:-NRLF 
 
 .^a^ 
 
 »^&*fev 
 
 :.^^-^ 
 
 
■-^r 
 
 .^ 
 
 w.^ 
 
THE 
 
 DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 
 
 1R laxrwattce ai Bttp IntntjJt. 
 
 ^Y MRS. M. U SWEETSER. 
 
 LONDON : 
 
 * 
 
 PRINTED BY EDWARD LLOYD ; PUBLISHED BY PURKISS, COMPTON-STREET, 
 SOHO; STRANGE PATERNOSTER-ROW ; AND SOLD BY ALL BOOKSELLERS. 
 
etcf 
 
 ^ 
 
PREFACE. 
 
 The favourable reception which this work has already met with 
 fi'om the public is exceedingly gratifying, both to the Author and the 
 Publisher. 
 
 The characters are drawn from real life ; and the events narrated, 
 although slightly altered to suit the purposes of the novelist, will be recognised 
 by many who witnessed or took a part in them. The moral conveyed is so 
 just that the work may with safety be placed in the hands of the young ; for 
 a good novel smuggles many truths into the world, and many feelings into the 
 heart "which would often perish if they fell from the solemn pulpit or the. stern 
 moralist. 
 
 Londo^', Septemher, 1847. 
 
 u2^2Hm 
 
<\ 
 
THK 
 
 DOUBLE CO GET SB"! P. 
 
 BY aiRS. M. L. SWEETSER, 
 
 .tlV.V^.-- ^,. .' ^A:^^-^. 
 
 CHAPTER L 
 
 THE COUSINS, 
 
 It was in September, 1845, that, a little past tlie hour of dinner in the fashion- 
 able and aristocratic mansion of the Trellan's, two beautiful girls sat chatting 
 familiarly in their own private parlour^ -vvhich fronted one of the principal streets 
 of New York. 
 No. 1. 
 
'. .' ■ TiftE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 
 
 *'Tbe;pcirI6doK';Ki/5 absencb Ras er.pired — he sliould be here," said Carlotta, 
 the Gldernnd -pTOtitler 'oli 'the 'two,- Suddenly, and with a somewhat imperious 
 movemeni;, flinging aside her lace-work and going to the window, through which 
 she peered long and earnestly into the rapidly deepening twilight. '' 'Tis the 
 hour for th« postman and he comes not — everything is delayed to-night," she 
 continued, with increasing impatience ; but scarcely had she uttered the words, 
 when she was startled by his loud, quick, peculiar knock at the street door. A 
 moment after a light-footed, bright-eyed lady's maid entered, leaving a curiously 
 wrought ivory basket surmounted with silver, containing various letters and 
 papers, the postman's deposit. 
 
 Instantly the pleasing eyes of Carlotta detected the well-known address, and 
 hastily drawing from the pile the long expected letter, she bade the maid bring a 
 light immediately, that she might be no longer delayed in the delicious pleasure 
 of hearing from her far off lover. The slightly but quickly varying colour pro- 
 duced by amticipation deepened into crimson as she devoured the impassioned 
 words of her betrothed, the expression of his ardent love as he hastened to her 
 •mbrace after a year's absence. Suddenly raising her eyes from the paper, she 
 fxclaimed, — 
 
 •' Listen, Edna, here is a dash of the mysterious ! We shall live over again the 
 diays of knighthood and true love, but, ah ! guard well your heart or beware" — and 
 •he gaily raised two fingers with a threatening menace ; " but I trust you, ma belle 
 cousin, so once more listen. Theodore's description will charm you.'' 
 
 " Our whole voyage has been the scene of a most mysteriously exciting romance^ 
 Among our passengers is a man who has been from the first the object of intense 
 curiosity. In person and character he is one of Nature's noblest works. The 
 strength and vigour of his mtellcct, the extent of his information, the graceful 
 condescension of his manners, the ease and eleganse of his conversation are only 
 equalled by the exalted sentiments which tall from his lips and the lofty nobleness 
 of his soul. Ah, Lotta ! he is a grand specimen of what Nature can effect under 
 true circumstances. With tlie fullest and most active sympathy of all kinds of 
 sorrow, miseries or joy, he nevertheless seems to live far above our common weak- 
 nesses, and to derive his existence solely from the vast resources of his own 
 nature. At times he charms and enchains us for hours with his delightful conver- 
 sation, during which he completely develops each idea by assuming the character 
 to which it belongs — so that after listening to him, we are strangely beguiled into 
 the fancy that we have just mingled in a large and highly intellectual company. 
 
 "Again he is wrapped for days in his own meditations, and remains in his state- 
 room or paces the deck in solemn majesty, reminding us of some ancient power- 
 ful hero. Suddenly, and withcut any visible cause for the change, he becomes the 
 thorough man of the world, and talks of its pursuits, its follies, its good and evil 
 traits with the softened complacency of one well versed in its ways, and viewing 
 with an unerring eye in the distance the ultimate order and good to which all this 
 apparent disorder and evil are tending. 
 
 *' No one is presuming enough to inquire concerning his birth and country upon 
 which he preserves a profound silence. He conversed with equal fluency in 
 several European languages, so that it is a matter of much curious conjecture to 
 what nation he belongs. But by far the most mysterious and romantic circum- 
 stance remains to be told. In Lord Elwyn's suite is a little girl of some twelve or 
 fourteen years, a perfect fairy in dimensions, beautiful as an houri, whose large, 
 deep, melancholy eyes contrast strongly and beautifully with the almost infantile 
 features and expression of her clear sunny face. 
 
 *' Lira, for that we have learned is the name of the angelic little creature, comes 
 on deck once every day, firmly clasping the hand of Lord Elwyn, and closely 
 attended by a duenna who never loses sight of her. After an hour's recreation 
 during which he devotes himself entirely to her amusement, he embraces her 
 afiiectionately at the door of her state-room, and commits her to the care of her 
 attendant. Lira frequently sobs bitterly on parting with her protector, but soon 
 we hear the low, sweet, monotonous warbling which is only learned in the east, 
 
THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 
 
 and which, we fancy, soothes the child to sleep. Notwithstanding the almost infi^ 
 nite variety of feelings, emotions, or notions-— whichever you may term them, that 
 mingle themselves in Lord Elwyn's intercourse with us, to Lira he is ever the 
 the same, the embodiment of tenderness. He lands with his suite at New York, 
 where I shall endeavour to present him to you, though I warn you that I shall be 
 very zealous. Previovis to our arrival, however, we shall probably be detained a 
 few hours in Boston, a detention which will be extremely irksome to me. De- 
 lightfully as my days pass in such society, I am nevertheless devoured with impa- 
 tience to bask once more in the sunlight of your smiles. My heart is ever with 
 thee, dearest, and each tedious moment is to me a day — a month — an eternity. 
 
 " Adieu, my beloved — my idolized one. Theodore.'* 
 
 *' Yes, he must soon be with us," exclaimed the passionate girl, after having 
 perused the last few lines and counted the days since the date of the letter. A 
 sudden cry from Edna startled her, and looking up, she saw her cousin pale and 
 excited, pointingto a paragraph in a newspaper which she had meanwhile unfolded, 
 and held in her hand. 
 
 " What is it, Edna ? Quick! why are you so agitated? Carlotta." Instantly, 
 with admirable presence of mind, Edna perceived the mischief she was doing, 
 and commanding her voice said, though SDmewhat hurriedly, — 
 
 " It may, it must be a mistake. It is doubtless some other. Tell me the date 
 ot your letter." 
 
 «* The first of September, but why, — what mean you — what is this ?" 
 
 '* Ah, Carlotta, my dear cousin, have courage, command yourself, I pray you," 
 said Edna, as if dreading the fearful shock. 
 
 " What have I to fear?" cried the affrighted girl, grasping the paper with a trem- 
 bling hand — "but my head swims — I cannot see— tell me— tell me quickly." 
 
 " Calm yourself and listen," replied Edna, as with one arm she supported her 
 cousin, and in the other hand held the paper, from w^hich she read aloud the fol- 
 lowing notice : — 
 
 " Lost overboard, on the 4th instant, from the packet Clementina, between Bos- 
 ton and New York, on her homeward passage from Liverpool, Theodore Montrevor, 
 a son of one of the wealthiest and most respectable citizens, as he hastened to the 
 arms of his friends after a year's absence. Every possible exertion was made by 
 the crallant crew and passengers to save this unfortunate young man, but in vain. 
 The intelligence was brought by land, having been obtained by the master of a 
 fishing schooner, which was within speaking distance of the Clementina a short time 
 a^ter the accident occurred." 
 
 With the silent calmness of despair, the young girl forced herself to listen to the 
 end, then heaving one long-drawn sigh — the herald of a broken heart — she sank 
 lifeless upon the floor. 
 
 The burden was too much for Edna's slender strength, and releasing her arm 
 from beneath the weight, she seized the bell cord, and giving one alarming peal, 
 hastened to apply water and salts to the face of the sufferer- The family and ser- 
 vants, alarmed by the sudden and powerful summons, ran in greatest confusion 
 to learn the cause. All were in the utmost alarm and consternation. Of course 
 nothing was done — Edna, the only one who had retained the least presence of mind, 
 with a quick hand looped back the rich damask curtains at one end of the parlour, 
 and requested two of the servants to raise the stricken c^irl tenderly in their arms, 
 and place her upon her own couch, which occupied a recess within. The father 
 not daring to trust a servant, had himself gone for a physician — the mother hung 
 over her child in speechless anxiety, incapable of the least exertion, whilst Edna, 
 assisted by Carlotta's maid, used every means to restore her to consciousness. 
 
 After a long and fearful struggle she slowly opened her eyes, just at the 
 moment when her parents were perusing the fatal paragraph. Edna sprang to 
 conceal the paper, but too late. Uttering one piercing shriek, she again relapsed 
 into the insensibility of despair. The physician now feared it might terminate in 
 insanity, and the parents hovered around her in tearless, speechless anguish. The 
 Mow was so sudden, so p > rfnl, so intensely aggravated by the iraaaediate 
 
THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 
 
 previous anticipation of unusual happiness, that time only would reveal how deep 
 and endlesa was the wound. 
 
 Meanwhile the evening wore away and the little French clock within the dress- 
 ing-room rang out in musical notes the hour of eleven. 
 
 Suddenly there was heard a slight bustle in the hall below — rapid questions and 
 answers — incoherent exclamations — then hurried footsteps upon the stairs — finally 
 they approached, the door opened, and he whom they mourned stood before them. 
 
 Greeting with a flash of the eye each individual in the apartment, he sprang 
 with one light bound to the side of the couch where lay the still insensible girl, 
 not breathing but gulping forth at shojt intervals low, broken and stifling sighs. 
 Forgetful of all ceremony, he quickly raised her in his arms murmuring " Carlotta 
 — dearest — it is I — your own Theodore," and he wildly kissed her marble broW' — 
 her closed eyes — her pallid cheeks and stiffened lips. 
 
 Again there was a slight relaxation of the rigid features — a little spot of crimscn 
 tinged each cheek and she moaned faintly like a sick child. The enraptured lover 
 pressed her warmly to his bosom, while the physician by signs commanded the 
 utmost quiet. 
 
 At length her lips moved, and Edna, placing her ear close to the lips of the sick 
 girl, heard her faintly Avhisper the name of her lover, with some other half-uttered 
 words ; she evidently was in some degree conscious of the .?ad cause of her 
 present misery. 
 
 " Let her hear your voice now, but in the gentlest tones," said the physician to 
 Theodore. 
 
 Softly, but thrillingly, the young lover pronounced her name and then his own — it 
 was like magic. The mental cloud began to disappear — the golden chord so nearly 
 severed again vibraled in tune and some degree of hope and happiness was re- 
 stored to many aching hearts. 
 
 Two or three days after, tlie same group were gathered in the same apartment, 
 but under circumstances widely different. Still pale and retaining many traces of 
 recent and severe suffering, the beautiful and idolised Carlotta gently inclined 
 among the soft cushions of an easy chair, her loose white robe gathered so neatly at 
 the throat and falling in graoefiil and ample folds over her tall slight figure, con- 
 trasting singularly with her usual splendid atlire. Her lover sat by and gazed 
 upon her with fresh delight — a delight enhanced a thousand fold by the recent two- 
 fold prospect of separation. Edna had drawn an ottoman to her cousin's side, and 
 each expressive feature of her lovely countenance revealed the depth and sincerity 
 of her sympathy. 
 
 Major Trellan, an affectionate, high-minded man, hovered around his daughter 
 with the jealous care with Avhich one would watch a newly recovered treasure, but 
 his lady— a thorough woman of the world — having been assured by the phys'ician 
 that all danger was past, was fast recovering her accustomed state of fashionable 
 indifference. 
 
 The stern command of the medical attendant to afford the invalid perfen quiet 
 was now removed, and Theodore was admitted for the first time since the recogni- 
 tion of him, immediately after which he was forced to leave her. In the interval 
 however, he had lingered about the room, sending frequent assurances of his health' 
 continued affection and such other messages as tended to tranquillise her mind and 
 hasten her recovery. But there still hung over the past a mvsterious cloud which 
 she could not penetrate, and with returning health had increased her impatience 
 to hear from her lover's lips a solution of the difficultv. " Tell me evervthine " 
 she said eagerly. ' ^ ^' 
 
 ''Ah, yes!" replied Theodore, with a slight shudder; " it wa? a terrible mo- 
 ment— none can conceive its horrors but in its actual realisation." 
 
 '' Then it was true that you fell overboard?" asked Carlotta feebly, while her 
 hps grew white, and she seemed ready to faint. ' 
 
 cnll?'f-r;^1';7^"^' V ^°'^? ^'"'^ '^^ ^ ^^ ^^^^^ actually-not spiritually, and to 
 speak of It lightly, as of sornething .quite foreig-i to us, is now dll that is left us '' 
 
THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 
 
 " If one could," she sighed, the tears gathering in her dark passionless eyes^ and 
 ' her hand firmly clasped in his. 
 
 '^ It was entirely an accident," he continued ; " the shock of the cold bath — the 
 deepening roar of the v/ater — the bewildering and vain struggles to catch at some- 
 thing stationary — the distant and confused noise of the ship's crew — the instinctive 
 feeling that tliey wished to save me— were sensations wdiich I can now analyse, but 
 which were then far more rapid and imperfect than we can w^ell imagine. I know 
 not whether I shouted for assistance — I cannot tell whether I did anything to save 
 myself — consciousness departed with the vain effort to speak your name, for some- 
 how I deemed myself near you. After that I had a vague thought that I leaned 
 against something for support — that a powerful arm was heaving me up. When 
 animation was restored, i lay in my own state-room, surrounded by many serious 
 faces ; but nearest and most ai^xious of all was Lord Elwyn, upon whose noble 
 countenance there was an expression of calm and heartfelt satisfaction as I drew 
 several breaths in rapid succession. * He lives — we are repaid,' he said in a tone 
 so gentle that I involuntarily raised my eyes for some fair music. He saved me. 
 By the most incredible exertions he succeeded in reaching me at the last moment, 
 and bore me in his arms a long, long distance. It was told me by those present, 
 that when he came on deck liis strength was so exhausted that he fell prostrate,, 
 and yet so soon did he recover his wonderful self-posses non that when I saw his 
 face bent over mine to catch the first evidence of returning life, it was sweet and 
 unrnilled as the glassy sea in a still summer eve. So vigorous and elastic is bis 
 nature that there remained no trace of his recent unparalleled efforts. And when I 
 souglit to express my gratitude, he replied without the least excitement. ' I need 
 no thanks ; trifling as was the act, it will be a source of joy to me, and I shall no 
 doubt lind your life one worth preserving ;' then rising he left me to the care of 
 my servant. Ah, Carlotta ! I am so impatient to introduce this man to you.'' 
 
 " And I have your impatience," said his betrothed, a slight colour caused by 
 excitement tinging each pale cheek. 
 
 "Lord Elwyn!" suddenly exclaimed Major Trellan to whom Theodoro's enco- 
 miums were a mystery. "Had you so distinguished a passenger in the Clemen- 
 tina ? Does he propose to establish hini'^elf in this city, or is he on a tour of 
 inspection ?" 
 
 " He is none of your travelling scribblers/' replied Theodore, enthusiastically, 
 "but a man, who, if he honours us with his friendship we can but receive and ad- 
 mire. His birth-place — his country — his life are wrapt in profound mystery. He 
 never alludes to the past, his servants never gossip, and notwithstanding the ut- 
 most freedom ©f manner, he and his suite are peifectly impenetrable." 
 
 '*I5 his lordship married or unmarried ?" asked Mrs. Trellan with true womanly 
 curie- v. 
 
 *' i. is impossible to say," replied Theodore, and he again alluded to the child 
 whose i.euuty and grace had made so strong an impression upon himself. 
 
 " We must seek his accquaintance and introduce him as our friend ; it will make 
 a brilliant winter for us," said the abitious mother, glancing- at Carlotta. 
 
 '' We will seek his friendship for its own sake," replied the husband, "if it be 
 so well worth the trouble as our young friend supposes ; at least we must thank 
 him fervently for so nobly risking his life for a stranger, and that stranger one so 
 dear to us-" 
 
 Mrs. Trellan accustomed during her whole life to measure out her smiles or 
 favours according to the position of the recipent in the fashionable scale, was far 
 from satisfied with any ordinary attentions to this new and, as she fancied, bril- 
 liant star in the gay word, but persuaded her husband that Tiieodore's return and 
 Carlotta's restoration would demand of them a grand ball, while her only thought 
 was being the first to invite Lord Elwyn, and she sighed when she thought that 
 he might be unmarried, and Carlotta was already betrothed, for visions of worldly 
 greatness were the only ones that ever entered her mind ; ner glance towards Theo- 
 dore as slie left the apartment was therefore one of mingled reproaeh, sorrow, and 
 delight. 
 
 * 5^ # * « * $ 
 
THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 
 
 The apartments exclusively devoted to Carlotta and Edna — the daughter and 
 niece of Major Trellan, were peculiar in their constmction and arrangement, the 
 result of genuine taste and unsparing wealth. In the centre was a parlour common 
 to both, small but elegant and convenient in structure. Three windows fronted 
 the street and extending to the floor opened upon the upper balcony. A Turkey 
 carpet rivalling in beauty and softness the richest velvet, literally enveloped the fairy 
 feet of the lovely girls with flowers of dazzling brilliancy. Two immense mirrors 
 each moment reflected then* varied and delicate personal charms, while sofas and 
 ottomans each moment invited to mdolent and luxurious repose. 
 
 Opposite the windows, and upon either side of the beautifully carved and orna- 
 mented iire-place, were two damask curtains, heavily fringed, which, when looped 
 up with their golden cords, revealed within two small cabinets, precisely alike, with 
 their miniature libraries, collections of curiosities, beautiful and rare pictures, writing 
 tables, and easy chair?. 
 
 An arched window in the extremity of each was filled with fragrant and trea- 
 sured exotics, and threw a softened and mellow light over the little closets, favour- 
 able in the highest degree to tranquillity and mental enjoyment. 
 
 Upon each side of the parlour were other and larger curtains, concealing two 
 sleeping rooms with luxuriant couches spread with silk of delicate violet. Still 
 within these, and each extremity of the building, were dressing closets well lighted 
 by large windows, while in the sleeping apartment was only admitted a soft 
 twilight. Each bed-roorn also communicated with the cabinet of its occupant. 
 
 Some hours after the conversation detailed, Edna bade her maid light the cabi- 
 net lamp and retire ; after which, as was frequently her custom, she disrobed, 
 threw on a dressing gown, and seated herself for an hour's calm reflection. Her 
 figure was slight, her features regular, slightly rounded and singularly expressive 
 of ingenuous frankness, strong intellectual power, moral greatness, and childlike 
 simplicity. Her eyes were blue and wore that clear, calm, confiding look, which 
 it would be so diflicult to betray. Her hair was of a rich, silky chestnut, and still 
 hung over her fair neck in that simple, natural, wavy ringlets of childhood. But 
 sixteen summers had dawned upon her, but circumstances, powerful and effective 
 in their influence, had produced in her a maturity of thought and feeling belonging 
 to greater years. 
 
 As Edna entered the cabinet, she touched the cordjthat held the curtain separat- 
 ing it from the parlour, and its ample folds swept over the floor concealing her from 
 all intrusion. Then drawing a chair beneath the suspended lamp, she gazed long 
 upon the seal and address of a letter as yet unsealed, as if by the power of her 
 own quick perception to obtain a premonition of its contents. At last she slowly 
 broke the envelope and perused it. Now and then she paused and allowed her 
 head to droop upon her bosom, while tears of sorrow flowed sadly over each pale 
 cheek. Then resuming the paper she read on : 
 
 " Do you remember, dearest, the day of our betrothal — when you, a little angel of 
 eight years, knelt with me beside our parents, and your only surviving one — look- 
 ing into the future with that clearness of perception which the near approach of 
 death gives — prayed for our happiness as we fulfilled his last, his dying wish! 
 Through our long separation how constant has been ray heart to this pledge. Not 
 a thought, not a wish, not a dream of my soul has been given to another, and I 
 have revelled in an excess of bliss when anticipating the hour that would place 
 the happiness of my whole future life in your keeping." 
 
 " I have closed ray course of study — I enter the world as a man. Permit my 
 hand and heart to be my lover's first offering at the shrine it has so long worship- 
 ped. 1 fly to you, Edna, confident that in your gentle bosom there is neither the 
 will nor the pov7er to destroy my long cherished hopes. To-morrow I shall be 
 with you and receive a couiirmation of my wishes." 
 
 *' To-morrow'^" repeated she sadly, "so soon? Ah! Ernest, you know not 
 what you ask, '* and she pressed one small white hand over her eyes as if to shut 
 out the future. 
 
 At this moment a slight rustling eaused her to start, and turning to the entrance 
 
THE DOUBLE COURT&HIP. 
 
 her aunt stood before her. Extending a letter which she held in one hand, and 
 with the other pointing to Edna's which had fallen to the floor in her surprise, she 
 said, with a smile sweet and artless to those who knew her not, " these must be 
 my apology for disturbing you at so late an hour. I have but this moment been 
 able to peruse mine, and I see yours has shared the same fate." 
 
 Surprised and perplexed, Edna replied, — 
 
 *' Then you have received an intimation of— of — his intention to return.'* 
 
 '' And of his desire for the immediate consummation of your father's last com,- 
 mand," continued Mrs. Trellan, weighing well the import and effect of her words. 
 
 *' My father did not command me," said Edna, gently but proudly. 
 
 " Pardon me, my dear," replied Mrs. Trellan, (juickly in a tone of conciliation, 
 " I only refer to his last wish — to your betrothal. Timidity, no doubt, prevents 
 you from speaking with me freely, but you of course are faithful to your pledge, 
 and will appoint an early day for its fulfilment. My son expresses himself 
 Avarmly, and begs the delay may be as brief as possible." 
 
 During this speech Edna's countenance had gradaally assumed its wonted 
 serenity, and she replied firmly, — 
 
 *' Ernest is far too noble, too generous and confiding to be wilfully deceived. I 
 respect, I admire him ; but as yet I love him not. Without that, my hand would 
 be a worthless bauble." 
 
 " But your pledge — you surely will redeem that," said Mrs. Trellan, earnestly, 
 for visions of the loss of Edna's immense inheritance floated before her imagirsation. 
 
 " As a child," fearlessly continued the noble girl, " I loved my cousin Ernest 
 more than anything else, but it was with a pure sister's love. Time and a deeper 
 knowledge of my own nature have since revealed this to me. I am conscious that 
 there is a life within, a slumbering fountain which he has never approached. Till 
 that is accomplished I must remain free." 
 
 A frown had gradually gathered over the fair brow of the aunt, and as if fearful 
 of her power of self-control, she bent her head for some moments upon her hand, 
 and then said with apparent mildness and candour, — 
 
 " There is something concealed, some other attachment probably. Fear not to 
 trust me, my love. You know I would be the last to urge you to the fulfilment of 
 this promise, sacred though it be, and much as 1 know that Ernest's future happi- 
 ness, nay his very life, may depend upon it. Come, trust your secret with me." 
 
 " I have already replied to you,'' said Edna, not for an instant thrown off her 
 guard by this insinuating address. " You well know that I have no other lover. 
 Nothing prevents my acceptance of Ernest's offer but my exalted idea of true love. 
 Let this subject be dropped between us, 1 beseech you. I shall frankly express my 
 feelings to Ernest, and 1 have tlj^ confidence in his honour which leaves me not a 
 doubt that he will voluntarily relinquish a hand which will bear with it no heart." 
 
 " If he should not prove thus disinterested^" interrogated the proud woman 
 with a keen glance of her dark eye. Edna started. She had not conceived a 
 possibility of this. A lofty courage prompted her reply. 
 
 " Then I will gladly rid myself of the attentions of a man, who proves himself 
 destitute of all that is noble and great — who shows that he neither loves nor knows 
 the value of affection in another. But I know him better. He will, at my request, 
 delay it a year or two, and in the mean-time " 
 
 <' Yes I in the mean-time Avhat will happen V angrily demanded her aunt. 
 
 ** I shall, in loving him, decide to be his bride, or attain the age when my person 
 and property will be independent of the control of my uncle," replied Edna. 
 
 Mrs. Trellan was surprised, disconcerted. During the eight years of Edna's 
 residence with thern she had been the pattern of submission and obedience. For 
 the first time her actual strength and firmness were tested; and to her aunt, who had 
 only looked for a passive instrument to her will, it was a new and wholly unpre- 
 pared state of things. Ten thousand jealousies flitted across her mind, and she 
 feared that, notwithstanding her well laid and successful plot, Edna and her fortune 
 would escape her. But an open rupture was no part of her policy, and smothering 
 all her vexations, she gracefully rose from the pile of cushions, on which she had 
 
8 THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 
 
 thrown herself upon her entrance, and putting back the fair curls of her husbands 
 •ward, kissed her brow, and said smilingly, — 
 
 "Fear not — all shall be as you wish— I could not find it in my heart to deny 
 you anything. Ernest loves you so tenderly that you will not, you cannot resist 
 the pleasure of returning it. Retire now, my love, and let him find fresh roses upon 
 your cheeks to-morrow." 
 
 Long and calmy reflected the young girl when once again left in solitude. She 
 could love — she was conscious of it — yet she never had loved, and she was sure 
 that Ernest was not destined to reveal to her that one great source of life's joy and 
 bitterness. " To-morrow !" she again repeated slowly and sadly, as she pressed 
 her soft pillow and sought to forget in the dreams of sleep the bitter waking 
 reality. 
 
 The morrow came and with it Ernest Trelan. He was a fine, generous, ardent, 
 noble youth. Nature had given him intellect, a large share of what the world calls 
 common sense, yet withal, a glowing imagination strongly tinctured with romance. 
 This singular organisation had hitherto preserved him from the trifling, somewhat 
 debasing, and other ruinous love affairs common to his class ; for while he sought 
 no mystery and wag not vain of such exploits, he had formed and bore about in his 
 own mind and ideal form of beauty and grace upon which he ever loved to dwell. 
 Thus pure-hearted and sincere, as he clasped the two hands of his cousin in his own 
 and kissed her lips affectionately, Edna felt instinctively that it was only prompted 
 by fraternal love. 
 
 For an instant her heart was so lightened of its burden of anxiety that a sweet 
 musical laugh rang from her lips, and she moved quickly and gaily about, like one 
 whose happiness is suddenly completed. 
 
 *' Your letters preceded you by so short a time that we were not quite prepared 
 to receive you as we wished," said the lady mother, glancing quickly and search- 
 ingly at Edna. Instantly her brow saddened, tlie colour faded little by little from 
 her face, and the conviction returned with all its force, that he was her betrothed. 
 That thought which should have brought with it present Joy, hope for the future, 
 with visions of love and mutual confidence, had already made her prematurely 
 thoughtful, and threw a cloud over all her future life. Gradually she retired 
 within herself, and at the expiration of two hours went to her cabinet, requesting 
 Luna to see that she suftered no intrusion upon her privacy. 
 
 How keenly did she feel the loneliness of her situation ! Her uncle was kind, 
 indulgent, and fatherly, but adored his son, and regarded their engagemen*: as a 
 thing established beyond a doubt, of course no change could possibly be effected. 
 He was one of those correct, upright, honourable, matter-of-fact standard men, to 
 whom one would never appeal in an afi'air of the heart. 
 
 Carlotta, her adopted sister, the playmate ot her childhood, the companion of 
 the present, had a thousand reasons for desiring the union, and of course it was of 
 no avail to apjical for her influence. Her aunt — deeply artful, intriguing, smooth 
 and complaisant to all, yet possessing a mean, low curiosity and an insatible desire 
 to control the actions of others — would exert every influence, good or bad, to 
 bring about this event. 
 
 Thus isolated from the sympathy which she should have received, there 
 was left her but one resource. Taking a slip of paper she wrote the following 
 sentence. 
 
 " Will my cousin Ernest bestow upon me in my cabinet, an hour of his leisure, 
 and thus greatly oblige Edna?'* 
 
 The bell summoned Luna, to whom she entrusted the note with an injunction 
 to deliver it only to Ernest. Artless, ignorant of all intrigue, the girl received 
 both the letter and command, utterly unconscious of the value of either. Tripping 
 hastily over the stairs, she was about to seek for Ernest in one of the parlours, 
 when Mrs. Trellan, whose sharp eye nothing escaped, spied a corner of the note 
 in her hand, and caressingly smoothing her hair, while speaking a few honied 
 words, she had taken and hastily read it, ere Luna was aware of it. Suddenly 
 
THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 
 
 9 
 
 recollecting Edna's command, she hastened to atone by her despatch for the fault 
 of betrayal. 
 
 " I will show you where he is," caid Mrs. Trellan, leading the way to her 
 private sitting-room, ut the same time murmuring to herself, ^'surely ray plan 
 cannot fail.'* 
 
 As Ernest perused the note, he rose with great politeness to comply ; but there 
 was not in his movements that quick, ardent expression indicative of a lorer flying 
 to the one beloved— it was rather an amiable desire to oblige. 
 
 Not a thought escaped the notice of his mother, and bidding Luna go, she 
 begged the privilege of seeing the note, and as she returned it, said, — 
 
 " You see her impatience ; this, there/ore, confirms ray statement that her 
 affection, or rather passion for you kad assumed that all-engrossing form which 
 will ruin her, were it not actualised. You know how dear Edna is to us, how 
 No. 2. 
 
THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 
 
 closely her happiness and interests are interwoven with our own, and how intense 
 is our desire that her fortune and herself — by far the greater treasure — should 
 never pass to a stranger. You will fulfil your engagement, my son ?" 
 
 " My word has been given — I am prepared to redeem it," he replied, almost 
 coldly, then as if recollecting himself, said, — 
 
 " Edna is lovely, surpassingly so — surely I shall love her." 
 
 " You cannot do otherwise, when she so evidently clings to you," replied the 
 artful woman, as with a slow step and thoughtful air he left the room. 
 
 Edna received her cousin at the door of her parlour, and leading him into the 
 cabinet, let the curtain fall after them. Retiring within the recess of the window, 
 Edna took her favourite seat and pointed to a chair near for her friend. 
 
 i' I may now be permitted a nearer station," he said, kneeling beside her, and 
 encircling with his arm her slender form. 
 
 For a single instant her head rested upon his shoulder, as if luxuriating in tlie 
 confidence and friendship so ardently desired and so long denied. Then releasing 
 herself from his momentary embrace, she said almost tearfully, — 
 
 " Forgive this indiscretion, I have no other friend, and must confide to you that 
 which would else remain a secret in my own bosom. I will not attempt to mis- 
 understand the contents of your letter. It is this, in fact, which forces me to 
 reveal the true sentiments of my heart. For years " 
 
 ** Ernest ! Ernest !" resounded in loud, impatient tones throughout the house , 
 and quick, heavy footsteps were heard approaching the cabinet. Instantly the 
 young man started from his lowly and loving position, and putting aside the cur- 
 tain met his father, who, with an expression of the greatest anxiety and haste, 
 begged his son to come that moment to his study. 
 
 It was a small dull looking room, chosen for its quiet location, and finished with 
 more attention to order, convenience and despatch of business, than comfort or 
 luxury. A large table, near which stood two|arm chairs, was covered with papers, 
 the light from a single window throwing a sombre aspect over the apartment. 
 
 Seating himself hastily by the table. Major Trellan pointed to the other chair 
 for his son, and said, — 
 
 " I cannot express to you how sincerely I regret to interrupt an interview so long 
 and fondly anticipated, but I am compelled, by the most urgent motives. A 
 letter has just reached me, giving the infoimation of the probable failure of the 
 house of Wildon, Strong and Co., Charleston, S. C, in which you know I am 
 interested to a considerable amount. My presence there is absolutely necessary, 
 but as an affair equally indispensible detains me in this city, you must act in my 
 place. Can you consent to forego the pleasures of love for a season, and become 
 the drudge of business V 
 
 " With the greatest pleasure. 1 am entirely at your service," replied Ernest, 
 with a sudden feeling of relief. 
 
 I appreciate your self-denial, I assure you, and shall not soon forget it," said 
 Major Trellan, aff'ectionately. 
 
 " Think not of that, my dear father, but explain to me the particulars, and com- 
 mand me to the utmost." 
 
 " Your departure must be immediate," continued the father, after a long list o^ 
 instructions, " are you prepared for that V* 
 
 "For anything — at a moment's warning," replied his son ; "let him but speak 
 an adieu with Edna — you will make my farewell to my brother and sister,*' 
 
 In a moment he stood before Edna, saying, hastilj^, — 
 
 " I must leave you— you will pardon me. The case is an indispensable one, 
 and my father will explain. Adieu, adieu," .ind he quickly kissed her fair brow, 
 and was gone. ^ 
 
 *' Providence favours me," murmured the young girl, as looking upward, she 
 gathered fresh courage for the future. 
 
 An after-thought caused the tears to gather in her beautiful eyes. 
 
THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 11 
 
 "His heart is a noble one," she continued, mentally, *' and I fear that my 
 coldness has wounded it. I will learn his address and write him, that on his 
 return there may he no more disappointment." 
 
 It was a wise resolution, but it availed her little. 
 
 CHAPTER II, 
 
 LORD ELWYN. 
 
 Upon the day of the Clementina's arrival in New York, there might have been 
 seen upon the wharf awaiting the landing of her passengers, a plain, dark carriage, 
 rich in all its appearances, and drawn by two spirited animals, whose fiery impa- 
 tience was easily and gracefully restrained by an accomplished groom. 
 
 Standing beside the carriage, was a man of some thirty-five years, of moderate 
 stature, well-dressed, and whose only remarkable feature was an impenetrable 
 countenance. He rephed to the remarks of his companion, or the passing jokes 
 of those about him, with the single word " doubtless," each time pronounced with 
 the same inconceivable air of important pre-occupation, while his eyes were un- 
 waveringly fixed upon some distant object. 
 
 Suddenly something very like a smile of satisfaction gleamed across his marble 
 countenance, and raising his band with a peculiar sign to the coachman, he darted 
 forward, by the rapidity and ease of his movements parted the crowd without 
 difficulty, and a moment after, bowed low, cap in hand, to a group of persons just 
 landed. 
 
 " Ah, Lobo ! all well — all right ?" asked a tall, elegant man with an air of con- 
 fiding kindness. 
 
 " Doubtless, my lord," replied the servant, making for them a path to the 
 carriage. 
 
 Lord Elwyn, with gentle tenderness, lifted the sweet Lira in, and entering him- 
 self, was soon followed by a strange looking woman, assisted by Lobo. 
 
 Passing through many streets, they stopped before a new and stately mansion. 
 Lobo arrived at the same moment, with the remainder of the suite. Lord Elwyn 
 placed his foot upon the step, and with one glance, taking a survey of the whole, 
 he gave his hand to Lobo as he descended, saying, — 
 
 " This is well, my friend." 
 
 Again a momentary gleam of pleasure lit up the impassable countenance, but 
 so transient that it was evident even this was not permitted except on the most 
 extraordinary occasions. Clasping the hand of the child in his own, to protect her 
 from the officiousness of the servants. Lord Elwyn passed under the arched 
 gateway, up the broad steps, and entered the ample hall, where he kindly greeted, 
 with a look of profound interest and satisfaction, those of his household who were 
 gathered there. 
 
 Ascending to the second floor and passing to the left wing, Lobo threw open the 
 doors of a suite of apartments, furnished in oriental style. The first was only a 
 closet, with mats and various conveniences for depositing wearing apparel. The 
 next and principal room was long, low, its floor covered with the richest^of Indian 
 matting, the walls hung with silk of delicate, rose-ground and orange flowers, and 
 from the centre was suspended a magnificent silver candelabra, upon whose tiny 
 fingers burned a hundred wax tapers, among which which were scattered number- 
 less crystals, reflecting and varying the soft lights in a thousand different forms. 
 Raised mats, more beautiful than the others, and pilss of cushions were sufiicient 
 places for repose. 
 
12 THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP, 
 
 At the extremity of the apartment, folding doors of glass opened into a rich 
 conservatory, from which Lira seemed to inhale the fragrant odours of her native 
 land, for after glancing quickly round the room, her face became deeply flushed 
 with an uncontrolable impulse of joy. and uttering in her Gwn language an excla- 
 mation of delight, she released herself from Lord Elwyn, darted into the conser- 
 vatory and buried her face and arms among the branches of her favourite 
 trees 
 
 At that instant Lobo touched what seemed to be a spring fixed in a part of the 
 wall covered with rosewood, and there burst upon the ears of the delighted child a 
 =itrain of rich melody. A moment she listened in silence, then returned to Lord 
 Elwyn, who meanwhile had sat down, and who now opened his arms to receive 
 her, laid her head languidly upon his bosom and soon, with a smile of ineffable 
 sweetness sank into a profound slumber. Forgetful of himself and unmindful of 
 the presence of Juana, her attendant. Lord Elwyn seemed completely absorbed 
 in contemplating the sweet maiden, who had so suddenly found herself amongest 
 flowers she loved, and in an apartment whose almost every aspect was familiar to 
 her, and who now lay sleeping as quietly in his arms, as if he had been her guard- 
 ian angel. At length he bade Juana pile up the cushions for her head, and 
 gently releasing himself from her embrace, left the room, evidently somewhat 
 agitated. 
 
