VELLENAUX

 A NOVEL BY E. W. FORREST

AUTHOR OF THE "BLUE JACKET, " "CRONOTONTOLLIENS, " "NED FORTESQUE, " ETC. 

 1874. 

PREFACE

The consideration and favor accorded to the writer's former works by agenerous reading public, has induced him to try his hand as a novelist, and the present effort "Vellenaux" is the result. 

The Book, although essentially one of fiction, contains many episodes ofan historical character. In fact, truth and imagination are so blendedtogether, that the reader will scarcely discover where the one begins orthe other ends. Scenes and occurrences are portrayed which took placeduring the Sheik Wars, the siege of Mooltan, the battle ofChillianwalla, and the never to be forgotten Sepoy Mutiny, with thesimple alteration of names, dates and localities. On the shoulders ofthe hero has been grafted many of the adventures, exploits and escapeswhich in reality occurred either to the Author himself or some of hismany military acquaintances, in doing which the reader may rest assuredthat no character or incident has been in any way overdrawn. 

THE AUTHOR. 

VELLENAUX. 

CHAPTER I. 

The bright rays of an Autumn sun fell upon the richly stained glass, sending a flood of soft, mellow rainbow tinted light through thequaintly curved and deeply mullioned windows which adorned a portion ofthe eastern wing of that grand old Baronial residence, Vellenaux, on afine September morning, at the period during which our story opens. Thishandsome pile, now the property of Sir Jasper Coleman, had been erectedby one of his ancestors, Reginald De Coleman, during the reign of thefifth Henry. 

This gallant Knight had rendered that Monarch great service during hiswars in France, especially at Agincourt, where his skill and bravery wasso conspicuous, and used to so great advantage, that King Henry, on hisreturn to England, rewarded his faithful follower with a grant of landin Devonshire, on which he was enabled, with the spoils he had acquiredand the ransoms received from his French prisoners of note, to erect amagnificent chateaux, which he called Vellenaux, after Francois, CountDe Vellenaux, a French noble, whose ransom contributed largely to itsconstruction. Here he continued to reside until his death, whichoccurred several years after. 

It was now an irregular edifice, having been partially destroyed andotherwise defaced during the contests which ensued between the cavaliersand roundheads at the time of the Commonwealth. Since then alterationsand additions had been made by his successors, and, although ofdifferent styles of architecture, was now one of the handsomest and mostpicturesque structures that could be met with throughout the length andbreadth of the shire. 

A broad avenue of noble elms led from the lodge at the entrance of thedomain and opened upon a beautiful carriage drive that wound round thevelvet lawn, which formed a magnificent and spacious oval in front ofthe grand entrance. 

Beneath the outspreading branches of the venerable oaks, with which thehome park was studded, browsed the red and fallow deer, who, on theapproach of any equestrian parties, or at the advance of somearistocratic vehicle bearing its freight of gay, laughing guests towardsthe hospitable mansion, would toss their antlered heads, or, startled, seek the cover of those green shady alleys leading to the beech woodswhich adjoined the park and stretched away towards the coast of Devon. 

Sir Jasper, who was still a bachelor, and on the shady side of sixty, retained much of the fire and energy of his earlier years, although attimes subject to an infirmity which the medical faculty describe asemanating from disease of the heart. He had served with greatdistinction during the Peninsular war, under the iron Duke, but, onsucceeding to the Baronetcy, left the service and retired to his presentestate, where he spent most of his time at this his favorite residence, as hunting, shooting and field sports generally had for him a charmthat no allurements of city life could tempt him to forego; besides hehad, in the earlier part of his military career, visited many of the gaycapitals of Europe and engaged in the exciting pleasures always to bemet with in such places, until he had become satiated and lost all tastefor such scenes. His kind heartedness and benevolence won for him theesteem of the neighboring gentry. 

On the morning in question the Baronet, who had but the evening previousreturned from London, entered his study, and seating himself in an easychair, drew towards him a small but elaborately carved antiqueescritoire, and for several moments was deeply engaged in the perusal ofcertain papers and memoranda; finally he drew from his pocket a sealedpacket which, having opened carefully, he read over; then as if notquite satisfied with the contents, allowed the paper to slip from hishand to the table before him and was soon lost in thought. An Englishgentleman, unquestionably in the highest sense of the word, was SirJasper Coleman; a true type of that class who, from the time of theNorman conquest to the present day, whether beneath the Torrid or FrigidZone's; on the bloody battlefield, or launching their thunders on thebillows of the white-crested main, nobly upheld the honor of theircountry's flag, whose heroic deeds and honorable names have been handeddown unsullied and untarnished for many generations. Since leaving theservice the worthy Baronet had taken no part in the political events ofthe nation, but devoted himself entirely to the welfare of his numeroustenantry, and those residing in the neighborhood of his large estate, towhom assistance and advice was at all times needed, nor was it everwithheld or given grudgingly when any case of real distress came underhis notice. 

A fine subject fog poet's pen or artist's pencil was that aristocraticold warrior, as he sat there gazing upon the rich woodlands warmed bythe glorious autumn sun, thinking over by-gone days--days when he hadloitered by some fair one's side in many a brilliant assembly, or whenhis nerves were steady and his voice all powerful, leading the charge onmany a well-fought field. How long he might have remained ruminating onthings of the past it is impossible to say; the retrospect might havecontinued much longer had not his attention been arrested by a slightnoise, when suddenly raising his head a smile of pleasure lit up hisfinely cut features as the door opened and a lovely girl, just merginginto womanhood, stepped softly into the room. She was, indeed, verybeautiful; hair of the darkest shade of brown hung in long and glossycurls from her perfectly shaped head, and rested on the exquisite whiteneck and shoulders, the contrast of which showed to a great degree thealmost alabaster whiteness of her skin; grecian nose, and eyes of thedeepest blue, whose long lashes, when veiled, rested lovingly on herdamask cheek, and when raised, revealed a depth and brilliancy whichdoes not often fall to the lot of mortals; a mouth not too small, whosebeautifully shaped lips, when parted, disclosed to the beholder teeth ofivory whiteness, small and most evenly set, dazzling indeed was theeffect of those pearly treasures; tall, slight, and elegantly formed, with a bearing aristocratic and queenly in the extreme; what wonder thatshe was the sunshine of old Sir Jasper's declining days and his much anddearly loved niece. 

Gliding up to her uncle she threw heir arms about his neck andimprinted a kiss on his noble brow, then sinking on a stool at his feetbegan to take him to task after the following fashion: "You truant, younaughty uncle, to let me breakfast alone in my own room thinking youhundreds of miles away, and not to let me know that you returned lastnight; and Mrs. Fraudhurst is just as bad, and I will not forgive her oryou, unless you tell me where you have been and all you have seen anddone. Now, Sir Wanderer, commence and give an account of yourself; yousee I am prepared to listen, " apparently waiting with much attention forher uncle to enlighten her as to the why and wherefore he had journeyedto London. It was evident that the Baronet had been in the habit ofmaking a confidant of his pretty niece, but on this occasion, for onereason or another he had failed to do so; she had taken out of one ofher little embroidered pockets in her apron, some crochet work, andapplied herself diligently thereunto. 

Edith was the orphan child of Sir Jasper's much loved and only sister, who did not long survive the death of her husband, and on her deceasethe Baronet had adopted the child, and as she grew up, her affectionatedisposition and natural simplicity wound themselves round the old man'sheart, and thus she soon became the apple of his eye, and he loved herwith all the tender solicitude of a father. 

She was gentle and friendly to those beneath her, but dignified and firmwith those of her own station of life, with a fund of good practicalcommon sense, and was not easily dissuaded from doing any thing when shehad once made up her mind that it was her duty so to do. She loved heruncle well and was ever ready to minister to his slightest wishes. Sheused to delight him with the rich tone of her voice by singingselections from his favorite operas, being an accomplished musician bothvocal and instrumental. They would frequently wander for hours throughthe park or woods, but of late he had restricted his walks to the lawn, or down the avenue to the lodge at the park gate, to hold converse withthe keeper, an old soldier who had served under him in his PeninsularCampaigns, and often when relieved from the attendance on him wouldEdith and Arthur Carlton, hand in hand, stroll down the said avenue tolisten to the wonderful stories related by the old lodge keeper. Butthis was some time ago, for this youth (of which more will be heardanon) was now, and had been for some time, at College at Oxford. 

"Edith my darling, " said the kind old man, bending over as he did so andtapping her soft rosy cheek, "my visit to London was purely a businessone, and I delayed no longer than was necessary to complete it, but whatI saw and heard during my journey to and fro, I will relate to, you inthe evening. "

The lively girl was about to make some reply to her good natured unclewhen a light rapping was heard; the door gently opened and a lady aboutfive and thirty entered; she was attired in a dress of black silk ofmost undeniable Paris cut, which fitted her to a miracle; to Edith shemade a slight inclination of the head so as not to disarrange hercoiffure which was most elaborately got up doubtless with a view toproduce an effect. 

"I trust, Sir Jasper, you slept well after your tedious journey. "

"Very well, I thank you. Oh! I see you have the post bag, I am somewhatanxious about some letters I expect to receive. "

Moving around the back of the Baronet's chair she came between him andEdith, who took the bag from her and held out her hand to her uncle forthe key to open it with, as was her usual custom of a morning; the keywas handed to her, and while they were thus engaged the eagle eye of thelady in black fell upon the will which was still lying partially exposedon the escritoire just as it had fallen from Sir Jasper's hand ere hehad sank into that reverie which had been disturbed by the entrance ofEdith; she obtained but a hurried glance, yet it was sufficient for herto decipher its full meaning. As she realized this a dark cloud passedacross her features, she moved silently to the window and looked out;when she again turned the cloud had vanished and her face was calm andserene. So occupied with the mail bag had been both uncle and niece thatthe action of the lady in question, in first glancing over the paper onthe desk and her subsequent movement towards the window, had remainedunnoticed by either. 

"There is a letter for you, my dear, " said the Baronet handing one toEdith. "Oh!" said she joyously, "it is from Arthur. He is the dearestold fellow, and one of the best correspondents alive; he tells thefunniest stories of the college scrapes he gets into, and how cleverlyhe gets out of them, and makes all manner of fun in his caricatures ofthe musty old professors. "

"There, there now, away to your own room, " said her uncle, "and let meknow what new scrape your dear old fellow has been getting in and outof, during our walk after dinner. " Edith blushed slightly and hurriedout of the apartment. 

"There are no letters for you this morning, Mrs. Fraudhurst, but hereare the London papers, I have no time at present to look over them, andwould feel obliged if you would lay them on the library table. " She tookthem, and with a graceful courtesy, smilingly left the room, and wentdirect to the library, sat down at the table and drew the writingmaterials towards her as if about to write; but ere she commenced herhead sank on her hand and she appeared to be, for some moments, lost inthought. As she will be brought prominently forward as our storyprogresses, we had better inform the reader at once, all we know of herantecedents. 

Mr. Fraudhurst had been a lawyer of some standing in the village ofVellenaux; he was reported wealthy, and when on the shady side of fiftymarried the niece of his housekeeper, much to the disgust of the saidhousekeeper, and several maiden ladies of doubtful ages who resided inthe neighbourhood, who had each in her own mind marked him as herespecial property, to be gobbled up at the first opportunity he orchance might afford them for so doing, and they waxed wrath and werevery bitter against her who had secured the prize and carried it offwhen as they thought it just within their grasp. The lawyer and theBaronet had been upon terms of intimacy for several years prior to themarriage, and Sir Jasper being a bachelor saw no objection to hisfriend's wife visiting Vellenaux, although she had, as he wouldfacetiously observe, risen from the ranks. 

The lady in question was, at eighteen, tall, pretty and ambitious. Shehad at an early age determined to rise above the station in which shewas born, and for that object she had studied most assiduously at thevillage school, where she attained the reputation of being the most aptscholar of her class. A few years residence with a relative Londonserved to develop her natural abilities, and she lost no opportunity ofpursuing her studies or of affecting the tone and fashion of personsmoving in a far higher circle than her own. 

Education and application she knew would doubtless do much to elevateher in the social scale, but the position she so earnestly sought forwas to become the wife of some man of good standing in society, whosemeans would be sufficient to support her in that style to which herambition led her to hope for, and for this she strove hard and wasrewarded for her perseverance by becoming the wife of a reputed wealthybarrister some thirty years her senior, and for a few years enjoying theposition she had attained, visiting and visited by the uppercrusts ofthe place and not unfrequently dining at Vellenaux and otherwiseenjoying the hospitality of its owner. 

When little Edith was about seven years old, Mr. Fraudhurst was gatheredto his fathers, and the sorrowing widow was left in a very differentposition than was anticipated either by herself or others who took anyinterest in such matters; the house and grounds which she fully believedto be her own property, passed into the hands of a distant relative ofthe deceased barrister, and with the exception of the furniture and somethree hundred pounds in cash, she was no better off than she had beenprior to her marriage; but, being a woman of great tact, she contrivedto keep this circumstance from the knowledge of the enquiringneighbours, and having applied to the new owner of the premises sheobtained permission to occupy them for a period of six months. 

On the Baronet calling to pay his visit of condolence the lady, who hadpreviously arranged what she should say and do on the occasion, unfoldedto Sir Jasper her real position and out of friendship for her latehusband claimed his advice and assistance. The worthy old bachelordeclared his willingness to assist her if she could only point out theway; as to advice he could realty give none on so difficult a matter. 

"Oh! Sir Jasper, " exclaimed the widow, in a voice so excellentlymodulated to suit the occasion, that the old bachelor was beginning tofeel a real interest in her affairs, "so like yourself, so good of youto allow me to suggest the way in which you can best serve me in mypeculiar and, I may say, awkward position. "

"There is a way, my dear Sir Jasper, (and here the widow bent over andplaced her soft white hand on his arm) in which I believe you canmaterially serve me, and at the same time advance the interest of onewho is, without doubt, more dear to you than any living being; I alludeto dear little Edith. " At the mention of his niece's name he looked upenquiringly as if not quite catching the meaning of her words. 

"You must understand, Sir Jasper, " she continued, "that the littledarling is now of an age that will require some person to guide anddirect the development of her young mind and superintend her studies. Ofcourse, old nurse Simms is an excellent and worthy woman, but not suchan one as the future heiress of Vellenaux should be entrusted to, as sheadvances from childhood to maturity. It is an important and responsibleposition, and should only be undertaken by those who have already passedthrough the struggles and trials of the world, and drank of the cup ofaffliction. " Here a pearly tear fell upon the hand of the good-naturedBaronet, and here she applied her white laced cambric to her eyes. 

This was the _coup de main_ that carried the day. The soft-heartedbachelor was not proof against this, besides there was truth and reasonin her suggestions for his darling little niece, and he did not see howhe could, for the present, do better than to offer to Mrs. Fraudhurstthe charge of Edith, and before he took leave it was arranged that thewidow should call at Vellenaux daily and endeavor to gain the confidenceof the child, and at the end of the six months she should give uphousekeeping and be installed as governess and companion for Edith; andso well did she play her cards that she had scarcely been there twelvemonths when she ruled the household as though she were its legitimatemistress; always heading the table when Sir Jasper entertained hisbachelor friends, and thus, we may say, for several years lived inclover. Her chief duties consisted in educating Edith and Arthur, which, for several years, was a task which did not require much mentalendowment or physical exertion. It was, in fact, more of a pastime thanotherwise, and as she always accompanied Edith when visiting theneighboring families, there was but little monotony to complain of. 

She had a double object in becoming an inmate of Vellenaux. First, thatof securing a comfortable home for several years. But her grand schemewas that of making herself so necessary to the Baronet, that she could, in time, undermine the defences, carry the Citadel by stratagem, andfinally become the envied mistress of Vellenaux. But a few monthsresidence under the same roof served to convince her of the fallacy ofthe project; for there were two grand difficulties that she could notovercome; his strong objection to matrimony, and his affection for hisniece. Therefore, the shrewd and cautious widow had to relinquish herattack in that direction; and as Edith advanced towards womanhood, herposition became more precarious. There were two events to be dreaded, and in either case she believed her occupation gone, and these were thedeath of Sir Jasper or Edith's marriage. Her income during the years ofher residence with Sir Jasper had been a handsome one, and being atlittle or no expense, she managed to accumulate a goodly sum at herbankers; but the idea of losing her present abode was to herdisagreeable in the extreme, and her busy mind was continually at workto devise how this could be averted, and this was the way matters stoodwith her on the morning alluded to. 

"He is coming home from College next month not again to return, and sheloves him, though she may not at present realize the fact, but thatknowledge will come, and I fear much too soon. Sir Jasper will notobject, and the youth will hardly refuse to accept Vellenaux and twentythousand a year, although there be an incumbrance in the shape of a wifeattached to the bargain. Yes, I see it all, they will marry and I shallbe thrown out in the cold unless I have wit enough to prevent it withoutappearing to interest myself in any way with what ought not to concernme. But Arthur Carlton must not remain here. He must be sent abroad, toAmerica, India, anywhere, it matters not where, so that they beseparated, and that ere long. " These were the thoughts that chased eachother through the active brain of Mrs. Fraudhurst, as she sat alone inthe Library. Half an hour had elapsed ere she had quite made up her mindas to what course she should pursue to avoid the impending evil. Then, at length, seeming to grasp the difficulty, she took up her pen andwrote what she thought was likely to transpire at Vellenaux should therebe no one sufficiently interested in the matter to prevent the estate(which had been in the Coleman family for several generations) frompassing into other hands. This she sent to one whom she had every reasonto believe (for she had observed him well) would not scruple to use anymeans to gain possession of the broad lands of Vellenaux. This letterthe cautious widow posted with her own hands, to prevent the possibilityof the address being noticed by either Sir Jasper or Edith. The matterbeing thus satisfactorily arranged, she patiently awaited thedevelopments of the first fruits of the plot against young Carlton. 

CHAPTER II. 

It may be remarked, and with a great deal of truth, that the chapters ofa novel bear a certain resemblance to those pleasing illusions known asdissolving views, where one scene glides almost imperceptibly intoanother. The reader has been gazing mentally on woods, landscapes andwater in the South of England, when lo! in the twinkling of an eye, thebusy haunts of men in the world's great capitol, London, stands unveiledbefore him. It must, however, be admitted that, so far as scenic effectis concerned, the change is at times less pleasing than the one justfading from view. Yet if we wish to realize the plot of the story, thedark and uncertain shades of the picture should be looked on, from timeto time, as they present themselves. 

On a door, which stood partially open, in the last of a row of gloomylooking houses situated in one of those dark and narrow paved courtsleading from Chancery Lane to Lincoln Inn Field's, was painted in blackletters on a white ground--"Ralph Coleman, Attorney-at-Law. "

In the ill lit passage to the right was a door that opened into thefront office, where, seated at an old-fashioned desk, was a youth, tall, thin and pale, busily engaged engrossing some legal documents. A short, quick step was heard coming up the Court, the handle turned, the dooropened, and a man about the middle height with a slight tendency to becorpulent, and about thirty-five years of age, entered. "Are thosepapers ready, " enquired Mr. Coleman of the young clerk, who had ceasedwriting on the entrance of his employer. 

"I am finishing the last one now, " was the ready reply. 

"Good; and my letters?"

"They are in the usual place, on your desk, " answered the youth, re-commencing his work. The Attorney moved away and entered his privateoffice, and seating himself in his old leathern chair, commenced in amethodical way to open and peruse his letters. 

Ralph Coleman commenced life with very fair prospects. He came of a goodold family and had received a University education, and studied for theBar very assiduously for three or four years, but on the death of hisfather he came in for five thousand pounds. He then neglected hisprofession, and, for a time, led a very fast life in London. When he hadrun through about half of his money he went abroad, and while theremarried a lady who had a tolerable fortune. They travelled together overthe European Continent, and for several years enjoyed what is termedlife. 

An accident happened to Mrs. Coleman in Switzerland which resulted inher death. Ralph being again alone in the world, as it were, enteredinto all the wild dissipations of Vienna and Paris, which ended in hisruin; and he returned to England with only a five pound note between himand beggary. As the cousin and only male relative of Sir Jasper Coleman, he was heir to the Baronetcy but not to the property. This wasunentailed, and at the will of the Baronet; but should he die intestatethe whole would fall to Ralph. 

But the hope of succeeding to the estate banished, or was at least, toa considerable extent, quashed, when he learned that Miss Effingham hadbeen adopted by her uncle, and that likewise he had made a protégé ofthe son of his old friend Eustace Carlton, and would no doubt eventuallymake a will in their favor; but so far as he could learn, up to thepresent time no will had been made. There was a degree of consolation inthis; but in the meantime he must live; he therefore resumed hisprofession, and by energy, and the aid of his aristocratic friends, succeeded in obtaining a tolerable practice. 

He was on pretty good terms with his cousin, and usually went down toDevonshire for a few days during the shooting season, and on more thanone occasion had Sir Jasper spoken to him of the future career of youngArthur; but the lawyer generally managed to evade the subject by sayingthere was plenty of time to think about that when the youngster shouldleave College, and appeared to interest himself very little in thematter, because he did not see in what way the youth's future careercould affect him; that Sir Jasper might assist Arthur with his interest, at the outset, and perhaps give him a couple of hundred pounds to helphim on in his profession or calling, he did not at all doubt; but beyondthis Ralph did not believe the Baronet would assist him. 

"Ah!" said the Attorney, as he took up the fourth letter and glanced atthe postmark, "from Devonshire, and the handwriting is that of Mrs. Fraudhurst; what can that maneuvering woman have to communicate? but weshall see, we shall see, " and at once opened the letter. The contentswere evidently not of an agreeable character, for his brow darken andhis lips were firmly compressed as he read the long and closely writtenepistle. At its conclusion he moved for a few seconds uneasily in hischair, then re-folded the letter and placed it carefully in hispocketbook. With his head resting on his hand he remained sometime indeep thought; presently his brow became clear and, turning to his desk, wrote rapidly for the space of an hour. 

"Scrubbins, " said he, addressing his confidential (and only) clerk, "Iam going to Devonshire, but will return the day after to-morrow; youwill find your instructions on my desk, and now give me the deeds; andremember, should any one enquire for me tell them I am gone to thecountry on business, and shall be back the day after to-morrow, " andwithout farther comment, Ralph Coleman passed out of the office. 

It was a still, calm night in early autumn, the silvery moon looked downfrom her deep violet throne amidst the starry heavens; the dull, heavysound made by the mighty ocean, as its huge waves were dashed upon thesea-beat shore, fell audibly on the ear in the silent night. A light seabreeze swept through the furze bushes that were scattered over theDowns, across which lay the high road leading past the Park. 

Bridoon, the old gate keeper, was seated on his wooden settle within theporch of the lodge, smoking a long clay pipe, and occasionally quaffinglong draughts of rare old cider. He was just thinking of turning in forthe night, when a vehicle stopped, and a voice demanded admittance. Asthe gates swung open a gig and its occupant passed through and proceededat a smart pace along the broad avenue towards the mansion. 

The clock of the village church was striking ten as Ralph Colemanpulled up at the principal entrance of Vellenaux, and was met in thehall by Reynolds the old butler, and conducted to the room he usuallyoccupied when visiting there during the shooting season. 

"Sir Jasper, " said the old servant, "has retired for the night, and MissEffingham is on a visit to the Willows, but Mrs. Fraudhurst is, Ibelieve, still in the drawing room; will you please to step in thereuntil supper is prepared for you. " This suited the lawyer exactly, as hewished to have a few minutes conversation with that lady previous tomeeting the Baronet, for the letter he had received from Mrs. Fraudhurstwas so cautiously worded, that although sufficiently explicit on mostpoints, there were some portions of it which he could not exactlyunderstand, or see in what way he ought to act, but doubtless she wouldput him right on all matters that were to be brought quietly to thenotice of Sir Jasper. While making some addition to his toilet, itoccurred to him that she might be only making a cat's paw of him tofeather her own nest, but as he could not see clearly how this could be, dismissed the idea from his mind, and shortly after made his bow to thewidow. 

She rose and received him courteously; apologised for the absence of thehost and his niece, supposed he would feel inclined to retire early, asdoubtless he would wish to rise at the dawn of day, to avail himself ofthe excellent shooting which was to be had in the turnip fields, and wasaltogether very chatty and agreeable; but she in no way alluded to theletter she had written, to him, he was therefore compelled to broach thesubject, and before the supper bell rang, a mutual understanding as towhat was to be said and done was arrived at between them. 

The Baronet and Mr. Coleman breakfasted alone on the following morning. Edith had not returned, and Mrs. Fraudhurst excused herself on the pleaof indisposition, but doubtless she had some other motive for absentingherself. 

"And you found the birds plentiful, and in good condition, " enquired SirJasper, as he pushed away his plate, and turned his chair towards thebright, cheerful fire which was blazing in the polished grate, andstooping down to pat a couple of pointers that were crouchingcomfortably on the hearth rug at his feet. 

"Yes, indeed, quite so, I do not remember a season when the partridgeshave been so plump or in such numbers, but had hoped to have had yourcompany this morning, but perhaps to-morrow. "

"So I have heard, but you must really excuse me, it used to be my chiefdelight to shoot over the grounds and preserves on a fine autumn morninglike the present one, but it is too much for me now, and I have given itup, but I like my friends to enjoy it. How long can you stay this time?"

"Only three days; I cannot be absent from town more than that, but it iswell worth the journey to shoot over a friends property, even if onlyfor three days. "

"Then you must make the most of your time; old Tom the game-keeper willshow you the best covers and general shooting ground. I wish you couldhave remained for a week or two, the young fellows belonging to theneighboring families will be home from school and college, and therewill be plenty of popping then, I promise you. Ah! that reminds me thatArthur Carlton has finished his education, and is coming home, and it isnot my intention that he should again return to Oxford; and now we arealone and not likely to be disturbed, I wish you would give me youropinion as to what profession or occupation it would be best for him toembark in. I should like to give the youngster a fair start in life. Ihave given him the education of a gentleman, and I should like him toretain that position. "

This was the turn in the conversation the lawyer had been anxiouslywaiting for, but he seemed in no hurry to take advantage of it; heshifted his position so that the light might not fall on his features, took a pinch of snuff and crossed one knee over the other before heventured an opinion on the subject. 

"I know so very little of the young gentleman, " he began, "as scarcelyto be able to advise you on a matter of such moment, and have hithertodeclined from so doing on that account, but as you so desire it, I willgive my opinion on the matter according to the best of my judgment. "

"Thank you, thank you, that is all I ask. Then, " resumed the lawyer, "the road by which a young man of education can, by perseverance, hopeto earn for himself a competency and a good position in the socialscale, is that of the church, the navy or in the military service of hiscountry. As for the pulpit, unless the aspirant has a special tendencyfor it, or some good friend who has a living to bestow, he will hardlyrealize a sufficient income to support himself as a gentleman; and tosend him up to London to study law, or medicine for two or three yearswould but expose him to the temptations and dissipations of that greatcity, and it would take years of drudgery before he would be able toobtain a competency. In my opinion the safest and most expeditious wayof proceeding is to put him into the army; his commission and outfit isthe only outlay, and can be done at once; his position is established, and it only remains with himself to rise in his profession, and you willbe relieved from all care and responsibility on his account; butunderstand me, I do not mean that he should enter one of the regiments, now in England, to loiter his time away at some country quarters orfashionable watering place, to fall into debt, difficulty, love, or someother absurd scrape, but put him into some corps that is now and will befor some years stationed somewhere abroad, India, for instance, for Ihave been, by competent authorities, informed that there an officer canlive comfortably on the pay of his rank. 

"If he is abstemious, and takes care of his health, his promotion mustensue without purchase, and that, too, in a few years. It is a prospectthat thousands of youngsters would jump at, and one I think that is inevery way suitable for him; this Sir Jasper, is all I have to offer onthis subject. "

This advice of Ralph Coleman's, although given to effect a preconcertedscheme, was so in unison with the Baronet's views, that he could butassent to what had been uttered by Ralph, and the lawyer had thesatisfaction of knowing, ere he left the breakfast room, that hissuggestions would be carried out to the letter; and prior to his returnto London he had another interview with the wily widow, at which heinformed her of the arrangement that had been decided upon by theBaronet in regard to Arthur Carlton's future career. "He will, " Ralphwent on to say, "be thus removed out of harm's way for several years, and perchance may never again cross your path, and I have no doubt whileSir Jasper lives your position will be secure. I have served your turnwithout benefitting myself in any way. "

"Not so, " was the lady's reply, "you have but been paving the way foryour own advancement. Why not marry Edith, she is aware that the titlefalls to you, but is ignorant of the fact that her uncle has made hersole heiress, and girls brought up as she has been, will frequentlyoverlook much to gain a title, and become the envied lady of Vellenaux. "

"With young Carlton out of the way, and separated, as they will be, foryears, any rising passion she may now feel for him will soon die out, and if you make your advances with caution, and be not too precipitate, I have no doubt that you will eventually secure both the lady and theestate, so of the two, I fancy that you have rather the best of thebargain. " And after a little more conversation on the subject, thisworthy pair parted. 

And now let us introduce the youth whose future welfare had been thedifficulty about which the widow and Ralph had given themselves so muchconcern. 

A tall, slight, but decidedly handsome youth, between eighteen andnineteen years of age, wearing the Collegiate cap and gown, was pacingsomewhat impatiently up and down the quadrangle of St. John's College, evidently expecting the approach of some person whom he was mostdesirous of seeing. This was Arthur Carlton, the protégé of Sir JasperColeman. He was an orphan, having lost both parents 'ere he knew them. His father had been a Peninsular officer and companion-in-arms of theBaronet, who, on the death of his friend, undertook to see to theeducation and future welfare of the little Arthur. On losing his motherhe had been removed under the care of his nurse to Vellenaux, where hehad been only a few months, when the little Edith made her appearance onthe scene of action, and being nearly of an age they soon became goodfriends and fond of the society of each other, because of mutualassistance while pursuing their studies together, which they continuedto do until young Carlton was by his kind patron sent to school, priorto his going to college at Oxford. Fond of study, he readily acquiredknowledge which he stored up to be used hereafter as circumstances mightdemand; he was aware of his real position, and that his future successin life must chiefly depend upon his own exertions. 

His patron in caring for him during his early years, and giving him thebenefit of a university education, had, in the young man's opinion, fully carried out the promise made to his father, on his death bed, whether on the completion of his education his benefactor would continueto assist him by using his interest to procure him some suitableposition in which he could carve out for himself, a road to name andfame, he knew not, but nevertheless he felt a deep sense of gratitudefor what had already been done for him, by his father's old friend. Hewas becoming restless when the friend expected advanced at a smart paceto meet him, and proved to be Tom Barton, the youngest son of theBartons of the Willows, a worthy old couple who resided on their ownproperty, the so called Willows which joined the estate of Sir JasperColeman. In this family besides daughters there were two sons, theeldest Horace Barton had graduated at St. John's, and subsequently hadobtained an appointment in the civil service of the East India Company, and had gone out to Calcutta, where he had now been for several years. Tom, like his brother, had been educated at Oxford, and was now aboutleaving college to return to his home for a few weeks, prior to hisleaving for London, to pursue the profession he had chosen, that of thelaw. 

"Carlton, my dear fellow, you must really excuse me for thus keeping youwaiting; I assure you I could not get away a moment sooner. You caneasily imagine the sort of thing, leaving the companionship of thosewhom for years you have been associated with in many a frolic oracademical scrape; but to the point; in what way can I serve you?"

Carlton drew forth a sealed packet from the pocket of his gown, which hehanded to him, saying as he did so, "you will confer on me a great favorby calling at Vellenaux and giving this packet into the hand of MissEffingham. I would rather she should receive it when alone, you willmanage this for me, will you not?"

"Certainly, most certainly. I perfectly understand, ah you sly dog;after the pretty heiress are you? I admire your choice, and would Ithink take the field against you, but for my darling cousin Kate, shewill not allow me to flirt with any but herself, so I will do my bestfor you. "

Arthur thanked him heartily, and after a few more words the friendsparted, one for his home at the Willows, the other for his small room inthe college. 

Tom Barton kept his promise, and the packet was duly handed to Edith byhim, he having met her walking in the home park the very day of hisarrival. 

CHAPTER III. 

The time for Arthur's leaving College had now arrived. A few brief linesfrom Sir Jasper, informing him that he was to leave College at the endof this term for good, but in no way hinting what his future positionthrough life might be, with a small note enclosed from Edith, was allthat he had heard from Devonshire since his friend, Tom Barton, had leftOxford; but it was evident from the tone of the Baronet's epistle thathe expected him to make Vellenaux his home, at least for the present oruntil some arrangements could be made for his future. 

He was now nineteen, nearly six feet in height and possessed an amountof strength and muscular power seldom met with at his age. These hadbeen developed and matured by boat-racing, cricket and athleticexercises, in which he took great delight. He was likewise an ardentlover of field sports. From the old Lodge keeper, who had been a roughrider in Sir Jasper's troop in the light Dragoons through the greaterpart of the Peninsular Campaign, he acquired the knowledge of how to sitthe saddle and ride like a dragoon, likewise the complete management ofhis horse; nor was the sabre (the favorite weapon of the old soldier)forgotten, and many a clout and bruise did the youth receive before hecould satisfy his instructor as to his efficiency. Being of an obligingdisposition, the game keepers took a great deal of trouble to make him afirst rate shot, and their exertions were not thrown away, and veryproud they were at the way in which he brought down his birds. 

Surrounded by some half dozen of his most intimate acquaintances, youngCarlton was eating his last collegiate breakfast, as he had to leave forVellenaux that morning by the 8. 20 train, the usual toasts andcongratulations had been exchanged, and farewell bumpers of champagnedrank, when the porter put his head in at the door and announced in asharp short tone, "times up, cab at the door. " A general rush was madein the direction indicated, Arthur jumped into the vehicle, and amid theshouts and cheers of his friends, was quickly rolled over the stones tothe railway terminus. Ding, dong, ding, dong, waugh, waugh, puff, puff, and the train moved slowly out of the station, increasing its velocityuntil it was whirling along at something very like fifty miles an hour. On reaching Switchem, the station nearest to Vellenaux, Arthur found hishorse waiting for him, and from the groom he learned that Sir Jasper wasanxiously expecting him, for he had that day accompanied by Edith, goneas far as the lodge gate, a distance much greater than he had walked forsome time past. This was very satisfactory for Carlton to know, and witha light heart he sprang into the saddle and cantered merrily along thehigh road, leading to the park gates, within which the happiest years ofhis youth had been spent; and the welcome he received from all was ofsuch a character as at once to set at rest any misgivings orapprehensions he might have felt on this score. 

Sir Jasper was kind, courteous and almost paternal. Edith couldscarcely restrain her delight at the idea of again having in that socialcircle the playfellow of her childhood and one who had ever been to heras a dear brother, a companion and confidant, one from whom she couldalways obtain sympathy and advice when annoyed with the petty vexationsof childhoods fleeting day. Even Mrs. Fraudhurst, always courteous andpolite since his exodus from her scholastic charge, was now more affableand condescending than ever to the Baronet's _protégé_; but she couldafford to be so, for she well knew that he was about to be swept fromher path, for years, perhaps forever. 

The conversation during dinner that evening was animated and general;all parties appeared in the best possible spirits, and anxious to renderArthur's return from college an event to be remembered hereafter withfeelings of infinite satisfaction. Soon after the removal of the cloth, the ladies retired, leaving our hero and Sir Jasper alone; the latterhaving finished a glass of fine old crusted port, settled himselfcomfortably in his easy chair, and thrusting his thumbs in the armholesof his waistcoat, thus addressed his _protégé_. 

"Arthur, my boy, you are now, I think, of an age that would warrant youin judging for yourself as to what particular profession or calling youare best suited to pursue, in order to make a successful career throughlife. Have you ever given this subject a thought? If so, now we arealone, I should like to hear what your views or ideas may be concerningthat matter; it is one of great importance, and requires seriousconsideration. "

Now, although Arthur had anticipated that some such enquiry would bemade by the Baronet, he was not quite prepared as to the precise answerit would be best for him to make; in fact he was taken a little aback atthe suddenness of the question. He had expected that some days wouldelapse before Sir Jasper would broach the subject, but being of astraightforward and truthful nature, he frankly stated what he thoughtrespecting his future. "Of course, " he said, "Sir Jasper, I shall beguided entirely by any suggestions you may kindly offer, for to you Iowe everything. The only path that I believe is open to me is that ofLaw or Medicine; (and since you allow me) I must candidly acknowledge toeither of those professions I have an antipathy; but if it is your wishthat I should follow either of these, I can assure you that energy andperseverance shall not be wanting on my part to attain a respectablestanding in whatever undertaking I embark in. "

"Right, Arthur, right; there is nothing like energy and perseverance inwhatever situation, we may be placed in, and now listen to me. " TheBaronet here took another glass of port, and motioned to Arthur to dothe same; then continued he, "Law and Physic are both distasteful to me, nor do I think they are at all suitable for you. The Church is almostout of the question, as I have no interest in that quarter, and could bein no way of use to you. You are beyond the age that lads generallyenter the navy; but what say you to the army?" Arthur gave a start atthis proposal, and a beam of delight--which he could not conceal--lit uphis handsome, though somewhat thoughtful face. 

"Oh, Sir Jasper, " he exclaimed, "it is the very position I most prize, but one that I had not ventured to hope could be realized; it has beenthe day dream of my youth. "

The kind-hearted old Baronet was evidently much pleased at his youngfriend's reply and enthusiasm. He took another glass of wine, then said:"I promised your father to give you a fair start in life, and I willkeep my word. I have already applied to the Horse Guards on your behalf, and have the refusal of a cornetcy in the Light Dragoons. There, there, say nothing; I see you accept it, so that part of the business issettled so far; but the regiment is now in India, and likely to remainthere for some years. Have you any objections to leaving England? If so, you are at liberty to withdraw your consent. "

"There is no part of the world that I have so great a desire to visit asBritish India. I have both heard and read a great deal of thatextraordinary country. Besides, is it not the land of my birth?" wasArthur's immediate reply. 

"Then consider the matter settled. You will not be required to join yourregiment until six months after your name appears in the Gazette. I willwrite to headquarters and likewise see to your outfit. Of course, youwill remain here until after New Year's, and help us to keep upChristmas in the good old English style, for probably it may be the lastof the sort you will see for some years; but whatever trials anddifficulties you may have to contend with out there, you may restassured that when the time arrives for you to have your troop, thepurchase money shall not be wanting. And now, " continued he, as Arthurwas about to reply, "send Reynolds to me, I wish to see him on somematters before I retire, and you seek Edith and let her know that youhave accepted a commission in the army, as I have not mentioned a wordto her concerning it. Please make my excuses to the dear girl for notjoining her in the drawing room, " then shaking him cordially by thehand, wished him good night. 

On entering the drawing room, Arthur found Mrs. Fraudhurst poring overher novel and Edith standing by the French window, looking out upon theTerrace which was now bathed in a flood of pale moonlight. She waswondering what her uncle could have to say to Arthur to detain him solong: she had so much to ask about her ponies and her grayhounds andimprovements in her flower gardens, &c. He delivered Sir Jasper'smessage, then asked her to step out on the Terrace with him. Hastilythrowing a mantle around her, she was ready to accompany him. Gentlydrawing her arm within his own, they passed out of the room, and steppedon to the Balcony that ran along the entire length of the South of thebuilding and joined the broad Terrace below by means of a flight ofmarble steps. At the extreme end this Terrace overlooked the rich_partierre_ which, although late in the season, still sent forth itsdelicious perfume, borne upwards on the soft breeze of the evening. 

"He has caught at the Indian bait. We have hooked our fish; our nextcare is to have him safely landed. The poison of love has not, as yet, developed itself. The Scarlet Fever will quench all other maladies, atleast until the seas will divide them, " and with a self-satisfied smileupon her still pretty features, Mrs. Fraudhurst betook her self to herown apartments to concoct an epistle for the information of RalphColeman. 

For nearly an hour did the fair young creature and the youth, who hadever been to her as a brother, pace up and down the moonlit Terrace. Arthur related all that passed between him and her uncle. She was asmuch delighted as himself at the prospect which had thus suddenly openedbefore him; the only drawback was that he would be absent so long fromVellenaux. 

"But you will write frequently, and come home whenever you can procureleave of absence. And to think that you will not leave us for threemonths. We will have a merry time this Christmas, Arthur, will we not?and wind up with a fancy ball on the eve of your departure. Oh, it willbe delightful, " said the excited girl, carried away by the idea of suchan event. 

Verily, Mrs. Fraudhurst had divined truly. Love's insidious poison hadnot yet developed itself in the bosom of either. They returned to thedrawing room, and, after singing together some of their favouritepieces, they retired for the night. 

It was near morning before Carlton fell asleep; even then his braincontinued to be disturbed by exciting dreams. Now leading a charge ofhorses or storming some Indian fortress. Finally he dreamed that he hadrescued some Princess or Rajah's daughter from becoming the prey of anenormous Bengal tiger, the head of which, strange to say, bore astriking resemblance to Mrs. Fraudhurst; that the Rajah, in return forhis services, gave his daughter to him for a bride; that the marriagetook place at the little church at Vellenaux. He thought that as thebride approached the altar in gorgeous attire, and was about to placeher hand within his, a seraph-like form glided between them and his handwas lovingly grasped by Edith Effingham, when all suddenly vanished in athunder storm. He awoke with a start and leaped from the bed, for therewas a loud knocking at the door and the voice of the old Butlerexclaiming, "Master Arthur, master Arthur, Miss Edith desires me to saythat she is going to ride over to the Willows this bright morning andwishes to know if you would like to accompany her; she is now on thelawn. "

"Thank you, thank you, Reynolds. My compliments to Miss Effingham, andsay I shall be most happy to be her escort on the occasion, " andhurriedly dressing, was soon by her side, laughing and chatting merrilyas they cantered over the green turf on their way to the Bartons. YetArthur could not altogether dispel the feelings that arose within him, produced, doubtless, by the strange dreams that haunted his pillowduring the night, or early that morning. 

