“It would be a curious speculation,” replied the other, “whether facts bear out your idea. I will take it into consideration, whether the best gardeners of my acquaintance are the best clergymen, and the most practical men. Would not a love of construction save a man’s character? I have a great fancy for building, I own; and I expect some day to realize my plans on the Vicarage. That old house must come down. I could not live in it.” “I have received so much kindness here,” replied his companion, “that I can not contemplate such a change without regret. It is a comfort, however, to think that when an event so trying to the Vicar’s daughters arrives, as that which will make you master here, they will have a friend, and not a stranger, to deal with.” “Poor things! I am really sorry for them,” said the curate; “it will be a sad trouble. I think an Elizabethan house would look best here; would suit the place and country. Don’t you?” eyeing the old Vicarage as he spoke with an air of consideration. “I have not thought about it at all,” replied Captain Hepburn, with internal disgust. “I fear they will be sadly forlorn and unprotected; their brother away, perhaps, and they so young and ignorant of the world.” “You are unnecessarily anxious about them, Captain Hepburn; they will find friends, depend on it. I can understand your feelings of interest, however, although I can take more cheerful views of their prospects. Believe me, nothing on my part shall be wanting. I have strong motives to influence me――my sincere gratitude――remembrance of kindness received――regard, honor; in short, make yourself easy. Their comfort and happiness shall be my first object. I pledge myself to that. Pray trust me!” Roused out of his selfish dreams, Mr. Ufford spoke what he felt at the time, and meant all that he said. Captain Hepburn could understand his words and tones to have but one meaning; his admiration for Gwyneth was sincere, and his purposes settled. If he had not the steadfast, straightforward strength of will, which the sailor possessed, he might yet have sufficient firmness of character to secure his own respectability, and Gwyneth’s happiness. One must not quarrel with a man because he is more cautious in his movements, or more slow in his decision, then one’s self. Captain Hepburn hoped the best from him, and while he trusted his warning to Hilary might not be useless, he flattered himself that his fears might be entirely unfounded. “I shall trust implicitly to such an assurance, satisfied that they will have a friend in you. They have their brother-in-law in London, to take care of them in case of need,” continued Captain Hepburn; “I have a great respect for Mr. Farrington; from what I have heard of him, he must be a very well-judging man.” “I must be going,” said Mr. Ufford; “if the young ladies are busy, I dare say they will not care to see me just now; pray make my excuses to them. I wish you a good journey;” and he went accordingly.