Saturday Evening Mail, Volume 3, Number 26, Terre Haute, Vigo County, 28 December 1872 — Page 6

AH UST1MKL THOUGHT.

I wonder what day of (he week— I wonder what month of the year— Will midnight, or morning—

And who will bebd over my

bier ?......

Wh 1 a hideous fancy to come An 1 wttlt ni the foot ol the stair, While Ehunor gives th« last touch 'io her robe, or the rose In her hair J§ \JI

Do II ktf»ar new dress—pompndour Anu uo I like vouT on my life, You arr eighteen, and not a day more.

And haven't been six years my wife!

Those two rosy boys In ihe crib Up Ktnlrs are not ours, to be sure! Y..u tire Just a sweet bride in her bloom,

All sunshine, aud snowy, and pure!

About tr„tr yenrs before the time bjM .nj of which I write, I twenty-first year, and after along

imn-

orltv came into possession of tbehered

I attained my majority had not my "j mother's delicate h«»lth detained me. II promised her thai I would not leave

England for some time, and contented myself the next summer with the quiet scunery of our own land. I had spent the month ol June in one of the southern counties, making excursions into the country, sometimes leaving my hotel on foot, at others going In an open vehicle, and availing myself of «tbe driver's information as to the places through which we passed.

It was on a morning early in July that 1 sat out for one of those excursions. I had ordered an open carriage to be n^eadlness at nine o'clock. As I took my place in it. I said

I should like to go lirst to Seff Vallev. thence to Arnley Castle." Yhe driver answered, "All right, sir," to the firmer order but when I gave thosecond, he shook hi* head, while a ither comical expression pressed ovor ins fico.

You can

Bee

The ancients I repeated. "Who ware tliny The servants and all the rest of the people that Lord Arniuy keeps shut up there was the reDlv. there," was the reply.

My "jurlosity was roused, and upon questioning him further, I learned that 310 visitor had entered the castle, under any pro oxt whatever, for the last twenty years or more. As I listened, I resolved that I would enter it before leaving that part of the country, little thinking at the moment how near was «the oveut which was togalu for me what 3 desired.

jraln began to fall on my face. -u—.~. Don't you think, sir, that it would be better to turn back T" asked the driver. "There is a great storm com' in*

lWon."

tance, and tho rain began to fall fastor. Hotter," I said, "to ask for admission at tho castle gae. You say it is only a tulle farth on," "'impossible, sir he answered, 'liord Arnley would not admit you to save your life aud, if he did, I'd rathcrstay out under a hundred storms than go In there."

try rouud7 Tho horse sprang forward and, as a crash of thunder pealed al most at tho same moment, the driver iost all control over the animal, and it Jarushed on at mad speed.

!s

Hold on, sir!" he shouted. "A little longer, and—" The words were lost in a loud roll of thunder. Ou we went at a terrific •peed, flash after flash lighting up our *w*y. A violent shock—a crash follow«d. I felt something very hard sgalnst iiny head, and a heavy weight pressed mn down. I knewno'more—conscious ssnoss had loft me.

Whether a short or a long period of time had passed wus unknown to me but when next I moved my head, the great weight seemed to have been tak«Q off it, and my hands were free.

I opened my ••yen, Indistinctly

the sound of a voice fell upon my ear. It ^became more distinct, so clear now "•that I could discern the words, "He is becoming conscious."

I started, and seemed to regain my aluht. 1 could see bending over uie, while she laid her hand quietly on •mine, an old woman, over whose ihe id rosea little mcuntaln of spotlessly 'white muslin frills.

Lie still, very," she said in alow voice. "I uiust surely bo dreaming." I thought "Ihis cannot be reality. But then I could not move my litnbs wen sore, my head feltdiuy.

Tell tne—" I began. Hush, hush," she said, quietly lay int a shriveled hand on my lips.

You were nearly dead, you are get' ting better the doctor says you must keep still, very still."

The recollection of the storm, and ot being crushed beneath the vehicle, «atn« back to me, and I closed my eyes,

After a little time I opened them again. The old woman was at the other sloe of the room. I could see all pi a I air. Tfoe apartment was of considerable sin, while everything In it was luxurious in style As the old woman observed that I was looking round, she hastened t- me, her footstep* made noiseless by the sort rich carpet.

Only tell me,' I said, as she came near, "where I am, and I shall not •peak agnlu untII yoo give me leave."