"Is not that Tom Barton?" said Edith, pointing to the figure of a man, dressed in sporting costume, seated on the step of a stile, engaged inlighting a small German pipe, his gun leaning against one of theuprights and some half dozen partridges lying on the grass at his feet. As they rode up, Tom advanced to meet them, raised his hat politely toEdith, and shouted out, "Hallo Arthur, old fellow, how are you. Glad tohave you back amongst us; not much fun in tramping through the turnipfields alone, although the birds are by no means scarce this season. "

"Thank you, I intend to be amongst them, and together, I think we cando some execution. How are the ladies at the Willows? And is prettylittle Cousin Kate as capricious as ever?" And here Carlton gave hisfriend a poke in the ribs with his riding whip. 

Edith laughed heartily at the sallie; for his attachment to the lady inquestion was no secret to her. Tom parried his friend's enquiries asbest as he could, and the trio proceeded at a walk in the best possiblegood humour. 

On reaching the Willows they found Tom's sisters and Kate Cotterell onthe gallery. Their approach had been observed by old Mrs. Barton, fromthe window of the breakfast room. They were received with a shower ofwelcomes, for both Edith and Arthur were general favourites with all theneighbouring families, and especially so at the Bartons. 

Of course, Arthur's appointment and approaching departure for India wascommunicated; all were pleased to hear of his good fortune, though sorryto lose his society. 

"You will, of course, call upon Horace and Pauline when you reachCalcutta, " suggested old Mrs. Barton, "I dare say you may not recollecthim, but he will remember you, although you were but a curly-headed boywhen he was last in England. You must take out some letters from us tothem. "

Edith had a hurried conversation with Kate Cotterell, Julia and EmilyBarton, on some little project of her own. This being finished, shebeckoned to Arthur, who was smoking and arranging some matters with TomBarton at the other end of the gallery; then mounting their horses theyrode slowly back to Vellenaux, in time to breakfast with Sir Jasper, whowas, by no means, an early riser. 

With shooting, (with Tom Barton and some half dozen other Collegechums, ) visiting his acquaintances, and taking long rides through thebeech woods and over the downs with Edith, who was an excellentequestrian, for his companion, the first six weeks of Arthur's returnpassed pleasantly and rapidly away. He then had to post up to London toget measured for his uniform, and general outfit, to say nothing of thenumberless commissions which he had been entrusted to execute by hislady acquaintances, in view of the approaching fancy ball. Being hisfirst visit to the Metropolis, Arthur determined to see and hear allthat could be and seen heard during his short stay in that wonderfulcity. 

Jack Frost, with his usual attendant and companion, snow, heralded theapproach of old Father Christmas, who filed an appearance at Vellenauxon the morning of the twenty-fifth of December, and right heartily wasthe old fellow welcomed. His advent had been announced at daybreak, bydischarges from an old-fashioned field piece which Bridoon (with thepermission of his old commander) had mounted on a wooden carriage tocommemorate his Peninsular victories, while the Bell Ringers rang out amerry peal from the belfry of the quaint old church in the littlevillage hard by. Then came troops of merry, laughing children, singingand chanting old Christmas Carols, and were rewarded by the oldhousekeeper with a piping hot breakfast of mince pies, etc. , etc. 

After morning service in the church, which was numerously attended, thelaborers and many of the poorer tenants of the estate were regaled withroast beef and plum pudding, good old October ale and mighty flagons ofthat cider for which Devonshire is so justly celebrated. During theevening there was a dance and supper in the servants' hall, to whichmany of the small farmers with their wives, sons and daughters, had beeninvited, and a right jovial time they had of it. Dancing, songs, scenesfrom the magic lantern, hunt the slipper, blind man's buff, kissingunder the mistletoe, and many other Christmas gambols were the order ofthe evening, --and, if one might judge from the bursts of mirth andlaughter that prevailed, this was very much to the satisfaction of allpresent. 

The worthy Baronet, attended by Edith and Arthur, visited his workpeople during the dinner in the great barn, addressing words of welcomeand kindness to all, nor did he absent himself from the merry-makings inthe servants' hall. 

"Attention, form a line there!" shouted old Bridoon, the lodge keeper, who was the Sir Oracle of the hour, and had seated himself in a largearm chair beside the enormous fireplace, wherein the Yule logs burntbrightly, darting out forked flames of blue, yellow, and crimson, andsending forth great showers of sparks up the huge old-fashioned chimneylike fire-works on a gala night. 

"Make way there for the Brigadier and his handsome aides-de-camp. " Thesharp eye of the old campaigner had caught sight of the party from thedrawing room, which had halted in the door way and was looking on highlyamused at the merry groups that were footing it bravely, and withuntiring energy through the mazes of Irish jigs, Scotch reels andEnglish country dances. On entering, the mirth ceased for a moment outof respect to Sir Jasper. "Go on, my good friends, we came to witness, not to put a stop to your amusement, " said the Baronet, as he took aseat in the chimney corner, supported by Edith and Arthur. The dancingwas again resumed in about half an hour, and the party rose to retire. Here Reynolds, the old butler, presented his master with a magnum of hisfavorite port, which the old gentleman tossed off, wishing them all amerry Christmas. This was the moment for which Bridoon had been waiting;he rose and proposed the health of Sir Jasper, Miss Edith, and MasterArthur, and said, "When lying wounded on the bloody field of Salamancalittle did I think that I should live to enjoy so many years of peaceand comfort in such snug quarters as is now provided for me by my oldcommander and benefactor, God bless him, " Then addressing Arthur hesaid, "Master Arthur, it does my old heart good to know that you haveentered her Majesty's service. You are a good swordsman, a bold rider('and the best shot in the country, ' put in the head game-keeper), nomean qualifications, " continued he, "for a Light Dragoon; and I feelcertain you will turn out as fine a soldier as the Colonel, yourfather, --I drink to his memory and your success. " Whereupon the veteranraised a massive tankard of sparkling cider to his lips and took amighty draught, which laudable example was immediately followed by allthe men present. The Baronet and his _protégés_ then left the hall. 

There was open house to all comers until after the New Year, and in thisway Christmas had been kept up in that part of Devonshire from timeimmemorial. 

But the great event of the season to the upper tandem of Vellenaux, andits vicinity was the approaching twelfth-night Ball. Sir Jasper hadgiven _carte blanche_ to his niece to do as she pleased on the occasionand she did so accordingly. 

CHAPTER IV. 

Great was the excitement and preparation going on among those invited toparticipate in the coming festivities. Of all the places in the county, Vellenaux was considered the most suitable for the purpose of a FancyDress Ball. There had not been anything of the kind within a circuit offifty miles, for at least as many years. The grand old hall, with itsbanners and knightly armour of different periods, the magnificentapartments filled with curiously carved antique furniture, ancientmirrors and embroidered tapestries, all of which would harmonize withthe costumes of those who would figure about for the _nonce_. Of coursethe characters to be assumed were to be kept a secret until theyappeared in the ball room. Edith entered with enthusiasm into all thearrangements necessary on the occasion, and was materially assisted bythe good taste and judgment of Arthur, to whom she turned for counselwhen at fault as to the grouping of statuary or position of pictures, and the _toute ensemble_ of the _salle-a-manger_. 

The spacious old picture gallery with its Gothic windows of stainedglass was fitted up as the dancing hall. The statuary armour, banners, and ancient weapons of past generations had been brought from the Halland placed in different positions along the oak pannelled walls, whilelarge bunches of dark green holly with the bright scarlet berries, peeping out here and there was hung between the antique pictures ofbrave Knights and fair Dames, ancestors of the Coleman family, thatseemed to look down from their massive frames upon the fantastic scenesbelow. The oaken floor was covered with a cloth, figured to represent atesselated pavement. At the upper end a dais had been erected, surmounted by an antique chair of state, with several others of the samedescription, but smaller on each side. The orchestra was in a smallgallery that crossed the hall at the lower end, the whole brilliantlyilluminated by three massive chandeliers, the adjoining apartments werearranged as refreshment and supper rooms. 

The Ball was opened with a triple set of quadrilles. The top set, nearest to the dais or place of honour, was composed as follows: SirJasper as the fine old English gentleman in doublet and trunk hose, withEdith, looking very lovely, as the Lady Rowena; their _vis a vis_ beingJulia Barton, in the character of Mary Stuart, attended by Arthur, dressed as a Light Dragoon of the period. The side couples were, KateCotterell, bewitchingly pretty, in the costume of Rebecca the Jewess, assisted by Tom Barton as the famous Robin Hood. Emily Bartonrepresented, with very good effect, Maid Marion, under the escort ofyoung Snaffle of the Lancers, who rode over from the nearest GarrisonTown to captivate some stray heart by personating Young Lochinvar. Theother two sets, figuring in costumes as handsome as they were varied, were made up of the youth and beauty of the neighbourhood, with theexception of the bottom couple of the last set; here, Mrs. Fraudhurstappeared, gorgeously attired, as Sarah, Duchess of Marlborough, with noother for her partner than Ralph Coleman in the garb of Mephistopheles. At the conclusion of the first Quadrille, the Baronet seated himself inthe state chair, with his old friends on either side, for their dancingdays like his own was now as a thing of the past, but looking on withinward satisfaction at the gay assembly, until the memories of their ownyouthful days rose pleasantly before them, the rare old wines of thechoicest vintage, from the well-stored cellars of Vellenaux aiding tokeep up these associations, as Waltzes, Polkas, Mazourkas, followed inrapid succession. Nor was the supper the least agreeable feature of theentertainment, for country life, and country exercise, equestrian andpedestrian, over the frozen earth, were wonderful auxiliaries to theappetite, and both old and young did ample justice to the good thingsthat were provided for them. 

The Duchess and Mephistopheles kept watchful eye on Edith and Arthur, but their joyous light-heartedness, and that, too, on the eve of hisdeparture, convinced the two conspirators that all was going on assatisfactorily as they could desire. After supper, Sir Roger de Coverly, the Triumph, and other old-fashioned country dances were introduced, followed by questions, answers and forfeits, and other Twelfth-nightgames, which were entered into with such spirit and animation, thatshowed how thoroughly they were enjoyed by those who participatedtherein, and it was universally allowed by all present to be the mostcharming thing of the kind they had ever attended, and the grey dawn ofday appeared on the eastern horizon ere the last vehicle drove away fromthe hospitable mansion of Sir Jasper Coleman. 

On the afternoon of the following day, Arthur was to leave Vellenauxfor Southampton en route for the East. He had put off his leave takingsuntil the last moment, and he now entered his patron's private libraryto say farewell. The parting was more like what might have been expectedbetween a kind father and a favourite son. "Remember, Arthur, " said thekind old Baronet, in conclusion, "that, should your regiment be suddenlyordered home, it will always afford me the greatest pleasure to receiveyou here whenever the duties of your position will admit of yourvisiting us. " Here he shook him cordially by the hand, placing as he didso, a draft on a Calcutta house for three thousand rupees. 

Hastily ascending the grand staircase, Carlton made his way to thedrawing room. His adieu to Mrs. Fraudhurst was courteous and polite, butthere was no exhibition of kindly feeling or sympathy evinced by either. 

Now, although Arthur and Edith in their long rides together hadcanvassed over the subject of his departure repeatedly, and the greatbenefit he was likely to derive therefrom till they had quite accustomedthemselves to the idea, yet, when the moment arrived, a deep feeling ofregret visibly agitated them both, a feeling which they had never beforeexperienced, and which there was now no time to analyze. The unbiddentear rose to Edith's eye as he clasped her hand within his own, andunable to control himself any longer, he gently drew her towards him andimprinted a loving kiss on her rosy lips. The next instant he was gone. No word of love had ever been spoken between them, and this was thefirst time that their lips had ever met. At that moment Mrs. Fraudhursthad looked up from her embroidery, but not in their direction; she wastoo discreet for that, her glance rested on one of the large mirrors atthe opposite end of the room, wherein was reflected the full lengthfigures of the two young friends. The salute did not escape her notice, nor did she fail to mark that the deep crimson blush that diffuseditself over Edith's beautiful features certainly was not one ofdispleasure. 

"Gone, but not a moment too soon, " she muttered half aloud. Then turningto address a few words to Edith found that she also had left theapartment; gone, doubtless, to seek the privacy of her own chamber. 

On reaching Calcutta, the young Cornet presented himself at thehospitable Bungalow of the Bartons, and was by them cordially received. The pretty little Mrs. Barton and Arthur had not previously met, hebeing at College when she had paid her wedding visit to Devonshire, butnevertheless, she was much pleased to have so handsome a cavalier, tooccupy a seat in her barouche while driving along the Chowringee road orcantering by her side across the Esplanade or round and round the standwhile listening to the delightful music of the band, as was their usualcustom of an evening. 

Good, easy Horace Barton had got over that sort of thing, for afterreturning from the Suddur Aydowlett, he would seek the quiet of hissanctum sanctorum, and with his Hooka and iced Sherbet, would regalehimself until the dressing bell rang for dinner, after which he wouldentertain Arthur with stories of the Pindaree War, the suppression ofThuygee, and relate wonderful feats of looting, perpetrated by the mostexpert robbers in the world, the Bheel tribes. 

"But, my friend, " said Horace, on one of these occasions, "the greatestdrawback to a young soldier's advancement in this country, is the greatfacility that is afforded him for getting into debt; and should youunfortunately fall into the difficulty, I strongly advise you to draw onyour paymaster, go under stoppages or apply to a friend, but not underany circumstances have recourse to those scourges of the country, thenative Sheroffs or money-lenders, and in order to fix your attention tothis matter, I will relate a circumstance that occurred to a friend ofmine some years ago, which will, I think, prove to you the danger ofhaving anything to do with those gentry, as you might not escape theirclutches as my friend ingeniously did. 

"There was no denying that Harry Esdale was the handsomest, gayest andmost popular man in the station, and was generally to be found takingthe lead in any thing that promised fun and frolic. In fact, no ball, party, picnic, cricket-match, race or private theatricals wereconsidered complete without him. Having little else to depend uponbesides his pay, no wander that his pecuniary affairs became embarrassedand were to him a source of great annoyance and trouble. To extricatehimself for the time being from this unpleasant dilemma, he had recourseto the native Sheroffs, from whom he had borrowed from time to timecertain sums of different amounts at an enormous rate of interest, untilat last he found that he was totally unable to free himself from hisdifficulties, or evade his creditors, who haunted him night and day, dogged his steps, and presented themselves most inopportunely when theywere least expected or desired. 

"He had procured a furlough to Europe, which alone would relieve himfrom his tormentors, but alas, he was too well watched to admit of hisleaving the Presidency. Affairs were in this unpleasant state when acircumstance occurred, which he very adroitly took advantage of, inorder to elude the vigilance of his native persecutors. 

"It so happened that in his troop there was a man that bore a strikingresemblance to him in height and figure, as well as in feature. Just atthis particular juncture, and when his creditors were most clamorous forsettlement, this man died in the Regimental Hospital. On thiscircumstance coming to his knowledge, it struck him that he might turnit to his own advantage, could he but obtain the co-operation of theSurgeon and one or two of his brother officers. This he soon effected, so great a favourite as he was could not be refused, besides, was it nota glorious thing to outwit those native dealers in extortion?

"The body of the late Trooper was secretly removed from the Hospital toEsdale's Bungalow, dressed in his full uniform and laid on the bed; apistol was then discharged into the mouth of the corpse, and the headand pillow besmeared with blood, disfiguring the face considerably; thepistol was then placed on the bed, close to the right hand, and therewas all the appearance that death had been caused by suicide. 

"Fortunately there was a Ball at Government House that evening; thisaccounted for his being in full dress. His absence was noticed by many, and later in the evening the startling intelligence was announced thatCaptain Esdale, had destroyed himself by blowing out his brains whilelaboring under a fit of temporary insanity. This report spread likewildfire throughout the native town and soon reached the ears of hiscreditors, who flocked to the Bungalow like so many vultures, fightingand scrabbling with each other for admission, in order that they mightsecure for themselves whatever effects might be in the Bungalow, butwere informed by the guard which had been placed there that nothingcould be touched until after the funeral, which took place in a few dayswith all the pomp and ceremony necessary on such occasions. 

"All this time Esdale was snugly stowed away in a little room in theBungalow of one of his brother officers, and in about a fortnight, whenthe hubbub caused by this event had subsided, and the vigilance of themoney lenders withdrawn, they being completely outwitted, he quietlystepped on board the English Mail. 

"A few months after reaching England, he obtained some cash from hisgovernor, and through the agency of a friend who offered his creditorsan amount equal to what Esdale had received with an interest of sevenper cent added. This they had at first rejected, but seeing no hope ofany other settlement, at last concluded to accept and delivered up theI. O. U. 's they had against Esdale. Imagine the surprise and vexation ofthese people some two years after on seeing the identical Harry Esdale, who many believed they had seen buried, coolly smoking his cheroot inthe mess verandah, or basking in smiles of the fair ones as theycantered gaily across the midan after the heat of the day had passed. "Horace would, doubtless, have added other words of warning and advice, but Arthur was summoned to attend the Madame Sahib, either in herdrawing room or in the spacious verandah, where she entertained herfriends. And for nearly a month did he enjoy this kind of life, until hebegan to believe that India was not the infernal hole that it had beenrepresented to him by Snaffle of the Lancers (who, by the way, had neverbeen there); and in his letters to Edith he gave a glowing account ofthe city of Palaces and the fascinating Mrs. Barton. 

But it must not be supposed that these matters dwelt long in Arthur'smind, for a more engrossing subject was ever before him, and that wasthe profession he was now entering upon, and the probabilities of hisattaining a position in the service equal to that held by his father, and he started to join his regiment with a determination to accomplishthis desirable end, or perish in the attempt. 

The district through which he had to pass in order to reach headquarters was a wild one. There were also several Bheel villages alongthe route, nor was there any scarcity of wild beasts in that region, butto Arthur this was not at all alarming. He had read of adventures anddifficulties that had been met with by officers of the India army whiletravelling from one station to another, besides he had a strong desireto engage in the exciting sport of tiger hunting, boar spearing, etc. , within the Indian jungles. 

On quitting Calcutta, his good friends gave him a _carte blanche_ tovisit them whenever duty or pleasure should bring him into theirneighborhood. 

Fortunately for him a small party of Sepoys escorting treasure to astation not far distant from the one in which his regiment wasquartered, were to start from Calcutta the same morning. This party hewas directed to take charge of as far on the road as he was going. Norwas his journey without an adventure as the following incident willshow:

Within the deep shadow of a grove of stately tamarind trees that grewon the roadside, and distant about half a mile from a large and populousBheel village the tent of our young traveller had been pitched. 

It was a lovely night, Corinnua in her glory diffused her soft silverylight far and near rendering the shades of the jungle still more deep bycontrast. All was hushed in silence; the busy hum in the village hadceased and no sound broke on the silent night, except the occasionalbark of the Parrier dog, or the cry of the lurking jackall and themeasured tread of the native sentinel, as he paced to and fro in frontof the door of the tent. The remainder of the small guard were soundlysleeping in a little routie tent on the opposite side of the road. 

Arthur had been out shooting the latter part of the afternoon andevening, and had, as usual, taken from the village several natives asguides and beaters. On his return he had called them to the door of histent, opened one of his trunks, and out of a bag, containing two orthree hundred rupees, paid them liberally for their trouble; one of theparty he noticed appeared to eye the bag with a greedy, covetous eye, but he said nothing, and the party left, seeming well satisfied withwhat they had received. After indulging in a bath he was ready for theevening meal, which consisted of chicken, curry or broiled partridgewith several etceteras, which he washed down with a bottle of Allsopps'pale ale, and betook himself to his easy chair and cheeroot under themajestic Tamarinds, which were undulating gently in the soft breeze ofthe evening. 

There was a small shade lamp burning on the camp table by the side ofthe iron cot, on which Arthur had thrown himself, being somewhat tiredof his ramble in the jungle. He had taken up a volume of the Pindareewar, but had not perused more than a dozen pages when he felt drowsy andsleepy. He had accustomed himself to sleep with his revolver under hispillow, his right hand grasping the handle. Somewhere about eleveno'clock he was lying on his back with his left arm thrown across hischest, and his hand over his face, half asleep and half awake, hefancied he heard a sound similar to that made by sand rats or rabbitswhile burrowing. The sinister look of the Bheel he had paid in theevening instantly flashed across his mind. Separating his fingers, sufficiently to admit of his seeing through them, he glanced in thedirection from which the sound proceeded, and waited patiently, keepinga firm grasp of his pistol. Presently the sand beneath the wall of thetent near the foot of his cot gave way gradually, and a small aperturepresented itself, which increased by degrees. By and by the head andshoulders of the identical Bheel showed themselves inside the tent; hishawk eye darted a rapid glance all around, but most especially at theprostrate and apparently sleeping form of Carlton he then drew theremainder of his body, which was perfectly naked, through the apertureand stood erect and for a few seconds remained at the foot of Arthur'sbed, and listened to the heavy breathing which he effected; then, with agliding motion, moved towards the trunk containing the rupees, but stillkeeping his face half turned in the direction of the bed so that hecould observe the slightest alteration, should any be made in theposition of its occupant, he then endeavored to force open the lid withhis creese, but finding he could not succeed in this, he took frombehind his ear a small piece of wire, with which he attempted to pickthe lock, but in order to effect this he had to rest his eye on the keyhole for a second or two. This was the moment for which Arthur had beenanxiously waiting. Instantly the eyes of the Bheel were withdrawn fromhim. He brought his revolver from under his pillow, and passing itbeneath the light coverlet, placed the barrel across his left leg, whichhe gently raised, at the same time removing the cloth clear of themuzzle, brought it in line with the ribs of the robber and fired. Thebullet went straight to the heart, and the ruffian Bheel fell deadwithout uttering a groan or sound. 

"What is the matter, " enquired the sentry, stopping at the door of thetent, which had been closed to keep out the night dews. 

"Nothing, " Arthur had promptly replied, "I have discharged my pistol byaccident, and am going to reload it, that is all. But when the Niquecomes with the relief tell him to send the Havildar to me, I wish tospeak to him. " The sentinel then resumed his walk up and down his post. Arthur then with his hands quietly enlarged the hole by which the robberhad entered, into which he pushed the body and covered it with the sandwhich had been thrown up, and the tent resumed its original appearance;then, after washing his hands and refilling the empty chamber of hisrevolver, he dressed himself for the march. 

At twelve o'clock the Havildar made his sallam at the tent door. "Comein, Havildar, " said Carlton, "I have changed my mind; instead ofmarching at four a. M. , the usual hour, I wish to start with as littledelay as possible. Go round, wake up the cart men and have the cattleput to with as little noise as practicable, fall in the guard, and, when we have moved off some distance, I will tell you the reason of thischange in the hour of marching. Let everything be done as quietly as maybe; also tell the Syce to bring my horse round directly. " The Havildarreceived his orders (native like) without remark, saluted and went tosee them carried out. When the escort had got about a mile from wherethey had encamped, Arthur related what had taken place in his tent thenight previous. This was a sufficient inducement for them to acceleratetheir speed to the utmost in order to get beyond the precincts of theBheel, as they well knew that in the event of the discovery of the bodythe whole village would turn out _en masse_ to revenge his death, buthaving some four hours start Arthur and his party arrived at thestation--where he was to part from them--without molestation or pursuit, as far as he was aware of. 

CHAPTER V. 

This adventure fully developed his coolness and courage when aroused toimmediate action by any unexpected danger. This gained for Arthur thefavorable opinion of his brother officers. Although he, on joining, madeno mention of the circumstance, until in course of casual conversationthe affair leaked out. Soon after joining he wrote to Sir Jasperinforming him of his safe arrival, and to Edith a long and interestingaccount of his journey from Calcutta to Karricabad, in which heportrayed with faithful accuracy his encounter with a Bheel, and manyother incidents which he thought likely would interest or amuse her. Indescribing the scenery and general features of the wild districts he hadto pass through, he said:

"After traversing for miles the hot and dusty plains of Hindostan, quiteunexpectedly you will come upon a tope or grove of fruit trees, plantedin regular rows, with a well or tank of spring water, and a place tobathe in built in the centre, where the weary and way-worn travellercould bathe and wash away the heat and dust of the road, and cool hisparched throat with a draught of the pure element, gather as much of therich fruit as he may wish, to appease his appetite if hungry; then, inthe soft mossy grass, beneath the overhanging branches which effectuallyprotect him from the heat and glare of the sun, enjoy a sound sleep, awake refreshed and proceed on his way rejoicing. In European countrieswhere hotels and places of accomodation are to be met with at everyturn, this may appear of little moment, but in the East where there areno such places to obtain food or shelter from the powerful rays of thesun, this is an inestimable boon. On enquiring how these Topes or grovescame to grow in places so far distant from any other cultivation, I wasinformed that they were planted by rich high caste natives, as a penancethat was imposed upon them by the Brahmin priests for sins of omissionor commission against their creed. By the way, I heard the other day agood story concerning these said Topes. It appears that a certain ensignof the Company's service, who had been furnished with his commission andoutfit by an elderly maiden aunt of a serious and pious turn of mind, whose positive injunctions to him on leaving England were that he wasnot to attempt to impose upon her with any account of dangers, difficulties, or surprising adventures that were not strictly true, forshe hated liars, and would cut him out of her will if she detected himindulging in anything of the sort; but requested that he would write toher a full, true and particular account of his first battle, should hebe engaged in one. 

"At the commencement of his first campaign he wrote to the old lady along descriptive letter, but unfortunately he did not pay sufficientattention to his orthography, and so came to grief, for one paragraph ofthe letter ran thus:

"'Our entire brigade, ten thousand strong, halted about six in themorning, and by seven the whole of the tents were snugly pitched, and wewere taking our breakfast comfortably in the tops of trees which grew onboth sides of the road. '

"He spelt the word Topes without the capital or letter e. Tents for tenthousand men pitched in the tops of trees. Oh, was there ever such amonstrous falsehood, and the poor old lady fairly shook from head tofoot with pious indignation. The letter was returned to the writerwithout remark or comment, and she was never again heard to mention thename of her nephew, and on her death, which occurred soon after, it wasfound that she had bequeathed the whole of her property to establish amission for diffusing the Gospel truth among the natives of the FijiIslands, and the unfortunate victim to bad spelling was left lamenting. "

In another of his epistles to the fair young girl in merry England, hewinds up with the following: "Much has been said and written concerningthe sagacity of some animals, especially the elephant, horse and dog, but the other day I was an eye witness to a fact which developed thecunning, reason, instinct, or call it what you will, of the IndianJackall. Having sauntered from my tent in the cool of the eveningthrough some wild cotton plants, down to a clump of shady trees thatgrew at no great distance from the river, I sat down to enjoy a cigar, and while so doing I observed the following incident: A jackall, one ofthe largest I believe I had ever seen, came quietly out from the coverof the jungle and made for the river, having in his mouth a large bunchof cotton; curious to know to what purpose he intended applying hismouthful, I watched him. Having reached the water's edge he turneddeliberately round and faced in the direction where I was seated, butnot in view, then depressing his bushy tail he gradually backed into thewater; very slow, indeed, was his backward movement, but on gaining thecentre of the somewhat shallow stream his whole body became submerged, leaving nothing visible above the water but the tip of his nose;suddenly he dived, and reappeared on the opposite bank. After givinghimself a good shake, he scampered off, apparently in high glee, leavingthe cotton floating on the surface of the water. Determined to find outif possible the meaning of this strange proceeding, I walked to theriver's bank, and wading some paces in contrived, with my long ridingwhip, to get hold of the piece of cotton. You may judge of my surpriseon finding it to be actually alive with enormous flees. The cunningjackall had taken this effectual means of ridding himself of histroublesome companions. "

But ere long scenes of a much more stirring character engaged theattention of our young soldier, and letter-writing had to a considerableextent to give way to the flashing of the sabre and the blurr of thetrumpet. The Punjaub was again swarming with a discontented population, whose warlike natures rendered them a most formidable foe for everywhereit was acknowledged that the Seik soldiery as a body were veryeffective, and their cavalry the finest horsemen in the country. Thesehad yet to be conquered and the bloody fields of Mooltan andChillianwalla had to be fought and won, and the campaign on the Sutlejbrought to a successful termination, ere the troops about to be engagedcould return to peaceful quarters. 

These brave, but now lawless people, rendered desperate by the internalcommotion of petty factions under different leaders, each seeking hisown personal aggrandizement, endeavored to throw the onus of the comingstruggle on the shoulders of the British Government, though it waspatent to all nations, European and Asiatic, that it had been broughtabout by the Punjaubees themselves. 

The bloody fields of Allewal and Sabranon, where they had been severelybeaten, was not sufficient to deter these dusky warriors or prevent themfrom again trying their strength with the paramount power in India, formidable as they knew it to be from past experience, but it isdoubtful whether the Seik soldiery ever seriously thought, although theyoften hauntingly boasted of fighting with the greatest power inHindostan, until within two or three months of the first battle, andeven then the rude and illiterate yeoman considered that they were aboutto enter upon a war purely defensive, although one in every waycongenial to their feelings of pride and national jealousy. To thegeneral impression of the Seiks, in common with other Indian nations, that the English were and are ever ready to extend their power, is to beadded the particular bearing of the British Government toward thePunjaub itself. 

Throughout this campaign it was by the fortune of war determined thatArthur's Regiment should serve, and among the brave men who rode in itsranks no heart beat higher or bosom burned with greater military ardorat the prospect of glory now opening before them, than that of ArthurCarlton, for with him promotion was the oyster to be eagerly sought for, but which could only be opened by the sword, and no service, howeverdangerous, must be shirked, in order to attain this desired end. 

"Gentlemen, it affords me much pleasure to be able to announce to youthat I have just received the order for the Light Dragoons to proceedforthwith and join the field force now advancing towards the riverSutlej, for the purpose of reducing the strong fortress of Mooltan, andcapturing its Dewan, the notorious Moolraj, who for some time past hasbeen sowing the seeds of disaffection amongst his subjects, and has atlast succeeded in inducing the Seiks and others to take up arms and actoffensively against our Government. This, of course, can lead to but oneresult--their overthrow and ultimate defeat; but it will also give ourregiment an opportunity of gaining fresh laurels and again proving tothese fellows how dangerous it is to measure weapons with Britishcavalry. We march the day after to-morrow. "

Thus spoke Colonel Leoline, commanding the regiment in which youngCarlton was serving as a cornet. 

This news, so pleasing to the ear of the soldiers, was received with theutmost enthusiasm by every officer present. They gave three cheers fortheir gallant leader, and another rouser for the service they belongedto, which made the walls of their mess room ring again, so delightedwere they at the prospect of leaving their quiet, humdrum quarters forthe dash and excitement of the battle field. 

The panorama which opened to the view on the mornings of the--wasglorious in the extreme, and one well calculated to awaken feelings ofemotion in the most obdurate breast. The dark waters of the Sutlejglittering in the sun's rays as they flowed onward, all unconscious ofthe bloody strife about to be enacted on its banks: the frowningfortress, with its embattled walls bristling with cannon and swarmingwith men, whose dusky figures beamed with hate and defiance; around theoutskirts of the town were the battalions of Seik soldiery, drawn upunder the Dewan Moolraj, watching with savage anxiety the approach ofthe British force, whose regiments of cavalry that headed the advanceopened their glittering ranks to the right and left and made apparentthe serried battalions of infantry and the frowning batteries of cannon. 

The scene was grandly magnificent. The eye included the whole field andglanced approvingly from the steady order of one foe to the even arrayof the other. All this spoke gladness of mind and strength of heart; butbeneath the elate looks of the advancing warriors there lurked thatfierce desire for the death of their fellow-men which must ever impelthe valiant soldier. 

With the general details during the progress of the siege our story haslittle to do, --suffice it to say that it was a bloody and protractedaffair. The Mooltanees fought with their usual desperate valor, but theyhad to cope with men who never turned their backs upon a foe when thefiat of battle had gone forth, who scorned to yield even when greatlyoutnumbered, and regarded defeat, if not actually a crime, animperishable disgrace; and so the strife waged fast and furious up tothe closing hours of the conflict. 

The siege and train heavy ordinance of the besieging force hurled theirponderous shot and shell against the masonry and buildings that defendedthe town and citadel, destroying, crushing, and burning with terribleeffect, while the field artillery poured forth continuous discharges oflighter projectiles of every description then in use, sweeping withdreadful result every opposing force that appeared on the walls or otherparts of the fortification. Amid the dire confusion and heavy clouds ofsmoke caused by the incessant cannonading the Infantry effected anentrance among the advanced mounds and trenches of petty outworks, andanimated by their partial success, formed themselves simultaneously intowedges and masses, and headed by their brave leaders rushed forward ingallant style. With a shout they leaped the ditch and up swarmingmounted the ramparts and stood victorious amid the captured cannon. 

The cavalry were effectually employed around and about the outworks ofthe town, and many a dashing charge and smart encounter took placewherever the enemy's horse made a sortie or sally, which was of frequentoccurrence. 

Wherever the blows from the tulwa's of the Seik horse rained heaviestthere was to be seen the flashing sabre of our young Cornet, cutting andslashing with right good will. The early training of old Bridoon stoodhim in good stead, and although scarcely twenty-one he had strength andnerve far beyond his age, and on several occasions his conspicuousbravery drew forth the hearty plaudits of his own men and others whowitnessed his dashing courage. 

In one of the outworks captured from the enemy during the early part ofthey siege had been erected a field hospital for the wounded, undercharge of Assistant Surgeon Dracott of the Light Dragoons. Now it sohappened that on the day of the grand attack a party of Seik horse inattempting to effect a retreat from the town were met by the Dragoons, and after a severe contest driven back and pursued as far as it wasthought advisable. A number of these fellows turned down a narrowpassage in hopes of escaping into the country at another point lessguarded, and in so doing came suddenly upon the hospital alluded to, inwhich there was a considerable number of poor fellows who had been moreor less hurt during the attack. Filled with rage and discomfiture at thefailure of their first attempt, and seeing the place was guarded only bya small party of Sepoys, for whom they had a supreme contempt--for theindependent yeomanry warriors of Afghanistan and the Punjaub held inlight estimation the hired native soldiery of Southern India. There werenumerous instances on record during the Afghan and Seik wars where themen of the North were seen, sword in hand, to attack the Company'sSepoys, beat down or turn aside their bayonets, and with the other handdrag them from the ranks by their cross belts and slay them. Even whenrun through the body they have been known to seize a firm grip of themusket until they had dealt a fatal blow to their antagonist and bothfall together mortally wounded, so hostile and revengeful were they oneto another when engaged in conflict, creed against creed, for the Sepoysof the South were, as a rule, Hindoos, while the Seiks and Afghans wereMahomedans--they conceived the brutal design of destroying the Hospitaland ruthlessly putting to death all they could lay their hands on, inrevenge for the morning's defeat, then escape to the plains beyond thetown. After a few moments' consultation they commenced the onslaught;the Sepoy guard made but a feeble resistance to these powerful horsemen, they threw down their arms and fled in haste leaving the poor invalidsto their mercy. 

Draycott the moment he guessed their design sprang on to his horse, which fortunately stood ready saddled at the door of the Surgery, androde straight at the leader of the party, a huge, burly Seik, andengaged him; but he with his light sabre, and less powerful arm, was nomatch for the Mahomedan soldier, who with one blow smashed theregulation toasting fork, and with his left hand seized the Surgeon bythe shoulder, and was forcing him backwards preparatory to giving himthe final thrust through the throat; the other scoundrels being engagedin beating down the bayonets of the guard. At this critical moment, andbefore a man of the wounded had been touched, about a score of troopers, headed by Carlton, appeared on the scene of action, and entirely changedthe programme. With a single stroke of his flashing sabre, Arthur dealttheir leader such a blow that he was fain to release his hold onDraycott and turn to defend himself; by this time the conflict hadbecome general fierce and bloody. 

"Death to the cowardly ruffians; save our wounded comrades, " shoutedCarlton, as, with a vigorous thrust he sent his weapon deep into thechest of his dusky opponent, placing him at once and forever _hors decombat_. Imitating the dashing conduct of their youthful leader theDragoons fought as British Soldiers can fight when their mettle is up, and roused by the gallant bravery of their pet officers, in less thantwenty minutes from the striking of the first blow every one of the Seikhorse were either cut to pieces or taken prisoners. The report of theencounter was spread far and wide, and not a man in the regiment, fromthe colonel to the trumpeter stood so high in the estimation of bothofficers and men throughout the Brigade as did our hero. Conspicuousbravery on the battle field seldom fails to elicit rapturous applausefrom every branch of the service. 

The fall of Mooltan and the capture of its Dewan Moolraj did not, ashad been anticipated by many, put an end to the campaign. Disaffectionand disloyalty had spread throughout the country, and the Seiks wereeverywhere arming to resist what they were pleased to assert was theintention of the East India Company, namely: the subjugation of theentire country of the five rivers; and large masses of soldiery, underexperienced leaders, had congregated on the plains eager for the fray. Not many days elapsed after the reduction of Mooltan before the armyreceived orders and pressed on with all expedition to that part of thecountry where the battle of Chillianwalla was to decide the question atissue between the contending forces. 

The result of the first day's struggle was undoubtedly very much infavor of the Seiks, and can only be accounted for in this way: Thefollowers of the Prophet had for a considerable time been massingthemselves under experienced leaders and had established their positionin a manner best suited to resist the advancing foe, this they wereenabled to do by their thorough knowledge of the the country, withoutany great exertion or hardship, being undisturbed, and certain that theenemy could not approach but in a certain direction, and that pointalone had to be watched. But not so with the British. Long forcedmarches, outlying pickets, advance guards, and all the harrassingfatigues incident to moving through an enemy's country had to be borne. This to a considerable extent wearied the European soldiery, though itcould not dispirit or discourage them, and again they were suddenlyattacked ere they were well prepared to do battled. Yet they pressed onto a scene which was to terminate in so bloody a conflict. But thesecond day told a very different tale; whatever advantage had beengained, during the early stage of the fight, was not only nullified, buttheir successes became a sort of _Ignis Futuris_ that lured them on totheir destruction, for during the night the British were reinforced by acolumn of fresh troops from Bombay and the action opened with twofoldvigor, and so the mighty tide of battle rolled on. Towards evening thedecisive blow was struck; the Seiks were beaten at all points and fledin wild confusion and dismay, leaving their unconquerable antagonistsmasters of the field. 

"Colonel, " said an aide-de-camp, dashing up at full gallop, "yourregiment will move one hundred and fifty paces to the right, " and then, touching his horse with his spur, darted off in another direction. "Threes right forward, " and the Dragoons moved to the position assignedthem. A brigade of guns that had been brought up under cover of thecavalry now opened upon the advancing Seik horse with terrible effect, throwing them into such confusion as to prevent them from rapidlyreforming. At this moment the order was received for the Dragoons towheel into line and charge, and ere the Seiks had recovered, were amongthem, and the flower of the enemy's cavalry had to give way before theimpetuous charge of our light Dragoons. There were more hand to handencounters in this affair than has been recorded in any other engagementof the campaign. During the melee, one of the commanding General'sA. D. C. 's had a narrow escape. A powerful looking Seik rode at him, buton coming within arm's length the staff officer's horse stumbled oversome dead or wounded men; the sword of the dusky warrior was raised togive the blow, which must have proved fatal, and in another moment therewould have been a vacancy on the General's staff, but Arthur, who hadbeen hewing with might and main within a few yards of the spot, seeingthe imminent peril of his countryman, dashed up, shortening his sabre ashe did so, and, with a powerful thrust, sent it clean through the bodyof the Seik; the blow intended for the head fell harmless on the platedscales of the epaulet of the aide as he recovered himself in the saddle. 

"Thanks, Carlton, my dear fellow, for this good service; I will notforget it, should it ever come to my turn to assist you in any way, " wasall that could be said in the hurry and excitement of the conflict, forthe tide of battle still rolled on. A two gun sheet battery which hadbeen committing great havoc on a column of infantry, was still throwinggrape and canister with murderous effect. These discharges had again andagain swept through the little party. The Seik gunners stood manfully totheir guns until the Infantry came within fifty yards of them. "Charge, men, charge, " shouted a very handsome officer of the Bombay Fusiliers, "they cannot stand the bayonets of the old Toughs. Forward. " The mensprang to the charge, and about one hundred of the Fusiliers to the veryteeth of destruction, facing inevitable death with a coolness andfearlessness so characteristic of the British soldier. But a body of theenemy's horse suddenly appeared on the flank of the column of Infantrycompelling them to form square to resist cavalry, and thus the bravelittle party were placed in a precarious position, being cut off fromtheir supports. A withering volley from the right and rear face of thesquare, followed by a rapid file-firing from the standing ranks, emptiedquite a number of saddles and drove the troopers off. 

An officer of Dragoons at the head of a party of his men rode at theSeik artillerest, who, with the exception of two, abandoned their gunsand were endeavouring to escape by retreat, but they were all either cutdown or captured. The two who yet remained at their post waited for theInfantry to advance sufficiently close to make their fire tell withmurderous effect, they then raided their lintstocks to fire, which musthave proved horribly fatal to the Fusiliers, when Arthur Carlton, for itwas he who led, appeared out of a cloud of dust and smoke close to theBattery. Leveling his pistol, he shot down one of the Seik gunners, thelintstock of the other was within a few inches of the vent. A secondmore and a frightful gap would have been made in the ranks of theadvancing Fusiliers. 

A shout that can only be given by a British throat, broke on the ear ofthe unfortunate artillerest, who hesitated for a moment. It was hislast, for a down stroke from Arthur's flashing sabre fell upon his neck, separating the head from the body. The Fusiliers dashed up, and thebattery that dealt so much destruction among the Infantry was capturedat last. 

"Splendidly done, by Jupiter. Those men are the Fusiliers of the Bombaycolumn, are they not? and who is that cavalry officer?"

