express
your sentiments and opinions, and finding that there was on this earth
what, in his scepticism, he thought never to exist--youth, beauty,
talent, principle, and family, all united in one person--he had bowed at
the shrine, and had become a silent and unseen worshipper."

Spikeman stopped speaking.

"Then it appears that this gentleman, as you style him, has been guilty
of the ungentlemanly practice of listening to private conversation--no
very great recommendation."

"Such was not his intention at first; he was seduced to it by you. Do
not blame him for that--now that I have seen you, I cannot; but, miss,
he told me more. He said that he felt that he was unworthy of you, and
had not a competence to offer you, even if he could obtain your favour;
that he discovered that there was a cause which prevented his gaining an
introduction to your family; in fact, that he was hopeless and
despairing. He had hovered near you for a long time, for he could not
leave the air you breathed; and, at last, that he had resolved to set
his life upon the die and stake the hazard. Could I refuse him, miss?
He is of an old family, but not wealthy; he is a gentleman by birth and
education, and therefore I did not think I was doing so very wrong in
giving him the chance, trifling as it might be. I beg your pardon,
madam, if I have offended; and any message you may have to deliver to
him, harsh as it may be--nay, even if it should be his death--it shall
be faithfully and truly delivered."

"When shall you see him, Master Tinker?" said Melissa, very gravely.

"In a week he will be here, he said, not before."

"Considering he is so much in love, he takes his time," replied Melissa.
"Well, Master Tinker, you may tell him from me, that I've no answer to
give him. It is quite ridiculous, as well as highly improper, that I
should receive a letter or answer one from a person whom I never saw. I
admit his letter to be respectful, or I should have sent a much harsher
message."

"Your commands shall be obeyed, miss; that is, if you cannot be
persuaded to see him for one minute."

"Most certainly not; I see no gentleman who is not received at my
father's house, and properly presented to me. It may be the custom
among people in your station of life, Master Tinker, but not in mine;
and as for yourself, I recommend you not to attempt to bring another
letter."

"I must request your pardon for my fault, miss; may I ask, after I have