united."

I thanked the general with tears: he shook me warmly by the hand as I
gave my promise, and we separated.

How happy did I feel when I went into my room, and sat down to compose
my mind, and think over what had happened. True, at one moment, the
thought of my dependent situation threw a damp over my joy; but in the
next I was building castles, inventing a discovery of my uncle's plot,
fancying myself in possession of the title and property, and laying it
at the feet of my dear Celeste. Hope sustained my spirits, and I felt
satisfied for the present with the consideration that Celeste returned
my love. I decked myself carefully, and went down, where I found all
the company assembled. We had a very pleasant, happy party, and the
ladies entreated General O'Brien to detain me as a prisoner--very kind
of them--and I felt very much disposed to join in their request.

CHAPTER FIFTY.

PETER SIMPLE FIRST TAKES A COMMAND, THEN THREE WEST INDIAMEN, AND TWENTY
PRISONERS--ONE GOOD TURN DESERVES ANOTHER--THE PRISONERS ENDEAVOUR TO
TAKE HIM, BUT ARE THEMSELVES TAKEN IN.

The next day I was very unhappy. The brig was in the offing waiting for
me to come on board. I pointed her out to Celeste as we were at the
window, and her eyes met mine. An hour's conversation could not have
said more. General O'Brien showed that he had perfect confidence in me,
for he left us together.

"Celeste," said I, "I have promised your father--"

"I know what has passed," interrupted she; "he told me everything."

"How kind he is! But I did not say that I would not bind myself,
Celeste."

"No! but my father made me promise that you should not--that if you
attempted, I was immediately to prevent you--and so I shall."

"Then you shall keep your word, Celeste. Imagine everything that can be
said in this--" and I kissed her.

"Don't think me forward, Peter, but I wish you to go away happy," said
Celeste; "and therefore, in return, imagine all I could say in this--"
and she returned my salute, kissing my cheek.

After this, we had a conversation of two hours; but what lovers say is
very silly, except to themselves, and the reader need not be troubled
with it. General O'Brien came in, and told me the boat was ready. I
rose up--I was satisfied with what had passed, and with a firm voice, I
said, "Good-bye, Celeste; God bless you!" and followed the general, who,
with some of his officers, walked down with me to the beach. I t