They tell me she is an angel in goodness, as well as in beauty, and that her accomplishments are extraordinary--but--I, alas!--am alone and childless." The stranger's heart palpitated; and had Lady Gourlay entertained any suspicion of his attachment, she might have perceived his agitation.

He also felt deep sympathy with Lady Gourlay.
"Do not say childless, madam," he replied.

"Your ladyship must hope for the best." "But what have you done ?" she asked.

"Did you see the young man ?" "I saw him, madam; but it is impossible to get anything out of him.

That he is wrapped in some deep mystery is unquestionable.