But she did return it, nevertheless; she did not quite dare to retain it, particularly as she could not relinquish all hope of winning the young lord even yet. Mr. Richards, accompanied by Lord Carrol, proceeded with all possible dispatch to New York, and thence to Brooklyn, where they went directly to the seminary which Star attended, and inquired for her. It was only half-past ten when they arrived there, but early as it was, Professor Roberts told them that she had come at the usual hour and severed her connection with the school, and very much to his regret, he added, as he considered her one of the most promising members of the senior class. Both gentlemen looked blank at this information; they did not suppose Star would be so energetic to cover all traces of her flight. She had asked, the professor said, for a recommendation, that she might more easily enter some other, as she hoped to be able to complete her course, although she did not tell him where she was going. “And I did,” he continued; “I gave her the very best one that could be put into words, for she deserved it. But what is this you tell me—that she has left her home without the knowledge of her friends?” and he appeared deeply troubled. “Yes; but it is only on account of a slight misunderstanding, and one which would have been very easily explained if she had not been quite so hasty; and I hope we shall be able to find her and make it right very soon.” “I trust so; I am very sorry to part with her,” said the professor, gravely, while he measured the young lord with his keen eyes, mistrusting that he was somehow concerned in the mystery. “I had anticipated taking her through the course and presenting her with her diploma. I tell you, sir, Miss Gladstone bids fair to become a most brilliant woman. Why, the essay which she read at our last commencement would have been a credit to the most profound literary talent in the country.” Lord Carrol’s eyes glowed at these praises of his darling; but Mr. Richards winced under them, for his conscience was smiting him keenly for ever having allowed Star to occupy so questionable a position in his family. “You will oblige me if you will account for her absence in some casual way, if you are questioned about it,” he said. “I should be sorry to have anything unpleasant said of her.” “Certainly; you may rely upon my being very discreet, for _her_ sake,” Professor Roberts returned, somewhat stiffly. He bowed his visitors out, and then returned to his duties; but all day long, and for many days, he missed the bright, earnest face of his “most promising scholar,” her brilliant recitations, and the respectful attention which she had always given him.