Dryope Dutton, however, was considered the prettiest girl in Lancaster, and had the greatest number of admirers, all of whom were sent about their business on the arrival of the rebel army, their places being immediately filled by gallant young insurgents. None of her new suitors were discouraged by Dryope, but she appeared to have a decided preference for Captain Shaftoe. Following Dryope's example, Nicola and Aurelia dismissed their lovers, and laid themselves out to captivate the new-comers, in which design they were eminently successful. The rest of the pretty girls did the same thing. None of them would now be seen without a Jacobite admirer. During their stay at Lancaster nothing was thought of but flirting by the amorous youths, who were completely enthralled by their lady-loves, and had these syrens desired to turn them from their cause, we fear they might have succeeded. Luckily, all the girls professed themselves ardent Jacobites, and if they fancied their lovers were lukewarm, strenuously urged them to go on. As we have intimated, the town now presented a very lively appearance. Not only was the terrace near the castle thronged with handsome young troopers and charming girls; but when the promenade was over, the company wandered about the streets, visiting the market-place, the town-hall, the custom-house, the quays and the bridge, and strolling on the banks of the Lune. On Sunday, Saint Mary's Church was crowded by the same young ladies, who expressed a great desire to hear the Reverend Mr. Paul, who had recently joined the expedition, read prayers, and Mr. Patten preach; but it may be doubted whether they were not still more anxious to meet their admirers. Be this as it may, when the service was over, the ladies congregated in the churchyard, and each fair girl was escorted home by the trooper she preferred. Whether all this flirting was approved of by the mammas of the young ladies in question we will not pretend to say. No effort was made to check it. Neither did the officers of the regiments to which the young men belonged interfere--well knowing interference would be useless--so it went on to the last. At length, the day of parting came, and a very sad day it was both for the enamoured young troopers and their lady-loves. How many tears were shed! how many tender adieux taken! how many protestations made of undying affection! “We shall never see you again!” cried the heartbroken girls. “Military men are always inconstant. You will forget us as soon as you arrive at Preston.” The young troopers vowed they were an exception to the rule. “Have no doubts as to our constancy!” they cried. “We will always remain faithful. Preston may be full of pretty girls--as they say it is--but they will have no attraction for us.” “Don't be surprised if we come to look after you,” said Dryope, to Captain Shaftoe; “and if we find you false and forsworn----”