The latter, though filled with rage and confusion, preserved an unmoved exterior, and folded his arms upon his breast.
"And so it was you who knocked at the door!" cried Mrs.Bloundel, regarding the gallant with a look of fury--"it was you who contrived to delude me into opening it! I do not ask why you have come hither like a thief in the night, because I require no information on the subject.

You are come to dishonour my child--to carry her away from those who love her and cherish her, and would preserve her from such mischievous serpents as you.

But, Heaven be praised! I have caught you before your wicked design could Be effected.

Oh! Amabel, my child, my child!" she added, straining her to her bosom, "I had rather--far rather--see you stricken with the plague, like your poor brother, though I felt there was not a hope of your recovery, than you should fall into the hands of this Satan!" "I have been greatly to blame, dear mother," returned Amabel, bursting into tears; "and I shall neither seek to exculpate myself, nor conceal what I have done.

I have deceived you and my father.