"I did see you, my lord. I saw you, and felt glad, and sorry, and so ashamed"
"Shame! banish the word—it was never made for one so pure and good as thee, my angel—my long-loved, precious Helen."
Mrs. Palmer's rap was heard; it was low and considerate, but it was double,
"Will you accept my letters?—will you answer them?—will you"
How many petitions were crowded in that brief space we know not; but, whilst the good old lady "proceeded gingerly" through the hall, words, and looks, and blushes had passed which bound two fond hearts, two noble and virtuous spirits, to each other; and, the moment Mrs. Palmer had entered and closed the door, Helen threw herself on her bosom, exclaiming,
"Oh! my friend, my more than mother, help me to thank God—I am so, so happy."
"Leave us, my dear Frederic, your brother and Palmy are coming. Tell Richard to have the door open; this dear child is so nervous, a breath, a sound will overdo her."
Lord Meersbrook obeyed; but he cast a "lingering, longing look behind," which was answered by
