overcoat, but taking a little canvas kit, with pumps and silk stockings

for evening wear, and all the best that he could muster of his Volunteer

equipment.

The Admiral came to the door of the Hall, and met him with such hearty

warmth, and a glance of such kind approval at his open throat and

glowing cheeks, that the young man felt a bound of love and tender

veneration towards him, which endured for lifetime.

"Your father was my dearest friend, and the very best man I ever knew.

I must call you 'Blyth,'" said the Admiral, "for if I call you

'Scudamore,' I shall think perpetually of my loss."

At dinner that day there was no other guest, and nothing to disturb the

present one, except a young lady's quick glances, of which he endeavored

to have no knowledge. Faith Darling, a gentle and beautiful young

woman, had taken a natural liking to him, because of his troubles, and

simplicity, and devotion to his widowed mother. But to the younger,

Dolly Darling, he was only a visitor, dull and stupid, requiring,

without at all repaying, the trouble of some attention. He was not tall,

nor handsome, nor of striking appearance in any way; and although he was

clearly a gentleman, to her judgment he was not an accomplished, or

even a clever one. His inborn modesty and shyness placed him at great

disadvantage, until well known; and the simple truth of his nature

forbade any of the large talk and bold utterance which pleased her as

yet among young officers.

"What a plague he will be all day tomorrow!" she said to her sister in

the drawing-room. "Father was obliged, I suppose, to invite him; but

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