In Arnley Castle—there. Now still if not, you'll die." I had heard enough—I was in Armey Castle. Like afar off dream I thought of my companion at the time of the storm. One effort more I opened my eves again.

Answer me only this once. Where is tbe man wbo drove me here Drove you here S" she repeated, and chuckled something like a low grating laugh. "That tossed you into the ditch vou mean. Dead. "There: now wi you lie still, very still. If

A ii ii no I ad to on id or thn hpaw curtains, which concealed An the carriage rolls down the dark street rfthe

ror

The .lule wife laugh* and makes cheer-

But

ttcor or me

uP tarlwkt mftnth nf tho Vtfflf itfOmV h&d tltn6 to OD96rVt SfiMi wonder what monlh of the year! _tr. B. Aldrich, in Atlantic for Jan.

The Second Mabel.

huge green

1 AUt1/1 Mi

itary estate. I was an only child. My mother became a widow wbensbe was only twentv-five she remained one. bestowing the love of a true and kind 3 heart on (to use her own words) all that was left on earth. 1 was handsome, at least I board that thb fact was generally admitted out, io be candid, I bestowed but little thought upon it. I may account for this singular phenomenon by 5stating that from an e*rly age a love of nature, Its beauty and magnificence, /took possession of me. While I was at '^Oxford. my desiro for travel increased, and It wouM have been gratified when

tho castle from a little

distance but—" i-sS He stopped and looked at me. "Hut what?" I asked. "Can I not see grounds Are not visitors permitted to go through any part of the castle

His lips expanded into a broad grin as ho replied: Well, If you could get leave to go In I should not try it, ll I were you sir. Why, 'tis years sinco the gates were opened to a stranger: indeed, they never are opened, except when some of the ancients come out and go back agHln."

DO'i

I

place a bandage across your lips. Whether I should run tne risk of meriting the fulfillment of the threat

/f the room, were parted, and

rooui_tjw«

tie wifelaugh-H and makes cneer— mo ut •, 1 wonder what day of the week, a

gentleman entered, and walked to

ward my bed. I had time to observe him. He wassmall almost to a deform Ity he might not have been always so perhaps his height lessened as he reach ed the advanced age indicated by his appearance. He might possibly have

aupvni »uw«

r* 1 nut thoir snnnnrt.

in, having evidently lost their support, while his aquiline nose appeared as if it would not be long separated from his chin. _.

Lord Arnley," I thought, as I saw him approach tne and without being able to define the reason, an intuitive fear came over me. What if be should touch me? I could not see bis eyes but I knew, I felt, that he was loosing into my face. The green glasses were close to me. I started involuntarily if my life was to be the forfeit, I could not have done otherwise.

Ha ha, ba J" sounded from his throat,'while his thin lips parted,showinK only vacancy where his teeth once had been. "All alive, I s*e," he began in a thin sharp tone. "Well, young gentleman, your eyes are big enough to discern that I am a man, and no' a wild beast. Ha, ha, ha, What are you frightened of?" •'Excuse me sir," I said, my voice trembling, "I am—"

I understand," he returned you took me for one of the goblins of Arnley Castle it is said they abound here. Never mind, your life is saved and

now for

details. What is your name?" Edward Fernmore," I replied. "Good. Now will you leave this castle without asking any questions, as soon as you are well enough to do so?"

I answered in the affirmative. .i Good. Now give me your hand. Why, what are you afraid of, young gentleman I have been the family doctor at Arnley Castle for the last thirty years. Very good indeed a little too quick," he muttered, as he held my reluctant band in his and felt my pulse, seeming to time its beating with the

lower

part of his 'jiouth, which moved with a saw-like motion. Warp he called, as he laid my hand on the bed. The old woman left her

easy-chair

at the other side of the

room and came to him. "The patient

Is out

of danger," he said, addressing her. "A rccumbent position for three days longer every sort of nourishment no questions to be asked or answered two days' sitting up out of the castle on tho sixth day from this. Now goodmorning, sir you'll not be so Irigbtenod when I come to-morrow."

Will you be good enough to let me have paper and pen and ink?" I ask ed. "My mother will be in fearful anxiety at my silence."

Agaiu he laughed In his throat. "Capital!" he said "the novelty of a letter from within these walls I You do not know, sir, what you ask. Your life is saved—the greatest benefit we could confer it must content you."

