.

The next day Theodore returned to his studies; but different from his
former visits to Alida, instead of exhilarating his spirits, this had
tended to depress them. He doubted whether she was not already engaged
to Bonville. His hopes would persuade him this was not the case; but his
fears declared otherwise.

It was some time before he renewed his visits again. In the interim he
received a letter from a friend in the neighbourhood of Alida's father;
an extract from which follows: "We are soon to have a wedding here; you
are acquainted with the parties--Alida M. and Bonville. Such at least is
our opinion from appearances, as this gentleman is now there more than
half his time. You will undoubtedly be invited. We had expected that you
would have put in your claims, from your particular attention to the
lady. She is a fine girl, Theodore." I shall never be a guest at Alida's
wedding, said Theodore, as he hastily paced the room; but I must again
see her before that event takes place, when I shall lose her forever.

The ensuing day he repaired to her father's. He inquired for Alida; she
was gone with a party to the shores of the sound, attended by Bonville.
At evening they returned. Bonville and Theodore addressed each other
with much seeming cordiality. "You have deserted us, Theodore," said
Alida, "we concluded you had forgotten the road to this place." "Was not
that a hasty conclusion?" said Theodore. "I think not," she answered,
"if your long absence should be construed into neglect. But we will hear
your excuse," said she, smiling, "by and by, and perhaps pardon you."

He thanked her for her condescension.

The next morning Bonville set out to go to New-York. Theodore observed
that he took particular leave of Alida, telling her, in a low voice,
that he should have the happiness of seeing her again, within two or
three weeks certainly.

After he was gone, as Alida and Theodore were sitting in the room alone,
"Well," said she, "am I to hear your excuses, Theodore?" "For what,
madam?" "For neglecting your friends." "I hope it is not so considered,
madam." "Seriously, then, why have you stayed away so long? Has this
place no charms in the absence of my brother?"

"Would my presence have added to your felicity, Alida?" "You never came
an unwelcome visiter here." "Perhaps I might be sometimes intrusive when
Bonville is your guest." "I have supposed you were on friendly terms,"
said she. "We are, but there are seas