SILVER STAR; I'

02, K

She ~ o ti*All.lipred$

A TALE OF NEW J RSEY IN THE OLDEN TIME.

BY COUSIN MAY CARLETON.

NEW YORK: FREDRIO A. BRADY, Publisher, No. 24 Ann Street,

" THE NEW YOI PUBLIC LIAllY I63845B ASTOR. I*NOX AT SILVER.. STAR; 1,94UATIO

OR,

CHAPTER L though not stout, with an extremely largo T HE Mi R MA I D. head, set on an extremely short neck, which Whoe'er has traveled life's dull round, made up in thickness what it wanted im Where'er is stages may have been, length. A complexion like unvarnished ma, May sigh to think he still has found hogany, witti a low, retreating forehead; *. His warmest welcome at an inn." pair of sharp, keen, glittering, hawk-like ey EEnaRED according to Act of Congress, in the year 1861, .- SussTOs. gleaming from under thick, scowling browsi; The time-late in the evening of a raw a grim, resolute mouth, expressive of the t C&ULDiVEw, aler wOnT* & WI'Y, April day, many a year, most probally, be, most unflinching do-or-die determination, fore you were born, my dear' sir or madam. made up a face that would hardly be associ. In the Clerk's Office of the District Court for the Southern District of New York. The sene--a long, bleak sirip of coast on the ated, in feviale minds, with the idea of love Jersey shore, washed by the bright waters 9 f at first-sight. This eloquent frontispiece was the flowing uIson. ~ rendered still further attractive by a perfect A low,- black, rakish-looking schooner, forest-of underbrush and red hair generally; *\ith a sort of suspicious look about it, strik- indeed, there was considerably more hair itgiy suggestive to nautical individuals skill- about his countenance than there seemed any ed in reading the expressive countenances of real necessity for; and his, tarl)aulin lit schooners in- general, had jiust come to an- crowned a head adorned with a violent mat chor out in the river, a short distance from of hair of the same striking color. The gen- tie shore; and a boat, a few mninutei after, tienan was dressed ia an easy, off-hand style, had put off from her, and landed two persons, that completely setat defiance all established rho sprang lightly out-; while two more;who civilized modes, withs nothing about him, save had rowed them ashore, leaned on their'dri- his sailor's hat, to betoken lie was a seaman. ping oars, and waited, as if for further direc- Yet such he was, and a captain, too: Captin tions. bNicholas Tempest, commander of the Fly-by- " You ean gobaek, now. I don't want you Night, at your service, reader.- owait for mue. I'll stop at the Mermaid to- A greater contrast to the gentleman just ht. f I want you, you know the signal; described than hi.; companion,eoull hardly od tell Sharp' Bill to keep an -uncommon have been found, search the wide world over. hap look-out. Come, my little Spanish Ile was a slender lad, of not more than six- ckey o' Norfolk ; put your best leg fore- teen or seventeen apparently, with a face most, hoist all sail, and let's bear down on that would have been feminine in'its exqui- that full-blown craft, Bob Rowlie, of the Mein. site beauty, but for the extreme darkness of mail inn." the complexion. Every feature was perfect, The speaker gave his companion a blow on as faultlessly chiseled as if modeled after the bae!. at this passage in- his discourse, some antique statue. His eyes were. large, that sent him reeling,-as well it might; and lack, and lustrous as diamonds; his short, then, with a coarse laugh, sprang, with,more crisp, curling hair, of jetty blackness; while agility than might have been expected from his complexion was darker than that of a his looks, over the wet, shingly, slippery Creole. Ilisforn was sjghit, graceful; and FILMBR & CO., beach, towards the high-road. elegant; his dress, odd, picturesque, and for- BLITrOTYPEe, He was a man of some forty-five or fifty eign-looking, and strikingly becoming to the ,7 Dwchat Y..Y years of age, short, brawny, and muscular,, dark, rich style of his beauty, A crimson THE MYSTERY OF FONTELLE HALL., SILVER STAR; OR, Captain Nick Tempest came to a sudden dividual, drawing himself up, aind fixing his sash was knotted carelessly round his