11 lent friend, had, in the most delicate and generous way, insisted on his acceptance of an annuity during life, of £.100 a year. The gratitude of Maria at this unexpect- ed information, knew no bounds; she shed tears of af- fection, and spoke in terms enthusiasm of the family they had left, for whom she innocently observed, she en tertained an affection almost as strong as for her father. M'Pherson, after Arthur and Maria had left the gar- den, came from his hiding place, resolving in his own mind that the intentions of wishes of his young master should never be accomplished. This determination he adopted from a twofold reason: first because he knew it would be in direct opposition to the will of Sir Neale; and next, because he felt a desire for Maria himself, conceiving that her father, would accept with avidity,any proposition he should make holding, as he did, a lucra-tive and advantageous situation, which his own dishonesty rendered doubly profitable. In furtherance of this design, he went on the ensuing morning to the cottage, and having explained from whence he came, he was received by Capt. Farrell with the greatest cordiality. Maria soon afterwards entered the room, and instantly recognized M'Pherson; who addressed her with great respect. There was something in his appearance not calculated to clicit respect, and she returned his civility with distant reserve. This. however, did not deter him from his purpose; and having taken his departure for that time, he returned in a few days, and begged a pri- vate conversation with Capt, Farrell who readily com- plied with his wishes. The insiduous Scot then opened his mind, and made propositions for the hand of Maria. Capt, Farrell in answer, observed, that to the connec- tion with Mr M'Pherson he had not the slightest objec- tion; but, as he was resolved never to controul the inclinations of his daughter in the choice of a partner for life, he must refer all suitors to herself, and whatever was her determination, he would willingly accede to.
