu>thin' the ot'.Pr day tliat sent hun.
away in a jitVy, and he hasn't been ui,!,d, dis plantation
sence." And J ule <,'rinned deli^httuHy, a.hlin-, " he mi-ht
a-knowe.l, that Miss Aldeane wouluu't ehen look at any
ole niiij^er driver." .,,,,, i i

» You had better not speak so," naid ^Ir. Alorgan laugh-
in-r • " he may have you some day, i>erhai)s."

"No, sah, he won't. Mass'r John don't sell his mggcrs.
]Miss Id'v wouldn't let him do that no how."

"And you say, y.)U like Miss Guthrie," said Jrederie.
«' I suppose she spoils you all. And do Colonel Arendell,
and ]Miss Ida, like her as well ?" . , , ,

" I guess they does, sah, and Miss Nora jes lobes her
dearly'! Dere's tlie bell, sah !"

» Poor Alie !" thought Mr. Morgan, as he prepared to
answer the summons. " I know this life is distasteful it
not positively hateful to her. How dilVerent slie looks
now, to what she did when I parted from lier m boston.
She was really quite pretty then, though like me, she has
no particular beauty to boast ot, especially now that those
.dossy brown curls are tucked up. I never could see any
reason why girls always try to make themselves as plain
as a nun when they become teachers, yet they almost
invariably do. AVell ! although they arc kmd to her
, here, yet I know that she thinks like I do, that teaching
' is a hard business. I don't like it !"

Hinoe 1 was here last,

miTvy twinkle in hin
iss My wouldn't 'low
A-ould ffo iif^in it too."
Hhebit'U hero, JuloV"

do fjoltornoss, and is
lass'r Hiiiki' tliinkH so
)th<i-duytliiit siMit him
>ti nJjili diw plantation
(i\y,addin<!;, "lii'mitilit
Iclu't tben look at any

saidMr. Morp;anlangli-

, perhaps."

II don't well his niggers.

; no how."

uthrie," said Frederic.

lid do Colonel Arcndell,

[iss Nora jes lobes her

rtian, as lie prepared to
this life is distasteful if
[ow dill'erent she looks
ted from her in lloston.
though like nie, she has
specially now that those
. I never could see any
lake themselves as plain
vehers, yet they almost
they arc kind to htr
like I do, that teaching
it!"

IMAGE EVALUATION
TEST TARGET (MT-3)

t
^

f/^

1.0

I.I

1.25

■- IIIM

|50

^ 1^

2.0

1.4

1.8

1.6

Photographic

Sciences
Corporation

<1^

'*b'-

23 WEST MAIN STREET

WEBSTER, NY. 14580

(716) 872-4503

c<?

^^^ ih..

CIHM/ICMH

Microfiche

Series.

CIHM/ICMH
Collection de
microfiches.

Canadian Institute for Historical Microreproductlons / Institut Canadian de microreproductlons historiques

A LDEANE.

Miss Guthrio dkl not appear at lunch that day. "A
had headache," Zettie said, keeping licr in her own
ajtartmont.

" I thought slie looked pale this morning, when wo
were in the parlor witli Uncle Fred," remarked Leonore.
" I knew she would be sick after giving me a lesson this
warm^ morning; and I should have been sick too, had not
uncle's providential arrival interrupted the l.sson. I
wish some one would come at every such time."

" Leonore, you are dreadfully lazy !" said Mrs. Arcn-
dell laughing.

While 3[r. Morgan thought, "Ah ! a headache, I don't
remember of ever having heard her complain of it before.
But 01 course it is this confounded teaching," then, turn-
ing to Mrs. Arendell, he inquired : —

"Is Miss Guthrie a good music-teacher? She used to
sing and play well."

" She is the best teacher Leonora" has ever had ; aoubt-
less she performs as well, if not better, than she did
when you parted. I presume you will soon have an
opportunity of judging for yourself. But I am afraid
atler being in Europe so long, you will have no taste for
our home melodies."

"Indeed!" he returned, "that remains to be proved,
if Miss Guthrie sings half as well as she used to, I think
you will find yourself mistaken. My traveling compan-
ion, Raymond, used to be wild about her voice. I must
write to him that she is liere, and, with your permission,
Ida, ask him to come here, and listen to it once more."

"I wish you would," said Mrs, Arendell, "I know you
were jesting, Fred, but, I am quite anxious to see this
paragon of whom you have so often written. I declare !"
she added suddenly, "in future I shall be acre communi-
cative about my family. If I had been in the past, I
should have known long ago that you and Aldeane we're
acquainted."

ALDEANE.

"And it appears tliat IVIiss Guthrie is equally reliceut
concerninc? hcT iViends," remarked her brother, with a
curious smile. " Hut it is a wonder tliat mamma nevor
mentioned her knowledge of your governess. :\Iiss Ash-
ton has of course mentioned to her the names of her
friend's employers."

"Well, I am afraid," said Mrs. Arendell, colormg,
" that mamma was a little piqued that I did not ask her
to choose me a governess, but really, "Miss Osmond was
so unsatisfactory, that I thought it best to trust entirely
to Professor Grenville, and say nothing to mamma about

it."

" Or it may be possible," suggested Colonel Arendell,
archly, " that mamma may not have cared to claim ac-
quaintance with our governess. This is a queer world,

you know !"

Mr. IMorgan laughed. Mrs. Arendell glanced at her
husband indignantly, but, knowing his supposition was
highly probable, said nothing.

" Oh, no !" cried Leonore, " that's always your way,
papa, to try to tind a dark side to the picture. Our
world is a very good world, is it not. Uncle Fred ?"

" It suits me very well," he returned gayly. " I've had
but little trouble in it. Perhaps it is coming though, for
you and me both, Lcpnora."

"God forbid!" said the colonel, as they arose from
the table.

Aldeane appeared at tea, apparently as well as usual.
A slight hauteur characterized her deportment toward
jNIr. Morgan ; a fact which he failed not to notice, and,
with a feeling of amusement and pity, to attribute to its
proper source. The night was dark, so they left the
piazza earlier than usual, and repaired to the parlor. ]Mr.
:\[organ soon took his seat at the piano, and commenced
playing light airs, at the same time talking to Mrs.
Arendell and the children, who diad gathered around

Mm.
A Idea

It A\

qr.ii-ed

spoker

She wi

he also

and ta

sang tl

"'Ve

approv

rememl

It fla

inipress

and the

upon Jic

that the

selves, 1

his.

Slie ^v
tliink sh
that she
Arendell

A fe.
of her o\
clinched
voice, sh(
torment i
Oh ! liow
ho would
pany ! E
ess, but J
I hate h..i

■AZD EJ NE.

s equally rt'licont
1- brother, -with .'i
lat niumma never
•rnesH. ]\Iiss Asli-
:he names of her

Lrendell, colorincr,
, I did not ask her
^liss Osmond was
;t to trust entirely
; to mamma about

Colonel Arendell,

sared to claim ac-

is a queer world,

ell glanced at her
is supposition was

always your way,
the picture. Our
JneleFred?"
gayly. " I've had
:;oniing though, for

,s they arose from

y as well as usual,
ieportmcnt toward
not to notice, and,
r, to attribute to its
c, so they left the
. to the parlor, ilr.
no, and commenced
le talking to Mrs.
d gathered around

a-=i-cl a powenC, elL^^ t: ^^ij^''^,^^ '^ -
si.oken to her before and \Z% ^'"' ''"""^''^'v^

ShoMished to refell ."''"" ^"^''^ Peremptory.

I'- also did, that eiAs a 1 ?""•"'' ""' ^'"' ^"''I^^-^

-^1 taking , he ^:rci;::t^^

-;gthesong.ithnnusnalta; ' a,::^^-^'^'-d
"^^^«y Js'ood! Keally very eood ' V \r .,

u.member Raymond, Miss Guthrie ?" ^ ^"'"- ^ ""

^'-t ther; xJ^t^^ "^^ --^o of saying
H'lves, thouo-h he Ind t^, , "^ ^'^^'''^•'" them-

his. ° '"'"'^ '"'^^'" ^'''' Port'-ait, and left her

that she rose from herl t C ""' ^ *'"* ''">''«^» '-^''^
Arendell, and abru^t^; ^',^0":^^' ^ -"^ - Mrs.

orCown:;:2J;n^^,:^f%P-ing the floor

clinched tigitly tog^th:; ^^^U ttt:"' "" '"^'^
voice, she exclaimed: «6hr Xdid ) ' ^''^^r^"''*'"
torment me? What though' T ^ "" ''"'"'' ^^"'•'-' t"

Oh- how he spok *to i ti'hr OTV' "" '""'■^"•'
'.0 would have^ felt honor^l yes hono'' TV'''' '"^'''
Pany I But now I am onK- Ar ' r ^"°*f'' ^y my eom-
oss but I IT7: T ^ ^^'■'- '^''''" Arendell's govern-

^", ^vlij did lie come to torment me 1"

CHAPTER XII.

A WAR OF WOKDS.

Alpean-k was perfectly aware that the frame of mind
into which ^Ir. I^Iortriin'H arrival had thrown her was
quite uncalled for; -^n.l, while she could not change or
overcome it, she blamed herself for it as much as a most
censorious stranger would have done.

To her extreme annoyance and self-contempt, she was
fdlcd with a feeling she had never known before. She
had a harrowing suspicion that people " looked down "
upon her because of her position, and that she was merely
tolerated and patronized; and that, at least from jV^r.
Morgan, she could not bear.

Of one thing she was quite certaiiv—his conduct toward
her was quite^different to what it used to be. There was
none of the freedom and affability which existed in the
happy days at Rose Cottage. Of course, she never for a
moment suspected anv greater change in her conduct than
was justified by that* in his, and, therefore, meeting his
careless pleasantries, which she chose to consider patron-
izing impertinences, with most frigid politeness, the cool-
ness^betwecn them each day became greater, and led Mrs.
Arendell to suppose the frieiidship between them had
never been a ^^rm one, and to attribute her mother's
silence regarding Miss Guthrie to a far more charitable
motive than that which had been imputed to her by
her husband. And thus a slight reserve arose between
Aldeane and her employer, wliich added not a little to her
discomfort.

A LDEANE.

the frame of mind
[ thrown her was
lUl not change or
as much as a most

■contempt, she was
iiown before. She
le " looked down "
hat she was merely
at least from Mr.

his conduct toward
L to be. There was
:hich existed in the
rse, she never for a
in her conduct than
?refore, meeting his
to consider patron-
politeness, the cool-
freater, and led Mrs.
between them had
ribute her mother's
far more charitable
imputed to her by
serve arose between
ed not a little to her

One af>erno()n Coloiipl Ar,.„ a,.„„i n , r

,t, and tak.ng ,t up, glanced over it in search of a noen

the ^oon. When she was start.ed\y!h:i:,t^^^^^^^^^^

di.l wh T ^"'!,''"'' ''^"'^ ^ ''=^^' ^ ''"'^Pieion that you
did, when I read it this mornin^. 'AG' Vol.)^

are your initials. Come own thaTfl,n r ' ''"'"

KU. ,1 . J ^'Jtin., own tliat the hnes are yours "
hlK glanced up, startled and an-ry and hoLl,! Ar

Morgan looking a. the article over h'er'shi ':'''' '"•

ners ''"h?s"i?;atl " " n'"'^' '' ^P''^-^ J^-"" —
ners she said, tartly, unable to repress her thou-rlits

thifk s^t:.t i?r'"''*""'^^- "^ ^«"'* --»- you

"Yes sir '' ^""^ "^"^^ *'''' P'""'" ^'^*''''^ ""' '^"

writrnii'wr' '''"' ^''^ ''' «^ *^* °'-'^ '^'- y- ^o

" Occasionally."

I wish to r/t- * """k''' •""' "^ ^'""^ ^"*« production.?
™ to see It you have improved much."

ii.S::^'2i;s^''"^ ^^'"^ ^'^"^ ^'^^ ^--'

.nil'^'^'r ^^^^f^^^'i surprised and half angry at her
curt replies. Aldeane turned to leave the room U
stood before the door. She looked at hL scoSV h
.-d soul standing forth plainly i„ her expressive' fiic"
my does he not stand back and lot me pass •^" ^lu
.ought. Her anger rose high as he fi.xecrhi c ,u b I
eyes upon her and inquired :—

A LnEAXK.

« Does :Miss Asliton ' orrospoiul witli yon ?"
«Mv tVieiHls an- not all imrsc-i.roiul un.l wortMoss .
she rctortea, an-nly. " Yes, «ir, Miss Ashton docs corre-
spond witli mc '" ,,.,.* D»
« I supposed so ! Has she returned from her tour yet?

" She is now at Rose Cottage."
' Where is Arthur now ?"

" In Boston." . . „„ ,, i ,

«Can nothing make her communicative? thought
Frederic. Then to Akleanc: "What is he doing there .
Not dragging out his life as a salenman or <lry-goo;is
clerk, I hope? His handsome face would be a great
attraction to the lo.dies."

" I am T^erfcctly aware, Mr. Morgan," returned Ahleane,
with dignity, "that you feel not the slightest interest m
The question you hav.. arked ; nevertheless, I will aasAj^r
it; aller which I hope you will allow me to leave the
room, whicii, you can perceive I have desired to do lox
some time. My brother is studying law, m the c -hce of
John Ilalcombe, in Boston. Chester Ilalcombe and he
anticipate taking John's practice in a few months-as
soon as they arc ac'mitted to the bar.'

"Ah! so he maybe a judge after all! I remember
mss Isabella used to call him that years ago."
" Permit me to pass, if you please, sir !"
«I prefer not to-takc a chair. I should like to

converse with you."

His words and manner irritated her greatly.

"Mr. Morgan, I do not wish to remain here, she
replied, "and I will not. Remember that if I a™ ^^
dependent in Mrs. Arendell's house, I am not subject to

vour orders !" . . „ , ^ i

"I see you still retain your old spirit," he returned.
" But really I do not wish to offend you. We were once
good friends. Why should we quarrel now? Lom\
shake hands, and as Frank would say ' make it up.

n\i

\nd wortMoss !"
Iiton iloea corie-

[iher tour yet?"

tivc?" thouglit
ho doing tluMT 'i
in, or <lry-goo<lft
mill be a grffit-

eturinjd Aldeano,
Thtcat interest in
•ss, I will answer
me to leave the
desired to do for
r, in the cTice of
liilcombe and he
few months — aa

all! I remember

s ago."

• !"

I should like to

rrcatly.

•emain here," she
r that if I am a
am not subject to

irit," he returned,
u. We were once
rel now? Com>,
■ make it up.' "

A rnEANE.

^ _ Arcane ™^^^^^^
;; Al. ! y.),. are obdurate ! Uo.v have I oflended ?"

"r>- "<■•- h.-i-i'-.ta,. ?„:'',,"';'"";;" '■'

""'■"'"•.»" • "PP™ »..rv,„,l,' „, ,1,0V •,,,1, 1 \

.i-H n,.. mi,,,. , s,„.„. „a,„,,, S ^t; i' "'" '- "" ^°"'
„■;./ ',r '"""'" '<■'"""■'' '^I'lranc ir,ll,llv "I

y..,,r p„.,o„oc u h,„rf„i ,„ „„, ,,„, ^„ ;,_;,;«'■ ■«'■"..'

oor , ttle lung, .he fancies that I despise her for\ei„<;
iran offended Im,. «t i- i . ^ ^' -''*'^' Mor-

I'owever worth''' '' '^'''^''' P*^^^''^.- ""^ I'^^or,

She noticed, with gLdness. his kindne.s to the slaves,

-y

,^'^

100

ALDEAITE.

th.M.-ht burnt deeply into her l.-art, " He ih ki.'K* '>
r an 10 nuslu'anse he thinks there ih no lear ..

n i. • ty iVun. them. He i« the namo as of ..M to
l.imui.iuiy " „ m„. never lor a niomciit

others; ehancroa only tome. ^'^ "^^ ' ^,
in,n.Mne<l that the .-han-e was ,n herself. =;''./'".
" r ahnost re,rette.l lu-r seornful rejee,u,n ot h.s o -
U of friendship, but pride forbade her to n.ake ay
X-n.^H toward -onc-iliating him. A strange and un-
a h 1 cdins rule.l her. He possessed a <-ertam
o' r ove her, whieh, uUhouph even to herse It she
To d nc^-er aeknowled.e it, he had al-y. held^ but
had never exereised so fully, as duru.- those days ot

'"ZcSwtSon,. She m ,m,.h mortiM a, th„ ...gl...

Al,tale!i 1.. k-„,c.a all 0.. r«.t of u,. 1 .tank .t wa,
"t^rVl!:^'^ g-t hurry, my .hildl" .«.m,c^

Coi
".>

it A

tur
JeHi

ove
how
wisi
eauj.

tllOl

lone
A ret
it W(
ifFr
first
of oil

havii

found

Aldeii

see sic

]iut I

for m

looked

;^ " 01

say I ]

the chi

" Jei

Aunt

^lars'r

time tc

Don't I

Don't j

i« in kiinli'r to
; is no four of
5 as of •'!'' '"'
■ for !v inoinriit
If, SIr' hoiiu'-
ion of his ovi-r-
f to iniikc luiy
tningi' iiiul un-
sso<l ii fiTtfiin

to hcrsi'lf nhv
way** Ih'M, but

those iVays of
■on to lu'V whiit
vorflowinfT with
ilso a nniviTsal
n them, and sho
iirho.l that, even
n her friend, who
is friendship hlio
ade no etVort V)
ever. Hi^ l»i'^'«-

was glad wlien
lonel Arendell to

D, she stood with
iff, Mr. Morgan
•, and the family,
and then hurried
lonel's loud calls
ied at this slight,

: hands with Miss
s. 1 think it was

child !" returned

ALDEANE.

101

^I ss (.ul hr.e, you uu.st not min.l this ne-MeJ lltl
Jt was not intentional " '".■,"^^1. l know

••au-ht herself Jistei.in., r V ^'"■'' <>r twiee she

'ii«l timi. sinco l.i, vi,i, .l...7i. '"" ''"^ '"■• '!«>

limo to talk to him a, ,n . '''•. ^°" """ li»'l "o

102

ALDEANE.

" Oh 1 yen, pretty well ! 1 wo.uler why Z.ttlo doonn't

''°" Oh • l..'kaHo <.h .lo olc EIm.o hl..oa in h.-r ! I tell yo
vhut r link, n,i.su, it a,u n.y ',inion that cWh houk.
nuu'hty «no folkK at do North. Now you j.-s U.ok at
Tl t My, Hlu.'s as «oo.l aH .1. .lay in lo,,,, a,.' an ,>ur y
„ ao ,.uou a Hhl,.i,.' in .lo hoi!..,, oh .lo p.ny woo. s
: kl; o' Botl an' go.,tle liko. WoU '• ^^H ! >-.;-'
h:v' H..on hor who,, nm,s'r hrou-^'ht hor homo. Sho sas
!h ahout .lo SU.IC a^o .lat Mins No,-y am now, an an
i.olio.omo an' innocent a« a hunh. Who,, she s..,. ns :
Bfm.liu' hv the f,'ato a-starin' at hor, sho hh.Hho.l hko ft
^^ c-hilo, an' sai.l f. .nars',-: M)h! John, do oomo
,way !' bnt ho took hc-r han.l an' looko.l ».» l-ron.l at hi;r,
an' wl,is,,e.-od somothi,.' an' she hlnslu'd an' sunlod a;.; ,n,
an' ho took MisR Nory out ol, my arn.s, sho was a woo tlnnjx,
la I had drossod her all up in wlnte, so that sho looked
like a little a,.,'el, and gave her to M.ss Idy say.n I h «
is niv ehild.' iMiss Uly didn't say any thin', but we alUaw
byl I lessod look that came into her eyes and do tears
St tilled 'em as she kisso.l the little darli,,', that she won 1
be a mother to her, and, God bross her, she has been By
IL time all oh us had crowded 'roun.l 'em, to ..Icorj.o
'om home. Mars'r told Miss Idy our ..anu-s, an sho
Hpoke to us, so sood dat we lobed her tro.n . at moment
Ah! dem was happy days, de time when Mib« Idy tus
come !" and Aunt Uoxy shook her head slowly, wlule her
thoughts wandered far back into the past.

" Yes, Miss Ida is a good mistress to you, rcm.uktd

Aldeane. ' , . , i • i t

"Dat's de trufe! an' Mars'r Frederic, bress his hoait,
is jes' like her, if he ain't hor own brude,-. ^os nuss
Zottiewill soon be a comin' aloug, don't you tret none
about her ! Well ! as I was a gwine ter say, last winter
is three years ago, sence he fust oame here; dere had
been de greatest time made about his comui', an when

he
loo
Mi*

it,

talk

Loi'

Whi

hoai

bott

a fcx

'bou

fust

Btrai

afor.

a po

tracl

tiiik

conic

lie'd

you

ingo

iiig h

poacli
tliis r

said j
why d
all de
"A
eberyl

an' oil
might,

''i I'D HAN E.

103

•i! I toll yo
t dt'rc'h Hoinc
111 jl'H look ul
;, ail' iiH party
i iiiny woods,
1 ! yod hIiouM
lino. Slu' wiH
,m now, iin' as
I shf s«'tn UH a
IdiiHlu'tl liko a
lohn, do conic
) |iroutl at her,
ii' HinilLHl a<,''in,
vaHawoi'thinjX,
tliat sill! louki'd
y, savin', ' 'Hiis
,' but wo all saw
es, and do tears
, that she wouM
o has been. By
em, to welcome
names, an' Bho
m\ dat moment,
n IMiss Idy fust
lowly, while her
t.
you," remarked

, bress his heart,
dor. Vos, miss,
't you fret none
r say, last winter
here; dere had
comiii', an' when

!^•^^•t'":;:7^M'^"'''^''^'^'•''''"''••'>• ^'*''^"-

Mis^ 1,1 VI """','""' >" ^'•'" ^veM thou-rht as how all
.'iL I .', , ''"""' """''" <"'"• ^veeks l,„ talk talk

•out .,, h..nh.- 'twarn't possibh-. W,...,. , ; .'I ,
ooinelu. was nil.,, J.,, n, ,,,.,,,,,,,„„,,. :'^

s ran.r,.r, y,. know, hut he soon jrot oIkt .I-u ,
«fo..ehewontawayhcwasaeu,th.'u;;,:;^:, J::^

'It', :\::'r'r::''7'^- ^<"""*'"- '-vou.:.

iw.'i '""•'" Met all us olo womou a ailin' an' den

s.id1;?b '.*'"' ^T"^ ' ""' '^'''' J^'^' ^^■'•'•^^ ^^^^ Frederic.
An I told 1„,„ I coul.Ir.'t do it, an' I 'lowed a, ho,r

*:■:»'"":! "'"?:"""■ '■'"'■• »"•-»* -"" .i™ °"

:;;.t;,:L'at.""-^^"'°"'' >' """ ^- ''"".™' «oi'

104

ALDEANE.

"«No Bah,' says I, '<le chillun worries her mighty
sometimes, I s'poso. But lor, :Mars'r Fred, teachin' ain't
hard work, least ays she's used to't I 'spect.'

" ' No,' he said, kinder earnest-like,— ' no, Aunt lloxy, if.
isn't easy work, an' when I knew Miss Aldeane, years ago,
she was jes' as much ob a lady as Leonore is now.'

" Well, Miss Aldcano, I was sot right baek when I
hoard him say that, for though I always had thought you
was mighty smart and clever, I'd no idee you was quality.
So, I says, ' Now, Mars'r Frederic, you don't say so.'

'"Yes, I do say so. Aunt Roxy,' he said, ' an' mean it,
too. I had no idee ob eber findin' her here. Don't you
tink she needs a lioliday ?'

« ' Yes, Mars'r Frederic, I do,' says I, ' an' I believe Miss
Idy would a-given her one, if she'd noticed how missuble
she's looked for a week or more,' for, indeed, Miss Guth-
rie, you habn't looked like yourself.

"'Well, auntie,' says be, 'we musn't let Miss Aldeane
ant sick over her task, and as a particular favor to me do
all you can for her in ebery way, while she stays here.'^
Dem was his bery words, an' den he walks slow an'
thoughtful-like away from de kitchin, wid his head a
hangln' down, an' a bit.n' his fingers, as if he was tinkin'

migiity hard.

" Dat ebenin', as I was a-sittin' under de big mimosa, at
de end ob de porch, I seen Miss Idy an' Mars'r Fred, an'
de cbiUun all a sittin' dere. Purty soon he took iMiss
Jessie on his knee an' axed her if she didn't want a holi-
day ? O' course shv. said Yes, she did, mighty bad, an'
Frank called out that he wanted to go shootin,' an' Eddie
muttered sometin' 'bout wishin' dere warn't no books, an'
wantin' to get shet ob 'era for awhile any how. Mars'r
Fred, he larfed, an' said to Jessie, ' You go ober to yer
ma, an' ax her in your prettiest way, to let you hab a
holiday.' So de dear little critter did so, an' Miss Idy
said, ' Oh, Fred, you arc a spiliu' dese chillun !' an' gave

he
ds

lai

so'
kii

Al
dis
goi

doi
nel

hoa
der
Ian
tho
repi
ern
not
Aid
wl«

deal
in £
thou
drea
mor:
deiu

18 her migli^V
, tcachin' ain't
ct.'

Aunt lloxy, i*^^
■ano, years ago,
; is now.'
t back when I
id thought you
ou was quality.
)n't Bay bo.'
3, ' an' mean it,
re. Don't you

i' I believe Miss
i how missuble
eed, Miss Guth-

it Miss Aldcane
favor to me do
she stays here.'
walks slow an'
ft'id his head a
f he was tinkin'

3 big mimosa, at
Mars'r Fred, an'
11 he took JMiss
in't want a holi-
mighty bad, an'
ootin,' an' Eddie
n't no books, an'
ny how. Mars'r
X go obor to yer
to let you hab a
so, an' Miss Idy
hillun !' an' gave

A L DBA HE.

105

her a kiss, .in' said, ' yes, darlin', you can all have a holi-
day next week.

"'Leonore must liave a rest too,' he said. .Aliss Idv
larled, an' said ' Yes.' ^

"'l)ei-e, now,' said .Mars'r Frederic, ' you is all di,-
solved from study next week, run now as fast as you
km and tell Miss Aldeaue.' ^

" De way dey went M-asn't slow. So now you see, Miss
Aldeane, 'twas all along of Mars'r Frederic dat ye got
dis liohday, an' I seen his face by de moonlight when he
got It for ye, an' he was smilin' so kinder pleased ve

don't know. Oh ' I uA] von Arovu'.. t.\.„ i • '

". v/ij. X itn ycu, Jiars r i'redenc am a jien-

nelman, an' u, good one too."

" It certauily was very kind of him," said Aldeane, her
heart Swelling at this unexpected kindness. She won-
dered at his motive for evincing such interest in her wol-
iare to others, while to lier he seldom even spoke. These
thoughts perplexed her, while Aunt Koxy, garrulously
repeated her opinion of " Mars'r Frederic," and of North-
ern people in general. She did not perceive that she was
not listened to, and was rather surprised when she heard
A deane leave the kitchen, bidding her send Zettie to her
wJien she came in.

"Well I 'clar for't," observed tlie cook, shaking lier
gayly-turbaned head eageriy, "I do b'lieve Miss Al-
deane s sick or somethin', I never seed a lady act so queer
in all my days afore. Lor', lor,'" she added, with a
thoughtful frown, "dat ar face ob hers do seem like i
dream to me, like one ob dera dreams dat comes in de
mornin when a body's thinldn' ob gettin' up; one ob
dem dreams dat keeps in a body's head all de day "\

t(
p

CHAPTER nil.

A TKUCE PROCLAIMED.

In a few days there was a marked change ia Aldeane's
appearance, caused, she said, to all that commented tliere-
on, by freedom from teachiog, and, as she told herself, \>y
the abscncr uf Mr. Morgan^ Perhaps the communication
of Aunt lloxy was not without its effect, at least, she
owned to herself, that it had softened her feelings toward
her old acquaintance, but not so much so but that she
still felt his absence a relief, when one day, a; the end of
her week's holiday, she set out on foot for Loring, prefer-
n. :; to accomplish the journey afoot, at the risk of some
fotrgue, rather than any of the children should accompr.ny
lier,'^as they would surely wish to do, if she went in the
carriage. Nearly the whole way, the road lay through
thick woods ; it was shady and cool, and the distance was
soon accomplished. She entered the post-office, maile<l
her letters, and received one from lielle. As she turned
to leave, she perceived that the evening stage had arrived.
Casting a careless glance toward it, to her great surprise,
she saw Mr. Morgan alight. She supposed, that Colonel
Arendell would follow, but she looked in vain. Uv. Mor-
gan was alone. At sight of hint, all her misgivings re-
turned with double force. She again entered the office,
hoi)ing he had not noticed her. She was disappointed ;
he had seen her, and ■ntering, accosted her with a formal
bow and an incpiiry after her health and that of the
family, adding :

" You came in, in the carriage, I suppose ?"

h
cc

it
w
w

"1
ex

in!
wr
ga

is)
coi

tor
bei
edi

ALDEAA'E.

107

ge in Aldoane's
mmentetl there-
told herself, l)y
communication
t, at least, she
feelings toward
lo but that she
V', a., the end of
■ Loring, prefer-
he risk of some
3uld aecompr.ny
ihe Avent in the
»ad lay through
he distance was
st-office, mailed
As she turned
age had arrived,
r great surprise,
ed, that Colonel
vain. Mr. Mor-
r misginngs re-
itered the office,
is disappointed ;
er with a formal
,nd that of the

)8e?"

" No, sir; I walked in," she rejjlied.

"Did you? How very foolish, such a warm day
too!" lie returned, a vexed yet solicitous eq)ression
passing ovir his face.

" I am sorry, sir ! If you had written, a conveyance
would have been in waiting for you," she answered

" I know that ! The fact is it was so dull at Italeitrli
that I made up my mind to leave Arendeil there and
come liome; and now I find," he added ruefully, "that I
have to walk tliere. I suppose you will allow me to ac-
company you?"

"1 believe there is but one road to Arendeil, sir," she
said coldly.

"Ah ! I suppose thixt means, that you will submit to
It as a necessity, or, tliat you h;. ^e no objection if I will
wait for you. IIow long will my patience be tried ? It
will endure a long lime."

" I was about to leave, when you arrived."

"If that is to signify that you arc realv,"said he
"let us be going. It is five o'clock now; they will be
expecting you home soon."

They sauntered slowly down the street and turned
into the road, neither uttering a word. Just as Aldeane
was becoming weary of the protracted silence, Mr. Mor-
gan said :

" You have a letter there, I see,"

" Yes, sir."

" Why don't you read it ?"
^ '• I don't suppose it is of much consequence. I see it
IS from Belle ; and of course I would not read it in your
company, Avitliout your i)ermis8ion."

" You have it," he rcj.lied, a sarcastic expression dis-
torting his features. " You must suffer martvrdom, in
being so long deprived of tlie continuation of the last
edition from l^oston."

" I presume, I am not half so anxious to know tlio

108

ALDEA.\F!.

news, as you are yourself!" she thought, as -without
further hesitation she broke the seal, and was soon en-
gaged in perusing the many pages of the letter. They
were soon finished, eareiully refolded, and returned to
the envelope. For some time they continued to walk on
in eileiice. Mr. Morgan's brow darkening at every step,
and Aldeane's face became still more deeply enshrouded
in the veil of thought. Some distance was thus traversed.
" Well !" thought Aldeane, " I can keep silent as long
as you, sir. I wonder how long that will be ?'

The question was presently answered by Mr. Morgan's
exclaiming ; " Why do you not speak, Miss Guthrie ?"

Aldeane thought she might have retorted with the same
query, but she said, " I was waiting for you to speak
first, besides, I did not know what to say !"

" For the first time in your life then, I guess ! I re-
member, you used to be very talkative years ago. But
tell me the news, if there is any ! What does Belle
write ?"

" Well ! for one thing, she expressed astonishment at
your being Mrs. Arondell's brother, and that you should
be visiting here. Then, she gives a description of her
trip, during which, she met Miss Grcyson, who seemed
to be in better health than usual."

" Any thing else ?"

"Nothing particular, sir. She said that Arthur and
Chester Ilalcombe would commence practicing this fall,
and that Annie said you were going to, but that she
doubted it."

"No wonder! I have been idle so long, but I am
going to make up for lost time, and cure every sick man,
woman, or child, in Boston and for ten miles around, this
next winter. Is there nothing else ?"

"Merely a rumor that Mr. Nevins is about to bo
married."

" Ah ! and how would that affect you, Miss Guthrie ?"

"]
belie
as Hi

ac<iu

((

has c

by a

oppn

am r

oblig(

iflw

inflict

She

was p

"G(

conclii

can e:

not w(

over t

IVIay t

oppres

Guthri

"II:

conduc

deavor

"Ah

my sisf

"As

her che

that I (1

dead, tl

the opi

ALDEANE.

lit, as -withont
d was soon en-
e letter. Thoy
lid returned to
uied to walk on
I at every step,
■ply enBlirouded
I thus traversed.
I silent as long

be?'

ly Mr. Morgan's
liss Guthrie ?"
;d with the same
ir you to speak

I guess ! I re-
^rears ago. But
hat does Belle

istonishment at
:hat you should
icription of her
an, who seemed

hat Arthur and
cticing this fall,
,o, but that she

long, but I am
every sick man,
liles around, this

is about to bo

Miss Guthrie ?"

109

"It would produce no effect, sir! Still I scarcely
boheve It. ]}«t at any rate, Mr. Nevins and myself are

"Our bonds of affection were never very stron-. and
by a rude blow they were severed. 'Tis the old talc of
oppression and injustice ! Nothing more "

" Nevertheless, Miss Guthrie, it is a new edition. If I
am not intruding on strictly family secrets, you would
oblige me very much by giving it."

"I will do so certainly, if you wish it; but remember
.f I weary you with a long story, that you brought tie
infliction upon yourself." '""oin uie

She then narrated as briefly, as quietly, and calmly as
?ono^-:ii;t' "^"' ""' '" -other's ^leath, and IZ

cTS V ''''"' "'""'* impossible that such men
cuiexis! ^ou are agitated by this narration! I do
not wonder at it. Oh ! what darkness must have hu ^
ove. , «, ,,,,, , „^^ youmusthavesuffb' 1

May the vengeance of God speedily overtake tlie vile
oppressor I know that it eventually will ! Ah - Mit
Guthrie this partly explains your conduct toward me - "
1 believe, sir," returned Aldeane, hau^htilv "that mv
conduct has befitted my station. At k-a 'i ^ZZ
deavorcd to make it do so !"

"Ah ! Miss Guthrie, can you never for^ret that voii aro
my sister's governess, as I continually do"? Anl^> "
As you never do, sir !" she interrupted, passionately
her c^ieeks crimsoning with excitement "Do ylTx^^
that I am a block of sculptured marble, passioJiL a J
dead, that I can not see how in every action you exhiS
the opmion you entertain of me? I do no/ think oi^!

110

ALDEANE.

thought of tlie grief ^vhich you know ovprosscs mc ever
troubk-8 you. Your do.irc for a ntory has boon gratihed;
Jo not urue me to spoak further !"

» I will not, .Miss ( Juthri.-," returnea Mr. Morgan,
c-ilmlv " You are mistaken in mo. 1 think ot you otten,
and with Borrow. I ean not hut compare tl.e mirthtul,
centlo cirl I left little more than two years ago, witli the
passionate cr. ature that walks by my side so tiereely now.
What though sorrow has come upon you! wluit though
injustice has despoiled you ! should you doubt old Irionds,
who with kind hearts and hands, would greet you t 11ns
shows not the trusting heart of woman, bave ni person,
I can not recognize the Aldeane Guthrie of years ago;
even that is sadly changed. The forehead, once so white
and smooth, is clouded, tiie eyes are ireful, the lips scorn-
ful, and wearing alone the o'd look of determination,
•vhi'h was always too strongly marked; no smiles linger
upon them nosv. Your mourning garb seems even to en-
shroud your spirit; the sunshine of God never seems to
fall upon it. Ah ! ^Uss Guthrie, this is wrong

" Do not reprove me, ]Mr. Morgan !" murmured Aldeane,
her lips cpiivering nervously.

"Even my friendship," he contumed, bitterly, you
have doubted and cast away. When I again proffered
it it was rejected with disdain. My interest in you fails
not ; yet of what avail is it? To you it is worthless be-
cause it comes from an old source."

" Ah ! Mr. Morgan, you do not understaud my teel-

'""''ycs Miss Guthrie,! do !">he answered, stopping sud-
denly beneath a large oak-tree, for they were near Aren-
dell House. " Kest a momert, and I will tell you what
they are. Love of approval; shame of your position in
life • and pride— that talse pride that lives in the hearts
of all and predominates over the good feelings of many.
I have spoken truly, Aldeane ! and how unworthy arc

thof

for 1

men

lior

seoir

telli

see t

else

exon

short

will 1

Al(

she r(

ical Si

fivce ;

iAIr. 3J

derne

—bet

and v(

of all;

"Ai

a friei

it?"

"Gl
"I fee
me to
have n
and 8c
again.'
"Th
you sh

■A.LDEANE.

l>pres8C9 me ever
as beongratitiod;

icd Sir. Morgan,
hink of you often,
lare tlie mirthful,
[•ars ago, Avith the
lo so fiercely now.
,'ou ! what though

doubt old friends,
1 greet you 't Tliis
I. bave in person,
n-ie of years ago;
R'ad, once so white
L'ful, the lil)s seoru-

of determination,
1 ; no smiles linger
) seems even to cn-
od never seems to
is wrong !''
nurmured Aldeane,

led, bitterly, "you
n I again proffered
interest in you fails
I it is worthless be-

nderstaud my feel-

vered, stopping sud-
ley were near Aren-
[ will tell you what

of your position in
t lives in the hearts
od feelings of many.

how unworthy are

111

those feelings of the brain-I will not say of the heart
for that st.ll is good-that contains thorn " '

A deane folt that his words were .r„c. 'shc went vche
n;e.Uly„. sorrow a,.l shame. 31. M...^a„ CZ^ '^
Hi Mitl an expression at once mournful and stc-rn- yo
Boemingiy pleased at this outburst of feeling ' ^

toll ; y'^f^^^-- Guthrie," he said at Ien.nh ".nd

.r Tr' "? ,?"'"' ^^"^>"^ ' ^''-k, even no
r n tritt^^'^^'TT"-- ^'''^ ^^"' «PiHt-wh'at

evorci'L T r V' '*'•" '"^ ^""^^ possessed you is

i-vouisea. Have I spoken truly ?"

'' Ves; oh yes!" came in broken murmurs

will refresh vn„ T ^ *'""*5 ^"'n^' ^^ter

win rcnesft you. Lean upon me!"

Aldeane heeded him not, but hurried onward When
she reached the water, she knelt down, and, with hys te"
jea sobs, leaned over the bank and bathed h' h'etd
^ ce ; the cold water refreshed her. Glancing up, she saw
Mr. Morgan standing at her side, his eyes filled vith en
derness, looking sorrowfully upon her " Yo„ J^ ,
—better?" he said. P"" "cr. ion are calmer

and "^"Z^ 'C- "Tf . " ' ''^'-^ ^-' ^«'-f'
of all IZ 7^^ ' "'•^'''^' ^^'^"''^^^^ the friendship

ot all , but It IS my nature ! What can I do V"

Atone for your past coldness by acceptinc. me fo.-
a fnend now, Aldeane," he answered. "\vm ^ou d^

me to myself. I know now that the change for which I
Lave accused you, has been in myself-i„ the bittern s!
and .mshne. of my heart. I Lll never douU;^:

you shall not slander yourself! I should not be a true

112

ALDEANE.

friend to allow that. Come, it is time to pnrsnc onr -.vay.
The sun is easting his last rays over us."

She walked heside him silently, with a stranfje hapi)i-
ness at her lieart, though lier hrain was busy with a thou-
sand painful thoufjlits. They were soon ai the bend of
the road, on turni.ig v/hich they would be in sight of
Arendell I louse.

" Miss Aldeane," said 3Ir. Morgan smiling, " you once
refused to shake hand-; with me. Will you do so now,
and thereby ratify your contract of making me your
friend?"

" Certainly, Mr. Morgan !" and Aldeane gladly ex-
tended her hand, which he clasped warmly, saying ; " I
know sister Ida was shocked at m/ neglect of the cere-
mony the other day, but you know—," his brow darken-
ing, " that it is bad for the hand to go where the heart is
not ! Ilillo ! Frank !" as they turned the corner and saw
that young gentleman with an admiring crowd of juven-
iles, both wiiite and black around him, preparing to firo
at a dead crow, which had been set up as a target. Frank
deliberately discharged nis piece, then tui -d tv->Avard
them, while Jessie and Eddie ran to raoet il.cm, the
former exclaiming : —

" Oh ! here's Miss Aldeane and Uncle Fred ! Why I
how d'ye do, uncle ?"

" Oh, right smar. i my little Carolinian, and how do
you come on ?" he replied, laughing, as he caught her in
his arms and kissed her.

" What did you come hora«} so soon for ?" said Eddie.
Frank who had approached' them, demanded eagerly,
"AVhereispa? He promised to bring me a bran new
rifle ! Hasn't he "come ?"

"The fact is," returned Mr. Morgan gravly, yet
scarcely able to repress a smile at their nu'k^e greetings,
"he couldn't get a rifle to suit in Kaleigh, so he has
gc • e farther north for one."

n pursue our '.vay.

I a stranfjo hapj)!-
l)usy witli a tliou-

II ai the bend of
d be in sight of

nilintj, " you once
11 you do HO now,
making nie your

doane gladly ex-
irmly, saying ; " I
•gleet of the cere-
' his brow darken-
where the heart is
he corner and sjiw
ig crowd of juveu-
1, preparing to fire
s a target. Frank
en tui 'vl tv->ward
o meet il.em, the

cle Fred ! Why !

inian, and how do
IS he caught her in

for?" said Eddie,
lemanded eagerly,
ng me a bran new

•rgan gravly, yet
'ir nu'ioe greetings,
Italeigh, so he has

ALDEANE.

113

"I don't believe it I" said FraTik, decidedly, marching
np tlio steps of tile piazza, which they had now reached"
wiule .lessio ran inta the house, ealiiiig loudly: ".Ala!
ma ! IJncU' Fifd has eome home, and lie says papa has
gone farther north!"

'^VVhat is that?" exclaimed Mrs. Arendell, appearing.
•' Why ! Fred, how are you ? How did you come home"?
John iai/c sie.c? Ishei"'

"One (piestiou at a time !" replied Mr. IMorgan, em-
bracing her. " Your last siiall be answere.l first" John
IS well. I left iiim at Raleigh. It was so dull there, that
I knew I shoidd enjoy myself better here. I eame as far
as Loring in the stage, there I met Miss Guthrie, and I
came homo with her."

Wishing to escape ol)servation, Aldeano entered the
house. In the hall she encountered Leouore, who glanced
at her inquiritigly. "IMr. Morgan has eome," she said,
and passed on. Leonore ran X)ut to the piazza.

After the first greetings were over, she said : " What is
the matter with Aldeane? I thought I saw traces of
tears upon her face."

^^ " Oh ! she is very lachrymose !" replied Mr. Morgan.
" There may have been some bad news in her letter."

" She h-.s changed greatly of late !" said Mrs. Arendell.
" Frederic, you don't treat her well. You did not even
shake hands with her when you left."
^ " I was in a hurry, ma scaur I that must be my apology.
Excuse me I must go, and rid myself of some of this
dust. What awful roads you do have here, Ida !" IIo
sprang lightly up the stairs. Aldeane, in her own room,
happier far than usual, heard his quick step; and felt
that his presence filled the void which she had felt in the
houee, during his absence.

CIIAPTKll XIV.

ALDKANH: I.KAKN8 A flKrUKT. ^

A YKW plain Avords f.'.ark'ssly spoken, caiistMl n ^^nat
dian<'C in Al.lfanf's fcflint,'^ and art ions. Slu- was pro-
vokin<'lv cnnsfiouH that tlu- ionncr liad been tnawki«lily
srntinu'ntai, an.l clul.li.sh, and ti.o lattor s.aiTcly loss so.
Tl.is pc-rliaps lor a low days in.luccd lii-r to maintain
mm-h of Iht fornuT rcsiTVf, but much to the f.'ratiluati()ii
of Mrs. ArendoU and J^oonore, a .i,'rowin«{ fncudsliip
bftwocn Mr. Morgan and the {jovernesa soon hfcaino
t.vi<U'nt, and upon CVdonol An-ndrll's naurn from KaUniili
with the lu'W rirtc Frank iiad coveted, and numorons -,lts
for tlie rest of the family, he declared that home had
never been so delightful, for mirtli and gladness truly
filled the liouse.

Vhe hours of evening, whieh had formerly been spent
by Aldeane in moodiness and gloom, in tlie solitude of
her own chamber, were now j.assed in the parlor with the
cheerful family. «he sang with Mr. Morgan the old
son«'s that had been his favorites in by-gone years. There
was^a serene happiness at her heart in those moments ;
her pride and self-esteem were gratified ; she was consid-
ered an equal, and treated as such, and often as a loved
and near friend. This, to Aldeane, was happiness. .No
lon<rer was Jdr. Morgan mute or col<l toward her; he
seemed, indeed, to find his greatest pleasure in calling
forth the rare powers of her mind. She had n-ad much
and carefully, and ha.l garnered a store of knowledge un-
usually large ibr one of her years. His seemed to be tlie

hnnt]

fiileii
ing
M'orl
resid
sive
Ilith
nighl
whicl
'J'h
noon,

wo III!

slie SI

pnre-1

chanj;

that

liavo

intent

lie re i

"A
lated

Tui
standi
liat in
damp
fearin
lie re]
swer,

"Al
raemb

If this

AIDE AN K.

116

II, ciiiisiMl !\ jjjri'at
iirt. SIr' wiis ])!•()-
I Ik'C'II inawkiHlily
r sciuroly loss so.
her to iiiaiiitaiii
o the ■iratitlfiitioii
•owing IVicuilship
1088 soon l)t'('aiiu'
■turn from Kali'iirli
iiul immoroiis i^il'ls
\\ that houu* had
nd gladut'sa truly

rnicrly been spent
, in tlie solitude of
the pai-lor with the
. Morgan the old
gone years. Thero
in tliose moments;
d ; she was eonsid-
id often as a loved
as happiness. Mo
1(1 toward her; he
pleasure in ealling
he had read nuieh
•e of knowledge un-
is seemed to be the

hanil that could most easily unroll the cerementH of dif-
fidence lliat enshrouded them, and liriiig her varied h'arn-
ing ami laleiils fortii. She seemed to live in a hrighiir
world. She had known little care or sorrow during Inr
resi<lence at the South, hut her happiness hail beeirpas-
siye and changeless; new it was varying, yet intense.
Hitherto she had dwelt in the nuM.n-lit trani|uillily of
night ; now she walked in the busy avenues of life, over
Avhich the king of day threw his brilliance.

'i'liis was the tenor of her tlunights one bright after-
noon, as she htl the house ami set forth to visit a sick
woman that dwelt in a little cabin on the estate. " Vcs!"
she solihxpiized, " Frederi(! Morgan is the same gi'uial,
pure-hearted gentleman as of old, but I was so much
changed ! and I fear 1 still am. 1 know I am i)roud, but
that is n.y nature. It existed always; arcumstances
have lately called it forth. 1 wonder when Mr. .Morgan
intends to return to the North '/ Uh ! it will be so hmely
liere without him !"

"Ah ! Miss Aldeanc, where are you going to?" ejacu-
lated a voice behind her.

Turning suddenly, the saw the subject of her thoughts
standing before her, his face flushed wi exercise, his
Jiat in one hand, while with the other he t ssed back his
damp hair from his temples. She blushed deeply, almost
fearing that he knew of what she had been thinking, and
he repeated his question before she fouml voice to uu-
Bwer, "To Graimy IJray's."

" Ah ! to C4ranny Bray's, are you ? You seem to re-
member the injunction : —

'Be a uurso to the sick; to the erring !\ guide ;
Be a friend to the poor; lot this bo thy prido.
Then sliall tli) patlnvay through life bo so brigljt,
That angels si dl see it, aud smile with delight.'

If this be true, and if you liave any pity for the most mis-

116

A LDKANK.

crnUo. H]»coimpn of liuiuivuity tliat you over beheld, lot mo
go with ytni."

"C'crliiiiily ! Ihit wliiit w the mutUr wit!- y<>ii, nir V"
"The imitter, «li<l y«>ii say W li« quorietl rueluUy.
"Well ! I'll lor^'ivc the .piestioii ! Terhaiis you have not
nolieed tin' tloinj^s ul the house lately V"

" All Heeiiis to no on about urt usual, 1 think."
" Now, Miss Altleane ! This al'teinoon, I'eelinj,' deci-
dedly yraeii>iis and ronnnunieative, 1 entered the sitting-
room. What was my annoyanee to lind Ida overeomu
with the lieat, or laziness, whieh is about the same thing,
reelining on the sofa, last asleep, and Jessie upon the
floor in the same state. I heard Leonore iilaying mo-
notonously upon the i)iano in the i)arlor. I went in,
hoping to lind her ready to desist, but she only i)layed
on all the liwtef, and exclaimed, ' Oh ! I'nele Fred, <lon't
interrui)t me, I uuist jtraetiee !' So I went out to lind
Arendell or the boys, but they were invisible. I looked
around lor you, but you were iu)where to be seen. I
asked Jule where you were. 'She's gone up do mill
road, sali ; bin goiu' 'bout ten minutes !' I ran down'tho
walk, jumped over the lenee, to save time, in my haste
nearly fell throiigh a hole in the bridge, and have nearly
expendi'd all my breath in running up hill and shouting
to you to sto])."

»' Vours is a sad ease !" bIic replied, laughingly. " I tear
you arc beeoniing restless : North Carolina has no eharms
for you."

"It eontains one too great — too great," he returned, ve-
hemently ; then added, slowly, while his eyes were fixed
ui)on the sands at his feet. " What do you think of it ?
Would you not like to return to lioston?"
" Yes ! yes, indeed !" she exclaimed.
" Oh, Aldeane, then—" lie paused suddenly, an ex-
pression of pain passing over his face, as he turned aside
to let her enter the cottage, which they had now reached.

sver bi'hi'lil, let mo

r wit?<. ytiu, Hir?"
()UL'rieil ruefully.
Imiit) you have not

1 think."

loon, I'eelinn tleci-
iilcretl the sitliiig-
iml lilu overeonio
lit the HUiiie thiiiji,
I Jessie iipuii the
)ii()re )tliiyinjx nio-
iiilor. I went in,
I siie only playeil

I'nele Fred, tlon't

went out to linil
ivisible. I looked
•re to be seen. I

gone \i\t de mill
!' I ran down'tho

time, in niy hasto
c, and have nearly

hill and Hhouting

lughinijly. " I tear
jlina has no charms

It," he ret\irned, ve-
ins eyes were fixed

you think of it ?

1 suddenly, an ex-
as he turned aside
y had now reached.

ALDEA NE.

117

An old woman lay »,„,„ the bed, another was b„svi„.,
hers,.ll al,o„t ,h,. rnom, both welcomed Ahl.ane henr'tiUr
Mie spok.. to th,. sick woman, nn.l wImh Mr ]\I„r.r.,;,
<-onst.lutin^r l,i„„,|f h.,,. phyHi,.ia,., sat down Ik-sLI,, h..r'
Hhe tunu.d to ad.lresR the other. There wan a loom i„'
the room, ami iho woman w,is standin- In-for.. it, slrivin-'
to reduce to order a mass of ..o,„,,licat..d threads aF-
deane watched her for some time, and then said,
" What are y<iu doinj;, Sarah V

" I'uttinjr in a piece. Miss Aldeane. It's for Afiss Aren-
dell. Somehow her yarn always ,loes work mighty ill;
Hain't dyed well, neither." ^ '

" What is t!m matter with it, Sarah?"
" Law, ,1 „,„,„y^ ;y,i,^ AW^.,,nv, I .-an't tell ,.vactly,
only I know, 'twon't, wear well. Now, your folKs shouhi
dye yarn l.ke I do; I've just n.a.le John a new suit of
elotho8, and if you was to meet him in the road, vou
would take him for a trentieman."

" Indeed, what did you dye with, SanUi ?"

".Well, Miss Aldeane, I'll givt, you the recipe I

wanted to dye this yarn, ho I called to Uncle San.lv-

th.at s our old black man, you know-and says I to him,

Uncle Sandy, I want you to go into the woods and get

me some bark to dye with.'

" ' What kind of barks, missus ?' says he.

1' .\^'N^' '^''" ''""''' ^'''*''* •''"'' <>*■ barks, Uncle Samly.'
>V hy, no I don't, missus.'

" ' Why, Uncle Sandy, yes vou do !'

" * I declar', missus, I don't.'

"'Now,' says I, ' Uncle Sandy, don't you tell mo th.it
again; you go and get mc the same kind of bark your
own clothes is dyed with.'

"So he went and got me the Kirks, and I dipped the
yarn, and wove the cloth, and made John a suit of
eloth,>s, and I do declar', if y.,,, w.is to meet him in the
road, you'd take him for a gentleman."

118

ALDEANE.

« Is that all you did, Sarah ?" asked Aldoane, sc.vrcely
able to i-epress a srnilo.

" That's all, miss, and I'll be bound thorn colors will
last after every stitch of the cloth is worn out."

" Are you ready to .so ?" asked ]Mr. IMorgan, in a low
voice, and with a humorous twinkle in his eyes.

" I shall be in a few moments." She spoke a few words
to the sick woman, bade her ard Sarah farewell, and left
the cottage, followed by Mr. INiorgan.

« I hope you know how to dye yarn," ho said, as soon
as thoy were out of sight of the cottage, laughing heartily.
" I shall have to repeat that recipe for Ida's edification."

Aldeanc laughed, and then said gravely, " I fear old
granny will soon die !"

" Yes," returned Mr. Morgan, " she is sinking fast, over-
come with the infirmities of old age. Ibit perhaps Uie
grave will be to her the entrance into a glorious life."

" I believe so, indeed," returned Aldeanc : and then
they talked of death as something very dreadful, and
very near at hand, as young people sometimes do, even
when it seems utterly impossible that it should come to
them, and this led them to speak of other partings-
earthly partings ;— and of the changes which often pre-
vented the meeting of friends who had separated under
oven most promising circumstances ; and Aldeanc remem-
bering his parting from his father, and attributing the
increasing sadness of his tone to that, sympathized with
him deeply, until all feeling for others was swept away
by a new feeling, as he said : '.' And speaking of partings,
Miss Guthrie, do you know that I shall leave for Boston
in a few days ?"

She felt that she could not speak, that her voice would
utterly fail her, yet fearing to attract his attention by
silence, she faintly murmured : " Shall you, indeed !"

He looked at'her, oh, so strangely— that her heart
fluttered wildly even while she dared not hope his words

I Aldoanc, sc.ircoly

I thorn colors will

'orn out."

. IMorEtan, in a low

I his oyos.

• spoke a few words
h farewell, and left

11," ho said, as soon
', langhinp; heartily.
r Ida's edification."
ravely, " I fear old

is sinking fast, over-
IJut perhaps the

a glorious life."
Aldeanc: and then
very dreadful, and
sometimes do, even

it should come to
if other partings —
?s which often pre-
ad separated under
md Aldeane remem-
md attributing the
t, sympathized with
rs was swept away
peaking of partings,
vU leave for Boston

hat her voice would
ct his attention by

II you, indeed !"

ly — that her heart
I not hope his words

A LDEANE.

110

would bo other than they wore. "Yos,Iam tired of

' '^' m' \ ""'•" '"'•^^"'>' '^^•^•"^' P-sionatelv

iiod help me, I must go !"

"And you f..el sorry to leave us?" she asked scarce
knowing what she said. '

an'i ?!'' '^V'""' •' ^^''^'*'"' ' ^'''^ '' t"'^"'-^." he exclaimed
and then he compressed his lips as if in toiTor at the'
unguarded utterance.
She glanced at him in trembiinr: surprise, and was

me? W ' 'T"'"^ '" ^'' endeavoring to compose

h.mselt by bracmg his muscles, clinching his teeth and
b.tmg .s shapely nails back to the vcrv'quick. ' '

Oh ! would to (Jod that he suffered this for me for I
ove h,m! I We him!" was the voiceless cr^oV her
.oart. "But oh! this agony is not forme! 'mlt
Loonore he loves, and why not ? She is good and beau-
^u; no real relationship exists between them OM
J^.h>^ l.as th,s come upon me? for I love him-I love

chJnLn""i"^ """ impetuously, .vhile Mr. Morgan me-
an.cally kept pace with her. Her brain seemed on
MO and her heart tI„-oSbed wildly. They reached the
bndge ; overcome by her emotion/ she could r^ ted no
farther, but leaned against the .„:H„g for support Mr
Morgan, glancing at her, saw the weary En n i
b,„T,mg cheek; his lips parted as if taspe^ak, he n,rne

mertl iT •' ;''' " '"•»' ^'^'^ '- ^'^-'^-^ *'- -o -e
ment and hun-iod away.

Despair laid his hand upon Aldeane's heart • she did

In k'r z:7 '' ;"* r^^ ''--^ ^^ ^""'^' -^' ' '^-^

Not long did she remain there. When Mr. Morc^an
had disappeared she went ea-r,.rlv wildiv in fhTr
.iou of .he „„,«o. IT,«„ rcacMng i;:S;:;',',:'4t:

120

ALDEAXB.

tho stahs to her own room. In the upper hall she met
T.oonoro, who a.skcd, " How is (Iranny ?"'

" WoiRi'," sho rrplii'il, passing tho inquirer wifli a feel-
in'j; of repugnance, ahnost deepening into hatred in hir
lii^irt. Le<more turned in surprise at the she.rt answer;
but Aldeane had disappeared, and tlie closing of her door
loudly, and the harsh grating of the key in the lock,
<lenoted that she did not wish to he disturbed. Leonorc
passed on wondering wiiat had hai)pi'ned. She remem-
bered the flushed cheeks an<l burning eyes. " It must be
something of great importance," she thought, but could
not imagine what.

Aldeane ])acing her apartment rapidly, felt in her iii-
niost soul what despairing love was. " Oh ! that 1 cmild
die now ! Oh ! that I should bo passed by for Leonorc—
Leonore, who loves him not." Soon her frame became
exhausted with this passionate energy of thought and
action. IJurning thoughts passed through her mind,
searing their impress upon her heart. Tearless she stood
at her window, and saw ^Ir. Morgan and Leonore, arm-
in-ai-m, i>ass beneath; with a cry of anguish she threw
herself upon the bed to sob tearlessly. Her mind and
heart seeme<l striving to break their bonds. She prayed
to die e'er, by any untoward action, she betrayed this
agonizing love, that racked her being, and the jealousy
that was maddening her. With the gray shadows of
evening came cilmer thoughts, and better. Kneeling,
she prayed for strength and consolation, as she had
never petitioned before. She arose comforted, and with
relief-giving tears coui-sing over her cheeks. She was
unable to appear at the tea-table, but later in the
evening entered the parlor. All seemed inuch concerned
at her pallor and evident suflering. Mrs. Arendell
mentioned many remedies for severe headache, under
which they supposed she suftered ; but Mr. jMorgan,
Aldeane thouglit, greeted her Avith a peculiar expression

of in

aske

quid

\>y I.

rooir

rie's

have

cure

answ

Slie c

guess

jestii

annoi

morn

Anni(

woulc

himsc

shouh

opinic

<lepar

that i

from t

music

she wi

gained

with V

more (

She

that tl

Leono;

suspiei

evideu

j>rolon.

I per

Imll she ?:U't

fiuircr witii a focl-
nto hatrwl in hi-r
lie short answer;
D^iiig of her iloor
key in the lock,
turlu'd. Loonorc
10(1. She renn'ni-
VC'S, " It must be
longht, but could

(Uy, felt in her in-
()h! that I could
I by for Leonore —
ler frame became
Y of thought and
rough her mind,
Tearless she stood
ind Leouore, arm-
iiguish she threw
. Her mind and
)nd8. She prayed
she betrayed this
, and the jealousy
gray shadows of
better. Kneeling,
ition, as she had
mforted, and with
cheeks. She was
but later in the
?d inuch concerned
r. Mrs. Arendell
! headache, under
bvit Mr. iSIorgan,
lecidiar expression

ALDEANE.

121

of interest and sympathy. " Has lie guessed my secret ?"
asked her licart, throbbing wildly. The rej-iy camo
quickly, " Xo ; but he has discovered that he is not loved
by Leonore !"

She excused herself at an early hour. As she left the
room, she heard Mrs. Arendell say, " Fred, Miss (iuth-
ne's health has been miserable of late. I believe, I shall
have to send her North with you ! Perhaps that would
cure her."

With her foot upon the stairs, Aldeane listened for his
answer, but it came not, and with a sigh she passed on.
She did not see the spasm that contorted his features, nOr
guess the agony that made his heart stand still at the
jesting M-ords.

The next morning at the breakfast-table, Mr. Morgan
announced his intention of returning to Boston on the
morrow, giving as his reasons, that his mother and
Annie Greyson having retunied to Morganvale, they
would consider him n<>glectful, if he longer absented
himself; and also, that it was positively time that he
should commence the practice of his profession. In these
opinions all concurred, and an early day was set for his
departure. Before any one could notice the agitation,
that it was impossible for Aldeane to conceal, she arosi'
from the table, reminded Leonore that it was time f<.r her
music lesson, and left the room. It was some time before
she was joined by her pupil, and in the interval, she had
gained strength to quell the angry an«f jealous thoughts
with which she regarded her, and gave her instructTons
more silently, but as amiably as usual.

She thought she perceived, what Mas doubtless t ■ ie,
that the thought she held concerning Mr. Morgan and'
Leonore, had presented itself to other minds, .hikI to a
suspicion of its truth, she attributed Mrs. Arendell's
evident pleasure, that her brother's visit was not to be
prolonged, and the colonel, who was not apt to conceal
r.

V2-2

ALD i:an ic.

what was passing in his min.l, more than onco uttowl
lau^rhinr' objections to the long walks which tlif twain
took togetller, saying tliey wouhl fancy themselves
cousins, or perhaps mere strangers by and by. Morgan
was too agreeable by half, to be the uncle of a pretty

young lady.

All this in jest to Mrs. Arendell and Aldeane, yet
the latter at least ianeied there Avas a deep vein of
earnestness in what he said, and thought it indeed so
lon<' and constantly, that her jealousy gave ].lace to
pitv, and had it been possible, she would gladly have
destroyed the bond of connection, if not relationship,
which 'she supposed alone prevented Frederic Morgan
from asking the hand of Leonore in marriage.

snec

wlio

niigl

opp(

by a

III

ofler

he a

she a

face

distn

Ila

wild

very

inter\

nantl;

tion o

ing hi

she ha

Oh,

was 01

into t

stoppe

soon a

Thei

Iian onco utti'ivil
which tlif twain
laucy thciuselvos
and by. ^Morgan
uui'lc of a pirtty

md Aldcanc, yot

!i diH-j) vein of

ight it iudeod so

y pjivve ]thvcc to

ouUl gladly have

not relationship,

Frederic Morgan

irriago.

CHAPTER XV.

A SECOND 8KCRET TOLD.

DuRiXG this time, Aldeano was still occasionally pur-
sued by the distasteful attentions of the ex-ovfrsee
who al hough he sel.loM, adverted to any knowled-^e he
nnght^have of her antecedents, did not fail upon every
opportunity to represent the advantages she w^uld gain
by an alliance with him. ^

often that an opportunity to do so presented itself, but
he apparently dogged her footsteps'when abroad a.

Mce Bhould peer in upon her, and his sinister eyes bring

distrust and terror to her soul. ^

Ilanng one atU-rnoon gone up the river to search for

^Mld flowers, she met her persecutor almost upon the

■"Z;r "'T' '-^'f ^' ^ "'^^•-'"""^ ^'^^"•fi'-^* 'nemoi-ablc

a. XT;- '"? '" ''"^'^^ '" '"^ ""' ^°-' ^hen indig-
nantly refusing to answer him, she turned in the direc-
tion of the house, and walked hurriedly away command

she had taken, left him no alternative but to obey

Oh, how hateful this pursuit was to her! When she
was out of sight and hearing of her tormentor, she burst
into tears and sobbed aloud that "this should be
i^topped she would call Colonel Arendell to her aid as
soon as Mr. Morgan was gone." '

There was a rustling in the bushes, tliey parted, and

124

ALDEANE.

the person she had last named, gun in hand, and w..li .i
Htrins of birds at his belt, stood before her,

"llrdon me, Aideane," he naid in great agitation,
before .he could recover from the surprise and dismay
into which his unexpected presence ^^;^^^;^
"Pardon mc, Aideane, I was just now the un>villing
spectator of a scene which seemed to distress you
gSy Aideane, my soul recoils from the^ indignity
fvint WIS offered vou— you, my love, my own.
' lirltgB h'd apparently mastered his discretion
for with but one glanJe at the joy which revealed itself
in hefface, he tur^ned from her, and hid his face m his

^''Aideane was motionless from very joy He loved her
_„o Leonore, but her very self. She looked at him
with burning blushes, and unconsciously his name tell

'TetS-to her then, with a passion she could not
mistake Yes, he loved her. But these were not the
Ws he said. No, he threw himself at her feet, praying
C tgivene^s, wildly telling her that she had won his
heart, while his hand was promised to another.

Sh^ had not told him that she loved Inm Even m
the aconv his words brought her she remembered that,
and yet?he knew it, and bdieving that, all her pnde fled,
and she leaned against a tree and wept bitterly.
^Itinstantbfstoodbesideher. "Aideane, he^^^^^^^^
"whom I have so unhappily deceived, whom I broughv
fortifrom your haughty reserve, out of mere idleness
to such a bluer end as this, believe me, uiitd now I have
not ktwn my own heart else, ^od ^7^;^, -"^^^^
so bitterly have wounded yours. And yet, he addea,
eaX'' P-^«P« >'- 1-ve guessed-perhaps you know
T am encaced to marry Annie CTi-eyson.

"Cle^Greyson! 'Annie Greyson!" she repeated,
vacantly. " Your pretty cousin."

yoi

kn<

lov

She

disi

disc

dari

thill

pria

did

Anr

love

now

and

the

"wh

with

of B

instr

appo

gage

the 8

her h

not s

heart

'You

fidani

hirase

never

heart

"T(

ALDEANE.

hand, and wiUi a
her.

great agitation,
prise and dismay
had thrown hi-r.
)W the unwilling

to distress you
om the indignity
y own."

■cd his discretion,
ich revealed itself
lid his face in his

joy. He loved her
he looked at him
usly his name fell

ion she could not
hese were not the
at her feet, praying
at she had won his
» another.

ved him. Even in
e remembered that,
It, all her pride fled,
pt bitterly.
' Aldeane," he cried,
;d, whom I brought
It of mere idleness,
ae, until now I have
knows, 1 would not
md yet," he added,
—perhaps you know
on."
on !"

135

she repeated.

Yes, my pretty cousin," he echoed bitterly "Can
you not guess, Aldeane, how it was brought about-vou
know I never loved her-but my father did. He hul
loved her mother, they say, long before he married mine
bhe was his cousin, so you see his ward Annie, is but a
distant relation to me. Before I left for Europe he
disclosed to me a notable plan for enriching his pretty
darling I was to marry her. I jestingly told him I would
think of It, and upon the same day, I remember, appro-
priated your portrait which Miss Ashton showed me I
did not mean then, Aldeane, to be false either to you or
Annie. I did not even know then, that it was you I
loved though my God, with what bitterness I know it
now. '

Aldeane was by this time listening to him tearlessly,
and with all her powers of attention concentrated upon
the simple tale he told. ^

"I had scarcely reached England," he continued,
when news of my father's death reached mr together
with a letter which he directed to be sent to me, in case
of such an event suddenly taking place. Therein he
mstructed me to remain in Europe the time he had
appointed, and begged me to enter at once into an en-
gagement of marriage with Annie Greyson, and to fulfil]
the same immediately upon my return to America "

I understand," said Aldeane, in a low voice, pressing
her hand upon her heart. " You were an obedient son."

not snot '".T/'i !f ''" '"^'^ ^^'- ^^°'-g«»' ^« if «be had
not spoken "I did not trouble myself to search my
heart, and failed to read its secrets at a single <rlance
Your cousin will make an estimable wife,' said my eon-
hdant George Raymond. I suggested that he loved her
himself, but he replied, in his old way, that he should
never marry Therefore I wrote, offering my hand, and
heart too, I think, to my cousin, and was accepted."
Tell me no more," said Aldeane, turning toward him

126

ALDEANE.

suddenly, with pale and rcHolute laco. " You have P&id
too nnich already; you are to marry your cousin."

" No '" he exelaimed, i)assi()nately, " she loves me no
more than I do her. Aldeane, I love yo.i, madly. Bo
ray wife— the wife of a poor man; for I wdl Rive up all
my property to Annie Gveyson, and entreat her to release

me." . , „,, .

A sudden hope darted into Aldeane's heart. 1 his con-
templated marriage, this union of strangers, might be as
obnoxious to Annie Greyson as to Frederic :Morgan him-
self Was it not right that he should otter her her iree-
dora ; and, upon such generous terms, would she not
accept it? And so, when he repeat d, again and again,
" Woal.1 you marry me-a poor man?" she sank into his
arms and whispered, " Yes."

But in an instant she remembered that he was not
free and tore herself from his embrace, and entreated
liim'to remember it also, to be himself generous and hon-
orable, that she might have strength to act generously
and honorably also.

And then, as he poured forth a thousand assurances
thac Annie did not love him, that she would gladly r^
lease him, there came upon her a conviction that she would
not do so ; that the pretty, frivolous doll, would hold him
to his engagement; that she would, at all hazards, gain
the height of her ambition by becoming the mistress ot
Moro-anvale, as the wife of its possessor.

This Aldeane said to him, not ungenerously, but im-
putincr to Annie Greyson such motives as might rule even
anobte-heartedwoman; and while she did not combat
his intention of asking his release from liis engagement,
for both heart and mind, as much for Annie Greyson s
sake as for their own, approved of tl.at, she insisted her
name should not be mentioned, and that it should not be
even implied that he was loved by another; that Annie
Greyson's cronerosity should be asked for himself alone;

whi(

"A!

ish A

you

Sli

to hi

voii

("lo.

pure]

hono

lie

"Thi

deani

mine

".A

to Iiii

eric, i

grief!

and 1

wavw

She

the i\(

keep (

lier h(

ALD EA XE.

127

You have said
r cousin."
ho loves mc no
on, niiully. Bo
rtill ^ivo up all
It ht-r to release

leart. This con-
ers, niitiht be as
vie Morgan hini-
fer her her frcc-
would she not
sain and arrain,
she sank into his

hat he was not
L', and entreated
pnerous and hon-

act generously

isand assurances
would gladly re-
an that she would
, would hold hira
all hazards, gain
; the mistress of

nerously, but im-

s might rule even

did not combat

1 liis engagement,
■ Annie Greyson's
;, she insisted her
t it should not be
3ther ; that Annie
for himself alone ;

and not even f-.r liimself if it should appear that she h> i-
self loved him.

"Xo, I will tell her the truth;' replied Frederic Mor-
gan, agam and again. "1 will irjve her my wealth aii.l
toil for you, my darling, Vou will net be afraid '•'"'

"Afraid ! with himV" she .11,1 „„t speak, but her eves
revealed to ]„„, the in.p.iry of lu^r heart, an.l its cnfideut
reply. I5ut when she spoke, it was onlv to soft Iv say
iarewell, ai.d that she had no hope, "FoV you, I know,
will do as I have asked — no more."

"Al.leane," he exHainu'd, su.ldenlv, with a despair
which revealed to her that his opiui.ms were like hers
Aldeane, why will you not suffer me to break inv fool-
ish v.nv 'i She does not love me, and I shall die without
you !"

She looked at him a moment, as lie clasped luu- hands
to his breast and uttered these wild entreaties- "Hove
you now," sh,. said. " I should not tell you so, but I
<lo. I love you,— no, do not touch mc— but I can not
purchase happiness at the price of hers or of your dis-
Jionor.

lie pressed his hands over his face, and groaned aloud.
IhoM there is no hope," he muttered. "Aldeane I Al-
deane! I will do as you have said, but mine will bo a
ruined lite."

"And what of mine?" sLe asked herself, wildly; but
to him she only said, "You will not write to me Fred-
eric it this is our farewell. You will spare me further
gnet!'

He caught her in his arms ; but she tore Iierself awav
and rushed from the place, fearing to stay, fearin- her
wayward heart, fearing him. "'

She hastened to tiie house, and to her own chamber,
the door ot which she locked and barred, doublv ea-er t«>
keep out any chance intruder. She liad not takeifwith
her hope; she was quite certain that this love she leid

128

ALDEANE.

won would bo cluimod by another; and throwing htr-
Hclf upon hor bed, sho wept ««<•!. toars, and broatJ^c-d Buch
praycrK, an man novo, hcch, or hoarH, and the oniniHcient
(iod but soldom, even though to Him all agony «
known.

1\
Mo

tlic
and
tea I
])arl
thai

bof,'
the

UHSU
ligh

in s

pera

was

offoi

grac

Loui

liopt

Bang

befo

feigr

tlie t

thfit

wht'i

excit

The

brou

1(1, throwinpt her-
Au\ l)rcat)n'(l Buch
nil the oinniHcient
im all agony is

CHAPTER XVI.

DOUirr IIKCOMKH CKItTAINTY.

Mits. AiiK.NDKi.i. Imtl invited a fow fric ii.ls to meet Mr,
I\r<»rgjin that ivoninir, it Ix-iiii,' the last «>t' IiIh stay with
tlicin. Althoii<j;h Ald.anc hrid hasfcncl to her room,
and passt'd tho last hours of day in jrn .f too dcrj. for
tears, she know that hor i)r..'sc'nci' would !)•*(• vpcctcd in the
l)arlor; so, after iierforiuin<jf a far more elaborate toilet
than usual, she repaired thitlier, as the company were
beginning to arrive. Mr. Morgan was there, receiving
the guests with what Aldeane readily saw was an
assumed gayety. JVlrs. Arendeil and Leonore were de-
lighted at his gay sallies and (piick repartees, and joined
in speaking of his happy disposition and cloudless tem-
perament to her who knew, too well, that. all his mirth
was feigned. Following Ins ox.imple, with a violent
effort, she, too, became unusually merry, replying most
graciously to the compliments of Mr. IJlake ami Mr.
Lounsbcrry, raising in the bosoms of both gentlemen
hopes doomed to be most cruelly disajipointed. She
sang more sweetly, and played more brilliantly than ever
before, almost deceiving Mr. Morgan with her well-
feigned gayety. They appeared to be the happiest of
tlie throng, imparting mirth and joyousness to all, while
their hearts were dying within them. At a late hour,
when they had gone to their apartments, this feverish
excitement i)assed, and a night of unrest succeeded.
The dawn was welcomed eagerly by bolii, for though it
brought the doom of parting, even that was better than

130

A I.DEA SE.

to 111' ncnr oii", whom 'twas (tin, yot impoHMihlp, not to

li»V(>.

AftiT !iii iiirly bronkfast, tlif family all eallicrcil upon
tlui front poirli, to mv Mr. Morgan otf. I lis adioiis to
all were atfcclionatf, and at 1m>I he luriifd to AliU'ano,
who liant avjainst a pillar, lircatlilisH ami Itarliss. Slic
Haw tliat lit' wan vory pale, t'lat pannionato love lioaiiictl
in his I'ycs. lie took hi'r ncrvch'sn hand in his fevered
one, and endeavorid to speak, hut words catne nut.
Then pressing her elosely to his wildly liealim; heart,
with his eyes, full of love and despair, tixecl upon hers, ho
kissed her lips passionately, once — twice — then leaving
her half faintinix, veiled away, leapt into the carriage,
in which Colomd Arendell was waiting; the impatient
horses sprans? forward, and in a moment they were jjone.

Ahlcane watched his (h'partiire Avith tearless eyes, and
M\ ajjonizL'd dcspairin<;f i/Iance, as if her last earthly joy
Avas heinji tossed on foa'iiini^ hillows, and borne far away
I'roni her si.tjht, to ho buried in the fathomless ocean of
otornity. As the carWai^e, with its chorishcd occupant,
sped from licr sijjht, the over-strnnj^ tension of lier
nervoH gave way, and with a low moan of ])ain, sho
throw liorself uj)on a chair at Loonoro's side, who liiend-
ing over her, exclaimed : —

".Afamma! mamma! Miss Akioanc is fainting ! Site is
very -rck!"

Mrs. Arendell had boon somewhat surprised at the
strange jiarting between lier governess and her brother,
thouq;h sho had not noticeil the agonized exi)resHion upon
the faces of both. She had, 'liowover, dismissed the
matter vi'b the *hought, "'Tis only Fred's nonsense,
and they arc suoli oM friends, of course there is nothing
in his kissing her. One can never account for half of
Fred's deeds/'

At Loonoro's exclamation slie turned, and was much
alarmed to see Aldeano apparently very ill.

•1!

ca
ho
pil
nil
Tl
foi

till
lo(
uhi
for
the
All
thi
he.
left
• let
the
the

.Sh(
hat
fesf
rias
wh(
ni>c
Htrt
i'ani
and
(loo

<'XOi

sani
gatl
sivc

mpoMHiblp, not to

ill u'litlicriil upon
!!'. IIIm adiiMis to
iriii'il to Alilr.ini',
.ml Ifiirli'ss. She
ii.it*' love Ik'IUIkmI
mil ill iiis I'cvi Till
wonU ('Utile iiut.
ly licatim; licart,
ixi'il iipoii Iktm, Iil'
ice — tlu'ii Icavintj
iito lli(> oarriaiic,
i<I ; tlic iiiipatii'iit
it tlu-ywiTc jx""<'.
tearless eyes, and
r last earthly joy
1(1 l)oriie lar away
hornless ocean of
lerishcd oecu|iaiit,
t^ tension of lier
loan of jiain, who
8 side, M'ho bend-

) fainting ! She m

surprised at tlie
s and her brother,
(1 expression upon
pr, dismissed the

Fred's nonsense,
e there is nothiiii;
;;count for half of

ed, and was much
•V ill.

ALDKAXr:.

181

"U hat is the matter, AldeaneV" ^,|„. („kod, anxiouslv.
I nele Adam uas passing.. Obeyinj,' Mrs. Arend.dl''*
directions, he lilted Aldeaiu' as if she were an inliint. ai-d
carried her to her ehaiiiber. Ki„d hands soon disr'nl.ed
her, and lii"ioiiu'hly exhausted, she sank upon the dowtiv
pillows (.f her cdiieh. For days the ronm was darkened',
and Zettie, with noiseless feel', Wiiited iipnn the siilleivr.'
The <l..etor proiioiiiice.l her illness to be a ln\v iiervouH
fever, aii.l re,.,„ninendc.| prrfccl ,,iii,.|. Ills instructi<.ns
>yere obeyed, and lliiee weeks aflerward, for Ihe first
time, she was taken in an easy chair to the window, ami
looked lan-rnidly o.il upon the scene, which lia<l i,'ivatly
ehaiiLCed diiiiiiLt her illness. .Suiiiiner had passecC Tlio
Jbresis had donned their autumnal jxarb, and swayed in
the cool bive/.i'S that heral.l il„. approach of winter.
Aldeane siurhed as she tlioii,i,'lit of the dreary winter
that was stealinj; the freshneHH and joy thus <'arly from
her life; but she felt that there was still some beauty
left, aii'l beaiiii!.' the soft tints of love, but the mor'e
ileeided one of life's r.'.ility. Daily after this she sat at
the window Icarniiii,' lessons of cmtentment ; appiyin;;
the b;ilm of heavenly consolation to her bruised heart'
She had heard that Mr. .Mor-,'aii had reached home, and
had Ilia. le preparations to bejiin the jiractice of his pro-
fession. She ha<l heard nothiiii; of his proposed mar-
riacce, and wondered if it would indeed take j)lace, and
when she would be calle.l upon to lay her heart's' idol
upon the altar of sacritice. One day feeliiiL; uiiiisii:illy
stronjr, and h.'ivintj: a stroiijr desire to min.;;'le with the
family; she slijiped out of her room, in Zettie's absence,
and astonished them by appearin<x at the sittin<>-voom
door. Colonel Areiidell spraiitr forward, and with a;i
exclamation of pleased surjirise, led her to a seat, at tli.-
same time pushiii!; away the children, m'Iio would have
<j;atliei>'d voiind her. :Mrs. Areiidell was very aiiprelieii-
sive that slie had done wrona:, yet was jjreatly pleased to

'"■ "!>'■■ i

132

ALDEANE.

have her once more with them. The children were
allowed to kiss her once, then playfully, but decisively
turned out of the room by Colonel Arendell, that ihe might
have quietness, Leonore shook up the sofa-cushions,
and arranged them invitingly, and overcome by exertion,
Aldeane sank gratefully upon them.

" I believe," said Colonel Arendell, offering her glass
of wine, " that wo shall have to send you North for a
change."

" Oh, no, I shall remain here. I shall soon be well,"
she answered, quickly.

" Well, as you please, my dear ; I am glad you are so
contented. I don't believe you have been long reconciled
to this life."

" John," interposed Mrs. Arendell, reprovingly, " you
know that if Aldeane has rather imprudently ventured
down, that she is far from w^ell. We must not let her
talk too much | she can listen to us, but not exert herself.
Doctor Grey especially forbade that when he was here
to-day."

