riking out with his doubled fists, as was his
wont before turning in. "I prefer the last arrival, with the classical
features and cheeks as pure as the lily--a fit model for Juno. If I
were to be long in her society, I should fall desperately in love with
her; but I am not likely to commit such a folly, and take care that you
don't, Belt. We shall know more about them to-morrow, and perchance we
shall discover that their charms are not so overpowering as we fancy. I
have often found it to be the case on a second interview."

"I expect to be more enthralled than ever," remarked the lieutenant.
"However, I have seldom found it difficult to break my fetters; so,
major, you needn't trouble yourself on my account."

"We shall see by to-morrow evening," said the major. After a few more
remarks in a similar strain, the two officers, both old campaigners,
threw themselves on their beds, and were soon fast asleep.

They were aroused by a black servant, who, bringing in some large ewers
of cold water, lighted their lamps and announced that the horses would
soon be at the door. On descending to the hall they found the two young
ladies in their riding-habits, whip in hand, ready to mount. Mrs Twigg
and her husband and the other gentlemen soon made their appearance, and
the servants brought round trays with cups of hot chocolate and bottles
of liqueur.

"You must fortify yourselves, gentlemen," said Mr Twigg. "Let me
recommend this curacoa; it is a good preventive against any ill effects
from the morning air."

While the major was engaged in sipping his chocolate, the young ladies
had gone out, and the two officers, greatly to their vexation, found
that Archie Sandys had performed the office they had expected to have
undertaken, and had assisted Ellen and Fanny to mount. The horses
provided for the officers were next brought forward.

"Here is your horse, major," said Mr Twigg, pointing to a fine-looking
animal; "and, Lieutenant Belt, I hope you will not find yours inferior."

The two officers mounted, and had every reason to be satisfied with
their steeds. Archie Sandys assumed the leadership of the party, and as
they moved forward he managed to place himself by the side of Ellen.
The carriages started almost immediately afterwards. Major Malcolm very
quickly found an opportunity of riding up to Miss Pemberton, a position
he seemed in no way disposed to abdicate. The young lieutenant in vain
attempted to gain an