"At least he was candid, and acknowledged his
infirmities," said Miss Emmerson, who had been
listening.

"I think most men would have done as I did, at so
heavy and so sudden a clap of thunder, and so very
near too," said Charles, striving to conceal the
uneasiness he felt.

"When apprehension for Julia must have increased
your terror," said the aunt kindly.

"Why, no--I rather believe I thought only of myself
at the moment," returned Charles; "but then, Julia,
you must do me the justice to say, that instantly I
thought of the danger of your taking cold and drew
you into the house."

"Oh! you ran from another clap," said Julia, laughing
till her dark eyes flashed with pleasure, and
shaking her head until her glossy hair fell in ringlets
over her shoulders; "you will never make a hero,
Charles."

"Do you know any one who would have behaved
better, Miss Warren?" said the young man angrily.

"Yes--why--I don't know. Yes, I have heard of one,
I think," answered Julia, slightly colouring; "but,
dear Charles, excuse my laughter," she continued,