"Cornet Carlton, Light Dragoons, your Excellency; the same officer whosaved your Excellency's despatch and my life, that I mentioned to yousome half hour since, " was the earnest reply, of one of the aides. "Gallant fellow, bravely done, only a Cornet, must have hisLieutenancy, Hargraves, see that I do not forget this in my despatchesto the Government to-morrow. " Then, turning to his Chief of Staff, said, "Give orders for the Dragoons and Light Artillery to pursue for half anhour. The enemy is beaten at all points, and get the Infantry undercanvass with as little delay as possible. " "The action is over, " saidthe Commander-in-chief, closing his field glass, and with his staff leftthe ground. And thus, after two days hard fighting, the name ofChillianwalla was added to the list of victories that has beenemblazoned on the page of history, showing the prowess and valour ofBritish troops in India, and the name of Arthur Carlton was added to thelist of Lieutenants borne on the muster roll of the Light Dragoons. 

It is not our intention to take the reader over the battle fields ofPeshawa, suffice it to say that our Dragoon, with his regiment, scouredthe plains of the Punjaub up to the very mouth of the Iron Kybre itself, which had proved fatal to so many of our gallant countrymen. 

A group of officers had assembled around the withered and charred stumpof a large tree, chatting and smoking, the ruddy glare of theneighboring camp fire throwing its fitful light upon the uniform andaccoutrements of the little party, showing them to be no other than ourold friends of H. M. Light Dragoons, waiting for the order to commencetheir morning's march. 

"Why are we not on the move?" enquired Major Hackett, as he joined them. 

"Something gone wrong with the baggage, I suppose, " responded one of theparty, "but here comes old Rations, (for it was by this name that theQuartermaster was usually styled by the men of his Regiment) he, perhaps, can tell us something about it. "

"Well, Quartermaster, can you explain the cause of the delay. Have youseen the Colonel, or are we to be kept here all day?" and the Majorflung away the end of his cigar with an air of annoyance. Thegood-humored Quartermaster explained, in somewhat of a round-about way, that everything would be all right in a few minutes. 

"Out with it, Davison, tell us what is the row. You don't laugh all overyour face and half way down your back for nothing, I know, " said Arthur, reining up his horse alongside that of the Quartermaster, who, by theway, was a special friend of our young Lieutenant. "Just illuminate andturn on the gas a little, as it were. "

"Well, then, gentlemen, " resumed that worthy functionary, "it appearsthat this morning, on the elephants being brought up to carry the messand Hospital Tents, one of the number was found to be missing, and theMuccadem declared that it was useless to attempt to put anything extraon the others, for that they would not stir a peg if so overloaded. Idid not know what to do in this dilemma; the tents could not be leftbehind, so I sent for Fortescue, who was in charge of the Governmentcattle, to ask his advice. In a few minutes he came cantering up. Iexplained matters. The elephant cannot be far off. " At this moment aMuccadem came running up to say that the animal was in the jungle, abouta quarter of a mile off, but was refractory and would not budge an inchin the direction of the camp. 

"Divide his load among the other four, " said Fortescue. 

"But they will not carry it, sir, " replied the native Inspector. 

"I know that as well as you can tell me, but do as I order you. "

The Inspector salammed and obeyed, but the animals would not move. "Nowtake off the load from two and give them a couple of tether chains. "This was done, the loads removed, and a long chain, used for camppurposes given to each, who caught them up with their trunks and seemedto know exactly what they were expected to do with them. They were thenled into the jungle where the other one was said to be. 

"You will see some fun presently, " said Fortescue, and he was right, forin a very short time the refractory animal was seen coming into camp atthe top of his speed, shrieking and crying, closely followed by theother two, who were thrashing him soundly with the chains that had beengiven to them for that purpose. There is no doubt they gave him tounderstand that they did not intend to carry his load for him. 

I have heard elephant stories before, but it was most ridiculouslyabsurd to see that great mountain of flesh crying like a whipped child, go down on his knees and quietly receive his burden without any attemptto hurt or molest his keeper. 

All the baggage was by this time off the ground; the regiment got theorder to advance, which they did with right good will, for both officersand men of the Light Dragoons were equally satisfied to find themselvesonce more approaching their comfortable quarters in Karricabad. 

CHAPTER VI. 

Smiling Spring, with her ever-changing episode of sunshine and tears, had twice come and gone. The gorgeous fields of golden grain had for asecond time bent their heads beneath the harvest side, and the autumnaltints of every hue and shade had again fallen on the rich foliage of themagnificent old woods of Devon, while the whirr of the pheasant in thepreserves, and the popping at the partridges among the turnips, indicated that the shooting season had once more commenced over thebroad lands around Vellenaux. 

Things wore much the same aspect as they had done on Arthur's returnfrom College and prior to his departure for the sunny plains ofHindostan some eighteen months since. Sir Jasper was apparently hale andhearty. Edith had finished her education, on which her uncle had sparedno expense, for masters and professors had been procured from London tosuperintend her studies. She was perfectly happy, occasionally receivingletters from Arthur, which always afforded her much pleasure to peruseand think over, and frequently would she detect herself gazing upon hisphotograph in the pretty little locket he had sent her from Oxford byTom Barton, and which, since his departure, she constantly wore. 

Ralph Coleman's visits had become more frequent of late; this at firstdid not attract Edith's notice. She had never been prepossessed in hisfavour, but as her uncle's kinsman, and being heir to the Baronetcy, herdeportment to him had ever been polite and affable, but subsequently hisattentions became so marked that they aroused her to a sense of his realmeaning. Yet she could scarcely bring herself to believe that such wasreally the case, and but for the delicate hints and inuendos thatoccasionally fell from the double dealing widow, she would, there is nodoubt, have remained for a much longer time unconvinced of hisintentions towards her. However, time was passing on and Ralph made uphis mind to bring matters to the point. One lovely afternoon, as he wasentering the conservatory, he espied the fluttering of a woman's dressamong the shrubs and flowers, and on coming nearer, though still at somelittle distance, perceived a lady walking slowly and as if in deepthought. Feeling quite certain that it was no other than the one he wasin quest of, and thanking the fates for giving him the long wished foropportunity, he advanced more quickly and was soon beside Edith (for sheit proved to be) before she was aware that any one was near. Turning, with something of a surprised look on her lovely face, she exclaimed, "Oh, how you startled me. I thought you were on the way to London. I amquite amazed to find you here. "

"I hope my presence is not distasteful to you, " he said, gently, at thesame time lifting his hat and bowing low before her. He really carednothing for the beautiful girl at his side, for he was thoroughlyselfish; nor did he care by what means or how low he had to stoop togain possession of the object wished for. 

Edith, knowing her own feelings, and not wishing to say aught to hurtor offend him more than was actually necessary, scarcely knew how toanswer him, disliking him as she did. Still she had nothing to complainof, for he had ever paid her the most marked respect. Before she couldframe her answer he spoke again, "Edith, I have for some time beenwishing to speak to you on a subject very near my heart. I love youdearly and have long done so, will you be my wife, or, at least, give mesome hope that my suit may be acceptable at some future time? only giveme one encouraging smile, one ray of hope, and I will drudge onpatiently until you bid me come to you. "

"Oh no, " Edith replied, "you must not wait, you must not hope, I cannever be yours. Go, leave me. " Before she had well finished, RalphColeman had seized her little white hands in his strong grasp, and saidin a deep, hoarse voice, "Edith, I ask you again will you be mine?"

Surprise, astonishment, and a feeling very like indignation tookpossession of Edith. 

"Mr. Ralph Coleman, " she said, "before I answer any more questions, release my hands. " As he did so she raised her head proudly, and turningtowards him with a heightened color, said, "I have already told you thatI cannot love you, and am surprised that it is not sufficient. I thankyou for the honor you intended, but beg that you will never mention thissubject to me again. "

As these words fell upon his ear, Ralph Coleman's face changed anddarkened visibly, an evil light came into his eyes, and an ugly frowncontracted his brow, then, with a smile, whose meaning could not bemistaken, he said:

"Take care, proud girl, I have sworn that you shall be mine, and by theHeavens above us, I intend to keep my vow, and neither man nor devilshall turn me from my purpose!"

Edith's eyes flashed, her beautiful lips curled in scorn, and her wholeface beamed with intense disgust, and with a voice low and deep shesaid, "Have a care, sir, beware how you threaten the niece of Sir JasperColeman. Before to-morrow my uncle shall be made acquainted with whathas just passed, and the character of the man who has partaken so oftenof his hospitality, and been ever treated with kind attention, he hasyet to learn how these courtesies have been returned, " and sweeping pasthim with a look of supreme contempt, Edith was about to pass on. 

It was evident that he had gone too far and that she was not a girl tobe intimidated by anything that he might say, and at once changed histactics--for he was an excellent actor--"Pardon me, Miss Effingham, Iknow not what I am saying, I am mad. Yes, lady, mad! for your beautylike the moon, makes all men mad, who comes within the sphere of itsattraction. Forgive me for thus offending you. " Edith turned towardshim, and with calm dignity replied, "Promise me never again to revert tothis subject, and in no way further molest me, and what has just passedshall be forgiven. " He gave the required promise. Edith then pursued herway to the end of the conservatory, passed through the doorway, and onto the terrace where she was met by her Uncle. He observed herheightened color, but as she made no complaint he allowed it to passwithout comment. 

Ralph Coleman stood for a few moments irresolute. She must, he thought, either be aware that her uncle has left her sole heiress, or else is inlove with another, Carlton perhaps. Fool that I was to run so great arisk, and that, at the instigation of that scheming woman. Should shesay aught to her uncle on this matter, it would ruin me with him. I willat once seek an interview and endeavour to wheedle him out of a promiseto make a codicil in my favor. 

Failing in the attempt to secure the hand of the beautiful MissEffingham, and not daring to risk another trial, as it might spoil theplans he had been contemplating since Edith's dismissal of him, he hadkept shy of that young lady during the remainder of his stay, and priorto his departure for London, he had contrived to have a long interviewwith the Baronet, during which he very ably showed the position that hewould hold should the Baronetcy eventually descend to him who wastotally unable to support the dignity of the rank that would thus bethrust upon him. So well and ably did he argue this point, that ere heleft Vellenaux he extorted a sort of promise from Sir Jasper that hewould think the matter over and make a bequest in his favor. 

He returned to his office, in deed court, annoyed and disheartened to aconsiderable extent by the failure of his designs as far as related toMiss Effingham, but his wounded vanity he could afford to bear and hidewithin his own breast, as he now confidently believed that Sir Jasperwould adopt the suggestions he had made to him, and settle, at least, two or three thousand per annum on the successor to the Baronetcy duringthe said successor's life; and in this frame of mind the Lawyerdetermined to de vote himself entirely to his profession, and to avoidthe pretty Edith, Mrs. Fraudhurst, and Vellenaux, until the presentowner should have been gathered to his fathers. 

There is perhaps no season of the year in the South of England sopleasing to the eye or more genial to the corporeal faculties than thatof early autumn, especially that part of Devonshire which we haveselected for the opening and closing scene of our story. Vellenaux, withits varied and picturesque styles of architecture, embosomed, as itwere, in rich woodlands, with a perfect amphitheatre of hills on threesides, and ever and anon the soft breezes of the ocean sweeping over thedowns, and through the beech woods on the other. It was, indeed, adomain of which any one might have been proud. 

It was a lovely evening, the sun had just commenced to dip behind thecrest of the adjacent hills, and was sending its golden rays through thebright foliage of the trees and down the long paths that led to thewoods hard by. Edith had strolled, book in hand, to her favourite knoll, beneath a stately elm, and was engaged in reading. Her two favouritedogs, fine specimens of the Italian greyhound, chased each other incircles which gradually grew smaller until it brought them to the veryfeet of their mistress. One placed his small smooth nose in the littlewhite hand that was thrown carelessly on the moss grown roots besideher, while the other, to attract her attention, placed his paw on thepage she was reading and looked up in her face. Suddenly their earselongated and away they bounded, as the noise of horses hoofs were heardapproaching in her direction, aroused her from her recumbent position, as Julia Barton, on her quiet little pony, trotted up. She was off in aninstant, and running up to her friend, greeted her in the animated, lively way, as was her custom when she had anything to communicate thatshe thought would please or interest her. "At your studies, " she said, taking up the volume that Edith had let fall on her appearance. "Longengagements, a tale of the Affghan war. Oh, oh, thinking of our oldplayfellow are we?" and the merry girl laughed heartily, "we shall soonhear more of him, for my sister-in-law, Pauline, has just mostunexpectedly arrived, and I wish you to know her. She is very charmingand improves wonderfully on acquaintance, is very good-natured, andtells such funny stories about the people she lived among, and has agreat deal to say about Arthur Carlton. You will come to the Willowsto-morrow, will you not, and call on her?" Edith gave the requiredassent, and Julia, mounting her pony, cantered down the avenue to thelodge gate, where she was joined by a tall, gentlemanly looking man, mounted on a small bay mare, and the two walked their horses at an easypace down the green lane in the direction of the Willows, and Edithreturned to the house in time to dress for dinner, well pleased with theprospect of hearing something of him who was scarcely absent from herthoughts for any great length of time. She did not attempt to analyzeher feelings on the subject. It was pleasant to think of her absentfriend, and that was sufficient for the present. 

Mr. Barton, Sen. , or old Mr. Barton as he was usually styled, for he wasupwards of eighty years of age, and had been born in the house he nowoccupied, a good comfortable and substantial, but old fashioneddwelling, which had passed from father to son for several generations. His father had been what is termed a gentleman farmer, and attendedpersonally to the superintending of his acres. His son, the presentoccupant, had followed his example. He married early in life, but thelady of his choice died young, leaving one son to remind the sorrowingwidower of his loss. This was Horace Barton, whom we have alreadyintroduced; he chose a different field for his labors, and managed tosecure, while yet young, on appointment in India. Our friend Tom and histwo sisters, Julia and Emily, were the result of a second marriage, andalthough there was every comfort to be had, and a good home for allduring the life of the old couple, yet it was absolutely necessary thatTom should make his own road through life, and that the girls should, byearly marriage, secure for themselves suitable establishments, as theWillows would fall to Horace on the death of his father, and it wouldnot be many years before his term of service in the East would expire, and he would then, doubtless, return to England and occupy the old housein Devonshire. 

The arrival of Mrs. Horace Barton from Calcutta had been quiteunexpected at the Willows, as no preparatory letter had announced herintentions or arrival in England. Nevertheless she found all delightedto receive her. She had spent the most of her visit to Europe in the gaycapitals of Paris and London, and a couple of months was all the timeshe could spare to remain in Devonshire. 

On her first visit she had not been introduced to Miss Effingham, andhad only caught a casual glance at her while crossing the lawn, as Edithwas returning from a visit to Julia Barton; but on this occasion wasdetermined to become acquainted with her, and find out if she reallydeserved the high encomiums that had been bestowed upon her by ArthurCarlton. She had anticipated seeing a pretty lively English countrygirl, but was totally unprepared for the brilliant beauty and perfectlyself-possessed manners of Edith, and she always found an attentivelistener in her to all she had to relate on the subject of India andArthur Carlton whenever they met, which was now frequent, for anintroduction had taken place between them very shortly after herarrival, and they consequently became on the most intimate and friendlyfooting. The magnificence of the ancestral dwelling of the Colemans, with its Parks, Parterres and grounds, was quite a novelty to PaulineBarton, and with Edith she traversed the long corridors, picturegalleries, and armories with wonderment, for they contrasted strangelywith the Pagodas, Temples, and Bungalows in the country where thegreater part of her life had been spent (for she had been born there), and she thought that Edith's life must be one of never-ending delight, and for a time it was so, but a sad change was about to come over thebright spirit of her dream of happiness for a time, and perhaps forever, and dash the cup of joyous light-heartedness from her grasp. 

The event so much desired by the man of law took place at a much earlierdate than had been anticipated by that gentleman, or, indeed, by any oneof his acquaintances as the sequel will show. 

"Reynolds, " said the Baronet, one evening after dinner, some few weeksafter his interview with his worthy cousin, the heir to the title, "place candles in my study, and you need not wait up for me. It islikely that I shall sit writing to a late hour. " The old servant bowed, and retired to do the bidding of his master. 

After affectionately wishing his niece good-night, and a passing remarkto Mrs. Fraudhurst, Sir Jasper entered his study, closing the doorquietly behind him. 

For a considerable time he paced the room, with his hands crossed behindhis back, as was his custom when in a meditative mood. Finally, seatinghimself at his escritoire, he placed the massive silver candlesticks, with their wax lights, in such a position that the glow would not effecthis sight, and arranged his materials for writing to suit him. For a fewmoments he leaned back in his chair, then selecting a small key from abunch he always carried, unlocked the centre drawer which contained onlya few memorandums and drew it completely out. He next touched a smallspring at the side, when a panel of the back slid open, disclosing anaperture from which he took the packet he had brought from London theevening previous to the opening of our story. This was the will andtestament of Sir Jasper Coleman, in which he had left his niece, EdithEffingham, sole heiress of all he possessed, with the exception of agratuity of five thousand pounds to be paid to his _protégé_, ArthurCarlton, within six months after his (the Baronet's) decease, and to befree from all legacy or other duties. Having re-read the document, helaid it on the table beside him and then commenced writing. 

Sir Jasper had thus acted without the knowledge of his lawyer, the manwith whom he had consulted on every other matter since his succession tothe Baronetcy, consequently that gentleman was in ignorance of any suchwill being in existence. It had been drawn by a competent lawyerresiding in one of the suburbs of London, and had been properlywitnessed, and was, in every particular, a regular, complete document. The parties present on the occasion knew nothing of Sir Jasper, hadnever heard of Vellenaux or its owner, and in all probability wouldnever hear of him again, as there was no likelihood of the will beingcontested. Why he had acted in this manner is hard to say. 

The Baronet had finished his letter, and was again musing, and mutteringto himself, "Ralph Coleman, you are an unprincipled man. Do you thinkyour attempt to coerce my darling niece to listen to your suit hasescaped me. You have failed in that quarter and now come to me to assistyou. Well, well as she is safe I can afford to forgive you, and let youhave a couple of thousand a year, to enable you to support yourself likea gentleman when the title descends to you. " Here the Baronet resumedhis pen and commenced the writing of a codicil in behalf of his cousin, Ralph Coleman. 

Perfect tranquility reigned throughout the house, all, with theexception of Sir Jasper, had retired to rest, and there was no sound, save the ticking of the old-fashioned time-piece, with its monotonousand never varying tick, tick, and the scratching noise made by the quillas it traced its inky characters on the yet incomplete codicil theBaronet was preparing. The candles had burned low in their sockets, andthe fire on the hearth had died out unheeded by him who sat writing lineafter line. Suddenly a spasm seized him. He, with great difficulty, raised himself from the stooping position over the escritoire, but as hedid so, another spasm, more violent than the first, attacked him. Hetried to call for assistance, but his tongue clove to his mouth. He wassuffocating. He stretched his arm towards the silver bell, which stoodon the table, but it was beyond his reach. His head sank on the cushionof the chair. His eyes closed, another convulsive start, and all wasover. Sir Jasper Coleman was no more. 

For many months past it was customary whenever it was known that SirJasper would sit up late, for Mrs. Fraudhurst, on passing the door ofhis chamber before descending to the breakfast room, to tap and enquirewhether the Baronet would come down to his breakfast or have it sent upto him. On the following morning the widow on stopping at the chamberdoor discovered that it was ajar, and on pushing it gently open foundthe room was vacant, the bed undisturbed and, it was quite evident fromits general appearance, that Sir Jasper could not have passed thenight--or any part of it--there. Though startled a little at first, Mrs. Fraudhurst was not long in coming to a conclusion as to what really hadhappened during the night. It had more than once occurred to her activemind that such might be the manner in which the Baronet's life wouldterminate. "And the hour I so feared may have come at last, " thoughtshe, as the consequences that might accrue to herself, should such turnout to be the case, rose up before her; but she was equal to theemergency; quickly and noiselessly she descended to the private libraryand, without rapping, entered, closing the door quietly after her. 

The morning sun streamed through the stained glass windows, castingtheir brilliant hues full on the face of the corpse, rendering the palefeatures more ghastly to look on than the convulsions had left them. Mrs. Fraudhurst was a woman of strong mind, but no feeling, and thepresence of death had no terrors for her. She had entered, prepared inher own mind for the spectacle that now presented itself. Her plans hadbeen already arranged, but she had hardly counted on their being soeasily executed. With a firm hand she took up the will and unfinishedcodicil, folded them, and placed them carefully in the bosom of herdress. She now took up the bunch of keys, and replacing the centredrawer, locked it and dropped the bunch of keys into one of the pocketsof Sir Jasper's dressing gown, and finding that the open letter relatedto general business connected with the estate and some charitableinstitution, left them as she found them, and without one look of pityor regret on her now flushed face towards him to whose liberality shehad for years been indebted for a home, with all the comforts andconveniences of life, left the apartment and regained her own chamberwithout meeting or being seen by any one. Her first act was to securelylock up the papers so feloniously obtained, then, applying cold water toher heated brow, to wait for the ringing of the second bell forbreakfast. She could hear the voice of Edith, as her laugh rang out uponthe lawn beneath her open window, at the gambols of the two greyhounds. 

"Reynolds, ascertain whether Sir Jasper will have his breakfast sent upto him, " said Mrs. Fraudhurst, as she and, Edith took their seats at thetable, some twenty minutes later. 

Edith did not speak, but waited patiently to know if her uncle wouldcome down. There had been a growing coolness between her and the ladywho headed the table. She could not but think that there was somecomplicity between her and Ralph Coleman with respect to herself. Shecould not tell why this should be, but could not divest herself of theidea, nevertheless. 

"My master is not in his own room, and has not slept in his bed, "hurriedly exclaimed Reynolds, re-entering the breakfast room. Edithstarted up, visibly agitated, but not so with the widow, she coollysaid, "you had better look in at the library, he was writing there latelast night and may probably have thrown himself on the lounge, andfallen asleep there. "

"I will go with you, " Edith said to the old servant, as she proceeded alittle in advance of him. 

Mrs. Fraudhurst sat staring blankly out of the window waiting for theresult, which she knew must ensue. A loud shriek from Edith rang throughthe house, and breathless with excitement, Reynolds entered andannounced Sir Jasper's death and that Miss Effingham had fainted. 

The time for action had now arrived. "He may be only in a fit, " saidMrs. Fraudhurst. "I will myself drive over for Dr. Martin. Call MissEffingham's maid and let her be carried to her own room and properlyattended to. I will return with all speed; in the meantime, Reynolds, besure that no one enters the room. You had better lock the door and takepossession of the key as soon as Miss Edith has been removed. " Afterquickly dressing, she proceeded towards the stables to hurry forward theharnessing of the pony phaeton, which was at all times at her disposal, and drove rapidly to the house of Dr. Martin, though she well knew hisservices would be of no avail, but it was a part of the plan she hadmatured, and was now carrying out. 

Fortunately for her the Rector and Sir Jasper's lawyer and generalbusiness agent were at the time with the Doctor in his surgery, consulting on some Parish business and without a moment's delay theyproceeded to Vellenaux, the Rector riding with Mrs. Fraudhurst, whoseappearance and conduct were well suited to the occasion. 

Life was pronounced extinct, and the cause of death was supposed to be asudden attack of his old complaint, disease of the heart. The lawyer, inthe presence of all, placed seals on the escritoire and doors of thestudy immediately after the body had been transferred to the bedchamber, and wrote to Ralph Coleman, as the only male relation of the lateBaronet, acquainting him with what had occurred, and it was not longbefore that gentleman presented himself at Vellenaux. 

CHAPTER VII. 

The morning prior to the funeral it pleased Mrs. Fraudhurst, on meetingRalph Coleman in the long corridor, to request that worthy individual togrant her a private interview in the general library at eleven o'clock, precisely, the lawyer bowed in the affirmative and passed on. 

At the time appointed the widow, in very deep but fashionable mourning, entered the library by one door, and a few minutes later the new baronetpresented himself at another. After closing it he advanced to the centretable and waited for the lady to announce the nature of her businesswith him. 

In a low, clear and cold, but perfectly steady voice she thus addressedhim, "Some two years since I informed you by letter of the existence ofa will in which the late baronet, after paying a gratuity of fivethousand pounds to Arthur Carlton, left Miss Effingham sole heiress. Inthat will the name of Ralph Coleman does not appear. If this document beread to-morrow, " she continued after a slight pause, "Vellenaux is lostto you forever. "

"But, my dear madam, " he replied, "among the late baronet's papers will, doubtless, be found a codicil in my behalf, in fact my cousin distinctlypromised me that he would make a suitable provision for the successor tothe title. "

"And so he would have done had he lived long enough to complete it, " wasthe lady's quiet reply. 

"You do not mean to say that you are certain Sir Jasper made no suchprovision, " enquired the lawyer in a quick and excited tone. 

"No document of that kind had been executed prior to the baronet'sdeath, " she boldly asserted, advancing towards him. "Now listen to me:providing the will in question be not forthcoming after the funeral, thelaw will declare you heir to the estate. Now, if you swear to me by allthat you hold most sacred, that you will allow me one thousand per annumand a suite of apartments at Vellenaux so long as I shall live, no willshall appear, and within one hour after the body of the late Sir Jasperhas been consigned to the tomb, you shall become Sir Ralph Coleman andmaster of Vellenaux and its broad lands. "

"But, " was the cautious reply of the wily lawyer, "how know I that anywill has been made or that the Baronet has not kept faith with me. Yourword is all that I have to depend on for the truth or falsity of thestatement. " He knew her to be an unscrupulous woman, but shrewd withal, and could not bring himself to believe that she would compromise herselfso far as to have fraudulently possessed herself of, Sir Jasper'spapers, yet her language indicated very strongly that something of thekind was the case. 

"If she really has them, " he thought, "one thousand per annum would notbe too large a sum to purchase her silence concerning them; and as thebargain would be a verbal one, and unknown to any but ourselves, shecould not hereafter, by any disclosures that she might make, convict meas an accomplice to the transaction. " These thoughts flashed through hismind ere she again spoke. 

"Your words, sir, though not complimentary to me, I can excuse, onaccount of the peculiarity of your present position and frame of mind, and you shall be satisfied of the truth of that which you pretend todoubt, " and drawing from her pocket two papers, Mrs. Fraudhurst heldthem with a firm grasp before him, but in such a position that itenabled him to read every line. "There, " she continued, in a low tone, "is the will in question, and the codicil which you so much depend on;are you satisfied?" Then, refolding the papers somewhat hastily, replaced them in her dress and turned to leave the room, remarking asshe did so, "I shall return in a few moments, and you must make up yourmind as to how you intend to act before I do so. "

Ralph had read every line and word, and saw how hopeless was his caseunless he closed with the widow's offer, but he would make one moretrial to obtain the best position, and as she re-entered said, "Placethose documents in my possession and I will swear to fulfil the termsyou propose. "

"Not so, " she replied with a contemptuous curl on her lip, "they remainwith me, and I remain here; there will be no difficulty in that. Ofcourse Miss Effingham must find shelter beneath your roof for some timeat least, and as you are a single man, you will require some one tosuperintend your establishment until the future Lady Coleman shallappear on the scene, and ere that event takes place, other arrangementscan be made. Accept my conditions and you become one of the wealthiestmen in the county. Reject them, and I immediately place both documentsin the hands of the late Baronet's lawyer, who is now in the house. Ihave merely to say that I gathered them from the floor of the study, onthe morning of Sir Jasper's death, and that, in the hurry and excitementof the moment, carried them to my own room, unconscious of theirimportance, until this morning. This statement, true or otherwise, willsuffice to account for their being in my possession"

Ralph Coleman would have still hesitated, but her's being the strongerwill of the two, he succumbed, took the required oath, and the compactbetween them was complete. No sooner was this effected than both partiesleft the place of meeting in the same order as they entered. 

Having carried her point and thus secured for herself a comfortableincome, together with a handsome suite of apartments within the walls ofVellenaux, which she very naturally concluded would be a permanent home, at least during the life of Sir Ralph, he being completely in her power, as she could at any time, by the production of the late Baronet's will, drive him ignominiously from his present luxurious abode. It is true, ineffecting this she would have to seek refuge in a foreign land, yet avindictive spirit will often, as the old adage runs, cut off the nose tobe revenged on the face. 

Having gained the mastery of the position, she turned her thoughts inthe direction of the new Baronet with a view of inducing him to submitto the matrimonial yoke and by that means establish herself asVellenaux's envied mistress with the prefix of Lady before her name. However, she could afford to bide her time, feeling certain that in thelong run Sir Ralph would yield, her stronger will working on his fears. 

The funeral was over. The family vault of the Coleman's in the quaintold church, a little beyond the Park limits, had received the mortalremains of the worthy man, who for forty years had attended divineservice within that sacred edifice where the last sad rite for thedeparted had just been performed. It had been a solemn and imposingceremony. The cortege passed slowly and silently down the broad avenueof venerable elms, through the Park gate and up the road leading to theold church yard. The superbly mounted coffin, borne on its funeralhearse, whose black plumes, undulated in the soft winds that sighedthrough the trees, was drawn by six velvet palled horses, andaccompanied by mutes, pall bearers and others in all the solemnparaphernalia of woe, followed by the mourning coaches, and the longline of private carriages, some occupied and others empty, for by one ofthe conventionalities of English well-bred society, one can be presenton such occasions by proxy. Your carriage will suffice, should you notfeel equal to the task of attending in person. The full, deep, richtones of the organ poured forth the funeral dirge, as the coffin wascarried up the centre aisle and placed on trussels in front of thealtar. The pews, gallery and aisles were filled by rich and poor; somuch had the late Baronet been respected by friend and tenant. Thevenerable Rector who performed the service, although accustomed to suchscenes, was deeply affected. He had been on the most intimate terms withSir Jasper, and had never solicited his kind offices on behalf of thepoor in vain. Besides, he was more advanced in years than the friendwhom he had now consigned to the cold embraces of the grave, for werenot his own days numbered and must soon draw to a close?

As the different parties separated on the conclusion of the ceremony, various were the comments and conjectures as to the manner in which SirJasper had divided his property, and it was almost universally believedthat Miss Edith would come in for a greater part of his wealth and theestate of Vellenaux would undoubtedly become hers. 

Sir Ralph, as he must now be called, and others interested in suchproceedings, returned, to Vellenaux to examine and hear read the willand such other documents relating to the distribution of the propertyreal and personal of the late Baronet, and great was the surprise of allpresent except one, when it was announced that, after the strictestsearch, no will or other document of the kind had been found among thepapers of the late Baronet. Mr. Russell, a man of integrity, and wellknown for the uprightness of his dealings, and who had for upwards ofthirty years transacted all the legal business and had the management ofthe estate of the late Sir Jasper, declared that, to the best of hisknowledge no will had been made. This was followed by a statement fromSir Ralph to the effect that it was but a few weeks since, that hiscousin, the late Sir Jasper Coleman, had declared to him his intentionof making a will in his (Sir Ralph's) favor. Miss Effingham, on beingasked, had sent word that she had never heard her uncle say anything onthe subject, and Mrs. Fraudhurst, on being interrogated, announced thatshe had always been of the opinion that Miss Effingham was to be soleheiress of her uncle's wealth, but had never heard Sir Jasper speak ofhaving actually made any will at all. Consequently the law gave to SirRalph Coleman the entire property of the late Baronet, whose much-lovedniece was thus left a penniless orphan. 

Old Reynolds, who had been in the library when it was announced theBaronet had left no will, and that the entire property fell to hiscousin, Sir Ralph, immediately summoned the domestics in the servants'hall and related to his astonished hearers what he had heard. Consternation was depicted on the countenance of all, and a wordycolloquy ensued as to what would become of their dear young mistress, and whether they would be discharged to make room for others whom thenew Baronet might choose to appoint. The grey-headed old Butler had beenat Vellenaux since he was a lad of fourteen, and had known ColonelEffingham, who had frequently, prior to leaving the service, visited hisold companion-in-arms, Sir Jasper Coleman, at his favorite residence, felt much concerned that the niece of his old master should have beenleft unprovided for. "Of course, " Said Annette, Edith's own maid "Ishall have to return home, for I do not suppose Miss Effingham willremain here very long, as Sir Ralph is a bachelor, and I know forcertain that she dislikes him exceedingly. "

"But what will madam, the widow, do, " enquired the footman. 

"Set her cap at him as she did at our poor, dear old master, " respondedthe housekeeper, "No fear, she will take care not to be a loser by thechange. " "She will, no doubt, " suggested another, "keep house for SirRalph until he brings home a Lady Coleman, or is persuaded into marryingthe widow herself. "

It was quite evident, that sympathy ran high in Edith's favour, and thatthey cared not a jot for the ex-governess or the new master. But theywere too well trained to betray what they thought concerning the twolast named persons. 

The matter was duly talked over throughout the neighbourhood. Some shooktheir heads but said nothing, and others said a great deal that meantnothing. The Bartons sent a very kind and sympathizing letter to Edithin which they offered her an asylum at the Willows, should she think alittle change of scene would in any way reconcile her to the loss shehad sustained, they having heard that Miss Effingham had in her griefdeclined for the present to receive her most intimate friends andacquaintances. 

For many days after the funeral Edith kept within the seclusion of herown chamber, alas, hers now no longer, but the property of another andof one whose presence was repugnant to her. With returning consciousnessalso came the realization of the sad spectacle that had met her view inthe private library. She had loved and respected her uncle, and had everlooked up to him as a father, which he had indeed been since the deathof her parents, whom she did not recollect, and grief for his loss hadoutweighed all other thoughts and considerations for the future, and forthe first week she gave herself up to inconsolable sorrow. But at lengththat practical good sense with which nature had endowed her, came to herrelief. She stifled the rising sobs in her young bosom and prepared toface the stern realities of life, which must ere long, she knew, forcethemselves upon her. 

To remain in the house of the man she so despised and whose profferedvows of love she had so indignantly rejected, was impossible. 

Of the malady which was the cause of her uncle's sudden death, she knewnothing. He had never hinted of its existence, therefore she was totallyunprepared and inexpressibly shocked at the suddenness with which he hadbeen struck down, and it was some time before she could sufficientlysubdue her agitated feelings to enable her to give any instructions tothe household, who, like herself, had been almost stupefied by thecalamity. 

But not so with Mrs. Fraudhurst; that cold, unfeeling woman cared onlyfor the safety of her own position, and had already arranged what sheshould do. At her suggestion, no changes were made in the establishment. Every servant was retained, and the business of the estate still left inthe hands of Mr. Russell, the former agent, and matters soon resumedtheir usual routine, as though the late proprietor was merely absent ona visit. 

Notwithstanding the precautions taken in order to prevent suspicion fromgaining ground that there had been any complicity between Sir Ralph andthe widow, which might account for the absence of any legal documentmaking a suitable provision for that niece to whom Sir Jasper was sosincerely attached, there were many who could not divest themselves ofthe idea that there had been foul play practiced in some way, but asthere was nothing tangible to go upon they were compelled to confinetheir suspicions within their own breasts, and show their sympathy forMiss Effingham by letters of condolence and offers of friendship andprotection should she need them; for of course, it was understood by allthat her position was materially altered by the apparent fact that SirJasper had died intestate. 

Both Mrs. Fraudhurst and Sir Ralph were struck with the visible inroadthat grief had made in the pale but still beautiful features of Edith, as she entered the drawing room for the first time since her uncle'sfuneral. 

The new Baronet rose as if to conduct her to a seat, but there wassomething in her eye and manner that checked him, and he contentedhimself with bowing to her somewhat stiffly, and resumed his chair. Sheadvanced toward the table at which he was seated, with a coolness andself-possession so natural to her, whenever placed in any awkward andtrying position; her elegant figure fully developed by the tight fittinghabit she wore, and the ringlets of her rich brown hair falling upon hermagnificent shoulders from beneath her black riding hat, and in a voicecalm, clear and distinct, but without the least bitterness or anger, thus addressed him: "Sir Ralph Coleman, the law, I am told, pronouncesyou master of Vellenaux and its broad acres. The death of my uncle hasleft me without a home, but, I trust, not without friends. Do notinterrupt me, sir, " said she, seeing that he was about to speak, "Yourimportunities and ungenerous conduct previous to the death of my latelamented uncle and more than father, would, in itself, be a sufficientinducement for me to take the step I am now about to do. It is myintention to leave Vellenaux this morning for the Willows, and requestthat my personal effects and such property as may have been presented tome by my late uncle may be sent to me there. " Then, with a slightinclination of the head towards him, and without a word or glance in thedirection of Mrs. Fraudhurst, who was seated at the open window, examining the contents of the post bag, turned and left the apartment. Her intended departure had been made known to the whole of the householdby Annette, and, much to her surprise, she found all the servantsassembled in the hall to pay their respects to her as she quitted theonly home she had ever known. Edith felt deeply their respectfulsympathy and parted from them with unfeigned regret. Poor old Bridoon atthe Lodge felt keenly for his young mistress, and could not refrain fromexpressing to her, as she wished him farewell, that there was somethingwrong about the absence of any will or other document. He would notbelieve that his dear old master would put off making a provision forhis niece until it was too late, and he sincerely hoped that he mightlive to see the day of her return to Vellenaux as its mistress. Thisfeeling was shared alike by tenantry and servants, for they all had, insome way, been indebted to her for acts of kindness. 

"You have been too precipitate, and frightened the bird away, " remarkedMrs. Fraudhurst. "But, " continued she, after a moment's pause, "perhapsit is as well she has taken this step. Her presence here is now nolonger necessary. You have the property without the encumbrance. "

Whatever Sir Ralph's opinions on the subject might have been he did notexpress them; but in his inmost heart he wished that she had remainedunder his roof, for time, he thought, would cause her to change hermind, and think more favorably of his suit, and once his wife, she couldnot give evidence against him should the affair of the stolen will evercome to her knowledge. He distrusted his partner in crime, and avoidedas much as possible being left alone with her. 

In the Bartons Edith found true friends, Julia and Emily doingeverything in their power to render her stay with them as agreeable aspossible. The pretty Mrs. Horace, who, from the first, had taken a greatinterest in her, now felt a real desire to serve one who, by the forceof circumstances over which she had no control, had been left, as itwere, alone in the world, and that, too, at an age and with suchpersonal attractions as usually require the most careful watching ofparent or guardian, and it entered her pretty head that she could serveher friend most effectually and at the same time secure for herself thatwhich was so much needed in her Indian home in the far East, a personalfriend and companion. Good, easy Horace, she knew, would not object, andscarcely had Edith been one week at the Willows before she had unfoldedto her the scheme she had worked out for their mutual benefit; andmeeting the approval of the whole family, Edith was only too happy toaccompany Mrs. Barton on her return to Calcutta, for, thought she, Ihave no relative in England to miss me, or mourn for me, but in India Iperhaps have, and her thoughts wandered to Arthur Carlton and theprobability of their meeting in the land beyond the seas. After a fewweeks' longer residence in Devonshire, the pretty little wife of theJudge, accompanied by Edith, left by the overland route to return to herhome in the City of Palaces. And such was the effect on Edith of changeof scene and a life so entirely new to her, among a people whose habits, manners and customs were strangely at variance with anything she hadhitherto experienced, and she now remembered, with feelings of emotionsoftened by time, that uncle, whose death she had so deeply lamented, that her health and spirits gradually returned, and with them thatbeauty, which had adorned her before her sad bereavement, and for a fewyears her residence in India was in no way distasteful to her. Duringthis time she had frequently heard of Arthur Carlton, but they had onlymet twice, his regiment being employed at so great a distance fromCalcutta in settling some disturbances among the Rohillas of Rohilcund, that it was very difficult for a subaltern to obtain leave of absence. 

A few weeks after her return, Mrs. Barton had written to Arthur, acquainting him with the fact of Edith's being in the country, andcertain circumstances connected with the death of Sir Jasper Coleman, and wound up by giving him a special invitation to Chowringee for a fewweeks. This she had done out of kindness to Edith, for she had somesuspicion of how that young lady might be influenced by the presence ofthe playmate of her childhood. 

Carlton received this intelligence with the utmost astonishment. He hadbeen in complete ignorance of the Baronet's death and the changes thathad taken place at Vellenaux. His last two letters to Edith had remainedunanswered, or at least he had not received them. But he little knewthat Mrs. Fraudhurst had taken possession of the post bag and abstractedtherefrom Edith's letters to him as well as those he had sent to her. She had some apprehensions that he might contrive to make his appearanceat Vellenaux at a time it was least expected or desired by eitherherself or Sir Ralph Coleman. His next feeling was that of joy at thethought of again meeting her, and at the idea that she was to remain inthe same country perhaps for several years. As has been mentionedbefore, no direct words of love had passed between them, and it was notuntil the mighty ocean had divided them that he had realized how dearshe was to him, or the strength or depth of his love for her. In hisheart he secretly rejoiced that Sir Jasper's estate had passed intoother hands, for what chance had he, a poor Lieutenant of Dragoons, inaspiring to the hand of the beautiful Edith, heiress of Vellenaux. 

He lost no time in procuring the required furlough, and at their firstmeeting, the four missing letters were commented upon, and theirnon-delivery ascribed to the right party, namely, Mrs. Fraudhurst, asthey wandered together down the pomegranate and orange groves in thecool of the evening, or pacing the broad, open verandah beneath the starlit sky. 

"I think, Carlton, you must be in high feather with the Colonel, or yourlucky star is in the ascendant, " said Captain Hastings to our younghero, a few days after his return from Calcutta, as they rode home fromstables together. 

"How so? What is in the mind now?" enquired Arthur, as he reined hishorse nearer to that of his companion. 

"Why, there is another row among those fellows in Bundlecund, and asquadron of our regiment has been ordered out. My troop and yours havebeen selected for the business, and as your Captain is in Europe and theother two troop commanders absent from headquarters, you are to havecharge on, this occasion. I command the squadron, so they may look outfor hard knocks if we get a chance at them. I will teach the blackguardsa lesson they will not forget for some time. They will find nophilanthropy or mistaken clemency about me, and to tell you the truth, Iwould rather have you for my second in command than either Dalzell orHarcly. "

"Many thanks for your good opinion; and depend upon it I shall not bebackward in proving its correctness, should an opportunity offer, "responded Arthur, as they entered the mess room. 

