CHAPTER XXII.
........"Mark! He who would cut the knot that does entwine And link two loving hearts in unison, May have man's form; but at his birth, be sure on't, Some devil thrust sweet nature's hand aside Ere she had pour'd her balm within his breast, To warm his gross and earthly mould with pity.
.......I know what 'tis When worldly knaves step in with silver beards, To poison bliss, and pluck young souls asunder." TOM and his Cousin were surprised the next morning by a visit from Mr.Mortimer and his friend Merrywell, whose dismal features and long visages plainly indicated some unpleasant disaster, and Tom began to fear blame would be attached to them for leaving his party at Darkhouse Lane.
"Pray," said Merrywell, "can you tell me where to find your friend Sparkle ?" "Indeed," replied Dashall, a little relieved by this question, "I am not Sparkle's keeper; but pray be seated--what is the matter, is it a duel, do you want a second ?--I know he is a good shot." "This levity, Sir," said Mortimer, "is not to be borne.

The honour of a respectable family is at stake, and must be satisfied.

No doubt you, as his very oldest friend, know where he is; and I desire you will immediately inform me, or------" "Sir," said Dashall, who was as averse as unused to be desired by any person--"do you know whom you address, and that I am in my own house?
if you do, you have certainly discarded all propriety of conduct and language before you cross'd the threshold." "Gentlemen," said Merrywell, "perhaps some explanation is really necessary here.

My friend Mortimer speaks under agonized feelings, for which, I am sure, your good sense will make every allowance.

Miss Mortimer------" "Miss Mortimer," exclaimed Dashall, rising from his ~352~~ seat, "you interest me strongly, say, what of Miss Mortimer ?" "Alas," said Mortimer, evidently endeavouring to suppress emotions which appeared to agitate his whole frame, and absorb every mental faculty, "we are unable to account for her absence, and strongly suspect she is in company with your friend Sparkle--can you give us any information relative to either of them ?" Dashall assured them he knew nothing of the fugitives, but that he would certainly make every inquiry in his power, if possible to find out Sparkle.