CHAPTER XI.
PREPARATIONS AND DEPARTURE.
CHARLES'S pocket-book was full of clean bank notes, fifteen hundred pounds' worth: it contained also a diamond ring, and a lock of silvery hair; the latter a proof of affectionate sentiment in the kind old soul, that touched him at the heart.
"And now, my Emmy, the way is clear to us; Providence has sent me this, that I may right you, dearest: and it will be wise in us to say nothing of our plans.

Avoid inquiries--for I did not say conceal or falsify facts: but, while none but you, love, heed of my departure, and while I go for our sakes alone, we need not invite disappointment by open-mouthed publicity.

To those who love me, Emmy, I am frank and free; but with those who love us not, there is a wisdom and a justice in concealment.

They do not deserve confidence, who will not extend to us their sympathy.

None but yourself must know whither I am bound; and, after some little search for curiosity's sake, when a week is past and gone, no soul will care for me of those at home.