acquainted with all the
circumstances of this affair."

"I will attend her, sir," said Vernon, who had before remained silent.

"Pardon me," said the attorney, looking sharply at Vernon, "but it will
be impossible to transact any business in presence of others."

"Lead on," said Vernon, sternly; "I will attend the lady, in spite of
all objections."

"Sir, you are insolent!" said the attorney, tartly, though without the
loss of his self-possession.

"The gentleman will not in the least retard the business. Pray pass on,"
interposed Emily, fearful of a collision between the parties.

"It is impossible, madam. I must insist that he remain here. Such is Mr.
Dumont's express order."

"Will you say to Mr. Dumont that the lady demands my attendance? Perhaps
he will yield the point," answered Vernon.

"I will see him, but it is useless. I know his views;" and De Guy left
the room.

"Do not hesitate to go with him, Miss Dumont; I will be close at hand;
but no violence will be offered you. I see my father and Captain Carroll
coming up the road," said Vernon, looking out the window. "Yield, if
necessary, and fear nothing."

"Mr. Dumont persists in his purpose of meeting the lady alone," said De
Guy, as he reentered the drawing-room.

"The lady, in your absence, has concluded to dispense with my
attendance," replied Vernon.

"This way, madam,"--and the attorney, with punctilious politeness, led
the way.

Vernon threw himself upon a sofa, as they were leaving; but no sooner
had the door closed, than he rose in haste, and left the apartment.
Reaching the veranda of the house, he met Dr. Vaudelier and Henry
Carroll, who followed him back to the drawing-room.

"This way, silently, if you please," said he, and then closed the door.
A moment sufficed to inform the new comers of the position of affairs;
then Vernon left the room, and went to the library door, which he found,
by Henry's direction. Stationing himself in a recess behind some coats,
he waited till his presence should be needed.

The meeting between Emily and her uncle was not embarrassed by any
formal greetings. Jaspar did not even raise his eyes from the floor, as
she entered. He heard the door close, and being aware by the silence of
the parties--for De Guy had judged an announcement unnecessary--that
they were ready to hear him, he said, in a gentle tone,

"Emily, I have sent for you to receive a proposition, which will finally
terminate the unfortuna