The affair in Bundlecund proved a more obstinate contest than had beenat first expected, and lasted for a considerable time. But the coolnessand determination of the light Dragoons were too much for them, consequently the disturbance was quelled, but not before a large numberof the rascals had been made to bite the dust. Here, as inChillianwalla, Carlton's bravery and skill, as a troop leader, wereconspicuous, and he well merited the encomiums that were poured upon himby his brother officers on the return of the squadron from the disturbeddistricts, now in a tranquil state. 

CHAPTER VIII. 

Such of our readers as may have been acquainted with the West end ofLondon some thirty-five years since, must recollect old CavendishSquare. Prior to that date it had been very exclusive, but on Belgraviaand Tybernia springing into existence, the nobility and aristocraticfamilies moved from there to the new suburban localities, and their oldquarters were occupied by quite a different class, which had migratedprincipally from that region east of Temple Bar, such as merchants, bankers, eminent barristers, and physicians of first standing. One ofthe main avenues leading from this square westward, and known as HarleyStreet, was inhabited by another set, usually styled very respectablepeople, chiefly consisting of maiden ladies of doubtful ages, who kepttheir carriages and lived in good style, whist playing dowagers, whokept their carriages but hired job horses, when it was necessary tovisit their friends whose circumstances were more flourishing than theirown, and the families of country members who usually remained in towndaring the session of Parliament, and often for a much longer period. Itwas in this street and in this circle that the Cotterells lived andmoved. Mr. Cotterell, the father of Kate--the prettiest Kate in all thatlocality, at least, so Tom Barton said, and he ought to know for he hadseen her often, and never failed to get his face as close to hers aspossible whenever a chance presented itself for his so doing--was aretired stock broker who, having made a considerable hit in a greatspeculation by which he realized a handsome sum, prudently took theadvice of his spouse and let well enough alone, retired from business, left their dusky residence in the city, and moved to their presentabode, No. 54 Upper Harley Street. Mrs. Cotterell was the youngestsister of Mrs. Barton of the Willows, in Devonshire, hence therelationship between our friend, Tom Barton, and pretty cousin Kate, thecharm of whose gay and lively manners had made quite an impression onthe susceptible heart of cousin Tom, which increased and strengthenedduring the frequent visits of that young lady to her aunt's inDevonshire. Nor was it a one sided affair, for she had been captivatedby the handsome person and agreeable address of her cousin, but beingpetit in stature, she was like most little beauties, very arbitrary andcapricious towards her lover, yet, with all this, she was a girl ofgood, sound sense, and knowing that her portion on the death of herparents would be but small, would not consent to entangle herself in themeshes of matrimony until Tom had established himself in his profession, and there was a fair prospect of their succeeding in life. 

It will be remembered that Tom Barton left for London about the sametime that Arthur Carlton started for India. He had been more fortunatethan could have been expected in the profession he had chosen, for hehad scarcely been three years turning over musty deeds, copying legaldocuments and other drudgeries appertaining to a lawyer's office, whenhis employer died, leaving him the business and recommending him to thenotice of his clients generally. Now, although Tom's chambers weresituated in Lincoln's Inn Fields which everybody knows (who knowsanything of London) is a large, airy space, surrounded with ironrailings, wherein there are plenty of trees, flowers, grasses, andgravel walks to stroll about in, all of which could be seen from hischamber window. But this was not sufficient for him. He wanted somethingmore suburban and evidently considered the atmosphere north of Oxfordstreet more conducive to his health, or he would never have imposed uponhimself the task of walking from Lincoln's Inn so far westward up HarleyStreet. Yet, although the air must have been more pure some half a milefurther on, he never by any chance, succeeded in getting beyond No. 54. 

There was also another gentleman who found it convenient and agreeableto walk in the same direction and stop at the same house. This for sometime perplexed our friend, Tom, and gave him considerable uneasiness inthe region of the heart. His first business was to discover who he was;this did not take long to accomplish, but he was more puzzled than ever;there was no one ill at No. 54, and the gentleman turned out to be aphysician of good standing, residing in Cavendish Square. He dared notspeak to Kate on the subject, for fear of committing himself andbecoming exposed to that little lady's raillery, for he well knew thatshe would torment him unmercifully if he betrayed the least sign ofjealousy. Wishing to be satisfied on a point that so troubled him, hedetermined to sound his aunt on the matter. He was a great favouritewith her, and she was not likely to betray him to his lady love. 

"Very quiet, gentlemanly sort of person, Doctor Ashburnham; don't youthink so, " he enquired of his aunt one evening, as they were seatedalone in the drawing room on Harley Street?

"It is well that you are that way of thinking, for he has the sameopinion of you, " remarked Mrs. Cotterell with a quiet smile. "Do youremember to have met him anywhere but in London?" she asked, after a fewmoments' pause. 

Tom shook his head and replied, "I think not, but perhaps I may haveseen him somewhere. I meet all sorts of people. "

"Well, well, your sister Julia is coming up to town some evening nextweek, and she is such a clever girl, perhaps she can enlighten you onthe subject. "

Tom stared at his aunt for a moment, then the mist began to clear away. It now struck him that he had never met the Doctor in Harley Streetexcept during the time that his sister was on a visit there, and it alsooccurred to him now, that on his last flying visit to Devonshire he hadmet a gentleman much resembling Doctor Ashburnham, riding with Julia inone of the green lanes in Vellenaux. It was all dear enough now, it wasJulia's lover who had given him so much concern of late, and this factremoved a great load from Tom's heart. On this discovery his facebrightened up. "But, my dear aunt, is there really anything in it. "

"Anything in what?" enquired the good lady, looking up from herknitting, somewhat amused at the manner in which her nephew had put thequestion. 

"Why, I mean, is there any love affair, engagement or that sort of thingbetween Julia and the Doctor?"

"Well, Tom, all I can say is, that Doctor Ashburnham seldom calls hereexcept during the time your sister is in London, or occasionally paysus a visit to enquire when she is likely to be in town again. They havemet, I believe, in Devonshire, and he has visited her at the Willows. Heis certainly very attentive to her when she is with us, and she appearsto be anything but indifferent to his addresses; you can draw your ownconclusions from that, but, as I before stated, she will be here nextweek and then, perhaps, she may take you into her confidence. I can sayno more on the matter. "

"By George! I hope it is as you say. It would be a capital match forher. He has a first rate practice, keeps quite a stylish turn out, andoccupies a handsome house in Cavendish Square. I must become moreintimate with him, and see if I cannot worm out exactly what he isdriving at. " Here Tom took his hat, and started down stairs three stepsat a time, nearly upsetting the Doctor in the hall in his great hurry. "Beg pardon, my dear sir, quite accidental I assure you; in haste tospeak to Mr. Cotterell in the library, " said Tom apologetically. 

"Don't mention it, pray, Mr. Barton, " was the reply, as that gentlemanquickly ascended the staircase leading to the drawing room. 

Now, Tom really had no business with Mr. Cotterell that evening, norwould he have intruded on that worthy person, but for his encounter withthe Doctor. He would, he thought, not remain long with his aunt, and itwould be a good opportunity to push his enquiries, could he but manageto go out with him. His anticipations proved correct. The Doctor did notremain long up stairs, and our friend Tom managed to meet him again ashe was passing through the hall. 

"Fine evening, sir; which way are you walking?" said Tom, seeing novehicle in attendance. 

"I am returning to Cavendish Square, sir, " was the ready reply. 

"I also am going in that direction, and if you have no objection willwalk with you, " returned Tom Barton. The two gentlemen walked together, chatting in a very friendly way on the different topics of the day untilthey had reached the door of the Doctor's residence, when that gentlemansurprised Tom by saying, "Mr. Barton, will you do me the favor to stepin for a few moments? I wish to speak to you on a subject that cannotvery well be discussed in the public street. " Nothing loath, Tom agreedand was ushered into a very snug apartment, half library, half smokingdivan. 

"You smoke, of course, " said the Doctor, pointing at the same time to anarray of pipes and tobacco of different kinds on a small side table. Fill, then, drop into that easy chair, and I will tell you why I haverequested you to enter my snuggery. Tom acted upon his suggestion, andwas soon sending great puffs of smoke half way across the room. His hostfollowed this very laudable example, and after a few whiffs, at onceopened the business by candidly, and in a straightforward, manner, telling Tom the great love and admiration he felt for Miss Barton, whomhe had frequently met in Devonshire as well as in London, and that hehad vanity enough to believe that his love was reciprocated, anddeclared his intention on Julia's arrival to decide the affair by makingher an offer of his hand and heart, and finished by requesting Tom toforward his views to the best of his ability. 

To this Tom readily assented. "The sly little puss, " he continued, "notto mention a word of it even to me. But I suppose it is not consideredby the fair sex quite the thing to speak to any one on so delicate asubject until after the gentleman has popped the question. " Shortlyafter, he took his departure for his chambers at Lincoln's Inn, and itwas noticed that Doctor Ashburnham and Mr. Tom Barton were seen morefrequently together than had hitherto been the case. 

Miss Barton arrived, as had been expected by her relatives in HarleyStreet, and the physician from Cavendish Square called there every day, although there was no illness or epidemic in the house, save that knownas the heart disease, and so earnestly did the Doctor press his suitthat Julia must have been hard-hearted indeed to have refused to add tohis happiness by encumbering him with a wife, and ere she returned toDevonshire, it was finally settled that the wedding was to take place atthe end of the following month, and a very dashing affair it proved. Thelawn sleeves at Saint George's, Hanover Square, were called intorequisition on the occasion. There was a great display of white cordedsilk, lace orange blossoms, muslins and wreaths of white roses. Gunter, of Berkly square, was called upon to supply a wedding breakfast, whichwas partaken of at the Cotterells', and after some champagne had beendrank, and the speeches usual on the occasion made, the happy pairstarted on their wedding tour through the South of England, calling, ofcourse, at the Willows on their way. After visiting Scotland theyreturned to London, and settled comfortably down to the humdrum ofevery day life in the Doctor's handsome establishment in CavendishSquare, which had been re-decorated and furnished for them during theirabsence. 

Not many months elapsed before the happiness of our young friends wassomewhat over-shadowed by the death of the worthy old couple at theWillows, who expired within two months of each other. Mr. Barton died ofold age, and his wife from influenza, caught while attending church tohear the funeral sermon. 

Horace Barton not being expected in England for some time, the Willowswas let on a short lease, and Emily came up to London to reside with heraunt in Harley Street, occasionally spending several weeks with hersister, Mrs. Ashburnham. 

Our young lawyer was slowly but surely increasing his practice. He hadused all his powers of persuasion to induce Kate to allow him to leadher to the altar on the same day that his sister was married, but invain, for that young lady declared that she would rather take a secondclass character in the interesting tableau this time, with the view ofbeing better able to sustain the role of the principal actress in asimilar pageant at some future time. With this decision Tom had toremain satisfied for the present and attend to business. But in thecourse of time circumstances transpired which prevented him fromattaining any eminence as a lawyer. A distant relative of Mr. Cotterell's and Godmother to Kate, departed this life, leaving herGodchild the very comfortable sum of six hundred per annum, secured inthe four per cents. , and after wearing mourning for a suitable period, Kate took the initiative by announcing to Tom, very much to his surpriseand delight, that she was both ready and willing to become his wife onthe following conditions, which were, that he should give up practisinglaw, take a snug cottage in Devonshire, and turn his attention tohaymaking, shooting, &c, and retire from London life altogether, for shesaid that in the country they could live very comfortably on six hundreda year and be thought somebodies, but they could scarcely exist inLondon on that sum and then be thought nobodies. 

If our young lawyer had any scruples on the score of giving up hisprofession and thereby losing all chance of ever attaining to thedignity of Lord Chancellor, he certainly kept them to himself, for hehad no wish to run counter to the inclination of Kate, or he might findhimself in the position of the dog in the fable, who had thrown away thesubstance to endeavour to grasp the shadow. Tom, in reality, had neverliked a London life, and had a constant hankering after field sports, shooting and fishing; and now he believed he could indulge in these tothe top of his bent. They could live very comfortably on their jointincome, for he had received a certain sum on the death of his parents, and likewise made something during the past few years by his profession, which he had increased by placing it out at interest. Moreover, he knewexactly where to find a house and grounds that would suit them; the veryone that Kate had so admired during their strolls around Vellenaux. Itwas picturesquely situated in a shady dell, through which ran a flowingbrook which deepened and widened as it flowed on towards the sea, andwas the favourite resort of the angler and amateur fisherman--about anequal distance from the Willows and the Rectory, and but a short walkfrom the woods and park of Vellenaux. There were Horace's grounds toshoot over, and although Sir Ralph Coleman was not a neighbour bestsuited to his taste, yet he felt certain that he would not object to hisoccasionally using his preserves, or bagging a few brace of birds on histurnip fields. All this, together with a pretty little loving wife for acompanion, was, to Tom's notion, something worth living for, and aposition he would not exchange for all the gaieties of London life witha seat on the woolsack into the bargain. 

Again No. 54 Harley Street was thrown into a state of bustle andconfusion. Millinery girls, with innumerable band boxes, and oddlyshaped parcels were continually arriving. In the drawing room there wasassembled daily a sort of joint high commission, consisting of a bevy ofpretty maidens with one or two handsome matrons, who were engaged indeciding on the colour, material, and cut of certain wearablesappertaining to the wedding trousseau of Miss Cotterell. There werecontinual visits made to the fashionable emporiums of silk, lace &c. , inOxford and Regent streets, and other parts of the metropolis. Thewedding day at length arrived. A considerable distance up Harley Streetwas lined with carriages of various descriptions, the coachmen andfootmen of which appeared in holiday costume and wearing white satinfavors, and there was quite an excitement in the immediate vicinity towitness the arrival and departure of the wedding party to and fromchurch. Kate Cotterell, attended by her six bridesmaids all looking verylovely in toilettes befitting the occasion, created quite a sensationamong the spectators as they stepped from No. 54 into the carriages thatwere to convey them to Hanover Square. 

After a very _recherche_ breakfast, served in Gunter's best style, inthe handsome drawing room of the Cotterells', in Harley Street, Tom andhis fair bride took their departure _en route_ for the Continent. Theywere to make a tour of several months through France, Germany andSwitzerland, likewise enjoy several weeks on the banks of the beautifulRhine. 

Mr. Cotterell undertook to arrange matters concerning the purchase ofthe cottage so much admired, which he intended to present to hisdaughter as a marriage gift, and aunt Sarah, Emily, and Mrs. Ashburnhamtook upon themselves the responsibility of furnishing the said cottage, and otherwise rendering it in every way suitable for the reception ofthe happy couple, and thus enable them to commence housekeepingimmediately on their return to England. 

The various events and proceedings were duly recorded and forwarded fromtime to time for the information of Horace and Pauline Barton, in theirEastern home on the banks of the Hoogly; and Edith, who still kept up acorrespondence with Kate and Julia, received a full account, descriptiveof the wedding trousseaus and paraphernalia incident to both ceremonies, and followed up by a delicate enquiry as to when she intended to returnthe compliment by favouring them with the details of an Indian wedding, which they supposed must soon take place, and would, no doubt, prove agorgeous and magnificent affair in true oriental style. So wrote thehappy girls to their old friend and companion in Calcutta, for, according to Pauline's account, she had no end of suitors among thewealthiest in the land. 

To all those enquiries Edith's usual reply was that the time wassomewhat distant when she could indulge in dreams of happiness. Herposition was somewhat changed, thus, probably, the event they so oftenalluded to might never take place, and the reader must remember, thatalthough Edith and Arthur were, beyond doubt, devotedly attached to eachother, the word that would have made them both happy had not yet beenspoken; there was no engagement, or in fact, any advance towards one, yet both, in their heart of hearts, realized the great love they feltfor each other. But prudential motives had kept Arthur silent. Edithknew this and was content to wait for the developments of the future. Inthe meantime she did not hesitate to participate in the amusements andenjoyments which offered, and which were continually pressed upon her byher kind friends, the Bartons. 

CHAPTER IX. 

The capital of Bengal was a very gay city. What with balls and publicbreakfasts at the Governor General's, brilliant assemblages given by theCivil Service Granders, with no end of picnics, theatricals, cricketmatches and races improvised by the military and naval officers, for theespecial benefit (at least so they said) of the beautiful, gaybutterflies that condescended to grace, with their presence, suchassemblages; and Pauline Barton never allowed these occurrences totranspire without inducing the beautiful Miss Effingham, as she wasusually styled, to accompany her, for Pauline was, indeed, very popularin Chowringee and around its vicinity, and her Bungalow was a constantlounge for the gallants of all services. Horace was no niggard in hishospitality, but preferred the ease and comfort of his own sanctum tothe gay rattle that was continually going on in his pretty little wife'sdrawing room or verandahs. And Arthur was again, for a fourth time sincehis arrival in the country, in Calcutta. He had contrived to getappointed one of a committee for the purchasing of troop horses for hisregiment and this would detain him at the Presidency for a couple ofmonths. This was a source of much pleasure to Edith, for sometimesaccompanied by Mrs. Barton, but more frequently alone, would Arthur andEdith, either driving or on horseback, wend their way through the shadedavenues that crossed the Midan, along the strand by the river side toGarden, reach and loiter in the Botanical Gardens; this beingconsidered by the Grandees the most fashionable resort for a canter inthe early morn or a pleasant drive about sunset. 

It never entered the head of pretty Mrs. Barton that there could be anyserious love making between her friend and the handsome Lieutenant. Sheknew that they had been brought up together from childhood and were morelike brother and sister than lovers, and had such an idea been suggestedto her by any of her friends, she would have pooh poohed it as meremoonshine. She knew that it was out of the question for a Subaltern toenter the matrimonial arena; besides the brilliant beauty of MissEffingham must command a suitable alliance and an enviable positionwhenever she cared to enter upon the responsibility of married life, andit appeared evident that Edith was in no hurry to take the initiative orallow herself to be led away by the flattering speeches she daily heardfrom those, by whom she was surrounded. Nor was Mrs. Barton at alldesirous that she should enter into any such engagement, for she waswell aware that it was the charm of her fair friend's manner that drewto her house the most agreeable and handsomest men of the capital. Sheknew likewise that it was Horace's intention to settle in England assoon as his term of service should expire, and it would then be time forEdith to select from her numerous admirers the one she most preferred, but until that time she should be exceedingly sorry to part with her. 

"Do you intend spending the day at Mrs. Deborah's?" enquired Mrs. Bartonof Edith as they rose from the breakfast table. Edith replied in theaffirmative. "Well, then, I will send the palkee for you; but do not belate, my dear, for dinner. " She had no intention of being too late, asshe knew that in all probability Arthur would make his appearance duringthe evening. The distance from the Bartons to her friend's Bungalow wasnot more than half a mile. The road lay through a very picturesque butsomewhat lonely part of the suburbs. The Date and stately Palms, intermingled with the blossom of the gold Mohur trees, looked so verylovely by the light of the setting sun. For some cause or other Edith'spalkee did not arrive at the time appointed, and not wishing to troubleher friend--who usually sent her children at sunset in their palkee foran airing--and attracted by the beauty of the scene, she started to walkhome, thinking of the pleasure of meeting Arthur. Her mind was engagedon this subject when she reached a Date grove, a short distance from theroad side, and so busy was she with her thoughts, she had not noticedthat for the past few minutes she had been followed by a tall, burlymussulman, and he came upon her before she was aware of his presence. Without a word of warning, he threw his long arms around her waist, andendeavored to drag or carry her to the Date grove. There could be nomistaking his intentions, and he would no doubt have succeeded incarrying out his villainous design--for the terrified girl was in a halffainting condition, and unable from the suddenness of the attack, tooffer much resistance--when Arthur Carlton, who had been attracted tothe spot by her shrieks and cries for help, came to the rescue. He hadcalled at the Bungalow, and learning where she might be found, had setout in search of her, and arrived just in time. The ruffian managed tomake good his escape, not, however, before he had received severalmarks of Arthur's favor from the horsewhip he carried. He then supportedthe still, trembling girl home, and she soon forgot, in his society, thedanger which had menaced her. 

Exasperated beyond measure at so rare an occurrence as the attack madeon his beloved Edith, he at once sought the aid of the police, and fromthe description given they soon succeeded in tracing the offender, whoproved to be a Subaltern of the native cavalry. The affair was reportedto head quarters, and a court of enquiry was summoned which resulted inthe court martial and dismissal from service of the blackguard, whoimmediately left the station, vowing to have his revenge on Carlton, should ever an opportunity occur for so doing, and this, with aMahammedan means mischief, for they never rest in their endeavors toeffect a purpose. 

The duties which brought Carlton to Calcutta were now at an end, and theLieutenant had to return to head quarters. Edith, being of an enquiringturn of mind, acquired a great deal of information respecting thenatives' character, their castes, customs and ceremonies, and by the aidof a Moonshee soon learned to speak with ease and fluency the Hindostanlanguage. This she turned to account in the management of the householdservants. 

Calcutta is the largest city in British India, and is situated on thebank of the Hoogley, one of the branches of the river Ganges, held assacred by the natives. There are quite a number of Europeans andprofessing Christians, numbering in the aggregate about fourteenthousand, the principal portions of which are half castes, threequarter castes, Euroasians, Portuguese and Hindoo Britons. The halfcastes are the progeny of the European men and native women. Thethree-quarter-castes, that of European fathers and half-caste mothers. The Euroasians spring from European and three-quarter-caste parents, while the Hindoo Britons are the children of European parents, born inIndia. The Portuguese likewise intermarry with these classes. Thesepeople make up the principal number of those professing Christianitythroughout the Presidency. The churches of England, Rome, and Scotlandwere well attended by the officers of the civil service, army and navy, with their families, among which there is very little sectarianism. Butthe Roman Catholic faith is largely diffused among the other classes. The native population of all castes number about six hundred thousand, and although they have no regular Sunday or day of rest, they have quitea number of religious festivals or holidays which they scrupulouslyobserve. 

The principal festival, and the one most religiously kept of all theholidays among the true believers--as the followers of Mahomet stylethemselves--is that of the Moharum, which lasts ten days, commencingfrom the appearance of the new moon, in the month of November, duringwhich time handsome temples and mosques are constructed of bamboo andpaper, and embellished with glass, paint and gilding. On the last daythey are carried in grand procession through the public thoroughfares, proceeded by a band of music and accompanied by an immense concourse ofspectators. Many of the faithful prostrate themselves before theseTaboots, and in many instances rolling over and over in the muddystreets for a considerable distance, being generally well primed withbang or opium. There are occasional disturbances between the fanatics ofthe different castes, for many of these work themselves up to a pitch offrenzy by the use of narcotics and other stimulants, but the Governmentalways take steps to prevent any serious outbreak, by having the troopsposted in different parts of the town, ready to turn out at a moment'snotice, and a strong body of police mounted and on foot accompany theprocession to enforce order. At sunset they reach the river, and theday's proceedings terminate by the Taboots being thrown into the water, amid the shouts, gesticulation and vociferations of the now thoroughlyexcited populace. 

The Dewally Festival is equally recognized by natives of all castes anddenominations as a sort of New Year's Day. Accounts for the past yearare closed, and new books are opened. The dirt and rubbish of the pasttwelvemonth is removed, the houses thoroughly cleansed and at night thecity or town is illuminated with lamps, Chinese lanterns, and otherdescriptions of lights, and the houses thrown open for generalhospitality. 

The Hooley, the most revolting of all Hindoo Festivals, draws togetheran immense concourse of people. Large fires are made on the sides of thepublic streets and liquid dye stuffs, with every description of filth isthrown by the Hindoos on each other, and should any unfortunate Hindoowoman show herself in the street on these occasions, she is assaultedwith language of the most obscene and disgusting nature. These festivalshave of late years been curtailed by the Government, and now seldom lastmore than two days--that is, in large cities containing Europeancommunities--but in native towns it is still of many days duration. 

Accounts of these and other native ceremonies, together with the horrorsof the black hole, experienced by Europeans, nearly one hundred yearssince at the suggestion of the native princes, had been related to Edithby her Moonshee Ayah, but their dominion, or power for good or evil, hasnow passed away, and Calcutta of the present day is one of thepleasantest and finest cities to the European to be found throughout ourIndian possessions. 

And were it not for the great change in her position, from absoluteaffluence to becoming the recipient of another's bounty, Edith wouldhave been, if not quite happy, at least contented. Yet it must not beimagined that she was ungrateful or the less thankful to her kindprotectors, the Bartons, for she could now well realize what might havebeen her situation had she been compelled to act upon the plan that hadfirst suggested itself to her on leaving Vellenaux--that of becoming agoverness or companion to some antiquated Dowager in Europe. 

The repeated assurances from Mrs. Barton that she would, at no distantperiod, secure a brilliant alliance, fell coldly on her ear, but shemade no ostentative demonstration of her own ideas on the subject, butwith a gentle and quiet dignity, repelled the advances of certainaspirants for her hand, who were continually to be found in her trainwhenever she appeared abroad. She had a smile for all and a fascinatingand bewitching manner which was equally bestowed among her would-beadmirers. But beyond this all was calm and cold. Her heart hadimperceptibly slipped from her, and was now in the care of another, norwould she wish it were otherwise. The future was before her and she waswilling to wait. 

Let it not be imagined that Arthur Carlton was a lukewarm lover, coldlyprudential, or thinking it would be time enough to marry when he shouldhave obtained his Captaincy, and careless as to what trying positionEdith might be placed in, surrounded, as he knew her to be, by those whowould willingly wed her at any moment. Far from it. He loved her toowell to ask her to share at present the inconveniences incident to acamp life, as experienced by the wives of subalterns, not that hedoubted she would yield up without a single regret the gay society andsplendid establishment of Mrs. Barton, and contentedly share with himhis home, be it ever so humble. But the thought of her having to makeany such sacrifice was to him one that could not be entertained for amoment. He believed he knew her sufficiently well to trust implicitly inher constancy, and await the happy time when he could in all honourformally propose for her hand. 

About a twelvemonth prior to the outbreak of the great Sepoy mutiny, itpleased the authorities to change the scene of Mr. Barton's labors fromChowringee, that Belgravia of Calcutta, to Goolampore, a militarystation of some importance in the northwest provinces, or more properlyspeaking in the Goozeratte country. This act of the Government, althoughparticularly objectionable to Mrs. Barton, was exactly what her lord andmaster desired. His term of service would shortly come to a close, andtherefore, in his opinion, it became expedient, not only to retrench hisexpenses, which he could not do at the gay Capitol, but likewise gatherin a few more of the loaves and fishes of office, which were said to befound in greater abundance at a distance from the seat of Government, besides Mr. Barton was in the decline of life, and felt that the harnessof office life did not fit so easily upon him while under the immediatesupervision of the Suddur Aydowlett, as it would do when removed fromits immediate influence. However, be this as it may, he was quitecontent with the change, nor was he the only one to whom this change wasa sort of relief. The City of Palaces and its surroundings had becomedistasteful to Edith; not that she disliked the Capitol or the pleasuresto be found there; but she felt wearied and annoyed by the attentionsthat were showered upon her by the numerous suitors who thronged aroundher, using all the powers of persuasion they had at command, to induceher to listen to their respective suits. The parchment visaged Nabob, with his sacks of rupees, the wealthy planter, whose fortune had beenwrung from either opium or indigo, perhaps both, the rich civil servantand field officer, with numerous others, all jostling and hedging eachother in the race for the hand of the beautiful Miss Effingham; but theprize was not for them. She cared not a jot for either their persons ortheir purses and would not consent to be caught, and like a bird in agolden cage, flutter without the means of escape. 

But there was one for whom she did care, one whose image was indeliblystamped on her heart, and whom she loved as woman only can love, andthis favored one was Arthur Carlton, Lieut. H. M. Light Dragoons--theplaymate of her childhood, and companion of her riper years in thegolden days at Vellenaux, in dear old England. 

"It is absurd in the directors, or whoever has to do with it, to sendHorace off to the Northwest, just at the commencement of the season too;besides, we shall scarcely be settled before we shall have to return toEngland. I declare we are being treated shamefully, " said Mrs. Barton, as she stepped from the Chuppaul Ghat to the Budgerow that was to conveythem to the steamer, in which a passage had been provided by theGovernment for them, to the nearest port on the coast of Goozeratte, _enroute_ for Goolampore, "and to think, " again resumed the little lady toEdith, as they sat together in the handsomely furnished cabin, "thatyour brilliant prospects will be destroyed; for who is there in theinterior that will compensate for the loss of those eligible suitors foryour hand?" Edith disclaimed against brilliant alliances or the admirersreferred to. 

"It is all very fine, my dear, for you to say so; but depend upon it, for a young lady in your position and circumstances, there is nothingequal to a wealthy husband, and an establishment of your own. But what Ishall do without you I really do not know; but I expect it must come tothat some day or other. " Here the good lady sank back among hercushions, and resigned herself to her fate, her Ayah, and her last newnovel. 

For several months all went pleasantly enough with the Bartons, muchmore so, indeed than had been anticipated by her little ladyship; forshe found that as wife of the judge, the highest civil functionary inthe station, she was leader of fashion, and took precedence of all otherladies in Goolampore; and Edith, for a time, found herself relieved fromthe importunities that beset her at Calcutta. Not that she lackedadmirers, but certainly at present their attentions were notsufficiently marked to give her any annoyance. 

The worthy judge was retrenching. His expenses were scarcely one fourthof what they had been at the Presidency. He had attained his object, andall things for the time being _couleur de rose_. 

"Come here pretty one, " said he as he noticed Edith dismounting, afterher usual ride around the race course and band stand, one beautifulevening. "Listen! here is something in the papers that will greatlyinterest you, or I am much mistaken. " Edith was soon at his side, allattention, when the gentleman proceeded to read as follows:--"Extractfrom general orders. His Excellency the Commander in Chief has beenpleased to appoint Lieutenant Arthur Carlton, H. M. Light Dragoons, toact as A. D. C. On the staff of General D----, at Goolampore. That officerwill proceed and assume his duties at that station forthwith. " Edithcould not conceal her joy at this unexpected event, and retired to herchamber in a flutter of agitation, but happier in heart than she hadbeen for many months past. 

It was the anniversary of Her Majesty's birthday, and, as was customaryat all military stations, it was celebrated by a military display in themorning, theatricals, and a supper and ball at night. The Assemblyrooms, as they were called at Goolampore, were built by Government. Itwas a building of considerable length, divided into three rooms, eightyfeet long, by forty feet wide. The end one was fitted up in veryhandsome style as a theatre, the other two communicating with it bymeans of enormous folding doors, and were used on ordinary occasions bythe military department for holding courts martial, courts of enquiry, committees, &c. The other was at the disposal of the political agents orchief magistrate to transact such business as they might deem necessary. But on such occasions as the present, or others of a similar character, the whole three were brilliantly illuminated and thrown open for theamusement of the _elite_ of the station. 

"I say Hopkins, as you know everything and everybody, tell me, who isthat young fellow in staff uniform, dancing with Miss Effingham?"enquired a Colonel of the N. I. 

"That is young Carlton of the Dragoons, the new A. D. C. He only arrivedthis morning. Capital fellow I am told; a tip top sportsman; goes instrong for tiger shooting and all that kind of game, " was the reply. 

"He appears to go in--as you call it--pretty strong for anotherdescription of game. Why, this is the third time he has danced with thatyoung lady. Rather strong, that, I should say for a first introduction, "responded the Colonel, about to move off, when his friend continued:

"Oh, they are old acquaintances. I met him at the Bartons thisafternoon, where he appeared quite at home, turning over the music andaccompanying _la belle_, Edith, in one of her favourite songs, apparently very much to each others satisfaction. But the next waltz isabout to commence, " said Captain Hopkins, "and I must claim my partner, "and the man who knew everything and everybody was soon waltzing withgreat assiduity. 

"You will allow me the pleasure of attending you in your morning andevening rides, whenever my duties will admit of it, dear Edith, "whispered Arthur as he handed her to the carriage at the close of thefestivities. With a sweet smile the promise was given, and the carriagewhirled off. 

The new A. D. C. Soon became a general favourite. Courteous andgentlemanly in the drawing room, and ever ready to attend the ladies _encavalier_, he could not fail to win the esteem of the fair sex. He was afirst-class swordsman, a bold rider, and a keen sportsman; thereforeheld in great repute by his companions in arms. He had scoured thejungles for thirty miles around Goolampore, and knew the haunts of thetiger and cheetah better than any man in the station. This was proved bythe numerous trophies in the shape of skins and heads that he broughtin. So our young friend, basking in the smiles of beauty, and especiallyof hers whom he loved so well, was consequently envied by others lessfortunate in this respect than himself; and in this delightful mannerweeks passed away. But dark clouds were rising in the distance whichwere gradually closing around them to destroy the tranquility of thestation. 

CHAPTER X. 

Reports began to arise of the disloyalty and insubordination of some ofthe native regiments; but at first little notice was taken of thecircumstance, it being believed that the rumours were greatlyexaggerated, and that, if there was anything really in it, the matterwould soon be put to rights by the Government, either by proclamation orby force of arms. But report followed report and the mutiny continued, when the massacre at Cawnpore took place, and the affair at Lucknow, andthe horrors enacted at the Star Fort of Jansee, where the officercommanding, after doing everything that could be done to protect theunfortunate inmates, just as the mutineers were in the act of burstingopen the gates, well knowing what would be the result should they fallinto the hands of the remorseless natives, with his own hand shot hiswife and child, and then deliberately blew out his own brains. Those whowere captured met a death so horrible and revolting at the hands of andunder the immediate supervision of that incarnate fiend and she devil, the Rannee of Jansee, the details of which are totally unfit forpublication. Then, and not till then, the magnitude of the danger wasrealized. 

Mr. Barton, whose health had been on the decline some weeks past, andwhose term of service in India nearly expired, declared that he would nolonger remain in the country, and obtained leave of absence to proceedto Bombay, in anticipation of finally leaving for Europe. Mrs. Barton, always nervous, became alarmed for her personal safety, and urged theirimmediate departure with much vehemence, and it was arranged that theyshould start at once for Rutlaum _en route_ for the sea coast, and thatMiss Effingham should remain and see everything packed up and theservants sent on, then follow herself and overtake them at Rutlaum, where they were to make a halt for a few days. Several other familiesalso left about the same time, for the tide of mutiny and rebellion wasnow sweeping like the red pestilence through the whole of the North Westprovinces. Mohow, Indore, Meidpoore, Mundasore, Neemuch and other placesof greater or lesser note, had already become the scene of many a bloodydrama and fiendish outrage. In fact, whenever native troops had beenlocated, ruin and desolation reigned triumphant. Public edifices werethrown down, Bungalows burned and the Bazaars plundered, while helplessand unprotected Europeans, irrespective of sex or age, were seized, andafter suffering the most brutal indignities, ruthlessly slaughtered bythe fanatical and blood-thirsty native soldiery. 

Goolampore and its immediate vicinity, up to the present period, hadremained in perfect tranquility. The native mind was apparentlyundisturbed by the great convulsions that were now shaking, to its verycentre, the supremacy of British power in India; but it was only thelull before the storm, which was so soon to burst and fall like athunderbolt on the hitherto peaceful station. 

The Brigade here consisted of the following troops: One troop ofEuropean horse artillery, one regiment of native cavalry, and twobattalions of Sepoys. This force was commanded by a Brigadier of theBengal army; but, having been on the staff for many years, was unequalto an emergency like the present, and such was his belief in the loyaltyof the men under his command, that he refused to listen to the reportsmade to him from time to time by his staff, and others well qualified togive an opinion on the matter, until it was too late and many valuablelives had been sacrificed. 

The evening was clear and calm, countless stars studded the dark purplevault of heaven. The young moon shed her silvery light o'er lake andmountain, the atmosphere was no longer influenced by the stifling heatof the scorching sun; a deliciously cool breeze wafted from the oceanthat rolled into the Gulf of Cambay, and washed the shores of theGoozeratte, played and rustled among the leaves of the trees andflowers, imparting to the senses a delicious feeling of relief anddelight. 

In a broad and spacious verandah of the cavalry mess house wereassembled a group of officers of different corps. Some stretched at fulllength on ottomans, enjoying the music of an excellent band; otherssmoking, laughing or chatting on the various events that were passingaround them. 

"Listen to me, gentlemen, " said a tall, handsome man, about thirty, andthe very _beau ideal_ of a cavalry officer, who had for some time beenleaning over the balustrade of the verandah, quietly puffing circles ofwhite smoke from his cheroot, and gazing thoughtfully on the moonlitscene before him, and who had hitherto taken no part in the conversationthat was going on. "This deceitful calm, " said he, drawing himself up tohis full height, and advancing to the centre of the group, "will not, cannot last much longer, and it is high time that something should bedone for the protection of the families of the European Warrant Officersand staff, Non-Commissioned Officers and others who are residing atdifferent parts of the station, and who would be the first to fallvictims to the licentious passion and murderous designs of the troops, should an outbreak ensue before we are re-enforced by more Europeans. "

"Right! Major Collingwood is right, " exclaimed a Colonel of one of theSepoy battalions; "too much valuable time has already been lost. Whatthe deuce has come to the Brigadier? Huntingdon, of the Artillery, proposed to him to give an order for the families of the Europeans ofhis troop to move at once into the Fort, but he would not listen to him, stating that there was no necessity for such a course, and that he wouldanswer for the loyalty and good behavior of the troops under hiscommand. "

"This comes of trusting the lives and property of Europeans in the careof General D---- and others of his stamp, who from a long association ina civil capacity with the natives, have become so wrapped up in them, and so hoodwinked, that they will see nothing, only through thespectacles provided for them by the native functionaries, who alwaystoady and flatter their European masters, " was the contemptuous remarkof one of the party. The last speaker was here interrupted by theBrigade Major, who came bounding up the steps of the verandah, three ata time. "What is the matter, Grey?" enquired several voices at one time. "Oh! there has been the devil to pay at Headquarters, and no pitch hot, "was the hasty reply of the staff officer. "Explain yourself, if youplease, " said Major Collingwood. "What has taken place?"

"Why Huntingdon, in spite of the Brigadier's refusal to grantpermission, has sent the married people of his troop within the Fort, and detailed several troopers to man the guns, and put the place in astate of defence, in case of any sudden rising among the natives. General D---- became furious when Huntingdon told him what he had done, and threatened to arrest him. On young Carlton, the new A. D. C. , takingsides with the commander of the artillery, and applauding the act, oldD---- turned upon him like a lion. A violent squabble ensued, whichresulted in Arthur Carlton resigning his appointment on the Staff, andexpressed his determination to rejoin his regiment without delay. "

"Well done, Huntingdon. That is a step in the right direction. It is apity that the non-commissioned staff of the station could not have beenincluded, " responded several voices; and all praised the plucky way inwhich young Carlton had acted, though sorry to lose the services of sovaluable a sabre as Arthur was known to be, especially at a time whenstout hearts and bold riders were necessary to the salvation of thestation. 

"Pinkerton, Jones, and others acted wisely in sending their familiesaway last week; but I do not think it was quite the thing for theBartons to leave the pretty Miss Effingham behind to arrange theirhousehold affairs, and then make her way to Rutlaum as she best could. Who will see her there in safety?" exclaimed the staff Surgeon. 

"Oh, as far as that matters, that young lady would, doubtless, have ascore of volunteers to act as her escort, should she require one, " saidthe first speaker; "but I do not think she would accept such an offer, nor do I imagine Arthur Carlton would feel obliged to any one inGoolampore for acting as her guide and protector, while he was at handto perform so delightful a service, " responded Captain Hopkins, with alight laugh, "for you must know that he has been a constant visitor atthe Bartons since his arrival, and are they not always to be seen ridingtogether at the race course and band stand? Why, he is her very shadow. "

"Miss Effingham is too fine a girl, and has too much good sense to throwherself away on a penniless Lieutenant of Dragoons, when she knows thatthere are others of high standing in the service who are both able andwilling to offer her an establishment and position in society that hewill be unable to do for years to come, " said a grey haired Colonel ofInfantry. 

"Phew!" ejaculated a young Cornet. "Sets the wind in that quarter? Iwonder if the pretty Edith will be proof against three lacs of rupees? Iam afraid the A. D. C. 's chances for the lady will soon sink below par;but there is no accounting for the doings of pretty women, for 'Lovelevels rank--lords down to cellar-bears, etc. '"

The parties now began to disperse to their various quarters. No doubtmany were ruminating as to what might be the result of the fracas at theBrigadiers quarters, just related to them by the Major of Brigade. 

The following morning as the Brigadier was preparing to mount his horseand take his usual ride through the cantonments, the Adjutant of one ofthe Sepoy battalions came up at full gallop to where he was standing, with the, (to him) astounding intelligence that, during the night, alarge body of irregular horse had entered the limits of the station, visiting the cavalry and Sepoy lines, and had arranged with them tounite in plundering the Bazaar, seize the guns of the artillery, put todeath all the Europeans that might oppose them, and that the men of hisown corps and those of the other battalion were then in the act ofbreaking open the bells-of-arms and taking therefrom the muskets andammunition. 

