joicings there
upon his coming of age. I am sure no one can rejoice more than I shall
when he leaves, which is to be next Saturday. I am also very glad to say
that the Marquess has presented Mr. Sommerville with a valuable living,
now that he gives up his tutorship. I really think he will do justice to
his profession, for I have seen more of him lately, and esteem him very
much.

"27th. They are gone, much to my mother's mortification and to my
delight; and now, as I have written so much about myself, I shall leave
this letter open till I see Janet, that I may tell you something about
her, otherwise I know my letter will not be interesting to you.

"31st. My dear Tom, you must prepare yourself for painful intelligence.

"Janet has disappeared. She left her father's house last night after the
family had retired, but no one knows where. She left a few lines on her
table, stating that they would hear from her soon. Poor Mr. Wilson was
here to-day--he is half distracted--and the whole town is full of the
scandal. Mrs. St. Felix told me this morning that she has discovered
that within the last week she has been seen walking on the London Road
with Lord ----. Is it possible?

"May 2d. It is all true--Mrs. St. Felix has a letter from Mr.
Sommerville, stating that Janet was brought up to town and married to
Lord ---- two days ago. It appears that from the time that I repulsed
his attentions he fixed them upon Janet; that she encouraged him, and
used to meet him every night, as Mrs. St. Felix was informed. Mr.
Sommerville has seen his father, and fully exculpated himself; but the
Marquess declares, as his son is a minor, that the marriage shall not be
binding. How it will end Heaven only knows; but she is much to be
pitied. This will account for her not coming to me as usual. Now, Tom, I
do not suppose you will pay attention to me at present, but from what I
knew of Janet, and which her conduct has fully proved, she was not
worthy to be your wife, and could not have contributed to your
happiness. I pity you from my heart, as I know what you will feel; but
still I congratulate you, and eventually you will congratulate yourself
at your fortunate escape.

"I will say no more at present, except that I am, and ever will be,

"Your truly attached sister,

"VIRGINIA."

I had courage to finish the letter, and then it dropped from my hands. I
was bewildered, stupefied, maddened. As my sister said, I did indeed
feel. Was it poss