" De mail, Mass'r John," said Jule, entering with some
letters in his hand, which lie gave to Colonel Arendell ;
who, glancing at thci* superscriptions, said, " One for you,

Ida."

Mrs. Arendell was soon eagerly perusing its contents ;
when finished, she passed it to her husband, saying, from
Frederic, and picking up her sewing, began the work
with a look of preoccupation upon her countenance. She
did not notice that Aldeane's eyes were fixed wistfully
upon her face, and when, glancing up, she caught the
mournful look, she asked : —

" Do you want any thing, Aldeane ?"

" No, I thank you," she replied, removing her gaze from
Mrs. Arendell to the colonel, who, having finished the
letter, leaned back in his chair, as if ready to converse.

«« -vvTell— " said Mrs. Arendell.

an
it

(

hoi
be(

sai(
bef
wo
tol(

litt

and

((

dell
had
suit
dou

fatl
bell
kno

a h(
drei

ALDEANE.

188

he children were
lly, but decisively
lell, that ihe might
the sofa-cushions,
rcorae by exertion,

iffering her glass
you North ibr a

lall soon be well,"

m glad you are so
sen long reconciled

reprovingly, " you
»rudently ventured
! must not let her
t not exert herselt',
when he was here

entering with some
Colonel Arendell;
said, " One for you,

using its contents ;
iband, saying, from
y, began the work
countenance. She
?^ere fixed wistfully
ip, she caught the

oving her gaze from
laving finished the
eady to converse.

" I tJiink it is the best thing he can do," returned the
colonel.

" So do I. They have been engaged quite long enough ;
and they are both old enough to marry. I am glad that
it is really decided upon at last."

" Oh, ma," exclaimed Leonore, " is Uncle Fred going
to be married soon V"

" Probably, in a month or two."

" Well, I am so glad ; I shall see a little of the world
at last. I have never even been to a party yet."

" And sixteen years old !" ejaculated the colonel, as if
horrified. " Only think of it, sixteen years old, and never

been to a party. Sixteen !"

"And a month, pa!" cried Leonore, eagerly.
Her father laughed, saying, " Well, Nora, I promise
gayety enough for you this winter."

" Fred says ti.at Annie is a very pretty, pleasant girl,"
said Mrs. Arendell, musingly. " lie told me the evening
before he left, that he should be married soon, if Annie
would consent. I liadn't a doubt but that she would, and
told him so. He seemed quite excited about it. I was a
little surprised, as he always seemed so indifferent before."
" Perhaps he was afraid some one else might step in
and carry off the prize," observed Colonel Arendell.

" Annie is very accomplished," continued Mrs. Aren-
dell, " though, Fred says, not at all brilliant. I wish she
had a little more depth of character. I know she would
suit him better. But they say she is amiable ; so, no
doubt, they will get on together splendidly."

" You will have to practice well, Leonore," said her
father, "before you go North. Don't let the Boston
belles, or beaux either, think that my little daughter
knows nothing."

" I will try not to. But, oli, dear ! there will be such
a heap of things xr, do before we can go. Such lots of
dresses to get, and "

j;m

A LDEANE.

"Don't woiTV yourself," intcrniptiMl Mrs. Arin(K>n,
lausrhins? at Loonore's anxioty, " a li'W <l:iy^' shoi.pin.si in
Nf'w York will set us all ri.u'ht. Frcdorio says Annie ni-
tencls to ask vou to be a l.riaeniaid— think (.ftliat f

"Oh, that is delitfhtt'nl ! so very kind in her, too, when
she never saw me" in her life. What shall I wear, niaV
And pa, you must get me some pearls ! IJridesmaids al-
ways wear pearls, you know."

" You are never contented without a draft upon my
purse," relHirned her father, laugliin.;,' ; " but you shall
have them, little lady. Is there any thing else the brides-
maids always have?"

" Yes, sir, lots of things; but when must we go .•• when

are they to be married V"

" Onthe twenty-first of November."

A faint moan front Aldeane arrested their attention.
They turned, and Avere frightened to sec the blue-veined
lids closing languidly over her brown eyes, and her mouth

fixed rigidly.

Colonel Arondell, springing forward, dashed some
water on her pale face, while Mrs. Vrendell exclaimed,
"How imprudent ! Now, this is a week's relapse."

Her words were true. Aldeane was borne to her cham-
ber, from which she did not again descend until the dreary
November days with their chilly rains, were upon them.
Then the school-room had again its mistress, and Leonore
was relieved from the Avearisome task of teaching her
young brothers and sister, and turned to the more
agret^ible one, of preparing for her journey North. Col-
onel, Mrs. Arendell, and Leonore, alone were going,
leaving Aldeane alone with the children. She was glad
of theluvlf solitude their absence would give, and looked
calmly upon the prei)arat ions made for the celebration of
that event which woulil separate her fcjrever from that
heart upon whose inmost tablet her image was indelibly
graven.

the

dec

whi

— t

ful

■vrei

wer

entl

thei

chai

miri

a b(

said

ing

fire,

fasli

guid

kind
befoi
the I
seanc

I Mrs. AniK^'ll,
lays' s1ioi)j)in!j; ii»
if says Annie iu-
ink ..t'that!"
in lior, too, whon
shall I wear, maV
IJridesmaitls al-

a draft upon my
; "but you siiall
\<X else tiie brides-

lust we go ? when

d their attention,
oe tlie blue-veined
ves, and her mouth

rd, daslied some
•endell exclaimed,
.'k's relapse."
borne to her cham-
id until the dreary
, were upon them.
;trcss, and Leonore
k of teaching her
ned to the more
irney North. Col-
lone were goiuL',
?n. She was glad
d give, and lookeil
• the celebration of
forever from that
uage was indelilily

CHAPTER XVII.

A MOMEXTOrS INTERVIEW.

Tt was upon one evening, when Aldeane Guthrie lav at
the worst point of the fever which ha.I attacked her that
many hundre.l miles distant her fate was .-onsidered and
tlecnled.

Frederic Morgan ha<l reached his home the dav before
where h.s mother and Annie (Jreyson were e.vpeciin- him'
-thehrst most anxiously, and the latter with that gmee-
ful mdifferenee wJ.ich was her chief cliaracteristic ^Hofh
were somewhat surj.rised at hi.s excitability, and neither
were uiolmed to like tlie change which ha.I been appar-
ently wrought i.i him by his two years of travel. Hut
they naturally attributed his nervousness, and the sudden
ehanges in his mood from silence to almost uproarious
mirth, to his return to a liome whence had been removed
a beloved lather, and wliere a lovely bride awaited him

i'or Annie Greyson was undeniablv beautiful, as lie
said to hnnself as he entered the parlor the secon.l everi-
mg atter his return home, and saw her sittincr near the
tUsliio" '*"'* """iature representative of loveliness and

He had asked her to meet him there, but as she la> -
guidly raised her blue eyes to his face, there was no look
ot curiosity or that warmer feeling which should hav,.
kuKlled withm them. She did not rise, but, as he stood
be ore her, motioned him to a seat at the opposite side of
the grate, and observed that it was verv cold for the
season. " • ■ iml

136

ALDEANE.

He did not take the proffered seat, nor immediately vn-
swer her; but, leaning against the mantel, looked down

upon her.

First, lie thonght how different would have been hia
greeting if the plainly-robed Ibnn of her he loved were
eoated before him, instead of this silken-dressed doll,
with her ribbons and laces and perfumes. Yet, though ^
she seemed to him then a thousand times more frivolous
than ever before, he was not imjust to her; he believed
her possessed of the simple vanity of a child, but not for
an instant of the ambition of a somewhat unscrupulous

Avoman. , u ■ i

She toyed lightly with a rosebud which she held in her
hand, and yawned slightly behind her laced handkerchief
as he looked at her,^ glancing furtively once at a long
mirror which reflected her person, and with the thought
that blue became her admirably, and that she was look-
in<r unusually well, decided that her lover's first words
would be a compliment ; she started, therefore, when he
at last said, gravely: —

" Annie, I have asked you to meet me here, that we
may speak seriously together concerning our contem-
plated marriage."

She blushed very prettily, as she glanced at him tor
one instant. "Indeed, Frederic," she said, at last, "I
had ranch rather that you should settle all that with your
dear mamma;" adding, inaudibly, "I'm sure I shall have
enough to do to see to riy wardrobe. Yes, I'm quite
decided. I will wear white satin instead of moire an-

iique"

"Annie," answered Frederic, quite unconscious ot these
last thoughts, " too much of what has passed between us
has been managed by other people."

" Dear uncle w'.as so thoughtful," murmured Annie.

Frederic Morgan bit his ifps, and looked at her askance.
" Give me your whole mind and attention, Annie, for a

fe
pi
an

lUi

th
th

be
va

wc
thi
mi
an

tic
as
ful
fat

ms
toi
Iia
foi

mv
6h<
be<

sa^

»r immoiVuittly vii-
utul, looked down

lid have been his
u'l- he loved wtro
ilken-dressed doll,
nes. Yet, though
les more iVivoloiis

her ; he believed

1 child, but not for
what unserupulous

lioh she held in her
laced handkerchief
ly once at a long
d with the thought
that she was look-
lover's first words
therefore, when ho

t me here, that we
Tning our contem-

njlanccd at him for
le said, at last, "I
le all that with your
'm sure I shall have
be. Yes, I'm quite
istead of moire an-

unconscious of these
s passed between iia

nurmured Annie.
)oked at her askance,
tention, Annie, for a

ALDEANE.

187

few minutes," he cried, suddenly. " Tliis is no child's
play, Annie. Tell me, had I come to you a stranger, poor
and friendless, would you have married me V"

She was actually startled — perhaps more by his excited
manner than by his words, unexpected though they were
— but, after a moment's pause, she answered, with perfect
serenity: —

"You know, Fred, I should never have thought of any-
thing so improper. I'm quite grieved tliat you should
think it possible."

" That being the case," exclaimed Frederic, " you will
be quite contented to find yourself mistress of Morgan-
vale without the incumbrance of a husband."

Then she looked at him in perfect and undisguised
amazement.

"I'm sure," she stammered, at length, uttering the
words which, of all others, he dreaded to hear, " if you
think that you would be an incumbrance, you are much
mistaken. I am sure you will be an admirable husband,
and I will try to please you in every way."

"That I do not doubt," he exclaimed, in great agita-
tion ; " but believe me, Annie, it is as much for your sake
as mine that I beg you to consider deeply before you
fulfill the contract into which you were forced by my
father."

" Oh, indeed, Frederic, he behaved in a most gentle-
manly manner," returned Annie, in a mildly persuasive
tone. " Now, pray don't worry, Fred, and think that I
liave been forced to marry you by a tyrannical guardian,
for I'm sure I always thought you very nice."

It almost maddened him to hear her prattle thus, with
much more to the same purpose. How childishly selfish
she was. Would she never think that he, perhaps, had
been forced into this marriage if she had not.

" Annie," he said, suddenly, " you have honored me by
saying that this marriage is not distasteful to you, while

188

A LI) BAN'S.

von have, at the same time, given mc aluuulant proof
that vonr atU«tioiis WDiild ivccivc no shock if it never
was soK'niniziil. 1, nnfortnnately, can not he 80 iiiditfcr-
cnt."

She looked np at him enrionsly.

"Annie," lie said, in a low voice, "forjjive me, Annie,
I love another."

He had expected a burst of passionate tears, of cutting
reproaches, scorn, hatred, any thing hut the charming
po\it of the red lips as slu- answered, " I really think that
verv wrong of you, Frederic. Such :>. shame as it was in
you to deceive a poor girl so !"

" Deceive her !" he cried, passionately. " Indeed, I did
not deceive her! It was not in my i)ower to do so. My
love was uncontrollable. Even while I was praying for
strength to hide it, it burst from my lips, and all my tale
of love and despair was told."

" Dear me, that was so unfortunate," said Annie, as if
ho were speaking of one in whom she was very slightly

■crested. " And what is the young lady's name ; and
where does she live ?"

lie flushed redly, and answered quickly: "That I
can not tell you, Annie, and it is quite cert tun, if you will
not release me from my engagement without that knowl-
edge, you would not with it."

She looked at him from beneath the golden lashes of
her eyelids with the prettiest show of playful curiosity,
as she said : " It is really unkind of you not to tell me.
If I had had a little flirtation in your absence, I assure
you I would have told you the gentleman's name and
all about him."

" I do not doubt, Annie, that you were far more faith-
ful than I," he cried in desperation. " lUit 1 swear to
you I hitended to fulfill the promise I made you."

"Intended to?" she asked, arching her eyebrows.

"And if you hold me to my engagement, after all I

ha
fai
an<
an(
Ian

nni
ass
tioi

I
seci
anil
and
rais
it.

I
thai
lier
arm

situ
jilt(
foot

thor
shot
a la<
and
solic

yo",

cxpc
youi
I'ms
-. am
Fi

ALDEANE.

? alnuulant j)roor
shock if it iio\t>r
not 1)0 f-o "mditVcr-

'orjiivc mo, Annio,

te tears, of outting
but tlio olianiiiiisi
I really tliink that-
shaino as it Avas in

ly. " Indeed, I did

i\ver to do so. My

1 was praying for

ps, and all my tale

" said Annio, as if
.' was very slightly
; lady's name ; and

quickly: "That I
cert am, if you will
rithout that knowl-

le golden lashes of
f ))layful curiosity,
you not to tell mo.
,ir absence, I assure
tleman's name and

ere far more faith-
"But 1 swear to
made you."
her eyebrows.

igement, after all I

189

havo said," ho continued, " I will be to you a kind and
faithful husband. But Amiio, Annio, 'my heart is
another's, but leave mo free, to dispose of that as I wish,
and I will gladly give to you the deeds of the houses and
lands which have caused this trouble."

Annie arose from her scat, and looked at him with as
nuu'h dignitied amazement, as it was possible for her to
assume, aTid then, to Frederic ^Morgan's utter consterna-
tion, sank at his feet in a swoon.

llis first impulse was to call his mother, and the
second to exorcise liis personal skill in restoring her to
animation. There Avas water and vinaigrette a^ hand,
and in a few moments Jier eyes unclosedj and she feebly
raised her head from the arm on which he Jiad pillowed
it.

At that moment, if she liad but said she loved him,
that she grieved to part from him, lie wonhi have taken
her to his heart almost with joj. l?ut rising from his
arms, and sinking languidly into a chair, she murmured :—

"How couhc you be so cruel? AVhat a ridiculous
situation to place one in. Every one would say you had
jilted mo. Horrible," and she shuddered from head to
foot.

Now, Frederic Morgan was a physician, and a
thoroughly practical one too, and therefore, perhaps,
should not have been alarmed by the sudden faintness of
a lady, but nevertheless, he Avas greatly so in this case,
and looked at the tiny figure before him Avith the utmost
solicitude, as she contiiuied : —

" You know, Frederic, I promised imcle I would marry
you, as I have expected to do so, and every one has
expected it of me. I am very much ob'=,'ed to yon for
your kind oft'er ; it is very considerate upon your part,
I'm sure, but dear me, every thing is ready. I should ui.'
-. am certain."

Frederic Morgan stood before her, and in impassioned

140

ALDEANE.

words declared to her his heart. But Bhc did not for
an instant read it aright. In her intense selfishness she
supposed him to be pleading for her happiness, not for
his own, and that of tlie woman he loved. " Annie," he
cried, at length, " what now is your answer?"

" Why, dear me," she said gayly, " I eould dismiss you,
no doubt, if I had the heart to do it, and all the world
would declare it periectly right ami proper, but really,
I should never be happy, my falsity would haunt mo
even in my dreams. No, dear Frederic, I will never
break ray word, I will be your wife."

" And," she added to herself, " nothing could be more
elegant than that lace veil we were looking at in Stewart's
three weeks ago."

Frederic Morgan spoke not another word. He had
told her all, and had left the decision of their fate to her,
and she had decided it. A sudden faintneas came over
him, more terrible than any mere physical weakness
could have brought over him, and looking blindly at the
figure in the chair before him, and thinking madly, de-
spairingly of that other, his lost love ! Aldeane ! Aldeane,
he staggered from the room.

And this was the parting of an affianced pair. Even
Annie Greyson thought it a strange one, as she arose
from her chair, and stepping to the long mirror, gazed at
her reflection for some moments, and murmured at last :—
"How inconsiderate of Fred! How could he ever
think I would place myself in such an absurd position.
Dear me, what a disagreeable thing it is to cry, and its
effects are so distressing toe', I declare my eyes and
nose are quite red," and with a pout Miss Greyson threw
herself into a chair, and patiently fanned her face, until
such time as she could safely look into the mirror without
being shocked by the traces of the tears shed, in the
first private interview she had ever held with the man
whom she was to marry.

(

cor
his
to
par
uss<
I'ell
pra
moi
unc
I
gra
mei
nati
life,
thei
nev
ofh
nun
him

troi
ann
T
gre«
timi

t she (lid not for

iiBC soltinhnoas nho

li:vi)ltini't»s, not for

ked. " Annie," lu'

SWIT?"

could dismiss yon,
, and all the world
proper, but really,
■ would haunt me
deric, I will never

ling could be raoro
ling at in Stewart's

er word. He had
of their fate to her,
'aintnefts came over
physical weakness
•king blindly at the
liinking madly, de-
Aldeane! Aldeane,

Sanccd pair. Even
e one, as she arose
mg mirror, gazed at
tturmured at last : —
Low could he ever
an absurd position.

it is to cry, and its
clare my eyes and
Miss Greyson threw
mned her face, until
o the mirror without
3 tears shed, in the

held with the man

OHAPTER XVIII.

TWO ISIPOUTANT LETTEKS.

One evening, some three weeks after the event re-
corded ui the last chapter, Arthur Guthrie sat alone in
liis office — Ins private office — for he had been admitted
to the bar two months before, and was now the junior
partner in the firm of Ilalcombe and Guthrie. His
associate Chester Halcombe was a gentlemanly young
fellow, who, lacking all the qualities necessary to a legal
practitioner, brought into the firm implicit faith in his
more clever partner, and the excellent connection of his
uncle, the late Edgar Halcombe.

As Arthur Guthrie sat before the glowing fire in the
grate, leaning his arm upon a table bestrewn with docu-
ments, he could not but admit that he was a very fortu-
nate fellow, with every prospect of an early rise in
life, with a thousand friends, and but one enemy. Yes,
there was one enemy, and, although Arthur Guthrie
never met him, and seldom heard of him, and never but
of his rapidly increasing wealth, he had, to his own mind
numerous proofs that Jonas Nevins had not forgotten
him.

He was thinking of this, and of one other thing that
troubled him even more, when his little office boy
aimounced a gentleman, and Mr. Ashton entered.

The color rushed over Arthur's face, as he arose to
greet his visitor, and dyed it still more readily, a second
time, when he asked for Miss Ashton.

" Well, I scarcely think Belle has been in her usual

149

ALDEAKE.

good health of lato," replied Mr. Anhtcn, as he took the
siiit which Arthur olVero.l him. "She wv\w, in lact,
<iuite out of spirits."

Arthur inurmured sometlnnj? about being very Horry,
and did not seem in very high spirits himself, and that
y\\: Asliton (piickly noticed.

"What's the matter, Arthur?" he asked. "IJusincss

dull V"

" It never was better."

" Then, what d<> you mean by such a long face as that?
That rascal hasn't—"

" Yes, he hiis," intirruptcd Arthur, (piickly. '| I told you
just now that business was never better, but in fact, El-
dridge and .Morse took their affairs out of our Irands yes-
terday, an<l they were clients of Mr. Ilalcombe's for

years'"

"Indeed," said Mr. Ashton, with a troubled laec.
" Wluit reason did they assign V"

"The same as Mr. Leigh did last week: the superior
claims of Keith and Hayes."

" Was there no complaint made of either Ilalcorabe or

yourself." , . ,

" None," answered Arthur. " But— "and he hesitated
for an instant, "I lalcombe has been telling me an absurd
tale that is upon the streets."

"I have heard it," interrupted Mr. Ashton, quickly.
" Cliarles Evans was telling us it the other night. The
bare idea of you, a g.ambler and drunkard, it is indeed
absurd. I never saw Belle so angry in my life."

Arthur Guthrie covered his face with his hands. "That
she should have heard it," he murmured.

Mr, Ashton affected not to hear him, but after looking

at him keenly for a moment, began to talk of his own

'business affairs, and as he was not going to Rose Cottage

that night, remained at the office until it was quite dark,

when tiiey repaired to a dining-hall together.

ALD EAN E.

>ii, as he took the
le soomH, HI lUct,

hfiii^ very nony,
himsolf, and that

iiMkc'il. " Uusii 105*3

long lace us that ?

lickly. "Itoklyou
cr, but ill fact, Kl-
t of our Imiids yis-
r. Ilalcoiube'tf Ibr

a troubled face.

veek: the tiupcrior

.'ither Ilalcombe or

—"and he lieBitated
illing me an absurd

I-. Ashton, quickly.

• other night. The

nkard, it is indeed

in my life."

th his hands. " That

•ed.

11, but after looking

to talk of his own

ng to Rose Cottage

il it was quite dark,

ogethei".

rr.re Ihcy iii.'t ^\^■. llal,.„„,hc, who, ns his manner was
n'galcl thcni witli ail the ov ,AV,y ,,f tl,,. day, and as a
Hpecially ohoiee morsel, informed (hem ,.f {\w cnuai,'e'.
iiK'nt of Dr. Morrraii and his cousin. "And iioorFivd
IS actually to Ik'^hiu. a Benedict within ten days," he coii-
ciudcd.

"I am sorry to take away your triuin|.h, Chester"
said Arthur,. luietly, "but really, I've known of that nnt-
fer for a week ,.a,st. Let ns dVink l . the h.-altli of the

happy couple."

"With pl.^asure," sai.l Mr. Halconibe, "You always
were, and .always will l)e, before me, Arthur. I shonl.ln't
wonder now, if you liave been invited to be groomsni.an
or something of the sort."

"I tell no state s,.crets!" crie.l .\rlhur, u'ayly, an.l tho
subject dropped, to be renewed again, when"AVthur and
.Mr. Ashton were alone, in tlie co/y back oflice, which
was ni fact the Iionie of tlie junior partner, and then he
mlormed Mr. Ashton, that Chester's jesting surmise was
indeed correct, that Frederic Moriran had invited liim to
be one of his groomsmen, while George Haymoml was to
he the other.

"And the bridesmaids," asked Mr. Ashton.

"Miss Arendcll is to be one certainly, and Miss Ashton
1!^' counted upon for the otlier."

"Indeed ! And she will act with you of course. But
I can tell you, Arthur, you will have to make your jieace
with her tirst, as she thinks you have neglected us of
late."

"Good God!" cried Arthur, suddenly, with seemino-ly
unaccountable yehemence, " how has it been possible for
me to go there, knowing that she has heard these atro-
cious tales."

" That sliould haye made no difference," returned Mr
Ashton. " You know Belle is too truly your friend to be^
heye any thing to your discredit. Now, Arthur, I do not

144

ALDEANE.

nisi, to dictate to you, hut I think you shouia u. your
position, ..n.l..avor to retain all your inon-lH. It m .put.
'.rtain that NovinH i« tryinp to ruin you au.l y.m nn.sl
rally all your tonus against hi.n, thoujjh I am ,.rc.tt y cor-
taiu of siU.n.-i..K him wry otn-ctually. Uul we nu.st,
•wait, we must wait." », » i .

Arthur looke<l at him in som(. surprise, but Mr. Ashton
(lid not seem inclined to speak further up<.n the subject,
but abruptly asked Arthur whether he intended to ac-
cept Frederic Morgan's invitation, adding that he would
do well to sc-ure so powerful a friend.

"Mv need of securing such friends," answered Artliur,
" is my chief reason for declining the honor Morgan pro-
poses to me. 1 want to work my own way against that

''"Pooh, pooh!" ejaculated Mr. Ashton. "It will in no
degree detract from your independence and worth, to sur-
round yourself with reliable friends. By^hc way that
fellow is amassing avast fortune, I hear. AVell, well he
will need it all;" and he rubbed his hands gleetuly
together, and huighed so triumphantly, that Arthur con d
not refrain from asking him what special knowledge he

lield of Nevius. . ,

" You are right in supposing that I have some special
knowledge of Nevins," returned Mr. Ashton, gravely;
"but what it is, or how I gained it, I can not at present
inform you; and I will only tell you this, that the time
will come, svhen neither you nor your friends will regret
that they Htood between you and that man's persecu-

*""" It reioiccB me to hear itl" cried Arthur, hopefully, " f<.r
knowing that, I shall have less fear of mingling with them
and in a manner associating them with my interestH and
pursuits. Yet even with this vague hint ot the villainy of
Inv persecutor which you have given me, it is hard lor me
to bear calmly the aspersions which I know he is secretly

ZmA

II t*h()iil<l, ill >■<""■
ioikIh. It IH M""''"
o\i, ami y<»i ii»i'*l'
li I am i)nUy vvr-
. JJul \vc must,

10, but Mr. Ashtnn

iijion the 8ii)>jirt,

ic intfii(lt'<l to a(!-

liiig that lu" would

answered Arthur,
lonor Morgan pro-
i way agaiuHt that

ton. " It will in no
a and worth, to sur-
IJy the way, that
ar. Well, well, he
lis hands gleefully
, that Arthur could
ecial knowledge he

[ have some special
•. Ashton, gravely ;

I can not at present

II this, that the time
r friends will regret
that man's persccu-

thur, hopefully, " for
mingling with them,
ith my interests and
hit of the villainy of
me, it is hard for me
[ know he is secretly

ALDEAXI':

145

casting upiin my name. I have liad serious tlioughiH of
calling iipuii him, an<l warning him upon his peril to con-
tinuc liis h.isc cahuniiics."

"The worst course you could possibly pursue," said Mr.
Ashton. "lie would defy you, of course, and make out a
case against you that would ring through tlic city in a
fortnight. Such a thing is easily spread, in this way fur
instance," and .Mr. Asliton drew frr)m-his pocket a letter,
and hiindcd it to Arthur, saying, "ll.ad that, .and tell me
if you can, who took tlic pains to write it. It is signed,
* A Hoston Friend.' W'luHhcr that means a style of friend
peculiar to this rity, or a friend who is merely a rcsidcMit
Iiere, I am at a loss to determine. If the former, I tremble
for Hoston."

Unheeding these last remarks, .\rtlmr had opened and
e.agcrly perused the letter, whicii, written in a cramped,
and evidently, disguised hand, contained the following
Wdids:—
"CuAiti.Ks Ashtox, Esii.: —

" Dkau Sir: As an old and, I trust, a somewhat valued
friend, both of yourself ami your lovely daughter, I ft'(d
constrained to perform the unpleasant duty of acquainting
you with some facts concerning a young gentleman in
whom it is well known you take a warm interest. I al-
lude to :Mr. Arthur (iuthrie.

" In the first ])lace, I will t.ike the liberty first of relating
a little event wiiich took jjlacc about two months ago; it
will ])erhaps iHustr.ite the character of the young jnan
more than any words of mine could possibly do. Premi-
sing, that I ntn perfectly willing that you should seek
whatever proof you may wish, in the most expeditious
way that may occur to you."

" Now isn't that the most absurd thing" interrupted Mr.
Ashton, who had risen and was glancing over iVrthur's
shoulder as he read. " As if I was going into every saloon

on Street to incpiire whether 'a tall young ma.i'

146

ALBEAXJ^.

But yro on; you don't understand

was ever seen there

"' " I was aoin.^ down Street, with Bome gentlemen

Mr Xevi.^ an^on,^ the rest, when I saw a tall youn, n. u
t:Xrn one of U.e mo.t noted gan.bhn, ^^^oJ^
seemed very drunk, and as ho reele.l past me, shoutel
out a oud voice ; and with a feeling of horror I reeog-
led it, and excla^ed, 'Is it possible that that . yom.g

Mr. Guthrie !'

"'I am sure it was,' said one.

<^^jZ. he i. going the road to ruin rapidly,' remarked

""'Kapidlv indeed!' said Mr. Nevins. 'Poor fellow, I
mtv hin With his unusual talents and fine personal

rrrld: but, with his^unfortunate propensities, 1 ieai

the very worst for him.'

"Curse him!" hissed Arthur, bitterly.
" 'I ave you no other proof that the person you saw was
Mr. GiS.!' asked Mi! Nevins, with a fanit intonation
of doubt still in his voice.

" I^ould scarcely believe what I had seen, assun. you,
Mr Ashton, though my eyes do not often play me talsc
?Let us go into the saloon,' I said, 'and ask the name ot
the young man who has just passed.

«My suggestion was eagerly seconded by all preseirt
except MirNevins, who considerately desired that o
further proof migM be obtained of his step-son's delin-
qutcy.' Howevfr the majority carried the point, and we
Tut In to make inquiries. The keeper of the s a con
ae Ined to tell his name, but inadvertent y ajlmitted
ha he was a young lawyer, doing business in this c ty
'ile hasn't lost'much yet,' said the m.n, 'but I wouldn t
like to trust much money in his hands.

"T^.e villain!" cried Arthur, with micomroUable pas-
sion. " This is, indeed, more than I can bear, ihis un-

doii
pra

and

kno
tinii
decl
calc
ceiv
but
nam
A
tioni
the 1

gent
ever

me, i
offen
iiegl(

Ml
the (
least

"I
becoi
wliic!
for n

"I
speci

Ar
said ;
— toL

'I
at vo

''A

ALDEANE.

147

lon't uiukTstiind

some gentlemen,
I tall younsj; man
in;j; saloons. He
last me, shouted
,f horror I recog-
liat that is young

apidly,' remarked

' Poor fellow, I
iiid fine personal
ble reputation in
iropcnsities, I fear

erson you saw was
a faint intonation

seen, I assure you,
'ten play me false,
d ask the name of

led by all present,
y desired that no
is step-son's delin-
J the point, and we
jper of the saloon
rertently admitted
isiness in this city,
pn, 'but I wouldn't

i.'"

uncontrollable pas-
can bear. This un-

■

doubtedly is tlio vile story that has already affected my
practice so sensibly."

'^ Certainly," replied Mr. Ashton. « Xow read the rest
and tell me if that too is false."

" The above fact, I liave thouo;lit it my duty to make
known to you, as Mr. (iutiuie lias often boasted of his in-
timacy with you and your daughter, of whom he has often
declared himsolf the favored suitor, and has openly made
calculations of the amount of fortune which he will re-
ceive with her. This jioint I should never have mentioned,
but for the unpleasant notoriety given to Miss Ashton'.s
name."

Arthur read no further, though there were several addi-
tional lines. lie dashed the letter upon the table, and paced
the room excitedly.

"Mr. Ashton!" he exclaimed, suddenly turning to the
gentleman who was keenly watching him : " That I have
ever spoken of 3Iiss Ashton in the manner imputed to
me, is false, but now I feel that I must declare my true
otfense, and give you the real reason for my seemin<r
neglect of you. I love Miss Ashton." "

.Mr. Ashton did not seem at all surprised, and indeed
the expression of his countenance did not chancre in the
least as Arthur continued :— "

"I have even, sir, had some presumptuous hopes of
becoming worthy of her, and of obtaining a position
which she could share without loss. Mr. Ashton, 1 have
for months past known these hopes to be vain."

" And of course," said Mr. Ashton, though without any
special severity, " you never mentioned this to Belle."

Arthur flushed to the temples. "I am afraid, sir," he
said at last, in a low voice, "that I did once— only once
— tell her something of my hopes."

"Indeed," remonstrated Mr. Ashton, " I am surprised
at you, ^Irthur, surprised."

"31iss Ashton was so beauliful," murmured Arthur

148

ALDEAiTE.

hoiH-lessly. " I (lul not mean to speak, but I could not

'''"'Anil of course," returned Mr. A.hton, most unexpeet-
...llv " H.lle eouUln't help expressing her nulignation aV
Bueh eomluct, and, hy the way, here is a note she gave n,..
to deliver to you, which is no doubt expressive ot the

" Arthur took the note with trembling fingers, remem-
berincr that Belle's face upon that day had not been so
expressive of indignation as her father ai.peare.l to sup-
pose. Opening tlie little missive, he read with teehngs
indescribable, the following lines :

Deau ARTunr.-Papa has shown me the anonymous
letter concerning vou which he has just received. Oh,
Arthur, I know it is all false, every bit false, I wish you
would come to Hose Cottage that I might tell you so.
Dear Arthur, I know you are jn trouble, and that that is
the reason vou absent yourself from us, and a thousaiu
times a day I have reproached myself with the thought
that this would not have been so, if I had done my duty

to myself and you, Mhen . Oh, Arthur, 1 know

these tales are false. I will trust you m spite of all the
world. I'apa says 1 may write this, and I think I onee
promised you, I would ansAver you sometime, and 1 do
not fear but you will read clearly the emotions winch
prompt me. ^onrs,

.ji^&a. Belle.

Arthur remained for a few moments in a state of ec-
static bewildennent. " Mr. Ashton " he exclaimed at last,
"ean it be that your daughter loves me, and that you
will give her to me, a poor, and persecuted man i iMy
darling, how noble and fearless she is."

"Ami what a coquette," interrupted Mr. Ashton.
" Now, the truth is, Arthur, I have suspected this for a

lo
r,(

fui

esi
at

thi
de

Ull

Sll!

sai
be(

pr(
imi
his
an(
the
Ar
Iiei
cor
one
coil

: but I coultl not

on, most nncxpec-t-

lior indignation i\l

a note she gave me

expvosKive of the

ig fingers, remcm-
y lia(i not boon so
r ai)iiearc(l to sup-
read with feelings

ine tlie anonymoxis
just received. Oh,
lit lalse, I wish you

might tell you so.
Ac, and that that is
ns, and a thousand
If with the thought
[ had done my duty
h, Arthur, 1 kno\v
u in spite of all the

and I think I once
sometime, and I do
the emotions which

Yours,

Belle.

nts in a state of ec-

he exclaimed at last,

!s me, and that you

■rsecuted man? ^ly

ALDEANE.

14i)

long time, and upon the receipt of tliat letter, I taxed
Delle with tlic truth. Of course she couldn't deny it, and,
fancying you the most jtersecuted, and herself the crud-
est of mortals — for she told me she liad actually laughed
at you — she begged me to allow her to answer your
words of a year ago. I said it would be as ridiculous as
the story of the silent gentleman and liis silent servant."
"Mr. Ashton" cried Arthur, "it was noble, it was the
deed of an angel. Yet how can I suffer her to share my
uncertain fortunes, I " and ho glanced at the anony-
mous letter.

" ]My dear fellow !" cried Mr. Ashton, warmly, " You
shall ask Belle M-hat slie cares for that, while I will at the
same time publish that letter and the fact that you are to
become my son-in-law."

Arthur wrung his liand and spoke no more of dismal
prospects that night. Bitt, it is reported, sat down almost
immediately, and wrote pages upon pages to the lady of
his love, over which her father shrugged his shoulders,
and his daughter alternately wept and smiled, through
the few joyful, yet seemingly interminable days, before
Arthur Guthrie visited Rose Cottage, and gained from
her lips — with perhaps something still sweeter — the same
confession her hand had written — even a more complete
one, though it could scarcely be more satisfactory — the
confession of her love.

rupted IMr. Ashton.
suspected- this for a

CHAPTER XIX.

TlIK "MKRRY wedding.

The carriage had rolled arouii.l the bend of the road,
bearing Colonel Arendell is wife, and daughter, upon the
first stage of their journ.y North. The children after a
burst of tears, and a score of lamentations, had rushed
off to enjoy the holid.ay which Aldeane had awarded them,
while she, with emotions too deep for words, and many,
indeed which she was resolved no mortal should ever
learn, stood upon the porch in a mournful reverie, which
was at last broken by the voice of(Aunt Roxy, proceed-
inc from the depths of her check apron.

"Well I do wish dey wos back ag'in," she sobbed.
" I do hate to hab Miss Xory go 'way."

"Yes, it will be very lonely, auntie," replied Aldeane.

" 'Pears to me, she is dc purtiest an' best chile I hab eber

seed in all my sublunatory resistance! No more hke her

ma was, den a 'possum's like a jay-bird. Don t eben

look like her !"

" Ah ! what sort of a lady was she ?"
" She was tall as a bean pole, wid de greatest black
eyes and de blackest ha'r I eber seen, and 1 tell you, dem
white hands o' hem would sting! Ugh ! I've felt 'em
many a time !"

" She had not a very gentle temper, then ?

" You're right dere, :Niiss Aldeane. I tell ye she used

to rile out otlen at de niggers, and Mass'r .John too, for

dat matter. I tell you she did lub money powerful well.

Neber could sec how :«ass'r John come to marry her, no

lin

wt
lie
Ba
sa
so
elj

nil

la(

t0(

So
m;
a 1

a-l
rie
aci
de
loi
sti
wi

bend of iTio road,
laujjthtcr, upon the
e chiMivn, after a
tions, had rushed
lad awarded them,
words, and many,
ortal should ever
iful reverie, which
nt Roxy, proceed-
I.
tj'in," she sobbed,

' replied Aldeanc.

est chile I hab cber

No more like her

bird. Don't ebeu

de great est black
ind 1 tell you, dem
'srh ! I've felt 'em

then ?"

I tell ye she used
[ass'r John too, for
jney powerful well,
le to marrv her, no

A LDEANE.

151

how! I 'spec dat she acted mijility fine when he was a
conrtin' her; an' don't say nothiii' about it, .Miss Aldeane,
she ruled liiiii slick ciionij:!! after she <i()l liim, too."

" Vou faucy that, I guess !" re])lied Aldeane, laugh-
ing.

"No nms'in, I don't. Leastways eberybody else tinks
de same ting. An' deres dat Mass'r Ilichard Blake, ho
was l\er cousin, .i.id oberseer den. Why, bress yer heart
he knowed things dat happened den, dat it's taken thou-
sands o' dollars to make him keep still about. Folks
said dat it was througli dem two dat ^Vlass'r John got
so much of his brudder's ])roperty. Dey brought in
claims dat swallered up most all ob de estate. Dat's how
^lass'r John got Samira, and me, and a heap ob do oder
niggers. Folks say dis, an' I b'lieves 'e;u."

" I bit you should not believe all you hear. The poor
lady may have had enemies."

" Dat she had ! a many a one, and she orter had more,
too ! Oh, I tell you de way she used ter make de niggers
lly, wasn't slow; more wiiip))in' done on de place in-one
year den dere has been all de time ]Miss Idy's been here.
Some say Miss Lu — dat was her name — iiad a spite ag'iu
my mass'r dat was, 'case he wouldn't marry her. He was
a mighty fine man, though ho purty nigli got us all sold,
by bein' so wild when he was young." O

" Was he married ?" '"''^

" Yes, he was ; an' — . Oh, Lordy me, Zet ! dem, pies is
a-burnin', dem jnes is a-burnin' !" And Aunty lloxy hur-
ried aAvay to the kitclien, leaving Aldeane to turn to the
active duties of the school-room. Tiie house seemed half
deserted, and the cliildreu unusually stupid and queru-
lous. The day ])assed drearily — the harbinger of many
still more desolate, that followed during that lonely
winfer.

The twenty-first of November rose in unclouded bright-
ness, both North and South, yet it bore a fresli wiight

152

ALDEANE.

of agony to two hearts. Aldcanc spent the day in tears
and prayer ; Frederic ^Morgan in despairing mehincholy.
lie Hat in his dressing-room, when Arthur Guthrie, tollowed
by his fellow-groomsman, ]Mr. (leorge llaymoud, entered
it and exclaimed, " What, doctor— not ready yet ? The
carriage is at the door— come, hurry !"

Frederic slowly arose from the large arm-chair in which
he had been sitting, and turned toward the toilet-table,
sighing deeply, as he said, " Take seats, gentlemen, I will
not detain you long."

They complied, and were soon engaged in an animated
conversation. Doctor Morgan, as he was now called,
slowly and wearily completed his toilet. At some trifling
jest from Arthur, he turned suddenly, to their surprise
revealing a face pale as death, and contracted with agony.
Arthur started, and said in a low voice to his friend :—
"Good God! is he ill."

" I don't know, Morg. . ; you had better take a glass of
wine before you go. It is pretty cold this morning."

" Yes !" returned he, turning to the glass, and regarding
his reflection with a sorrowful glance. " King tlie bell,
if you please, Arthur !"

" Bring some port and sherry," he said, when the ser-
vant app° ared. It was soon before them, and Frederic
drained glass after glass, until placing his hand on his
arm, Mr. Raymond said, warningly : —

" Enough, Fred ! we must go ; Miss Annie will become
impatient. I presume she is already on her way to the
church."

They were soon gliding briskly over the snow, toward
the church, where they found the bridal party awaiting
them. Annie Greyson, beautifully arrayed in white silk,
lace, and costly jewels, smiled joyously as Frederic took
her hand, while a quick flush arose to the oiieek of Belle
Ashton, as Arthur Guthrie, as her attend.'iut, approached
her. Mr. Raymond and liconore Aronddl were the other

the day in tears
ring meliincholy.
Gnthrio,ion()\v('(l
laymoiul, entered
ready yet ? The

rm-ehair in which
I the toilet-table,
gentlemen, I will

h1 in an animated
was now called.
At some trifling
to their surprise
acted with agony,
to his friend : —

ter take a glass of
;hi8 morning."
ass, and regarding
"King the bell,

said, when the ser-
lem, and Frederic
T his hand on his

Annie will become
on her way to the

• the snow, toward
lal party awaiting
ayed in white silk,
r as Frederic took
the oiieek of Belle
nd.'int, approached
dell were the other

ALDIJAITE.

158

attendants, and as tliey followed the betrothed pair into
the church, many thought a handsomer group could not
have becMi Hclectcd. The ceremony was in tlie E])iscoj)al
form, and din-ing its lengthy ]iert'ormance, tliough out-
wardly calm, Frederic was greatly agitated, ills hair
li'U in damp masses over his pale brow, ami the hand
raised to toss it bat^k trembled fearfully. Annie, calm
and selt-possessed herself, wondered that ho was so ex-
cited, but failed to see that his emotion was the shiver of
despair, rather than the tremor of gratified hojjeand love.
Arthur and lielle alone guessed the truth. They marked
tlie choked utterance, the cold fingers which clasped so
lightly the little liand within them. They saw the forced
smiles, that broke into gleams of agony over his face, and
knew that Frederic Morgan did not love the woman he
was marrying, but that his heart was truly another's.
At the conclusion of the ceremony the groom passed his
arm around his new-made wife, and kissed her in so
strange a manner, that, looking with a startled glance
into his face, she inquired anxiously, " Dear husband, are
you ill ?"

" No, I shall recover in a moment," he whispered, shud-
dering as he heard the name of husband trom her lips.
" I am a little excited — nothing more !"

Annie readily believed his words, and in the hurry of
receiving congratulations, and the departure from the
church, failed to notice liis violent eftbrts to obtain com-
posure. He rt-as watched, however, by both Arthur and
Belle, who rejoiced to see, tliat after their arrival at the
house, he was as self-possp?;.,ed, if not as gay as usual.
A grand reception was given in the evening, and Mrs.
Arendell was rejoiced to discover that Leonore was uni-
versally admired, nor were they at all displeased to notice
the impression she had evidently made upon Mr. Kay-
mond, which Averc truly remarkable. Doctor JMorgan in-
formed his sister, as he had never regarded any lady with
1*

151

ALDEANE.

nujrht but in.UttiTcnce, and hail a tlioitMaiul times (leclr..vcl
to him his iiiti-iiticn of living ami ayini,' a bai-helor. But
ll.e beautiful Leonore Aron.lcU app'«aro(l already to have
weakened that determination, as he scarcely leil her side
duriti'^ the entire evenint^.

She was indeed surprisinj^ly beautiful in her rich but
Himple robe, and the delicate pearls, for which she had
stijiulated, strands of which confined her dark ban-, and
encircled her white throat and arms. The novelty ot
the scene deli<jhted her, and excitement lent a new tint
of crimson to her cheeks, and luster to her beautiful eyes.
The brilliant light fell softly over the rich brown curls,
that fell in abundance over her pearly shoulders. As
Colonel Arendell watched her floating lightly with Mr.
Raymond in the airy mazes of the dance, he felt arising
in his heart aspirations for her of which before he had
never dreamed ; and traced in the dim vistas of the future
scenes of happiness through which she should pass, the
loved and admired of all. Mrs. Arendell touched his arm.
" Is she not beautiful V" she queried. " Our Southern star
beams with full luster to night, that has cast but a mellow
radiance before. I wish Aldeane Guthrie was hero to see
her. ' Ah ! little she thought that at that very moment,
she was experiencing the '^cfcopest meaning of woe an<l
desolation.

Doctor Morgan approached them. His cheeks were

burning with fever. Mrs. Arendell touched his hand ; it

was hot and dry.

" Where is your wife?" she jisked,

"O God!" he thought, "must they all remind me of

her relationship to me !" but he answered calmly, " With

Mr. Guthrie, I believe. Will you dance this set with me ?"
" Certainly !" and as he led her away she said, in a low

voice, "Frederic, don't drink any more to-night. I saw,

when you were taking wine in the dining-room with Mr.

Gartrell, that your hand shook badly."

dc
kii

St!

yii
J '.I

mt
Hti
j.U
nui

fro
Is
sio
sm
re]

hoi

loo
sho
yoi
be
at 1
1
ace

A LDK A Xh'.

ul times tleclr.ivd
ft biU'liL'lor. r>ut

I ftlroiuly to liiive
rccly leli hc-r buIu

il in her rich but
r which nhe had
■r (lark hair, and

The novelty of
, h'lit a new tint
ler beautiful eyen.
rich brown cm-Is,
y shoulders. As

lightly with Mr.
.'c, lie felt arising
ch before he had
istas of the future
; shoidd ])ass, the

II touched his arm.
Our Southern star

cast but a mellow
ric was hero to see
hat very moment,
aning of woe and

His cheeks were
ached his hand ; it

all rcmhid me of
red calmly, " With
( this set with me ?"
y she said, in a low
e to-night. I saw,
dna-roora with Mr.

"Oil! don't fear for me! Wine will have no eflect
ni)()n nie; a pipo of it w«Mild not (iiitiK-h the buniin<,^
fever that consumes nic. I ani perfect ly solu'r. Do you
doubt it ?"

" No," she rej.!!,.!, smiling; '• but remain so. I did not
know that you were such a veritable toju-r that you could
stand any amount. Pray don't follow the ex'amj.le of
young Lounsbeiry. T see that he is ipiite overcome."
^ Frederic laughe.l derisively. ".My motlier and J.ady
Ihide shall never see me in that situation."
"Annie is beautiful to-niglit," said .^Irs. Arendell.
" Yes. But so (juiet, so j.recise, so calmly beautiful !"
interrupted Frederic, jjcftishly. "Oh! that she had a
little more vitality! Her beauty is like sweet M'iue,
].leasant but not exiularating; and' its effects arc as weak
and transient !"

Mrs. Arendell looked up in surprise. Such Avords
from a new-made husband !" she exclaimed, hast ily. " All !
1 see you are jesting," as Frederic, to remove the impres-
sion tliat his words had created, as'-ned the misciiievoiis
smile which he liad worn so often of old. " IJut do not
ivj)eat the jest to any one else !"

"I shall not, Ida. I merely wished to test your credu-
lity. Ihit here comes Mr. (Juthrie whh my bride." ]{ising,
he took Amue's hand, and drew it within Ins arm. "SeJ
how gladly I receive her. Arthur, there is a call for a
waltz. I know you are never too weary to dance."

Nor was his partner, the young lady to whom it was
by this time known he was engaged; and many, as tliey
looked after them, while they wondered that Mr. Ashtoii
shotdd consent to the marriage of his daughter with a
young man whose reputation had been of late rumored to
be somewhat doubtful, owned that in outward seeming
at least they were perfectly matched.

A week later Aldeane received from her friend a full
account of this " merry wedding," together with some

156

ALDEANK.

Bhrowd conjectures coneeruins the state of min<l of the
their old acquaintance, George Raymond, toward her
pupil; and Htniniiely it appeure.l even to her, rcn.ember-
inc though Hhe did hin niysteriouH and gloomy character,
Hhe trembled for the welfare of Leonorc Aren.lell, and
daily prayed and longed for her safe and speedy return
to the Hcelusion of her home.

And meanwhile she willed to hear her own gneft
calndy ; and though she could not ignore them, or even
wish to do so, she wept but few vain tears over them,
and summoned her brightest smiles to welcome the news
of the happiness of her brother and her dearest Incnd-
thc happiness which, she highed, could never be her own.

an(

eni

ofl
ing
hat
wo
of

OUH
80

dro

lier

haf
froi
Ills
Bui

exc
cha

to of mind of tho
lond, toward her
to her, rtincmbor-
glooniy charftcttr,
lore Ari'iitlcU, and
vnd speedy return

ir her own griefs
lore them, or even

tears over tliem,
wek'ome the news
[•r dearest friend —

never he her own.

C II APT Ell XX.

LEONOUKS 8TU.\N(JK I.OVEIl.

TiiK newly-wedded ])air sjient tlie following; month iu
New York, and returned home to B]>end the ChristniuH
and New Year's festivities, 'I'he Aren(U'lls and Mr. Hay-
mond had, meanwliik', spent the time at 3Ior>;anvak' and
in Jloston alternately, amid a round of <jayeties, in wliieh
Belle Asliton, notwitlistaiuliiig lier j)ubliely announced
engagement, was still a star.

She stood hy the fire upon the afternoon of the last day
of the Old Year, laughingly thinking how Arthur had jest-
ingly commented upon this tho last tune they met, and
had said if he were not the most reasonable being in tho
world he would be fearfully jealous of these gay butterflies
of wealth and fashion, and proudly saying that such jeal-
ousy would be the height of absurdity, for who was half
80 handsome, so good, so talented as he, when a sleigh
drove up to the door, to which she hastened, as she saw
her lover alight.

lie M-as accompanied by Chester Ilalcomln?, who, per-
haps purposely, lingered on the porch, shaking the snow
from his hat and shoiddcrs, until tho greeting between
his partner and their lovely hostess had been effected.
But presently, when Belle, with the most brightly glow-
ing cheeks, looked out ujjon liim, he hastened toward her,
exclaiming : —

"How do you do. Miss Ashton ? You are lookini;
chai-ming, as usual. I should have paid my respects to

Vo*^

A L D K A A' /•;.

Hu.h lK.u.tv »K-r..n.,l.»t truly, this huow h tlw most a^ho-
Mvc it lias I'vor l...<-n my lot to .luountrr!

" You nn« ....rlr-'tlv .■xn.sul.lo !" si... .v,.h..l, shaU.nK
l,;,„.ls with hi.n luartily. AuotluT sl^i.^d. at that mo-
,„.,,| stn,,|,..,l at th.. ^atc, HU.l she was s...m biisily
;:;;;,,..l il. vv..h-.,uin, tl... An.n.UHs, Mr nn,l Mrs.
Mur-an, an.l Mr. l{ayu...n.l. Castm- as„l,. h.r in.
,.l„ak lA.>n.,n' ran to the fnTplaco, aiul took a scat m a
low cimi' hi.-h she (Irow- Host- to ih.. tir.., rxolamnntr :-
"Such n.hi w.athcr! It is cn-.u-h to troi/e- <uu' . 1

can not ciiduro tin- cold.'" .

Mr Haymon.l orossial tho room, aii.l hanin-^' a-amst
the mantel, hmkcl th-.u-htfully down ui-.n her.

"Comc,Lconorc!" said .Mrs. Arcn.UU, as tho party
left the parlor to tfo to the drcssinii-rooms.

" In a numu.nt, n.anuna ! hut 1 dcch.rc, I can move
iH.fon- 1 ^'..t a little thawe.l (.ut. Oh, . ear ! I shall Iree/.e
before I «j;et South aiiain !" . • i m,

"Then you woul.l not like Canada?" in-iuired .Mr.

Uavmond, in a low voice. „ i i u

Uer lace crimsoned, as she replied simi.ly, 1 don t

know, sir."

" It is very <'ol<l there," he waid.

She rose to her feet, shiverin- slii^htly, and ,)ick.U|^ up
lu.r fur mantle, hurried from the n.otn thinkmg, " ^^ hat
can he m.^an ? ( )h ! what can he mean V"

" Why, Le.,nore, your face is crnnson !" e.)aoul:ited ^Irs.
Arendefl, as she entered the room.

"Yes" she murmured, as .she turned to the mirror.
"It is Buch a change from intense cold to this fervent

IJ' seomel to be a merry party that met at Rose
Cotta-e, to see the oM year out, and welcome the new
one in! Mr. llalcombe and Mr. Ashton were in cxtr.ava-
jjant spirits. And privately l.e-ed Arthur to leave the
liuv oiliee behind him for once; advice, which in spite ol

re
M

all
re
to

IIK

pr
lit

he
en
ha

W£

foi
oy
am
liir
dc!
of
mil
ph,

hill

rec

tO-(

sea

six
(

wai
wai

visi

son

A IDE A yiJ.

150

i-; tlic most aiUiP-

•r!"

i<|.litil, shakintj
t.'mli at tliat niii-
wiiH 8()<>n l>n>ily
i, Mr. a 11.1 Mrs.
jic asiilc lur t'lr
111 tiMik a Meat in a
lire, I'xclainrmu:: —

t(l t'lVl/A' oil*' ! 1

i.l Icanins; nyaiiiNt

11)11)11 hi'i'.

,1.11, aH the party

DlllS.

■laiv, I ran't move
rai- ! I shall tVuoze

ila?" iiuniirt<l Mr.

[ Huni.ly, "1 ilon't

itly, anil pifkinij; up
in ihiiikiiiL!:, "What

111 r

II !" cjaoulati'd !Mr».

•nod to the mirror,
•old to this iorvont

that met at Koso
d welcome the new
itoii were in oxtrava-

Arthur to leave the
ee, which in spite of

rpcppt vcxfttioHB ho was not nlow in tnlK)wiii}». Dr.
Morjian, his wile said, was still afllietcd with the nervous
afVectioii, willi which he had liceii Innililed eve r since his
refiini from ihr Snulli, tiioiitjli he evidently endeavored
to Cree hiniselt'ol' the tnnihlesonie disease.

Leoiiorc indnlu;cd unrestrainedly in inirlli an<l laiiLrh-
ler; seeniinu; to enjoy her jxaiiie at wiiist, with Mr.
IJayinoud for partner, with a zest and noise, altoLTct her
iiK'ompatihlc with the rules of the yame. To her sur-
prise, Helle discovered Mr. Uayinond reLtardiiiL,' tlie i^ay
I little Southerner with an anxious, troiihlcd look, whilo

he replied to her merry sallies. What obstacle could
cross the smooth fiath of his love? For no constant
had been liis attendance on Leonore since Dr. McM-yan's
weddinjx, that all took it for f;ranted, that he was a suitor
for her hand, and believed he had found favor in her
eyes; while his distiii,<,'iiished appearance; his wealth,
iind social jiosition, could not fail to strongly recommend
him to her family. Why, then, that troubled, almost
despairing look i Hello thought she had found a solution
of the mystery, when he said, "Come, Miss Leonore, we
must win to-night. Perhaps, it is the last time wc shall
play together."

"What do you mean?" asked Leonore, glancing at
him apprehensively.

"I have to start for Canada immediately. I have
received a stern reprimand from my senior partner
to-day. The time has passed so jjleasantly, that I can
scarcely realize that I have been absent from Toronto
six weeks."

"I thought," said Arthur, "that your partnership
M-as merely nominal, Th.at your presence at Toronto
Avas unnecessary. One would think so, from your long
visits to England, France, and many of the States."

"It is as you say," replied Mr. liaymoiid. "Yet
sometimes I am wanted. Such is the case at present."

160

AIDE AN E.

« And must you Cfo soon?" inquire! Leonoro, in p. low
voice, making a misilcal in her contusion.

"Yes," he rcturnea, taking uy, his canls, an<. exaniin-
ing them attentively. "I am sorry it is so, but IMr.
P<.irson is very imperative."

"So, I supi)ose we shall sec you no more this winter,
Mr. Kavmond," said IJcUe. , , i f

«I pi-esume not, Miss Ashton," he answered, a look of
exauisite i.ain passing over his face as he glanced at
X t^vho regarded him sorrowfully. "But while I am
in this charmed circle, 'Away dull cai-e ' The cokl and
darkness will come soo-i enough after I leave you.

Leonore sighed. " We shall miss you very much, ]«r.

^^"^'Noribr lone, I guess!" he returned, with a forced
laugh, and an attempt at gayety, which failed most

"Tcloud seemed to have fallen upon the merriment of all
>vithin hearing of this conversation. With the intuitive
Bympathy of woman, Belle felt all that was passing m
Leoiore's heart, and knew the changmg emotions that
flushed or paled her cheeks. And when, at a late hour,
the party wen preparing to return to Morganva e
Belle insisted that she should not again encounter he
chill midnight air ; hut urged her to regain with he.- ior the
nic^ht; for she rightly conjectured, that the mght ^vould
W^.asU away in tears in the solitude o her chambei-,
when the presence of another would check her grief
Leonore gladly accepted the ipvitation and, as the others
were about to depart, Dr. :Morgan said :—

"No doubt, I^Ir. Raymond will be happy to come foi
you in the morning, Nora. If not, I will do so my-

self "

"'l had already promised myself that pleasure 1' inter-
posed Mr. Raymond, "and I assure you I do not wish
to be deprived of it."

yoii

wilt

nov

Dr.

dep
rate
of e
L
shoi
put
hon
besi

iiig

dep!

auoi

hoj)(

((

hcai

Iloi

you

Phil
was

the f
so lo
take

Leonorc, in p. low

mis, iinu pxarain-

t is so, but ;Mr,

more this wiuter,

iswori'd, a look of
as lio glanced at
, " But while I am
c !' The cold and
: leave you."
3U very much, ^Ir.

ned, with a forced
vhich failed moat

he merriment of all
With the intuitive
hat was passing in
^ing emotions that
hen, at a late hour,
n to Morganvale,
gain encounter the
iiain with her for the
!vt the night would
ie of her chamber,
d cheek her grief,
n and, as the others
d:—

I happy to come for
, I will do so my-

lat pleasure !" inter-
t you I do not wish

ALDEAXJ-J, 161

Leonore bowed, saying : " VMiat time may I expect
you, tlien y"

" At about ten o'clock, Miss Arendell ! I doubt
whether I should find you up before ; your drooping lids
now atte'it your weariness."

" Then let us go before she falls asleep !" inteiTupted
Dr. JMorgan. ftiaking their adieus, the company hastily
departed, leaving the Aslitons and their guests to sepa-
rate witli many confiicting emotions agitating tlie bosoms
of each.

Leonore joyfully assented to Belle's proposal that she
should share her apartment. After the lights had been
I)ut out, and darkness and silence brooded over the
house, Belle Avas not surprised to find the slender form
beside her shaking with i)ainfully suppressed sobs.

She let her weep for some time unrestrainedly, know-
ing well that the cause of her grief was the contemplated
departure of ]Mr. Raymond.

At last, in order to turn her thoughts, if possible, into
another chamiel, she said, cheeifuUy : " Not homesick, I
hoj)e, Leonore."

" No — yes," she sobbed.

Belle kissed her wet cheek, saying kindly, " There are
hearts that love you here, as well as there, Leonore."

" Yes, but I want to see the children and Miss Aldeanc.
I love her so much, she is so good to every one."

" She is, indeed, I long to see her ; but don't cry, dear,
you will soon return home."

" Not until spring, pa says. We are to go back through
Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Washington. Oh, I wish it
was all over with."

" Why, Leonore ?"

" Oh, because ." A fresh burst of tears interrupted

the sentence, but at last she said, hesitatingly, " It will be
so lonely when Mr. Raymond is gone. You know he has
taken me everywhere in and around Boston, lie is so

163

ALDEANE.

vorv handsome ! Don't yon think so, Miss Ik-Ue ? It is
stran-o that any one so dark shonkl be handsome; lie is
«hirkc"r than ^h: Gnthrio." i • ,

Belle made no reply, Leonoro wept on, bnt the violence
cf her grief was soon exhansted, and wearied out, hUc
soon beeame calmer.

" Doubtless," said Belle, " Mr. Kaymond w.ll soon come
back; he travels so much, that I truly believe he will. ^^

" Do you, indeed. Miss Ashton ? Oh, 1 am so glad,
and like a comforted child, Leonore fell into a ^eep sleep,
and Belle knew that her object was attained, and ondly
romembening her own happiness, prayed earnestly loi
that ofher gentle little friend. , , ,

Mr. Kaymond, as he had promised to do, came at about
noon the foUomng day to escort Miss Arendel home
and Belle was greatly disappointed, when she met tla-m at
Mor-anvale, a few hours later, where they were engage.l
for the New Year's dinner, to discover no trace ot any
satisfactory explanation having taken place between hein,
and that evening informed Arthur in conhdence that it
Georoe Ilaymond did not declare his love lor Leonore
befoiC he left Morganvale, she should believe him to be
an unprincipled villain.

And this opinion of his character was assuredly hers,
when he lefV, them two days later, without making the
expected declaration,-at lea.t if the evident sadness ot
LeUore and the general reticence ^.^^^"^f^"^
were to be taken as evidence ; and Miss Belle Ash on, m
no measured terms, expressed her indignation to Aldeane
Guthrie, and, strangely enough, relieved her of a load o
anxieties and fears which had unaccountably weighed
down her heart and mind. And tlKreafter ,t was much
easier for her to await patiently the time when she should
again clasp in her arms her innocent, loving, and beloved

^'"But before that time came, she had fresh troubles of

hei

OV(

lea

ho-

del

nst

thi)

po\

teri

int

be I

her

his

fror

in i

torr

]Miss HoUe ? It ia
e handsome ; ho is

)n, but tlio violence

I wearioil out, t^ho

lontl will soon come
' believe he will."
)h, I am so glad,"

II into a deep sleep,
tained, and fondly
rayed earnestly for

,0 do, came at about
iss Arondell home,
hen she met them at
thev were engasjed
er no trace of any
place between them,
1 contidencp, that if
lis love for Leonons
1 believe him to be

was assuredly hers,
-without making the
L' evident sadness of
if all at Morganvale
^liss Belle Ashton, in
lignation to Aldeane
•ved her of a load of
iceountably weighed
ereafter it was nmcli
time when she should
t, loving, and beloved

lad fresh troubles of

ALDEANE.

168

her own to enconnter; the hateful attentions of the ex-
overseer were continually jjressed upon her, and she had
learned, too, long before this, without knowing why or
how, that he possessed a certain power over Colonel Aron-
dell which would render any appeal from her perfectly
useless, and slie knew that she must fight alone with this
man her battl(>, and firmly resolved, let what would come,
that she would never yield. Not that he threatened her.'
But she fancied that h(> had shown her that it was in his
power to do so. He had spoken of her mother in mys-
terious tones, and he had told lier, if she had one eneiny
in the world— and he Jiad Jiinted that tliat enemy mi<rl,t
be Iier step-father— he would ruin liim, and do more for
her, and hers, than he dared mention, if she would but be
his wife.

^ All this he said to her, and yet she could gain nothing
from him that would make his purpose or her intercs't
in it clearer, and so doubting, fearing, yet defying licr
tormentor, Aldeane passed the long and lonely winrer.

!S0(

CHAPTER XXI.

leonobk's little secret.

FvBTY in April the Aronadls were expected home.
Frank and Eddie insisted upon aoeompanying the ear-
riate to iLinc. to meet them. Aldeane and Jessje we e
;S "i ;>rd. impatiently waiting tlu^ ar^a^ whde
Aunt lloxy and her aids bustled in and out ot the kitcbcn
fo he dinin.-room and pantries, in hopeless contusion
over thl dimier in preparation i- their wdco- A.
deane vainly endeavored to induce Jessie to be still she
So UttleLcuisions to the gate, then flvrther on to the
Wgc, returning each time with the mournt-d mtelh-
crence," They ain't a-commg yet."

"Tldeane was scarcely less anxious than her pup Is o
see he travelers back again. The winter months had
;red dLrily, but on account of ^-r doub e ^ties, she
had had but little time for sorrowful reflections, bo

ad doffed her mourning garments, and the plain blue
dress 2 wore harmonised well with her bright comp ex-
fon g ivin.' her a more cheerful appearance than she had

vonf for many months. Smiles of pleased expectation

oo passed over her face, effectually ^^estroyuig every
,.1 AtioQ*^t1i paiTia"e. srceted l)V a sumii

trace ot sadness. At last in c.uii<i.-,<-,»'^ .

ot^ oy from the negroes, appeared in view. Kunning dow i
li ^alk, Aldeane caught Leonore in her ---;^,^-
scended from the carriage, receivmg lier hi.t kis w k,
Jessie climbed into the carriage to her mothei, ovu-
' helming her with caresses. Colonel Arendell greeted
Aldeane cordially, exclaiming : —

spi
th(
to
hn

■'H
rec
chi
an(
en'
wli
lov
"I
"I

hui

]

ter

cla
1

t\V(

tak

yoi

nor

nes

a p
I

wei
and

A LD EANK.

165

KT,

•e cxpectocl home,
npanying the car-
ne and Jessie were
their arrival, while
i out of the kitchen
hopeless contusion
lieir Avelcome. Al-
ssie to be still ; she
m ftvrther on to the
le mournf"! nitelli-

than her pupils, to
winter months had
r dovible duties, she
\il reflections. She
and the plain blue
her bright coraplex-
arancc than she had
pleased expectation
y destroying every
fe, greeted by a shout
iow. Itunning down
II her arms as she de-
r lior first kiss, while
o her mother, over-
nel Arendell greeted

"Wiiy! Aliss (iuthrie, liow well you look! So you
have ]>ut oil" mourning in honor of our arrival, eh?"

" Yes, sir !" she rei>lied. " I assure you I am so glad to
see you back tliat I can not testify my joy sufhciently."

The servants gathered around the travelers, M'ho, after
speaking to tiiem, made their way into the house, and to
their own apartments. They soon met at the dinner-tabl(>,
to discuss that Avelcome meal. The trunks had all been
brought info the hall, and tliey were opened, displaying
a great variety of presents for the servants, Avhich they
received with m"- v manifestations of delight. A bright
chintz dress and a large pair of ear-rings ibr Aunt, Koxy,
and ii vest of showy ])attern for Jule, causing the most
envy. Leonoro distributed the gifts to the little negroes,
who had assembled together in tlie yard. One little fel-
low was throwing pebbles at some birds in the trees.
"Don't throw stones at the birds, Len," said Leonore.
" I have otlen forbidden you to do it."

" Lor' I missus, 'tain't nothin' but a little rock, 'twon't
hurt the birds."

He threw it with tmerring aim, and a sparrow fell flut-
tering to the ground.

"You are a bad I'-.y, Len! a very bad boy!" ex-
claimed Leonore.

Ifis mother sprang out of the jiorch and administered
two or three sounding slaps to the offender. " Dere now,
take dat ! Ain't yer ashamed to act dat way afore yer
young missus !"

" I am afraid yon ore a very bad boy, Len !" said Leo-
nore, gravely. "Id n't believe that there is any good-
ness in you."

"Oh! yes, missus, dere is!" he whimpered. " Dere's
a plenty in me, but it stays dar ; it won't come out !"

Leonore turned aside to conceal a smile, the negroes
went away to the kitchen to sound the praises of" raass'r
and missus " and to inspect anew thei. treasures.

1H6

ALDEANE.

Aldcano and the ohiiaivn were not forgotten. Tho
Arendells presented lier with many eostly artieles ; while
a hiruce roll of mnwie, some new liooks, and, .ibove all,
niiniirtnres of themselves, were the joint olferings of
Arthnr and IJelle.

Leonore seemed delighted to be again at lu)nie. She
entertained Al.leane, the children, and servants with ani-
mated deseriptions of her travels, telling oi" all the par-
ties she had attended, and the places she had visited,
which were entered by the slaves upon their catalogne
of the wonderful. Happily for Aldeane, Doctor JNIorgau's
wedding had become an old thing, and it was only men-
tioned casually. Aldeane was deeply gratified by this
reticence, as she had feared a betrayal of, or at least a
deep trial to, her feelings, should the subject be fully in-
troduced. She listened eagerly to all concerning Arthur
and Belle. Of their engagement she had heard from
l)oth. Deeply thankful was she that her brother and her
dearest friend, Avith nmtual love and trust, were to tread
life's path together.

A few days after the return of the Arendells, Jule en-
tered the room with a number of letters, which he gave
to Colonel Arendell.

" Any for me, papa ?" inquired Leonore, eagerly.

He looked at them. " Two for Miss Guthrie ; one for
Mrs. Arendell; three for J. C. ; and, yes! surely, one for
Miss Leonore Arendell ! Why ! who can it be from Y"
he said, looking at her slyly.

" Oh I papa, please give it to me !" she exclaimed,
blushing ; and, snatching the letter from his hand, she
hastened from the room.

INIrs. Arendell smiled and, glancuig at the colonel,

said, —

" Dear child I that letter contains at least a week's hap-
piness for her. Aldeane, we have not yet told you— but
it is as well for you to know— that our Nora is engaged

ALDBANE.

1<!7

>t forgot tfii. Tho
stly artioles; whilo
ks, and, .ibovc all,
joint otreiiiigs of

;aiii at homo. She
I servants with ani-
ling v.i" all the par-
es she had visited,
•on their catalogue
ic, Doctor JNIorgau's
id it was only mon-
ly gratified by this
yal of, or at least a
subject bo fully in-
. concerning Arthur
le had heard from
her brother and her
trust, were to tread

Arendells, Jule en-
ters, which he gave

)nore, eagerly.
isa Guthrie ; one for
yes ! surely, one for
can it be fromV"

le!" she exclaimed,
from his liand, she

ing at the colonel,

it least a week's hap-
ot yet told you — but
)ur Nora is engaged

.Mr. Oeorgc Ifaymond, of Toronto."

" rn.lee.l ! I :un exceedingly surprised," she ex.Iaimod
|nost tnu n,lly. " She has often ^ntte.; to nu.:;*'); 7 i
tc'nns oh,^h praise, but I had no i.lca that they Mere
e.;gaged ! I thought that they finally separated i,f Jan,;:

V !1!^ v' "r ' 'r ""'* '"'" "'"^^''-^'-^''^^ q'"te accidentallv, in
ACM York. I Hnpp<.se Leonore has been keepin-/ her
se<-ret or oral eonnnnni,.ation. Vo„ ,„ust go to her to,-
j-t.eulars. The only objection we have t^ it at ail i"
na he urges an inunediate union; and she, one can
H'a*l>Iy see, ,s not averse to it. So we have given our
consent for them to be niarrie.l in June "
"So soon !" ejaculated Al(h>ane.

is vl2 / ^"7 'u ' '' '"''^ '''^•■' ^"J?».'?''™-"n and she
>« joung, bui Mr. Raymond is not; and we place such
1-tect contidence in him that we do not fear for her w'
tare," returned 3Irs. Arendell.

Aldeane asked no more; but, soon after reading her
c" ters, one o wluch was fronx Jiclle, who descanted at
K-gth upon the "sweet little house pa is building for u

^oono.e s apartment opened it, and found her absorbed
111 the perusal of Jier letter.

" Come in Miss Aldea.ie !" she «aid, liiling up her eyes,
i nil of joyful tears. ^ ' '-J'^»>

Aldeane approached Jier, and smoothing down her
W„ curls, sai.I softly, "I know all about^it, Leonor"

choL !" '^ ^'°" "''^'^ '^''^ ''^' '^"''^••'^"'i «*■ y°»^'

"Has papa told you all?" Inquired Leonoro, blushing.
Aothmgbutthe name and position of vour betrothed,
le referred me to you f<,r particula.-s, and indeed I am
.nost anxious to hear them, for I was once well ac-
quainted with Mr. liaymond."

168

ALDEANE.

" ^\.8 I know yon wero, my dearest aiirlhiC;," ex-
HaimcMl' Looiu.ro, kissinji her, as if her worth wus
ineroased a thousand-ibhl by that fact. " An<l isn t he
handsome, my dear Miss Al.U-ane, and so k>arned and
HO majestic altoselher. Isn't it the greatest wonder m
the worhl that lie ever took any notiec of me V"

"Such a plain little creatnrc!" laughed Aldeane
.^avly and vet with that unaccountable siTiking of heart
wh'ieh had always come upon her at the thought of this
event, over which she was expeete.l, and earnestly
endeavored, to rejoice; "and now tell mo, my own, how
tins miracle was brought about, how he ever descended
from his height t» look at you." ^^

"Ah, now I 1-now you are laughing at mo, crie.l
Leonoro, blushing, and pinching the che<'k of her friend ;
"but indeed, though you say it in fun, I tlnnk it was n
nuracle. Even now, I can scarcely believe he loves me.

"I used to think him very truthful," remarked
Aldeane, with mock gravity, a-ul then Leonore pmched
her cheek again, and when Aldeane entreated her •' to
tell her all about it," she said she Avould only do it on
condition that Aldeane made no more confusing re-
marks, but listened to her in silence from begmmng to

end. ^

To this Aldeane very readily agreed, and Leonore
iielif'htedly began the relation of the great event of her
life^an event'which in strangeness and joyfulncss she
firmly believed had never been equaled, "because he
loves me so, you know," she could not help pausing to

explain, . ,, , ^ t

"Certainly," said Aldeane, pretendmg pique,' but 1

really think you might have told me your secret

before." . . .

" And so I ought," exclaimed Leonore, quite penitently,
" but it was such a charming one to keep, and grew so
much better all the time. But in fact," she udded

ALDEANE.

169

■arest darliiit;," ex-
it" her worth was
act. " And iHii't ho
md so k>ariuHl, and
greatest wonder in
cc of nie V"
' laughed Ahleane
iblc siTiking of heart
; the thought of this
■ted, and earnestly
L'U mo, my own, how
V he ever descended

xhing at me," cried
the<'k of her friend ;
fun, I think it was n
believe he loves me.''
truthful," remarked
hen Leonore i>inehed
le entreated her '' to
would only do it on
more confusing re-
;c from beginning to

ngreed, and Leonore
he great event of her
«s and joyfulncss she
■qualed, "because he
not help pausing to

ending pique, " but I
old me your secret

more, quite penitently,

to keep, and grew so

in fact," she udded

seriously, " \ n.'ver knew how to begin, for you never
asked me any (piestions. Why didn't you, now? I
should have asked a thousand questions if I liud been in
your place."

Aldeane laughed, as she answered, " I thought the
matter was settled lon<' airo."

"Oh, yes, when I wrote you of his departure for
Canada."

Aldeaiu! nodded.

" And so you guessed my feelings th. ,li I did not
tell you a word, of how, in secret, I v iev ^ over his
absence, which caiised a void in my heart tl nothing
could till, and a pain that nothing could ssua'c '"

"No."

" I believe Miss Ashton guessed it all, ♦hough, for she
was so kind and gentle to me then, and uiterward. She
continually i)rophesied that he w^ Id return ; but he
came not. We did not correspond, . .i he letl me seem-
ingly with the mere sorrow ore feels at breaking up a
pleasant acquaintanceship, fully convincing me tliat ho
thought of me, merely as the friend of an hour, while I
felt that to me he was the love of a lifetime. I heard of
him, through his letters to Uncle Fred, during our stay
at Morganvalc, but in a few weeks we left there, and
went to New York. Mother has many friends tjicrc ;
and we lived very gayly, attending many parties, visiting
the theaters and other places of amusement, besides
which, we stayed at the most fashionable hotel, where
there was mucli to be seen to interest and amuse one.
But, notwithstanding all these attractions, I was ill at
ease, and longed for the quiet of home, and your dear
companionship. Miss Aldeane.

" One day, when we hud been there about two weeks,

while at the ainner-table, to my great surprise I saw ]\Ir.

Ilaymond enter, and take a seat immediately opi)Ositc

me. He observed me a moment atU>rward ; apparently

.1 LDKAXi:.

hiH Hur,.riH. was -.vat.r tl.au n.v .nv.., n.^llus o.Mot on
to nu. tluM. i,u-v,.ru.al.lo. \W l.alf ro.c ln..n ns .Im.r, tlu.
>vhitiM.o>s of his fa.v trnilyin- nu'. n,.t it llnslu.l miu-
Hon instanta.u.ously,an.l l.owi,.,,' i-l't^ly »'/' >™t*:^» '!;'";
si-lf Pa aii.l ma wcro .U-li.rl.tnl to nee hiin, a.ul inv.t.d
him to our i.rivato apartnu-nts. Ho .•ame an.l spc-nt tlu-
..vonlnir with us. I was onlra.u-.-.l l.y h.s c-.mvcrsa t.ou
an.l his calm majestic luarint,'. H-^ 'lark c-yos that,
ilaslu-il alMu.st licn-dy ui^.m otlu-rs, lu-amc.l with -cntl.-
,u.ss on nu.. His voice sconu-.l to assn.nc a l..wcr k.-y
juula <Mvat.r .Ic-n-c of swc-ctnc-ss, wlu-.i lu- a.l.hvssc.
me I waitL-a with oai,'crn.-ss H.r cv.-ry word, an.l
posscsHcl exquisite luMM.iness if he snnle.l npon me.

" You mav think this very f.u.lish, Miss AUleane, l.nt I
can not help it. He fas.-inates me. I even tr^-inl.U- m h.s
presence, while his min-l seems withont an eftort to rule
ny own an.l my heart wi.h it. 1 felt all tins more
dciply then than 1 do now, when I can lay my hc-a.l
upon his throhl.in- Wom, and smile away his frowns.

" But this freed..!., was not easily ohtan.e.l. A herce
«tru.-rle sc-cmed to a-itate him before he spoke those
words" that insure.1 my happiness. Father a.ul mother
l,ad .4one out to speml the eveni.,-. I had excused my-
Bolf from -oin- with them, an.l was k-tl al.)ne in .M.r
apartments, hut not for lonjr, there was a knock at the
door, and opening it 1 saw Mr. Haymond.

«'I8 Colonel Arendell within V he asked, after salutmg

me. , ^ ,. ,

" ' No, pa and ma are both out,' I replied,
"'Then I will go away again,' he said, eyeing me

nervously, and turning the door knob, as if he wished an

invitation to enter.

"'Pity mv loneliness!' 1 said, snnling.

"He came' in ; I took a chair near the grate, pointing him

to one opposite. lie did i...l take it, l)ut leaned against

the mantel-piece, looking at me so strangely, that 1

trcm

n-rtc.

Ix-for

' Leoi

Voil,

■ "I

could

gaze

ail. I I

my he

arms,

"Ii

for mc

as doi

hoarse

perfect

still m

foun.l

me, mi

recomji

" I c.

look of

finable

deringl

joy illu

those o

"Pai

Raymo

papa tc

taken e

him, fro

wliich ]

IJaymoi

But, do

A LhtJANE.

171

1, iiinl Ills oTiiotioii
I'nmi 111'* "liiiir, l'"'
\\\\ it HiisIumI fiiiii-
•ly \\v rfs»'iU(Ml liiiii-
•o him, iiiitl inviti'il
aino aii<l spent the
y liis ronviTsatiou
is tlark eyes tliiit
caimd with <reiitU'-
issnine a lower key
ttlu'ii he addressed
every word, and
liled npon ine.
Miss AliUane, but I
even trenihle in his
out an eft'ort to rule

felt all this more
I ean lay my head

away his frowns.

ohtainetl. A fierce
fore he spoke those

Father and mother

I hatl exeused my-
iis left alone in our

was a knock at the
nond.
! asked, after saluting

replied.

he said, eyeing rac
,b, as if he wished an

iling.

le grate, pointing him
it, but leaned against
60 strangely, that I

trembled beneath his gaze. .Afy heart must hav luen
relhrfe.l n. n,y face, for suddenly he threw himself .lown
bel-re me, elaspincj „.y hands i„ his, and ex..Iainu.d,
l^'onore ! I.eonore ! I am dying for love of you ! Will
you. (an you love niej''

"I was so ov,.reom.. with surpris.. and emotion, that I
<"uid not answe.. His eyes were li.v..,l i„ ,„ •„,,„,,.
ga/c upon nnne. ' For Go.l's sake UA\ me r he nlea.h.d
and I murmured, ' Ves.' '

"He m-emed overwhehned with deliirhf. As he press,.,l
my head against his bosom, and lu.|d ,„.. i„ his stron-'
arms, he whispere.l, ' And vou will be my wifi- j'

"I raised my eyes to his face, that theV nn^^ht answer
for me; a change passed over him. lie iK^ame as pale
Hs .leath, .ami staggerin;. hack a ivy, paces, muttered
l..-rsely, 'Xo! no! such sweetness „n!l bem.ty, .ucll
perfect love and trust, can never be mine ''

"'They shall be yours alone!' I exclaimed, clinging
st.ll more closely to hun, for I eould not lose n.v m-w-
found happmess so quickly. He hc-nt down an.l'kissed
me, murmunng repeatedly, 'God wills it! It is his
recompense !'

"I could not bear the fierce light in his eyes, and the
ook of ex.dtat.on with which he regarde.l me. An inde-
finable fear crept into my heart. I felt his caresses sliud-
deriiigly, but when I again glanced up, tenderness and
joy illuin.ncd his featuivs, an<l the words he spoke were
those of love and cheer; and peace again filled my heart,
i apa readily gave his consent to our union. Mr
Kaymond seemed so ,,leased with his confidence, thou^rh
papa told him there was no merit in that, as lie had
aken especial pains to learn all particulars ..o.H.erning
bin, from the proper sources. There was one little thin-
jvh.ch papa seemed disposed to object to, for even Mi
l.aymon.l couldn't say who and wJiat he reallv was
But, do you know, Aldeano, I was abuost glad of that'

172

ALDEASI'-

lus.Ma.l .v.... t.. Iwvvo .<> sli^l.t » thing «« good b.rth to
.. .,„" hIu. Slid " KroiH what I mnciuber of hiH In

;:::^;;>t-:;;;ir..tion.nagh..ni^

Huhject troul.U.H bin,, and why Hb<mld .t not yo,. .