"Phew! There must be some mistake, your fears must have misled you. Themen may be somewhat excited. I will go down and reason with them--theywill listen to me, for they know I am their friend"--and the Generalturned his horse's head in the direction of the Sepoy lines, requestinghim to follow. The Adjutant replied:

"My instructions from the Colonel were to report the circumstance toyou, then ride to the horse artillery and acquaint Major Huntingdon andothers with it, " then, saluting his superior officer, he galloped off. Bursting with indignation at the conduct of those around him, who, untilthe last few hours, were ready to obey without scruple any order, hemight give, the General called his Brigade Major, and ordered him toride with him. That officer shrugged his shoulders, but obeyed thecommand, and they rode off together. They were soon recognized by themutineers. A hurried consultation among the native commissioned andnon-commissioned officers took place. Some Were for arresting theBrigadier and his Major of Brigade, and holding them prisoners until theguns and Fort were surrendered to them; others were of a differentopinion, and insisted that the two officers should be put to death. Theyargued that delay was dangerous; reinforcements of Europeans mightarrive at any hour, and that nothing would be left for them but to makea rapid retrograde movement, and advised the immediate looting of thetown. This party, being the strongest and most clamorous, carried theirpoint; and three Sepoys thereupon leveled their muskets and fired, butwithout having any effect, as the bullets flew wide of their mark. Butthis was the signal that the irregular cavalry were so anxiouslywatching for, and immediately encircled the two unfortunate gentlemenwho, drawing their weapons, prepared to defend their lives to the last. But what could two men do against a score of fanatical ruffians, thirsting for the blood of Christians. Some of the troopers fell fromthe effect of the bullets from the Brigadier's revolver, and some wereseverely wounded by the sabre of poor Captain Grey, but all to nopurpose; they were soon overpowered and literally hewn to pieces by thesowars of the cavalry who, by this time, had been joined by theregulars. The party then started off at a canter to the artillery lines, to secure the guns and open the magazine, if they could but obtain thekey from the ordinance warrant officer, while the infantry made anattempt to carry the Fort by storm; but having neither guns nor scalingladders, they signally failed in their attempt, and sufferedconsiderable loss from the spherical case and round shot that was hurledat them from the guns of the fort. The party, to whom fell the work ofplundering the Bazaar, were, for a time, very successful, and numerouslarge Bungalows were soon in a blaze. 

The party of cavalry, regular and irregular, who were to attempt tocarry off from the magazine such ammunition as they might find, went inthe direction of the place, and on their way intercepted the Europeanordnance conductor, who had charge of the keys, which they at oncedemanded, but were promptly refused by that officer, who declared he hadthem not, and immediately stood on the defensive; but a shot from thecarbine of one of the troopers, brought him bleeding to the earth. Acouple of them dismounted, and with oaths and imprecations, both loudand bitter, stripped off his uniform in search of the magazine keys, butthey were not to be found. Drawing his creese, one of the villains cutthe throat of the wounded man, nearly severing the head from the body. The others satisfied themselves by merely spitting upon the naked body. 

"It is useless to go on without the keys, " said a Havildar of theregulars. "Let us move off at once to his Bungalow, they must be there. I know the road, follow me!" and the whole party galloped off and soonreached the murdered man's quarters, where they halted and dismounted. 

The terrified woman, wife of the poor fellow who had just been sosavagely slaughtered, saw them approaching, and judging theirintentions, bolted and barred all the doors and windows, and with hertwo young children, mere babes, the eldest being scarcely four years ofage, retreated to a small closet in an inner room, and locked the door. For some time the troopers, who had now worked themselves up to a pitchof frenzy, could not effect an entrance: but at length, tearing down oneof the wooden uprights of the verandah, used it as a sort of ram, andsoon battered down the door. Then, with a yell of triumph, rushed intothe house, searched every nook and corner far what they so much wishedto find, smashing and destroying everything that came in their way, butthey were doomed to disappointment. A bullet from one of their holsterpistols blew the lock from the door of the closet, and the poor motherand her helpless babes were seized and dragged forth by these monstersin human form. The mother was brutally outraged, and her clothing tornand stripped from her person. A large empty chest, which usuallycontained clothing, caught the attention of one of the number, and afiendish thought flashed through his mind, which he communicated to someof the others, and they proceeded to carry it out. Collecting the brokenfurniture, bed linen, etc. , they made a large fire and placed the box inquestion thereon; then tossed the helpless children into it andliterally roasted them alive in the presence of the agonized mother, whomade frantic attempts to break from her captors, and rescue heroffspring, but it was in vain; they held her firmly until the chest andits contents were reduced to embers; then two of them plunged theircreeses into her naked bosom, and flung her bleeding body into the fireto be consumed like those of her children. Other enormities were beingenacted in various parts of Goolampore during the short time themutineers remained there. But an act of unparalleled atrocity wasperpetuated on the Postmaster and his wife, who, it appears, had, on themorning in question, gone to look at their new Bungalow which was incourse of erection in the suburbs, when they were pounced upon by a bodyof Sepoys, who were making good their exodus from the station, having nodesire to come in contact with the horse artillery, the booming of whoseguns sounded not at all pleasantly in their ears. These inhuman wretchesdashed at their victims and, after tormenting them almost to madness bytheir devilish cruelties, dragged them to a sawpit, where pieces ofsquare timber, which had been partially cut into planks for buildingpurposes, lay. The unhappy pair were then bound on two separate planks, then another plank was placed on the top of each, and tightly boundtogether with strips of fine bamboo; the monsters laughing andgesticulating at what they termed the living sandwiches, dainty morselsto be offered up as a sacrifice to their Deities. The crowning act ofthis fearful drama was at last enacted by the remorseless villains: Withtwo large cross-cut saws, sawing into two feet lengths the planks whichencased their victims, commencing at the feet of each, and then throwingthe pieces into the unfinished Bungalow, set fire to it, and made off atthe top of their speed along the high road towards Islempoora, a smallvillage at no great distance, which had been appointed as a rendezvousfor the whole to assemble at, when their bloody work at Goolampore hadterminated. 

Major Huntingdon had, early that morning, received private informationof the intended outbreak, and the general plan of the mutineers. He wastherefore prepared for the emergency, and acted accordingly; so thatwhen the party of horse, accompanied by the Goolandowz (nativeartillery) arrived at the artillery lines, they found that the birds hadflown; the gun sheds were empty, and those whom they thought to havefound quietly taking their breakfasts, were, doubtless, then hoveringaround, ready to fire upon them at the first convenient opportunity; norwas there any one on whom they could wreak their vengeance, for thewhole of the families of the Europeans had, by the prudence anddetermined conduct of their commanding officer, been removed to a placeof safety within the walls of the Fort, where, but for the obstinacy andinfatuation of General D----, the whole of the Europeans, unable to beararms, might have found a refuge ere it was too late. Foiled in theirattempt to capture the guns, without which they knew they could not holdpossession of the town, they turned in the direction of the Bazaar, which they determined to plunder, then make their way to Islempoora. They shortly fell in with the Sepoy battalions, which had made theineffectual attempt to carry the Fort by assault. Chafing with rage attheir disappointment, they accompanied the cavalry, vowing vengeance onall the whites or other Christians that should fall into their hands. But their villainous designs were frustrated, for on the head of thecolumn of cavalry, wheeling into the narrow road leading to theprincipal Bazaar, they beheld, much to their consternation, four of theguns of the horse artillery, which immediately opened upon them withgrape and canister, which told fearfully among them, as the number ofriderless and wounded horses plainly showed, and the irregular horse, not being trained to act in concert with the regular troops, the wholewere thrown into confusion, and were unable to reform or advance uponthe guns. By a rapid movement, Major Huntingdon had brought his twotwelve pound Howitzers to play on the Sepoy battalion, with shrapnel, shell and spherical case, with considerable effect. The native officerwho commanded them deployed his right wing into line, and sent the leftto endeavour to take the artillery in flank or rear. But in order toaccomplish this they had to make a _detour_ to the right, and in sodoing came to grief. The road they had taken led them across the openplain and in front of the station gun, a long thirty-two pounder. Thismovement had been anticipated by the artillery officer, consequently itwas loaded with as much canister as was considered safe, and a Sergeant, who volunteered, was appointed to take charge, and act as circumstancesmight require. A small pit had been dug, in which the Sergeant wassnugly ensconced, and there was nothing to indicate to those passingwithin a short distance, that there was anything to be feared from thatquarter; but in this they were terribly mistaken, for at the rightmoment the gun belched forth its storm of bullets into the very centreof the little column of infantry with fearful effect. So unexpected wasthe charge that the utmost confusion prevailed, which was considerablyincreased by the sudden appearance of about one hundred well mountedhorsemen, acting as cavalry, sweeping down upon them, sabreing right andleft. This party of horsemen consisted of officers of all corps ingarrison, and every other available European that could sit on a horseor handle a sabre, and had been quietly organized, in expectation of anevent like the present, by Major Collingwood. 

Repulsed at all points, the mutineers retreated as fast as possible. Their infantry, in many cases, mounting in rear of the cavalry. Theartillery limbered up and followed them to the outskirts of the town, where, as they crossed the deep Nulla leading to the Islempoora road, the gallant Huntingdon again blazed away at them, reducing their numbersto a considerable extent; but it was not considered advisable to followthem any farther. The troop was then divided and the guns sent indifferent directions through the station, while the lately improvisedcavalry scoured the Bazaars and other parts, in order to capture anysmall parties who might be engaged in the work of plunder or otherdestruction. 

CHAPTER XI. 

The hour of eleven was ringing from the gurries or gongs at thedifferent guard rooms, as Arthur Carlton left the quarters of theBrigadier commanding the station, for unlike most A. D. C. 's he did notreside with his chief, but occupied snug little quarters in the stafflines near the Suddur Bazaar. He was both annoyed and excited as hemounted his horse to return home; but he soon became calm andthoughtful, and his noble charger, as if knowing the mood of his master, slackened its speed to a walk. "General D---- is an obstinate andself-willed man, and his policy anything but what it should be at socritical a time, " muttered Arthur half aloud; "but was I wise to crosshim, and in the heat of the moment to throw up my appointment on hisstaff; I who have nothing but my pay to depend on and no interest at theHorse Guards to push me on in the service?" and his thoughts flew backto Vellenaux, Sir Jasper Coleman and Edith Effingham. As her imagecrossed his mind his countenance brightened, and his spirits rose. "Yes, I will rejoin my regiment. She must return to Rutlaum in a day or two. Iwill see her to-morrow and beg her to allow me to be her escort, that Ithink she will not refuse; and when I get my troop I will seek her hand, for her heart I know is mine already. " He was aroused from his reverieby the sudden stopping of his horse, and on looking up found that he hadarrived at the gate of the Compound which surrounded his dwelling. Immediately on entering he summoned his butler, and gave himinstructions to pack up everything without delay, and to start with hisbaggage and the other servants at an early hour on the followingmorning, _en route_ for Rutlaum; to halt at the first Dawk Bungalow hecame to, and that he would follow on horseback in the evening. Thencalling Pedro, a Portuguese, who had entered his service on his firstarrival in India as a Kitmagar or Valet, he dispatched him to the Bazaarto procure from the Kotwell the necessary hackarries, or baggage cartsand cattle; then, after enjoying several puffs from his hookah, he flunghimself on a lounge to snatch what sleep he could before the grey dawnof day appeared. He was aroused at an early hour by the hurried entranceof his Portuguese servant who, after carefully closing the door, communicated the following startling intelligence: It appears thatPedro, after executing the commission entrusted to him, called on afriend in the Bazaar, who, like himself, was a Christian, to bid himfarewell, and remained for two or three hours; that on his way home heheard voices in the angle of a small compound, which excited hiscuriosity. Approaching the spot noiselessly, through a hole in theprickly pear hedge he, by the light of the moon, saw four personsconversing together, two of whom he recognized; one was a Jemidar ofCavalry, the other, Soobadah, Major of one of the native regiments, theremaining two were strangers, evidently belonging to some irregularcorps. The substance of their conversation was to the effect that, aboutsix hundred irregular horse, and a company of Goolandowz, (but withoutguns or ammunition) were halted a short distance beyond the limits ofthe cantonments ready to enter at a given signal; that all the nativecorps in garrison were to rise, simultaneously, about eight a. M. ; anattempt was to be made to carry off the artillery guns while theEuropean gunners were at their breakfasts; the Fort was to be carried bya sudden rush, and the town plundered; they were then to make off to thenext smallest station, where they were unlikely to meet with anyEuropean force. 

For some moments Arthur was undecided as to what course he ought topursue. "If, " thought he, "I carry this information to the Brigadier, hewill pooh, pooh it as mere moonshine, besides I no longer belong to hisstaff, and he would not listen to anything I might suggest; it wouldonly be time thrown away; but Huntingdon must be warned. Forewarned isforearmed, and he is not the man to disregard a circumstance of thiskind. " He at once wrote a note relating what had been told him, and sentit by the Portuguese. 

"You will deliver this into the hand of Major Huntingdon, and likewisegive him a full account of all you saw and heard, and return as quicklyas possible. " The servant was soon on his way to the artillery lines. The next thing was to start his servants' baggage and personal effectsby a road, directly opposite the one where the irregulars were said tobe halted. While dressing and arming, he resolved as to what step heshould now take. He would ride over to Edith, and, after placing her insafety within the walls of the Fort, join the other officers of thegarrison under the direction of Major Collingwood and act as he deemedbest in the coming struggle. He was well mounted and thoroughly armed, and likewise carried a double-barreled tiger-rifle, slungcarbine-fashion to his saddle, and was as formidable a cavalier as onecould meet with in the country. Giving his last instructions to Pedro, who, by this time, had returned, he rode out of the compound and tookhis way to the Bungalow, where all that he held most dear in life was, perhaps, sleeping, all unconscious of the impending danger. When he wasnear the house, a few shots were fired, and a hubbub was heard withinthe Sepoy lines. 

"I am almost too late, " thought Arthur, as he dashed up to the door. Edith, who had seen his approach met him in the verandah. A few wordssufficed to explain how matters stood, and she hurried away to put onher riding habit, and gather together what valuables belonged to her. Arthur lost no time in causing to be saddled one of the best horses inthe stable, and had it led round to the front of the Bungalow, where, ina very short time, he was joined by Edith, fully equipped for anyemergency. 

Placing her quickly and firmly on her saddle, and carefully examiningevery strap and buckle, and finding everything secure, he sprang lightlyon his own steed. One glance at the space in front of the Bungalow, wasquite sufficient to realize, to a practical mind like Arthur's, theimminent dangers that would beset them, should they attempt to cross theopen plain in the direction of the Fort. The only chance was in a rapidflight. There was no time to arrange any definite plan of action, for avery few minutes would elapse before the mutineers would surround theBungalow, and cut off all means of escape; so passing directly to therear of the compound, they sought the cover of the jungle that skirtedit. Advancing as rapidly as the narrow path and thickly interwovenunderbrush would admit of, they soon left the station far behind them. At the foot of an eminence they emerged from the cover of the woods, andstruck into the highroad that wound round the hill in front of them. This they ascended at a gentle canter, for Arthur was too good a riderto push his horses at the commencement of a journey, in which both speedand endurance might be required before its termination. His intentionwas, if possible, to reach Rutlaum; should he fail in this he must reachsome station on the sea coast before night-fall, and place Edith underthe protection of the officer commanding such post, until he couldarrange for a passage for her to Bombay. On arriving at the crest of thehill, they turned to take a parting look at the pretty little station, where, for so many weeks, they had been supremely happy in the enjoymentof each others society, and framing projects for their union, at somefuture period, when the young Lieutenant should have advancedsufficiently in his profession to warrant that consummation so devoutlyto be wished for. 

Lurid flames and thick dark smoke shot up from many a burning Bungalow, while the roar of Artillery and discharge of musketry, convinced thefugitives that the conflict was still going on between the defenders ofthe Fort and the miscreants who vainly endeavoured to effect an entrancein order to put to death any Europeans who had taken shelter within itswalls. Parties of Sepoys were looting the Bazaars and residences of theEuropean officers of whatever they could lay their hands upon, while thecavalry, both regular and irregular, were riding hither and thither insearch of Christian men, women, or children, who might have beenunfortunate enough not to have gained admission to the Fort, or makegood their escape from the fated place ere it was too late. 

"Look, dearest Arthur, " exclaimed Edith, pointing with her riding whipto a bend in the road some distance below them, "what are thosehorsemen? are they friends or foes? Oh! I see you change colour, and weare lost. But is there no hope for us?"

For a few moments Carlton remained silent, measuring with a practisedeye the distance between those advancing and the spot on which theystood. For himself he had not a single thought, but for her in whom hiswhole soul was bound, the thought of what would be her fate, should shefall into the hands of those who he well knew were bent on theircapture, it was this agonizing thought that caused a convulsive shudderto run through his whole frame, and rendered him for the momentspeechless. But it was only for a moment; his deep love for thebeautiful being at his side, and her imminent peril, roused him toimmediate action. 

"It would be wrong for me to attempt to conceal the fact of the greatdanger in which we stand. Our pursuers are irregular troops; men whohave been taught to hate everything Christian, being the followers ofpetty Rajahs, who for some act of their own, or some of their families'treachery or disloyalty to our Government, lost their landedpossessions, and consequently their revenue and power; but, dearest, they shall only reach you over my dead body. They would, in the longrun, overtake us; but could we reach a wooden bridge that crosses asmall river, a few miles up the road, I believe we could yet eludethem. For there is an old road leading from the ford and runningparallel with the one we are on. It has not been used for the past twoyears, and they, being strangers in this part of the country, will, inall probability, know nothing of it, and by this way we may escape. Courage, dearest Edith, all may yet go well with us. "

"Your love and devotion, dear Arthur, I have never for one momentdoubted, and confidently trust myself to your protecting arm and lovingheart. But what can one single arm do against numbers; but should thosewretches overtake us, the spirit of the Effinghams will teach me how toact, and, if necessary, how to die. " As she said this, she drew from thefolds of her riding habit, a handsome five-chambered revolver. "I willnever become their prey, nor shall you perish unavenged while I havestrength to draw a trigger, " exclaimed the beautiful girl, now excitedbeyond measure at the critical position in which she found herselfplaced. "Brave and noble girl, " responded Arthur, as he bent over andimprinted a kiss on the lovely brow. And in another moment they werebounding along the high road at a hand gallop. 

"We are gaining on them, " shouted one of the pursuers, as he caughtsight of the two lovers flying along a straight piece of road at no verygreat distance in front of them. "But we shall have some tough workbefore we capture the young fellow or I am much mistaken. "

"Curse him, " growled out a tall athletic fellow in the uniform of aRusseldah. "I may thank him for my court martial and loss of commissionin the regulars; but my turn is coming now. He and his dainty lady shallcurse the hour of their birth before I have done with them. 'Remember, 'said he, turning to the party, of whom he was evidently the leader, 'they must, if possible, be taken alive. Their money and valuables--and, doubtless, they have a good store about them--you can divide amongyourselves; I will not touch one rupee of it; but their lives are mine. "A shout of approval followed this last speech, and the whole partypushed forward with increased speed. 

The little wooden bridge, referred to by Carlton, was at length gained. During the ride he had communicated to Edith the steps he intended totake on gaining the cover of the old road. Turning sharply to the rightthey entered the jungle, and made their way into the stream that crossedthe road, then passing up the centre and under the bridge, they landedabout one hundred and fifty paces higher up on the opposite bank, and, having dismounted, Arthur sought for, and soon found, the entrance tothe road they were in search of, now overhung with brambles and creepingplants. Pushing them carefully aside, they entered, and found themselvesin a narrow track, overgrown with soft grass. Assisting Edith toremount, Carlton threw the bridle of his own horse over the stump of atree, then said to her, in a voice hoarse with emotion, and pointing toa small opening between the bushes, "From this point you can watch theresults of my endeavours for our mutual safety. Should I fall, turn andfly. This road will lead you to Rutlaum. " Then snatching a hasty kiss, heretraced his steps to the edge of the main road, taking up his positionunder the cover of the thick bushes. 

The road leading to the bridge was, for about one hundred yards, perfectly straight, and much narrower than at other points, and thejungle at both sides was both thick and dense. Rather an awkward placefor cavalry, should there be any infantry lurking in ambush, watching togive them a hot reception. I have said that Arthur was thoroughly armed;besides his two revolvers and sabre, he had his double-barreledtiger-rifle, a breech-loader of the newest pattern, which had onlylately been introduced into India. Arthur had not long to wait for hisfoes, for the clattering of the armed hoofs of their troop horses weresoon heard coming along at a rapid pace. There were nine of them, ridingthree abreast. As soon as they were within range, Carlton coollylevelled his rifle and discharged both barrels in rapid succession, shooting the centre file through the chest, who fell dead instantly, andlodging his other bullet in the shoulders of the horse of the file onhis right, bringing both steed and rider to the ground, the latterunderneath, his leg being crushed by the fall. So sudden and unexpectedwas the attack, that the two men who were riding immediately in rear, unable to check their speed in time, their horses stumbled and boththeir riders were thrown. They were, however, not much hurt by theirfall and were soon in their saddles again. The dead and wounded men wereremoved to some soft grass on the side of the road. But this delay, short as it was, enabled Arthur to reload and shift his position, whichhe did by rapidly passing under the bridge to the opposite side of theroad, being too good a soldier to neglect this opportunity. 

"Forward!" shouted the Russeldah. "Follow me! I will soon unkennel thefoe. May the grave of his fathers be accursed, and his bones be burned, "and, after uttering this anathema, he drove the rowels of his spurs intohis horse's flanks, springing him, at least, two lengths in advance ofhis followers, and making a dash for the bush from whence the smoke ofthe rifle was seen to issue. But ere the scoundrel reached it, a bulletfrom Arthur's rifle went crashing through his brain. A second broughtanother to the earth with a broken thigh bone. The others reined up intime to avoid the accident they had before experienced. On finding theirleader to be quite dead, and only five of their number fit to carry onthe contest, they consulted together as to the expediency of any furtherpursuit; besides, they could not understand being attacked from bothsides of the road. They had seen no one cross, and never dreamed of thepassage under the bridge, and imagined there must be others concealed inthe jungle. Taking advantage of this opportunity, Arthur returned theway he came as quickly as possible, and, mounting his horse, regainedhis beloved Edith, who had witnessed the whole affair. She was about tothank, with ardent words of gratitude, her gallant lover, when hesilenced her with a motion of his hand, and whispered to her to followhim. They proceeded slowly for a time, carefully avoiding theoverhanging branches, lest they should attract the attention of eitherof the troopers, who were still halted on the high road at no greatdistance, and as Carlton afterwards affirmed, a chance shot from one oftheir carbines might have proved fatal to one or perhaps both of them. After riding some distance they had the satisfaction, on looking back, of seeing that their cowardly pursuers were returning the way they came, carrying their dead and wounded with them. But still they had a verylong ride before them, under a scorching sun, before they could considerthemselves safe from further pursuit; and the deep shadows of the darkjungle had closed around them as they pushed their way along the dustyroad. And it was not until the moon had risen in all her splendour, highabove their heads, that Edith, worn out with the excitement and fatigueof the day's journey, attended by a gallant cavalier, reached Rutlaum. 

Fortunately, they experienced no difficulty in tracing the whereaboutsof the Bartons, who had not, as yet, left the place. The news of thedisaster at Goolampore had not reached Rutlaum, the mutineers havingcut the telegraph lines, and the intelligence would not, in allprobability, be received for a couple of days; and it was agreed that itshould be suppressed as long as possible. It was arranged that thefamily should leave on the following evening by the Palkee Dawk for thecoast. Carlton, of course, called on the officer commanding the post, and explained to him all he knew concerning the outbreak, and exactlyhow things stood when he left the station. 

The Bartons were delighted to have Edith with them again, for nothinghad gone right during her absence. Mrs. Barton had not been accustomedto take any part in the household arrangements or keeping the servantsin order, consequently everything had gone wrong. 

Edith grew eloquent when describing the dauntless courage of Carlton inrescuing her from a fate too horrible to be thought of. On hearing this, Arthur rose at least fifty per cent. In the estimation of Mrs. Barton, with whom he had always been a great favourite, and she warmly thankedhim for the exertion he had made in behalf of her young friend. Takingadvantage of the opportunity thus afforded him, Arthur, on the spur ofthe moment, disclosed to her everything concerning his engagement toEdith, and solicited their approval to the union on his attaining therank of Captain. He was warmly supported by Edith, who did not hesitateto declare her affection for one whom she had known so long, and who hadrisked so much for her. And when Mrs. Barton found that the wedding wasnot to take place for some time, and that Edith was to return with themto England, she professed herself to be satisfied on the subject, whereupon it was arranged that the party should proceed to the seacoast. On reaching Doollia, the lovers parted in hopes of meeting againat no distant day in England, for the ratification of those vows thatwere exchanged during their ride for life through the Goozeratte. 

Independent of the inward satisfaction felt by Edith, that herengagement to Arthur had met the approval of the kind friends to whomshe owed so much, she experienced a great deal of pleasure during theoverland journey to Europe. Both Horace and Pauline had twice traversedthe route, and therefore were enabled to point out the various objectsof interest that were met with in the different places they passedthrough. The Egyptian Pyramids, Cleopatra's Needle, and the far-famedCatacombs at Alexandria, with many a new and strange sight, encounteredduring their short sojourn at Malta and Gibraltar, which had beenunheeded on her passage out, so depressed and sad at heart had she feltat the death of her uncle. But, time having healed that mental wound, and a bright future opening before her, she could now fully enjoy thosescenes and the associations they usually call up. 

CHAPTER XII. 

Arthur Carlton lost no time in making his way to the Capital andreporting himself to the Commander-in-Chief. His Excellency was pleasedto accept graciously his reasons for throwing up his appointment on thestaff of General D----, at Goolampore. Our hero had expected to get agood rap over the knuckles for acting as he had done without firstapplying to headquarters, and this, doubtless, would have been the caseat any other time, but the blind folly and general mismanagement of thelate Brigadier had already been commented upon and censured by theauthorities, and no doubt if death had not interfered to prevent it, acourt martial and dismissal from the service would have been the result. As it was, another officer was sent up and appointed to the command atGoolampore, and Lieutenant Carlton ordered to join his regiment at theearliest opportunity, which, of course, meant that he should proceedwith any corps, detachment, or party that might be moving in thatdirection. But Arthur was too anxious for active employment to brook anysuch delay; so, after a few days' sojourn at the Capital, attended onlyby his servants, took the road to Runjetpoora, where his regiment wasreported to be stationed. Nothing, of interest occurred on the route, until within a few miles of his destination where he expected to joinhis corps. 

It being his last day's march, he had sent his servants and baggage onseveral hours in advance, and being well armed and well mounted, hestarted from his halting place about daylight, alone, and pursued hiscourse along the high road, in the best possible spirits, feeling wellcontented with the position of things in general, and his own inparticular. 

About noon, being somewhat heated and thirsty, he turned his horse'shead to the right, and rode quietly some distance into the jungle, andfinding a cool shady spot by a small running stream, dismounted, andtaking off the saddle from his charger, gave him a feed of gram or corn, and allowed a sufficient length of tether to enable him to crop the softgrass which grew in the immediate vicinity of the running stream justalluded to, while he rested and regaled himself with some biscuits, brandy punnee, and his favourite German pipe. He had taken up hisposition at the foot of a small tree, with his back against the trunk, his famous tiger-rifle lying by his side and the hilt of his sabrewithin convenient handling distance, for the time and place was suchthat these precautions could not, with safety, be neglected. While thusresting, he sank into a deep reverie; his thoughts wandering back to hisschool boy days, in merry old England, ere he had sighed for a sword andfeather or longed to seek the bubble reputation at the cannon's mouth, or dreamed of scenes by flood and field, beneath the scorching suns, over the arid plains, or amid the wild trackless jungles of Industan. 

Then Vellenaux, the home of his happy youth with its architecturalgrandeurs, its magnificent parks and rich woodland scenery, passed inreview like a panorama before his mental vision, but fair as thesevisions were, another far brighter rose before which all others paledor faded by comparison. Edith, in all her glorious beauty, now rivetedhis every thought, engrossed the whole stretch of his imagination, andfor the time rendered all else opaque and obscure; for had she notpromised to become his wife, to share with him the varied fortunes of asoldiers' life, to be the joy and solace of his riper years, and heartin heart and hand in hand, to glide together, as it were, almostimperceptibly into the yellow leaf of ripe old age. Again, like the evervarying pictures of light and shade, his thoughts turned on thepresent, --this campaign over, the mutiny crushed out, and the command ofa troop conferred upon him, he would be in a position to return toEngland, claim his bride, and thus would the dearest wishes of his heartbe fully realized. From this delightful train of thought, he was arousedby the cracking and breaking of the dry leaves and brush wood at somelittle distance, yet immediately in front of him, and ere he had time torise, an enormous tiger, a regular Bengalle, sprang over the interveningbushes on the open space, within a few yards of where Carlton wasquietly smoking. This sudden appearance was as unlooked for by our heroas was Carlton's figure by the royal beast himself, and, for a fewseconds, they gazed on each other. But Arthur's presence of mind on suchoccasions never deserted him. Instantly bringing to his shoulder therifle that lay handy by his side, and without moving his position, hecovered and took deliberate aim at his--to say the least of it--justthen unwelcome visitor. Until the cocking of the rifle, the enormousbrute seemed undecided as to what course to pursue. But no sooner didthis sound reach the tiger, than his long tail began to sway slowlybackwards and forwards two or three times; and, with a low growl, fierceand deep, settled himself gradually back on his haunches, preparatory tomaking that spring which this class of animals are so famous for, andwhich in many instances prove so fatal to those who pursue or opposethem. But Arthur was a cool and energetic hunter, and had scoured thejungles for weeks together, and had brought in more trophies of hisskill, as a Shirkarree, than any other man in the regiment, and ere thespring could be completed, for the animal had risen in the air, Arthurhad planted a brace of bullets in the chest of the monster, literallycracking, in their progress, the heart of the tiger, who fell forwardstone dead within six feet of where our hero was seated. His practicaleye in an instant convinced him that no danger was to be apprehendedfrom his late foe, and without changing his attitude, resumed the pipe, he had let fall from his lips prior to firing, and, as unconcerned asthough nothing of moment had taken place, commenced carefully to reloadhis rifle. While thus engaged, the crushing among the branches of thejungle trees, and the cracking of the withered stocks and leaves againattracted his attention; and presently some half dozen horsemen clearedthe adjacent bushes and reined up suddenly on the brink of the littlebrook before alluded to, with surprise and astonishment depicted ontheir glowing and excited features, as they gazed on the scene, thusunexpectedly presented to their view. 

"By Jove! did I not know that Arthur Carlton was hundreds of miles awayup in the North-West, I could swear that was he, " pointing to the figureof Carlton seated at the foot of the tree, exclaimed the foremostrider, as he with difficulty curbed in his impatient steed. 

"And who else but the Burra Shirkarree, the Carlton Sahib, would youexpect to find within a couple of yards of the carcass of a lord of thejungle, just slaughtered by him, and cooly re-loading as if he had onlybeen shooting at a pidgeon match, " said Travas Templeton in reply, dismounting as he spoke, and advancing quickly, seized and shook warmlythe hand of our hero, who had by this time sprang to his feet. 

"You guessed right this time, Travas, old fellow, " said Carlton, givinghis friend another hearty shake of the hand. Then, turning to the firstspeaker, whom he addressed as Dorville, said, "So you thought me milesaway, did you? I was sure you had seen the General's order for me torejoin. Pray, introduce me to your friends, and we can have a mutualexplanation of how we came to meet thus unexpectedly. " This being done, the whole party dismounted and threw themselves at full length withinsuch shade as the jungle afforded, and listened to Arthur's account ofthe outbreak at Goolampore, and his reasons for throwing up hisappointment on the staff; the unexpected appearance of the tiger and thedeath of the same. 

"A ticklish thing to do, by Jove, to take the matter in your own hands inthat fashion. But all's well that ends well, and devilish glad will ourfellows be to learn that you will be so soon among us again, especiallyas your troop and mine have been ordered out on some special service, and that accounts for our presence in this neighborhood, and so far fromheadquarters; but Travas will give you the particulars;" and lighting acheroot, Francis Dorville puffed out numberless circles of pale, bluesmoke, which he appeared to enjoy with infinite satisfaction. 

"Then you must know, most redoubtable of tiger-slayers, " began TravasTempleton, who was a cornet in Arthur's troop, and an enthusiasticsportsman, "that the Brigadier commanding, having secretly got wind thata party of mutineers had ensconced themselves in a small fortress, amongyonder hills, " pointing with his cigar in the direction as he spoke, "has ordered a flying column, of which two troops of ours form a part, to attack, and, if possible, to carry the place by assault or _coup demain_; that we are encamped about eight miles to the South-West of thisspot. Last night some villagers came in and reported that a large tiger, doubtless the identical one yonder, was causing great havoc among thecattle; so some half dozen of us started this morning in pursuit. Wecaught sight of the brute about a mile from here, and Dorville, beinggreen at this kind of sport, took a shot at him at too great a range, and, of course, missed, sending the creature in your direction, and sogave you the opportunity of bagging him, which you have mostsuccessfully accomplished. "

"I am sorry, gentlemen, to have deprived you of your day's sport, butunder the circumstances, I really could not have done anything less, forthe tiger came so suddenly upon me, that there was nothing else for it;but this really will be capital fun, the expedition to the hill fort youspeak of, " replied Arthur as he tossed off the remaining portion of hisbrandy punnee, exclaiming at same time, "Here's all success to our newundertaking. "

"You will give up all idea, of course, of going on to Runjetpoora, andreturn with us to our camp and join our troop, for we are to attackthese gentry to-morrow evening, I believe. Colonel Atherly, of theengineers, commands the column. He has heard of your exploits at Mooltanand Chillianwalla, and would be sorry to lose the services of so good aSabre on this occasion. You can report in writing to headquarters, through his Deputy-Adjutant-General, that you have joined your troop. Your tent and servants can be sent over to you during to-morrow; in themeantime, you can share mine, "--"or mine, "--"or mine, "--shouted a chorusof voices. 

"Upon my word, Dorville, you are highly complimentary. It's veryflattering to a fellow's feelings to be so thoroughly appreciated, especially, after so long an absence from the regiment. Devilish kind ofyou, gentlemen, to offer me quarters among you; but, as I cannot dividemyself into half a dozen pieces, I shall only be too happy to accept ourfriend Dorville's offer, he being first in the field. By George, it willbe rejoining with _eclat_ if that little fort up yonder, on the hillside, could be carried by one bold dash, and the affair terminated in aday or so, " cried Carlton, his handsome face lighting up, and pleasurebeaming from his flashing eye at the bare idea of the coming contest. 

"If I can only get my twenty-four pound howitzer in a good position Iwill make the place so hot in a dozen hours that the blackguards willcurse their unlucky stars that caused them to unlimber for action insuch an owl's nest as that, " put in another of the party, an artilleryofficer, attached to the flying column. 

"But what say you to a move, gentlemen. We have some miles to ride, andthat, too, before the trumpet sounds the mess call, " said Travas, raising himself from his sitting position and moving towards his horse. This suited the views of the whole party. The greater number werealready in the saddle. While Arthur and the two others had their feet inthe stirrup, preparing to mount, the whole party were startled andamazed by the very novel and unlooked for apparition of a female figure, flying towards them, evidently in great terror and alarm. On reachingCarlton, who was the nearest to her, she bent forward with supplicatinglooks and clasped hands, passionately exclaiming, "Oh! for pity sake, hasten to the rescue, ere it be too late. Fly! gentlemen, and stay thebloody work of those miscreants, those fiends in human form. Oh! wastenot a moment, or your aid may come too late. " The supplicant was ahandsome three-quarter cast. Her luxuriant hair, dark as a raven's wing, hung in wild confusion about her neck and shoulders. Her well-fittingdress, of fine Madras muslin, hung in shreds around her finely mouldedform, and blood was issuing from rents in her light kid slippers, caused, doubtless, by the thorns and other prickly obstacles she had metwith on her passage through the tangled brushwood of the jungle. 

"Pray, calm yourself, I beg, and endeavour to collect your thoughts. Towhom do you allude, and in what direction; do you wish us to go?" saidDorville, as he handed her some sherry and water from his flask; thisshe drank eagerly, then hurriedly continued--the whole group pressingnearer and nearer to the excited woman, to learn by what mischance oraccident she had been thrown amongst them at such a time and place, sosuddenly--"The Collector of Runjetpoora, his wife, daughter, andsister, with his four clerks, their wives and children, have beenattacked and captured by a band of twenty mounted mutineers, who havesworn to massacre them, and some of the children have already beencruelly butchered by these remorseless villains; I, alone, escaped, andsought shelter in the jungle, where, from an opening down the ravine, caught a glimpse of your party, and have struggled through brake andbriar to implore your assistance. Oh! do not lose a moment, if you wouldbe in time. Even now it may be too late to save them;" and, weepingwildly, sank on her knees, convulsive sobs choking her furtherutterance. 

There was now no need to urge them on, for they at once realized thehorrors of the position in which the Collector and his party were nowplaced. Exclamations of anger, and vows of bitter vengeance burst fromthe lips of all, as they, with paling cheek, and flashing eye, theirteeth clenched fiercely together, listened to the appaling tale of thehalf frantic girl before them. 

"They are but three to one, the pack of mutinous scoundrels, and cannotresist our charge five minutes, and must go down before well-triedsabres, " cried Carlton, springing into his saddle, and taking the lead, saying, as he did so, "Point out the way we should take, my good girl, and what courage, brave hearts, and trusty swords can effect, shall bedone to rescue your friends from the terrible fate which, doubtless, awaits them. "

"When you reach that single tree on the crest of yonder hill, "indicating with her right hand the direction to be taken, "you will comein sight of the place, where this villainous outrage has beencommitted; your own judgment will then tell you what is best to bedone, " she replied, evidently strengthened and refreshed by the wine shehad taken, and the comforting assurance held out to her by Arthur andhis companions. These words had scarcely passed her lips when, applyingthe spur vigorously, the whole party, with one exception, dashed off inthe direction indicated. Captain Crosby of the artillery, who had notstarted with the rest, feeling somewhat anxious for the poor girl'ssafety--alone as she would be shortly in that dense jungle, for everySabre would be needed in the coming onslaught--approaching her, saidkindly and gently, "and you; what is to become of you? what will you do, or where can you go?" "Oh, do not think of me, " she replied, "I canretrace my steps the way I came, alone and unassisted, " moving a fewsteps in that direction. "But stay one moment, " said Crosby; "take thisit may assist you in clearing a pathway through the thicket andunderbrush, " handing her, as he spoke, his long hunting knife. Raisingher beautiful eyes to his, with a look of thankfulness, she accepted theweapon. In another instant, the ringing of horses' hoofs, now growingfainter in the distance, told her that help was hastening on to wherehelp was most required. 

CHAPTER XIII. 

The spot where the Collector and his party had been surprised andcaptured, was on the high road, midway between the Khandish Ghaut andthe large and populous town of Runjetpoora, the inhabitants of which, with the exception of their Begum, or Princess, and a few of herimmediate followers, had thus far remained faithful to British rule, andto which place he was now returning, after making a tour of inspectionthrough the districts, which inspection consisted in surveying andvaluing the crops while growing, the cattle and other properties ofthose residing within his jurisdiction, so that taxes might be levied oneach individual according to their wealth and substance, during thecurrent year. 

The baggage escort and principal servants had been sent on in advance. This the mutineers were, doubtless, aware of, or counted on as beinglikely to be the case, therefore little opposition was to be expected, and so suddenly did they sweep down upon them that the little party weresurrounded and overpowered ere they could seize their weapons to defendthemselves. All were made prisoners save one, Mrs. De Mello, a handsomethree-quarter caste, the youthful bride of the Collector's clerk orfirst assistant, who had alighted from her palkee to gather some wildflowers that grew on the road side, a short time prior to the appearanceof the mutineers, and from where she stood witnessed the attack. Terrified beyond measure at her dangerous proximity to the ruffians, she fled for safety into the depths of the jungle, and so escaped. 

The carriage and bullock games were drawn to an open space some littledistance into the jungle, the intervening bushes screening it to aconsiderable extent from the road. The Collector and his clerks werethen brutally stripped of their clothing, and, having taken possessionof their money and other valuables, the wretches bound them, spreadeagle fashion, to the wheels of the vehicles. The terrified women werenext dragged forth, with more indignity and even greater brutality, andsecured in a similar manner, and in such a position that their torturesmight be witnessed by their helpless husbands. The children, with theexception of the Collector's daughter, a bright, golden haired girl ofsome ten summers, who had clung convulsively to her mother, were throwntogether into a small hollow in the ground about the centre of theplace, they being too young to make any opposition, the black devilsforming a complete semi-circle round their intended victims. 

The first scene of the bloody drama they proposed to enact, to satisfytheir devilish thirst for the blood of the unfortunates, who had thusfallen into their hands, was opened by a tall, burly ruffian bendingover, seizing one of the children, hurling it into the air, and yellingwith an awful imprecation while so doing, that he would wager a goldmohur to five rupees, that he could, with his tulwa, strike off thechild's right arm at the elbow without touching any other part of thebody. This was accepted at once by half-a-dozen voices; the wretchimmediately raised his tulwa and, as the infant descended, made a sharp, quick, upper cut, and ere it reached the ground its little arm wasdisjointed, as though by the knife of an experienced surgeon. A groan ofhorror burst from the lips of the agonized parents, and a convulsiveshudder ran through the remainder of the unhappy party; but this pastunheeded by their captors, being drowned by the yells of fiendishdelight and approval that broke forth from the throats of these hellhounds, as the mutilated body of the child lay wreathing in agony attheir feet, absorbing for the moment all other feeling. "I will doublethe stakes, " cried another, "that I take off the head of a second ofthese young imps close to the shoulder without making wound or scar onany other part. " "Done, and done again!" shouted several voices, throwing up their weapons in the air, and re-catching them again, sodelighted were they at the idea of another spectacle so much in unisonwith their blood-thirsty and relentless passions. A powerful ruffian nowdismounted, and catching up a second babe, a pretty little thingscarcely two years old, hurled it with his utmost strength high into theair. On gaining its greatest altitude, it turned completely, and wasdescending, head downwards. When within six feet of the ground, thebrutal villain, with one lightning stroke of his tulwa, severed the headfrom its shoulders, amid the shouts and gesticulations of the assembledmiscreants. By some, the wretch was pronounced a winner, but onexamining the body, the skin of one shoulder was found to be grazed orcut. Many maintained it was done by the sword; others asserted that itwas caused by falling on a stone or some such substance. The dispute ranhigh, and possible might have come to blows, but for the interference ofanother of the party, who appeared to be a sort of leader among them, shouting out "Come! No more of this fooling; too much time has beenalready wasted on this Tumahsha. Give the cursed feringees a volley fromyour carbines, loot the garries, and then make off with all speed, orthe cursed Kaffirs may get wind of the affair and follow in our track. "

"Shumsodeen is right, " called out another. "There is both truth andreason in what he says. But there must be no firing, it might attractthe notice of any straggler from the camps of those dogs of Kaffirs, andbring their infernal Dragoons down upon us. No! cut the throats of themen, and as there are but twenty of us, and only five of these women, tell off one of them to each four of us, and let us begone, for we mustput the broad plain, at the foot of the Khandish Ghaut, between us andthis place ere night fall, and on our camping for the night, each fourcan decide what is to be done with their prize. " This suggestion wasreceived with applause, and they immediately prepared to act upon it. Already two or three had dismounted and drawn their creeses to slit thethroats of their male prisoners, when a youth, about eighteen, son ofthe fellow called Shumsodeen, cried out, "Do as you please with thewomen among yourselves, but I will have yonder curly headed cutchabutchee for my prize, come what may, " and he took a few steps in thedirection of the Collector's daughter, who was still clinging to herparent for protection; but ere he reached her, a loud, clear voice at nogreat distance rang out, "Fire! gentlemen, and charge!" Then came frombetween the leaves and bushes a withering volley of bullets from rifleand revolver, striking down the youth, and emptying three saddles, theriders falling lifeless to the ground. In another instant the branchesparted, and Arthur Carlton, with his six companions, cleared the lowbrushwood, and sword in hand dashed into the centre of the ruffianlygroup. 

