But Colonel Preston was not a keen observer, nor was he skilled in physiognomy, and, judging of Mr.Fairfax by his manner merely, was rather pleased with him.
"You will pardon my obtruding myself upon you, Colonel Preston," said the stranger, with great ease of manner.
"I am happy to make your acquaintance, sir." "I am a stranger in this neighborhood.

The city of New York is my home.

I have been led here by the recommendations of friends who knew that I desired to locate myself in the country." "How do you like Melville ?" "Very much--so much, that I may settle down here.

But, Colonel Preston, I am a man of business, and if I am to be here, I want some local interest--some stake in the town itself." "Quite natural, sir." "You are a business man yourself, and will understand me.

Now, to come to the point, I find you have a manufactory here--a woolen manufactory, which I am given to understand is prosperous and profitable." "You are correctly informed, Mr.Fairfax.It is paying twelve per cent.