ne of the writing, seems to
have some anxiety on your behalf."

This revelation afforded momentary relief to the high-born girl, who
was, indeed, a lovely picture, reclining on a cushion at the feet of
Lady Douglas. A shade of sadness rested upon her face, giving her the
expression of a Madonna--a study for Raphael.

"Lady Bereford intimates, in touching terms, that I am to exercise a
careful surveillance upon your girlish fancies," continued her ladyship,
with slight sarcasm in her tone.

"Rosamond, my darling," cried she, by way of apostrophe, "I have every
reason to place in you full confidence. I cannot see any ground for such
intimation."

"Your ladyship is right," returned Lady Rosamond, throwing her arms
around the neck of Lady Douglas, giving full vent to the feelings which
almost overwhelmed her, adding, between tears and sobs: "I have always
obeyed my father's wishes and will not shrink from my duty now. Gerald
Bereford is worthy of a nobler wife than I dare ever hope to be. He has
indeed conferred on me a distinguished honor, and I must try to make
amends with all the gratitude of which I am capable."

Saying this the brave girl tried to force a smile, which, from its
superficial nature, cost a great effort, adding:

"Your ladyship will have nothing to fear; my father's wishes are mine."

From the spirit of determination, which left an impress on the beautiful
features of Lady Rosamond, Lady Douglas apprehended no need of
interference. She knew that Lady Rosamond would fulfil her father's
wishes. She was aware that the affectionate daughter would return his
confidence, even at the greatest sacrifice a woman can make. The noble
nature of Lady Douglas felt deep sympathy for her gentle relative--a
vague uneasiness filled her mind. Some moments later when Lady Rosamond
appeared in a rich and elegant dinner costume not a trace of emotion was
visible. Its recent effects had entirely disappeared. Lady Douglas had
found an opportunity to form an estimate of the strength of character
which sustained the apparently gentle and passive maiden.

At the dinner table of Government House everyone seemed to vie in good
humored gaiety and flow of spirited, animating conversation. Each tried
to please. All clouds of despondency vanished upon this occasion. Sir
Howard always set the example. Pressing cares of state, perplexing
questions, and endless grievances, took speedy and ignominous flight
when he entered the famil