Although taken completely by surprise--for they had not calculated uponbeing interfered with, especially at so early a period of theirproceedings or by so formidable a foe--the mutineers instantly preparedto give their unexpected assailants a fierce and bloody reception. Theyfought frantically with a courage born of desperation, well knowing thatto cut through their foes and escape by flight was their only chance;for should they not perish by the sword in the present contest, ahalter, or to be blown to fragments from the cannon's mouth, would betheir doom if made prisoners, consequently they rained down their blowsfrantically, and made several desperate attempts to break through ordivide the small party that opposed them. But the cool and determinedcourage and thorough discipline of the Dragoons, and their friends wastoo much for them, fighting as they did, for a time, on the defensive;warding off the cuts of the dusky villains, and giving only a fewthrusts here and there, when it could be done with fatal effect. Many oftheir number had already bit the dust, and, as yet, no impression hadbeen made on the gallant little band, the Soaws being still two to one. Thus Carlton and his party were still fighting under a disadvantage asfar as numbers were concerned. Had the combatants been less pre-occupiedwith their deadly strife, they might have observed, at a short distance, a female figure cautiously emerging from between the bushes andstealthily creep beneath the vehicle, to the wheels of which theCollector had been bound. This was the wife of the head clerk, thepretty three-quarter caste, whose presence of mind, courage andforethought had so largely contributed to their deliverance. Rapidly butsurely, with the hunting knife given her by Captain Crosby, she cut thecords that bound her husband and his companions, who, when they foundthey were released, rushed forward and possessed themselves of theweapons of the fallen mutineers, and immediately commenced an attack ontheir flank and rear, in hopes of rendering some assistance to theirbrave defenders. 

Moving quickly, but in such a way as not to attract notice, Mrs. DeMello, released the Collector's wife and the other ladies from theirunpleasant and exposed position, and one by one removed them for safetywithin the cover of the jungle in case of any chance shot or blowinjuring them. A brief time served to restore the ladies to somethinglike tranquility, and enable them to arrange their attire to the bestadvantage under the circumstances, and evincing in the highest mannertheir thanks and gratitude to her who had, with such peril to herself, relieved them from a fate, to them, worse than death itself. 

The unexpected release of the prisoners, and the attack made on theirflank and rear by them, totally confounded the mutineers, and renderedall escape on their part impossible or nearly so, while Arthur and hisfriends, seeing the addition to their number, and being about equallymatched--numerically speaking--changed their tactics from the defensiveto the offensive, and attacked their opponents in right good earnest, and with such skill and determination did they use their weapons thatthey very shortly brought the contest to a close. Eleven of themutinous rascals lay stone dead upon the blood-stained sod, and fiveothers so fatally wounded that it would be impossible for them tosurvive another hour, three more were slightly injured, but sufficientlyso to render them for the present _hors de combat_, while the oneremaining wretch who had escaped scathless had sullenly thrown down hisarms and stood looking on in moody silence. Every one of the bravelittle party that had come thus opportunely to the rescue, had been moreor less injured by the Tulwas and pistol shots of the black Sowas, butin no case did their wounds render them unfit for active service; restfor a few days, together with some sticking plaster, was all that theyneeded to enable them to take the field again. Of the mutineers, thefive mortally wounded were left to keep guard over the eleven dead, theremaining four were bound and lashed to one of the garries belonging tothe Collector. The oaths and imprecations of these wretched beings atthe failure of their project and the position they now found themselvesin, were something fearful to listen to. 

After a brief time, for congratulations, rest and refreshments, whichrefreshment consisted chiefly in brandy punnee, sherry and biscuit, fromthe flasks and wallets of the party, (no bad thing by the way, under thecircumstance. ) Matters then having been got _en train_, the whole partyproceeded leisurely to the camp near Laurieghur, and arrived just as thesun was casting her golden rays on the slopes of the adjacent hills, previous to its sinking for the night into the purple depths ofobscurity. Early the following morning, the Collector, with a suitableescort, proceeded on their way to Runjetpoora, the place to which theywere returning when they were so ruthlessly set upon by the atrociousmutineers. 

The day proceeding the one on which Arthur had joined his troop, theofficer in command of the little force ordered a court martial toassemble for the trial of the prisoners concerned in the late murderousattack on the Collector and party. The finding of the court was, thatthe prisoners were guilty of all the charges brought against them, andthe sentence pronounced was that of death, by being blown to fragmentsfrom the cannon's mouth, the sentence to be carried into effect the daysucceeding the promulgation of the order for the execution. Preparationswere then to be pushed forward vigorously for carrying by assaultLaurieghur, the fortress among the hills. Already a heavy breachingbattery had been sent for to Runjetpoora, for on a party of Engineersadvancing more closely and with the aid of their field glasses, it wasfound to be a more formidable place, and more strongly guarded than hadbeen anticipated by those in command at Runjetpoora; thus the delay incommencing the attack. 

On the evening prior to the execution of the wretched criminals, asArthur Carlton was quietly smoking a cigar and meditating on Edith, theapproaching siege, and things in general, an orderly came to his tentand announced to him, that one of the prisoners desired to speak withhim on a subject that admitted of no delay. Surprised at so unlooked foran event, Arthur at first felt inclined to refuse the man's request, butpresently, curiosity getting the better of the dislike he felt at havingany communication with the wretch, and wondering what he could possiblyhave to communicate, sent word that he would visit him soon after sunset. 

"What is it you have to say to me?" enquired Arthur Carlton, an hourlater, as with stern composure and folded arms, he looked down upon thewretched culprit who lay manacled on the floor of the guard tent, andwho proved to be the youth before alluded to, as the son of the mancalled Shumsodeen. 

The captive, with much difficulty raising himself to a sitting posture, said, "You are a brave man, and the brave among the whites are alwaystruthful they tell me. I am told that I am to be blown from the cannon'smouth to-morrow. Is this the truth? Is there no hope of pardon orreprieve?"

"The sentence of the court has been read to you, and there is no hope ofremission. You will die at sunrise to-morrow morning, and have but a fewhours to live. This you might have ascertained from the sergeant of theguard without sending for me, " said Arthur, turning to leave the tent. 

"Stay!" resumed the prisoner, observing Carlton's intention, "I havethat to say which nearly concerns yourself and companions. I havelearned that it is the intention of your commander to carry the Fort ofLaurieghur by assault; this cannot be done without great loss of lifeamong you, for the place is much stronger and better provisioned andgarrisoned than he has any idea of. Listen to my story, you will thensee that I have it in my power to render your General a very greatservice if permitted to do so. "

"Speak on, " responded Arthur, getting somewhat interested, and seatinghimself on a bag of tent pegs, the the only apology for a seat the tentafforded. 

The youth then proceeded with his story, from which it appeared that, about five weeks previous, a party of cavalry Sowas, regular andirregular, who had deserted their regiments, had arrived at the villagein which the speaker and his father, who was a mounted police patell, resided. While there, the emissaries of the Begum of Runjetpoora, whohad established herself at Laurieghur, and was organizing a force andgetting together supplies of ammunition, provisions, etc. , with theintention of making a raid on Runjetpoora and looting it, had madeovertures to this party, and promised them high pay and a share of theplunder if they would join her. This they had accepted, and some of themen of the village, the father and son included, had cast in their lotswith the mutineers and entered the fort; but, dissatisfied with being solong cooped up within its walk, and seeing no prospect of immediateplunder, had attempted to leave the place, but were prevented from sodoing by the Begum's order. In sullen silence they received thisinjunction, but determined to escape when opportunity offered. That oneday while he, (the prisoner) was passing through the ruins of a desertedpalace, he had discovered the entrance to a subterraneous passage, leading under the walls and coming out about a quarter of a mile fromthe fort. This he had communicated to his comrades, and the followingmorning ere it was light, the party, led by himself, made good theirretreat, and keeping within the jungle for some miles, came upon thehigh road, and chanced to meet the Collector's party; that he had takenno part in the slaughter of the children, and had intended leaving theband as soon as they came in sight of his own village, and inconclusion said, "If you will swear to obtain my pardon, and liberty togo where I please, I will lead you and any number of your men throughthis same passage, and in less than two hours from leaving this place, you shall be in possession of the fort and all it contains. " This offerour hero did not consider himself at liberty to refuse or accept, butpromised at once to bring the matter to the notice of the officercommanding the force, and let him (the prisoner) know the result asspeedily as might be, and immediately left the guard room for thatpurpose. 

The prisoner's proposition was at once accepted by the authorities, andvery shortly a party of five hundred infantry, and one hundreddismounted dragoons, led by Carlton and accompanied by the prisoner asguide, left the camp and soon made their way without difficulty, orexciting the notice of the insurgents, through the subterraneous passagebefore alluded to into the fort, and the whole party were soon ensconcedwithin the ruins of the old palace, without the garrison having theleast idea of their presence in that quarter. On gaining this position, the signal agreed on, a blue light, was burned for one minute, then thewhole force in camp turned out, and a demonstration was made from everyavailable cannon and musket, as if the storming of the fort hadcommenced in earnest. The consternation of the mutineers at findingthemselves so suddenly attacked was very great, and imagine their dismayon rushing to the walls, to find the ramparts lined with our men. Unableto account their appearance there, and believing treachery to be at workamong themselves, and that the gates had been opened to admit the foe, threw down their arms and surrendered at discretion. 

Search was immediately made for the Begum, and while looking for thismutiness Princess in one of her apartments, Carlton took up from ateapoy or dressing table, a small but curiously carved steel casket. Supposing it to contain cosmetics, or what was more probable, chinaumand beetle nut, hurriedly slipped it into his sabretache; but notsucceeding in finding the Begum, who had evaded the pursuit, Arthur, with his Dragoons, returned to camp. The same evening the three villainsalready condemned were executed. 

But the youth who had acted as guide was permitted to escape, which helost no time in doing. The little force was then broken up, and thetroop composing it sent back to their respective corps, while our heroand his Dragoons joined their regiment, and with it saw a great deal ofhard fighting and rough service, and on more than one occasion hisdashing conduct had been brought to the notice of the Indian Government. 

The return of the troop from Persia, and the efficient manner in whichthe brigades under Sir Hugh Rose, Havelock, Mitchell, Whitlock andothers were handled, proved too much for the mutineers, and after anobstinate contest which lasted over two years, during which time a heavyloss of life had been sustained on both sides, the rebellious nativetroops were beaten at all points, and law and order once more restoredthroughout the country. 

CHAPTER XIV. 

Horace, on reaching London, had taken a house on Berkly Square. Old Mr. And Mrs. Barton having died some two years previous, as already stated, and the Willows in Devonshire had been let. He found his sister, Mrs. Ashburnham, still living on Cavendish Square, and Emily residing withher aunt in Harley street. Tom and his bride were still travelling onthe Continent. Mr. And Mrs. Barton therefore determined to remain intown until the lease, for which the country seat had been let, shouldexpire, which would take place about the month of August in thefollowing year; and thus it was that the people of Vellenaux knewnothing of their return to England. Fond of gaiety and fashionable life, Mrs. Barton determined to make up for time lost during their sojourn inthe Goozeratte, by being very gay, attending balls, parties and operas, and not unfrequently giving stylish entertainments at her house atBerkly Square, in all of which Edith participated, as her kind friendwould go no where and do nothing without her, and thus she passed herfirst season in London. In the spring of the year she received thewelcome intelligence that Arthur had been promoted to a troop, and thatif he could manage to obtain leave of absence, he would be in Englandearly in summer to claim his bride. 

"Well, my dear, " said Mrs. Barton, a few days subsequent to the receiptof the letter, "Horace, dear old fellow, has arranged everything nicelyfor you. He has still some interest with the authorities. He has been tothe India office. Arthur is to have eighteen months leave of absence, and before the expiration of that time his regiment will be orderedhome; so you see, my dear, we shall be able to see a great deal of eachother. After you are married you will, of course, remain with us untilit is time for Arthur to rejoin his regiment. " Edith felt very gratefulto her kind friends for all they had done to further her happiness, andlooked forward to the time when she should meet her affianced husbandwith intense satisfaction and delight. She would not now be called uponto return to India, to which country she had a strong aversion; and wellshe might, for her residence there, with the exception of her episodesof pleasure derived from the society of Arthur, had indeed been verytrying. 

It was summer, bright, glorious, balmy summer. The birds sang andchirped among the green leaves, and wood pigeons cooed in the hollowtrunks of the trees, beneath whose outspreading branches, littlefour-footed creatures gamboled and made merry among the soft featherygrasses that grew in the fine old beech woods of Devon. It was pleasantto listen to the cool, gurgling sound of the brawling brook, whosebright waters skipped, danced and glittered, as they forced their wayover the pebbles and other impediments in their serpentine course alongthe shady dell that skirted the Home Park, wherein, under the venerableoaks, the red and fallow deer rested, dreamily sniffing the deliciousfragrance that pervaded the air, borne upon the light summer wind fromthe rich parterre which stretched the entire length of the south wing atVellenaux. 

In a large octagon-shaped apartment that had been fitted up as alibrary, the most pleasing feature of which was its Southern aspect, were seated _tete a tete_ two personages, who figured somewhatconspicuously in the early part of our story, these were Mrs. Fraudhurstand Sir Ralph Coleman. They had met here at the request of the Baronet, for Sir Ralph and the widow rarely met except by appointment or at thedinner table. 

Time had dealt kindly with the lady, and what was deficient by naturewas supplied by art, for she was one of those who always paid the mostscrupulous attention to their toilette. If we were to describe her asfat, fair, and forty, we should certainly wrong her. Fair and forty sheundoubtedly was, but fat she certainly was not. There was a slighttendency to embonpoint, but this was relieved by her tall and notungraceful figure. She was what might be termed a decidedly handsomewoman. The corpulent lawyer had subsided into the sleek, well-conditioned country gentleman. But there was at times a certainrestlessness of the eye, and a nervous twitching at the corners of themouth, which, to a keen observer, would indicate that he was not alwaysthe quiet, self-possessed person that he would have his neighbors tobelieve. The business on which they had met had been interrupted by theentrance of a servant with a note to Sir Ralph, but, on his leaving theroom, the conversation was resumed by Mrs. Fraudhurst saying:

"I would much rather, Sir Ralph, that this subject be now discontinued, and never again reverted to. The papers to which you allude areperfectly safe in my hands, and I do not see that any good could accrueby my transferring them to you, certainly none to myself, and it mightmilitate against me; for the great anxiety you evince to get possessionof the documents leads me to believe that you have some particularobject in view, something which does not appear or, the surface, andwhich you desire should not come to my knowledge. "

"But, my dear madam, you surely do not imagine that I have any othermotive in requesting you to hand over to my safe keeping the deed inquestion than a natural desire to be quite certain that our mutualinterests should not be imperilled by any accidental circumstance thatmight disclose the existence of any such document. "

The lady looked steadily at him for a few seconds, then in a cleardistinct, and deliberate tone, said, "For the last seven years the willof the late Baronet has been in my possession, during which, time you, Sir Ralph, have made frequent attempts to obtain it from me, sometimeson one pretence, then on another. Were I to agree to your request, whatsecurity have I that you, who have acted so vile a part against MissEffingham, would not act as treacherously towards me, were I once inyour power? While I possess that document, I hold my position here, andcan thus keep you at bay. And think you that I will thus surrender myadvantage to please the idle fancy of a man who would not hesitate tostoop to perform any act however dastardly, so that he could effectuallyescape the penalty of a crime he was ready to profit by, but cowardlyenough to shrink from the consequences it entailed? You say that ourinterest in this affair is mutual, --it is not so, and you know it. Yougain nineteen thousand a year, I only one. Again, should the will by anymischance be found in my possession, who would believe my statementthat you were a party concerned in the abstraction of the said deed, youwould deny all knowledge of the transaction and my unsupported evidencecould not commit you. Of course you would lose the estate; but whatwould my condition be then. No! I have everything at stake--you, comparatively nothing. I will not accede to so absurd a proposition. "There was a short pause, the widow resumed her embroidery with an air ofapparent indifference. The baronet sat abstractedly gazing out of thewindow, evidently turning over something in his mind. As she had statedhe had tried to wheedle her out of the papers, but she had hitherto, bygreat tact, adroitly managed to shift the conversation to some othersubject, in a quiet and playful manner. He was therefore not preparedfor this vehement outburst; she had not only refused to comply with hisdemand, but taunted him with stinging words for his pusillanimousconduct. He knew her great ambition, and that the sole object of herlife was to become mistress of Vellenaux, and to gain this she wouldrisk everything. It was her weak point, the only vulnerable part hecould attack with any hope of success. He had for months pondered overthis; it had this advantage, it is true, he thought a marriage wouldsecure him in the possession of both the will and her silence; but thenhe hated her with a cordial hate. He had been for years in her power. During her residence at Vellenaux she had every want supplied, and wassafe in her position. With the only evidence of the fraud that had beenpracticed in her own keeping; she had outwitted him and had in realityobtained the best of the bargain. The knowledge of this cut him to thequick and he detested her in consequence. 

Yet his only chance of obtaining that which he so coveted was by anoffer of marriage, not that he intended to fulfil any such promise, quite the reverse, it would be a lie, a villainous deception, but had henot willingly defrauded Miss Effingham out of her property? and what wasone lie, more or less, it would be but diamond cut diamond, and turningthe tables on Mrs. Fraudhurst. All these thoughts flashed through hismind as he sat gazing out upon the sunny landscape below him, if it mustbe done, as well now as at any other time, perhaps better. He at lengtharose, and after taking two or three turns up and down the apartment inorder to nerve himself for action, stopped beside the chair of the fairwidow. 

"Eleanor, " said he, laying his hand on her arm. She looked up quickly, for he had never before so addressed her. "Eleanor, you are unjust to meand to yourself, ask yourself have I ever deceived or broken faith withyou since our compact after Sir Jasper's death, and the answer must bein my favor. You may say that I have acted coldly and kept aloof fromyou: this I grant is true, but it has been forced upon me; I felt thatthe eyes of the world were upon us, watching our actions. Your constantresidence here has been talked of and cavelled at by some of theneighboring families, who have not recovered from the surprise they felton hearing that Sir Jasper had died intestate and left his orphan nieceunprovided for. It was to prevent exposure that I have thus actedtowards you, and I believe that I have effectually succeeded, and now Iacknowledge that the charm of your society has become almostindispensable to me, and I will no longer be held back by the world'sopinion. Listen to my proposal, accept it or reject it as you will, Imake it with all sincerity. Place the will of the late baronet in myhands, and before this day month you shall be my wife and mistress ofthe the manor. "

"And should I survive you, " she said, "Vellenaux and its broad lands--"

"Reverts to Miss Effingham on condition that she allows you fivethousand per annum and a suite of apartments in the west wing, duringthe remainder of your life, which you can have fitted up to suit yourtaste and convenience without delay, in case the contingency you mentionshould arise sooner than I anticipate. "

"And this you swear to fulfil to the letter, " she replied, advancingnearer and fixing her eyes upon him as if to read his inmost thoughts. 

"On the day after our marriage I will cause a will to be drawn to thateffect, this I swear to do by the honor of knighthood. "

Her countenance lit up and there was a sparkling brilliancy in her largeblack eyes as she said, "I believe you--wait a few seconds and I willprove that I do. " She then quitted the room, but did not keep him longin suspense; on re-entering she placed the parchment in his hands, saying as she did so, "Remember I now trust you, but beware how youbetray that trust. "

He opened the document and glanced over it, to satisfy himself of itsauthenticity; his legal experience enabled him to decide at once that itwas genuine. "Eleanor. " he then said, taking her hand, "our interestsare now identical, we cannot now but act in concert, " and raising herhand to his lips, he bowed courteously to her and left the room by onedoor, while she passed out at another. 

"I have carried my point, thought Sir Ralph as he entered his study, andbefore this day month I shall have sank both name and title, and be analien from my native land. "

"I have carried my point at last, " exclaimed Mrs. Fraudhurst, as thedoor of her dressing room closed behind her; "before this day month Ishall be Lady Coleman and mistress of Vellenaux. "

It was late that night ere Sir Ralph retired to rest; before he did sohe had determined on his future career. For years he had striven towrest this document from the widow and now with it in his possession, helost no time in putting into execution the plans he had for so long atime been maturing. This was to proceed without delay to London, raiseas large a sum as possible by mortgaging the Vellenaux property to itsfullest extent, then retire to the continent and spend the remainder ofhis days in foreign travel, halting from time to time at the differentcities he had visited during the first years of his married life. For inthis mode of living he felt he would be more secure than he could everhope to be in England during the life of Mrs. Fraudhurst. It is truethat he could, by fulfiling his promise of marrying the widow, havesheltered himself from the consequences that might arise should hisshare of the concealment of the will ever appear, but he could escapethis alternative by pursuing the course he had marked out for himself. He was aware that a desperate and revengeful woman like Mrs. Fraudhurstwould leave no stone unturned to bring about the ruin of the man who hadthus deceived and tricked her; but the old lawyer knew that she wasalmost powerless to act against him with any chance of success, as theonly two persons interested in the matter were, to the best of hisbelief, in India, and likely to remain there for some years at least, and the only real proof that a will had been made by the late Sir JasperColeman, was now in his possession, viz: the will itself, and herunsupported testimony would not be taken as evidence in any court oflaw; besides, in the transaction she was in the eyes of the law the moreculpable of the two, being the chief instigator of the plot, thereforeit was in a more complacent frame of mind that Sir Ralph, early thefollowing morning, ere the self-satisfied widow had awakened from thoseslumbers that had been during the night partially and pleasantlydisturbed by means of her coming greatness as the wife of a Baronet andthe Lady of Vellenaux, had driven over to Switchem and taken his seat inthe up train for Southampton, in order to consult with the lawyer whohad the management of his estate. After effecting this he started forLondon. 

He was not naturally a bad man at heart, and had he not been legal heirto the baronetcy he would never have entered into the conspiracy todeprive the rightful owner of the property. He had always been of theopinion that the late Baronet would make a will leaving the principalportion of his property to his niece, but fancied that he would come infor a couple of thousand a year, to enable him to support the title; butfinding that his name did not appear in the will, he felt bothdisappointed and annoyed beyond measure, and quite ready to acquiesce inthe proposal made him by the intriguing ex-governess. 

It was not his wish or intention from the first that the will should bedestroyed, and he had certain scruples of conscience which nowprevented his so doing. During his journey by train he argued thesubject mentally. "They are both young, " he thought, his mind revertingto Miss Effingham and Arthur Carlton, "and will, in all probability, survive me many years; let them buffet the waves of fortune in theiryouth, as I have done, they will then better appreciate their accessionto fortune than they probably would have done, had they come into it atan earlier stage of their life; besides, who has a better right, duringhis lifetime, to enjoy the estate, than the heir to the title. The willmust, of necessity, be found among my papers after my decease, so allwill come right in the end, " and with this consoling plea he settledhimself snugly among the cushions of the first-class carriage of thetrain that was now leaving Southampton far behind, on its upward courseto London, and soon fell into a doze. 

In another carriage were seated two gentlemen conversing in a verylively and animated strain, and were apparently much interested withscenery, farm houses, and well trimmed hedges, as the train whirledpast. They were not foreigners by any means, decidedly English in everylook and action; about eight and twenty and thirty, respectively, andvery good looking; the tallest was decidedly handsome; he was dressed ingrey tweed of fine texture. They had entered the carriage atSouthampton. A man of the world would have pat them down, from theirgeneral appearance and the well-bronzed hue of their features, as eitherbelonging to, or having served in, the military or naval service oftheir country; and he would not have been wrong, for they were noneother than Captain Carlton and Assistant-Surgeon Draycott, of H. M. LightDragoons, just arrived from India on furlough. 

"We are going along at racing speed, " said Draycott to his companion, "but it will hardly keep pace with your impatience to reach London. Gad, I envy you the possession of so fair a bride. I remember the first timeI met her at Calcutta. I thought her the most loveable girl I had everseen; but what chance had a poor devil of an Assistant-Surgeon, onlyjust arrived in the country, surrounded, as she was, by a set of fellowsold enough to be her father, it is true, but with rupees enough tofreight a Pattima? I suppose that ride through the Goozeratte did thebusiness for you? She is just the girl to admire that sort of thing. "

A suitable reply rose to Arthur's lips, but very different words escapedhim. 

"What the devil is that? A collision, by thunder!" exclaimed he, as hepicked himself up from the opposite seat on which he had been thrown bythe violence of the shock. The door, fortunately, had been forced openby the concussion. Our two travellers jumped out on to the track. Here ascene of confusion met their view. They had run into a freight trainwhich was coming from an opposite direction. Women and children wereshrieking for help, mingled with the cries of those injured, with theloud shouts and vociferations of the employees, and those engaged inclearing the wreck and getting things into trim again; although a numberwere hurt, some slightly, others more seriously, there were nonereported actually killed; and a great number of the passengers were morefrightened than hurt. 

"This way, " said an official to some four or five men, who were carryinga gentleman that appeared to be more seriously injured than any of therest. "Lay him down softly on that grassy bank;" then raising his voicecalled out, "Is there any medhal man at hand?"

"Here, Draycott, although on leave you must come to the rescue. Horridbore to be thus detained, is it not, " said Arthur, as they hastened tothe spot. 

"Fall back there, men, fall back; give the gentleman more air, and letthe doctor pass. " At the decided and authoritative tone of Carlton'svoice the crowd, who by this time had gathered around the sufferer, gaveway. The surgeon went to work immediately and examined the unfortunateman thoroughly. "Bad case, " he said in a whisper to Carlton. "Brokenthigh bone, ribs crushed, and something worse internally, I am afraid. "At this moment Carlton got a good look at the features of the injuredman. "Can it be possible! Yes, it is Sir Ralph Coleman!" At the mentionof his name the Baronet opened his eyes and, for a second or two, lookedfully at the speaker, then said with a great effort, for pain hadhitherto kept him silent:

"Yes, Arthur Carlton, it is I. How came you here? Do not leave me. " Andhere Sir Ralph fainted from loss of blood. 

"Is there a public house or farm near?" enquired Carlton. 

"Yes, " replied one of the bystanders, "there is farmer Wheatley's justdown there in the hollow; they will do what they can for the poorgentleman. "

"I will pay the men well that will carry him there, " said Carlton, addressing a number of farmers' men, who had by this time come up. Therank of the injured man, and the offer of payment, had a wonderfuleffect. A dozen volunteered, at once. A gate was taken off its hinges, and some of the cushions of the injured carriage placed upon this litterand, under the direction of Doctor Draycott, Sir Ralph was conveyed tothe farm house in the hollow. 

"You seemed to be well acquainted with my patient, " said Draycott. 

"Oh, yes. He is Sir Ralph Coleman, of Vellenaux. He succeeded to thetitle and estate on the death of Sir Jasper, Miss Effingham's uncle, bywhich she was left almost penniless. You have heard her history, Isuppose, in India. These things always leak out somehow or other in theservice. "

"In that case, my dear fellow, I must go no further than the door withyou. To the best of my belief he will not live more than eight hours, and I must have other opinion and advice in his case. I think it wouldbe as well to have the clergyman and a lawyer without loss of time. Hemay have something of importance to communicate to you or Miss Effinghamere he dies, for I have some indistinct notion that I have heardsomething very unfavorable spoken about the said Baronet, now I hear thename again. Let him be got to bed as soon as possible. What is the nameof your nearest town, and the distance to it?" enquired Draycott of thefarmer. 

"Fallowfield is about two miles from here, sir. There is a good road andno one could miss it, " was the reply. 

"Let me have a horse and I will go myself and get what I require;Captain Carlton will remain until I return, " and the young surgeon wassoon on his way at a hand gallop. In the meantime the good people of thefarm were doing all in their power to render the sufferings of theirwounded guest as little painful as possible; and every attention wasshown him. He spoke but little; but several times asked for Carlton, andon seeing him only repeated, "Do not leave me yet, Arthur, I may havesomething to say concerning you and Miss Effingham. "

In less time than could have been expected, Draycott returned, accompanied by the best surgeon in Fallowfield, the rector, and a lawyerof good standing in that town. Again the patient was examined, afterwhich a consultation was held in the farmer's parlour, which lastedabout a quarter of an hour; the medical men then returned to thebed-chamber. 

The Baronet scrutinized their features narrowly as they re-entered theroom. "Oh!" said he, breathing with intense difficulty, "I see there isno hope for me; but tell me frankly, how long is it your opinion that Ican live?"

"Doctor Draycott and myself, " replied the surgeon from Fallowfield--whobeing much the senior took the lead--"deem it expedient that you shouldsend for your man of business as soon as possible, " thus evading thedirect question. 

Ralph passed his hand across his brow and remained silent a few moments. "You may do so, but it is too late I am afraid. Get the nearest lawyeryou can, but be quick for my strength is failing fast, and send CaptainCarlton to me at once. "

"Arthur, " he continued, as the young man advanced, "I have deeplywronged Edith and yourself: in the breast pocket of that coat yonder isa paper packet, bring it to me. " Arthur obeyed and placed it on thecounterpane. Ralph laid his hand upon it and said, "There is yet timeto make restitution. This is the will of the late Sir Jasper Coleman, stolen from his desk on the morning of his death. Has the lawyer sentfor yet arrived? If so, I will give my deposition on oath, ere it is toolate: I am not a principal, but an accessory. After the fact--" Here SirRalph fell back on the pillow, and remained motionless several minutes, during which time the rector and lawyer had been summoned from theparlor below. The rector being a magistrate undertook to put a fewquestions to the dying man before he gave, his testimony. Whensufficiently recovered to speak, the baronet, in a husky voice, relatedthe whole of his interview with Mrs. Fraudhurst, her production of thewill and the compact entered into between them. The document was swornto, signed and duly witnessed by those present. 

"Arthur give this will into the hands of Miss Effingham, or her legaladviser, and obtain her forgiveness for me. " This the gallant soldierfaithfully promised to do. The room was then cleared of all except therector and the dying baronet. He lingered until sometime after midnight, and ere the light of another day dawned, his spirit had passed away, andthe baronetcy became extinct. 

During the following day Mr. Russell, the agent, arrived, and Arthur, inthe name of Miss Effingham, authorized him to settle all claims, andhave the body of the late Sir Ralph conveyed to Vellenaux for interment. Having thus arranged matters, Captain Carlton and his friend Draycottstarted by the next train for London. 

CHAPTER XV. 

It was by no means an uncommon occurrence for Sir Ralph to absenthimself from home for a day or two without communicating to any one hisintentions or the direction in which he was going, therefore his absenceat the dinner table in the evening did not excite any misgivings in themind of Mrs. Fraudhurst, but his non-appearance at the breakfast tablethe following morning caused considerable disquietude to that amiableperson. Hurried on by her ambition she had aimed at too high a prize, and in so doing had let slip the reins of power. The possession of thewill was the only hold she had ever had on the baronet and now when toolate she perceived, to her dismay, the awkward position in which shestood. Ever suspicious of the motives of others; she now tormentedherself with apprehensions concerning his absence, and the business thatcould have taken him away at that particular time. From the servants shecould gain no information regarding his movements; but it occurred toher that old Bridoon, the gate-keeper, could throw some light on thesubject, and therefore determined to lose no time in questioning him asto the direction taken by his master. 

The person who had been despatched to Southampton to summon Mr. Russell, the agent, found the gentleman in question had gone to Vellenaux, andthinking from what he had overheard that it was a matter of considerableimportance, made no longer delay in that good town than was actuallynecessary, but took the first train to Switchem, and from thence on footto the lodge gates, and walked quickly up the avenue; when near the lawnhe encountered Mrs. Fraudhurst, who, noticing him to be a stranger andin haste, accosted him and enquired his business. 

"I am looking for Mr. Russell, my lady, " was his reply. 

"He resides in Southampton; but where have you come from, and who is itthat wishes to see him?"

"Sir Ralph Coleman, my lady, has met with an accident about two milesfrom Fallowfield, and is not expected to live long. He has sent for hisagent, and I have been to Southampton, but was told that I should findhim here. "

The widow started and turned deadly pale. "He has the will with him, "she thought. 

"I beg pardon, my lady, for being so abrupt, --perhaps you are LadyColeman, " for he noticed her start and change color. 

"Pray go on, my good fellow, and tell me all about that accident, wherethe baronet is, and who is with him, and all you know concerning thissad affair. "

The man related all he knew, and something that he had heard. "Thegentleman that sent me for Mr. Russell they called Captain Carlton. " Atthis name she again started, and, in spite of herself, trembledperceptibly, but the man went on--

"There was something said about a stolen will, which Sir Ralph wanted toenquire about, or something of that sort, and I am in great haste. "

"Stay one moment. Did you say Sir Ralph was not expected to live?"

"The doctors said he could not last more than a few hours. "

By this time she had recovered her presence of mind. "Mr. Russell, " shesaid, "was here this morning, but has returned to Southampton; you musthave passed him on your way here; return my good fellow as quickly asyou can, and let him know all that you have told me. " She gave him asovereign and said, "I will be there almost as soon as yourself. "

The man took the coin with a bow, and started for the railway station, and Mrs. Fraudhurst returned to the house, where she well knew Mr. Russell then was settling home matters with the steward. She wentdirectly to her own apartment to form plans of immediate action. "Arthuris in England, Sir Ralph dying, the will found in his possession; he hasmade a confession of the whole, implicating me; he must have done so, orhow could that messenger have heard of the stolen will. Idiot that Iwas, to trust it out of my own keeping. My only safety is in instantflight. I must place the wide waste of waters between me and theconsequences that must inevitably await me should I remain here afterthe disclosure becomes known throughout the country. " She thencommenced to pack up her wardrobe and valuables. Her plan was soonarranged. She then descended to the drawing room and rang for oldReynolds, who answered the summons. "Has Mr. Russell left the house?"she enquired, and on receiving an answer in the negative, desired thathe might be informed that she wished to speak to him, "and returnyourself, Reynolds, for I have something of importance to communicate toboth of you. "

In a few minutes the agent entered, she requested him to be seated. "Reynolds, you too will remain;" then addressing Mr. Russell said, "Ihave just received the intelligence that Sir Ralph has met with anaccident, by rail, resulting, I am told, in a broken limb, which maydetain him for some days at the farm house where he now lies; he hasrequested me to attend him, and bring such things as I may deemnecessary, and further directs that you will call over and see himsometime to-morrow. " She then gave orders to the butler to pack upseveral changes of his master's linen, and underclothing in a largetrunk and have it sent to her room, as she had bandages, flannel, andother things that it might be necessary to place therein. This wasaccordingly done, but as soon as alone she emptied the trunk of itscontents, and filled it with her own apparel. The carriage was thenordered round, the trunks put in, and Mrs. Fraudhurst, who had found ahome there for upwards of twenty years, left Vellenaux never again toreturn to it. 

"She has baggage enough for the Seik men of a whole troop, " remarkedBridoon as she passed through the Park gates. 

On arriving at the station her first act was to dismiss the carriage, the next to take a ticket for Exeter, and in a snug hostlery in thatcity made an addition to her toilette, then ordered a cab and proceededto the principal bank. 

"I wish to see the manager, " she said, with a condescending smile. Theobsequious cashier led the way to the sanctum, and ushered her in, forhe knew the visitor well, and also knew that opposite her name in thebooks of the establishment there was an array of figures, representinga goodly amount of the current coin of the realm. 

In about ten minutes the lady, accompanied by the manager, returned, andpresented a cheque for the full amount of her deposit, which was paid ingold and notes. This circumstance did not much surprise the banker, forshe had done the same on three or four occasions during the last sevenyears, re-depositing the same amount a few hours after. She was thenpolitely bowed into her cab and was driven off. Having settled her billat the hotel, she drove down to the railway station and procured aticket for Queenstown, Ireland, and by the time Mr. Russell arrived atthe farm house to attend Sir Ralph, Mrs. Fraudhurst was airing herselfat the Cove of Cork. Her object in misleading the man who had been sentto acquaint the agent with what had occurred to Sir Ralph, had thus beeneffected: that of gaining time to enable her to quit the country beforesteps could be taken to arrest her. 

"There is not a finer craft swims the ocean than the beauty that laysout yonder, " said a weather-beaten old seaman to a group of sailors, watermen, and others, who were lounging about the dockhead andcommenting on the merits of a first-class, clipper-built, full riggedvessel that was lying in the Cove, her sails loosed and the blue Peteror signal for sailing, flying at the fore. 

"You may well say that with your own purty mouth, for it's yourself thatknows that same, Cornelius O'Donovan, for wasn't it yourself that madethe first trip in her, and isn't Captain Costigan a blood relation ofyour own, and sure a smarter boy than him that has the handling of herisn't to be found between this and Bantry Bay. "

"It is her fourth trip to the Cape of Good Hope, " resumed the firstspeaker, knocking the ashes out of his pipe, and preparing to refill it. Just then a lady, dressed in the height of the prevailing fashion, advanced, and of one of the party enquired the name of the ship, and theport to which she was bound. 

"The 'Kaffir Chief, ' outward bound for the Cape of Good Hope, " was thereply of the waterman who had been addressed. "Shall I put you on board, my lady?"

"Not at this moment, --but when does she sail?"

"She will up anchor and top her boom at sunset, " answered another of thebystanders. 

"They are lowering a boat, " said the old tar, who had first spoken, whowas now taking a squint at her through a small pocket telescope; "it isthe skipper coming ashore for his papers, mails, and perhaps to jack upsome stray passengers. "

"You would oblige me by telling the Captain that a lady wishes to speakto him as soon as he lands, and then see if you can manage to drink myhealth at yonder little public house, " and Mrs. Fraudhurst here held outa crown piece to the old seaman, who gladly accepted the offered coin. "What did you say the Captain's name was?" It was immediately given. "Then be good enough to tell Captain Costigan that he will find mewaiting for him beneath those trees yonder, " she said, as she turned andwalked in the direction indicated. 

"Pretty spoken woman that; devilish good looting, too; what can she wantwith old Castigan?" remarked one of the party. 

"Missed her passage in the last ship, perhaps, and wants to know ifthere be any room in the 'Kaffir Chief, '" replied another of thebystanders, "Go over at once to the 'Jolly Sailor'; I will be with youas soon as I deliver the lady's message, and then we will drink herhealth, " said the old salt who had received the lady's bounty. 

"Captain Costigan, of the 'Kaffir Chief, ' I believe, " said Mrs. Fraudhurst as she advanced from under the trees, from whence she hadbeen watching his approach. 

"The same at your service madam, " was the reply of the polite seaman, ashe lifted his glazed hat and bowed to the person who addressed him. 

"I have, unfortunately, lost my passage in the 'Eastern Monarch, ' whichsailed some days since from London, and am anxious to return to the Capewith as little delay as possible. I noticed in the newspaper that yourvessel was bound to that port, --am I too late, or have you room foranother?" The Captain eyed her for a moment, and apparently satisfiedwith his scrutiny, replied:

"I have but few passengers, and there is a first-class berth vacant, with excellent accommodation. You will I trust take a sailor's word forthat, as the time is short, and I sail at sunset. "

"The truth and honesty of our sailors are proverbial, " said the ladywith one of her blandest smiles. He then accompanied her to the hotel;here matters were quickly arranged, the passage money paid down, andCaptain Costigan promised to call for her, and convey her and hereffects on board on his return call. This had been so quietlymanaged--no agent or go between employed--that no person, not even thelandlord of the hotel, was aware of her intentions. He was under theimpression that the lady, who occupied two of the best rooms in hishouse, would in all probability remain there for the rest of thesummer. This he judged from what she had let fall during a conversationhe had had with her an hour after her arrival, and the worthy man wasquite taken aback when she paid her bill, and leaning on the arm ofCaptain Costigan, left his establishment, to take up her quarters onboard the good ship, now lying with her anchor apeak in the offing. 

From the quarter deck of the "Kaffir Chief, " towards the close of thatbeautiful summer day, could be seen a magnificent panoramic view of oneof the finest harbors in Europe, with the purple-tinted hills of Munsterin the distance, and the iron-bound coast standing boldly out on eitherside, and beaten with the surges which impetuously dashed against therugged steeps. In stormy weather the billows rolled in from the darkocean in long arching waves, bursting with a deafening noise on thebeething cliffs, and scattering the salt spray hundreds of feet in theair. Then again met the eye the fortifications on Spike Island, ConvictDepot, Carlisle Fort, Light House, Camden Fort, Black Point, and thehandsome City of Cork, with its bustling streets and its quays anddocks, crowded with vessels of all nations, presenting a picture wellworth travelling miles to behold. But what a bright change has come overthe spirit of the age, since the days of Elizabeth and religiouspersecution, when Cork was made a howling wilderness, because itsinhabitants refused to attend the Protestant places of worship asordered by law. Verily, in every country, and in every age, madfanaticism has played such pranks before high heaven as to make even theangels weep for poor humanity. But we live in happier times now, andenjoy that great blessing, liberty of conscience, to its fullestextent. 