waist; brightness of his Spanish leather boots, anl halt, and with his hands still in his pockets, flashing eyes on his companion's face. "Ive and a cap of the same c6lor, with a gold band smiling slightly as lie caught tie eon temptu' faced round in the middle of the road, his trusted in him, sir, and I'll back him against and tivssel, and a single black plume, was st ous glances Captain Tempes cast toward swarthy fatce flushed, and his brows contract- luck and Providence, and all the other sheet- jauntily on his dark curl', and gave him al- him, as he observed the action. ' Ard thus, ing with rising anger; but as his eyes fell'on anchors in the world. Luck! ugh !" said the together the look of a handsome little brigand, tie one chewing tobaceo- and plowing his the slight, boyish form of the other, he check- captain, with a look of disgust, as he let fly a just dressed for the stage. way straightforwardly along, in free and, asy ed himself, and said, in a tone of withering last volley of tobacco-juice. Tlhe hurly commander of the Flh-byNight scorn of mud and dirt, and the other step- scorn, as he moved on:- The boy would have smiled, but there was sprang ideetly up the rocks, flowed by the ping daintily, aid springing over holes and "Why, what an independent young gentle- a warning gleam in the fierce eyes of the cap- 'boy, until they left the beach, and struck out puddles, they marched algng in silence for a man we have here, so self-conscious and wise tain thit forbade it; so he said nothing, and on the straggling, unfrequented, lonely-loqk- season. that ie declines all help, and is going to be, -again they walked on for a sliort distance in ing road, with only one house in sight, as far Captain Nicholas Tempest, transferring iis gil life iinland he never set foot inbefore, on silence, and sulkiness on the part of the gal- as the eye could reach, and that 'one a low, quid, with an adroit roll of the tongue that the paritciple of letting every tub stand on its lant commander of the Fly-by-Night. dingy-looking place, with' a black, smoky bespoke long and accomplished practice, to own button. If you werea dozearyears older, "Is that the inn we are to stop at?" at chimney 'leaning pensively to onre side, and the other cheek, ,aid having discharged a I would twist your neek for you, for your in- length inquire.] the boy, Jacinto. two-vacant-eyed windows, that stared straight startling fire of tobacco-juice, gave his panta- solence. A Spaniard more or less is no great " Yes," said the ciptain, with a sullen before them with an idiotic, helpless-lookmrg loons a hoist, and ghrncing toward Iris com- loss in the world; and I have settled the hash growl, "that's the inn I'm to stop at. I don't gape, and a melancholy old door, that creak- panion, at length lifted up his voice and spake. of many a better marn than you will ever be, know anything about yours ; and what's ed and moaned dismally whenever it was "Well, my little shaver, your'Ve gat to for less than thit !" more, I don't care. You may go where you touched. Over this door was a flapping sign, America, at last, yon seeall safe in wind and "I have not the slightest doubt of it, sir," please." with an uncomfortable-looking female painted linib; through, by George, we did come pr t. said the lad, with so ready an acquiescence as Again that slight and seemingly irre ot it, who hel'I a comb in one hand,-ant .a ty near going to Davy's locker once or twico to sound like flattery, while a slight and al- sible smile flickered for a moment roun atahll pocket-mirror in the other, into which during the passage. Anid nrow what do you roost imperceptible smile broke for an instant lad's handsome mouth; but it wIns go' she was gazing withan expression of the most think of it, e?, Hardly equal to the 'vine- over his handsome face. reetly, end he was standing with hislh' violent astonishment, evidently lost in won- clad hills of sunny Spain,' you see, my lad. . Oh, you hav'r't !' growled Captain Nick,, the captairis armr, and his dark brig,. 