"IJocaus. I h>vo bin,, Mi^. Aldfatu-. 1 h.>^' bin . 1
Hbould h.v. hini still, if lu. was proved to bav. s,.runix Iron,
slowest of mankind. And whatainVron.. .s .., wl.a
he has boon, now that ho is so highly rospocto.l i I, to.

one am satistiod. I love him."

Aftor Homofnrtboroouvorsation, Aldoanoktt tbo roo.n,

thinking doeply upon all sbo had b..ard, in oounoct.on
wih lu« bandsomo, yot woinl-looking n.an, who had so
romplotoly won tbo lovo and oonfidon.o oi Loono.
Arloll. That sbo, ho light boartod and gay, oould
fv r mve conooivod a liking for him, was to ho.- .noon -

.1 bensible; but as sbo bad horsolf said bo soomod to r
oth bor mindan<l hoart. Sbo prayod tbat U m.gbt bo to.

g:o;iandbappinos«;butborhoa.awasoppross^^^^^^^^^^

tid misgivings, whiob sbo triod m vam to "vm-^n^"-

> =u-ations wore quiotly mado for tbo wo.bhng. 1 ho
«ow . g-room was constantly opon, a.ul soamstrossoswor
Tsi Iv omployed upon pilos of silks and bnons, lacos and
erbn.idoiosfovo^vbiob tho bride oloot kopt anxious
Tatcb. Abkano was otlon oalled n to admire soi •
Jnisbed a^tick^or to be consulted with upon some nnpoit-

'"Thf music lessons wer^ short, for Leonore objoctc^
to practicing. "She would do so when she had more
01^0 Ibr (loorge lovod music;" but now tho piano was
Sver^P ontiroly to Jossio; and thus after scbool-bou
AkleanJ enjovod full leisure, wbicb she spent with bei
books or the family, for sbo .Iroado.l nothing so niuc us
loT' or frequent companionabip with her own though, s.

Til
.Mr. I

liorse

barn

oauMo

tlin'o

HooMie

weak

hopcfi

]i:id b

a cam

sofb ai

flower

good.

)iavo 1

.•il)peat

l)ower,

foreboc

Leoiior

sion.

.VIdean

<ii'orgo

She 1

It was

coveroc

from he

the gen

Ihcr .i-siu-ct, tliul I
iijjj aw good birth t«>

1 almost think you
.>mciiil)or of hi» iVo-
, I Hhouhl tliiiik the
I it not youV"
ii(>. 1 love him. I
to have Hprunij from
(litVi'irui'o is it wliut
ly rcsi»octi'(l? 1, for

Mvnm Ml tlu" rooni,
hcunl, in I'oniu'Ction
inif uiiin, who Imil so
iiti<U'ino of Loonori'
rtod and pi»yi ^'O"''^
im, was to luT infoin-
;aid,heHt't"mt'd tonilo
.■d that it might be for
as ovpn-ssi'd by many
vain to ovorcomo.
or tilt" wedding. Tl\i!
and seamstresses were
i and linens, laces and
le elect kept anxious
1 in to admire some
kith upon some import-

for Leonore objected
1 when she had more
but now the piano was
bus after school-hours
L'h she spent with her
ed nothing so muci as
'ith her own thoiighr.'^.

CHAPTER XXII.

TIIK OLD AIMIOU AT (iUASSMKUE.

TiiKtimo j.asHed<|uieklyand busily, and the day sot for
Mr. Kaymond's arrival was nt hand.' Aldeane owne.l to
herself no slight curiosity to see him once more, and to
learn Iro.n his appearance wh<lhcr she had the saino
cause for heart depression tiiat she had noticed in him
three years before. In the .lay of ]m coming, there
seemed every omen of jroo.1, and Ald..ane called herself
weak enough to be encourage.l by it, to entertain mon.
hopeful teehngs concerning the future of her juipil than
had before been hers. The sky was cloudless, and rested
a canopy of azure brightness over the .^reen earth. The'
soft and hree/y air was redolent with the perfumes of the
flowers of May. Aldeane ret^-ived this as an omen of
good. Nature, at least, seemed propitious. She would not
Jiave had the day dark and dreary on whi.h he was to
appear, who was to take the sunshine from their Southern
bower, to smde upon the snows of the North Yet a
fbreboding of evil, faint yet lasting saddened her heart
J.oonore, on the contrary, seemed devoid of all ajiprehen-
sion. After completinnr her afternoon toilet, she entered
Aldeane's room, exclaiming: "Look, Miss Allie! will
< ieorgo be asliamed of me, think you ■-"

She wore a light blue dress, of some delicate fabric
It was cut low on the white shoulders, which were half
covered by a profusion of brown ringlets, which fell back
from her joyous face, revealing tlie^low white forehead
tlie gentle brown eyes, the rounded cheeks, flushed with

174

ALDEANE.

evcitemont, and the full pouting lips, which wore partocT
by a smile, disclosin!:; the tiny white teeth behiiKl them.
Ahleane took a spray of tea-roses from a vase, and twin-
in<4 it amid her curls, said : —

"Unless Mr. Raymond has very bad taste, which 1
don't believe, he can not fail to love you better than ever,

Nora."

" Only half an hour more !" returned Leonore, and he
will be "here. I told Uncle Adam to drive fast; besides,
papa will hurry him."

She took a scat at the window, whence she otten
glanced up the road. At last she exclaimed fretfully :
" Oh ! will they ever come? This half hour is longer than
the whole week has been ! How slow they are !"

" Have patience, Leonore,"

« Oh ! here they come ! here they come !" she ex-
claimed a moment later, leaning out of the window.
" They are away up the road." She arose and ran to the
door, her face beaming with joyful anticipation. " No, I
won't go down till they call me," she said, retreating
slowly to the window. " Yes ! I will though ; you know
he will think me cruel !" and yielding to her inclinations,
she ran down-stairs, just as the carriage stopped betore

* '' Aldeane turned to the window. Colonel Arendell
ali<-hted from the carriage, and Mr. Raymond sprang
..nfckly after him. She looked at him for a moment
with curiosity. The features, the olive complexion, the
dark eyes, the majestic form she had known, wi-re all
there, but the fierce, stern expression was gone. His face
was li<'hted up by a look of impatient love and joy, such
as sheliad supposed him incapable of wearing. Leonore
ran down the path to meet hun. As if she was a child
he lifted her in his arms and kissed her, his dark tace
restiiKr iipon her fair cheeks, while he whispered words
that caused them to mantle with blushes and smiles.

Tl
long
liim,
Leor
on hi
last I
answ

«]
knov
well
insisi

have

nate-

wher

of CO

quesi

come
Sh
"la
mess
lor d
Ml
the g
eyes
]iood
upon
die 8
wind
tlie \\
ing u
Not
was i
and i

ALDEANE.

17^

v\\\c\\ wore partoil

•eth l)ebiii<l thein.

a vase, and twiu-

)acl taste, which I
u better than ever,

I Leonorc, " and he
rive fast; besides,

whence she often
iclaimed fretfully:
hour is longer than
they are !"

y come !" she ex-
t of the window,
rose and ran to the
ticipation. " No, I
ihe said, retreatinsf
though ; you know
to her iuclinations,
age stopped before

Colonel Arendell
. Raymond sprang
liim for a moment
ve complexion, the
d known, were all
was gone. His face
t love and joy, such
■ wearing. Lconore

if she was a child
I her, his dark face
he whispered words
shcs and smiles.

They came up to the porch, M'herc Aldcano could ut)
longer see tlieni, but she heard Mrs. Arendell welcome
him, and his reply, delivered in a rich, musical voice.
Lconore asked many qui'stions. "IIow long he had been
on his jouriu'v ; whether Annie was well, and when he had
last seen I'ncle Fred V" Aldcine listened intently for his
answer.

"I saw him in Xew York as I came througli. You
know AFrs. Alorgan is never very strong, but she was as
well as usual. Fred's health was quite poor, tliough ho
insisted upon it that he never was better in Ills life."

"Ah! dear!" said :\rrs. Arendell "I think he must
have caught cold on his return North; but he is so obsti-
nate — altogether refusing and disdaining medical advice,
when any oiu' can see that he needs it badly."

Aldeane heard them enter the parlor, and the dull hum
of conversation, and at last in Leonore's loudest tones, the
qiiestion :

" Wiiere is Aldeane ? Zettie, ask Miss Guthrie to
come here."

She left her room, and met the girl upon the stairs.
" I am going down, Zettie," she said, as she began her
message; and passing on, in a moment stood at the par-
lor door.

Mr. Raymond sat near a large window, opening upon
the garden, Avhich sloped gently down to the river. His
eyes were fixed upon it, as if it Avere a haunt of his child-
hood, or the realization of a dream. Jessie was sitting
upon his kiu'e, looking furtively up at liis face, while Ed-
die stood bashfully a little behind him, and P>auk at the
window, eagerly describing the tine sport to be found in
the woods, a little farther up the river. Leojiore was lean-
ing upon the )iaiiO, her face beaming with animated smiles.
Not wishing to break in uj)ou this hap])y sceiu>, Aldeane
was about softly to retreat, wlicu Lconore obsi-rved her,
and springing forward, caught her hand, and le 1 her into

176

ALDEANE.

the room, savin<?, "This is Miss Aldeano, th-.it you have
lieanl mo speak of so often, Mr. Raymoiul"

lie lifted his eyes to her face with an abstrpcted look,
so like that he had worn of old, that it j.ained her inex-
])ressil)ly, though it instantly fled as he recosinized her.

To her at least it was quite a joyous nieetinj;. He told
licr a thousand things of Arthur and Belle, whieh she was
delighted to hear, but even when he was most vivacious,
that pained look would return to his foce, as if his great-
est art in that time and place, could not keep it at bay.

He seemed charmed with the beauty and artlessness of
little Jessie, and soon her timidity departing, she sat
more at ease upon his knee, and laughed and chatted
gayly, leaning her bright, curly head against him, and
toying deligiitedly with a magnificent diamond ring
which was \ipon his finger. Aldeane was struck with
the similarity of the beauty of the little child's face, to
that of the man looking down upon her. He was darker,
his features were more clearly defined, but the expres-
sion of the two taces was the same. She looked at them
for some time, then turning to Leonore she said in a low
voice : " Don't you thuik Jessie ro"embles Mr. llaymond."
"I was just thinking of the same thing, but thought
that it must be a delusion. Strange, is it not ?"

Jessie at that moment slipped from Mr. Raymond's
arms and ran from the room. Rising, he said, " Play for
me, Leonore, something lively."

She sat down to the piano saying : " Don't scold, but
indeed I have not practiced any since I came home."
" Ah ! that is too bad. And why haven't you ':"'
" I have been so busy," she replied, a brighter tinge of
color rising to her cheeks as she commenced a lively waltz.
He smiled^'proudlv, and turning to a side-table on which
were some miniatures, took up one and opened it, but
started as his eye fell upon the portrait. He, however,
continued to gaze at it, and Aldeane saw the expression

Stan
pusf

H
tiiat
smil
iiide
cats

J.
incr
telli
moil
evei
but
ever
mod
fron
8om
Aid-
fasci
she

Li
dow
the ,
His
she

ALD EANE.

177

mc, tliiit yon have
loiul."

Ill abstrpcted look,
it i)iviiK'il lu'v inox-
e roeounizod Ikt.
3 nu'c'tinjjc. IIo told
ielU', wlik'U she waa
v-as most vivacious,
■ace, as if his great-
ot kot'p it at bay.
y and artlossncss of
departiiijjj, she sat
utrhed and chatted
1 a<i;ainst him, and
:;ent tliamond ring
le Avas struck with
ttle child's face, to
LT. He was darker,
ed, but the expres-
She looked at them
ire she said in a low
bles Mr. Raymond."
thing, but thought
is it not?"
m\ Mr. Raymond's
I, he said, " Play for

; " Don't scold, but
e I came home."
haven't you ?"
, a brighter tinge of
lenced a lively waltz.
, side-table on which
and opened it, but
rait. He, however,
} saw the expression

of his likeness steal over his face and flash from his
eyes.

Je -sie came in witli a kitten in her arms, to which she
culled liis attention. Aldeane looked at the two faces
again ; tiie resemblance was gone, not a trace of it re-
mained. " 'Twas all fancy !" she thought. *' They are
not at all alike." I\Ir. Raymond bent down, aiul taking
the kitten from Jessie, commenced in an absent manner
to stroke its fur against the grain, while tlie little animal
scratched and struggled to get iree.

" Oil, Mr. Raymond ! Mr. Raymond !" cried Jessie,
standing on tip-toe, and clasping his arm, " give me my
pussy, you're a-hurting her !"

He looked at the cat, as if for the first time conscious
tiiat it was in his arms, then giving her to Jessie, with a
smile, which he strove to make pleasant, but which was
indeed acrid, said: "That is the way we stroke Canadian
cats, .lessie, but yours don't seem to like it."

Jessie! looked at him with an exjircssion of indignant
incredulity, and walked slowly from the room, distinctly
telling Frank, who stood in the doorway, that " 3Ir. Ray-
mond was right mean ! a lieap meaner than any one she
ever saw before." He laughed at this candid opinion,
but the gloomy expression did not wholly pass away,
even when Leonore spoke to him. Although greatly
modified, the fierce look still gleamed like smothered fire
from his \yes, and rested on his lips. That there was
some mystery, some hidden reason for its '^ppearance,
Aldeane was confident. This strange man intei-sted and
fascinated her ; but it was the fascination of dread, for
she truly and deeply feared him.

Later in the evenhig, while standing at the parlor Avin-
dow, she saw him and Leonore walking in the garden, by
the river-side. She looked almost diminutive beside liim.
His arm was thrown lightly over her shoulders, while
she looked into the dark, handsome face bending over
8*

178

AIDE AN E.

licr, with a trusting, loving gaze. They were in anl-
inatetl ooiiversation, and at this happy moment all traces
t)f the mysterious mood that had stamped his features
with tlie glare of passioD, was gone. Aldeane admired
him, yet trembled for the fair young creature at his side.
( Aunt lioxy was standing at the other window. "Yes,
he's de bery libin' image !" she said, in a low, decided
tone, " de bery libin' image !"

" Of whom ?" inquired Aldeane, in surprise.

" Dat ain't any business to any body on dis plantation,
not meauin' any ottense to you. marm. But I jes' knoAV
Samiry must see him ! dat's all.'^ And wi«^h a signiucant
shake of the head, Aunt Ko*y turned from the room,
leaving Aldeane in a state of great perplexity.

During the evening: she could not join heartily in tlie
merry conversatioi a.'id laughter in which the others en-
gaged ; for her thoui.' hts were busy, vainly endeavoi'ing to
find some clew to the mystery that seemingly enshrouded
]Mr. Raymond. Once, while standing near the door, she
heard voices oii the portico. Aunt Koxy said, firmly :
( " You kill believe it or not, Massa John, but if he
(ton't look, a heap like him, h ay I be whipped for a lazy
nigger !" ^

" Don't be so foolish, Roxy ! There's not a particle of
resemblance ! Don't let me hear another word about it,
and remember, on your peril, speak of this to any other
person. Now, begone, and let me hear no moi-e of this
nonsense !"

Aldeane had never heard f)olonel Arendell speak so
sternly to Roxy before, and vras positive that some strong
emotion had actuated him to do so now. She turned, as
if to seek an explanation from Mr. Raymond. He was
standing near her, and had evidently heard all that had
p.'vssed, and thought it referred to him. His face was
pale, and his eyes shone with a basilisk light, like those of
a vengeful, cowering tiger. His gaze fell upon her, and

app

sul)_

satii

the

of g

whii

iiert

that

whii

ing

her

his

Stan

dull

whe
jVre
you

hert

you

]ilae

do J

It is

me !

((

clan
chil(

be a

we '

rhey were in anl-
moment all traces
mpcd his features
Aldeanc admired
rcature at his side,
n' window. "Yes,
iu a low, decided

urprisc.

on dis plantation,
. But I jes' know
I with a signiiicant
d from the room,
•plexity.

jin heartily in the
lioh the others en-
idy endeavoring to
ningly enshrouded
near the door, she
)xy said, firmly :
ia John, but if he
ivhipped for a lazy

's not a particle of
her word about it,
[■ this to any other
ar no more of this

Arendell speak so
e that some strong
w. She turned, as
Raymond. He was
leard all that had
im. His face was
light, like those of
fell upon her, and

A LD i:AX E.

170

he approaclu'd her, his oountoiiiint'e assuming its wonted
a|)])earanoo. lie addressed lier u])on some indifterent
subjocv, and a ^i^w moim iits j)assed in desultory conver-
sation. His remarks were brilliant and pointed, and, to
thi' quick iKrccjitions of his companion, revealed a mhid
of giant strcngtii, and an unconquerable will and energy,
Aviiicli sometimes broke through his cabu exterior, in the
lierce glances she had so often seen, and in caustic Avords
that involuntarily mingled with the choice language in
which he sj)oke. He was to her a perfect enigm.\ chain-
ing her attention, commaiuling her admiration, yet filling
her with a vague feeling of terror; iMt so much when in
his presence, as when she thought of him, as she con-
stantly did, in the solitude of her chamber, or through the
dull hours of her stui^y in the school-room.

Mr. Raymond had been at Arendell House two days,
when, at the breakfast table, he rem.arked, " Colonel
Arendell, you have another estate — Grassmere, I believe
you call it. I should like to see it. Is it far from
here ?"

" Some ten miles only," returiunl the colonel, " and if
you like wx' will go there to-morrow. It is a beautiful
place iu the spring of the year." •

^Ir. llaymoihl looked at him searchingly. "Then why-
do you not live there?" he inquired.

" Ah !" he muttered, " I don't like it ! I don't like it 1
It is too full of bitter recollections ever to be pleasant to
me ! But I want to go there. Will you go to-morrow?"

" Certainly, with pleasure," replied Mr. Raymond.

" You need not think that you are going alone," ex-
claimed Lconore ; "we will make a p:i iy, and all go,
children and all !"

" Yes, children and all !" repeated Frank. " 'Twould
be a pity to leave Ed. and Jessie by themselves."

They all laughed. " Yes, young man, often summers,
we will all go," said Mrs. Arendell, " provided that you

180

ALLEANE.

Avill iitteml to your books to-day, and give Miss Guthrie
no cause for ooniplivint."

Thosi' tornis wore joyously acceded to, ana they ran
away to the school-room, where Eddie soon got into dis-
trraco by ui.setting an ink-bottle, and Jessie cried dolo-
rously over her dress, which was bespattered with tho

sable lluid.

Notwithstanding this, they all assembled the next morn-
in<r to go to Grassmere, and never perhaps had a happier
jia'ty passed through the beautiful pine-woods that lay
between the two plantations. Leonore, Aldeane, and Mr.
Raymond were on horseback, and therefore, perhaps, as
they were separated from the merry children, any sadness
or preoccupation in either of them was instantly seen ;
and in :Mr. Raymond at times there was noticed a degree
of preoccupation which to Aldeane was unaccountable.

On his arrival at Grassmere, he did not immediately
dismount, but remained at the gate, surveying the place
with an intense gaze of admiration and delight, mingled
with some deeper feeling not so easily read. But soon
the dark cloud, that so often rested upon his features,
stole over them, deepening as he apparently became lost
in profound reverie. He was aroused by Colonel Aren-
dell's inquiry, " WTiat do you think of the place, Ray-
mond ?" .

He started, as if from a dream, answering contuseclly,
"It is beautiful, charming. You see I forgot every
thing else in contemplating it. Can I give it higher

praise?" . , , i.

At that moment, Aunt Samira, who had been busy

with ]Mrs. Arendell, looked at him.

" The Lord have mercy !" she exclaimed, raising her
i.and8 as if to ward oflF an apparition, her face turning a
sickly terror-stricken hue, " the Lord have meroy !'>

Mr. Raymond looked at her with a peculiar expression
of surprise and alarm.

ner'

((

Mr.

Yes
l)ro1
this
so p
Istl

hast

and

Mr.

the

aroii

the I
((

rcco

give Miss Guthrie

1 to, and they ran

I soon got into dis-

Jossie cried dolo-

■ipattcred with the

bled the next morn-
haps had a happier
ine-woods tliat lay
e, Aldeane, and Mr,
lereforc, perhaps, as
lildren, any sadness
ft-as instantly seen ;
ras noticed a degree
as unaccountable,
id not immediately
surveying the place
nd delight, mingled
ily read. But soon
I upon his features,
arently became lost
d by Colonel Aren-
; of the place, Ray-

swering confusedly,
see I forgot every
m I give it higher

ivho had been busy

^claimed, raising her
II, her face turning a
L have meroy !'^
a peculiar expression

ALDEANi:.

"What is the matter with the woman?" he asked
testily, as he dismounted and passed lier.

" I don't know," replied the colonel. " She is subject
to such fits, I believe. Come into the house, and don't
mind her." }

Mr. Kaymond obeyed. Aunt Samira gazed after him
eagerly, then uttering a low cry of distress, rushed into
the kitclien, muttering, " I know 'tain't him ! I see 'tain't
him ! but he's mighty like ! mighty like !"

riiis littU^ inciilent seemed to throw a slight shadow
ov.T all, especially Aldeane, who wearied herself with
vain conjectures concerning their strange guest, and the
mystery by which, at least to her, he was surrounded.
They soon separated into eanples, for a walk through the
grounds. As they approached the trumpet-vine arbor,
Mr. Raymond sto])ped before it, exclaiming : —
" This is the ])lace !"

"What do you mean?" inquired Colonel Arendell,
nervously.

" I have dreamed of this place many times," replied
Mr. Raymond, " yet it scarcely seemed so dilapidated.
Yes," he continued, pointing to the decaying logs that
l>rotruded from the dense mass of foliage, "I have seen
this often in my visions. It is a place to be remembered,
so peculiar is its wild beauty. Why do you preserve it ?
Is there a story connected with it ?"

" Yes ; a sad one !" returned the colonel, turning aside
hastily. " Come away ; the vines around it are poisonous,
and doubly so to me. I can not breathe their odors !"

He seemed much excited. But unheeding his words,
Mr. Raymond entered the bower, seating himself upon
the moldering bench within, and looking sorrowfully
around him. At last he arose and joined the group at
the entrance, saying, with a mournful smile : —

"Now we will gol This is a place to awaken sad
recollections."

182

ALDEANE.

«It seen^H fraught with tenors to -n^e poopW' J^;;;
TeonoR. "but I love itH .leeayuig heauty ; w uk pa m
!i;;;r;^he..oo,niest place on the. ^

" It U " sai.l the c(>l<Miel, aeeKledly, > tt s.i uy.
i„,„ tllj ,:ra..,>s «.. oau m.,l -ornchi,,, tlH.,0 morn .o

the taste ofuU." . , t •

» Lots of strawberries !" lisped Jessie

They laughed, and entered the gardens, where tlu y
fn,n Frufk and Eddie trampling down the vines m
iSe^is to gather a handtiil of ripe fruit lor their

n^other before the fT^ ^^^ >v the announce-

Thev w'erc called from tne g,iruLiin y
„,eSdi,mc,. AfUT partaking of it, O-^-^^^™^
.liowrf Mr. HavraonJ ovor tl.c lio.,,.. M .«mc

nues^on about them as he did so. Aunt Sanura was
Tt e rooin; she evidently had not fully recovered her
;:a:imity;nd often glanced iurti^.ly at Mr^Kayi^^
1 he scanned the closely-written book. Junius, ik
!aid at length. " Ah !" your child T looking up at Aunt

""'"^Yes, sir," she replied, her eyes overflowing with tears.
" Yes, sir, he was my chile !"

" Ah ! the only one ?" he pursued.

" Yes, sir."

" Dpfid Isuiwose! . ,

"?;rLord\lnly knows, sir!" she cried Pjteously, as
she ran fiom the room, her apron pressed close to hti

^' Mr Raymond did not seem to heel her emotions, but
turned o/er the pages of the book. Frank was leaning

[

on '
E(l<

AIh

a 1(1

rem
ago,
slioi

IJay

see :

((

no re
gent
^[
shell
the
niira
amoi

Ai
folio
tliat
She ■
leani
mind
neeef
that,

W
of hi
mine
start;

"3
betra

"1
etly.

ALDEANE,

183

nic ppoplc," "^nifl
tity; whilo paiia
)lo plantution.'"
t stully. " <^'<>"i<'
i<r there morn to

Lk-ns, where they
)wn the vines, in
ripe fruit for their

>V the announce-
, Colonel Arendell
use. ITe seemed
iujT lonijet^t in the
ally in the library,
r looking over sev-
Ivcs, he took down
tation. Turning to
iding them, asking
Aunt Saniira was
fully recovered her
ly at Mr. Raymond,
[)ok. "Junius," he

looking up at Aunt

jrflowiug with tears.

e cried piteously, as
pressed close to her

«e 1 her emotions, but
Frank was leaning

on the back of the cliair, looking over his slioulder. "See
Kd.lu" !" h(. cried, suddenly. " It tells here when our
Abel was born."

" What has become of him ?" asked Mr. Ravmond in
a low voice. ' '

"Poison 8i)ider bit him," repli.'d Frank, sadly, at the
remembrance of his favorite. " He died about a year
ago. IIo is buried in tlie graveyard, near Lorino-. I'll
show you the place, if you like." "

"Ahl so some wept for him, poor fellow," said Mr
Raynu^nd, with a sigh. " V,.s, l^auk, I should like to
see It. A\ e will go there soiiie day."

" Dear George is so tender-hearted," whispered Leo-
nore to Aldeane. "One can scarcely comprehend such
gentleness under such a stern exterior."

Mr. liaymond shut the book, and replaced it upon the
shelt, and, as Mrs. Arendell and Leonore were called from
the room to some weighty consultation with Aunt Sa-
mira, he strolled into the garden, and soon disappeared
among the thick slirubbery.

An irresistible impulse came upon Aldeane to rise and
follow him, for she was convinced that lie had been in
that p!ace before, and under far different circumstances.
Mie was not conscious of any trivial and mean desire to
learn his secret for the mere idle gratification of her own
mind, but for the nobler reason that Leonore must, of
necessity, be closely concerned therein ; and because of
that, she quickly resolved to seek and question him.

Without reasoning in any degree upon the probability
of his bemg there, she turned her footsteps toward the
ruined arbor, and when he heard her footsteps he was
startled.

" My God !" he broke out passionately. " Have I then
betrayed myself?" ' ' '

"To no one, I think, but me," answered Aldeane, qui-
etly. " But I was attracted by your gloomy abstraction,

18-i

ALDEAKE.

U.„R .«o, to Hpeculate upon your past, and of that I am
JJo. J not HO ignorant an you -- ' "^ -^^l
„„i„.., :uul that this ,,la.<' is oonnootcl with it. /y--- ^ >
mon<r' she .nntinuocl, rur.u'stly, " 1 have no w.sh to ,..y
"your atlair^ or to U.an. any Bc.cn. tl.. may 1.0 .n

your l-c-pin.u, hut I .nUvat you to thu.k ^^•hethol that

wcri't is a harmU'Ss one."

"To whomV" he aHkcl, raining his keen eyes to hers,
aiul art siuUlonly dropi-ing them.

" To Leonon- ," blie ausweri-d, readily.
H aLe and' paced the arbor hurriedly. "Upon my
soul I think it harndeHs to lu-r. She wdl never know-
tied at length. " Good Ciod ! Mdea.ie il y<m knew
'"leJL" lie l.roke off suddenly, and looked at her
Vould she ever forget the expression upon his taee that
day? A whole childhood of misery leai.t into his he ,
and a long youth of brooding revenge. Aldeane Guth-
He saw it'and shrank Irom it, and scarce knowing what
.he did, implored him to " pause ere it was too late .

He sU.pped before her, suddenly. " AUleane," he said
" no harm can come to Leonore, no harm to any one 1
think," and then he laughed softly to himself, while she
id entreatingly at him. "But I have "ot treasured
my revenge for years to forego it now. It wdl not tall on
Leonore; she is dearer than my life to me

" Wiiom then ? Upon whom will it fall r asked
Aldeane, not in curiosity, but in terrible fear.

lie paused a moment, and looked around him. Listen.
Aldeane," he said, in a low voice, " upon your enemy as

^tZ^if her lips formed the words, "Kichard

^*^lle nodded, and resumed his pacing of the ai-bor. The
drooping tendrils of the vine waved around him as lie
walked : and as their fiery blossoms touched hrm, Aldeane
Tould not divest herself of the idea that they were ser-

pen I
lier.

ftnd of that I am
vdultl liiivo UH ini-
^ithil. Mr.Kiiy-
ve no wish to pry
ct tliivt may 1^' ''i
link whetlior thiit

Lcen eyes to hers,

J-

oiUy. " Upon my
kill novor know — "
e'lmc, if you knew

and looked at her.
1 upon his face that
leai)t into his face,
;c. Aldeane Gnth-
[vrce knowing Avhat
t was too late !"
' Aldeane," he said,

harm to any one, I
) himself, while she

have not treasured
'. It will not fall on
,0 me."

rill it fallV" asked
ible fear.

round him. "Listen,
upon your enemy as

le words, "Richard

ig of the arbor. The
d around him as he
touched him, Aldeane
\ that they were ser-

AIDE AN 1^.

185

pcntH ooilini,' around him. So Htrong was the fancy upon
iuT, that sill' lu'ggcd him to 1h> scati'd.

"Aldoanv," he said, suddenly, not heeding for a mo-
ment her reipiest, " yeai-w ago, when I saw you, I thought
I would tell you my history. I suspected t inn that there
were irasons why you should know it, and I suspect them
more than ever now. In a few days I will give you n
package, to he opened after my nuirriage — not till atler
my mariiage." IIo gave her no opportunity to accept
or refuse this trust, not even to utter an exclamation of
surprise, \wi instantly left her, a prey to the most intense
surprise, and the most poignant fears.

An iiour passed, she knew not how, aiul then she was
laughingly drawn from her retreat liy Leonore and her
lover, botii of whom declared they hail been search-
ing for her everywhere, for they were to take tea,
and go home immediately. As Aldeane followed them
to the house, she wondered vaguely whether all that
jiass.d was not a dream, for from the time he left her in
the arbor, until they reached Arendell House, not a
shadow crossed Raymond's face, not a look of signifi-
cance beamed from his eyes; he was as careless and gay
as if no trouble ever had crossed his path, as if no gleam
of vengeance lived in his soul, as if indeed he had not
even the most trivial wrong to avenge.

But Aldeane was not the less fearful of liim for that ;
she felt as if she must warn some one of him ; yet of
what? or, to whom could she speak? And with these
distraciing thoughts she one evening found a sealed
packet upon her table, and laid it safely away, shudder-
ing as she thought it contained a secret, which her honor
forbade her to possess herself of, until, if it threatened evil
to her darling, it would be too late to avert it. Yet she
put it away, feeling lierself powerless, and striving to
hope, yet trembling ever with undefined alarms, she
awaited the marriage day.

CHAPTER XXIII.

THR VOICB IN TIIK STOTIM.

TiiK dayl»ctoiv that i^ppointia for the W('<l.Vm.rt waa
Blngularlv oulm ami lu...ilirul, and as f ho even...- .In-w
noar, hocanu- i-xc-CMlin-My doso an.l opi-rcHsivo, so that
,„u. sai.l to tlu> other, t.iat there was thun.ler ui tho u.r,
ami pointed ahnost with a Hcnse of relief to the low
hai.ui..- elou.ls, oxpresHiuji hoiK>8 tliat they woi.1.1 open,
and refresh the earth.

How very still it grew as the evening passed on, an.l
overv soun.l fell upon the air with startling distinctness.
Colonel Areudell, I.eonore, and Aldeanc', were upon the
porch, enjoying, with a certain admixture of awe-whieh
is common enough to all before this spectacle ot the
elonents kei.t at bay, the quiet and serenity which pre-
vailed, ami noticing with amusement the antics ot a
croup of little negroes who were disporting themselves
in the upper terrace of the garden, and most of whom
were clustered around llercules-a particularly small
one-who was attempting to climb a tree which stood m
the center of the grass-plat..

After watching them for some time, and when the
little darky had climbed like a squirrel into the topmost
boughs of the tree, the colonel demanded 8U Idenly,
"Wh.at are you doing there?"

The bov dropped from the tree, as much like a dead
^.quirrel, a's he had ascended like a live one, and explained
apolo.reticallv, " It's dom- been dry weder, mass r, a long

II.

OHM.

)r the wctininc; wnfl
IS tlic c'Vi'iiinii; dnw
opjin'ssivc', KO tliiit
, thiiiuk'r in the air,
if rclii'f to till- low
It Ihey would open,

ning passed on, and
artling distinctness.
i«ivne, were ujion the
{tare of awe — whieh
his speetat'le of the
serenity whieh pri"-
ent the anties of a
isjiorting tliemselves
, and most of whom
a i)artieularly small
.a tree whieh stood in

time, and when the
rrel into the to])most
demanded su Idenly,

as much like a dead

ive one, and explained

weder, mass'r, a long

o.A^^^^^

IMAGE EVALUATION
TEST TARGET (MT-3)

1.0

I.I

1.25

" us. 110

Photographic

Sciences

Corporation

1.8

1.4 I 1.6

C\^

'<>

^^'■

23 WEST MAIN STREET

WEBSTER, N.Y. 14580

(716) 872-4503

CIHM/ICMH

Microfiche

Series.

CIHM/ICMH
Collection de
microfiches.

Canadian Institute for Historical Microreproductions / Institut Canadian de microreproductions historlques

the
<

rov
IVij
aiK
on(

]
risi
Ilea
gat
wit
(lis
mo
Le(
ten

1
aiir
lasl
anc
dro
mo
ear
in
ten

(
Th.
niff

ALDEANE.

187

time, an' dcy say flat de snake'U raako it rain. I'm 'gwino
to try it any way."

" There will V)e no need of the snake's aid, I think !"
said Colonel Arondell, lautfliinj^. " We shall surely have
a storm to nij^ht; this perfect calm is a true index of the
tempest about to follow. Look at those clouds moving
so rai)idly ; besides the wind is rising !"

" Oh, i)a !" exclaimed Leonore in a frightened voice.
" Oh, jta, do you think George will reach home before
the st(n-m comes on?"

"lie may. But let me see, the roads are long and
rough. I do not think he can. But you need not 1>e
frightened, he will most likely stay at Golding's to-night,
and come early in the morninj^ to claim his bride. I, for
one, shall not expect him to-night."

Leonore looked gloomily at the clouds, which were fast
rising thicker and blacker. Distant thunder too was soon
heard muttering in defiant tones, and as the night
gathered in, the whole sky became overcast. The stats
withdrew thcmscives, and the gloom at intervals was
dispelled by quick flashes of lightning, and then became
more intense than before. They entered the house, but
Leonore walked to the window, and tremblingly con-
templated the scene without.

It soon became indeed terrific. The winds rushed
angrily by, shaking tl-.o tall trees to their very roots, and
lashing the river to a sheet of foam, which gleamed white
and angrily through the surrounding darkness. Lari;e
drops of rain began to fall, and the lightning flashes each
moment lighted up the arch of sable that overhung the
eaith. Att'righted she tliought of Itaymond riding alone
in the thick woods, through the darkness and rising
tempest.

Colonel and Mrs. Arendell felt no fears for his safety.
They were confident that he had found a lodging for the
night. But Leonore covered her face with her hands,

188

ALDEANE.

and crouching down by the window, wept like a fn.Ejht-
enod clul<l, and trembled violently at every vivid flash
of li<;htninj?, or loud peal of thunder. The rain fell in
torreiits ; and althous^di all had retired in alarm from the
windows, they could plainly hear the river rising rapidly,
and ever and anon a loud crash proclaimed the fall of
some mighty denizen of the forest.

The negroes in affright had gathered in the hall and
around the door. Aunt Samira was there, moving
noiselessly about in her usual fasliion.

" Be still, dere's nothin' to be 'fraid on !" she exclaimed
to a little fellow who was crying lustily. " Dis house'U
be safe enough I reckon, as long as any of us want to
stay here."

" Aunt Saniiry," said his mother, intci-fering in his be-
half, " I guess you think 'kase you're 'gwine off to Can-
ady, that you can crow ober de rest ob us. I hope you'll
freeze cl'ar through ; we hain't got no use for ye here.
But may be ye'll not get to go after all."

" Hush !" commanded Colonel Arendell, authoritatively.
" Be silent, or go to the kitchen."

Leonore moaningly repeated the words, " Perhaps we'll
not get to go after all !" covering her face with her hands,
and rocking foiward and back m strange, unconquerable

terror.

A momentary cessation of the storm was followed by
a terribly vivid flash of lightning, and a startling peal of
thunder. A man's footstep was heard at that moment
quickly and heavily crossing tlu; piazza.

"It is George!" cried Leonore, rushing to the door,
which had been quickly thrown open, and casting herself
into the arms of the newcomer.

"It is Blake, Leonore!" said her father, taking her
away. " For Heaven's sake, Richard, what brings you
here to-night ?"

The man still stood at the door — which some one had

'"J

ALDEANE.

180

i-cpt like a friglil-
t'vory viviil tlash
The rain fell in
Lu alarm from the
i'or rising rapidly,
aimed the fall of

■d in the hall and
8 there, moving

n !" she exclaimed
ly. " Dis house'll
iny of us want to

xi-fering in his be-

'gwine off to Can-

) us. I hope you'll

> use for ye here.

1."

ill, authoritatively.

•da, " Perhaps we'll
ace with her hands,
ige, unconquerable

n was followed by
a startling peal of
d at that moment
a.

jhhig to the door,
md casting herself

father, taking her
I, what brhigs you

rhich some one had

closed— witii Jiis hand iipon the knob, as if ready for
flight. His face was ashy pale ; his large black eyes wen-
staring wild with fright; his hair and clothes were drip-
ping with water; and his whole appearance indicated the
extreme of mental excitement.

" Good God, Richard ! what brought you here to-
niglit?" rej)eated the colonel.

"The river has swejit away tlie bridge, Colonel Aren-
dell !" he replied, in terrified accents. '"It has not done
so in twenty years before. Do you not remember 'twas on

the very night that Lucinda and I returned from li ,

where we had been to advertise Junius? Colonel Aren-
dell, I heard his voice in the storm to-night, crying,
' Help, mother, help me !' in just the same tones as lie did
that morning I whipped him so. Oh, my God ! my God !
I am certain that it was liis voice. It came to me in a
lull of the tempest, as if from a great distance."

" It was his spirit ; de boy is dead !" cried Aunt Samira,
throwing herself upon the floor, Avith tears and lamenta-
tions. " De boy is dead !"

Mr. Blake turned whiter than before, while Aldeane,
terrified beyond measure, inquired : —

" From wliat direction did the voice come, Mr. Blake ?
Quick ! tell me."

" It was from this. I came flown to see if any of you
had heard it. 1 heard it, shrill and clear, though it appar-
ently came from a great distance. It was twice repeated ;
the last time very faintly. Doubtless I should not have
heard it had not m;- senses been rendered acute by the
first thrilling cry."

" 'Twas his spirit in de storm !" again shrieked Aunt
Samira, rocking wildly to and fro.

Leonore had ceased to we. ;> ; and, lifting up her pale
face, gazed wonderingly upon the strange scene before
her. Aldeane, with a dark foreboding almost amounting
to certainty, threw her arms around her, and drew her to

190

ALDEANE.

her bosom, as if to shield her from some imptii(Hng
calamity.

Coloiu'l AiTiidell bad turned deadly pale at Mr, Blake's
announcement, and Htood as if petrified Avith astonish-
ment and terror. At last he said, slowly: —

"You were thinking of the occurrence of Avhich you
spoke. This storm recalled it. Your mind was excited.
You thought you heard those Avords."

" I am sure that I heard them. My mind was wholly
engaged in trying to quiet my little sister, who was much
frightened. "SVheu I heard that voice, I recognized it im-
mediately. I heard it twice, distinctly."

"Whose voice did you say it was?" inquired Mrs.
Arendell, alarmed at the blanched faces of the colonel
and Mr. Blake, and the violent crying of Samira.

" He fancies it was that of Saraira's son, Junius, who
ran away from me nearly twenty years ago," explained
Colonel Arendell, Then turning to IVIr. Blake, he said,
somewhat hef-itatingly, "You had been drinking too
freely, perhaps, sir ?"

" No, no !" replied Mr. Blake, shaking his head, and look-
ing earnestly from one to the other of the startled group.

The negroes, with terrified looks, had gathered around
Aunt Samira, muttering, " It was his ghost ! Dc boy is
dead !" and sundry other exclamations of terror.

Mr. Blake opened the door to go. A torrent of wind
and rain swept in ; a bright flash of lightning for a mo-
ment dispelled the darkness, and in another it was more
impenetrable than before ; then the door blew to with a
force that shook the room.

" You will not venture out again to-night," said Mrs,
Arendell, " stay with us. The trees are falling on every
side. You would be killed before you could reach home."

Mr, Blake seated himself, gazing vacantly around the
room as if bewildered. " Where is Mr. Raymond ?" he
inquired at last.

iioll

.Mrs

it is
woo
she!

" Til
Ray
to r
not £
i'rom
in sp
speal

'tis J

shou

Blak

" Bnl

fectlj

me,"

out ;

ings ;

and f

leave

"Do

befon

ALDEANE.

191

in some impending

y pale at Mr. Blake's
iticd Avith astonish-
)wly: —

ronce of Avhich you
r mind was excited.

[y mind was wholly

lister, wlio was much

', I reco<jfnized it im-

ly."

as?" inquired Mrs.

faces of the colonel

^ of Samira.

a's son, Junius, who

ars ago," explained

Sir. Blake, he said,

been drinking too

ig his head, and look-
f the startled group,
lad gathered around
s ghost ! De boy is
18 of terror.
A torrent of wind
' lightning for a mo-
inother it was more
loor blew to with a

to-night," said Mrs.
are fallinar on everv
\ could reach home."
f acantly around the
Mr. Raymond ?" he

"lie M-eiit to Iv. two (lays ago. lie was expected
home today; Imt the storm 'has detained him," replied
aMts. ^\.rendell.

"Oh, Mr. IJIakc!" exclaimed Leonore; "do you think
it is possil)le that (icorge would venture through tlio
woods in such a storm ? Don't you think he wouTd find
biielter somewhere ¥"
" Try to comfort her," said :Mrs. Arcndell, in a low voice.
But he seemed in no mood to do so, for he said slowly :—
" I do not know."
^^ " You are crazy !" said Colonel Arendell, impatiently,
"That voice has taken aAvay your senses. Of course,
Raymond wouldn't be so wild and reckless as to attempt
to reach here such a night as this. That cry, if it was
not a deception of your imagination, nuist have emanated
from some child caught in the i- jrm. We do not believe
in spirits, besides Samira's child is a man now, and would
speak like one."

" 'Twas his ghost !" murmured Aunt Roxy ; " I 'spect
'tis at Grassmere now. Miss Alice comes dere, why
shouldn't he?"

Colonel Arendell seemed greatly excited; and Mr.
Blake grew paler, and more rigidly silent each moment.
" I can not account for it," he said at length, huskily.
" But I am posHive that I heard that child's voice, per-
fectly enunciating the words I have repeated."

" Leonore, this is exciting you ! Come ujvstairs Avith
me," whispered Aldeane. Without a word the two jjassed
out; the one calm, though filled Avith terrible forebod-
ings ; the other trembling Avith excitement, bewildennent,
and fear.

" You must sleep with me to-night ! I shall die if you
leave me alone !" said Leonore, clinging to Aldeane.

" I will not leave you, dearest," was the quiet answer.
" Do not tremble so, the storm rages less furiously than
before."

193

ALDEANE.

She walked to the window, and looked out 7^ 11 was
,,r.p,.od in impcnotrablc darknosn. She ee dd Hee noth-
inj^jlut Khc heard the wind howl l^i^'l- =v»d ■.V.Mkm- he.i
dit almost a«-ay, only to begin a,.un with redonhled fury
The ruin was tailing in torrents, the <lro,.s were eon -
i,i„.led, forming a sheet of water. A lightn.ng Hash
n.vcvaled the river, rolling furiously on at a few leet
below the hoMse. It Tas bearing on its b<.som, trees
and earth, an<l besides these debris of the la.ul and torests,
others more terrible to look upon; planks .nd beams,
telling of homes destroyed by the ruthless powers ot he
later and air. It was indeed a terrific scene. The br.dge
was swept away, and a large pine-tree, which lor years
had stood near it, had fallen across the stream, and
Blightly turned it from its course. As Aldeane stood
there, she was reminded of the magmheent lines ot
Goethe, and unconsciously repeated them.

" The night with mist is thick and black ;
Hark, liow the forests roar and crack 1
Tlio hootinR owls affrighted fly.
Shivered fall the columns tall
Of the palaces of pine —
See the uniting boughs entwine,
The mighty trunks that bond and groan,
The hard roots grating on the stone I
Mingling confusedly and madly, all
Over each otlier are heaped in the fall,
And .vroimd the crags, so wet and foul,
The winds in fury hiss and howl 1"

Then she thought of Iteymond. Could it be possible
that it was his voice Blake had heard in the storm; and
if 80, could it be-but no, she would not think it Htr
horrible suspicion could not be true, and she again looked
forth into the s^orm, praying that he was as sale trom harm
as they, wildly telling herself, that Leonore 8 oyer mus
be upright and pure, yet thinking, thmkmg, thinking m

sp
an
at
m(

on
th(
th(
pn
art

fro

wit

stri

anr

her

fell

sno

bro

viol

rult

pan

the

witl

((

in t

him,
((

upoi

Intel

vioh
«

him,

■=*

A LDEAN-E.

108

looked out. ^11 was

She (•<> ild MW notli-

j^hcr ami '.ii^hcr, thou

n with rodoubli'd fury.

the drops woro coiu-
[•r. A lightuinfj flash
isly on at a few feet
ifj on its bosom, tn-os
of the land and forests,
i; iilanks :.nd beams,

ruthless powiTS of the
ritic scene. The bridge
e-tree, whieh for years
.cross the stream, and
le. As Aldeane stood
I magnificent lines of
3d them.

: and black ;
and crack I

fly-
Ill

irino,

id and groan,

,he stone 1

idly, all

I in the fall,

ret and foul,

howU"

d. Could it be possible
leard in the storm ; and
)uld not think it. Her
ue, and she again looked
he was aa safe from harm
at Leonore's lover must
iig, thinking, thinking in

spite of herself, of what Kaymond had said of IJlako,
and of the terror he liad shown, what terror and remorso
at the fancied sound of a voice he had heard as a boy'a
more than twenty years before.

She formed no plans then— she could not ; she thought
only of Raymond's safety, and dimly also that she, upon
the next morning would urge Colonel Arendell to loarn
the history of his proposed son-in-law, ere he yielded his
precious daughter to his arms— that daughter so pu.e,so
artless and lovely.

Thinking thus, Ald"f\ne turned to look at her,— turned
from the scene of destruction without, to behold one
within, whose spiritual caan and loveliness presented a
strange contrast, and at once calmed her perturbed mind
and surcharged heart. Half disrobed, Leonore had cast
herself down {.t the side of '.he bed ; her long da'-k curls
fell like a curtain around her; her face was b"iried in the
snowy counterpane; her hands were clasped above her
brow; and her whole form was trembling with the
violence of her emotion. She was praying earnestly.
Wrestling in her feebleness with the mighty God that
rules the tempest, arousing and quieting it at will.

Long she prayed. Occasionally in her earnestness
partial sentences would fall aloud from her lips. Still
the storm continued; when she arose from her knees
with a tranquil expression upon her beautiful face.

" Aldeane,'' she said, " I know that George has been
in this storm. I have been praying to God to preserve
him. Perhaps I have not been too late."

" God grant that you have not," she replied, gazing
upon her very sorrowfully.

Leenore seemed coir nrted, and when a few minutes
later, b^ie reclined in A! leane's arms, she trembled less
violently, although her heart beat quiok and strong.

"AldeaniV' she whispered, "to-morrow I shall see
him, and lie "-iH laugh at my fears. You know, A'lie,

VX{

A LVl'A xi:.

If tl.- vnicv tlKit Mr. r.lak.. l.rara hi.-l Ik-m a,. ..,m n
of evil to l.i.n an.l mo, I slw.ul.l lunv iwanl .t, »..'H.a.>,
1,0 suM it was ii iK.y's vnico, an.l (n'or-r s is ho strung

and nianlv."' . . , i i ... i

»It inuvl.c tl.ut Mr. niuko inia-ui.'.l that lu> Ium .1
tho v.-l.T/LonMorc.. Ih- s,.ukc. as if \w l.a.l tr.at.a tlu.
Imv l.u.lly at s..nu' time. IVrLapH his n.nscu.ncf, urcusc-l
l.y this terrible sf.rni, spc.k. in tun.s ul.nost h.unan to
liis cowardly soul."

"IVrhai.s so, hut th- talc to uic was hornldc. Oh,
howarcadfullvhcOo..kcd!" and Lcouorc shuddcrc.l.

"Vcs" rci.ii.'d Aidcaiu', sickcuin- with the thou-h s
that arose within her. "Oh, that tlu' mornin- would
come !" was her soul's mute cry.

The ch.cksl..wlv struck twelve. "T think tlu- storm
is ah.'itinc" said Aldeane, shortly afterwanl.

llcr supposition was correct. The win.l howled less
v-il.llv, and the mutteriu- thunder seenuMl at a tjreat
.listamv; the lishtnini: too was less vivid and so.,u
<H.ased altogether to appear. The ram stdl iell heavily,
and the rushinj: of the river was plainly heard.

"The "torm is iiuleed passinjj:," murmured Leonore,
wearily. " Now I may rc^st a little. Surely (leorge was

not in it."

" Yes • sleep, darlins, if you can," returned Aldeane, as
cheerfully as she cul.l speak. " Vou Avill have enough
to pasH through to-morrow, you know."

"Yes, if the company will he able to come, said
I.eonore, with a faint smile and hlush.

" God '^rant that the bridegroom may come," thought
Aldeane.'"" I?ut she answered not, but lay listening t<)
the whnl as it fled awav to its home in the t-averns ot
the earth, mitil all was still, save the pattering ot the
rain-drops, whieh now came slowly, the rushing of the
river, and at last the quiet breathings that told that
l^eonorc slept.

. li.'iinl it, Kfsiili ■^'i
i'()ri;i''s is ho ^tnmg

fiiicl thiit lit' lu'iinl
■ lit' hiitl triati'd tlir
s fonsfii'iu'i', urousftl
I's iilinost Iminaii tu

!■ WHS liDnilflc. <'li(
)nort' HlnnMiTctl.
r with the tli'>U!_MitH
till' morning woulil

"I tliink tlu' storm
rtcrwiinl.

In- winil liowU'il U'HS
!• sffiiu'tl lit, a ijroat
k'ss vivid, and «oiiu
rain wtill ii'U heavily,
linly heard.
' miiriniired Lfonorc,
. Suri'ly Cic'orge was

" returned Aldcano, as
fou -will have enough
ow."

able to come," said
ish.

a may come," thought
, but lay listening to
ome ill the caverns of

the pattering of the
ly, the rushing of the
Lthiiigs that told that

CIIATTKll XXIV.

WHAT TIIK WICI.OINd M()KNtN«i nHOUGHT,

TiiKo,-,;,, tl„. long w<.ary night Aldeane slept n<.t, hut
c as,„ng Lc.,„.„v i„ Ikt arms, listened to the .,uietin.r of
»li'' tempest, and thought, auxiouslv, feaif.iliv, of Hav-
moud, longing f,,,- the morning. At last it came .de-u-
■■""1 iH-autifui. Putting aside the white aru.s din-Mn-r ho
closely around her, she arose and approach.-.l the window
A scene of ruin and devastation met her view. Trees
la.l l,een blown up by the roots; in many places the
ences were all swept away, an.l the corn and cotton
laid loNV. riie river was full of the debris of brid-rvs
atid embankmeu's, which it was hurrviug wildly on "or
tossing upon its miry banks. ' '

Qtiickly dressing, she hurrie.l down to the piazza at the
Iront ol' the house.

Every thing there was in a similar condition The
n-mdows of tlie kitchens and some of the negro cabins
liad l>een blown out, an.l lay shattered u])on the ground •'
the carefully-tended garden, with its beautiful Howers and
trees, appeared a waste of fallen shrubs and man-lfd
tredhsses. Every thing seemed ruined. A single nT-dit
had despoiled all the beauty it had taken years to brin.rto
perfection. * "

Colonel Arendell soon joined her. He looked very
I'.ile and haggard, as if he had passed a sleepless ni-ht

' 1 ou are up (-arly, to mourn over tliis desolation I
see, lie said with a si'di.

106

ALDKANE.

" Yt'H ;" hIio answpriMl iimsiiijjfly ; " Imt ovou this dt'so-
lation ot'tlu- land ix nothing to that oftlif honrt."

"What ih. you nu'aii, AhK-aiU'V" lio UMko.l, tiirniiij^
Hinldtnly Jowaid hor,

"Uavo you luriinl cronkor too? I thoujjht my own
tho>i!,'litH liad tornionU'd mc enough, fulHC prophi-ts that

tlii'V an."

"I meant, nothincj by my words, nir!" Mh' ni.liod,
nstoni^*hl■d by tho vi'hcmonoe of his wordw and inanncr.
" Vo\i muHt i)ardon nu-, if 1 aroused unideasant thoughlM
or reeolleetions."

" Aldcane, my ehihl," Ik- auHworcd oadly, tenderly
proHsing her hands in his own, " I have terrible thouglitH
Bonietimes. Tlie bo;' that you heard Hlake speak of last
night, Hworc vengeance upon us all, for wrongs whieh
I could not avert. God knows my slavery then was
worse than his own. Oh, the iron— the adamantine
shackles that I wore, and yet seemed to the world a free
man. He burst his bonds. Death alone couhl sever
mine. They are not severed now, that boy is one link of
the horrid chain. True, I have never heard of him since
he letl us. I have sometimes thought he was dead, but
Blake has always said that he would come back, and
now believes that he is near us, and thus accounts for the
voice, that he still persists he heard last night, and which
haunts him yet. I confess, too, that it has alarmed me
considerably. One's nerves are easily shaken during
Buch a stonn as we had last night."

«'lt was indeed terrible!", ejaculated Aldeane, walking
to the end of the porch, and shading her eyes with her
hand. " Who are those coming up from the river, Colonel

Arendell?" , , , ,

He went to her side, both turned pale, and looked,

from the group of men bearing a heavy weight between

them, to each other apprehensively.

" It is a dead body— a man, I believe, Aideane 1" whis-

pen
wh(

T
entt
(low

()

atul
t(

j.ist
hrou
and
Woi

town

loatli

'J'li

place

house

upon

by til

asked

"li

I hav

unrec

Till

one f

beheh

Gee

"It

Mrs,

and n

of the

his fac

Tho

ence o

' hut ovou this dow)-

oftlic Ill-art."

' lie askt'd, tiirniiifi

I tlioujjlit my own

I, I'ttlse propliftH thill

*, nir!" h1»' n'liliod,

( wnrilw ami iiianiuT.

unpleasant thoughts

orcd padly, tenderly
avc terrible ihouj^'htH
d Hlake upeak of lawt

II, fur wrongs whieh
my slavery then was
ron — the adamantine
ed to the world a free
:h alone could sever
hat boy is one link of
rcr heard of him since
ght he was dead, but
r)uld come back, and
. thus accounts for the

last night, and which
liat it has alarmed mo
easily shaken during

ited Aldeanc, walking
ing her eyes with her
from the river, Colonel

ncd pale, and looked,
heavy weight between

ilieve, Aideane !" whis-

ALDEANE.

107

pored the eoK„K.l, his lip« white with ,lrea.l. " Mv ( Jod •
who can it Im- '•"' ^ ""•

The „u.,. were now at tlu< gat,, and ,mei.,sin,r it
<'"«<Te.l sl.,wly an.i silvntiy. r.,|,„.,l Aren,l..|l walked
down to meet them.

aiuVsuid !-^''" '"''"' "'"'•••'"« <'"'"vard, pulled ..«• his hat,

"A gentleman, sir, was fimnd drowned in the river
last above lu-re, and as this was the n.-arest place we
•.n...U'ht hnn here, lie is dreadfully beaten and bruis,.!,
and looks as . ho had been wash..! from a gn-at distance
U ould you like to hx.k at him, sir'/"

" IWutly. Who is it y" ,.,plie.l the colonel, turning
ow.ard the house, with a strange feeling of oppression anil
loathing, dreading to look toward the corpse

The men again raised the burden, whi.-h they ha.l
placed "I'on the ground, ami slowly approached the
J.ouse Mr. I^lake and Mrs. Arendell had Joined Ahh-ano
«I>on the piazza; they were all evidently much agitate.l
l.y the occurrence. Mr. IJlake went dowm the steps an.l
asked in a husky voice :—
" Do any of you know who it is ?"
" lie is a stranger to all of us, sir," said cue. " I think
1 have seen the man, but lie is so bruised as to be almost
unrecognizable."

The men placed the corpse upon the steps. And at
one glance, and with a scream of ansruish, Aldeano
belield the fulfillment of her most horrible fears.
George Raymond lay dead before lier
"It is llaymond! O God, it is Raymond!" shrieked
Mrs. Arendell; while the colonel, with every feature
and motion expressive of the utmost horror, liflod one
of the arms dripping with water, then let it tall, covering
his face with his hands, and groanino- alou("

Though greatly shocked, Mr. IJJake retained his pres-
enceofmmd. ^

198

ALDEANE.

" Carry the 1)0(ly into the ]>arlor," he said to ilic men.
" ]Miss Leonoro must not sec il."

" It is the genticnian to wlioiu she as to have bei'ii
married to-day," '\vhisj)c'ri'd one.

With bhmeheil faces at the tliouj^ht of the widowed
maid.Mi they lifted tlie eorpse in their arms, carried it
into the parlor, and laid it njjon the sofa. All the
negroes, Avith horror stamped upon eaeh countenance, had
l)y this time gathered around. Slirieks and lamentations
began to arise, when, with her long curls flowing wildly
hack from i\er face, Avhich riviiled her snowy wrapper in
whiteness, Leonore rushed through the throng, and with
a wild scream of despair, threw herself upon the muti-
lated body ( f llaymond.

" George, my darling, my husband!" she cried frantic-
ally, casting back the black hair, wringing with moisture,
from li'.s clammy brow, and gazing distractedly uj)on him.
If face was almost purple; his long beard, mustache,
auu hair Avere matted closely, together ; his eyes were
closed, and his jaw fallen. lie liad evidently struggled
violently to the last, and had apparently been dead some
time. His clothes were much torn, and covered with
mud, as though he had been swept from a grea distance,
and tossed violently from tlie current to the banks, then
back again. Leonore saw all tliis at a glance, and with
another shriek, wilder far than the first, threw herself
upon the body of her lover in a deathlike swoon.

Mr. Blake lifted her in his arms, and carried her
through the group of lamenting negroes inc.> the sitting-
mom. With the colonel and j\Irs. Arendell, Aldeani^
still stood beside the corpse, wholly speechless with
horror and grief. Tlie right arm of the corpse fell heavily
down from its side, the breast of his coat fell back, and
from ♦he jjocket dropped a little book which fell open
upon the fioor.

Colonel Arendell stooped, and picked it up. It had

" he said to ilio men.

ho as to have Ijoeii

ui^ht of the widowed
their arms, carried it
1 tlie sofa. All the
"ach countenance, had
ieks and lamentations
; curls Howing wildly
ler snowy wrapper in
the thronsf, and with
■rself uj)on the niuti-

id !" she cried frantic-
inging with moisture,
listractedly u])on him.
ling beard, mustache,
ether; his eyes were
I evidently struggled
•ently been dead some
m, and covered with
from a grea distance,
•nt to the banks, then
at a glance, and with
lie first, threw herself
ithlike swoon,
•ms, and carried her
'groes ini.i the sitting-
re. Arendell, Aldeani^
loUy speechless witii
' the corpse fell heavily
lis coat fell back, and
book which fell open

picked it up. Tt had

A L I) V: A X E.

109

opened at the last entry made by llie dcccaiied. TTe
glanccil over it, his face coMgealiiiu- witli horror as h'*
coir.pivliendcd tlic incaninn- cil'thc seiiti'iu'cs. It was but
a [Vw siiorl lines, l).,t in frcnzicil to'.U's he critvi : —

"My (iod, it is .Iiinius! Wliat ! Wed my cliild !
(Jrcat Heavin, -an tliis be trui' I"

7dr. iilakc, pale with excilement, sprang toward him,
nn! snatcliinv: th(> book from iiis ner\(lcss haml, read the
)i:iragra|ili in a loud and horritied voi(\' ; — -

"'Hie reveng'' lliat, my soul for years lias craved is at
iiand ! Ah, .lolm Arendell! Woe! woe I to thee! for
in anotlier day your slave .Junius shaii wed your
dauL;-hter, and crush vour fon<lest Iiopi's. Tlie end is at
hand!"

"It is luTc I" ei'ied tlu' ri'ader, pointing to tlie corpse.
"Ilis influence and power have ceased forever!" ho
tliought, exulting) •• "J have escajted Ids wrath. L'etri-
bution wiil never reach me!"

Vv'ith a low groan Colonel Arendell had sunk upon a
cliair, as if bereft of his senses. Ilis wife knelt beside
him, striving by her tears and entreaties to arouse him
from the stu]ior which seemed to have overwhelmed him.
"Junius, my son ! my ])retty boy !'' cried Aunt Samira,
casting herself down by the body. "It Avas your voice
calling to me in the storm last night. My son ! my son !"
Through all the horror impressed upon him by the
scene around him, ^\r. Blake felt a sort of wild joy at the
death of his enemy. Approaching the corpse, lie smoothed
back tlie dri]iping hair, ])Iaced his hands over the whiskers
and mustache, and said, in a low voice: "See, the like-
ness is perfect !"

" William !" cried Colonel Arendell, sjiringing toward
the eorjisi>. but falling prostrate before it. His mind iiad
given away before the repeated sliocks given to it, and
for some time lie lay wholly unconscious,
. " .Mass'r William! Junius!" moaned S;imira, kissing

200

ALDEANE.

tlie cold lips of her son. Some of the negroes borj her,
struggling and shrieking, away to her cabin, and for a
few moments Aldeane was left alone with ail that re-
mained of the unfortunate octoroon.

She thought, as she gazed upon him, of the suspicicm
that had thrust themselves upon her the night before, and
which she had vainly striven to drive from lier mind.
They were all coniirmed; she needed not to read his
letter now ; the worst she had suspected of the history
of George Raymond was confirmed ; and his history was
ended ; death had ended it before his terrible vengeance
could be consummated.

One of the men, who had discovered the body, entered
the room, but started back when lie saw a lady there.

" Stay a moment," said Aldeane, and Avith a gesture
of respect, the man took a step farther into the room.
"Will you tell me how you found him, and where? poor
fellow ! poor fellow. Will you tell me all about it," she
resumed, seating herseli beside Kaymond, and quietly ad-
justing his dripping hair.

" I found him about a mile up the river, miss. I had
gone down to my corn-fields to see if possible how much
harm the freshet had done. I went down pretty close to
the river, and, floating among logs and brushwood, I dis-
covered, to my horror, the body of a man. I could not
get him out without assistance, so I ran to a neighbor's
to obtain it. Soon a number of men were assembled
upon the banks, and the gentleman quickly taken from
the stream. Then arose the question, where he should be
taken to. None of us reco^ized the gentleman, and
felt unwilling to take him to our poor houses, and all co-
incided in the opinion that this was the best place to
bring him. A portion of us accordingly come with the
body to this place, while the rest went up the river to
discover if possible the place of his death. They found it
at Baring's Branch, near the bend, where it empties it-

and
neai
a sh
Jiad
drea
its li
Sc
and
to til

lame

two I

one.

to he

the ]

theg

Fri

ants 1

mond

they :

sie hi

stopp

"Is

a Slav

tonish

with t

«Y(

e negroes borj her,
er cnbin, and for a
e with ail that ro-
il, of the suspicions
he night before, and
ive from her mind,
ed not to read his
cted of the liistory
and his history was
i terrible vcngcanco

d the body, entered
aw a lady there,
and Avith a gesture
her into the room,
n, and where? poor
ne all about it," she
lond, and quietly ad-
river, miss. I had
' possible how much
lown pretty close to
id brushwood, I dis-
man. I could not
ran to a neighbor's
len were assembled
quickly taken from
, where he should be
bhe gentleman, and
r houses, and all co-
s the best place to
ngly come with the
rent up the river to
ath. They found it
vhere it empties it-

A L D EA NE,

201

self nito tlie river. From the spurs upon his feet we
knew that he had been riding, and unaware, or reckless
ot the danger, had forded the brancli. It is a dreadful
thing, miss. Even if ho is a negro, he looks like a gentle-
man, and Arondell at that."

He looked at the dead man, then wistfully at Aldeane
a moment. Tlien, as lier white lips murmured, "Could
you discover no more?" he continued:—

" Tlie party from Baring's Hrauch have just returned
and report that a liorse, supposed to be his, was found
near tiie ford of the K- road. It had been washed down
a sliort distance, an<l had struck upon a raft of trees that
had almost blockaded the stream. The poor animal was
dreadfully bruised and torn. No doubt it struggled for
Its life as hard as its master did for his, poor gentleman "
Some of the negroes had gathered near the open dooV
and checking their cries, listened mth horror-struc^k faces
to the man's words. As he ceased, they renewed iheir
lamentations louder and wilder than before ; only one or
two setmed able to restrain themselves; Aunt Koxy was
one. Taking Aldeane by the arm, she led lier up-stairs
to her own room, and gently closing the door, returned to
the parlor, to the sad duty of preparing the corpse for
the grave.

Frank, Eddie, and Jessie, had been kept by the serv-
ants away from the parlor, so they had not yet seen Ilay-
mond. When they knew that Aldeane was in her room,
they rushed tumultuously in. Hurrying toward her, Jes-
sie hid her face in her lap, and sobbed bitteriy; Frank
stopped before her, crying : —

"Is it true, JMiss Aldeane, that Mr. liaymond was once
a slave? Say, is it true ?"

He was much excited ; his eyes were dilated Avith as-
tonishment and eagerness, and his whole frame quivered
with excitement.

"Yes, Frank," returned Aldeane, very sorrowfully.

20:

A L D EA NE.

" Ho was oTico unjustly licUl as a slave, yet he was yonr
own uncle's ciiiM."

"What! my eonsin a slave?" he queried, turnincj
slightly pale. '" A slave ! akin to me ?" Then, with an ex-
I.iessio'n of ineffable dissjust, he said, "I am glad he is
dead," in a bitter alto<rether nn-ehildlike voiec-" a slave,

and marry my slater /"

He turned to leave the room, but before he reached th((
door, he stopped, and bursting into tears, sobbed out,
" Leonore ! poor sister Lconore ! Miss Aldeane, this will
kill her!"

These words seemed to arouse Eddie, who had been
standing by Aldeane's side, crying silently and bitti-rly.

" Oln Miss Aldeane, I believe she is already dead !" he
cried, " she is lying in her room, so white and still."

Aldeane had dr. aded to witness the agonizing scen(>
which she knew wouhl >.'nsue upon Leonore's restoration
to consciousness, and knowing that she was in good
liands, had refrained from going to her. l?ut now she
feared that lier absence M'ould be noticed. She arose, and
leaving the three weeping children together, passed into
liConore's room.

Zettie and another servant, with a physician, were
there. Leonore had opened her eyes, and was regarding
them with a vacant stare.

"We have just succeeded in bringing her to conscious-
ness," whispered the doctor. "1 am very glad you have
eoine. Mrs. Arendell and i\Ir. Blake are with the colonel.
The excitement through which he has passed has pro-
duced brain fever, and he is very delirious."

Aldeane heard this without much surprise or interest
beuig awakened, her thoughts were too wholly en-
grossed by Leonore, who had raised herself ui)on lier
elbow, and was gazing with bewildered countenance
upon the anxious faces of those around her.
" I fear for her ri-ason," muttered the doctor.

\v
in

tri

so
kn
sli

Tr
<le

\vi
aif;

I'cr
see
u'ri
ino
iiHj;
iii'i
wii

her

S"l'

for

I
wit
see

toai

tliei

seci

,c, yet lie was your

10 quoriod, turning
" Then, willi an cx-
, " I am glad he is
like voice — " a slave,

efore he reached the
) tears, sobbed oul,
ss Aideane, this will

ddie, who had been
ilently and bitterly,
is already dead !" he
vhite and still."
the agoniziniT f*een(>
jeonore's restoration
It she was in good
1 her. But now she
iced. She arose, and
ogether, passed into

1 a physician, were
s, and was regarding

png her to conscious-
i very glad you have
! are with the colonel,
has passed has pro-
"lirious."

h surprise or interest
'ore too wholly en-
;ed herself upon lier
lildcred countenance
ind her.
the doctor.

.1 Lf) i:.\ \ !■:.

2t»3

Aldenne approaeluMl her, and took Iior hand. T.eonorn
at that moni-nt seemed to have a siiuht neollcclimi ,,r
what hal transpiivl, \\.v ,liimitig tn Uw IViri! 1 sli ■ cri .,1
in iVen/aeil aceciits : —

"Tell me, ii'll nr\ AM-ane, what has happenc i ! A!i ! is it
true that (icorgc! that (icorge — " Shegaspel rnrl'jvath.
AMcanc could make no reply. The alteiilaiits tunu'd
sobbing away, !iiid the kind-hearted doetor, mIio had
known and loved Leonore from her binli — groaned
slightly. °

T,eonoro looked wildly from (ace to face. "Ah, ves !
T remember ! I remember I" she shrieked at last. " Oh", his
dear face was bruised, and his lips mamrled so!" And
with a wild scream she fell back upon the pillows and
again became luicouseions.

Tlinnigh all the events of the morning, Aideane had
remain<'d eabn .and tearless. The fountain of her tears
seemed drieil by the very intensity of her horror and
grief; but now, wlien lier womanly symj>athies Avere
most strongly aroused by the sight of Leonoiv's sulfer-
ings, tears burst vehemently fortii, streaming freely over
her p.ale cheeks, and falling n])on those paler still over
which she bent.

A low moan of deep anguish, after a long ]ieriod,
heralded Leonore's second return to consciousness. She
s^'cmed to be ])erfectly aware of all that had befallen her,
for she jiartly arose and <Tied : —
"I must see him once morel"

vVnd as they endoavore<l to restrain her, site strn:r'^l(>d
with tliem feebly, saying : "Lot me go to him! I will
see him again !"

"You shall soon, dearest," said Aldeano, through her
tears. " IJut wait a little while, vou will be stron«-er
then."

Leonore looked at her for a moment wildly. Her ey(>s
Beeme<l kirning ar.d dry, but i)resently l!'c>y beeaino

20-t

ALDEANE.

humid, niul with a gasping sob she throw her arms
around Ahloano, and laying her face upon ner bosom

^The'doctoV seemed much relieved at this exhil>ition of
feelin'T "There! there!" he said, "that is better^
Then'to Aldeane. " I can leave her now wivh you with-
out immediate danger of her fainting agam. I will go
now to Colonel ArendcU. I fear tha'. he needs my ser-
vices as much, if not more than his daughter.

Leonore wept for a long time, and Aldeane endeavored
in v;iin to comfort her: not striving to repress her tears,
but to produce a less spasmodic and more quiet flow.
An old gentleman entered the room. It was the clergy-
man who was to have performed the marriage ceremony
Leonore cried bitterly as she recognized him. He seemed
greutly affected, and Tvhispered to Aldeane :—

"Leave her alone wi:h me a few mmutes. I would
comfort her if possible. Jesus hath balm for every

^Aldeane arose, and motioning him to her chair, then
beckoning to the servants to follow her, left the room.

In the hall she met Mr. Blake.

"I want to speak to you," he said. "No one else
Bcems rational. Come into the library a moment, it you

^ Shefollowed him into the designated apartment, and
took a seat near the window. Mr. Blake remained
standing, looking at her doubtfully.

"This is ?. very sad thing. Miss Aldeane," he said at
last with a sigh.

She bowed assent.

"You see," he continued, « that I did hear his voice
last night, although you all seemed incredulous at the
time. Still to me it sounded like the voice of a child.

"It was probably the shrill tone of despair and the
distance that gave it the well remembered sound," replied

ALDBAliF.

205

le threw lier arms
36 upon nor bosom

It this exhibition of
"that is better!"'
now wivh you, with-
g agiiin. I will go
\% ho needs my ser-
iaughter."
AUieiuie endeavored
to repress lier tears,
id more quiet flow.
It was the clergy-
marriage ceremony,
zed him. He seemed
.Ideanc : —

r minutes. I would
ith balm for every

m to her chair, then
her, left the room.

?aid. "No one else
iry a moment, if you

ated apartment, and
yir. Blake remained

Aldcane," he said at

I did hear his voice
id incredulous at the
he voice of a child."
e of despair and the
ibered sound," replied

Aldeane. " You know a slight resemblance will awaken
remenibranecs of things fraught with cruelty or injustice."

lie colored deeply, and bit his li])s nervously. "I
wanted to speak to you about the funeral," he said, at
length. " I am hesitating w'.. ether to have him buried in
tiie grave-yard of the whites, or blacks."

Aldeane arose^a flush of uidignation mantling her face.
"You have nothing to do with the matter, I l.ilieve!"
she said, hastily. "Mrs. Areudell will no doubt see that
due honor is awarded to the remains of her daughter's
betrothed husband."

" I did not mean to offend you, ^Miss Guthrie," an-
swered Mr. Blake, humbly. " You know that my desire
is altogether on the contrary." Aldeane started, impa-
tiently. " But it seems that I can never hope to win
your regard,"

"That is true, sir; you, indeed, never can!" replied
Aldeane, haughtily. "If this is all you have to say to
me, I will go. Mrs. ArendcU can, no doubt, be consulted
concerning the burial of Mr. Raymond."

Mr. Blake sighed deeply, twirling his hat in Jus hands
uneasily. Aldeane passed out, and in the hall met the
clergyman, who had just left Leonore.

" How is Leonore, now, Mr. Aldery ?" she asked.

" Calmer than when you left her, but still inconsolable.
She screams, and appears ready to faint every time poor
Raymond's name is mentioned. I suppose she knows
nothing of his being of negro blood ?"

" Nothing," answered Aldeane. " But I suppose it is
pU over the country before this — such news travels fast."

" Oh, yes ! I hoard it on my way here. You may im-
agine how I was shocked. I had been summoned to a
place of joy, and fomid the habitation of mourning and
desolation. I stationed a servant at each road, to inter-
cept the wedding guests, if any should come. Several
have been turned back, I believe."

tii»(J

.4 /. I) i: A NK.

" You iiro very llioiiLrlnriil, Mr. AMery."

"Do you know wlrsi tlic I'luural will trke i-liico, Misrt

riutliric'v"

"'ro-uKiiniw, 1 prcMUMc. Mi'anwhiU', Mr. AMiry, I
hopi- you will ivniaiu with us. We •A\ uccd cdUirort."

"You liavi- liornc u)) w(ui<icrtully. Miss (;uthric," rc-
plii-a tlu- luiuisti'!-, luukiiitr at her comi.assioii.vtily. " You
arc very pale, :<>y cliilil. Try uow to ohtaiu a little ro: t.

"I do net uocd it yet ; how can T, wluii otiic'-s aro suf-
(Vriui? ^o much iiuir'c deeply, Mr. Aldcry? I luust uo
now an<l see to the servants. Mrs. Arendell is still with
the colonel, I suppose."

The tjood minister turned away, with a siu;h, ami
Aldeane proceeded to the kitchen, hopinji to find .\unl
Uoxy there, hut it was deserted, save t.yoiu' little urchin,
who was roHiiii,' »!'"" <•"' *'"'"'' ^''•''"i"'"'?-' horrihly, and
crying distractedly.

"Hercules, Hercules! Avhat is the matter?" exclaimed
Ahleane, shakiuu; hini by the arm. " For nuury's sake,
child, tell nu' wliat is the nuitter r"

" Oh, I didn't go tor to drownd ]\iass'r George. I
didn't CO for to drownd him !" he sohhed.

"Wiiy! whiit do you nu'anV What had you ti do
with. itV" demanded' Aldeano, greatly mystitied by tlu-
cliild's words.

"Oh, I hung up de snake in de tree to n.-ke it rain!
hut I only 'spected it to rain a lectle, jest 'n\dl" to make
de corn <}row. T never had no idee of its comiu' so's to
drownd Mass'r (ieorge 1" And he burst into a fresh series
of screams, grimaces, and eoAtortions.

'• Why, 1 1 ercules !" replied Aldeane, scarcely, even in her
distress, able to rei>ress a smile at his ludicrous a]>i>ear-.
ance. "Tlu' snake didn't make it rain. Yon had noth-
ing to do with it. (4od sent the tempest." After Bonu>
time she succeeded in making the child believe this ; then
she left him au<l relurned l.eonore's rot)m.

ALDEANE.

207

ilcry."

will t.'kf plncc, MisH

•liilo, Air. Aldcry, I
iiU lu'i'd c'oinlbrt."
,-, Miss (itilhm'," rc-
ipiissionatfiy. " Voii
obtain ii little rt-rt.
wluM «tli(""s aro siif-
VlikTy? I imisf uo
AroiuU'll is still with

r, with r. sin;h, and
hopinsj; to find Ainit
> hy one little urchin,
iiiaciuij: horribly, and

• inattiTf oxclaiincd
" For mercy's sake,

d Aiass'r Gcovgc. I

)bbed.

Vhat liad you ti do

illy mystitied by the

tree to ^^■•^o it ruin !
,le, jest 'null" to nuvke
of its coniin' so's to
irst into a fresh series

IS.

c, scarcely, even in her
his ludicrous a]>i>oar-.
rain. \o\\ had noth-
?nipest." After Bonu'
liihl believe this ; then
i room.

She found her still weejiin',^ hystcricnlly. Her mother
was with her, striviii-- to impart consolation, while sho
needed it .•linmst as much lurMll'. She seenu'd nearlv
ediaiistod, ami Aldcane f.-r the lirst time rememl.crei'l
that tiu'y had tasted nothinij for the d.ay. Quickly leav-
ing- the room, she went down into the diniuix-rnom. 'I'he
wcddin-f breakfast, still untouched, was spread upon \\w
table. I'lacinu a jilate of cold chi.-lcen and biscuits upon
a salver, with a decanter of wine and some jxlassos, she
took them up to JiCouore's room.

Airs. Arcndcll seemed very cjratefiil to Aldcane f.r thirt
thought fulness, mid a irlass of the genial wine nave new
life to Leonore's llatiLtinLC pulse.

"iSldeane," she said, entreatiiigly, "I nuist see him
now; I can wait no lontrer."

Without a word, Aldcane passed her arm around her,
and supported her down the stairs. At the i)arlor <hior
they paused for u nionu'nt.

"Can you bear it?" whispered Aldeane.

" I must see him," murmured Leonore, layim^ her hand
. '. m the knob of the door.

ihey went in. The room Avas deserted and daikened.
Approaehintj the covj.se, Leonore drew down the sheet
th;it covered the face cf the dead, 'ooked at it with awful
calmness for a few moments, then sinkini; upon her knees
at his side, remained for some time in silent prayer. The
niyed clergyni.-m, unperceived, had entered, and regarded
lier Avith a look of de(>]) aiul tender solicitude.

" Aly daughter," he said, as Leonore arose from lier
knees, and bent over lu-r dead lover, "my daughter, trust
in God. Endeavor to become resigned to this great in-
fliction, it may be the least of two evils that have been
hanging over you."

Leonore nuide no reply, but drew the sheet farther
down. Haynijud's features had become more composed,
and his fa;e was less livid than when she hail looked

208

ALDEANE.

upon him in the nioininf?. Thi-y liu<l unuycd him in !i
ln-autifiil Huit lie liiitl imri>()«»Ml t.. wciir :il his hri(hil.
Ilin hands wiTc I'olilcd upon liin Inrast, iind :i look of
drop ciiiiani'ss had sottli'il over him. 'Vr.xw*, of vioh'iit
]»8Ht»ionH wore still vi^ihle upon his fiwo, hut they Avere
very tliin and seemed almost mer;;ed into ju'rfeet se-
renity.

" Yes," said Leonore, slowly, " this may indeed \m
tlie least of two evils. I might have forgotten the com-
mandment, ' Make not unto yourself idols,' and with it
my Ciod. I ean never forget now the hantl that has
smitten me."

" Still (iod will be merciful to yon. Can you believe
that V" asked the minister.

" Yes, Jesus lives," she returned with simple faith, in
a voice that revealed to her listeners that all of comfort,
or hop.' to her, was in the name of the lledeemer.

She looked again upon her lover. Something appeared
to attract her attention. IJending down, she drew forth
from the vest pocket a tiny gold circlet, the wedding
ring. She threw herself upon the body with a moan of
despair. ^Ir. Aldery raised her in his arms. She placed
the ring ni.on her finger, kissing it and crying frantically.
" I am his wife ! I will stay with him. Let me die upon
his bosom!" and she threw herself again upon her lover,
kissing his cold lips eagerly, and calling his name in
piercing tones.

With some difficulty, Mr. Aldery raised her up, and
bore lu-r away ; while, unable longer to control her feel-
ings, Aldeane sank into a chair, and cried aloud in her

anguish.