 Preceded by Lobo, he traversed the halls, saloons, private parlours, and at 
 length reached his own rooms in the opposite wing. Here everything bespoke the 
 man of wealth, of genius, and of intellect. An elegant library, evidently intended 
 for use, sitting-room, sleeping, dressing and bathing apartments, each and all pre- 
 sented that perfect combination of the useful, the refined and the luxurious, which 
 is only to be found among the wealthy classes, and, alas ! how seldom even there 
 from the absence of the refinement of soul to produce it. 
 
 A dressing-room furnished with numerous complete suits of dies?, of varied 
 texture and fashion, arrested his attention, [and was examined with some scrutiny. 
 This ended, he said to 1^010,— 
 
 ** I should imagine IJhad arranged everything myself, so perfectly am 1 satisfied," 
 
 The servant bowed and replied, — 
 
 "Doubtless, m.y lord, your mind was in me acting." 
 
 '*And the other arrangements— the cottage — the ," asked the master. 
 
 " Your commands are obeyed — when will your lordship see them?" 
 
 '* To-morrow," replied Lord Elwyn, carelessly, then added, "you are prince of 
 valets, Lobo." 
 
 " And your lordship the king of masters," respectfully returned the man. 
 
 " This is an extraordinary occasion, and I pardon you the flattery," said Lord 
 Elwyn, gravely, yet kindly, and then proceeded to his bath. Dinner was soon 
 announced, at which Lord Ehvyn sat alone. Lira having requested to have hers 
 in her own apartment. 
 
 Lord Elwyn, with a view to a protracted residence in thi« country, had dis- 
 patched Lobo, his confidential servant, with a few assistants, sorue time in ad- 
 vance, with orders to have everything completed upon his arrival. It was never 
 Lobo's custom to ask a reason, he always obeyed punctually, faithfully, the very 
 letter and spirit of ihe command, without demanding why. He neither thought, 
 felt, or lived for himself, but was, in fact, his master's instrument, seldom speaking 
 unless reduced to the last extremity. Such as he was he had made himself invaluable 
 to Lord Ehvyn, who was, in fact, precisely in the right, when he called him the 
 *' prince of valets." 
 
 Lord Elwyn's household consisted of foreign servants who had been with him 
 sufficiently long to learn quiet and implicit obedience, but as none of them were 
 acquainted with his past history or present plans, it was impossible that they 
 should gossip. Well paid, and living in a degree of luxury and case above even 
 the middle class of artisans in this country, they were quite satisfied with their 
 mode of life, without indulging a curiosity which they were aware would prove 
 f^tal to them* 
 
THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 13 
 
 Lobo had indeed been seized with a fit of surprise quite unusual for him, when 
 he received orders to prepare a suit of apartments for a young mistress, and his 
 .passive, almost immoveable eyes dilated a litile when they rested upon her fair 
 i'axie, but to have spoken of her, either to his master or companions, would have 
 seemed to him the height of extravagance. 
 
 It was on the sixth morning after Lord Elwyn's arrival, that the doors of his 
 library were thrown open, and Mr. Montrevor announced with much ceremony. 
 Without formality, but with dignity and grace, the noble host extended his hand, 
 and greeted cordially the companion of his late voyage, the stranger for whom he 
 had so generously risked his own life. There was no idle speech making between 
 them. Each felt that in the other he had gained a true and sincere friend, with 
 whom it was worse than useless to stand on forms. Theodore had many expres- 
 sions of gratitude to offer, Lord Elwyn a variety of questions to ask, and the time 
 glided imperceptibly by till dinner was announced. No excuse vvould be taken, 
 and Theodore remained. Their conversation turned upon the cousins, and 
 Theodore hesitated not to speak of the relation existing between Carlotta and 
 himself. 
 
 Scarcely had Lord Elwyn dismissed the servants who waited at table, and was, 
 with his fiiend, discussing'a dessert of imported fruits, when the door bell rang 
 violently, and soon the sounds of an angry altercation reached them. With a 
 smile peculiar to himself, and full of meaning, he said, — 
 
 " Listen, you will hear how my servants ft ar to disobey me.'' 
 
 The voices became louder, the usually suppressed and monotonous replies of 
 Lobo grew more and more distinct till the conversation was heard without effort. 
 
 "I tell you," said one, who seemed to have been elected speaker on the 
 occasion, " that we have come on a visit to Lord Elwyn, your master, show 
 us in at once." 
 
 " I cannot — your names are not on the list, and no others are to be admitted. 
 This is his command." 
 
 " But we wish to &ee him— we honour him with a call." 
 
 " Doubtless, sirs." 
 
 *' Then show us in — why delay ?" 
 
 **I dare not disobey orders." 
 
 '*Do as we wish, and we will take the consequences upon ourselves." 
 
 " I cannot," 
 
 *' You must.*' 
 
 " I will not." 
 
 Here was heard the sound of a slight scuffle and Lord Elwin placed his hand 
 upon the bell to summon some one to his assistance, but ere he accomplished it 
 three men in plain black suits entered indiscriminately, in their baste completely 
 overturning Lobo, who instantly recovered himself, and bowed to his master, 
 saying in a low voice, " pardon, my lord, not m.y fault," and moved near the door, 
 to await further orders. 
 
 Meanwhile Lord Elwyn and Theodore had both risen and bowed ooldly and 
 ceremoniously to the intruders, and the latter had again seated himself, having 
 been invited by a look from his host to do so, 
 
 With lofty dignity, Lord Elwyn said, — 
 
 " I know not why I am thus honoured. Some extraordinary circumstance 
 alone could have induced these gentlemen to usher themselves in. I await their 
 commands." 
 
 These men, who on entering had entirely changed ther domineering boldness, 
 for an aspect of cringing servihty, forgot to reply immediately, but continued 
 staring at the stranger with distended eyes and impertinent curiosity, as if to inhale 
 at one draught a full dose of foreign nobility. 
 
 At length one said vehemently, at the same time rubbing a bruised hand and 
 pointing to Lobo, "Why do you keep such an unmannerly watch at your door ? 
 I told him that we came to call upon you— that we of course wished to see your 
 lordsJiip, but th.3 fellow refused t.o admit us. We are not accmtomed to he so 
 treated/' 
 
14 THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 
 
 " He obeyed his orders, sirs," replied Lord Elwyn, in a tone of lofty contempt, 
 *' and will do so again. Lobo, show these gentlemen out, and if need be ring for 
 assistance," and taking Theodore's aim, passed into another apartment. 
 
 Throwing open the door to these men, Lobo bowed low, expecting they would 
 immediately pass out ; instead of that, however, they whispered among themselves 
 a moment, and then with determined countenances walked towards the door 
 through which the two friends had disappeared. 
 
 The bell instantly brought five or six men from below. 
 
 "Silence!" exclaimed Lord Elwyn, as visitors and servants rushed into the 
 apartment to which he had retreated, '' Mr. Montrevor, my friend, does your ac- 
 quaintance extend to these gentlemen V 
 
 ♦' Not my acquaintance," replied Theodore again bowing to them, '' but I believe 
 I can inform your lordship of their names." 
 
 "The servant can do that," said Lord Elwyn, quickly, "Lobo, Marcellus " 
 
 " Excuse us, sir, — my lord, I mean — for insisting upon an interview, but we 
 have not yet obeyed the instructions given us. There is to be a public dinner and 
 we are a committee sent by the '* 
 
 " Lobo — Marcellus," interrupted Lord Elwyn, with a very significant motion of 
 the hand, " on your lives permit me not again to be disturbed." Then with a 
 glance of icy coldness and withering hauteur, he again retired with Theodore, but 
 this time it was to his private apartments, where a double lock eflfectually secured 
 them. 
 
 " Ah," said Theodore, blushing for his native city, " we are not all thus. New 
 York has many right noble souls who will be proud to bestow upon you their 
 refined and sincere hospitality. You will not judge us by these impertinent 
 mtruders !" 
 
 " Fear not," replied his host, with great kindness, " there are everywhere men 
 go hivish of their own time, that they feel not the least hesitation in making the 
 most unwarrantable demands upon that of others. New York is by no means 
 alone in the possession of such individuals." 
 
 Lobo came at this moment to say that all was now quiet, and was ordered to 
 take the remainder of their dessert to the library, after which it was agreed that 
 they should visit the cousins, Carlotta being once more able to receive visitors. 
 « » * * * * 
 
 For the first time since the sudden shock she had received, Carlotta Trellan came 
 below leaning upon the arm of her cousin. A slight paleness added to the deli- 
 cate clearness of her complexion. Her full black eyes, which when excited, re- 
 vealed a world of passion and ambition, now tranquilly reposed in their clear 
 crystal depths, with an expression of trusting love. Her luxuriant hair, soft and 
 black, was knotted behind with splendid diamonds, and lay in small ringlets on 
 either cheek. 
 
 The cousins were similarly dressed in figured silk, witli trimmings of blonde and 
 the richest ornaments. 
 
 Carlotta was tall, commanding with that dignified movement and imperious ges- 
 ture, which at once impressed the beholder with her fancied superiority. She had 
 long been the aeknowlecged belle of the city, and it was a position in which she 
 was perfectly at home. 
 
 Both were mtellectually rich, with this difi'erence. Carlotta dwelt with intense 
 delight upon the glittering past, upon revelations of royalty and high life. Edna 
 really cultivated her mind by storing it with useful knowledge, while the refined 
 and elegant accomplishments of her station were by no means neglected. Of 
 poetry, each was equally fond in her own way. Both were proficient in music, 
 and while Carlotta somewhat languidly drew her fingers over her haip, Edna re- 
 clined beside her with that unaffected sunplicily which in her was perfect grace. 
 
 Suddenly pausing, Carlotta said, — 
 
 " You are sad to-night, Edna. Is it possible that the sudden departure of 
 Ernest is the cause ? — His absence is not usually such an affliction ?" 
 
THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. lo 
 
 Something like a smothered sigh escaped the lips of the pensive girl as she 
 replied,— 
 
 " I know not why, but I cannot avoid Hie feeling that some important and un- 
 expected event is about to occur. I have a presentiment that our life, hitherto so 
 peaceful and loving, is about to suffer some rude innovation — perhaps we shall 
 be separated." 
 
 " Don't spoil your beauty by dreaming — dreamers are always pale and spiritless. 
 Come, my love, be gay and I m\\ play you a lively air.'* 
 
 But in spite of herself, her cousin's sadness infected her, and it died away un- 
 finished, as she said impatiently, — 
 " I wonder where Theodore is to-day ?" 
 
 " Here," said a manly voice behind her, and without ceremony Theodore 
 intruduced Lord Elwyn. Laying aside her harp, and rising with a grace that 
 displayed to advantage her elegant figure, Carlotta gave a hand to each, saying, 
 with an expression of fervent gratitude, her eyes swimming in tears, 
 
 *' I owe you much, my lord, and must for ever remain your debtor, my life even 
 you have preserved by your success in saving that of my friend." And then 
 turning to Edna she added, ** Permit me to present to you, my cousin, my adopted 
 sister." 
 
 The ceremonies of introduction being over, intelligent and refined conversation 
 supplied their place. Acquaintance — which in unsocial or barren-minded persons 
 would have been the result of time and many favourable circumstances — made 
 rapid strides among these four individuals. Carlotta, accustomed ever to be the 
 brilliant leader in all companies, was doubly animated by the presence of her lover 
 and the distinguished stranger, who she felt instinctively, at once appreciated 
 each sentiment that flowed from her lips, as well as every varying emotion de- 
 picted in her charming countenance. She was vain, it was not however that vanity 
 which stoops to deception, but that which seeks to expose its whole wealth and is 
 only repaid by the sincere admiration of every beholder. Without any fixed 
 plan, it was evidently Carlotta's impulse to charm Lord Elwyn, and in so d ong 
 she developed her natural character. 
 
 Theodore, confiding, ingenuous and loving, feasted upon the heightened charms 
 of his betrothed bride, and secretly rejoiced that the anticipations he had raised in 
 Lord Elwyn's mind were not to be disappointed. 
 
 Edna was somewhat cast into the shade by all this display, and taking her em- 
 broidery stand retired to a low window seat, and was rather a listener than a partici- 
 pant in the conversation. She, however, received a glance now and then from their 
 visitor which proved that he was not forgetful of her presence, while the sweet smile 
 that occasionally played about her mouth, and the thoughts that he read in her 
 eyes were more to him than all the words she would have spoken. 
 
 ' On the other hand, all were enchanted with Lord Elwyn. The chief charm of 
 his conversation consisted in the delicious melody of his voice, always in exact 
 harmony with the nerves of his hearers, and the perfect adaptation of all he said to 
 the place, the occasion, and the persons addressed, 
 
 " And what attraction was there sufficiently powerful to bring you from the old 
 world — to us so completely new?" asked Carlotta, with that refined curiosity per- 
 mitted even in the best society, and conscious that it was a change she never should 
 have made. 
 
 '' Ah ! if I had known the attractions here !" replied Lord Elwyn, bowing to the 
 ladies with profound admiration, but with a countenance which neither could 
 penetrate. 
 
 " Reserve your admiration, ray lord," continued Carlotta, without noticing his 
 concise answer, " we hope to show you our western world of beauty this day 
 week, if you honour our ball with your presence," 
 
 " New York is celebrated the world over for the beauty of its ladies," said he, 
 *' but I had hardly hoped that Dame Fortune, capricious as she is, would permit 
 me at once to behold her most lovely daughters." 
 After a call, the length of which defied all fashionable rules, the gentlemen 
 
^16 THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 
 
 departed. — Lord Elwyn had produced in the heart of each of the fair girls an 
 impression strong but widely different. 
 
 " Is he not splendid ?" exclaimed Carlotta, as v/ith a flushed cheek and flashing 
 eye she again resumed her seat by Edna. *' I avow it frankly, I sliould adore 
 sucli a man for my husband ; now tell me your opinion," 
 
 '* I can hardly form one on so slight an acquaintance," replied Edna, quietly, but 
 I fancied I could read in every feature and expression of his countenance, a con- 
 iirmation of Theodore's statement respecting him. I think he possesses a noble 
 soul. But," she added thoughtfully, "will it not be wiser for us, to think little of 
 him? A few weeks will witness your union with Theodore, and I — , I — /'here 
 she hesitated and blushed deeply. 
 
 ** And you too are betrothed, can you not speak it J" retorted Carlotta, gaily 
 attributing her confusion to a wrong cause. 
 
 Unaccustomed to deceive, Edna's countenance indicated a severe internal 
 struggle, but feelyag that the moment had not arrived for an unreserved statement 
 of her sentiments, she only said abstractedly, " Yes, I, too, am betrothed," and 
 pushing aside her embroidery, retired to her room to write to her cousin Ernest the 
 long dreaded and therefore delayed letter. 
 
 Carlotta, meanwhile, went to relate to her mother the particulars of the visit and 
 express her unbounded admiration of Lord Elwyn. 
 
 CHAPTER 111. 
 
 THE FATK OF A LKTTER AND THE RESULTS OF A BALL. 
 
 The first rays of approaching day faintly struggled through the closed curtains 
 ere Edna finished her weary task ; at length, however, two closely written sheets 
 were folded in the envelope, firmly sealed, and the young girl summoned her 
 attendant even at this unsual hour, entrusted it to her care, and bidding her see that 
 she was not disturbed for several hours, threw herself upon her silken couch. 
 
 Luna slowly descended the stairs, balancing the heavy letter upon her fingers, 
 and wondering in her own mind why her young mistress should set up all 
 night merely to write a letter. Entering the hall which opened into the streets, 
 she deposited it in a curiously wrought ivory basket, which always stood upon the 
 table to receive the let:ers of the household, which, when collected, were conveyed 
 to the post-ofiice by a trusty servant. Warbling a familiar song, Luna returned 
 with a hght step to her apartment, anticipating with pleasure, the additional nap 
 she would have ere she would be wanted. 
 
 When all was again still, a side door gently opened, and an individual appeared, 
 who, either for her good or bad qualities, deserves a moment's consideration. In 
 person she was rather tall, and possessed that kind of second-rate gentility which 
 arises from seeing, but not mingling with really genteel society, that artificial 
 refinement which is only a cloak to the actual vulgarity of the mind. Her fea- 
 tures were not bad, though sharp, and her eyes evinced a thorough knowledge of 
 at least, the wickedness of the w'orld. They were black, restless, piercing, and 
 could be made, at times, to assume a soft, coquettish languor. Beneath their 
 assumed expression of frankness and simplicity, there existed a deep-rooted, 
 cunning selfishness. 
 
 When dressed with her usual gaiety, she seemed not more than twenty years of 
 age, but now, in the most vulgar dishabille, and in the grey morning light, she 
 looked thirty-five. She had been startled from her light slumbers by Edna's bell 
 at so unusual an hour, and through the key-hole had seen Luna deposit a letter in 
 the basket. 
 
THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 
 
 17 
 
 With a smile of triumph she eagerly seized it, and quickly returning, muttered 
 to herself, " I will serve myself first this time, at least." Kmdling a fire in her 
 apartment, she quickly produced sone boiling water, and suspending the letter over 
 it, the wafer soon parted ; after which she began patiently to peruse its closely 
 written pages. This personage was Mrs. Trellan's maid, Bertha, a servant pe- 
 culiarly suited to the mistress. 
 
 v^-^.. 
 
 " I have a double part to play,'* she soliloquised, ** but as for Miss Edna's 
 money, it shall not all go to these proud people, though 1 must seem to work for it, 
 or I lose my place. The period that I have been so long anticipating is fast ap- 
 proaching. This new lord, too, I must watch ; such characters are always for- 
 tune hunters, and soon learn which of the girls have full purses. I have toiled six- 
 teen years for an object which seems now aleiost within my grasp, and I will not 
 be disappointed. 
 No. 3. 
 
18 " THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 
 
 In such disinterested cogitations the morning wore away, till Mrs. Trellan's 
 bell summoned her. Taking the letter which she had again neatly sealed, she 
 proceeded to the luxurious dressing room of that lady — It was perfectly in keeping 
 with her character. 
 
 Mrs. Trellan was indolent, extravagant, and ambitious. The first and the last 
 
 these characteristics were in a constant state of antagonism. To gratify the re- 
 ainingone, — her boundless love of display, — she must have money, and to get it 
 she descended to every mean artifice. Edna's immeupe property — descended to 
 her through her mother, a noble English lady, who died at her birth, and some- 
 what improved by her father in mercantile speculations, — was a theme which never 
 slept in her mind. The agonies of death would not have been more unendurable to her, 
 than even the distant prospect of its passing to another than a member of her own 
 family. 
 
 To accomplish the union between her son and her niece was, therefore, her 
 darling scheme, and nothing was left undone to secure the prize. 
 
 Letters had been intercepted, read, and others of a character more congenial sub- 
 stituted in their places. To each had been urged the all-engrossing passion of the 
 other, and the sacredness of the pledge won from them when mere children, and 
 under the most trying circumstances. Long separated, with no means of free, 
 ingenuous intercourse ard confidence, they were mutually deceived, each fearing to 
 fatally wound the heart of the other by a full disclosure of their real sentiments. 
 To keep them thus ignorant was now the aim of the artful woman, assisted by one 
 who, as we have seen, would or would not labour to accomplish this object, as it 
 did or did not suit her private purposes. 
 
 It was wiih pleasure, therefore, that Mrs. Trellan received the newly intercepted 
 epistle from the hands of this woman, who had been for years a successful imitator 
 of writing, and never yet been detected. 
 
 " Here will be work for you. Bertha," said the worthy mistress, after perusing 
 it, " this must never go ; it would ruin all our plans. I thank you much for bring- 
 ing it ; you shall have this bracelet, only don't wear it at present, because my 
 daughter has one like it and perhaps she would disapprove." 
 
 A brightired spot glowed upon Bertha's cheek, and turning away she murmured 
 to herself, *'I am not bought so," 
 
 Nevertheless her mistress's eyes were upon the letter, and she saw nought of all 
 t; is, but continued, 
 
 " In a fortnight this must reach him, and that will please me ; meanwhile there 
 are a thousand preparations lo be completed for our ball, which I can trust to no 
 one but you," and she went on giving directions with the ease and nobility of one 
 accustomed to be obeyed. But the woman was sullen ; she had not been well paid, 
 and resolved to l«t the next letter pass without interference. 
 
 The long anticipated day at length arrived and immense preparations were made 
 for the reception of the world, so called. The brilliantly lighted apartments, — the 
 gaily dressed groups each moment arriving — the enchanting music a little in the 
 di>tance — the lovers wandering arm in arm forgetful of all but themselves — the 
 political papas in earnest discussion upon the tariff and free trade — the ambitious 
 mammas so delighted to sit in a row and admire their young charges, and the well- 
 trained servants moving noiselessly here and there to execute the multiplicity of 
 commands — were but parts in this grand panorama of life, gaiety, and beauty. 
 
 A distinguished foreigner was announced. Instantaneously each gentleman as- 
 sumed the most dignified attitude, and each lady put on her most becoming and 
 graceful smiles. Whatever was expected, Lord Ehvyn proved to be merely a 
 well-bred, unostentatious man, simply dressed in a suit of brown, with a prettily 
 flow^ered Indian scarf tied carelessly about his neck, leaving his collar to fall as it 
 "Would, and his throat exposed to the night air. To the infinite surprise of all, he 
 came on foot and unattended. 
 
 Cordially exchanging salutations Avith Major Trellan and his lady, he passed to 
 Theodore and Carlotta, who welcomed him with many assurances of pleasure, 
 and thence to Edua, who was endeavouring to amuse a group of young giJs as 
 
THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 10 
 
 yet destitute of beaux. A slight blush overspread her sweet countenance, as she 
 extended her hand, and with perfect self-possession replied to his remarks. At 
 length he said, " I am a stranger here ; your cousin is engaged|j will you allow 
 me a general claim upon your hand whenever you wish to dance ?'- 
 
 For a moment, Edna was pleased with the preference, but her next thought was 
 of the envy she should excite, and her pure heart shrunk from it. Raising her 
 eyes to his, which were bent upon her with an expression strangely undefinable, 
 sherephed, 
 
 •' You will readily believe, my lord, that I will do all I can consistently to ren- 
 der the evening a pleasant one to yon, but you will pardon me if I hesitate to ar- 
 rogate to myself so enviable a distinction. I will give you my hand for two dances 
 provided you ask my cousin for the same number." 
 
 " Then I will dance but four times," he replied with that quiet decision, which 
 one would seldom, if ever, dispute. 
 
 *' How can you make such an assertion," said Edna, gaily, "with all these ey«g 
 glancing so wishfully about you V' 
 
 '• I must decline the honour to-night at least — you will oblige me by re- 
 lieving me from any formal introductions ;" then drawing her arm within his own, 
 they passed slowly ihrough the different rooms, stopping to admire and remark 
 upon whatever was beautiful in design or execution. 
 
 Some splendid pictures, with a few marble busts in one apartment, occupied 
 him a long time, not that they were wholly new, but Lord Elwyn had an artist's 
 soul and possessed a most lively sympathy with nature, whether revealing itself in 
 customary forms, or being revealed by the genius of man. 
 
 Never had Edna so enjoyed an intellectual conversation ; it was anew and ex- 
 quisite source of pleasure, to have her thoughts spread out before her by one so 
 highly gifted. But she was not permitted this happiness unalloyed, for at every 
 turn she encountered the jealous, watchful eyes of her aunt, fixed upon her with 
 an expression of angry surprise, which she vainly attempted to conceal under 
 flattering attentions to their comfort. 
 
 At length, with a smile of m.uch sweetness, she approached them and said, 
 
 " Edna, my bve, this will never do ; yesterday you were sadly ill, and now you 
 are standing all the evenir^g. Really, my lord, you must excuse my over anxiety 
 for the sweet child, she is so very dear to us, and is soon, you know, to become 
 doubly our own. My daughter will he happy to relieve her, for you must permit 
 Edna"sorae rest;" and in spite of the many protestations of her niece, that she 
 never'was better in her life, Mrs. Trellan led her off to a seat between two old 
 ladies, to v»'hom she entrusted her darling Edna, with many injunctions to exercise 
 their authority upon her, " for, at least, an hour, all for her own best good, and she 
 would conie to them as often as the ceremonies of hostess would permit." 
 
 Lord Elwyn and Carlotta were left standing in the middle of the apartment, 
 where he could do no less than offer his arm, which was accepted, but his first in- 
 quiries were, — * Is your cousin really ill, and have 1 caused her to be more so ? 
 Let us go and see." 
 
 " Not seriously so, my lord," said Carlotta quickly, for she perceived that her 
 mother had overdone the matter, *' only a little unwell yesterday, and mamma is 
 so careful of her for my brother's sake." 
 
 A slight frown passed over Lord Elwyn's brow at this second allusion to Edna's 
 marriage. " Nevertheless, we will inquire of herself," he said, and with a manner, 
 the indescribable grace of which redeemed its exceeding firmness, he moved off in 
 the direction which Mrs. Trellan had taken. 
 
 But the crowd was dense ; at every turn were obstructions ; for, though Carlotta 
 knew perfectly well the remote corner where she might find her cousin, it gratified 
 her foolish pride to be seen hanging upon his arm, and she allowed him to proceed 
 in all directions but the right one. 
 
 After a long time they accidentally came upon the old ladies with whom she vi:as 
 left, and found that she had gone to her own room some moments previous with 
 violent headache. Mrs. Trellan joined them at that moment, and declared that 
 
20 THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 
 
 she would go herself, and see if Edna's maid was rendering her every assistance 
 Lord Elwyn, with a serious countenance, begged her to ask if he might not bid 
 her adieu in person before he left the city. 
 
 The lady readily promised to do the message, but declared that she feared Edna 
 was too ill — could he not send his adieu by her ? 
 
 *' No ; .if she permits me, I will see her," he replied, decidedly. 
 
 Mrs. Trellan soon returned, declaring that Edna was very ill, and expressed 
 much regret that it was impossible for her to see his lordship again that night. 
 
 After a moment's thought. Lord Elwyn tenderly placed Carlotta's hand in that 
 of Theodore, and, drawing Mrs. Trellan aside, said in a low calm tone,— 
 
 " Madam, I offer thanks for your exceeding kindness ; permit me one more 
 favour," and placing his hand upon the gilt tassel, he added, *'I will ring — will 
 you have the goodness to summon the young lady's maid ?" 
 
 "With the greatest pleasure," she replied, with practised politeness, beneath 
 which her anger and fear were quite visible. 
 
 "When Luna appeared, he simply said, " Conduct me to your mistress's par- 
 lour," and, upon arriving at the door, continued, *' Go in, and see if Miss Trellan 
 will receive Lord Elwyn for a few moments." 
 
 Almost instantly she returned, and begged him to enter. So far fram being ill, 
 he had never seen her half so beautiful as when she rose from the easy chair in 
 her cabinet, and advanced beneath the raised curtain to meet him. A single tear 
 glistened in her eye, and cast a saddened expression over her whole face, her long 
 curls scarcely permitting to be revealed the charms of a neck otherwise exposed 
 by the low boddice of a rose-coloured satin dress, and the beautifully turned arms, 
 from which she had drawn her long gloves, laid slightly upon each other. 
 
 Lord Elwyn's first impulse was to clasp her in his arms, but he was not a crea- 
 ture of impulse, and tenderly taking her hands in his own, he said, in a sweet 
 musical voice, whose perfect harmony, so different from his ordinary tone, thrilled 
 her whole soul, " I have been forced to be very rude to you to-night ; I trust I 
 am already pardoned, but permit me to ask if I have been in any way accessory to 
 your illness." 
 
 " No, indeed," she replied, smilingly ; " my illness has only existed in my aunt's 
 imagination, but 1 grew weary of being a spectator and a prisoner too, and came 
 here in search of friends that are always true," and she pointed to her library. 
 
 " I have a favour to request," said Lord Elwyn, having for a moment contem- 
 plated her with a look of surprise and admiration. "Will you return with me? 
 I think I can now secure to ourselves another pleasant hour, and I shall ever be 
 grateful.'' 
 
 Edna hesitated ; she understood the reasons for her aunt's contrivance, and knew 
 that she would be very angry, but she had already commenced a career of oppo- 
 sition, and the present was a good opportunity to show her independence ; besides, 
 she would really love to oblige him. 
 
 " Bring my gloves," she s-aid to Luna, who remained in the cabinet, and, giving 
 her hand to Lord Elwyn, they silently made their way to the spot where their con- 
 versation was interrupted, he only acknowledging her kindness by a gentle pressure 
 of the hand he held. 
 
 Lord Elwyn proceeded, as if nothing had occurred, to remark upon a family 
 group, exquisitely done on canvas. 
 
 " That was brought from England," said Edna. " The lady leaning and weep- 
 ing upon the bosom of the aged man was my mother ; it was the last time she wept 
 upon the bosom of her father ; they both died soon after. The young boy garing 
 so thoughtfully and sorrowfully upon her was my cousin, and that tall stern man 
 his father." 
 
 Lord Elwyn gazed long and earnestly, and his mind seemed to be wandering far 
 back on memory's tide to catch, if possible, some faintly-glimmering recollection. 
 
 " Those friends, where are they?" he asked, at length. 
 
 " I have never seen them," she replied ; " I do not know their names. I have 
 no recollection of my motherj and only think ef her as she is here represented." 
 
THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 21 
 
 *' Ah, my love, have you recovered so soon ? How very fortunate !'' suddenly 
 exclaimed a voice behind them, and Mrs. Trellan came, with her gayest smiles, 
 and kissed Edna's cheek. *' You are pale yet," she continued, with a volubility 
 that defied interruption, " and Lord Elwyn must have been a powerful magnet to 
 have drawn you from your sick room. I only hope we shall not have cause to 
 repent the indiscretion." 
 
 "Mrs. Trellan/' said Lord Elwyn, '' I found this lady quite well, and enjoying 
 a book, which she relinquished for my gratification ; if it is indiscreet, I will assume 
 the consequences," and with a withering look he passed on. 
 
 Some two hours after this. Lord Elwyn parted from Edna with a friendly grasp 
 of the hand, having obtained permission to become an occasional and unceremonious 
 visitor. Upon retiring, Edna was conscious of an unwonted feeling of pleasure, 
 which, accustomed as she was to analyze her feelings, was attributed to its true 
 source. Not that she for a moment supposed that Lord Elwyn had, in a few inter- 
 views, fallen in love with her or that he intended to do so. With all 
 her wealth and beauty, Edna was neither proud, nor vain, but had an 
 uncommon share of retiring modesty, — in fact, an humble opinion of her- 
 self. She had been very happy with Lord Elwyn, but feared that in beinff so, 
 she had created for herself bitter enemies, and she fell asleep, not in dreaming of 
 her brilliant conquests, but in forming plans of reconciliation with those whom she 
 feared she had offended. 
 
 The night wore away, and at three the house was deserted. Late, or rather 
 early — as it was, Carlotta begged admission to her mother's dressing-room. Each 
 looked at the other for an instant, like two baffled diplomatists. The proud, impa- 
 tient girl could restrain herself no longer. 
 
 " Is it to be endured?" she demanded, her eyes flashing unwonted fire ; "Is it 
 to be endured ?" 
 
 *' Tush ! my love — he is a lord, and men like him will do what they please in 
 spite of us. But listen — it is useless to be angry, we must manage deeper. I know 
 that Edna has refused your brother, and presume that she intends to captivate this 
 same gentleman ; but it must not be — no — no indeed ; we cannot do without her 
 money, and your brother will be ruined if she marry another. If Lord Elwyn 
 stands in the way of our success, it only remains for you to renounce the obstacle." 
 
 *' For me !" exclaimed the passionate girl, quickly. " How ?" 
 
 For a moment the intriguing mother scanned her daughter's face, and then with 
 a voice and manner which plainly showed that the deep waters of affection had 
 never rippled over her heart, said, — 
 
 " Can you love none but Theodore ?" 
 
 " And violate my plighted word? never — never !" 
 
 " But the circumstances, my child — consider them well, you are free to choose." 
 
 "Mother ! mother !" and the young girl passed her small hands to her head as 
 if to repress its wild, unnatural throbbingg. 
 
 " Think calmly, my love. Have you no ambition for a title— no desire for the 
 boundless wealth he is said to possess ? In short, Carlotta, could you not forget 
 Theodore Montrevor, the plain American citizen, in being the bride of Lord Elwyn, 
 the foreign nobleman V' 
 
 " And Theodore V gasped the excited girl. 
 
 A low laugh caused her to start. 
 
 " And so you fancy that because Theodore declares that he could not live without 
 you, that he is in earnest — is it so ?" the mother asked with a slight sneer which at 
 once defeated her object, for nothing aroused Carlotta like contempt or opposition 
 — and she exclaimed, — 
 
 " He has been true and faithful to me. No — I cannot — T will not give him up." 
 
 " AVell then — the effect of all this romancing be upon your omti head. A fine 
 dash they will cut when Edna's fortune shall be united to Lord Elw^yn's, and she 
 the mistress of his splendid mansion. You might be all this, but you refuse — so 
 good night — I wish you joy of your decision." And the amiable matron went 
 to her sleeping apartment. 
 
22 THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 
 
 It had been a sultry autumnal day, and the air of the house was heavy with the 
 perfume of an immense quantity of flowers scattered in every direction ; to Car- 
 lotta it was oppressive, and throwing open a window in her parlour, she stepped 
 out upon the balcony to cool her feverish brow in the clear night breeze. *' It is 
 all true," she said mentallv in reply to her mother's last remark ; " I, who have 
 been idolized for years, could not brook to see her take the precedence. I have 
 loved her it is true, and when her gentle eyes are upon me, and I feel how pure her 
 spirit is, there is a momentary wish to be like her — but no! impossible! This 
 night has called forth my evil nature, and henceforth, though 1 must speak only 
 honied words, there will be revenge and hatred in my heart. To-night he chose 
 to linger at her side. It shall not again be thus. i3ut Theodore — ah, well, let 
 the future decide. How true, Edna was your vision — the future cannot be as the 
 past. Thank Heaven I can mould it somewhat to my will. But Edna — Edna — 
 beware how you cross my path !" and entering her dressing-room, she slowly un- 
 bound the jewels from her hair, and then laid herself all robed as she was, upon 
 her gilded couch. 
 
 CHAPTER IV. 
 
 MANY EXCITING IKCIDENTS. 
 
 We must, for a brief space, leave our friends in New York, occupied with their 
 various and often contending interests, and enter a large, airy, and richly furnished 
 apartment in Charleston, S. C. Beside an open window sits a young roan of one- 
 and-twenty. His face is fair and beautiful, and though tineed with sadness, there 
 rests upon it the hallowed expression of a generous and noble soul. Benevolence 
 is indeed its prominent feature. 
 
 " I could wish much to hear from home," he soliloquised, '* to know all are well, 
 ere I communicate to them these sad tidings, and yet, I ought not to delay. And 
 my cousin Edna! what shall I say to her? How check her heart's first love? 
 How crush her young hopes, and break the solemn pledge we took beside he 
 dying father ? Impossible ! and yet ' — he continued after a moment's silen'^ 
 thought — "all this were better than to deceive, to mock her trusting love with 
 hopes which can never be realised, to wed and wear the bright gem of her heart's 
 first, truest affection, and have nought to give in return, but the uncertain and 
 often wavering confidence of duty or benevolence. Heaven knows that I Avould 
 spare her this grief if possible,'' and a large tear falls upon the open but unread 
 page before him. 
 
 At this moment his servant enters with letters, and he discovers among them two 
 which fully occupy his attention. The first, is a business letter from his father. 
 Major Trellan, short, concise, and quickly read ; the second should have been two 
 closely written sheets in one envelope, deposited by Luna for the post-office. But 
 alas ! deception was still at work, and instead of the pages which had cost Edna 
 so much labour, and so many struggles between honour and benevolence, he now 
 ho"'us in his hand a genuine love-letter, evidently written under the influence of 
 devoted affection, warm passions, and undoubted trust in his continued love, and 
 alluding to the future as though but one thing were possible — their marriage. The 
 letter falls from his hand, and he again soliloquises. 
 
 " How shall I disturb her unbounded confidence ? How awaken from its dream 
 of love this passionate heart ? Were it different — would she but refuse me — how 
 happy should I be. If I fulfil this engagement, I could not love her as she should 
 be loved — or not at least till the bright vision which so constantly floats before my 
 imagination is dispelled," and with a smile which proves how suddenly all other 
 thoughts are driven out by love, his head again falls upon his hand, and he yields 
 
THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 23 
 
 himself to the remembrance of that one blissful \ision, which once — only once 
 has met his eye. 
 
 There are moments in life, in' which seem to be concentrated all the blessedness 
 of the past, and every possible anticipation for the future. Such a moment had 
 once been Ernest's, and in the recollection of its beauty and brightness he 
 now revels. 
 
 Ernest Trellan was of an age and character to love deeply, devotedly, and 
 passionately. Unfitted for active life by a sensitive and peculiarly tender organi- 
 zation, circumstances had hitherto favoured him, and he had lived in a world of 
 his own creation, among the dreams of philosophers and the songs of poets. But 
 the sorrows of hfe were stealii]g upon him, and he began to feel the stern 
 nesessity of action. 
 
 "No! I cannot, I will not marry her," he exclaimed, suddenly starting from 
 his recumbent position, and seizing a pen with an energy quite unusual to him, 
 *• I will no longer trust to fortune and circumstances. I will write without delay." 
 
 In the meantime several causes, which we must notice, were producing serious 
 changes in the family of Msjor Trellan. 
 
 Lord Elwyn had become a frequent and an unceremonious visitor. To Edna he 
 displayed all the kindness of a brother, and as he never touched upon tender 
 subjects, she had learned to feel at ease with him, and by degrees, to display, as 
 occasion demanded, her varied and superior talents and acquirements. Till 
 formally released Irom her engagement with Ernest, she would not allow herself 
 to think of love to another, but as yet she only hoped for the time when he would 
 make her free, with a mingled feeling of sadness and delight. 
 
