these to be my sentiments. I know your family is devoid of ignoble
stain, and that your fortune was once second to none. Had I the
disposal of Laura's hand it should be yours!'

"'I believe it, Mrs. Arras!' said I. 'But do you net think these
objections of Judge ____ may be overcome?'

"'Alas, never!' she replied; 'he is immovable when any thing of moment
is decided in his mind.'

"'But,' I continued, while the pulsations of my heart were distinctly
audible, 'what says Laura?'

"'Would I had been spared this question! You saw her a few minutes
since. HE who sees all things knows how my heart ached while I sat by.
I can only tell you she had just finished reading her father's letter
when Mr. Wold was announced. Spare me, now, I beseech you!' I folded
my arms and gazed, I know not how long, at the flame ascending from
the hearth. Oh! the agony described of the dying were bliss to that
moment. What could I think or do? I sat like one whose heart has been
rudely torn from his breast, and who was yet debarred the relief of
death. Existence to me at that moment was a hell, and my sufferings
were those of the damned! I thank God I have survived them.

"I was aroused from my lethargy by hearing the street door close after
Wold, and I desired Mrs. Arras to permit me to have an interview with
Laura alone. It was granted, and I was soon in the presence of the
lovely maid. She was aware of my perturbation and its cause. She sat
with her eyes cast down in silence. I looked upon her form and her
features of perfect beauty, and oh! what tongue can describe the