"I promised to row your sister on the lake to-morrow--she wishes to sketch," said Headland, "or I should be glad to accept your invitation." "I won't ask you to break such an engagement," said Harry, smiling archly; "but if you and Julia will ride over in the afternoon, I will come back and meet you, for I want my sister to become better acquainted with May." "I shall be at Miss Castleton's service, and will gladly accompany her," said Headland. The two friends continued pacing up and down the moonlight walk. Harry, knowing Julia's secret, would liked to have ascertained his friend's feelings towards her. He was certain that he admired her, but aware how diffident he was in consequence of his position, he was very doubtful whether he would venture to tell her so. Harry's respect for his sister prevented him from even suggesting the probability that he would not be refused should he make her an offer. From everything Headland said, however, Harry felt convinced that he only required encouragement to do so. The following morning Julia appeared with her sketch-book. "I have not forgotten my promise," said Headland, and his countenance brightened as he looked at her. "I shall be happy to accompany you on the lake." They set out, and Harry went to order his horse to ride to Downside. Just as he was starting, the servant brought a message from Lady Castleton, who wished to speak to him. Though disliking the delay, he went immediately, guessing why she had sent for him. "Sit down, Harry," she said in her gentle tone. "I was very much struck yesterday with the beauty of the young lady we met at our cousins. Knowing how you must naturally admire her, I am very sure that she is the attraction which draws you daily to Downside." "Yes, mother, I do not deny it," answered Harry; "and I am delighted that you and Julia admire her so much." "We could not fail to do that. But let me ask you, Harry, do you know her history? are you acquainted with her family? She is, I suspect, a dependant on the Miss Pemberton's bounty. And have you not reflected that you may have won her heart as you may possibly have lost your own?" "Mother," said Harry, rising and taking Lady Castleton's hand, "I love her for herself and herself alone; she has given me her love in return, and you would not wish your son to marry for mercenary or any other motives except such as influence me." "I wish to see your happiness secured, my dear Harry, but I fear that your father will not view matters in the light you do. He will certainly not approve of your marrying any one beneath you in rank." Harry argued as most young men would have done under similar circumstances. "You might persuade me, my dear boy, but I fear that you will find it impossible to overcome your father's strong notions on the subject. I must write and inform him of the state of affairs; and depend upon it, I will do my utmost to give him a favourable impression of the young lady."