Blanche’s birthday was always kept as a period of great rejoicing at Newton-Hollows, and a very short time after Charlie’s arrival that auspicious anniversary was ushered in, as usual, by the General’s appearance at the breakfast-table bearing a cotton-stuffed white and green card-box, highly suggestive of Storr and Mortimer. This was quietly placed by the side of Blanche’s plate, and when the young lady made her appearance, and exclaimed, “Dear, kind Uncle Baldwin, what a love of a bracelet!” though we might have envied, we could not have grudged the General the grateful kiss bestowed on him by his affectionate niece. Uncle Baldwin’s mind, however, was intent upon weightier matters than jewels and “happy returns.” He was to celebrate the festival with a dinner-party; and whilst he had invited several of the _élite_ of Bubbleton to celebrate his niece’s birthday, he was anxious so to dispose and welcome his guests as that none should have reason to consider himself especially favoured or encouraged in the advances which all were too eager to make towards the good graces of the heiress; therefore the General held a solemn conclave, as was his wont, consisting of himself and Mrs. Delaval, who on such occasions was requested, with great pomp, to accompany him to his study, an apartment adorned with every description of weapon used in civilised or savage warfare, and to take her seat in his own huge arm-chair, while he walked up and down the room, and held forth in his usual abrupt and discursive manner. “I have such confidence in your sound sense, Mrs. Delaval,” said he, looking very insinuating, and pausing for an instant in his short, quick strides, “that I always consult you in my difficulties.” This was said piano, but the forte addition immediately succeeded. “Reserving to myself the option of acting, for dictation I cannot submit to, even from you, my dear Mrs. Delaval. You are aware, I believe, of my intentions regarding Blanche. _Are_ you aware of my intentions?” he interrupted himself to demand in a voice of thunder. Mary, who was used to his manner, answered calmly, “that she was not;” and the General proceeded, in a gentle and confidential tone-- “The fact is, my dear madam, I have set my heart on a family arrangement, which I mention to you as a personal friend, and a lady for whom I entertain the greatest regard.” Mary bowed again, and could hardly suppress a smile at the manner in which the old gentleman assured her of his consideration.