Edmund frequently alluded to his want of success in obtaining Miss Hamilton's direction, but one day, he came in full of glee: "Lisle is here, Roland; he knows Lord N----, and he will inquire of him for Miss Hamilton; he has letters of introduction to some of the nobles of England, and is as much interested as I in trying to find out where she is. The Duke of D---- will give a ball next week, Lisle is invited; he will get an introduction for me before that time, and I shall then meet Miss Hamilton." Edmund seemed possessed with this one idea of obtaining an introduction to the reigning star. "Congratulate me, Roland; the Duke of D---- called yesterday on Lisle while I was there; I was introduced as Lisle's young American friend, and to-day I have a card for the ball." Nothing else was talked of but the coming ball. Edmund's head was full of the anticipated pleasure. The evening came and passed. Next day, Edmund was in a high state of excitement. "I was introduced, Roland, to Miss Hamilton, but that was all, I could get no nearer; she was surrounded by admirers--the Duke of D----, and the Earl of M----, Lord B----, and Lord G----, but most of all, Lord N----, were devoted in their attentions. If her young head is not turned by all this, I shall proclaim her a wonder. Lord N---- is a handsome young nobleman, with that respectful deference to ladies, and especially to Miss Hamilton, which I think would captivate such a girl." Roland was compelled to listen silently, for he had not told Edmund that he had ever seen Madeline; but every word was painful, for he felt the ordeal to be so severe--would she come out unharmed? "I went last night to the opera, Roland; Miss Hamilton was there, attended by her father and Lord N----. Mr. Hamilton looked so proud of his beautiful daughter, and no wonder; nothing to compare to her could be seen anywhere last night; eye-glasses were levelled at her from all quarters, but I really don't believe that she knew it, and, if she did, she certainly did not betray it." Roland attended weekly upon the services of the Rev. Mr. B----, a minister of the establishment, simply on account of the earnest spirituality of his preaching. On the next Sunday, whom should he see advancing up the aisle, in a simple modest dress, with a close bonnet and veil, but Madeline, attended by her father and aunt. Several pew-doors were opened, but the sexton led them forward to a pew, where sat a young lady and gentleman of high rank. "That is Lord N----," whispered Edmund to Roland, for he had observed the party. Madeline was earnest, devout, prayerful, and listened to the sermon with such an humble, serious manner, as to lead Roland to hope that she was yet the simple, earnest child of Woodcliff. Lord N---- and his sister were equally devout, and Roland felt that the deportment of the young man in church was just such as was calculated to please one like Madeline.