4r ins to how on earth she had evergot there- Rather ia dreary and desolate prospect, just slightly ollinied. "well, then, let me give,. .on bis gruff, surly face, sayin a sshe very well might, indeed ; for it was an at present, ain't it." you a piece of friendly advice : Don't,,- ical accents: uncoifortable, not to say. distresing,,place "Yes, somewhat so," said the lad, as ho tenipt to provoke Captain Tempest. Yoa b e, Captain Tempest, forgetf .for anybody to be, much less a mermai. A measure? intently with his eye a pool of wa- 'a passage over in my bark, and we've zhardl worth your w siing trait about tis lady was, that after ter in his path, and thi n leaped lightly over bread t gether, and been good friend have been go beg'n"inrg like any other reasonable Chris- it. His voice was soft and unisical in thie ex- along, and I don't know hat what I 10,11e'4eft Merrie Engls tian, she suddenly and impetuoily, and treme, and was rendered still more so hy hia lked you ; but still, I tell yui;, as a t I "m no telling boi' without the smallest provocation, saw fit to foreign accent, though he spoke in excellent n't provoke me, Master Jacinto." ,AT rt, , . 11 never do to q brlrneh off into a startling tail, which, turned' English.4 Really, Captain Tempest, I had no mi 'the-agone~. up so that the tip stood on a level with her "And now that you've got here, Master tntion of offending you, and regret exceed-' - I ptain Nick, contempt- head, an.i left her precisely in the shape of Jacinto, what do you mean to do with your% gyhaving doe so,"said the yquth, bowing' lik a little pinch of down the letter U. Under this extraordinary fe- self. if it's a-fair question?" ieprePiagly';- 't.atati fact is. I could not, 1soonquarrel with a male was painted, in glaring, yellow capitals, "Perfectly fair, Captain Tempest. I mean iff r~t;l y4 C laas; for I do not woiiar ar of you and I quar- The Mermaid ;" and there was a popular le- to tak e excellent care of myself," said the know iy f;f ~igned none as yet, gend extant, to the effect that the picture lad, earelersly. Most likely,S6have ahn always done t "'y 'rends then, as we were above was a striking likeness of oie of those " Ilumph! you do-do you ? Boys have - rust to a lnorrow take care before. in, shake hands on it-if fishy individ n.ds that Iad been captured by que, r noti. us about taking care of them- Of itself." I spoke impertinently that tine, I am sorry a former proprietor of the inn, while she was selves. I suppose, your next mova will be "4A mighty p axi, and a beau- for it. Will that do ?" combing her sea-green tresses down on' the for New York eity." .. tiful trayof p ogh life," said the He held out his hand-a small, fair, delicate shore. For the truth of the narrative'l an S" Thait depenidi." eapttin-,4itha snee. "Trust to luck, indeed, hand, that no lady need have been ashamed hot, however, prepared to vouch im this au- "Depends on what ?" the sipe Ajade)" n , sir, I wouldn't trust of-and looked up, with .a pleading face that thentic history, as I have only popular tra- " dWel,on a good many tings, generally, her the aAglIh ofW.'nose, and that's none of was quite irresistible tA gruff captain's git ion for it., and on one thing in particular." V th getjtherle -. face. Captain Niei tied growl, took Toward this inviting-looking dwelling, our Atod what is that one thing? Don't ee, then, if you like that better. the boy's hand ir " igit, and gave two " solitary traveler's " were betaking them- so " 'ed secretive, you little jacknapes _st in'Providence ?" said th- boy. it a crushing thak selves, at a leisurely lace, each, seemingly I N1 1ouwhat, nMryyoungii. cove, you lr 6e!"' said Captain Nick, jerking There! don't me with your absorbed in his own thoughts. Captain Nich- h. tter keep on tIe right side of me ; for'i omthi d'eo, with a look of utter contem)t, soft-sawder, Maste it' you please," ie olas Tempest, having, insinuated abiut half a witl be the tallest feather in your cap, if you- "pa"gh! Don't make me sick. I think I see said, as if half angry 'ith'mself for the lik- yard of twisted tobacco into his month, was rave the: friendship of Captain Nick Tem-- myself trusting in Providence! No, sir. Sinee' ing ie could not helgi feeling for d- discha'ging right and left, with