He turned from me as he spoke, and left the room. I breathed freely. I was alone for the first time since I became conscious for Warp, as the doctor called her, had gone out with him to bring me medicine, whleh I was determined not to take. The very idea of being offered anything prescribed by such a hideous old creature as be who

As I drove along, the atmosphere, -which had been heavy all the morning, boon me hoavler still, until it seemed as if there was nothing to be breathed but Inirnlng hot air. Wo had been out a »ucu uiuouua vw y-~ •Jong time, and had driven about soven had just left nfte, gave me, I fancied, Smiles, when the sky became suddenly something like cramp, Onco more ovorcast with lowering clouds. A few with intonBe

minutes more, and tho heavy drops of mother. What

anguish

I thought ol my

would

on." that moment, was Huymiug ui I saw that a storm was imminent, blessing that I invoked on the head of Jut to go b.w*k to th« hotel would take the old doctor.

too long. When I paused to consider, ..»#» »«.«.«..r,—j —.""7— thero was a low rumbling the dls- Warp returned in about ten minutes. ... i.»

t_In

I was about to reply, when, dlspellwas aoout to repiy, wnen, aispeu- uoou iing for a moment the dense darkness these fearful people saved my life In iby which we were surrounded, a vivid oneway, they are going to take it in »«h of llgtnlng lllumlnatod the coun

she think of nrp

silence She knew that if I lived I ould not omit writing the terrible suspense would be too much lor her delicate constitution. I iear that, at that moment, it was anything hut a

I was not left long to my thoughts.

a« iiiAfla oho onln ah nnA tnnk

One ol these," she said, as she took from a huge pill-box a pill resembling in siite a small marble, and held it between her fore-finger and thumb—"one of these is to be taken three times a day. Open your mouth," she added in peremptory tone. "I know the tricks rslck people I have orders to see them taken."

A

"Good heavens!" I thought* "if

AnH

•nmmnnln* all mv

another." And summoning all my courage, I replied resolutely. I feel very grateful but 1 am so well that I do not need medicine."

That would do anywhere but here," she answered tartly. I fancied her voice was fearfully ominous as she continued, "You are the first stranger that has passed the castle gates for many a year: you must take the consequences.''

Then," I thought, I am a dead man." Come she said, seeing me hesitate, "take this."

It seemed as if I was under the in* fluence of a spell for instantly, and without knowing why, I opened my mouth, and swallowed what I believed was to deprive me of my life. "There.' she said, "you will be quiet after that."

I closed my eyes in otter despair. I felt the air dull and heavy. The afternoon was warm, and the damask curtains in the room made it almost insufferable.

Will you be good enough to open the window?" I asked. That I shall not," she replied." You will not feel it soon."

I groaned aloud. I was a doomed man. How elee could it be? The words of the poor fellow who drove me alorg In the storm, came back foil upon me. I did not speak again the perspiration started in large drops from my forehead, and my eyelids grew heavy. I tried to keep my eyes open but figures so grotesque and horrible were gathering round my bed, that I was glad to close them on the sight.

When next I opened my eves, It seemed to me as ill had been hours asleep. I looked round the room there was no one in It, Warp was absent. It most have been night for on a table at a little distance from me a lamp was burning, sending over the room a softened light, but the srraufcement of the curtains kept my bed in a delicious shade. I felt quite refreshed I could move my Lead and limb* with esse. "Let me see," I began to think "there is no telling bow longl have slept It may have been for days." I looked round tor my clothes. O, if I could only get away frocn this place! But I could see no trace of an jt kind of clothing. I lay still, dreading the return of Warp.

I saw the cnrtalns at the doorway move, and shuddered to think that she1 was coming again,» although at that moment I felt as it 1 could have devoured fifty pill-boxes, contents and all for it was a long time since I had tasted anything, with the exoeption of a drink. The curtaius opened but no she did not appear. "Perhaps," I thought, "I am left here alone to die." Once again the curtains moved, and the next instant I hem my breath, I was so fascinated by what I saw.

One who appeared too lovely for earth passed through the parted cnrtalns and stood close to them. She held up one faultless hand, and bent forward, listening intently, as she looked In the direction of my bed. As she advanced toward me, she seemed to glide over the carpet, her light gausy dress floating around her. Her face was almost childlike in its youthful beauty. She came half-way across the room, stopped, listened, again moved on—nearer, now so near that closed my eyes, for I knew that she was there believing that I slept. She must have bent down her head very near my face to get a view of it, for I felt the warm reath on my cheek. The next instant she stood erect again. I half opened my eyes, and saw her waving her hand above my bed in a moment the air was filled with a delicious and invigorating perfume. With the same gliding step she went to one of the windows, opened it a little, and I felt the pure fresh air gush in. Once a^ainshe turned toward the bed and listened. The next moment the curtains had parted, and she was gone.

