the study of flowers. With this explanation
perhaps some of this goodly company might favor us with a like result."
"I venture to say, your Excellency, that in the present instance, we
might too clearly prove the old saying as regards comparisons," returned
Lieut. Trevelyan, "and would therefore enjoin silence." "Ah, no, Mr.
Trevelyan," said Miss Douglas, "we will not allow our claim to be set
aside in this manner. We must muster courage in our own self-defence as
an offset to your acquiescence, or else papa will wear his laurels very
lightly."

"In the first instance," said she, "we were admiring the beautiful
sunset, the soft outline of the hills, and the beauty of the landscape.
Is that not worthy of describing, papa?" The eldest daughter of this
distinguished family made this appeal with a face beaming with the
enthusiasm of her deep appreciative nature. Anne Douglas possessed not
the great beauty of her sister Mary, yet was a lovely and loveable
woman, capable of inspiring deep regard. Sir Howard acknowledged by
saying, that if she continued, the comparison would turn the weight on
the other side. "Not yet, papa dear," said Miss Douglas, "you must hear
further. We were speaking freely of our warm reception from the citizens,
of the social resources of Fredericton, its commercial interests; and
before you joined us, were planning to ask your assistance, by giving
your views and opinion of Fredericton in its general aspect, as presented
on your arrival." "Mr. Trevelyan," ventured Sir Howard, "I am sorry to
acknowledge that the ladies have sufficient cause to charge you with
desertion of your colours; but the end may not justify the means." "Ah,
papa, your inference is indirect--you will not surely justify Mr.
Trevelyan." "In the present state of affairs," exclaimed Sir Howard, in
playful military tone, "the enemy is preparing for action. The only
chance of success is thus--retreat under cover of fire, or fall back on
the strength of defence." "Your Excellency has a stronghold in the
enemy's quarter," joined in Lady Rosamond, who had been seated at the
side of Captain Charles Douglas, their eldest son. "Before testing the
strength of our forces let there be a short truce, on condition that His
Excellency will give us the desired information this evening," said Mr.
Trevelyan, playfully endeavouring to conciliate Miss Douglas. At this
moment Lady Douglas formed an attractive feature to the group. Her
graceful form, dign