was over his heart and in it. Thus are women adored by men, especially

those who deserve it least.

"Attention, my dear friends, attention, if you please," cried the

Rector, rising, with a keen glance at Scuddy. "I will crave your

attention before the ladies go, and theirs, for it concerns them

equally. We have passed through a period of dark peril, a long time

of trouble and anxiety and doubt. By the mercy of the Lord, we have

escaped; but with losses that have emptied our poor hearts. England has

lost her two foremost defenders, Lord Nelson, and Admiral Darling. To

them we owe it that we are now beginning the New Year happily, with the

blessing of Heaven, and my dear daughter married. Next week we shall

attend the grand funeral of the hero, and obtain good places by due

influence. My son-in-law, Percival Shargeloes, can do just as he pleases

at St. Paul's. Therefore let us now, with deep thanksgiving, and one

hand upon our hearts, lift up our glasses, and in silence pledge the

memory of our greatest men. With the spirit of Britons we echo the last

words that fell from the lips of our dying hero--'Thank God, I have

done my duty!' His memory shall abide for ever, because he loved his

country."

The company rose, laid hand on heart, and deeply bowing, said--"Amen!"

THE END.

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