The next morning, when Mr. Ufford as usual walked over to the Vicarage, he was accompanied by Charles Huyton himself. There was a little embarrassment and hesitation in his manner as he presented himself, indicative, perhaps, of uncertainty as to his reception, but which was quite unusual with him. But with Captain Hepburn beside her, Hilary could venture to be frank and friendly; and the kindly inclination shown by this visit toward one who had been his rival won him a smile and a gentle glance, such as he had not met for a long while. Charles came to congratulate them on the safe return of the _Pandanus_ to England, to express his good wishes, and to shake hands with Captain Hepburn once more. So he said; and he did give a prolonged and friendly grasp to his rival’s hand, such as no true English heart could give or receive if a shade of evil feeling remained behind. It seemed to speak of deep heartfelt congratulations, and an earnest, trusting commendation to his care of the fair being whom they both had loved, and one had loved so hopelessly though truly. So Captain Hepburn interpreted the action, and gave him credit for generosity and submission, and true nobleness of mind. They were wandering about in the garden, when Captain Hepburn noticed some changes which had been made there. Hilary said they had been suggested by Mr. Ufford, and principally effected by Gwyneth, who had adopted the ideas; for herself, she liked the old way best. “So do I, Miss Duncan,” said Charles, gravely. “The old garden had great charms for me; do you know, Captain Hepburn, I have only once been in this garden since you left England.” “Indeed!” replied the sailor; “whose doing was that then?” “It was this lady’s wish,” said Charles, “but I thought it hard. Will you not make interest with her, that I may not be excluded in future? Trust me a little.” “I can not interfere with Miss Duncan’s rules or regulations as to her visitors,” replied Captain Hepburn, in a tone that might pass for jest or earnest. “If I had any power I might exercise it in your favor: at present, you know, I am only a visitor myself, and can say nothing.” “Papa wants you, Hilary,” said Nest, just then running up; and she, taking her little sister’s hand, returned to the house, rather glad at that moment to escape. The gentlemen remained together looking after her, as they stood under the old lime tree on the lawn. Mr. Huyton was the first to speak. “We have been rivals, Captain Hepburn, but we need not be enemies; I would gladly prove myself not only your friend, but the friend also of the woman whom I may not love.” His companion thanked him for his professions.