e, scarcely needed the expression of this desire. His
first questions to Glastonbury were ever the same. 'Had he heard
anything? Were there any letters? He thought there might be a letter,
was he sure? Had he sent to Bath; to London, for his letters?' When he
was answered in the negative, he usually dwelt no more upon the subject.
One morning he said to Glastonbury, 'I know Katherine is in the house.'

'Miss Grandison _is_ here,' replied Glastonbury.

'Why don't they mention her? Is all known?'

'Nothing is known,' said Glastonbury.

'Why don't they mention her, then? Are you sure all is not known?'

'At my suggestion, her name has not been mentioned. I was unaware how
you might receive the intelligence; but the true cause of my suggestion
is still a secret.'

'I must see her,' said Ferdinand, 'I must speak to her.'

'You can see her when you please,' replied Glastonbury; 'but I would not
speak upon the great subject at present.'

'But she is existing all this time under a delusion. Every day makes my
conduct to her more infamous.'

'Miss Grandison is a wise and most admirable young lady,' said
Glastonbury. 'I love her from the bottom of my heart; I would recommend
no conduct that could injure her, assuredly none that can disgrace you.'

'Dear Glastonbury, what shall I do?'

'Be silent; the time will come when you may speak. At present, however
anxious she may be to see you, there are plausible reasons for your not
meeting. Be patient, my Ferdinand.'

'Good Glastonbury, good, dear Glastonbury, I am too quick and fretful.
Pardon me, dear friend. You know not what I feel. Thank God, you do not;
but my heart is broken.'

When Glastonbury returned to the library, he found Sir Ratcliffe playing
with his dogs, and Miss Grandison copying a drawing.

'How is Ferdinand?' enquired the father.

'He mends daily,' replied Glastonbury. 'If only May-day were at hand
instead of Christmas, he would soon be himself again; but I dread the
winter.'

'And yet the sun shines.' said Miss Grandison.

Glastonbury went to the window and looked at the sky. 'I think, my dear
lady, we might almost venture upon our promised excursion to the Abbey
today. Such a day as this may not quickly be repeated. We might take our
sketch-book.'

'It would be delightful,' said Miss Grandison; 'but before I go, I must
pick some flowers for Ferdinand.' So saying, she sprang from her seat,
and ran out into the garden.

'Kate is a sweet creatu