You will ask me how I came by this knowledge.

It does not matter; for these worldly objections have no weight with me.

It was, however, told to me by one well acquainted with your history--who, as a guardian to Charlotte, will, I fear, never consent to your marriage.' "'There are few persons with whom I am sufficiently intimate to obtain this knowledge,' I cried.

'His name--tell me his name.' "'Robert Moncton--Sir Alexander's cousin and man of business.' "I felt a cold shudder thrill through me.

The hopes lately so gay and buoyant shrunk back faded and blackened to my heart.