 With Carlotta, the case was widely different. From the night of the ball, she 
 had become an altered being. As she herself said, her evil nature had gained the 
 ascendancy. With Edna she was cold and haughty — with her lover nervous and 
 irritable, but with Lord Elwyn brilliant and beautilul. Theodore, as usual, spent 
 his evenings with her, and Lord Elwyn would sometimes bestow upon her a look 
 of admiration which seemed to say, "'I too could adore you." Theodore, though 
 unwavering: in his confidence in Lord Elvsyn, had become somewhat eagle- eyed 
 of late, and none of these glances were lost upon him ; he was affected by them 
 and the demonstrations of Carlotta's indifierence, and resolved to speak openly 
 with her upon the matter. Having heard Lord Elwyn make an appointment to go 
 out with Edna, upon a certain evening, he resolved to improve the opportunity ior 
 an explanation. 
 
 He accordingly entered the apartment where they usually sat, somewhat later 
 than ordinary, and found the proud beauty leaning over the arm of the sofa, looking 
 very gloomy, with a settled frown upon her brow. 
 
 " How is this, Cailotta?" he asked, *' what cloud is brooding over your spirit 
 to-night ?" and sitting down by her, he gently lifted her head, and was about to 
 press his lips to her beautiful brow, when suddenly raising her hand, she said 
 " No, no — at least not to-night." 
 
 *' Why not to-night ?" he asked, with a sternness quite unusual to him, but in- 
 stantly relaxing to his accustomed kindness, he added, "How have I offended 
 you, my love 'i Let nothing be concealed.'* 
 
 But her eyes were averted, her lips compressed, and her whole aspect that 
 of one who makes a violent effort to resist the powerful impulses of a pas- 
 sionate and affectionate nature, and in so doing finds no safeguard bcitin haughty 
 coldness and silence. With a quick penetration the lover saw the ruin of all his 
 hopes, and for a few moments paced the floor in silent, sorrowful thought. Then 
 again seating himself, he spoke firmly, though his cheek was pale and his lips 
 trembled from suppressed emotions. 
 
 " Carlotta, it is now more than three years since, in this very room, we declared 
 our affection and pledged our mutual faith. Thus far we have been true, and my 
 heart's wildest dreams have been more than realized in your unchanging, devoted 
 love. Of myself I have no need to speak ; you well know that at any moment I 
 would have sacrificed all that aitikes life dear had you demanded it— all, except 
 
24 THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 
 
 your love. I came to-night to urge you to appoint an early day for the celebra- 
 tion of that ceremon)^, which, the eyes of the world, makes our union sacred, and 
 you received me with a coldness — a haughtiness, which I cannot in the least ap- 
 preciate. I will not conceal from you that at times I feave been a little jealous 
 of our friend Lord Elwyn, but no doubt I was wrong, and 1 am now ready to 
 assure you of my unwavering confidence in your affection. Do but speak to 
 me, Carlotta. This moody silence is worse than the harshest words." 
 
 *' Mr. Montrevor/' coldly replied Carlotta, "I fear my words will be less ac- 
 ceptable to you than my silence. True, I promised to be yours, but I knew not my 
 own heart. You took advantage of my youth to secure a pledge, the value of 
 which I have recently learned,'' 
 
 "That is to say, since Lord Elwyn honoured you with his visits. I was not 
 tfeen wrong in my suspicions," interrupted Theodore, his passionate nature re- 
 vealing itself in his quickly changing countenance. 
 
 " Whether the discovery has been made through Lord Elwyn's means or not, 
 cannot possibly interest you,'' haughtily replied the fair betrothed. "I give you 
 back your pledge, and leave you to make such inferences as you choose." 
 
 " Such as I am forced to make rather," he replied, gloomily, a poisoned arrow 
 fixed in his l»osom. " Well, be it so. I take the gift, and may Heaven forgive 
 you the anguish you have this night inflicted upon my heart. Permit me, as 
 a seal upon the blessedness of the past, to part from you kindly," and he 
 extended his hand. 
 
 For an instant Carlotta's eyes were fixed upon the hand which had so often 
 clasped hers in fervent affection, and her better nature struggled for indulgence ; 
 but it was smothered, and as if fearful of trusting herself, she bowed politely and 
 retired to her own apartment. 
 
 To say the truth, Carlotta would gladly have parted from her lover kindly, but 
 in the violent struggle between ambition and love, it was impossible for her to pur- 
 sue any middle course ; she must be all or nothing to him. To secure Lord 
 Elwyn, she had determined to risk everything. Tortured by his attentions to 
 Edna, fearful of seeing herself in a secondary position in life, and continually 
 urged by a scheming and ambitious mother, she had resolved in a moment of pas- 
 sion to reject her lover, destroy the hopes of years, and to seek in every possible 
 way to win the affections of their distinguished guest. This resolution she had 
 unfortunately communicated to her mother, or the violent struggle might have dis- 
 pelled it. As it was, she had already started upon the troubled waters of ambition, 
 and strong in the power of her own heart, she was determined, at all events, to 
 triumph. To accorapli-'h this, however, she was aware that much — indeed extreme 
 caution was necessary. A few tears, the result of an affection not yet destroyed, 
 followed the departure of Theodore; but reflecting that these would assist in de- 
 laying her conquest, she brushed them away, bathed her eyes in rose-water, called 
 her maid to put the finishing touch upon her hair and dress, and again descended 
 to the parlour. 
 
 Lord Elwyn soon returned with her cousin, and they were greatly surprised to 
 find Carlotta alone. 
 
 " My dear Edna," said she after their return, " there is a person awaiting your 
 return in your apartment ; she desired to see you immediately." 
 
 Edna at once excused herself, saying that she knew who it was, and she should 
 be engaged for the remainder of the evening. Carlotta saw her close the door 
 with extreme pleasure. 
 
 •' Where is Theodore to-night V demanded Lord Elwyn, looking around for the 
 accustomed visitor. 
 
 " Mr. Montrevor does not visit us now," replied Carlotta with a slight 
 expression of disdain. *' Indeed our engagement was one formed in childhood 
 comparatively, and it has never been deemed a very suitable alliance by. my 
 parents." 
 
 "Then why has it been permitted to exist till the present time?" asked Lord 
 Elwyn, with an air of indifference. 
 
THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 
 
 26 
 
 " Circumstances have favoured it ; indeed we have regarded its consummation as 
 a thing so very distant that we have bestowed few thoughts upon it." 
 
 " But us it approaches — " 
 
 "As it approaches," interrupted Carlotta, " I find in myself an absolute repug- 
 nance to it. It is therefore right that all such anticipations should be destroyed 
 at once, is it not?" 
 
 
 ,IS'|fl3iil"!l 
 
 " Quite right that one should not marry where one does not love," he replied, 
 adding mentally, " an 1 equally right that one should be punished for disobeying 
 their noblest impulses." 
 
 Conversation languished for a few moments, during which Lord Elwyn remained 
 ill deep thought. Then suddenly aroused by the light touch of a finger upon his 
 No. 4. 
 
26 THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 
 
 arm* he turned his eyes upon Carlotta, who gaily exclaimed, " you are dreaming 
 mv lord ; you forget my presence." 
 
 " True ; I beg your pardon," he replied, arousing himself, and for an hour they 
 forgot — or seem to forget — all the world in their own enjoyment. Carlotta knew 
 that she had never been more brilliant, and fancied that she was making a deep 
 impression. Golden visions already began to flit before her mind's eye, and in 
 imagination she saw herself in one evening far on towards the summit of her hopes. 
 Lord Elwyn neither assisted nor retarded her plans ; he seemed like one who 
 would say, " 1 take no interest whatever in the result; here is my heart; if you 
 can win it, well — if not, equally well." 
 
 At length he rose to depart ; Carlotta would have detained him with a look, 
 but he was firm, and taking his hat and cane passed into the street. Carlotta 
 remained a moment before a mirror, admiring her beautiful person so richly 
 adorned, and murmuring, " Yes — yes, he will be mine at last." She hastened 
 to her mother's dressing-room, where a scene met her view, which she had 
 little anticipated. 
 
 At the usual hour that evening the letters and papers were deposited in the hall. 
 Bertha, as usual, was the first to examine them. One of them alone seemed to 
 interest her, and she took it from the basket and turned in the direction of her 
 own apartment — suddenly she paused and said quite low, — 
 
 *' 1 will not — I have not been paid — I toil for promises — let Miss Edna get 
 this as it is. If it mar ray mistress's plans, so much the better. I shall be well 
 paid the next time, or, if there is reproach and revenge, 1 have only to reveal the 
 long- treasured secret — no, I will not have it," and replacing the letter, she carried 
 the basket into the sitting-room, and placed it beside Major Trellan with an air of 
 triumph which seemed to say, — 
 
 '• 1 have tw^o strings to my bow : break which you will, the other must prove 
 useful to me." 
 
 " Here are two letters from my son, one for Edna, the other for myself," said the 
 major, breaking the seal of the letter, and glancing over it with the sharp, quick 
 eye of the man of business. But his face grew a shade paler, and he became 
 Sgitated as he proceeded. " Twelve thousand dollars — four of them belonging to 
 Edna," he slowly repeated in a voice scarcely above a whisper, " I trust this la 
 not the beginning of misfortunes ; a dozen Guch losses would ruin me." 
 
 Mrs. Trellan had been dozing in an easy chair by the fire, but at the word 
 **ruin," opened her eyes and languishly demanded, " what was in ruins ?" 
 
 " Your husband will be soon, madam," responded the irritated man, " and you 
 will regulate your domestic matters accordingly." 
 
 *' Me ! are you speaking to me, Major Trellan?" contemptuously demanded 
 his wife ; " and what do you suppose I have to do with the domestic affairs of our 
 house? You surely have been dreaming." 
 
 "No, no — it is you who have been dreaming," vociferously ejaculated the 
 husband, who was seldom angry, excepting with the loss of money. Havmg 
 laboured a lifetime to earn the title of millionaire it was certainly hard — very 
 hard that disappointment should occur when so near the summit of his ambition. 
 "I tell you, madam," he continued, "that some reduction must be made m our 
 establishment, and as 1 do not choose that the world should discover this loss, 
 we wnll dismiss such domestics as can be spared ; Carlotta's maid, for instance ; 
 Bertha will serve you both ; the new footman whom you hired but yesterday must 
 go, and with him the stable groom. Do not remonstrate, it will be ineffectual, 
 tears too will be utterly useless." 
 
 " Uncle," interrupted Edna, who had In the meantime entered and read her letter, 
 uncle, have 1 your permission to read a few Inies from my letter ? it is from 
 Erresr, and you may as well hear it at once if you will." 
 
 « You may read it if you will ; but 1 cere not to hear his nonsense." 
 
 *' I think you will not call it such when I have read it." 
 
 ** The time has arrived, Edna, "when I must undeceive you as to my affection for 
 yen. Forgive me, if I cause you lobe miserable ; honour demands that I should 
 
 HQ longer allow you to wftste your early and devoted Jove upon one who never has 
 
THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 27 
 
 — nor ever can return it. Itisno'easy task, Edna, to bring misery upon the head, 
 or to blight the heat t of one so beautiful and good, and I trust that y<u will not utterly 
 reject ray sympathy. My sorrow too is deep and sincere. But you Avould not wed me, 
 Edna, surely you would not, while ray heart secretly longs for another ; you could 
 not bear to learn then that I bore you a brother's love — that a ft eling lor which 
 I cannot account has hitherto destroyed every desire for auy dearer relation to you 
 than that of brother.'' 
 
 "Stop !" sternly exclaimed Major Trellan. "The boy is infatuated — mad. 
 And, by the way, there is something of this same nonsense in a P. S. to mine ; it 
 is supremely ridiculous. ' I cannot fulfil my engagement with Edna, — myheartis 
 not in it.' " 
 
 " Uncle," said Edna, mildly, after waiting a moment, for the cooling of his 
 passion, — 
 
 " Ernest is not alone in these sentiments, I do not love him. 1 do not wish to 
 marry him." 
 
 *' You, too ! you !" and he looked at Edna, with a strangely mingled expression 
 of anger, surprise, and mirthfulness. > ^^• 
 
 Here the conversation was interrupted by a something between a groan and a 
 shriek from Mrs. Trellan. Edna sprang to her aunt, while her husband conde- 
 scended to pull the silken cord which summoned the maid. A moment after Car- 
 lotta entered highly flushed with excitement, but started back on beholdmg her 
 mother extended upon the sofa in violent hysterics, Edna, and Bertha bending 
 over her, while her father sat by reading his letters, with a sour and angry counte- 
 nance. At length she obtained a brief explanation from Edna, together with 
 news that Adela, her maid, was to be dismissed the following day. 
 
 Extremely angry, she flew to her father saying, — 
 
 " Well, papa, what is this you are going to do? I shall not let Adela go." 
 
 ** She must go. Bertha shall wait upon you," he replied firmly. 
 
 " She shall not go ; you have my word for it." continued this very respectful 
 daughter, vvho having been idolized from childhood was far more accustomed to 
 obey the dictates of her own vvill than the commands of her parents, particularly 
 when opposed to her inclination. " You shall see, sir, if she will go," and -ringing 
 she ordered Adela to come to her. 
 
 " Adela," said she to the bright-eyed girl who obeyed instantly, *• do you acknow- 
 ledge any other master or masters than myself?'' 
 
 '' No, ma'am." 
 
 •' Do I pay you\vell1" 
 
 '* Yes, ma'am." 
 
 " Do you wish to leave me ?" 
 
 ** No, ma'am." 
 
 " Well, then, they talk of sending you away.'* Adela began to cry. " But you 
 shall not go. Listen, and do as I bid you. Go to my dressing-room, lock the door 
 and remain there till i release you. Go," and Adela disappeared. 
 
 ** There, sir, you will not send her av.ay ; do you not see ?" she added, looking 
 sharply at her father. She was a girl of iron will ; her father knew it, for he had 
 fought many a battle with her in her younger days, in which she wss invariably 
 triumphant. Tnis scene was, therefore, by no meai:;s new, indeed it might well 
 have been anticipated by him. 
 
 "Now, papa," said Carlotta, after looking at her mother for a moment, and 
 assuring hersdf that she Avas no worse than she had seen her many times, "I 
 come here with some good news ; would you like to hear it?" 
 
 '■ No," almost growled the angry parent. 
 
 " But you shall nevertheless, and it will do you good. How would you fancy 
 Lord Elwyn for a son-in-law ?" 
 
 A smile in spite of himself, lit up his dark countenance and he quickly replied, — - 
 
 " Hovi- — what do you mean ?" 
 
 '' Simply this, I have discarded Theodore, and Lord Elwyn at present pays me 
 the most serious attentions," 
 
28 THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 
 
 " But your word was given to Montrevor," interrupted her father. 
 
 "No matter," she replied, and for a moment her lips trembled and her bosom 
 heaved with some unexpressed emotion ; but it was again subdued by the all- 
 powerful will, and she added, " one cannot always keep one's promises. I suppose 
 you will not object to the change ?" 
 
 ** Let me alone ; don't maice me responsible for the evil resulting from any such 
 changes," he replied with a kind of good-natured petulance, through Vhich 
 Carlotta plainly saw that he was well pleased. 
 
 Major Trellan returned to his letters, and after a few moments bade his wife a 
 hasty good night, recommended her to '^come out of her hysterics as rapidly as 
 possible," and retired to his study. There he sat a long time in deep thought, but 
 at last said to himself, "I have it." A few sentences will explain the value and 
 import of the phrase. 
 
 For the better security of Edna's fortune, but a small portion had been placed 
 in her uncle's hands — the remainder in various responsible houses in that and 
 other cities. Major Trellan was, in the world's estimation, at least, an upright and 
 honourable man, but exceedingly careful of his pecuniary mterests. A long course 
 of successful speculation had somewhat blunted his sense of right and wrong, and 
 he saw no objection to the withdrawal of a portion of Edna's money — equal to his 
 own loss — from its place of deposit, to be employed as his own capital. This 
 decision gave rise to the exclamation, " I have it," and he forthwith proceeded to 
 deliberate upon other matters, among which Ernest's marriage was not the least in 
 importance. 
 
 Carlotta sat by her mother a few moments, hoping for an opportunity to com- 
 municate the same important change to her, but perceiving that there was no 
 prospect of a rational interval, she withdrew to her own apartment. 
 
 Edna soon followed her example, as she could render no farther assistance to 
 her aunt. Having reached her cabinet, she again perused Ernest's long letter, and 
 while she blessed him for his goodness of heart, she yet could not solve the my- 
 stery. It was so like her own, and yet no reply to it ! " Could he have been 
 vexed at her letter and choose to be the rejecting, than the rejected one?" She 
 could not retain that idea, it was unworthy of him. " Did he pursue this course 
 that the blame might rest upon him, and she remain uncensured ?" This was 
 more probable, but did not satisfy her ; and she fell asleep without arriving at any 
 decision, little dreaming that her own letter, to which she supposed this a copy, 
 was quietly reposing in the private drawer of her aunt's dressing-table. 
 
 ******* 
 
 Carlotta and Edna had no sooner disappeared from Mrs. Trellan's sitting room, 
 than that lady immediately proved the propriety of her husband's advice, and 
 began to sob and moan with less energy. Evincing at the same time, that how- 
 ever real her disease might have been, it had not deprived her of her power of 
 speech. 
 
 " Bertha," said she at length, pushing aside the handkerchiefs wet in spirits, 
 the essences, and the smelling-bottles, which lay in such profusion about her. 
 *« Bertha, why did you not prevent Miss Edna from receiving that fatal letter? It 
 will prove the ruin of all our plans." 
 
 *' What letter, madam ?" asked Bertha, wnth great simplicit5\ 
 
 " One direct from ray son Ernest, in which he refuses to marry her. You ex- 
 amined the basket before bringing it in — you always do,"saidMrs. Trellan, looking 
 sternly at the woman. Bertha's countenance was immovable and inexpressive as 
 she replied, — 
 
 " I did examine it as you ordered, but the letter you mention escaped my 
 notice." 
 
 The mistress knew too well the insatiable curiosity of the servant to believe her, 
 hut soon saw that something was wrong, and that Bertha had allowed the letter to 
 pass without inspection, doubtless to gratify some private revenge. It was there- 
 fore necessary for her to discover the motive from which she acted. 
 
 "Bertha," said she, nfter a pau?e, in which the woman had been engaged in 
 
THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 99 
 
 twirling a longo'ilt chain about her fiDgerg, ** supposing 1 send you from my house, 
 for this act r^f fli.«<--V)or!ipnce — refuse to { ay you what I promised upon Ernest's 
 marriage wjui x^aua, ah J pievent you from being admitted into another fashionable 
 family in the city I" 
 
 " You will not do this, madam; I am too useful to you," said the woman, 
 boldly ; '* besides there are other reasons. I know the part you have acted towards 
 your son and niece, even while you are acquainted with, and have proofs of a fact 
 ■which ought to prevent their marriage ; you will not, therefore, risk the exposure 
 of that secret by depriving me of a home. You know, madam, for I told you 
 years ago, that 1 would woik as I was paid ; of late you have grown miserly, and 
 it occurs to me that Miss Edna will give me as much to reveal to her the long- 
 cherished secret, as you have premised me not to reveal it. I wish for the money, 
 and I care not how it comes to me." 
 
 Mrs. Trellan had carefully scrutinized the countenance of her raaid during 
 this deliberate ^speech, and its plain matter-of-fact style enraged her beyond 
 expression. 
 
 "What would you haver" she asked, sternly. "You came to me nearly a 
 beggar— just look at youi-sclf in that mirror — many a lady would be proud of the 
 dress you wear. In my house, too, you take the utmost freedom ; you receive 
 company when you choose, you order my servants, you control everything to your 
 wish, and at last presume to interfere with the plans which I have laboured years 
 to mature. This is your gratitude !" 
 
 " I know nothing of gratitude or ingratitude," replied Bertha, pertly. " I work 
 for money. I am well assured that Edna would give a thousand dollars to learn 
 my secret. You have promised me six hundred upon the week of their marriage ; 
 if you will secure to me one thousand instead, I will be silent; if not, I will 
 tell her all." 
 
 The proud mistress groaned aloud. Bertha was invaluable to her ; she must 
 not go, she must not reveal all to Edna ; but then, the money I And she looked 
 once more into the impenetrable countenance of the woman. 
 
 ** I will promise,'' she said, with an effort. 
 
 Bertha brought writing m.aterials, saying, — 
 
 " It must be a written promise." 
 
 The promise was written ; Bertha's strong will had once more prevailed. 
 ****** 
 
 Theodore Montrevor left the mansion of jVIajor Trellan after his unexpected re- 
 pulse from Carlotta, and walked home slowly and much dispirited. He had for 
 years regarded his union with her as something settled, fixed beyond a possibility 
 of any change, save that of death — so that the present exigency found him wholly 
 unprepared. 
 
 Unexpectedly, he met two young friends, who drew him into a club-room, in 
 spite of his remonstrances, and, after submitting for an hour or two to their most 
 untimely jokes upon the unusual gravity of his countenance, he returned home to 
 complete the extraordinary events of the evening by receiving a note from Lord 
 Elwyn, requesting his presence on the following morning upon the most urgent 
 business. 
 
 The appointed hour saw him enter Lord Elwyn's library, where he found his 
 worthy rival stretched upon a sofa, in a silk dressing-gown, the last new novel in 
 his hand, with coifee and refreshments beside hnn. It was a position of fashion- 
 able and indulgent repose in which Theodore had never before seen him, but he 
 was too thoroughly polite to express the surprise he felt. Nevertheless, Lord Elwyn 
 read it in his countenance, and languidly extending his hand, which Theodore 
 coldly touched with his fingers, said, with an air of gaiety, which strongly con- 
 trasted with the gloomy brow of his visitor, — 
 
 '■ It was hardly worth the while that 1 should become your preserver from a 
 watery grave to rob you afterwards of the affections of your lady-love. I confess 
 I did not anticipate so great an honour." 
 
 "At least, my lord,** he replied, his whole face flushed with anger, *• I might 
 
30 THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 
 
 have been spared the exercise of your inirthfuiness upon a subject which violates 
 the happiness of my whole life. Hitherto I have regarded you as the embodi- 
 ment of nobleness ; you have been my standard for all that is called great and 
 good in the world ; but I am undeceived — I will no longer have confidence in 
 any one. Nothing but the gratitude I owe you^ as my preserver, prevents me 
 from challenging you," 
 
 *' Ah, indeed I" replied Lord Elwyn, with mock gravity ; *' you forget my 
 rank — it would be impossible for me to accept." 
 
 Theodore was too angry to speak, and, walking to the window, began to pull 
 the leaves from a beautiful exotic which was then in full bloom. Lord Elwyn 
 watched him for a moment, then, springing up, he caught the hands of the young 
 man, saying, — 
 
 *' Come, exhaust your anger upon me, not upon Lira's poor rose ; she will 
 never forgive, and I shall.*' 
 
 *' Lord Elwyn," said Theodore, with a powerful effort at stlf •control, "will 
 you do me the honour to communicate the business upon which you desired my 
 presence this morning — my time is not wholly at my command." 
 
 " Ah, true, I had something to say," his manner instantly changing to one of 
 heart-felt kindness and sympathy, " and as I am not accustomed to make mys- 
 teries where none are required, we will speak plainly upon the subject of Miss 
 Trellan's change of mind, for believe me, that is the only change." 
 
 "That subject again, sir!" said Theodore, fiercely. 
 
 *' Calm yourself, my good friend,'* replied Lord Elwyn, with genuine good 
 nature. " Miss Trellan loves you, and only you ; but her eyes are dazzled, her 
 judgment misled, and her imagination excited by my title, my foreign birth, and 
 my reported wealth. To my person, bereft of these external appendages, she is 
 indifferent." 
 
 "Are you sure of that?" asked Theodore, a little more mildly. 
 
 "Yes, perfectly sure. But she has imposed a life-long separation, has she 
 not? You were not to visit her again, she assured me." 
 
 "True," replied the high-spirited lover, again angry at being thus questioned. 
 
 " Well, I have a simple plan to propose to vou. Leave the city, engage in 
 some active employment or amusement to preserve you from melancholy, and 
 allow me to cure Miss Trellan of her sudden whim, for 1 can give it no better 
 name. Depend upon it, all will yet end weli." 
 
 " Then you do not love her,'' exclaimed Theodore, rising and clasping the hand 
 of his friend, with an expression of relief beaming through the clouds. 
 
 Lord Elwyn's clear brilliant eye rested f ( r a moment upon Theodore, a sweet 
 peculiar smile played about his mouth, and in a low solemn voice he said, — 
 
 " I never triile with the human heart, and in mine is enclosed an image far too 
 blessed to admit another." 
 
 " Do you trust her with me ? Have you perfect confidence in ray honour ?" he 
 asked, after a moment's pause, during which their former friendship was wholly 
 restored. 
 
 " Perfect/' Theodore replied ; " but how do you propose to cure her in- 
 fatuation ?" 
 
 "Ah, that is my secret ; time will reveal all. Do you consent?" 
 
 " With the greatest pleasure," answered the happy Theodore, " and I shall 
 depend upon you one day restoring her to me as she was before your arrival." 
 
 "With a little experience added to her present stock," said Lord Elwyn, and 
 they parted the best of friends. 
 
THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 31 
 
 CHAPTER V. 
 
 THE DEPARTURE. — A NEW ACTOR. 
 
 Some time after the events last mentioned, as Lord Elwyn sat musing by the 
 fire of his libr iry, always his f vourite room, a low, slight tap was heard at his 
 door, and he immediately bade the person enter. The entrance of Juauna, the 
 immediate attendant of the beautiful Lira, created in him some surprise, as she 
 had never before entered his apartments. 
 
 " My Lord will pardon me," she said, in her native tongue, for she had not yet 
 learned to speak English, " but the case is so urgent." 
 
 " Well, speak Juanna," he kindly replied in the same language ; " what has 
 happened ? no misfortune to your mistress, I hope." A shudder passed over the 
 slight form of the woman, and tears gathered in her large dark eyes. " It is of 
 the sweet flower I would speak, if my lord permits,' she replied. " She is wither- 
 ing — drooping, and the music of her voice will soon be hushed for ever. She pines 
 under these heavy skies, these chilly winds She mourns for the orange bowers — ■ 
 the bright sun — the fragrant flowers — the singing playmates of her own home. 
 Let us return," added the woman, beseechingly, and for the first time raising her 
 turbaned head, which till now had drooped upon her bosom. Lord Ehvyn started 
 from his chair, uttered the single word "come,'" and turned with hasty steps to- 
 wards the apartment of the child. Arriving at her door, he paused a moment for 
 Juanna to apprise Lira of his visit. He found her reclining upon cushions, 
 ■wrapped in large India &hawls — her long black hair flowing loosely about her 
 shoulders — her hands almost purple with chillness, and her eyes heavy and 
 tearful. 
 
 Her two young attendants were endeavonring to amuse her with music and 
 stories— legends of their own clime — but she turned s,rrowfully away from all, 
 murmuring m her native tongue " my home — my home. ' 
 
 Even the birdsthat nestled among the flowers of her conservatory, seemed to par- 
 take of her home-sickness, for their wings drooped, and their merry warblings had 
 for a few days ceased altogether. 
 
 Upon Lord Elwyn's entrance, f Lira languidly arose and suffered him to take 
 her in his arms as he was accustomed to do. He spoke to her cheerfully — even 
 gaily — talked of a sunny home to which he w^uuld soon carry her — called her pets 
 around her, and for two hours sought by every mean? in]his power to arou e her — 
 but in vain ; she only looked at him from the depths of her large melancholy eyes, 
 with an expression which still said, my " home — my home." 
 
 At length he summoned her attendants, and bade them prepare for instant 
 departure — even that day. The eyes of the young girl brightened, and quickly 
 raising her hand, she pointed to the east vvith an earnest and pleading coun- 
 tenance. "We shall see— we shall see," replied her friend, and embracing her 
 tenderly, he withdrew to give the necessary orders. About four hours after Lord 
 Elwyn lifted the gentle Lira into a well-cushioned travelling carriage, entered 
 himself and was followed by Juanna. Another carriage accompanied this, con- 
 veying two men, and Lira's two young servants, all natives of her own clime. 
 The silent Lobo stood upon the steps of the mansion, giving with brief and signi- 
 ficant gestures of the hand, the last orders in place of his master, and upon return- 
 ing to the house closed and locked the apartments appropriated to the use of Lord 
 Elwyn and Lira. 
 
 Five days after the sudden departure of Lord Elwyn, his unwonted absence from 
 the mansion of Major Treilan became — among its inmates— a matter of surprise 
 conjecture, and discussion. It vvas at last supposed tnat he had left the city, 
 though he had not communicated his intention of so doing. The tenth day arrived 
 and the brow of the mother portended a storm, that of the daughter grew liaughty 
 
32 THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 
 
 and repulsive, while Edna endeavoured to soothe and quiet their agitated spirits, 
 though in reality far more interested in Lord Elwyn's absence than the others. 
 
 Fifteen weary days had at length passed, and Carlotta's nervous impatience ex- 
 ceeded anything she had ever manifested. She consulted with her mother, and it 
 was agreed that Bertha should go to his residence to ascertain if he was ill — 
 absent from the city, or any other fa«ts she could gather which would interest 
 them. 
 
 The woman was well suited for the commission, for she had long desired to 
 get a peep behind the clouds of mystery, in which this incomprehensible man 
 enveloped his domestic life. Besides, what food for gossip ! 
 
 Lobo answered the smart pull she gave the bell, but only opened the door to 
 show a moiety of his face, stern and impenetrable as ever. 
 
 *' Can I see Lord Elwyn ?" she asked pertly, hoping to awe him into a more 
 complaisant manner. 
 
 "Doubtless," he replied gravely, but without opening the door an inch wider. 
 
 " Well, yov say that I can see him ; I wish to do so,'' she continued, seeing 
 that he did not move to admit her, and she had as yet only obtained the least pos- 
 sible glimpse of a well-polished stair-case. It was no small part of her errand to 
 carry to Mrs. Trelian an accurate account of the interior of a mansion, in which she 
 anticipated Carlotta's instalment as mistress. 
 
 "I understand," replied the man slowly and monotonously pronouncing " the 
 syllables. 
 
 "You do ! Well, will you not say to Lord Elwyn that I am commissioned to 
 see him immediately ?" 
 
 " He could not hear me." 
 
 " What do you mean ?" she exclaimed, the rage showing itself in her flashing 
 eye and flushed cheek. '' Where is your master ?" 
 
 " 1 have not been informed." 
 
 *' I have not been informed !" she repeated contemptuously ; " do you not see 
 him every day?" 
 
 *' When he is to be seen." 
 
 *' Then he isi at present invisible ?" 
 
 " Not to those near him." 
 
 *' Once forali," she demanded fiercely, " is Lord Elwyu in or out of the city?" 
 
 " ]\ly orders do not enable nie to say." 
 
 " You tire a most provoking fool I'* she exclaimed by way of revenge for her 
 want of suc'cess, and turning to depart. 
 
 "Doubtless, madam," responded Lobo, bowing and closing the door. 
 
 The woman returned to the anxiously waiting mother and daughter in a high 
 rage. 
 
 *' I decltirc,"' she said after exhausting her invectives upon the servant Lobo, *' I 
 will disguise myself this very evening, and gain an admittance into the servants' 
 hall, where I shall be sure to learn all you wish to knoAV." 
 
 Her plan was approved, and vvith the fir.^t shades of evening she presented her- 
 self, completely disguised, at the door of the basement. "The statue," as she 
 denominated Lobo, Avas doomed to prove her tormentor everywhere. 
 
 •' Good evening, my dear sir," said Bertha, in the blandest tones, as she again 
 appeared ; '' we like to form acquaintances among our neighbours, and I have 
 ventured to introduce myself; my name is Ashley." 
 
 " I wait your commands, Mr. Ashley," replied the imperturbable Lobo, shutting 
 the door after him, and seating himself upon the stone steps, at the same time 
 inviting his guest by a look, follow his example. 
 
 '*Do you not receive visitors in your hall or kitchen?" 
 
 " I have no orders to that effect." 
 
 " But do you never enjoy yourselves ?" 
 
 *' Doubtless, sir." 
 
 " Well, friend, are you or are you not disposed to admit me to chat with you 
 and your companions for an hour ?" 
 
THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 
 
 83 
 
 ** No orders." 
 
 With surprising quickness she sprang up., and ere Lobo was aware, Bertha had 
 gained an entrance. A single glance was sufficient to reveal several men, an 
 elderly woman and a young girl ; more she could not see, for Lobo exclaimed, 
 *' Giovana — Marcellus/' and in au instant slie felt herself clasped in the arms of 
 
 the eiants and bore into the street. Con^pletely baffled, and somewhat frightened, 
 the angry woman quickly reached her home, to be received with trowns and harsli 
 words, which in no measure tended to allay the domestic storm 
 
 "Ah' the eratitudeof these selfish people!" exclaimed the indignant Berth 
 aloud, as she slammed the door of i\Irs. Trellan's dressin-^room, and retired 
 her own. ..*•** 
 
 Jt was a cold brigl-it morning 
 No. 5, 
 
 the early pari of ihe winter, that a ti Jl, finely 
 
54 THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 
 
 developed young man, plainly dressed in a suit of black, substantial, but far from 
 rich, was seen moving industriously from one shop to another apparently in search 
 of employment. He was evidently a foreigner — perhaps a German — for though 
 his errand was each time communicated in strictly grammatical English, it was 
 with a strong and apparently unconquerable accent. Though his various appli- 
 cations were unsuccessful, he seemed in no way discouraged, but walked on each 
 time with an expression of fresh hope and unshaken courage, following, as his 
 guide, some memoranda upon a slip of paper. 
 
 " It will prove a singular coincidence it I succeed in this house," he said men- 
 tally, as he was shown into the counting room of Major Trellan, and requested to 
 wait till that gentleman should have leisure to attend to his business. 
 
 A peculiar but almost imperceptible smile played about the mouth of the young 
 stranger, as he brushed back the rich brown curls from his noble brow, folded his 
 arms across his ample chest, and gazed with an air of genuine independence upon 
 the scene before him. 
 
 Major Trellan occupied an immense old-fashioned arm chair, and before him 
 was a table covered with green baize, upon which were a multitude of papers, 
 some tied in bundles with red tape, others lying loose and half open about him. 
 Two men — ^with the sharp, lean visages, bent forms, over-hanging brows, and 
 small, flashing, brilliant eyes of those who have built up their own fortunes, but 
 with whom the habit of bargaining is so strong, that it has become a part of their 
 esistc nee — were engaged with him in an animated discussion, upon what was ap- 
 parently a life interest. The stranger listened ; it proved to be the reduction of 
 a clerk's wages. " A fine beginnmg," he said to himself, as he closely soiutinized 
 the hard countenances of these men — princes in point of wealth- — lopping off a 
 shilling from the well-earned, but often incompetent salaries of those whose daily 
 toil had placed the millionaire upon his giddy height. '* Is there no justice in the 
 earth ?'* continued the stranger menially. " I hat he who labours should exist upon 
 a meagre pittance, and he who plans and bids that labour to be performed should 
 roll in wealth and luxury, teaching his family to despise the humble instruments 
 of that wealth?" and he looked with touching sympathy upon the pale face, slight 
 half-developed figure of a young man who occupied a clerk's stool and desk in a 
 distant corner of the room, and who never rested from his weary task, but io give 
 utterance to a subdued cough, and place his hand for a moment upon his side. 
 Steadily moved his pen, at regular intervaJ? dipped in the large brown ink-stand. 
 He had become a machine to move a quifi, and spirits, health, life were oozing out 
 with every drop of liquid consumed upon the point of it. 
 
 But all these considerations were quite out of place m a counting- room, as the 
 stranger was made to feel, when the sharp eyes of Major Trellan rested upon him, 
 and his stern voice demanded his business, desiring him to be as brief as possible. 
 
 "1 seek the situation of counting-room clerk," replied the young man, who gave 
 Ids name as George De Montfort, with much assurance. 
 
 " Ah ! that is quite fortunate for you, Mr. Benson," said the master, addressing 
 the distant clerk; " if the applicant proves worthy of the situation, you can be 
 released and take care of yourself." 
 
 De Montfort saw that the young man was deeply agitated ; he turned partly 
 round in his chair, a hectic glowed upon his cheek, and a large pearly tear- r op 
 rested in the corner of one eye as he replied, " It will be of no use now, and T 
 would rather remain as long as I can, sir." As he uttered these words, an expres- 
 sion of suppressed internal anguish passed over his pale features, but he only pressed 
 his thin hand upon his side a little longer than usual, and patiently waited a 
 reply. 
 
 " You grow miserly, Benson, I must not allow it, and if we can find another 
 clerk as faithful in Mr. De Montfort, I must discharge you, for you really ought to 
 do something for yourself." 
 
 There was no reply ; the young man bowed as if he well knew the utility of e- 
 mon?trance, and after closing his eyes with his hand for a nioment to hide is 
 emotion, proceeded with his copying. 
 
THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. ' So 
 
 '* You look trusty," said the man of business after a long and very close scrutiny 
 of De Montfort's countenance, during which his full, clear eye neither quailed nor 
 cowed beneath the searching glance of the merchant, "what can you tell me of 
 yourself and where do you reside — your references also, we never admit a clerk with- 
 out the best of those ?" 
 
 " I am a comparative siranger in this city, having been here but a few months," 
 ■replied the applicant in a rich, manly voice, " and reside in a cottage of my own in 
 Orton-street. As to references, 1 have only one, and that is from Lord Elwyn," and 
 he drew a paper from a small black morocco pocket-book. 
 • " From Lord Eiwyn ! Have you ever been employed in his service ?*• 
 
 "He knew me in my own country sir," replied the young man, avoiding the 
 question, " and considers me worthy the place which I desire. ' 
 
 The terms were discussed, and it was agreed that De Montfort should be accepted 
 on trial for a few days ; he therefore went to Benson ostensibly to learn the duties 
 of his office, upon which he wished to enter immediately, but after a few necessary 
 directions De Montfort replied, " I understand perfectly; now tell when and 
 where I may hold a little private conversation with you, and let it be as soon ■• 
 as possible." 
 