Long after I watched the part of the room where she had disappeared, hoping that she might return at las to my great delight, I saw the curtains parted again. Then I thought I must have been dreaming, for it was only Warp, who walked in. My belief in the dream would have been confirmed but lor the exclamations she uttered as she rushed to the open window, and, bend.'ng out, seemed to be looking for something beneath it. Then she hurried to my beside, being evidently surprised at seeing me there.

If vou attempt to open that window again," she said, "I'll put you into a room where iron bars will make you leave the window closed." I was silwnt I bore all ber wrath

rather

than say

anything of the lovely visitor to my room. "You want no more nursing, I see that one pill cured you. To-mor-row I'll give up charge ofyou.\

You have been very, very kind," I began. Keep your thanks, young geutleman I would do the same lor a bird, a dog, anything that had lite in it. Now that you "are out of danger, I wish you were outside the castle-gate 'tis not good to have vou within it."

I slept well"that night, dreaming alternately of my mother and the lovely being of the eyening belore. I saw the former in an agony of mind, her hair, grown as white as snow, falling wildly aoout her. At another time I saw a young and beautiful girl bending over her and consoliug her—my unknowu visitor. I called in piteous accents to my mother, and while I did so I awoke. "Dreaming of home, I rather think, young gentleman," said a voice close to me. I started, and the well-remember-ed green glasses were again before me. "Better, eh Well, I should say. Not so frightened this morning." And the doctor laughed in the same disagreeable manners a.s before.

I have to thank you very much, doctor for my recovery. That you have," he retutned, "ii you only kuew all. Well, well, better alive than dead. But you must get out of this place, out of the castle, to-mor-row, To-day you leaye this room for another prepared for you. There are your clothes and jie pointed to some on a chair. "Now get out of your bed shall send a servant to Assist you."

Before I could reply, he turned away and hurried from the room. As be went out an old vaiet entered, so like Warp that I almost decided that she was again before me in another form but his voice was so different from his, that I knew my first impression was wrong. He assisted me to dress. None of the clothes were my own, but all suited me exactly, and appeared to be of the most expensive kind.

Glad to see you off that couch, sir," said the servant, as I finished dressing. "Change of air will make you strong, sir the room ordered for you is a very delightful one."

I have met with great attention and kindness here," I said "I feci very grateful."

The man gave a peculiar laugh. Onlytosave your life," he returned, No one is entertained hero."

Now," I thought, "I have a chance of hearing something about this mysterious place—this old fellow is communicative. Indeed 1" I said. "Lord Arnley is probably an iuvalid?" He was silent and appeared not to have heard my remark. "Is Lady Arnley living?" I asked, becoming quite desperate in my resolution to obtain some information. "Any young ladles in tho castle?"

At the lust question he literally bounded from my side and at a little distance from me exclaimed "Let no one hear you ask that question within theee.walls,

young

gentleman. If you

did, I would not answer for the consoquences. Now, sir," he added, bowing as if nothing had been spoken, "I will show you to your sitting-room."

I followed him through along oorrldor, and up a flight of inarble steps so white and polished, that it seemed as if no one baa ascended them tor along time. At the lop we reached a large square landing, at one side of which was an archway leading to a corridor corresponding with lhat near the bedroom. The servant opened the last door on the landing, saying, "Your room, sir and I walked in, while he held the door open for me. The luxury of the .room I hsd left faded away before the gorgeonsness of that into which I was then shown but {^looked in vain for any trace of those who were in the habit of using It. I reclined on one of the silken conches, feellncttlf in a state of semi-consetOUMMM I had been dropped into a fhlrjt palace, all that was wanting being tne lovely Wft of whom I had a glimpee fbe evening before. I must come down to eveiy day commonplace feeltnga, and say tnlt I thought one thing more WM wanting —creature comforfs. Bat I tad not long to wait for the inviting loneheon, which was placed before by the same old servant who bad shown me into the room.

Lord Arnley wishes me to tell you rtr, with his naplla eit«. that be will visit you at three." Changing his tone, he added in a low voice: "On your life do not repeat the qneation you asked me this morning."

