As he concluded she grasped his hand firmly and imprinted a kiss on his cheek.

"Heaven be thanked, father," she said, "it is a kind Providence that directs all our destinies.

I am free now.

You are free--free in your intentions--free in your conscience.

I am happy now--happy because I shall not have to interpose my oath against yours.
You shall know what I mean by that hereafter." While this was going on up stairs Bowles, his eyes protruding, and in a state of great alarm, entered the kitchen, where Bridget, the cook, and Kitty, the chambermaid were at work, and stammered out: "Der don't be no weddin' in dis house to-day--peers to me--no how.