I messed that evening for the first time with the squadron. Judging from the laughter which arose on all sides, it was a merry party; but my heart was heavy, and I could hardly bring myself to enter cordially into the festivities. I was also rather uneasy in person, as will happen to young cavalry soldiers. I drank, however, a good deal of wine, and, as I was afterwards informed, recovered amazingly towards the close of the sederunt. They also told me, next morning, that I had entered Masaniello to run for the Squadron Cup. CHAPTER IV. "And so you really forgive me, Edith!" said I, bending over the lady of my love, as she sate creating worsted roses in a parterre of gossamer canvass: "You are not angry at what happened the other day at that unlucky encounter on the sands?" "Have I not said already that I forgive you?" replied Edith. "Is it necessary that I should assure you twice?" "Charming Miss Bogle! you do not know how happy you have made me." "Pray, don't lean over me so, or you'll make me spoil my work. See--I have absolutely put something like a caterpillar into the heart of this rosebud!" "Never, dearest Edith, may any caterpillar prey upon the rosebud of your happiness. How curious! Do you know, the outline of that sketch reminds me forcibly of the countenance of Roper?" "Mr M'Whirter!" "Nay, I was merely jesting. Pray, Miss Bogle, what are your favourite colours?" "Peach-blossom and scarlet; but why do you ask?" "Do not press me for an explanation--it will come early enough. And now, Edith, I must bid you adieu." "So soon? Cannot you spare a single hour from your military duties? Bless me, how pale you are looking! Are you sure you are quite well?" "Quite--that is to say a little shaken in the nerves or so. This continued exertion"-- "Do you mean at mess? Mr Roper told me sad stories about your proceedings two nights ago." "Oh, pooh--nonsense! You will certainly then appear at the races?" "You may depend upon me." And so I took my leave.