The day passed very drearily. The negroes gathered
in groups in the garden and cabins, and with awe-stricken
voices talked of what had transpired, scarcely able to

realize it.

Colonel Arendell was delirious all day, and talked

mot

he '

as p

dee

loui

in h

bad

hori

to p

the

Jilal

men

was

told

sign:

witn

unfo

her

the 1

and]

coult

arose

that

said:

"I.

bofor

Al.

the 1

mond

flowe

mouri

gathe

•1 urruyed liiia »» n
wciir ;it Ms bridal,
cast, aiul a look of
TracoM of violent
fa<'(<, Imt tlii'y Avorc
I'll into jii'i-ft'i't 80-

luH may in«l«'0(l ho

i foi-jjotten the coin-

f idols,' and with it

tl»c hand that has

. Can you bolievo

vith simple faith, in
that all of comfort,
le lledccmer.
Something appeared
own, she drew forth
•irelet, the wedding
ody with a moan of
18 arms. She plaeed
ul crying frantically,
n. Let me die upon
gain upon her lover,
calling his name in

raised her up, and
■r to control her feel-
l cried aloud in her

he negrocB gathered
ind with awe-stricken
red, scarcely able to

all day, and talked

ALD K.\ X i:.

200

incoherently, and som.'tinu-s so loudly and wildly, that
he was heanl all over the house, arons'ing even fA-onor.',
as she lay wnpiiigaiid moaning in her cl.jwnlK-r, from her
<leep grief, to a rague feeling of terror as she heard his
loud ravings.

Aunt Samira was in one of the cabins almost insane
in her wild grief, calling upon her fonner master to come
back, and upon herdeail son. The negroes listened with
horror to her cries, then turned away, and lell her alone
to pour out tier woe.

It had been arranged that the funeral should take place
the m-xt day. It was to be as private as possible, ^fr.
IJlake umU'Hook every thing connected with the inter-
ment, and, according to Airs. Arenclell's directions, all
was done with pnipriety and elegance. Leonore was
told when the burial would take place, and imnu-diately
signified lu'r intention of accompanying the family, to
witness the cKjsing ceremonies of respect paid to her
unfortunate lover.

Mrs, Arendell and Aldeano begged her to desist from
her j.urpose, fearing that she would not bo able to bear
the last cruel separation ; but she begged so earnestly
and piteously to be allowed to Ik; present, that her motluT
could not deny her the sad privilege.

Afler a night i)assed in teai-s and prayers. Leonoro
arose, and calmly arraying herself in mourning garments
that had been hastily prepared, turned to Aldeane and
said : —

" Let us go down now. I would see him once raoro,
before strangers come to intrude upon my grief."

Aldeane silently took lier hand, and led her down into
the parlor. Frank and Eddie were leaning over Ray-
mond, who now reposed in a handsome -jolMn, piacin-^
flowers around liim. They were well ch..sen. The
mournful periwinkle and violet were all that tliey had
gathered to place n-ar iiim, whose life Iiad been s<. Ii,"iee!y

'21')

,t /, /) /•; .1 y K.

,„.l. m>\ tunrbi.Uv mnMl.l.. to uloom -.nwl m..li»nH...ly.
Yh th.-M- Hnwrrs", lik.' Lis ,lis,u,sir.o.., ,.osM..M..l muHi
«wt...tm..H, !UmI tl...n-l. typi.-al of Hormw nn.l .l.ulh, wuv
al... ..n.l.l.nialiral of fi.it lifuliu'ss iiiui l.riU.ty. _

.I.,.M.. M In.MrtlM. l.nVNi.alffnu'l.l.i..aiUll...si-lu

of .l.'Mll. Im Iut l.iui.l wan clasia-l a mn-l.' HH.vvy was-
lik,. tlovv.T. L.oaoiv Inuk it fn.n. luT, an,! i.la.-iM^' it
over llavmon.rs l.rart, wl,is,,..n.,l : •' Inunortal.ly.

Ul.-a.u- io..k.'.l at lurii. HurpriH.-, as «li<' l.cat to kiss
tl... lips of iMT .l.a.l lov.T. SI,., was ,u.rf.r>ly .aim an.i
t..arl.-ss. A .1...... S..1TOW s....,...! spn a.l owr iuT wImI-

face, una hn- >-y.'s wer.. full of a-ony a-wl -loo.ny U-u-
,U.,,u.ss. She s....m.'.l to l.avv w.^' """1 ''"' ';'7^';''

fuuntai.. was ..xl,austoa,an.l t.ow calmly a.al a.s,,a.rn.-ly
awaiti'il llu- «'inl. .

Soon, ,u-i'l- who ha.l .otn.. to tl.o <„nm-al-«o,m- tro.u
,n..v n.riositv, others as fmm.ls of tl,.. la.mly, an.l a t..w
fn.m muv Horr..w-lK'ixm. to ass..ml.l.>, ai.'l ....n-ivsiatM.-

to;,n.tlu.r, spoke i,. l-.w whis,,..rs, whi..|. faiL'^ to anms..
T,.M.„o.-.. fr.m, th.. a,,atl.y into whi.'!. slu' ha.! lalhu. Mu
K-it l.v tlu' si.l.. of Wavmon.l. Om' arm ll.n.w.i across
him, the other upraisnl, tlu- han.l .•ov.rm- her la.-.
.Mr- Arc.ml..!! (.am., i.. with Mr. Ahlery, an.l the .ervi.-es
;„.m aft..rwar.l ..o,M>m.m....l. They w..re short i.»t .m-

uressive; ami all the as^.-mhla-.' w..i.t, sav.. h.r wh-.M'
!n.i..f was .l....,.est. She still retaim.^l the same at l.tu.l..,

movin.r sli..'htlv wh..u one after another eame to take a
last h.ok at all 'thai was m..rtal .)f (ieor-e Uaym.m.l.

At last Mr. Ulake and sonu' others approaeh...! to .•!.-•■
the e.,tlin', preparatory to renn.vin- it. Mr.' T.lak.- ....nlly

vaisea her arm, and, lor the tirst tim.- she un...n-en.a „ :■
fue.N an.l h.ok.Ml n,. in.imrin._ay. All were sho..kea at \u
ehan.'.' manitest v: hw eounten.ane... U. was ..t an ash. u
luR. an.l .le.'P lin .s of hlue covered her ...)mpr..sse.l lips,
I'dUvaiJ.dhe.mmnduleyes. Ih.r little hands, as
tlu'V lav "!.'>n l''''' '"1'^' >^ -armenls, apiH-ar...l ..maciat.'-l,

nn.

hill
lil;i

hro

the

h..r

pia;

lip i

fero

risir

kiss.

(•(.(.I

ahoii

HO ft I
lii

(ill's.)

Ala..

acraiii

.slic 1.

"'I

and II

feebly

won.l

IxM'an

lay 11 1

ana t.

the !,'!

A c;

aspUi

the 1,1

.'■iiiiliifl

■^ J. i> r.i x/:.

211

inn, ]l^)!*»('^'H»'ll Illlirh
•niw mikI ilc!Uli,«t'i<'

I ln'iiitty.
i.^Milclliil lit I lie ciitlil

II wiiiirl*' '<iH)\vy w;i\-
luT, ami i»liii'iM;4 it

' lininortiility."
>, an nil!' lifut to kir**
s pi>rti'c>ly ciilin aii'l
l>n ml "Vi-r lu-r whit''
IMV ilMil JiloKlliy tcii-
jil" until tilt' ffystiil
linly :in(l(U'(*l)airiiiirly

ic finicivil— sitiin- tVniu

the iiimiiy, iiiiil a few
1)Ip, ami couviivjiatiii'.';
^■liicl\ t'aili'il to arouse
li sill' IkmI I'allrii. Mil'
IC arm throw ii aorons
III cdvci'in'j; h«'i" 1'a<'i'.
liU'i-y, ami tlie scrvifcs
V wi'i-i' sli(U't but iin-

wcpt. save li<r wIiom'
ncil till" saiiu- attitiKlc,
uiotluT came to tako a

(u'or'^c ISaymond.
ors ;ip]iroaclit'<l to close
■jit. iMr.' IMakc izciitly

imc she uiicovcrcil li; '."
Ml wore Khookcil at tlio
I'c. It was of ail asli« 11
'il hor comi>ri'ssc(l lipx,
I. llcr littl'.' hands, us
is, iiinn'arcil cinaciatc'l,

a 1 I X w.,h Hu,1cn„,.. Alllookcl n,.on he pi.vin^Iv
■ iK' .viraninl them m.t, i.n, Mill lo.,Kc.| , ,. a, V,.'
» '^•,nM,uiri,„My,n„.| ,vi,h a nliu^ht aspect of re .roach

i..-o^:;,;:;;rh:;;^;',: -->-'^>'-^'--"".Ai,.crc,,

Ml." .vmaincl a .mmmnt as if stniH-ficl, tlun Lent ovr

oo psc ami lay.n. her hca.l n, si ,„, c ,

-, s .Inn. deeply, uhil,' l.cr ,ip. ,„.,,,, ,, ,, ,,
'•'.^"- ""■ ^'"<-l deriryniai, l,.',„ his head, ami oircd

'•.':'• l"'MreM,^Mh re,p,ired seemed ,dven to her- ti.r

M....s|u.,«azed.,p.n,thel.,.iuved(an.,.„cen.o. .', :

;;'-ll..seo,dlip,amH;'eldy.m.,l I to , li; ,: p:,;:

'''•'; •■""!■; was Hoon screwed down, aii.l il.c men were

Ald.'anein a deathlike swoon. .i"'- ami

Tho earria^^cs were n-turnin^ from the ^, ave when she
■M^.. in he.'an,e .'onscmus. | J,.isi„. ,,,,,,„. j,,^. .„

••^Iie looked out, and said:— .

"They have returned. All then is over. liavnmnd
""d my heart are buried L.-ethor." -it.ivmon.l

A short time afh-rward she "arose and ^lowlv and
'-'•l.v ^yalke.l n.toan adjoinin. roon. Aldeane follow
;--'-•.... much what her motn'e couhl he. : '

•"-""" "I'pa-ent. The weddin,. dress ami paraphern..
;y';i".".u.l.ed. Approachi,.. it she sat 'h.w "

. ..ok the Garments in her hands, passing then, over
tlu^hstemi.^satn.an, throu.il the, olds of nehlaee.
A c. 1 et lay l.es>d.' her. ( »penin,r it. she took from it

n^.l...^.setof.l.amomls-Kaymo„d's.i,. sheclas:.:
'""I'.^l't tell u,,on the sparklim^. .<.n.s, smiled almost

212

ALDEA.VE.

,„ock\nMv. Aanm m,cU»ping them Ac replaced them

'"^^::irA;s™aYS;r;^--oon,et
me h! h„,« i^ ."y;f •«"i,,t':.-i,,' r;; t" ::^

V mv hanpv nuptial-tlay. ln« tliamoims i ^iv j

me ThcMCwels of Heaven will Hliine l.nghtei lot me.

Weeping, Aldeano murmured her promise.

"Now leave me alone a little while.
Vklole turned away, and went to her own room, and
pl^c d tl" W - drawer of her writing-desMhen

throwin' he self upon the hed she wept, until tied
nature daimed repose in sleep, while Leonore m solitude
wrentreating 5iat heavenly strength and gmdanco
^hich alone eould enable her to live under the dire
afflictions that had darkened her young We.

;m she replaced them

(1 each article of the

lompletoil Hhe i)acke(i

2k trunk, locked it, and

cy, sayint;; : —

low it will be soon, let

iS, for that will indeed

iamonds I give to you.

inr;, in remembrance )t

hine brighter for me."

er promise.

while."

t to her own room, and

)f her writing-desk, then

she wept, until tired
hile Leonore in solitude
strength and guidance

to live under the dire
young life.

CHAPTER XXV.

A LONG AND FATKFUL TALK.

For several days after the terrible excitement produced
by Raymond's death and burial, Aldeane felt but little
curiosity to leani more of his life than that which had
been so tragically revealed, but one day a few words from
Mr. Blake caused her to remember that it was toward him
Raymond's vengeance was directed, and also that he h;ul
insinuated that his story had been written for her perusa!,
because of some possible benefit it might one day be to
her. Thinking of all this, she retired earlier than usual
one evening, and although she was quite wearied out with
much attendance upon Colonel Arendell, who for some
days remained extremely ill, and with quiet devotion to
Leonore, whom she saw with consternation gave evident
tokens, not only of mental anguish, but of decided ill-
health, she drew the curtains, locked the door, and taking
the packet from its resting-place, seated hert,?lf for its
perusal.

As was natural the pack^ aroused many painful
recollections, and she shed '^ny tears, and hesitated
long ere she could break the seal, and even Avhen that
was done, the writing, albeit unusually large and clear,
seemed dim and blurred to her vision, so 4hat for some
time she could scarcely trace even the divisions of the
lines. When she had somewhat composed herself, she saw
that the manuscript was without preface of any kind, and
that it began abruptly thus : —

" Thirty years ago, Grassmere, the place now owned by

214

A LDICA Xi:

Cnliincl Ari-iidi-U, was the proporty of lii« '.>r()tl)er
Williiiin.

"Tills l.rntluT was wilil and oxtravatrant, yoi of an o])cn,
kind disposilioii, and u'lncroiis to a fanlt. Ah sncli men
nxnally arc, lif was liilovcil by all, and by all imposed
npoii. ' The place had lurn left to him hy his father, free
from debts, b\it di<l not remain so long after he obtained
nolo possession, lie at last beeame deeply indebted to
Colonel Arend'U, whose wife it was said had t-ndeavored
to win his love, bnt failing, had received the addresses of
John, and had at last marrieil liini. Be this as it may,
she seemed to harbor no ill-fecrnig toward him, but on
the contrary frennently nrged her husband to loan him
lartje s>nns, though she violently opposed his accommo-
datinir any one else in the slightest degree,
C "William Arendell at this time owned two mulatto
girls. One was exceedingly handsome, named Sainira.
it is of her alone I have need to speak. That woman,
who Ptill lives, and is known to you, bore to her master
a son, the unhappy being who pens these lines to you."

Aldeane knew all this, yet she i)ansed to think of all
the misery this knowledge had eavised the proud heart,
now forever still, and then with an eager desire to leani
more, she caught up the ])aper and continued : —

"Strange to say, my father owned me as his child —
even loved me. I was like him, Avith tiie addition of a
childish beauty perfectffb-emarkable, and which rapidly
increased Avith my yv.wMt^uw may think this a strange
thing for me to speak o^Tbut it accoimts for my father's
\QyQ — not always under these circumstances a sequence
to patennty-j*nd also for some thhigs which happened
later.

"I was a happy child, a very hap])y child, until I
became about six years old. vdy mother was virtually
mistress ol the jilantation ; and even the master of it,
had he wislied to do so, scarcely dared to cross me. 1

•ty of liis 'ifotlicr

iQ;ant, yei of an ojh'ii,
fault. Ah such men
and 1>y all inclosed
ni by his fatlu r, fri'o
ug after hv ohtnincfl
B deeply indebted to
<aid had endeavored
ved the addresses of
Be this as it may,
toward him, but on
liusband to loan liini
tposed his accommo-
degree,

owned two mnlatlo
ome, named Samira.
ipeak. That woman,
a, bore to lier master
hese lines to you."
)ansed to think of all
<ed the proud heart,
eager desire to learn
continued : —
led me as his eliild —
th tile addition of a
e, a!id M'hieh rapidly
f think this a strange
oiuits for my father's
unstanees a sequence
ings which happened

liapi)y child, until I
mother was virtiuilly
en the master of it,
lared to cross me. 1

.1 /> /> AM .V /■;. .oj,-

rcinetiii.er iinw (iiat t!ie plantation was tlic sc^^nc of a
thousand wild orgies, and ihat a great many of (he least
favored negroes nioiirncl over them a great il.al, and
then suddenly disappeared, sacritiees to their master's
extravagancies.

"At last tlicn> came a time wlion, for siv luoiitlis or
more, scarcely a guest entered the liouse, and my father
seemed a changed man. At the end of that time lie
entered my mother's cabin, took me on his kuee, played
with me a short time, and tiien suddenly kissing me, said,
'Samira, 1 am going to be married !'

"My mother threw herself into a chair, clasping her
liands over her heart, as if to repress some vic^lent'emo-
tion, but failing, wept passionately. 3Iy father looked at
her sorrowfully. I st niggled to get away from him, that,
I might go to comfort my motiier, whose wild grief 1
could not comprehend; but he held me tightlv, caressing
me, and bi<Ming me be still. My mother at last nnii-
miired brokenly : —

'"Ah ! Mass'r William ! what is to become ot tiie boy
poor little June';"

"'Dry your tears, and listen to me, Samira,' he an-
swered, laying his hand on her shoulder. She endeavored
to do as he wished, and was soon appaivntly calm.

'"Junius must go North, and you with liim,' were his
next Avords.

" ' Anil leave you forever?' she queried (vildly, her love
rising above all other feelings, v*'

" ' Yes. You know Samira, hait I been able, had the
laws allowed it, I would have married you. IJut, at any
rate, our child shall be free.'

'•'Yea,' Just because you don't want your wife to
see your son, and so send us away among strangers,
where we will be scorneil by everybody. I don't want
to go! r wish I was dead, and Junius too!' she cried
l)assionately,_J

216

ALDEANE.

" ' Samira,' said hor master sternly, ' never speak to me
in that manner again, remember that I am your master,
though the father of your child. It is love Cor him, and
a desire for your happiness alone, that prompts me to
send you away.'

" ' You loved me once,' she moaned.

"A dark tlush passed over his face. 'Yes, it is true,'
he replied, ' but not as I love the lady that I am about
to marry.'

" ' Y''e8. If I had been white and rich, I might have
been mistress here, instead of tool and slave,' she mut-
tered bitterly.

" ' Perhaps so ! Uut this lady is not rich, she does not

own even one slave.'

" ' Where does she live ?'

" ' In county.'

" ' When are you going to be married ?'

" ' Very soon — in about three months.'

"My mother covered her face, sobbing wildly. At
last she liilcL 'ler head, and said, brokenly : ' When must
we go, Mass'r William T

" ' Soon,' he answered. Then looking at me, pressed
me to his bosom, an expression of grief and pain passing
over his face, as he laid it upon my clustering curls
murmuring, ' My poor little boy ! my poor little boy !'

" ' I don't want to go away, without you, papa,' I said
through my tears, for I had cried, 8inc<^ first witnessing
my mother's agitation, feeling intuitively that some great
Borrow was about to fall upon us.

" ' There is time enough* to talk about it,' he rfeplied.
Lifting me off his knee, and glancing compassionately at
my sorrow-stricken mother, he strode from the cabin.

"It soon became known to the rest of the slaves that
the master was about to be married. I had never been
a favorite on the plantation, as all knew that I was not a
mere slave, and supposed that, at some time, Islwuld

ai:

sif

pil

SO]

sei
m;
bri
ob

ho
mc
dr.
^•ic
am
litt
vie
wa
do'
for
sto
lad
ruH
anc
'G
cro
cla!

AL D EAXE.

217

y, ' never speak to mc

vt I am your master,

t is love \or him, and

that prompts me to

ed.

K-e. ' Yes, it is true,'

lady that I am about

id rich, I might have
and slave,' she mut-

uot rich, she does not

irried ?'
)nth8.'
sobbing wildly. At
rakenly : ' When must

loking at me, pressed
grief and pain passing
1 my clustering curls
my poor little boy !'
Iiout you, papa,' I said
, 8inc^^ first witnessing
itively that some great

c about it,' he rfeplied.
ing compassionately at
ode from the cabin.

rest of the slaves that
cd. I had never been

knew that I was not a
it some time, I sliould

be emancipated and raised above them. I often received
unkind words and looks, though seldom blows, ibr they
feared my mother and tlieir ma-ter too much to iraltrcat
me. After this, however, their manner changed toward
me. Pity took tlie place of envy, and solicitude of
anger; for they sujjposed tliat we should be sent North—
ii word to them synonymous with utter wretchedness—
to earn our living among unpitying strangers; or that I
should be kept at home to be the special object of oppres-
sion and hatred of a proud and exacting mistress.

"Instead, then, of being hated by all, each seemed to
pity me and my wretched mother, wlio seemed to dread
separation from my father even worse than continued
servitude in his presence, and at her old home, where
many days of happiness had been passed, the remem-
brance of which even acute sorrow could not wholly
obliterate.

"At last our master lirought his bride homo. Ah!
how well I remember tliat day! All the slaves, save
mother and myself, were dressed in holiday array. Tlieir
dread of a new mistress seemed forgotten, and they
jiied with each other in loud protestations of attachment
and obedience. My poor mother remained alone in her
little cabin, weeping over me, while I, terrified at her
violent grief, remained quietly in her arms. As the sun
was near its setting, I heard a carriage rollin^ heavily
down the road, and rushed to the window, my mother
forgetting me in a fresh paroxysm of grief The carriage
stopped at the gate, and I saw Mr. Arendell hand out"a
lady. I shouted, ' Pa ! pa has come I' and was about to
rush from the room. My mother sprang to the door
and locked it, her face livid with watching and waiting.
' Go back !' she commanded. Trembling, I obeyed, anTl
crouched in a seat by the window, following me she
clasped ray arm until I shrieked with pain.

! I forgot!' she muttered, 'I believe I shall '^o

"•S.,

218

ALD EAyE.

mad. Liston to me, Junius, Never let me hear you call
Maas'r William pa again, he is not your pa, and you
must not call him so.'

" ' Yes, he is,' I began. Hut she raised her hand with a
l)a8sionate gesture, as if to strike, and with a cry of terror
I shrank from her, and lay down, hiding my h"ad in the
pillows of my cot on which I had seated myself, and cry-
ing bitterly, watched lier, as with a countenance palo
with grief, and gradually becoming stony in its coldness,
slic moved noiselessly about the room. As the dark
shadows of night fell darkly over us, rendering her almost
indistinct, I iell asleep, with the first sorrow of my life
pressing painfully upon my young heart.

" The next day, late in the afternoon, I ran from the
cabin, ui Avhich my mother had kept me, fearing that her
mistress would see me, and yet knowing that at some
time she must, and hastening through the garden, soon
reached the arbor, now so completely overnm by the
wild trumpet-vine. It was then almost new, and very
beautiful. Throwing myself upon the bench, I wondered
for a long time why I could not see my father, and
whether he had ceased to love me, and who the Strang^
lady could be who had made my mother so unhappy,
and why ? I thought for a long time on these points,
and I suppose fell asleep. I was awakened by a sweet
voice, exclaming in accents of surprise : —
" ' Oh ! William, what a beautiful child ! Who is he ?'
" ' One of our— children.' He could not say slave.
" I opened my eyes, and beheld a very pretty young
la ly, small and fair, with a profusion of brown ringlets
d looping over a face of peculiar beauty. Slie leaned
upon the arm of Mr. Arendell, and was looking at me in
a kind of delijj|ited bewilderment. Not long however
did l?%Rze on her ; forgetting all my mother's com-
mands, in my joy at again seeing my father, for he had
been absent Bcveral days, I rushed toward him with a

fihoi
had

arni!
lilm
tears

over
it (

^^ (

iiidig
as if

tell ;
that :

you a
i lov(
"S
face V
Naid.
of foil

(HI

surpri

romen

•leed ?

"'I

you r
hitter]

Hi J

do wi
'twoul
I5ut ot
deprav
own fl(

replied

ALDEA N E.

let me hear you call
; your pa, and you

lised her hand with a

with a cry of terror
ding my h"ad in the
,ted myHclf, and cry-

a countenance palo
iitony in its coldness,
oom. As the dark
rendering her almost
St sorrow of my life
eart.
oon, I ran from the

me, fearing that her
owing that at some
igh the garden, soon
itely overnm by the
Imost new, and very
tie bench, I wondered
; see my father, and
and who the Strang^

mother so unhappy,
time on these points,
awakened by a sweet
ise : —

child ! Who is he ?'
lid not say slave,
a very pretty young
on of brown ringlets

beauty. She leaned
was looking at me in
Not long however
11 my mother's com-
ny father, for he had
d toward him^with a

219

shout of joy, exclaiming, 'Oh, pa! I'm so glad you're

"Vielding to his first impulse, ho clasped me in his
arms, k.sn.g me wannly. His ,vife looked fZ, ne
urn m amazement. At last, in . voice half-chok d vi h
toar^S «he demanded : ' Whose ,-hiId is that v'

He p ace,l me on the ground, a crimson "flush nassincr
over luH face as he replied :— passnig

"' It is the ..hild of a young .nulatto woma,..'

And yours! an.l yours?' she asked, ea^reriv not

Alice, J ou know I have not deceived you. Did I not
II you that my youth was spent wildlv, reclde sW

t\reT r '\;" "T^ "^« "'' '^"^« a„d'i.i,.oce t L'
nrhim. ' ^'"' ^''"' *'^* '^ ™^ ''"''^^' -^'' "-t to you,

" She lai,l her hand upon his arm, looking up into his
fi^ce wuh her gentle eyes. ' I do not wo.uier at '
S.U 1. He IS a beautiful image of vourself. You spoke
<.t iolh.., 'tis true, but I did not expect to find c-nme' '

siiipn. , Alice, can you reproach me so? Do von not

<KecU and do no , even now, conceal the truth from vou '

It would be impossible to do so, William ! B^t^^"l

ou niuke a slave of your own 'child?' he aided

L.tterly, ' or what will you do with him ?' "^

;-"M break his motWstll^t^r^t:^
Hut of course I shall free him t Am T H "

;'ST? '" r,- T- "■"""" ■"°^' -//Ua'^j;

OH n flesh and blood in bondac^e '-' ^

replij^" ''" '"' '"'^^ *''"^^' ^"-^ ^ '^^^ «tUl,' sh.

l^^.^^

220 .' . ALDEANE.

"IIo w.lko,! ur ami down excitedly. Wnilc sho
watohcl him, varviu;, ..notions of clisdum, .n^^'r, nu.
^4mplun,lovo,pss.l over her iacc. /-as hcM.an.

„non her I for-ot the s.-en.- I had witnossea ; her Htc.n
duesti^on. and his .Irange re,lies, and catch.ng her dress

I exclaimed ; — . ,. , \i„o„\.

" « Oh ! what a beautiful lady I where did pa- Mass x

at me, as one might gaze on a briUiaut jewel. \on
are beautiful, and his child I' she murniured. I lo^e
him, and I can not scorn you.'

» Mr Arendell threw liis arms around her. M> love,
my own, then you will not trample upon thai low-born

*''""'Jno ! no 1 his beauty conquers me ! William, I for-
give you, let him be the same as ever to you. 1 will

try not to be jealous.' ••»„<• i„.r -it

"Tears rose to her beautiful eyes, m spite ot her at
tempted -ayety, and with an inarticulate exclamation
she sprang from his embrace, and ran away to give vent
to her grief and surprise in solitude.

" I reniained with my father, asking him many questions
concerning his wife. He replied to none, but bade me
leave him. I did so, and looking back, caught a glimpse
of his tace, paler and more sorrowful than I ever saw it
before, or for a long time at\er.

"From this time my mistress treated me very kincllj ,
and at last really loved me. My mother soon loved, as
much as she at first had hated and feared her and
became entirely reconciled to her who had so completely
superseded her in her master's affections Ihree yeais
passed, in quiet happiness to all "^^ ^'-J™'"^.- „^"
children had come to open a new world of aftection to
the young wife, and strangely enough she showered

IICSS

^ LDKAyE.

921

xcitcfUy. "VVnilc sho

face. I was then, ami
fhcauty. Ah I lookc.l
[1 witnoHsed ; hor Htfin
and catching lier dross

where did pa— Massi-
ng on her knees, looked
brilliant jewel. ' You
[»c murmured, 'I love

around her. ' My love,
iple upon thai low-born

crs me ! AVilliam, I for-
as ever to you. I will

pves, in spite of her at-
narticulatc exclamation,
d ran away to give vent
ude.

sking him many questions
I to none, but bade me
,g back, caught a glimpse
owful than 1 ever saw it

} treated me very kindly,
ly mother soon loved, as
,ted and feared her, and
er who had so completely
1 affections. Three years
) all at Grassmere. No
lew world of affection to
ly enough she showered

much of her love upon me, making me Iier constant
attendant Shc^ taught mc to read ; and being quick-
wilted and an\ious to learn, I made great progress. I
was soon able u. n>a.l to her as she sewed. All ! how
many happy hours I have passed in her room at Grass-
mere, sitting at her feet, reading works that instructe.l
us well as amused me ! oftentimes interrupted by lu-r
sweet voice, exi)laiiiinp; difficult passages, or laughing
with me over some humorous scene. How much 1
learned to love her you can easily imagine.

" As I became oM enough to feel the degradation of
slavery, I longed to Hee from it. To go, no difference
where, so that I was unknown. The only drawback to
this longing, was the grief I felt at leaving my mistress.
The negroes, except my nu>tlier, Aunt Itoxy, and her
son Abel, I detested and despised, and would willingly
have parted from them forever.

" Preparations were many times commenceed for our
departure for the North, but mother could never endure
the thought of leaving her old home, so it was indefinitely
postponed ; and when I became about ten years old it
seemed likely to be delayed forever.

"All was peace and serenity at Grassmere, when sud-
denly a terrible tempest swept over it, devastating its
beauty and destroying all happiness forever. Of the
nature of this calamity I shall not speak. It is a secret
m the Arendell family, and I can not disclose it even to
you. Sufficii it to say, it took from our home its master
and from our hearts all peace and happiness. I shall
never forget the day that the impending evil first became
apparent to us. Jolin Arendell came to Grassmere, and
a scene of stormy recrimination and earnest denials took
I'lace in the trumpet-vine arbor. The brothers parted in
anger, and to this day remain unreconciled.

" Oh ! what darkness fell upon us that night ! Dark-
ness that rests over one in the grave, and upon inv heart

222

ALDEANE.

to this .lay. I Hhudaer as my thon(?hts tarn to that .Iroafl-
ful time, aiul as quickly as possihlc I will pasr, over it.

"The last time I saw my master, he was a fugitive trom
the law— I will not say just iec. My mistress, aeeompa-
nied only hy me, at midnight, led a horse to the e.^-o ot
the woods below Grassmere, and there we bade hmi lare-
well; wo did not think forever, but it was even so.

"I can not tell you all that we suHered at that tnno-
not from bodily want or privation, but from deep bitter-
ness of spirit. Mrs. Arendell, mother, an.l I, were to go
to Cuba, where ray master was to join us. Arrangements
were made as speedily and qui.'tly as possible Ihey
were but partially made when my mistress's only ehil.1
was born. Her sister came to her, to tind her dying.
Not many days elapsed ere the young mother died,leav-
in<^ her helpless child in the care of her sister. This was
my first great grief. I shall never forget the utter
wretchedness of my heart as I gazed upon the corpse ol
mv beautiful younu mistress. 1 placed some white rose-
buds-her favorit. iiowers— upon her fair bosom and
within the pale, wa.vcn hands, my heart swelling with the
deep grief that neither expressed itself in words or tears
For some time I remained as if stupefied ; so fully did 1
realize that mv best and only powerful friend on earth
was removed from me. Yet, even with the full sense of
desolation resting upon me, I had no conception ol the
trials that awaited me. IVriiaps it would have been bet-
ter for me had they been fully revealed, for my body as
well as spirit would then have sunk under it ; I should
have followed my beloved mistress, without further pain
or Buflfering, to an eariy grave. , „ j

" The day of the funeral arrived. John Arendell and
his wife came to Grassmere, and many neighbors flocked
in-some with curiosity-all with sympathy depicted on
their faces. In utter abandonment to my deep gnef, I
lay over r.ather than sat at the foot of the coffin. The

A 1. 1) A' A A'A*.

)>2'.i

ts tarn to that ilrcad-
[ will pass over it.
ic was a fugitive from
V iniHlress, aocompa-
iiorsi' to the Vi^<*o of
•re wi' ba(U' liiin lare-
it was c'vc'ii so.
irttTi'tl at that time-
but from (k'op bitter-
lor, aud I, were to go
ill us. Arrangements
y as possible. They

mistress's only child
r, to tind her dying,
ing mother died, leav-

her sister. This was
ver forget the utter
•d upon the corpse of
need some white rose-

her fair bosom and
eart swelling with the
:8elf in words or tears,
upefied ; so fully did I
.erful friend on earth
I with the full sense of

no conception of the
, would have been bet-
•ealed, for my body as
,nk under it ; I should
8, without further pain

1. John Arendell and
lany neighbors flocked
sympathy depicted on
lit to my deep grief, I
)ot of the coffin. The

negroes, weeping loudly, wi-re gathered around. I can
not reraeml)er any tiling of the services. I neither hcnrd
nor saw any thing. I was aroused from scnii-iineonscicnis-
ness by seeing some men approach to raise the cotliii. 'I'he
ulster of tile corpse bent down and kissed her, and with a
wild cry of despair I rushed Jbrward to look once m< re
upon the dear face soon to behi.ldeii from my gaze forever.
" Mrs. Arendell k^at near inc. Fixing "her cold eyes
upon mo disdaiiifully, she turned to the servants, com-
manding them to 'Keniove that child.'

"Xo one lieeded her words: wlien, in a peremptorv
tone, she repeated them. The servant who came with
them caught me in his arms and carried me, sobbing
loudly, away, llie fountain of tears was opened ; a
child's grief took the place of the passionate despair that
had bound me. I begged to go to the grave, but was not
permitted to, and long before the funeral train returned
I had cried myself to sleep, only to awaken to deeper
agony.

"John Arendell and his wife remained at Grassmere
with their overseer, Richard Blake, to settle affairs with
the sister of the deceased. A long conference took place
in the library, and excited voices were heard contending
loudly. The result of this was, that ^Miss Nellie— as the
servants called her— took the child, declaring that as
they wished to wrong lier out of most of the property,
they might take all ; that her pure liands should never
touch one cent of the money, and that she should not
even bear the name of the Arendell family. All that wo
could glean was, that Colonel Arendell had bought large
claims upon the estate, most of which my mother'declared
were false, for since his marriage, William Arendell had
been exceedingly prudent and economical, and had paid
nearly all his debts. Colonel Arendell seemed much ex-
cited during his stay at Grassmere. Mrs. Arendell and
the overseer transacted all the business. Arendell was a

32(

A li)i:ake.

more autoiiiivton in tlu ir liiu«ls. Tho nofrrocH all UkfiJ,
yet dcspJHcd him, ftH iniu-h as thuy Imtod aiul fciiroil hi«
wife. Tlu'y a'r«'a«ly t'llt llir in>ii rotl l>y which hIic rulftl,
and Hoorc'tlv i-oImUciI anaiiist iicr nnjuBt authority. An-n-
ilcll was mon- a slave than any in hiH wife'H handH, obey-
in-,' her slii^htest eaprice more in fear than love, even sin-
ninj^ deeply to -iralify In r avariee and love of po^er.
Silt- was a heantilul demon. Thank (iod, I.eonorc does
not even resemhle her in person, and, I Inixt, does not
possess one of her vile jjroi.ensities ! She was avaricious,
eruel, and unprimipled ! What worse can he saiil of a
woman ?

".Miss Nellie letl with the little orphan t-o days ailer
the funeral, leaving her small fortune in the hands of
Colonel Arendell, assnriii!; him that it should ni'ver he
claimed. I never saw or heard of either atlerward, hut
I trust that they both prospered. (Jod has ])romised to
l)rotcct tlie good, and she was truly one of that -lass.

"The estate was soon settled, and immediaio prepara-
tions were made for removing a part of the property to
Arendell House.

"Mrs. Arendell wished to reside at Grassmerc, as it
■was much handsomer than the house they then occupied,
but the colonel combated this desire with unusual reso-
lution and firmness. He se( mod to have taken the great-
est dislike to the place that 'lad been the home of his
childhood and youth. His mind was ever busy conjur-
ing up the forms of those, whom he, an unwilling instru-
n\ent in the hands of his wif;;, had wronged. As quickly
as possible, he removed a part of the family, including
my mother. Aunt lioxy, her son, a!>d mysvli' to Arendell
House, leaving the others to manage the fai::. and guard
the property. A valuable and beautiful place was Grass-
mere at that time. With all its present beauty, it is but a
wreck of its former self. The house is chilly and dark,
with behig always closed, and the grounds, but carelessly

w»

tin
Y.i

pul

('0>

all
As

nin

wo I

I'urt

hor

S\w

pail

hoj)

cam

slie

edg

eseii

put

roui

fath

love

han(

datii

pror

Init i

and

hclpl

fatht

lO ncfjrooH all Ukfil,
itod ttiul fcarocl bin
l>y wliu'h hIic niU'il,
St initliDrity. Aivii-

wifo'H hanclM, obey-

tliiiii lovi', fvon siii-
tlllll lovi' of po"iT.

(foJ, lit'onorc dooa
1(1, I Inixt, (loi'H not

She was uvaricioiiH,
HO can bo waiil of a

|)lian t--o tlavH ailcr
lie in the hnnils of
it fihouUl never bo
■ither afterward, but
od has ])romist'd to
one of that vlass.
, immediaJe prepara-
•t of the property to

at Grassmerc, as it
• they then occupied,
e with unusual reso-
have taken the great-
L>en the home of his
as ever busy conjur-
, an unwilling instru-
rongcd. Ah quickly
iho family, including
I mysvli" to Arendell
3 the fan:, and guard
tiful place was Grass-
cut beauty, it is but a
ie is chilly and dark,
•ounds, but carelessly

.f LDhlANE.

2dB

looked after, are nmning wild, while the half-ruined ar-
hors and houses, with their garnitures of untamed lux-
uriance, sIk.w plainly that part Jul dissolntion reignii
whore ail was onco order and choorfulnoss.

" Xo sooner were we settled at Arondoll IIouso, than
the hatred <.f its misfriNs toward mo bocamo apparent.
^ on know how such women lovo ; pasHionatoly, unscru-
l)ulousIy; so had she loved my father, but whoii siie dis-
'•overod that tliis lovo was rojootod, nhe hated liim, and
all belonging to him, as pasxiouatoly and unscrupulously.
As his child, I was foronl to bosir all the weight of her
malice, and it was very, very heavy.

" Aldoano, I can not toll you what I siifll^rod from that
woman; the numory of whom I would fain cast from mo
Inroyor, so utterly do I abhor it. I need not relate tho
horrible manner iu which she continually persecuted mo.
She madi- mo perform tlu' nujst menial (.tlices, and, under
pain of tho lash, forbade nu- to read any thing whatever,
hoping liius to break my spirit, humble my i>rido, and'
eauso nu- to forgot all that I had learned. In neither did
she succeed ; in secret I satisfied my yearning for knowl-
etlgo. I thought long and earnestly over many plans of
escape from bondage, but lacked surticicnt resolution to
put them in practice. I felt far superior to all that sur-
rounded me, an*' suppose.! that if I could roach my
father, ho would acknowledge me as his son, and by his
love and care, reward n>e for all that I suffered at the
hands of my cruel mistress. Her conduct laid the foun-
dation of that firmness, and pride, which have ever been
prominent traits in my character.

" Sometimes Colonel Arendell faintly pleaded for me,
but a word or a look silenced him, and with a deep sigh
and a remorseful look, he M'ould turn away, leaving me
helpless in the hands of my tormentors.

"At lirst I know that he wished to set me free, as my
father had intended to do, but hi« wife would listen to no
10*

226

AIDE Ay E.

such proposal. She preferred to keep me to vent her
Hpite and malice upon, and ftilly she did it. One can
Boarcely conceive of a woman so tierce, bo perKcvenns m
her haired as she was. Her black eyes would glow
with fury when I approached her, and her white hand
ring upon mv quivering flesh. But I will not sicken you
further, but pass on to an event that shaped all my lu-

'''^Mrs. Arcndell possessed an elegant diamond ring;
for some reason she valued it above all her jewels. ^V hen
I liad been with her some throe years she lost it bhe
was usually very careful, yet sometimes she would leave
money and valuables on her table, and none had evei
been missed before. Negroes will usually thieve, and
those owned by Colonel Arendell were no better than
others, but they feared to rob her, and though others ot
the family suffered, she was s-afe from depredation.

"Consternation seized on all, when it became known
that this ring was lost ; search was made in every con-
ceivable place, but it could not be found Mrs^ Arendell
declared that bhe believed it to be stolen, and hat the
culprit, if discovered, should receive a severe whipping.
I trembled, lest I should be suspected, and knew that,
although I was innocent, I could not prove n yself o be.
With the rest, I searched with the greatest anxiety tor
the missing jewel, but all in vain, not a sign of it was to
be discovered.

"The day after the ring was lost, Blake came to me as
I was working in the field, and ordered me to go to my
mistress's room. I conjectured immediate y for what
and my heart sank within me. I knew that I was to be
branded as a thief, and I cared more for the disgrace
than the terrible punishment that was certain to fol ow
]Mv first impulse was to fly ; but I remembered that that
would be useless, and only turn appearances against me
So wiping mv soiled bands, and putting on my jacket, i

eep me to vent her
ic did it. One can
CO, BO perse vcrinpc in
i eyes would glow
and her white hand
I will not sicken you
at shaped all my fu-

gant diamond ring;
ill her jewels. When
ars she lost it. She
imes she would leave
', and none had ever
1 usually thieve, and
were no better than
and though others of
m depredation,
hen it became known
,s made in every con-
found. Mrs. Arendell
e stolen, and that the
^e a severe whipping,
jcted, and knew that,
ot prove ii. yself to be.
e greatest anxiety for
not a sign of it was to

t, Blake came to me as
rdered me to go to my
immediately for what,

knew that I was to be
more for the disgrace
was certain to follow.

remembered that that
ppearances against me.
iuttiug on my jacket, I

-i z z) EA yrE.

2-21

walked boldly to the house, and to Mrs. Arondell's apart-
ments. I knocked at the door; it was oi)ened by Colonel
Arendi'll, who was evidently greatly troubled and excited.
Ills wife sat near the window, sewing on some delicate
fabric, witli an energy quite unnecessary. ILt face was
flushed with anger, and her form trembled with the pas
sirn she vainly endeavored to suppress. I went in and
stood near the table in the center of the room, twirling
my cap in my hand, waiting patiently and fearlessly for
her to address me.

" The colonel looked at me sadly. 'Junius,' lie bepan
' I am very sorry .' '^ '

"'John,' interrnj.ted his wife, 'you put me out of all
patience ! Sorry for him, indeed ! A nigger has no rei)u-
tation to lose, and a thief does not deserve one at anv
rate!'

" I had not been conscious of any feai before this • if
any had agitated me it fled at that .noment. I stood Up-
right and demanded, in a loud voice, ' Do you accuse me
of stealing your diamond ring, madam V

" She actually quailed under the look with which I re-
garded her. ' I not only accuse you of it, but I know
that you did it,' she replied. ' So, give it to me now and
your punishment may be less severe than if you persist in
retaining it.'

" ' You know that I haven't got it. Miss Lucinda,' I
answered, in a voice I endeavored to render calm, while
it trembled with passion, ' you know it well.'

" ' Don't speak to me in that manner, nor look at mo
so impudently !' she screamed, working herself into a vio-
lent passion.

" Colonel Arendell began to say something in my be-
half. 'Do you forget that he is the son of .a miscreant^
and that he is a slave?' she demanded, fiercely. 'Leave
the room; 'twill neither do him nor you ary good for
you to remain ; he shall not escape me !'

238

ALDEANE.

" I ike nn aWoct coward he obeyed her, cut to the qnu-^
W hi V n" Un. remark, but hu-kiug strength to resent U ,

"For some moments ^\c itm.m". » .

formed no idea in what way, I >x.uttil lor nc

*"" w;I;;;» o.». nug? i k„o« «>« ,»,. huv. u'.

day. It lay -M.™ "'" «»'''"' 1"™""^, '" T' , Sh
«"Lw. 'You .aw U lying H--, ami stole ,t. hlav . ,

:i;:p:;xit"not\a.oi. i-u»yno

■"""Aldoane I can i.ot repeat the language in which that
,.„™tl'rlVa„a de Jnncea ,ne. At >a.t Placjng her
hand, upon my .honliere, and lookmg do«n my

"".?'.t::^,r;r1S;:r, ,^...^ .na I hate yon ..

r^^tnll^it-ILlS^^noSrWaUheean..

i
t

n
n:

ai
ai

n(
tc
ni
li
si
w
]u

m
m
be
th

pe
m

Btl

of
it

ALDEAX r:.

229

licr, cut to the quick
trcngth to resent it ;
»t accuser.
,1 silent. "VVhile I

that I kn*w was
that passed rapitlly

I sljould obtain no
Cahnly, anil with
houtrli, of course, I
lhI for her to speak,
pense; she hVul lier
er, and hissed riither

V that you have it '.

■n't it,'ll•ophed,doff-
ie the truth when I
lo you accuse me V
he day before yester-
tiniX to one near the
, aiid stole it. >Slave,

ys gave to me, as being
id degradation. ' I did
, you ordered me to,' I
)f hatred and contempt
; I did not notice the
ike it. I shall say no

language in which that
?. At last, placing her
ooking down into my

ave! and I hate you as

hate you !'

angly, ' and all because

hewonld not mairy you! He would rather have married
my mother than you !'

" She turned deadly pale, but fury l)lazcd from her
eyes. Springing uj), slje snatched up .a small dagicer that
lay upon the l)ureau,and threw iiersilf upon me with the
fury of a tigress. 1 tilt the cold blade pierce my arm;
then, with a i)owerful eftbrt, threw lier iiom nie, and
rushed from the room, the door of wliiclj closed loudly
beJiind me. IJcfore she could reach me I jumped from
the porch, and was nmniug swiftly toward tlie negro
quarters, wlien IJiake seized me, exclaiuiing: —
" ' Not quite so iiist ! not quite so fast !'
" I struggled to get free, but he was a young, stalwart
man, and held me fast. One of the negroes, at his com-
mand, brought a rope, and I Mas soon, panting with rage
and exertion, bound hand and foot. I was taken away to
an out-house and chained — yes, chained down.

" My mother, in agony, looked upon me, but I heeded
neither her entreating looks or tears, but fought impo-
tently with those that bound me, while they laughed at
my blind passion. ' Your blood is flowing now,' said
Blake, pointing to the stream that trickled from my
shoulder. I'll get a new vhip, and let you ft-el tlie
weight of it to-morrow. 'Twill draw a little more, per-
haps ! and cool your temper a little.'

" I remained for many hours thus chained. I threw
myself upon the floor, and, looking at the manacles upon
ray wrists and ankles, inwardly resolved that when those
bonds were loosed all others should be also. I swore
that I would be free. Those who looked in upon me
wondered at my calmness ; they could not see the tem- ■
pest raging in my heart, and the fiery thoughts busy in
my brain. Not a sigh or a tear escaped me; a new
strength animated me. I was conscious that a new era
of my life was at hand ; and trusting and believing that
it would herald freedom, I calmly awaited it.

3)J

A LDEANE.

« Nicht came in. Mrs. Aroudell had looked in upou me
with triumph, her cruel eyes alittering fiendishly, and with
L detested image fre.h in my mind, I lay maturing plans
for the future. About midnight 1 hoar.l footsteps oan-
ZX appvoaching the house. I shuddered, for loarod
that it was my mistress or one of her minions, and wi h a
thr 1 ofTy, I discovered that my fears were unfouiided.
little Abel had stolen to me in the ^^--k---'- hh wt
ing beside was sobbing in my breast. As I fel his wet
cheek pressed to mine, I almost forgot my resolution to
bearall with stoical indiffercnee. The tears rose to my eyes
but I forced them back and begged him to be calm. He
soon became so, and told me all I wished to know con-
oerning the feelings of the negroes toward ine. Nearly
nil believed me innocent of the charge under which I
suffered My mother could not come to see m», but Abel
hid beccrod to be allowed to do so. He brought me some
bread, meat, and an apple. I had not eaten since early
morning, but had not been conscious of either hunger or
thirst rat eight of food I felt overcome by both^ There
was a spring at a short distance, and I begged Abel to get
me some water; he did so, and I believe nothmg so re-
freshing and invigorating ever passed my hps

" I soon sent Abel away, fearing that he would be found
with me. He left me, crying bitteriy, while still deeper
ancruish crept into my heart at the thought that I should
soon be separated from this taithful, though young sharer
of my afflictions. I felt that even for the sake of my
kindred I could no longer endure my thralldom, imbittcred
as it was by the hatred of an evil and designing woman.
"The eariy dawn found me exhausted with thought ana
watching, vet strong in my resolve to bear my last pun-
ishment with fortitude, and then to be a slave n Jonger.
For some hours after daylight broke, I was left alone
No one came near me, and I began to think that they had
forgotten me, when Mr. Blake, with two negro m«n, my

1
1

B
I

!(
fi
1(
a
t(
aj
M
ai
P'
PJ

of
sp

fle
Al
th(
wl
wc

sal

bul

der

ALDEANE.

231

looked in upo\i me
enclifihly, and with
ay, matin ing plans
ji'r<l footsteps oau-
Idored, for I feared
ninions, and with a
ra were unfounded,
irkness, and kneel-
As I felt his wet
t my resolution to
ears rose to my eyes,
m to be calm. He
ished to know con-
)ward uie. Nearly
irge under which I
to see ni», but Abel
le brought me some
ot eaten since early
; of either hunger or
Tie by both. There
: begged Abel to get
elieve nothing so re-
d my lips.

at he would be found
y, while still deeper
bought that I should
though young sharer
for the sake of my
thralldom, irabittcred
id designing woman,
ited with thought and
to bear my last pun-
be a slave n longer,
ike, I was left alone,
to think that they had
I two negro m«n, my

most malignant enemies, entered. I still sat upon the
,r""lt;r 1 "'/ '''" '"""^ "'^ ^'^^" *^«y approached
upon me the y.lost abuse, hoping to excite my ire li„t
although my heart burnt like coals of lire, and I Ion<.ed
to urn upon and loiul him, I restrained myself a^nd
Bufiered him to lead me away to the place of punishmem
I spoke not a M'oiJ, and Blake cursed me for my silence

itked.r '•' ''•' '"^'""^' "^'^"•^ of the 'servants

looked at me compassionately, while some laughed glee-
fully at my discomfiture. My mother was there. She
looked at me-and never shall I forget the look of horror
and wildness m her eyes. They led me on until we came
to the oak-tree, under which I found you standing this
afternoon. It was much smaller then. The coloneT and
Mrs. Arendel were standing there, the former pale with
anxie y, the latter exultant in her victory. As we ap-
proached, she came up to me, and striking me with the
palm of her hand, exclaimed :—

'"We will teach you to steal, slave! Tell me now
where that ring is ?'

J^lr^T^ 'T'"^ more with indignation than the force
speech. ■ ^ ^'''''''" "^'^^ ^'^^ ^'■^^' ^'^ ^'l™'' of

flnl^'tr^ ^'"^-""^ ^""""^^ "^ *'S^*^y that the cords cut my
flesh. My wrists were as white and delicate as yours,
Aldeane, and those cruel bonds raised purple welts upon
h m, seeing which, Colonel Arendell loosened them, and
whispered, 'Junius be brave! I can not help yoi. I
would if I could.' F J'""- 1

"As he turned away, his breast heaving with a sL^h I *
said humbly, ' Thank you, sir.' " '

"Theythoughtitwasbecausehehadloosened my bonds
hrhLTr L^' ^vas for the cheering, sympathetic words'
he had spoken. Mrs. Arendell frowned darkly, and or-
dered me to be tied up. I was stripped to the waist, and

232

ALDEAXr:

exclaimino; :—

" ' Ston ' he shall not bo whippotl '. .

.. M7AicU l„™,.d .ow„,l him, .Mt.j.tl. pa»,.on^
. You lmv» nothing to do with that boy 1 You gave h,m
"■^ !",;:;^;^ -;- «: eye, intvioring;, »;a

^'-strike Mr. Blake!' commanded Mrs. Arenclc^l, and

tho attack Recovering from the surprise occasioned by
ths ineteced ^nterfcrenee, he raised the heavy whvp
^^lh Shi was attempting to wrest from hxm, and dea
which sue w a, i , ^ ^ ,i endeavored to pull

her a furious blow, i ^iicu^ uinke

bmtalv,then dragged her out of the way, whUe 1 fm-
whom she had dared so much, was bound hand ad foot,
Totally unable to defend her. 1 ^^.-^^j; J^^^J^'^^;
votedly, and at this sight my passion t""'"^ ^^J^^
reason From very excess of rage, unable to speak l
foamed at the mouth, in my heart sweanng vengeance
aTpouring upon both mistress and overseer and the
cota dlv nfaste'r also, the most fearful imprecations

-Uichard, continue!' exclaimed Mrs. Arendell, ' \ ou
will have no interruption this time, I presume!

-I suess not!' he laughed, and turning toward me
appli d ^ e whip ferociously. I felt the blood trickling
Xw"y dowu my back. I heard the whiz of the lash as

ALDEANE.

233

[■d liis lieavy whip,
1 stepped forward

fthitc with passion,
y ! You gave him

>9 imploringly and
ithstand that look,
ne you ! Indeed, I

Mrs. Arendell, and
rs. Just as he was
er's arm was seized
, sprang upon him
f and suddenness of
rprisc occasioned by
sed the heavy whip,
from him, and dealt

endeavored to pull
of the whip, Blake

lead, and the blow

and he kicked her
the way, while I, for
jound hand and foot,
oved my mother de-
sion triumphed over
e, unable to speak, I

swearing vengeance,
md overseer, and the
fful imprecations.

Mrs. Arendell, ' You
, I presume 1'
d turning toward me
3lt the blood trickling
he whiz of the lash as

it cleft tlie air ; but above all, I remembered the low
moan my mother had uttered as she sank beneath the
bloAV of my ])ersecutor. It rang in my ears, nerving me
to bear tliat, under which, else, I certainly should have
sunk. A shrill cry, that I could not repress, occasionally
escaped me; and when tl»e punishment ceased, from sheer
exhaustion, from no will of my own, I was silent.

"Mrs. Arendell laid lier hand upon my bare shoulder,
and my flesh shrank from her touch. Every muscle
contracted, so deep was the loatliing that my whole being
bore towar.l her. 'Wo liave taught him submission, I
think, Mr. Blake,' slie said with a fiendish smile, and a
viperish glitter in lier cruel eyes.

" The overseer smiled savagely. Wiping the perspira-
tion from liis brow, lie raiseil the whip as if to strike
again, but a gleam of pity must have entered his heart,
for the blow fell upon the empty air, and he commenced
loosing me.

^ "My mother was again conscious, and slowly, as if
just awakened Aom a painful dream, sbe rose from the
ground and came toward me. The cold stony look
crept into her eyes, and settled upon her face, that I had
seen there the night my father brought his bride home.

I' She did not scream or cry, when she saw the blood
dripping from my wounds. A shudder ran through my
frame ; sick at heart, I leaned against lier She placed
my shirt over my shoulders, and was about to lead me
away, when Mrs. Arendell exclaimed peremptorily : —
'"Samira, let the boy alone! we will manage him.'
" My mother did not reply, but lifted me in her arms,
her strengtli seemed renewed, but mine was entirely gone,
and carried me away. Mrs. Arendell called upon Blake
to prevent her, but he evidently considered it u danger-
ous task to confront that calm, yet deeply infuriated
woman. So she carried ie away to the negro quarters,
and as I was laid upon a bed, a sharp, excruciatiuir pai:i.

234

ALDEANE.

from ray lacerated flosh, convulse.l my frame, and over-
come by my Buffcrinj, mi.ul as well a« body .uccnmbea
under this weiixbt of ex(iuisite ajjony, and I famtecl, to
awaken with ail the horrors of delirium upon mo.

"When I a<rain became conscious it was nii^'ht, a Si>li-
tary candle flickered through the gloom of the a,.artment.
My mother was bending over me, the look ot cold de-
spair still resting upon her; and my master stood at the
foot of the bed. His arms were crossed over Ins breast,
and his head was bent low. A sorrowful man did he
look, as he gazed upon me. , •„ j

" 'They have killed him, Mass'r John ! they have killed
him '' were the first words I heard.

"A dim recollection of all that had passed swept over
me Reaching forth my hand I touched my mothers
that lay upon the bed. She caught it with an exclama-
tion of joy, and kissed me. Colonel Arende 1 came to
the bedside and took my hand. With a shudder, I with-

'""^What! do you hate me, Junius?' he asked. 'You
know that I could not prevent this.' ,. , „,

« 'I know that you are not master here, I replied, sar-
castically, ' but you should be. I am your own brother s
child ! yet you stood by and saw them try to murder me.
Yes! I do hate you! and my revenge shal be terrible

" I .vas becoming fearfully excited. Colonel Arendell
stood astounded at my words. My mother begged him
to go away, and he complied, leaving me to e^«lt over
what should be, while he could but grieve over what had

^''"'l received some water from my mother's hand, then
turned, and fell into a long and troubled sleep, from
which I awoke in a violent fever, suffermg excessively
from my wounds. My faithful watcher was still beside
me, striving to alK^viate my pain. I lay in bed a week,
as much overcome by mental as bodily suflfermg.

t(
■w
ir
k

si
tl
ul

"1
lo

di
re<

pa
ke

sa^

Ufc

aiu
<

»y frame, and over-
ifl body, puccumbcd
y, and I fiiinteil, to
im upon mo.
it WHS nii^lit, a hoH-
»m of tlie ai)!vrtmont.
lie look of cold de-
master stood at the
ssed over hi« breast,
rrowful man did he

,hn ! they have killed

id passed swept over
juched my mother's
t it with an exclama-
cl Arendell came to
ith a shudder, I witli-

18?' he asked. 'You

■r here,' I replied, sar-
m your own brother's
em try to murder me.
nge shall be terrible !'
;d. Colonel Arendell
■f mother begged him
ing me to exult over
grieve over what had

If mother's hand, then
troubled sleep, from

, sufferuig excessively

itcher was still beside
I lay in bed a week,

)dily Buflfering.

ALDEANE.

23j

'During all that time I thought only of escape and
revenge, but formed no plans to ortbct either. I wa« as yet
too weak for connected thought. As soon, however, as I
was able to leave my bed, my mind regained all its for-
mer strength, and I conceived and matured the i)lan that
led to my escape from bondage,

"My mistress had found her ring in a desk, in which
she had carelessly placed it; so I was free from the taint
that had rested upon my character. I saw her once only
alter the day upon which I was punished. The rin.' was
upon her hand. She drew it oft" when she saw me • and
lookmg at me contemptuously, said :—

" ' So you didn't steal this ! It is well for you that you
did not, or you should have another whiiiping— you are
recovered enough now !'

'' I did not reply, but merely looked at her.
" ' Ah ! what dreadful eyes !' she exclaimed, full of
passion and fire ! 'Slave, you shall be sold. I will not
keep you to haunt me with your glances.'

" She M-ent into the house and I never saw her a^-ain
save in my dreams. But ah ! she has haunted me then J
She has walked like a specter through every vision of my
life keeping alive my hatred, and inciting my deepest
and deadliest revenge.
"And this is the first part of my life."

CIIAPTEll XXVI.

TTIK CI.OHK OV TllK FATEKUI, KKCOBD.

Aftfu these wonlH, there was a long blank in Uay-

the tew pa-en which still remained, and ^^hlch sla pe
•usod with ea.n.r. attention. This portion began as ab-
ruitVan the iirst had done, and the tirst lines contamed
simply the words:—

•* " aJS: '.ai,l Won., I .,"My matured a pla,. for

! ■ • effoct Z, aad having rovoaW it to „.y .nothor ob-

fiined Voui her all the sympathy, and what, as a bo) ,
l^lu to iri- more impoAant, all the aid she could m her
circumstances possibly render me.

.:^cr:irx'=':ts:x3d.o
rj'i. „.. -v-r^^rttifisrz

•would cause it to be aone a^ai.. <i;«nnsition

.-ould make her passionate temper J»^ ;^«/^;pX^^^^
nnWic As they owned no hounds, I had no appiencn
Hi^ of bdng hunted down by them, and theretore eon-
! . Uo.l a sale thou-h laborious escape. My mothei
S^tl^t^ill^'luld surely ibllow, but .. arg^ents
could induce her to accompany "-• ^^^^^^^^^ "t ami

i
w

n
w
a
si
It
w
di

n<
ti
A
()

an
di
al
p!

CO
Btl
pll

ALDKA XK.

237

VI.

L RECOKD,

long blank in Ilay-
uld readily iniasino
ought bolbre adding
, and which she pe-
ortion began as ab-
tii-Ht lines contained

matured a plan for
it to my mother, ob-
nd what, as a boy, 1
• aid she could in her

e her to go with me,
rsuit, and would not
Luess. For myself I
»lonel Arendell would
isod that my mistress
it his orders, as that
r and vile disposition
s, I had no apprehen-
em, and therefore con-
s escape. My mother
ow, but no arguments
e. One dark night I
I Abel, good-bye ! and
Vbel cried so piteously,

that I turned back, and oould scarcely make up my mind
to leave him; but, thrusting a mucli-'treasund live cent
piece into my hand, he pushed me away, saying : M;()!
go! hut come back some day for littK- Abel !'

" ' I will ! I will, indeed !' l" cried, an.l with another kiss
to all, I \vi\ them, an.l (led through the .larkness of the
night, listening t.) the rushing of th.- wind through the
trees, and to each sound of insect life, vainly striving to
hush the voices in my heart that urged me "to turn back
to my loved ones, and to slavery.

"That word impelled me ..nwird, and ere the daylight
(•ame, I was in the woods, fartl'.er from Arendell House
than [ had ever been before. I rein.iinc.l there hidden
under a clump of hazel bushes, dose by the side ot" a
brook, satisfying my hunger with the f.'.o,! with which
mother had scantily supplied nu>, and slaking my thirst
with the water that flowed before me. .\t iiii;htfall I
again continued my journey, and at daybreak l-iinie in
sight of what seemed t(» me then a very large town.

It was K ; not a very large place, you kufiw. Not

wishing to be seen, I remained in the <Mitskirts, at some
.listance from the hous.'s. Although I was quite fair, and
could easily have passed for a white, the idea of doing so
never once occurred to me, and I felt tlie givatest trepida-
tion if I chanced to meet any one, as I did once or twice.
At the time of my escape it was the fall of the year— in
October, sixteen years ago. Tlie season was very rainy,
consequently traveling on foot was rloubly liazardous

and fatiguing, I remained in the vi.nnity of'll until

dusk, then continued my flight. JMy supply of food had
already become very small, and I knew not how to re-
plenish it. Tlie corn and fruit were gathered, so that I
could not even get them to assist me, and I much feared
starvation, either total or partial, before I should reach a
place of safety.

" Happily, I know considerable of geogr.nphy, and deter-

^^^'

238

ALDRA.yE.

nunod to «ook«omc «oft-port. T fir«t thought of Vwbcrn
-hut roincmln.n.a that nnmo of Coloiu'l Arena.-ll h rolft-
tio„H, whom I know, roHuUa tlu-ro, ami if they saw mo I
Hhould prohahly l»o ror. ,.,nn/.od. So I tnrno.l m anothor
airoction, Hottinj,' my Wxro in tho dirootion ot Nor oik

" I know that I must pasH through a dense puu- ««>''^"«J—
and to my preat deliK'ht, on the morning of the hrth day
of my journey, I found myself there. On the day belo o
, had^knoeked d..wn a hinl and satisfied myselt wUh U
half-cooked eareass, for I dared not make a lar^o .re h st
the Bmoko should rise above the tree-to,,s, and d.selose my
hi.lin-,.laeo. Hut there seemed to be no birds, or small
animals in the piny wo..ds-they had , one ^^^ '-J'^^;;
therefore, thou.^h I searehe.l diligenay,! ^«f \<">'\"«;^^
i„. .vith whieh to appease my bun.'or. My bread a
exhausted, and there seemed every pro.peet ot "tY^^l^;
hefore me. I still traveled by night, lor I feared that I
might be discovered by s..me of the men who lived a
oUtary life, making turpentine. I was lar t'-" J' «" ;
tions, where I might have bogged a .'""[f *"!" ;
negroes, and there seemed nothing obtainable at the ft w
rude eai.ins I passed, even if I had dared to make known

my wants to the inmates. „ u„^ t

» Mv courage was nearly exhausted ; two days had I
boon \n tho woods and had eaten nothing. I had been
walkin- all night, and .just at daybreak came m sight ot a
rmall erd/m. A woman was within busily engaged m get-
ting breakfast. A tall, dirty-looking man, stocMl in the
doorway, and a squalid chiUl was erymg on the floor.

" -Tis the last meal in the house, John. We've scarce
enough to make a pone now!' I heard the woman say

"'I can't help it! How can I get more? I must tell
thnber to-duy. I ought to have been at work before

"''Yes- if there's any walkin' to do you ha' plenty to
do!' replied the woman in a surly tone 'but nary

A LDHAXE.

999

ought of Ncwbcm
lu'i ArpntU'U's relft-
I if they saw mo I

tnrnol in another
lion of Xorft)lk.
(lonso jiiiu' forost —
inf? of the firth day

On the day before
lied my»eU" with its
ake a hirjre fire h'St
:>l»s, and diHoloHo my
le no birds, or »mall
fone farther noutli —
V, I coidd find noth-
er. My bread was
•ospect of Htarvation
, for I fi-ared that I
e men who lived a
s-as lar from ])lanta-

a morsel from thi^
btainable at the few
and to make known

d; two days had 1
othing. I iiiid been
'uk came in sight of a
msily engaged in get-
ig man, stood in the
ving on the floor,
John, We've scarce
rd the woman say,
.'t more? I must fell
been at work before

do you ha' plenty to
irly tone 'but nary

.an, H um e se. Nary hit of grain should ,ve l.nvo ,o
.■at, . I was hko you, you tritlin' „o-areou„t critter '

T'l'ljjl.ut ga^e a I..Mg. !,.„„ (.....nd that ..assed |,i,„ ,,

''..undn.g kK-k, which ..|i..it..d a fivsh scnL from ho

. . and a torrent of n,,roof and al.us.- from thorman

At ast thoy sat .lown to breakfast, and as the sun hZ^u

'y -o. .tseir, though a veil of n.ist, for the s L . , Tx

'■'led . .-onstant vapor, ahnost impervious to its brig test

;vH, he man throw hi, ,, ..er his should.., d

talked away. I «..h al.ou. to outer the cabin, a„. E

'-I when I thought that the woman and c .ild wero

l--n-nn,. to loav.. it, I .-as right in ,„y oo„i.otu,v.

n,e wo,„an pulled the old sun-bonnet she wore still
Author over her face, throw a sa.-k over one arm Z
tak.ng the ch.id on the other, shut the door of the^.b,"
-"J to my mfiuite delight trudg. ' away. She passed so'
'loso to me, that I coul.l have .ouol,;.! her 1 „t IJoW
".y breath lest she should hoar it, and watched her nS
she was lost to sig!)t,

" Ah soon as I was certain that she was quite gone I rin
-,1,'oHy to the cabin, pushed ojx^n the door u.kI "^o^

M-as devcd of every con^fort, and contained on y";

no t necessary furniture, and that of the ru.lest de.rrip!

t.on I not.ced nothmg of this when I fn^t went in but

«ent nnmcKbatdy t.> a s.nall cupboard, that stood i,', t^

•on,er. There was a little corn bread an.l a slic" f'

.aeon upon the shelf. I eagerly ate a part, and tl;ru t

- rest mto my pocket, I was very wit a.id col,"

""<-ovenng the fire found a bed of glowing coals ' "h

t.ie loom they soon produced a chocTful blaze I gat

sZ" .?"'.'* '°.T'"''" ""^' '^'y '"y«^l^' «"'^ had partly

ucceeded, when I hoard the sound of loud whistling • I

raised my head, and saw the master of the house, hi^ ax

on lu6 shoulder, leisurely approaching. My heari stood

240

ALDEANE.

.till ^vith terror. For a moment I could neither think .r

o..c-iorbut without the power to rise or move. Soon
I Tnto a deep sleep, and did not wake untd ^ught.
Ivsshiverin-with cold, and the nuMuus dew, that fell
hiv Iv My first in.pulse was to continue my slumber,
tut a moment's thought convinced me that too much d.n-
Xr I "nld it ; and I feared that too much tune had bc.u
foJt a "ady looked up at the sky, it was dear and bc-
'i ti h stars that caft a welcome light through

'^ r T ,;,.«,! iit ho onp'^site to tliai iioui

,olf nn 1 lart^e public road. 1 Kepi on ii i"'

t,elt on a i.ir„t !»» , , x „„.„ „ waf^on at some dis-

Xet« 'L\ ron%- o„ .lowly; it contained a
:.t„a woman, ^vLn they eame opposite J>« -'
u „„ . « TTow far arc we from Portsipouth i"

'^:trr.i,iX.i;"* °'' ''>»'-•">••' r '"^"'^

fonvar.1 to bear the T:^:^^^^ „.„rf. can
, ""f^ *™„r« he rin„*rMy heart .welled with

-?!SS^rx£eJr.si

r™tt tt 'oXand .LiW-ight of the wagon.
'''tltf4ZSfeS. the country heean,c,„o.
„pe,fa,Td So on,ide,-ahlc trepidation I pa»ed throngh

ALDEANE.

coiilfl neither think or
the door, opposite that
It, and ran throngh the
Plied deer, for over an
•suit, translating every
mtil at hvst I stumbled
le gro\ind, still taintly
to rise or move. Soon
ot wake until night. I

no\iuu8 dew, that fell
o continue my slumber,
rl me that too much dan-
too much time had been
sky, it was clear and bo-
welcome light through
ilowly walked on, taking

opposite to that from
ary and at first eovdd
wn became more supple,
Lt dawn I found my-
vcpt on it for about two
\v a wagon at some dis-
he woods, and hid behind
ju slowly, it contained a
ime opposite me, she said
om Portsipouth ?'
discovery, 1 bent eagerly
Inly five miles V
amouth! No words can
My heart swelled with
sre shouted, had I not rc-
ipardy. I hurried on, still
ining sight of the wagon,

5 the country became more
:pidation I passed through

241

the suburbs, iiunking that every person was lookin-. a'
and woukl recognize me. I passed on unmolested, still
lo owmg the wagon, that I had taken for my guide It
rolled slowly on, and at last turned into one of the prin-
cipal streets, and stopped before a large house, which I
afterward discovered to be the market. It was now
about seven o'clock, one of the busiest hours of the day
m that section of the city. I was struck with wonder
at the crowd of people, the many strange things I saw
and the confusion that everywhere prevailed; and I
trembled beneath the many curious glances thrown upon
me. 1 do not wonder now that I attracted the attention
of many; my clothes were tattered, my face thin and
haggard, and my whole appearance extremely wret<-hed
J^ or sometime I stood in a corner of the market^
place, alraid to speak or move; soon, however, the crav-
ings of hunger induced me to leave ray j.iace of partial
concealment; and I went to a neighboring stand, and
bought a meat pie; then returned and ate it eagerly

"I was jostled roughly about by the men that 'were
moving i-apidly around me; and I became conscious
that I could not stand much longer, so exhau.-.ted was I
with the long M-alk I had taken the previous night
together with the exposure I had endured. So, with \
tamt heart I left the market, and wandered throucrh the
streets, turning from one to another, seeking refuge that
1 might take the rest I so gfeatly required. I walked a
long distance, and at last came to the beach. There were
but few houses in sight, and a few boats fastened to the
shore, and drifting with the tide, showed plainly that it
was not much frequented. An old negro man was the
only person near. He was opening oysters with great
dexterity, and I watched him for a few minutes, with
'curiosity and admiration. He worked busily and for
some tune did not notice me. Some movement of mine
among the shells, that were scattered around, at last
11

2i2

ALDEANE.

atti-actod his attention. He raised his old cap from hiH
lK.xd, and pushed it back, disclosing a hne of white wool
above his wrinkled forehead, and regarded me with a
stare of surprise, and the single exclamation, Weill 1

"I was frightened, and about to run from the place
V. hen I remembered that it was not likely that he had
ever seen me before, so I kept my ground returnmg his
.r:»ze and attempting to smile in a cheerful manner. He
sc-c-med to appreciate the effort, and to regard it as an m-
vitation to speak, for without removing his eyes from my
face he inquired : —

" ' ^Vllar is ye from ?' ^r .i, r^

«' I hesitated a moment, then said, 'From North Caro-
lina, — eastern part.' „ r i
"'Neber been dar,' said he, shaking his woolly head,
and continuing his work. I was about to go away, when
he looked at me searchingly, saying :—
'" You's a white boy, I 'spose ?'

"The blood rushed over my face. I had not before
thought of attempting to pass for white: now, I deter-
mined to do so, and steadily answered, 'Yes ; addmg
lau-hing, ' what made you ask, uncle ? Do I look like a
ni.r"er?' turning my face toward him a little proudly,
for 'l knew I was white, and every one said handsome,
though I appeared at slight advantage then.

"The old man seemed satisfied, and said: JJont be
'fended, dere's good niggers as well as white folks, but I
didn't know but you might be one ob dese pesky white

"*"^No! no!' I answered quickly, my cheeks burning

with shame,

" ' What did you leave home for, eh ?'

"I thoutrht a moment, then answered: 'My uncle
treated rae° badly, and though I am all alone in the
world, I won't be put down.'

rol

aiic

nwc,
dor

any

(I
((

A1I(

((
t<

ingl

a bii

got
(( I

quic

(( <

any
he w

conti
fiimil
numi

his old cap from hw
a line of white wool
•?garded me with a
jiamation, 'Well! I

run from the place,
t, likely that he had
;round, returning his
leerful manner. He
to regard it as an in-
ing his eyes from my

'From North Caro-
ling his woolly head,
out to go away, when

e. I had not before
white: now, I deter-
jTcred, 'Yes;' adding
lie ? Do I look like a
him a little proudly,
f one said handsome,
age then.

and said: 'Don't be
1 as white folks, but I
; ob dcse pesky white

y, my cheeks burning

, eh?'

inswered: 'My uncle
am all alone in the

ALDEANE.

243

(( (

'Dat's right, honey! dat's right!' replied the old
man approvingly, « And is de man rich ?'

" ' Yes, he owns a groat many slaves.'

" 'And more's dc pity, chile ! But ain't you rich too?'
and he looked at me quizzically.

lu^i^..^''!''^' '^'''' ^ '•'^^"'•n^^'J.'buthis own brother
robbed hm heirs of all.'

"' You look pretty rough, anyhow!' was his comment.
I guess you would too, if you had walked six nights
and hidden m the woods as many days !' I replied.

" ' What?' cried the old man, throwing down his knife,
aiirl looking at me in astonishment. 'Well, if you've
done dat ar, your uncle must have treated you worse'n
anybody km b'lieve ! What's yer name ?'

"'Junius.'

" 'Junius ! well, hain't ye got no other name ?'

I thought a moment, then answered, ' Allen-Junius

Allen.

" ' And your folks is rich ?'

Very,' I returned, somewhat impatiently

• "i"^'!''".''!' ''''"'^® J'''" '' *''°'' ^»'d the old man, mus-
ingly ; and been 'posed upon by yer uncle. He must be
a b.g rascal, sartain ! What are ye 'gwine to do here ?
got any idee ?'

" ' Oh ! I shan't stay here I I shall go North !' I replied
quickly. '^

'"What 'gwine dere for? got folks dar?'

"I hesitated a moment, then answered— « Yes '

" ' Uich, maybe ?'

" ' Oh ! yes. I believe some of them will help me ! At
any rate I shall find a refuge from my uncle. I'm afraid
he will catch me if I stay here !'

" The old man's respect for me seeraad to increase as I
continued, especially when he was assured that my
fami y wore not 'poor white trash,' but owned a ]ar4
number of slaves. °

a<u

ALDEANE.

-Well! young iiuWr!' he s.i.l at l-"^^t|'' ' ^'""^ J;!^;;

Sat l.i. «»'■"'. introduc.,1 mo .0 ^yf'-^, S,

the blood oozed from many a gapmg crack, and I could
scarcely boar the acntc pain they gave me

olysmm to inc. T^= J™''' ^^^ „„„-i„„ „eal. Some

AvTnt Betsy came to my bedside.

" ' Is you 'wake honey ?' she whispered.
- « ' Yes,' I replied, turning toward he.- weanly.
I'm so tired.'

Mosed mv eyes. (Aunt Betsy was sitting by the tire
knSfn<^^ -Se roVm was in perfect order, and wore a
ASiTand pleasant aspect. My clothes were upon
^!ha r at the Xlo of the bed, in a much more presentable

•But

ALDEANE.

I at lei\)Ttli, ' I'm jost
m iVoo, an«l if y<>vi will
mighty glad to share

?d, and went home with
:l that I could scarcely
3 much, and on our
to his wife, as'Youn-j;
ray cl'ar from North
n uncle who's cheated
ing else.'

took off mj .id shoes;
ling crack, and I could
gave me.

tied. Uncle Dick, as 1»«
warm water, andf Aunt
Before she had finished,
found myself in a com-
?d state, seemed a pcrtcct
ere lighted, and my cn-
r evening meal. Some
cted their attention, and

srhispered.

yard hei- wearily.

•But

presently returned with a
me hot food. To me it
after easing and drinking

eavens, when I again un-

was sitting by the fire,
»erfect order, and wore a
My clothes were upon a

a much more presentable

245

I arose and

condition than wlien I had doffed them
dressed myself, feeling still very weary.

" Aunt JJetsy was very in(,uisitive, and asked numer-
ous questions, to all of which I replied as truthfullv as
possible 8t.ll, h,.wever, keeping to the tale I had 'told
J ick. Her indignation knew no bo.inds at my account
ol my uncles treatment, though I did not represent as
nearly as bad as it really was, fur I was loo fearful of
raising her suspicions. )

"At noon Uncle Didi returned. lie seemed pleased to
nnd me up and well.

"^' 'Spected you'd be sick,' was his first remai«k. Then
as .i.'. was eating dinner, he urged me to tell my story
again; and thougli I was weary of n-peating what was
.>nly partly true, I did so, and M'hen I concluded, ho
asked : — '

" ' Whar do ye want to go to ?'

"'New York,' I answered quiekly. I had heard my
father speak of that j.lace, and a wild hope that I mieht
iiiid him there, entered my mind.

'"New York!' repeated Uncle Dick, musingly.
Haven t got much money, I s'pose ?'
"I took a little leathern bag from my bosom, and
spread its contents upon the table before me Two
qnarteys of a dollar, a dime, three cents, and the half
<lime Abel had given me, were all that I possessed.
'"Can't pay tor a passage, dat's sartin,' was his remark.
But I can work! I ean work,' I interrupted
eagerly. *

" Uncl« Dick laughed. 'Whar's de strength to come
from? he asked; ' besides, young gennelmen, as owns
slaves, don't often work much.'

" 'I will do any thing to get to New York,' I returned ;
but 1 felt as I spoke, that ray strength, if taxed severely
would soon give way. '

"'Stay in de house till I come back,' was Uncle Dick's

246

ALDEANE.

parting injunction. When he returned in the evening,
he was aceompiinied by a tall, n.^e-looking white man

"'This is Jack Fiel.1,' he said. I've been telliii him
'bout you; he's a sailor, and often goes to New York-
perhaps he kin help ye some.' „u:„,,,i

"My heart leapt at the suggestion, and I exclaimed,
'Oh, if he would! Oh, sir, can you help me to JJew

" ' Well you're a nice-looking craft, anyhow, and if
you was tugged out of harbor, would sail against any

wind, I reckon.'

" I did not heed his evident admiration of my person,
but asked again, ' Will you help me, sir ? I must go to

"^ And Where's your friends, when you do get there ?'

" I hesitated a moment, then replied : ' I don t know
exactly, but everybody will know them, they are so rich,
and rich people are always well known.'

" Field laughed. ' New York is a pretty large place,
my lad ; however you may find them when you get there.
You're willin' to risk it, anyhow, are you?

" ' Oh, yes, indeed !'

"'Well, 'tis none of my business! Old man Dick here
wants me to help you, and I like your fa^^'-f^df ";^^ J
will; besides,! ran away from home myself, and know
what it is to need a friend.'

"He then told us a long story about his early prna-
tions and struggles, and of his ultimate success m life,
and then said, 'What do Xou think of Btarting to-monw
or will you wait till next time? 'twill only be two

'"'ul'l* will go to-morrow by all means,' I answered,

^""""'^Ali right, then. You must bring him aboard with
the oysters to-morrow. Uncle Dick.'
" ' Sartin.'

if
k

m
ta

th
fr
fu
bt
it
ne

8ci

gr
Di

gli

lO'

th(
ha
I I
hu
is i
for
agi
arc
an(
the

nil]

ALDEANE.

2+7

irned in the cvenino:,
looking white man.
■ I've been tellin' him
goes to New York—

tion, and I exclaimed,
rou help me to New

craft, anyhow, and if
ould sail against any

niration of my person,
ne, sir? I must goto

len you do get there ?'
jplicd : ' I don't know
them, they are so rich,
nown.'

is a pretty large place,
em when you get there,
are you ?'

is! Old man Dick, here,
I your face, and think I
lome myself, and know

J about his early priya-
altimate success in life,
ik of starting to-morrow,
,e? 'twill only be two

,11 means,' I answered,

bring him aboard with
ck.'

" • I'll stow you away, somewhere. Come on board an
if you merely came to help the old man unload. Don't
• let anybody know that yon intend to stay; for the skip-
per will tear around above a little, if he finds you while
you're on board.'

" 'I'll be i)erfeotly quiet, he sha'nt find me,' I rejjHed.

" Field sliook hands with me ; looked at me admiringly ;
muttered under his breath, 'A reg'lar beauty, and no mis-
take,' and walked away.

