at I can only say I am willing that it should
take place to-morrow. For yourself you know that I have the highest
esteem, and that you must be convinced of when I have consented to
the match without even making inquiry as to your family and
connections. Now, however, is the time that I should wish to have some
information about them."

"My dear Sir, if you will only make inquiries, you will find that the
family of Musgrave is one of the most highly connected in the north,
and that the head of it is a or was Sir Richard Musgrave, Baronet, of
Faristone Hall, in Cumberland. I am a near relative of his, as I can
satisfactorily prove."

"That is sufficient," replied Mr. Trevannion. "I shall leave you to
plead your cause with Amy to-morrow; so now, good night."

The following day I told Amy that, since my arrival in England, I had
heard of the death of my father, and that it was necessary that I
should go to the north, as family affairs required my presence.

"Are you serious?" replied she.

"Never more so in my life. My presence is absolutely necessary, and I
made arrangements with the legal adviser of our family that I would be
there in less than a month."

"It is a long journey," said Mr. Trevannion, "and how long to you
stay?"

"That I cannot possibly say," replied I; "but not longer than I can
help."

"I do not think that I shall let you go," said Amy; "you are not to be
trusted out of sight. You are so born for adventure that you will not
be heard of again for another two years."

"Such is my misfortune, I grant," replied I; "but, Amy, you look pale
and thin; change of air would do you much service. Suppose you and
your father were to come with me. Indeed, Mr. Trevannion, I am in
earnest. At this delightful time of the year nothing would prove so
beneficial to her health; and, Amy, then, you know, that I shall not
be out of your sight."

"I should like the tour very much," replied she, "but--"

"I know what you would say. You do not like the idea of travelling
with me as Amy Trevannion. You are right. Then let me propose that you
travel with me as Amy Musgrave."

"I second that proposal," said Mr. Trevannion.

"Consent, Amy, let our marriage be quite private. I know you will
prefer that it should be so, and so will your father. You will then
travel with me as my wife, and we never shall part again."

Amy did not reply till her father said, "Amy, it is my wish that it
should be so. Recollect it will be