Almost crushing it in her hand, she hurried away, and when alone, broke the seal, and with unsteady hands unfolded it, yet scarcely daring to let her eyes rest upon the first words:-- "MY EVER DEAR FANNY."-- [How her heart leaped as she read these words!]--"I write to you direct by post, for there remains no longer any reason why our correspondence should be a concealed one.

I have also written to your father, and shall await his response with the deepest anxiety.

Let his decision in the matter be what it may, I shall forever bear your image in my heart as a most sacred possession.

Will you not write immediately?
Conceal nothing of the effect produced on your father's mind.

Send your letter as addressed before, and it will be forwarded to my hands.