"That handkerchief was a plank thrown to the drowning, Bee. It saved
me from being whelmed in the waves of ruin. Oh, dearest, under
heaven, you were my salvation!" said Ishmael, with emotion.

"Your comfort, Ishmael--only your comfort. Your own right-
mindedness, 'under heaven,' would have saved you."

This was the last and the happiest evening they all spent at the
city home together. Early in the morning they separated.

Judge Merlin and his servants started for Tanglewood, and Mr. and
Mrs. Middleton and their family for The Beacon, where Ishmael
promised as soon as possible to join them. Walter Middleton left for
Saratoga. And, last of all, Ishmael locked up the empty house, took
charge of the key, and departed to take possession of his new
lodgings--alone, but blessed and happy.




CHAPTER VI.

AT WOODSIDE.

Who can describe the sweets of country life
But those blest men that do enjoy and taste them?
Plain husbandmen, though far below our pitch
Of fortune placed, enjoy a wealth above us:
They breathe a fresh and uncorrupted air,
And in sweet homes enjoy untroubled sleep.