that benign pest. Mind, that !" I was knee high to a duck, I've put rmy trust some boy. '" Yo4ve got aaOswx et 'I expression of countenance men always wear " I am much obliged to Captain Nick Tem- in somethung that has never deceived me yet, .our own; and thWligltit when chewing the weed ; and. with both pest, and would not offend hum for any earth- and never will wtile one tmber of this queer sharply at times, yi ar hands thrust in 'his trowsers pockets, ie ly consideration," said the young Spaniard, raft of a world hangs together; and I'd ad- Ilaster the wound over marched along with an independent swagger, in a tone of provoking indifference, as he vise you, my little Spanish friend, to do the that same honeyed-balsano that said, as plainly as won-is : "I'm Captain tightened irs sash ; " but, at the saint time, samne." can't take me in, my lad. Y Nik Tenpest, sir,~and I don't care a curse lie must a~low me to decline making him my * Indeed! perhaps I may. What is this a few more of your eye-teeth b for any man !" Ilis handsome companion confidant, more especially as it is totalli' out wonderful sheet-anchor called?" manage that. Here we are at th, aid, kept by his side1Istepping carefully to avoid of his power to aid me in the slightest de- "Captain Nick Tempest, sir," said that in., and there she swings herself, the same ple. tige mud, lest it should sully the shining gree. ~iI' 6 SILVER STAR; OR, THE MYSTERY OF FONTELLE HALL. 7 ture of ugliness she has always ,been since I Mr. Rowlie wadilled leisurely to a door at the things that men love-that men every day was heard addressing some question to Mr. first had the pleasure of her acquaintance. other end of the room, and opening it, he stoop to love, and make fools of thems Ives Rowie-evidently the voice of a woman. for. Talk of cherishing vipers-there never 'Mrs. Rowlie looked at the captain and utter- Wonder'if -old Rowlie has thought proper to called, in a 'husky falsetto: "Mrs. Row- mariner die of apoplexy yet?" lie-e' was born a woman yet who would not be a ed an ejaculation, and that worthy back his As hespoke, he passed through the low "IWhat do yon want ?" called a brisk voice viper if she had it in her power !" ' dropped his knife and fork, pushed house, closely fol- from within, as a merry-looking little wom- S itwas evidently some inward feeling, in chair, and half arose. doorway, and entered the exclaimed the little wom- lowed by Jacinto. The door opened straight an, like her husband, somewhat of the dump- wiehig))Al little Mrs. Rowlie had no share, "Marcy sakes . that sat C iptain Nick Tempest so excitedly an. ".Did you ever? Why, L do declare I into the bar-room-a low, dirty, smokc-be- ling order, came to the door, and peeped out. ain't her own blessed self!V" grimed place, with a strong odor of ardent "Captain Nick Tempest has arrived, and front his seat, and e Msel him to pace with if that her, such an angry, ringing tread up and down "Her own blessed self!" said tihe captain, spirits and saw-dust pervading it. Numerous wants some food." a grim smile. casks were ranged round the walls ; and on the "Oh, marey sake-! Captain, how d'ye do?" th- little roiom,-his face fall of such furious, in an under tone; and with repeal passion. Mr. Rowlie gazed at him, "Her own cursed self, you mean-the old shelves behind th e counter were arrayed said Mrs. Rowlie, bustling out, and holding here? I be- bottles, decanters, and glasses, and all the out for a a a nt, in stolid surprise, and then hag! How did she know I was her hand to the*'burly captain. "How something of the vulture in that other paraphernalia common in sudh places. unexpected people keeps a turning up! I'm bxis I humself in 'filling a blaek, stumpy lieve there's Leaning over the counter, with his back to rail glad to see you. I really am, now." pip 3withI tobwace-; and Jaeinto, sitting toy- old beldame, and' that she scents her prey the door, and busily engaged in turning over " Mrs. Rowlie -thankee inP vtk a little gray kitten, cast furtive afar off. By the pricking of my thumbs, ihankee, !" said this way comes! Is here I" the greasy leaves of a dirty little account- the