"I know not what you mean," I replied. "As for joining you. I do not think, in the meantime, I shall, until I know better about it; and as for hurting you or doing any harm, I give you my sincere assurance I will not, however much I might gain by it." "Betsy, my dear," said he, "we are not going to the kenn, we will go home. I wish to entertain my old friend." We then altered our direction, and, after proceeding down a dark and dirty lane, entered a neat and well-furnished room. As soon as we entered, and the door was shut-- "Betsy," said he, "there is no use for gammon now; find your tongue, lass, and help me to find my arms." "As you please, Billy," said the dumb wife. And both retired to another apartment, from whence they soon returned--she well dressed, and Bill as perfect in every limb as when we had parted, he to remain in India, and I to return home. I believe he had told her his intention and who I was in the time they were away; for, seeing my surprise, he laughed aloud, while she, smiling, took me by the hand, and welcomed me to their house. Now that her begging disguise was thrown off, she really was a most bewitching girl, of the gipsy cast--brilliant black eyes and hair, her features regular, almost to perfection--the loveliest brunette I had ever seen. Bill smiled good-naturedly at the admiration my looks expressed, as I gazed at her; and, slapping me on the shoulder-- "Square," said he, "is she not a beauty? You must not fall in love with her if you stay--that I must make a condition." We all laughed. I said, if I fell in love, I could not help it; the fault was his for bringing me into temptation. A large square bottle of brandy and a jug of water were set on the table, and while the wife was busy preparing dinner, Bill gave me the following account of himself:--