I believe we shall be married some time before
Christmas.

We are staying here with grandpapa. I think he approves
of what I am doing; but you know that he is not very
communicative. At any rate, I shall be married from this
house, and I think that he likes Sir Henry. Aunt Mary is
reconciled to all this now.

I do not know that I need say any more, excepting that
I shall always--always hope for your welfare; and be so
happy if I can hear of your happiness. I pray you also to
forgive me what injuries I may have done you.

It may be that at some future time we shall meet as
friends in London. I hope we may. It is a comfort to me
that Sir Henry Harcourt knows exactly all that there has
been between us.

Believe me to be,
Yours most sincerely,

CAROLINE WADDINGTON.

Harcourt's letter was written in faster style, and a more running
hand. Solicitors-general have hardly time to stop and pick their
words. But though the manner of it was free and easy, it seemed to
Bertram that the freedom and easiness were but affected.

My dear Bertram,

I hope and trust that the news I have to tell you will
be no interruption to our friendship. I am sure that it
should not be, seeing that I am doing you no injury.
Caroline Waddington and I have agreed to put our fortunes
into the same boat. We shall feel much more comfortable on
the seas if you will be gracious enough to say, "God save
the bark."

Caroline has of course told me all that has occurred; as,
indeed, you had done previously. As far as I am concerned,
I must say she has behaved gloriously. I always admired
her greatly, as you know; though of course till lately I
never thought it possible I should possess what I so much
admired.

Speaking plainly, I think that she will be happier with
me than she would have been with you; and that I shall be
happier with her than you would have been. We are better
adapted to each other. There is a dash of worldliness
about us both from which your more ethereal composition is
happily free.

God bless you, old fellow. Pray write a line in answer,
saying as much to me. Of course, you will let us see you
in London. Caroline wishes it particularly; and so do I.

I believe I shall be turned off in December. Such a
mill-horse as I am cannot choose my time. I am going to
Scotland for ten days, and shall