captain, as he sprung up, and gave the glancas at hiu front Uacer his long eyelashes. some one wicked book, was a fat, round-about little man, with buxom dame "S na ?' s iid M. Rowio,- sententiously, lie cried, as the door opened, and the object of a rousing salute on the cheek, before them. a ros fice indicative of an unlimited amount while Mr. Rowlie looked on in solemn die- holliig out thie black, stumpy pipe to Jacin- his eulogium stood bo t upright so emn good-nature. .' may, "and howdo you find yourself, old lady? to. Jacinto turned, in some curiosity, to look new-comer, and saw what looked like ys:y, old Bob Rowlie! what cheer, my Blooming like a hollyhoek as usual ?" "Na, thank yoa: I never do," said the- at the ?" called Captain Nick, giving the lit "Lor' captain, behave yourself, can't ve ?" b-y, with a half-lau ghc, as he declined the an old woman, but ought to have been a manor .itv. . if judged bysize. Extremely tall, she towejr- an a slap in the back that nearly knock- said Mrs. Rowlie, jerking herself awny, and 0i;rI Im into a jelly. "Alive and kicking vet, wiping the offended cheek with her check M .- svlie sail notho bat immediately ed up in the apartment as straight as a cedar ITWhat a precious long time th#'old pron, "please goodness, you've. no more el)) 1 it ia hi3 o V.a :n ithl,an I was s,o of Lebanon, and fUly a head over Ciptain claimingg his own, to besbanners ior a pig. ev! whose this ? Lor, p di . v.ty u it Ii et ill be just faintly Nick Tempest. She was dressed in gray-11 ain Nick Tempest," sa' meI wher4 did thlis uncommon hand- o 3,3 1, lo nig up diniy, through a loa I i gray, from head to foot. A coarse gra ly, as he laid down h e young gentleman conic from?" he e o-- su >3.- dress, a gray woolen cloak, with a gray oo looked solemnly td, suddenl., catching sight of Jacint >,1a', eipt'in," calleI the voice of Mr., tied under her chin, and might have passed ' guest, "and -aw-s still leaning carelessly against th Jvetis juite ; "Co:ne, youag gea- for a Capuchia friar, or a "Monk of the ave you? I m dsa't-I kav your an," she sail Order Gray,".onlv no holy monk, or friar, nobody ever khe boy doffed Is cap, and bowed w .aa>logtic'lly, o he followlA tire et>- ev-r wore such-:, ard, bitter, evil,unpityig body till yo 'ile to the old lady, who gazed at him wi i' te ianarra, "or I'd call you it, face,.such er , remorseless mouth, an Mr. Rowlie,looki unconceae admiration. such a a, unfeeling eye, as that gaze toward the you as "From Spain, Dame Qui if vou [ iIila't alvrise you to try it, if ox w-maa right in the door she stood, meaning carelessly ati heard of such a p V' 'cy rertl f, your teeth," said ap- an sea1 ' a n Tempest, with folded "Oh, a custome - a " But never mind'ie t a NicC. " hia M'. Jaciata, if yoa .arias, for five mInutes. young chap from be aithe is more importaDO" he. 1 f~e . o l nanme no'; but it's " Well, Grizzle, my old friend," said that captain, flinging himn com"eaneyou know ve e rly a st iAer, a 251a you over stiff as gentleman with a sneer, "you'll know ne the in, Jacinto, and make ',, ?t home. oon, and now Come, be a 'a uceral f e1 to say it, Dra next time, won't you? Cant I prevail on you ha in; y s vi word's as good to coa in, and sit down; and make yourself How's the old woman, Bobg erv! I hear ' g in there, Da0"Gie "Mrs. Rowlie is per-fee-ly well," slowly and, if my nasa" deeeive me, as taa- .e a; There's a grace 'as mierable as -possible while you stay. articulated Mr. Rowlie, taking a prolonged something good, N~wi. l How have you been since I saw you last, my look at Jacinto, "per-fec-ly well, thanky. Is "Stewed i abbit , whisk- Aa 1, f preept by example, Cap- 'dear? You can't think how I have been pin- the men coming up to-night?'' ing the dust otf a ch IL1 ron, and Lii a tely "fell to," wit's an ing for you ever since, my love." "Not to ni ' it going to swing my bringing it over to it down, a. Iapptitsslharpeaa by thi) Tie woman took iiot the slightest notice of hammock e night. How's trade sir, and make your A -infYs, se3 -bre3sst)1a ytn; extent. Jacinte his jibing tone; not a muscle of her iron face these tines- " any customers at Captain h