 *• My time expires in ten miuutes,'* said the clerk, looking at a large silver 
 watch, apparently some relic of antiquity ; if you choose to wait that time, here are 
 the last papers to amuse yourself with. I must not stop longer. 
 
 De Montfort took the papers and hleped himself to a chair, not having had 
 o)ie offered, the master not condescending — the clerk not daring to do so. But 
 it was not to read. He watched each motion of the sick man with a constantly 
 increasing interest, but could not understand his repugnance to a removaL 
 Ha\'ing finished the necessary writing for the day, Benson examined one by 
 one each article contained in the old servdce room desk ; the heavy books winh 
 their coarse leather bindings, the letters, the papers, the ink- stand, the sand dish, 
 even the brown blotting paper, seemed to have some memory of joy or pain con- 
 nected with it. It was evident that he was parting with old friends, valued 
 not so much for themselves, as for the remembrances connected with them. He 
 had sat their for years — the desk and its appendages were a part of his being— 
 who shall wonder that he sighed as he gazed upon them for the last time ? 
 
 "Come,' said De Montfort at last, " it is time for your release, and I have 
 much to say to you," 
 
 The young man started. Was it possible that any one was interested in his 
 fate ? It Avas something so new, that the voice of symp athy wa slike ba Ito 
 his wounded spirit. 
 
 *' Benson," said the merchant, taking out an immense pocket book, " come for 
 your salary before you go. It is not the regular day, but I will make an ex- 
 ception in your case, lou have been a faithful clerk," and he handed him a 
 roll of bills after having counted them twice. 
 
 *' Count them, sir, and see if all is right," said the merchant somewhat sternly, 
 as Benson was putting them in his pocket. 
 
 As the clerk tremblingly laid one bdl after another upon the table, the major 
 repeatedly opened and shut his pocket-book, as if tempted to add a gift to his 
 salary, and his lips moved nervously in the struggle between benevoleiK e and 
 avarice, but at last he shut it firmly, placed it in a black leather trunk the key of 
 which he put in his pocket muttering " nonsense ? I have paid his due," and turn- 
 ing to Benson said, ' take care of yourself and your money too, young man, it 
 may be long before you earn so much again," and bowing to the young gentlemen, 
 they both leit him. 
 
 Major Trellanlmightindeed, in all probability, have had a heart once, but 
 it had been divided into shares and distributed among stocks, interest mom y. im- 
 portation and exportation bilh, rise and fall of merchants, insurance com].anies, 
 bai-k dividends, &.c, &:c, till none of it remained for charity. 
 
 De Montfort offered an arm to Benson as they left Major Trellan's office, 
 walked slowly in the direction chosen by the latter. After a moment'ss 
 
36 THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 
 
 t he former said, "Our acquaintance has been so brief that I feel much hesitation 
 in asking something of your history, but if I do not offend you, pray tell me why 
 you ^vere so reluctant to leave an employment which is evidently injuring you ?" , 
 
 "Oh it is a very simple matter, " replied Benson endeavouring to be calm, 
 " I have a mother and only sister depending upon my salary— only^ four hun- 
 dred at the most— but Ave manage it Avith great economy. Some months ago I 
 felt my health breaking doAvn from such intense application, and I requested 
 permission to resign, trusting to Providence for another situation after I should 
 have recovered.'' 
 
 " Well, it was granted of course." » 
 
 •' Oh no ! on the contrary I was told that it was impossible for me to leave till 
 another was secured in my place. No one has offered till you came to day." 
 
 '* And you would have preferred that I should have been refused — 1 saw it in 
 your countenance. This is what 1 Avished to understand." 
 
 "1 am very selfish I acknowledge, but the thought of those loved ones at home 
 without money, Avithout resources, lay heavy upon my heart. I knoAV that I 
 must die — that nothing now can save me — I might have lived, but now it is 
 impossib'e, and I had resolved to Avork till the last." 
 
 "Brave heart !" exclaimed De Montfort ; " and it is I who have prevented the 
 accomplishment of this heroic re&olution. But in return for that, i ought to be 
 of some service to you — let me reflect." 
 
 At this moment they arrived before a large ujicomfortable looking building at 
 which Benson paused, and said as rapidly as his difficult breathing Avould alloAV, 
 ''This is my home, sir ; if you have more to say to me, Avill you come in? I am 
 too much fatigued to walk farther." De Montfort readily accepted the invitation 
 ascending two fights of stairs, during which Benson had often to pause, they en- 
 tered a low small room, and weie received by a matron of fifty years and a little 
 girl of twelve, the mother and sister of IJenson. 
 
 De Montfort expressed great sympathy for his friend, and assured him that he 
 Avould do everything in his power to assist him and his relatives. He desired them 
 to make his cottage their future residence, Avhere he would send a physician to 
 attend upon Herman Benson. This offer Avas gratefully accepted. 
 
 Mrs. Benson thanked De Montfort for his kindness, both to herself and her son 
 and daughter; and Dc Montfort soon after left, to prepare for his new occupation. 
 De Montfort being employed by the major on confidential business Avas occa- 
 sionally sent to his private residence. He Avas there one day Avhcn the following 
 conversation took place : — 
 
 " There is Lord Elwyn's carriage," exclaimed Carlotta in high glee. " He has 
 C3me at last I How I wish papa Avould send away that young man in the hall I 
 ilo not like his lordship to see such vulgar people about the house." 
 
 " Hush ! He will hear you and his feelings will be Avounded," replied a voice 
 90 loAV that it scarcely reached De Montfort ; " your father says that young gen- 
 tleman is his ncAv clerk and he respects him much." 
 
 "This is not Lord Ehvyn after all," interrupted Carlotta, in a disappointed tone. 
 But see, he has a note. Hoav I wish that clerk Avould go, I dishke to have even 
 the servant see him here." 
 
 But there he stood, passive as a machine, and saAv the proud girl receive the 
 )iote from the hands ot the servant, press it to her lips, and eagerly peruse it with 
 Hashing eyes and burning cheeks. It simply announced the return of the writer, 
 ani le-jucted permission to visit her. 
 
 '' Say to Lord Elywn that I am at home this evening," was the commission she 
 gave the servant, Avho boAved and departed. 
 
 •' Good !" thought De Montfort, " I am not recognised by Marcellus. One more 
 trial and I shall be quite satisfied." 
 
 At the same moment Edna entered the hall and politely requested him to walk 
 into the parlour, as he must be much fatigued Avith standing. 
 
 " Thank you, Lady," he said in a low% musical voice Avlnch caused her to star, 
 
THE DOUBLE COURTSttlP. 37 
 
 and endeavour to recal the time, the place, when that same sweet sound had fallen 
 upon her ear. 
 
 " This is Mr. De Montfort," she said, her natural kindness causing her to be 
 at times regardless of ceremony. " 1 liave to-day heard my uncle speak very 
 highly of you." 
 
 The stranger bowed "with exceeding grace, and replied, "It is an honour Ihad 
 not anticipated to receive the encomiums of Major Trellan ; but a happiness far 
 greater than my utmost expectations could reach, to hear those praises echoed by the 
 fair lips of his beautiful niece." 
 
 "You know me then,'' she said, drawing her work-table towards her, and 
 feeling (juite at her ease after this unceremonious introduction. 
 
 " Only as the beautiful and the good are always known," he replied, letting the 
 light of his clear, brilliant eyes fall upon her with a joyous, grateful expression. 
 " 1 last night heard Miss Edna Trellan's name repeated with overflowing hearts 
 and tears of gratitude, for she had restored to one humble dwelling its light — 
 its idol." 
 
 Edna blushed, for she had not supposad her deed of benevolence known. •' Ke, 
 too, visits the cottages of the suffering," she thought, and it was an invisible bond 
 of sympathy between them. One topic led to another, till Edna found herself 
 imperceptibly becoming deeply interested in the rich and varied conversation of 
 the young clerk, and rather regretted than otherwise to see her uncle enter the 
 parlour. After a few moments conversation with him, Mr. De Montfort arose to 
 depart. Edna arose, saying, " my dear uncle, with your permission I would 
 invite Mr. De Montfort to share with us now and then an hour of his leisure." 
 
 *' Certainly, child, certainly, whenever he wishes ; he is welcome." 
 
 Pleasure sparkled in the fine eyes of the stranger clerk as he replied, " They 
 will be the happiest hours of my life." 
 
 An early hour that evening brought Lord Elwyn, who was overwhelmed with 
 incpiiries as to his absence, congratulations upon his return, and protestations of 
 delight upon his again making one of their evening visitors. To Edna he had 
 never seemed so much the creature of fashion, of what the world calls nobility ; 
 his dress, his hair, his ornaments, his manner, each and all inspired her v;ith a 
 slight but unconquerable feeling of contempt. The distance had never seemed so 
 great between them, and she quietly contrasted the rich hour of social, intellectual 
 intercourse, unburdened by ceremonies, which she had so recently enjoyed, with 
 the important fashionable nothings — the cutting sarcasms and the shafts of wit 
 exchanging between himself and her cousin. 
 
 Carlotta laboured to be brilliant, and was succesful. Lord Elwyn's only hap- 
 piness seemed to be in calling forth more and more her peculiar and widely 
 acknowledged powers of fascination ; time, however, has revealed a higher, nobler 
 motive for action, and this proved to be but one item in the part he had to play 
 with the intriguing mother and ambitious daughter. 
 
 At length theybegan io rally Edna upon her silence. ,'She is dreaming of the 
 young clerk^" said Carlotta mischeviously. " He was presuming enough to come 
 here, and s^e condesceridcd to talk with him." 
 
 " Which you would never do '^" said Lord Elwyn inquiringly. 
 
 *' Never r""' ^t^e replied haughtily. •' But see! it must be as 1 say — she blushes." 
 Truly she did blush till her fair neck was a glowing crimson, as an undefinable 
 glance from Lord Elwyn's eye met hers, seeming to pervade in one instant her 
 whole being. 
 
 Recovering herself in a moment she asLid firmly, — " However you may ridicule 
 the idea, I have never met with a more perfect gentleman, or one whose thorough 
 and well-bred politeness is more a part of his being, than Mr. De Montfort's, and 
 1 announce to you that I pjomise myself many delicious hours in his society. 
 There are many topics upon which I wish to converse with him, surfe that I shall 
 in every way prove the gainer. I only hope that he will not forget his promise." 
 
 '' No ! lady, no ! she distinctly heard hehitld her at this moment, and sprang 
 from her seat to assertain from whence that sweet sound came, but there Avas only 
 
38 THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 
 
 Lord Elwyii lounging upon a sofa, and Carlotta, who had heard nothing, ex" 
 claimed in great surprise, " What ! is our cleark to visit here?" 
 
 '* With your father's permission I have invited him," quietly replied Edna, her 
 thoughts still dwelling upon that voice. 
 
 All expression of scorn and contempt curled the lips and bent the brow of the 
 proud girl as she replied, *' Ah ! one would not think that she was descended f.om 
 the .'iristocracy of England and America!" A moment after their conversation 
 was interrupted by the entrance of Major Trellan and his^lady, accompanied by 
 several friends to whom they Avere proud to say that Lord Elwyn had returned at 
 the expected time, and was their constant visitor. Some introductions took place, 
 the conversation became general, and at a late hour Lord Ehvyn departed, but 
 not till he had bestowed upon Edna one of those sweet smiles which lay for week's 
 afterwards like a life-giving sunbeam in her path, but which it was equally im- 
 possible for her to forget or understand. 
 
 CHAPTER VI. 
 
 AN IMPORTANT DISCOVERY. 
 
 When George De Montfort (for under his assumed character we will use hi* 
 accustomed name) entered the very respectable mercantile house of Trellan & Co. 
 it w as a part of ti\e agreement between that gentleman and himself that his duties 
 n the counting room should be limited to four hours each day. When a wish to 
 this effect was first expressed by De Montfort, the worthy merchant was puzzled 
 to comprehend its design, but acceded to it upon the condition of a corresponding 
 reduction of wages. The motive, however, will be quite plain to the reader. So 
 much leisure served to make De Montfort an object of suspicion and dislike to 
 some eight or ten fellow clerks in and about the warehouse. 
 
 These young men were accustomed to live together with that kind of vulgar 
 familiarity to which De Montfort with his lofty nature found it impossible to descend, 
 They perceived his superiority at once, and determined to act upon the levelling 
 principle so common among all classes; it w^as impossible to go up to him, he 
 must, therefore, of necessity, comedown to tliem — at least that was their view of 
 the matter. 
 
 His quick perception required no assistance in detecting and appreciating the 
 true state of the case, but he chose rather than to reveal himself, to endure their 
 scorn and ill-natured remarks, taking occasion only to remove his writing-desk 
 opposite a large crack where he could both see and hear the operations and remarks 
 of his enemies. At length, headed by two of the most reckless, they resolv^ed to 
 follow him and ascertain where and to what purpose he bestowed such unwonted 
 leisure. The plan n'as deemed so desiiable and promised such satisfactory results, 
 that it was thought best to put it in operation without delay. 
 
 Their buisiness was completed for the day, the windows were closed, and 
 grouped about the door they awaited with mnch impatience his appearance from 
 an inner room which had no other outlet than through the one they were in. A 
 delay quite unusual on the part of De Montfort caused them to be somewhat 
 irritable, which they were venting in no very set phrases upon each other, when 
 the door of the counting room opened, and a middle-aged and somewhat care-worn 
 man stepped among them, in a liarsh tone demanding. 
 
 *' Where is th*? head clerk ? I have been waiting more than an hour — w her 
 he, I say ?* 
 
THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP, 39 
 
 Their surprise was so great that they regarded first him and then the door, and 
 finally each other, the boldest exclaiming, — 
 
 *' And we, too, were waiting for him,'' while the more timid walked silently 
 away. 
 
 " Is not Mr. Do Moutford in the counting-room ?" at length one ventured to ask. 
 
 " I tell you," said the man grnffly, " I have been alone there for an hour ; it is 
 uo light matter to be obliged to 'waste one's time in this manner,'' and he went 
 away grumbling. 
 
 After turning two or three corners, he relaxed the muscles of his face, pulled his 
 hair from behind his ears, unbuttoned and threw back his coat, took off an extra 
 neckcloth, and De Montford proceeded merrily on his way, leaving, as usual, a 
 mystery behind him. 
 
 " Ah, my dear Herman, how are you to-night?" he asked of the young invalid, 
 as he entered Violet Cottage, and drew a chair beside him. 
 
 " Better, I think, or it is this comfortable home and bed-room without the effort 
 of ascending stairs, and these easy chairs and stuffed sofa, in place of my hard 
 stool at the office, and an amusing book with your pretty flowers, instead of those 
 monstrous ledgers and four bare walls which makes me feel so ; at any rate, I am 
 better, and I owe it all to you," and tears gathered in his soft blue eyes. 
 
 ' O, it is nothing, my friend. I am as much the gamer as you. Instead of a 
 solitary home where I had to make my own tea and coffee, here is now a fine 
 domestic circle to welcome, of which httle Mary is, by no means, the least," and he 
 drew the child upon his knee to share with her the mirthfulness of her kitten. 
 
 "There is only one objection to our mode of life here," said Mrs. Benson, 
 seriously, *' hut 1 confess it is one which weighs heavily upon my heart, saddened 
 as it has been, by the sorrows of the past." 
 
 " What is it, ray good lady ?" asked De Montfort, somewhat surprised, as his 
 mind ran rapidly over the many hixurles which the cottage contained. 
 
 '' It is the thought," she replied sadly, like one whom long necebsity had 
 taught to look only upon the dark side of every object, " that some time we must 
 leave it, and return to our old habitation ; which, in comparison, seems more 
 gloomy than ever, or," she added in a lower tone, " }>erhaps we shall then be 
 reduced to a worse one.'* 
 
 " Ah ! it is such a comfort to me that you find no fault with my cottage," re- 
 plied De Montfort, gaily. " I should not bear even an insinuation peaceably, for 
 you see, I take great pride in its arrangement, and as to your objection, it has 
 not the least weight. Shall I be willing to live by myself again after awhile ? 
 Do you mean to manage so badly as to compel me to drive you out ?" and he 
 laughed heartily, at which the good woman smiled, and cheerfulness seemed 
 about to be restored, when De Montfort touched upon another topic which again 
 threw a sadness over the little party. 
 
 " What said the physician whom I sent?" he asked of Herman. 
 
 " The only hopes he has of my recovery arc founded on my removal to a 
 warmer climate." 
 
 " How very fortunate ! That idea had occurred to me to-day, and I resolved 
 to propose it immediately ; now you cannot hesitate. Come, I will propose a 
 plan. I have a little business, very urgent and special, though, to be transacted 
 with an individual near Charleston, S. C. I do not like to trust the mail, and, 
 have feared that I should be forced to go myself for want of a faithful agent. 
 You are just the person ; it will serve you as an errand, and as you 'go for me, I 
 shall of course be responsible for the expense. All is arranged, you see, and as I 
 am in some little haste, you will be ready to start in a week, and in a few months 
 return to us quite well and stout. These are happy thoughts, are they not?'* he 
 added, looking cheerfully around. 
 
 But it was no light task to persuade the anxious mother to part with her only 
 son, whom she regarded as little better than already buried. De Montfort, how- 
 ever, would take no refusal, and from that moment b^gan to settle preliminaries 
 as if the matter would not admit another doubt. 
 
40 THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 
 
 A week from that day, Violet Cottapfe was the scene of a parting which clouded 
 with anguish three human hearts — three hearts bound together b)'^ intense love, 
 isolation from the woild, the sufferings of the past, and faint glimmerings of hope 
 for the future. The deep, burning withering agony of the mother, which dried 
 up even her tears, the unrestrained weeping of the sister, the mournful sadness 
 of the young man, who feared that he was going from his home hut to die, but 
 from long habit concealed his sorrow in his own bosom, the trunk ready packed, 
 the unconquerable restlessness which invariably precedes a departure upon a long 
 journey, were the characteristics of the scene. 
 
 *' The weather is intensely cold," said De Montfort, entering as the invalid 
 drew on an over-coat which had seen much wear and many repairs, " and 
 you will wear this for my sake," taking from his own person a new sub- 
 stantial cloak, one of the warmest material, with a quilted lining beneath its 
 broad velvet facings, "and these, too, must go with the cloak," he added, as he 
 fastened a heavy fur collar about the neck of the young man, and placed in his 
 hands a pair of gloves of the same material. " Here a are few things which will be 
 useful or serve for your amusement," and he placed upon a table a morocco 
 case, which Benson afterwards found to contain some ordinary medicines with 
 directions for using them, writing materials, the pocket edition of Shakspere, 
 beautifully bound in purple silk and gold, with a few lighter works, all of the 
 miniature size, and last of all a sum of money, which seemed to him quite 
 extravagant, but which proved that his friend understood travelling far better 
 than himself. 
 
 Their generous benefactor would have been overwhelmed with thank>', had lie 
 not prevented them by a look which seemed to say, " It is my affair after all." 
 
 The moment of departure came at last, and Herman Benson entered the carriage 
 that was to take him a short distance, with a face smiling thi-ough its tears, for 
 his tender heart had been thoroughly affected by so nmch unexpected kindness. 
 
 " Remember you are to write to me regularly," were the last words of De Mont- 
 ford, as he pressed the hand of his iriend through the window of tiie carriage, and 
 then began bustling about very busily that he might not appear to notice the tears 
 of the widowed mother and the lone sister. 
 
 *' Mrs. Benson," said he at last, with considerable energy, as if a new thought 
 had just occurred to him, " I can see tlmt it will be exceedingly inconvenient for 
 you to manage all these aflairs without some J'.ssi:^tance, and 1 shall send a man to 
 you regularly every cay, to do whatever you witsh ; you need not fear to trust 
 him in everything, and should you wish for me at any time, he will always know 
 where I am to be found." This was said with so natural an air, that it never 
 occurred to the good woman that tliere was any mystery connected with the matter. 
 " Good morning ; I shall dine with you," he said, opening the street door. 
 «*•♦•* ^ 
 
 The visits of the young clerk at Major Trellan't: had by this time become a 
 general topic of remark and discussion in the extensive circle of thtir fashionable 
 acquaintance. Edna's superior loveliness, with her lar^e fortune, would have made 
 her an especial object of attention in the match-making world, had it not been 
 everywhere known that she was betrothed to the only son of Major Trellan when 
 both were children, and that their marriage was looked upon as a settled thing. 
 It created, therefore, no little surprise wlien the news flew from mouth to mouth 
 that De Montford was allowed to pay her the most undoubted attention. 
 
 '*Do you love him, Edna V I asked, loeking directly in her beautiful face, for 
 about this time a singular concurrence of circumstances raadeus the best of friends. 
 " Do you love him?' 
 
 "I do not know," she replied, after a moment's thought ; " I am happier with 
 him than with any other, but he seems to me too much enveloped in mystery." 
 
 ♦* That is to say, you have not learned to trust him entirely." 
 
 ** I suppose it is so, and yet he is a very exalted being, I beb'eve I reverencp 
 snore than I love him,'* sjie replied artlessly, 
 
 f^ Poes he iQve you ?" 
 
THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP 
 
 41 I 
 
 " He has never told me so," but the bright blush that mantled her cheek, and 
 the merry twinkle of her blue eye, revealed the secret more than her words. It 
 Was as yet an unrevealed love, but as true and lasting as if it had been spoken in 
 Vows, and ratified by the marriage ceremony. 
 
 That evening Lord Elwyn was cold and thoughtful, and suddenly interrupted 
 Carlotta in the midst of an animated description of a recent ball to request a shoit 
 
 0m" 'r0m 
 
 private interview with Edna. Somewhat composed, she led the way to another 
 parlour, and by accident to the one where hung the family portrait already alluded 
 to as having engrossed so much of his attention upon the night of the ball. 
 
 Lord Elwyn stood a moment before the picture with closed arms, fixed eyes, in 
 an attitude of deep thought, mournfully, yet tenderly, gazjng upon the lady, 4ho 
 No, 6, 
 
2 THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 
 
 was weeping, and the young boy who was watching her, his lips slightly parte<^ 
 as if to catch the least sound. Suddenly turning, he clasped Edna's hanSs in hi^ 
 own, saying, — 
 
 " You are like your mother — I remember her." 
 f " you!'' exclaimed Edna. " You knew my mother !'* 
 
 "And that boy'*— continued Lord Elwyn regardless of her astonishment. 
 
 "Was you ? Qh I see it — how very like," interrupted Edna, as for a moment 
 thiscountenaace assumed the juvenile expression of the boy on the canvass. It 
 was but momentary however, and had passed so quickly as to be more like 
 a dream than a reality. Edna turned her eyes alternately from the portrait 
 to her visitor, and back again in that strange bewilderment where one 
 almost doubts the evidence of one's own senses, and Lord Elwyn neither 
 apoke nor moved, but allowed her time to recover from her sui-prise. " Yes, I 
 remember the lady Isabel and I loved her." hr said at last, in that monotonous 
 tone that indicated the recalling of some reminiscence, rather than the recital of 
 facts to another. " She married an American — a man without name or fortune, 
 specluator — and her father was deeply angry. He was a nobleman whose pride 
 was excessive, but be idolized his, daughter and that ray intercession forgave her, 
 but rotwithstandmg all I could say ,he withheld her fortune. But he was after- 
 wards just to her. The Lad) Isabel was my cousin, and young as I was, trust- 
 ed and implored my influence. Her grief was mine" and he stopped suddenly, 
 evidently forgetful or regardless of the presence of Edna, his eyes resting upon 
 the lady ofthe portrait till tears gathered in them and rolled down his manly face, 
 " Child of Isabel!" he exclaimed, clasping her in his |arms, and she felt, as she 
 leaned on his bosom, that it heaved ;.with some strong emotion not yet revealed. 
 Can you keep a secret?" he asked, putting her from him, and smiling sweetly. 
 
 " It being the first favour which, as my cousin, you ask of me, 1 shall at least 
 try," she replied. 
 
 '*Then say nothing of our relationship, at least liot at present/', he said, looking 
 in her eye for consent to his wish. 
 
 " This is a strange request my lord," she replied, her face flushed wilh indigna- 
 tion that he should be unwilling to acknowledge her as a relative. 
 
 ** I knowit, but there are reasons so weighty fts to overcome my repugnance to 
 making it. Wait a little, have patf€fnc« with me a few weeks or months as the case 
 may require, and all shall be explained." 
 
 " Then you will not trust me," said Edna with gome spirit. 
 
 ** The way is not yet clear,|Edna ; it involves more than you dream of; give me 
 this one promise of secrecy, and you shall have my sincere gratitude." 
 
 " You have it my lord ; no one shall learn the snbject of our interview from 
 me." 
 
 *• Let us drop titles when alone ; call me simply cousin. I have one more 
 promise to exact from you. There are many dangers in life for one so young, so 
 beautiful, and above all so rich, and, besides the friends with whom you reside, and 
 who I think are not altogether disinterested, you have no relative but myself. A 
 rupture may occur^-T do not Say that it will, but all things are possible — and 1 
 would provide against it. Promise me, then, that in any exigency whatever you 
 will confide in me." 
 
 " You have been very kind to me and my gratitude, *" 
 
 *« No— no, that will not do," he continued gravely. " I may see many difficul- 
 ties in your path which you do not — promise me then, that should any doubt arise, 
 should your confidence in others suddenly be shaken and you wish for a true 
 confiding friend, you will come or write to me. Do not trust to appearances. I 
 have many mOre thoughts of you than my general indifi^erence would seem to indi- 
 cate. Will you promise ?" and his noble soul shone out from his clear dark eyes 
 with such radiance and lofty benevolence, that she felt all her first impression*? 
 respecting him revive. 
 
 " 1 promise," she said slowlj^, giving him her hand, but he'drew her towards him 
 ^nd kissed her forehead, saying, *' the compact is now sealed. Move steadily on 
 
THE DOUBLE COURTSHUP, 4S 
 
 m the path dictated by honour ©r love, and fear not; trust ever and impticUy in 
 the powerful arm which shall protect you." 
 
 Edna blushed deeply, for she fancied that Lord Elwyn had discovered her 
 iove-secret. 
 
 *' I suppose,'* he continued gayly after a moment's pause, ** that you would 
 hardly accept my hand if I were to offer it now V* 
 
 " Do not speak of it," she said quickly, '• unless you wish at once to destroy all 
 the delightful sensations that I feel on finding you so near a relative, and compel 
 me to regret my promise." 
 
 "Ah, well I could not urge it ; be true to the love which fills your soul, and 
 may (jod so prosper rae as 1 am true to your happiness/' The last word* were 
 spoken with indescribable tenderness, and with a smile so swee that Edna felt 
 that it must be a token of coming good; he then led her into the hall and 
 bidding her make his peace with Carlotta, and be silent oa their interview he 
 departed. 
 
 CHAPTER Vn. 
 
 A DOMESTIC bENE— »L0VE REVEALED. 
 
 Immediately after Lord Elwyn retired with Edna for a private conversation) 
 Carlotta indignantly flew to her moiher's sitting room where, that lady was as 
 usual dozing away her evening ; it was her common practice when not at the 
 theatre or a ball. Carlotta entered at once upon a history of the insult offered her 
 the whole blame to uhich, she had no hesitation in at once laying upon Eda, de« 
 daring it to be her solemn conviction that it was adeleberate plan, and previously 
 communicated to Lord Ehvyn. Major Trellan was summoned lro;n his study to 
 the family council, Edna's downright refusal of Ernest in the intercepted letter 
 communicated to him, the visits of De Moutfort dwelt upon, and finally the inter- 
 view then in progress. 
 
 Mrs. Trellan, as usual, recommended extreme caution and management — but 
 her husband and daughter were resolved to pursue the opposite course of open 
 warfare. Scarcely therefore, had Edna ascended to her cabinet, where she wished 
 to contemplate in silence the singular event of the evening with the consequences 
 necessariy involved, when a s<?rvant entered to request her presence with the 
 family. Somewhat disturbed, but still having no ostensible reason for a refusal, 
 she obeyed. Her heart fluttered a little as she entered and saw the stern, lowering 
 brow of her uncle, the cunning yet somewhat triumphant smile of her aunt, and 
 the hatred and malicious desire for revenge in the countenance of Carlotta, 
 
 Edna possessed in reality a true and lofty courage whice had as yet scarcely 
 been proved, and of which, tliose who persecuted her were little aware. She did 
 not pioced to a seat as under other circumstances she would have done, but ad= 
 vancing to about the centre of the room, she turned her eye slowly and tranquilly 
 on each, finishing with her uncle, to whom she said quietly. — " One would suppose 
 from the ominous appearances that you had summoned me as a culprit to answer 
 for some serious offence. For what purpose is my presence desired ?" 
 
 This address, so much in contrast with her univeisal amiabiliiy, created surprise 
 in all, but in none more than her uncle, because it was always a matter of astonish- 
 ment when any one seriously opposed his wishes. 
 
 " I learn," he said regardmg her with a fierce expression asif he could if he would 
 annihilate her, " that you have dared to refuse to fulfil the contract made by your 
 father with myself— that you have unconditionally declared this refusal tociyson? 
 
44 THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 
 
 not content with that, you have laid deep plans to win the affections of Lord Elwyn 
 from my daughter, intending to marry him your you. Instead of commanding or 
 punishing you, as I doubtless could, I condescend to reason and expostulate with 
 you. What do you reply to all this?" 
 
 " Nothing," replied Edna with the same imperturable coolness. 
 *'Ah! my love, you forget *' began her aunt, diplomatically. 
 *' Silence !" exclaimed the uncle, '' I wish to speak. These are serious charges'* 
 very se ious. Why then do you answer me with the word nothing ?" 
 
 "Simply because there is nothing to be said," returned Edna firmly. ''You 
 say that you are aware of the fact that I have refused to marry your son. I read 
 to you some day's since his refusal to marry me. It is a settled thing — we cannot 
 marry — more than that, we will not marry. All this sir, by your own state- 
 ment you already knew ; it is plain then that I had in reality nothing to say.'* 
 
 *'But the last command of your dying father," again commenced Mrs. Trellan, 
 who secretly trembled under Edna's firm, courageous expression, and saw in this 
 determined will the loss of a fortune, and the failure of her plans. 
 
 " I have already told you, madam, that my father did not command me. I admt 
 that it was his wish that we should he thus betrothed, and I acceded to that wish 
 for two reasons. I was far too young to understand the value or import of the 
 ceremony! of course it is not now binding upon me. Again, my only parent was 
 dying, and had he then asked the sacrifice of my life at a certain age, the request 
 would as soon have been granted. But this is useless. Ernest and myself have 
 not that exalted and fate defying affection for each other that I deem necessary to 
 secure our mutual happiness, and without this I will never marry." 
 
 *' Affection !" repeated the hard-hearted merchant with a sneer. " I did not 
 send for you to preach to mc about affection ; it is all a humbug. I had once 
 some such idle notion myself, but the wear aadj tear of the world takes it all 
 away." 
 
 '•But when did you make this important discovery of a want of affection for 
 Ernest ?" demanded her aunt quizzingly. . 
 
 " When Lord Elwyn began to \4«it us doubtless," interrupted Carlotta with a 
 malicious smile. 
 
 *'It opened itself upon me by degrees," replied Edna with a forced calmness, and 
 allowing the insolence of her cousin to pass unnoticed, "as the subject of our mar- 
 riage became a familiar theme for conversation. Then came the consideration of its 
 dutiies and its pleasures, and my heart told me plainly that I could neither un- 
 dertake the former with a courage animated by love, or enjoy the latter with a 
 cheerfulness r'-'ade enduring by mutual sympathy. In fact 1 love Ernest as my 
 brother ; no deeper love for him has even animated my bosom. Do you understand 
 me, madam, and you, sir ?" and she regarded each deliberately. 
 
 «' I imderstand nothing of all this," replied her uncle gruffly, " but the fact re- 
 mains the same, that vou are pledged to marry my son and no earthly power shall 
 prevent it. You are in your minority, and your person and property are in my 
 possession. Perhaps that circumstance did not occur to you while so bravely 
 asserting your independence." 
 
 " 1 knew the fact very well,*' quietly responded Edna, " but it does not in the 
 least degree alter UiV i'ltc-viuMs." 
 
 Edna's unshaken courage made two hearts tremble for the success of their 
 favorite plan, and Major Trellan, supposing there must be a motive for what he 
 termed "unheard of obstinacy," resolved to attack her at another point. 
 
 *' What was the subject of your mterview with Lord Elwyn to-night ?' he deman- 
 ded sternly. 
 
 This was a more difficult position for Edna. It suited well with her ingenuous 
 frankness to take the fearless, definite position she had done with regard to her 
 marriage, but on this point her honor was involved ; she would keep her promise 
 at any risk, though she perceived at once that she was liable to the worst sus- 
 picions, and with a little agitation she replied, "I cannot tell you, sir?" 
 
 "That is," interrupted the aunt, '< you will not tell. It was doubtless a plan 
 
THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 45 
 
 Previously arranged by you and communicated to him, in which his politeness 
 Prompted him to accede to your wishes. No wonder then that you do not choose 
 to reveal what is so much against yourself," and an intelligent expression quickly 
 passed between the worthy matronjand her daughter. _ 
 
 *' A promise suddenly becomes very sacred," said Carlotta with a disagreeable 
 laugh. 
 
 Edna's eyes, with unruffled calmness, rested a moment on her cousin's face as 
 she replied, "1 understand you. I disregarded the promise made to Ernest — I ful- 
 fil that made to Lord Elwyn. It is because I choose to do thus." 
 
 " Answer me one question," said Major Trellan sternly. " Did Lord Elwyn ask 
 you to became his wife ?" 
 
 '*Not directly sir," replied Edna without the least apparent confusion. 
 
 Carlotta meanwhile had regarded her cousin searchingly and with the instinctive 
 jealousy of a woman who fears to find a rival, she discovered what all the formal 
 questions of her father could not — that is, that she did not love Lord Ehvyn. 
 
 *' Papa,"' said she quickly,'* let me assist you. Did not your new clerk, Mr. De 
 Montfort, state that he had a reference from Lo''d Elwyn ? I think I heard you say 
 so. Perhaps Miss Edna wished to consult him upon the character and prospects 
 of one who occupies so many of her thoughts, and so much of her leisure. Ah ! 
 I have guessed right — see ! how beautifully the detection of this secret colours 
 her cheek I" 
 
 For the first time during this strange conference, Edna's heart throbbed vio- 
 lently, her eyes turned restlessly in their sockets, the colour came and left her 
 cheeks so rapidly as to cause a constant change of complexion, and the firm assur- 
 rance she had manifested till now, seemed at once to forsake her. 
 
 " Is there any engagement between yourself and De Montfort ?" asked the 
 merchant, who saw no way to arrive at his object but by plain questions. 
 
 "There is none," said Edna quickly, glad to deal with him rather than her 
 more subtle aunt and cousin, aud wishing, with all the timidity of a first love, to 
 conceal it within her bosom. 
 
 " Nevertheless papa she loves him," interrupted Carlotta, *' and this love is the 
 mountain — the impassible barrier that stands between herself and Ernest. It will 
 be a proud alliance," she continued exultingly, " both for my nobly descended 
 cousin, and for our family. Edna must feel herself highly honoured in being 
 chosen by an unknown fortune hunter. No doubt he revels in the prospect of 
 enjoying her fine fortune." 
 
 These words, uttered in a tone of bitter sarcasm, filled the heart of Edna with 
 mournful sadness. It was then demonstrated to a certainty that she had not a 
 friend in her uncle's house. Each one tormented her in the way best suited to 
 them, and with this conviction she sank upon a chair and pressed her hand con- 
 vulsively upon her forehead, while a shade of deeper agony passed over her fine 
 features. 
 
 " It is well, " said her uncle fiercely, '' that no engagement has been formed 
 between my clerk and yourself. ]\Iy clerk indeed ! that comes of my leniency. I 
 have been a fool to trust you so much. From this hour De Montfort shall be 
 forbidden the house, and in less than a week Ernest shall be summoned to meet 
 his bride. The wedding is fixed for this day month, and in the mean time you 
 will be too much occupied with preparations to receive my clerk ; I shall take care 
 that he knows it.' 
 
 " Is that your fixed resolution, sir V asked Edna, once more rising, as with a 
 calm and dignified air she confronted her uncle. 
 
 " Fixed! who ever knew me to change my mind?" and he regarded her with 
 an expression of contempt. 
 
 ''Then you will discover sir, in time, that I too am capable of an unchanging 
 determination," and she left the apartment so rapidly as to see distinctly the gar- 
 ments of a retreating figure. Bertha had hstened to the whole conversation 
 
 '* Well, that is what I anticipated," exclaimed Mrs. Trellan, enraged at th* 
 result : " you have driven her too far ; she will now prove troublcBOme to you. If I 
 
46 THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 
 
 had managed it — *' Here Major Trellan suddenly picked up a book he had pre- 
 viously been using, and retired abruptly to his study, not condescending to notice 
 in the least the remark of his lady. 
 
 *' There is a chance of success with Lord Elwyn," began Carlotta after her 
 father's disappearance, '*! will question him about Edna if he comes to-morrow 
 night for I cannot endure this suspense." But she calculated badly ; nearly a 
 week passed ere she again saw him, and in that disastrous week, gloom and sorrow 
 were spread through the house. 
 
 " We shall lose her fortune at last! I feel it!" exclaimed Mrs. Trellan with 
 some vehemence and more bitterness, forgetful of her daughter's presence ; " after 
 playing the hypocrite so many years — after concealing in my bosom a secret I 
 would give worlds not to know — after—" 
 
 *' A secret ! what is it ? no secrets from rae I hope," and the sound of Carlotta's 
 voice caused her to tremble, but she did not lose her presence of mind. 
 
 "It simply relates to Edna's fortune. It is much larger than she supposes, and 
 >ve have concealed the fact that it might not have a bad influence upon the child,* 
 replied this pattern of a mother in the most natural tone. 
 
