ing an impious gratification. Poor Laura! Oh, how I loved
her! But it is bootless to think of her now.

"I was gently forced from the dissecting-room by my friends, and
conducted to my home in silence--in silence, because I had no words
for any one. I pressed their hands at the door of my mansion, and
bowing, they departed for their homes to muse over the incidents of
the evening. I entered my silent chamber, but not to rest. I threw
open the casement and gazed out at the genial rays of the moon. The
dark green leaves of the linden trees were motionless, and the silvery
rays struggling through them cast a checkered and faint tint of
mingled light and shade on the pavement beneath. The cool fresh air
soothed my throbbing temples. I sank back in my seat and gazed up at
the innumerable stars in the boundless sky. I thought the stellar host
glittered with unusual brilliance, as if there were a joyous and holy
revelry going on in heaven. My heart grew calm. I felt a conviction
that true happiness, and purity of thought and purpose were
inseparable. I knew that the contaminations of the world had
overthrown many a righteous resolve, and linked the noblest minded
with infamy. I thought of Laura. The seductions of the world had
literally prostrated an angel before my eyes. I determined to _leave_
the world, if not for ever, at least as long as its temptations to
err, in the remotest degree, were liable to beset my path. I came
hither."

When Glenn finished his narrative, Roughgrove rose in silence, and
producing a small Bible that he always carried about his person, read
in a low, but distinct and impressive tone, several passages which
were peculiarly applicable to the state of their feelings. Glenn then
approached the couch where William slumbered peacefully. A healthful
perspiration rested on his forehead, and a sweet smile played upon his
lips, indicating that his dreams were not among the savage scenes in
which he had so lately mingled. Mary, who had fallen asleep while
seated at his side, overcome with silent watching, yet rested with her
head on the same pillow, precisely in the same attitude she reclined
when Glenn began his recital. Roughgrove took her in his arms, and
placing her softy at her brother's feet, bestowed a kiss upon her
brow, and retired with Glenn to rest.

CHAPTER XVI.

Balmy spring--Joe's curious dream--He prepares to catch a fish--Glenn
--William and Mary--Joe's sudden and strange appearanc