ves. May I not ask
that it shall be our secret, and ours only?"

"Most certainly, Miss Newville."

"I cannot express my obligation to you, Mr. Walden. It is very
honorable in you, and you will not let the soldiers injure you?" she
said inquiringly.

"I do not think they will molest me. I shall not put myself in their
way, neither shall I avoid them. I am a free citizen; this is my
country. I know my rights, and I trust I shall ever be enough of a man
to resent an insult to myself, and most certainly to a lady."

"Do you remain long in town?" she asked.

"No; only a day or two--over Sunday. I shall start from the Green
Dragon for home next Monday morning."

"Do you have melocotoons in Rumford?" she asked, looking up to the
luscious fruit, ripening above them.

"Not yet; we have some young trees, but they are not in bearing."

"I should like to send a basket of fruit to your sister, if agreeable
to you. Pompey will take it to the tavern Monday morning."

"You are very kind. I will take it with pleasure, and you may be sure
Rachel will appreciate your goodness."

He comprehended her proposition,--that it was her delicate way of
giving emphasis to her thanks for what he had done.

"Mr. Walden, I shall always be pleased to see you. I would like to
hear more about what you see in nature, and the sermons that are
preached to you."

Berinthia and Major Evelyn joined them. The band had ceased playing,
and the last of the guests were departing.

"I hope you have had an enjoyable afternoon," said Mr. Newville.

"I have enjoyed myself very much, and cannot express my thanks for
your hospitality," Robert replied.

"It was very kind in you to honor us with your company," said Mrs.
Newville with a charming grace and dignity.

Miss Newville went with them to the gate, Major Evelyn improving the
opportunity to walk by her side. Robert thought there was a shade of
vexation on her face.

"Excuse me, gentlemen, while I talk with Miss Brandon a moment," she
said, dropping behind. Robert walked on a few steps and waited for
Berinthia. Major Evelyn lingered a moment as if to have a last word
with Miss Newville, but politeness would not admit his further
tarrying; he lifted his hat and walked away.

"Oh, Mr. Walden, what do you think your good cousin has been saying?"
said Miss Newville, calling him once more to the gate.

"Possibly that she has had an agreeable chat with one of his majesty's
brilliant officers," Rober