 " A fine story to put me off with," murmured Carlotta as she slowly ascended 
 the stairs to the parlour occupied by herself and cousin. Slightly raising the 
 curtain which concealed the entrance of Edna's cabinet, she saw the young girl 
 upon a low cushion near the fire, her head resting upon her hand, but the profusion 
 of curls which had escaped from their confinement and fell over her face, prerentcd 
 the expression from being seen. Many conflicting thoughts agitated her bosom. 
 She saw plainly that it was her uncle's intention to force her marriage with Ernest. 
 Her promise to Lord Elwyn occurred to her, and this seemed a time for its fulfil- 
 ment. For a moment she resolved to see or write to him immediately, and freely 
 communicate her position. But De Montfort had never addressed her in the 
 language of love. Here then was a new difficulty. She could not say to Lord 
 Rlwyn, " I love De Montfort, and I will at all events marry him ; assist me to do 
 so," perhaps he, after all, would not choose to marry her ; perhaps he would be 
 unwilling to contend with the opposition that lay in their path. These doubts and 
 fears drove away all tendency to sleep, and the first glimraermg of morning found 
 her slowly pacing the little room, as yet unable to form any settled plan for the 
 future. At ten, the following note was brought to her by a stranger. It proved 
 to be from De Montfort, and she perused it with mingled emotions of pride, joy, 
 and love. 
 
 ••' I have dared to love,'" he wrote. " It is presumption — it may be madness, 
 but who could bask for hours, as I have done, in the sunlight of those blessed 
 smiles and not desire to dwell foreever beneath their radiance ! I have fancied too, 
 at times, that the heightened colour in your cheek, and the flashing gleam from 
 your eye, were messengers of love from your heart. Is it so ? Am I indeed 
 loved ? ; There is rapture — Heaven itself in the thought. But I have so very little 
 besides a strong hand and a loving heart to offer you, and what I have, is already 
 shared with friends whom I cannot desert. Will you become the light, the joy of 
 my humble home ? Can you renounce accustomed luxuries, and receive instead 
 a heart all devoted to you? It involves much, Edna; for my sake, and for your 
 own, do not decide rashly. Your uncle has forbidden me his house, and tells me 
 you are soon to be married, not a word of which will I believe till it is confirmed 
 by your own lips. You have a friend in whom we can confide. If there is that 
 in your heart which responds to mine, meet me there this evening, I have much 
 to say. The man who leaves this shall call at three o'clock for a reply. G. D. M." 
 
 At seven that evening Edna came to me with that letter in her hand, and amid 
 tears and blushes told me the story of her love, begging of me a parlour for the 
 evening. It was strange to see the beautiful heiress — one who couid have com- 
 manded the most splendid establishments in the city — askmg of a friend a place to 
 meet her lover ', and yet her pure-heartedness was so apparent that not a suspicion 
 of impropriety could attach itself to her for an instant. 
 
 She was standing near the fire when Be Montfort entered, and in an attitude 
 
THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP, 47 
 
 upon which she had not bestewed a thought, but the exceeding grace of which 
 I have never seen equalled. I arose to meet him at the door, but he simply 
 pressed my hand without speaking, and going to her, neither bowed nor used the 
 accustomed salutations, but claspingfher hand.in his own, looked upward for an in- 
 stant, then with unutterable tenderness and in the low, sweet voiee which had 
 twice before thrilled her soul with its heavenly music, he said, "Lady, my whole 
 future life shall repay this one kindness,'' and regardless of my presence, lie folded 
 her in his arms and kissed her lips, her eyes and forehead. 
 
 "She is my bride now," he said turning to me ; then placing her upon the 
 sofa, he held one little hand in his, and began talking in the most naturally quiei 
 way imaginable. Edna had not yet spoken, but her face was one bright ray of 
 joy, Assured that all would go well, I requested them to turn the key to secure 
 thmselves from intrusion, and retired to my own room. 
 
 At ten she came to seek me, and laying her head upon ray shoulder wept trom 
 excess of happiness. " Some other time I will tell you all," she said " but the 
 carriage is waiting now, and I would not leave without saving good night." We 
 descended together ; her lover lifted her into the carriage which she had ordered 
 at that hour, carefully wrapped he cioak and furs about her and bade her adieu 
 deeply regretting that she would not allow him to accompany her. 
 
 It was severely cold, and he returned for a moment to the fire. " Lord Elwyn, " 
 said I, " you do not seek Edna's love to trifle with it ?" 
 
 *' On my life," he replied, " which is bound up in hers, 1 will strive ever for 
 her happiness." 
 
 "Then why do you woo her in this disguise?" I inquired, somewhat 
 anxiously. 
 
 " Allow me one question," he said in return. Had you, all your life been 
 surrounded by the titles and gilded trappings of nobility, courted, carressed and 
 served only for your name or yonr wealth, would you not desire above all else, one 
 heart in the w de nniverse to love you for your own sake?" It was quite 
 plain. 
 
 "But you will remove this disguise at the right time,?" 
 
 " Could you for a moment believe otherwise ?" and his full, clear, dark ej^es 
 rested upon me with that peculiar light (for no other term will express it,) which 
 at once gave me the most perfect assurance. There was that in his eye whe 
 he chose, which would have produced conviction in the most unbelieving and sus- 
 picious minds. 
 
 "But it is reported in the fashionable world, that in your own character, you 
 3.re encouraging matnmonial anticipations in the head and heart of Major Trellan'^ 
 daughter.'" 
 
 *' In the head, perhaps," he answered quickly, " but not in 'the heart. Her 
 heart is one that needs the severest storms of lite to purify it, and remove the 
 thick folds of ambition in which it is wrapped. Believe me, it will not easily 
 break." 
 
 '* But do you not fear strong opposition 'from Major Trellan ? It is said that 
 s determined to secure Edna's fortune lor his son," 
 
 " I expect but I do not fear it," and with this assertion he drew on his gloves 
 and departed. 
 
 CHAPTER VIIL 
 
 THE CONFLAGRATION*— 'DR. HUNTLY. — THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP, 
 
 The lovers did not soon meet. The foilownig day saw the commene ement o 
 
 that scene of cruel devastation by fire which will never be forgotten by th e inhab 
 
 tants of Nffw York The ^nvehouses of Trejlan apd Co,, T^'ere sinone tie iir^ 
 
48 THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 
 
 offerings to the fiery demon. The only articles saved were a few books borne 
 away by De Monfortat the risk of his life, the only thanks for which, were the 
 jeers of his fellow clerks upon saving property on which he had no claim. The 
 night passed — the morning — the day — another night — the second morning— and 
 still the work of destruction progressed. Building after building fell— block after 
 block— square after square — street after street became desolated, and many a happy 
 family were driven from a luxurions home during a day and night of freezing cold- 
 ness, without shelter to their heads— a garment for their persons, or a remnantof 
 food or furniture. 
 
 Sorrow and mouroing were universal ; a cloud hung over the city which months 
 scarcely dissipated. Each day brought with it a more perfect knowledge of the 
 distress and ruin that had been produced. 
 
 Gloomy and dejected. Major Trellan sat, day after day, in his dark[study, dream- 
 ing of his misfortune, without an effort to overcome them, and ignorant of De 
 Montfort's heroic act. Brooding, as usual, in melancholy silence, he was upon the 
 fifth day after the extermination of the fire, much surprised by the entrance of a 
 stranger, carrying six of his most valuable books in a black leather case, with the 
 following note, during the perusual of which the stranger, still standing closely, 
 watched each expression of his countenance. 
 
 "Sir, — You have forbidden me your house, or I would ere this, in person, have 
 presented these books which I know are exceedingly valuable to you. Please 
 receive my respects and my assurance, that though they were recovered at the risk 
 of my life, I do not in the least regret the act, but am at your service whenever 
 you wish far assistance in re-establishing your business, 
 
 "Very respctfully, G. De Montfort. '.'; 
 
 *'|Well soliloquised the man of the world, in a low, murmuring voice, the least 
 sound of which the stranger caught, " I suppose this was intended as a polite hint 
 to me to open ray doors to him again; but who has any right to dictate or even to 
 hint to me! No— no — I will not understand it. It was after uU, but an act of 
 common justice to rescue these books which are worth their weight in 'gold to me, 
 and I cannot now afford to run the chance of loosing Edna and her fortune. In 
 addition to my other losses this would comitlete my ruin." Then turning to the 
 stranger ,who had preserved through the whole an impenetrable, stolid conntenance, 
 he continued. " Tell i\Ir. De Montfort that I am very grateful for the return of 
 these books, though it is a matter of sur)»nse that he did not send them sooner, 
 and that when ever I require his assistance, [will send for hiiu," and ringing, he 
 ordered the servant who appeared to show the man out. 
 
 Some four hours afterwards, Lord Elwyn's carriage appeared at Major Trellan's 
 door. It was for the first time since the iire had deprived the merchant of a con- 
 siderable portion of his property, and it had begun to be feared that such a mis- 
 fortune would altogether disappoint the hopes founded upon their illustrious visitor. 
 The carriage was therefore greeted as a happy omen, and the father in his study — 
 the mother in her sitting-room, and the daughter in the parlour, waited with 
 throbbine hearts to see who should emerge from it. It was a stranger. He an- 
 nounced himself as Lord Elwyn's servant, and delivered his message to this effect. 
 
 "That his master, after many assurances of sympathy, offered him the use of 
 any sum of money his present exigencies required ; it would be no inconvenience 
 to his master, but, on the contrary, would confer a kindness upon Lord Elwyn to 
 allow him to render the unfortunate merchant a temporary assistance." 
 
 Major Treilan was overwhelmed with gratitude, and begged the man to say to 
 his master that he would do himself the h($iour to call the following day to 
 express his thanks, and transact the necessary business connected with a loan. 
 From that hour his hopes revived and he regarded his misfortunes as having now 
 reached their climax, consequently, he saw in the future only those days of smiling 
 prosperity to which he had been so long accustomed as to deem them his by right 
 — which, in fact, had become as habitual with him, as the clouds of adversity with 
 a greater part of the human race. But we will leave him to weave together the 
 golden links of his broken fortunes, and follow awhile the traces of ii?isery that 
 abounded on every side* 
 
THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 
 
 49 
 
 Many, very many were the scenes of wretchedness, the bowed heads, the 
 humbled and despairing hearts, the crushed hopes, the blasted prospects, the sepa- 
 rations of loved ones, the family altars made desolate, the merry voices hushed, 
 the brij^ht eyes and fairy footsteps made sad and weary by that distressing con- 
 flagration. The haughty retired within themselves, scarcely forgiving the fate that 
 subjected them at the same time to two misfortunes, nearly, if not quite, equal in 
 
 their view— the loss of their homes and the pity of the world. There were those 
 who endured the evils attendant upon the former in silence and solitude, relieved 
 only by death, rather than be subjected to tVie latter. 
 
 The superstitious viewed it as Noah did the flood — a punishment for the sins of 
 
 the people, while the more humble and resigned sought to console and minister to 
 
 each other so far as individual sufierings would permit. In short, there was 
 
 misery at every turn j and the gentle hand of charity never had more ample «m- 
 
 * No. 7. 
 
50 THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 
 
 ployment than during the winter of '35 and '36. Many were burned and bruised 
 — many became ill from cold, hunger and cruel anxiety, and others still broken 
 spirited from the loss of loved ones, fainted and faded from the world, scarcely 
 missed from the crowd of wretched living sufferers. 
 
 Among these miserable ones, ministering to their pain-tortured bodies and de- 
 spairing souls with a strong hand — nerves of iron and a patience never wearied, 
 was a man apparently about the middle age, though he evidently would have ap- 
 peared much younger had he relieved his clear undimmed eyes of the gold mounted 
 spectacles which he constantly wore. His gold-headed cane might also have been 
 dispensed with, for his erect bearing, and ample chest, were proofs sufficient that 
 time and circumstances had not fallen heavily upon him. His features had that 
 bold regularity of outline which our fancy is accustomed to bestow upon the 
 ancient heroes of fame, but the intellectual, heroic beauty of his countenance was 
 now deeply chastened by anxiety and compassion. 
 
 Dr. Huntly, for so the benevolent stranger stvled himself, was everywhere wel- 
 comed with the look and smile of gratitude, and had evidently become an ex- 
 pected visitor. His daily visits and unostentatious charity elicited therefore little 
 remark, save a wonder now and then among the more curious and least occupied, 
 why, day after day, he sought the crowded rooms — the wretched hovels — the out- 
 of-the-way places where these bereaved sufferers had bestowed themselves or been 
 confined. It could not be for remuneration, for he was genteelly dressed and 
 always accompanied by a servant carrying a basket with food and medicine, and 
 would never receive a cent of the very few who had a trifle to offer. 
 
 " I come for my own pleasure and to do you good," he would sometimes smi- 
 lingly reply, as an allusion was made to his constant but unrequited professional 
 visits, and well was he repaid in that for which he most wished — the undisguised 
 confidence of the human heart ; for if there is one before whom the mask of 
 worldhness and deception is thrown aside, it is the truly benevolent physician. 
 He comes to us when the pride of our natures is somewhat subdued by hopeless 
 illness, and without thought of conbequencee, we repose in him a familiar and 
 uncompromising trust. 
 
 Thus Dr. Huntly moved among his patients, learning from them many a lesson 
 of human pride subdued — of sorrowing patience — of calm endurance and Chris- 
 tian fortitude. True, his servant was sometimes questioned as to their place of 
 residence, and many trifling matters that interest the curious, but he invariably 
 turned his eyes upon his master with an expression of reverence which emphati- 
 cally said, " he is there ; ask him," but he was never heard to speak, and when 
 addressed by the doctor, was well known to reply only by a low bow or an expres- 
 sive gesture of the eye or hand. 
 
 But Dr. Huntly was by no means alone in his Avork of charity. Among those 
 who, though strangers, had unconsciously become his assistants in this noble 
 employment, he had often noticed a sweet girl of sixteen or seventeen, years, with 
 bright soft blue eyes, which seemed at times almost to melt awav with tte expres- 
 sion of deep sympathy that was so abiding as to prove its foundation to be the kind- 
 ness and goodness of her nature. He sought no introduction to her, indeed it 
 would have been useless; she seemed as much a stranger as himself. But he 
 frequently lingered about the bed of a sick patient giving directions, which her 
 Ihtie delicate hand performed with the ease and accuracy of an experienced nurse, 
 but with the air of one nurtured in the circles of wealth and fashion. 
 
 '* My kind young lady," he said to her one morning as both met in a private 
 hospital, he had caused to be prepared for the most extreme sufferers, " my kind 
 young lady, will you assist me to raise this poor -woman a little on her pillow ? 
 I think she cannot survive long, and if it is not too much, I woulc^ask you to 
 watch with me beside her, till the last struggle is over." 
 
 "Certainly, sir, if I can render you any assistance," was her answer, but her 
 own lip*! became nearly as white as those of the dying woman, and the doctor felt 
 her 1 and tremble as it came in contact with his beneath the pillow. Having 
 elevated her to the right position, he supported her on his arm begging his fair 
 
THE DOUBLE COXTRTSHTP. 51 
 
 assistant to force a few drops of vrine into her month, hoping — though it seemed 
 a fruitless effort — to revive her once more. Edna, for it was no other, did as she 
 was directed, and both were surprised to see the eyes of the dying woman 
 languidly open, and after a moment rest upon her fair nurse with an expres- 
 sion of eager, intense hope. She had not spoken for hours — her limbs were 
 cold and stiff—her breath came heavily and at long intervals ; it was evidently 
 the struggle of a powerful nature with death, and the former was appa- 
 rently gaining the victory. During half an hour, in which her large eyes now . 
 glassy and unnaturally brilliant, never turned from Edna, she seemed to be making 
 the most powerful efforts to speak, but as yet had not succeeded. 
 
 •* More wine,'' said the physician. 
 
 Edna placed the spoon between her rigid lips and closed teeth, and in a moment 
 more the expression of gratitude in the eyes of the sick woman was apparent. 
 
 " It does her good, she will live," said Edna, and the patient smiled faintly. 
 At length her lips moved, and Edna, placing her ear quite close, caught the words 
 pronounced at long intervals, " my child." 
 
 " You have a child living ; you wish to communicate something respecting it, 
 do you not?" inquired Dr. Huntly. 
 
 Another smile appeared, but this time it covered her whole rigid and almost dis- 
 torted countenance, and she cast her eyes slightly down and made an effort to 
 raise her hand as if she wished for something in her bosom. Edna anticipated 
 her wish, and passing her hand among the folds of the faded calico dressing gown, 
 she was infinitely surprised to find a miniature, elegantly set in gold, of a boy of two 
 years, with a fair face tinged with melancholy, large, liquid eyes, and light browa 
 hair. 
 
 *' Beautiful creature !" exclaimed Edna involuntarity, as she held it before the 
 eyes of the w^oman, "how very like a friend of mine !" Dr. Huntly took the 
 miniature in his hand and gazed long and earnestly upon it. When he again 
 laid it in her motionless fingers, it was with a powerful effort that his countenance 
 was inexpressive and his voice calm. However, he simply asked Edna to go to the 
 next room and take the place of his servant for a moment, while he came to him. 
 She complied instantly , pleased with a change even for an instant. ^When she was 
 beyond hearing, Dr. Huntly clisped the hands of the woman in his own and 
 throwing his whole soul into his eyes that he might, if possible, animate her, placed 
 his face directly before hers and said in a low but thrilling voice, " Will you live 
 if I will bring your son to you?" A violent spasm convulsed the whole frame of 
 the sufferer, and he feared that he had gone too far. Redoubling his exertions, h« 
 at length succeeded in restoring her tranquillity; she was even better than before, 
 and proved that she understood and remembered his question by slowly articulating 
 "yes — yes." 
 
 " In twelve days, madam, it shall be. Be patient— be calm. Do nothing to 
 prevent or retard your recovery ; events, important almost as life and death, depend 
 upon it. I will be near you. I will watch over you, and when you are able, I 
 have much to cemmunicate and to hear from you.'' 
 
 The servant appeared and was dispatched upon an errand ; meanwhile Dr. Huntly 
 penned a few lines, having always writing materials about him, and sealed the 
 letter. 
 
 Again he turned to the invalid and fixing bis eyes upon her, said, "you recog- 
 nize the young lady who stood beside you?" '* Yes," was once more indistinctly 
 uttered through her closed teeth. " It is well," he replied. 
 
 A woman entered at this moment accompanied by the servant. Dr. Huntly 
 first gave the letter to the man, accompanied by a few positive and definite orders. 
 A low bow Avas the only reply, and he darted off with the rapidity of lightning. It 
 was now twelve o'clock. At precisely a quarter past twelve, it was observed by 
 the neighbours, who always noted such events, that a travelling carriage with four 
 powerful horses, and two ineu upon the driver's box, drove out of Lord Elwyn's 
 stables with great rapidity. 
 
 Meanwhile, Dr. Huntly had drawn aside the young woman who entered with 
 
52 THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 
 
 his servant and said, " You see that old lady who seems already more dead than 
 alive P Well, she must live at all events. I know you to be an experienced and 
 benevolent nurse. What money will induce you to remain beside her night and 
 day till she is past all danger ?" 
 
 " 1 would gladly do it for the poor sufferer,'' replied the young woman, " but I 
 am restrained by more powerful duties — those of a mother — my children must 
 suffer if I remain." 
 
 Dr. Huntly drew a purse from his pocket, saying, " here are fifty dollars. You 
 have friends whom who can tempt with a portion of that, to assume your duties. 
 If this woman recover under your care, 1 will give you as much more. Go — arrange 
 your affairs and return to me in an hour," and he led her to the street door. 
 
 The servant returned and Edna relinquished her post — that of distributing food 
 and cordials — and again joined the physician and the aged patient in whom she 
 had become deeply interested. 
 
 Dr. Huntly had heard Edna, upon her entrance, request the servant to come at one, 
 and the nurse having already appeared and received directions with a positive order 
 to send for him if she becomes even slightly worse — he prepared to depart at the 
 same time. 
 
 Following her into the small room which led into the street, he fastened her 
 cloak about her, and assisted in putting on her fur shoes with an assiduity quite be- 
 coming in a younger man than he at present professed to be . Ready for her return 
 Edna opened the door, and glancing both up and down the street, exclaimed some- 
 what impatiently, " No servant ! 1 do not understand." " I will go and inquire," 
 said the doctor very naturally, to which Edna bowed assent. Scarcely two min- 
 utes had possed ere Edna— who was standing near the top of a flight of steps — 
 felt her arm lightly touched by some one from the opposite direction to that in 
 which she was looking, and turnmg she beheld De Montfort to her great sur- 
 prise and joy. 
 
 She involuntarily blushed as he pressed the little gloved hand in his in- 
 quired why she was there, and insisted upon seeing her home. She consented after 
 pencilling a line upon a card to account to Dr. Huntly for her sudden departure. 
 Slowly descending the steps, she did not preccive that De Montfort snatched the 
 card from the table, while closing the door, and hastily concealed it in his pocket. 
 A peculiar smile crossed the features of the handsome clerk as he drew Edna's arm 
 within his own, and notwithstanding the cold walked slowly away in the 
 direction of her uncle's dwelling. 
 
 A few minutes afterwards, Lobo departed from the same building, with a dark, 
 sober looking coat upon his arm and a grave, broad brimmed hat dangling from his 
 fingers. Passing through many streets, he drew a key from his pocket, entered a 
 brick house, closed and and fastened the door, ascending a flight of stair, entered a 
 beautiful furnished suite of apartments. The first was a sitting-room, the second a 
 sleeping, and the third a dressing-room, hung with every possible variety of clothing, 
 while the dressing table was, covered with wigs, and whiskers of various colours, 
 several pairs of spectacles, a profusion of jewellery in cases, perfumes, &c., &c. 
 
 Lighting a fire in each apartment, Lobo proceeded to arranged upon a small 
 table a dinner for one, which was scarcely done ere the bell announced a fresh 
 arrival. 
 
 Lobo (hastened to open the door, and De Montfort entered with a unusual fluse 
 of ezcitement upon his ceuntenance, which might have been produced by the cold, 
 or by the unexpected pleasure of meeting his beloved. "Ah! my lord ;" was the 
 servant's only ejaculation as his master entered and bent over the fire, but it was 
 evident that there was something repressed. 
 
 " Well, Lobo, speak out," he replied somewhat more familarly than usual. 
 " It is a sad business, my lord," he said, evidently making a powerful effort to 
 overcome his natural taciturnity. 
 
 " Give me some dinner, my good friend, and I v/ill then hear what you arc talk- 
 ing about," said his master, drawing his cliair to the table. 
 Standing at a respectful distance while De Montfort partook the light me^l to 
 
THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 53 
 
 which he was oftened accustomed, Lobo commenced with what seemed to him ex- 
 travagant volubility. 
 
 '* They gossip about you, my lord, at the cottage." 
 
 "Well, is that strange T' asked De Montiort rather amused than otherwise to 
 see Lobo struggle between his long habit of silence and his present desire to 
 talk. 
 
 " Perhaps not. my lord, but extremely unpleasant for rae to hear so good a master 
 slandered." 
 
 " What do they say of me V 
 
 *' I do not wish to offend you, my lord, but — " and the man again hesitated. 
 
 " It will not offend me, Lobo. I am well aware that in the many characters 
 which I assume, there is not only a possibility, but a strong probability that the 
 curiosity of idle persons will often be excited, and the mass of the people, unac- 
 customed to restrain their thoughts or feelings, gossip continually about whatever 
 arrests their attention. Tell me therefore what they say." 
 
 *' That no honest man would be gone from home three-fourths of the time, that 
 it is altogether improbable that your lordship gets a respectable living, and some 
 have even hinted that you knew more than you would care to reveal about a gang 
 of forgers of which the police have lately got track, and I accidentally learned 
 that—" 
 
 " That they talk of arresting me," said De Montfort, finishing the sentence and 
 laughing heartily. 
 
 " You are merry, my lord ; is it then so very agreeable ?" 
 
 "Not agreeable — no, but amusing." 
 
 " I thought it a serious and dangerous affair. If any evil should come — " 
 
 " Never fear man, never fear, they would not touch a hair of Lord Ehvyn's head, 
 though they might think they were doing the world a service in arresting the clerk 
 De Montfort, simply because they do not understand all his movements." 
 
 Lobo still looked doubtful, which was unusual for him, for he had ever followed 
 his masters thoughts, and obeyed his words without a doubt as to their infalli- 
 bility. 
 
 " Time will prove to you that I am right," said De Montfort, correctly inter- 
 preting Lobo's countenance. " Bring the letters now, and then take your own 
 dinner." 
 
 The servant obeyed with alacrity, his confidence fully restored, while De Mont- 
 fort retired to his dressing room to peruse his letters and mature his plans in soli- 
 tude. There were three letters ; the first he opened was from Lira; it was like 
 herself — soft, beautiful, loving, but wild, irregular, and unrestained, and proved 
 that her new home possessed already a thousand charms for her : she was living 
 again, and his heart throbbed with rapture that his mind's eye could rest upon 
 her and truly say, " I have created this happiness for her." 
 
 The second letter was as follows, and was dated several days previous. 
 
 " Some of the difficulties which you foresaw in our interview, have assumed a 
 tangible form. I have met them with a firmness which has surprised myself, not- 
 withstanding which I am constantly subject to the most petty and annoying per- 
 secutions. The same evening that you gave me so much pleasure by revealir.g to 
 me our relationship, witnessed a domestic scene so disgraceful to the actors, that 
 I would if possible forget it myself, but it is necessary that I speak of it. My un- 
 cle, fur the first time, because convinced that Ernest and myself would really op- 
 pose the marriage so long projected, and declared his intention to send for him 
 immediutely, and to have the ceremony performed in one month. Our interview 
 was also used as a weiipon against me, ai.d the secret which reposed in my inmost 
 heart cruelly drawn forth and exposed to ridicule. I stocd alone, but strong in 
 myself, and in the promise of your piotection, I distinctly and solemnly refused to 
 fulfil our childish ])ledge. I am convinced that it is my money they seek, and 
 have thought of making a compromise. What is your opinion ? is it better to 
 purchase my liberty, or take it by force ? I shall be guided entirely by your advice, 
 
54 THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 
 
 T would conceal these troubles from De Montfort that I may not cause him un- 
 happiness. Edna." 
 
 Having folded the letter he pressed it to his lips murmuring, " Sweet girl ! she 
 little dreams how fully De Montfort is acquainted with her life/' and placed it in 
 his bosom. 
 
 The remaining letter was from young Benson. He had rapidly improved during 
 every stage of his journey, had successfully transacted the business entrusted to 
 him, and was about to become a temporary member of a family with whose past 
 history were connected some interesting and melancholy incidents, a relation of 
 which had been promised him, and which he would note down for the amusement 
 of his friends at home. His communication closed with many expressions of 
 gratitude and since;e friendship. 
 
 ** This will produce smiles at the cottage," he said, folding the letter and plac- 
 ing it with Lira's in a small cabinet. "Now let me reflect," and he sat another 
 hour with his noble head slightly bent in an attitude of deep thought, but his 
 countenance was impenetrable. 
 
 At the expiration of that hour he rang and Lobo appeared. 
 
 " I want another cottage similar to the one I now have, but furnished somewhat 
 in the southern style. How much time do you require?" 
 
 " As much as is allowed me.'' 
 
 "Take a week then, and let everything be accomplished silently but thoro«ghly, 
 and with true elegance." 
 
 " Has your lordship any preference for the location >" 
 
 " None, excepting a clean, health}', quiet situation," 
 
 " Anything else, sir ?" 
 
 '* Order my carriage here at eight — that is all." 
 
 Ringing a short time after at Major Trellan's door, Mr. De Montfort requested 
 to see Miss Edna. The servant wiio knew him well, refused to admit him, it 
 being contrary to his master's orders. He then requested the man to take a n'^te 
 to her ; this too, was among the interdicted things. He next asked to see Major 
 Trellan, The servant requested him to stop a moment in the hall while he ob- 
 tained permission for him to come in. No sooner had he disappeared in the 
 direction of his master's study, than with one light bound De Montfort sprang up 
 the broad stairs, and in an instant tapped lightly at the door of Edna's parlour. 
 Fortune favoured him, she was alone. 
 
 *' George!" she exclaimed as her eyes fell upon him, ** George ! are you mad ?" 
 
 *'No — far from it, my love. I trust that will never be the case so long as I am 
 permitted to fold you in my arras," and with a corresponding action he clasped her 
 to his heart in one long embrace. 
 
 *' Do you know, George, that you are disobeying my uncle's orders in coming 
 here, and I in receiving you V asked Edna. 
 
 " Nevertheless I came. I am no longer his clerk. We shall now meet as man 
 with mm, and we shall see who gains the victory. He contends for money — I for 
 my right, and what is dearer to me than my own heart's blood,'' and he drew him- 
 self up with an expression of pride acd conscious dignity which Edna had never 
 before seen upon her lover's face. 
 
 At this moment Major Trellan abruptly entered. With a withering and haughty 
 frown, he measured the young man from head to foot, exclaiming, 
 
 "You here sir, you!" 
 
 *' I am here," coolly answered De Montfort, returning contempt for contempt in 
 ample quantity. 
 
 *' And bow came you here?" 
 
 ** On my feet, sir, guided by my head, as every honest man should go.*' 
 
 " Then go as you came; there is the door." 
 
 " I am as Avell acquainted with the location of the door as yourself, sir, huO I 
 am not ready to avail myself of it ; when I am, I shall follow your advice — not 
 because it is your advice, but because I choose to do so. Before I go, however, I 
 
THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 55 
 
 will do myself the honour to ask your consent to the engagement existing between 
 myself and this lady." 
 
 " Never !" exclaimed the major, enraged at the coolness of the other. " IMarry 
 my niece — the proud heiress — to a clerk ! never !" 
 •' I am no longer your clerk, sir." 
 
 " And you may soon be able to say the same of every mercantile house in the 
 city, for I will efFectnally prevent you from being received into any, unless you 
 at once relinquish all claim upoa Edna's hand and all attempts to visit her." 
 
 " Never !" exclaimed De Montfort, ''- while a drop of blood flows through my 
 heart. I asked your approval of it as her guardian ! you refuse— very well, my 
 course will be the same notwithstanding. We shall marry at all events. I give 
 you my word as a man of honour, that it will be so." 
 " Is that your determination ?" 
 
 " Can you doubt it?" asked De Montfort, with the air of a man who moves a 
 world at pleasure. 
 
 '« Then listen," returned Major Trellan solemnly. "Edna has been for years 
 betrothed to my only son. It will he impossible for her to be false to her pledge, 
 for it is in my power to compel its fulfilment. The wedding is fixed on the twen- 
 tieth of next month, and I invite you to be present that you may witness how easily 
 and perfectly I perform Avhat I promise." 
 
 "And I accept the invitation," replied De Montfort proudly, '« that you also may 
 see with what perfect ease I do what I choose." 
 
 Then turning to Edna, he clasped her hands in his, saying, — ■ 
 '* Be firm, my love ; do not allow yourself to be disturbed by these threats, ihey 
 cannot harm you. Confide in my affection — in my faith, and believe me you will 
 never marry him — there are indeed excellent reasons why you should do so," and 
 ■unmindful of the presence of the indignant guardian, he kissed each hand, tenderly 
 bade her *' good night," and departed with a very polite bow to the angry gentle- 
 man as he deliberately passed through the door. 
 
 At five minutes past eight. Lord Elwyn rang, and was ushered into the draw- 
 ing-room with that officious politeness which aWays attends a guest distinghi«;hed 
 either for wealth, or an exalted station in society. It was with pleasure that he 
 perceived Edna had not joined the family circle, as it was indeed not at all her 
 habit of late. 
 
 *' You are very grave, to-night, my friend," said their visitor to his host after 
 chatting a few moments with Carlotta ; ** has any nevv misfortune occurred to dis- 
 turb your tranquillity !' 
 
 In reply, he received the particulars of the late scene in Edna's parlour, with 
 the varied comments each chose to bestow upon it, in which they heaped every 
 abuse upon De Montfort. 
 
 " It cannot be remedied, sir — it cannot be remedied," was the reply; "better 
 allow the young people their own way in such matteis." 
 
 " I will not !" exclaimed Major Trellan, somewhat irritated by such advice, even 
 from his illustrious guest. " The wedding is already arranged, and I trust you 
 will honour it with your presence." 
 
 "On one condition," said Lord Elwyn, *'that I may be allowed to select the 
 officiating clergyman." 
 
 " 'J'he request is so verv singular, that I cannot but grant it with pleasure." 
 "But why do you desire that'^" asked Mrs. Trellan. 
 
 "Oh, a fancy — nothing more. But 1 came tonight to propose another mar- 
 riage," and he cast a somewhat tender glance at Carlotta, who, as in duty bound, 
 blushed, examined the carpet very attentively, and said, in a half-supplicating 
 tone, — 
 
 " Oh, my lord !" while IMrs. Trellan looked the delighted mother to pprfection. 
 
 '* I fancy Miss Trellan's heart is mine already," he continued, taking Carlotta's 
 
 hand respectfully, though it must be confessed, not exactly in the style approved 
 
56 THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 
 
 Dy ardent and anxious lovers, " and we imagined that we have but to ask you'^ 
 approval." 
 
 " You do us much honour in soliciting our daughter for your bride," replied 
 Major Trellan. still somewhat ruffled, " but I think it is but a few evenings 
 since your lordship desired a private interview with my niece, and I was led to 
 suppose that the proposal you now make for Carlotta, was then offered for her 
 acceptance." 
 
 •' Miss Edna would not hear a word of it, she refused me without ceremony," 
 replied the noble suitor with indifference. " Such homage one must always 
 pay to the beautiful. But I trust I shall be more successful here/' and he smiled 
 mechanically. 
 
 •* Edna was right in refusing you. I wish I could believe it had been from the 
 proper motive," replied the father, his anger again excited. 
 
 " But our daughter will prove herself worthy of so noble a husband, and I trust 
 you will ever be proud ef your choice," interposed Mrs. Trellan, who feared that 
 between her husband's irritation, and Lord Elwyn's coldness, the whole affair 
 would fall through. 
 
 "Do you consent then?" he asked gravely. 
 
 " Certainly," replied Major Trellan, his good nature somewhat restored by this 
 definite question; "did you anticipate opposition to your wishes? We are happy 
 to oblige you," he continued, with genuine satisfaction as the many benefits result- 
 ing from this alliance rushed through his mind. 
 
 •'But there are conditions to which I beg your attention,'' again commenced his 
 lordship, in the same solemn tone. 
 
 A slight frown settled upon the brow of the lady mother, and there were mis- 
 givings at her heart, while the father bent his head as if listening. 
 
 " I am peculiar," he continued, regardless of any appearances, '^ and ray chief 
 pleasure consists in the full and immediate gratification of every fancy which takes 
 possession of my thoughts. It is selfish, I allow; but selfishness, I find is the order 
 of the day. These whims are productive of so much satisfaction to myself, that 
 I am resolved not to cure myself of them, for happiness after all is what we seek, 
 The continual gratification of these sudden impulse, may, upon fuller acquaintance, 
 prove disagreeable to Miss Trellan, 1 will therefore allow her an opportunity to 
 retract honourably. Be so good then as to be my witnesses, that three months 
 from this day, my hand and fortune are at your daughter's disposal, providifd she 
 does not refuse them. Is all this satisfactory to you :" 
 
 " Perfectly," replied both parents, well assured that Carlotta would never refuse 
 such a match, " and it does credit to your frankness, sincerity and honourable 
 intentions. 
 
 "Does Miss Trellan also approve?" asked Lord Elwyn, turning to Carlotta 
 who sat by quite pale with contending emotions, for with a quick perception, she 
 saw or fancied she saw beneath this pretended frankness, the most deliberate pre- 
 parations for a system of domestic tyranny. 
 
 ** I have consented to be your bride," she replied coldly, her heart swelling with 
 some recollections of the past," and I shall never recal it." 
 
 *' Better make your promise conditional as I have done," he said quickly, **for 
 you do not know how disagreeable I am at times." 
 
 Carlotta bit her lip with vexation. 
 
 '*s this scene never to end V she asked with her eyes. 
 
 Lord Elwyn apparently understood her, for he immediately said, rising, — 
 
 " Permit me to bid you adieu," and touching his lips to the tips of her delicate 
 fingers, he bowed and went out. 
 
 *' He is secured at last," said the mother to her daughter after the departute of 
 Lord Elwyn. *' I congratulate you upon your success, my love ; your silence 2nd 
 your beauty were perfectly irresistible— far more eloquent than words." 
 
 Carlotta escaped as quickly as possible from the flattery of her mother, for she 
 had never before felt the greatness of her voluntary sacrifice, and she longed to be 
 aloae. 
 
THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 
 
 57 
 
 *' It is true," she wrote that night, in the record of her thoughts which she 
 ■was accustomed to keep, *' that I have secured an engagement which the world 
 ■will pronounce brilliant — a nobleman — handsome — immensely rich— how could it 
 be surpassed ! Ah ! they little know that in exchange I hare burled love, pure, 
 devoted self-denying love — the first fresh impulses of a heart that believed in the 
 possibility of goodness — a friendship whose altar has been sacred, and whose light 
 
 has led only to happiness for three long years — they little dream that this superb 
 match is built upon these ruins, that while they surround me with congratulations, 
 my heart will be desolate and sad. Another source of misery I have too, in the 
 reflection, that proud as I am, I shall seem to hear it ringing in my eart, that ano- 
 ther was preferred to me. Bitter thought ! Ah Edna.' in spite of my better 
 judgment, I shall constantly be seeking revenge. You love — you obey the im- 
 puLsts of that love— you refuse to fulfil a contract made for you — you walk steadil 
 No. 8. 
 
58 THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 
 
 and firmly towards the point where dwell honor and affection ! I admire you ! I 
 respect you ! But notwithstanding, I would, without hesitation, crush you if pos- 
 sible, for with every glanee at you, the remembrance of this humiliation will rankle 
 in my bosom and cry out for revenge. Well, the compact is sealed — the decision 
 is made, and Lord Elwyn coldly raised my fingers to his lips as if there was a 
 contamination in the contract. Oh! how different from the fervent clasp — the 
 glowing cheek — the ha'fmtterei sentences — the impassioned kiss, with which he 
 avowed his love for me, anu souirht mine in return. 
 