I thanked him, took the bint, and, as I saw him depart, threw myself back on tbe low couch, which was cloee to an open window. Tbere was not enough breeze to stir the lace curtaiin near me, yet it waa delicioualy cool. Again I thought of my mother. What torture of mind she must be enduring! I closed mv eyes—why should I not write it? I felt hot tears starting at tbe thoogtft of so much suffering, which I was powerless to alleviate. Then I be­

came sensible of that unaccountable feeling which sometimes tells us we are alone. Atibe same moment a band was laid on mine. I opensd my eyes

Sowu

uickly, and there close to nit, bending over me, was the beautiful being I had seen in my room the evening before.

Hush Do not speak," she said in a voice so low, so sweet, that I felt charmed as

I listened. "You are weak,"

she continued, in a kind, pitying tone. "Take this write to your mother. I will call again for it, and forward it to ber: she must not reply to it. I have heard all, heard how you longed to write to her."

I stood up. In what words shall I thank you?" "Only toll me who is so kind to me." "Mabel Lynn," she answered quickly and with a" childlike naivete "but, if you valno my peace, be silent."

Then she left the room as noiselessly as she entered, audi turned in mute astonishment to the little parcel in iny hand for evidence that ull was renliiy. It contained all quisites for writing, with tho words: "Keep all out of sight." written on the cover in a small finishband. I need not say bow joyfully I wrote and prepared the letter lor my mother. I hud only concluded it and laid all aside, when tbe old valet appeared to say that Lord Arnley was coming.

II#

1 felt my heart beat as I fixrd my ej'es on the door, expecting when it would open to seo an old gentleman quite as hideous and grotesque-looking as his servants and attendants. But when I saw Lord Arnley enter, I seemed in an instant to forget ray peculiar position, surrounded as I was by mystery and by persons ditierent from any I had ever seen—all, I saj', was lost in surprise and admiration. Before me was one who was the very impersonation of dignity, almost majestic in

Hp-

pearauce, his figure slightly bent, yet scarcely with age for although his white hair, resting on his shoulders, at first sight would give thut idea, tbe brightness of bis sparkling black eyes contradicted it. Evidently other causes than time bid given his hair that striking appearance, and left on his bandsome lace a settled expression of melancholy, which when be smiled looked sadder still.

He bowed low as he entered, and advancipg quickly toward me, said: "I bid you welcome to Arnley Castle, Mr Fernmore, and congratulate you on your restoration to health."

I expressed my gratitude, I fear, a very awkward way lor I had been so taken by surprise that I had not time to recover my self possession. Doubtless ho noticed it, for he took my band kindly. "Ah, I seoyou a»e weak yet—very. Recline on this couch. Do not mind sitting np, I beg your strength is not equal to it, Mr. Fernmore."

However, I politely persisted in sitting up I feit so impressed by the presence I was in, that, do what I would, I could not lie down. "Well, if you prefer it, sit up," he said mildly—so mildly that I felt soothed by his voice. For a moment he placed his right hand over his eyes when he removed It he looked at me so intently that I felt my face becoming red. "Forgive me," he said quickly. "I distress you by my steaoy gaze but there is a likeness in your features to one who rendered me a service so great that the sacrifice of my life would not requite it. That was your father, Mr. Fernmore. You start," he said—"yes, yes, but for the name you gave, you would have been removed before now from within these walls, where stranger's loot has not trodden for many a year. I see that I surprise you. Doubtless you are anxious to know bow you got In here. You shall bear all, If you will honor me with your company at eight o'clock this evening. My servant will conduct you to my room. Now tell me if my people have done all for you as you wished."

I was profuse in my expressions of gratitude, and declared that nothing was wanting in their attention to me. "That is as I wished it," he returned. "Tbere are kind hearts beneath tbe gaunt exteriors my people present." My thoughts turned with the swiftness of lightning to the loveliness of Mabel Lynn. He said quietly, but as it he could read my thoughts at a glance: "You think iny people different from those you meet in everyday lile, do you not, Mr. Fernmore? There was no exception, was there?

Very singular, indeed, my lord," I replied to the first question, "but truly kind."

That is well," he said, withdrawing from my face the steady gaze with which ho had regarded me while I answered. It seemed to me that he suspected tho visit of the morning.

He rose, and again taking iny band with great kindness, said, "This evening I shall seo you again. If your hand and heart are as truo as your father's, I shall not have to regret your g-ilnlng an entrance to Arnley Castle.

