that their
stay should have been so short, they paid their respects to the master
and mistress of the house, and took their departure, much to Sir Ralph's
satisfaction.

Julia, who had become somewhat alarmed at not hearing of Harry, was much
relieved during the course of the morning by receiving a message from
him, saying that he was at Downside, and hoped shortly to return to
Texford. She hurried to Lady Castleton to inform her, and then went to
Sir Ralph, who was alone in his study, engaged in writing. He was so
absorbed that he scarcely noticed her entrance. She had to repeat what
she had said.

"Foolish boy!" he exclaimed, without expressing any satisfaction. "If
he knew the position in which I am placed, he would see that I have
greater reason than ever for objecting to his making that match. If a
proper pride, and a sense of what is due to his family no longer
restrains him, let him understand that his father is a mere beggar,
dependent on the will of another, though you have nothing to fear, as I
may tell you that he acknowledges your lover as his son, and insists on
my sanction to your marriage."

"My dear father," exclaimed Julia, "I had hoped, indeed, that all
impediments to my happiness would be removed, but how can that affect
you or Harry?"

"You shall know all in time," answered Sir Ralph, gloomily. "Till the
arrival of Captain Headland, I am prohibited from saying more. Leave me
now, only if you have any feelings of affection and duty you will use
your influence with Harry. I do not wish to make an enemy of my only
son, but tell him while I live I will never be a party to his committing
the rash act he contemplates. Go, girl, go," and Sir Ralph waved his
daughter from the room.

She returned to her mother, who had sufficiently recovered to come
downstairs. The guests had gone into the grounds with the exception of
Mr Hastings and General Sampson. The general came hurrying into the
drawing-room from the hall, exclaiming--

"A post-chaise is driving up the avenue," and taking Mr Hastings by the
arm, he added, "I do not know whether you or Miss Castleton should be
the first to greet the occupant; I must leave you to decide."

"Let my future daughter have that happiness," answered Mr Hastings, by
a violent effort calming his evident agitation.

He imprinted a kiss as he spoke on the young lady's brow.

"Go and bring my son to me when you have exchanged greetings. Do not
detain him lon