st every thing to them. His wife would sometimes sit
with him for half an hour, holding his hand, in moments of tenderness
unseen and unsuspected by all the world around them. Sometimes the
clergyman of the parish would come to him, so that he might know the
wants of the people. He would have the newspaper in his hands for
a while, and would daily read the Bible for an hour. Then he would
slowly write some letter, almost measuring every point which his pen
made,--thinking that thus he was performing his duty as a man of
business. Few men perhaps did less,--but what he did do was good; and
of self-indulgence there was surely none. Between such a one and the
young man who had now come to his house there could be but little real
connexion.

Between Fred Neville and Lady Scroope there arose a much closer
intimacy. A woman can get nearer to a young man than can any old
man;--can learn more of his ways, and better understand his wishes. From
the very first there arose between them a matter of difference, as to
which there was no quarrel, but very much of argument. In that argument
Lady Scroope was unable to prevail. She was very anxious that the heir
should at once abandon his profession and sell out of the army. Of what
use could it be to him now to run after his regiment to Ireland, seeing
that undoubtedly the great duties of his life all centred at Scroope?
There were many discussions on the subject, but Fred would not give
way in regard to the next year. He would have this year, he said, to
himself;--and after that he would come and settle himself at Scroope.
Yes; no doubt he would marry as soon as he could find a fitting wife. Of
course it would be right that he should marry. He fully understood the
responsibilities of his position;--so he said, in answer to his aunt's
eager, scrutinising, beseeching questions. But as he had joined his
regiment, he thought it would be good for him to remain with it one year
longer. He particularly desired to see something of Ireland, and if he
did not do so now, he would never have the opportunity. Lady Scroope,
understanding well that he was pleading for a year of grace from the
dulness of the Manor, explained to him that his uncle would by no means
expect that he should remain always at Scroope. If he would marry,
the old London house should be prepared for him and his bride. He
might travel,--not, however, going very far afield. He might get into
Parliament; as to which, if such were