ho only
indulged in it in compliment to her uncle, and, of course, indirectly
to herself, with whom, it was but natural, he should hope to make him
an advocate. Still the expression of his countenance, as he managed it,
appeared to her to be that of a profound and serious thinker--one whose
feelings, when engaged, were likely to retain a strong hold of his
heart. That he should model his features into such an expression is by
no means strange, when we reflect with what success hypocrisy can stamp
upon them all those traits of character for which she wishes to get
credit from the world.

"Come, Tom," said his lordship, "it's time for luncheon; we can't
allow our friends to go without refreshments. I say, Woodward, I'm a
hospitable old fellow; did you ever know that before?"

"I have often heard it, my lord," replied the other, "and I hope to
have still better proof of it." This was uttered with a significant, but
respectful glance, at the niece, who was by no means displeased at it.

"Ay! ay!" said his lordship, laughing, "the proof of the pudding is
in the eating. Well, you shall have an opportunity, and soon, too; you
appear to be a blunt, honest fellow; and hang me but I like you."

Miss Riddle now went out to order in the refreshments, but not without
feeling it strange how her uncle and herself should each contemplate
Woodward's character in so different a light--the uncle looking upon him
as a blunt, honest fellow, whilst to her he appeared as a man of sense,
and a perfect gentleman Such, however, was the depth of his hypocrisy,
that he succeeded at once in pleasing both, and in deceiving both.

"Well, Woodward, what do you think of Tom?" asked his lordship.

"Why, my lord, that she is an admirable and lovely girl."

"Well, you are right, sir; Tom is an admirable girl, and loves her old
uncle as if he was her father, or maybe a great deal better; she will
have all I am worth when I pop off, so there's something for you to
think upon."

"No man, my lord, capable of appreciate ing her could think of anything
but herself."

"What! not of her property?"

"Property, my-lord; is a very secondary subject when taken into
consideration with the merits of the lady herself. I am no enemy to
property, and I admit its importance as an element of happiness when
reasonably applied, but I am neither sordid nor selfish; and I know
how little, after all, it contributes to domestic enjoyment, unless
accompanied by those v