Beauty, through countless ages, has been the source of much misery.

Through Helen was lost a Troy; Cleopatra, Roman glory." Her ladyship was going to cite further examples when interrupted by Sir Thomas exclaiming: "Your ladyship will pardon me, but it would certainly be deep injustice at present to raise an objection on this point; it surely did not bring misery in its train to Lord Bereford." At this compliment to her beauty and vanity, a rare smile lit the face of Lady Bereford, while she gaily added: "Sir Thomas, you still cling to your former gallantry with the pertinacity of an ill-favored suitor." Seeing that the last evidence was ill-grounded, her ladyship, having reconsidered the situation, again resumed: "You must admit that among the military staff of Sir Howard Douglas there are many attractive and eligible young gentlemen worthy of the hand of the fairest.

Besides, there are many families holding high position in New Brunswick, the descendants of persons of rank equal to our own.

Among these are gentlemen--brave, handsome, and equally fascinating.

It would indeed be a very extraordinary case if the Lady Rosamond, with all her beauty and accomplishments, daily surrounded by an admiring crowd, should not unconsciously fall a prey to her already susceptible nature.