" My beauty served me a good turn, then. It interested
the sailor in my behali; and led to my quick removal to a
free soil. For that reason, I speak candidly and thank-
fully of it, but Avithout undue vanity, I thank God for the
beauty so plentifully bestowed upon me in my childhood ;
it was the instrument of procuring for me all the happi-
ness of my after life.

" Early the ensuing morning wo went on board the
schooner as Field had directed. He came forward to
greet us. The oysters were soon unloaded, and llnc-le
Dick was ready to go. As he shook hands with me, tears
glistened in his eyes, and he muttered, ' I've I'arned to
love ye mighty, young mass'r; I b'lieve you is a true
boy, and will make a good man, de Lord prosper ye !'

"'Come! come down here!' said Field, 'or some of
the hands will see you !' and he half forced me down the
hatchway. I could merely utter the words, * Good-bye I
I shall never forget you!' and then lost sight of my
humble old friend forever. Poor old man ! his memory
is a bright spot in those days of trial and suffering. But
for him I might have perished, or, worse still, have b-en
again returned to slavery; for the persecutors of slaves
are always ready to pounce upon unfortunate runaways,
and it is not probable that I could have long escaped
them.

" The schooner was soon under weigh, and I was begin-
ning to breathe more freely, with every movement that bore

248

ALDEANE.

iiH fart lior from the Southorn coawt. Field had not shown
himst'lf, even for a moment, and I had not seen any per-
son else, as all were Imsy ahove me. I was heeoinini?
rather lonely when I saw a newsi)a|)er lyini; ni)on a bnnk.
I took it np', and read all the articles of interest that it
eontaincd, and was about to return it to its place, when
an advertisement of a runaway slave eauj,'ht my c^e. I
read it in the utmost alarm ; every feeling of security
vanished, and I a^ain felt the hatred of my mistress in
the dei^radinsj words : —

"'Ilunaway — From Arendell House, County, X.

v., on the 20th day of October, my ncyro boy Junius. He
is about thirteen years old, and very handsome. He is
no doubt passing as a white boy. A liberal reward will
be paid for any information of him. If apprehended,
please lodge him in some jail, where I can get him.

"'Mrs. J. C. AUKXDKI.U'

"My brain seemed on fire with excitement, as I read.
Mrs. Arendell was still persecuting me; my master had
not even given his sanction to this, for his name was not

signed.

" ' Field has betrayed mt ! he is taking me to some
port in North Carolina !' was my first thought ; and I
leaped up madly. I looked at the date of the paper.
It was that day's issue ; and I knew that Field could not
have seen the advertisement, at least, before that morn-
ing, therefore in all likelihood I was safe. I hid the
paper behind a chest, hoping .that it would not be seen
until the end of the voyage.

"When Field, and the rest of the sailors appeared, he
introduced me as his cousin, who had i)er8uaded him to
take me to New York on a pleasure trip. I was heartily
welcomed by all, and passed a week with them very
pleasantly. During the voyage, my mind was actively
engaged 'in forming plans for my future walk m life.

too

said

Ish

and

as c

The

of d

Tho

no ti

all (

nion

from

cease

desti

greai

feelii

York

that

the s

rema

on d<

ashot

read\

ALDEANE.

240

eUl had not. shown

not Bcon any im'I'-

I wiis lu'CDiniiii?

lyiiijl upon a bunk,

of intoreat that it

to its place, when

canjjtht my c^o. I

foolinfj of security

of my mistresfl in

;e, County, X.

rro hoy Junius. lie
' handsome. ITe is
liberal reward will
I. If ai)i)rehendcd,
'. can get him.

J. C. AUKXDKI.U'

citement, as I read,
ne; my master had
r his name was not

taking me to some
rst thought ; and I

date of the paper,
that Field could not
:, before that morn-
as safe. I hid the

would not be seen

sailors appeared, he
\ i)er8uaded him to
trip. I was heartily
ek with them very
' mind was actively
future walk in life.

Not once did I think of becoming a sailor, although Fiel.l
several times suggested it. I could not reconcile myself
to the idea of constant association with such men as I
saw arouml nu-; yet I knew not what else to do. I had
no idea of New York, except tliat it was a much larger
and handsomer place, than any I had yet seen. I m\\>-
posed, however, that employment could be easily found,
even by a stranger, and child, as I then was. Field shook
his liead doubtfully when I mentioned this, said nothin<»
to (iiscourage nic, but asked: — °

" ' Why not go to your relations i"
" I dared not own that I had none in the city. I felt
too keenly the danger of arousing his suspicions ; so I
sai.l no more upon the subject, hoping tliat in some way
I shoidd be able to gain a living. I confined my doubts
and fears to my own br ast, and endeavored to appear
as cheerful as was possible, muler the circumstances.
There are times when gayety is assumed to hide feelings
of deepest melancholy. So was it with me at this tim".
Though deeply harassed in mind, my companions saw
no trace of it. My laugli was loud and frequent. I told
all the humorous stories I had ever lieard, or read, not
more to amuse the sailors than to divert my own mind
from the channel of doubt and perplexity in which it
ceaselessly wandered. I longed, yet feared to reach my
destination. I knew not what might befall me in the
great and strange city. Therefore, it was with mingled
feelings, that I at last heard that we were entering New
York harbor. But all gloom vanislu^d when I thought
that in a few hours I should tread a free soil, loosed from
the shackles of slavery.

"The schooner cast anchor at the landing-place, and
remained there some hours, before I found courage to go
on deck. Field came down to tell me that I could go
ashore if I wished. As I liad no baggage, I was soon
ready, and bidding the little crew adieu, I stepped

250

ALDEANM.

with a trcml lin'4 lioart iipon the hin<l, ami with a thnll
,.f ovultiition, thought that ore \owr I might rise to diH-
tiMction, among those who woi.M seorn me, if they knew
tl,e story of mv hirth. I sent many kind mesmiges to
Uncle Diek and Aunt Helsy, antl though I oould Hcnd
them nothing of valu.' then, 1 said in my grateful heart,
that they Bhould be rewarded, at least in part, lor what
they had done. I could but press Field's hand m silence.
The tears rising unbidden, blurred my sight, and pre-
vented utterance. ,,,,., i .

" ' If you can not find yo\.r friends, lad,' said he, at part-
ing 'come hack to the dock at night. New York is not
the saft'st i.laee in the world for a stranger to be in after
dark; so omo back if you civn do no better, \oull
know the place again, I guess V

" ' Oh yes, certainly, I shall ! I guess yon will see me
R<rai„ ; I replied, as 1 left him, with the conviction that
h?s invitation would surely be accepted. I walked on
through the crowded streets near the river, seeing much
tliat struck me with wonder and admiration. Although
New York ha4 grown immensely since the time of which
1 speak, it 8..emed to me then a perfect labyrinth ot
streets. I moved on, in amazement, through the streets and
avenues, looking with admiration at the beautiful houses
that arose on every hand. In the novelty of my sur-
roundings the time passed unheeded, and I was much
surprised when the gray shadows of evening closed sud-
denly around me. I was in the upper part ot the city,
far from the river; but in plarm, I set my face lu the
direction in which I supposed it lay. Very quickly the
city became enshrouded in partial darkness, and the gleam-
ings of the lamps, far removed from each other, gave it, in
mv eyes, only a more weird and ghostly aspect. The
street in which I was, contained only dwelling-houses, and
was almost deserted by i.edestrians. :My heart beat fast
with terror. Whore was I to find shelter for the night V

1(1, ami with a thrill
I nught rise to ili«-
in mc, if they know
y kind mesMiiges to
longh I could Hciid
11 my gmteful heart,
,st in part, lor what
'Id's hand in silence,
my sight, and pro-
lad,' said he, at part-
t. New York is not
ranger to be in alter
D no better. You'll

ue»8 yon will see me
the conviction that
.'pted. I walked on
e river, seeing much
miration. Although
ice the time of which
perfect labyrinth of
irongh the streets and
the beautiful houses
novelty of my sur-
led, and I was mxich
: evening closed sud-
iper part of the city,
I set my face in the
y, "Very quickly the
rkness, and the gleam-
each other, gave it, in
ghostly aspect. Tlic
Y dwelling-houses, and
. My heart boat fast
slielter for the night V

-I L DBA ,V^.

2:. I

This w.as the one engrossing thought of my mind. I waii-
dorod aimlessly on, until at last, benumlM-.i whh o.,!d, my
mibs hilled mo, and I s.u„k down upon a .loorstrp tl.;.
bitfivst Kars I ever shod in my life forcing Ih.ir way
down my olu'oks. As I sat tlioro sol.l.inir „„t my h<>ait's
agony, I wished myself again in sorvitud.., aiiywhoro
rather than there alone in the great citv, when. lonelincrs
IS most keenly felt, an.l destitution the least pitie<l.

" I had l)oen wandering Hiiic- ("urly morning, an.l had
oaten nothing. Ilungor now came with full force npon
me; I was very col.l too, and my fiamo shook painfully
with every gust of wind that swept through the silent
street. I put my hand in one of my pockets to get my
money, thinking that I would try to walk a little fur-
thor to get food and lodging for that one night at least.
With a fooling of horror that I can not describe, I dis.
covered that my little treasure was gone! gone! and I
was alone, without knowledge, money, or friends. My
tears eeased to flow from very excess of horror and grief.
Oh ! the hour of anguish that followed, when, shiverincr
with cold, feeling thr; direst pangs of hunger and desola"
tion, I sat upon the cold doorstep! I even moaned aloud
111 my distress ; but though persons occr.sionally passed
by, they did not seem to hoed me. Snow had begun to
fall in largo white flakes, and as I watched them slowly
descend they seemed devoid of all beauty, and I thought
of them only as the chilly covering of the niglit that
would rest upon mc an inanimate corpse in the morning.
At last, benumbed with cold, and very weary, I fell asleepj
and dreamed of those I had left in bondage, and of her
who had given to my life all its bitterness. I dreamed
of revenge ; then that I was again in the power of ray
hated mistress. Her hands were grasping me tightly,
and I was stniggling with her madly, when I awoke, to
find a heavy hand upon my shoulder shaking me lieartily.
A glare of light fell over me, and the steps and pavement

i4kAl

252

ALlth.l S'H.

upon whirh 1 liVV,oau.i..tj tl»' hmow -whu-1. Im.l lullcn to
tW.ln.th of an inch-to ulistc-ulikoH.lv.T.

-c'onu., my la.l,' Hai.l u vou-e, 'Huh ih a pretty cold

l,pd— .ni Hucli II ni^'lit ii»* ''>''* '^ <""•' , , ,

" I ,nutt..ml Homotl.inK inur.i.-ulut.-ly, an.l en<l.-av«rca
to rise, l.ut ovcrc-o.no will. Moci, an.l cc.hl mink back
„..in. 1 WUH not ixTMUttcl, howc-v.r, to ho llu-r. I
heanl tho nu.tton-.l words: "Tis a hitt.r n.«ht-the hoy
v-n treozo !' Then I was lirtcl in stronff arms, and sliU
1 f unconscious, carried i.Uo the i-hu-e whence the l.n-ht
li.d.t emanated. It was the hall of a lar«e and handsunu;
dwelling. Laying me down npon the rug at the loo c.t
tho BtaJr«, my new-found friend «h«t tho heavy door
Boftv, and returned to my side.

» ' How rac'-ed !' he murnn.red ; ' hut handsome enough
to dress in vidvet, and trend on flowers! 1 >v«"d^>r who
he is? A stranger here, I'll warrant. He has a d tre.ent
look from hoys u,,ou town. What shal I do ...th lam
There'll he a pretty commotion if 'tis known that Inc.
hrou.rht a poor lad "like this into this aristocratic house.
He can't walk, that is certain. Ho is searcoly conscious.
He is heavy, but I'll carry him up myself. I like tho

' "Stooping down, ho lifted me in his arms, and earned
me up-stairs into a dimly-lighted apartnunt, and laid mo
upon a sofa. He turned on the gas, and presently came
back to me, and poured a little wino down my throat;
its genial glow restored me fully to eonsciousness, and
the warmth of the room animated my body At tlio
return of strength, I raised myself upon my elbow; my
friend placed his hand upon my brow and gently forced
me back again; my whole heart found vent in my first
words : ' You have saved my life, sir !'

"'Perhaps so!' ho replied, a smUe passing over his
benevolent countenance, 'but you must not talk now;
but rise and sit in this chair a moment.'

<4kAl

-wh'u-li hnil fullcn to

hilviT.

liiM iH a i»rctty cold

;c>ly, and endcavon-tl
ukI cold, mink l)ack
vor, to lie lliiri'. I
.ittiTni.i?ht— the Ijoy
tronp arniH, and Hlill
ICO wlionce llie ln-i.i,'ht

I lar<;c and handsome
ho ru}^ at the loot of
ihut tho heavy door

bnt handsome enonph
A-ers ! 1 wonder who
it. He has a different

shall I do with him?

'tis known that I'v**
lis aristoeratic house,
t is seareely conscious,
p myself. I like tho

his arms, and oarried
part HH lit, and laid me
IS, and presently came
,'ine down my throat ;

to consciousness, and
!d my body. At tho
■ upon my elbow ; my
row and gently forced
found vent in my first
sir !'
imlle passing over his

II must not talk now;
nent.'

ALDEANK.

SIB

"I obeyed him, I- it was so weak that I tottered rather
tliari walked to the placd designated. Fixing my eyes
upon my friend, I watched liim as lie moved about the
room.

"Ho was ill the prime of life; a t.ali, iiiiisciilar man,
with a strikingly haiidsome face; his bright blue eyert
siioiie with kindliness, and every evpnssion beamed
with sympatiiy. I thought at the time that I had never
seen such a lieautifiil eoiintenance ; and now I can truly
say, I never knew one to fulfill so nearly my ideal of
sympathy and manly grace. The light brown hair was
sprinkled slightly with gray and clustered heavily over
the square forehead, giving hiinaii appeariuiee of tirmiiesH
almost stern. A smile of strange, womanly sweetness
rested upon his lips, and seemed to linger in the calm
eyes that he at length fixed upon me. Uo had busieil
liimself in making a bed upon tho sofa, and when tlio
task was completed, said : —

"*C'i>me, you can rest hero now, and talk in tlio
morning.'

" A sweet dreamy sense of repose stole over mo, an 1
sunk upon the soil cushions ho liad so comfortably
arranged for me. Soon to my vision th.e objects upon
which I gazed faded like shadows. Tho sound made by
the gentleman as he moved about the room fell faintly
upon my dulled ear, and at last with a consciousness of
perfect security, I fell asleep.

" The bright sunlight was streaming into the apartment
■when I awoke, revealing splendors before, even by me,
nnthought of. A rich carpet of Tyrian dyes covered
tho floor, and curtains of heavy damask and cloudlike
lace Ining before the windows. The bureau and tables
were of rosewood, marble-toi)ped, and strewn with beau-
tiful and costly articles. I was da/zled by the sight,
so different from my ideal of beauty — Grassmere — that
for some moments I could bnt gaze on all this mai'iiifl-

254:

ALDEANE.

cence, fearing to speak, lest it should prove a •iream
and vanish at a word. My host was breakfasting, and
also reading the morning paper, in which he was so
deeply en-aged that I was unnoticed. I was ashamed
to pui on my ragged and dirty clothes but, as I had no
others I did so, and went and stood timidly before the fare
Mv entertainer looked at me with a glance of interest
and compassion, and rising from his chair motioned me
to take it. I did so. He seated himself by the fire,
placed his hands upon his knees, and for some time
regarded me in silence.

" ' Who are you ?' he at last inquired abruptly.

"I was startled by the question, hesitated a moment,
then told him my true name.

" ' Where did you come from ?'

«' ' North Carolina, sir.'

'"Indeed! Why did you leave there! Tell me all

about it.' ... , .

» I remained for some minutes silent, hesitatmg between
truth and falsehood. I at first thought that I would
answer his questions in the same manner that I had those
of Uncle Dick, but I knew that I had a man of mind to
deal with, one that could not readily be deceived;
besides, I was deeply grateful to him for the kindness
he had shown me. The snow lay thick in the streets,
and upon the housetops, and I felt that, but for him, it
,ni-ht then have been my winding-sheet. I had sworn
that no man should ever know the story of my birth,
but him I could not deceive. So burying my face in
mv hands, for I felt, like a blighting curse, the stigma
re8tin.r upon me, I told him all, ai a few hurried sen-
tences ; then awaited with terror at ^ despair ray sentence
'to depart,' for I felt that it would surely come, and
that I should again become an outcast. I had tasted of
warmth and comfort, only to drink the more deeply of
utter destitution.

11
ti
f(
ri
cl
m
cj

tu
te
se

lit
th
pr

ha^

dii

bo(

in<]
<

cor
sell
bla
ad>
bro
had

ALDEANE.

Id prove a uream,
i8 breakfasting, and

which he was so
d. I was ashamed
es, but, as I had no
nidly before the fire.
1 glance of interest

chair motioned me
himself by the fire,
and for some time

red abruptly,
lesitated a moment,

there! Tell me all

t, hesitating between
lought that I would
nner that I had those
id a man of mind to
eadily be deceived;
lim for the kindness
thick in the streets,

that, but for him, it
-sheet. I had sworn
le story of my birth,

burying my face in
ng curse, the stigma
u a few hurried sen-
' despair my sentence,
lid surely come, and
cast. I had tasted of
: the more deeply of

256

" I felt — I could not look at him — that he was exceed-
ingly astonished, and was prepared for violent exclama-
tions and denunciations— but not for the silence that
followed my words. I looked up timidly, and saw him
rise and pace the floor in deep thought. I watched him
closely ; not a movement or cliange of expression escaped
my notice, but I could read nothing of my fate upon his
calm features.

"'Have you told me all the truth?' he inquired, at
last.

"'Yes, sir, all."

" ' Then I will not desert you !'

" How my heart throbbed at the words. A tide of
tumultuous joy rushed over my soul, and I burst into
tears, weeping silently for a time; then, in broken
sentences strove to express my gratitude.

We nmst do something to alter your appearance a
little,' he said, striving to silence .ic. 'Here, go into
the other room, and wash yourself, I will be back
presently.'

" He seized his hat, hastily put on a heavy overcoat,
and left the room. I went into the bath-room— that he
had pointed out— astonished at all I saw, but obeyed his
directions implicitly, and when ray friend returned I
greeted him, feeling intensely happy ; mind as well as
body invigorated by the bath in which I had so freely
indulged.

"'You will find a suit of clothes,' he said, handing me
a parcel.

" I opened it, and found every article necessary for a
complete toilet. I was soon dressed, and surveyed my-
self with some pride in the large mirror. My suit of plain
black fitting admirably, showing my figure to full
advantage; and though my long curls fell over my
broad white collar, they were smooth and glossy, and
had lost uuich of their elfish appearance.

256

ALDEANE.

" ' They nmst be cut off !' said my frieiul, as he glanced
at mo approvm-lv. 'You will do then, I flunk. A
few weeks w.ll round your cheeks ajrain, though they are
very thin and sallow now. Come, what is your name ?
I have forgotten— we will go to a harher now.'

" In a few minutes we were upon the street. I could
think of nothing but the events that had taken place
since last I trod them. I had fallen into a deep revene
when my companion again asked, 'What is your name i
Did I not tell you that I had forgotten ?'

« ' Oh sir '' I said, ' do not remind me agam that 1
have been a slave ! Call me any thing you wish ; but I
can not longer bear the name that I so utterly abhor !

" llQ seemed surprised at my vehemence. ' Your wish
shall be gratified,' he replied, 'it would be no longer
safe for you to be known by your own name. You may
take mine-it is Kaymond-and place George before it it

it suits you.'

" ' It will do excellently, sir !'

"Thus did I obtain the name that I am now known by.
On our return to the boarding-house, he informed me
that he was a merchant, residing in Toronto, was a-
bachelor and rich, and that he would educate and pro-
vide for me, if I would promise to remam with him, to
comfort his old age. ' Call me Uncle,' he said m con-
clusion, 'and treat me as a son should do, and 1 will
prove a father to you.' , /. ui

"I attempted to express my gratitude but only feebly
succeeded. 'I have met wit<h so many kind fnends, 1
at last exclaimed, 'how dearly I wish that I could in
some way reward them all, but my obligations to you
can never be canceled !'

" ' Never mind that ! your love and obedience are all 1
want. Some more substantial proof of your gratitude,
might however be acceptable to some of your humbler
friends.'

ALDEAKE.

2S7

iend, as he glanced
then, I tliink. A
in, though they are
liat is your name ?
l)er now.'

Iio street. I could
t had taken place
nto a deep reverie
hat is your name ?
n?'

d me again that I
ig you wish ; but I
o utterly abhor !'
lence. ' Your wish
'ould be no longer
n name. You may
George before it if

[ am now known by.
se, he informed me
in Toronto, was ar
d educate and pro-
emain with him, to
ile,' he said in con-
ould do, and I will

ude but only feebly
lany kind friends,' I
rish that I could in
yr obligations to j ou

id obedience are all I
if of your gratitude,
me of your humbler

" I thonglit so too, but as I Iiad nothing in my posses-
sion tliat 1 could give thoni, I said notiiing. 3Ir. Ray-
mond seomc.l weary, and said no more. I co^ild not sleej)
(luring the Avliole night, so much was my mind tijo-rossed
by the fortune that had befallen me. I could scarcely
credit my senses, all seemed so strange and improbable
to me. The evidences of truth however, were not want-
ing, and with a spirit of exquisite happiness I greeted the
Iigl»t of morning. Immediately after breakfast 3Ir. Ray-
mond oi)ened his desk, placed some ])aper ui)on it, and
bade me Avrite a note to old Uncle Dick. ' And you may
melose this,' he said, giving me a paper. I opened it
and found a check for live hundred dollars.

I3ut, sir r I exclaimed, in surprise, ' this is far too
much — a fortune to them.'

Pcriiaps so, George, but not much to me. Make haste,
I want to go down to the docks to find the little sloop
you came in. We can send this letter by Field ; it is not
likely that he has sailed yet.'

" In a few minutes we were upon the street, and in a
much shorter time than I could have thought possible
were by the river. Mr. Raymond's knowledge of ship-
ping led us directly to the right spot, and we were soon
upon the deck of the little vessel that had broucrht me
from the land of slavery and degradation to that of free-
dom and prosperity. Xone of the crew recognized me
Even Field passed me by. I called his name; he knew
my voice and looked at me in the greatest surprise.

" ' This is the relative that I spoke of,' I said, pointing
to Mr. Raymond. ' You see he took me in.'

"Mr. Raymond thanked him for bringing me, as if I
was indeed a beloved relative. Recovering the power of
speech, of which surprise had for a time bereft him, the
honest sailor replied in broken exclamations of wonder
and delight : —

" ' The schoonei will move oif in a fiw inoui!>!.ts ' lu;

2r)8

ALDEANE.

])rosentljr cxclaiinod, as a loud call from the mate s\im-
luoncd him to his duty.

" 'Give this kttor to Uncle Dick, and may God bkss
von forever, Field !' I said, shaking hands with him.
* "Mr. Raymoid performed the same ceremony, and
I cauf ht a glimpse of seveml large pieces of gold left in
the sailor's open palm. He whistled slightly, dropped
the money piece by piece into his pocket, turned a\vay
at a second summons from the mate, saying, ' V\\ drink
your health with that, sir!' and sprang into the rigging
While we hastily left the vessel, and my friend Field lor-
<>ver. Athough I have often wandered along the docks
of New York, hoping to catch a glimpse of them, I have
never done so ; and perhaps long ere this both ship and
Bailor may have stranded on the dark shores of eternity.
" We remained in New York a week longer, and then
Uncle Walter, as he bade me call him, took me to his beauti-
ful home in Toronto. An old housekeeper and several ser-
vants formed his household. All seemed to have been in
his service some time, for they were accustomed to antici-
pate all his wishes, and to perform them with alacrity,
also to respect the many whims and eccentricities that
his bachelor life had given hinu In some way, the idea
became prevalent that I was Mr. Raymond's brother's
child, and was treated with the respect due to the nephew
of so wealthy and worthy a citizen. A tutor was pro-
cured for me, and under his instruction I acquired an
insight into the ^^arious branches of knowledge that con-
stitute a classical education. For several years I was
thus happily employed, and was as contented as ^he
many wrongs which still remained unavenged would
allow me to be, I had not forgotten my oaths of ven-
geance—and, after the novelty of my situation had worn
away, I took a grim delight in picturing to myself how
I would bring my persecutors in shame to the gra.e,
while I would revel in the glorious delights of gratified

to
to
be
Al
sp(
is I

IR'i

Di.

Avh

qui

th'ii

'Al
((

his
and
He
that
thei
accc
tion
the

guai

((

forr
was
his j
man
child
I sai
she (
later
old 1
laugl

•om the mate 8\im-

ind may God bless
lantls with him.
me ceremony, and
eces of jjold left in
d slightly, dropped
ocket, turned away
, saying, ' FU drink
ng into the rigging
ny friend Field for-
■cd along the docks
pse of them, I have
i this both ship and
i. shores of eternity,
ek longer, and then
ook me to his beauli-
ieperand several ser-
med to have been in
.ccustomed to antici-
them with alacrity,
d eccentricities that

some way, the idea
laymond's brother's
;t due to the nephew
A tutor was pro-
iction I acquired an
knowledge that con-
several years I was
19 contented as ^he
I unavenged would
en my oaths of ven-
y situation had worn
turing to myself how
diame to the graze,

delights of gratified

AIDE AN E.

259

revenge. These thouglits never left me, hut became dearer

to nn J J^^J;i;'-^^';^''^^\'"-">'oo^1. I «oldom spoke of them
o Uncle Walter, but gloated over them !:, secret, until they
bocanve a part of my very being. You will shudde.-
Ahleane, as you read this, and well you may, for this fo„
spot .„ my soul can never be cleansed u.itil my vengeanT
;: ;r"';'f' '• '* -^ ^'---^y begun-the consLmaf ion Ts
o . r I 7-^T ""'""'^^ ^""^ *''''^' I «™ infatuated-led
Did not fa place directly in my way the object by
winch I could wreck my hatred, and pohu .ut the very
quick m the heart of my adversary? By givin<. life to
my own heart, I portion out a bitter existenct to lilm. In
th.s I exult. Yes ! yes ! I believe alone in the law-
An eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth '

Z 7u V 7;- f "^"^ °^"''*'^'"'' ""''^ Srief at his dtath,
and folt but httle inclination for any species of pleasure.'

le had however arranged with the elder Mr. Morgan

lat I should make the grand tour with his son; and,

therefore, w^ien Frederic leil for Europe I reluc antly-

accompanied him, and of course during our long associ.^

lon formed a friendship for him which materially lessened

guard?an '"' '' '^" ^"'^ ^ ^'^' "' '^'^ ^^'' °^ ""y
" But wherever I went, and whatever I did, my desire
for revenge grew stronger with every breath I drew, and
was unconsciously daily held before me by Morgan in
his frequent conversation concerning the fami'y of the

cTud o?ti. I^TfT^'^'f^^^^y ^'' «"'^«™i«n'« ion the
I itl t, '^ ^"'f ^" Arendell-the gentle Leonore.
I 8.i.d, hen, m my heart, this shall be my revenge-
s^u. shall be my wife-and when I saw her a few moLhs
later at Morgan's wedding, I swore it. Here I met mv
old master lus amiable wife, and lovely daughter. I
laughed as I thought how I would torture his unsuspectin..

260

ALDEANE.

heart ere he «ho«l.l again escape "^^- ^ ^;\""^'\"Y:;JJ ^
au..hter, and afterwara aisclo«c to Inm the ^vhoh^ uUh.
1 .e;cle( in the thought, and proceecU-a carctally to-
V a realization. 1 Boon discovered that I poKsessc^
a >rt of weird power over Leonore, and I .v.eUled it
ri.^ii V reToicing^o see her casting all tl>e boundless
:d h of'herWe upon xne. I believed myselt ,>ro o
j^^ anst all fascinations ; what then was my ^^H-.- >^ h-
i found that she had enthralled my heart, and that I
o rt with all the deep passionate -nu-stness of my
ntnre A desperate struggle between love and hate
foUow'dland love triumphed. I could t^,rego all my
cl rilhed plans of vengeance, rather than give sorrow o
tlZ perfect in every attribute of goodness and beauty
as Leonore. I determined to remain no longei- with hei,
Lst my r solution should falter, or her affections be
centevexl too deeply in me to be removed. I saw he
cleeks pale, and her bosom heave tnmultuously as I left
her. I saw her grief, but she knew nothing of the de-
spair that filled my own heart.

^" I returned to Toronto; then, restless and despamng
Bou^rht relief again in travel. I went to ^ ew 1 ork, and
almost the first persons I saw were those from whom I
haTfled. Mv dJsthiy to me was plain-my vengeance
was a any rate to be satisfied. Leonore was p.ale, and
Toopng: my presence gave a glow to her cheek and
Ufe to her hiart. To leave her again would be worse
uL death to both. I eould not tear myself away and
see her die ; for you have heard truth in these lines :

'Alas I the love of woman, it is known
To bo a lovely and a fearful thing.
For all of hers upon that die is thrown,

And if 'tis lost, life has no more to bring-
To her— but inockings of the past alone I'

"You know my story now. In marrying Leonore, I
shall find that happiness that else I can never know. Her

I would miir.y his
im the wbole truth,
ec-aod carefully to-
ed that 1 possessed
;, aud I wielded it

all the boundless
ieved myself proof
as my surprise when
y heart, and that I
te earnestness of my
reen love and hate
3ould forego all my
than give sorrow^ to
roodness and beauty
I no longer with her,
or her affections be
removed. I saw her
umultuously as I left
V nothing of the de-

stless and despairing,
It to New York, and
B those from whom I
plain— my vengeance
,epnore was pale, and
ow to her cheek aud
gain would be worse
tear myself away and
ith in these lines :

knowa

hing.

thrown,

ore to bring —

ast alone I'

n marrying Leonore, I
can never know. Her

A LDEANE.

261

presence will purify the plaguo-spot of mv existence
I— m one word— sliall he avenged. The father, who now
glories in his beautiful daughter, and revels in fan.ied se-
curity, shall know that his rich and aristocratic son-in-
I.iw was once his despised slave. Leonore shall know
nothing of this. He will not dare tell her, and the secret
aggravated by the sight of lier happiness with me— with'
me- and the necessity that he shall be under of (.xtend-
ing his hospitality and homage to me, shall gall and frot
liis life away."

Thus, as abruptly as it had begun, ended the record of
a life, which Aldeane had herself seen closed, without one
aspiration, without one hope of vengeance realized. But
alas, and alas ! the retribution had come upon the ene-
mies of the slave Junius, when it could give to him no
glow of savage pleasure. " And, O God !" cried Aldeane
"when will this terrible retribution end ?" and, with a
vision before her of the stricken Leonore and her half-
demented father, she bent her flice upon her hands and
wept bitterly.

And she did not see then, nor for months later, why
Raymond had written this tale for her. But she was
glad, amid all her grief, that he had written it, that ho
had given some excuse, however weak it might in reality
be, for that deep plot which bade fair to render Arendell
House as desolate as had been for years the mansion at
Grassmere.

CHAPTER XXVII.

THK DROOPING FLOWKB.

Immediately after the funeral, Mr. Blake communica-
ted the sad news of George Raymond's death to Mr.
Pierce, the senior partner of the firm of which the
deceased had been a member. As quickly as possible he
replied in person to the message.

He seemed deeply to lament the early death of his
friend — and though he was greatly shocked and surprised
at the discovery of his plebeian birth, it seemed in no de-
gree to lessen his regard for him. Colonel Arendell was
by this time convalescent. He had been very near the
grave, but was again raised to life, though it was feeble,
and every slight excitement seemed almost to extinguish
t'le flickering flame. He could not for a moment forget
or forgive the revenge that Raymond was about to visit
upon him. The condolence of friends irritated him
severely — for he felt that his name would ever be used in
connection with that of the renegade slave — who had
thrown a stain upon it forever. It was indeed with diffi-
culty that he restrained himself from speaking of it in the
l)re8ence of Leonore — who stillVemained in ignorance of it.
]\y some kind instinct, as well as by their mistress's
commands, the slaves were silent concerning Raymond in
her presence, and she never mentioned him, hiding the
memory of her love deep in her pure heart — where it was
for from the gaze of others — while it held a strong sway
over every emotion of her gentle nature — purifying
all her thoughts, and ethe'ealizing all her aspirations.

tha

he f

her

plai

unci

the

inde

deat

die.

bodj

nearl

Hunij

hati(]

conn

to an

Hut

did f;

being

l>elov

l)lace

one <j

could

out ki

Mr.

seeing

remaii

pleasu

For

Pierce

ulousl^

"Mi

ni.

KR.

, Blake communica-
jnd's death to Mr.
firm of which tho
iiickly as possible he

early death of his
ocked and surprised
, it seemed in no de-
olonel ArendeU was
been very near the
liough it was feeble,
ilmost to extinguish
br a moment forget
d was about to visit
lends irritated him
auld ever be used in
ide slave — who had
,'as indeed with diffi-
speaking of it in the
led in ignorance of it.

by their mistress's
cerning Raymond in
ined him, hiding the
heart — where it was
held a strong sway
3 nature — purifying
1 her aspirations.

A LDEAys.

968

st,?^Lr";;;!r'H r^l'y 7-"/'-yo»"^ .nounu.r-„„.l
riitk.n . thoi. IJut f„r her his heart sorrowed most

"cariy ,„v<,r.,l it ; ,li.e.,,c will «„,„ porti,™ « 3 C™

»n,.,4,,a,„t„i:c;':;f;r:':,ri:?,'«»-'-"

Aldeane felt tliat this was trn.. v«f u ^

H„rz "'■'■ 'T *r '^"''"^"'" wi.ieV.t Sir

l>ut that seemed a hoDeless t-mic Af- t-»- , ."'

|.lacc where ,h« hoped ere l„„g ,|,„ ,„ re,^™ 'T *"

Z,C ■ f . ''"" '"" ^i " 'hall not bo'" iith.
out knrnvng how, i„ „„y w„y, „„ „„„,,, ^. ^ "■«>-

For noma moment, she reraainrf ,ile„t while Afr
I»ree^«^rewr,„„ regard her. At ,.t 1 ^t^t

"Mr. Pierce, must you take him away ?"

He w.a8 for a moment startled by this abmpt question,

364

ALDBAN t:.

bvit pivscntly replied : " Sucli are my iiiHtnu-.tions, Mi>s
Aren.lell."

"I won't let him ro! Indeed, I ean not!" she ex-
claimed quickly, twininj]; her hands nervously together.
" Am I not his wife y He shall stay with me !"

"Tray don't excite yourself," returned Mr, Pierce,
soothingly. " You have indeed a just right to claim the
body of our lamente.i friend. Still .Mr. Edward Uaymoiid
desired that every honor should be paid him, and for
that i)urpose wished him to Iw interred in Canada."

" Who is this Mr. Edward Kaymond ? I never lieard

of him before."

"He is a distant relative of the late Walter Raymond,
quite an old num, and immensely rich. For some reason
lie has not been friendly with Mr. Ui»> -lond for years.
'But now he seems to have forgotte. ory c-mw for
anger, if any ever existed, and to desire every attention
to\o paid to the remains of him who has for so h)ng
Htood between him and a vast estate. I act altogether
• uniler his directions."

" Mr. Pierce," replied Lconorc, " I know that you an-

kind. You would not voluntarily trample upon a heart,

bruised and bleeding as mine is. You do not guess th.'

^jxtcnt of my sufferings, and I know that they will soon

Ae past. All that I desire on earth, is the simple privi-

"Ttee of being allowed to rest by the side of Raymond, in

iy>e grave-yard at Loring. Can you deny me that little

^^consolation V"

lie looked at her with djeep pity.
" You know that I am dying," she continued, wistfully.
He could not deny the assertion. lie took her hand
tenderly, and said huskily, " Give me your commands,
and I will obey them spite of all previous orders."

"Ah! thank you! thank you!" murmured Leonore.
"You will then allow George to remain here. Oh, it
would be worse than death to see him taken away !

my instnictions, MisH

I can not!" b1>p ox-
Is ntTVOUfily togetlicr.
y with mc!"

returned Mr, Pierce,
just right to claim the

Mr. Kdward llaymontl

be paid him, and for
erred in Canada."
mond ? I never lieunl

hite Walter Raymond,
rich. For some reason
r. lli») lond for years,
otte. ery causes for
desire overy attention
n who has for so loni^
tate. I act altoicetlicr

" I know that you arc
' trample upon a heart,

You do not guess the
low^ that they will soon
rth, is the simple privi-
he side of Raymond, in
^ou deny me that little

iho continued, wistfully,
on. lie took her hand
VQ mc your commands,
previous orders."
!" murmured Leonore.
> remain here. Oh , it
sec him taken away!

A LDEANE.

205

Death! death!" she repeated in a low voice "It .
no Htinj? IWr me." ^* "has

vl^^ ""' 7**'"''.'"' ""y '^*''"" ^^'^* ^^••<"'<1^H !" oried Mr
i lorce, prcatiy asjiti.t.-d. " VII hI.uII 1„. ,.m , . ;

"I W T.T '"•" "'" """"■""'• "'""■"■Wing vole
in.ivo Heard niv sunimonu r oi.^ii . ^'^*

«i,„ -11 ..^ -""iimoMH. 1 snail soon iro hotm* "

f5ho sighed wearily, andadded-— « I ]o„.r fn „ iu
rest with him." ^ '"'•« to go and be at

omoiion ":';V'"^""''" '^'^ Mr. Pierce in a voice of deep

or at least contented." / /v.t ui nappy

airiivs Tr, ''"' ^'""^ '''"«'-'^« «-^Pt fro™ my view
a I joys and pleasures, and Iron, my heart all its asn r^
.ons, she answered, simply. « The winds of c „c m s
ortuneh.ave borne from my s.ul all its beauty Cn
that arid desert the flowers of love 11 T ' ' ^
;>Ioom again. Oh, I ^o.^Z dlt.d t::^].:r Z^H
has no home or me !" A few tears strayed ove her pale
cceks, and fell upon the little white ha.uls twinin . them!
solves so nervously together in her lap. " Do ou t Zk
those thoughts so very wicked ? Indeed, I ej n^ bit

1«

260

ALDEANE.

iKh th.'iii !" Mu- Hiiul, hopeloHHly, «>'"»'"'« "P «'<'' ''"
exi.rosHi.m Duelling from ilH ohil-linh i-ititiilnrHH.

Tlic «lr..ii« man botV.rt. lur l..iit his htacl.m.a wq.t hko

ft litth' fhil<!. ^ ,,

» I will K'o now," ho pii'Hontly mii.l, vi-ry Horrowfully.
"MiHS Ari'iulell, I will ^'«) fon'V.M-; my pres.nce I uin
8un', must -ivf aa.Utiomil «»<""" to your thouRhts. 1
will only have a Huitable t..ml.Htoue (.TL.eU.a, and then 1
will U'avti you ttlouc lo your Hucrcd pricf."

Loonori- prcssi'd his hand over hir heart, .i.uckly, while
n HpaKin of a-oi.y for a moment c-ontnuU-il h.'r leaturcs.
Mr Piorce looked at her in alarm. "It i« nothing she
replied, answering hin look of inquiry. " Hear v,ith me
one moment lont;«'r."

He sat down besi.le her, and bepf^'ed her to proceed.
" You know I ollen go to George's grave," she Huid, sotl-
Iv " You know how sweet a plaee it is. I would not see it
changed. Wait until another hilloek rises beside his, then
two marble slabs shall mark the place where we repose.
• et not the sacred ground be touched till then. Choose
lor us both monuments, and let them be erected to-
gether."

Mr Pierce looked at her in surprise.
" I, will not be long !" she pleaded. « Oh ! how could
I bear to see his name there alone! and read each time
I go there the record of that death that is written upon
mv heart in words of fire!"

« Poor child ! poor child ! sorrow has given you strange
thoughts," said Mr. Pierce..

"Let him rest ! let him rest !" she murmured, entreat-
incrlv " It needs no marble slab to point out to me the
spot where he lies. When I, too, am there 'twill be time
enough for the record to be given to the world.

IkMiding forward, Mr. Pierce pressed his lips upon her
pure uplifted brow, whispered, " All shall be as you wish,
and hastily left the room.

}iu

lei
sal
exi

ha<
a t(
]iu
onl
He
wh(
a s]
lost
thai

Aid

had
her
foul
It is

um-iiii; up with an

|iititiiliu>Bt«.

hcttil, ttijd wept likt'

1(1, vt-ry sorrowfully.

my pri'KiHce, I uuj
> your thoughts. 1

irt'ctid, and thcu I
rricf."

■ heart, tjuickly, while
itnictetl her IVatureH.
" It irt nothing," »^^*-'
iry. " Hear with mo

fed her to proceed,
grave," she Huid, soft-
is. I would not see it
i rises beside his, then
ace where we repose,
led till then. Choose
them be erected to-

rise.

[>d. "Oh! how could
! and read each' time
li that is written upon

has given you strange

le murmured, entreat-
to point out to me the
ira there 'twill be time
to the world."
essed his lips upon her
1 shall be as you wish,"

ALDEAfTE.

2«i;

Tenrs l,li„.l..,l his eyes, an.l he stumbled over AMca..,.
lu the hall before he saw h.r.

blinl v,'!;,'""' '""'''""' •"^'''*'" ■"''"•'*' !" '"" -''i'J. i» « trem-
" It is granted, with j.leasure," she r.-pli.-d, L,'!a.ui„,r „t

she added, pereeivm- his a-itation.

" Ves," he answered, with a sigh. " (i.,,! grant that I
may never have anolluT s„..h interview with anyone!
AValk with me „. ,h.. ^,,.1,.. a few minutes, I bJg Ft
Jias completely unmanned me."

Aldeane took his arm, an,i they turned into the walk

eading to the great oak-tree. When they reached it, ho

cMy-^ "'•"--"t^'l H-U at its base, an.l s^lid,

" She is dying. Miss Guthrie! dyinrr I say'"
" I fear so, indeed !" she returned, sadly

b»'i { ""'Tr. ''''.' "''*''"^ ^^'- ^^''^^'•^■^'' ^'"Phatically. " I
had hoped that her distress was but the natural grief that
a tender young g.rl would feel at the death of her lover
JJut .t IS lar more, far more! Raymond j.ossessed not
only her heart, but a strong influence over her very bein.^
lie ha.I become her life, the support of her existence;
when he djed-morally s,)eaking-8he die<l also. « ScarcJ
u spark of hfe anmmtes her feeble body, an.l her nund has

hn. ^^ .1 T\: ^^'' '■'" *''"'•' "*■ '^"^ "»'' thing, and
that. Death, ^otlung seems to arouse her "

"And do you think that she will so.m die?" asked
Aldeane, weeping. "May she not linger eve.i for years y"
iNoino! he answered, sorrowfully. " If Raymond
had hved she might have been spared, for the excess of
her love for lum would have made her happy, and that
foul specter Consumption might have sought her in vain
It IS not that, even now, that is killing her."

1^' Not const .iption?" ejaculated Aldeane.

"No," he answered, quietly. "She is dying of a

268

ALDEANE.

Iirolion heart. Yoit may all call it consumption, but I
say that she would have lived free from it for years hud
not sorrow opened the way for its approach, and tram-
pled upon her heart as its iirst ivsting-place."

"And do you think that she would have been happy
if George Ravmond had lived ?"

"Yes. Slie would have trusted him so implicitly,
that she would have seen all his better qualities only,
and by her influence called them into action ; his strange
spirit would have been quelled by her gentleness,
and his passions calmed by her love. He, perhaps,
would never have been perfectly happy. His was too
stormy a soul to know aught of so quiet a guest, but she
would have rested as calmly and confidingly upon his
bosom as the moss on the foaming sea, knowing no dan-
ger and fearing none, and loving imi)licitly through life,
would have fallen asleep, smiling, at its close."

Aldeauc sighed deeply, then burst into a convulsive fit
of weeping that agitated her fearfidly. This was so un-
expected that Mr. Pierce could but gaze upon her in
grave surprise. Sobs shook her frame, and the few tears
that strayed over her cheeks seemed wrung from her very
heart. It was not often that Aldeane wept, but when
she did it always appeared to relieve her feelings. Noav
it had a contrary ettect. Her sobs nearly choked her, and
her heart seemed bursting with wild pain.

"I can not \mdcrstand this. Miss Guthrie," said Mr.
Pierce at last, in a low voice. "This is so different from
your usual manner. It is perfectly incomprehensible."

" Ah, if you knew all !" gasped Aldeane. " If you
knew all, you would no longer wonder at me !"

"Tell me all," he said gently. Aldeane drew away
the hand that he had grasped in his earnestness. " For
your own sake," he added reproachfully. " Do I de-
serve this distrust? Can you not place confidence in
me?"

H
C

8'
k

P
AV

ei
A
b(

hi
d(
ki
el(
at
Tl
ha
thi
Pc
nei
re£
alt

Kp;

an(

"S
W!

AIDE AN E.

209

consumption, but I

im it for years hud

wroach, and tnun-

-place."

I have been happy

him so implicitly,
ttcr qualities only,
action ; his strange
y her gentleness,
)ve. He, perhaps,
ppy. His was too
iet a guest, but she
)nfidingly upon his
a, knowing no dan-
)licitly through life,
its close."

into a convulsive fit
ly. This was so un-
; gaze upon her in
e, and the few tears
ivrung from her very
ane wept, but when
her feelings. Now
arly choked her, and
pain.

1 Guthrie," said Mr.
I is so diiFerent from
ncomprehensible."
Aldeane. "If you
er at me !"
Aldeane drew away
1 earnestness. " For
ihfully. "Do I de-
place confidence in

"I have never tried you," she replied simply. " iJi.t
indeed, Mr. Pierce, I have need of all your counsel and
sympathy for the unhappy part I took in the unfortunate
events that have lately transpired."

" Poor child," said Mr. Pierce, as another gush of wild
sobbing racked her frame. "I pity you, indeed! I
know that you have suffered, and do still. Tell me your
griefs, my child. Poriiaps I can soothe you a little."

When partly composed, Aldeane related the greater
portion of the memorable conversation that she had held
with George Raymond a tev,^ days before his death-
ending with the bitter cry, " Oh, if I had but told Colonel
Arendell al! I suspected, his life and hers might have
been saved !"

^^ " Xot so," said Mr. Pierce, atler a few moments' thought,
" not so. Raymond would have been perfectly furious'
had his secret been betrayed. No one knows what rash
deed he might have been led to commit. He mi<»ht have
killed Colonel Arendell, oi; himself, or even his bride
elect; for you say yourself that his reason forsook him
at the mention of liis wrongs, whether real or fancied.
Ihink what a blow the knowledsje of his birth would
have been to Leonore. His death has shaken her reason,
that revelation I believe Avould have dethroned it forever.
Poor drooping lily, it will soon bloom in heaven 1 You
need not weep over your reticence. Miss Aldeane, I have
reason to believe that even worse calamities than have
already befallen the family, were averted by it."

Aldeane was slightly comforted. " If 'she could be
spared !" she munnured.

" The fairest tiowers are those fragile ones that bloom
and die in spring-time," said Mr. Pierce, musingly.

•' Spring-time !" repeated Air sane, shuddering.
" Spring-time ! Ah, how dreary a one this has been I
Wliat will the next bring forth ?"

Mr. Pierce, responded in low tones:— •

2Y0 ALDEAKE.

" Anotuer little grave shall be,
Beneath the willo^T-tree,
The sun shall tinge it, with its gold, ^^
And sweetest flowers shall there unfold.

He walked slowly away, while Aldeane remained to
weep more ealmly, and to watch with agonized sohcitule
a little white-robed tignre that was sitting at one of the
upper windows, looking drearily, and with an air ot
fixed melancholy, out npon the scene below. Her large
brown eyes shone strangely unt irom the mass ot .^avy
hair han-ring around her bloodless cheeks. An expres-
;in of d^ep'pain rested on her lips, while one ot earn
resignation gave to the face an appearance ot almos
Jiigelic swe;t.,ess. She seemed not to be thinkmg, but
rather as if patiently waiting for some one to come-
one whose form she could never more hope to see; as if
Ust;l- for a footstep that no more should greet her long-
niear.'' She was twining her white hands together m a
strange nervous manner she had lately assumed. Sitting
Lre^^in the dying light of the day L— ^/^f f J
seemed indeed but a wreck of her fo-'^^^.^^^' f iJ ^J"
deane once more wept passionately crying bitte y, Oh,
if she could be spared ! if she could be spared ! Loo-
L up atler such an outburst of grief, she perceived that
dayUght had taded, and a moonless night set m. Gro^
fng her way back to the house, she heard her name called
n hu^ied Les. Mrs. Arendell met her in the hall, and
The Ugit she held in her hand revealed Aldeane, pale and

''« A^ how you frightened me!" exclaimed Mrs Aren-

dellld^hastlrt. "Where have you been? We have

been seeking y^u ever bo long." ,. i • »

"I have been down by the great oak," she replied in a

°« Whatl so near, and you have not heard us calling

ii:
le

Sil

lei
A

cl<
foi
mi
en

8ti

of
vo

str
wii
yoi
mil
yoi

Bel
I h

spe
Ih

syii

tha

eitl
((

and
our
In s

AIDE AXE.

271

;old,

) unfold."

Ideane remained to
I agonized solicitude
sitting at one of the
md with an air of
B below. Her large
m the mass of wavy-
checks. An expres-
s, while one of calm
[ipcarancc of almost
t to be thinking, but
iome one to come —
re hope to see; as if
fihould greet her long-
e hands together in a
ely assumed. Sittmg
ly, Leonorc Arendell
L- former self, and Al-
crying bitterly, " Oh,
d be spared !" Loca-
ief, she perceived that
} night set in. Grop-
heard her name called
let her in the hall, and
aled Aldeane, pale and

exclaimed Mrs, Aren-
you been ? We have

; oak," she replied in a

B not heard us calling

you ? There are a couple of letters for you, but i-ome
into tea first."

She hastil-- excused herself, and taking the light and
letters, n-, ended to her room. Putting them down she
sat for a long time lost in thought. At last raising her
eyes, she saw the superscription of one of the letters. It
was from Arthur, and with a sigh she broke the seal.

"Dearest /lldeane," it commenced. "From your
letters T perceive that darkness is still brooding over
Arendell House ; and T fear is enshrouding you all too
closelJ^ I wish I could prevail upon you to'come North ;
for I believe you can do no one any good, and yourself
much harm, by remaining South. I know that your pres-
ence must bo a great comfort to your afflicted friends,
still that must be swallowed up in their sorrow at seeinof'
you droop beneath their cares. And this from the tone
of your letters I know, Aldeane, you are doing. I beg oi
you to come to us noio, when the appointed time arrfves
I fear your health will have failed— for I know that those
strange events that have lately taken place have made
wide inroa<ls upon your liappiness, and I presume also
your bodily welfare. Then come to us now. Belle
mingles her entreaties with mine. We long to greet
you. Do nor disappoint us.

" You speak joyfully of my happuiess. You know, while
Belle is near me I can never know misery. Yet recently
I havs had manv things to cause mo anxiety. I do not
speak of this to .dd to your care, my sister, but because
I have always confided in you, and trusted to you for
sympathy and co- sel. But indeed I hope and believe
that this matter is not of suflicient importance to cause
either of us any anxiety.

" You are aware with what fair prospects Halcombe
and I entered upon our career, and how much confidence
our numerous friends and acquaintances reposed in us.
In some way that confidence has been shaken. Altliough

272

ALDEANE.

I have not before mentioned it to yon, I have observe.-, it
o« time past, but thonght ^^^^^^^^,
I can not but feci that it is nKlced reahtj. One ..t on
most Trnportant clients, without giving any reaso,, and
S c lelv an apology, has taken his ^--^ J--
our hands, a id placed it in that of others. Another ha
Tnified his intJntion of dou,g so, while many seem cold
n°tl e'v greetings, and cast upon us suspicious glance .

h has becomel stock-broker. We were m..takcn, Al-
Sal;:, when we supposed him to be a ^^^^^^
farmer. He is, in reality, well educated, t^-.ti one ot the
morcunninc. U vile of men. He has been acting a
?rc part for" years, although he has ,.ever been able to
tce'alhis balenes;. He has apP-.-edJo us, to ha^^^^^^^^
other ambition th^itl^a^umu^a^-;^^^^^^^
mpvp pleasure ot hoarmng u. ^^^^^
Sing but display. He boards at the mo.t tashionable
hotel in Boston, and is having the tarin-noase fitted up
beautifully for he reception of his visitors during the
Bimmer >u. :., indeed, a perfectly changed man. In
hrSo,;.H , Attired, polite Mr. Nevins of Boston, y«u
Wd La It almost impossible to recognize the uncouth,
surly Jonas Nevins of the hiountain-tarm

"We have met in the streets a few times, and he has
bowed to me, smiling maliciously, as if certain that he
held me in hi^ powen My passion is -.S-'^V^ -ch
Ses, that it is with difficulty I can restram myself from

^'^llSng the difficulty to the same source as I do, Mr.
Ashton affecfs to kugb at it, though I can readdy per-

cei
bee

ind
yet
ter
sue

ful
tha
sag
yov
but
she
to ;
this
any

thai
in i<
not)
and
thof
not!

the

mer,

mos

fell

Sine

prof

only

bles!

arou

that

appa

only

ALDEAXE,

273

tt, I have observed it
ere fancy ; but now
reality. One »;f our
i'incj any reasoi , and
;ii iuH business from
)thers. Another has
t-hile many seem cold
,s suspicious glances.
( undeniable, are ttoat-
al to be contradicted,
my against us. I can
refer it all to the im-
I have written to you
in Boston now, since
e were mistaken, Al-
le a mi«?r!y, ignorant
icated, ft'.id one of the
[e has been acting a
IS iv'ver been able to
lared to us, to have no
tiou of money, for the
w ho s.-enis to care for
,t tilt most fashionable
e tarin-house fitted up
is visitors during the
tly changed man. In
Nevins of Boston, you
recognize the uncouth,
in-farm.

1 few times, and be has
r, as if certain that he
on is so great, at such
an restrain myself from

same source as I do, Mr.
ugh I can readily per-

ceive that it troubles him. As for Chester lialcombe, he
becomes sometimes almost discouraged, at others vastly
indignant. lie has not lost one jarticle of his faith in me,
yet I know that he sometimes wishes that we had not en-
tered into partnership, though he has not even insinuated
such a thing to mc.

" I was out to the cottage yesterday ; Belle is as beauti-
ful as ever, and appears to love me with the devotedness
that I do her, Slie intrusted me with a variety of -nes-
sages for you. It is by her advice that I have written to
you of my little trouble ; knowing hoM' much you are
burdened with the afflicticns of those that are with you,
she had not the heart to add even the weight of a feather
to your lOad of cares. Yet she wished you to know of
this, in order that you might be prepared for it, should
any thing untoward result from it.

"The house on Street is nearly completed ; I pray

that nothing may prevent us from taking up our abode
in it at the appointed time. Belle says, trustingly, that
nothing shall ; but I am sometimes oppressed by doubts
and fears, although I firmly believe that I can outlive
those vague and baseless slanders, and I assure you
nothing would give me more joy than to triumph over
the diabolical hatred and persecutions of Jonas Nevins.

" Frederic Morgan and his wife are at home this sum-
mer. Her health is very delicate, and I fear that Fred's
most tender solicitude will not stay the ravages of that
fell disease which has long been preying upon her.
Since his marriage, he has followed the practice of his
profession assiduously, seeming never to tire, happy
only when exertuig his powers to the utmost. The poor
bless him, and the rich will trust no other, for miles
around. He has lost much of the gay elasticity of spirit
that distirgaished him in his bachelor days, and although
apparently cheerful, a shadow hangs over his heart, seen
only by his nearest friends, such as I have the honor to
12*

274

ALDEANE.

1,0 Terhapa it is his wife's constant sickness that op-
v,n-Bses him; whatever is the cause, he is sadly changed.
" Mlie acrain I say come to us! Write iinmediately
.vhen I may" raeet you in New York. Come to your lov-
ing Belle, and your anxious and aflfectionate brother.

"Arthur Guthrie."

A new sorrow darted into Aldeane's heart, and rankled
there as she read this epistle. It filled her with alarm.
She doubted not but that Nevins was bent upon Arthur s
destruction, and she feared much the result of his machi-
nations; she longed to fly to him at once to shield him
from his enemy, and she thought with wrathful impa-
tience how little her efforts would avail. " bhall I go or
not " was the perplexing question that haunted her. bhe
heard a soft footfall on the stairs, and thought of Leonore.
" Ah, I can not leave her !" she cried ; " to her I can be
some comfort, but to him I can do no good." And after
an hour spent in tearful thought, she answered Ax-thur s
letter as she )nd one of Belle's before, spying, that though
her inclination., bade her hasten to the North, her duty
held her South, and there she would stay till Leonore
ralUed from her grief, or yielding to it, died. It was hard
thus to write, and her resolution almost failed her, when
she fancied she heard a slight noise in Leonore's room
Catching up the light, she hastily sped thither, and found
every thing perfectly quiet. She had been unnecessanly
alanned, but she could not go without one look at the
object of her solicitude. She lay upon the bed so co dly
pale, that but for a slight quivering motion of the lips,
as her breath parted them, her tranquil sleep might have
been taken for death. A reflection, rather than stamp of
pain seated upon her features, while a sigh gently parted
her lips. Aldeane bent to press a kiss upon the waxen
brow, and to smooth her dark hair back, when she heard
the eagerlv whispered word, "George! George! as if

tl
tl

t(
cl
si
ai
tl
G

tc
«'f
fi\
n(

Pl
ar

"I
an

les

pe
dr.
tlu
wc

ALDEANE.

275

nt Bickness that op-
he is sadly changed.

Write immediately
Come to your lov-
ctionate brother.

Artuuk Guthbik."

's heart, and rankled
llled her with alarm.
9 bent upon Arthur's
e result of his machi-
it once to shield him
with wrathful impa-
vail. " Shall I go or
lat haunted her. She
i thought of Leonore,
id ; " to her I can be
no good." And after
he answered Arthur's
•c, sl ying, that though

the North, her duty
uld stay till Leonore

it, died. It was hard
most failed her, when
se in Leonore's room,
ped thither, and found
lad been unnecessarily
thout one look at the
ipon the bed so coldly
ing motion of the lips,
iquil sleep might have
1, rather than stamp of
e a sigh gently parted
I kiss upon the waxen
: back, when she heard
lorge! George!" as if

the soul of the young dreamer were in communion with
that of her lover.

With a sigh, Aldeane returned to her chamber, and
to the completion of her letter. Ere it was finished the
clock struck twelve, and soon afterward she lay down to
sleep restlessly till morning. At its approach she arose,
and descended to the garden, to seek in the fresli air
that repose of spirit whicJi the night had failed to bring.
Gradually it came, and her mind, losing much of the
care that had lately weigh yd upon it, turned with delight
to the beauty that lay b'lthed in dew, sparkling in the
early sunbeams. Even before the tempest that had
swept half its arbors and trellisses away, the garden had
never looked more beautiful than now. Pursuing her fa-
vorite walk to the oak-tree. Aldeane looked with quiet
pleasure around her. She thought of the first morning,
and how much had since then transpired. Jessie, with a
laughing " Good-morning, Miss Aldeane," ran by her to
join the boys, whose merry voices were heard in the
distance. Then all was silent, and Aldeane again
relapsed into reverie. As she approached the oak, she
Avas startled by a voice saying cheerily : —

"Ah, Miss Guthrie, you are an early riser like myself,
I see ; and as fond, too, of this shady path !"

Turning, she beheld Mr. Pierce advancing toward her.
" How are you to-day ?" he asked, clasping her hand, and
and looking at her anxiously ; " you have passed a sleep-
less night, I fear. W^hy will you worry so ?"

" You are mistaken, Mr. Pierce, I have slept well," she
answered with a faint smile.

"Perhaps so — for you," he answered. "But it is
perfectly unnatural that one so young, should toss and
dream all night, to wake at morning, only to brood over
the sorn-ws of others throughout the day. A change
would do you good. Miss Guthrie. I must take you away
North with me. Will you go ?"

276

ALDEANE.

She shook her head sadly. , ,< . „.

"Eh. Why not, now?" he persisted. " Are you not

going a few months later, and for the sake of my escort,
will you not hurry the time a httlo?"

« Say nothing about it. Indeed, I don't know that I
shall CO at all, Mr. Pierce."

"Not at all'.." he repeated. "Nonsense, you shall go
You are getting as white and tlnn as Lconore 1 Do you
want o die wfth her? You shall not at any rate, you
Z go North with me ! There is Mrs. Arendell on he
piazza now, I will speak to her about it tins moment
^He started away; but Aldeane's hand, laid firmly,
though gently upon his arm, detamed hira.

«Dor?t sav any thing to her about it r.\-««/- ^
she pleaded," "I can not go now, but I think I will m
December ; but I can not leave them all now, even
Colonel Arendell would miss me sadly.

"He could not do without you!" exclaimed Mr.
Pierce, looking at her admiringly. " He told me yester-
day that you and his good wife are his only comforters
and that if either were taken away, he shou d be entirely
prostrated. But I forget! I am injuring my own

^'^"Not at all!" replied she, "I could never consent to

leave them now." ^ , *ij„„„„i

"Promise me, that you will in December, Aldeane !

It distresses me beyond measure, to see you so careworn

and ;)ale. Come, promise me !"

"/can not, indeed!" sha answered. "Yo« know that

I will go to my brother's wedding if it is possible to do

80 ; but not if Leonore needs my company as much as

""itlT/. noble girl," cried Mr. Pierce, earnestly.
« Will YOU do one thing that 1 ask of you ?"
- « A dozen if compatible with my duty," she replied.
"Oh; this is nothing to interfere with it! Will you

ted. " Are you not
B sake of ray escort,

[ don't know that I

nsense, you shall go !
8 Leonorc 1 Do you
not at any rate, you
Mrs. ArendcU on the
t it this moment."
'8 hand, laid firmly,
id him.

t it ! riease don't 1"
ut I think I will in
them all now, even

lly."

ou!" exclaimed Mr.
" He told me yester-
; his only comforters,
he should be entirely
tn injuring my own

ould never consent to

1 December, Aldeane !
see you so careworn

ed. " You know that
if it is possible to do
' company as much as

Mr. Pierce, earnestly,
of you?"

' duty," she replied.
:e with it! Will you

A LDEANE

277

write to me when I am gone to let mo know tlie end of
all this? You can not Avonder that I am deeply in-
terested." '

"I will let you know all that transpires," she answered
readily. " When do you expect to leavt> us ?" »

Within two days. I have in fact nothing to stay for
I shall remain in New York a week «,r two, to have poor
Jiaymond's monument, wliich I liave already ordered
finished, and also, according to the wish of Leonore, I
shall have it safely Htored there, to remain until sent for
It almost kills me to think that that fair child mu^t
die."

The breakfast-bell was sounded, and turning, they
wont silently back to the house,

"Oh, mamma!" they heard Jessie exclaim, as they
entered the dining-room. "Mr. Pierce is going away in
a day or two I heard him tell Miss Aldeane so in the
garden this morning."

1^' When, little eavesdropper ?" asked Mrs. Arendell.
" Just a minute ago. I was going to speak to her, but
she didn't notice me, and I heard them talkin<r about
sister Nora, and Mr. Kayraond, and—" °

"Jessie!" exclaimed Mrs. Arendell, while Leonore
turned deadly pale. "Jessie!" and catching the fright-
ened <;hild in her arms, she carried her screaming from
th(! room. Frank and Eddie looked on in surprise, and
Colonel Arendell looked at them helplessly, trembling
from head to foot, as since his illness he always did at
the slightest excitement. Leonore clutched the table-
cloth nervously with both hands, and presently asked
faintly : —

" Are you, indeed, going so soon, Mr. Pierce ?"
" I am. Miss Arendell," he replied.
^'And— " she began, with a painfully anxious look.
"Do not distress yourself. Miss Arendell, your wishes
ishall be respected in all things,"

278

ALDKANE.

A smile of thankfulness illiimiiiptl hor face for a
moment, then loft it as gravt- and pale as before.

^Irs. ArcndcU diil not aijain appear, ami a languid
conversation was kept np between iMr. Pierce, Aldeanc,
und Frank, and when tlu-y arose from tlie table it was
with a feeling of relief thiU each turned away to tluir
wonted avoeations.

The day following, Mr. Pierce took his departure.
Aldeano watehed him from her window, as far as the
bend of the road, with a strange feeling of desolation
and oi)pression, as it" she had a difficult, and weary task
to perform, and him on whom she most relied for assist-
ance and support was taken from her. Unconsciously
hhe had come to rely upon his judgment, and found
comfort in his sympathy. But not long could she
irdulge such thought. Throwing lier arms around
her neck, and bursting into tears, Leonorc exclaimed in
an agonized voice : —

"He is gonel ho is gone! Even hia friends desert
me!"

"No; not all!" replied Aldeane, soothingly. "You
forget, Leonore, that I am still with you, and I was hia
friend."

" Oh, I wish I was with him I I wish I was with him !"
with a fresh burst of sobs, was her only reply.

" Leonore ! Leonore 1" said Aldeane, in as stern a voice
as she could use to her. " You are wicked — you forget
that God will take you in his own good timo. You
ought rather to pray to liv« to be a blessing to those
who love you so well."

" Ah, it will be better for all when I am gone !" she
answered, mournfully. " Do not wish me to live, AUie.
You do not know what it is to have your brimming cup
of love dashed from your lips, and one filled with the
very dregs of bitterness and woe to quaff instead."

"Alas ! I know too well," thought Aldeane, but she

oi
lo

fii

all

))e

all

th(

eyi

ift

lik(

bee

anc

hea

col<

ing

Aid
<i

min
life

led her face for a
e as before,
lear, iuid a languid
Ir. Pierce, Aldeanc,
.m the table it was
rned away to their

ook hia departure,
iidow, as far as the
i?eliiig of desolation
ult, and weary task
lost relied for assist-
her. Unconsciously
idgment, and found
ot long could she
her arms around
Eonorc exclaimed in

II his friends desert

soothingly. " You
you, and I was hia

ish I was with him I"

ily reply.

le, in as stern a voice

wicked — you forget
'M good timo. You

a blessing to those

;n I am gone!" she
sh me to live, AUie.
! your brimming cup
L one filled with the
quaff instead."
bt Aldeane, but she

AIDE A NE.

279

only said, "Will nothinj; comfort or arouse vou ? ('..me-
ot ns walk in the garden, some of the paths are beauti^
fill and shady to-day."

She arose and went, just as she did every thin.'
uncomplainingly, unon joyi„n;|y. A sort of stupor seenu"!
to have H.-.zed upon her faculties. She was alive to
nothing but her sorrows, an.l they seemed to have
almost era-ced her mind. A wreck of what she once ha.l
been, she seemed patiently to await her final dissolution
She remained constantly with Aldeane, shunninir almost
all other company. She would sit for hours, smoothh.g
the folds of her black dress with her thin white hands or
twinmg them restlessly together in her lap. Her brown
c^es gazing wistfully around, and her lips half parted as
It to speak. Paler and more unearthly she became day
hy day until, at the end of the summer, she appeared
like a being from the skies, so fair and fragile had she
become, °

With the cool winds of autumn she seemed to revive
and all began feebly to hope that she might regain her
health and partial happiness. Mrs. Arendell urged the
colonel to take her to Cuba, but Leonore seemed unwill-
ing to take the journey, so it was deferred. She said to
Aldeane : —

"I am afraid to go ; I want to die at home '»
Nothing could banish the thought of death from Iier

mind, It was fixed there, to the expulsion of all ideas of

lite and joy.

CHAPTEU XXVIU.

„,DE,1»E I.KTI-BSS TO Til. »OinH.

A. the .ta- awou.-^ «>' ,""■• S^^L^ tthll;

mentioned the acsn-.bk..essouaup^^^ P ^

Arthur had i.voi.osed to Mr. ^^ ^' "M « ^^

with Belle should at least be d'^'*'-^'- ;^^' ^^^^ ^J^" „,,hing
whose confidence in the y^'^'^'f ''^CJ^o it, ^n^

popularity. December found the inmatcH of

A wet, dreary day ni Ue«. ^'"'^^ sittin-room, ai-ound a
Arendell "^^^^f ^ dArenS was writing, Leo-
glowmg wood fire. /;«'"";; "r,^^^^^ ^^j Aldeanc busily
nore looking idly out ot the ™^'^^'' j .^, y^ank had
engaged in in«tructn.g Eddie and Jes c.

be^n sent to school early .n f -/"^if/^i.rto^e with

^r,3tJ:sr:iw::=?:;withanairof

some interest down the road.

JCVIII.

TIIK NOUi'll.

or journey North ap-
sR and uneasy. Arthur
ront for her r,(arn,but
n, she comi not endure
ndells even ibr a sh«)rt
depend upon her. Yet
I eoun.scl and sympathy
I redueed by the secret
r. HaUombe had already
lisruption of partnership.
Uiton, that his marriage
eferred, but Mr. Ashton,
iig lawyer was nothing
Id not listen to it, and it
inted time. He thought
acnce in Arthur, would
he would soon regain his

ber found the inmates of
he sitting-room, around a
rendell was writing, Leo-
ndow, and Aldeanc busily
. and Jessie. Frank had
the lall, and she now had
her much time to be with
was looking with an air of

IMAGE EVALUATION
TEST TARGET (MT-S)

^.ym.^

7/ ^

{/ .SX^ c^.

v..

1.0 If la Mi^

I.I

1.25

i^ !■■ IIIII2.2

ii£ ilillM

1.4

1.8

1.6

Photographic

Sciences
Corporation

<?^

^K\

PL^^

'ifc^

23 WEST MAIN STREET

WEBSTER, NY. 14580

(716) 872-4503

CIHM/ICMH

Microfiche

Series.

CIHM/ICMH
Collection de
microfiches.

Canadian Institute for Historical Microreproductions / Institut Canadian de microreproductions historiques

ALDEANE.

281

" I'll, there is a horse .and bngfty crossiiiir tlio hrifli,'(>."
Hhe Raid. " What can brinj^ any one liere such a wet day ?"

" Probably it is Dr. (irey, eoniing to see yon, my dear.
Yo\i kiunv he doesn't mind a little rain. lias he stopped
here V"

"Yes, papa. But it is not Dr. Grey, but a young
gentleman."

She started as a young man leapt from the vehicle.
The tall, commanding figure, and dark complexion, re-
minded her painfully of Raymond, and seemed strangely
familiar.

Colonel Arendell walked to the window. " Come
liere, Miss Allie," he said, " and tell me whether you
know who tins is hurrying up the walk. I am sure I
have seen him before !"

She went to his side, and in a joyous voice exclaimed :
"Arthur! dear Arthur !" and rushed to meet him.

" So it is !" cried Lconore. " JIow strange that we did
not recognize him, but his hat is sloui-hed over his face
so ! Ah, how delighted Aldeane is !" biic continued, as
siie heard a faint scream of delight, and beheld lier
clasped in Arthur's warm embrace.

In another moment he was in the house, where he was
received Avarmly, and with many exclamations of surprise
at his unexpected appearance. After the first joyful mo-
ment of meeting was passed, Aldeane's heart sank within
her, 'ind with trembling lips, she asked : —

" Why have you come, Arthm- ? Has any thing more
occurred ?"

" Nothing more," he replied. " I came simply to con-
duct you home."

Leonore looked at liim sorrowfully for a moment, and
then as if with an effort said, " You are right, Mr. Guth-
rie," and hurried from the room.

" We shall miss Aldeane very much," said the s:olouel,
" but I believe a trip North will do her good."

282

ALDEANE.

"And tliis is the very time for her to take it, as you
are about to take ]NIif»H Leonore to Cuba. Dr. Morgau
oommiHsioned mo to say, when I told him I was coming
here to take Aldeane home, that he could join you there
with his wife, as she is so very delicate."

Aldeane averted her face quickly.

" We have given up the trip to Cuba," said Mrs. Aren-
dell, " Leonore seems to be so very unwilling to leave
homo. But how is Annie V Do you think that her life
is in danger ?"

•' I do, indeed, madam," replied Arthur. " She 8eem>-
to be gradually sinking, in spite of Morgan's care. I fear
she will soon pass from earth."

" I fear that our tears will scarcely be dried for one,
ere they will flow for another!" sighed the colonel, as
Leonore glided by the window.

" Aldeane !" exclaimed Mrs. Arendell, quickly, wishing
to change the subject : " Your brother must be weary.
Show him to a room, will you ? And order a servant to
attend him."

'Aldeane led the way to the apartment that had been
occupied by George Raymond. Arthur caught her in his
arms when they were alone, and looking sorrowfully upon
her careworn face, exclaimed : —

" Oh, Aldeane ! Aldeane ! you are sacrificing yourself
for others ! It is wrong ! indeed it is. Thanks be, I have
arrived in time to save you two months' care at least !"

" But really, Arthur— !"

" But really, Aldeane — !' but we will not discuss the
point now. You have not asked me about any of your
Boston friends yet !"

" Your arrival has so distracted me that I have been
unable to collect my senses sufficiently to ask any thing.
I suppose they a^e all well."

" Yes ; and very anxious to see you."

" Well, I am glad I am so kindly remembered. I will

lo!

I'u
Avi

lor

alti

iiac

aln

per

eye

oil

thui

vert

glo\

nece

and

last I

fectb

for si

to his

Ne-,;i

hates

mosit^

other,

ance 1

and t(

liave t

"Cs

asked

if it CO

"Nc

her to take it, as you

■) Cuba. Dr. Morgan

1(1 him I was coming

could join you there

eate."

/uba," said Mrs. Aren-
ry unwilling tc leave
ou think that her life

Arthur. "She secmy
Morgan's care. I fear

cely be dried for one,
iighed the colonel, as

ndell, quickly, -wishing
other must be weary,
.nd order a servant to

rtment tliat had been
rthur caught her in his
king sorrowfully upon

re sacrificing yourself
is. Thanks be, I have
)nth8' care at least !"

?, will not discuss the
me about any of your

L me that I have been
ntly to ask any thing.

you."

Y remembered. I will

ALDEA yE.

283

-ill find us in ZtZ^ "'' "'" "* ^^"^*^"^- ^'-'

lore he bad Cen ZZZ ' T? " '''' ^'''' ''-
alterednoarlvas ' 4 ^ '7 T^ ''"^y^"'^' "« ^ad

1-d been s !,^a ^t d in:t' 7\f '""" *'"' '-^'^ ^'^^^
already sli,i;u;"l^^^rii^"S^'' >-w, was
pcrament was hIm;,,! ^ "7 anxiety ; his nervous tern-

irecmrary to conifnrf Ti, t , , " '''''' ''"■'It'i^d

"".. oj. ^riX; ;. Vnl, It «' bf '"" 1 """>

iMt oxdaiming :-l " '"™""' •''«"'. »'

to his integrity or „b,lL " 4 ■■ '■"" °f <■»"'« »»

mosity rv-ith which ,> U u, J^ '* enduring ani-

oth»/ N„5 ::::i;,t'U h-s^:/:; s r '? ■;? '-

a..ce 1.C ,eok, .„<,i,g„oe me .n't": et "^of IVw'TS'
^veir-r ^-" - «- .o re lfS'"f

if it continue, n^achl^l.'^^ " ^ '""« " "■ ""^ "'"«<'
"No, not every .MngI for I firmly Wicve Mr. A.h.„„

284

ALDEANE.

will never lose hb confiilenee in me; it would kill me if
he should— and I'.elle will always love nie--that feeUn-;
appears to he an attribute of her nature— thank (;od—
and ean not ho ehan,c;ed. ( )nly one way ean I .nee to batlle
Nevins, an.l save myself. Aldeane, if I could recover that
lost dfHMuneiit that mother obtained from him, we should
be able to ruin him !"

" Ah !" said Aldeane, with an incredulous smile, " you
still believe, then, that that document once existed ?"

" I am sure of it ! Positive ! I luive lately been to
fvery lawyer in the neifflib-'-hood, thinking that perhaps
to baffle Nevins mother ])laeed it in strange hands, but I
have not been able to discover that she ever called \ii>oii
either of them. Mr. Evans you know wus particular
about every thing. There is an entry made in a record-
book, the Jamuiry before we went to school— I have for-
gotten the exact date. ' Mrs. Nevins called to-day on
private and important business '—and again, but a few
months before her death, 'Mrs. Nevins intrusted to my
care to-day several important pai)ers,to be kept carefully
until after her decease, then to be delivered to her son
Arthur.' Charley happened to come across those pas-
sages one day while looking over his father^s books, lie
wrote to me "to come and pay him a visit. I did so ; and
while there, ransacked drawers, safes, and trunks, full of
documents, without finding the ones I sought, although
I am positive they were given uito the lawyer's hands —
are probably now in existence."

" Mr. Charles Evans 'seems to take a great interest in
the case," said Aldeane, after a pause,

" He does, indeed," answered Arthur. " You know we
were boys together, and inseparable when at home. It
is not often that the friendships of youth endure as ours
has. Since I commenced practicing, I have been indebted
to him for a number of clients in Boston ; but," he added
gloomily, " they are falling off now, one by one."

mc; it would kill me if
lys lovp mc — that fcolin^'
lor nature — thank (lotl —
one way can I ."co to batlle
ine, if Icoulil recover that
lined from liim, we should

II incredulous smile, " you
•ument once existed ?"
' ! I have lately hoen to
lod, thinking that perhaps
it in strange hands, but I
that e-he ever called upon
,ou know was particular
m entry made in a rccord-
ent to school — I have for-
, Nevins called to-day on
8 ' — and again, hut a few
1, Nevins intrusted to my
iapers,to he kept carefully
I be delivered to her son
,0 come across those pas-
ser his father's books. He
lim a visit. I did so; and
3, safes, and trunks, full of
le ones I sought, although
uito the lawyer's hands —

to take a great interest in
a pause.

d Arthur. " You know we
arable when at home. It
)S of youth endure as ours
icing, I have been indebted
in Boston ; but," he added
■ now, one by one."

ALDEANi:.

285

"And :\rr. Halcombo feels it as nincJi as von of
course ?"

" Yes, tliat is true ! The poor fellow is undecide.l what
to do; his lather and brother urge him to leave the firm
^vlnle his love and eonlidence in me incline him to elin<'
t ill the last. I have spoken to him plainly on the matter'
and we have at length come to the conclusion, that if our
prospects do not improve, w.> will part in the spring.
-Mr. Ashton has strong hopes that my marnag(. with his
daughter will restore public conHdence: for people will
say, ' It Ashton can trust him so far as to give him his
only daughter, we surely can trust our bu'siness aflairs
in his han.ls.' I can only hope that it will be so, without
teeling any assurance of it."

" JJut, Arthur, hat is it that Mr. Xevins has said about
you ?" asked Aldeane. " You have never told me that
yet."

" I do not know myself," roidied Arthur. " All is so
vague and uncertain, a:id Xevins has conducted himself
with so much caution, that I have never been able to
prove that lie has said any thing against me, or found
any tlung to deny. In my own mind, not by any out-
ward evidence of it, I am sure that he is working my
nun. Certain it is, that the very tirst of my clients
that deserted me, was a gentleman with whom he had
become very intimate, and since then others have followed
m his train, until nearly all the business has fallen away.
I have not been .able to demand reasons for this, but 1
have heard repeatedly that some of those gentlemen said
that ' a man's future may be judged from his past life.
'Tis as well to put one's affairs in the hands of those one
knows to be reli.-ible, as to trust it with young lawyers
of doubtful integrity.'

" And again, th.it if Mr. Ilalcombe Avas alone, the-
should not think of taking their patronage from him, but
now, that they consider it best to do so. All of which

280

ALDEANE.

coiitaina strdna: insinuations Against me. AH this, I per-
ceive, has taken etlVot upon Chester; ht often eyes nic
askance, and seems to have no hope that we shall ever
rise together, lie, is, in fact, anxious for a separation,
though he does not wish to wound my feelings by frankly
telling me so. I am a most unfortunate fellow, indeed,"
and ArtI ur sighed deeply.

" Oh, no, you are not," cried Aldeane. " Think how
many tiue friends you have ; think how Ik-Ue loves and
trusts you ! and how happy you will be in the possession
of that love — to be yours — yours alone forever! Oh,
how blest !" ''

Arthur took her hands within his own, pressing them
gently, and looking into her eyes — " Yes, I shall indeed
be blest ! IJut you, AUie, how is it with you ? Your
hopes, I fear, have been cruelly blighted."

" Oh, Arthur !" She fell upon his bosom with a low
scream of real anguish. She h.id not known before how
slight a word would rend her heart. She had sealed thc^
fountain of her tears, and shunned thought. She had
tancied she had almost forgotten; but these few words
of sympathy, spoken in loving tones, had aroused again
all her love and despair.

For a moment Arthur held her in his arms, in astonish-
ment ; then lifting up her pale face, asked sternly : " Have
you been trifled with, and then your pure loving heart
thrown aside ?"

" You know it was not so !" she cried, passionately.
"He loved me; he does still!" She breathed out the
words as if she found a fierce pleasure in them. " His
puny wife is nothing more than a petted child to him,
and yet she took precedence of me !"

"You love Frederic Morgan! Oh, Aldeane! Al-
deane !" cried Arthur, alarmed more by her manner than
her words ; for she had risen and stood before him, her
hand upraised and her eyes dilated. " You forgot your-

ui
in

8t(

ro(

lo\
wi:

gOi

(i
((
(I

will

ton,

to 8<

seen
thel

"Me

Leor

cares

ised

resto

long(

vou.''

