old man's voice were, if possible, more wounding than
his language; Francis felt himself exposed to the most cruel, blighting,
and unbearable contempt; his head turned, and he covered his face with
his hands, uttering at the same time a tearless sob of agony. But Miss
Vandeleur once again interfered in his behalf.

"Mr Scrymgeour," she said, speaking in clear and even tones, "you must
not be concerned at my father's harsh expressions. I felt no disgust for
you; on the contrary, I asked an opportunity to make your better
acquaintance. As for what has passed to-night, believe me it has filled
my mind with both pity and esteem."

Just then Mr. Rolles made a convulsive movement with his arm, which
convinced Francis that he was only drugged, and was beginning to throw
off the influence of the opiate. Mr. Vandeleur stooped over him and
examined his face for an instant.

"Come, come!" cried he, raising his head. "Let there be an end of this.
And since you are so pleased with his conduct, Miss Vandeleur, take a
candle and show the bastard out."

The young lady hastened to obey.

"Thank you," said Francis, as soon as he was alone with her in the
garden. "I thank you from my soul. This has been the bitterest evening
of my life, but it will have always one pleasant recollection."

"I spoke as I felt," she replied, "and in justice to you. It made my
heart sorry that you should be so unkindly used."

By this time they had reached the garden gate; and Miss Vandeleur,
having set the candle on the ground, was already unfastening the bolts.

"One word more," said Francis. "This is not for the last time--I shall
see you again, shall I not?"

"Alas!" she answered. "You have heard my father. What can I do but
obey?"

"Tell me at least that it is not with your consent," returned Francis;
"tell me that you have no wish to see the last of me."

"Indeed," replied she, "I have none. You seem to me both brave and
honest."

"Then," said Francis, "give me a keepsake."

She paused for a moment, with her hand upon the key; for the various
bars and bolts were all undone, and there was nothing left but to open
the lock.

"If I agree," she said, "will you promise to do as I tell you from point
to point?"

"Can you ask?" replied Francis. "I would do so willingly on your bare
word."

She turned the key and threw open the door.

"Be it so," said she. "You do not know what you ask, but be it so.
Whatever you hear," she continued, "w