Mrs. Belmont was now fully satisfied in her own mind that there was nothing supernatural about the nocturnal intruders, but that they were in reality substantial flesh and blood, and though she could not divine how they had entered the house, she was much relieved and comforted by the assurance that it was with _living_ men she had to deal--a conviction which was amply confirmed the next morning, when the havoc done to the eatables and drinkables was announced to her by the indignant Susan. In the afternoon Mr. Hedge called upon her as appointed, and dined with his interesting and fascinating tenant. After dinner, Julia caused the sofa to be wheeled in front of the glorious fire which glowed in the grate (for the weather was intensely cold) and seating herself, invited the old gentleman to place himself at her side. Then she exerted all her fine powers of discourse to increase his admiration, and draw from him a declaration of love, and an offer of marriage. Wine was brought in, and gradually their spirits became enlivened by the sparkling genii of the grape. The old man felt the fires of youth careering through his veins, and his withered cheek was suffused with a flush of passion. 'Beautiful Julia,' said he--'I observe that you have a magnificent piano; will you favor me with an air?' She smiled an assent, and her aged admirer conducted her to the instrument with the most ceremonious politeness. After a brilliant prelude, executed with artistic delicacy and skill, she dashed off into a superb Italian air, which raised her listener (who was passionately devoted to music,) into the seventh heaven of ecstasy. 'Glorious!--grand!' were his exclamations of delight, when she had finished the air and she needed no urgent persuasion to induce her to favor him with another. Artfully and admirably did she compose an extempore song, adapted to immediate circumstances, beginning--'I love no vain and fickle youth,' and beautifully depicting the love of a young woman for a man advanced in years. She sung it with a most touching air, and threw into her countenance and style an expression of melting tenderness. Ere she had terminated, the old gentleman was kneeling at her feet; and pressing her fair hand to his lips.