- . h.

nst me. All this, I per-
■stor; ht ot'tcn oyes mo
lope that wo Rhall <'ver
xious for :i Mt'piiration,
1 my fceliiiiis by traiikly
rtuiiatc fellow, indeed,"

Aldeaue. " Think liow
ink how Ik-lle loves and
will be in the possession
irs alone forever ! Oh,

i
his own, pressing them
;s — " Yes, I shall indeed
is it with you ? Your
(lighted."

his bosom with a low
1 not known before how
irt. She had scaled the
ned thought. She had
■n; but these few words
ones, had aroused again

• in his arms, in astonish-
;e, asked sternly : " Have
your pure loving heart

she cried, passionately.
' She breathed out the
leasure in them. " His
1 a petted child to him,
ne!"

n ! Oh, Aldeaue ! Al-
nore by her manner than
id stood before him, her
ted, " You forg!?t your-

ALDEAXE,

287

Holf. He is the husband of another ! ( omnose yonrself
and iorget the jjfist again !" ^ yourself,

, "It was cruel „f y,,; t,. revive ■(," she exclaimed sink
^^r.llIK'lll^, and soon became calm

" You must and shall go \„rth with me !" said \rthur

"IJut Leonore, poor litJo Leonore !" she sLWicd h.-r
l-e for her drooping inend overcoming her ow;;:^'::

J^^^ ""''•^•- ''•^'""^ ^^^"^^" -^ «he are
^ lV^^Tl7~^'\ ^«'".^ t« ^'i--5>a next week."
'All : it til It IS the case "

" You will go ?"

" W^*"f ^V, ^'^^ • ^^^''^'" «'>^» ^« «tart ?"
W e shall leave as soon as you can pack up. When
will you be ready ?" '^ "

" To-morrow ; any time you jilease. Oh dear nl,1 n
Arthur was much pleased to see her interesf i„ h.

" We Jin ""ri^'r^^^"^"*'^^ ^"-^'y- p--'>i

"Ar > r/''" '^^^^ ''^^'' to-morrow," he said
Meanwhile, don't cry yourself sick over pkrtin.. ^ h
Leonore, or allow the children to suftbcate you with 7^,
caresses or deafen you with their cries, for I have p 'm
.sed to let you come back, if your health is sufh'c ently
stored, 1, two months; Leonore is unwilling to stay
lo..gor m ' uba, and she could not exist here" without

^ovo, I may c^iange my mmd. T niusi away and put
- . house in order, that I may find it so on my return »

288

ALDEANE.

He partod with hor at tho ,loor, Uissinf, l.or fu.vny,
nn.l sai.l, »(lo; but rhaMK'o your min-l on your l-oril.
;: n:...l my l^oUe to hrinR you hack w.th u.^ a.u I
L\\ not aisai.point her, U'st nho Hhould me alHo. 1 ho day

•will not disai)i)oint

after to-morrow ! lli'iuembcr !"

tri

the

o\v

din

bri(

ofi

wer

adn

sect

boei

beei

pres

nion

all

have

reras

whic

hb d

n'md on yovir iioril. I

l)iu-k with luc, and I

mid me alHO. The day

ClIAi»TKR XXIX.

A lUKASUKK Kor.ND.

TunKK w,-,.kM iaf.-r umch ha.l o,.,.„rrod. Arthur had

trmmH,antly ..ondu,.tc.d his sistc.M.M.hward, wh.. " „no
a pa.n.u ,>ar.,„,. with Lcon^r. i,. Now Vork ;4 .

w.th foH,„,s „do.scri.,ahl.. .h. had c-an.ht a m om.^.t :

Kim.p-ot Fn-doric Morgan and his faHhionahh S

JoK-ate bndc, sh. had had a most Jovfui moot n 'J

We Ashton at foso Cottage, and had hohoM will j y

the u„,ononu.r.i..arly loved brother to his first hne hi
own faithtnl friend. '

It had been what ,,eo,,lo nsnally call a "stylish wed-
Jl.n^," the bnde had lu-en most exquisitelv dressedthe
bndesmau s m appoaranee <,wne.. j„.\ the rJ.iuisite d U ^
of ndenonty to the eentral fi,^„re upon M-lieh all ey 8
^^ro turned-the bride.roon. was' more univerX
admired than .s usual with what is <.o„shlered the
seeondary hn.nre upon such an oceasio„-the quests hid
been of the A,na ton, and the nuptial arran,.!; , s itt
been a 1 that t-ie most fastidious could desin, whUe he
presents were the wonder and envy of all Boston fl a
montii afterward. *

But there had been one gift prized by Arthur above
all others, though doubtless had Belle seen it she would
have considered it a poor affair. But for some time she

which Chades Evans had drawn the groom aside, when
h. uehvered to him a email packet Ind whi8pe;ed in

290

A m E .[ SE.

triuiiM.l.ant tono., tl.it it was tl..' .lo..«,n.<nt for whioh

tlu'V IwkI H»>i\r.'lHil so lnll'4.

»' \,„l uctuallv. M1V latli.T," naid Kvnn^ sU-otnlly- " the
,,u,.,.nHt ul.l suu'l lie was you know— Im.l ntowo.l it nwsiy in
.,„ „l.l b<...t ill tin- jianvt, an.l so our s.aivh, art.-r all, wan
■„„ l,notl.ss ..iu>." An.l Kvans lan-hnl at Lis ..wn i-o-.r
,.,ui an.l was luaitilv j.-incl l.y Artlmr, wl... .Icclar.Ml it
tlK' iH-Ht hi" ha.l .-vcr i.far.1 in his lit., whih- with a yn-lnjl
..n-ort lu' iMM.kct.Ml tlu. ,.a|H-r, rolVainini; fn.m .•ast.ni,' h.s
cyos ovor il until a n...iv littiu,^ „p|...rluinty shouhl l-re-

Hent itself. . .^

An.l wh.'u he ha.l mado himsclt master of its eontonts
he reveale.l then. L. Mr. Ashton alon.., an.l blesse.l " h.s
lu<.kv Htars," that he ha<l sahl nothin- of it to Al.leaue.
Aml'so she remaine.l in his house three months totally
uneonsoious of the new light that ha.l h..a.,.e.l upon the
vo,.n.r lawver'8 eves, and at times ren.h-re.l hini careless
of the iKM-iIlexities of his business, an.l in..re than onee ho
sai.l t.) Mr. Ashton, that he sh..nM he saved if a eerta.n
letter reaehe.l itH destination in safety.

lint the wav i.erha,.s was Ion-,', for ore the th.-ec
months were <i'uite over, A.-thurs despou.leney returned,
ftud one evening' he returned from his oftiee most
serionslv disturhe.l. Even his ^vife's j,'ay raillery eoul.
not reeall his usual eheerfulness. She anxiously inquire,
if he was ill. He replied in the ne.tcat ive, and cn.leavored
to appear anhnated in her pi-esenee, hut when she lell
the room, he threw himself <.n a sofa in sueh evitlent
despondency that Aldeane seated herself beside him and
said affectionately : —

" Tell me, Arthur, what has happened. Something has
gone wrong at the office, These persecutions have been

redoubled." ^ , . , <, xt ^

. " They have, indeed, Allie !" he replied, bitterly. Not
one moment's happiness will the fiend give me. While
he Uvc8 I can not hope to prosper; to heai- of liia death

ilocuinont for which

vnnn, jjh'ftuUj— " the
li;i.l stowt'il it fiwiiy in
M;inii, after all, was
;htil at his own |)oiir
luir, wlio (U'clan'tl it
, while witli a violent
lins; from eastini; his
l>(nl\iiiity sluuihl pre-

rnaster of its t'i)nti'nt!i
one, and bU'ssiul " hia
linti of it to AlcUane.
three months totally
lia.l heameil npon the
lenderetl liim careless
iml more than once ho
I 1k' saved if u certain
et y.

I!,', for oro the throe
iesixmdeney returned,
rom his otliee niost
le's jjjay raillery could
She anxiously inquired
rativo, and endoavorod
lu-e, but when who loft
V sofa in sueh ovitlont
herself beside him and

pened. Something has
persecutions have been

replied, bitterly. "Not
fiend give me. While
r ; to heai- of hia death

■i f' h AM A'A'.

21M

-nid he „.e ,m.t Joyful ne.s any one could bring

"Dear Arthur; pray .!o„'t Hp..„k ho!" exelm,,,...
•Uh^ne alnmst terrlHed l,y th.. ,i.....,„,,, ,,n.is m^^^^^^

'-'";;;:: t;:;;'.:::;:;;;:;:,:^"-'- -•>::.•

ItLnltrt:' '•• T •"— -''' Allie. Im, that

Aldeant' nodded

»:. ; ::^;:;^;;r;;;:r,;:r,'^';--—

tho advice o 1 / i' ''' """ '"' '""l "'"<'«' i' '-v

;:;^..^, !=;.!;:::;;:!:-—•-: -

"ij. ilaieombe was about t,> ,.:.w.,.i • , "f*

ore bowed coldly an,l left him \Vl..,7

V .' Tt '^"" H'-n'^ihility glittering i„ her gentle

lyos, 'but I can not console you like that n„« / i
you should unburden all yJZv^^^ '" '"'"'"

''Ah! you mean my wife!" he replied, with a si^h

No, Aldeano, I can not fill her loying heart with an viJtv "
1 can „ot gneve my bride so c|uickly " '*^'

292

ALDEANE.

«Evory thin^ is to be fcarcl," answered AMoanc "If

Ull She shall be made partaker of my sorrows as well as

^'Si:irfollowin, mornh,. Aiaeane -^IJy V^'^^^^
that I?elle had indeed been tnade a conhdant ot b> htr
husb m Though as eheerful, she was more thovightful
S ll, and after Arthur had letl for the office Aldeano
wa not surprised to see her home and seat herselt on the
floor at her feet, in her old manner, and, as of yore, pour
nnt her heart and ..sk for advice.

"^' You know, love," she concluded " I must bear up
no difference what comes, lor Arthur "eed. all my
strength- he thinks so much of my welforo, that I must
Tin s^e that I am willing to bear as much or his sake
as he can for mine, else his faithful heart will find me a

^"^t :::-M l^:C^a:';hai, l^le r repUed Aldeane.
" You know that I love my brother as well as it is possi-
Ue ZZ to do ; though impulsive and passionate, he is
S: tul of integrity, and, I truly ^^Ueve has neve. be.
led beyond the confines of temperance and Mitue. He
:tes you ardently, and I believe, above all other., you
are best fitted to control his wayward nature, tor
years vou have been the' load-star of his existence; no
oh ove has ever animated him. I entreat you, dear-
: t, to > -- of weakening this attachment. K^member
hat the highest duty of woman is to 'suffer and be
stromV Strong in her love, in her sympathy, and n
r^^nation to whatever the Lord may deem good to
•iftlict her with. In all the perplexities and sorrows that
fmayt your lot to share, console and advise, but never

JL,.

wercd Aldoanc " If

pecrt't irom her ; let

i; it will be kindness

a moment's reflection,
gin our true wedded
my sorrows as well as

anc readily perceived
t confidant of by her
. was more thonghtful
t for the office Aldeane
and seat herself on the
, and, as of yore, pour

led, "I must bear up,
\rthur needs all my
y welfare, that I must
ir as much for his sake
nl heart will find me a

elle !" replied Aldeane.
er as well as it is possi-
,-c and passionate, he is
believe, has never been
?rance and virtue. He
!, above all others, you
A-ayward nature. For
ir of his existence ; no
Ti. I entreat you, dear-
attachment. Kemember
m is to 'suffer and be
her sympathy, and in
)rd may deem good to
exities and sorrows that
ole and advise, but never

A IDE AXE.

293

upbraid him; his an,<rer would burn more fiercely th.n

bcfor!'",'""'"^ •""'^^^"'''''"- " ^'^^" ^^''^••"-' ">^- «" often
btfo.e my marnagc, Allio, and besides, I have know

Arthur so long, that I can not tail to remenU. • it But
ndeed, dearest, .t seems us if we shall never be hannv "
and she sighed deeply. ^^^ '

"Tliat can scarceiy be expected '" ronIi,.,l \n

p«.,, h,. „a„,. ,i,,,-,!, „„., i.,.c, j„„;::;';,v ,f s

turisot the vounf w te " l-»,.i.ft>„f *• \- ■. '^

<^Vx»„- 1- .' ""o "'»»^. ^ <^^"ect lelicitv can never ho

The bell rang loudly through tlie house, startling them
Lion!"" the sober train of thought into which tlfey S

"It is papa !" exchiimed Belle, sprinijin- „p «i know
liis nng; and there is h.s carriage- [, tl'e door-

after t'hlT "^TT '• '' ^'"^'^'""^ ^''^ '•«""'• f^nnediately

ylg lawyer: ""'"'""" '"^^ ^''^^ ^^'^""-^ ^« ^^^
Mr. Asliton listened gravely to the recital. " I was in
J^ope that this persecution had ceased," he at last re
marked. "I .aw that n^odern Judas Iscari. -I ^ ns-
^us mornmg m company with several of the best m^nof
Boston many of whom, I doubt not, were Arthurs cli
onts, ^^om he was slyly but surely .re.^uli^lt Lain t
JZibllr^^ see to this matter; it'mult be sC^eTu'

He evidently felt more anxiety about tlie -ift-ii,- thnn i
was willing to reveal to Belle ami Aide .'' A ,1 : ,ew

Aldeane, wUh the UKpury wlu-n she proposed returning

294

ALDEAiTE.

"In a wcok at the farthest," she replied. "I am
already prepared to ffo at an hour's warning.'

" Yo'i wish to go by way of New York Y"

" Of eoiirse '/'

" Well then," he continued, " if you w... accept me
for an escort, and be ready by Tuesday, I will aecom-
nanv YOU as far as that city."

"Only four days !" exclaimed Belle. " Indeed, papa,
she shall not go; 'tis bad enough that she will go at all,
but I am sure it must not be so soon !"

" I will certainly be ready to accompany you, Mr.
Ashton," said Alde.ne, quietly. _

Belle looked at her with a comical aftectation ot
surprise. "That has been the way ever since the
first day I met vou !" she said, laughing, "lou have
always set aside all my arrangements as it they were
not k th slightest consequence. If it was any one else
but you, 1 would quarrel with theni all day bi-fore I

would allow it." , . , ,„ i 11

" But you find it best not to handle thistles ! laughed

Aldeane. ^ .,,

" Well if r am afraid to handle them myselt, 1 will

find some one that is not. I will call in Arthur to e.vert

his authority, and detain you with us; I declare 1

will!" . TV!

" I care about as much for his authority now, as 1 did
in my school days!" replied Aldeane, gayly. "Don't
you remember, how we used to laugh at it together,
and which has the most 'of it now? The one that
laughed the most, I thhik."

Belle looked a little confused.

"Fairlv caucrht !" cried .Mr. Ashton. "^\ell, Allie,
I understand that you are to go with me. Remember
that I am on your side, and you shall do just as you
please. Here is a budget of letters, that I got tor you
at the post-oflice, as I came along. One is from Havana,

a
li

b
fl

n
el
n
fe
ni
ul
oJ

P'
tr

til

fir

foi

e replied. "I am

rarniivjj.'

York?"

^'ou w.-l accept mo
!sday, I will acconi-

[lo. " Indeed, papa,

it she will go at all,

lecompany you, Mr.

nical affectation of
av ever since the
iiiliinij. "You have
nts as if they were
[f it was any one else
Mil all day before I

le thistles !" laughed

i them myself, I will
ill in Arthur to exert
ith us; I declare I

Ihority now, as I did
cane, gayly. "Don't
laugh at it together,
iow? The one that

shton. "Well, Allie,

with me. Remember

shall do just as you

L'rs, that I got for you

One is from Havana,

A LDEANE.

295

I see. T sliall be back with Arthur to dinner; vou must
let me kiiow the m<ws tlien. Adieu !"

The j)(M-usal of a long Ivtler from Leonore occupied
Aldeane's lliouglits for some time after Ids depart uro.
She spoke ehxpn^tuly of Cuba; descji-ibiii^ with enthusi-
asm its many beauties, and enlarging upon the pleasant
life they led, sometimes in the eitv, then in count rv
tasting each luxury that tlie island affurdeil in their
search for iiealth.

Of Mrs. .Alorgan she spoke dcsjiondentlv. The spicy
breezes sccine,! iiowerloss to bring augiit save the iiectic
flush of death to her cheek; tlie balmv air could plant
no hue of health there, nor raise her 'spii-jfs aizain to
cheerfulness. It was plain that she was dving, ami their
return home would be hastened on her acciumt. Aldeane
feared th.at what Leonore had written of Annie, she
might with equal trutli liave said of lierself Tlirouuh
all the forced gayety of th(! letter stole a dim shadow
of sadness. She spoke lovingly of home, as one who
pines f-.r its shelter. Aldeane had alwavs feared th.it
travel would do little to keep her from the earlv tomb
that seemed opening to receive her, and this letter only
served to strengthen her fears. They were indeed con-
firmed by a short note from Colonel Arendell. He spoke
despairingly of the invalids, saying that Leonore appeared
no better, and that Annie's death was daily expected.
Dr. ]\[org;in, he said, Avitli the most unceasin.^ tenderness
watched over his wifiv and soothed her fletVing hours,
and as Frederic's mother was also with theni'no cure
and attention that either could bestow was for a moment
neglected. He named an early day for their departure,
unless Annie should become so much worse as to rendi'i'
it impossible, ;iiid concluded by begging Aldeane to be
at home to meet them, much for his own sake, but more
for Leonore's, to whom the disappointment would be
very great if she were not there to meet her.

296

ALDEANE.

AUleane shed many tears over those two letters.
Tenderly she tliought of Leonore and of th- dying wito
of him whom she still loved as deeply as ever. Sincere
grief for her untimely fate filled her heart. She sorrowed
deeply for her, without one selfish thought, and felt, that
even were it in h.r power, she w.)nld not take from her
one hour of happiness that she had enjoyed in her mar-
ried life Her heart leai)t wildly as she thought ot
Frederic Morgan, and with an efiV.rt she banished the
subject from her mind, for to think of him, she knew was
dangerous to her i)i'aee.

The receipt of those letters determmed her still more,
in spite of Arthur and Belle's entreaties, to return South
immediately. She refieeted, that if Annie's strength had
permitted they were alre.-idy on their journey, and might
reach home nearlv as soon as she could. She could not
endure the thought that Leonore should return to Aren-
dell House, and find it so dull and gloomy, as it would
certainly appear without her presence.

The last evening spent in Boston was quiet, and
almost sad. 3lr. Halcombe and Mr. Evans, with a lew
friends, came in to bid Aldeane fiirewell. Mr Evans
Bpokc of a weightier matter. His admiration had deep-
ened into love,^lnd although he had but little hope that
she reciprocated the feeling, he offered her his heart and
hand assured that with her as his wife he should be one ot
the happiest of men, while a refusal would sadden with-
out making him utterly miserable. Aldeane heard him
respectfullv, then in a delicate manner, most flattering
and soothins to his feelings, declined his ofter, and he
left her, thinkiiii: more deeply on the matter than lie had
ever conceived his philosophical n.ature would permit him
to upon any subject.

At early morning the last farewells were spoken, and
Aldeane left her brother's house, leaving, with numberless
pravers for their welfare, the young couple to bear to-

those two letters.
11(1 of tb dying wile
ply as ever. .Suiceie
heiirt. She sorrowed
hought, and felt, that
lid not take from her
I enjoyed in her mar-
: as she thought of
)rt she banished the
of him, she knew was

•mined her still more,
uties, to return South
■ Annie's strength had
>ir journey, and might
•ould. She could not
hould return to Aron-
1 gloomy, as it would
leo.

)ston was quiet, and
dr. Evans, with a few
farewell. Mr. Evans
admiration had deep-
d but little hope that
"ered her his heart and
rife he should be one of
sal would sadden with-
. Aldeane heard him
lanner, most flattering
lined his ofter, and he
he matter than lie had
iture would permit him

wells were spoken, and
laving, with numberless
ing eouplc to bear to-

ALDEANE.

297

gether the cares and joys of lift, JVi-haps as she caught
the last glimpse of tliem standing together, so loving so
strong .11 purpose and pure in heart, she thought with a
pang ot what might have been, and for a little time there
came upon her sueh utter desolation, as the woman who
had selhshly wre,.ked licr happiness, could never, never
have realized; and yet, which was at that moment the

young i;;:ict?'""'^' ^^^^■"""^' ^•- '^'^^^''^ '^^-g->'« «-

13*

CHAPTER XXX.

THE GOVKBXESS RESUMES !1ER DUTIES.

Was ever such welcome given governess before, as
that which nK.t Al.leaue (Guthrie upon her return to
Arendell House. The chihlren n.et her at Lorn.g am
h.lf sufibcated her with caresses, an.l -^'l^^-'^ ^U ^
noisy u.monstrations of <lehght, and ^ '- ^ ."'^^^^^
ceived he. at the garden gate, and drew her to her
bo on. with a silent\.ush of tears, which were iar more
eloouent than any words. AUU-ane returned the greetmg
as ;armly, and almost hysterically, though such weak-
nesses were not at all usual to her. ^i^asnre

The ne-roes, with countenances expressive of pleasure,
gathered'arouml her,and grasping her dress, Aunt Roxy,

^''"^"rW I hope you'.e brought back some o^ de
sunshine ! It's cl'ar gone with you an' M>ss ^ ora. Res
you' dear faces. I'sc glad to sec you back ag in an dat
IZs comin', an' I hope she'll look as hearty as you do !
You've done picked up mighty, Miss Aldeane.

With a few kind words, Ald.ane left the noisy group,
and entered once more the well-remembered sitting-room
J ssie Ld Eddie, half wild with delight, danced aroiind
her, asking a dozen questions in one breath and almost
de-ifenin- her with their joyful exclamations. Mis
A;l„de ifsoon turned them quietly from the room, and
ferting herself beside Aldeane, cla:,,eci her hanas and,
while a few tears strayed over her face, murmured .-

c
a

t
a

h
c<

h;
di
h(
U

:x.

lER DVTIES.

STOvcrnoss before, as
upon her return to
L her at Loring, ami
A deafened her with
id >Iv-.. Arendell re-
nd drew her to her
which were for more
returned the greeting
y, though huch wcak-

spressive of pleasure,
her dress, Aunt Roxy,

ight back some ob de
an' Miss Nora. Bless
fou back ag'in an' dat
as hearty as you do!
iss Aldeane."
e left tlie noisy group,
lembered sitting-room,
elight, danced around
ne breath, and almost
exclamations. Mrs.
ly from the room, and
asi^eii her hands, and,
• face, murmured ; —

ALDEANE.

200

"Oil! Aldeano, I am so glad you have again returned
to us, I liiivc missed you so very much ! I was almost
afraid that you w.MiId not come to us again, our house is
so sad and lonelv."

"Did you think that I couhl leave you in the midst of
sorrow ?" asked Aldeane, gently and reproachfully.

"Dear Aldeane, nothing ean ever repay you for your
kindness to us. Promise me, darling, that yuu will not
leave us agam whil,. Leonore lives. ' There is no hope
lor her,' say all the ])hysieiiins that the colonel has .•on-
suited. I expect them home dailv; mv onlv fear was
that they would arrive before you. Leoliore so longs to
see you, that the disapi)ointmcnt would have been dread-
ful to her."

Aldeane endeavored to cheer the affectionate step-
mother, whose nervous state she noticed with extreme
sorrow, fearing to agitate her by the emotion whieh she
could not repress, she retired to lier own chamber, to rest
and recover from the fatigue of her joui-ney.

A i'vvr days after her return, as she was i)assing through
the hall, 3Irs. Arendell opened the door of her chamber,
and asked her in a subdued voice to enter. .She had been'
weeping violently, and an open letter edged with black
was in her hand.

" 3Irs. Arendell !" exclauned Aldeane in terror, " tell
me what has happened."

" Poor Amiie is dead !" she sobbed.

Aldeane sank upon a chair, repeating the words in a
bewildered manner, her heart beating with emotion, she
could not herself define.

"' Ah ! I knew you would sympathize with us !" said
Mrs. Arendell, as Aldeane covered her face with her
hands, striving to collect her thoughts, and master the
dizziness that blurred her sight. Strange feelincs agitated
her soul ; pity for the young and beautiful departed cer-
tainly predominated, but thoughts that made her heart

300

A ldi:a N i:.

throb ivildly wouUl come. It was some niinutos boforc
nlu> could command her voice sulHcuiitly to ..sk: —

"Wlu'ii did sill" die?"

"On tlie tweiity-tirst day of February. They were
makinij ]ir"j»arations for their retiirn liome, when she
failetl so i.orceplibly tiiat tli' i)r(>)ect had to W aban-
doned. For some days she hiy as -weak as in infant upon
lier bed, ])erfectly resij^ned to (U-atli. Frederic nt-vi-r for
a moment h'ft her, and sh.e breathi(i her last in liis arms,
as peacefully as if she had fallen as^lee})."

"And in such a beconiinjj; Avrapiier, just as she had
hoped she would,"' Leonore says. "Vou know Annie was
so particular," she added, taruing to her without the
slightest jH'reeption that there was somethmg almost
laughable in what she had said.

But there was no one there who felt the slightest incli-
nation to laugh, even wlun she further said, that Annie
had caused her hair to be put in jtapers the night beibre
her death, that in case such an event should take place,
she might a]>pear to the best advantage in her eoflir
and even Aldeane thrust from lu-r mind these trivialities
which, to many, would have lendered a rival contempti-
ble, and thanked Ctod, that she hatl died happily, that
the sunshine of life had continued to her, even to the
mysterious and awful entrance to fCtcrnity.

" When, now, do you expect Colonel Arendell and Leo-
nore?" she asked, anxious to divert her mind from the
thoughts that thronged and confused it,

"The first of next week," was the reply. "After
Monday, I shall send the carriage to Loring every day,
in anticipation of their arrival. I shall send for Frank,
to-morrow ; he is so anxious to see you, that 1 know he is
impatient at my long delay, besides I Avant him hero to
meet Leonore, that all the family may be present, and
make it as cheerful and pleasant as possible for her."

Jessie and 1 Mie entered the room hastily. "Oh, mam-

soi
no
ge
otl

OV(

wit

con
i
od

awi

((

imn
Cul

thoi
Edd
Arei
fron
relat
Tl
for t
full
that
and
conft
home
Aide;
with
now
schoo
mcml
Bpoii;

oinc niinutoM boforc
■iitly to ..sk: —

1 Hilary. Thoy wore
rii liotnc, when she
H't liad to 1)0 abaii-
ak as in infant upon
Frederic lu-vor lor
}u-r last in his arms,
"ep."

per, just aa she had
'ou know Annie was
to her without the
8 something almost

'It the slightest incli-
hor said, that Annie
|iers the night beibre
it should take place,
mtage in her eoftir
lind these trivialities
t'd a rival conlempti-
d died happily, that

to her, even to the
crnity.

lel Arendell and Leo-
t her mind from the
lit.

the reply. " After
o Loring every day,
<hall send for Frank,
ou, that I know he is
s I Avant him hero to
may be present, and
possible for her,"
hastily. "Oh, mam-

-« l-D i:.\ XK.

801

They saw the answer in the tear-stained faces -ind
Horrow-stneken appearance of ,he two ladies Tl
noisy exclamations were hushd, an<l wh..,. M.s. Arcnde
^-"tly tod them 0~,, it ,vas tnu, thev regarded ic
••tlH-r with wonder... looks, a feeiiim of aTu^ s t.a i .

A crimson flush, which sl-.e bent low to conceal mount
od to Aldeaiie's lace, aad her heart In-at wihUy as ho
awaited the answer. ^

"Xo, dear," said Mrs. Arendell. "Your uncle will ,,o

Cuba to be buried m the family ground "
./'^''•J,",'''''''^' ^ ""-'" '^«^'« remembered that"

^IT^T- "'? "^/H^'"""" '^^ -^^'- Then takll^g
fccl.lie and Jessie, she left the room, to allow Mrs

Aren, ell the charm of solitude, in which to i^co er*

inun Jhe eftects occasioned by the death of her Jomig

The remainder of the week was spent in preparation
io tlie return of the travelers. Aunt Roxy was in t^
full glory, superintending the host of young .larkie
.hat Here engaged in cleaning the house, .and bJautifyi "
and clearing the grounds. A state of almost hopel "^

Tomt'^'TreTar '' '' ^'^'T'^^ ^^ ^^"'"^'^ * '-'^ -»
.yZne % K ^'■"''■" "'"'•' '^"™S *^'« ^^^- -"^nths that
Al dene had been separated from him, and she looked
..nth increased love and pride upon h'er former pupi
now a handsome lad of fourteen, the favorite of' J
school, and the pride of the class ,>f which he wa x
rnember. Still as much as ever he delighted hi b' vlh
spo... and adventures, and the next day^after his reUu-

„„j ^ ALDKANK.

liomo, with a fiHliiiiij-nxl on ».ii«' KliouMtt, nnd a punt
over tlu- olli.r, lie M-t <.tV, rullnwcd l>y \\\^ lavorit»' .Ink-,
and n'tnrncd at niL'lit, tlvislifd with oxt-n-im', carrying a
l.raco i.r ral.lMtH, wiiilc his allt-ndant b(.ro in tri»m|iii a
Mtrinvc of tisli, wliith lii- (hclart'd, with admiration,
" Vomm Mass'r done cotihi'd all by iiisKt'lf!"

" Kra^ik," HJiid AhU'ano, lauijrhiiip, " how do you exist
at school, where yon can not hnnty"

"Well, it is hard work sun- cnou^'h I" he replied, "hut
ril make up for it now thai 1 am at home, hesid.s
Chauncev (iardner and I have pledged each othei- for
a iino ten .layis' hunt next vacati.jn. 1 wish he wa« here
now, he is a splendid fellow. Now tlu-re's Kd, fit for
nothing but to follow mamma or you all over the house;

pshaw!"

" Vou are altogether mistaken, Frank, Edward wdl be
the woiuler of the family yet, he has taken to studying
u^ of late, that 1 really believe he is as far advanced in
many studies aH you are. Be careful, sir, or you will find
your laurels gone, and crowning Edward's brgw !"

Frank, laughing heartily, turned and glanced at his
brother. " AVhat profession shall you choose ?" he abkcd

merrily. ^ ^^

" I am going to study medicine with Uncle Fred,' he
returned quietly, then turned away annoyed and ashamed
by the burst of laughter with which Frank greeted this
announcement.

Frank was at his side in a moment. " I hope you will
be successful," lie said. "J shall always be a lazy fellow.
You must redeem the name of the family from oblivion
1)V your good works. I will stay at home and take care
of tiie negroes and plantation, while you ride aliout dis-
pensing bitter pills and draughts, to your heart's content,
and the discontent and benefit of every one else."

Aldeane left the boys in earnest debate, and went to n-
mind Mrs. Arcndell that it was time to send the carriage

to
th(

giv

full

of^

spe

the:

drei

her.

lipa

her

to h

self

resif

but

pirei

slept

rej)o

into

and

upor

lier 1

clasj;

parti

that

Coloi

healt

sadd<

on ot

joicec

listen

8ho»ililfr , nnd a pun
l»y Ills favdiit*' .IiiU',
J extToiso, currying ii
ml bore in triiiinpli a
.'J, witli atlnuration,
by hi«Kt'lt'!"
pf, " how do you exiwt

gh :" lu' ropliod, " but
iin at lionic, bf^idts
edgt'il I'aih otlun* lor
, I wish hi' was hero
>w thi-ri-'s K(l, fit lor
ou all over llu- house;

'"rank, Edward will be
has taken to studying
■ is as far advanced in
"ul, sir, or you will find
Id ward's brgw !"
d and glaneed at his
you choose ¥" he asked

with Uncle Fred," he
' annoyed and ashamed
ich Frank greeted this

L'ut. " I hope you will
dwaya V)e a lazy fellow.
L- family from oblivion

at home and take can-
ile you ride al)OUt dis-
to your heart's content,
every one else."

debate, and went to ri--
tnc to send the carriage

A m RA y/r.

808

TI.e next .lny, howev.-r, tl.ey arrived. Loonore ('..r
rnore tn.g.Ie than when si... h,>, \,,.s „!., more . a ,i „"
A lan,t glow pnul,.....,, ,,v ..x..i,,,„.,„t ,i,.,,,,, ,,,;;,';'•
K.vmg a b,-,g ., ,.,st..,- t.. !...,• hrg.. ..yes, whi..h sho . fi,!
fully and wd.ily fron. out her thin fhee.' She wept ..as

H,...ik to AI,U.a,u., to ...vpress h,.- joy a. seeing he.

After (he nr.isy gr,.,..ings n,,,n the sorvants and chil-
dren were over, a feeling of i,„..„s, f,,igue ovrwhehned
u"r. A deane notie.-.! ,1... ,,,.d„al paling of ehe .k "
.pS and the weariness that lay in her eyel She p,.s
.or to drn,k a glass of win,., and tlu-n n'seend...! w Iho
to her ow,. room. Sh.- s....„..,| „.„,,. „tteo,ed to find her
selt on.... .„or.. within its |ov...l and peaceful shelte U. .
res.sungly slu; sutf. n-d Aldean,- to „ndr..ss her ; sh.^ asked
but ewq„..s,.ons,an.l said nothing of what had m
p.red dunng h..,- abs..n..... The bed npon win.. h > h 1
Hlopt irom ehildhoo.1, s..eme.l to invite her o . „ r
repose ; ...vhausted both in body and nund, slu. soo k

into a deep sleep. Aldeane bent over M.e dvin-. beat v
and sorr.>w.ng saw how plai.dy her doom was"^sta npc5
upon her brow She lilU..l the white hand that lav Ion
her bosom, an.l saw George Uayn.ond's lik..n..ss ii.I tl"
c xpe. wuhn. u. She,I,-opp..., , kiss upon the sli:;h ly
par ed l.ps, ami left lu-r to her oal.n re,,.'s.. " ^

tlm"t^Tin'r/r 'K ''r'"^-«'"' ^'-'^aw with jov
>at the rip had ben..fite.l at least one of the nart^
<. lonel Aren,lell seenu.d to have reeover..d the'^S
heal h .^„..h he had enjoyed in forn.er vea.s; h s spi, "
sa.ldened by the evid.-nt dissolution of his fa orite • ihl'
on other subjects were hop.fnl ,,,, ,„.ova«t. II.. wa ' ':
jo.ced once m.,re to be in th. boson/.,f his famiiv a d
hstened attentively to the tales the children rela Jd of

.:..

804

ALDhAX/J.

tlu'lr ])ro<;rpsM dnriiij; liin iibKeiu-o, and in return rt'Iated
miinf of liin own advriituii's.

AfU-r an tsirly ton the cliililrcii were dinmiRRed. nnd
('••loiiil and .Mrs. Aitndcll willi Aldc.'inc jjrathcicd around
tlir tire, to lu'ur of tliu.sc niun- muIuuui i.>v«.'ntH tliut had
rc'contly trnnHpirnl.

Colonel Arendell spoke of Mrs. MorL;an'H death in
toneH of quiet sorrow. "Tlioui,'li ;;enlle and lieautiful,"
he remarked, " nhe was totally unlit to he Frederic's
Avife, Cold and inipassionless herself, she eould never
comprehend or assimilate with his anient, impulsive na-
ture. She seeini'il to esteem and n-spect him, hut nev«'r
to give liim that true, deep love, which lie erave<l. In
return, Fred, I am sure, regarded lier with that ntVeetion
wliieh we hestow upon a lovely child. Though perfectly
devoted to lier in her sickness, lie mourned not her
death as the direful loss of a loving wife — hut rather as
that of a petted child, whoso prattle he would miss, und
•whose beauty he could no more liojte to behold."

Aldi'ar.e found a t\\v tears trickling through her fin-
gers, as she bent her head upon her hand and thought of
the tiurly dead. No tliought but of pity and sorrow
entered her mind, as she listened to Colonel Arendell's
account of her lingering and jiainful illness and death.

All retired early to rest. Aldeane went in to look
at Lconore. She still slept, breathing heavily, and turn-
ing restlessly. Aldeane sighed as she marked these and
other symptoms of the fell disease that had marked her
for its victim. She remembered Annie, and shuddered
to think that this beautiful and amiable young creature
80 soon also would sleep the last long sleep that knows no
earthly waking.

woi
thoi
of >
frerj
as «

ling
Leo I
liste

dxvcl
.Man
Iate(i
audit
often
poem

she wi
death.
The
the fai
longed

ami in rctum rt'lntcd

1 wcri' (lisniisKt'd. ami
ilcimt'jjratlicicd arouiul
jlumii cvi'iitH tliut hud

M. ^f(>I•l;aIl's dtatli ill
Ltciillc uikI Ittautil'iil,"
iiilit t(i l)t' Krt'di'ric'H
isi'lt", slu' cduld iH'vcr
ardfiit, iiupiilsivc iia-
n'spcct him, Imt iwwv
which h«' oiavfd. in
luT with tiiat alU'ftioii
ild. Tiioutiii |K'rl'i'i'tly
lie moiii'iK'd not litT
ifi wife — l)Ut rather an
k' liu wouhl inisH, uad
)]Kt to bt'hold."
kliiitj throuufh her fin-
r liaiid and tliouglit of
it of pity and norrow
to Colonel Arendell's
d illness and death,
•anc went in to look
liinij heavily, and turn-
she marked these and
3 that had marked her
Annie, and shuddered
miable young creature
tig sloop that knowH no

CIIAPTEII XXXI.

THE DIIOOPIV.. KI.OWKK K.VI.KX

"A feeling of aadnos3,ni)d longing
That is nor akin to j.aiu,
And resembles sorrow onlr,
As tho mist rcsomblos the' ruin,"

306

A LDEAKE.

cvcrlastinsr floAVors. She liad proparcd her soul for the
great chaiiffe that liad come upon her. Siio liad knelt at
tlic Saviour's feet, ami drawn oonsolation and i'aitli from
His teadiinns. The Hililo was tlie only voliime upon
which she now looked with pleasure, or from wliicli
Aldeane could draw aught to arouse her feeliniis, and
compose her mind.

As the months fled, the tender watchers around her
eaw that she was quickly passing away, (ienlly, and
without pain, she was hastening downward to the tomb;
hastily her frail bark was gliding down the river of life,
and Hearing the dark shores of eternity, but to her they
were fair and beautiful •, the house of her God in all its
celestial grandeur stood ready to receive her, and angels
to bear to its inmost courts. Ere ilay had scattered all
its wealth of beauty over the earth, Leonore lay down
upon h. ;• couch, never more to tread the paths now redo-
lent with sweets, or to gaze upon the luxuriance of the
blushing month.

Too weak to sit up unless supported by pillows, she
reclined upon her bed, which was drawn close to the
window, that she might breathe the sweet fragrance from
the garden below, ;uul catch glimi)ses of its beauty.

Altogether released from the duties of the school-room,
Aldeane remained constantly with her, devoting herself
to the task of attending upon her, night and day she was
alike at her ])ost, snatching a few moments' sleep at
uncertain intervals, and seeking air only when she ran
into the garden at early niorn, to cull the sweetest buds
for the invalid when the dew was still upon them. No
other seemed to smooth the pillows so well, or t<i pre-
pare each little dainty so delicately ; no voice was toned
so low, yet so distinctly as hers, and above all, none, not
even her tender mother, seemed so well to understand
her bruised heart, and to guard its secrets so carefully.
When Aldeane left the room, she would never speak of

he
em

pla

for

tall

spe

as SI

nic(

acci

lefl

men

to ]

cipa

deat

as s

hira

She

niigl

stren

lettei

begg

buria

be till

the n

ing h^

the A\

ended

She

sceme

power

dark a

his CO

assurei

to her,

'pared hor soul for the
her. Siio had knelt at
solatioii and I'aitli from
lie only vtilume iiimii
?asuro, or from wliicli
■oHse her fi-eliniis, and

r watehers around her
lij; away. Gently, and
iownward to the tomb;

down the river of life,
ternity, but to her they
,0 of her Ciod in all its

receive her, and angels
' iliiy had scattered all
irth, Leonore lay down
cad the paths now redo-
[i the luxuriance of the

ppoi-ted by pillows, she
'^as drawn close to the
he sweet fragrance from
ipses of its beauty,
ities of the school-room,
h her, devoting herself
•, night and day she was
few moments' sleep at
air only when she ran
cull the sweetest buds
18 still upon them. No
lows so well, or t<i pre-
'ly ; no voice was toned
and above all, none, not
I so well to understand
its secrets so carefully,
e would never speak of

A LI) EA A' ff.

807

f.wu 1 . 1 -'i.iuiL loss tlic\ were about to sustain Slie

i-n,.. ,.,u,„ .:;;.:„ ::;V;;:;';:,r '""""'' '"'

Ml.; «n„l li„l,. of Goorsc. l!av,„o,„l. ' Sl,<. f,.|, ,|„t

pmse.lessly, she awaited the approach of Azrael • lis
a»»u,..,l „,„ fa,„ily'.l,„c onlv uLdt o IT""' "

308

A IDEA NE.

room. Frank liml bccir recalled from school, and im
usual he came in with the other diildren o l.i.l Leonore
cood-nitiht. The i)artinij was more tender than usual.
Eddie and Jessie went away weeping silently wit5<, ?v
bitter pain thev could not understand <:raspiii,i; their
youn<j; hearts. Frank, struck by the coldness of the hand
lie held, and the spiritual beauty of tlu- wan lace, wliis-
jiered to his mother: —

" I can not <jo ; please let me stay."
!She nodded asselit, and he took his station at the foot
of the bed, watching intently every change tliat passed
over his sister's face.

A dim taper burned at one end of the room; the moon
shone brightly through the windows Irom which the
curtains had been drawn back, that Lcoi.ore might once
more gaze upon the glorious effulgence of the summer
niixht. The silvery rays lay lightly upon the form of the
dying girl, and over the silent group gathered around

her. ' ^

The family physician with Colonel Arendell stood at
the head of *the bed, while Aldeane and Mrs. Arendell
sat one on each side, oft.u moving noiselessly from their
stations to brim: sonu" strengthening draught or restor-
ative, heonorc lav .luietly Ijreathing her life away ; her
eyes tjazing steadily forward, their luster each monient
growinti fainter. Tier mind seemed entirely gone. The
doctor "administered a i)Owerful stimulant, which for a
short time aroused her dormant fucultiis. She recognized
those who stood near her, and calmly bade them farewell,
giving to each some word of cheer, and as they wept
feebly exhorted them not to grieve, for she was about to
outer into eternal bliss, where she should never more feel
sorrow or pain. Aldeane she sweetly thanked for all her
care and love, and clasping her arms arou-.ul her begged
that she would repeat the psalm she had herself read to
dyimr Al)el. Ti.ough tears choked her voice, Aldeane

\ from school, and im
•liildron o l»i»l Lconorc
loro tt'iulcr than usual,
■coping silently wit)-, w
crstand <;rasi)in<; their
the coldness of I ho hand
y- of the wan face, wliis-

tay."

k his station at the foot

cry change that passed

I of the room ; the moon
ndows from which the
liat Lconore might once
fulgence of the summer
itly \\\Mn the form of the
gro\ip gathered around

slonel Arendell stood at
cane and ^Nlrs. Arendell
iig noiselessly from their
icning draught or restor-
ithing her life away; her
licir Ulster each moment
med entirely gone. The
il stimulant, which for a
faculties. She recognized
almly bade them farewell,
ciiecr, and as they wept
eve, for she was about to
lie should never more feel
weetly thanked for all her
arms arou:ul her begged
m she had herself read to
lokeil her voice, Aldeane

ALU la AXE.

800

omphed, and then sang a sweet and favorite hvnm, b„t
Leonore ag.nn sank >nto a sta.c of apparent inse.'isibiiitv •
.tl e.vpccted to see her spirit take i,s Hight ; she lav "s.
St. 1 that they almost believed her alreadv dead. The
l.ght was fadn.g from her eyes, but once more they were
■Kh ."d up the deep-toned clock upon the stain-ase ra ,
lo h the hour of nine. She starte,! slightly from le;:
pillow, and cried faintly:—

" (ieorgc., my .lading, M'ait for me ! The str.nn rushes
by, and the water is deep; clasp u.o ia vour arms, and
M-e wdl brave tlie torrent tofrother '" '

She then sank back, exhausted by ,ho HVort. All for the
hrst tune ren,en.bered that this was .ho anniversarv of

that Mr. Hlake ha.l heard h,s v.-icc i„ ,1k. storm. To her
dj^ng nuagmation had been clearly presented all the hor-
lors ot the awtui scene.

All knelt around the bed, a.,d the words of prayer
arose anud the sobs of the mourners. The voice of 1 ^
heart-broken was deep with anguish as he petitioned
eternal fehc.ty for his child, and comfort for hose who
were to be bereaved.

Thc.y arose from their knees and gazed once mor.. upon
< I'e dying g,rl. H,.r face for a moment became ^rloricms
••"Hi her l,ps nrnved. CV.Ionel Arendell bent ea^rly fo -'
ward and caught the whisper, " \Vith thee! in heav"en at

The light fa.led from her eyes, her brow .rew dark
ami her father covered his face with his han.ls, that hJ
imght not see her die. Sobs alone broke the itillness
Jor a few moments not a voice was heard; then arose
that of the doctor, who had bent over her, sayi„..-!
She sleeps in Jesus." ' °'

Her spirit had indeed returned to the God who gave it
Leonore Arendell was numbered with the angels.

310

ALDEANE.

" For her the heavenly gate was moved so gently from its portnl,
The tender watchers scarcely knew wlien she became immortal."

A wail ot'ai^ony broke from each dpsolate heart. Not
a tear drojiped from Colonel Areiidell as he bent in stony
grief over the form of his beloved child. Mrs. Arendell,
on the contrary, cave vent to the most heart-rending
cries; with their arms aroimd each otlier, Frank and slie
wept heart-brokenly, (."aim and self-posuessed, thongh
grieving even as dee])ly as they, Aldeane turned from the
beautiful dead to comfort the mourners. She soon suc-
ceeded in getting them from the room; to Colonel Aren-
dell she couhi say nothing. The deepest agony was
depicted uj>on liis countenance. The doctor took his arm
to lead him away; he looked up wihlly, and a low, bitter
moan broke from his li|)s.

" ^ly dear colonel, I lieg you to come away !" said the
kind-hearted gentleman. "Think of your wife — liow
much she needs your s\ip])ort at this trying hour."

Here a servant entereil, and said that Mrs. Arendell
was in violent hysterics. With a word of entreaty to the
colonel, he left the room. Bending to impress one long,
lingering kiss upon the sweetly smiling lips of his dead
daughter, the desolate father left the chamber, and a mo-
ment afterward Aldeane lu-ard the dang of the library
door, and knew that he had shut himself in to indulge his
speechless grief.

A number of servants had crowded into the room, and
were loudly lamenting the death of their young mistress.
Almost distracted by the Confusion that prevailed, Aldeane
ordered all but Aunt \\o\y and Zettie to leave the room.
Slowly and sorrowfully they obeyed, and those that re-
mained were ere long engaged in the sacred task of robing
the dead for burial. They found one liand resting upon
her bosom, tight clasping the miniature of Raymond; it
was not withdrawn, but jK>rmitte<l still to rest upon the
heart that had cherished the original so long and Ihtally.

I'l
\>

I)r;
fac
ke(

vai

arr

iipc

rest

life

side

atti

well

won

to h

Ald(

pity

her 1

preci
heav
into
hand
Al
leanii
the c
the Ic
till—

ao gently from its portnl,
lien she became immortal."

ich (Ipsolatc heart. Not
itU'll as ho bent in stony
1 <'liild. iVIis. Arondt'll,
tlio most ht'ivrt-rciuliiit^
fh otlior, Frank anil slii'
i 9oU-|)08i»essc'd, tliough
\kleani' turned from tlie
lourners, 8hu soon suc-
room; to Colonel A ren-
riie deepest apony was
The doetor took his arm
wihlly, and a low, bitter

eomc away !" said the
nk of your wife — how
this trying hour."

said that Mrs. Arendell

1 word of entreaty to the
iing to impress one long,

smiling lips of his dead
; the eliamber, and a mo-
he clang of the library
himself in to indulge his

rt'detl into the room, and
of their young mistress,
n that prevailed,Aldeane
Zettie to leave the room.
pyed, and those that rc-
the sacred task of robing
d one liand resting upon
iniaturc of Raymond ; it
e<l still to rest ujion the
;inal so long and Ihtally.

ALDEANE.

311

As Leonoro had d,.sired, the gannent.s that had been
prepared for her wedding Ibrmed those of the ^r "
^Y'en nil was finished, Aldeane left the roon wiU th e
mtent.on of going to her own. In the hall she met Do
or C rey ; ho tohl h.-r that Mrs. Arendell was sleepi g '? ,"

lie begged her to try to obtain resf • l.,.f ♦! L ,
-nth.oherehambc^,itwa;':;r;:\:!X^^
pray lor strength and comfort ; then bathing he'b, nl^

keep >vat -h beside the beautiful elay of Leonore
A dim hght shone in the room as she entered. The ser-

T. a drawn ,h,wn, revealing the beautiful form of L .1 ,!
ariayed m pearly silk and costly lace- the h-irul« V 7
upon the breast, were wa.xen a.^d whi'te tu ti, S
rested upon hps and cheeks, giving almost the warm h of
l.h. to the mmiovable features. Colonel ArendeH k™ t be
8.<le the low cou.h, one ur.n thrown over the bod n
attuude of utter abandonment. At X\.Z^loUslC2
well-known footsteps, he lifted his h.-.d '„; j
;v.ndertUlychangeii.ygHe,:ini;::^t.^'^^^^^^
to have grown years older. Wearily he arose. Xotic^g
A .k.,ne s pale an.l tear-stai„e.l c-ou tenaru-e, a feelin^ of

" ;iou, too," he sai.1, "have come to grieve over tliis
prenouscluld. O God J why was thf retributL t^
|»^^^ . A groati con.pleted the sentence, a.id he vank
into a chair, coverin- his fice witl. j • •

hands. - ^""^ quivering

Aldeane went to the other side of the bed and sat down
eaning her head upon her hand, and fixing ,"evcV:i;
he calm, sweet face of the precious dead. Thus b a
long,sUeut vigil of the two mourners, that ended no

812 ALDEAKE.

" Tlio stars went softly back to heaven,
Tho night fogs rolled away,
Anil rims ofpold and crowns of crirason
Along the )iill-top3 lay."

Two days later thoy ])laoc'(l Loonore An'iidell — she
who, in each loving soul, was named the brok. n-hearted —
beside her lover. And for months, no gleam of joy dwelt
in Arendell House. Yet even the saddest there eould not
but feel that to her who was taken the change was glori-
ous ; for had she lived it would have been as a broken-
hearted woman. She had not been blessed with tho
strength of mind which wotild have enabled her to rise
above the terrible sorrow that had fallen upon her young
life. And knowing all this, resignation tempered the
grief of her friends ; not sueh resignation as is but an-
other name for callousness, but that which through tears
exclaims, " The Lord knoweth best. The will of the Lord
be done."

And it was with such feelings as these Aldeane penned
the following lines, lines which, perhaps, comforted more
than any other words could have done, the bruised heart
of the remorseful and penitent father. He called them
his comfort, but the writer named them —

"THE ANGEL DEATH.

" The gates of Heaven ope'd wide one day,

And an angel left its peaceful shade,
And sped to earth his quiet way.
Full mournful was his solemn lay.

Like spirit raoanings as they fade.

*' Sable and glistening were his wings,
And shadows ever around him dwelt

As coldness which the autumn brings,

When early frost around it clings.
So was the angel's presence felt.

) heaven,
I of crimiion

A'onore An-iidell — sbc
d the brok. n-hcartcd —
, no gleam of joy <hvelt
lafldost there eould not
1 the change was glori-
lave been as a brokeii-
)een blessed with tlie
ve enabled her to riw
fallen upon her young
gnalion tempered the
ignation as is but an-
at which through tears
;. Tlie will of the Lord

1 these Aldeane penned
■rhaps, comforted more
ilone, the bruised heart
ither. He called them
them —

EA.TH.

ride one day,
eful shade,
way.
n lay,
ley fade.

is wings,
him dwelt
ran brings,
clings,
20 felt.

ALDEANE.

"The silvery tresses of the moon

Lay on the bosom of the quiet air,
A wob of tracery, tliat soon
Would vani=!h in the ducp'ning gloom,
That comes before tlie diiylight fair.

"The angol with his powerful liaiids
The beauteous radiance quickly clefl,
And far behind him lay th-" bands,
Like shadows on the desert sands,'
Of rolling darkness ho had left. '

" He touched tlie golden harp ho bore—
And lingering numbers sweot and low,
Whispered to earth the mystic lore,
By which the seraphs God implore'
Mercy on erring man below.

" To one on earth that sound was lieard.

And smiles of peace passed o'er her 'face-
Like clearest notes of joyous bird,
She seemed to hear the heavenly 'word-
' Come rest ye, child of love and grace •

•'She lay upon her couch so fair;

Bright through the casement looked the moon.
And bars of silver on her hair.
Gleamed softly white and strangelv there,
Like sunbeams through a darkened room.

" She knew that through the casement low
Came in the angel— Death, '

She heard the rush of his dark wings slow,
She saw strange light around Lira glow.
And felt his withering breath.

"Her hands wero clasped upon her breast—

Her eyes looked up to heaven ;
Sho knew not those who round her pressed
She sa*v alone her endless rest—
Her tlioughts from earth wore ri7en
H

313

314

A IDEA NR

" Bitter they wept on earth that u\ght ;
For the spirit so lovciy nnd kind,
llail taVen to <iod its joyous (light —
To its home of beauty and coascless llght-
And nad left but a smile behind."

at
)i(
111

IK
<)\

Al
Ai

gri

j)af

api

paf

nil

liin

of'l

fior

wit

Eac

t night ;
kind,
ight—

iReleHS lights
hind."

C II APT Kit XXXII,

RKTUUH riO.V IlKcilXS.

TiiK Hununer came slowly on.ca^tinir its wealth of fra-
pran,.,. an.l beauty over the earth, li.tle heede.l by those
at Are.Kle 11 House. Death tails with a sho,-k uno„*lovi„..
hearts, and thouph long c.vpecte.l, it hiul not fhile.l to
make its due imj.ression there. Still so deenlv was Lco-
nore niourned, that a solemn feeling of lon..|i«ess hun-r
<>ver all. Mrs. Arendell spoke of her with <,uiet tears"^
Aldeane thought of her very sorrowfullv; but Colonel
Areiulell seemed totally changed by grief!

" The siilphiirous riftH of passion and woo

Lay deep 'nealh a Kurfaco ptiro and smooth-
Like burnt-out craters healed with snow."

Calmly and gently, never mentioning her, for whom lie
grieved so deeply, he attended to his duties. More fir-
quontly than ever he retired to his libriry, where, as she
passed the windows, Aldeane would see him with his fa.-e
buried 111 his hands, or with weary steps pacin.r the
apartment. Often, too, he went to Leonore's grave an<l
passed the closing hours of day in lonely reverie. Not
all the gentle wiles of his wife and children could win
hitn from fhe over-mastering grief for the loss of the child
ot his first lovo.

To Aldeane the days passed drearily. Stillness and
sorrow at home, required the brightness of joy from
without, to cheer and comfort her; but this came not.
itach letter from Arthur brought some fresh tale of dis-

nio

A LDEANE.

ii'^tcr. Nevins was at work most l)itterly r„'aiiist i>lm.
Tlic uiifortiiimlc Inss of a most important case, tiinicd tlw

|K. pillar I iili' still mniT against liim. Mr. IlaU ihc lia^i

willulrawii iVinn tlic firm, and was liis successful ri\ al.
Artliiir was pcrt'cctly <liscourat:c'l, aii.l even Mr. Ashton
had \w<i\m to despair of liis ultimat(! success. It was
concluiled that Arthur must leave lioston and seek pros-
perity elsewliero. With many tears, IJelle lieard this de-
cision, and for some time could not consent to m'ive up
her In'autifiil new home, and find a lowlier elsewhere : but
I'or even this she was jtrepared, when a most unexi)ected
event turn the tide of atVairs.

A rumor was whispered in Boston one day, that tiie
wealthy and aristocratic Jonas Nevins had lieeii arrested.
None knew for Avhat. The v oice <jjrew louder and louder,
and at last the astoundinfj; Intel liaenee spread over the
city, that the alleged crime was perjury.

Arthur (Juthrie was not seen much upon the streets at
this time, for he shunned inquiry, but the curious i)ublic,
inten-ted as they suddenly became upon Ids affairs, wouM
have 1 'cen far more so, had they known that the cjcntleman,
who frequented his house in company with ]Mr. Ashton
and Charles Evans, was the mysterious prosecutor of the
renowned Jonas Nevins.

Aldeane was, of course, immediately apprised of what
had occurred, or at least as much of it as was known to the
j)ublic. Arthur, for reasons best known to himself, kept
back many particulars, which she intuitively felt he could
have disclosed, and which materially heightened the curi-
osity and anxiety she felt concerning this unlooked-for
event.

A few days after she received the nows, Colonel Aren-
dell entered the house, in a state of great excitement, and
passing Aldeane upon the stairs, without, in his distrac-
tion, perceiving her, he opened the door of his wife's room,
and said, in a sort of horrified whisper : —

<;
r
J
(

I'
f<

P
k

ill
si
m
A\
m
w

Sll

isl

br
^^'(
fri
sp:

coi
an
Ar

.1 r. i> i:a .v/t.

bitterly f.;Ta'inst him.
rtaiit oaso, tunioil tin-
Mr. Iliilcomhc lia^l
liis su('ccssl"\il rival.
,11,1 ivi'ii Mr. Ashtoii
ate suci'c'hs. It wan
loston and sock pros-
i, liellc heard this de-
t consent to give up
iwlier elsewhere : Imt
n a most iiiiexiieeted

on one day, that the
ns had been arrested,
ew louder and louder,
?nee spread over tlu!

'h upon the streets at
ut the curious juihllc,
ipon his atlairs, would
\-i\ that the Ejentleman,
^ny with Mr. Ashtou
ious prosecutor of the

tely apprised of what
it as was known to the
nown to himself, kept
ituitively felt he could
y heightened the curi-
ling this unlooked-for

3 now8, Colonel Arcn-
great excitement, and
dthout, in his distrac-
loorof his wife's room,
(per : —

il7

"Ma! Ida, William is eoining \unnv\ ^\\ l.n.fher is
coiiiiiig !"

There was an ex.'l.iniatioii of the greatest surprise from
Mrs. Areiidfll, tti.ii Aid. am' h.ard no more, hut that
little convinced lier that a mystery existed in the family
<if which she had hitherto been perfectly ignorant. She
reinemhered that she had oi-easionally heard of a William
Arciidell, especially at the time of" the discovery of
<Jeorge Ifaymoii.rs parentage; hut she had always sup-
posed him dead. She reinemhered well that she had
fouii.l the i)icture of u young man under a lile (.Told
I>apers in the library, whose frank handsome countenance
had deeply interested her, and that it was lying oi, ij,,.
parlor table when George IJaymond arrived, aii(i that he
looked nt it, sometimes sorrowfully, but often with the
glare of wild jiassion that so frequently overspreail his
face. After his death the picture had disappeared, and
she had aceounte<l for it, by supposing that it raised tr>o
many sad memories of his dead son. Ibit that this
William Arendell still existed, she had never for a mo-
ment imagined, and to know the cause of his long exile
was now the greatest desire of her mind.

Xeither the colonel or ."Sirs. Arendell mentioned the
subject when they saw her, an.l this increased her aston-
ishment, and wish to j.enetrate the mystery.

"Surely," thought she, "if the return of this long-lost
brother was the occasion of joy to Colonel ArendeU, he
Mould immediately communicate the good news to his
friends and acfpiaintanee. I have not liear.l him even
speak his name. It is indeed most strange."

Several days had passed. Colonel Arendell had be-
come still more morose and gloomy, and his wife wore
an anxious look. Aldeane had received no letter from
Arthur, at which she was greatly surprised, as he had
given her no particulars of the arrest of Xevins, and slio
awaited them with the utmost impatience. So m- \

318

AIDEA}JE.

ciijjroHsoil wtTo tb«' ArcmlillH in \\w\r own ncrrt't, that
tlifV <li<l not notice tliat any tliinir wi'iK'l><''l "" Al(ltaiu''n
iniil'l. Slic liail inlcn«lf<l to tell thcni of Ncvin^'H arrc-nt,
l)iit til.' Mlianu' attaclu'.l to it, an<l lirr ii,'n<.rano«' of nil
Iiarticularn, had witiilultl Imt from doinjx «>•

'I'lif Angust Hnn liad dimlH'.l the zfnitli, and tlio family
had ntiriMl to diftVmit parts of the h>nsc to seek quiet
and **i>ade. At tho oiid of the front i)ia/.za was a little
arbor formed of many a flowerintr Hhr\il» that en'i-t over
the lattice ; a little 'nistie seat had heen plaeed there,
and many hours had Leonore and Aldenne spent thiTu
tojrether. Thither, with a favorite book for company,
Aldeane now retired, antl ' . the most remote corner,
where she i-ouhl see no one without, nor be seen by tluin,
she sat down, l-'rom the jx-rusal of a beautiful potin,
she fell into a tender train of thought. Her brother,
Helle, Leonore, and Frederic Morgan, one by one i)asRed
thro\igh the shadowy vista of her mind. She had fallen
into a day-dream of unusual richness and beauty, when
she was startled by the tones ol well-known voices. One
she instantly recognized as Colonel Arench'U's, the other,
though perfectly familiar to her, she could give to none
of her present ac(iuaintanees. It seemed to lead her a
long way back into the past, and to scenes altogether
different from the South. Where could she have heard
it ? She arose o leave the little alcove, but remembered
that the only entrance was near the end of the piazza,
and that she would be sureljrseen by the gentlemen; she
looked down r;,t he disordered dress, and while she stood
in doubt, not knowing what to do, she heard the stranger

say : —

" Yes, colonel, your brother has arrived, and the man
who for years has stained his name with infamy is
secured within the jail at Loring, to await his trial at
the coining sessions."

" Yo\j of course arc aw'are." said the colonel, " that I

b
C

ci
C

ill
HI
ri
er
w

ha
ev

A LT) EA A'/;.

iill)

tioir own secret, that

Ai'ij^hfil on AldfiUic's
m of N'fviiis'w arrest,

licr iiiiiorance of all
loint? «<>.

zenith, and the family
e lims*' to seek qiiiel
ut |)iazza was a little
*lir\ih that erejit over
(I been plaeeil there,

Alrteant" npent thero
1 book for eom]>any,

moHt rt-niote corner,
, nor be seen by them,

of a beautiful po«in,
ought. Iler brother,
m, one V»y on(^ ])assefl
ninrl. She had fallen
i'ss and beauty, when
ll-known voices. One

Arendell's, the other,
le could give to none
Hcemed to lead her a

to weenes altogethi'r

could fhe have heard
cove, but remembered
he end of the piazza,
)y the gentlemen ; she
IS, and while she stood
she heard the stranger

arrived, and the man
name M'ith infamy is
, to await his trial at

i the colonel, " that I

shall b,. d.hght.d if i|„. innocence of my broth.r can 1...
proved. Although through his lawyer I was made aware
of Ins return to this ,o„ntry. I wiis p.-rfeetly nnprepnred
for such an event as this. Ib.l I beg of vou, sir, to -rive
me the n.ime of the man whom you assert to be the nal
eriimnai."

" Davis," replied the stranger, whose voice each mo-
ment perplex.d Ald.-ane still more, as afraid to move she
remained an unwilling listen.T to the conversation of the
two gentlemen, who were hidden from her view by the
thick shiiililury.

" Davis !" n.iterated Colonel Aren.h.ll. " What I not
Jonas Davis, our old friend ? It is impossible 1"

" It is perf.-ctly true," returned the g.-ntleman, quietly.
Jon.is Novins Davis, for years known as Jonas Xevins
IS now HI Loring jail, occupying the very cell in which
your brother was coiiHned njore than twenty years ago."
Overcome with astonishment, Aldeane thrust her hand
through the clusfring vines, an.l by a violent ettbrt
teanng them aside saw standing befbre her, Mr. Ashton.
Had a thunderbolt fallen at her feet she could not have
been m..re surprised. " How came he there, to herald to
Colonel Arendell the return of his wandering brother?"
At the sound vf her bw, involuntary scream, and the
crashing of the vines, they had started to their feet.
Colonel Arendell regarded her with a look of angry de-
fiance, and Mr. Ashton hastened to her side, leading her
like one in a dreatn from the arbor, making eager inqui-
ries concerning her health, and assuring her that their
enemy had fallen, never again to rise, and that justice
woidd be done to all at last.

Colonel Aretidell excitedly demanded how she came
there.

In a trembling voice she explained ; but he seemed but
half satisfied, and turned away, muttering, " Women are
everywhere, hearing every thing !"

320

ALDEANE.

IIi'i- curiosity ami iuixioty wore Mnotlior'>(l by lier rc-
sontmi'iit of this coudnct, m she turned to' depart. Mr.
Ashton wished to detain her, but she swept proudly by
him.

lie demanded hastily, " When can I see you, to give
you all particulars ?"

"At almost any time," she answered. "Colonel Areii-
dell must suppose that I am deeply interested in that
which concerns all who arc dear to nie."

lie turned ashy pale, and leaning against a pillar of
the piazza, Avaved his hand for her to go.

Noticing this deep emotion, Aldeane concluded that
the subject was in reality very painful to him, and imme-
diately left them.

The whole of that day and night was jjassed by her in
a state of most intoler.able suspense. She saw Colonel
Arendell but once, and then he preserved the most im-
penetrable silence on the subject nearest the thoughts of
both, and Aldeane was unwilling to risk his displeasure
by mentioning it.

The next morning she awaited impatiently a visit from
ISIr. Ashton. She could not co. ^eive how he had become
acquainted with AVilliam Arendell, or why he should be
so much interested in his case as to accompany him South.
A hundred wild conjectures floated through her mind,
but none were satisfactory. She remained in an inde-
scribable state of mysterious anxiety, starting every time
the gates creaked on their hinges, or a footstep sounded
upon the piazza. Colonel Arendell left the house early
in the morning, expecting that Mr. Ashton would come,
and feeling very unwilling to meet him. The hours, to
Aldeane, passed wearily. The exercises of the school-
room seemed unusually dvdl. Eddie and Jessie could
not comprehend the lassitude of their teacher, and as a
matter of course they were stupid and inattentive, annoy-
h\'X and worrying her exceedingly.

tli

so
lu

ti(
he
be
be

P^o

abi

loo

wit

rol

esti

\m\

not

acq

but

thn

nati

had

fimothor'Ml by her rc-
inied to dopart. Mr.
lie 8\vi'i)t proudly by

an I see you, to give

■red. "Colonel Areii-

jly interested in that

nie."

g against a pillar of

to go.

leane concluded that

ful to liim, and inime-

was ))assed by her in
ise. She saw Colonel
eserved the most ira-
■arest the thoughts of
o risk his displeasure

ipatiently a visit from
►'e how he had become
or why he should be
[iccompany him South.
2(\ through her mind,
remained in an inde-
;y, starting every time
ir a footstep sounded
11 left the house early
, Ashton would come,
t him. The hours, to
erciscs of the school-
Idie and Jessie could
heir teacher, and as a
nd inattentive, anuoy-

A LI) i:.{ X K.

A feeling of joyful relii'f came over all when Zettie
came in and announced: "A gentleman in the parlor to
see Miss AhU'ane."

She sprang up cpiickly, and was soon returnin<r the
warm greeting of Mr. Ashton,

" Why did you come South ? What do you know of
this Mr. William ArendellV" were Iier first (luestions.

" To answer you fully, Aldeane, I must take you back
some twenty years," he answere.l. "Come, sit down
beside me, on the sota. I do not think the story will tire
you."

She took a seat and waited with considerable impa-
tience for him to begin. He walked up and down before
her several times in deep thought, then seating himself
beside lier, and smoothing nrravely his gray and flowin<r
beard, (commenced : — '^

"It is now about twenty years ago that I made a
voyage to England. I liad left my young wife and child
most reluctantly, to go there on very important business.
P'or some days I made no acquaintances, most of those
aboard being of an inferior class. At last I noticed a fine-
looking man, of about my own age, who seemed imbued
with the deepest melancholy. He would remain tor hours
at the side of the ship, with his eyes fastened u])on the
rolling waves, expressive of thoughts as wild and fath-
omless as they. His seemingly desolate condition inter-
ested and touched me with ))ity. Moved by a stroii<r
impulse which I could not resist, I one day spoke to him"
He replied courteously, but coldly; but I was determined
not to be so easily put off, and again addressed him. The
ac(piaintaiice thus commenced progressed very slowlv •
but the voyage proving long and tempestuous, we weVo
thrown entirely on one another for society, and beiiicr
naturally of a sociable nature, he at last unbent before
my frequent advances, and ere the end of the voyage we
had become friends. "

14»

322

ALDEANE.

. " I knew that a mystery \\\\x\% over Irs life. As
yet I knew not the place of his residence, whether he
wore married or single, or even his name. I lonfjed to
)»«'netrate tlie Liloom that hung over him, and win his con-
lidenee, but all my endeavors seemed in vain. Delicacy
forbade rude intrusion upon his secret, and the sorrow
which marked his life excited daily my ))ity, while the
manl'ness of his character aroused my admiration an<l
esteem.

" At length, amid peneral rejoicini;, we entered the
Mersey, and on the morrow woidd land. A bright moon
hung over Liverpool, revealing to us the dark streets of
the city which we were about to enter. My unknown
friend and I slowly and sorrowfully paced the deck to-
gi'ther. Little was said by either. I felt sincere pain at
parting with this man, who seemed so truly miserable,
and whom in so short a time I had learned so deeply to
respect. His thoughts, also, seemed to be of a sorrowful
character, for I saw his face working painffUy in the
moonlight, while he would occasionally sigh d seply, as if
his very soul was in strife with some mighty weight of
shame and grief

" He stopped at last, placing his elbows on the side of
the ship, and covering his face with his hands. I fancy
I can see him now. ^flie hands were delicate and white,
and trembled nervously as they closed over his dark face,
shaded darkly by the black hair that fell over them. I
regarded him for a moment in sorrowful astonishment,
then laid my hand upon his arm in silent sympathy.

" The touch aroused him ; turning, he placed his arm
again within mine, and we recommenced our silent walk.
I longed to know his troubles, and to comfort him, yet
shrank from asking his confidence. He seemed struggling
violently with his pride, for ever and anon he would open
his lips as if to speak, then close thera again with a look
of agony.

r
c
I;
t

\\
1>

cl
fii
111
tl

bi
to
ea

st)
fai
th
oil
to
1,1
Ai
wl

A LD KAXE.

over h'9 life. As
csidenco, whether ho
1 iiiiiue. I lonfjed to
him, iitul win his coii-
(1 in viiin. Delicacy
cret, and the sorrow
V my i)ity, while the

my admiration and

inu, we entered the
imd. A hright moon
s the dark streets ot"
enter. My unknown
^ p.ieed the deck to-

I I'elt sincere pain at
[ 80 truly miserable,

learned so deeply to
[ to be of a sorrowful
ing painffUy in the
illy sigh d Jeply, as if
le mighty weight of

'Ibows on the side of
1 his hands. I fancy
e delicate and white,
?d over his dark face,
It fell over them. I
rowful astonishment,
silent sympathy,
g, he placed his ami
need our silent walk,
to comfort him, yet
He seemed struggling
I anon he would open
>m again with a look

:{2;5

My sympathy at length overcame every otlior consi.l-
eration. I could not longer remain silent, and .see this
man, whom I had leanu-d to esteem, suflVr so deeply in
my preseiH'<>, without seeking to comfort him.

'"My friend,' I said, for I knew not his name, ' you
are m troubU-some weiglity sorrow is oi)pressing your
heart. Can I not lielp or comfort you V'

"I had expected a sorrowful an'swer; I had prepared
niyself for a sad scene, but not for that which really oc-
<-..rre.l. He droi)pcd my arm, an<l leaning against tlie
bulwarks, covered his face with his hands, u.id burst into
tears. I was astounded to see the strong man befcu-e me
weepmg like a very child, but in the deep anguish of
a man's wounded heart, I stoo<l irresolute, not knowin<r
wliat to say or do, and while I pondered, the storm of
passion passed away, and he looked up, saying :—

" ' I know you despise me after this exhibition of weak-
ness ; but, indeed, mine is a bitter lot !'

" ' I know tliat ." I replied, standing beside him, and
clasping his hand, ' and I conjure you, if you have any
faith in my honor, or reliance upon my friendshij), to let
me know your griefs, that, if possible, I may alleviate
them.'

Tiiat you can nof do !' lie rejdied, sighing deeply,
but you shall know my story, though I fear U) tell 'it
to you, lest I thereby lose the only friend I have on
earth.'

"I earnestly assured him, that whatever he should
state, I should consider more his misfortune tJian his
fault, and after a few moments' reflection, he commenced
the story of his life. Afterward, he wrote the sad tale
out in nearly the same words, as those in which he had
told it to me, and tiiis statement, Aldeane, I am about to
l)lace in your hands, togetlicr with the proofs of William
Arendell's innocence, and Jonas Xevins Davis's guilt,
which it has been the work of years to collect. Read'

}21

A r.Di:A A'/;.

them to-iii>,'ht, my <l<'ar, :uul I will advise with you as to
the part yoii may be called upon to take in this affair."

Mr. Ashton said nineh more, hut what it was, Aldeane,
in her eonfiised state, eould not tell, an<l it was long alter
he had bidden her farewell, that she found courage to
look upon the documents he had left in her hand.

sh
pe

he
thi

801

sh(
cai
to
tw

nat
a c
ycii
me:
abl
an <
and
qui)
bro
Goc

bcai
mos

clvise with you as to
take in this affiiir,"
vhat it was, Aldcatio,
and it was long alU'r
ho found courage to
t in liiT hand.

CHAPTER XXXIII.

WILLIAM ARENDELL's .\AKUATIVE.

AinEAXE Guthrie did not wait for night to come ere
she hurried to her room, and eagerly bent herself to' the
perusal of the record which ha.l l/een <-<>nfided to her
wondenng by what strange fatality it had been made
her lot to be made the repository of secrets, which, like
those of Raymond, this AVilliam Arendell's unfortunate
son, apparently affected her so little.

But her curiosity hastily silenced these retlections, and
she opened the manuscript, which was marked for her
earhest perusal, and read the tale which ha.l been told
to 3Ir. Ashton upon the deck of the vessel more than
twenty years belbrc.

"My name," it began, "is William Arendell. I am a
native of Xorth Carolina. My mother died when I was
a child of live years old, and my father about lifteen
years later. I inherited the paternal estate called Grass-
mere, and my younger brother, John, one not less valu-
able, some ten miles distant. Thus we were placed with
an equal number of slaves, and an equal amount of land
and money. I need say no more, except that John was
quiet and frugal, and I his opposite— an unworthy elder
brother— I know ; yet I was not base at heart, but O
God ! so weak, weak, weak. ' '

(j'When I became master at Grassmere, there was a
b&autiful slave girl there-a quadroon— and one of the
most lovely creatures of her race. Iler beauty inspired

32t5 ALDEANE.

me with a pussion of whioh I now blush to spviik.

It W!i8 not lontj 1)cf"on> I (liscovcrod that sue lovt'il mo
witli licr whoK'hoait and soul. What nt'i-d have I to say
inoivy Slu' was a slave, I the niastt'r whom she wor-
shiped. A child was born to us, the iniaoje of myself,
and my heart went out to him with the purest, tenderest
love. Sweet child ; dear little Junius !" he paused, as if
overcome by emotion, but presently continued: — )

" Meanwhile, my brother had married. His wife had
been much admired for her beauty, and among others I
had bowed at her shrine, but soon discovering her fiend-
ish disposition ami horrible temjjer had left her in dis-
gust. Unfortunately, I, who iletested her, had inspired
her with love, and her fury was fully aroused when sIh'
found it hopeless. For some time she employed her most
seductive arts to win me back ; but all in vain. Mean-
while, John had become deeply enamored of her. 1
Warned and remonstrated with him, but only excited his
anger and jealousy. For some time she scorned his suit,
but he c inued it with the most ardent pertinacity, and
at length, to my great sorrow and surprise, she accepted
liim, and very shoi lly afterward became his wife.

"After my father's death, I led, what is usually teiiacd
the life of a fast young man. I had money, and I scat-
tered it freely, and was greatly surprised, when I found
that it was not only exhaustible, but that I was in reality
deeply in debt. I applied to my brother for relief, and
he granted it, instructing his overseer, Richard Blake, to
supply me with the funds I Required. My sister-in-law at
the same time pretended the greatest solicitude in my
behalf.

" About this time, I became acquainted with a young
lady — a resident of another county, named Alice Deane.
I "

Aldeane paused, and clasped her hands in amazement,
or perhaps more correctly a Bpecies of affright, ejaculated,

fii

cl
si
m
h<
ho
to
w<
m(

kn
sh(

ani

all,

nej

pa)
act

dis]

ing
whi
seal
The
the

now blusli to siK'Jik.
d tliat she lovt'd jim
lilt iH'i'tl liiivo 1 to s!iy
lastcr whom hIic wor-
tlic imajTc of iiiys«'lf,

I the purest, toiidoiest
ius !" he paused, as if
y contimiod : — /
rried. His wife had
, aiul among others I
liseovering lier fieiid-
r had left lior in dis-
sted lier, had inspired

II y aroused when she
he employed her most
it all in vain. Mean-
enamored of her. 1

I, but only excited his
e she scorned his suit,
rdent pertinacity, and
surprise, she accepted
came his wife.
I'hat is usually teiiiicd
d money, and I scat-
■prised, when I found
it that I was in reality
)rother for relief, and
oer, Richard Blake, to
1. My sister-in-law at
,test solicitude in my

tainted with a young
•, named Alice Deane.

• hands in amazement,
of affright, ejaculated,

ALDEANE.

327

"My aunt, Alice Deane;' and then breatlilessly resumed
her reading.

C "I ;;'>on loved hor devotedly. ^\y passion f.,r the
beautihil quadroon died before the pure loveliness of this
fair creature.^, She was loved by another, who swore
vengeance upon whomsoever should take lier from him
1 laughed at his threats, yet for the sake of Samira's
child whom I still loved devotedly, I for some time re-
sisted the lascinatioMs of her beauty, but at last disclose.!
my feelmgs, and with a heart throbbing with e.-stasv
heard that they were reciprocated. Sorrowfully, I told'
her that wild and dissipated as I was, I was m^st unfit
to he the comj)anion of so i>ure a creature. Hut she
would not believe her idol clay, and with truest faith gave
me her heart.

" Ere long we were married, and shortly afterward she
knew all, but instead of loathing me and hatin<r my child
she conceived for him a strong affection, and for a time I
Wi. , perfectly happy in beholding the felicity of the wife
and child I adored.

" But, alas ! enemies were plotting my destruction ' The
words of Davis had not been lightly spoken. I had paid
all, except one small installment, of what I had borrowed
ot my brother, for by the most rigid economy, and a
most fortunate speculation in tobacco, I had gained in
one year nearly as much as I had expended in twelve I
neglected to obtain receipts from the overseer of those
payments, but, of course, John knows of them, and will
act justly in connection with the proper officials in the
disposition of my estate.

"One day, about two years after my marriage, on return-
ing from Linden, a village two miles distant,to my house
what was my surprise to see several officers of 'the law
scattered i^ different parts of the liouse an'd grounds
Ihere had been a robbery committed the night before on
the Loring bank-a window having been entered, and the

;328

A IDE AS' K.

Kiiib forced open ; and my first impression was that they
•were restinj^ at my house on tiieir way to appreheinl the
snsi)ecte(l party. I sahited them carelessly, an<l one ap-
proaclied, i>laein;4 liis hand upon my shouliler, arrestinj^
uie tor llie robbery of tlie Itank.

" Had a meteor descended from lieaven and burst before
me I could not have been more liorritied and astounded.
!My poor wife threw her arms around me, shriekini; wildly
with terror. While endeavorinj^ to soothe and assure
lier, I myself became calm. Quick as a li<,'htnin<j; tlash
the truth burst upon nu" ! Davis was cashier of the
bank, and I doubted not, had broutiht this accusation
against nu', in order to fulfill his diabolical threats of
ruinintj me. Until now 1 liad quite forgotten them, for
he had always greeted me cordially when we met, and in
that neighborhood had never given utterance to a single
■word against me. IJut I did not for a moment suppose
but that I should be able to prove his villainy, and the
falseness of the charge.

" I demanded of the oHicer the reason of my arrest.
lie could give none, except that it was by the order of
the sheritt" of the county. He treated me very respect-
fully, but said that he luid orders to search the house. I
readily agreed to this, and accompanied him though every
room." The last we visited was the library. 1'his they
thoroughly searched. There was a small safe in one
corner, which contained many valuable papers, many of
■which I was most anxious should not be seen by those
men, for they related to 'my bachelor days, many of
which were spent in gayety and dissipation of which I
was then heartily ashamed.

