y dead, that the tribe over whom she ruled
had been dispersed and scattered she knew not whither, and that she
had no wish to gather about her the remnants of the gipsy folk, who
had long been more disposed to consort with robbers and outlaws
than to submit to her sway. She was weary of the old life, and
desired something more tranquil. She asked if she could serve Lady
Humbert in the capacity of dairy woman or laundress, and was
promptly answered in the affirmative.

She then went on to whisper that first she must to London, and that
she would bring back Cuthbert Trevlyn with her, and be with them
again on the Christmas Eve. More than this she would not say; but
Lady Humbert trusted her implicitly, and after that she went about
the house with a bright face and brisk step, laughed at Cherry's
wistful looks, and declared that she would wait no longer for the
absentee, but on Christmas Eve would have up out of the strongroom
all the treasure hidden there, and would hand it over to its lawful
owners, the Trevlyns--Sir Richard, as head of the house, being the
fittest person now to have charge of it.

There was a little murmur of remonstrance, Cuthbert's name being
mentioned. Was it fair to do anything till he returned? But some
persons began to fear he never would be seen again. All were deeply
interested in the treasure; and Lady Humbert clinched the matter by
declaring that her mind was made up, and that she would do as she
had said.

What a wonderful sight it was as piece after piece of rich old
plate, some gold, some silver, all richly chased and embossed, was
brought by the servants and placed by Lady Humbert's direction upon
the long tables in the old banqueting hall, now unused for half a
century! Breathless and wondering, the Trevlyns stood by watching,
Sir Richard exclaiming in delighted recognition of various family
heirlooms he had often heard described, and which transcended even
the fancies he had formed about them. And, besides the wonderful
plate, there were jewels and gold in abundance, small coffers
filled with golden coins and precious stones, sufficient for a
king's ransom.

Kate stood clinging to Culverhouse's arm, her eyes as bright as
stars. It was to her the realization of a wonderful dream; and as
she gazed and gazed upon the sparkling hoard, which she knew would
smooth her own path in life and that of the lover of her choice,
she glanced up at him with kindling glances to say:

"Nay, but wha