advertisement in the "Times" newspaper, remarking, at the same time,
that it appeared just the thing he had long wanted; and that he would
go to the Solicitor's and make enquiries, and if it seemed still
eligible, would go immediately and see about it. Upon asking what it
was;

I was told it was an estate in South Wales to be disposed of; on which
was a large commodious dwelling house, which at a trifling expence,
might be converted into a family mansion. It commanded, the paper
said, a picturesque view, with plenty of shooting and fishing.--It
further stated, that on one part of the grounds, were the ruins of a
castle, and a great deal more, in its favor, but you know the glowing
descriptions with which these great London auctioneers always set off
any property they have to dispose of.

Papa had every reason to be satisfied, that it was what he desired; so
it was settled he should start by railway that very evening. And you
may judge how delighted I was when he asked if I should like to
accompany him. You may be sure I did not refuse; so we got ready, and
started by the eight o'clock train.

We travelled all night and arrived at our destination about four next
day. Papa thought I should sleep during the night, but I found it
impossible, for a gentleman, whom we met in the cars, knew the place,
and said so much in favour of it, that I could think of nothing else,
but he admitted there was a drawback, and that a great prejudice
existed against it, which caused no little difficulty in the disposal
of. It was reported to be haunted, and one or two people, who had
bought it, had actually paid money to get off the bargain. Of course,
hearing this, my mind dwelt much on it, though I said nothing, lest I