the same time, or at the same spot, or by the
same person. Those above stairs were, as you know, picked up by my
nephew; these by a brother, who is since dead; and in these clothes an
infant was also washed upon the beach."

"His child!" exclaimed Monsieur de Fontanges. "Where was it buried?"

"The child was restored to life, and is still living."

"If it is," replied Monsieur de Fontanges, "it can be no other than the
young lady who just now called you father. The likeness to Madame la
Marquise is most astonishing."

"It is as you suppose, sir," replied Mr John Forster. "At my brother's
death, he bequeathed the little girl to my protection; and I trust I
have done justice to the deposit. Indeed, although an alien by blood,
she is as dear to me as if she were my own daughter; and," continued the
old lawyer, hesitating a little, "although I have the satisfaction of
restoring her to her father's arms, it will be a heavy blow to part with
her! When my brother spoke to me on the subject, I told him it was
trouble and expense enough to bring up a child of one's own begetting.
I little thought at the time how much more I should be vexed at parting
with one of another's. However, with the bundle she must be returned to
the lawful owner. I have one more remark to make, sir. Do me the
favour to look at that drawing of my poor brother's, which hangs over
the sideboard. Do you recognise the portrait?"

"Triton!" cried Monsieur de Fontanges; "the dog which I gave my poor
sister-in-law!"

"You are indebted to that dog for the life of your niece. He brought
her on shore, and laid her at my brother's feet; but I have all the
documents, which I will send for your perusal. The facts I consider so
well established as to warrant a verdict in any court of justice; and
now, sir, I must leave you to make the communication as soon, and, at
the same time, as cautiously as you please. Newton, send Amber down to
me."

We will pass over the scenes which followed in the dining-parlour and
drawing-room. The Marquis de Fontanges discovered that he was blessed
with a daughter, at the same time that Amber learnt her own history. In
a few minutes Amber was led up stairs to the arms of her father, whose
tears of sorrow at the loss of his wife were now mingled with those of
delight, as he clasped his daughter to his heart.

"What obligations do I owe to your whole family, my dear friend!" said
the marquis to Newton.

"I will not