and stood
once for a member of Parliament, and I think he will make
me quite happy; and I'm quite sure that's what I'm fitted
for.

Whether Polly meant that she was fitted to be made happy, or fitted
to be the wife of a tradesman who stood for Parliament, did not
appear quite clearly.

There have been things which we are very sorry for, and
hope you'll forgive and forget. Father bids me say how
sorry he is he broke a figure of a pretty little man in
your room. He would get another, only he would not know
where to go for it.

Wishing you always may be happy, believe me to remain,

Yours most respectfully,

MARYANNE NEEFIT.

Ralph's answer was dated about a fortnight afterwards;--

--, Cavendish Square, 1 June, 186--.

MY DEAR POLLY,--

I hope you will allow me to call you so now for the
last time. I am, indeed, happy that you are going to
be married. I believe Mr. Moggs to be a most excellent
fellow. I hope I may often see him,--and sometimes you.
He must allow you to accept a little present which I send
you, and never be jealous if you wear it at your waist.
The pretty little man that your father broke by accident
in my rooms did not signify at all. Pray tell him so from
me.

Believe me to be your very sincere friend,

RALPH NEWTON.

I may as well tell you my own secret. I am going to be
married, too. The young lady lives in this house, and her
name is Augusta Eardham.

This letter was sent by messenger from Cavendish Square, with a very
handsome watch and chain. A month afterwards, when he was preparing
to leave London for Brayboro' Park, he received a little packet, with
a note as follows;--

Linton, Devonshire, Wednesday.

DEAR MR. NEWTON,--

I am so much obliged for the watch, and so is Ontario, who
will never be jealous, I'm sure. It is a most beautiful
thing, and I shall value it, oh! so much. I am very glad
you are going to be married, and should have answered
before, only I wanted to finish making with my own hand a
little chain which I send you. And I hope your sweetheart
won't be jealous either. We looked her out in a book, and
found she is the daughter of a great gentleman with a
title. That is all just as it should be. Ontario sends his
respects. We have come down here for the honeymoon.

I remain, yours very sincerely,

MARYANNE MOGGS.