ppiness of the loved one is concerned."

"And, therefore, I came," returned the young girl, "but you forget,
Hansford, that the relation which once existed between us has, by our
mutual consent, been dissolved--what then was proper cannot now be
permitted."

"If such be the case," replied Hansford, in an offended tone, "Miss
Temple must be aware that I am the last person to urge her to continue
in a course which her judgment disapproves. May I conduct you to your
companion?"

Virginia did not at first reply. The coldness of manner which she had
assumed was far from being consonant with her real feelings, and the
ingenuous girl could no longer continue the part which she attempted to
represent. After a brief pause, the natural affection of her nature
triumphed, and with the most artless frankness she said,

"Oh, no, Hansford, my tongue can no longer speak other language than
that which my heart dictates. Forgive me for what I have said. We cannot
part thus."

"Thanks, my dearest girl," he cried, "for this assurance. The future is
already too dark, for the light of hope to be entirely withdrawn. These
troublous times will soon be over, and then--"

"Nay, Hansford," said Virginia, interrupting him, "I fear you cannot
even then hope for that happiness which you profess to anticipate in our
union. These things I have thought of deeply and sorrowfully. Whatever
may be the issue of this unnatural contest, to us the result must be the
same. My father's prejudices--and without his consent, I would never
yield my hand to any one--are so strong against your cause, that come
what may, they can never be removed."

"He must himself, ere long, see the justice of our cause," said
Hansford, confidently. "It is impossible that truth can long be hid from
one, who, like your noble father, must ever be desirous of its success."

"And do you think," returned Virginia, "that having failed to arrive at
your conclusions in his moments of calm reflection, he will be apt to
change his opinions under the more formidable reasoning of the bayonet?
Believe me, Hansford, that scenes like those which we have this day
witnessed, can never reconcile the opposing parties in this unhappy
strife."

"It is true, too true," said Hansford, sorrowfully; "and is there then
no hope?"

"Yes, there is a hope," said Virginia, earnestly. "Let not the foolish
pride of consistency prevent you from acknowledging an error when
committed. Boldly and manfully