towards Miss Douglas. "If I judge aright there is yet another to be
brought to hasty retribution," said the former. "Pardon me, but I think
your Ladyship is rather severe," said the youthful lieutenant with a
boyish flush of youth upon his brow. "I beg that the penalty imposed upon
Miss Douglas may be something which rests upon her direct choice."
"Treason within the camp," exclaimed Captain Douglas, in his military
tone. "Trevelyan, beware, you are being caught in a pitfall." Lady
Douglas smiled as she turned to Miss Douglas, saying "Mr. Trevelyan's
request shall be granted, you can choose your own task of imposition,
music, reading, or any other pastime." "The matter is settled, thanks to
her Ladyship," exclaimed Sir Howard, "and I beg leave to withdraw to
mature my views for the coming lengthy topic of this evening." The hour
being announced warned the ladies to prepare for dinner, the group
separated leaving the verandah to the romps of two favorite hounds, a
spaniel, and a pair of tame rabbits.

While preparations are thus going on in the different apartments of
Government House, a carriage arrives with its occupant, Mr. Howe,
private secretary to Sir Howard. The carriage, a handsome one, is driven
by a span of full-blooded Arabian horses; magnificent specimens of their
species; proudly sits their owner in his costly equipage. As a man of
wealth, high family, Mr. Howe occupied a prominent position in the
household of the Douglas family. His coming is awaited with eagerness.
Captain Douglas, his friend and companion, is at his side in a moment
addressing him with hearty familiarity, "Howe, you are late. Has business
been pressing? Takes some time to get reconciled to the hum drum of life
in New Brunswick! Well, old fellow, send around the horses and we will
yet have time for a cigar before dinner. Strange, I enjoy one better
before than after. You know I am an odd bird in every sense. Was odd last
evening at mess when we got the rubber." "Douglas, one thing is