as much," said Sir Robert; "there is a mystery in Father
Oswald's behaviour, that I cannot comprehend."

"Do not reflect upon the father," said the Baron; "I have no cause to
complain of him; perhaps the mystery may be too soon explained; but let
us not anticipate evils. Oswald and Joseph have spoken like good men;
I am satisfied with their answers; let us, who are innocent, rest in
peace; and let us endeavour to restore peace in the family; and do you,
father, assist us."

"With my best services," said Oswald. He called the servants in. "Let
nothing be mentioned out of doors," said he, "of what has lately passed
within, especially in the east apartment; the young gentlemen had not so
much reason to be frightened as they apprehended; a piece of furniture
fell down in the rooms underneath, which made the noise that alarmed
them so much; but I can certify that all things in the rooms are in
quiet, and there is nothing to fear. All of you attend me in the chapel
in an hour; do your duties, put your trust in God, and obey your Lord,
and you will find every thing go right as it used to do."

They dispersed; the sun rose, the day came on, and every thing went on
in the usual course; but the servants were not so easily satisfied; they
whispered that something was wrong, and expected the time that should
set all right. The mind of the Baron was employed in meditating upon
these circumstances, that seemed to him the forerunners of some great
events; he sometimes thought of Edmund; he sighed for his expulsion, and
lamented the uncertainty of his fate; but, to his family, he appeared
easy and satisfied.

From the time of Edmund's departure, the fair Emma had many uneasy
hours; she wished to enquire after him, but feared to shew any
solicitude concerning him. The next day, when her brother William came
into her apartment, she took courage to ask a question.

"Pray, brother, can you give any guess what is become of Edmund?"

"No," said he, with a sigh; "why do you ask me?"

"Because, my dear William, I should think if any body knew, it must be
you; and I thought he loved you too well to leave you in ignorance. But
don't you think he left the castle in a very strange manner?"

"I do, my dear; there is a mystery in every circumstance of his
departure; Nevertheless (I will trust you with a secret), he did not
leave the castle without making a distinction in my favour."

"I thought so," said she; "but you might tell me what you