have you a guinea or two on supping a cup of coffee with him? Upon my
honour, you must now be nearly at the end of your follies. Mother, where
is the Colonel?"

"He has gone to Elder Semple's house. You know--"

"I know well. For a long time I have purposed to call on the old
gentleman, and what I have neglected I am now justly denied. I meant, at
least, to pay him the last respect; but even that is to-day impossible.
For I must leave for England this afternoon at five o'clock, and I have
more to do than I can well accomplish."

George leaped to his feet at these words. Nothing could have been more
unexpected; but that is the way with Destiny, her movements are ever
unforeseen and inevitable. "Sir," he cried, "what has happened?"

"Your uncle is dying--perhaps dead. I received a letter this morning
urging me to take the first packet. The North Star sails this afternoon,
and I do not wish to miss her, for she flies English colours, and they
are the only ones the Barbary pirates pretend to respect. Now, George,
you must come with me to Mr. Hamilton's office; we have much business to
arrange there; then, while I pay a farewell visit to the President, you
can purchase for me the things I shall require for the voyage."

So far his manner had been peremptory and decided, but, suddenly, a
sweet and marvellous change occurred. He went close to Madame Van
Heemskirk, and taking both her hands, said in a voice full of those
tones that captivate women's hearts--

"Mother! mother! I bid you a loving, grateful farewell! You have ever