slowly over the objects that surrounded his dwelling. His wife stood
by his side. The absence of a few days, amid other and less
attractive scenes, had prepared his mind for a better appreciation
of the higher beauties of "Woodbine Lodge." Something of the old
feeling came over him; and as he stood silently gazing around, he
could not but say, within himself, "If I do not find happiness here,
I may look for it through the world in vain."

The carriage was driven round to the door, while he stood there.
Fanny came out at the moment, and seeing her father about to step
into it, sprang forward, and exclaimed--

"Why, father, you are not going away again?"

"Only to the city, love," he answered, as he turned to receive her
kiss.

"To the city again? Why, you are away nearly all the time. Now I
wish you wouldn't go so often."

"I will be home early in the afternoon. But come, Fanny, won't you
go with me, to spend the day in town? It will be a pleasant change
for you."

Fanny shook her head, and answered, "No."

Mr. Markland entered the carriage, waved his hand, and was soon
gliding away toward the city. As soon as he was beyond the
observation of his family, his whole manner underwent a change. An
expression of deep thought settled over his face; and he remained in