' " Involuntarily I placed myself before it to screen it
from observation. The movement attracted the notice
of the officers, and one demanded the key. I looked for
it in the accustomed place, it was not there. My God !
who had touched that key ; who had tampered with the

o
r(
c!
oi

>.v
m

sv
sp

<)«

nr
wi

C01

:d,i
he.'
spr

anc

not

rag
«

wil(

iression was that thoy
way to aj)|>ri'hoii(l the
iui'li'ssly, :m<l ono ap-
ay shouUler, arresting

'avon and burHt hcforo
litii'd and astonndod.
il nic, shrii'kini; wildly
to sootlio and assure
;k as a li<ihtninjj tlasli
s was cashuT of tlu'
ouiilit this accusation
diabolical threats of
tc forgotten ihem, for
^' when we met, and in
1 utterance to a single
for a moment suppose
! his villainy, and the

reason of my arrest.
it was by the order of
■ated me very respect-
o search the house. I
lied him though every
e library. I'liis they

a small safe in one
lablc papers, many of

not be seen by those
:helor days, many of
dissipation of which I

before it to Bcreen it
t attracted the notice
the key. I looked for
not there. My God !
lad tampered with the

.( A l> E A .V /■;.

329

lock of the sail'/ I felt lost when 1 asked myself that
•piestion. Some one pi.-ked up the key from the tloor,
and held it up to me.

'"That is the key,' I said, 'but I assure you that the
safe contains nothing but valuable papers.'

"'Tliat may be,'' he replied. 'Nevertheless, I must
act acconling to onhrs, and search every i)lace.'

"I awaited in trembling anxietv for the conclusion
of the sean-h. Package ath-r package of papers were
removed and urtied, and the searcji was nearly con-
cluded, when an exclamation of surprise was uttered by
<>"<■ "f the m.-n. I l)(>nt forward, and to my liorror and
Mir].n.se, saw a large sum in g..M, and a few bank notes
lymg in one corner. With a malicious smile one of tlie
men gathered them up and examined them. 'This an-
swers the description of the stolen money !' he said.

"•Villain! of what do you accuse me?' I exclaimed,
springing upon him. I was seized by a number of tht'
otiicers, and struggled wildly with them, thus injuring
my cause, by impressing them with the belief that I
wished to escape.

" This had never entered my mind. Though perfect Iv
overwhelmed at the sight of the money, the^ idea that I
could not clear myself readily of the accusation brought
against me, never once occurred to me.

I' My wife had fainted in my arms, and I stood iti
abject misery when my brother rode up to the door, and
hearing from one of the officers that I was arrested,
sprang into the library, demanding what it all meant.

"I was 80 utterly stunned by What had befallen me,
and by the sight of my unconscious wife, that I scarcely
noticed his presence. One of the men, pointing to the
money, hastily gave an explanation, and foaming witli
rage he turned toward me : —

"'So this is the end!' he exclaimed, 'after years of
wildn"ss and dissipation, you end your career by robbery I'

330

ALDEANE.

"•John,' I returned, in liorror, 'you no not believe
me guilty y'

" ' And wliy not V he asked with a sneer. * Why not ?
There,' jiointing to tlie money, 'ia the proof! Goo(l
heavens, that 1 shouhl live to sec my brother aceuse.l of
Buoh a erimc, and to hear my name a by-word and a
disgraee !'

"My brain seemed on fire as I heard those words. My
own brother liad condemned mc already in presence of
Jill these witnesses. I left my wife to the earc of the
servants, and rose up. 'John, come away from here,
where I can speak to you unreservedly.' I strode out to
the porch, followed by the ofttcers and my brother.

"•I came up to have some private conversation of an
important nature with you,' said John. 'But I suppose
that will not be allowed.'

"One of the otticers, after a short consultation with
the others, said that they would luive no objection to our
having a short private conversation, provided that it
took place where we could be seen.

" ' Place your men in the garden wherever you
please !' I said. ' 1 know too well my innocence to
attempt to escape, still it is your duty to watch me.
You see yonder arbor?' pointing to one that stood in the
garden, overrun witli a wild trumpet-vine, ' let us go
there. You can easily watch us.'

" They assented, and we w.ilked to the arbor that for
years had been my favorite seat. My brother angrily
demanded an explanation of what had passed. I could
give him none except that relative to Davis, and earn-
estly protest my innocence.

"lie smiled incredulously. ' Why, then, did you write
that letter to Holland?' he asked.

" ' What letter ?' I exclaimed, in surprise, for I had not
written to my friend Ralph Holland, who had gone to
England on a bridal tour, for several weeks, and could

en
Y

ra
yc
mi

th(

US(

be.'

ere

hat

arb

lov

Bia

imp

a fe

plea

sutte

ing

cami

tion

was

, ' you »^o not believe

h a BMcor. ' Why not ?

'is the proof 1 Good

my brother aci'usi-d of

lumc a by-word and a

licard those words. My
already in presence of
iife to the oarc of the
come away from here,
vedly.' I strode out to
i and my brother,
^ate conversation of an
John. ' But I suppose

(hort consultation with

uive no objection to our

ition, provided that it

garden wherever you

well my innocence to

our duty to watch me.

to one that stood in the

umpet-vinc, ' let us go
>

d to the arbor that for
1. My brother angrily
it had passed. I could
tive to Davis, and earn-

rhy, then, did you write

m surprise, for I had not
Hand, who had gone to
iveral weoks, and could

A LDEA XE.

331

n..f ronccivowhat possibh. connection my corrospon.lence
w nil him could have with my arrest.
1\'I''.'' '""' '".'••■"^•''••••'l '» your portfolio this mornin- •'
This momu.-!' I rcpe.-Ued, in astonishment. 'Th.Tc
was none there addressed to Holland !'

"Tt is false!' ho relurne.!, fiercely. 'It was discuv-
orod his n,on.u,g at th.. sa.ne time as the stolen money
1 ou know well its contents !'

" 'As I live, I knon- nothing of it!' I replied, much en-
rage<l at his taunting wonls an<l manner. 'What did
you come to me to-day for? Do you want the littlo
money I owe you y

l\lr' ^'' ''"^^■^■'•^■fJ. ' ''»t I suj.posc I shi.!l not get it "

ihat you will not. I havo not such a large sum i„

the house, and what I have I shall leave for my wife'.

"Many wonls of a similar nature passed. John s.^emcl
beside Inmself with anger. He would not for a moment
.edit my innocence, and we parted with feelin-rs of
hatred and distrust on both sides. He stro.le from the
arbor, and galloped away, an.l bi.lding fairwc-ll to my
lovely wne, I went to Loring, and was there subjected to
an examination, in which, as I suspecte.l, Davis and
Blake were the chief persons who appeared against me.
A lew friends became security for my appearance, and I
impatiently awa.;ed my trial, which was to take place in
a lew weeks. '

" Oh I my friend, how drearily that time passed ! The
pleasure that, even in my distress, I should have enjoyed in
my wife s society, was marred by the traces of can- and
surtenng that rested upon her lovely face, now fast -n-r.w-
mg pale and attenuated. My brother John and hirwiCe
came once to see us. I thought that a gleam of exulta-
tion lighted up her dark eyes as she looked upon my mis-
ery, but in a moment it was o.,„e, and when she spoke it
was ui the sweetest accents, .assuring nu; that, thou-h

332

.1 /./'AM .V/T.

apju-nriinf.'s wi>n« atruiiift m(',Hlu' iH-lk-vi-.l tl.at ii lioiril.l.-
pint hu<\ lui II lai.l ior my <U'Htrm'tion,an(l tliat I was ikt-
Itrtlv iimocciit.

".loliii walk.il impationtly up ""'' '^'^^" (InriiiK the
intfi-viow. Wf lia.l luitiicr of us ivcovcrcil fioin tlic
iinjrcr in Mliich wf lia.l parted, ami l>o spoke but oiu'o, ami
till II ti) mutter: —

"'l)nvi» is a man to be trust««l. IMakc's testimony,
also, is to be believed in every ]>artieular 1'

"I rej.lied, auiirily, that money would do anytbinji;
tbat as for Davis, lie" would swear his soul away to frial-
ify bis revenu'e, f(.r tbat 1 was eontident lie bated m<'.
' Vou well know tbat he loved my wife, and swore tn
ruin mo when I married her!' 1 eoncbided, earnestly.

" ' Love is a d'cadful tliinc; !' said -Mrs. Arendell, softly.
' Love is the di'mon that steals i>ur souls.'

"'Has it stolen youtHV' I asked, abruptly, raisin-,' my
eves to hers.
' " She turned slipbtly pale. ' Wliy, what a (piestion,
William! Of eoiirse it hasn't!' She arose to go, ami
said, as she bade me farewell : —

"'I shall eall on Aliee oOen ! I wish you would lei
her j;o liome with me now. I suppose sbe would be ver.\
unwillin-i to b-ave you; but I really think it would be
better for lier. This eonstant excitement is eiiouudi t"
kill her; sbe needs every attention at this time.'

" For a moment I was deceived by the suavity of lier
manner. 1 felt eboked with emotion at this mention of
my wife, with whom 1 hrtd rejoieed over tlie prospect of
the j.ossession of a tie which should bind us even more
closely totretber. I now shuddered that it might be tlie
ebild of a'oondemned felon, who would be the object of
pity instead of jn-ble, and who would grow up in detesta-
tioii of tlie name which it should revere and love. These
thoughts passed rapidly through my mind. AVhen I
lookt>ll up at mv brother's wife, a slight sneer curled her

liilk'Vi'il tlml II liorrildf
tioii, and tlial I was |Kr-

and flown diirinii the
us ri'cdvcrcd iVoni tlic
I lie spoke but onco, and

id. IMako'H testimony,

irticular 1'

y would do any thin;,';

r his s(nd away to frral-

contidont In- liati'd ine.

my wife, and swore t^

oncliidfd, earnestly.

lid .Mrs. Arendell, softly.

ur s(nds.'

ed, abruptly, raisinj^ my

Why, what a question,
She iirose to go, and

! I wish you would lei
ppose she would be ver\
really think it would be
'xcitement is enough tn
on at this time.'
^d by the suavity of lier
lotion at this mention of
;ed over tlie prospeet of
louM bind us oven more
red that it might be the
I would be the objeet of
•ould grow up in detesta-
l revere and love. These
gh my mind. Wlien I
a slight sneer curled her

A LI> i: A X /.\

833

beautiful lips, and her eyes wcro looking coldly into mine,
witli an expression that curdlid my very blo.id.

"'I thought you were alunit to speak, iti'inemlier I
am yowr friend! Shall I lak.- .Mice h.mie with me or
notV

"I sluuldered at the lliuiight of n»y pure and gentio
wife being in the )>ower of that wi>man, and said ipiick-

" 'No. No, I tliaidv you ! Siie is Letter where she is.
She would pine the iiiure were she away from (irassmere.'
"A slight frown darkened her brow, and she 1)it her
full, red lip. ' (Jdod-liye !' she saiil, extending her hand.
" I touched it coldly, my brother bowe<l,and they went,
leaving me to breathe with a feeling of freedom the air
which her presence seemed to have eontuminale.l. '

" I can not speak of all that followed. Fancy to your-
self the agony with which 1 heard myself condemned for
a crime against ,\ hich my very nature revolted. Davis
and Hlakc, John's overseer, were the chief witnesses
against me. Oh! the drea.lful i)erjury that was commit-
ted upon that fatal day ! I can not now tell you lialf they
said, but their testimony seeme(l to have no weak point ;
their evidence appeared perfectly plausible in every re-
spect. 1 liad been to a party on the night of the rob-
bery, and returned |)art way home with them. No om*
knew what time I reached (irassmere, and that fiicf, and
the gold found in my j)ossessi(jn, with the forged letter to
Holland, in which the writing was so exactly like my
own that my own friends swore that it was, and in which
I stated that, with cash in hand and the proceeds of my
estate I should have enough to live well in England,
whither I intended to go in order to bring up Junius as
a white child, was testimony enough to doom me as a
villain forever. It was well known that all my interests
were in the South, and that I should never leave it except
to conceal a crime, to defraud ray creditors, or to idwcate

334

ALDEANE.

Junius. Many bdievod me to be deeply involved, and
mv affairs wero in such a neprleoted condi'ion tliat in the
short time betwoen my inii)risonment and trial i* was im-
possible for me so to arrange them as to prove the con-
trary. Many were greatly puzzled about the matter, but
there was scarcely one that did not believe me giuUy.
Some strange inVatuation, they argued, some liidden
cause, had led me to commit the crime for which 1 was
about to suffer.

" Tlie unanimous verdict of the jury was ' Guilty.'
"As the word was pronounced, a wild sliriek rang
tnrough the court-house, and I saw my poor wife borne
fainting away. She had come there in spite of my
entreaties, ho'pi:.g to hear for me a full acquittal. I was
penteiiced to two^ years' imprisonment, and thirty lashes
at the public whipping-post !

"I was led into the prison, half bewildered by the
horrible thoughts that crowded my mind, and m^arly
crazed by the dreary prospect before me. I. was lett
alone, I— aii Arendell, within the walls of a prion ! The
night came on, and still I sat with my burning head
bowed in my hands, thinking, thinking, till my brain,
aroused from its torpor, seemed glowing like fire. At
midniglit I arose, and walked to tlie little casement,
resolved soon to escape, or jierish in the attempt.

" The moonlight streamed in through the barred win-
dow, filling the little room with a pale weird light that
calmed the raging tempest in my bosom. I grew calni
beneath its influence, and until the gray dawning of
morning reflected upon modes of escape. And at^ last
arrived at the only practicable one. The vigil of the
night brought to me hope, and such comfort, that when
the first sunbeam stole in to gladden the darkness that
surrounded me, I welcomed it, as the harbinger of liberty
and peace.

" Mv wife came earlv in the morning to see me. I was

deeply involved, and
I condi'ion tluit in the
Mit and trial i' was ini-
i as to prove the con-
l about the matter, but
lot believe me tiuilty.
argued, some liidden
crime for which 1 was

jury was ' Guilty.'
I, a wild shriek rang
,w my poor wife borne
there in spite of my
I full acquittal. I was
iient, and thirty lashes

ilf bewildered by the
my mind, and nearly
before me. I was lett
walls of a pri on ! The
vith my burning head
hinking, till my brain,
glowing like fire. At
o the little casement,
in the attempt,
irough the barred win-
a pale weird light that
y bosom. I grew calm
the gray dawning of
f escape. And at last
one. The vigil of the
uch comfort, that when
Iden the darkness that
the harbinger of liberty

rning to sec me. I was

^ Ln f:a ye.

385

greatly shocked at the change that had taken place in
hor. Her light hair hung like u frame of duskv -old
around her fair suffering face; lier violet eves looked
dreardy forth from beneath the blue-veined Hds Xot a
particle of color tinted her parched lips or clieeks, slio
looked indeed the personification of despair. Slie sank
with a bitter moan into my arms as she entered, lavin-
her throbbing head upon my bosom, while her heartbeat
violently upon my aching one.

" ' My husband ! my husband !' she moaned. ' Oh '
why can not we dieV She drew Junius toward her."
rest !'"** we could all lie down togetlier now and be at

sake'^^''''''' ^ ^*''^' '°*'^'""»'ly, 'live, darling, for my

" I drew her into the farthest corner of the room and
as soon as she became sufficiently calm, disclosed to her
my plans for escape. To her ardent imagination they
seemed certain of success, and with a joyful heart she
left me to prepare what I considered necessary. She came
again the next day, for there was no obstacle interposed
to prevent my seeing her at any time. No criminals had
ever been confined in Loring before for any great offense
or for any length of time, and as no one had escaped'
they supposed that the prison was secure, thoiurh i,i
fact It was far from being so. Any man with ordhiarv
strength of arm could break the slender bars across the
windows, and force a passage out. A small chisel th-it
my wife had brought facilitated my escape. The win-
dows were at a great height from the ground, and at
midniglit, having severed noiselessly the bars, I looked
down upon the quiet street with a shudder, for I knew
tliat I would endanger my life i„ the spring I was about
to make for freedom, but better death than imprisonment
and the infamy of the lash. I thrust myself throutrh the
narrow easement, and looked up with an earnest thoucrh

»86

ALDEANE.

voiceless prayci-. The bright autumn moon was high in
the l)hie Ilea veils, the iijilit lleeoy elou.ls hcvered around
lier, like puyes in attendance on tlieir <iiieen. I glanced
down the street. Tiie tall trees waved gently in the
iaint breeze, and save the rustling of their foliage, and
the shrill monotonous croaking of the frogs in a distant
pond, all was still. Notliing but dark shadows stretch-
ing their duskv lengths upon the white houses and sandy
walk, was stirring. All within the village were at rest.
T looked again, and breathed the cool frt'sh air, and with
it a strong^T desire for liberty. 1 sprang from the case-
ment to the street, and, though for an instant I felt
almost paralyzed by the fearful shock, discovered with
joy that I had sustained no injury. 1 looked eau-
tiouslv around me. The little town was buried in slum-
ber, not even a dog was stirring, and with a beatmg
heart 1 walked hurriedly away. Sonn^ two miles were
passed in an incredibly short space of time, and I entered
a dark i)ine-wood. The moon was in the decline, and
every thing within the shadowy grove was painfully
indistinct. I could see nothing of those that I exi)ected
would be there. I stood for a moment in trembling
expectation, and then with a thrill of joy I felt my hand
clasped by the lingers of little Junius, and a moment
after my wife was iiv my arms.
" ' Is all n ady V I asked.

'" All,' she replied, placing in my hands a well-filled
j.urse, and leading me a few steps farther into the forest,
whire my favorite Arrow, a very swift and valuabh^
steed, was tied to a tree. He neighed with delight at
seeing me, and I caressed the gentle creature, as the
instrument that would in reality give me freedom.

" I gave my last directions to my sweet young wife,
which were that she should dispose of the estate, settle
with my few creditors, and as soon afterward as she was
able to 'travel, to go to New York, where she would find

1(
ti
t(
fi
ii
o
tf
al
hi
T
m
w
ht
if
m
ki

oh
'I

an
Wm
pu
to
to
on,
an(
I V
elc
tec
fro
my
the
set

ALDEAN i:.

337

mn moon was high in
lovuls h(voiTtl around
c'ir (luccn. 1 glanced
wavod goiitly in the
ig of their foliage, and
' Uie frogs in a distuiit
dark shadows strctrli-
,hito liouses and sandy
le village were at rest.
;ool fresh air, and with

s})rang from the case-

for an instant I felt
slioek, discovered with
njury. 1 lot)ked oau-
,vn was Imried in slnm-
5, and with a beating

Some two miles were
e of time, and I entered
^as in the decline, and
,' grove was painfully
if those that I ex|)eeted

moment in trembling
11 of joy I felt my hand
Junius, and a moment

my hands a well-filled
( farther into the forest,
?ry swift and valuabk^
leighed with delight at
gentle creature, as the
give me freedom.
> my sweet young wife,
lose of the estate, settle
on afterward as she was
k, where she would find

letters .idvisin-_c Iier of my whereabuuts, and also direc-
tions for liie future. C, Samira and Junius wen- of course
to go witli her. I could witli ditticulty separate myself
from him. He entreated m(> most piteously to 'take
him -R'ith me. Oh, if I had but listened to the'plcadinffs
of my own heart and his plaintive prayers, and yielded
to them! but my wife begged me not to leave her all
alone, an.l jiutting him resolutely awav, I turned to bid
her a last farewell. I shall never forget that la.M look.
The jiale nujonbeams rested upon a face as white as
marble ; tlie blue eyes were dusky with uns!-ed tears, a
weiglit of agony seemed breaking her youu<x spirit, and
her white hands weve pressed tightly over her heart, as
if she fain would still Ibrever its wild beating. A low
moan j.assed her lips, as pressing her to mv^ bosom, 1
kissed lier again and again.

"'Oh, my (iod! tJiis is agony!' she murmured.
'"'Tis not fori'ver my wife! 'tis not tbrever!' I ox-
claimed, a dre.idf'd foreboding at my heart the while.
' My Alice, be brave. We shall soon n»eet again.'

" A hand of iron seemed pressing ujion my hoart. I
could say no more, but with one burning kiss upon lips
and brow, I placed her almost insensible on the sward,
then throwing myself into the saddle, rode madly away,'
pursued by a hundred maddening thoughts that seemed
to drive my mind to the very verge of insanitv, and oven
to have an influence over my steed, for he bore me madly
on, as if he knew that life or death depended on his etlbrts ;
and when the gray dawn stole over the gloom of nigiit'
I was far away safe from all pursuit. I reined in at^aJ
elegant mansion upon a fine plantation, wliere I was cour-
teously entertained, although my host could not refrain
from making some remarks of surprise and curiosity at
my wild and haggard appearance. I took no notice of
them, and after breakfast called for my horse, and again
sot fort.h. My friend, I need not tell you moro of that

3;]8

ALDEAX r:.

hnrriofl flifjlit ; suffice it to say, that my faithful Arrow-
fell dead on tlie eveninc; of the third da\. I at last
arrived iu New York, and most anxiously awaited tidiuL's
of those I had lel\ heliind. I'or myself I felt no fc'i s,
as I know I was it of danger of being retaken. 1 decided
at last to go to !. igland, where, by the aid of my friend,
Holland, 1 might obtain a situation, in which I might
airain make for myself an honorable name. I was unwill-
ing to leave without hearing one word from my wife,
and actually had some idea of returning secretly to North
Carolina, althoiigh I knew the ' terpriso would be at-
ten<led with great danger.

" One day I picked up a paper, and after reading the
news, casually glanced at the column of deaths ; what
was my horror to discover the name of my wife ! Witii
the most intense agony I read the paragraph. She had
died in less than a week after I left her — she and my
child ; and so with nauglit to recall me to my native land,
sa'-e the one hope of clearing my name of the foul blot
cast upon it, the one purpose to which I devote my life,
I go to seek strength for the contest, and years hence,
perhaps, when that villain may grow careless in his fan-
cied security, I may return to show him that my ven-
geance is grown strong in slumber."

Thus ended William Arendell's tale.

To this manuscript a few pages in Mr. Ashton's wri-
ting were added. Aldeane read with interest, just such
a record as she wotdd have expected of the writer, one
of unfaltering trust and kindly aid.

" Dearest Aldeane," it co.nmenccd, " I heard this tale
as I know you have read it ; I could not say mucii to
comfort him, save to assure him, that I would make liis
cause my own, and bring that villain to justice, if it were
possible. I think in my young days, I must have been
foolishly chivalrous, but however that may be, I loved
that persecuted man like a brother, and during the short

P
h
u
n

h(
th
w

h:i
nr

Rtl

his
lar
pai
his

e\|

his

ass

Mr.

gen
his
((

(1
oft

VOt(

niaii
pen*

it my faithful Arrow
\ir(l (lay. I at last
i>iisly awaited tidiiiL's
ysi'lf I felt no ftri s,
lor ntakon. 1 decided
tlie aid of my friend,
n, in which I niit^ht
name. I was unwill-
word from my wife,
in2 secretly to North
erprise would be at-

nd after reading the
inn of deaths ; what
Li of my wife ! With
paracrraph. She had
eft her — she and my
me to my native land,
name of the foul blot
lich I devote my life,
est, and years hence,
iw careless in his fan-
>w him that my ven-

in Mr. Aahton's wri-
ith interest, just such
ted of the writer, one

ed, " I heard this tale
ould not say mucii to
hat I would make his
in to justice, if it were
ys, I must have been
that may be, I loved
, and during the short

-4 IDE AX K.

.•t;39

time we were togetluT, „,ade myself acquainted with
. e y pe..,, hanty of his mind, or circumstance that coul.
DC riirncil to ailvantairc

''ThaM.is fri..,„l. (^,,,,,es Holland, might be in Liv.r-
I.00I, and bo ablo by !.is i„rt„ence in business ..irdes t .
place hun n, somk- position of trust, became as much mv

hope as h.s; an.l n-solving, .f his friend's assistance w I
nnob a., ,, ,, ,•„,.„ ^„,., ^^ ^^.^^^ ^^^ ^^^^^ -^

m-uid, I lookcl eagerly i;,rward to our arrival in Liver-

hoM^''''", T ""• '' '" '•'*'' "*>'' ^'^' ^^'^'"^'together to a
hotel, .nd to our joy found his frien.l, Charles Holland
therc^ \U Avas awaiting the .leparture of the vessel l,v'
which we had come, and whi.-h, by tempestuous w^^.the,-
had been so long at sea. that she did not reach the port
nntil after the appointed time for sailin.r '

" He was much surprised at sc'cing Mr. Arendell and
uf er hsten.ng to his tale, vented his indignation , Vu
strong language, that I was still more fullv persuaded of
US en ire nmocence. 0„ being left alo„e\vith Mr. IIol-
mnd I made nnnute inquiries concerning M,-. Arendell's
past hf^^., and founu that he had in his despair, ma-niified
his faults and forgotten hi. good qualities. Mr. n'^olLnd
expatiated warmly upon the generosity and nobleness of
his disposition, and entirely repudiated the idea of even
associating his name with crime

Mr' 'hoII "'"'Aff '"'; • ' ^^' '""'* '^° ^om.tV,r.^^ for him,
Mr Holland!' I exclaimed, warmly. 'This persecuted
gentleman must not be left to sink under the assaults of
h.s vile enemies He must live to triumph over them !'
3lr. Holland grasped my hand heartily
"'You are right!' he said. 'I had almvdv thou-^ht
of this but what IS to be done? Arendell has'nover'da-
voted l.nnself to business, you can see that by the careless
manner he has conducted his own affairs. You m-iv de
pon,l upon it, that child of his will never get one cLnt of

340

ALDEAXE,

his property, or freedom, while Lucnda Arenclell lne«.
Blind fool, to trust to his brother's integrity. Why, he
is lens than a ehild in her hands she rules hnn, hody an.l
houl. Now if Arendell luid any business talent-

" 'Perhaps he has, but it never has been called lorili.
Poor man, he has but that one ehild to think of now, and
perhaps if Arendell could be placed in a ^'t nation he
mi-ht at sometime be rescued from bon.hv.n.. Ihe luthei
now is certainly the greatest considerat urn.'

"•That is true,' he replied, ' and 1 know that I could
easily obtain a situation for him, if, as I said before, he
had any talent for business.' . . , t • . a

" ' It would come with the necessity tor it,' I mterposed,
impatiently. 'His integrity you say, is or was, before
thin unfortunate affair, undoubted.'

" ' Certainly ! I would trust him with untold millions

"''" ' He is well educated,' I rest ned, ' and as a man of hon-
or he would not neglect the business of another as he has
his own. On that point I believe you need liave no foirs

'"There is reason in what you say,' said Holland.
•One thing is certain, Arendell's property is at present
beyond his reach, and he must do something to support
himself. Do you think ho would object to going to

""'•''on the contrary, I think he would be glad to go, for
he told me that it mattered not to him in what part ot
the world he was cast. I think he would go anywhere,
where he could establish an honorable name, and be tree
from the persecutions of his enemies.'

'"Then I will write to a friend of mine who is m want
of a .confidential clerk to go to Calcutta, and if possible
secure the place for Arendell, if you will excuse me for a

few moments.' ,. , ^ j -^ ,i

» I took a cigar from the mantel-piece, lighted it, and

strolled out to take a walk through the Btreets of the city.

(
\
I
I

t(
tl

H
oi

ffe
he
nu

Sill

for

<)V(

hoi
All
not
pea
whi

■inda Ar<>n(leU lives,
intosrity. VVhy, lie

ruU's him, liody iui'l
siuosH talent — '
las been eallecl funli.

to think of now, and
L'd in a situation, lie
bondatie. The fat her
eration.'

1 know that 1 eould
r, as I said before, he

ty for it,' I interposed,
!ay, is or was , before

with untold millions

[, ' and as a man of hoii-
ss of another as he has
ou need have no fears.'
ni say,' said Holland,
property is at present
, something to support
Id object to going to

rould be glad to go, for
o him in what part of
ic would go anywhere,
rable name, and be free
ies.'

of mine who is in want
Jalcutta, and if possible
ou will excuse me for a

tel-piece, lighted it, and
h the streets of the city.

ALDEAN R.

841

I passed Mr. Arende!! at the door of the hotel, and asked
Jnm to jo.n „,e. He did so. I earefullv a oided a,n
a .su.n, o the position i„p,.o.peetibr him, but ai^^

hedged mo to obtam news of his child, and to watch the

movementsof Jonas Davis. W'»ui me

" ' I conjure you not to k.t him escape my vengeance "

I., la.kot suffering upon whic-h ho has laid mine • JK-

<l>ld.en, all! all! save my own honest nature upon
wl.-ch n.y on y hopes depend; that, thank God, he^i;

z ::,";;; '' / ''""' '^^- ^'«^^^-'' ^'-^^ >•- ^ ^^

AmeHc 1 /"'" '' ^'''^''' ^^^^'^'" >-» -^urn to

Amcnca, I beg of you m some way to aid me in the

to "hlrr"'"'^ f "', "'"'* '""'''^^^ *^ ^^« ^«t''' «"d talked

bun long and ehoeringly, endeavoring to throw over

the g loon, of his darkened life some ray of hope. I was

spirits than I ha.l ever seen him, and repeated a part of
our conversation to Mr. Holland, thus sliowin. that h
had made a favorable impression upon his mind."^

A f^w days afterward a lettc-r was received from the
gentleman to whom Mr. n./.Iand had written, sayinTtl at
he would take Mr. Arendell upon Mr. Holland's recom
rnendation, and offering a salary far bevond our moTt
sangume expectations. When he he.rd of the 3
ortune that had befallen him, he seemed perlSly
nercome by it, and in most aftecting terms tl.Lked Z

Abh ) T 1' f^"™"«« «* ^'^^ coiiHdence and esteem.
Al ho„^H I had done but little to serve him, he M-ould
"ot behove It, but with the most intense gratitude rt
peated again and again his sense of the obligations «nd^"
which he was placed.

342

ALDEAXR.

" Mr. Holland ami his wife houu left for iNmerioii. lie
•was a tint' young man, ami soonud likoly to enjoy an un-
cloiidod future. I parted with him with feelings of regret,
but not doubting but that I should soon see him again,
as he intended to interest himself in Arondell's ease at
the South, and to let me know all the results of his inves-
tigations.

" In a few weeks 1 had the satisfoetion of seeing INIr.
Arendell sail for Caleutta.

" ' Wateh over my poor boy, and aid me in bringing
my enemies to justice; and may (lod reward you for your
kindness to a broken-hearted man,' were his last words,
as he elasped my hand at jiarting.

" ' I will ! I will ! Good-bye !' I replied, as I sprang
upon the dock and stood there watching him with f-t range
interest, until the ship had moved fur up the stream, and
he had become invisible.

" Nearly six months passed before I returned to Amer-
ica. I had receivetl one letter from Arendell, stating that
he had safely arrived, was pleased with his situation, and
prepared for whatever might beiall him. He begged me
to remember the promise I had given him, and I set foot
upon my n .tivc shore fully intending to exert myself im-
mediately in his behalf. I wrote to Mr. Holland, but for
a long time received no answer. Then came one from his
w-ife, giving the news of his death. He had died a few
days before my letter arrived, and she was preparing to
ioin her friends in Florida. Poor lady ! she appeared in
great distress. I was greatly shocked at the sudden
death of this fine young man, and it interfered sadly with
the plans I had made. I could obtain no tidings of the
death of Arendell's wife or of the child, for my ailairs
required my presence at home, and I knew no one whom
I could send on such an errand.

" At this time came my own domestic troubles, my wife
died, leaving my little daughter to my sole care. She

I
I

d
d
m
N
in
dt
ac

in
pr
in

■W(

inc
pn
ap
fin
ere
bet
vil

Ian
enc
trai
the

left for i>merica. He
likely to enjoy an un-
vith feelings of roprct,
Hoon Bee liini again,
in Arondeirs fUSC! at
le results of his inves-

sfaction of seeing ^Ir.

tl aid me in bringing

I reward you for your

were his last words,

; replied, as I sprang
hing him with t-t range
fur up the stream, and

re I returned to Amer-
. Arendell, stating that
with his situation, and
1 him. He begged me
en him, and I set foot
nsr to exert myself im-

Mr. Holland, but for
'hen came one from his
1. He had died a i'cw

she was preparing to
lady ! she appeared in
locked at the sudden
it interfered sadly with
)tain no tidings of the
le cliild, for my affairs

1 I knew no one whom

lestic troubles, my wife
:o ray sole care. She

A IDE A .Vf-:.

343

was the „n..go of her mother, and to me a pri-vless
treasure. I bostowed on her all the love whi..). hi.her.o
ad been d.v.ded betwer, the.n. For some time evcTv
th.ng was forgotten iu tho aMxi,.tv I suffered uu !,;,•
aecom.f. A letter from Arendell at last aroused ,ne to a
remembrance of the pro.uis,. I ha.l made to hint, and
blaming myself greatly for the delay that ha.l taken .laee
I «et myself to work to ren.e.ly it. ]{y a l„,.ky acei.Ient
I discovered that John Foley, a tmsUvorthy man who
had been from boyhood a servant in my fathVr's fanil -
was go.ng to North Carolina, to look after some propertV
wh eh had been lefl him by a distant relation. I Lml
lately conceived the idea of gaining through him U e
<lesired information. I sent for him, and <.n hC, arrival a
my ofhce, told him that I would pay his expenses o
North Carolina and back, if he would bring Je all tl e

d 1 and his friends, enjoining upon him the necessity of
acting with secresy and dispatch.

in regaid to the manner of penetrating it. He readily
promised to do all I wished, and he apparently did so S
>n a few months I was ia possession of ma.fy facts iha
were of great importance. Poor Arcndell's wife was
indeed dead, and the eolonc.l held control over e
property, but the slave child and Davis had both Z
appeared not a trace of them could be discovered. The
firs doubtless had fled for freedom, the other from liis
creditors, who loudly lamented their credulity, wliich h^d
villain'" '"""^ '"'"-''^^ '^' '''■'' ^"^t'^insinuatiiig

" Upon Foley's return to Boston I received full particu-

ar^ from him, and here it seemed all my inquiric's m^

end. (Jt course it was useless for rv.-, ♦„ j

. „ usi-iihs lor me to endeavor to

race either of the fugitives, but I could not totally 'ive
the matter up, and blast Arenddl's hopes of j„st lee? f

A LDEAXE.

watclii'il (liligoiilly for tlic sliiihtost dew to the wlicro-
iilxmts of litlur ol' tlic iiiisHiiiu; oiu's. Mr. AroiiiU'll
Hrrmcd ill (U'siiiiir wlicii I (■oiniiiuiiicatcd to liiin tlio loss
of liis son. lie wrote cut rent iiij^ inc not to dcsisl from
my scaroli. INly |)ati'rniil fi'oliiiL;s wcro aroused, and 1 re-
iicwt'd it with fresh ener<j;y. Everywhere tliat I tliouj;lit
the ehiUl eould ]iossil»ly have strayed, I jdaeed peopU' on
tlie wateh for him, Imt with no avail. My seareh for
Davis was not more successful : for eight years I heard
nothing of him.

" t)nu winter day 1 lefl my liomo, and went to Kvans-
ville, to consult the well-known lawyer from whom the vil-
higo took its name. I remained there all night, intending
to go up to the house in the mornhig. A large party had
gathered in the bar-room, and as I was fond of observing
human nature, I took a seat by the glowing tire, instead
of retiring to my own cheerless apartment, ami was for
some time much amused by the manners and < onversa-
tion of the rustic crowd. A song had been demanded,
and they were wrangling about who shoidd sing it, when
a heavy knock sounded upon the door, followed immedi-
ately by the entrance of a small, spare man who strode
up to the tire without noticing any one.

"'It is Jonas ><evins. What can bring him hen^V
said one, in a low voici'.

" The name struck me as natural, but I could not for a
moment remember where I had heard it. Meanwhile I
regarded him attentively.. The spare, wii-y figure, the
sharp face, the thin sandy hair, and above all the piercing
cunning eyes, with their expression of dormant evil,
reminded me strongly of the description Arendell had
given of Jonas Nevins Davis, and I immediately came
to the conclusion that, in the man bifore me, I saw the
loug-tjought persecutor.

" When ho had warmed himself sutliciently, he turned
and looked, at the company.

it (lew to the wliiTC-
oiu's. Mr. Art'udcll
licatcd to liim tlio loss
inc not t<i desist iVoiii
voro aroused, and I ro-
• whore that I thoiiijht
ed, I j)laeed piuple on
wall. My search for
)r eight years I heard

0, and went to Kvans-
yer I'roni whom the \ 11-
■re all night, intending
ig. A large piirty had
was fonil of observing
L' glowing tire, instead
jiartnient, and was for
manners and i onversa-

liatl been demanded,
lo should sing it, when
loor, followed immedi-
spare man who strode

one.
can bring him hereV

1, but I could not for a
leard it. Meanwhile 1
spare, wiry figure, the

above all the ])icrcing
lion of dormant evil,
crijition .\rendoll had
I I immediately came
I before me, I saw the

sutlieientK', he turned

ALD£A Xff.

3t5

"•What can bring you out to-night, Mr. Xevins?'
asked one of the boldest. --^iMnsr

"'Husiness! business!' he replied, scowling. 'lam not
one to .'ome to such a place to drink and gossip. When

suppo^-l' ""' ' ''*' '' '"'" ""'"" ''"'■''°''' '■"" ''""^' ''"'*' r
" His questioner turned J.ack, (Somewhat abashed and
Davis aga.n turned to the lire, warming his han.ls before
It, by rubbmg iImmu softly and noiselesslv togc.ther, as if
hewc.re prepanng then, and smoothing" them for some
delicate operation that required the utmost ricety of
touch. Sueh you km.u w:,s his custom in the most ordi-
nary matters; a show of dexterity had in some way to be
given to all he did. A gloom seemed to have falh-n over
tlic hitherto merry company. Tlio silence was first
broken by the unwelcome intruder, who, turning su.ldenlv
around, said : — '^ J

'"I suppose you all know that my best farm-hand has
lett me f Can any of y(ui reconmiend another ••"

"'Why, there's Tom Stokes,' sai.l one, d.'.ubtfully.
Or Harry C arter,' adde.l another, in the same tone. *
'"1 want no such lazy clowns about me !' he exclaimed
impatiently. 'A good man I must have. I can not do'
without one !'

" My mind was made up in a moment. ' I think I could
recommend a man that would suit you, sir,' I said
politely. '

"lie regarded me for a moment with a searchinf' look,
and I suppose saw that I was a stranger and a gentleman'
' I should be much obliged to you, sir, if you could,' he
returned, respectfully.

" ' I should like to speak to you in private,' I said.

"'Certainly! Here, landlord, show us into another
room.'

"He did so, and we were soon alone.
"I recommended the servant I had in view, in the
16*

34rt

ALDEANE.

liij^lu-Mt terms. Ik' ofrin-tl jjooil wngoH, and I promised
to Hciid llic man down iit ii few dayn. I endeavored hy
many ii cleverly put (piestioii to tind out iVom wlieiice lie
eanio, but lio evaded all my inquiries with tlui most dex-
teronx replies. However I was well s.ilislied that lie was
none other than the man I Hou>.dit, and made no Hcruple
in sendinj,' Foley, who was by this time an aceomplished
detective, to his house, to serve me as I wishe<l, and be-
fore long, with lull instructions, ho was domesticated
thuro.

"A year j)assed, and nothing occurred, when one day
Foley came to my house, and asked to sot' me. Of course
he was immediately admitted.

" He told me that on the day before, when jjoing up to
the garret, he lu'ard an exclanuition of surprise from
Ulrs. Kevins, and looking cautiously in— for lie was
always upon the look-out for such surprises- -he saw her
smblenly raise from the floor a small box, which she
recognized, and which ap[)eared to fill her with tlie great-
est consternation and surprise. She wrested open the
lid, and eagerly perused the letters, which it is almost
needless to say, were afterward brought to me by the
faithful Foley. Or at least, all Bavc the one which you
will find indorsed with the name of Evans. I will explain
to you when we meet, why I did not at once endeavor
to procure this letter from Mrs. Nevins, and the letter
itself will explain how impossible it was for us to proceed
against Nevins without the important testimony it con-
tained.

" Of what occurred after these letters came into my
possession, and while we waited for the most important, I
need say nothing. You will conjecture that I was in con-
stant communication with Mr. ArendolU and that my in-
terest in Arthur and yourself, 8j)rang from the fact of
your near connection with his late wife, and his still exist-
ing enemy.

/7.

I wftgoH, aiul I proinincd
liiVH. I t'lidciivorcd by
tiiiil out iVuiii whoiii'i' lie
irifs with tli« most dex-
.tll K.ilislii'd that lie wan
il, and ma(h> no Hcriiph-
IN time an accompliNhtd
mv as I wished, and V»e-
s, lie was domestit'att'd

occniTfd, when one day
.'d to HOC me. Of course

leforc, when {Toing up to
lation of surprise from
tiously in — for he was
li surprises -he saw her
I small box, which she

fill her with the great-
She wrested open the

tcrs, which it is almost

broupht to me by the

'avc the one which you

of Evans. I will explain

1 not at once endeavor
Nevins, and the letter
it was for us to proceed
)rtant testimony it con-

3 letters came into my
ir the most important, I
>cture that I was in con-
rcndelU Jind that my in-
)rang from the fact of
wife, and his still exist-

AinKA^K.

847

"I have hear.1 yo„ call n,.., „,y child, the „,o.t artier,
:><'m..n, what will you say when ou kn ,w tha in a I mv

15ut I throw myself ujion your m.rcy. " *^"

"ClIAULKM AsiITOJf."

CHAPTER XXXIV.

IMl'OiriAXT COKUKSl'OXDKNTK.

Ai.DKAXE smilo.l as she read Mr. Asliton's appeal.
There Keemed sometliino; almost absurd in liis offering
any excuse for a dissembleuKMU vhieli had been caused
bv such worthy and totally disinterested motives. But
without pausing lon.i; to think of this she turned to the
package of letters, which she i)erccived were copies of the
oii^inals, and were neatly folded and numbered.

The first which she opened was quite short, and bore
no date.

" My DKAii X. : — 1 • 1 1 1

" You did well to leave here, as soon as your bird had
flown, for the excitement throughout the country has
been greater than ever. L. is nearly mad with rage
at the'escape. A. is seriously ill, as was of course to be
expected. I shall write you again in a i\'^Y days. Isn't
New York a dangerous place to stay in ? He is more
likely to be waiting there than any place else.

"P. S. A. A. died yesterday." " Yours, R. R

The second epistle was far more explicit, and was
addressed to

" Jonas Xkvixs, Esq. :— So you saw ArcndcU off for
Europe yesterday. You were wise to let him go, for y^>ii
have had your revenge, and L. is far more at ease with
the width" of the ocean between her and her luisband s
brother. I am surprised that you should wa^.te so

A Lj) r:Axi:.

840

XXXIV.

:sro.N'i)KN(;ii:,

.'ad Mr. Asliton's appeal.
)st absurd in his ofloring
It v;irK'li had hocn caused
sintcrestod motives. But
; of this she turned to the
erceivod wore copies of the
ed and numbered,
was quite short, and bore

?, as soon as your bird had
routihout the country has
is nearly mad with rage
ill, as was of course to be
gain in a few days. Isn't
?"to stay in? Ho is more
1 any place else,
tiy." "Yours, R. B.

ir more explicit, and was

) you saw Arendcll oft" for
! wise to let him go, for you
L. is far more at ease with
•cen her and her luisband's
hat vou should wa-ite so

much niaudliu sentimentality over a woman's death, es-
])ecially oiu' wliose licart you deliberately broke. There
was some excuse for my shedding a few tears, foi- 1
had no grudge either against her or Arendell, and after
all, L. has giv.ii nie but lialf tlie money we have fooled
out of her doting husband, whicii is liardly fair after all
the risk I ran.

" For even after you had got the money from the safe,
and given those iX'sv wrenches (o the lock and window,'
you know you woidd never have gotten it into Arendell's
house but (or lUi'. So yon'U see, Xevins, that I <lon't
consuler myself half paid, and the only way for you to
keep me In.m telling a tale that you woul.in't want to
hear, is for you to refrain from bothering I.ucinda for
money, as I want for myself all that s^ho can spare.
What I should a.' . i. - you to do would bo to go some-
where and get lost, for I've wit enough to know that I
can make myself safe at any time by tuniino- State's
evidence. Al'ter all, I simply put a sum of numey iu a
man's safe, while you, on the contrary, abstracted one from
the bank of which you were cashicir. And by the way, your
work was bungliugly done, for any expert would have
seen at once, that a crow-bar had nothing to do witli
forcing back th.at lock, though I must say you defaced
the door very perfectly, and I wonder how you did it so
quietly.

" By ( he way, you asked me something about Arendell's
child. No, it did not die, but on the contrary was one of
the finest little girls I ever saw. Lu wanted it, but a
sister of 3Irs. A.'s interfered, and giving up all the prop-
erty to the just [?] demands of the creditors, took oft"
the child in a state of most virtuous and heroic indigna-
tion, saying it should never even bear the name of its vile
father— so you may guess liow he is looked ujion iiere."

Aldeane paused and trembled violently— a sus])icion of
the truth at this moment dawned upon her. Could i; bi;

^^o.

•s:>o

A ..DEANE.

th-it she She would not trust liers<-lf to conjecture

more, but wildly read on :— .

"The queerest thinii of all is, that this sister has smee
disappeared iVoni her home. She has sol.l out every
thin- an.l gone North. Of course no one hut ourselves
are partieularlv interested in her whereabouts, but as a
friend, mv dear Nevins, I should advise you to look on
for Mrs. Guthrie, a widow with two children, the eldest
rc-ally her own sou, the second a girl which passes lor

her daughter." i i <• ii

The letter slipped from Aldea.ic's grasp, and she tell
to the Qoor unconscious. The surprise was too great lor
her to bear. How long this swoon continued she could
never tell, but some one rapped at the door and sum-
moned her to tea before she noticed that night had come,
and it flashed upon her that she was the child ot the
unfortunate William Arendell, and of Alice his wife,
whose tragical late, so often hinted at, had but then been
made fully known to her. And Mr. Asliton, and her
father, how long had her identity been known to them.
She turned eagerly to the back of the letter, and saw
inscribed thereon the name of Evans. It was the letter
her supposed mother had secreted ; and trembling with
emotion she concluded its perusal :—

"There is one point Lucinda is anxious upon, and
that is that you should take some other name. Dropping
the Davis is, in your case, not enough, for your other
names, Jonas Nevins, are too well known here not to be
recognized immediately by that woman if she has a par-
ticle of sense, which it is safe to suppose she has.

"I protest against any further demK ids for money.
YouknowLugave you a round three thousand tor simply
abstracting a few hundreds from that old safe and coun-
terfeiting Arendell's writing in that stupid letter to
Holland. That was really rich-j"st such a maudhn lot
of nonsense as he would be expected to write about that

[

d
t
a
I
t(
n

•list herself to conjecture

that tliis sister has since
She hiis sol.l out every
irse no oiii- Imt ourselves
cr whereabouts, but as a
\<\ atlvise you to look out
11 two children, the eldest
1 a tjirl which passes lor

cane's grasp, and she fell
surprise was too great lor
woou continued she could
ed at the door and svini-
ticed that night had come,
she was the child of the
I, and of Alice his wife,
iilcd at, had but then been
ind Mr. Ashton, and her
tity been known to them?
ck'of the letter, and saw
r Evans. It was the letter
rcted ; and trembling with

isal :—

mda is anxious upon, and
me other name. Dropping
ot enough, for your other
well known here not to be
at woman if she has a par-
to suppose she has.
rther demK ids for money,
d three thousand for simply
•om that old safe, and coun-
; in that stupid letter to
!li_just such a maudlin lot
xpected to write about that

■i

ALDEA^E. ggj

boy, whom, by the way, I. holds with a tight rein

now.

" Let mo know by what name to address you next.

" Yours over,

li. I

JI.AKIO

1 e name of the overseer in full, „„ attempt at disguise
hn lather a b azonmg forth of his own identity, and t S
of the man an.l woman who had conspired to ru n William
Arendcii~hcr father— her father

How she longed to fly to him,'and throwincr hor irms
around hmi promise him all a daughter's love"a d d uT
-she sobbed upon his bosom all ^ true-hearted::!^ ^^
P>tv. Then she thought with a faltering heart tint he
must have heard of her existen<-e coolly.^^^lsc he t„ H
have hurried to claim her as his child, L d clasp her o

moment. .\o, no, no ! he was waiting to justify himself

enrr T T'^ '' ^^'•' ^"* *« *''^ -•'•>•« workUi in o
ence before he would sufler her name to be mingled

n •. V 'T •'^" ^'"^^ ^'«« ff^''»"--»«, =>ll that was

noble and she firmly said she would await patie t yT"
own time, even while slic felt that to her he ^ZJZ
oy on earth would be to be clasped in her fath^ N em
brace to declare to him that she believed him in. ocen^
even ,f the whole world was against him '

>V hen she grew calmer she read the other letters not
one of |vliic 1 contained any reference to her as William

«pon DaMss obstinacy m still retaining the name of
levins, a great many humorous jests upon Afrs. Guthrie's
Illness in not i.cognizing him, an.l much admiration of
t e boldness of Davis ui making her his wife, and various
alusions to money matters, in which it was shown tlia
Lucinda Arendell to the day of her death had been form

eTnT^TV"'' '"■»"^""™^ '"• ^"^"^'-'^'^ coadjutor i
revenge. There was, also, some mention made of the

352

ALDHA ^E.

liicht of Junius, ll.ou-l. that was evi.lontlv .•onsulcre.l a
,.attc.r of socou-lavy inM-n-tan.-o Tlu. last 'Jt.v a one
particularly intoresto-l AMoano. Ii o.ntaino.l i" I ,.a.t -
l.,,,s of thV a.ath of .Mrs. Aron.l.ll, an.l ^va^H•.l Nc. ns
of the utter uselessness of a,.,.lyin,^ '^'^'';'T\m
further ren,ittances, or of threaten.n.^ Colonel Arendell,
who haa been prepared by his ^vife's eontess.on to deelare
his brother's innoeence, and challenge a secon. mvest.^a-
tion of the matter, which nii.u'ht prove troubleson.e to
Nevins, lunvever securely he nn^^ht fanc^y 1>.nnseU Inch en
'.'And now," concluded the letter, "we are excellent
friends, and as friends let tis part. It is iar safes tor
both of us that we now die to each other. Wo have
mutual interests in preservins this secret but can have
none for torniontins ourselves with the discussion of it
So far our littl. venture has paid us well, and here s no
occasion for us to encroach upon each other All you have
to do is to keep your wife as well blinded as she is noj
and I will take care to keep the conscience and guaid the
tonoue of John Areiidell. Tiiere can be no reason for your
answering this, so here we part. i, r »

" Wishing you success, I remain yours, n. y*-

But one paper now remained to be read, that was
indorsed with the name of Ev.ns, and as Aldeane opened
it she recognized the handwriting ot her whom she had
loved and mourned as a mother. It was the documen
which Arthur had so long believed in existence and had
so anxiously sought. It was a ful' confession ot he p ot
which ha.l been planned against William Arendell by Ins
brother's wite, Lucinda Arendell, and the cashier oi the
bank, Jonas Nevins Davis, and of its execution by them
assisted bv Uiohard l>lake. This confession was signed
by Jonas' Nevins Davis, alhu Jcnas isevms, and wit-
nessed by John Foley and Ann Conway.
Beneath this these words were written :

c
k
o
^\

fe
si
d(
h(

as
to
sli
A

A LD IJA X !■].

evidi'iitly considoretl a
Till' last letter alone
Ii oontaiiu'd lull imrtic-
ell, !ui«l wanu.l Nt'vins
yiivj; to tlic writer iVir
"niiiH Colonel Areiidell,
e's confession to ileclare
en<'e a seeijnd investiija-
t ]>ntvo tronVilesonie to
ht tUney l-iniself liidck-n.
L'tter, "we arc excellent
irt. It is iar safest for

each other. We have
his secret, V)ut can have
k-ith the discussion of it.

I us well, and there is no
ach other. All you have

II blinded as she is now,
conscieiu-e and guard the
can be no reason for your

un yours,

K. B."

(d to be read, that was
IS, and as Aldeane opened
iig of her whom she had
r." It was the document
ved in existence, and had
ful' confession of the \>\ot

William Arendell by his
11, and the cashii'r of the
of its execution by them,
his confession was signed

Jcnas Kevins, and wit-
Conway.
re written :

303

" I iiave siuriH'd the above confession, which I swear to
be true in every i)arti'adar, in earnest of the sincerity
with whi.'h I bind myself— in consideration of my wife's
elemency. in witldioldin;; from the public the secret she
has gained— to .ducate, at my sole cost, Arthur (iuthrie
the son of the late Arthur (Jutlirie.of , North Caro-
lina, and Ellen his wife, and also the cl.i!,l known as
theirs, but who is in truth Aldeane Arendell, tlie dau.diter

oj \\ illiam Arendell, of , North Carolina, and Alice

his wife.

"JoxAs Nevins Davis."

This then was the bond of wliicJi Mrs. Xovins had
faintly made mention upon lier <leath-bed. The bond
and confession which she had wrested from him in liis
mortal terror, and which liad more than once tiiereafter
placed her very life in jeopardJ^ It seemed to Aldeane
that nothing more complet.' tluui the evidence before her
could be necled. (^nc of the witnesses to this bond she
knew was alive, and these letters of Blake's were they not
overwhelming proofs of tlie cuilt of himself and Iiis
wretched confidant. She could not imagine whv Jlr
Ashton had said they should need her aidf What'could
she do, that had not already been .lorn? Vox- hours she
paced her room nearly wild with excitement and when tlie
darkness and stillness of night had settle.l upon the place
leeling choked and stifled witli the closeness .,f her rooni
she stole down into the gard. us, and wandered up and
down, thinking, thinking, thinking, till it seemed as if her
heart and brain would burst.

Ila.l Arthur known this long? Would he love her still
as his sister? llnd ]iluke escaped? These weiv the
totally dissimilar questions that pursued her, until at last
she resolve.1 to silence the last at least, n.d hurrvincr to
Aunt Ivoxy's cabui culh.,! her out ami buldlv asked if
aught had been heard of hiin.

n.-)!

ALDBANE.

'* Why laws, yes !" cried Aunt Hoxy, flarting back in
auiazcmcnt. Doy done " rested liini dis brossod mornin'.
Massa William's conic back, and Mass Kichard he robbed
<le bank, and dat oder fellah dat liated Mass William so.
An' bress ye, jest come in, Miss Aldeane, an' Samiry'U tell
ye all about it; an' do Lord kiioAvs I al'ays said Mass
William neber took dat money, an' 1 reckon thounh Mass
John swore he'd sell us all if we breaved a word to ye,
I guess olc lloxy'll toll you now !"

And so Aldeane, half laintinj^, was thrust into a chair to
hear once more the ttile of her father's shame, and her
mother's broken heart, and though more than once she
seemed Kwooning away, and found relief only in violent
weeping, she kept inviolate the secret of lier birth, and
left the cabin at length witli persuasions of her father's
innocence so infinitely strengthened that no power of
•^arth or heaven would for an instant have had power to
east a doubt upon it.

in
ct

Ai
wi
wi

de:

oqi
hai
tha
wil

the
her
M'hi
"I

((

are
the
Stan

Roxy, flarting hack in
liin dis brossod inorniu'.
Hass llichard ho roblu'd
liatod Mass William so.
Idoaiio, ail' Samiry'll tell
ows I al'ays said Mas?;
!»' 1 reckon thounh Mass

brcavc'd a word to ye,

k-as thrust into a chair to
father's shame, and her
2;h more than once she
id relief only in violent
iccret of lier birth, and
suasions of her ftither's
!ned that no power of
tant have had power to

CHAPTER XXXV.

Ar.nEAXK's .MISSION- AM) ITS KESCLts.

^^^Kn 31i. Ashton j^reeted her— " What aid c-in \ cV
in prov.ncr n,y father's innocence ' A,, no tl f f
conclusive ?" ' ^^ "'^'^^ ^*-'"c'-s

"><'o," said Mr. Ashton, gravel v "for HI..lw.'«
llnrsolf ,,„1 „i,„ r ,, «-ovoB«.,V pcscTMion of

whictSio"! ':L"°„'::]"°"t::, ',:r»" r'" """''""

" I ,Ki„k r ,„„,o„,a„d ;: at yo; wt ::',„t ° v"""'1'

P.50

.( nDEA KE.

Ashton, how I loiiij to hoc my father. Why will he not
iilliiw nic to hasten to him V"

And tiien Mr. Asliton tohl her of the wihl joy of Mr.
Arendell, when he found that his eiiild still lived, but
after his tirst passionate deliu'ht was passed, when he
found himself in the Siime country, in \.\w same State, he
felt that ho could not see her until he had cleared away
the reiiroaeii that rested upon him, until she could
embraei' him without a doid)t.

"1 could do that iU)W I" cried Aldeane, with tears.
" Indeed, indeeil, I could ! Oh. Mr. Ashton, 1 feel so lost.
My tlarliui; brother, mine iu> longer, my nowly-declared

father ^"

She paused, and then with a scream ran forward, and
was clasped in Arthur's arms.

" What, you cold-hearted yirl !" he exclaimed, embra-
cina; her warmly. "Have you already discarded me V"

r>ut she could only sob, and call him her dear brother,
her di'ar, dear brother, and when she tjrew calmer lie
told iier, what Mr. Xevins had said of her years before,
upon the day his mother was buried.

" And of course, althounii I suspected whose cliild
you were, I dared not mention it," interrupted 3Ir. Ash-
ton, wijiinGj his eyes and I'ouj^hinu; vehemently. " \'ou
see your mother had the only letter that referred to the
matter, and I d.ired not raise hopes that I couldn't con-
firm."

And then .Vrthur told her liow Charles Kvans had
found the long-lost docViments, and handed them to him
as !i wediling gift, and how eopii's of them had been for-
warded to ^Ir. .\rendell, at Calcutta, and how they had
U(jt reached him until weeks after they should have done
so, and how he (Arthur) had thought he never M'ould
come, and enable him to defy the enemy that was secretly
ruining him, and finally the consternation and surprise
of Nevins upon his arrest, and the necessity that existed

TE.

thor. Wliy will lie not

T of tlic wilil joy of Mr.
ills cliild still lived, but
it was iijissfil, when lio
try, in thu same State, he
itil lie had cleared away
m him, until she eould

ied Aldeane, with tearn.
.Mr. iVshtoii, 1 feel so lost,
iiiger, my newly-declared

scream ran forward, and

•1 !" he exclaimed, emhra-
iil ready discarded me?"
all him her dear brother,
hen she yrew calmer In-
said of her years before,
iiried.

[ suspected whose cliild
it," interrin»ted 3Ir. Ash-
\\\\\% vehemently. " Vou
etler that referred to the
opes that I couldn't con-

liow Charles Kvans hail
and handed them to hini
(ii's of them liad been for-
leutta, and how they had
er they should have done
thought lie never M'ould
le enemy that was secretly
)nsteniation and surprise
the necessity that existed

A L h K .{ X E.

357

for Blake's confession, in onler that the exposure of
certain family matters should be avoided.

And then very (juietly, without saximr a „.ord \V
deanewent up-stairs, and put on her bonnet and sliawl

•;"•' ''''"■" ^''<' '■•■=' -'^'V"!, Arthur without a word eo -

ducted lier to a carria-e which was waitin.^ at the .loor
and accompanied by Mr. Ashtun they proceeded rapidu'
toward Loriiii^. '

She spoke but once upon the way, and that was just
l)f are the carriage stopped before the prison ,h ' ^' I
am at hb.-rty, I suppose," she sai.l then, " to pron se
Blake that if he makes a free conf.ssion, no pm-ecli ..."
will be taken a.rai„st him; that Mr. .\evi.is alou. will bo
tried for this ortense ?"

"C"ertaii.iy,",,nsweredMr. Ashton an.l Arthur simul-
taneously; and drawing her veil doselv ov.-r I,,.,- face
A deane luHowcd them into the prison, mid n minutes
later ioun.l herself alone with Richard Blake.

Xeed I say how long and difticult h.-r t!isk i.roved
how determined he was, that if fh,.,-,. was a .Iis,.!osure of'
the real perp,.trators of the crime, there should bo dis-
elosures .also of all that pre.-eded ati.l followed that
onme. She remaine.l with him hours, alternatelv plead-
ing with and threatening him, and at last was tViumph-
ant. She did what all .Mr. Arendell's lawyers, what Mr
Arendell hi,nself had failed to do. she "wrested from
Kchard I> ake a full confession of the genuineness of the
letters, and the minutest p.articnlars of the plot which
had driven \V ilham Arendeil to a M-retched exile, ami his
young wife to an early grave.

A week later, the most famous trial for ,,erjurv that
had ever taken place in the State, came off. The" e^•idenc<^
w-as perfect, though he who knew more than any-Colonel
Arendell-was not once called upon the stand, and Wil-
liam Arendell went forth from the court-house cleared
of the stain which had rested upon him for more than

358

ALDEANE.

twenty yi'fir«. Ilichanl Bljiki' followod h'>n, howed down
with sliame, and JonsH N<'viiis DaviH roinainiMl in impo-
toiit fury ill the sclt-s;inii' jail to wliicli lie had oiiee ooii-
Bigiieil his iiiiKiccnt rival.

The exeitenieiit that ensued upon the eoneliiMiou ot'
the trial was almost fritrhtCiil. A thousand tricmlly
hands were thrust toward William Arendell, and as
many voices ealled his name, as, overpowered by emotion,
he sank upon a scat, ami whispered his brother's name
for Colonel iVrendell was there — there on his knees
before the brother he liadwrontjed — not, as he cried with
tears, at the first, not at the lirst, but in conccaliiii; his
innocence when his dying wife had declared it to him.

"My God, rise! Do you not see all these people";:'"
cried William Arendell, drawinpf back.

"I see them all !" replietl Colonel Arendell. " IJefore
them all, I ])ray yon to I'orgive me."

]Mr. Arendell looked anxiously into the tipturned face.
" My child I my child !" he said, brokenly. " Have you
been just to her."

" Ah, brother, I fear not just ! not just ! Yet, for years
she has been dear to me as my own daughter," was the
reply.

"Let old differences be forgotten, then, as they are
forgiven," said Mr. Arendell, and the hands of the two
brothers friet in the warm clasp of reconciliation.

" William Arendell ! William Arendell !" sounded on
all sides, and a hundred friendly hands were extended
toward him.

He was soon replying to the congratulations and
inquiries of numerous citizens, and it was long ere he
found himself outside the court-house door. A carriage
was standing there. Colonel vVrendell opened the door,
and invited his brother to enter.

He extended the invitation to Mr. Asliton, Arthtir, and
Mr. Evans; but those gentlemen, knowing that the brothers

III
a\
a I

wl
th

ha]

act

iie\

cut

lier

tioi

kno

win

shr;i

war

knei

hear

the 1

at Ik

fathf

then

faniil

to hi

speali

but f

passic

Xe,

at the

llowc'il li'm, bow«'(l down
)iivis roinaiiUMl in impo-
whicli lie hinl unco con-

upon tlio conclnsion of
A tlioiiwand tVicmlly
lliiiin Aron(l»'ll, and as
)vi'rpowt'rod by finotion,
'ihmI liis brotluM'"'* name
V — thcro on liis knees
kI — not, us lie <ried with
■it, but in concealiiiij: liin
ii<l deelared it to liiin.
t see ail these people ?"

V)ael<.

Linel Arendell. " IJefore
ne."
1 into the tipt timed faee,

brokenly. " Have you

not just ! Yet, for years
own daughter," was the

t>tten, then, as they are
il the hands of the two
)f reeoneiliation.
Arendell !" sounded on
y hands were extended

le congratulations and
and it was long ere ho
house door. A carriage
rendell opened the door,

Mr. Ashton, Arthur, and
LHOwing that the brothers

A LD E A y E.

3511

u,dd preh.r to be ah.ne, declined, promising.. howov..r to

r^ei:;;:. :"'"'• /^; ;'->•■"—•-->■,".. ■>•....;:

."'I uillM.g hands were drawing fl,.. eania-e onw.id
;^.lc^cnthusiastic hurrahs tbr William X^n^:^::ll

"'I'o (inissniere!" shouted a voi<-e

"Where is n.y ehih! r cried William Arendell.

»'■'"' » ^''- ■'"■■"•>^><-' I. ha ,,...„i;;„:„:X ';■;,:'

>.M,i,„i„,„ ti„. ,1,1, ,riii,,„„, ,„„. „„„„,, ,„• . r

ho ho,,,,., calling fo, hi, ,i,„,.,„„, »,„ ,,;„,rr,w "

.,. ho, ,l„„, .„, „.„„, ,,„„„,, „„, ^.^,, ^.,^^^^^ .^..op

At first, she could neither see nor hoar nnv fJ.;,, , j

then .10 ..d.,,, . ,,,,k-bean,ed li.ce,\S w s tS^"^
anuhar, bending over her, and a string n.an c la i' Jh .^

passion of tears, and dung to him convnlsivelv

^ced we say how the next hour was passed 'and how
at the end of that time her father led her \o the r"ms h.-

300

ALU i: .\ yR.

low, iii.a thcv mrivva t....'Hlu>r tlu n.u'ratulalion. .,1

tiK'ir aH.i.ml.K.l iVun-N. ^Ii^. Aniul.U .•..uM, m.U'.-l, >'.•»>■
1,„, litilr, for si... MTimd .lu/AMl l.y xUv nvcliiMons -1 il,r
,,nM l.our; an.l nvIumi Al.loaiu- ^mtw ralm.r, hIu- saw tliul.
1,11 tlH. ntluT facot. woro whit.',as ifwitli sm.u.- suiiprrss.-.!
,,„.,, i.m; ami sii-M.^nly thr trutl. burst upnu h.T ami si,.-
,.rU.,l, "S..in.'tl.in.i,'l''>'^ hai.iM-iu-l to that miHiTal.lo man.
What is it? Oh, tt-ll me what V"

Her fath.r irri'W .Ira-Uv I'alo, as ho fcl...o.l the .,m-sti.jn,
■iM.l Vrtlu.r, h.-ilatin-lv, iv,.li.Ml: "1 meant not to have
told you, Al.l.'ams it will he a shock to y..ur n.-utl.-

Imai-t." ....

" IK> lias kilU'd himseU"," bhe imirmiirc.l laiiitly.

" Yt's "

"Mvtlo.l'" cried Mr. Aroiidell, "is it i)ossil.lL- llu-y
havo lurn so caroloss, that they left him for a niomi'nt
alone ? How did ho offoot tho dood V"

Arlhnr drow Mr. Ann.loU asi.lo, that Al.leano n.P.'ht
not hoar the shoeki...4 l-arlicnlars, an.l thon i.n.-lly velato.
then. The i.risonor, with a small penknito, which ho had
nvuia.rod to oonooul ahont his i.erson, had ont tho voms
of his"wrists, and ha.l hlo.l to death in a fow ininulcs-
was porfootlv di-ad when disoovorod. ^

An.l 80 tlie doop-dvod villain was pone-j;onc m this
horrible manner, without l.'.po, without ropontaueo to
moot an avenging (iod. William Arondoll shuddorod as
he listened. It Avas horriblo, horriblo, an.l throw deo])
..loom upon his joy, and AMoane, tho one he had wrongo.l
as doeply, as he ha.l ov^n WiUiiun Arondoll, wept wildly
over his dreadful late, and long refused to bo oomk.rted
But oalmor thou.^hts oamo with tho evening, the blossod
evoning whioh sho Spoilt at her father's side, in the midst
of the reunited family.

tl
1

a I

si
lo:
W
gl
111;
\vi

llil

in(
wi
all
ov
nu
nil.
..tl

/••.

■ ilic conu'raluWil.oii'* <il'

iciidcll cilllil, ill(U'«'il, >'!IV'
1)V till' n'Vt'l:iti<)ii>< 1(1' I 111'
ri'w I'liliiK r, slu' H!i\v lliat

, it'witll Siillic f<ll|ll»n ■^st•^l
li l)ui-st (ipnii hiT, ruul hIih
I to thiit miHi-nilili- iniiii.

IS ho cclioi'il the (jiu'^lioii,
I : "1 meant not to have
a shock to your gentle

nurnmrctl iMintly.

U'U, "i>* it ])ossil)h' llicy
y h'ft iiiiii for a iiioiiu'iit^
ito.l V"

isiih', that Ahlcam- i)ii;^'lit
i-s, and tlH'M l)rii'lly iflati'il
III! penknitls which he Iiad
jicrHon, liad cnt tlic veins
[oath in a lew minutes —
crcd.

was gone — gone in this
[>, without repentance, to
am Arendell shudilored as

horrible, and threw deep
le, the one he had wronged
am Arendell, wept wildly
t refused to be comforted.
Uh the evening, the blessed
r father's side, in the midst

CHAI'TKIt WXVI.

A TAUI>V i:.\l'I,.\NAlloV.

Bi T, with a hr:irt lil|,.,| wiH, ,.,,„llieting emotions, and
lier l.ram pcrpi-'x...! in vain endeavors to realiz.' fully
1"'|- •;.•«• j...siii,.n, Aldeane could not feel perfecllvat
• ■ase III any .society, especially that of her newly-found
lather; but not until a late hour was she siitlbred to leave
1 lieiii. When she arosi- to ,vliiv, Mr. Kvans placed in her

liaiids a small package, saying:

'• -Miss Areii.lell, here is the last message of vour more
tlian mother to her adopted .langiiter. I can not sav tliat
1 am sorry that it has for so long remained iiidden In my
custody, as it would doubtless have filled your heart with
anguish to have read of your father's dreaVy exile, while,
since he has returned to you, you can contemi.late'it with
less sorrow, and with none of the dire foreboding's and
wild conjectures that would then have tortured yoi^ (Jod
grant," he .added, in a lower lone, "that all your days

maybe happy as this— but mine "lie looked at her

wistfully a moment, then tiinie.l siuTowfuUy awav.

With her gentle eyes sufnised with tears Aldeano left
him, and ascended to her own apartment. The bright
moonlight was streaming through the litriuly curtained
windows, flooding it Avnth acalm pearly ligiit,that touched
all things as if with the hand of enchantment, throwing
over all a magic beauty. The solemn whip-ijoor-wifl
nionotonously repeated its mournful cry, and the river's
nigiit-loving myriads croaked shrilly, answering each
'>ther from bank to bank. She went to the window and

862

ALDEANE.

for atiiui' contompliitiMl the r:iro scene cf beauty bcforo
}u'i-. The iiioDii hii'.l risen hiyh in tlie lieavens far above
the surrouiiilinL' forests of tall pines, U'aving tlieni darkly
detined against the eiear exi)anse of sl^y. A fairy kind
of sioi)ina; fiehls and groves and wliite-wallcd cottages
sei'ined bonnded l)y the dark impenetrable frame-work.
A delicious reverie was binding its silken chains around
her, but, remembering her mother's unread e])istle, she
turned with a sigh from the enchanting scene before her,
and lighting her lamp, broke the seal and saw traced in her
mother's well-known characters the name " Aldeane Guth-
rie Arendell."

Tears filled her eyes nt thcsiglit of the familiar writing,
and blurred the sheet slie had opened. She read it all.
The story of her father's exile, her mother's death, and
of the ill-fated marriage of her adoi)ted parent with Jo-
nas Xevins, whom, too late, she discovered to be the vile
and treacherous Davis, who had ruined Arendell and
broken tlie heart of his wife. The letter closed with an
earnest appeal to Aldeane, to return to Colonel Arendell,
and, if possible, to obtain from him at least a part of lier
tinjustly-kept property.

She could but reflect how signally Providence had led
her on, placing her in the path that she might have sought
through life in vain. With a deep sense of her own
Aveakness, she made her orisons to God, and lay down
not to sleep, but to wander in the labyrinthian land of
reverie till morning, theij she fell asleep, and the sun was
shining brightly when she awoke. The voices of the
gentlemen upon the piazza, was the first sound that
greeted her, as, hastily arising, she made her simple toilet.
She stood before the glass, smoothing back her dark, lus-
trous hair, when the door was softly opened, and Jessie's
bright face peeped in.

"Dear Miss Aldeane!" she exclaimed, coming in at
her invitation, " I am so glad you are up !"

scene cf beauty bcforo
tlic hcavem, lar above
's, leavinn them darklv
• of sky. A fairy land
wliite-walled eottages
[H'nel rable IVame-work.
s silken chains around
.t's unread e])is(le, she
vntinff scene before lier,
■al and saw traced in her
e name " Aldeane Guth-

of tlie familiar writinii;,
pencd. She read it all.
ler mother's death, and
doj)ted pai'cnt with Jo-
liscovered to be the vile
d ruined ArendcU and
e letter closed with an
lu-n to Colonel Arendell,
im at least a part of her

illy Providence had led
it she might have sought
deep sense of her own
to God, and lay down
he labyrinthian land of
. asleep, and the sun was
ke. The voices of the
18 the first sound that
e made her simple toilet,
hing l>ack her dark, lus-
iftly opened, and Jessie's

■xclaimed, coming in at
u are up !"

A LDEAXf'].

.'?«.]

Aldejine sat down, drawing the beautiful child nearer
to her, .Jessie hud a fragrant store of blossoms in her l^ip
t lien i.,r a moment regarding her, donbtfuUv said :— '

'• .Miss Aldeane, ina told me that you are my cousin. Is
It t rue .^ 3Ia never does tell stories, but it is so stran-o '-
It is perfectly true, my dear Jessie !" replied Aldeane
emiiracing her. '

"I nevcT even knew I had an Crncle William until last
night ; and are you his daughter for sure ?" she returned,
still slightly incredulous.

Aldeane laughe.l. "Are you then really so nnwiilin-r
to own me as a relative, Jessie ?" ' '^

"Oil ! <lear Miss Aldeane, you know I'm n-.t, I love vou
l^etter than any one else in the world !" cried the chUd
impulsively. '

"Ah !" she continued, sighing as she glanced at their
jnourmng garments, "how delighted sister Leonore would
Jiave ocen !

"She is happier in. heaven, dear Jessie, than she c'ould
ever have been on earth !" replied Aldeane, her eyes fill-
mg with tears. ■' '

"Here is some swamp dogwood," said Jessie "I
brought to you, Miss Aldeane, because she used to love it
so well, she used to say that the fairies had taken acorn-
cups and colored them crimson and filled them with corals
b.r ornaments lor the water-spirits, and that we ought
noc to rob them by stringing them like beads to wear on
om; neeks. I planted a rose-bush on her grave, that I
split 1 the very one that this came from," she went
on sadly, sing ing out a white rose-bud from the Howers
that lay in Al.lcane's lap, "and it is arrowing finely. I
pnt a crimson one on Mr. Raymond's '.rrave and that is
growing, too. I hope that they will get so lar-^e that
t.iey will mingle together, for you know the>/ loved each
oilier so."

She spoke with childlike oaniestness, gazing pensively

;5fi4

.1 L 1) i:a :< !■:.

Tijioii tiu' tldwcrs. "3Ia told me to ask y(U," slu' said jit
loniith, " to love me and her as you have always done,
and not to hate ])oor ]>aj)a, but to love him tor all our
saUes, chiefly that of his dead daughter. What did she
mean, ]\Iiss Allie. She made me repeat tlie words over
ever so many times? What has ]>aj)a done? Please
love him anyway; he is always so very sorrowful now."

Even hatl she wished to, Aldeanc co\dd not have re-
sisted the innocent ])lea(ler.

"Sweet little Jessie, I love you all!" she exclaimed.
" Tell mamma, she need not fear that I shall hate your
pajia. I love him very nmeh !''

" I bless you for thi> words !" said Mrs. ^Vrendil!, en-
tering the room. " Pardon me, my love, for using so little
ceremony V

Aldeanc ol)served that her face was pale, and bore
traces of tears.

"Dear aunt," she said, kissing lier affectionately, and
leading her to a chair, "did you think I could ever for-
get you ? Indeed, the return of my father has but
strcnffthened mv love for vou ! nothintr can ever lessen
it!"

" But, my dear, it is so shameful ! so very shameful !"
nuirmurcd JMrs. Arendell, burying her face, like a griev-
ing child, in Aldcane's dress, and bursting into tears.

Jessic^ooked on wonderingly ; Aldeanc motioned her
from the room, and ai)plied herself to the task of com-
])osing the agitatetl lady. .

" Dear aunt, I do not blame Uncle John so very much,"
she said. " I believe he was blindly influenced by evil
counselors. You know we are to have an interview to
talk it all over, after breakfast. Xo do\ibt we shall dis-
cover that he is innocent of at least a part laid to his
charge. I am confident he would not M'illingly defraud
his brother's child."

" But ho has withheld your property for so long, and

hi
a<
tf:

tic
th
tic

thi
A)

I-:.

() ask yiai," sIr' su'kI at
,'ou have always dom-,
3 lovo liim tbr all our
iglitor. Wiiat did she
repeat thi' words o\ rr
s ]>aj)a done? Please
o very sorrowful now."
■ane could not have re-

u all !" she exclaimed,
that I shall hate your

said Mrs. Arendi'll, eu-
f love, for using so little

ce was pale, and bore

her affectionately, and
think I could ever for-
)f my father has but
othing can ever lessen

111 ! so very shameful !"
J her face, like a gricv-
bursting into tears.
Aldeane motioned her
lelf to the task of com-

'le John so very much,"
iidly influenced by evil
o have an interview to
Xo doul)t we shall dis-
least a part laid to his
[ not M'illingly defrauil

aperty for so long, and

ALDEANE.

305

1- P vou as agoverness in his (a.niiy, when he has known,
'■ ^'i smce you have been with us, that vou were his niece

recognized you immediately; he t,.ld me so last
n.ght. \et, although he earnestly desirnl to .ive vou
your pn.pert:^, ^e had not sufih-ient moral ..oura-^: to
Hufler momentary in..onvenience hin.self, bv wi.h.lrawin-

t from Ins speculations, many of which, no doubt have
-n.ed out to be worthless. D.ar chih , I h,,d J^t .e
la.n...t ulea that you wer.. connected with tljL^L '
you shouM not have been so wronged." ^ '

"Let us say no more about it now," returned Aldeane
"l"-obably we both misunderstand the matter "ShJ
^vas exeeedmgly surprised at the discoverv that Colonel
A endell luul recogni.e.l, and failed to owt. her as hi

read ;. '." i" T'-' ^'"' '''"• '^••™'^^'" '"'^'''t ""t
ea he thoughts that fiiLd her heart, and which were

legibly stamjH.d upon lier expressive face

The breakfast bell rang; .Mrs. Arendell rose hastily

saying, entreatingly, " D.a,- Ald..ane, think and speak it'
nn kindly. TI. would not have act'ed so if I h W,

Ins wife m those days of sorrow and temptation."

1 l<"ow ,t; I know it!" replied Aldeane, " there '
'nuTv away now! Aunt Koxy, I c-xpec.f, is already n"
^ony, lest her first installment of waffles ^il, .ool be^.!

tluT reach the ips of 'Mass'r William and his friends."'

Ihey descended to the dining-room together. Coh lel

ArendeH was nervous and clistralt, AVilliam Arendell

ousm Aldeane" good morning, with every demonstra-
on of satisf^xetion, and informed lier that he was ..oinl
hat day w.th rude Adam to fetch Frank home to p rt
ticipate in the general l•eioicin<^ ^

Soon after breakfast, Mr. Ashton, Mr. Evans and Ar-
thur went to Lo ring, and Mr. Arendell, the colonel, and
Aldeane to the library. '

She seated herself at the window and the two o.,,,tlo-

366

ALDEANE.

men iicfir the ocntcr-table. Silciu-k^ for some time pro-
vailed. Aldoiuic toyed with the tassels of the window-
curtain, Colonel Areiidell biisie'l hitnselt' in arran<^iiitr
nmneroiis papers, wliose rattle alone broke the stillness,
and Mr. ^Vrendell looked on, ])atiently waitin<» for his
brother to open the conversation. Tie seemed little in-
clined to do so, but after the papers were arran<!jed to his
satisfaction, conunenccd pilin<:f up the books that were
scattered around. Aldeane Avatched his nervous move-
ments for some time with quiet amusement ; her father,
slie observed, did tlie same, but at last lie ren'tirkcd : —

"John, we came here to talk our business affairs over.
If you have quite finished arrangini; those books, we w'U
begin, if you please."

"Certainly," replied th( colonel, sitting down, "I was
only waiting for you to bcgii; "

" And I for you !" returned Mr. Arendell, laughing ;
"but now to business."

The gentlemen wore soon deeply engaged in an anima-
ted discussion ; carried on, liowever, in si low a tone that
Aldeane heard but little of it. Half liidden in the dra-
pery of the windovv, shi,' was following the train of her
own thouglits, and ere long became perfectly oblivious
of the presence of her litther and inicle. She was sud-
denly aroused by an exclamation from the latter.

" William, I must explain this matter to Aldeane !
loubtless she also thinks me a villain. I can not suffer
that impression to remain, for I was deluded and forced
into all my errors. Lucinda and Blake played a bold
game, only too successfully !"

Aldeane emerged from the tvindow recess, approached
the table, and said : " ll;icle John, please tell me all
about it. I am anxious to hear all the explanations you
have to ofter. I am sure thei-e were some extenuating
circumstan(res."

Colonel Arendell looked at lier gratefidly. Her father

h
h
h

n
o

f(
ii
h

P
h.

h(
cl

n(
m

m
bt
ix
ev
I)
AV
mi
sp
wi
m(

c for some time pro-
isscls of the window-
liiinst'lf ill arraiigiiiif
10 broke the stillness,
ently waitiiiij for his
Tie seeinetl little iii-
were arranjijed to his
the books that were
mI his nervous move-
msement ; her father,
ast he ren'arked : —
business atfair? over.
'j; those Ijooks, we w'U

sittina; down, " I was

, Arendell, laughing ;

engaged in an aniina-
, in si low a tone that
ilf hidden in the dra-
wing the train of her
le perfectly oblivious
luicle. She was sud-
om the latter,
matter to Aldeane !
aiii. I can not suiier
i deluded and forced
Blake played a bold

)W recess, approached
1, please tell me all
the explanations you
're some extenuating

•atefuUv. Her father

A LDEANE.