He bowed and went out, leaving ine more perplexed and puzzled than before. He knew my father, then, years ago. Strange that I never heard Lord Arnley spoken of at home! True, I was young when my father died. Once only had I heard my mother mention the name when speaking of the castle, she said that its owner had isolated himseif from the rest of mankind.

I cannot tell the Intensity of my excitement as the afternoon passed on. I expected each moment that Mabel would ome, as she bad said, for the letter. Should I see he«* with Lord Arnley in the evening? And what should I hear, and to what would that Interview lead* As the time went by, I was beginning to think she was not coming, when tjie door opened slowly and Mabel entered with a timid, cautious step Mid look. I walked forward to meet her.

Is your letter ready she ssked. "I have come for It." A thousand, thousand thanks for •ach exceeding kindness to me, a stranger," I replied, as I handed ber the letter.

No thanks are due to me, Mr. Fernmore I am only performing a duty to one in sorrow—your mother. Now, good-bye we do not meet again."

That I loved my mother very dearly is unquestionable but at that moment I experienced something like a feeling of disappointment at bearing ber declare that she did all for my mother, nothing, it seemed, for me. Only performing a duty. How cold the words sounded

She turned to go as she said, "We do not meet again." All self-control left me when I beard tbe words before I was well aware of the act I had taken a small fair hand in mine. "Not meet again I repeated. "Do unsay those words." it does not rest with me to unsay them," she answered with simplicity, aa, not hurriedly, she withdrew ber band. "You raved so plteouslv about •oar mother while you were illt thai I felt it would be wrong not to assist you to write to ber." .,

Then/XI said, "Warp has told you all this?" No, O no I heard you while I helped Warp to cool your head with vide-

S

ar and water." She laughed it was a ow musical laugh, but evidently involuntary, for she looked nervouslaround her, as if startled at the soun Recovering herself, she continued,

of

1

Li

dare say your city belles would not like to dabble in vinegar and water and again ber fa$e was bright with the pie- santry her remark offorded her.

Better than let a poor wretch die, was it not? Farewell I wish you good heaith."

Before I could reply I was alone, standing where she had left me, almost stupefied at the turn her remarks had taken. Then, after all, Mabel looked on me as a "poor wretch," whom she had condescended to nurse to save his liie, rather than let him die—nothing more.

I went back to my couch, sad and disheartened. I felt ill—it was not fancy —my head achod. Dinner was removed without being touched by me. "But I must rouse myself," I thought "in another hour I shall have to meet Lord Arnley again." All chance of seei»g Mabel with him was at an end.

At eigbt o'clock precisely, the old servant came to show me to Lord Amley's room. After passing through many corridors and descending some flights of stairs, I was ushered into a large room on the ground floor. One of the windows opeued on a terrace, bevond which was a garden exquisitely laid out, and the perlume of flowers fillod the air. Lord Arnley, who was alone,ro?e,and received mecourteously. I sat, at bis desire, in a large easy-chair and he drew anothej oppi»site to mine, and took his place in it. While he was doing so, I noticed that the room corresponded with tho other parts of the castle I had seen.

Pray, Mr. Fernmore. don't stand on ceremony just lean back in your chair. Shall I close tbe window the air might injure vou."

All this he said without stopping, but with such ease that in a moment I felt quite at home, aud availed myself of the luxury of the velvet cushions at my bacK. Again I began to express my gratitude lor bis attention, but ho asked mo as. a favor not to repeat my thanks.

I see," he beg:»n, "that you are not as well as Dr. Mar thinks. In his opinion, you are fit to leaye here tomorrow think otherwise. I have no doubt but you are curious to know how you got into the cnstle?" I expressed mv desire to hear it, and be went on "Under Providence, you owe your life to the old doctor who attended you. Dnring that fearful storm he was coming in a carriage toward the castle, when ho saw two men and a horse lying, as he thought, dead by the roadside. On examination, ho found that life was not extinct in one—yourself the other, apparently tho driver, and the horse were past all aid—tho lightning had done its work surely there. You were stunned by having been thrown violently from tbe vehicle. With his servant's help, he lifted you into tbe carriage, and thus was brought to Arnley Castlo the first stranger lor many years. I would not leave you outside tbe gates to die: and in vain might I try to tell you how my heart was raised in thankfulness when 1 lound that the life thus saved was that of George Fernmore's sou. Can you bear with au- old man, Mr. Fernmore, while I tell you a talo of years ago a tale

