After some conversation about business, Mr.Royal said: "From your silence concerning your visit to my house last evening, I infer that Mr.Fitzgerald has given you some information relating to my daughters' history.

I trust, my young friend, that you have not suspected me of any intention to deceive or entrap you.

I intended to have told you myself; but I had a desire to know first how my daughters would impress you, if judged by their own merits.

Having been forestalled in my purpose, I am afraid frankness on your part will now be difficult." "A feeling of embarrassment did indeed prevent me from alluding to my visit as soon as I met you this morning," replied Alfred; "but no circumstances could alter my estimate of your daughters.

Their beauty and gracefulness exceed anything I have seen." "And they are as innocent and good as they are beautiful," rejoined the father.