Rashleigh felt this, and found himself obliged to follow my lead, however difficult he might find it to play his cards successfully.

"I have known less of Miss Vernon," he said, "for some time, than I was wont to do formerly.

In early age I was her tutor; but as she advanced towards womanhood, my various avocations,--the gravity of the profession to which I was destined,--the peculiar nature of her engagements,--our mutual situation, in short, rendered a close and constant intimacy dangerous and improper.

I believe Miss Vernon might consider my reserve as unkindness, but it was my duty; I felt as much as she seemed to do, when compelled to give way to prudence.

But where was the safety in cultivating an intimacy with a beautiful and susceptible girl, whose heart, you are aware, must be given either to the cloister or to a betrothed husband ?" "The cloister or a betrothed husband ?" I echoed--"Is that the alternative destined for Miss Vernon ?" "It is indeed," said Rashleigh, with a sigh.