desolating woe—of a time when

yeur father helped to soothe bruised and bleeding hearts?" He had placed his hands on tho edge of a little ornamental table that stood beside him as he ceased spnaklng he bent bis head forward until it rested on them. When he raised it after a few minutes, his face was colorless, showing plainly the intensity of his emotion. "Pardon mo, pny pardon me," ho said "indeed, I did not intend to let my feelings bo seen, but—" "I beg that vou will not distress yoursell, mv lord," replied. "I would listened sympathize with you freely, but not when tho remembrance paius you so much." "It is due to you, Mr. lernmore. I never had an opportunity of telling your father how grateful I was for his brolherlv and lovi act to me, therefore I must tell it to bis son. I was not as old as you are, Mr. Fernmore, at the time to which I wish to go back. I was In my twentieth year when I met one whom it was only to see and know to love. 1 loved her, my after life showed me how deeply. She returned my love, and before 1 was twenty-one, she being a year younger, we were marrioJ. Iu three years I lost her death had no respect for my deep love. One child, a daughtor, wus leit to me in ber place. \s she grow up, she was the living image or my lost one, and she became tho idol of my life. When she was seventeen, one who visited here, with others under tbe name of a friend won her voting heart, I saw It sooner would I hsve Been her dead than wedded to biui. I told bim so I prohibited bis visits to the castle but a viper, a snake, can sometimes enter despite our etlorts. "A word tells ail. She left her home, left a father's heart, for one who cared more for tbe wealth she was expected to Inhorit than for tho princeless treasure he had In her. Tho same day on which she left the oastlo they wero married after a week they returned, expecting to be received here. In an hour of passion and cruelty, I banished her from my presence, and she went forth a wanderer,I knew notjwhither—I never knew. Your fatter was a yourg man then. I do not doubt but he admired Mabel bad bo sought ber, be might have obtained her h-ind perhaps later on he would have done so. He hurried to the castle when the news of the marriage got circulated. I saw that he felt deeplv. Ho implored me to bring her back. No, fool that I was I was inexorable—passion blinded reason. .,

A few vears passed, miserable years, during which I lived a llfo of st elusion. They had passed,'I say, when on a night in December—a night when tbe elements seemed to vie with one another in fury—a loud knocking "the gates roused

all

within the castle. The

gates were opened and your father rode into the courtyard. Ho came to tbe room where I was to ask issistanoe for a wretched being whom, as be was riding home from Erston' he had found dying In the storm by ibo wayside. A vehicle and servant* were immediately at his command, and, half an hour after a woman, bidding an infant firmly to her bosom, was pleoad by the hre in tbe

servants'

hall. I went lo see what

service I could render. Her hair was tartly coveriug her face, blown tbere jy the wind and rain. It was put on one side."

Tbe last few sentences were much broken by Lord Arnley's sobs. I was prepared for the sequel. He paused, looked at me with an expression of indescribable agony, and then said, in a voice scarcely above a whisper, "It was Mabel!" Again bis head was bent down upon bis bands at the edge of tbe table, snd large bright drops fell on the carpet at his feet.

"A little more and yon will know all," be went on, recovering -bimsslt. In three days she.died., She lived ta gnow that I had forgiven her. Shd was able to tell me that she had lost her husband within two years of their marriage that she was making her way back to me, when she was overtaaen by tho storm, and Providence sent your father to save her. Her child lived I sent her to the Continent to be educated— sent her nway fVom a house of desolation. to spare ber young life irom sharing my misery. I got a promise from your father to keep all secret, as if ho had never seen such woe he kept it. By a strange fatalitv, I did not meet him again before his death thus I never could tell him all I felt. Then it was that I resolved—nothing more— that no strange foot should tread within these walls again. I have a regular establishment of old domestics. They have all they want, they can go and come as they like, I afford them every luxury but none of them retain their old names. No, the outer world was to be no more to me I, as it wero made a little one for myself within these walls, and named each one as my fancy directed. To-morrow I shall show you where I pass my leisure hours, or rather, I should say, where most of my time is spent. You have heard all, Mr. Fernmorer nearly all. Can you wonder that I welcome you and make an exception in your fttvor? Your father gave me the promise I asked will you do the same now 1 answered without hesitation in my inmost heart I sympathised with him at that moment." lie tnust have read I my thoughts, for he s«id: "I ses that you can fbel for an old man's sorrow. 11 shall put aside ceremony why should

I

I practice it with the son of my best friend Let mo call you Edward, and old days will soem to come back oncer again. Now, you promise that, wbilo I you remain here, or after you havofgone, you will in noway take advantage of anything you hear or see withirf these walls? Iu a word, in relation to all within them, you will never act without my knowledge or consent?"

