girl in the kitchen.

'Upon leaving me, my father immediately sought an interview with my
mother, who by this time had recovered from her swoon. She was in her
chamber; but as I was naturally anxious to know what might pass between
my parents, under such unusual circumstances, I stationed myself at the
door of the room, as soon as my father had entered, and heard distinctly
all that was said.'

CHAPTER III

_Domestic Troubles--A Scene, and a Compromise--an Escape--various
matters amative, explanatory and miscellaneous, in the Tale of the
Courtezan._

'Well, madam,' said my father, in a cold, severe tone--'this is truly a
strange and serious accusation which our daughter has brought against
you. The crime of adultery, and with a Christian minister!'

'Surely,' rejoined my mother, sobbing--'you will not believe the
assertions of that young hussy. I am innocent--indeed, indeed I am.'

'I am inclined to believe that you _are_ innocent, and yet I never shall
rest perfectly satisfied until you _prove_ yourself guiltless in this
matter,' rejoined my father, speaking in a kinder tone. 'Now listen to
me,' he continued. 'I have thought of a plan by which to put your
virtue, and the purity of our pastor, to the test. I shall invite the
reverend gentleman to dinner this afternoon, after divine service; and
when we have dined, you shall retire with him to this room, for private
prayer. You shall go first, and in a few minutes he shall follow you;
and I shall take care that no secret communication is held between you,
in the way of whispering or warnings of any kind, whether by word or
sign. I will contrive means to watch you narrowly, when you are with him
in the chamber; and I caution you to beware of giving him the slightest
hint to be on his guard, for that would be a conclusive evidence of your
guilt. He will of course conduct himself as usual, not knowing that he
is watched. If you are innocent, he will pray or converse with you in a
Christian and proper manner; but if you ever _have_ had criminal
intercourse with him, he will, in all human probability, indicate the
same in his language and actions. This is most plain; and I trust that
the result will clear you of all suspicion.'

'My mother knew it would be useless to remonstrate, for my father was
unchangeable, when once he had made up his mind to anything. She
therefore was obliged to submit. Accordingly, Mr. Flanders dined with us
that day: once, during the