 *' Ah, Theodore ! Theodore ! Do you deem yourseif forgotten — betrayed by her 
 vou trusted ! Do you suppose that the beautiful light you threw around her 
 path is all quenched, and that she to whom you consecrated your early hopes 
 moves on forgetful of that first and only love ! Why are you not beside me, that 
 I might now and forever sunder these ties of ambition, and proclaim the love 
 which is consuming me ?" 
 
 The wretched girl paused, and paced her small cabinet with hurried steps, her 
 hands firmly knit together, and her head drooping upon her bosom. Five months 
 only had passed since her introduction to Lord Elwyn, and she felt that in that 
 time a complete ' change had come o'er the spirit of her dream." The pale cheeks 
 — the contracted lips — the excited restlessness of the eyes — the somewhat atten- 
 uated form— were indications far too plain, that her sohI was unsatisfied with the 
 exchange which ambition had ptompted. 
 
 " Fool that I am !" she continued after a few moments, "it is my own work. 
 No one shall suspect that beheath a calm and elegant exterior, is buried a con- 
 suming passion. I must exchange the romance of early youth for the stern and 
 crushing realities of life. I will forget the past, and quench these heart yearnings 
 in the ambitious dreams ^^^hich are now nearly realized," and with an expression 
 of proud determination she threw aside her pen. 
 
 * » * » # * 
 
 Since De Montfort'i atjrupt ehthince and departure, Edna h&A been alone in her 
 cabinet. Crouched among the cushions of her easy chair, whifch she slowly and 
 uaechanically rtiOved to and fro beneath the suspended lamp, she had evidently for- 
 gotten all external things in absobring thought. The sound of her lover's footsteps 
 had long since died away upon the staircase, but there remained with her a con- 
 sciousness of happiness so rich, so full, that its light rays had, for the time, scat- 
 tered the cloud* which for a few weeks had enveloped her ift gloom. De Mont- 
 fort's words had Inspired her with fresh courage and a confidence in him wholly 
 unknown to her before. He had npver appeared to her so noblfe, so worthy of re- 
 verence. *' i carl but be strong ''n my love," she mormuritd, ** Whilb such a heart 
 holds mine in its embrace." A dream like vision of the past and future, in which 
 were scattered the richest gems of beauty and happiness, completely enthralled her 
 senses. Her head was thrown gracefully back among the cushions — her eyes half 
 closed— her lips slightly parted — her rich curls fell carelessly over her heaving 
 bosom— and her small white hands with their rose-tints lay clasped among the 
 folds of her velvet dress. 
 
 It was Edna's first love ; never again could she yield herself thus to the same 
 flowery vision. Though in after years friendships may spring up in our paths, 
 ardent, sincere and dear to the heart, they are mingled with some portion of 
 worldly care, and the world is received as a compensation for their disappoint- 
 ment. 
 
 But the first joyous awakening of the slumbering heart! The first pure, un- 
 worldly, unselfish, spiritual vision from which we ai*b aroused all too soon by life's 
 Btern mandates I There are few who have arrived at mature age, and cannot 
 recall from its dim obscurity this transient glimpse of heaven. Oh ! would it 
 could remain to cheer the desolate, and sustain the fainting heart amid life's after 
 storms. 
 
 Edna dreamed on, nor deemed it possible in that blessed hour that any change 
 should cf>me. A light touch upon her arm, and her name pronounced in a low 
 voice dispelled her bright dream. Presenting a sealed note, Luna merely said th 
 
THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 59 
 
 it had been left by a man who had departed without desiring any answer. Hastily 
 breaking the seal, she was much disappointed to find that it was neither from her 
 lover nor Lord Elwyn's reply to the one she had that morning sent him. It was 
 without signature or date, and as usual with anonymous epistles, was written by 
 some self constituted " friend '' and ran thus : 
 
 *• Is Miss Trellan aware that in receiving the attentions of the young foreigner, 
 called George De Montfort, she is bestowing her heart upon one who will only sow 
 in it the seeds of bitterness, the food for many sorrowful years? Does she know 
 aught of him save the very little he has cho>en to reveal of himself? Does she 
 ever reflect that she is trusting a nameless adventurer, who neither declares his 
 country or his birth. Do no regrets ever arise in her bosom for one, who though 
 far away, is said to be pining in silent grief for her unfaithfulness? Do no doubts 
 or suspicions ever occur to her concerning his honour, his integrity, his past life? 
 What if Mr. De Montfort should prove, as is now suspected by many, an accom- 
 plished villain? The writer does not wish to alarm Miss Trellan unnecessarily, 
 but feeling a deep interest la her, thinks it a duty to suggest these thoughts to 
 her consideration." 
 
 Ere she had finished the perusal of this, the curtain was again pushed aside, and 
 two smaller notes were placed beside her. Crushing the first convulsively in her 
 hand, she immediately opened one which proved to be a line in great haste from De 
 Montfort. ^ 
 
 " \ few days will unavoidably pass, ere I can again see you my love ; meanwhile, 
 confide in me, and be not troubled by any reports which may reach you. 
 
 Yours fondly and truly, G." 
 
 A groan of bitter anguish escaped her lips, her head drooped upon her bosom, 
 and the scalding tears fell one by one, as she softly mu: mured, " there is truth in 
 that letter. I had thought it false. Suffer, oh my God ! this bitter cup of .-:orrow 
 to pass from me." She endeavoured to reason — she reflected long what circum- 
 stances connected with De Montfort could excite suspicion. S:;e could recall none, 
 for she had yet to learn that the world must be intimately acquainted with a man's 
 deeds, motives and intentions, ere it will pronounce h'm honest. ** 1 will not 
 wound his noble soul by even a suspicion," she said at length, and rising firmly 
 from her chair, she laid the anonymous letter upon the grate, and watched it with 
 a steady eye till it was consumed. With the same determined air she again seated 
 herself, and tore open the last note fearing some new misfortune. 
 
 " Can you offer cougragulations, my charming cousin," wrote Lord Elwyn, '' on 
 the occasion of our engagement ? 1 am to be married this day three months hence, 
 provided your fair cousin does not in the meantime refuse my hand and fortune. 
 The heart is quite omittedin these preliuiinaries, excepting n>w and then — in your 
 case for instance. You have kept your promise to open your heart to me — I will 
 surely keep mine, and prove a friend when you are most in need of ene ; love on 
 and be strong in that love ; it will prove a protection from many evils." 
 
 ** All is mystery, she exclaimed as she completed the perusal of tne last, and 
 again sank into a revery, from which she was only aroused by the clock striking 
 the hour of midnight! As the last sound died away, her lamp suddenly expired, 
 and she remained in darkness, save the faint light from the burning coals, which 
 is V so favourable to the exercise of the imagination. "These clouds — these 
 doubts — oh would I could remove them — had I one friend who possessed the 
 right to guide, to dictate even — " Suddenly a slight mist enveloped her; she 
 became conscious of a presence besides her own ; her soul suddenly communicated 
 with another soul, and raising her head- to ascertain if she was indeed dreaming, 
 she saw, bending over her in the attitude of intense affection, a female form, a 
 countenance so sweet, so angelic that all she had ever read or heard of " minister- 
 ing spirits," at once crowded her memory. Edna was rather timid than otherwise, 
 and her heart beat violently, but there was so little that was terrific in the appear- 
 ance, that she was resolved to avoid alarming ?ny one if possible. Still she placed 
 her hand upon the bell cord, but as she did so, the fair form moved a little, as if 
 it would leave if others were summoned. 
 
60 THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 
 
 " You have something to say to me," she demanded at once. 
 
 A sweet smile was the only reply. 
 
 " And you wish me not to fear, though we remain here alone — is it not so ?" 
 continued Edna. 
 
 Another smile more angelic than the first lit up the radiant countenance, when 
 Edna suddenly exclaimed, 
 
 *' My mother ! speak to me — assure me of your happiness, and tell me if you 
 are permitted to guard your child from evil." 
 
 No voice proceeded from the lips of the visitor, but a thin, white hand lay 
 caressingly on the head of her only child, and the face was raised to Heaven as if 
 to invoke its blessing. 
 
 ** Mother, I long to hear your voice — can you not speak— are you not 
 permitted ?" 
 
 An expression of sorrowful regret was the only reply. 
 
 "Then by some sign answer me one question. I am betrothed to my cousin 
 Ernest — ought I to keep the pledge — do not let me misunderstand you." 
 
 A cold shudder passed over the airy form of the mother, and her laige spiritual 
 eyes rested upon her child with a look of entreaty that pierced her to the heart. 
 
 " It is well mother. I do not wish to keep it, my whole nature recoils when I 
 think of it." 
 
 The mother extended her hands as if to embrace her child, and Edna, sustained 
 by extreme excitement, wound her arms around the spirit-form, at the same moment 
 that she fainted and consciousness ceased. 
 
 • • * ♦ * « • 
 
 The following day, every one was surprised to find Carlotta pale, languid, and 
 out of humor. The truth was, quite early in the morning Lord Elwyn has sent to 
 ask her to ride in his carriage, and half an hour afterwards had sent to excuse 
 himself, saying that a sudden fancy had seized him to leave the city ; he should 
 return sometime, it was impossible to say when. *' One of his whims" said Mrs. 
 Trellan to her daughter, * which you must endure with a good grace for three months, 
 but of which, when you are Lady Elwyn, you must thoroughly cure him." 
 
 CHAPTER XI. 
 
 eossiPPiNG. — DE montfort's arrest. — Ernest's return. 
 
 '• I WISH Mr. De Montfort would return, or at least that I was sure of his safety," 
 exclaimed the old lady who superintended domestic affairs at Violet Cottage, after 
 having looked for half an hour over her spectacles, at two stout, ill-looking men, 
 who were lounging on the opposite side of the street, evidently making her resi- 
 dence a subject of remark. 
 
 •• For whom are these men waiting ?" asked a neighbour who had just dropped 
 in. 
 
 " That is just what I have been trying to make out," replied the old lady. 
 
 " Well can't you guess ?" continued the neighbour with a sneer. *' It is as 
 plain as day to me. You know when some folks are considered no better than 
 they should be, people get dreadful suspicious of them in these wicked times. I 
 have a great deal of charity for everybody, as does bad things, if they don't keep 
 60 mighty shy of every body, but I must say, that it looks dreadful dark to see 
 people go about their business every day, and never give any account of them- 
 selves. I tell you what, Mrs. Benson, I never trusts anybody much that doesn't 
 tell me about their concerns." 
 
 *♦ Mr. De Montfort is an excellent young man," said the old lady, her eye* 
 
THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 61 
 
 filling with tears at the recollection of all his goodaess to herself and absent son, 
 " aqd I would sooner suffer myself, than that any harm should come to him." 
 
 " He makes you think he is good, but us neighbours don't like him much. We 
 should like to ask him where he was burn, how he was brought up, what his folks 
 did for a living, and a great many such questions, but he steers straight along, 
 taking no notice of us." 
 
 At this moment the door of the apartment was thrown open with a considerable 
 jar, and a sharp-featured, middle-aged woman suddenly entered, while uttering 
 the following preamble. ** 1 thought I never should have got here. Good gra- 
 cious, Mrs. Benson— -I had such a time. I went round on the back side of our 
 house — crept through Miss Parsons's well-room — climbed over the fence — dodged 
 the corner of your wood house — sprung through your sink-room, and here I am, 
 safe at last." 
 
 ** And you had all this labour for what?" inquired Mrs. Benson, with an ex- 
 pression of simple surprise. 
 
 "For what!" exclaimed the new comer, '* why, haven't you seen those men 
 standing over the street and watching you all day ? See ! they are actually com- 
 ing in," and her black eyes glistened with the prospect of " something going to 
 happen." 
 
 The old lady became very pale as she saw them advance across the street, 
 ** Why don't you send for Mr. De MoRtfort ?" asked the first neighbour. 
 
 "I don't know where to send," was the hurried reply, as one man knocked 
 loudly. 
 
 ** So much for living with people that don't know where they keep themselves, 
 nor what they do," whispeted the black. eyed visitor, both of them feasting on the 
 food for gossip, that their fear was in the whole affair ; there was, that there would 
 note be enough, though certainly appearances did at this time promise well.g 
 
 The old lady had tremblingly opened the door, and in answer to their inquiries, 
 told them thtt De Montfort had neither been at home that day nor the one previous, 
 and, indeed, she could not tell where he was, but that they were welcome to enter 
 if they chose. 
 
 They very cividy replied that they supposed he would be at home some time, 
 and as it was not cold they preferred to wait out of doors, 
 
 •* We both pity you very much," said one of these vomen, as Mrs. Benson re- 
 turned from the door, her features agitated beyond control, for she had learned to 
 love De Montfort as a son, and the appearan«e of these men had produced a thou* 
 sand indefinite fears. 
 
 "I thank^ you for your sympathy,'* she replied, "but I trust he will not return 
 at present. The men are civil, and it is evident that they intend no harm for us," 
 
 Two romping girls burst into the room at this moment exclaiming in one breath, 
 " Do tell us what those men want ; we had half a mind to ask them ?" but before 
 Mrs. Benson could reply, the appearance of Lobo coming up the street at his 
 usual moderate pace arrested their attention, and in spite of the cold and the old 
 lady's remonstrances, they threw open a window and leaned out of it to listen to 
 his conversation with the strangers. 
 
 The possession of a man servant was a luxury which none other in that neighbout- 
 hood could afford, and he had consequently been an object of dislike and envy. 
 
 *' The man could tell us, if he would, where his master is and what is going on," 
 said one of the girls. 
 
 **I don't like him— indeed I hate him," rejoined the other * he never talks, and 
 people that don't talk are always ugly." 
 
 •' He is a very kind, good man though,' quietly oberved Mrs. Benson. 
 
 "Good ! yes, you think so, and little prim Miss Mary too, no doubt," and they 
 joined in one broad laugh which made the building ring with its noise, and sickened 
 the heart of the anxious woman. It was suppressed to a vulgar, tittering on the 
 approach of Lobo, and the inquiry of the women as to what they heard. 
 
 Mrs. Benson and Mary drew near th? fire, while these impertinent neighbours 
 gathered about the open window and listened to the conversation. 
 
62 THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 
 
 Lobo was stopped by the inquiry, " Are you George De Montfort?'* 
 " I have not that honor,'* he returned solemnly, 
 '• Do you know him?" 
 "Doubtless." 
 
 *• Do you know where he is V 
 
 " Certainly." — "Will you show us where we rnay find him ?" 
 *'Yes." 
 
 Here one of the men was about to slip a bright coin into iiis hand, probably as 
 a motive to faithfulness, but the servant started back as if he had trodden upon a 
 snake, muttering, " I have had orders.'* Motioning the men to follow him, he 
 proceeded as he had been directed. 
 
 The visitors remained some time, evidently disappointed that nothing had oc- 
 curred of a very, serious nature, and departed promising to run iu again in the course 
 of the day. " If they do not come a dozen times, I shall be most agreeably dissap- 
 pointed,"ob!<erved the old lady, after they had closed the door, and she had shut the 
 window, which they had omitted ^odo. Mrs. Benson had taken i. hearty dislike to the 
 gossips of the neighbourhood, for, since their first arrival at the cottage, they had been 
 the constant subject of remark, abuse, and false report. If these persons had contented 
 themselves with slander, she would have been better satisfied, but many reports had 
 been circulated which had no foundation whatever, and so often repeated as finally to 
 be believed among themselves. There was somthing too, extremely repugnant to her 
 naturally refined feelings, in their unceremonious entrance into her house at all hours 
 of the day, and commenlirig with vulgar familiarity upon all they saw, even the do- 
 mestic arrangements. 
 
 When the good woman had reduced her apartment to its wonted order and neat- 
 ness, she drew an easy chair to the window, wiped the tears from her eyes, and said 
 in a subdued tone, " We will wait." 
 
 Lobo conducted the two men to a brick building previously mentioned, and 
 ushered them into the sitting-room. They advanced a step beyond the door, evi- 
 dently astonished at what they saw. 
 
 The floor of the apartment was covered with a beautifully flowered carpet, and 
 the walls decorated with the' finest and richest specimehs of beauty and art. A 
 laige table was drawn near the fire, and covered with volumes of an immense size, 
 many of which were open. There were also writing materials, and some manu- 
 scripts in a fine manly hand. 
 
 A gentleman, apparently of forty-five years, with deep lines of thought upon his 
 brow, and his frame bent by intense study, was carefuliy examining one volume. 
 " Master, master,' said Lobo with great respect, "these gentlemen — " 
 " My good friend," interrupted the gentleman without raising his eyes, " will you 
 be so good as to examine these five volumes, and find the sentence which 1 shall read to 
 you.'' 
 
 " But, master, these gentlemen — '' 
 
 •' 1 think you will find it in the three hundred and fifty-fourth canto of the thir- 
 tieth book of — " 
 
 '•Master, these men — " 
 
 " It will no doubt occupy you some time, but should you find it, the result — 
 Don't tease me," he added, pettishly, as one would brush off"a fly, or trample upon 
 an insect, for one of the men had advanced and laid his hand lightly upon the 
 8 udent's shoulder. 
 
 " As I was a saying, the result would amply — " 
 
 *'Sir,' said the other man, who had advanced to the assistance of his companion, 
 *' Sir, we would speak with you." 
 
 This was spoken in a bold, decided tone, and the man of books apparently heard, 
 for the first time, and slowly elevating his eyes, regarded first one and then the 
 other, unable to comprehend their strange presence. 
 
 " Abraham, my friend, who are thsse men, and why are they here?" he inquired, 
 with great surprise at the unwonted intrusion. 
 
 *' I had been telling your reverence for some time, that they were desiring your 
 notice," replied the servant. 
 
THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 63 
 
 " Seventeep.th canto— fifty-first book," he murmured impatiently, and placed 
 his finger upon the passage ; then turning a little, he added, " WfeU, my friehds 
 you see my time is precious— be brief." 
 
 *' Sir,'" said the oldest man, " is your name George De Montfort?'* 
 
 '•Yes/' 
 
 " t)o you live in the house called Violet Cottage, in Orton street V* 
 
 "Yes," 
 
 " Sometime clerk to the mercantile house 9f Trellah add Co ?" 
 
 *' Yes." 
 
 *' S(J far, it agrees with the account given us," muttered one, *'hut the person — " 
 ftnd he threw a sharp glance at his companion, who took a soiled paper from his 
 pocket, and began reading in an under tone, ** twenty-five or twenty-^ix years old 
 —fair complexion—handsome blue eyes—brown curls— gay, familiar manner, 
 arid rich, fashionable dress." 
 
 " Not exactly to the point I think," replied the first speaker as his eye glanced 
 over the long, straight hair, originally black, but now interspersed with white 
 locks and very thin — an extremely grave countenance — eyes, which through their 
 ample green glasses seemed dark and heavy, and the tall bent figure wrapped in 
 a silk dressing gown. 
 
 " There must be some mistake," replied the other, with an expression in which 
 mirthfulness stoutly contended with professional dignity. " Yes sir,*' he added, 
 addressing the gentleman who was again at his books, '* there is a grave mistake 
 somewhere. We were sent to arrest you for forgery." 
 
 These words arrested the attention of the student, and rising from his arm chair, 
 he leaned slightly forward on his cane with an air of a man who only knew crime 
 and wickedness by the most distant report. He deliberately measured them 
 from head to foot with a look of surprise and contempt, that would have withered 
 ordinary men, slowly articulating, " Me ! a forger! truly there is no accounting for 
 the ridicnlous fancies whieh peopbe take to themselves in these days. But go ! I 
 parpon you !" and with a majesiic wave of the hand he motione them to the 
 door, out of which they were politely bowed by Lobo. 
 
 *' There, dispose of this trumpery," exclaimed Lord Elwyn, with a hearty 
 laugh, as he pushei aside the table, pulled the glasses from his eyes, the wig from 
 his head and disrobed himself of fifteen or twenty yards of black lustring, " Now, 
 iiobo, go home, order dinner, and send the carriage for me at two." 
 
 The servant bowed and went out, while the master returned to the cottage, to 
 allay the fears of Mrs. Benson and bewilder hef gossiping neighbours. 
 
 The day appointed for the marriage of Edna and Ernest, rapidly approached. 
 Three weeks had already expired, and Edna began to feel her courage relaxing, 
 spite of Lord Elwyn's assurance that there was really no cause for fear. Con- 
 tinually reminded by her aunt and cousin, of the splendid preparations which she 
 ought to make for the occasion, and troubled by her uncle's continual assertion — 
 that he never altered his mind, she became languid and dispirited, from which she 
 was only aroused by occasional stolen interviews viith De Montfort, and a strong 
 consciousness that her union with him was approved by one, who though unseen, 
 watched over her. She therefore persisted in daily visits among the poor and sufif^r- 
 ing, where she never failed to meet the approving smile of Dr. Huntly ; he was already 
 enrolled on her list of friends. For two days she had missed the sick woman 
 whom she had assisted to recal from death, and upon inquiry, learned from the 
 doctor simply that she had been provided with a home, and taken to it, and that 
 he would accompany her on a visit to it whenever she liked. 
 
 Had Edna been less engrossed than she was vvith her own somewhat com- 
 plicated affairs, she would have analyzed and endeavonred to trace to its source, 
 the peculiar interest, with which this woman watched her every movement, as she 
 hovered around with acts of kindness, such as the sick only can appreciate — as it 
 was, it often occurred to her, but only as a transient thought. 
 
 It was at this time— that is, a week previous to the day of the wedding— that a 
 
04 THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 
 
 carriage the same that had left it so suddenly, entertdthe court surrounding Lord 
 Elwyn's dwelling- about midnight. 
 
 Starting from a reverie into which he had fallen, he rang and ordered that the 
 ^person who had arrired should be showa into his library, where supper 
 Vas to be served as quickly as possible. Having given this order, he threw open 
 the door and waited to welcome the stranger. A young man entered, thoroughly 
 wrapped in cloaks and furs, of which, with some assistance, divested himself, when 
 Lord Elwyn extended his hand saying, " You will pardon this haste, lam sure, 
 when you shall be f klly acquainted with th« reasons. You have travelled rapidly ?* 
 
 " Day and night,' replied the stranger; •' I have only slept in the carriage, 
 as you requested." 
 
 " Come then," said the host, ** we will take supper which I am sure you need, 
 and I will explain a little why I interfere so directly in your affairs; for I am sure 
 it must seem quite strange to you, whom I have only met once before.* 
 
 " I am far Better acquainted with you my lord, than you imagine, " returned the 
 other, *' for every letter from my friends has been filled with your praises, except 
 indeed Edna's," and, is voice was soft and sad as he mentioned her name, 
 
 '* I too can tell you much of your history. In early youth you were betrothed 
 to Edna, because Major Trellan saw no other way to get entire control of Edna's 
 property — as children neither of you opposed it. Years have passed since, and 
 you have each discovered that you have only for the other that natural affection 
 that binds the brother to the sister. You have both been deceived ; your letters 
 have been intercepted, detained, and others substituted in their places ; to each the 
 unlimited affection of the other has been proclaimed, for those most interested were re- 
 solved to accomplish this union, even by means of a crime too black to name. Do not 
 shudder; be courageous ; you have much to hear — much to endure, but not all now 
 Edna loves another whose heart is all her own. 'i'his love was discovered, and 
 you were summoned to put an end to it, as they vainly imagine, by fulfilling 
 your pledge. Major Trellan's letter found you sighing over the transient glimpse 
 you once obtained of a lovely face." 
 
 " My lord, howjknow you this ?" interupted Brnest fiercely, ** surely my secret — ," 
 
 " Shall be respected ; my dear friend, believe me, only permit me to proce«d. 
 What would you give to look again upon that face ?'* 
 
 *' My life !" replied Ernest, solemnly, " for if Heaven was open to me for a few 
 brief moments and then for ever shut out from my sight, my life would be of no 
 value." 
 
 ** Well, listen to me, and obey me for a few days, even blindly if need be, and 
 you shall not only feast your eyes upon her beautiful face, but win her noble heart." 
 
 " What power have you, my lord, to promise all this?'exclaimed the young 
 man with thrilling energy. 
 
 " That is my secret," returned Lord Elwyn, smiling. " I have given my 
 word." 
 
 " Aud I have faith in it,' replied Ernest, his countenance beaming wilh that un- 
 doubting confidence which was a part of his nature. 
 
 " Let us then proceed," continued Lord Elwyn. *' You and Edna cannot ac- 
 commodate those selfish friends by marrying, and yet you must ofi"er to consent. 
 Offer no opposition — suffer the preparations to proceed— lead her to the altar 
 apd — trust in me. Do you promise this V* 
 
 " Willingly my lord," and he extended his hand. 
 
 " Sleep here to-night, and to-morrow occupy yourself in holding an unreserved 
 conversation with Edna, so that you may fully understand each other, endeavour 
 to ascertain who was the intercepfer and writer of your letters ; it will furnish you 
 ample employment. Come to me the day after. I shall have much to say 
 to you then, for which you are not prepared ; good night/' and embracing him 
 Lord Elwyn rang for some one to show him to his room. 
 
 In spite of all circumstances and romances to the contrary, Ernest Trellan sUpt 
 soundly after the fatiguing and rapid journey. It was past ten when he pre 
 
THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 
 
 65 
 
 sented himself in Lord Elwyn's breakfast room, and was informed by a servant that 
 hit) liost had breaicfasted and gone out, leaving no message. After a slight 
 meal he sent for acarriage, and entering it with his baggatre, desired to be driven to 
 Major Trellan's. His sudden appearance surprised and deh'ghted his parents, who 
 now fancied that every c>])stacle wa>^ removed. 
 ** How did voutiavel;' asked his father. 
 
 
 <• By land, sir," replied his son frankly, 
 
 ** Ant* areyou aware that happiness awaits'you almost immediately,*' interrupted 
 
 his mother; •* you know that your wedding is appointed on Tuesday ; to day is 
 
 Thursday. There will scarcely be time for the natural impatience which usually 
 
 precedes these happy events,' Ernest smiled, but replied not ; as soon as circum- 
 
 No. 9. 
 
66 THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 
 
 stances would allow, he sought Edna's cabinet, having permission to visit her there-. 
 She rose to meet him. 
 
 " Now that all danger of misunderstanding each other is past," he said, *'you 
 will not refuse the embrace which is dictated by the purest fraternal affection/' 
 and he folded his arms about her, kissing her forehead tenderly. 
 
 " Edna," he asked, " do you know all the deception wl ich has been practised 
 upon us?" 
 
 " Perhaps not all, but much — enough surely." 
 
 " Then you have never loved me, as was again and again written me ?" 
 
 ''Never." 
 
 " It is criminal," he replied, "to torture one thus. I have wept for hours 
 over|the necessity, as I supposed i:, of inflicting pain upon you who are so dear to 
 me.'j 
 
 *' And I too,'' replied Edna, her eyes glistening with tears, "have at times al- 
 most believed I ought to sacrifice myself to the passionate love I was taught to 
 believe that you bore me. Your own experience only can give you an idea of 
 the misery which my first letter after your departure cost me. It Mas hardly 
 worth while to have devoted two sheets to the explanation of the faitlilessness, the 
 knowledge of which was only to cause you pleasure." 
 
 " Two sheets !" exclaimed Ernest. " That reminds me that our letters have 
 not always been allowed to proceed quietly on their course ; they have sometimes 
 been intercepted." 
 
 " 1 was sure of it," replied Edna. " For instance, I wrote you refusing to fulfil 
 our pledge, and clearly stating my reasons. Some weeks after, I received one 
 fxoin you, much the same, but shorter, and making no allusion whatever to mine. 
 It was for a time a source of mucli conjecture, but 1 one day suddenly entered the 
 apartment of Bertha, your mother's maid, and caught a glimpse of the superscrip- 
 tion of a letter, which I could almost have asserted on oath belonged to you, and 
 was my own writing. The letter was open, but apparently heavy. She quickly 
 removed it, and commenced talking with great volubility.'' 
 
 ** Have you ever spoken of this?" 
 
 *' Never. I have no friend in this house." 
 
 " True ; those who should have watched over our happiness, even with their lives, 
 have proved our worst enemies." 
 
 " Ernest, I trust you will not be offended, but this seems a time above all others, 
 for perfect frankness. I am accustomed to look everywhere for motivss. I am 
 therefore led to believe that my money has been the secret source of all our diffi- 
 culties, and I am sometimes tempted to wish myself among those poorer or more 
 obscure persons, who are allowed to live and marry as their affections dictate. 
 You, Ernest, have alone proved noble and generous. I am led to believe that 
 your mother is more deeply concerned than any other in this plot against our hap- 
 piness.' 
 
 " My mother ! Well, Edna, be assured that such a title shall not screen her. 
 I am fully determined to sift this matter thoroughly. But I wish to be alone. I 
 must reflect. Meet me in my mother's sitting-room this evening, and all shall 
 be settled." 
 
 Evening came, and the family were as usual gathered about the fire. Edna 
 having sought a shady corner of the sofa, quite retired from observation, and was 
 reflecting with sorrow upon the approaching scene. 
 
 Ernest Trellan was one of those straightforward, unbending characters, when any 
 object was to be accomplished that deeply interested him — who never swerve from 
 justice wherever it may touch, but underneath, there .vas a soft pleading heart, 
 which made him at times almost a child, so truly did he sigh for the gentle minis- 
 terings of love. It was one of his days of action, and as he entered the room, 
 there was in his movements the pride of conscious integrity. With folded arms he 
 stationed himself before his mother, and bent upon her a look such as few would 
 dare to endure who had been guilty of injustice to him. 
 
 ** Why do you look at me thus Ernest ?" she inquired. 
 
THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 67 
 
 He beckoned Edna to his side, took her hand in his, and in a voice that revealed 
 the troubled emotions of his soul, replied, — 
 
 . "Madam! you have long deceived us. Edna and myself have been to each 
 other the most confiding of brothers and sisters. Thus have we loved in the past, 
 and thus only do we now love. This is too holy an affection to ming\e with any 
 other. My heart has been deeply pained when you dwelt upon her absorbing pas- 
 sion for me, and no dohbt she has suffered, the same. This was not true ; you 
 knew that it was not, still you continued the deception. More than that — to make 
 sure your purposes, you prevented the interchange of confidence — you intercepted 
 our letters, and signed oui names to assertions and sentiments very far from being 
 our own. You will not deny this." 
 
 An angry frown rested on the brow of the father, and a deep crimson flush burned 
 the cheek of the mother. 
 
 " Is this true ?" demanded Major Trellan of his wife, for it was new to him. 
 
 "No!" she replied angrily. " I have never intercepted their letters ; he can- 
 not provQ it." 
 
 *' Madam, listen to me," continued Ernest impressively. *' In consequenc of 
 these feelings and *ntiments, Edna has distinctly and unconditionally refused to 
 ratify the pledge you choose to force upon us, and had I been here, I should have 
 done the same." 
 
 " Impossible !" groaned the father. 
 
 *' Do not interrupt me, sir, I beg of you. I was about to say, that notwithstand- 
 ing out decided refusal, we will retract ; we will promise to unite our hands at the 
 altar upon the night appointed by you, provided nothing beyond our control pre- 
 vents, upon one condition." 
 
 *' Nam;: it," exclaimed ]\Iajor Trellan quickly, his hope reviving. 
 
 " That you, madam, answer me the'^e questions. Do you consent?" 
 
 *' I supposed my son better versed in the rules of politeness, than to catechize 
 his moti^er," replied the angry woman, evasively. 
 
 fie replied sternly. *' When that mother has done me injustice for years, she 
 becomes to me the same as any other human being iu like circumstances. Do you 
 consent to reply to these questions V' 
 
 " Certainly she does," rejoined her husband. 
 
 " You cannot force me to speak, sir, when I do net choose.'' 
 
 " I can induce you to do so,'' he replied promptly, and rising, he hipered a 
 few words in her ear. They proved effectual, for in a voice low from suppressed 
 rag2, she simply said, — 
 
 " Proceed.'' 
 
 *'Doyou,'' continued Ernest, '* swear by my father's honour to answer cor- 
 rectly ?" 
 
 " Why not by my own?'* she deroandsd indignantly. 
 
 *' If you have been guilty, as I suppose, you have no honour. Do you pro- 
 mise?" 
 
 " I do," she replied faintly. 
 
 *' Did you detain, or cause to be detained, Edna's letter of two sheets, written 
 soon after my departure?" 
 
 *' I gave no directions, but it was detained, and I read if.'* 
 
 " Did you write a substitute ?"' 
 
 " No." 
 
 *' Who was the writer of it?"" 
 
 Here Mrs. Trellan became very pale and hesitated ;* fhere was a secret power 
 over her which she feared to provoke, but an implacable glance from her husband's 
 eye impelled her ; there was no escape, and she pronounced the name of " Bertha." 
 
 Ernest turned quickly, and ringing, ordered the woman in. 
 
 " Bertha," he exclaimed in a loud and commanding voice, of which, in his 
 calmer moments, he seemed utterly incapable, " Bertha, bring me instantly the 
 double letter written by Miss Trellan, and detained by you. Quick ! I command 
 you !" 
 
68 THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 
 
 The artful and generally self-possessed woman was thunderstruck at the ex- 
 traordinary appearance of the usually mild young gentleman, and for once was 
 awed into obedience. She had but one thought — to get the fatal letter ; that she 
 hoped would allay the storm. Taking it from her, he gave her the one she had 
 substituted, exclaiming in a voice which left no room for disobedience, •' Take 
 your trash — now begone ! Let not an hour hence find you here !" Mrs. Trellan 
 attempted to interpose, but in vain. " It is too vile — too degrading/' he said ; 
 " if you had done it alone — mean, contemptible, loathsome as it is, to secretly 
 peruse another's letter — I ceuld have pardoned it ,• but to make a confidant — au 
 accomplice of her, is too degrading !" 
 
 But Mrs. Trellan managed to exchange one glance with Bertha, ere she left the 
 apartment ; it was sufficient for each. 
 
 *' Margaret I" said Major Trellan, sternly addressing his wife, '* leave me; 
 your presence is burdensome. I ceuld not have believed that you would so far 
 have forgotten yourself, as to have engaged in this system of deception. I trust 
 you, myjson, and you, Edna will do me the justice to believe that I was a stranger 
 to all this. However unflinching I may be in my resolution to exact the fulfilment 
 of your pledge, I would never have resorted to these measures, nor do I approve 
 them.'* 
 
 " You are yourself guilty of deception," angrily exclaimed the wife. 
 
 "Beware !'* ejaculated the husband in a voice of thunder; and exerting himself 
 to assume a calm exterior, he added, " All obstacles are now removed, 1 trust, 
 and this union, for which I have so long hoped, will at last be consummated. Re- 
 member that your proniise was voluntary." 
 
 "We shall not forget it, sir," replied Ernest respeclfully, "and I again repeat 
 it, that if no obstacle occurs beyond our contiol, we will accede to your wish." 
 
 ** Thank you, my children ! it is all as I wish — no obstacle can occur — it is 
 impossible. Good night — ^I Avish to be alone," and he went to his study, threw 
 himself into his arm chair, and thus soliloquised. " If there is no obstacle — how 
 strange to dwell upon that! what obstacle can there be? If he should learn 
 
 that but no — impossible ! who can tell him, who knows it? it is hard to 
 
 force them, but they will be happy, and — it must be so. Now, at least, I cannot 
 give it up. Ruin stares me in the face, and upon her fortune I must again build 
 my own. It is sure — nothing can prevent it." 
 
 After the departure of his father and mother, Ernest drew Edna's arm within 
 his own, and led her to the door of her cabinet. Brushing aside the curtain, she 
 begged him to enter a few moments. 
 
 *< You have seen Lord Elwyn V she inquired. 
 
 *' Yes," he replied thoughtfully, wishing hut fearing to inform her of all. 
 
 '* Have you perfect confidence in him ?" 
 
 " The utmost." 
 
 ** You are confident, then, that he will not fail in his promise?'' 
 
 ** Certainly — let your heart be at rest." 
 
 ** Oh ! would it was," she sighed, bursting into tears, for the continual excite- 
 ment of her present life was overpowering her. 
 
 Ernest gently drew the weeping girl to his bosom, saying in the low, soft voice 
 of true affection, ** You are my sister now ; let me be in all respects to you a bro- 
 ther," and she wept afresh, but this time it was for joy that she had found a true, 
 a sincere, a familiar friend. She told him the story of her love, and received from 
 him that sympathy which is so refreshing to the loving heart. 
 
 When the house was again in a state of repose. Bertha crept from the closet of 
 her mistress* dressing-room, Mrs. Trellan having set up for her. We will not at- 
 tempt to describe the scene which follovred. Each concealed in her own bosom 
 a secret which involved the happiness and purity of two noble beings ; each knew 
 that the keeping of the secret was above all things wicked ; each therefore made 
 it a point of attack upon the other. Then followed exclamations, accusations, 
 burning, angry words, savage looks, threats of exposure, tears of anger, cutting 
 
THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 69 
 
 sarcasms, and vows of revenge. At last, they became somewhat cool, and each 
 saw that she could not afford to have the other for an enemy ; they therefore must 
 be friends. 
 
 It was evident, however, that Bertha must not remain in the house ; neither Er- 
 nest nor his father would allow it. It was therefore concluded that she should 
 go to the house of one of her friends, on pietence of ill health, where Mrs. Trel- 
 lan should pay for her board, until Ernest's marriage enabled her to redeem the 
 written promise, which Bertha had wrung from her. 
 
 The same evening on which these events occurred, Lobo entered Lord Elwyn's 
 library, with a letter and a note, both sealed. The latter was first opened, and he 
 was surprised to find it was from Carlotta — his betrothed bride. Reproaches for 
 neglect, and fears of his want of affection, were its contents. *' It has commenced " 
 he said mentally — " no fears for the result." The second letter was more satis- 
 factory. It was from Benson, and contained the narrative which he had promised 
 in his last. 
 
