However that may be, the young lady was very decidedly carried away, and, having quite made up her mind that her stepfather was in France, the suspicion of treachery never for an instant entered her mind.

She was flattered by the gentleman's attentions, and the effect was increased by the loudly expressed admiration of her mother.

Then Mr.Angel began to call, for it was obvious that the matter should be pushed as far as it would go if a real effect were to be produced.

There were meetings, and an engagement, which would finally secure the girl's affections from turning towards anyone else.

But the deception could not be kept up forever.