I saw his meaning I knew now who Mabel was—tbe second Mabel. Even to gain her love, I could not at that moment have withheld the promise. "I am satisfied," he said. **You remain here as my guest, no longer on sufferance, waiting to be healed to take your departure. I would know moreof you before we part. There is one duty of the host whioh I cannot perform, and you will excuse it. My resolution forbids me to sit with you at table in all else consider yourself my guest. Doubtless you desire to communicato with your mother I beard lhat yon spoke of her while you were ill. Writing materials will be supplied to you. Tell her, with the compliments of a roQjuse," he added with extreme affability, "that you aro treated as a Christian here but uo details, Edward, remember your promise. You aro tired, I see that you are. To-morrow at noon I will snow }*ou what will both please and interest you."

We parted for the night. Not a word of Mabel. It wus clear that I was to bo

kept in ignorance of her residence in the castle I saw that my promise had been asked as a sort of safeguard lost 1 might see her.

He hurried from it, and seemed mor at ease a little further on. We enteret a plantation, beyond which I saw high wall with a large door. When reached It he rang a bell, and in an it stant thedoor wasopened. Altercron ing a spacious hall, we ontered a smal sitting-room plainlv furnished, an*' having at one encl a long bookcafr with three or four rows of shallo, drawers below tbe shelves. He openc a few of these in succession, and shov ed me that thoy contained a beautifi collection of minerals from every pa. of the world, some of them dull an beav others sparkling with clusters brilliant crystals. Below each

•k

4

At noon tho next day I was again conducted by the same servant to Lord Arnley's room. He met mo as If ho had known me fora longtime, llismanner was gracious—more, it was so friendly, 1 that I felt uo longer in tho presence of a stranger. "I intend to bo your pbjslclun, Edward," he said. "Old Mar declares that you are well enough to travel, while, in my opinion, you aro not fit to bear any fatigue. A stroll In tho grounds will relresh you. I will accompany you, and show you what promised yesterday." wo walkod out on tho terrace through tho open window. The air was light, while it was full of the perfume from tho beds of flowers by which wo wero passing At a little distance from the terraq? there was a miniature lake of grca: beauty, close to which waa a rusti« summer-bouse, its exterior covered with branching creepers, while rosetrees hung over the entrance. Within were inviting looking seats, round a tablo well supplied with books. Although Lord Arnley led mo to It, hi" manner was embarrassed, ashes'iid "Rathor picturesque, is it not? Yet seldom use it." "Jpat the place for Mabel," I thought

WHS

neatly written label, giving the nan» of the specimen and an account of 1 composition. The books on theshelv above were standard works on chemf try and its kindred sclonces, by ti leading writers on those subjects England, Franco and Germany. IJ took down one or two, and. openir them, pointed to the few words writU on the fly-leaf, which showed that the were the gifts of the authors. "You see," he said, with a smile, am not so secluded at Arnley Castle to be cut off from corresponding wl| those who take an interest in the sa I pursuits as I do." I

I stayed some timo looking o| drawer after drawer of bis cabinet. '. I roii 11 see that be was pleased at doing *o. At length ho proposed we should turn into his workshop, be called the well furnished labrat which we next entered. It was an of considerable size, lighted by a light, which was half open when came in. Along one side there we number of small brick-built fur*n* on which were large eartbenwar* metal rotorts one of these was li# and an old servant was busy pre another. At the opposlto end huge table, and tbe shelves ru along tbe walls were covered immense collection of chemical a I atus. A glance told me that It wi labratory ot a hard-working, sk chemist and Lord Arnley sppearr be quite at home among his retor furnaces, for he began at once to to me of an investigation in wbl was then engaged, and, with tbe of showing me bow he occaple time, went to work at once, wit old servant's aid, explaining to various complex processes «s be on. When we had spent aboubhy hour in this way—and it passe rapidly, for bis interest In bis fr| pursuit seemed quite oouragio -»ent out sgain into tbe gsrdon. "You see now how I pass my be said, as tbe door wss closed a and we turned away. "Tbere, lad In tbe cause of science, 1 often for.l my fear*, troubles and anxieties.) (CbfiMitved on Seventh Pagt-i