 "The father," he wrote after some preliminaries, " is an aged man, apparently 
 bending over the grave, to which he goes sorrowfully and unwillingly, for he 
 mourns the loss of an only child. She married many years since, was divorced 
 from her husband scon after the birth of a lovely boy, was treated with great 
 harshness by her friends for her marriage — it being considered somewhat beneath 
 her — and she eventually went away no one knew whither. His regrets came at 
 last, though too late, and the man of wealth and power became almost a maniac. 
 Remorse consumed the strength of his being, but he could not rest ; he dragged 
 himself everywhere, that he might once more behold her face, and that of her 
 child, whom he wished to constitute his heir. A singular circumstance — or one 
 at least that attracted my attention — is that the name of this lady is now Trelian, 
 that being the name of her divorced husband. The child, if now living, must be a 
 young man of twenty-one years. My heart aches for him, as he sits day after day 
 in his arm chair, leaning forward upon a substantial staff, and ever watching a 
 particular turn in the road from the same window. They tell me, that is the spot 
 where he last saw her, and he^seems to anticipate her return by the same place. 
 His hps are in continual motion, though he seldom speaks aloud, and it is said, 
 that he is ever repeating her name to himself, lesr he should forget it. Poor old 
 man ! how would his heart expand, and his eyes brighten beneath the assurance 
 that she is living, and will yet visit him."" 
 
 " How unfortunate !" exclaimed Lord Elwyn, " that this should come to me to- 
 night. I cannot doubt to whom this narrative refers. The aged father's arras 
 shall once more encircle the child of his lore. Indeed the ways of Providence are 
 mysterious, but more mysterious still is often the revelation of them. After all 
 Benson is but tlie unconscious instrument of my will." 
 
 CHAPTER X. 
 
 THE RE-UNIOX. 
 
 Ok Fridfty, the day appointed, Ernest again visited Lord Elwyn, and was re- 
 ceived by him with that extreme kindness, that almost paternal tenderness, which 
 had previously won his heart, and now increased his confidence in him. 
 
 *' I employed ray time yesterday, a? you recommended my lord," said Ernest, 
 taking the offered chair, " and I find that neither my happiness nor Edna's has 
 been an object of much anxiety in my father's house." 
 
70 THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 
 
 "In Major Trellan''s house you mean," replied Lord Elwyn with a peculiar 
 emphasis. 
 
 " Very well, "returned Ernest smiling. " Major Trellan is my father, is he not? 
 I snppose among all other curious incidents oi the times, no one will undertake to 
 dispute my parentage." 
 
 " Every point is disputable, you know, until proved. But what discoveries did 
 you make?" 
 
 Ernest hesitated. The honour of his mother was dear to him, notwithstanding 
 the stern justice he had rendered her, and his cheek burned at the recollection 
 of her meanness. His friend relieved him. 
 
 *' Some hours hence/' said he kindly, ** you may have less hesitation in speak- 
 ing of her guilt. At present J know all. You found JNIrs. Trellan had been 
 engaged with that woman Bertha, in a system of deception degrading to herself, 
 and unjust to you. It is past — we will speak of it no more. In the course of 
 the conversation, was no allusion made to a fact concealed from you? reflect — do 
 not let your memory' prove treacheroiis." 
 
 ** I think there was ; though it attracted little attention from me at the 
 moment. I believe that my mother declared to my father, that he too was 
 deceiving me, but it was by way ef revenge, and I considered it undeserving of 
 a though^" 
 
 " Words uttered from the impulse of the moment," replied Lord Elwyn gravely, 
 ** have often a deeper meaning than meditated sentences. Does it interest you 
 to know this secret ?" 
 
 " Mow can this secret to which you allude, interest me ?" 
 
 " la man)- ways. Events frequently happen previous to one's recollection 
 which may colour all their future lives. Wl)o knows what may have happened to 
 you in those years, when the memory was too feeble to retain the course of events.'' 
 Would you like to penetrate the past? Would you hold in your hands the 
 weapon wherewith to sever the pledge between yourself and Edna ?" 
 
 " There is that in your words, and in your manner, my lord, that alarms me, I 
 would know this secret. Do not keep me in suspense." 
 
 '•'It is Lot my province to reveal it. But are you quite sure that you are pre- 
 pared for any change ; that you could assimilate yourself to circumstances widely 
 different from those in which you have been reared ?" 
 
 " Your manner has induced me to believe in all possibilities. But how am I 
 to ascertain the truth ?'* * 
 
 *' Remain here for half an hour ; amuse yourself as you will. My leisure has 
 expired, and I must leave you. At the expiration of that time, enter my carriage, 
 which you will find waiting, and order the coachman to leave you a; the oflfice of 
 which you have the address ou this note. Yo^^ will be received by Dr. Huntly, 
 an intimate friehd of mine, who will soon be tv.*? same to you. This note is a 
 written introduction, for my engagements prevent oe from introducing you in 
 person. " He will accompany you on a visit to one of his oatients.'' 
 
 " And this person " 
 
 '• Is— but no ! you will soon learn all. To-morrow I shjll, in return, expect 
 from you an introduction to this person. Come for nie at twelvt,.'' 
 
 " But in the meantime shall 1 nol see you ?" asked Ernest quickly. 
 
 " You will be fully occupied, I have no doubt. Good mornmg." 
 
 This half hour was an eternity to Ernest, during vphich his imagination, ever 
 fruitful, travelled with lightning speed through all the possible and impossible 
 scenes which romance had ever presented to him. But it passed at length, and 
 nearly insane with excitement, he drove to Dr. Huntly's office. That gentle- 
 man received him at his door, perused the note, and extending his hand said 
 politely, — 
 
 " From the introduction of my fiierid Lord Elwyn, I £uppos2 I ad.^riss Mr. 
 Trellan V 
 
 " And I, Dr. Huntly," replied Ernest. The physician bowed, and he continued, 
 " I was informed by him that you wished me to yisit one of your patients with 
 
THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 71 
 
 you ; I am prepared to do so ; the carriage waits, and I am, as you see, almost 
 dying with excitement and suspense." 
 
 The doctor deliberately drew out two chairs, and occupying one, he offered the 
 other to Ernest, saying calmly, " Sit down,' sir." 
 
 " But we are not going to delay, I trust," exclaimed Ernest impatiently, and 
 still standing, " when so much of, I know not what, depends upon this inter- 
 view." 
 
 " For that reason," coolly returned the doctor, " I shall not allow you to kill 
 my patient at the onset ; we should then be in a fine predicament to discover long 
 hidden secrets. No, sir, sit down, I say, and compose yourselfto a state as near 
 indifference as possible." ^ 
 
 •" indifference !" mentally exclaimed the indignant young man, as he perceived 
 the physician employ himself in folding several small powders. Some moments 
 passed in silence, during which Ernest's irritation subsided. He had evidently to 
 deal with a man who would not be driven. 
 
 " Would you not like to know something of this person who you are so anxious 
 to see ?" quietly asked Dr. Huntley. 
 
 *' Certainly, sir," replied Ernest more calmly than he had before spoken. 
 
 " Very well, that is the tone 1 like," pursued the physician, preparing a box of 
 small pills. '* Do endeavour to preserve your self-possession. The individual 
 you will see, is a lady of forty years. I say a lady, because — though I found her 
 in the humble walks of life, and evidently poor, she is thoroughly, and in every 
 respect, a lady,' and has apparently passed through many years of suffering and 
 external dei^radation, without being contaminated by those vulgar thoughts, word?, 
 and habits, with v.hicli she must continually have come in contact. My 
 acquaintance with I er commenced in the gratuitous professional visits which, after 
 the late fire, I daily maile among the sufferers ; she was one of the worst, but by 
 the most perseverl:.?: efforts, I have'succeeded in restoring her to life, which f 
 found, after all, wa;i no kindness, unless I could restore to her one whom she had 
 long wished to sej. At my suggestion, Lord Elwyn sent for you, and I am about 
 to present you to l:er. Are you readv?" and he placed the powders and pills in 
 his pocket, arranged his spectacles, drew on his gloves, and opened the door. As 
 Ernest went out, the doctor pulled a cord and imseen by Ernest, Lobo — the ever- 
 present Lobo — entered to secure the office from intrusion. 
 
 " But what interest has this lady in me ?" asked Ernest eagerly, after they had 
 entered the carriage. 
 
 *' Perhaps your nurse, perhaps — but many things are supposable : I have a little 
 more to say. ' Becoming deeply interested in her, I communicated her situation to 
 Lord Elwyn, ^vho immeditely purchased and had her removed to a new and pretty 
 dwelling, entirely at her command." 
 
 *' She must have been grateful," exclaimed Ernest. 
 
 •'Ah yes, she wept tears of gratitude ; but here we are," and Ernest was sur- 
 prised to see that they were stopping before a neat elegant cottage, which he had 
 often admired as he ascended the steps of the chapel where he was accustomed to 
 worship ; it was scarcely a dozen yards from it. Dr. Huntly entered with a key 
 of his own, and, throwing open the door upon the left, requested Ernest to wait 
 for him a moment. He cast his eyes around the apartment — all was new, beautiful, 
 even luxurious; and a fresh fire burned ia the grate, the brasses of which were 
 like polished gold.' Evidently some person of taste and elegance presided in this 
 little dwelling. It was plain, then, that, with the gift of a home. Lord Elwyn had 
 furnished her with the means of living suitably to her wishes. 
 
 Dr. Huntly agaiu entered, and drew the hand of the young man within his 
 arm. 
 
 " Be calm," he said, "you will soon be wiser than now." 
 
 Pale, but resolute, Ernest crossed the entry with hiin, and entered the opposite 
 parlour. One glance showed that it was furnished similar to the other, but in its 
 arrangement had been adapted to the wants of an invalid. A broad sofa was 
 
^2 THE DOUBLJE COURTSHIP. 
 
 drawn to the centre of the apartment, and beside it was a table, on'which were 
 fruit, a glass of wine, books, and work. 
 
 Supported by the cushions of the sofa, was the lady whom they visited. Her 
 head was high and intellectual, and her features rather large, but so regular as to 
 be called handsome. They were now deadly pale, save the hectic flush that 
 played upon her cheeks. Time, sorrow, and penury had wrought their usual 
 work upon her external appearance, but had been powerless over the large piercing 
 black eyes, and the expression of intrepid, fearless courage, that ever rested upon 
 the thiu, firmly closed Hps, Her person was tall, and her familiar expression 
 one of commanding dignity. 
 
 Dr. Huntly proceeded with his friend to the side of the couch, saying, — 
 
 " Here, my dear madam, is the young gentleman whom you so much wished 
 to see." 
 
 The lady extended her emaciated hand, and, clasping that of Ernest, gazed 
 eagerly into his face, while large tears gathered in her eyes, and her proud, firm 
 lip trembled with suppressed emotion. 
 
 " You do not recognise me," slie said, at length. 
 
 " How should I, madam ?" exclaimed Ernest, in an agony of suspense. 
 
 *' Is there, then,'' she asked, ia a low, plaintive voice, " no natural language 
 from heart to heart ? Is the voice of nature, so strong and imperious on one si'le, 
 for ever hushed on the other ? Is there nothing about me that speaks to you of 
 the past — the long, long past V* 
 
 *' Ah, ye^ ; that voice ! If I could but recal ,*' and Ernest pressed his hnml 
 
 to his forehead, while his memory Avandered far back to the earliest scenes of child- 
 hood. Suddenly he exclaimed, "There was an arbour — there were trees :ind 
 flowers — and thr^re was a voice ; yes, it was t/iat voice. Madam, who are you?" 
 
 •' Make one more cfi'ort," said the lady, soothingly; "can you recal no fice, 
 no form ?" 
 
 '*Y«*s, a pale handsome face — a tall form in a white robe; and there were 
 tears — yes, I remember the tears well — and those eyes that looked upon me — 
 these recollections come to me, one by one, from the dim obscurity where tiiey 
 have so long dwelt. Where was I, madam, and where were you?" he demanded. 
 
 " We were together," she replied, calmly. 
 
 " Yes — I stood upon that lady's knee, and reached a bunch of grapes, which I 
 ciushed in my hand till the purple stream coloured her dress, and " 
 
 ** Then ?" asked the lady. 
 
 " Then those eyes reproached me. Yes, it was Jtci- eyes — let me see yourn, 
 madam.'' 
 
 For an instant she threw her whole soul into them, and. with an expression that 
 was at once loving and reproachful, gazed intently into his face. 
 
 *' It was you, lady ; it could be no other. But who are you 1" 
 
 " 1 am — your mother ;" and for the first time she gave vent to the uncontrollable 
 emotions which filled her soul upon addressing her son, after a separation of 
 eighteen years. 
 
 *' My mother," slowly repeated the young man ; *' my mother !'* 
 
 *' Yes, my son, it is your mother, whom you recal when you wander into the 
 past — your mother, who caressed and gathered flowers for you — your mother's 
 tears that you remember — your mother, who reproached you for the crushed fruit." 
 
 " Then who is she whom I have called mother ?' 
 
 "A stranger," 
 
 " That IS why I could look upon her so sternly — why I could speak, without 
 faltering, those bitter words. Had you been guilty, like her, 1 should have wept 
 and pardoned, but never hare spoken thus to you. But tell me where you have 
 been through these long years— why I was left with strangers I do not comprehend. 
 Was it not cruel thus to desert your child ?" 
 
 " Ernest, listen to me," said the mother, brushing away the tears, and clasping 
 his hand. " Ernest, you recal my tears ; you know, then, that I suffered ; it was 
 for you. I married one who was my inferior iu birth, in station, in wealth, in in 
 
THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 
 
 73 
 
 tellect, but with a strange infatuation, I loved him — I love him now. But it was 
 against the opposition of all my friends that I married this man — your father — and 
 it has procured for me a life of mourning. At length a slight difference occurred 
 between us— my family took occasion to make a quarrel, and I hnally gave my 
 consent for a divorce. Oh, how bitterly have I repented it ! for in that moment I 
 bartered the happiness of a life. You only were left me ; but you were hated, 
 
 
 N^>^,'\^vrrv^ 
 
 ^1 ■■\\\:^ii^^>C^..„ 
 
 V '2^- 
 
 despised, by my proud relatives, because you were Ms child. For your good, I 
 resolved to part with you awhile — for a few years— that you might be educated 
 free and independent, and at length return, a man, to assert and maintain your 
 rights. But I was deceived — you have been also, and an accident— no, not an 
 accident, but Providence restored you to me. I see that you have a thousand 
 questions to ask — these things are yet mysterious to you— but there rapidly ap- 
 No. 10. 
 
THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 
 
 proaches an event which will reveal all. Will you have a lesson of patience, my 
 son— such patience as I have learned, when you have passed me, day after day, on 
 your walk to and from school, never dreaming that I was any more to you than 
 any other poor and needy stranger— such patience as I have had, when I stood he - 
 side you in the crowd, and refrained from pressing you to a mother's yearning 
 bosom. 1 have waited long for the day that is now so near— will you, too, wait ?* 
 
 Ernest dropped his head upon his mother's shoulder and wept — at last their 
 tears were mingled, and their hearts united in one. 
 
 The mother was the first to recover her self-possession. 
 
 " You will remain with me now, Ernest ?" she asked. 
 
 *' Certainly," he replied, striving to be calm. 
 
 " You see that I am still feeble," she continued, *^and for your sake I must 
 gain strength. I have yet to meet one more trouble ;"your presence will support 
 and assure me; but let us not converse much upon the past— tell me rather of 
 yourself, of your hopes, of your future. To-morrow you will introduce to rae 
 Lord'Elwyn— he to whom I am so largely indebted. What interest this mysterious 
 man has in our destiny, I know not, but to him I owe my son ; but for him, you 
 would have been involved in an act which would have beon fatal to your happi- 
 ness. Edna, too, I know. I have watched her from childhood, and she it was, 
 whoappeared to me, like a redeeming angel, when I first awoke to consciousness, 
 after that long, death-hke dream," and here she paused, again overcome by her 
 powerful emotions. 
 
 Dr. Huntly again entered (having gone out, how or when, neither knew, 
 and enjoining repose — a command which both mother and son felt muBt be 
 obeyed.— Ernest therefore retired to a distant part of the room, to write to Edna 
 a brief account of this interview, while his mother sought strength in tsilence. 
 
 CHAPTER XI. 
 
 THE MARRIAGE. 
 
 Tub intervening period between the interview last mentioned and the day ap- 
 pointed for the celebration of the marriage ceremony, passed slowly to some and 
 rapidly to others, of the persons most deeply interested, as hope or fear predomi- 
 nated. The eventful day arrived at last. Notwithstanding the protestations of 
 Ernest and Edna, an immense party had been invited to witness the happiness of 
 the bride, and partake of the bridal cake and wine. The ceremony was to be per- 
 formed in the chapel where they worshipped at ten in the morning, and the family 
 only were to be present, excepting De Montfort, whom Major Trellan had so 
 strangely invited, and by whom he wished his triumph to be witnessed ^ 
 
 Ernest was playfully scolded for his protracted absence at such a period, but his 
 pale face, and his stern, inexplicable countenance put an end to all trifliifg, and he 
 led Edna to the carriage with the air of one joining his own funeral procession. 
 
 To Edna only was he gentle. He had been wnth h^v nearly an hour before their 
 departure, entreating her to lock lip her jewels, and whatever was luost valuable to 
 her, so that they could be easily removed if necessity required. 
 
 At ten all were assembled in church. Major Trellan and his wife occupied a 
 seat at the right, and Lord Elwyn, with Carlotta at the left of the altar, while beiore 
 it stood Ernest still pale and stern, and Edna leaning upon his arm, beautiful, but 
 white as the satin robe she wore, or the pearls that bound her hair ; behind it was 
 a venerable clergyman — a stranger to all but Lord Elwyn, who, it will be recol- 
 lected, h^d been allowed to invite him. 
 
THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP, 75 
 
 Major Trellan and his lady seemed to have forgotten their late disagreeable in" 
 terview, and were now enjoying their triumph, and happy in the near prospect o 
 securing- the prize so long desired. 
 
 Carlotta looked cold and formal, for a week had passed since Lord Elwyn had 
 visited her ; he had not condescended to reply to her note, and now seemed wholly 
 occupied with something foreign to herself ; his count«nance was impenetrable as 
 usual. 
 
 The silence was at length broken by the clear, silvery voice of the venerable 
 clergyman, as he commenced the ceremony. The customary questions were asked 
 and answered, until it was inquired if any one objected to the union. Here 
 Lord Elwyn arose with the dignity and grace of oae accustomed to command, re- 
 moved the dark silken locks from liis ample brow, slightly bowed, and said 
 that he wished to .*state a few facts ; if the lady and gentleman were then disposed 
 to proceed, he had nothing to object. Motioning them with his eyes, to sit 
 for a few moments, he commenced,— 
 
 " I am the son of Lord Elwyn, of ■ county, England. Miss Edna Trellan's 
 
 mother was the daughter of the Earl of Charwick, my father's elder brother ; con- 
 sequently the young lady present and myiself are cousins. She is the only 
 representative of her noble house, and I, of mine. We are the last of our race ;" 
 and for a moment the noble speaker bent his eyes upon the floor with an expression 
 of unutterable sadness, as if suddenly overwhelmed by some overpowering 
 recollections. He proceeded : *' In my own country it is customary upon the 
 betrothal of a young maiden, for her near relatives to meet and approve or object. 
 Excepting Major Trellan and his family she knows no kindred nearer than myself. 
 I therefore take upon me the responsibility of remonstrating against this union, 
 which has no foundation in the affections of either — this marriage of the hand but 
 not of the soul— which, because it is forced upon them by interested friends can 
 never be blessed on earth or ratified in Heaven. Do you still insist," he demanded 
 turning his clear, flashing eyes directly upon Major Trellan and his lady, whose 
 perplexity was distinctly to be seen, " do you still insist that two fresh young 
 hearts shall tread together the same path in life, while all the impulses of their 
 noble souls cry out against it?" 
 
 Tlie frowninf gentleman whom he addressed arose and replied : " Besides their 
 pledge, which is of itself sufficiently binding, they have voluntarily promised to 
 marry upon this day ; let the ceremony therefore proceed !" 
 
 '• Allow me a little longer," said Lord Elwyn. '* There are two powerful reasons 
 why this union should not be consummated, which, as you will not listen to the 
 pleadings of affection, I am compelled to bring forward. The first will be 
 particularly interesting to you, and perhaps will be sufficient to induce you to 
 relinquish your purpose." 
 
 Taking two papers from his pocket, he proceeded. *' You are well aware that 
 the Earl of Charwick was so displeased with the marriage of his daughter, the lady 
 Isabel, to a poor, untitled foreigner, that he withheld her fortune for a time. It 
 was only upon the birth of the little Edna that he rendered her justice in making 
 this will which I now hold. It was too late to benefit the lady Isabel, but gave 
 to her child an immense property, to be at the disposal of her father or guardian 
 till she shall have passed her minority, after which, to be used at her own discre- 
 tion, so long as she does not marry I My worthy uncle had a strong and doubtless 
 very unjustifiable prejudice against Americans, which fully determined him that 
 they should never be benefited by his property. In event of the marriage, continued 
 the will, her fortune returns to the nearest relative upon her mother's side, 
 allowing her to retain whatever she may have accumulated of her yearly income. 
 I am the only surviving heir, and the moment that this ceremony is performed her 
 fortune is mine. It is but generons to acquaint you with this, as the consummation 
 of this marriage involves a serious disappointment in the object at which you aim 
 — her money." 
 
 Major Trellan's countenance grew dark, and for the first time his accustomed 
 r9Y9Xeace for^Lord JSlwyi) was banished by an ejcpressiQn of anger and defiance, 
 
76 ' - • THE DOUBLB COURTSHIP. 
 
 and he again addressed the clergyman with, '' Proceed sir, in spite of all thw the 
 additions which my brother made to his fortune are still hers." 
 
 Again he who ministered at the altar raised his hand, and ttos about to oifl- 
 mence anew, when he was once more interrupted by Lord Elwyn. Hs 
 countenance was now sad and mournful. 
 
 " I would have spared you this," he said, " but you force me to it.'' 
 
 Going to the door of the chapel, lie almost instantly returaed with a lady dressad 
 entirely in black, her long crape veil falling to her feet. She was tall and 
 dignified, and though still feeble, moved with grace and assurance. Lord Elwyn 
 led her to the altar, upon which she leaned with one arm, while he supported the 
 other. 
 
 " Permit me lady," he said, VespectftUJ^tilTo wing back her veil, *'to reveal a face 
 which mu«t assure those present that we are not to be trifled with." 
 
 Then bowing he added, 
 
 *' Allow me to introduce to you the daughtcLxif Judge Carson of South Carolina, 
 and the mother of our friend Ernest Trellan." 
 
 Nothing could have burst upon the guilty man and his still more guilty wife, 
 with greater power than this announcement. It involved a long black catalogue of 
 sins which could no longer be kept within their own bosoms. Major Trellan's lips 
 were livid with suppressed rage, and his wife bit hers between her teeth till small 
 drops of blood oozed from them. Carlotta, too, proud-spirited and accustomed to 
 homage, could not endure the dishonour of her parents, she silently resolved 
 to be revenged, at the same time expressing by look and gesture the highest 
 indignation, 
 
 Edna, awed by so strange a scene, the dark countenances about her, Lord 
 Elwyn's tone of eommand, and the revelation of so many startling facts, 
 moved nearer to Earnest, and seemed to seek protection in a firm clasp of 
 the hand. 
 
 " Lady," said Lord Elwyn, " you have objections to offer to this long contem- 
 plated marriage; these persons will no doubt listen, if not with pleasure at least 
 with politeness." 
 
 She spoke in a low, beautifully modulated but impressive voice. " To you, sir, 
 and you, madam, I address myself. It is noAV eighteen years since I visited your 
 dwelling in Charlcstown, S. C. You have not forgotten the circumstance. You 
 were poor, ^nd inhabited a house which now you would scorn to enter. But I had 
 a reason for seeking you notwithstanding all this. You were both ambitious ; you 
 would do anything for money. I had a child from whose father I was then 
 divorced, and I desired that ray boy should be brought far away from the scene of 
 his birth. I sold my jewels, reduced myself to penury, to furnish you the means 
 to remove to this city, and establish you in business here. The money that I paid 
 you for the removal of my child was the foundation of your present wealth. The 
 arrangement between us was this : I concealed the name of his father for my own 
 reasons; it could not concern you. You were to give him your own name, and 
 allow him to consider himself your son, till he arrived at a certain age, when he 
 was to be informed of his real history, allowed to seek his relatives and assert his 
 claims upon my father's property. 
 
 *' Injjthe meantime the little Edna became an heiress, and you saw no way to 
 get the controul of her fortune, but to allow Ernest to grow up considering himself 
 your son, and to make all sure, to exact from them a pledge to marry whenever you 
 saw fit. Against their wishes, their entreaties, their firmest decisions, you have 
 dragged them to the altar. 
 
 " I have watched these events for years. — Lonely and deserted after the departure 
 of my child, I sought this city, resolved to know how faithfully you performed your 
 promise. I have known. I have hovered around your path all unseen by you ; 
 not an event has occurred in your house unknown to sie. 
 
 " You, sir, have been the lest guilty ; you have been deceived as well as deceiving 
 — You, madam, have long been aware of the relation existing between Ernest and 
 Edna, You would have married the brotjier to the sister ! Ernest's father was 
 
THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 
 
 4i 
 
 your brother sir, and ere he obtained the hand of that noble English lady, marrie 
 and was divorced from me." 
 
 *' You cannot prove this," exclaimed ^lajor Trellan, angrily. 
 
 " I do not come here," she replied calmly, '' to make assertions merely ; I have 
 sufficient proofs ;" and she turned to the aged minister, saying, " You, my dear 
 sir, have a certificate of our marriage." 
 
 Lord Elwyn rapped twice upon the altar, when the church door again opened, 
 and a woman was led in by two men. They retired, and she, compelled by Lord 
 Elwyn's eye, advanced to the altar. 
 
 " Bertha," he demanded, sternlj-, " do you swear to speak the truth V* 
 
 " I do,'' she replied, thoroughly awed by his manner. 
 
 Here Mrs. Trellan shrieked, and would have fallen into violent hysterics, had 
 not her husband given her an angry push, which proved to her that this was no 
 time for such a proceeding ; she therefore contented herself with trying to catch 
 tlie eye of her maid, that she might excliange some sign of intelligence with her, 
 but in vain. 
 
 "It is evident that she is paid a higher price for looking another way than I 
 could now give her for turning her eyes upon me," said she, mentally* 
 
 " Bertha," asked the lady in black, " were you present at my marriage ?" 
 
 " I was." 
 
 " The name of my husband ?" 
 
 " Edward Trellan, the brother of Major Trellan." 
 
 " Does this agree with the certificate .'" asked Lord Elwyn of the clergyman. 
 He read it aloud in a slow and emphatic manner. 
 
 " You w^ere then aware,'* demanded Lord Elwyn of Bertha, " that this young 
 lady and gentleman were related by having the same father ?" 
 
 " 1 have always known it." 
 
 " Was it known to any other person ?"' 
 
 " T told my mistress," she replied, with a triumphant air. 
 
 "What, then, has induced you to keep it so long a secret?" 
 
 *' She promised me a thousand dollars to do so. It was to be paid upon the day 
 of their marriage.'' 
 
 " I trust, sir — indeed I am confident — that you must now relinquish your inten- 
 tion ; if, however, you persist, after these extraordinary disclosures, there are 
 other matters to urge upon you which I would gladly conceal, anticipating, as I 
 do, the honour of an alliance with your family," and with a smile peculiar, and 
 full of meaning, he bowed to Carlotta. 
 
 "No, my lord ; not through me will you have any such honour. I reject with 
 scoru the addresses of a man who could thus tear secrets from bosoms, where they 
 have lain for years, to dishonour and ruin our family." 
 
 " I must submit," he replied, with an air of gallantry that caused the indig- 
 nant girl to tremble with rage. " If I were but a man,'* she murmured, and, 
 taking her mother's arm, they went out, and a moment after a departing carriage 
 was heard. 
 
 Edna was presented to Ernest by his mother — the embrace was affectionate and 
 cordial on the part of each. 
 
 The Httle party then adjourned to the cottage, where it was decided that Edna 
 should remain for the present. 
 
 " But my dear Edna," said Lord Elwyn to her, '• arc not you and I to cjuarrel 
 when I seize upon your fortune?" 
 
 "Ah, no," replied the young girl, smilingly, " I shall be so very happy here, 
 that I shall never think of it. I really care very little for money." 
 
 " I believe it ; but I have a thousand uses for it, and therefore like it." 
 
 In the evening Lord Elwyn departed, pleading engagements ', but his place was 
 soon supplied by De Montford, who seemed only the more happy when he learned 
 that he was to take Edna portionless. i ,-,';,-.. i . 
 
78 THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 
 
 " The only obstacle is now removed," he said ; ** I have a shop of my own, in 
 which I am master, instead of clerk ; I shall open it to-morrow. My house, too, 
 is jeady ; is there any cause for delay ?" 
 
 *'*I know of none/' she replied, blushing deeply, 
 
 <* Let this day week, then, be our wedding-day ;" and with brows unclouded, 
 and hearts invigorated with hope, they parted. 
 
 Upon her return, Mrs. Trellan was obliged to recal three hundred invitations, 
 on the plea of '* indisposition." 
 
 CHAPTER XIL 
 
 MANY CHANGES. 
 
 Nothing could equal the joy of Ernest on suddenly discovering that he had 
 really a mother of whom he could justly be proud ; that she was a being to be 
 loved and reverenced ; that her intellectual powers, her strong and self-relying 
 judgment, and her moral greatness, placed her above the women with whom he 
 had been accustomed to associate, and realised to his mind, better than any other, 
 his ever-present ideal of female perfection. Seldom absent from her side, she had 
 now accustomed herself to expect from him those little nameless, but, after all, 
 importants acts of affection, of which she had so long been deprived, during those 
 years of lonely poverty, and which Ernest delighted to perform. Again and again 
 would he kneel beside his mother, press her hand to his lips, assure her of his 
 devoted and unchanging affection, and beg to be trusted with all her secret sor- 
 rows, for evidently some burden rested upon her mind. 
 
 ** I beheve I ought to be perfectly happy," she replied one day to his ceaseless 
 inquiries, " in the restoration of my son, and in the sudden acquisition of friends 
 so powerful in removing my misfortunes, and so kind in ministering to all my 
 wants ; but one recollection comes like a cloud between my vision and every pass- 
 ing ray of brightness. I have a father, Ernest, whom I loved dearly, but whom I 
 forsook to follow and watch over you. It -was essential that my place of residence 
 should be unknown to him, and I therefore denied myself the luxury of written 
 intercourse. At times I have feared that I was Avrong, and in moments of great 
 despondency 1 hare imagined him weeping over the absence of his only child, as 
 I wept over the sad necessity of a separation from you. I was his idol, Ernest ; 
 and when our hearts are bound up in one being, and our memories rest ever upon 
 its real or imagined perfections, and our loA'e, feeding upon itself, grows day by 
 day, it is hard — oh, how hard ! — to believe ourselves forgotten or forsaken by that 
 being. Thus lived my love for you, and thus, I firmly believe, existed his affection 
 for me." 
 
 "But, my dear mother," asked Ernest, "did he not oppose your marriage, 
 and consequently drive you from him ?" 
 
 " It is true,*' she replied, sadly, *' but he was much influenced by others. He 
 had been from childhood accustomed to the luxuries of wealth, and feared to see 
 me contending with poverty ; besides," she added gravely, *' there cannot be 
 much love in the heart, if one fault cannot find forgiveness. It was the only sor- 
 row he ever caused me." 
 
 She was at this moment interrupted by the entrance of Lord Elwyn, who had 
 become a frequent and welcome visitor. 
 
 " Your countenance indicates some agreeable intelligence," said the lady, 
 brushing away the tears that this brief conversation had caused, and smiling with 
 sweetness on one so much her friend. 
 
 •* Then my countenance is for once a true telegraph," he rephed, gaily. "I 
 have new$) good newS; of one from whom it will rejoice you mu«h to he&r." 
 
THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 79 
 
 k '' My father?" she asked faintly, her eyes firmly rivetted upon his lips. 
 
 '* Yes, madam, I am so happy as to be able to say to you that he lives — is 
 comparatively well, and above all things desires to see you. Indeed, though it 
 must seem much like hoping against all hope, his constant expectation of your 
 return alone preserves his life.*' 
 
 ** And for eighteen years he has nourished this hope in his bosom in spite of all 
 circumstances to the contrary," said the lady, more in soliloquy than ia reply to 
 Lord Elwyn, but he closely watched her features. 
 
 " You will goto him, madam?" he inquired at length. 
 
 " If I could, if I had the means to go," she replied quickly, with an expression 
 of bitter anguish, such as a proud spirit contending with poverty often suffers. 
 
 *' Nothing is easier," he said, taking out a well filled pocket-book. " My father 
 died still owing a debt of honour to yours, which he enjoined me to repay. 1 
 do not know the exact amount, but here are some hundreds which will serve you 
 for the present ; meanwhile I will ascertain the sum and release myself from 
 obligation." 
 
 "^And is this really the payment of a debt, or are you Conferring upon us another 
 gift," asked Ernest, his fine countenance beaming with noble friendship. 
 
 " A debt, be assured my friend," replied Lord Elwyn ; " time will prove it tojyou." 
 
 **= We will accept it. God sends it to us my son,' said the lady with that firm 
 trust in Providence only acquired by a long and intimate acquaintance with 
 sorrow. 
 
 " Your father desires to see your son, madam," continued the visitor, " that he 
 may establish him in his rights so far as regards his property. Would it not be 
 well to hasten your departure ?" 
 
 " There is no cause for delay," she replied, with a promptness which charac- 
 terised her. ** I feel that my native air will do more than anything else to esta- 
 blish my recovery ; but even that is to me doubtful,'^ she continued, looking 
 tenderly at her son. 
 
 A sudden paleness overspread his features as he sprang to her side, and clasping 
 her hand, exclaimed, " Mother — mother — you will not die !" 
 
 " Not till I am assured of your happiness,** was the confident reply, and she 
 smiled as only the trustful can do. 
 
 Lord Elwyn coutemplated them a moment in silence, and then inquired for 
 Edna, who had resided there since the unhappy scene in the chapel. She was 
 summoned and almost immediately entered. Lord Elwyn arose, took her hand' 
 and led her to a seat beside him, saying in a voice of deep tenderness, 
 
 " Edna, I am going away. For the sake of one very dear to me I have to go 
 to a distant part of the country. As I have already told you, I would have made 
 you my bride — I would have perpetuated our noble race by our marriage — but 
 you refused because your heart's first love had been given to another. I have too 
 much faith in that love to seek to displace it by an affection for me. He, the 
 chosen one is humble, poor in the estimation of the world, but I know him well, 
 and time will prove the wisdom of your choice. You will be happy — I foresee 
 it. You will be married to-morrow. W^ill it be a joyous day ? Is there no lin- 
 gering regret ? Tell me frankly, Edna — as you would speak to your mother, for 
 I am her representative — if you could honourably withdraw from this union v/ith 
 De Montford, would you do so ?'* 
 
 Ernest, and his mother, with great delicacy, had withdrawn to another room 
 upon Edna's entrance, and they were now alone. 
 
 The sweet girl blushed slightly, but raising her eyes to his, replied firmly and 
 truthfully, " It will be a happy day ; I have not pledged myself to him blindly. 
 I know how scornfully the world will regard me ; my property gone, and married 
 to an humble shop-keeper ! yes, it will be repeated far and wide, but I, meanwhile, 
 shall be with him I love. The words, the scorn, the storms of the world cannot 
 reach my heart when protected by his love. Do not imagine that I feel a regret. 
 You are my cousin — you seem to me to have come from my mother's tomb to 
 guard me from evil, and I am tenderly attached to you, but not as I love him* 
 
80 THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 
 
 Oh no !'' and she seemed for a moment to fcrj:et the presence of another in the 
 contemplation of her own liappiness. 
 
 " I cannot witness your marriage to-morrow, as I could have wished," he said 
 at length. 
 
 " What ! do you leave us so soon?" she asked, aroused by his remark from the 
 reverie into which she had fallen. 
 
 ♦< Yes, to-day even ; you know 1 always move suddenly and without any appa- 
 rent premeditation. Your fortune has already been transferred to me by youi* 
 guardian, and 1 only wait the payment of a loan from Major Trellan which be- 
 comes due at twelve to-day. But do not fear — we shall meet again, and I leave 
 you willingly, now that I a'm confident of your happiness. I almost feared that 
 there might be a lingering regret. 
 
 « Not one !" interrupted Edna, with a radiant countenance. 
 
 *• Well, then, adieu— adieu," and he clasped her to his bosom, and kissed her- 
 lips tenderly. A moment more and he was gone. 
 
 At precisely four o'clock of the same day, Lord Elwyn's establishment was 
 closed and his household departed, no one knew whither. Lobo alone remained, 
 and took up his residence at the apartment already mentioned, from which place 
 he executed the private orders of his master. 
 
 *' I have good news for you," said De IMontfort, as he drew his chair to Mrs. 
 Benson's tea-table upon that afternoon. " 1 am to be married to-morrow, and 
 your son Herman will arrive the day following." 
 
 " Good gracious !" she exclaimed, quickly setting down a eup of tea. 
 " Are you in earnest, Mr. De Montfort ! You married ! Herman coming 
 home !'' 
 
 " It is even so, my good friend. Here is a line from Herman, in which he 
 Writes to that effect, and if Mary will examine that basket upon the table she will 
 find a loaf of wedding cake for you, and a present for herself, which will confirm 
 the former part of ray statement." 
 
 Mary flew to the basket and took out first a beautiful frosted loaf, afterwards an 
 ivory work-box completely filled with the necessary implements of female industry, 
 her own name being marked upon a silver plate on the top of the cover. The 
 little girl danced about for joy, while the good woman between tears and smiles 
 managed to congratulate De Montfort and express her hope of seeing him whenever 
 his leisure permitted. 
 
