claimed simultaneously, though a feeling that seemed common to them both rendered their tones nearly inaudible.
"Is it possible," exclaimed Edwards, after the moment of doubt had passed; "do I see you so nigh the gaol! but you are going to the Rectory, I beg pardon—Miss Grant, I believe; I did not recognise you at first."
The sigh which Louisa uttered, was so faint that it was only heard by Elizabeth, who replied, quickly—
"We are going not only to the gaol, Mr. Edwards, but into it. We wish to show the Leather-stocking that we do not forget his services, and that, at the same time we must be just, we are also grateful. I suppose you are on a similar errand; but let me beg that you will give us leave to precede you ten minutes. Good night, sir; I—I—am quite sorry, Mr. Edwards, to see you reduced to such labour; I am sure my father would"———
"I shall wait your pleasure, madam," interrupted the youth, coldly. "May I beg that you will not mention my being here?"
"Certainly, sir," said Elizabeth, returning his bow by a slight inclination of her head, and urging the tardy Louisa forward. As they entered the gaoler's house, however, Miss Grant found leisure to whisper—
"Would it not be well to offer part of your money to Oliver? half of it will pay the fine of Bumppo; and he is so unused to hardships! I am sure my father will subscribe much of his little pittance, to place him in a station that is more worthy of him."
The involuntary smile that passed over the features of Elizabeth was transient as a gleam of flitting light, and was blended with an expression