The wind was fair, and, with every sail set, the gallant bark, on thetop of the white crested foam of the rippling waves, floated proudly outto sea, and was soon hull down in the distance, her tall tapering sparsfading from view, for the bright orb of day had already sank beneath itsocean bed, and the golden tints of the horizon were fast deepening tothe purple shades of night. There were but three other passengers, anold Major of Artillery, a merchant of Cape Town, and a juvenile Ensignof Infantry, going out to join his regiment. There were no other ladieson board; this was a source of infinite satisfaction to the flyingwidow, who, from prudential motives, had engaged her passage under thename of Mrs. Harcourt Grenville, and fears for her personal safety werecompletely set at rest on finding that the news of the accident by rail, which had cost Sir Ralph Coleman his life, had not reached the ear ofany person on board, and she, herself, was not quite certain but thather accomplice in fraud might yet survive; if so, her condition wasstill very precarious, but she argued that he would scarcely recover, orhe would not have committed himself by making known to the world hisshare in the transaction concerning the stolen will, and under theassumed name, and in a distant land, she would be secure from detection. She had no intention of remaining at the Cape; her object was to try herfortune in India, and had only come on board the "Kaffir Chief, " as itafforded her the earliest opportunity for evading pursuit. She was wellaware that she could easily proceed to India from the Cape in one of theIndiamen that so frequently touched at that port, and so, on the whole, she felt tolerably easy in her new position, and set to work, with herusual tact, to make herself agreeable to the Captain and her fellowtravellers. Ensign Winterton she took under her especial protection, which very much flattered his boyish pride; made considerable headwaywith Major Dowlas, who, by the way, was a bachelor; and never failed toaccept the proffered arm of the attentive Captain, when on deck; foralthough married and on the wrong side of fifty, being an Irishman and aCorkonian, he was not insensible to the charms of a handsome woman someyears his junior. 

Her account of herself was, that she was the wife of a surgeon atGraham's Town, had been some time in England, and had spent the springand part of the summer in London, and intended to remain at Cape Townuntil her husband came for her. She had several thousand pounds, thesavings of some twenty years, dressed with excellent taste, and hadtaken such good care of her constitution, that she looked at least tenyears younger than she really was, and felt convinced from all she hadheard and read, that she would experience but little difficulty inprocuring a suitable husband and establishment in one of the IndianPresidencies, she cared not which, and having no acquaintances in thearmy, was not at all likely to be recognized as the ex-governess ofVellenaux. 

CHAPTER XVI. 

There was another change that had taken place in the little village ofVellenaux which has not been brought to the notice of the reader, andmay as well be introduced here as elsewhere, since it must be knownsooner or later. The venerable rector who had performed the last sadrites over Sir Jasper, did not long survive his old and esteemed friend. He had been ailing for several months prior to his decease, and had beenassisted in his clerical duties by a Curate, a gentleman ofpre-possessing appearance; about twenty-eight years of age. He appearedto be eminently qualified for the profession he had chosen, and enteredwith spirit and energy upon the various duties that now devolved uponhim; his quiet and unassuming manner gained him the respect of the wholeneighborhood. He read with a clear, distinct tone, and his sermons weresuch as had not been heard in Vellenaux for many years. He was alwayswelcome whenever he visited his parishioners or attended the sick. Hetook a very great interest in the Sunday school that had beeninaugurated by Edith who had, on leaving the Willows, transferred thatresponsibility to Julia and Emily Barton, and on her sister's marriageEmily presided over the classes. This just suited one of her tastes andhabits, who was ever ready to perform some errand of mercy to the poorand the invalid, and was untiring in her efforts to teach the youngchildren. She had often been thanked by the clergyman for her valuableassistance, without which, he was wont to observe, he scarcely knew whathe should do. 

When the rector was removed from this sublunary sphere, the Rev. CharlesDenham, through the interest of Lord Patronage, whose fag he had beenwhile at Eton, obtained the vacant rectorship. This was considered bythe good folks of the district to be a fortunate circumstance, andthings went smoothly on as in the good old time. But on the death of herparents Emily Barton, as the reader already knows, left Vellenaux toreside in London. The Rev. Gentleman did not know which way to turn; hewas sorely puzzled; he had depended so much on Emily that he began tothink seriously of the possibility of being able to induce Miss Bartonto exchange that name for the one of Denham. This matter had beenrevolving in his mind for some time past, though he had given noutterance to his feelings, and now she was about to leave that part ofthe country, perhaps for a lengthened period. "If, " thought he, "theSunday school had Emily at its head, it would materially assist me, " andhe felt convinced that the rectory, without a wife to superintend it, would be, after all, a very lonely place to pass his days in, would shenot consent to undertake the double duties. "I have never spoken toher, " he said musingly, as he paced up and down his study, "but I shall, when grief for the loss of her parents will allow her to listen to sucha proposal. "

On parting with him on the morning of her departure, she was somewhatembarassed at his altered manner towards her. She could not but noticehis warm pressure of her hand, and his earnestness of manner, whenasking permission to visit her in London. 

"My aunt and sister will, I am sure, be always happy to receive you whenin London, " she quietly replied, and after a moment's pause, continued:"I shall likewise still take an interest in the school, and shall beglad to learn how my little scholars are getting on. "

The young rector found it necessary to visit London on several occasionsduring the next twelvemonth. 

In one of the broad gravelled avenues of Kensington Gardens, slowlywalking beneath the magnificent trees, the soft mossy grass, yellow andwhite daisy, bending beneath their footsteps, were two figures, --the onea gentleman dressed in black, with a white clerical neck-tie, the othera lady about the medium height, with pretty features, and decidedlyelegant figure, which was set off to advantage by the cut and fit of thepale lavender silk dress she wore. They were progressing slowly towardsthe gate leading into Hyde Park; their conversation was somewhatinterrupted by a knot of passing Guardsmen and other fashionableloungers, to be again resumed when they were beyond ear shot. Theycontinued their walk along the bank of the Serpentine, and could thepasser by have peered through the lady's veil, he would have found herface suffused with blushes at different turns in the conversation, butthey were those of pleasure, for certainly the crimson flush of angerfound no place there. They crossed the Park and passed out at Stanhopegate and turned in the direction of Berkly square. 

"You have made me so happy, dear Emily, since you grant me permission tospeak to your aunt and brother on the subject nearest my heart, " and theRev. Charles Denham pressed the little hand within his own, made hisbow, and walked in the direction of Harley Street, while Emily Bartonentered the house of her brother Horace. 

There is an old saying, familiar to most of us as household words, whichtends to show that the course of true love never does run smooth. Nowwith all due deference to the talented authority who promulgated thisstartling announcement, we beg to differ with him on the subject. It maybe as he says, as a rule, but our belief is that there are exceptions tothis rule, as well as to others; for we say without fear ofcontradiction, that the loves of the pretty Emily Barton and her verydevoted lover, the Rev. Charles Denham, glided smoothly and sweetlyalong its unruffled course, until it eventuated in that fountain ofhuman happiness or misery, marriage. On the lady's side there was nostern, selfish parent who would burden the young shoulders, and drivefrom her path those inmost pleasures so natural to the young andlight-hearted, and cause her to lose her freshness and bloom, byattending solely to his whims and wishes, or crush her young heart withhope deferred. There was no ambitious match making mother, ready tosacrifice the hearts best affections, in order that she might become theunloved wife of some shallow pated young dandy, with more aristocraticblood than brains, and a coronet in perspective. 

Nor was the reverend lover subjected to any trials of a similar nature;he was an orphan, with but one near relative, a bachelor Uncle, who wasfond of his nephew, and proud of his talent and the position he hadattained as Rector of Vellenaux. The old gentleman had intended to leavehim his property, amounting to some five thousand pounds, in the fiveper cents. , at his death; but the kind-hearted relative on learning thathis brother's son had secured so estimable a lady for his wife;belonging to a family who for so many years had resided in theneighborhood of Vellenaux, the scene of the young Rector's labours; healtered his will, placing half of the original sum to Charles Denham'scredit, at Drummond's Bank in London, subject to his cheque or order, sothat the rectory could be furnished and fitted up with all therequisites befitting the position of the young couple. 

It was a right joyous group that gathered around the wedding breakfasttable at 54 Harley Street, on that bright summer morn, that saw EmilyBarton made the happy bride of the equally happy Rector of Vellenaux. Afriendly Bishop tied the connubial knot in one of the most aristocraticchurches in London, and a few hours afterwards Emily and Charlesdeparted, not by rail, to some uncomfortable foreign hotel, but bytravelling, carriage and post horses to their home at Vellenaux. For theguests who had assembled to witness the wedding ceremony, there wasanother treat in store, they were invited to a ball given in honor ofthe occasion by the brother of the bride, at his mansion in BerklySquare, concerning which more anon. 

The term for which the Willows had been rented, now expired, and Horacedetermined to no longer delay his departure for Devonshire. This hadbeen ever in his mind while serving in India. He loved the old place andthere were now fresh inducements for him to give up the house in London, and repair to the Willows. His brother Tom was married and settled atVellenaux, and Emily had just become the wife of the rector, and livedwithin a stone's throw of her old home. Thus, with the visits of hisaunt and the Ashburnham's, Pauline would not be without society; besideshe would take her and Edith, whom he now looked upon as a sister, toLondon during the height of the gay season, and this he thought wouldnot fail to please all parties. 

Mrs. Barton was to give a farewell entertainment prior to her departure, which should exceed anything that she had hitherto attempted, and theevening of the day of Emily's marriage was fixed for the occasion. 

It was somewhat late in the afternoon when Captain Carlton and DoctorDraycott reached London, where the two friends and travelling companionsparted--Draycott for his father's house in Finsbury Pavement, andCarlton for his hotel in Bond Street. His first idea was to go direct toBerkly Square and inform Edith and the Bartons of the death of SirRalph, and the declaration he had made concerning the will of the lateSir Jasper; but while waiting in the coffee room of the hotel, lookingover the morning paper, he chanced to hear the following conversationbetween two gentlemen standing at the bow window that looked out on thestreet. 

"And so the Bartons give their farewell spread this evening? Are yougoing?"

"Well, I rather think so, " was the other's reply. "It is a thousandpities, however, to bury that lovely woman, Miss Effingham, in thecountry. There is not her equal in town. If she only had a decentallowance of cash or other property, she would have been sought for by aCoronet, you may depend on that. "

"But I heard, " continued his friend, "that she was engaged to an IndianOfficer, who is expected in England shortly, " and with these words theypassed out into the street. 

On hearing this, Arthur determined to defer his visit a few hourslonger. There was a great rush of vehicles that night on the South sideof Berkly Square. The heavy family carriage, with its sleek horses, driven at a sober pace by old John, the dashing curricle and smartbarouche, with the elegant private cab with its busy little Tiger in topboots, whose single arm stops the thorough bred animal when his masterdrops the reins. 

"Is them 'ere hangels, " enquired the butcher boy of his crony, TomDrops, the pot boy at the Crown and Sceptre, just round the corner, asthe two young ladies, who had acted in the character of bridesmaids inthe morning, stepped from their carriage on to the Indian matting whichhad been stretched across the pavement to the hall steps, all tarletanand rose buds, and ascended the grand staircase leading to the ballroom. 

"Well, if they ain't they ought to be, " was the response of Tom Drops. At this moment a very stout and elaborately turbaned Dowager passedslowly from her brougham along the matting and entered the hall. 

"Is she a hangel too, do you think? Don't look much like one now, "enquired the young butcher. 

"In course not, " said Tom, "they loses all the hangel when they marries, leastways so I have heard. But who it this swell? he is bang up to themark; he's a horse sojer I knows, and a ossifer, " as the embroideredsabretache of Captain Carlton met his view while ascending the hallsteps. "Well, I am off, " said one to the other and the two lads wenttheir way. 

"Show me into the library, and hand this card to Miss Effingham, " saidArthur to a servant at the foot of the staircase. The footman firstlooked at him, then at the name on the card, then said, with a low bow, "Certainly, sir, certainly, " and ushered the Captain to rather a snuglittle apartment which was used as a library. Edith was dancing when thefootman entered. On the conclusion of the waltz he approached andquietly handed her the card. A flush of pleasure lit up her beautifulfeatures, and joy sparkled in her brilliant eyes, as she read the name, and without a word to any one, followed the servant and passed straightto the room where her lover waited for her. We will pass over thetransports of their first meeting, --it can be easily imagined, as thereader, is already aware of their engagement, and that he had returnedto England for the sole purpose of their union. After the emotion of thefirst few moments had subsided Arthur related to her the accident bywhich Sir Ralph had been killed, and of the existence of her uncle'swill, and the way it had been stolen by Mrs. Fraudhurst, and Sir Ralph'scomplicity in the plot. 

A feeling of regret at the untimely end of the unhappy man, as he hadbeen hurried into eternity without preparation, came over her for a fewmoments, this was chased away by indignation at the fraudulent and basepart that had been played by her late governess and companion. "What hasbecome of her?" she inquired. 

"Decamped, and no doubt fled the country ere this; all that is known ofher is that she left Vellenaux on the plea of rendering all theassistance in her power to Sir Ralph, but she did not make herappearance in that neighbourhood, " was Arthur's answer. The reader knowsmore of her movements than any of her acquaintances at Vellenaux orLondon. 

"And we shall have dear old Vellenaux to live in. Oh! Arthur dear, I amso happy, with all the friends I hold most dear on earth residing aroundus. You will of course leave the service now? How kind of my poor, dearuncle to think of us both in his will. But Mrs. Barton may notice myabsence, and become uneasy, so let us return;" and in another moment ortwo, leaning on the arm of her handsome affianced husband, Edithre-entered the ball room, much to the relief and surprise of PaulineBarton. Arthur Carlton took an opportunity during the evening ofrelating to Mr. Barton the change that had taken place in Edith'scircumstances by the death of, and disclosures made by, the lateBaronet. 

"Meet me at breakfast in the morning, and we will consult as to whatimmediate steps should be taken on this extraordinary occasion; but ofcourse you will sleep here, " said Horace. Arthur assented, and was soonagain at Edith's side, who had told confidentially to Mrs. Barton allthat he had told her: and that little lady could not restrain herdelight, and before eleven o'clock that evening, every one in the roombecame aware that the beautiful Miss Effingham was worth twenty thousandpounds a year as heiress of Vellenaux. 

Mr. And Mrs. Denham, previous to the ball, took their departure forDevonshire, and were comfortably settled in the Rectory before Horacereturned to the Willows. He had postponed their journey in order thatArthur and Edith might have the benefit of his advice and assistance insuch matters as might arise during the establishment of their claims, set forth in the will of the late Sir Jasper, now produced. 

Mr. Septimus Jones was a lawyer of good repute, carrying on his practicenow, and had been doing so for upwards of fifteen years in the mainstreet of Hammersmith leading to the Suspension Bridge. 

"Nicholas, " said that gentleman one morning, as he laid on his desk acopy of the _Times_ newspaper, which he had been carefully perusing forupwards of an hour, "Nicholas, do you remember a youth named EdwardCrowquill, that I had in my office some ten years since?"

The old and confidential clerk ceased writing, and thrusting his penbehind his ear, rubbed his hands softly together, and said, "Mostcertainly I do. He was not fit for the business, and gave it up throughill health; studied medicine for a time, and is now a chemist anddruggist, residing some hundred yards down the street. "

"Exactly so, " replied his employer, "you will be good enough to put onyour hat and go and request him to do me the favor to step up here for afew moments. " Nicholas did his master's bidding, and returned shortly, accompanied by Mr. Crowquill. Mr. Jones, after requesting him to beseated, and directing his clerk to pay attention, took up the newspaper, and read, in a clear voice the following advertisement: "To Lawyers andotters. --If the party who drew the will of the late Sir Jasper Colemanof Vellenaux, Devonshire, and those who witnessed the same document someten years ago, will call at the office of Messrs. Deeds, Chancery, andDeeds, Solicitors, Gray's Inn Lane, they will be handsomely rewarded fortheir trouble. " "Now, gentlemen, " continued he, "I drew this will, andyou both witnessed it. Do you both remember the circumstance. " After alittle reflection they both recollected the circumstance. 

"Oh! since you have not forgotten the occurrence, I will show you arough draft of the will which I made at the time, and by reading this itwill refresh your memories, and you will be better able to swear to thereal will if it should be produced. "

"When do you purpose calling upon the Solicitors?" enquired Crowquill. 

"To-morrow morning we will call for you on our road to town, " repliedMr. Jones, politely bowing his visitor out of the office. 

CHAPTER XVII. 

Of the early history of Sir Lexicon Chutny very little was known. He wasof Dutch extraction that was obvious, had served for a time in theMadras Civil Service, but on acquiring a large property by the death ofa distant relative, he retired from that service and settled on one ofhis plantations in Pallamcotta. How he obtained his title no one knew orenquired, his relative, now deceased, was so called, and in his will hedirected that his heir should assume his name and rank. He wasthoroughly Indian in his tastes and habits, sensual and self indulgent;saw very little European society, and report said that he had severalnative mistresses, and was reputed very wealthy. He had never married, for European ladies at that period were rarely to be met with inPallamcotta. It must have been business of no ordinary importance toinduce him to leave the land wherein he had been born, to visit Hamburg, where he made his stay as short as possible. He was not favorablyimpressed with the Frauleins and fair-haired daughters of Holland, andwas now returning home in the "Great Mogul, " a Dutch Indiaman bound toMadras. 

"Wreck on the lee bow!" shouted a look out from the mast-head. Thisexcited quite a commotion on deck, from whence the object was soondiscernable through the telescope, and soon after by the naked eye. Theship's course was altered and she bore down upon the unfortunate craftto render such assistance as might be necessary. She proved to be theship "Kaffir Chief, " from Cork, bound to the Cape; she had beendismasted in one of those terrific storms which so frequently occur inthese latitudes, and was now lying completely water-logged on the bosomof the treacherous ocean. The day previous to the wreck had beenremarkably fine, but as night closed in the wind rose and continued toincrease until it blew a perfect hurricane. In spite of the utmostexertions of the crew the sails were blown clear of the bolt ropes, yards and spars were carried away, when the foremast went by the boardand the main topmast fell with a crash into the sea, seventeen of thecrew were hurled into the wild waste of waters. A little before daylighta tremendous sea struck her stern, unshipping the rudder, carrying awaythe wheel, round-house and lockers, rendering her unmanageable, and shewas tossed helplessly like a log upon the mighty billows. As the daybroke the storm somewhat subsided, a scene of wild desolation wasrealized by those on board the unfortunate vessel, as the flashes ofbroad sheet lightning, with which the heavy clouds were surcharged, occasionally shot forth. The scene was startling and terrific, the wildwaves were breaking over her and three more of the crew were sweptoverboard. As the light increased the sea began gradually to go down, and spars and pieces of wreck were seen floating all around, lifted uponthe surging waves, to which some of the unfortunate seamen had clungwith the grasp of despair, only to be again thrown into the dark troughof the sea to rise no more. 

Although the hurricane had subsided, so much water had been shipped thatthe pumps had to be kept continually going to prevent the hull fromgoing down: to this laborious task all had to exert themselves to theutmost, and only by this means could the ship be kept afloat. Theself-styled Mrs. Grenville rendered good service in this hour of peril, she voluntarily took the place of the steward, now called to the pumps, and served out rations of biscuits and spirits to all hands, nor did sheforget herself on the occasion. The danger of her position appeared inno way to appal her, and having to undergo no bodily fatigue beyond herstrength, she was very little affected by the disasters and hardships ofthe past few days. Such of the officers and crew as had not beenswallowed up by the boiling surf were in a very weak and exhaustedcondition, owing to their great labor at the pumps, when rescued fromtheir perilous position by the boats of the "Great Mogul. " Theseparticulars were gathered from time to time from some of the crew, butfrom Mrs. Grenville a more detailed account of the wreck was obtained. That lady thought it necessary to keep to her cabin for the first week, during which time she had to sketch out a fresh plan of action for thefuture. 

This she soon effected, having received all the required informationfrom the little fat Dutch stewardess concerning the ship, itsdestination, and the names and positions of the passengers. 

"My dear madam, " said the polite Captain, addressing Mrs. Grenville, "you really must allow me to recommend you to try an airing on thequarter deck this beautiful morning; after the long seclusion of yourcabin you will, I am sure, find it both agreeable and refreshing. " In agraceful manner, and with a pleasing smile, she replied, "I shall be happy to adopt your suggestion Captain Hanstein, and if itis not interfering with your professional duties, may I request thefavour of your arm for a promenade, as I feel scarcely equal to theeffort unattended. "

The Captain bowed and assisted the lady to the quarterdeck. 

The Indigo planter, who had sat opposite Mrs. Grenville at breakfast, felt somewhat annoyed that he had not solicited the pleasure ofaccompanying the lady in her walk on deck; he had been struck with herappearance at first sight, for the widow knowing the effect of firstimpressions, had been exceedingly careful with her toilette thatmorning, and certainly did look her best. 

Sir Lexicon had never yet seen any one who came up to his idea of ahandsome woman, until he encountered Mrs. Grenville that morning; hercurling dark hair, superb neck and shoulders, stately figure andsparkling black eyes, and well modulated voice fascinated him, as nowoman as yet ever had done. She was not young, it is true; but this heregarded as fortunate. She was still some years younger than SirLexicon; but as to who or what she was he was a stranger; but this hewas determined to ascertain if possible, and betook himself on deck forthe purpose. As the professional duties of the Captain called him for atime away, he took his place beside the lady and endeavoured to interesther in his conversation. He found her charmingly condescending, andapparently frank and friendly in her remarks, and after about an hour'schit chat allowed him to conduct her to her state room. 

Poor Captain Costigan had been killed by a falling spar and knockedoverboard. The remainder of the crew and passengers that had beenrescued from their precarious situation on the wreck had been on boardthe "Great Mogul" about a couple of weeks, when she let go her anchor inTable Bay. These, with the exception of Mrs. Grenville, went on shore inthe first boat that came off to the ship. She, that morning, had aninterview with Captain Hanstein, and some hours after the others hadleft, the obliging Captain took her ashore in his own boat, in whichalso sat Sir Lexicon Chutny. He put up at the same hotel as Mrs. Grenville, and was seen escorting her about Cape Town. 

The "Mogul" remained only two days at the Cape, then resumed her voyage, and Mrs. Grenville, the Captain, and Sir Lexicon Chutny, could be seenpacing her quarterdeck as she sailed out of the bay, unquestionablyenjoying, with much pleasure, the clear, balmy, and exhilarating breezeof the early day, which, with the assistance of the sun's rays, waslifting from the table land on the summit of the great mountain, calledoccasionally Table Rock. A large, heavy, white cloud that frequentlyspread itself over the whole surface, resembling very much in appearancean enormous table cloth, hence the origin of the name. This remarkablemountain is steep, rugged and precipitous, and towers up hundreds offeet towards the clear, blue vault of heaven. Very little brushwood orvegetation is to be found thereon. At its base, snugly ensconced underits protecting shade, is situated Cape Town, looking quite pretty andpicturesque as the day dawns and the rising sun appears. There are twoother smaller elevations in close proximity to the Table Rock, notwithout interest, and called respectively the Lion's Head and Lion'sRump, possibly because they are connected together by a ridge of rock, which, to the imaginative mind, gives it the appearance of an enormouslion, sleeping. The other objects of interest and the shipping in theharbor were soon left far astern. 

As they were sweeping out to sea, the Captain could, by the aid of hisglass, clearly distinguish the signal that was flying from theflagstaff, situated on the lofty eminence mentioned before, as theLion's Rump signalling station, announcing the approach of an Englishvessel from London. On hearing this the lady's face changed to an ashenhue, and she trembled slightly. It was for an instant only; her strongwill conquered the emotion, and with her feelings now under perfectcontrol, she was again conversing and smiling in the most charmingmanner until luncheon was announced, to which she was conducted by SirLexicon, and while thus engaged she felt that she had good cause torejoice that a fine swelling breeze was carrying her rapidly away fromthe Cape of Good Hope; for, doubtless, the newspapers brought out by thenew arrival, contained a full account of Sir Ralph's death, and her ownflight from the country, and it was quite possible that some suspicionmight have fallen upon her, had she remained a day longer at Cape Town. 

The wealthy planter of Pallamcotta was not the only person on board whohad become infatuated with the lively widow; for in fact CaptainHanstein, the honest-hearted seaman had been caught in her toils. He hadbelieved every word that had been confidentially told him by Mrs. Grenville, her position in life, and her reason for visiting the Capeand Madras. Of course there was scarcely a grain of truth in the wholestatement. She was not long in discovering the Captain's weak point, andrather encouraged him than otherwise, but had no notion of engagingherself to the fat honest Dutch skipper. Far from it, but she thought itnecessary to her project to mislead him on that point. This unscrupulousand ambitious woman cared not how she wounded the feelings of others, ifshe thought by so doing it would further her own interest. She wasdetermined to secure Sir Lexicon as a husband, and thus become LadyChutny; and so skillfully did she angle, and played her cards with suchgreat tact, that there was very little doubt of her succeeding. 

The Dutch are naturally slow of action, and the planter's wooing was ofa rather passive character, and his attention to the lady did not excitethe suspicion of her other admirer, who did not think it would benecessary to pop the momentous question until she was about to leave theship on reaching Madras. That Sir Lexicon was somewhat piqued at themarked attention paid to her by that good-natured sailor was quiteevident, and was exactly what the widow had anticipated and desired. Sheplayed both lovers off, one against the other, and the result provedthat her theory and practice were correct; for Sir Lexicon tookadvantage of an opportunity that was afforded him one afternoon whileplaying chess with Mrs. Grenville in the after cabin. They were quitealone, and during a pause in the game, he formally made her an offer ofmarriage, which, after a little skillful beating about the bush, sheaccepted, but on the condition that nothing should be said about thesubject to any one on board. This was agreed to, and the game continued. There were other passengers on board, but, as they are in no wayconnected with our story, it would be needless to particularize them. 

On the vessel reaching her destination, the gallant Captain mastered upcourage, and boldly and in a straightforward manner, asked Mrs. Grenville to become his wife. The lady listened to him with politeattention, and said in reply:

"Captain Hanstein, I should be very sorry if any act of mine has led youto believe that I looked upon you in any other light than that of afriend, from whom I have received many acts of kindness. I regret topain you by a refusal, but it must be so, for I now tell you in strictconfidence that I am engaged to Sir Lexicon Chutny. " Then with a smileand a graceful bend of the head, she left the bewildered Captain to hisown reflections; and shortly after, attended by Sir Lexicon, quitted theship. 

After a sufficient time for procuring all the necessary paraphernaliaconsidered indispensable on such occasions had elapsed, the marriage wascelebrated in the Cathedral at Madras, and the ambitious views of themercenary woman were at length realized. "She could" she thought "playthe great lady in Pallamcotta, and somewhat astonish the good folks atthe Capital by the brilliancy of her entertainments periodically, forSir Lexicon, although self-indulgent, was by no means of a miserly turn, and would, for a time at least, feel a certain pleasure at theadmiration that would be excited by the splendour of her ladyship'sassemblies. "

Their stay at the Capital, on this occasion, was but of short duration, as Sir Lexicon was anxious to return to Pallamcotta to finally arrangethe business that had taken him to Hamburg. To this arrangement herladyship made no objection, it suited her views exactly; her idea was, that her advent in India should become known to the gay and fashionablebutterflies of the Presidency as quietly and gradually as might be. Itwas necessary that they should be aware there was such a person as LadyChutny in existence; but for the present she would be heard of only andnot seen, so that when she appeared among them and threw open hersplendid rooms for balls and other entertainments it would be considereda matter of course, a thing to be expected from the wife of so wealthy aman as Sir Lexicon was reputed to be. Her ladyship's theory was thecorrect one, for by acting in this manner she would be relieved from thehubbub and cry of "Who is she?" and "Where does she come from?" thatwould consequently follow, should she at once rush into the vortex offashionable life. She had no intention of burying herself atPallamcotta, now that she had attained the position for which she hadrisked so much. She had played her cards boldly and unscrupulously, and, during the shuffle had twice nearly come to ruin; but she had now, shebelieved, won the odd trick that would secure her the game, and sheresolutely determined to hold on to the stakes thus acquired. From theretrospect of her past life she turned herself steadfastly away, andlooked only into the brilliant future, which she fancied was openingbefore her. What was there to fear? There was no one in India who couldrecognize her, or knew anything of her antecedents. Edith and Arthur hadreturned to England; restitution had been made and justice done them bythe unlooked for death of Sir Ralph Coleman. He was the chief culprit;she merely an accessory, acting under his direction and guidance; and, now that she had placed oceans between her and the scene of their crime, nothing, she argued, could transpire to mar her triumph, and, layingthis flattering unction to her soul, her ladyship prepared for herjourney with a buoyancy of spirit that astonished even herself. 

Lady Chutny found the establishment at Pallamcotta very different fromwhat she had anticipated. So unlike the Bungalows of rich civilians atthe Capital, where all was order and quiet, and the gardens well kept. Here everything was slovenly and in confusion, only a small quantity ofthe furniture that had lately arrived from Madras had been unpacked, andthis was strewn about the drawing-room and sleeping apartments withoutthe least attempt at arrangement. The Bungalow had been originally avery handsome one, but from indolence and carelessness had been allowedto fall into a partially dilapidated state. The only covering to thefloors of the large, handsome apartments was the common matting of thecountry. The same was the case in the broad and spacious verandahs, upto which the rank vegetation of the compound--for garden there wasnone--spread their creeping fibres in wild luxuriance. But her ladyshipoffered no ungracious remark on the state of things, but simplyrequested her husband to summon the whole of the servants and, in herpresence, inform them that she was their mistress, and to be obeyed ineverything, without remark or hesitation. This was done, and inforty-eight hours she had completely revolutionized the wholeestablishment. 

Fifty of the plantation hands were employed in clearing up the compound, forming a garden and a lawn, while the edges of the verandah were linedwith pots of the most magnificent plants and fragrant flowers that couldbe obtained, and before she had been in her new home one week, everything was in complete order. 

She had heard it reported previous to her leaving the capital that SirLexicon had several native mistresses at his different plantations, andby her ayah or lady's maid, a Madrasse who could speak English, thesestories were confirmed, and she determined to govern herselfaccordingly, fully believing that her husband would have the good senseto remove any such persons as might be at the Bungalow in Pallamcottabefore her arrival. Caring nothing personally for Sir Lexicon, it gaveher little or no concern whether he chose to keep native ladies at theother plantations or not, but she certainly did not intend that any ofthem should reside under the same roof with herself, therefore she wasmuch annoyed and disgusted to find that her husband had not thought itnecessary to give any orders concerning their removal, and she had onlybeen a few days at Pallamcotta, when she learned that there were threeCircassian beauties sumptuously cared for and absolutely residing inapartments fitted up for them; though not actually in the Bungalow, theycommunicated with it by means of a short covered way leading from theback drawing-room. 

Taking advantage of Sir Lexicon's absence shortly after, she sent forthe head servant, who dared not disobey her orders, and desired him tohave the ladies turned out of their quarters and expelled from thepremises, and their rooms put to another use. 

This was accordingly done and they were afforded shelter and protectionat the house of the overseer of the plantation, but at some distancefrom the Bungalow. 

The history of these Circassian girls was anything but an uncommon onein many parts of the country thirty or forty years ago. 

Their father, a horse-dealer, had been lured by the glowing accounts ofthe fortunes that were to be made at the different Presidencies ofIndia, by a traffic in horses, and he determined to test the truth ofthe reports, and, if possible, to enrich himself by means of hisbeautiful steeds, of which he had several; but this proved a ruinousspeculation, for ere he reached Bombay he lost two of the most valuable, and being totally unacquainted with the tricks and chicanaries sofrequently resorted to by Europeans and others in the racing stables andon the turf, he fell an easy prey to some of the sharpers that usuallyinfest the race course, so that by the end of the season he had not onlylost every horse that he brought with him, but likewise every rupee hepossessed. There were few of his countrymen on the Island, and theyeither could not or would not assist him to return to Circassia. He hadbrought with him, to see the wonders of the chief cities of the threePresidencies, his wife and three daughters, the eldest only seventeen, the youngest about fourteen. In his extremity he turned to the oldEastern custom, still prevalent, that of selling his children; he hadapplied to several European and native gentlemen, with whom he hadbecome acquainted on the turf, but without success. At length he fell inwith Sir Lexicon Chutny, to whom he had lost large sums of money duringthat gentleman's visit to the Island. Here he found no difficulty, SirLexicon having seen the beauty of the girls, and being assured by themthat, under the circumstances, they did not object to the transaction. He used this precaution, well knowing, although they did not, that hecould not hold them to their bargain one moment after the purchase moneywas paid, should they claim the protection of the police authorities;besides, the poor girls had heard of similar cases to their own, intheir far distant home, and thought it must be so elsewhere. So thearrangement was quickly completed, the horse dealer and his wife havingaccepted the twenty-four hundred rupees, the price agreed upon for theirchildren, departed homeward. Nor did Sir Lexicon delay an hour longerthan was actually necessary in the Presidency of Bombay, but hastenedwith all speed towards his estate at Pallamcotta, in Madras, taking hisfair bargains with him. 

Here they dwelt in perfect harmony, their lives embittered by no pettyjealousies, and wonderfully attentive to their lord and master, overwhom they possessed considerable influence when they chose to exert it. There was not a servant on the plantation but would have been dischargedhad they dared to disobey any orders given by either, whether theirmaster was at home or abroad. For nearly four years this state of thingshad existed, when lady Chutny's arrival totally altered the aspect ofeverything, and created quite a hurricane of passion in the hithertoquiet household, by driving the favorites forth with flashing eyes, hatred in their hearts, and thirsting for vengeance on their hatedrival. 

Lady Chutny had resided at Pallamcotta some six or seven weeks, andbegan to think that the term of her probation had lasted quite longenough for the purpose for which she had immured herself in the country, and at length determined to visit the Capital. Her husband hadsuccessfully, though unwittingly, paved the way for her reception amongthe _cream de la cream_ of society; being a man of wealth, and likewisea sporting character, he had the privilege of the entree to many of thebest houses in the city, and was always hand and glove with most of thestaff and other officers, both military and naval, who were glad towelcome him at their mess-room or club-houses. Like a child with a newdoll, he was proud of his handsome wife, and could not refrain fromdropping a word here and there concerning her. The old Bungalow had, under her direction, been restored to its ancient splendour. It was herladyship's intention to come up to town shortly, and give a series ofballs and receptions, when she would be much pleased to receive hisfriends; and by this means Lady Chutny's advent among the big bugs atMadras, was quietly heralded without the slightest effort or ostentationon her part. 

CHAPTER XVIII. 

The firm of Deeds, Chancery and Deeds, of Gray's Inn Lane, theSolicitors employed by Horace Barton, on behalf of Miss Effingham, andwho had caused to be inserted in the _Times_ newspaper the advertisementalluded to in a previous chapter, had not long to wait for theinformation sought after. For on the following morning Mr. SeptimusJones, Mr. Crowquill and the firm clerk, presented themselves at theoffice in Gray's Inn Lane. The rough draft was produced, and the will ofthe late Sir Jasper Coleman, brought to London by Arthur Carlton, andnow in the hands of the Gray's Inn lawyers, compared with it, and aftercareful scrutiny it was declared to be the identical will drawn by theHammersmith lawyer, and witnessed by his two clerks several years ago;this was duly sworn to, and certain other documentary evidence takendown, and the three gentlemen returned to their homes in Hammersmith, each twenty guineas richer than when he had left it in the morning. 

Now, although there was no one to contest the will, yet there werecertain legal technicalities and forms to be gone through before Edithcould take formal possession of Vellenaux, besides these same lawyershad been empowered to draw up the marriage contract, settlements, etc. , between her and Arthur, the doing of which would take a considerabletime, much longer perhaps than the ardent lover might think necessary. Edith would not hear of her dear Arthur remaining in the service aftertheir marriage; so arrangements were made for the selling of hiscommission; this sum, together with the amount bequeathed to him by thelate Sir Jasper, would put him in possession of seven thousand pounds. 

It was planned that the wedding should take place at the old fashionedchurch at Vellenaux. There was to be no wedding tour, but the bridalparty and a large number of friends were to proceed to Castle Audly, theseat of Lord De Belton, who had served in Arthur's regiment, and hadbeen intimately acquainted with him for a few years in India. CastleAudly was a very ancient and romantic pile, and quite the show place ofthe country, here there was to be a magnificent _Fete Champetre, Dejeuner a la fourchette_, with archery and other amusements provided bythe noble owner; the whole party were to return and dine at Vellenaux, and wind up the entertainment by a grand ball at night. 

"Of course, my dear Carlton, " said Horace Barton to that young gentlemanone afternoon while lounging in the drawing room in Berkly Squarewaiting to attend the fair Edith in a canter through Hyde Park, "ofcourse you will stand for the county at the next general election? SirSampson French, who is too old to again take office, will, I am certain, retire in your favour, if you will only come forward as a candidate; youhave plenty of friends and admirers in and around Vellenaux to ensureyour return if properly canvassed. A man of your ability and standing insociety cannot afford to remain idle at such a time, though he may havea rich wife to back him. "

"I should like to get into Parliament above all things, and certainlyshall endeavour so to do, providing Edith gives her consent, and thegood folks of the county will give me their support, " was Arthur's replyas the lady of his love made her appearance equipped for the ride. 

It had been the intention of the Bartons, to return to Devonshireimmediately after, the ball in Berkly Square, but the sudden appearanceof Captain Carlton with the startling announcement of the accidentaldeath of Sir Ralph Coleman and the disclosures made by the unhappy manere he breathed his last, caused them to put off their intendeddeparture for some weeks, until matters were _en train_ for establishingthe validity of Edith's claim to the estate of her late uncle. 

Aunt Cotterell and her good humored husband had, without the knowledge ofany of their friends, built a handsome house on the bank of the brookwhich ran between Tom Bartons and the rectory; besides this, Mrs. Ashburnham had confidently whispered to Cousin Kate that her dearWilliam was about to give up his practice which, for the last fifteenyears, he had labored at so assiduously and successfully, and that hewas now actually arranging for the purchase of that very pretty villaand grounds just beyond the Willows, as its owner, Sir Edmund Wildacreshad, by racing and other gambling proclivities, managed to run throughand overdraw his cash account at his bankers, so that his landedproperty had to come to the hammer, and, the young spendthrift was aboutto retire to some cheap Continental watering place until some of hisantiquated relatives should be condescending enough to shuffle off thismortal coil and resign their purses and property to his carefulcontrol. And with Edith and Arthur settled at Vellenaux, there would beformed at once a happy circle, bound together by ties of familyaffection and disinterested friendship, and with such supporters asthese to canvass his cause, Arthur's return, as County member, might belooked upon as amounting almost to a certainty. 

The lovers did not fail to take advantage of the extension of time to bespent in the great metropolis, and balls parties, operas, and galleriesof the arts and sciences, exhibitions of pictures and such otheramusements as best suited the tastes and inclinations of these two, forthe time being, devoted votaries of pleasures, were visited. There wasanother most important matter that had to be attended to, and this wasone that entailed numberless visits to and from Madam Carsand's in Bondstreet, Store & Martimer's, Waterloo Place, and other fashionableemporiums, where the numerous articles, indispensable to the trousseauand toilette of a young and beautiful heiress. 

It will be remembered that in the search for the Begum of Runjetpoora, Carlton had brought away with him in his sabretache a small steel casketas a trophy; after his return from the fort, and while dressing formess, he remembered this circumstance, and was about to open and examinethe casket and had already taken it in his hand for that purpose, whenfootsteps were heard approaching the tent, and not wishing others, tosee his little prize he carelessly tossed it into an open trunk, amonghis wearing apparel, where it remained undisturbed until after hisarrival in England, when, in looking over his wardrobe he came acrossthe identical casket which had lain there so long and by him quiteforgotten. Unable without the key to open it himself, he sent for alocksmith, who, in a very short time caused the lid to spring open, when, to Arthur's surprise and delight it was found to contain a numberof precious stones of great value, in fact it was the Begum's jewelcase, containing diamonds of the first water, rubies of unusual size, and pearls of great price, which, on being taken to a jeweler, proved tobe worth, somewhere about ten thousand pounds. Arthur, although by nomeans a man of business habits, knew enough to convince him that thissum, together with the five thousand pounds left him by Sir JasperColeman, with what might be realized by the sale of his commission, ifproperly invested, would secure to him an income of not less than twelvehundred a year, a very pretty sum for a man to have of his own forpocket money, although his wife should happen to possess twenty thousanda year. He determined to carry out this arrangement as soon as anysuitable opportunity for so doing came to his knowledge, but with theexception of Draycott he told no one of the Begum's jewels, or hisintentions concerning their disposal. 

CHAPTER XIX. 

The happy, light Dragoon, in order to be near the lady of his love, hadtaken up his quarters at Harold's Hotel, in Albermarle Street, a veryquiet, but aristocratic place, leading into Picadilly. Beyond theBartons and their family circle, he had few intimate friends, in fact, except Draycott, the surgeon of his regiment, with whom he had been onthe most intimate terms for years in India, and to whom he revealed allhis joys and sorrows, there was not one male friend he cared a jot forin London; of course the men of his club, and those he had met abroad, who, like himself, were now home on leave, dropped in upon himoccasionally at his rooms; but his constant visitor and companion in hisperegrinations through the labyrinths of the great Babylon during theheight of a London season, was Draycott: he was young, clever, highprincipled, thoroughly good natured, and of an old county family. He hadbut once only paid a flying visit to the metropolis previous to joininghis regiment in India, and now having a few pounds to spare, wasdetermined to enjoy himself in the gay Capital to his heart's content, and whenever practicable, induced Arthur to give him his society. 