3G7

handed her a diair; then resuming his seat, motioned to
his brother to proceed; and, altera moment's reflection,
he began : —

'' Ahleane, to you I addri'ss 7nyself, seeking to clear
your mind from the suspicions which I know are rest inn-
there concerning me. Vou have already lu'ard, that be-
fore your father's marriage he l)ecame .leeply iiide1)ted to
me. This was chiefly accomplished through the influence
of my wife, T.uciuda. Whenever William applied to me
for money, she would advise me to lend it, and, indeed,
insist ujum my doing so, but always on the condition that
he gave me good security. Thus, in time, nearly his whole
plantation became mortgaged to me. After lie married
he became more frugal, and no more ajiplied to me for
loans. Every one except T.iicinda loved his young wife.
She also pretended to William and the ])ubfic that she
did so, but in private I have heard her inveigh against
her in the bitteri'st terms. She called Alice'weak and
childish, and reiterated again and again her displeasure
that William liad thrown liimself away upon such a mere
nonentity. I never could discover the reason of her ani-
mosity, which daily seemed to increase, until yhe hated,
with all the strength of her nature, the inofiensive and'
lovely young wife.

" The day before William was arrested, she reminded
me of his indebtedness to rae. It had never troubled mc
before, for I never looked into my own aflairs, except to
examine the ])ooks about once a year. JJiake managed
every thing; paid out money, and received payments.
I had never heard him speak of receiving any funds from
William, and when my wife called the matter to .ny
mind, and also that he had lately made large sums by
speculation, I felt nmch annoyed, and acceded to my
wife's desire that I would go to Grassmere the following
morning and demand payment.

"Accordingly, at an early hour I ordercvl my horse to

868

ALDEANE.

ride away. T saw Hluko staiidini^ near tlio cotton-gin as
I ])assc(l. I sloj)|)C(l to sjuak to Iiini.

" ' \\\\\ WW j^oiiiL; to (irassnuTc, I siijiposcV' \w said.

" I dill not tliinli lliis a strange (lucstion, nor stop to
wonder liow he should y-iu ss so accin'atcly, when I wont
to other ])la('es a dozen liiiiis ol'teiier than there unce.
Of course, 1 had started too early, and he wan stationed
thereto detain me; but quite inisusj)ecthig his motives,
I answered, ' Yes.'

" Jle looked at his Avatcli. 'It is still early,' ho said.
' I should bo very much obliged if you would come in
and look at the cotton that was packed by that new ma-
chine last fall. Yon have not soon it. I shoulu like your
opinion as to whether we shall employ the same process
this year.'

" I was surprised at this request, for he seldom consulted
me on any matter. Nearly all tlie cotton had been sent
away, and I thought if lie wished to liear my opinion he
should have asked for H before. However I said nothing
of that, but re])lied : 'Some other time I Avill look to it,
I am in a hurry now.'

" lie looked disaj)pointed. ' As like as not I shall not
be able to see you again until all the cotton is sent otf,'
he answered.

" I was, in reality, in no great liaste, so I dismounted
and entered the gin. Blake detained me on various ])re-
texts for over an hour. As I was about to mount my
Iiorse, I said :

"'I suppose that William has not made you any pay-
ments on those debts, IllakeV

" He did not answer immediately, and T repeated my
question, turning to look at him. lie was very j)ale, and
seemed struggling for l)reath.

"'What is the matter V I exclaimed. ' You were at
Croydon's last night, and staid too late I suspect. Dissi-
pation does not agree with you !'

S
^

m
w
].

til
o\
w

near the cotton-gin as

ni.

[ sii|i|iosc' V 1k' suid.

(jiK'stion, nor stop to
L'unitoly, wlicn I wont
•niT tliiin tlu'io once.

and lie wan stationed
isj)oeting his motives,

is still early,' he said,
f you would eonie in
eked by that new iiia-
it. I slioulu like your
ploy the same process

or he seldom consulted
cotton liad been sent
to liear my opinion he
owever I said nothing
time I will look to it,

like as not I shall not
he cotton is sent otV,'

aste, so I dismounted

.'d me on various ])re-

about to mount my

)t made you any pay-

{, and T repeated my
le was very Jjale, and

imed. ' You were at
late I suspect. Dissi-

A IDEA N H.

3(5!)

"yriiat is true,' he replied. And I rode oil" without
awaiting an answer to my <iu(sii()ii.

"On my arrival at (hassnierc I found every thing in
the greatest eonlii>i()u. ^^■illiam under arrest, his'wifb
msensibl,., and the servants half-cra/ed with Iriirht.

"During my ride thither, I hail been ponderh.g on the
matter, and could not but think it stranue that William
liad not hastened to discharge his liabilities the nu)nient
he was ir, a position to do so. My wile's subtle warnings
and insinu.'Mions still rang in my" ears, and by the tiiiu"l
reached Grassmere my annoyance had deepene.l into a
passion which became frenzy when I discovered the state
ot allairs which existed there.

"I need not speak of what followed. You know it all.
SulKce it to say, that during the interview that I had with
Wilham, mutual recriminations took the place of sober
nupury, and I failed to discovi'r that he had paid the
greater part of what I fancied he was indebted to inc. I
left him in anger, never for a moment supposing but that
he was guilty of the crime of which he was accusal, for
nideed ajipearances -were entirely against him.

" You know how he was tried aiurfound guiltj'. Many,
many times my anger was dying away in pity for him'
when It would l)e revived by some new insinuation from
Lucmda or Richard I Make.

" The ilay had arrived when the first part of the sentence
was to be performed. I stayed at home, almost believing
that I heard the sound of the lash that was to brand my
own brother forever with infamv, and with a stain that
would taint the entire family. HJakc had gone to Loring.
]\ry wife seemed in a most amiable mood', and spoke (^f
urging Alice to make her home Avith us, althouirh
William had decidedly opposed it. I was surprised, and
asked her what had induced her to change iier oi,,.iioii
concerning ^Vlice.
. "She replied : ' ITer condition demands our sympathy,

370

ALDEAXE.

and her coiuluct tluriiig the trial Hhows her o be worthy
of it.'

" Just as she eompleted this answer, BUilie ruslieil
breathh'ssly into the room, exclaiming : —

" 'He has escaj)ed ! lie has escajx'd !'

" I was delighted. As i)ale as ileatii my wife rose from
lier seat.

"'Escaped! did you say?' she demanded hoarsely.
' Where is the sheriff? Wity are they not ,.ursuing him ?
My (rod ! do they intend that he shall go froe ?'

'"They arc preparing to follow him now, unswered
Blake, while I regarded iier with the most intensi aston-
ishment. I had supposed that she would rejoice with me
over his escape, I now saw her beside herself with
disaiipointed revenge and hate. I reproved her, angrily.

" She replied in tlie most bitter terms, declaring that she;
cared nothing for me ; that she had nnvrried me merely for
convenience; that she had loved William until he rejected
all her overtures. Then her affection turned to hatred,
which burned more tiovcely th.an her love had ever done.
That she had sworn to be avenged, and had for y(>ars
been plotting his ruin.

" I was astounded, and demanded whether she had had
any thing to do with the robbery for which he was con-
demned.

" ])lake laid his hand on her arm, and said, soothingly :
' Pray compose yourself, Lucinda.'

" His words seemed to recall her to her senses, and to
the importance of the question I had propounded, and
she answered steadily : —

" ' No, I knew nothing of it until he was arrested.'

"I believed her Avords. I co.dd not think my wife,
whom I liad blindly loved, to be so utterly depraved as
she really was, but from that moment I lost all affection
for her. I blushed for my name when I reflected that s\h>.
bore it, m )re deeply than I did whoa I believed that.

)W8 her ' be worthy

iiswrr, IMake rushfil

"■-? :—

il!'

ith my wife rose from

tleniuiuied hoarsely,
cy not (•ursuiiijj; him ?
lall go iroe V

him now, unswered
le most inteiisi uston-
s'oiilil rejoiee witli me

beside herself witl»
reproved her, angrily,
ins, doelaring that she
narried mo, merely for
lliam until he rejeeted
ion turned to hatred,
r love had ever done,
d, and had for years

whether she had had
for which he was eon-

and said, soothingly :

to her senses, and to
lad propounded, and

he was arrested.'
1 not think my wife,
) utterly depraved as
ent I lost all aifection
en I reflected that she
vlien I believed that.

A LD HA X !■:.

?>n

William ha.l disgraced it. Without aiK.tlur wonl I left
lier, still foaming witli rage, an. I went to Loring. Tlu iv
I found the sheritf and c()nstal)les eiideavoriiigTo form a
company to go in search of the fiigilivc. They coiil.l u<.t
hut few volunteers, as \Villiani had always been a liivorrte.
I called the sheritf aside, uiid found him not siiflicicntly
iirm, to resist my solicitations and a handsome hril.e to
let him escape. II(. k^d a Hvv,- men into the ncighborin-'
woods, but they returned at night without the prisoiu'i"
and the search was never renewed.

"I belic-ve every one e.\cei)t Lucinda rejoiced at his
escape. A few days afterward, Al.i.ane, V(>u were born,
and a iW hours lateryour motherdied. Mrs. (Juthrie was
there, and dcjared her intention of adopting the littk!
orphan. To this Lucin.la decidedly ..bjected, biPt I lavorcd
the j.lau, as I knew William's ciiild' would receiv.^ hut
indifferent if not positively cruel usage if it fell into her
hands. I was constituted adminstrator of the property,
and when I had paid the i'i^yf,- outstanding debts, n.."<l
those which I su;.posed were due to myself, there was but
a very small portion r-Miiaining to the cliild. This
1 proposed should be given to Mrs. Guthrie's care* for the
use of the infant, but she replied indignantly that the child
of Alice Deane should never touch one cent of the money
or even bear the name of Arendell. She repeatedly
declared that Alice had told her that William liad paid
nearly all his debts. Blake swore to the contrary, and as
no receipts could be produced, I of course believed liini.
Mrs. Guthrie took the child and departed in anger, leav-
ing her little property with me. I portioned ort' what I
supposed belonged to her, hoping that she would at.
some time return and claim it.

" No unity of feeling after those events ever existed
between my wile and me. I well knew that she had
n-jver even respected me, while captivated by her beauty
I had adored her. I feared that ere long I should liato

8T2

A LDHANE.

her. Tliis tVrliii!; was iiuTi'ascd by licr tiratmont of
Junius. I :vt ()tu> tiiiH' wmt him to (Miissincrf, but slu!
l);\.l him hroULcht hjick the ui-xt diiy. I luul niudc uj. luy
minil (o lii-iivc in r aiiijur, and si'ud hiiu North, wln'U to
my joy ho rau away, I I'oul.l not |.ri'vcnt iiis \w\\v^

advortiw.l, for I'.lalvc and r.ucimla wiutf to U on jiur-

poHc tn .lo it, l)ut I couhl and di.l prcvi-ut any Heareh
l)ein<4 made ibr him.

"A li'W months after tlie eseape of Junius, Leonore
Avas born. 1 so nuuli feared tliat the eliild would
resemble her mother that 1 eould searcely look upon her,
but when L<uinda died leavintif the innoc»-nt little crea-
ture entirely to my eare, I found her all my fondest
desires eouid paint. I took her to my heart, and she
beeame imbed, a i)art of my life, that life tiiat went
from me when 1 saw her laid in her early grave !"

Colonel Arendell paused for a moment, overcome by
emotion. Aldeaiu''s tears fell fast, and luT father thoujj;ht
of his slave-l)orn child wliose revent,'e had beiii so ter-
riV>le: eominjr as it did, even alter his own death,
drawin;4 its victim down to the grave at his siile.

Colonel Arendell strove again to speak, but memories
of Leonore tilled his heart, and prevented utterance.
After waiting a \'v\\ moments, ]Mr. Arendell took his
brother's hand and said : —

"John, I sincerely pity you. I remember my own
agony, when I lost my good name, my wife, children, and
wealth, and can well conceive what your feelhigs must
have been when your daughter died. This subject is
very painftd to you. Let us speak no more of it. Try
now to tell me how you discovered the plot, in which
you had been unconsciously made a prominent actor."

It was some time betbre Colonel Arendell regained his
self-control, but he said at last : —

"I must again go back to the period of Lucinda's
death, an event of whic-h I caii iiev(!r speak without a

a
h
b
ti
h

hi
h(

tl
v<
n(

01,

til
sh
sh
mi

de
se(
mc

Avi

thi

hei

Ity luT treatment of
() (JriissniiTi', Imt she
r. 1 liiul luaile up my
(1 liim Nortli, when tt)
lot prevent his beintj

rtcnf toll on jiur-

tl prevent any seareli

)e oi" Junius, Leoiiun-
liat the ehihl wouhl
earcely look upon her,
le innoci'ut little erea-
(1 her all my fondest
to my lieart, and she
e, that life tiiat went
r early grave !"
moment, overcome by
and lu'r father thoui^ht
ent;e had ln'iii so ter-
after his own death,
iive at his siile.

speak, hut memories
prevented utterance.

Ir. Arendell took his

I remember my own
, my wife, eliildren, and
lat your feeliniis must
died. This subject is
ik no more of it. Try
'red the plot, in which

a prominent actor."

1 jVrendell regained his

e period of Lucinda's
never speak without a

/( L Dh'AXJi.

37;{

shudder. I-V.rsome fim.' she had been in ill Juiiltii, and in
the early ]>:\vt ..f the winlcr she touk a violent cold, whieli
settled upon hi'r luiejjs, i.ioduciii.jf hctnorrhaije of a most
.■il.irinihu' <'liaracter. It was nrresled, init it was plain
that it miu;ht return anain and produce instant death.
No one dared to tell hw of it, and for weeks she liuijered
on, deludini,' herself by false hopes of recovery. (Jnidu-
ally, but surely, tlie knowlediro ,,f her dani/er enlen-d
her mind. She endeavored to st<'el lu-r heart ai,'ainst it,
but in spite of lier inchunital.le will she felt that it was
true, and acknowledged to herself that her <lealh was at
hand.

"Mad she not learned it gradually, the shock might
liave killed her. As it was it threw her into the most
horrililc jiaroxysrns of despair.

'"I will not; can not die!' she would evclaim, and
then for hours remain in gloomy silence, then in a shrill
voice, almost a shriek, she W(Uild repeat, ' I can not, will
not die!'

" IJut she could not wresth' with her desliny. She was
<lying. In the awfulness of despair she felt* it. In my
feebleiu'ss I tried to point her to (iod, but a belief in
one, which had never dwelt in her heart, could not at
that late moment bo planted there. Still unbelieving
she went down into the darkness of that tomb, which
Hhe fancied woulil hide her forever from life or judg-
ment.

"The night before she died I was alone with her, en-
deavoring to throw some light upon her dark soul, for to
see her die without any belief in (iod, or heaven, was to
rac the most intolerable agony.

" ' There is a day of judgnuMit,' I said at last, ' when,
with all that have ever lived, we shall stand before the
throne of God to hear our doom !'

" ' I do not ; T will not believe it !' she cried, covering
her eyes with her wasted hands, as if to s!mt out S(jnie

n7t

A LDEA SK.

liorrihlo sp.'ota.'lc ' SluiU I sir Will'wim tlii-rc, crying for
vi'iiiii'iiucc ? iind Alii-i' ill licr sliroinl to npltniiil iiu'V
No! no! wIm'U our Ii.hIu'h art" laid in tlif <j;ravc, tlioy
will (Tumhlc to Ami ! No hiiirit will t-vir reiiniiiiaU'

tlu-in!'

" \Ur words coiitiriucd my jtrcvioiis susjticions. ' ^ on
liad, thfii, Hoincthiii!: to do with William's ruin V I crii'd,
' Voii wroii.t,'i'<l him foully.' 1 tooK liold of lu-r arm iu
mv I'lirnt'Htnt'SH. 'IVll mi" what you havf doiu — you ar*-
a dyitis woman— tell mi' bofort- you dio, liow far you
isinnVd, ami how far lit was jiuiliy!'

"For cvoii thru I had no -at a but that William had
oonimitti'd tho i-rimo, and supi^isi'd that somo doop plot
liad hoiMi lai<l to ti'inpt him to do it.

"'What do you nu'an V slu' iniiuirud, lookinji; iit mo
with the savaiji' tjlari' of a tiger at bay. ' Do you bidiovo
that I ruined himV

"'Yes, I do.' I replied firmly. 'You will soon bo
out of the naeh of human laws and human jnd^'ment.
Till me, I entreat, I eominund you, all that you know of
this hunible atVair.'

"She looked at me fiereely a moment, then sank back
tipon the pillows, ami remained with her eyes closed as
if striving with thoughts of the most bitter deserip-
tion. At'^last she asked me to lift her higher npon the
pillows, and to give her a little wine. I did so, and she
told me all. Yes, to my horror and mortifieation, not
only that William was pv'rfectly innoeent of the erime,
of whieh he was believed guilty, l)Ut also that he had
paid into Blake's hands nearly the whole of what he ha.l
been indebted to me, and that the property of whieh I
]ia<l taken j.ossession as my right, in reality belonged to
my brother's child, who hatl been thus defrauded of her
fortune. Davis and she had concocted the plot, and
lilake, who well knew every nook and corner of Grass-
mere, had been hired to ])lace the money in a secret

iHiiiin tlii'vc, cryiiifj for
niiiil to ii|iltriiUl lilt"?
id in tin- liiiivi', tlioy
, will fvir reaniiiiiitt)

loiis susi>icions. ' You

illijinrs ruin V I crii'il,

)K hold of h«T arm in

>u hiivt' doni' — yon iirr

you dii', liow far you

Itnl that William had

d that some doop plot

it.

Kpiired, lookinji; -it mo

bay. ' Do you bi'liove

r. ' You will soon bo
and human jnd^'mcnt.
I, all that you know of

omont, then sank back
itli her eyes closed as
e most bitter dcacrip-
ft her hijjher u})on the
ine. I did so, and she
and mortifii'ation, not
innoeent of the erinu',
, l)ut also that he had
c whole of what he had
he property of whieh I
, in reality belonged to
I thus defrauded of her
)ncoctetl the plot, and
k and corner of Grass-
the money in a secret

^<>J«>..

IMAGE EVALUATION
TEST TARGET (MT-3)

1.0

I.I

1.25

■-IM
1^ IIIIIU

!: m

— 6'

1|M

2.2

1.8

_L4 III 1.6

Photographic

Sciences

Corporation

23 WEST MAIN STREET

WEBSTER, N.Y. 14580

(716) 872-4503

&?•

i/i

CIHM/ICMH

Microfiche

Series.

CIHM/ICMH
Collection de
microfiches.

Canadian Institute for Historical Microreproductions / Institut canadien de microreproductions historiques

1
(

s
b

A LD BAN'S.

876

place, and to keep silence concerning the payments that
had hoen made to him.

'•She cave me all, except Avliat she had given to lllake,
of the sums which Willinin liad from time to time paid in]
but during tlie whole interview she expressed not om'
woi-d of repentance. Ilcr approaching death seemed to
iill her mind with terror, miaccompanied by any other
feeling, and as she went down to the grave, her hist
words, breathed out with a despairing shriek, were :—

" ' It is all dark ! There is darkness here forever !' "

Aldeane's face was blanched with horror. Colont-I
Arendell seemed overpowered by those painful recollec-
tions. He arose and walked slowly up and down tlie
room, but returning at lf\8t to his seat near the tabic,
continued : —

" I have said much that is here unnecessary. I have
not spoken of this subject before ibr years, and it is hard
to deny myself utterance now, but I will pass on to the
question you asked me some time since. ' IIow I recog-
nized Aldeane.' For some time after my wife's death,
my one engrossing thought was to find William's chihl
and to restore her property. I wrote immediately to Mrs.
(Tuthrie, but after waiting „ome weeks, and receiving no
res])onse, I determined to endeavor to obtain an inter-
view. I accordingly went to County, and to my

sorrow and surprise, learned that she had gone to the
North, had married there, and for a long time had not
been heard from. I could only hear tha't she had oo,,,,
Avith the intention of settling in the State of Xew York,
and that it was probable she liad avoided all intercoursJ
with hcT family, in order that she might bring up her
adopted child so entirely separated from her friends, tliat
not even the slightest liint which might lead lier to' sup-
pose she was not her own daughter, might reach her.
"This r took to bo a reasonable view of the case, r

376

ALDEANE.

oau.cfl llic missinc oiios to bo a,lvortisc.1 t),ron<xhont tho
X..rtl., l.ut without anv irsi.lt ; an.l at last I (Utennincd
to ^o myself in search of them. I went, but not a tra.'o
<.f n.em eoul.l 1 fui.l. Happily, however, I beeau.e ae-
,,uaiut»Ml with my vresent wife, aud when I returned, she
Avas with me to i>;ladden my home.

"After some years, we needed a troverness for our eliil-
dren One was'advertised for, and Aldeane came, some-
thin.^ in her voice and fa(!0 seemed natural to me, but I
had not at first the slightest idea that she was my bro-
ther's child. I discovered it on our return from church
the first Sundav she was with us. :SIy first imi.uls(> was
to own her as my nice and restore her property .mme-
diatelv but a moment's consideration deterred me. 1
had b'een speeulatinic lar-ely; much of the property was
invested in su-ar plantations in Louisiana, and I con d
not withdraw it without seriously embarras^m.-i myseit.
I discovered that sho was perfectly ignorant ot her true
position in life; I determined, unless in the event ot my
death, not to make h.er acquainted with it for a tew years
at least I annied, that as I should take care ot her, an.l
satisfy everv-" Avant, the withholding of her property tor
a time, would do her no harm, and be of the oreatest,
beneiit to me; besi.les, my wife knew nothing ot what
had taken place, and I was anxious that she should not
imtil I could make restoration without injury or meon-
venience to myself, and consequently to her."
AVilliam Ar'endeirs bro\V darkened.
"Th.'i-e is vour error," he said. " It darkens all your
previous actii.ns. The fact that you did not immediately
own my daimhter when vou recognized lier, would lead
one to supi)ose that your motives in the past were not al-
together pure !" ,. 1 T

Colonel Areiidell quailed beneath the implied distrust.

" Oh, father, uncle is excusable," crit'd Aldeane. "He

could not have given up my property immediately witii-

si
fe

vcrtiscd t)iron'j;liout tho
11(1 at liist I (Uti-rnnned

I went, but not a trace

liowcviT, I bccainc ac-
11(1 when I ri'tui-iR'd, she
e.

a trovonu'ss for our chil-
11(1 AhU'aue came, st)ino-
u'd natural to nu', but I
I that she M'as my bro-

our return from cliurch
. My lirst ini|iulse was
tore her property ininie-
oratlon deterred me. 1
ueh of tlie jn-oiierty was

Louisiana, and I could
dy embarrassiiijr myself.
;tly ijiiiorant of her true
iless in the event of my
'd with it for a few years
Id take care of her, and
Aiiisc of her jiroperty for
, and be of the j-reatest
3 knew nothing of -what
ons that she should not
without injury or incon-
ently to her."
cencd.
1. " It darkens all your

you did not immediately
■ognized her, would lead
>s in the past were not al-

iMth the imjilied distrust.
If," crit'd Aldeane. "lie
operty immediately with-

ALD i:a XE.

377

out dis..l„sin,^ oN.-ry thi,,u^ his wife's perfidy and all, to
the eyes ot the world, and that, I am sure,'w.nd(l liave
been a terrible (rial '"

"He was wroii^.," replied Mr. Areiidell, deei(U.(llv, "lie
might al least have reeognized you as his niece, and pri-
vately and gra.hially restored vour proper! v. But to
keep yuu m liis h(.„se as a hireling, when half' tlie moiiey
be used w..,s yom-s, was a mo-t shameful ..roceedin.^'
^ueh con.b.et can not be e.vphiined awav l" He spoL"
warn, y, bringing his hand heavilv down 'upon the table
\ deane felt that his words we're true, yet, witli all his
faults she h,ved her unel(>, and wished above all tbi.K^s
^iut her father might lH,.e(mH. perfectly reconciled to him.
She remained silent, not wishing by word or deed to
AVKfen the breach betwe.'ii theni.

Colonel Arendell spoke first". "I know this matter
<-an n<,t I)e explained away," he said, humbly. " Tlin,,,,-!,
nil my hfe have l.-u-ked force of character, or moral
coupage. r did not know Aldeane then, as I do now, or
1 beheve I should l,ave summoned n.s.dution enon-h to
W (.1(1 her all; aflerward many things deterred me
Irom (lonio- so."

William Arendell did not an -• but looked an-rlly
and gloomily at his brother. "^

Akleane said, seothingly : "Let ns say no more about
It. I have been treated as a relative if never aeknowl-
edgM as such. I never ielt myself to be a hireling in
tills lioiise I" -^

_ "Perhaps not," replied Ikt faflic.-, "but rou was con-
Mdered such by strangers. John, how would vou liave
ielt It your daughter had suffered such liumiliati'on -"
_ Do n,>t speak of my daughf. •,» pleaded the colonel
in a trembhn^g voice. " God knows her humiliation was
greater, and I have suffered enouo-h for her'"

"That is true," replied Mr. Anmdell, compassionate! v,
and I will not forget that my son was the cause of ^t

- '>^

;>(■

ALDEANE.

\^-x< a part of your sorrow. Tl.is .nattor shall be mon-
timu'd no n.or; between us. If AMcano l)oars no ani-
mosity 1 an. sure I haye no wish to do so." ^^

" Indeed I hear none," said Aldeane, earnestly. -d >
dearest wish is to see you insej.aral.le friends, sueh a>
^ brothers should always he. I pit^y my unele, and ean

not harbor ill feelin<j:s toward him."

The colonel regarded her fjratefuUy. Siie U;aned j^.r-
ward, and sealed her forgiveness with a kiss. l>e
friends," she said, "linn friends, that in heart at least,
ran never acjain be separated !"

WiUiatn Arendell extended his hand across the ta )le ;
it was eau-ht eagerly by the colonel, and Aldeane beheld
with joy the true reconciliation of the long-estranged
brothers.

t
u
b
1)

c;
A

st
fr
te

to
be
nil
m(

at
ba

is matter shall be mon-
• Alilcami l)oais no aiii-
to do so."

Idiano, earnestly. " ^>Iy
'l)aral)lo friends, surli as
pity my uncle, and can
in."'

tefuUy. !^l»e leaned for-
R'HS with a kiss. " He
<, that in lieart at least,

lis hand across the talile ;
lonel, and Aldeane beheld
n of the long-estranged

CHAPTER XXXVII.

FATIIEK .NNT) DAfciriTER AT HOME.

An-i. thus, as u peacemaker, the life of Al.leane Aren-
dell began, and lier sojourn at Arendeli House e„de,l for
on the lollowmg morning, accompanied by his brotl'ier's
tannly, Arthur, Mr. Ashton, and C"',ar!es Evans, William
Aremle 1 went to (Jrassmere, the h.mie from whieli ],e
liad «ed more than twenty years ])efore •

Ot- his thoughts, as they passed oyer the well-remem-
•ered road what can be said ? Ah, nothino- ! nothin- '
though each heart ean fancy the.n. Shanr., grief, an.l U-{.
"-npli, all were there. Shame for a lif. ^yhicIl had not
bee,. ,vi,hout Its stains; shame of the calunmy whi.-h h.ad
bhghtedhnn; grief for <hat fair young c.-eature that
ca umny had laid in an early graye, and triumph oyer that
calumny refuted- ;hat shame east back upon its author
And th(^-e wa. pity too, pity ibr the suicide, and deepe;
^tdl for liim who had g,.,.e forth from the court-house a

terrdde than a felon's heaviest chaiiis.

He satin the carriage, silent and motionless, seemin-v
see nothmg but his daughter, who rode on horseback^
beside the carnage, and from whom he could not for a
moment remove his gaze. Frank, who ha.l been su>n-
moned from school, and who had greeted Aldeane as his
cousin with an outburst of joy, rode beside her, lookin-v
at her curiously from time to time, as if she had in.lescrf- '
bably change,; "nee he saw her last, as sh. un loubtediy

380

^ IDEA .Vff.

had ill sonic piiiiits, wliicli wniiM iint li!i\ ( Ikmi likely to
claim till' iittiiiticii (.riicr yi>uii;j,- adiuinr.

Alili'aiu' had iml birii tiiioii tliis road since she liad
nccoiiiliaiiied (.Jcorgc I'ayniond and i.eonoir to (Jvass-
niere. She thoUL^ht how L'iiyly they had sjied over it with
no thouiiht ol'tionhle or sorrow.

KranU, too, w:.s thinking of it, for he mde dose to
Aldeane's side, and said in a low voice. —

" I know of what and of whom you are thinking. How
little we thoaglit that the uierrijst of tiie part y would
botli, ill little more than a year, he lying together in I.or-
inu- u'l-avevard ! And how little any o'i us thought that
botii were so nearly related to you!"

"(Jreat changes have indeed taken place since then,"
she aiiswcri'd, musingly, "in all save (Jrassmere! That
remains the same as ever. Kven the old trun-iiet-vine
arhor si'eins in tlu' same state of tlecay ; no nearer its final
dissolution than liel'ore."

They wt re api/roaehing Grassniere, and slu' liad ridden
up quite close to the carriage. Her father heard lu'r last
word.;;, and leaning ouv of the carriage, gazed earnestly
U'lon the place where he was horn, wliere he had lived
for years, from which he had heeii driven forth in dis-
grace, and to which his lioirt had ever turned with deep-
est yearning during the dreary .lays of his exile.

"What 1" he said, "then the old i-.rbor is standing yet ?
Yes, and the lattice over which Alice trained clematis
and roses still is there, but she is gone !"

He was overconu' by painful recollections, and leaning
back in the carriage, said no mure until they stopped at
liie gate.

Tiie negroes, with Aunt Samira and Uncle Jack at
their head, were arawn up in gala array to receive them.
Tt reminded Aldeane strongly of the iirst time she went
there. Dut little then did they know that they were wel-
coming back the daughter of tluir rightful master to her

I iiiit liav( licv ii likely lo
adininr.

tills loiui since slie hud

ami I.eoiiore to (irass-

ley Ii;nl sjied over it with

it, for he mile eloso to
i' \ oiee . —

1 ymi are thiiikinL;. Huw
rit'st lit" tlie i)arty would
be lyiii.U to^etlier in l.or-
' any of lis thoniiht that
■oil 1

i taken plaee sinee tlien,"
[ save (Jrassinere! That
en the old tnin.iiet-vine
decay ; no nearer its llnal

;nh're, and she liad ridden
Her father heard her last
carriage, gazed earnestly
l>orn, where he had lived
heeii driven forth in dis-
ul ever turned with deep-
days of his exile,
uld .•vrbor is standhig yet ?
I'll Alice trained clematis
is gone 1''

recollections, and leaning
lure until they stopped at

imira and Uncle Jack at
;ala array to receive them,
of the tirst time she went
■ know that they were wel-
luir riiihtful master to her

■ I !.]> i:a X /■•

381

birthplace; but thry knew it now, and a sh,.ut rent the
■•"r as Mr. Arendell descended (rom the ..arna-e and
trembling with emotion, ie.l Aldeane into the mid'st of
the servants to receive with him their noisv welcm..

'• 15r.ss ,h. Lor.I! .MassV William, I jes' "knowed vouM
com., ba.'k!" said Aunt Samira, fervent iv, " but 'twas loo
late lor de p..or boy, mass',-! too late (or de j,o..r bov •"
••ni.l bnrstmg into tears, she threw iitr apron over her
head, and rushed into tlie kitchen.

Mr. Arvndeli seemed much discoiu-e-ted. " Voii do
not utterly despise me," he (,uer;..d of Aldeane, iu a l<,w
voice, 'Mvheii I tell you that 1 can not even now think of
that child withou: the deepest emotion';"'

"Oh, no," said AhU'ane. " 1 loved him as a brother
and Ibtened to his tale with all a sister's tenderness'
Little did we think that the liither of whom he spoke so
lovingly Avas mine also!"

^Ir, Arendell scarcely heeded lier last Avords, s<. en-
grossed was he in returning tlie ureeth,<rs and replyin-^
to the congratulations of liis .servants. ':\Iany remahied
tliat had served him personally; and their children, who
•"ltd wuhm a few liour.s had not known that such a man
as \V ill.am Arendell ever exi.te.l, were as enthusiastic as
any m welcoming him back. They were all gatliere.l
upon the front lawn, and the family watche.l with great
amusement their many antics. One little fellow seemed
striving to out-do all the otiiers. He would throw him-
sell on the ground, .-.nd roll oyc-r and over on the soft
grass, laughing the real " yhe-ho !" of a i.iantation ne<rn.
at every turn, and the next ho would be climbincr like a
monkey the higliest bran, .es of a tree, in order to excite
the admiration of his master and mistress, and the envy
of his sooty companions by his feats of a.gility.

Mr. Areiul-ll, accompanied only liy Aldeane, entereil
the house, ano assed siowly through 'die wcU-remcm-
b'jred rooms.

"H.

382

A LDEA SI-:.

"Ah!" Ih' siiid, wild) tlicy n-aduMl tho lil)niry, "how
many liapi-y 'lays I liavi- sjx iil in this moin ! Kvcn in
my haciulor ihiys, ^^h^■Il at hoiiu', it was my lavoiitc
n'sort ; uiid after I was mariiiMl, Alice L'fiuialiy used t..
sit ill that wiii'low, with her basket ofsewiin: or a I'avor-
iti. luKik, ami 1 love.l it IWr iu r sake, for where slu- was,
was heaven to me. I thuik I see lier now, sittiiij; there
ill her little roekiiHj;-ehair,witli her iroMeii curls sweepini?
Lack from her fair younji face t<> the ^'entiy swayiiii,' mo-
tion (.f the rockers, her finaers busily en.<:a«,'e(l with some
],ieee of delicate work, wiiilc she listi'iied to some inter-
estinii l)Ook, read by the child at iier feet. Tliough he
was a slave, she a.lmired his beauty and his stronjr intel-
lect as much as if he had been of noble birth, llow often,
with unalloyed hapinness, I looked ui.on them when tiius
eiiLCa'^'ed ! Ah ! how 1 loved them both !"

Mr. Aren<lell sat down, eoverim: his face Avitli his
hands, as if he would fain call wy a-xain the bi-autifid
visiim; bnt he was unsuccessful. Scenes of troublous
times jjlaneed athwart his mind, ami, with a sigh, he
arose, and walked into the inner ajiartment.

Aldeane remembered tliat nniny sorrowfvd recollections
must be connected with that also, so she refrained from

followinic l'i'"i ^"'t **•■'* •'"^^'" "^""" "'"" *'^ ^''^' ^^i"^"^^'"
to await" his return, (ilancintr at the book-shelves, she
paw the plantation record which (ieorjre Itaymond had
opened, and from which he had read the record of his
own birth and that of jiis cousin and playmate, Abel.
She remembered his strange questions, and the agitation
of Aunt Samira, and wondered that she had not then
suspected that he knew more of Grassmere than he was
willing to acknowledge.

]Mrs. Arendell entered the library.

" 1 see your father is in his old room," she said, " so I
thought I should tind you here. Come up-stairs with me,
I want to show vou vour own chamber. I have had it

V /;.

iicIkmI the library, "how
in tliis room I Kvcii in
[>nu', it wiiH my lavoiitc
I, Alicf <rciuraliy used to
sktt ofj'i'wiiiii or IV iiivor-
Niiki', lor wliiic slu' was,
vv luM- now, siittiiij; there
icr jroidi'n ciirls swcopin!^

thi- j,'cntly swiiyini: mo-
iMisily i'nir!>:-f'''l ^*'*'' Homo
11' listi'ni'il to some intor-

at iicr feet. Tiiou.uli hi;
■auty and hin Htronp intcl-
fnohlc l)irth. lIowol'ttMi,
ivi'd ujion thorn wlion thuH
lom both !"

vorinu' his I'aco with his
ill u|i aixain tlio hoautifid
till. Sooiics of troublous
iiid, and, with a sigh, lio
•r a]iartnu'nt.

any sorrowed rooolloetions
dso, so sho rotVainod I'rom
near one of tho windows
Lt at tho book-nholvoH, she
ich ticorpc IJayniond had
id road the rooord of his
usin and ]>laymato, Abol.
uostions, and tho agitation
od that sho liad not then
of Grassmerc than he was

brary.

old room," sho said, " so I

■. Como up-stairs Avith mo,

1 ohambor. I have had it

^ r.n E,[}fii:.

888

Al.h.ano arose and followed hor. Th.. r,.o„, was lar^e
•"" airy ||„. lon^x windows were o.irtain,.d with lae..
•I'.'Ky and y.llow frun. age. The furniture was very o .

■ '1-1 hluo .urtams of tho be.i gave a mela.u.hoiv hu.. to
.0 who.. Aldeane thought ..f ...r peasant room at
A.en, ..11 II.,,s,. w,th a sigh. Mrs. Ar..„deil notieed it.

1 h.s sa„l sho, drawing a small oushionod ehair from
th.. window reoess, "was y.Mir m-.therV. Those ,lr,w

».. led exh.b. eonsi.lerahle talent. I ha.l ,|....n ,,!a,.e,l
h . .oeause I thought you woul.l bo ,.le:. d to Jo that
tliat th.-y have lu-en so well pivserve.l."

Al.U.ane looko.l at them with new intoivst. One of
the ,.„.tures was a represent at i„n of the \-ir.iM, a .•om-
-no" sub,,o..,, iH.t the look of oalm snlferin. and rosi-Mia-
tu." on this, gave it a strange b.-amy. Aldoane thou-rht
..her mother a,.,l that she also, in the days of her tribu-
l.'t.on nught have worn that angelio expression

^^'1 tins furnitun. is anoient," observed Mrs. Aren-
; .• l. A great deal of it, John says, was in (he house
«l'^" h.' was a eh.1,1. It is too ol.l an.l dii.irv, I know
jo . suit you, an.l I will send some for your use" from oni'

"Pray, don't put yourself to that trouble," returned
Al.leane " It ,s not pn>bable that we shall ivmain hero
oug. Indeed, bnt for the sake of ' a„I,l !„„„ ,,.„^.,
father would not stay here at all. This ol.l funiit^ure" h.s
a eharm lor mo. I .ball not weary of it for the short
time I am hero."

" What .shall wo do when you liavo loft us entirely?"
asked Mrs. Areiidoll, with a sirrh.

"Get another governess fCr the <.hil,l,vM," replied
Aldo.'uie, laughing. ^

384

.1 J. f> r:.\ x I:'

»» Ml' l.iil that will tint niiHWcr tlio pnri.osc," Mi-s.
\,vn.l..ll sMi.l, sl.Mkin- 1..T l.r;ul >n.lly. "Tlu- loss tn ....■
„111 1,,. .m-fi.t.T than to tlu- HiiMn.... Tlu-y will h.. m.-I
,„ tlu. iu'St Hchools tlu- State atVonlH, ai.-l will i-roLalMy

, civi. as !:."..l iiistniclinii as y..u can irivc. I'.ut wli.iv

hl.all I tiiid aiiutlKT siicli iVii'ii.l ?"

" Mtlioiifrh I cnn n<.t nniaiii with you, I nhall always
h.. vour tViHMl," ivtun...! Al.h'an.., warmly. " U-t thon-
is the .linn.T-li.'ll." 'Hh'" U'l.nu'i''.^' at Ii.t wat.-li, l-«'t
Uf. mi .h.wii. 1 ha.l 11.) i'h a it was so lutf."

Th.« irnitl.'iii.'M wciv waiting -n the i.ia/./a upon wlu.-l.
the ,li,iin..M-.HMn o,..'!..'.!. Mv- Aniul.ll t-uk Al-hanr s
haii.l, ami lo<l hor into the apartment, an-l t.. the l.ea.l ul

"'• Vom* mother oeeiivic-l this plaoo tho last time I ale
in this house," he sai.l in a low tone. "Strive to .lo iW
honors as gracefully as she used to, and no m..n' .-an he

\hleani- hlushingly took the Boat, mid fuUille.l her du-
ties, as she di.l in every position, with the modest ease
•iiid "race that always distinuuished her.

Aunt Samira had" not lorirotten the honors due from
the eulinarv department. An excellent dinner was serve.l
iu the I'est 'style, at which all did ample justice. It was
a warm, close .lav, and after dinner all sought some cool
spot in which to spend an hour in rest and quietiu'ss.
.Mr. Arendi'U went to the trumpet-arhor, ami Arthur and
Ahhan*' to the lihrary. .

" 1 wonder where uncle and aunt, and all the others,
are?" said the latter.

"The ..(.ntlemen, ] believe, are gone out on the lawn
to have a (piiel smoke under the great trees," returned
Arthur. " I'olond Arendell, you know, is an inyeterate
smoker, and Mr. Asl.ton is not far behind him."

"Oh, dear! 1 shall be very glad when the sun sets; it
i«. almost as warm as in August to-day," said Aldeane,

vcr till' piiriiiixc," Mrs.
-ii.lly. "Till' l'>>s '" ""'
Inn! 'riu-y will lu' miH
YnnU, ami will iirnli.iMy
\i cim ^rivc. Uiit wIk'It

,-ith you, 1 (*lii\ll always
ic, wiinnly. " l>iit ili*'<«'
■iiii4 at licr wiili'li, " I-ot
ns 8<i late."

Ill Ilu' jiin/./.i ii]'<'ii wliii'li
\niiilrll took Alilcarif's
iiu'iit, ami to tilt' lu'ail dI'

jilaco tlif last time 1 ate

;om'. "Strive to ilo lli»'

to, ami no mori' can ln'

sent, and I'uHilU'tl her du-
III, with tlic modest oast'
shed her.

ten the lienors due from
(•client dinner was served
id aiujile justice. It was
mer all sonfjht some oool
111- ill rest and iniietness.
)et-arl)or, and Arthur and

aunt, and all the others,

ire gone out on the lawn
the great trees," returned
ou know, is an inveterate
far behind him."
;lad when the sun sets; it
1st to-day," said Aldeane,

A T.n i:a xh.

nS5

puM.in-. l.nc-k the hair from her l.row. nn.l pivin^r « hiri,e
|.ahu-leai t.„ ; „ |.iie Arthur, as he sai.l, prepared to try
the eoolinir ,.rt-,riH of a cifrar.

"I ha^.• lell my ^nu'sts'io entertain themselves," said
Aldeane, " l.ut I presume they will enjoy a sies,:; „„„,,
more than my company, so I'll devote a few minutes to
.vou. It ,s the Inst opportunity I have l.a.l of .loin- ho
stnce yo„.. an'ival. So y,.u are really jroinj. oa Mon-

" IlMppily, yes," he returned. " I am heartilv fflad of
a momh':'""' '""' ''""' '"'''' ''"'" ' ''' "'"- ^''""

_ Ald..a„e lau-hed. " V„„ ,u,,l „ol think that Belle is
uu'onsolal.le ni yo,,,- al,,,,,,,,, x„ ,,„„,„^ ,^,,,^,,, ^.^_

turn you will hi„| t,,.r as l.ioomin!,' as ever'"

" I hope so, iudc'd !" replie,! Arthur. " I thhik I see
her l.lue eyes expanding with astonishment, as thev
Hurey will, when I shall relaf the ,i,ood fortune that has
l>efal ,.n you. I am truly afraid that her expressions of
won.ler an.l ,!eli,.ht will never cease. I inl,,,,,! ,„ s,,,-
l.nse h,.r entnvly, an.l have not written a wor.l to her
on the suhject."

"Xor have I," returned Al.leane. "I J.avc been «o

'HU'h en^agcl an.l so airitate.l, that I have not I.e.'n able

to. I will write to-ni,i,ht, howev.'r, ati.l ••onstitute you

my rna.l-.;arru.r. Of eourse you will all remain at (Jrass-

mere untd you leave for the North "

"Certainly! In fact, Mr. Ashion scarcely likes to
return North at all without Uncle William. By the by
has he told you his secret r ^'

" Who ? Mr. Ashton r'

"Yes. But I see he has not. Let me tell you, then he
i.s al)out to be married." '

" To be married ! Is it possible ? AVho to '•-"
"The mother of (icwtie and Nettie liemsen,' your ol.l
schoolmates. Nettie, you know, is married, and (J.Ttie
17

386

A LDEA NE.

Avoll cared for, so ho incurs no cncumbrancrs in marryino;

the widow."

" I like the lady very much ; l)ut what does l.elle say

to it?"

" She Is very much pleased. Indeed I even accuse her
of projecting the match. Certain it is, tliat at all the
little dinner-parties given at our house, Mrs. llerasen
was sure to bo hivif d and placed near Mr. Ashton. He
will not leave liose Cottage and come to live with us,
and I suppose he thinks, as we do, that he will be much
Irappior with a cood wife than he is at present with a
cross tliough liiithful liousekeeper. Though I presume
Mrs. Koi»erts will still bo retained in the house, tor she
has held sway there during the many years of his long
widowerhood."

« I am a-uly glad he has decided to marry," said Al-
deai. " I urged him to, before I left the North the last
time. He laugliingly paid he would try to make a choice,
and it seems lie has succeeded. When is the happy event
to take place?"

" Immediately after our return. Mrs. Remsen is re-
nowned as a liood housekeeper, and when yo > come
North, he will no doubt welcome you in a more elegant
style than usual. I may be able^^to do so also, as ray
enemy can do me no further harm."

" I hope, indeed, that you will prosper now," said Al-
deane. " What a vindictive spirit Davis must have pos-
sessed to persecute you sq, for the mere reason that he
had conceived a dislike for you,"

" He believed that I knew his secret," returned Arthur,
" in which supposition he was perfectly correct, but it was
harmless in my hands. INIotiier never told me the name
of the m-in he had so deeply injured, and, beyond her sim-
ple assertion, I liad no proof of the truth of her words.
But there is an end and a punishment for all wickedness.
To him it has come, and Illake is still insane. The pliy-

iumbrancrs in marryino;

ut what does Belle say

mleotl I even accuse her
lin it is, tliat at all the
11- house, Mrs. llerasen
1 near Mr. Ashton. He
1 conic to live witli us,
lo, that he will be much
lie is at present with a
,er. Thoui^h I presume
?fl in the iiouse, for she
( many years of his long

ded to marry," said Al-
I I left the North the last
uld try to make a choice,
When is the happy event

rn. Mrs. Rcmsen is re-
■r, and when yu » come
ic you in a more elegant
jlc to do so also, as ray
m."

1 prosper now," said Al-
irit Davis must have pos-
the mere reas^iu that he

secret," returned Arthur,
■rfeotly correct, but it Avas
r never told me the name
Lired, and, beyond her sim-
f the truth of her words,
ihment for all wickedness.
• is still insane. The pliy-

ALDEANE.

387

sieians say there is but little hope that he will recover
JIis sister liiis decided to sejid him to the asvhim for
although lu. li.ns nev^- yet shown svniptoms of ■vioic'ncr
slie IS ni constant k-Av tliat lie will."

"He lias ahvavs looked as if he suffered remorse," said
Aldeane, •' ;md I do not now wonder at i(, when I con-
sider the horrible plot in wliieh lie took sucli a:> active
part."

"What I wonder at most," replie.l Artliur, " is his im-

pertuieiice ni ever a.ldressing you, or indeed, any other

ady. I am m hopes, my dear," he continue.!, "that you

have at last derided to settle near Hoston. I know that

your father has, but that has little to do with you."

The crimson blood rushed to Aldeane'?, faec."

" Evans is a good man, a true friend, and he loves you
devotedly!" continued Arthur.

Aldeano rose hastily, the color had all receded from
her fa(,-e. ."Don't speak of it!" she said, entreatingly.
" Tliat can never he ; 1 Iionor and estee-.i iiini, but no
more !"

Arthur felt that she still loved another, and altliough
he had set his heart upon her union with Charles Evans
said no more about it, but adroitly changed the subject!'

The breath of evening swept through" the branches of
the trees, and moved th" window-curtains, refreshing all
things by its coolness, when they left the library. Aldeane
went into the parlor, where she tbund Jessie crying
bitterly because her mother had tohl her that it wa"
neai-ly time for her to return home, and that she must
leave Aldeane.

" I want you to go back with us," she sobbed ; " it will
be so lonely without you, with no one but i)ai)a and ma to
speak to ; for you know Eddie is going back to sehool
vvith Frank."

Mrs. Areiidell entered the room, and said, "Come, Jessie,
dear, tea is ready : and we must start innnedia«c!y after it!

'"■"■^i.

388

ALDEANE.

We shall have; such a nice ride home in the beautiful
moonlis^ht. You like that so much you know. Come, don't
crv Co''uBin Allie will come to see us very oi'ti'u, no doubt."
'"Of course I shall !" said Aideane. " liut, aunt, why
can't you let Jessie stay with me? You will be busy
VrenariuiT the boys for school, and will not need her
company half as much as I shall. Besides, you wdl not
be able to send her to school yet, and she will lose so
much if you allow her to stay at home doinji nothmg, it
Bhe is lu'i-e 1 can still superintend her studies." ^

"You are still aa kind and thoughtful as ever,' re-
turned Mrs. Arendell; while, springing up, Jessie threw
her arms around her mother's neck, , xclaiming:—

" Oil, may I stay ? Please, let me stay ! I won't be a
bit of trouble, and will study ever so hard !"

" But, Aideane, she will be liomesick, and be so much
trouble to you."

" Indeed, mamma, I wi!' not." ^^

" I do not fear that she will trouble me in the least,
said Aideane, smiling. " I promise to send her home as
- soon as she manifests any symi)toms of it. And now,
aunt, grant me one favor. Send up Jessie's trunk, and
let her stay Avith me."
"Please, mother, do."'

" I can not withstand you both. You know my weak-
ness !" returned Mrs. Arendell, laughing, kissing first the
blooming face of her daughter, and then the no less
happy one of Aideane. .

Jessie's tears all vanishbd, and smiles usurped their
place. Yet when, an hour afterward, she saw her father,
mother, and brothers, depart, she felt almost like joining
them. But Arthur challenged her to a race over the
lawn, and she was soon leading him, at his quickest pace
around the shrubbery, through whicli she nimbly ran,
unheeding her pursuer's darts an.l turns to capture her,
as she well knew he had but a slight chance of doing it.

A L I) HA XL'.

lome in the beautiful
oil know. Come, don't
very often, no doubt."
mo. " Hut, aunt, -why
)? You will he busy
ml will not need her
Besides, you will not
t, and she will lose so
lome doinji nothing, if
ler stuilies."
loughtful as ever," rc-
iiring up, Jessie threw
c, 1 velaiming : —
ne stay ! I won't be a
■ so hard !"
lesiek, and be so much

)uble me in the least,"

*e to send her home as

oms of it. And now,

up Jessie's trunk, and

. You know my wcak-

iiqhing, kissing first the

and then the no less

d smiles usurped their
■ard, she saw her futher,
! felt almost like joining
her to a race over the
im, at his quickest pace
whidi she nimbly ran,
id turns to capture her,
ight chance of doing it.

38i)

Mr. Arondell and Mr. Ashton, tlirou-h wreaths of
cigar smoke, watched the race from tlie front piazza.

Aldi'ane turned toward them saying :

"Tliat reminds me of the fiVst'dav I ever spent at
lloso Cottage, wlien Arthur, iJdle, and I, ran across the
meadow and canu- upon a snake. Oh ! how Mrs. Roberts
scolded us for bringing it home ! And tluit was not the
last scolding we received from hor, eiliier."

" DoubtU-ss you deserved tlieni all !" returned .Mr.
AshtoM gayiy. " I don't know what would have become
of you, if you had not had iier to correct you in my ab-
sence. She is even now invaluable."

" Yes, I suppose so, l,ut"— and Aldeani' hioked at him
archly—" I hear that you are going to place another lady
at the head of your household."

Mr. Ashton laughed, to cover his momentary em-
barrassment. " I am sure Arthur has mistaken liis vo-
cation," he said at last. " Ifo would make an excellent
town-crur. lie would tell every one every thin<r with-
out being paiil for it. ^ 'lie, I tried to get you for"a long
time, but at last gave it up in despair? Of course you
know who the lady is?"

" Yes, and 1 sincerely congratulate you on your excel-
lent dioice."

"If I could only get (^liarley to take Oertie," said Mr.
Ashton, laughing, and glancing at 3Ir. Evans, " I should
be perfectly happy. I am certain in my own mind that
she hkes him, and slie would make him an excellent
wife."

Mr. Evans made no reply, but taking the cigar from
his mouth, blew away the smoke, and leaning liis arm on
the balustrade, looked earnestly at Aldeane, as if waitiiuv
for lier to speak. '^

She caught liis glance fixed so eagerly upon Iier. For
a moment slie hesitated, and tlien said, steadily : " I tliink
aa you do, Mr. Ashton. Mr. Evans would insure his

3!)0

ALU EA YAV

happiness by marrvini? Gertie, provided sh - l.n-es liim.
I should be deliglited to hear ot" the event having taken

"It may bi'tbre any of you suspect," said Mr. li^vans,
risinf tossing his cigar among the bush.'S and hastdy
passing out to the lawn. " You have sealed my destiny
forever, now !" he whispered to Aldeane, as he passed

""To tell the truth," said Mr. Ashton, " I was in hopes
that vou and Kvans would lancvcach other; but 1 always
was a poor match-maker, and I suppose all my best-laid
plans must fail. Oh, the perversity of human nature,
especially when there's a wo-nan in the case !"

" Allit', my child !" said .^Ir. Arendell, " now that I
have found you, every one seems anxious to separate us

again." ,. i , •

" But I shall not leave you, father !" she replied, laymg

her hand hi his.

Mr. Ashton laughed. " I'll wager you a set ot silver
spoons that you are oft" in less than twelve months."

" I take up the wager !" cried Aldeane, gayly.

" And if you lose, what then?" asked her opponent.

" I will help your wife to correct you," returned Al-
deane, "you need discipline now, very badly."

"That is true, Aldeane," said Arthur, coming toward
thorn with Jessie screaming and struggling in his arms,
yet carrying her as easily as if she had been an infaut,
and, as he told her, "still as a mouse."

"Uncle William make Mr. Guthrie put me down!
Please take me away from him !" cried Jessie.

" Arthur, I'm ashamed of you ! you're a pretty fellow
to detain a ladv against her will!" replied Mr. Arendell,
lifting her froin her high perch. " Where did he catch
you, Jessie V"

" Out by that old trumpet-vine arbor you all pretend
to like sn much, while I thuik it is the dreariest place on

vidcd sh - Idvi's liim.
e event having taken

ect," said Mr. Evans,
le bushes and hastily
Lve sealed iny destiny
Vldeane, as he passed

hton, " T was in hopes
eh other; but 1 always
ppose all my best-laid
;ity of human nature,
1 the ease !"
^rendell, "now that I
vnxious to separate us

"r !" she replied, laying

;er you a soi of silver
1 twelve months."
Ideaue, gayly.
nsked her opponent,
•eet you," ri'turned Al-
very'badly."
^^rthur, eominu; toward
truggUng in his arms,
10 had been an infaut,
use."

iuthrie put me down!
cried Jessie.

you're a pretty fellow
"replied ilr. Arendell,
" Where did he catch

arbor you all pretend
s the dreariest place on

A LDEA N E.

3!tl

the whole plantation ! [ was going by there and saw
•Mr. iM-ans standhig in it; I was frightened, and stopp-d
lor a moment, and ^U: (iuthriecame up an<l eau-ht nu-
I tohl him u wasn't fair, when Iu> did it. Uli ! dear, I am
so tired !" and she sat down upon the stejjs, we.irily.

Aldeane called to a servant to brin<r some wateV an.l
giving a glass to Jessie, said : " Come, little one, it is'tim..
lor you to be in bed; 1 am tired myself, and know that
you must be."

" Why, Aldeane, you arc not goini; to retire so early '"
exclaimed Arthur. "It is not yet (piite ten o'clock."

" Nevertheless, you gentlemen must permit me to cro
I know Jessie would be frightened alone in th.at sTiU
chamber."

" Let Amelia stay with her."

Aldeane shook her head. " That is against my creed,
Art^hur. I want Jessie to dismiss her waiting-maid at
night, they need better rest than a pallet on the floor
affords."

"A Yankee, every inch!" exclaimed Mr. Arendell
laughing. '

'' Xo, the daughter of a true Southerner !" she returned
" Come, Jessie, I believe you are almost asleep now "

She very willingly said "good-night!" and followed
Aldeane up-stairs, and although she shrank back at sight
oi the high, old-tashioned bed, she was soon sleepincr^ as
calmly on it as if in her own little cot at home.

Aldeane drew forth the little chah- from the window
recess and placing her desk upon a low table, seated her-
self before it and began to write. A long letter to Belle,
such as she used to write when she first came South'
but for which, since trouble and care had come, she had
had neither time nor inclination, was the result. When
she had completed it, she went to the window to catch a
breath of the cool air of midnight. She saw the dim
outlines of the figures of two gentlemen upon the piazza,

802

A LDEANE.

and \\\v ciimson io^s of tln-ir cii^'ars, and heard the faint
hnm of vok'fs.

"Tobacco— how potent is thine inlhience ! how power-
ful over the minds of men !" she murni\ired, Hmilini:
quietly. " Ah, tliey are talkint,' of me !" She bent for-
ward 'and discovered that .Mr. Ashton and her father
were alone.

" I am certain he loved her !" said tin former.

" And do you think that he does, still V" asked Mr.

Arendill.

" Most assuredly ! Beauty and wealth Reek to dazzle
him in vain ! He still loves, and is waiting for Aldeane !"
Aldeane closed the blinds, and sank upon a chair, not
waiting, or even wishing, to hear more.

" Loving, and waiting ! loving, and M-aiting, as I have
been ibr years!" she m-'rmured. "Thank God I he is
loving and waiting — faithlul still !"

She heard the two chairs on the piazza pushed back
hastily, and the door ch)sed loudly as the gentlemen
entered the house. Mr. Ashton went into the room
allotted to him, and her father to the library, where she
heard him for some time pacing the floor heavily. She
listened, hoping to hear him cease, but at last half-terri-
fied by the strange thoughts that crowded her mind, she
gathered her white dressing robe around lier, and ran
lightly down the stairs, and opened the library door.
Her father turned quickly as she entered.

" Child ! what is the matter ?" he exclaimed, " how
wild and spcctcr-like you'look. Are you frightened at
being alone in this old house?" He folded her in his
arms, kissing her tenderly.

" Ko, no !" she replied, "but it made me feel so sad to
hear you keeping your lone vigil, here in the darkness !
Will you not try to rest? I know you are weary !"

" Child, I am'strong to-night," he answered dreamily.
" For years I have been wear\ of life ; now I can look

t
t
t
t
i

i:
r
c

d
h
a

v
U

rs,

aiifl heard the faint

iiilhicnco ! how ])owi'r-
ic mnrmim'd, smilinu'
if ino !" She bout for-
Vshton and her father

lid th< former.

loes, still V" asked Mr.

1 wealth seek to dazzle
s waiting for Aldeaue !"
sank upon a chair, uot
more.

and waiting, as I have
"Thank God! he is

:]ie piazza pushed back
idly as the gentlemen
I Avent into the room
I the library, where she

the floor heavily. She
?e, but at last half-terri-

crowded her mind, she
30 around her, and ran
)encd the library door.

entered.

'" he exclaimed, " how

Are you frightened at
' He folded her in his

t made me feel so sad to
il, here in the darkness !
nv you are weary !"
' he answered dronmily,
of life ; now I can look

A L/U:'.\ A /;.

;30;j

forward to enjoying the reniiiaiit of my days. Your
mcther has been witli mo to-night. I soo horovorv where.
Slio haunts (irassinoro !"

Aldoano glanced around a litlh' foarfiilly, oiinging still
closer to her fHtlior.

" Xot in bodily form does she eonu', Aldeaue. She is
hcro,^ heiv in my heart ! Ah ! my wife ! n.y ang. 1 wife !"

"Strive to bo liappy without iior !"' murmured Aldouno.
"lionu'mbor that 1— her daughter, and vours~am with
you."

" I do remember it, ami the knowlo-lgo fills my heart
with joy, but can ever a daughter's love {ill the p'laoe of
such innocenco and beauty as this?"

Ho drew her beneath the lamp suspended from the
center of the room, took from his bosom a small minia-
ture, attaehod to a hair chain, ami gazing at it a moment
almost reverently, j)laoed it in liis daughter's liand.

By the pale light of the single lamp, Aldeaue behold
the portrait of her mother. A face beaming with every
tint of health and beauty, and with a rarely sweet
e-vprossion, looked forth from a mass of golden curls, the
truthful blue eyes seemed to look steadily and lovingly
into those bending over her.

"Beautiful! motlier!" sobbed Aldeaue, and with a
gush of tears she laid her head upon her father's bosom
murmuring : '^ I can comprehend your loss now. But,
remember that she is with the angels watching our
career wi^.h anxious gaze. Let us strive to join her."

^r. Arendell kissed lier tended}'. "Go, now, mv
daughter," he said. •' I feel bettor for having spoken of
her. I can sleep now, and you must also, your eyelids
are drooping sadly."

Aldeaue kissed him again, and with liis silent, Imt fer-
vent blessing resting upon her, went up-stairs as noise-
lessly as she had descended.

Total silence soon after brooded over Grassmere.

17*

394

A LDEANE.

Lato on Sunday af'tcni xtn, Mr. Ashtoii, Mr. Evans, and
Arthur, k'ft (irassmoro t) go to ^Vrcndi'll House, in ordir
to take till' stagi' at I.oriPij oarly tlu' following day.

"Poor Arthur I" said Mr. Ashtoii, laughing, as they
stepped into the earriage. "lie iiasn't Keen his wile for
agi's. Dreadful ! is.i'i, it ? I wish I could hire a ])air of
wings for liim soine\sdiere. I would invite you l)oMi to
my wedding, but I know you won't comi'. But T give
yo'i a »ianding and staying invitation, to visit us when
you eome North. Don t let it be long before you come,
either !"

]Mr. Evans bowed low over Aldeane's hand at parting,
looked at her sorrowfully a moment, then stepped into
tlie carriage, and it was driven rapidly away. She caught
a glimpse of a white handkerchief Ibittering from the
window, answered it by a wave of her liand, and the
next moment the party were out of sight.

During the fall and winter, the time passed rapidly and
pleasantly at (Irassmore. Aldeano was fully employed
in her housekeeping duties, and in teaching Jessie, v.iio
remained with her. She went home several times, and
stayed a few days, but was always glad to return to hti,"
studies, and Aldeane's pleasant society.

vVldeane had once gone with lier father to the cemetery
at Linden, a village some iaw miles distant, .vlivre a
marble shall arising from the midst of profuse shrub-
l)cry distinguished her mother's grave frorfi the numbers
around it. She fulfilled th« sad, yet pleasing duty of
planting flowers upon the grass-covered mound, and
returned home, saddened by her visit, yet happy in ihe
thought that her uncle had not suffered her mother to
rest in an unmarked grave.

As soon as it was known that Aldeane was the daugh-
ter of William Arendeli, she was invited most urgently
into society, being mostly co"rted by those who had
slighted her when she was simply a governess. She

ALT) EA S E.

895

ishtoii, 'S\y. Evan-i, .ind
cndi'll House, in order
ho followiii;; day.
on, hiULtliinur, us they
asn't scon liis wit'o for
I oonld liiro a j)air of
d invito yon boMi to

Vi COmo. lint J rrjvo

tion, to visit ns when
<in<^ before yon come,

ane's hand at j)artins,
■nt, then stepped into
lly away. She caui^ht
'{' tbittcrinuf from the
of lier liand, and the
f siyht.

me ])assed rapidly and
e was fully employe<l
I teaehing Jessie, v. iio
me several times, and

glad to return to \v::
!iety.

father to the cemetery
liles distant, .vlivre a
dst of profuse shrub-
•ave froifi the numbers
yet pleasing duty of
-covered mound, and

isit, yet happy in the
uffered her mother to

Ideane was the daugh-
invited most urgently
'd by those who had
ly a yoverncss. She

accepted the invitations of those only who lia<l always
been her friends, and thus passed an almost secluded life
witliin tile |>re'.-in<'ts of (Jrassmere. J^eftcrs fn.m the
North bore the glad tidings of Artlinr's prosperity. .Mr.
Ashton was married, and it wai^ rumored that 3Ir! Evans
and (Jertrude liemsen were aliont <o Uk Alde.'itie re-
joiced :it this, and hoped that th. y w:)nld be united
Ixlbre she went North, for -wliich the appointed time was
rapidly a|i|.ro:u'hing. The bonntifnl spring days had
come. All the negroes that chose to have ha<l been sent
to good homes i)repared for tliem. Colonel Arendell had
taken formal i)ossession of (trassniere, ar.d lu^thing re-
mained for Aldeane to <lo but to bid it i'arewell and go to
Arendell IIous<>. where she was to remain for a few'^lays
l)revious to her departure i'or the North.

This, to her, was no very grievous task, but her father
felt it bitterly. Each nook and corner of tlie old i.hice
was dear to him. Some Aveeks before he left he tenderiy
transplanted a root of the trum|)et-vine, intendintr, if pos-
sil. ■, to cultivate it at the North. He took it from what
was, t ) him, hallowed ground, and cherished it as hi.s
dearest treasure. Aldeane carefully packed many of tlu^
drawings that her mother had oxe-Mted, looking upon
them as dear relics of the jiast.

Frank and Eddie had returned lionie for the sprisig \ a-
cation, and on the last evening of Aldeane's stay ^!iey
went Avith lier to Loring to visit Leonori'''s grave. A few
early tlowers were lifting their tiny heads Tbove it. Al-
deane gathered a iiyvf, and, with periwinkle and cypress,
Avove a chaplet, which she Inmg upon the monuinent as
a last token of her unceasing grief and love.

She looked with new interest upon Raymond's grave.
Her fati.cr, she knew, had been there, for' on the side of
the tablet was written in pencil in his hand, " Out of the
depths hast Tli'><t called his spirit."

She left the quiet grave-yard, feeling that it was, per-

300

A LDEA yR.

haps, tlio Inst time hIic nliould <vtr tivail within itw hal-
lowed ])rfcincts. Slu- li:i«l liii,L;irc<l so loiii; lliiit tlic er.iy
lijjjlit ot'i'Vinini,' was ln-oudiiiii tivc-r the cartli, lialt' hidiii'^
ovi'i-y oltjitl ill its iiiisly lulds, cro sho reached Areiidell
House. Mrs. Areiidell met her at the garden gate, and
hurried her into tlie house to dress (or the eoinpaiiy that
was to meet her lor the last time.

A farewell party always possesses somo elements of
gloom. Sighs unhidden will often mingle with tiie gay-
est strains of music or liuighter, and cheek the gay repar-
tee. So was it at this time. Mrs. Aremlell had boon
very carifnl in the selectitni of her guests. None hut
those who had always treated Aldi'ane with kindness
were invited, and with many she felt truly sorry to part.
It was ihe hrst time that tiie parlor had heei, tilled with
comi)any since Leonore's death, and all seemed to remem-
ber it, for the voices were subdued, and mary mentioned
her. Aa an early hour the guests took th 'ir departure,
leaving the family to the quiet enjoy meit of the last
hours of the nigiit. One o'clock had just struck when
Aldeane retired, not to sleep, but to weep bitterly at the
thought that she was about to leave, perhai)s forever, a
heme that she loved so dearly from the very sorrows con-
nected with it.

r ticiul witliin itH hal-
so Itnii; tliiit the er.'iy

■ the ciirtli, liiilt' liidiiiL;
shi! readied An-iulell
the panlcii jiatc, and
for the ouiupaiiy that

scs Homo clcineuts ot"
I ininitU' witli tlie gay-
d I'liirk the yay repar-
rs. Ari'iidfli had boon
cr tX'H'sts. iS'oni' l>ut
Lldt'aiif witli kiiidiR'SS
I'lt truly sorry to part.
;)r had ln't'i. lillod willi

I all seeiiu'd to rcmoiii-
, and niary mentioned
8 took th 'ir departure,
enjoy me it of the last

had just struck when
to weep bitterly at the
ave, perhai)s forever, a

II the very sorrows con-

CHAPTER XXXVITI.

COXCI.l'SIOX,

Axn the week later she was the mistress of a seeond
(irassmere, wiii<'h was situated midway b»fween Kose
(.'ottage and Hoston, and was, as far as moderate wealtli
and rare tastes eould make it, a model of eli'ganee. .Mr.
Arendell's sole care was to piaee his dauiihter in a homo
worthy of her, thoU!,'h he eontended that sueli a one
eould ni'ver be jjjained, and lau^'hinirjy feared that how-
ever eharmin-i mi<,'lit be the nest he should make for her,
she would tlif to another.

To this Aldeane made no rejdy. How could she, when
she remembered with what unacknowledged hopi-s she had
hastened North '< when she remembered one welc^ome she
had expected and received not— still received not, though
long weeks had j.assed by and she had grown lieartsick
with ''lioi)e deferred?" She could not, strive as she
would, forget tluit Frederic Morgan was frees to seek her,
that he had once told Ju'r that he loved lier. And now%
now he came not, nor sent one word of welcome or con-
gratulation. His mother, indeed, had come, but her visit
had only deepened Aldeane's disappointment— a disap-
pointnu'nt which she blushed to own, yet over which she
shed many bitter tears.

The season was very gay, and introduced by Mrs. Ash-
ton, she went everywhere, and more, perhaf s, from the
romantic story attached to her than from her beauty, she
became an acknowledged belle, and the life '.uid pride of
her circle. She everywhere heard of Doctor .Morgan, for

398

A LDh:AXE.

lie hail paiiu'il ii loonl n-putation in liU profi-Msion. Hut
it h.'ul Nci'ini'.l tilted tli;il tlicy siioulil imt inict, fur many
tiiufH mIu- liiid iiitiTid IJi'IIc'h iiousc a I'l-w iii<iiiu'nt>4 at)«'i"
lie iia<l Ifll it, and more than onee he had dioppi-d in for
an instant at an cvenini^ party just before her c iitranee
ur after her departure.

I'lidouhtedly nlie was picpied as well as j,'rievod by his
Htranjjfe conduct toward her, hut the former was the only
feelinsjj slie alhtwed to escape her, even to HelU', wlio now,
in ail the dii,Miity of maternity adiled to wifehood, ami
with the prudence of an ehlerly match-maker, catechised
Aldeane upon the advantatjes or disadvanla.<,'i's to he
jjained liy tiie encouraiieinent of her numerous admirers,
and shrew. Uy fei>j:ned to i^'iiore the knowledge upon
which, to Artiiur, she had lon;4 plumed herself, and upon
which was still founded the dearest wish of iier heart;
for, as she truly said, she had now no cares of Arthur's
to perplex her, as his success in his profession since the
exjtosure and death of his old •■nemy, had lieen unparal-
leled, and now bade fair to make him in time a wealthy
man, e\-t'n thousjch he should discard any other fortune
that mi;4ht fall to him, as he had done that of his unwor-
thy step-father, which he had sutVered to enrich a score
of poor relations who had discarded .lonas Davis years
before, but who, at the cry of <,'old, sprang into being to
own themselves his nearest, dearest kin.

And so, Arthur being " oil' her mind," Belle must needs
♦'take Aldeane on," ami Frederic Morgan too, of whom
she saw much, and could satisfy herself but little. She
talked to him in the seviM-est manner of his neglect of
his old friend, but could gain nothing from him but
that his time was much occupied, that he had uo time for
formal calls, and othei excuses of a like nature, always
ending with the dech . tion, that he siiould call soon,
very soon.

And BO Belle, who conjectured every thing, and said

liU profi'Hsion. Hut
I not iiicci, fill- iiciny

a I'l-w inuiiu'iits altiT
w. hail (lii)|>|K'(l ill lor
: lu'loii' licr ciilnuu'o

roll as j{rievc(l by his
' t'oniu'r was llu' only
■n to iJi'lli', wlio now,
o<l to wifi'hooil, ami
tcli-makcr, caticlnHcil
(lisailvanlam's lo !)»■
r nuimioiis ailniirtTH,
hv knowloiliif upon
ui'il hcrsi'W, ami upon
It winli of luT lu'art ;
no cari'» of Arlliur's
I profi'ssion since thf
ly, liad Ihhu unparal-
im in time a wealthy
ril any other fortune
)ne that of his unwor-
red to enrich a Hoorc
■I I .lonas Davis years

sprang inl«) being to

kin.

lul," Helle must needs
dorgan too, of whom
?r8elf but little. She
ner of his neglect of
)tiung from him but
lat he had uo time for
a like nature, always

he Hliould call soon,

every thing, and said

ALDRA ^E

noo

even more thnn prudem-e dictated, oflTeoted nothing, while
in course of time one who conjectured comparatively
little, chanced to nay the v.-ry words which she had l.,,,,
seeking in vain.

The ,vinler had unmist.ikably begun his reign, although
it was y.t varly in Noveml),.r,'wlu.n o|ie dav Mr. .Ashion
and his wife sat in their comfortaide sleigh "being rapidly
driven toward (Jrassmere, there to celebrate tliel.irthdav
of My. .\rendell. '

"My dear," remarked Mrs. Ashton, in a pause made by
her husband in an earnest eulogy of his friend, "have
you nniiecd how pale and restless, if not absolutely ill,
Aldeane has appeared lately. I ivally fear she has some
secret trouble preying u|ion her mind."

"Nonsense," rclnrmd Mr. Ashton. "I am sure sho
looked the very pink of health and beauty the last time
I saw her. I think (Jertie's woes before Charley owned
himself a captive, have niad<' you a little seniinmiital."
And Mr. Ashton laughing heartily, dismissed the subject,
and the ne.vt moment, e.vclaimed': —

" Why there's Morgan upon his splendid bay. That
fellow lives on hor.H'b.ack, I believe. Hullo, doctor, wh(>re
are you goiifg, now V"

The young doctor drew rein, and saluted Mrs. Ashton
and his old friend, coloring somewhat, as the latter
exclaimed :— " And you don't look well either ! What is
the matter with i/an/"

" Oh, nothing, nothing," he muttered, confusedly. "I
have been working a little harder than usual, latelv. I
believe." ' ^ '

"Then, I should advise you to take a little rest," said
Mr. Ashton, gayly ; " we will not allow you to be a slave,
or a recluse any longer. Of course. Belle has told you^
that you will be evpected at the wedding. Charley lias
always declared ho wouldn't be married without' you
wore ut hand."

400

ALDEANE.

" I — T (lid not understand — Mrs. Guthrie has told me
nothing," faltered Doctor ^Morgan, turning very pale.
"Char — Charley will certainly excuse me — I — T."

"Well, if Ciiarley will, Gertie certainly will not,"
interrupted ]Mr. Ashton.

" Gertie !" gasped Dr. ^Morgan, as if in the greatest
surprise, and actually springing from his horse to grasp
Mr. Ashton's hand, and sinking into tlio deep snow with-
out ap])earing to mind it in the least. " Is it Gertie
Kcmsen that is to be married to Charley Evans ?"

" I hope, sir," said Mrs. Ashton, with much stateliness,
"that you Avere not misled hy an absurd rumor that was
for a little time afloat. ^ly dear, "Sir. Ashton, what are
you laughing at ? I assure you I consider this very
annoying, indeed."

But Mr. Ashton, who had throAvn himself back in his
sleigli in a paroxysm of laughter, laughed louder than
before, and with infinitely more enjoyment as he saw
Doctor Morgan, without a word more, vault into his
saddle, and ride at the greatest speed of the splendid
bay, in the direction of (irassmere.

Of all the days tnat Aldeane had passed there, she was
expecting him Ictist upon this, for her mind was occupied
by the responsibility of properly receiving and enter-
taining a large party which were to meet at dinner a
few hours later.

Arthur, Belle, and (according to the declarations of
both, an(l the belief of Aldeane) the most wonderful
baby that ever was born, were already there, Arthur,
with jMr. Arendell in the library, and Belle in an up-
per room where Aldeane had left her, in order to give
one glance at the drawing-rooms before the company
should arrive, when a ring at the bell startled her, and a
minute later the sound of her own name uttered in a
voice she well remembered, caused her to sink upon a
chair, pale and breathless, as the drawing-room door was

Guthrie has toM me
1, turniiii; very palo.
use me — I — T."
certainly will not,"

as if in the greatest
nn his horse to grasp
,0 tlio deep snow with-
least. "Is it Gertie
larley Evans V"
with much stateliness,
bsunl rumor that was
Mr. Ashton, what are
I consider this very

vi\ himself back in his
, laughed louder than
enjoyment as he saw
more, vault into his
speed of the splendid

I passed there, she was

her mind was occupied

receiving and enter-

i to meet at dinner a

o the declarations of
) the most Avonderful
ilready there, Arthur,
, and Belle in an up-
her, in order to give
! before the company
jell startled her, and a
vn name uttered in a
d her to sink, upon a
irawing-room door was

ALDEAXE.

401

thrown open, and Frederic Morgan hastily advanced
toward licr.

She endeavored to rise and greet him calmly, but if alf
her future happiness had depended upon it, she could not
liave done so. Fortunately the lack of ceremony served
only to her advantage, for Frederic Morgan saw at once
that there was no need of words, save those in which ho
explained his lato conduct. " I heard you Avere engaged
to Evans, and dared not come !" and with an outburst
of triumphant love and joy, clasped her in his arms.

How very soon afterward the company began to
arrive. First, there were Mr. atid Mrs. Ashton, full of
signiticance and mystery, and pretending, like Belle and
Arthur, to have no idea of Avhat had occurred, and kindly
combining to keej) any thought of it from ]VIr. Arendell
until all could be fully explained ; also Charles Evans and
his very lovely /a/*m', neither of whom appeared to
attach any i)articular importance to the conjectures
whispered by JNIrs. Ashton ; and besides these, a host of
acquaintances ; more than one of whom noticed the
agitation neither could entirely conceal, and opined that
Doctor ^Morgan and Miss Arendell would make a " mag-
nificent couple."

..tVnd a few months aftei-, when Mr. and Mrs. Charles
Evans were spoken of as the happiest of married folks,
Doctor Morgan and Miss Arendell did indeed make the
" magnificent couple" that had been prophesied of. There
was a quiet wedding, with but few to witness it. But
those few were the dearest aiul best : Colonel and Mrs.
Arendell, with their family ; Mr. and Mrs. Guthrie, good
i\[r. Ashton and his Avife, witli Charles Evans and his
young bride, with a few others whose friendship had
brightened Aldeane's life when she was a poor governess,
as gladly as when she was the heiress of William
Arendell, and the bride of that most popular of physi-
cians, Frederic Morgan.

402

ALDEAyrE.

" Ikly love," he said, as they sat together, in the rlrawiiig-
rooin, upon the night ho look hor to her liome ; " my love,
thi? reniinfls me of the eonversation I held with Annie
upon this very spot, so long ago ; and I think, my darling,
it is here she would like you to read a little note she left
for me to give tlic woman of my love if she should ever
be my wife. I know, my own, you have in your heart
naught but kindness for her memory, and will gently
judge what she has written liere."

lie plated a tiny note in her hand, andAVould have left
her, but slie elasped his hand and bade him stay, and
with his arm around her, she read the message of his fn>t
wife. The very paper it was written on — so tiny and
delicately tinted — was characteristic of Annie Greyson
no less than the i\i\f quaintly written words.

" My dear," it began, " 1 do not know your name, but
I mean this for the lady Frederic loves, and whom I am
sure he will marry wlien I am gone. I feel now as if I
had done wrong ever to 8ei)arate you, but I didn't like to
be laughed at, and I was sure Fred would make me
happy, and I was over twenty, and didn't like the idea of
remaining single all my life. I'm sure you will forgive
me. Won't you ? And I do hope that both you and Fred
will think kindly of her who, when you read this, will be
poor, dead Annie."

Aldeane sobbed heartily over this quaint little note,
and Frederic Morgan, while he endeavored to soothe her,
thouglit with tender pity of her whom he had once almost
hated, and Aldeane, knowin'g this, was glad he had not
seen the postscript which was written on another page,
and afterward met lier eye, and which in spite of her will
recalled to her mind the olden feeling of pitying con-
tempt. "My dear," this said, " if you are fair, have the
drawing-room curtains changed by all means. 1 found that
lieavv green very trying, and should recommend light
blue."

ogcthcr, in the drawiiig-

her home ; " my love,
tion I hcUl with Annies
and I think, ray darling,
I'ud a litth? note shi- h'il

love if slie should ever
ou have in your heart
cmory, and will gently

nd, and would have left
nd bade him stay, and

1 the message of his tirwt
ritten on — so tiny and
Stic of Annie Greyson
tten words.

)t know your name, but
! loves, and whom I am
fone. I feel now as if I '
you, but I didn't like to
' Fred Avould make me
d didn't like the idea of
n sure you will forgive
! that both you and Fred
en you read this, will be

Anxik."
this quaint little note,
ideavored to soothe her,
^hora he had once almost
is, was glad he liad not
ritten on another page,
ihich in spite of her will
feeling of pitying cou-
if you are fair, have the
y all means. I found that
hould recommend light

A IDE AN E.

403

Aldeane lives at Morganvale still— a happy Avife and
motluT, lieantiful even now in the eyes of her lond hus-
band, and father, and those of a score of loving friends,
even though she receives them Iwueath tiie shadow of the
green curtains. And still the Pe.icemaker, she is beloved
by rich and poor throughout the neighborhood which
deems itself blessed by the kindness and skill of the good
doctor.

THK END.

*.(.