But I had nearly forgotten to mention a circumstance which occurred on the day of our sailing, which will be eventually found to have had a great influence upon my after life.

It was this.

I received a letter from my father, evidently written in great vexation and annoyance, informing me that my uncle, whose wife I have already mentioned had two daughters, and was again expected to be confined, had suddenly broken up his housekeeping, discharged every servant, and proceeded to Ireland under an assumed name.

No reason had been given for this unaccountable proceeding; and not even my grandfather, or any of the members of the family, had had notice of his intention.

Indeed, it was by mere accident that his departure was discovered, about a fortnight after it had taken place.