They had been breakfasting together, one morning in the latter'sapartment, and were discussing numerous scenes and things at home andabroad in which they had both participated; nor was Arthur'sapproaching marriage with Edith Effingham, and his idea of leaving theservice, left uncommented upon by his old friend. 

"Well, " remarked Draycott, with a gay, good natured laugh, "after youradventures and hair-breadth escapes, together with your great good luckin winning the beautiful heiress, it would not surprise me in the leastif some old fairy godmother dropped from the clouds and transformed youinto a gallant young Prince of some beautiful isle of the sea, yieldinguntold wealth, like the isle of the famous Count de Monte Cristo. " Herethe conversation was interrupted by the entrance of the waiter, whohanded Arthur a card, which announced that a Mr. A. G. Capias, of thefirm of Docket & Capias, Solicitors, Bedford Row, desired to speak withhim on business of a private character. 

"More parchment and red tape work cut out for you to-day, " remarked thesurgeon, "so I am off, but will drop in later in the day. "

"Now, my good fellow, oblige me by remaining where you are until thismatter--be it what it may--is disposed of, and I will then stroll outwith you, " said Carlton. Then, turning to the waiter, said, "Show thegentleman up at once. " The obsequious attendant bowed and withdrew. 

In a few moments the door was thrown open, and a spruce, dapper lookinggentleman, clothed in sombre colored garments, irreproachable linen, andcarrying a small merino bag in his hand, was ushered in. 

"I believe I have the pleasure of speaking to Captain Arthur Carlton ofH. M. Light Dragoons, " said that individual, as he advanced towards thetable, at which the two friends were seated. 

"Late of the Light Dragoons, " replied Carlton, "for I have sold out--or, what amounts to the same thing, I have directed the Army Agent to doso"--pointing as he spoke to a vacant chair. 

The man of law availing himself of this piece of politeness took thechair, placing his bag on the carpet at his feet. 

"And what may be your pleasure or business with me? You may speak out, "said Carlton, noticing the glance that his visitor threw at the surgeon, "that gentleman is my most intimate friend and brother officer. "

"I have a few questions to ask concerning your father and grandfather, the answering of which may lead to something, I have no doubt, will, atno distant date, prove of much importance to you and yours, " was thereply. 

"Proceed then, " said Arthur, "with your interrogations, and I will replyto the best of my ability, though I must candidly confess that I knowvery little of the early history of my father, and still less of mygrandfather, for they both spent so many years abroad, in India and onthe European Continent. "

Mr. Capias hereupon drew from his bag a small bundle of letters andpapers and arranged them on the table in front of him, then commencedhis enquiries as follows:

"Will you be so good as to state the name and position of your father, his place of birth, the school or college where he was educated, and theplace of residence at his decease. "

"Arthur Howard Carlton, Colonel of Cavalry in the service of HerMajesty, born at Montazuena, in Mexico, educated at Rugby, and died atExeter, Devonshire, England, in the fifty-sixth year of his age, leavingbut one son, your obedient servant, " here Arthur bowed in a somewhatstately manner to his, interrogater. 

"Exactly so, " said the lawyer, glancing at a paper he held in his hand, which he then placed on the table, and taking up another, said:

"Will you now tell me all that you know concerning, your grandfather?"

"He was called Eustace Vere Carleton, I believe, from the fact of hissigning himself so in his letters to my father, wherein he desired thathe should enter the British service, and said that he should provide hiscommission and make him a small yearly allowance as long as he remainedin the service, --these two letters are now in my possession and at yourservice, should you require them, " so saying, Carlton took from his deskthe papers in question, which he handed to the Lawyer. "But, pray, sir, in what way and to what extent am I to be benefitted by the earlyproceedings of my paternal relatives?" enquired the Dragoon, darting atthe same time a knowing wink at the surgeon, who at that moment happenedto look up, for until then he had appeared to be deeply absorbed with alate number of _Punch_, though in truth he was very much interested in, and had not lost a word of the conversation that had been going onbetween the lawyer and his friend Carlton, but he only shook his head inacknowledgment of the friendly wink, and continued to turn over thepages of that comical but highly interesting periodical which he hadtaken up at the commencement of the interview. 

"Every lost link in the chain of evidence is, I believe, now complete, "replied Mr. Capias, "and I am at liberty to communicate to you thefollowing circumstance which, doubtless, up to the present time you havebeen a stranger to. " He hereupon cleared his throat, and in a wellmodulated voice said:

"Maud Chumly, your great grandmother, the daughter of a Church ofEngland Clergyman, at the age of eighteen married Arthur EustaceCarlton, ninth Earl of Castlemere. The result of their union was a son, a wild, harum scarum sort of a youth who, at the age of nineteen, wasprovided with an appointment and sent out to the British Embassy at theCourt of Spain. While here he managed to get entangled and elope withthe wife of a Castillian Hidalgo; they were pursued and overtaken by theenraged Grandee and his followers; the lady was recovered, but thehusband lost his life in a duel with the gay Lothario who, subsequently, to avoid the vengeance of the family and the strong arm of the law, fledto Mexico, where, a few years after, he married the daughter of a Frenchofficer of high rank, by whom he also had an only son, but neverreturned to England, nor did he, on the death of his father, assume thetitle or take possession of the estate, but resided continually on theContinent; nor did he by word or deed reveal to his beautiful wife orchild his real position in the Peerage of Great Britain. His son at anearly age was sent to England, and was educated principally at Rugby, but he also graduated at Cambridge; he afterwards entered the Englisharmy, and during his stay in India married the daughter of a Judge ofone of the native courts, and like his father and grandfather beforehim, had but one son, his wife having died during her passage toEngland. The bereaved officer served, subsequently, with greatdistinction, through the Peninsular Campaign, became Colonel of hisregiment, and at the close of the war was placed on half pay, and at theage of fifty-six, died at Exeter, in Devonshire; this only son, ArthurCarlton, likewise entered the army and became a Captain of LightDragoons, and is now beyond the possibility of a doubt, the rightful andlawful heir to the late Earl of Castlemere. " Here Mr. Capias bowed mostdeferentially, gathered his papers together, said that he trusted in afew days to have the honour of another interview with his lordship, andthen vanished from the room. 

"The fairy Godmother, in the garb of a limb of the law, by all that'swonderful, " burst forth Draycott, who was the first to speak after thevisitor had departed. 

"The next lady presented to her Majesty, by her Grace the Duchess ofOpals, was the lovely and accomplished Edith, Countess of Castlemere, onher marriage with the noble Earl of that name. " "By jove! it soundswell, " exclaimed Arthur, starting out of a reverie into which he hadfallen, and springing to his feet. "Draycott" continued he, "am I awake?Can it be all true what the little man in black has been telling us?"and Carlton paced excitedly up and down the apartment. 

"Not a doubt of it, my lord, " resumed Draycott "these musty old lawyersnever commit themselves by letting out so much as this one has done, unless they are quite sure that everything is all safe, cut and driedand ready for use, as the saying is, and I think your lordship cannotrefuse to join me in drinking the health of the future Countess ofCastlemere;" and, suiting the action to the word, filled out two bumpersof sherry, which he and Carlton, nothing loath, quaffed off. 

"And now for the stroll. I must call at the Bartons and mention thispiece of news to Edith; but, my dear fellow, not a word of it at theclubs. Of course, they will hear of it from the newspapers before theworld is many hours older. "

Arthur was right, for the _Pall Mall Gazette_, of the following day, announced the retirement from the service of Captain Carlton, LightDragoons, by the sale of his commission, and the _Court Circular_ of thesame date created quite an excitement in fashionable circles by thefollowing: "_On dit_. --Captain A. Carlton, late of the Light Dragoons, has just succeeded to the title and estates of his great grandfather, the late Earl of Castlemere, which title had lain dormant for severalyears, in consequence of the only son of the late nobleman never havingassumed the title, and died in obscurity abroad, and we, learn that thenew Earl is about to lead to the hymenial altar the beautiful MissEffingham, heiress of the splendid estate of Vellenaux in Devonshire. "

The news of the alteration in Carlton's social position was receivedwith the utmost satisfaction in Berkly Square. Edith was too firmlyconvinced of the unalterable attachment of her lover to fear that achange of fortune would, in any way, alienate or weaken the love he boreher, believing, as she did, that Arthur loved her with all the devotionof a long tried affection. Certain alterations in the programme had tobe made, consequent on the elevation to the Peerage of the Bridegroomelect. The wedding, which, was to have taken place in Devonshire, wasnow to be celebrated in London; this entailed a delay of some few weeksin order that the family mansion of the Castlemeres, in Saint James'Square, might be re-decorated and furnished in a style befitting theoccasion. 

As the rent role of the Carlton Abbey property produced an income equalto a clear ten thousand a year, Arthur now considered himself in aposition to carry out the great desire of his heart, that of presentingto his beloved Edith the costly gems he had brought with him from India. He therefore took them to one of the leading jewelers in London forarrangement and re-setting, and among the beautiful and costly weddingpresents from the aristocratic connections of the Earl, from the Bartonsand others who had known Edith from her infancy, there were none thatcould compare in any way with the magnificent diamond tiara ear ringsand bracelets, the cross rings and brooches of rubies, pearls anddiamonds, from the jewel case of that mutinous Indian Princess, theBegum of Runjetpoora. 

With such zeal and good will did the lawyers on both sides work, that inless than three months from the death of Sir Ralph Coleman, Edith was inpossession of Vellenaux, and Arthur had been recognized and installed asEarl of Castlemere, and master of Carlton Abbey, that being the name ofthe estate in Nottinghamshire, where the old Earl died. 

Having thus succeeded to the title and estates of his forefathers, Arthur quitted his rooms in Albermarle Street, and located himself athis mansion in St. James' Square, which, although undergoing extensivealterations and decorations, had still a sufficient number of apartmentsin thorough repair and handsomely enough furnished, to satisfy thetaste of a more fastidious person than our ex-Light Dragoon. It wasreally astonishing the number of visitors he had to receive, and cardsand notes of invitation were showered upon him from people whose veryexistence he had previously never heard of, connections by marriage ofthe past generation crowded upon him, mothers with marriageabledaughters invited him to their assemblies, young men of his own ordersought to engage him in the various pursuits considered indispensableamong those by whom he now found himself surrounded. When it becamegenerally known that the new Earl was, beyond the possibility of adoubt, engaged to be married, the connections just mentioned thought itright and proper to recognize in Edith Effingham the future Countess ofCastlemere; and, on learning that she was the niece of a baronet, andheiress, in her own right, to twenty thousand a year, she was soughtafter and made much of by the aristocratic relatives of her affiancedhusband, for the privilege of entering, as honoured guests, such placesas Vellenaux and Carlton Abbey was not to be lost for the want of alittle tact and polite attention to the bride elect, and so Edith'scircle of female friends enlarged rapidly, and it was from among thesethat she selected the eight young beauties who were to act asbridesmaids on her marriage day, now fast approaching. 

The Bishop of Exeter, who had been well acquainted with Arthur's father, offered his services on the interesting occasion, which were gladlyaccepted. Exactly at 11 a. M. , the family carriage of the Bartons, containing Edith, Pauline Barton, and three of the bridesmaids, leftBerkly Square. In a second were seated the other five ladies acting inthat capacity. Then came the large, roomy vehicle of the good naturedstock broker, occupied by Mr. And Mrs. Cotterell, Horace Barton and Mr. And Mrs. Denham, who had come up from Devonshire expressly to be presentat the ceremony. Tom Barton and Cousin Kate accepted seats in thehandsome barouche of the Ashburnhams. 

The cavalcade reached Westminister Abbey just as the Bishop of Exeter, attended by two other clergymen, drove up. Quite a number ofaristocratic equipages, with their occupants, had already arrived, andjust as the bride was descending from her carriage, a handsomecabriolete, driven by the Earl of Castlemere; attended by his groomsman, Draycott, dashed up at full speed. Quite a large assemblage had gatheredabout the cloisters and aisles of the venerable structure, where it hadpleased Miss Effingham to have the marriage solemnized, all anxious toget a glimpse of the wedding party, as they moved up to the chancel andtook the positions assigned them in front and to the right and left ofthe altar, and a fairer scene than the one now presented to their view, had, by many been rarely, if ever, witnessed. The warm, ruddy light of asummer's sun, subdued by the gorgeously colored panes of the magnificentoriel windows above the altar, fell softly, yet brightly, on the richlydressed groups that composed the bridal party. 

Attended by a bevy of young maidens, Edith, in the pride of her womanlybeauty, now fully matured and developed, advanced with a firm step andknelt before the altar, her symmetrical and perfectly faultless figureappearing to advantage in a rich white corded silk, with its superbtrain of the same material, the whole trimmed with fine old point laceof the most costly description; nor did the exquisitely worked veil shewore conceal the tresses of golden brown hair that fell in luxuriantringlets on her alabaster shoulders. The magnificent diamonds of theBegum encircled her fail brow, neck and arms, while pendants of the sameprecious stones hung from her small, shell-like ears, their brilliantprismatic hues shooting forth and glittering with lustrous and dazzlingbrilliancy at each movement of the wearer; but far brighter than all wasthe glorious rays of the light of love and joy that danced andscintilated in the deep blue eyes of the bride as she stood forth andplighted her troth to him she so fondly and devotedly loved, and theface of the handsome Earl beamed with unclouded happiness as he placedthe small golden circle on the finger of his future Countess. 

The ceremony was not a long, but an impressive one. The bridal anthemwas beautifully rendered by the choristers, accompanied by the clear, full, deep tones of the grand old organ. As the clock in the squaretower was striking twelve the whole party left the Abbey, and weredriven to the Earl's mansion in Saint James' Square, where a luxuriousrepast was prepared for them, to which ample justice was done. At two, the Earl and Countess stepped into their traveling carriage and werewhirled off to Brighton, from which point they were to start on theirbridal tour through Continental Europe. 

The Bartons and Cotterells left town a few days later for their homes inDevonshire, where they hoped to be comfortably settled ere the honeymoonof the happy couple should have terminated, as it was the desire of allconcerned to give them an enthusiastic welcome on their return, andarrangements and preparations were at once entered upon to make theoccasion one of general rejoicing and festivity, and a general holidayto all in and around Vellenaux. 

CHAPTER XX. 

The city of Madras, the seat of Government and Capital of the Presidencyof that name, although not possessing all the facilities for anagreeable sojourn to the lover of pleasure and amusement that may befound at the capitals of the sister Presidencies--Bengal and Bombay--ithaving neither the healthy climate of the one, or the wealth of theother. Yet there are times and seasons when Madras is very enjoyable:just after the south-west monsoons, when all nature is clothed inverdant beauty, and a delightful coolness pervades the air, theNeilgerie Hills cannot be surpassed by those of Mahableshwa or any othersanitary station in India, even the Capital itself, whose shores arewashed by the boiling surf from over the triple reefs of rocks duringthe rainy season; but that time being past, a more tranquil state ofthings pervades the ocean, and cool sea breezes waft over the city. Atthe time of which I am writing, Madras was more than usually gay, several vessels of war were in port and a number of crack corps hadarrived from Europe and elsewhere, officered by a set of men whosefathers and great-grandfathers before them had served their countryeither in the army or navy; they served not for pay but for honor, andto uphold the high and honourable name bequeathed them by theirancestors. Many of these came into the regiment not to save but to spendmoney, and it was surprising to the calculating natives the enormoussums they managed to get through during their short stay at any of thelarge towns or stations where Europeans do most congregate. 

The stream of fashionable life was now at its height, now in full forcewhen Lady Chutny's magnificent bungalow was thrown open for receptions;and it was not long before the fame of her ladyship's fetes andassemblies spread far and wide. Sir Lexicon was known to be exceedinglywealthy, and it will be remembered that Mrs. Fraudhurst, on quittingEngland, had drawn out of the bank her capital of ten thousand rounds. This sum, together with a large amount given her by the planter for theexpress purpose of giving entertainments in town, had been paid into thebank of Madras, in Lady Chutny's name. The sum was actually only one laeand a half of rupees, but dame rumour, with her hundred tongues, hadquadrupled it. 

The season was now at its height, and her ladyship had issued cards foran entertainment that was to exceed anything before attempted in MadrasThe spacious verandahs to the right, left and rear of the bungalow wereconverted into lounging halls, half drawing-room, half conservatory, while the compound and gardens were brilliantly illuminated withcountless colored lamps and lanterns. Hundreds presented themselves foradmission to the fairy-like scene, and it was allowed by all to be aperfect success, a gem of the first water of entertainments, and such, as many of the guests had seldom witnessed. Her ladyship, elegantlyattired, and flushed with pride and pleasure at the triumph she wasachieving moved gracefully about from one room to another attending tothe comfort and convenience of her visitors. In passing along one of theimprovised conservatories, the figure of a cavalry officer attractedher attention. His features were screened from her view by the leaves ofa magnificent orange tree, but there was something in his generaloutline, as he stood leaning indolently against the trellis workchatting with a drawl, real or affected, to a little lady seated, orrather reclining on a low ottoman close by, something that caused her tostart as if the gallant officer was not altogether unknown to her, buther memory would not at the moment serve her, yet a feeling of mistrust, a sort of almost indescribable sensation of disquietude came over her asshe listened to the polite nothings that issued from his lips; butfearing to attract observation she quietly withdrew, and entering theupper end of the ball room summoned her chobdah and pointing out thefigures said, "When that gentleman leaves his present position, tell himthat Lady Chutny desires to speak with him. " The native made his sallamand withdrew. In a few moments the object of her enquiry advancedtowards her, and without preface or introduction, commenced, "I aminformed that your ladyship has done me the honor to request mypresence, and, like an obedient slave, I am at your ladyship's command, "and he bowed with the most deferential politeness as he deliveredhimself of this harangue; then recollecting for the first time that hehad no card of invitation from, or introduction to, her ladyship, beganto stammer forth his excuses, that he had dropped in on the strength ofhaving met Sir Lexicon for a few minutes at the mess of the Fusiliers, and had accepted his general invitation as a _carte blanche_. He wasquickly relieved from his embarassment by his handsome hostess declaringherself fortunate in numbering among her friends so gallant achevalier. "I was not aware that your regiment was in town, nor do Ibelieve that I have ever met your distinguished corps, and it was toexplain away the seeming slight in neglecting to forward cards that Ihave requested a few minutes' conversation with you. "

"Your ladyship is kindness itself, and our fellows will duly appreciateyour affability on reaching Madras; for, unfortunately for them, we arestill quartered at Secunderabad. I alone am here on court martial dutyand have, I fear, intruded upon your hospitality. But I believe I havehad the pleasure of meeting your ladyship before, though I must confessthat when and where has escaped my memory; unpardonable in me, certainly, to forget the occasion that introduced me to so charming alady. " They were standing opposite one of the large mirrors, and by askillful manipulation of her fan, the hostess contrived to obtain aperfect view of the features of the gentleman who was now addressingher, at the same time revealing but little of her own. For a few momentsshe too was mystified as to who he was, or under what circumstances theyhad met, or whether it was a case of simple mistaken identity; butanother searching glance at the mirror, and the truth flashed upon herin an instant. Her thoughts travelled back to Vellenaux. Yes, it was he, the same Snaffle of the Lancers, who had figured as young Lochinvar atthe fancy dress ball, and had subsequently lunched there on one or twooccasions during the shooting season, prior to Arthur's joining hisregiment. She felt certain that he had not as yet recognized her, butthat he must do so at length she felt convinced. To be recognized by himafter so many years was an event which she had not calculated on. Itwas one to be dreaded, for, doubtless, the disclosures that he couldmake, would bring her to disgrace and ultimate ruin; but she was equalto the trying ordeal. 

"If we have met, my dear sir, " she said, in a low, soft voice, "it musthave been at the Cape, or in London. Although I do not think that yourregiment was in either of those places during my residence there, butthat circumstance need not prevent us from becoming better acquainted. "He bowed and retired, and the smiling hostess moved among her guests asthough nothing had occurred to disturb her. On the following morning thecard of Captain Snaffle was handed to her, but she excused herself fromappearing on the plea of indisposition. The sight of the Lancer's cardboth startled and alarmed her. He had discovered her identity with theex-governess of Vellenaux, or he would never have presented himself atso early an hour after the bail. What was to be done? She must return atonce to Pallamcotta, and an hour after the gallant Captain had left, shequitted her bungalow. She need not have been so much alarmed, for, although Snaffle, who, during the evening, had obtained a good look ather unobserved, it was not until late in the morning that he rememberedher as the companion of Edith at Vellenaux. Nor had he heard anything ofSir Ralph's death, or the crime which had caused her to fly fromEngland, but this she did not know, and as "conscience makes cowards ofus all, " she sought the refuge of her bungalow at Pallamcotta. 

With agitated feelings, and distracted with doubts and fears, it was inno enviable state of mind that Lady Chutny re-entered her home on theplantation. Judge then of her indignation to find that during herabsence the favourite mistresses had been re-established in their oldcomfortable quarters, for, while she had been amusing herself at theCapital with balls and parties, they had regained their ascendency overSir Lexicon, who, not expecting her ladyship's return for several weeks, had consented to their returning to the bungalow until suitablearrangements could be made for them. He ladyship's sudden and unexpectedreturn, together with her order for their immediate expulsion, arousedtheir passions--which during her absence had remained dormant--tointense hatred, and they were determined to sacrifice her at the altarof jealousy and revenge, and resolved to execute their wicked projectwithout further delay. Sir lexicon's absence, they well knew, wouldafford them an excellent opportunity for carrying out their design. Theservants, they were sure, would act in concert with them, by affordingthem the facilities they required. 

"Gopall, " said one of the three, "bring the Madam Sahib's food into myroom before you place it on the table this evening. " "And, " respondedanother, "I wish to act as her ayah, and carry the sherbet to herchamber tonight. You understand, eh? You shall have a gold mohur fromus. " The butler grinned with intense satisfaction, for he had no doubtof their intentions, and his little black eyes twinkled with delight atthe idea of receiving the gold coin promised; and at once gave theassurance that they might count upon his assistance, and likewise theco-operation of the other servants. 

During dinner Lady Chutny enquired whether her orders regarding thethree women had been attended to, and if they had left the house. Thecrafty butler pretended not to understand the meaning of her words. Shecould not speak the language, and her ayah, who had always acted asinterpreter, whenever she wished to issue her commands personally, hadbeen, owing to her hasty retreat, left behind at the Capital. Boilingwith rage at being, as it were, set at defiance in her own house and byher own domestics, fatigued with her journey, and alarmed at theprospect of being in the power of Captain Snaffle, also dreading thedisclosures he might make, it was no wonder that she sought the quiet ofher own chamber much earlier than was her usual custom. For severalhours she turned uneasily on her couch, her mind disturbed byconflicting doubts and fears, when a strange attendant entered, bearinga large goblet of sherbet, which had been rendered deliciously cool bybeing placed for several hours in a mixture of saltpetre and glaubersalts. This was her favourite evening beverage, which, in her now heatedand excited state was very acceptable. Motioning the woman to place iton the teapoy, near her pillow, she was about to give her furtherinstructions, when she noticed that she was a stranger, not from herfeatures, for they were concealed beneath the folds of her sarree, whichhad been thrown completely over her head, revealing only a small portionof the lower part of her face, but from her general appearance. Findingthat she was not understood, she stretched forth her hand for the gobletand took a long draught, unconscious of the piercing dark eyes thatgleamed down upon her with jealous hatred and fiendish pleasure frombehind the silken sarree of her new attendant, as she took from her handthe half-emptied goblet, which, after placing on the teapoy, shequickly left the room. There was something suspicious about the actionof the woman, but Lady Chutny was too much occupied with her ownthoughts to notice it at the time, and soon after sank into a doze fromwhich she started in affright, as if from some dreadful dream, only tofall into another. This occurred several times. At length, afterfinishing the remainder of the sherbet, she dropped into a deep sleep. 

The sun was high in the heavens when she again awoke. A burning feverconsumed her, and delirium had fastened on her with fearful spasmodicand excruciating pains internally. She endeavored to rise, but faintedin so doing. She shrieked wildly for assistance, but none heeded hercries. For hours she was thus, left alone, the pains increasing, and herbrain in a constant whirl. Again she slept, how long she knew not. When, on awaking, she found the same attendant who had waited on her theprevious evening, standing at her bedside. She had brought food, ofwhich her ladyship partook slightly but eagerly, and called for tea, which was handed her. 

"Has Sir Lexicon returned, " she enquired. The attendant shook her head. "Send for him immediately, and likewise a doctor. I am in great agony. "The woman muttered something, and left her. Through the long, lonelyhours of that dark night, the wretched woman, wracked by intense pain, with insanity steadily gaining the ascendency, tossed to and fro on herweary bed, and when overtaxed nature did succumb to slumber, wilddreams, and wilder fancies haunted her between sleeping and waking. Shefancied she saw at her bedside the forms of Edith, Arthur, and RalphColeman. The latter she denounced as a coward and traitor, from Carltonshe hid her face, but to Edith she stretched forth her hand and imploredher to save her from the torments she was now enduring, but only meetingwith a scornful laugh, fell back upon her pillow exhausted. 

This had not been quite all fancy, for the three mistresses of theplanter had stolen into her chamber to feast their cruel eyes upon thedying agonies of their helpless victim. Towards the middle of the fourthday, reason had somewhat resumed its sway, and the violence of the painsshe had experienced were subdued, the ayah had arrived from the Capitaland now resumed her attendance upon her mistress. She had sought out thenative doctor who attended the sick of the plantation. He, although inthe pay of the three women, thought it best to visit Lady Chutny whensummoned. 

"Is there no European doctor?" enquired the patient, as the nativepractitioner felt her pulse and otherwise examined her. 

"No, madam, but I will ride to the next station and endeavour to procureone, " replied the crafty little man. Then turning to the ayah, said, "Ishould have been called in sooner. The Sahib must be sent for withoutdelay, " and after leaving a few instructions, left the room. He knewthat death must soon ensue, and was determined to be absent on SirLexicon's arrival under the pretence of doing all in his power toprocure European medical assistance. As he passed through the women'sapartment he said to them, "I am going for a European doctor. Of course, I shall not find one. You understand? You have done your workcompletely. She will die at sunset. You had better send for amissionary or priest, and have her buried as soon as possible. Let thegrave be dug under the palm trees, on the south side of the plantation, and have all done decently and in order, and the master will attach noblame to any one or have any suspicion that foul play has been used, then you can easily persuade him to allow the body to remain there. "

The native doctor was right. The unhappy woman never saw the rising ofanother sun, and in the white sands, beneath the waving palms, where thehyena prowled and the wild jackall barked hoarsely through the night, lies the mortal remains of this ambitious woman, who thus fell a victimto the jealous and revengeful passions of those by whom she had beensurrounded by her unscrupulous husband. 

The third day after the ball, Captain Snaffle again presented himself atLady Chutny's bungalow, and was informed that her ladyship had lefttown, and would, in all probability be absent some weeks. Thefashionable world was in a great commotion at this unexpected event. They could not understand it. To leave town at the height of the season, and just as she had achieved so great a triumph as her last ball wasallowed to be, it was quite inexplicable. It was talked of, canvassedover, and commented upon, at the band stand, race course, conversaziones, and mess room, for several days, and, in fact, until themystery was cleared up by a startling _denouement_. 

"I say, Snaffle, old fellow, who the deuce is she? You know, or I ammuch mistaken. I saw you making great play, and coming it rather heavywith her on the night of the ball. I watched you both for some time. Youtwo have met before under different circumstances. I wager my chestnutmare against your bay colt that I am right. Will you say done?" andHarry Racer, of the Fusiliers, here produced his book in hopes ofentering a bet. 

"Not quite so fast Racer, my boy. There is no mystery in the matter, nosubject for a wager. We have met before, I knew it while talking to her, but could not remember where. I recollect all now. Whether sherecognized me or not, I cannot tell. She is a very clever woman. If youwill say nothing about it, I will tell you all I know. "

"Not I! not I, " replied Racer, half despondingly at the prospect ofbeing able to enter a wager in his betting book disappearing. 

"Well then, " continued Snaffle, "she was a Mrs. Fraudhurst, a widowgoverness and companion to a rich heiress, niece of Sir Jasper Colemanof Vellenaux in Devonshire. How she got out here, and in what way shemanaged to hook Sir Lexicon, I cannot imagine, but I will find it allout at our next interview, depend upon it. "

"Stop! By Jupiter! Did you say governess, Baronet, name Coleman, place, Vellenaux, Devonshire? Here's a go! Not a word. Here, Ramsammy, bringthe fyle of English newspapers from the library, quick. " The papers werehanded to him, and, selecting _Bell's Life_, Harry Racer commencedreading the following paragraph:--

"Frightful railway accident. Death of Sir Ralph Coleman of Vellenaux, Devonshire. Startling disclosures. Stolen Will. Heiress defrauded. Flight from the country of accomplice, the family governess. Fullparticulars in our next issue. "

"That's her, the planter's lady. Large as life and twice as natural. Thething is as clear as mud in a wine glass. All plain and smooth as athree mile course. The mystery is solved. She recognized you at theball, saw that you were mystified, but would, doubtless, remember her ifyou met again. You call the next morning. She refuses to see you on theplea of indisposition. Takes the alarm, bolts off the course, and makesfor the open country, where she, doubtless, intends to remain until shehears that you are safe on your road to Secunderabad; and now, oldfellow, what are you going to do? There is money to be made out of thismatter if you are not too squeamish, " and here Racer tipped a knowingwink to his friend of the Lancers. 

But Captain Snaffle was a gentleman, and had no idea of trading upon thenecessities of others, be they who they might. He merely replied bysaying:

"Racer, you will not mention a word of this to any one at present. Iwill go down to Pallamcotta and find out to what extent Lady Chutny hascompromised herself. After that we can decide what is to be done aboutletting fashionable world into the secret. " The two friends left theFusiliers' mess room, Harry Racer trotting off to inspect some newhorses that he had got scent of, and Snaffle to his own quarters. 

The following morning saw him on his way to Sir Lexicon's plantation. Onthe road he overtook the baronet, and they rode the remainder of thedistance together. Imagine their consternation on finding that ladyChutny was both dead and buried. 

The planter, with his usual indolence and procrastination, was forallowing things to remain as they were. "There is no use, " he said, "now, that the matter is all over, of disturbing the body. I will havea handsome monument erected over her remains, and the place shall benicely laid out with shrubs and flowers, and kept in good order while Ilive;" But Captain Snaffle thought otherwise. He felt certain that thewoman had not been accessory to her own death, but that foul play hadbeen used by some one and he was determined to ferret it out. Immediately on his return to Madras he communicated his suspicions tothe police authorities, and enquiries were instituted, a reward offered, and the whole affair came to light. 

But it was not until several months after this event transpired that ourfriends at Vellenaux became aware of the ultimate fate of theex-governess. Captain Snaffle, in a letter to Arthur, gave an account ofthe whole transaction, from which it transpired, that, on enquiriesbeing set on foot respecting Lady Chutny's sudden death, Gopall, thebutler, turned Queen's evidence, and confessed the whole of thediabolical plot. Datura, a powerful narcotic poison, had been mixed withthe sherbet, this produced delirium, and a quantity of pulverized glasshad been introduced into the food given to the unsuspecting victim, which produced inflammation of the bowels, and the combined effects ofthese caused death. However, the perpetrators of the foul deedunfortunately managed to escape, by what means the writer did not state. 

CHAPTER THE LAST. 

Carlton Abbey, the estate of the Earls of Castlemere for centuries back, was situated near Ollarten, on the borders of Sherwood Forest, inNottinghamshire. It was formerly a religious house of the highest order, largely and richly endowed, whose broad acres ran some distance into"Merrie Sherwood" itself. It is reported that the renowned Robin Hood, with a score of his followers, once sought and obtained shelter andprotection there, when pursued by the Sheriff of Nottinghamshire forslaying the king's deer and other misdemeanors within the limits of theforest; and later here also took place the celebrated meeting betweenCardinal Woolsey and the Duke of Buckingham, previous to that haughtyprelate's dismissal from royal favor and ultimate disgrace, and on thedeath of the Marchioness of Cosingby who, for forty years reigned as theLady Abbess, the sisters of this order moved elsewhere, as the propertyfell into the hands of Eustace, first Earl of Castlemere, heir-at-law, by whom and his successors, alterations and additions were made becomingthe home of an English noble; but although the last Earl lived a retiredand secluded life, Carlton Abbey was not allowed to fall into decay, andthe manor, preserves, and grounds generally were kept in excellentorder, and so the Earl of Castlemere, as we must now designate our hero, found it; for on being assured that he was, beyond the possibility of adoubt, heir to the estate, had paid a flying visit to Nottinghamshire, and while there had given orders to the housekeeper and steward to havea handsome suit of apartments prepared for the reception of the Countessand himself; he likewise gave directions to his agent to raise a troopof volunteer cavalry, the cost of which was to be defrayed out of therevenues of the estate, the men to be selected from among the tenantryand well-to-do farmers residing on the Abbey lands. 

On their return from the continent, the Earl and his bride took formalpossession of Carlton Abbey, received the visits of the neighboringfamilies, inspected the newly improvised cavalry, mustered and feastedthe tenantry, and made known to all concerned that they intended toreside, for at least four months in each year, at the Abbey, then tooktheir departure, leaving a very favorable impression behind them. 

On the return to London of Edith and Arthur from their wedding tour, they were presented at Court. The Queen seemed to take considerableinterest in the handsome Earl and his beautiful Countess, for HisExcellency the Commander-in-chief had mentioned to Her Majesty some ofArthur's gallant exploits while in India, and the romantic train ofevents that had happened to both Earl and Countess prior to theirmarriage. As a mark of royal favor they were invited to Windsor Castle. This, in itself, was sufficient to give them _eclat_ in the highestcircles. They gave a series of brilliant entertainments in Saint James'Square, which hundreds of the highest in the land made a point ofattending. Fortunately the London season was at its close; this allowedEdith to carry out her long-cherished wish to return to Vellenaux asits honoured mistress. There were associations connected with it thatcould not be effaced by all the gaieties of the most magnificent courtsof Europe. Arthur too was somewhat tired of the exciting life they hadled for some months past, and was anxious to re-visit the quiet spotwhere the happiest years of his early life had been spent; accordinglythey left London for their old home among the beech woods of Devon. 

The day of high jubilee, the day of feasting and merriment, such as hadnever been witnessed in Vellenaux by its oldest inhabitant, at lengtharrived. High and low, rich and poor of the village and for milesaround, turned out in holiday costume to witness the return of Edith andArthur to their childhood's happy home. Triumphal arches of eve greensand flags had been erected at different places between Switchem stationand the Park gates. The two troops of volunteer cavalry that had beenraised from among the tenantry of Carlton Abbey and Vellenaux, armed andequipped at the expense of the Earl and Countess, already licked intosomething like order and discipline by the non-commissioned officers ofthe regular service, procured through Arthur's interest at the HorseGuards, lined both sides of the road between the arches. Several bandsof music, sent down from London, were stationed in different parts ofthe grounds, and enlivened the scene by playing many of the most popularairs of the day. A deputation of about one hundred gentlemen andwell-to-do farmers, all mounted, and headed by the Lord Lieutenant ofthe County, met the happy couple as they stepped from the platform intotheir open barouche, with its four prancing and gaily decorated horses, which was in waiting at the Switchem station. After several addresseshad been read and replied to, the cortege passed slowly on towardsVellenaux, the cavalry filing in rear and the gay holiday seekersfollowing as best they could. On arriving at the principal entrance theparty alighted, the host and hostess, and their invited guests proceededto the grand hall, where a magnificent collation awaited them. Theremainder spread themselves over the grounds and Park, where, beneaththe outspreading branches of the fine old trees, were placed benches, beside tables groaning under the weight of enormous sirloins, rounds ofbeef, and pies of mighty dimensions, with sweet home-made broad, andother edibles of various descriptions. Tents were pitched here andthere, where also could be obtained, all free, gratis and for nothing, fine old October ale, rich sparkling cider, clotted cream, curds andwhey, tea and coffee, and confectionery in great abundance. Feasting andmerriment being the order of the day. 

Games of various kinds were entered into with such alacrity and goodwill, proving how thoroughly they were enjoyed by both participants andlookers on. Cricket, pitching the quoit, and foot ball was going on inone part of the grounds, single stick; and quarter staff playing, andwrestling matches between the men of "Merrie Sherwood, " Nottingham, andthe yeomen of Devon in another. 

There were also foot races and a variety of other amusements takingplace in the home park, while the votaries of Terpsichore tripped itgaily on the green, velvety award beneath the grand old oaks; and not afew of the lads and lasses betook themselves down the green, shadyalleys to the woods in search of blackberries, or to gather bunches ofclustering hazel-nuts. The intimate friends of the lady of Vellenauxamused themselves with archery and croquet on the lawn, and strolledabout the grounds watching the tenantry and others in their pursuit ofpleasure. All the servants and retainers, for none had been discharged, hailed with delight the return of their young mistress and her handsomehusband, for both were alike looked up to and respected for their manyamiable qualities, by those among whom they had been brought up sincechildhood. The two old veterans, Bridoon and Tom the game keeper, had, in honor of the occasion, donned their uniforms and were the big guns ofthe evening, presiding, as they did, at the upper ends of the tableswhere the volunteer cavalry were regaling themselves to their heart'scontent on the good things provided for them. 

The day's festivities were closed with a grand display of fire works, and bonfires were lit in many places, which crackled and sent upwardsmillions of bright sparks, to the intense delight of the juvenileportion of the community. The long rooms in the two public houses, inthe village, were thrown open for dancing. The servants' hall, and thetwo great barns at Vellenaux were also decorated and arranged for thesame purpose, and a right joyous time was there kept up, almost untilthe dawn of day. 

Within the time-honoured walls, in one of the superb and luxuriouslyfurnished apartments of Vellenaux, did Edith and Arthur, on this, thefirst night of their return, entertain the Bartons, Cotterells, Ashburnhams, Denhams, and a large circle of acquaintances. It was not aball, not exactly a conversazione, but a sort of happy re-union, anassemblage of old friends and familiar faces, many of whom, had, to acertain extent, participated in the joys and sorrows that had attendedtheir host and hostess from their youth upwards, and, as this pleasingpicture fades from view, let us take a perspective glance through apleasant vista of progressive years, at another equally interestingtableaux, whose back ground and surroundings are the same as theprevious one. Vellenaux, that magnificent pile of buildings, with itsbeautiful and varied styles of architecture, embosomed, as it were, inthe rare old woods of Devon, its parks and wondrous parterres, itsfountains, marble terraces and statuary, all brought out in bold reliefby the glorious golden light of a summer's setting sun. 

On a spacious terrace of the western wing, whose broad steps of fineItalian marble led down to the clear, open, finely gravelled walk thatsurrounded a beautiful and well kept lawn, were grouped, in variouspositions, a number of ladies, gentlemen, and children, with all ofwhom, the juveniles excepted, the reader is already acquainted. 

The Earl of Castlemere, with his beautiful Countess leaning lovingly onhis arm, are pacing leisurely up and down among the assembled guests, exchanging here and there words of courteous pleasantry. Lounging overthe back of a handsome fautiel, Colonel Snaffle, of the Lancers, isconversing with Pauline Barton, in his usual gay and lively manner, relating to some reminiscence which occurred to them while dwelling onthe sunny plains of Hindostan. Horace Barton, Aunt Cotterell and theRev. Charles Denham were discussing some knotty point concerning highand low church, etc. , while some political question was evidentlyexciting the minds of the worthy old Stockbroker, Dr. Ashburnham, andTom Barton. The good natured Draycott was exhausting his powers ofpleasing by relating to Mrs. Ashburnham, her sister Emily and prettyCousin Kate, the last _on dit_ going the rounds of the fashionablecircles at the metropolis. 

Light-hearted, happy children gamboled on the broad marble steps, orseated on soft cushions at their parents' feet, listened to thesparkling wit, repartee and agreeable rattle that broke forth among thegay loungers on the terrace. Occasionally the eyes of the whole partywould rest with admiration and pride on the scene enacting before them, and well they might, for on the smooth, soft, velvet-like sward of thecroquet lawn, eight youthful figures, the eldest scarcely sixteen, wereengaged in that most exhilarating, delightful and exciting of all outdoor amusements, the game of croquet. 

The Lady Eglentine Carlton, eldest daughter of the Countess ofCastlemere, a tall, graceful girl, inheriting all her mother's softbeauty of form and features, stood with her small, exquisitely shapedfoot resting on a bright, blue ball, evidently listening to somesuggestion of her partner, Clarence Ashburnham, preparatory to givingthe final stroke that would croquet her adversary's ball to aconsiderable distance. Not far off stood, in an easy position, theEarl's handsome son and heir, Lord Adolphus Carlton, mallet in hand, explaining to pretty Alice Denham, the rector's daughter, what effect onthe game his sister's stroke would have if correctly given. Kate Barton, the little golden-haired fairy, as she was called generally, ischatting merrily with the Honourable Eustace Carlton, a noble, aristocratic looking youth, with chestnut curls and the bright, flashingeyes of the Earl, his father, declaring with great animation that theirside must win, while Maud Ashburnham, the physician's dark-haireddaughter, a sparkling brunette, full of life and vivacity, announces toher partner, Alfred Arthur Denham, that her next stroke shall carry herthrough the last hoop, this will make her a rover, and she will thencome to his assistance; and thus the game progressed, first in favor ofone side and then the other, till at length a splendid stroke from theyouthful Lady Eglentine's mallet, put her own and her partner's ballthrough the last wire arch, placing them in a triumphant position, amidst shouts of applause from their own side. 

The game was now nearly over, for the bright orb of day had already sankbehind the distant hills, and the silvery crescent of the summer's youngmoon had risen above the tops of the tall chestnuts and was shootingforth her rays of soft, pale light, rendering all objects shadowy andindistinct, while the gently deepening purple shades of eve, and thegray mists of twilight were fast closing in and around the happy group, hiding from further view, as it were, with a veil of soft, fleecyclouds, the family and fortunes of Arthur, Earl of Castlemere, and hisbeautiful Countess, Edith, the Lady of Vellenaux. 

THE END.