 De Montfort informed her that she was to give herself no uneasiness about a 
 removal, for he had prepared another dwelling for himself, and she was to remain, 
 iree from rent, so long as she pleased. He then hastily bade her good-night to 
 escape the torrent of gratitude which was about to overwhelm him, 
 ****** 
 
 The morrow came, and a few of us were gathered in De Montfort's exquisitely 
 furnished little parlour to witness the ceremony which was to make Edna a bride. 
 I had never seen her so beautiful. A plain white silk, over which fell her long 
 rich curls, bound only by a garland of orange blossoms v.hich Lord Ehvyn had 
 sent from his conservatory, well became the unostentatious manner in which the 
 ceremony was performed. It was the true union of hearts — a festival of joyous 
 feelings, kindred sympathies, and exalted sentiments, 
 
 De Montfort was manly, intellectual, noble ; Edna was beautiful, loving, trustful. 
 <rhis was their first love. What dreams of happiness then could come amiss as 
 "^e gazed »upon them ! What blessings could not be invoked upon their heads 
 with thfi ajfSurance of their being received and richly deserved! 
 
 Herman Benson arrived at the appointed time, with a healthy glow of excite- 
 iiient in place of the hectic flush, which had tinged his otherwise pale cheeks for 
 months previous to his departure. 
 
 A little timely assistance, with a consciousness of possessing a sincere friend, 
 had restored him from an apparently inevitable death to the arms of a tender 
 mother and loving sister. 
 
THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 
 
 81 
 
 " Times are singularly changed," said De Montfort to him a week or two after 
 his return. "I have lately come ia possession of an immense fortune which will 
 require the utmost limits of my time, and my residence must be far away from here. 
 My new shop is therefore useless to roe. You can now become a merchant ©n 
 your own score, for here is the legal instrument which makes you sole possessor 
 of the shop over which you will find your own name, and also the cottage in which 
 
 vou live. No thanks, my friend— none, they weary me ; only one favour do I ask 
 l-never forget that the life of a clerk is one of toilsome, soul-wearying drudgery^ 
 and deserves a recompense beyond the bare necessities of life." 
 
 " I shall only forget that when I cease to remember my own life," replied 
 Benson with tears in his eyes, as they entered the beautiful, though moderately 
 No.ll. 
 
THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 
 
 small warehouse, and Benson fauiid two yocng clerks ready to acknowledge and 
 obey their i-ew master. 
 
 " Edna, my love," said De Montfort to his young bride about a month after 
 their marriage, " are you willing to leave this city 'i — Some important affairs 
 require my presence at the south, and I am anxious to show my heart's treasure to 
 those who love me in my own country. Will you go with me, Edna 1" 
 
 Tiie rtiquest was a simple one, and could not well be refused. A week from that 
 day they departed, It aving Lobo, who, after having disposed of these temporary 
 residenct-'S, tollowed with two other persons in Lord Elwyn's travelling carriage. 
 
 Ernest and his mother had taken their departure some three weeks previous 
 leaving their cottage for the present closed and unoccupied. 
 
 •CHAPTER XIII. 
 
 THE RUINED MERCHANT. 
 
 It was on a cold and rainy day, in the early spring, tliat a young gentleman, well 
 dresfed, and thorougidy protcotcd from the weather, walked briskly through the 
 crow Jed streets of New York, and rang at the door of Majt^r Trellan's mantiion, 
 ■with lie air of one fully delermined to enter at all hazards. Again aod again he 
 rang but there was no fe^i'Onse. " They are here and I will sec them," he mur- 
 imire*. , attentively examining the'exiernal appearance of the building, and he gave a 
 loudei,, longer pull than ever. Soon after there were footsteps heard in the hall — 
 then the lock flew back, the do ir opened a small distance, and the persevering 
 ■visito recognised an old feer\ai.t who had lived in Ih family many years. 
 
 '* Aij ! Jonas, you know mo, co you not — open the door and let me in " 
 
 *' For Heaven's sake, don't conic in, sir, though T kno.v yoa, sir, and am sure you 
 are a friend, yet my master will iiOt think so, and will abuse you as he does every 
 body else ; no — no — do not come in, sir, I pray you." 
 
 •' He cannot injure me, Jonas, and I say 1 will go m," Suiting the action to the 
 vpord, the young stranger resolutely opened the door, entered, and was proceeding 
 as if he was perfectly at lioro?, when the servant respeclfully detained him, saving, 
 *' Let me go first at least, sir," and leading tl.e way ihrongh many large und richly 
 furnished, but now cold and deserted apartments, about which every thing was 
 scattered in the greatest contusion, they at length found themselves at the door of 
 Mrs. Trellan's dressing-room, the only apartment now occupied besides the 
 kitchen and^sleepiiig room?. 
 
 One hasty glance was sufficient to prove that it was th : aboae of wretchedness. 
 Ton years of ordinary misery, could not have wrouglit a greater chatige in ti.e 
 appearance of the merchant and his wife. The former occupied a distant part of 
 the room, and s«t before a table covered with papers, and la go books in leather 
 bindings, his head leaning despairingly upon his han-'s, and hib- elbows resting 
 Upon the table. His hair, which fur a few montho hud been slightly silvered with 
 the marks of ago, was now al most wholly grey; his features were sharper, the 
 furrows deeper, the complexi'ni sallow, the cheeks sunken, and his whole expies- 
 ision, that of a man in the last stage of despair. 
 
 The lady sat by the fire as usual, in her easy chair, but tliere Avere sufficient 
 indications of the presence of misfurtune in her careless die ^s, soiled ca]), and 
 neglect of those mysteries of the toilet — artificial complexion and false hair — which 
 upon her first introduction to our readers, gave her a fair and youthful appearance. 
 She was now haggard, pale, and suifering deeply, not from the consciousness of 
 
THE DOUBLE COUETSHIP, §3 
 
 wrong deeds, but from a remembrance of their discovery^ and from her double 
 disappointment. 
 
 The stranger saw all this in the moment that he stood before the open door 
 while Jonas announced his presence to his master, adding, '* 1 beg your paidou,sir* 
 but he would come in." 
 
 " And who would come in I who has dared to enter my house against my will 2" 
 exclaimed the master, iising his eyes, in which raged all the fireg of insanity, upon 
 the trembling servaut. 
 
 " it is I," said the stranger, stepping forward and extending his hand. " It is 
 I — surely you have not forgotten me." 
 
 *' You I Theodore IMontrevor ! And you too, who are the first cause of all our 
 misfortunes, have you come at last to witness and exult in ©ur final degradation ? 
 Well, sir, you are satisfied now — you see our misery — our poverty, but you had 
 better have waited twenty-four hours, and you would have found us without the 
 trouble of forcing your way into a house, which will to-morrow acknowledge 
 another owner. Go, sir, go— I cannot take your hand," and the wretched man 
 turned away bitterly. 
 
 "But you mistake the object of my visit, sir," replied Theodore, perseveringly ; 
 *' I come not to wound your feelings — to exult in your ruin. God forbid that such 
 a thought should enter my bosom. I have been absent from the city for months ; 
 and when, upon my return, two hours since, I learned that y'ou were unfortunate, 
 I hastened to you, hoping, at least, to be allowed to sympathise with and assist 
 you." 
 
 " Sympathy!" repeated the fallen man, sneeringly. "What have I to do with 
 your sympathy / Will it restore my unbounded credit? Will it re-establish my 
 flourishing business ? Will it save my dwelling and my costly furniture from the 
 auctioneer ? Will it shield us from the scorn of the world ? Will it extract the 
 poisoned arrow from a guilty bosom? No I— you know it, sir. Then away witli 
 your sympathy — ^return to your splendid home, and forget us." 
 
 " It may do all this," replied the young man, quietly; "but if you will listen 
 to me, I can save you at least from poverty. Madam," he continued, approcahing 
 Mrs. Trellan for the first time, and with evident reluctance ; " will you not assist 
 me in persuading your husband that I come as a friend ? I have that to com- 
 municate which will relieve your present wants." &. >^' 
 
 " But why should you come to us at all?" she asked, fixing her large eyes 
 searehingly, but with a suspicious look, upon his countenance. 
 
 " Madam, I have repeatedly said that I come to console— it may be to assist 
 you. I have never wronged you — I am in no wise the cause of yoar misfortunes, 
 excepting so far as resulted from your introduction to Lord Elwyn." 
 
 " infamous man ! — name him not !" exclaimed Mrs. Trellan, interrupting him ; 
 -• 1 am sure that his only object in coming here was to ruin and expose us. You 
 see that he departs as soon as that is accomplished." . 
 
 '' You are mistaken, madam," replied Theodore, firmly ; *' there was never 
 given to human being a nobler soul — a more generous heart than his. True, he 
 exposed your crime, for I can call it by no softer name, but it was to prevent a 
 marriage, against which nature loudly protested — it was to restore a mourning, but 
 excellent mother to her son ; and, finally, it was to give to that son his rights, by 
 making glad the heart of an aged and dying father in their re-union to him. You 
 became the sufferer because you had committed the wrong. And while 1 say that 
 this is just, God is my witness that, for the sorrows inflicted upon my heaVt, by 
 means of vour counsels, I have treasured no hatred— no revenge, I desire to do 
 you good, and will do it, at any rate." 
 
 The miserable woman bowed her head, and turned away in silence. The hus- 
 band, however, was apparently touched by the stern truths he uttered, and ap- 
 proaching, with a dejected air extended his hand, saying, — 
 
 " You are right, sir ; T ictj that ycu are. 1 will try to believe that you ax a 
 
' %i THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 
 
 friend. Communicate what you have to say, but be brief, for I have still much to 
 do before the morning dawns." 
 
 Theodore drew from his pocket a letter, addressed to Major Trellan, by Ernest, 
 previous to his departure. It contained many thanks for his kindness, a few re- 
 marks on the past, and ended by requesting his acceptance of the cottage recently 
 occupied by himself and his mother. This, he assured him, would be useless to 
 himself, entering as he should very soon into the possession of a large estate from 
 his maternal grandfather. It closed with a kind farewell to himself and Carlotta, 
 which he chose rather to write than to express in person, as an interview must be 
 painful to all. In the whole letter he had not once alluded to Mrs. Trellan. For 
 this, her husband was in the heart grateful, but he said nothing. Folding the 
 letter, he seemed disposed to digest its contents in silence, which Theodore inter- 
 rupted, by asking, — 
 
 " Do you accept the gift, sir ?" 
 
 **I do," responded the merchant, firmly; his better feelings gaining the 
 victory. 
 
 " Here, then, is another gift, which, I trust, will meet with the same reception," 
 and Theodore placed a slip of paper before him. 
 
 It was to secure to him the very moderate income, annually, of six hundred 
 dollars, to be demanded monthly of Theodore Montrevor. 
 
 " The gift is so trifling," closed the note ; " that it is hoped no false pride will 
 stand in the way of its acceptance." There was no signature, which Theodore 
 explained, by saying, that he was not the giver, but simply the instrument of the 
 gift — the individual wished to remain unknown. 
 
 There was a severe struggle in the breast of the iron-hearted man, between the 
 pride of independence, and the ghastly stare of poverty. It was like receiving 
 charity ; but his wife and daughter, with all their helplessness, were objects of 
 consideration, and for their sakes he consented. But when that consent was given 
 in words, they were hollow and broken, as if wrung from him by the last agonies 
 of despair. 
 
 "This is well, sir," replied Theodore ; "you can now surround yourself with, at 
 least, the comforts of life ; and I trust I shall ever be admitted to your new resi- 
 dence with the confidence which you once reposed in me." 
 
 «* As often as you choose to step out of your own brilliant path into the shadow 
 of our fallen fortunes, you may be sure of a welcome," replied he, dejectedly. 
 
 Theodore grasped his hand warmly, bowed sternly to the lady, and withdrew. 
 Meeting Jonas in the hall, he inquired ior Carlotta, and was informed that she was 
 in her own room. 
 
 " Go and tell her that I wish to see her there ; I will wait here." 
 *' I will go, sir, but it will be useless — she will not see you," said the servant, 
 ascending the stairs. 
 
 A moment more, and he returned to confirm his prediction. 
 ** Is she engaged in any occupation requiring strict privacy?" asked Theodore. 
 ** She is packing her books," replied the servant. 
 
 ** Then I will see her," and he turned in the direction which years of intimacy 
 had rendered as familiar as his own home. As he approached the door ot the well- 
 remembered parlour on the outside, he heard light steps rapidly advancing towards 
 it upon the inside. With one bound, he caught the knob, and turning it, threw 
 the door open before it could be locked. 
 
 This very sudden entrance caused Carlotta to pause, with a movement of indig- 
 nant surprise, in the centre of the room. 
 
 ** Am not I, even in my own apartment, safe from intrusion ?" she demanded ; 
 her dark eyes flashing with unwonted fire. 
 
 '* If you sincerely wish it," replied Theodore, calmly, and apparently unmoved 
 by her anger ; " Carlotta, I am true to you still — your image alone dwells in my 
 heart, but if you bid me g«, I shall obey you.'* 
 
 The proud girl was humbled— she would have spoken, but the words died upon 
 
THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 85 
 
 her lips, she grew very pale, her limbs trembled, and with a smothered utterance, 
 between a groan and a sigh, she fell into the arms of her friend. 
 
 " Carlotta— dearest — have I found you to kill you with my imprudence," he ex- 
 claimed, as he hung over her lifeless form, and bathed her temples and hands with 
 water; " Oh, this is too much! Speak to me once more, if but to pardon this 
 outrage. Will you forgive me ?" he asked, as she slowly opened her eyes, and 
 endeavoured to sit up. 
 
 " Forgive!" she repeated slowly and faintly ; " I forgive ! I, whose blind am- 
 bition has caused you so much unhappiness. Oh ! if; is you who must pardon, if 
 you can do so," and burying her face in her hands, she w^ept bitterly. 
 
 "Carlotta, do not weep," he said, tenderly, raising her head till it rested upon his 
 bosom ; " let us forget the past ; if you still love me, there is a pure and abiding 
 happiness in the future, which will erase it from our recollection." 
 
 ** Can it be ? Will years to come possess the redeeming power ? Ah ! Theo- 
 dore, will you believe me when I tell you that amid all my follies — when the glit- 
 tering cup was all but pressed to my lips — th^re was a constant and wearing 
 straggle between ambition and my love for you ? But this is not the time for 
 words like these. We are poor, deserted, forgotten, or remembered only to be 
 the objects of the world's contempt' 
 
 *' Not so, Carlotta. Listen to me. Were you a thousand times more wretched 
 
 than you are, my leve foi you is so much a part of my nature, that it would only 
 
 increase with a knowledge of your misery. I know your temptations — I know 
 
 also that you have only injured yourself, and surely your sufferings have been 
 
 sufficient atonement. Your parents are provided for ; how, you will learn from 
 
 them. For myself, I have no happiness but in you. Our love pledge is still 
 
 sacred with me, and with all the sincerity of an affection, which has outlived a 
 
 long separation, the ocean's tempest — a rival's power— and a total change of for- 
 
 ^^,^e — I once more ask you to share with me the blessings and the ills of life." 
 
 *< It is too humiliating, Theodore. You could but regard me with contempt." 
 
 The young lover arose, bent one knee beside her, clasped her hands in his own, 
 
 and with eyes raised to heaven, said solemnly ,'*God so deal with me as I cause you 
 
 tolose all recollection of the past, in the flowers of true affection, which I shall 
 
 hereafter strew in^your path !" 
 
 Carlotta gently unclasped her hands from his, took his head between them, and 
 kissed his lips without affectation or coquetry. 
 " You will be mine?" he asked. 
 '' Yes." 
 «' When ?" 
 
 "Wenever you wish." 
 
 " To-night then. Robe yourself sirnply — I will meanwhile summon a carriage, 
 and the ceremony shall be immediately performed. We will then return and in- 
 form your parents." 
 
 " But Theodore, where are we to live ? This house—" 
 
 "Will be sold to-morrow,"he continued firmly. " Well, be it so, there are more 
 ho uses than one." 
 
 •'Then you will not tell me.*' 
 
 •* No," he replied gaily. " It is now four o'clock, I will be with you at five." 
 As he descended the stairs, he again met Jonas. " I am going out an hour 
 hence," he said to the servant,'* with Miss Trellan. Immediately after my de- 
 parture, I wish you to pack all the articles which she moHt values, and send them 
 to this address," giving him a card, and at the same time slipping a gold piece into 
 his hand, adding, " Be very secret about it." The servant bowed and opened the 
 door. *' I shall be here at five ; admit me without ringing," and Theodore rapidly 
 descended the steps, carrying a lighter heart than he had done for months. 
 
 At the appointed hour he returned, threw a beautifully embroidered satin cloak 
 over Carlotta's white robe of figured silk, lifted her into the carriage and sat be- 
 side her. A few moments brought them to the house of a respected clergyman, 
 were they were married ill the presence of two witnesses. 
 
96 THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 
 
 « We will go to our own home, my love," said the happy Theodore. 
 " Where is our home f" asked the young bride somewhat anxiously. 
 "Here." 
 « But this is—" 
 
 "Was you mean — yes, it was Lord Elwyn's residence — it is now ours. It was 
 his parting gift to me. Come, you see all is prepared for us," and seizing her trem- 
 bling hand, he lifted her out, and almost carried her up the steps. The furniture 
 in most of the rooms remained the same. Lord Elwyn's dressing-room, and Lira's 
 conservatory were unfurnished. A supper was already spread in the library, the 
 contents of which, had been left entire. Many recollections were connected) with this 
 apartment where Lord Elwyu had always received his intimate friends, and which 
 promised well to become the favorite room with Theodore, and his delighted 
 bride. 
 
 *' Where are these to be loccated, Carlotta," asked the'younghusband the follow- 
 ing mornings, as he pointed to the books, her harp, her music, her flowers and 
 jewels, which according to his order had been left the night previous. 
 
 Carlotta selected a little room joining Theodore's dressing-room, into which she 
 gave him permission to enter at all time?, Theodore rang and ordered up the lady's 
 maid. Adela, the little girl to whom she was so much attached, entered. Car- 
 lotta started with surprise, and giving way to an impulse of joy, caught the child in 
 her arms, and kissed both cheeks. 
 
 " This is very undignified," exclaimed the husband with mock gravity. 
 
 " Not when you consider that Adela and I have lived together nine years, and 
 that two weeks ago, when she learned that she must really go, we wept together 
 for the whole day. Now that she is here, I am sure all will go on right.'' 
 
 " But where is Luna, Adela's twin sister?" asked Theodore. 
 
 '* Indeed, I do not know- P2dna disposed of her upon her own marriage, fancy- 
 ing she could not afford the luxurv of a maid ; she went to live with a fiiend, but 
 soon after ,that is, in the course of a month from Edna's marriage, she disappeaied 
 very suddenly and myste riously, from the house where she lived. Adela has 
 greatly mourned her absence. 
 
 At length in accordance with Carlotta's ernest desire, TJ^eodore accompanied 
 her to the dwelling of her parents — not to the elegant mansion where we have 
 hitherto found them, but to the pretty cottage — the gift of Ernest to his uncle. 
 
 ," Will never wonders cease ?" exclaimed Carlotta, as she entered one of the par- 
 lours and found her parents at tea, much more cheerful and happy, than she had of 
 late seen them. 
 
 Theodore cordially greeted his new parents, with a warmth in which there was 
 no trace of the sterness of the preceding night, and gave as his reason for persuading 
 Carlotta to commit matrimony without their knowledge, that it had taken so long 
 to convince them that he was really a friend, that he feared the whole evening 
 would be too short to induce them to receive him as a son-in-law. 
 
 " Well Carlotta," said her mother at parting," it is something to be mistress of 
 Lord Elwyn's mansion, if not of his purse." 
 
 " Hush !" replied the daughter quickly, and sternly. " For Heaven's sake do 
 notrecal the past, which 1 am so earnestly striving to forget." 
 
 *'Ca>lotta," said her husband on their return," we ere really married, but the 
 world will be unwilling to be ccnvince^ of the fv.ct till we throwo]en our d cors, 
 and regale it for an evening with cake, -nine and music ; please, therefore, settle 
 the preliminaries with the cook, while 1 direct and send this immense pile of recep- 
 tion cards. You will soon see that you have not lost your station in the fashion- 
 able Vv'orld by a few Hionths scchisicn ; you will indeed be more than ever admired.' 
 Theodore's prediction proved true. The bride was never more beautiful, cf 
 more flattered ; but a smile of contempt passed over her lovely [features, as she 
 thought how soon her parents were forgotten by the same fathior-wcrshij per 
 ** They too were courtccf and admired at the splendid ball they gave some month 
 ^ince— "and she suddenly paused, for the ardent gaze of her husband v^as fixed 
 
THE DOUBLE COURTSFIIP. 
 
 upon her. " How he loves me," she said raentallj' ; '' I will strive to become more 
 and more worthy of such affection,'' 
 
 CHAPTER XIV. 
 
 THE RETURN. — DEATH. — LIRA. HOME. 
 
 Some months after Edna's departure from New Yorlc, I received from, her the 
 following letter. It was dated Layon Castle, Acara, Greece. 
 
 * * * * * ^ * _ 
 
 " To you, who so long watched the progress of certain events in my native 
 cit}', it is due to unfold the progress and developements of those mysteries which so 
 deeply interested you. I will therefore, proceed in the order of events, and where 
 I was not an eye-witness, will call to my aid the statements of others. 
 
 You will recollect that Ernest and his mother, left New York two weeks pre- 
 vious to otirselves. It is therefore, proper that 1 first follow thera, and relate the 
 story of their return as I learned it from hiin. 
 
 It was towards the close of a lovely day in the spring-, that a carriage stopped 
 before the avenue leading to the mansion of .Judge Carson. The old gentleman 
 as usual had his arm chair near the v^•indow, and was the first to see it. A sudden 
 tremor seized him ; he attempted to rise and approach the door, but almost im- 
 mediately fell backwarJs. He w^as instantly raised and supported by his attend- 
 ants to liis chair, but so intent was he upon the persons now distinctly seen through 
 the windings of the path, that though no announceineiit had been made of the 
 return of his daui^hter, he insiste I upon being carried to meet her. They obeyed, 
 and a moment after, the father and daughter w-ere locked in an embrace, to which 
 a sorrowful separation of eighteen years added its long accumulating and con- 
 flicling enaotions. Einest, feaii'ul of the shock upon his mother's shattered consti- 
 tution, attempted to separate them, but was horror-stricken to find that both had 
 fainted, and were about lo fall to the ground. Calling loudly for assistance, a 
 small army of servants rushed from the house, and bore the two insensible forms 
 within a large, low, and what we should consider at tiie north, almost unfurnished 
 apartment. A respectable house-keeper, apparently the only white woman n the 
 establishment, took the direction of affairs, dismissed all but the two personal 
 attendants of the old gentleman, and devoted herself, with the assistance of Ernest, 
 to the lady. 
 
 In a brief space, the latter revived, and in spite of all the entreaties of her son, 
 ■was carried to her father's couch, which she never left. Her own countenance of a 
 marble whiteness, her thin lips almost livid, and her eyes fixed and glassy, she 
 yet remained beside her only parent, to catch his first reviving breath. At length 
 consciousness returned — he opened his eyes feebly, and gized upon the mother 
 and son alternately, as if striving to comprehend the scene. , 
 
 'Oly daughter — my son" — he said at last, in hollov/ accents, extending to each 
 a hand, " I have waited long for this. 1 knew that you would return — that you 
 would come to see me die. All is prepared — ray estate is given to you. You will 
 find it there," he added as his eyes wandered to an old secretary near his 
 couch. 
 
 *' Father," said the lady in a low, sweet voice, " I go with you — I shall never 
 more be parted from you, but ere we enter the unknown mysteries of a future exis- 
 tence, say that you pardon my desertion — that you have still confidence in my 
 affection.'' 
 
 *' jSLother — talk not of dying — leave me not a stranger — an orphan," exclaimed 
 he weeping son, as he knelt beside tha object of hi^ devotion, and bathed her hands 
 m tears. 
 
88 THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 
 
 "My mission is ended — I have brought my son to the home of his ancestors — to 
 his own home," she said solemnly — then after a moment's reflection she added, 
 " Father, will you bless us now — the time was, when you deemed it right to refuse 
 it," and she bowed her head upon his bosom. 
 
 *' Recal it not — God has permitted me to atone for that sin," replied the dying 
 man, laying a hand upon the head of each, " God bless you !" he added in a voice 
 wliich seemed to come from the tomb. 
 
 But the aged man did not remove his hand, and a sudden fear seized Ernest, as 
 he felt its unwonted pressure. He carefully removed it, and rising, endeavoured to 
 lift his mother's head which he feared was too much for the breast of a dying man. 
 Scarcely had his eyes rested upon their countenances, ere he fell prostrate, with one 
 wild heart-rendering shriek. 
 
 They were dead. The once mistaken, but repenting and affectionate father, and 
 the loving, trusting, strong-hearted daughter. 
 
 ****** 
 
 I must now demand your attention to my own affairs. First, however, it is but 
 right that I should scold you for your part of the deception practised upon me in 
 my marriage—but no — upon second thoughts, it was a part of the play, and if I was 
 a dupe, it was a happy one. 
 
 Our journey was a most delightful one — all new to me, but one with which I 
 found my husband perfectly familiar, although a foreigner. At length we arrived 
 in Charleston, and were set down at a splendid mansion, which 1 did not for an 
 instant imagine to be our residence. With some curiosity therefore I ga/ed from 
 the window of the carriage, when De Montfort seized my hand, lifted me out, and 
 before I had time to recover from my surprise, had led me up to the steps, and 
 through a group of servants into a side parlour, where Luna, her pretty face all 
 smiles and dimples, stood ready to receive me. 
 
 "Where are we?" I exclaimed, catching I)e Montfort's hand. 
 *' At home, my love,'' he replied with much gravity. 
 
 " But I do not like the expression of your countenance," I said, " you are 
 hoaxing me — this establishment cannot be yours." 
 
 '* Indeed," he observed quietly, "we will ascertain that." Pulling the bell 
 violently, a man immediately entered, who?e strange and impenetrable coun- 
 tenance recalled some indistinct impressions. I was sure I had seen him 
 somewhere. 
 
 "Lobo," said my husband sternly, "have you purchased, or hired this 
 establishment." 
 
 *' Purchased it my lord," replied the servant, *' you lordship never lives in hired 
 houses." 
 
 *' Very well," said De Montfort, and the man went out. 
 "My lord!" Here was a new puzzle. Putting my arms coaxingly around his 
 neck and kissing him, I exclaimed, *' Do tell me, George who and what you are- 
 shall I never find my way out of this mystery?" 
 
 " Yes, come with me," he replied laughing, and he led me away to his dressing- 
 room, which at first sight, seemed to me a regular clothing shop. Requesting 
 me to wait in a small ante-room, I threw myself into a window seat, and in spite 
 of the mystery I had come to investigate, I fell into a reverie. A few seconds or 
 an hour might have elapsed, when I was aroused by a light tap upon the shoulder. 
 I startei to my feet — Lord Elwyn stood beside me with the same sweet smile 
 playing upon his lips thai had so often charmed me in my husband. I pressed 
 his hand warmly, asking a thousand questions of how, or whence he came, when 
 he put me at a little distance from him, saying in an earnest voice. 
 *' Edna, do you not recognise me ?" 
 
 ''Recognise you !" I repeated seriously, for I began to fear that we were all in- 
 sane, '* I know that you are Lord Elwyn — my mother's cousin, and my own friend," 
 *• Your own husband also, am I not ?" he asked, taking off the' glossy black wig 
 and whiskers which 1 had so often admired, and shaking down the rich curls that 
 
THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 
 
 89 
 
 are so much in unison with De Montfort's gay, laughing air. Ihe face— the e^'es 
 — the coat eaj^li underwent somechange, I know not what. A moment after, my 
 husband clasped rae to his bosom exclaiming, — 
 
 " And you have married Lord Elwyn, after all !" 
 
 " Ah ! George," 1 said, " how could you deceive me so r" hut he only stopped 
 ray mouth with kisses, and led me away to supper. 
 
 
 " Well, Edna," said he after our slight repast, for I was too much excited to 
 eat, "you can have a choice of companions to travel vvith you the rugged journey 
 of life. I am still George De Montfort, Loid Elwyn, which name and title I 
 received from my father. I am also Dr. Huntly, wiiom you have so often assisted 
 in caring for the suffering," I am sure that 1 blushed, •* You knew me then," 
 I asked. 
 
 No. 12. 
 
90 THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 
 
 " Yes, and loved you." 
 
 " But why," I inquired, " do you assume so many characters ?" ^ 
 
 " Somefimes to do good— at others to accomplish my own purposes. But there 
 are other title-i on the list, which you will learn by, and by." 
 
 " No matter," I replied, clasping my hands over the arms that encircled me, " to 
 me you wili ever b'j George De Montfcrt — no other — I will only know you by that 
 name. Nevertheless, we must among our servants, and in the fashionable world, 
 submit to the titles of Lord and Lady Elwyn.'' 
 
 " Submit! yes, that is exactly the word, my friend, for I assure you, who will 
 readily believe me, that I should have been very lonely and unhappy when I first 
 learned my real station, had it n>t been for the constant and unwavering kindness 
 of my husband, i now understand him so perfectly, that I wonder at ray own 
 blindness in never having detected him beneath his disguises." 
 
 "• Would you not like to visit Ernest?" he inquired one morning during our first 
 week's residence in Charlestovvn. 
 
 " Yes, above all things," I replied readily, '*but where is he V 
 
 **His estate is about four miles from the city— a pleasant drive. '* 
 
 In less than an hour, we left the main roaJ for an avenue leading to a large 
 irregular and time-worn mansion, originally composed of stone, but to which 
 many additions of brick and wood had been made at different periods. The spot 
 seeuicd still and lonely to me, having always lived ia the bustle of a large city, 
 but was none the less attractive. We lef^ the carriage to enjoy a short walk 
 beneath the large old trees that for centuries had reared their lops to he;:ven, and 
 whose branches Lad become so interwoven as to form a complete covering. 
 Scarcely had we wandered half ihe length of this fine avenue, when a low sob 
 reached us, and cau':ed rs to etop simultan'^ously. Again it was repeated, and 
 seemed to come from the earth. My husband placed his ear to the ground a 
 moment, during which we heard it for the third time, then songlit ray hand and 
 darted into a narrow path that emerged from the principal one. A few winding 
 brought us to the door of a large tomb. It was open, and he did not hesitate to 
 enter. 
 
 I heard him descend the steps, then smothered voices, and finally two persons 
 ascending. In a moment I was clasped in the arms of mv brother Ernest, whose 
 custom we found it was to weep over the graves of those so dear to him. Seated 
 upon the rich turf at the foot of an aged tree, he related to us the story of his 
 grietV, and we mingled oar tears witii his. 
 
 I, in turn, related the discoveries I had made with regard to my husband, 
 after which he smiled a little, but it was so sad, that it afflicted me more than 
 his tears. 
 
 At length George laid his hand upon ray brother's arm, with that peculiar 
 grace which [ have never seen in any other, saying, " Ernest, have you forgotten 
 the beautiful face of which you once caught a momentary glimpse, in one of the 
 streets of Boston V* 
 
 A deep crimson glowed upon his previously pale cheek, as he pressed his hand 
 to his heart and smiled hopele&sly. 
 
 *• Would you see her again ?" 
 
 Ernest sprung to his feet. " Do not trifle with me, sir; at this moment, I 
 am not responsible for any act I may commit.'* 
 
 George caressingly encircled him with one arm, and motioning me to walk 
 upon the other side of him, we quietly retraced our steps to the carriage. 
 
 '* Where are you taking rr.e V' suddenly inquired Ernest, as we stooped 
 before it. 
 
 *• Where there is a sweet face, and flowers and music — in short where you may 
 love and be happy if you choose." 
 
 Half an hour brought us to the termination of our ride, in front of a villa with 
 Venetian blinds, piazza running all around it, and a wide lawn, such as one 
 sometimes sees upon the banks of the Hudson, It was literally covered with 
 
THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 91 
 
 wbodbine and clematis. The doors were open, but the fairy dwelling seemed 
 quite uninhabited. Taking from his bosom a little silver whistle which I had 
 never before seen my husband gave a signal to some one, Presently from the 
 dfc^ths of an adjoiding forest, there issued a form which surpassed in Iqvelines all 
 thai I had ever seen. I could catch but a passing ray from her bright counte- 
 nance, as she passed me and threw herself into my husband's arms. I am 
 ashamed to own it, but for an instant a pang of jtalousy shot through my 
 heart. It seemed impossible that he should ever again smile upon me while 
 possessing her love. It vanished in an instant, when he turned her towards 
 me, saying, — 
 
 *' E'dna, have ycu room in your heart for Lira — my little sister ?" 
 My first impulse was to kneel before the angelic creature, but restraining myself, 
 I was about to clasp her hand, when she threw her arms about me, saying, in 
 pretty, broken English, — 
 
 " My brother says that you will love me, Edna." 
 This appeal was sufficient, and I embraced and kissed her cordially. 
 The introduction to Ernest seemed more difficult. He had stood from the 
 moment of her appearance, like one wrapped in some heavenly vision. His fea- 
 turea, always expressive cf the loftiest sentiments, now became radiant with a long- 
 concealed and glowing love. Lira had not yet perceived him. My husband took 
 her from my arms to lead her to him. They had advanced but a few steps, when 
 suddenly her face and neck were deeply crimsoned, and with a rapid movement, 
 she buried her head in his bosom, and wept. As if the same impulse had seized 
 both, Ernest sprang to her, knelt beside ker, pressing her hand to his lips. 
 
 *' Lira, do you bve him V her brother asked, in a sweetly modulated voice. A 
 long, deep sigh was the only response. 
 
 "Ernest!" he continued. Instantly my brother stood before him. '* Ernest, 
 the world has given us few lessons like this — guard it with your life," and placing 
 the fairy f-rm of the weeping girl in his arms, he caught my hand, and hastily 
 drew me into the house. 
 
 " Have they met before?" I inquired, when we had seated ourselves upon one 
 of Lira's cushions. 
 
 ''Yes. We landed in Boston previously to our arrival in New York, where a 
 transient glance produced in both the love which time has had no power to destroy, 
 I, at one time, feared that it would prove fatal to Lira's delicate nature ; but a 
 removal here, and the very shght encouragement which I had given her from time 
 to time, have dispelled my fears." 
 
 *' The world would laugh at such love," 1 observed. 
 
 **jS"o matter. The world laughs at much which it will gladly seize upon or 
 imitate the first opportunity. There are few hearts so pure as to be capable of the 
 love which animated their souls." 
 *' Tell me something of Lira." 
 
 ** She is my half-sister. After my father's death, my mother, who was de- 
 scended from a union of two noble families, — one French, the other Austrian — < 
 married a Grreek. Lira is their daughter. When about five years of age, her 
 parents both died of a malignant fever, having confided her person and fortune 
 to me." 
 
 "She never appeared with you in New York." 
 
 *' Certainly not—- it was no part of my plan to expose one so beautiful, but so 
 utterly unversed in the world's ways, to the unhealthy admiration of the public. 
 I firmly believe in nature, and while 1 have sought to educate Lira's intellect, I 
 have allowed the free indulgence of her impulses, so far as they ^T^ffe noble and 
 good. You will perceive that she is a creature of feeling— that her whole life 
 consists in loving and being loved." 
 
 From that hour Ernest forgot his sorrows, or, if they were remembered, it was 
 only when absent from Lira's side. 
 At lengtii we begin to talk seriously of our voyage] to Europe, as it was Lira's 
 
92 THE DOUBLE COURTSHIP. 
 
 wish to celebraie her marriage amid the companions of her childhood's home, and 
 Ernest had no wish but to live continually in her presence. 
 
 The estate inherited by Ernest from his grandfather had rapidly decreased in 
 value during the protracted illness of the old gentleman, and now scarcely yielded 
 a living to the hundred idle servants attached to it. By my husband's advice, their 
 freedom was given to them, and the plantation sold, as it was very evident that 
 my brother would never make a successful speculator in cotton and rice. 
 
 Aftei* a three months' residence in Charleston and its vicinity, we found our- 
 selves upon the broad ocean, borne towards the land of heroes and of song — the 
 birth-place of the gentle Lira, whose tongue never wearied of its praises. Her 
 return was anticipated, and herself welcomed with every demonstration of joy by 
 the dependents of her noble house. A group of young friends surrounded her, 
 with smiles and tears, as our beautiful barge, with its silken streamers, which bore 
 us from the ship, touched the strand, and led her up the marble steps of her father's 
 castle with wild and joyous greetings. A saloon, decorated with flowers, as for 
 a festival, was open for our reception, and beneath a green and fragrant canopy 
 these two loving hearts entered into that solemn betrothment which precedes, by a 
 few days, the last outward ceremony of marriage. 
 
 " Ah, clearing up mysteries, are you ?" exclaimed Lord Elwyn, looking over my 
 shoulder ; *' a fine task you will set yourself, if you undertake that, wherever we 
 go; for my life is one of deep thought and unwearied action, wherein I hold my- 
 self not accountable to man — only to God. Nevertheless, say to her, who so kindly 
 received the homeless clerk and the friendless maiden, that she constantly lives in 
 my affection and my gratitude." 
 
 Of my own love, there needs no assurance ; it is proof against time and absence, 
 and must therefore be enduring. Adieu, adieu. 
 
 London: Fiix^Ud by F. Uo^d, aud Publi.htd by G. Purkess, Compton -street Soho ; Strange 
 Piternostei-row, aad told by all booksellers. 
 
t 
 
 *^.. 
 
 % ^ 
 
 s, ! 
 
x> -- 
 
 iVi24<J849 
 
 !' 
 
 ^S'^ 
 
 U 
 
 THE UNIVERSITY OF CAUFORNIA LIBRARY 
 
 
 i. 
 
 i<? 
 
.t*- 
 
 J^ 
 
 m' 
 
 '}'■': ' i 
 
 '.-.# ■'-<l^'■'~ -■ '--'..ssaj.