he most highly connected in the north, and
that the head of it is, or was, a 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 do 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 the last time that you have to obey
your father, so do not annoy me by a refusal."

"I will not, my dear father," replied Amy, kissing him. "Your last
command I obey with pleasure. And oh! If I have sometimes been a
wilful girl, forgive me everything at this moment."

"My dear child, I have nothing to forgive. May God bless you; and, Mr
Musgrave," said he, putting her hand in mine, "if she proves as good a
wife as she h