He is said to be of London, for safety' sake; but he really lives in the county next adjoining this.' 'Where in the next county ?' 'I do not know.

He has preferred not to tell me, that I may not have the secret forced from me, to his and my hurt, by bringing the marriage to the ears of his kinsfolk and friends.' Her brother's face flushed.

'Our people have been honest townsmen, well- reputed for long; why should you readily take such humbling from a sojourner of whom th' 'st know nothing ?' They remained in constrained converse till her quick ear caught a sound, for which she might have been waiting--a horse's footfall.

'It is John!' said she.

'This is his night--Saturday.' 'Don't be frightened lest he should find me here!' said Roger.