“I suppose so—well, if you do—I was about to say that we shall have the company of Hagar and Raymond, as well as that of Rosalia, on our journey. Raymond is appointed assistant professor at —— College, and they leave here in ten days.” “Oh!” “Will not that be very agreeable?” “I do not know, my dearest; I think I prefer your undivided company. So, Hagar and Raymond are going North?” “Yes.” “And what is to be done with Heath Hall?” “It _was_ to have been the residence of Rosalia and myself; now, I suppose, it is to be shut up and left so. We do not like to sell it. Indeed, it would bring but little; and some of us may like to come back some time to live in it. However! you know it will depend entirely upon the will of Raymond, for the property is now his, in right of his wife.” They had arisen now from their seats, and were sauntering slowly towards the house. The evening was beautiful, and the house was crowded, and spilling its company all over the piazza and yards. They separated and mingled with the guests. Once in her meandering about, Sophie felt herself enfolded by a pair of gentle arms and pressed to a soft, warm bosom. She was in Emily’s embrace—who stooped and murmured in her ear, “My sister! my sweet sister at last!” and let her go. Next she met Hagar’s wildly glancing eyes with a “Who’d have thought it?” sort of smile on her crimson lip, and then her hand was raised by Raymond and softly pressed to his lips, while his gentle eyes revealed the heartfelt congratulations it was yet premature to speak. And at last she rejoined Captain Wilde just as Hagar was giving him a pressing invitation to breakfast and dine at Heath Hall the next day, and just as he smiled and bowed acceptance. CHAPTER XXII. “She is all simplicity, A creature meek and mild, Though on the eve of womanhood In heart a very child. She dwells among us like a star, That from its bower of bliss, Looks down, yet gathers not a stain From aught it sees in this.” MRS. WELBY.