which they
attributed to him, he had certainly taken the most effectual means to
prevent their being realised. Whatever his object might be, his presence
in Dublin, in company with Captain N----, boded nothing good to O'Mara.

They entered ----'s tavern, in Dame Street, together; and there, over a
hasty and by no means a comfortable meal, they talked over their plans
and conjectures. Evening closed in, and found them still closeted
together, with nothing to interrupt, and a large tankard of claret to
sustain their desultory conversation.

Nothing had been determined upon, except that Dwyer and O'Mara should
proceed under cover of the darkness to search the town for Heathcote,
and by minute inquiries at the most frequented houses of entertainment,
to ascertain his place of residence, in order to procuring a full and
explanatory interview with him. They had each filled their last glass,
and were sipping it slowly, seated with their feet stretched towards
a bright cheerful fire; the small table which sustained the flagon of
which we have spoken, together with two pair of wax candles, placed
between them, so as to afford a convenient resting-place for the long
glasses out of which they drank.

'One good result, at all events, will be effected by Heathcote's visit,'
said O'Mara. 'Before twenty-four hours I shall do that which I should
have done long ago. I shall, without reserve, state everything. I can no
longer endure this suspense--this dishonourable secrecy--this apparent
dissimulation. Every moment I have passed since my departure from
the country has been one of embarrassment, of pain, of humiliation.
To-morrow I will brave the storm, whether successfully or not is
doubtful; but I had rather walk the high roads a beggar, than submit
a day longer to be made the degraded sport of every accident--the
miserable dependent upon a successful system of deception. Though
PASSIVE deception, it is still unmanly, unworthy, unjustifiable
deception. I cannot bear to think of it. I despise myself, but I will
cease to be the despicable thing I have become. To-morrow sees me free,
and this harassing subject for ever at rest.'

He was interrupted here by the sound of footsteps heavily but rapidly
ascending the tavern staircase. The room door opened, and Captain N----,
accompanied by a fashionably-attired young man, entered the room.

Young O'Mara had risen from his seat on the entrance of their unexpected
visitants; and the moment