iek, yes ; ey IVin idy r tly of .ltes. Raflie's dainties, ani moved, as she loomed up like a figure in the Mermai directly. Lor' e.esa me! ie otweeIa laughter and dism ty, as granite, and 1>oked down upon the contempt- Ye-eie, deliberately- handsome that y g gent i ' nsIl plate f lhirn. U0us face of the captain of the Fly-)b-y-Night. "ye-es, sometel ; and then, again, said Mrs. Rowlie, 1oue voce, as n- i.wamn," sail Captain Nick, "Oh! so my politeness is all thrown away sometimes there vessels, principal y, t' the inner-room. W'elbn iness in the supper depart:nent be- tipon you, is it?" lie said, after a pause, "and bri pstomers, but "they don't stay long, " Yes, that's womankind, all over" said g&A t slacken a littl-, " wien did' you see you won't speak. Very Well. my darling; reverse. really, it's quiet here. Captain Tempest; bitterly. "Let them see a th' I 1 cTteh of Ha ls -Grizzle Hlowlet ?" just, as you like. von know, and I'll let you. handsome face, and old foves and old friend- "L it me see," sail Mrs. Rowhie, leaning 'Mrs. Rowlie, wiTl Vou have the goodness to SI elt6 brisk enough while ships-are alike forgotten. Curse them all! mIsiteivoly on lier broon. "She ain't bin step out to the bar' and bring mea pipe? are the very dickens for every mother's daughter of them, I say! Old h rc, I bit believe. since the night you left. Draw up to the fire. Jacinto; it's cold eoi.. money. And now, my fat and young, rich and poor,'they are all alike. N>, s' ilam't-nit since then." fort this raw evening, and 'the entrance of 1Ae have something to eat-will Even this old fool, now, the moment she sees Si a ! '" said the captain, thoughtfully, that tall blast of north wind yonder has giv- hungry enough to eat yourself, the handsome face of this young SpaniIrd, as he resu hel his knife aid fork, but in a far en me the' chills. My dearest Griazle, do ,if you were properly stuffed and she is ready to forget and neglect me-me, diXf re iL manner than before. come to 'the fire-there's a duck. You're rous . Come, hurry up' !" who has done more for her than lie ever wiil At this moment, a sudden bustle in the bar cold-don't say, no- I'm sure you are!" -By way of complying with this request, or cax do in his life. And these are ta& s arrested their attention; a sharp, harsh-voice And stretching out his arm, 'stage-fashioa.4 6 SILVER STAR; OR, and looking toward her, Captain Tempest be- been indifferent, not to say cool. What ina- gan declaring, distractedly. licious fiend, my dearest, has been poisoning "'Cortent thyself, my dearest love, your ears against me during my absence ?" Thy rest at home shall be "'Pshaw, man! don't be. a fool !" said the In Rowlie's sweet and pleasant Inn,. woman, impatiently. "Do you know why I For travel ist not thee.' have some hete to-night ?" There's the old ballad for you, altered and "How should I know ?" replied the cap- improved; and here's our charming hostess tain. with the. pipe. Jacinto, my hearty, won't "Then it was to warn you, Captain Tem- you.have a draw ?" pest ; for there is danger at hand. Forewarn- Jacinto, who was completely puzzled 1 ed is forearmed, they say ; so, beware I" the capLain's eccentric manner, declined ; and "Don't plagiarize,-my dear woman. That glancing toward the tall woman, was slightly tragical ' Leware!' I have heard once or twice disconcerted to find her needle-like eyes fixed before, if my memory serve s me right, when on his face witha gaze of piercing scrutiny. you and I used to tread the boari s of Old "Who is this boy you have- with you, Nick Drury every night, and do the heavy tragedy. Tempest ?" she exclaimed, in a harsh, discord- Do you remember those happy days, my ant voice, as she came up, and bending down, charmer, when you were Lady Macbeth and seemed piercing the boy through and through I was the murdered Duncan ?" with her gleaming eyes. -1 Take care the old tragedy is not renewed "Oh ! so you have fouid your tongue, my in' real life I" said the woman. with a sharp sweet pet ?" said Captain Tempest. "I was flash of her eyes. "I can act Lad y Macbeth afraid you had lost it altogether, which would as well to-day as I could th n ; and," she be an unspeakable pity, ,you know ; for, as added, bringing down h'r clenched band the-Irish song says, 'you've got an illigant fiercely on the ipantel, ';1 feel quite as ready tongue, and easily set goingg" As to who he to do Atl" is, 'his name is Jacinto blandetti, or some- "No doubt of it, my love ; no doubt of it thing about the size of that, and be, comes rut alout this danger with which I am threat from old Seville-place where thef-raise (ntd, and %Ibich your tendr solicitude fee4-7 sweet oranges; and he is a 'good-idokipg py sake has made you take this long ad youth, as you perceive, though so.pewhat of lonesome journey to avrt-a journey sof the tawniest. .Ard so. no ' reset.' cf danger, in these troulous timis, Even through lbi . 41the flush young and lovely ftmale like yourself. 9 that covered the boy's fac Aie 'pitiless don't get into a passion. n'y dear. Wl gaze, could be sren,.as, Wt n, slIrp ihe se ? What wicked person or flash of his black eyes, h antly, has designs en Captain Nieki'Tempest no and turned away.. With her gloomy Othe blzi With something that might ave been in- fire, and her heav ed together, tended foi- a smile, but which looked more the v"oman stood wile, as if she like a distortion of the features, she gazed af- had not heard th captain Nick ter him a moment, and then, slowly remov- Tempest looked a er mile, and ing her scrutinizing stare, fixed her eyes again then went on tm a sidekog on Captain Tempest. glance, as he did i Isinto. Ihe "Well, I'm glad you've got through look- oung Ppaniard stood it i1sla k to tQ4, ing at him and a-drmiring his beauty, my gazing out into the dojnrgom of the dear," continued the. captain, in the same raw, chilly evening e caa felt sure seeking strain. "I was beginning to feel a not one word of the 6o"1'YEatiot r asct on little jealous, you know, seeing the hearts of him. young and tender females are so easily capti- "Nick Tempest," said the k- vated. Come, sit down here beside me, and ing up at length, "do youn re. tell me how the world has been using you for dictions of that old W(IfWri31ire, i-n in the lnst ten months." . who was hunted to d4ith tor awit i ight "What devil's deed brings you back now, that you entered the 'aults of gaint Faith-s Captain Tempest ?" said tle woman, spurn-- church and stole the dirmond-ring off the ing the seat he placeA for her away with her finger of--" foot, aid leaning against the mantel. - "Hush V" exclaimed the. captain, fiercely, "1Really, my -dear Grizzle, your manner of and half-springing from his Echt, rs Se eosla address can hardly be called strictly polite; quick, apprehensive glance toward the bey. but plainness was always a failing of vonrn" - But still the lad stood motionless as a figme Andhe glanced slightly at- her forbidding in marble; and, as if reassured, lhe sank lack countenance. "I came here to see my friends and said, in his former tone of care less mock. generally, and to see Mrs. Grizzle Hiowlet. ery: particularly-though that lady's welcome has "T9 be sure I remember it,.my dear Griz- THE MYSTERY OF FONTELLE HALL. 9 ale. I have had an excellent memory through but lie could not fathom tie sudden emotIon life,,and it is not likely I would forget that that had blanched the cheek and changed the night; more 'especially as you, my charmer, voice of the Spanish boy; and at length he accompanied me in the expedition. Let's see. turned away, with a long, wailing whistle that Didn't the prophecy run something like this: told bow completely ie was baffled, and, fol- 'When thou 'rt twoseore and ten, lowed by Jasinto, passed out of the room to Thy fortune turns then. behold his unknown foe. "There is some one that:night thou wilt see, The deadliest foe That thou ever wilt know- CHAPTER II. For a life wi.1 be lost betwixt ye ?" TUE LONIH H OUSE. "Yes," said the woman ;." and what night "Away then hied the heir of Linne, O'er hill, and holt, and moor, and fen, is this?" Until lie came to a lonesome lodge "This? Why, this is the tenth of April- That stood so lotr in lonely glen." my birthday, as I'm a sinner! Captain Nich- -PacT RXr.rquZ. olas-Lazarus Tempest ,is fifty years old-just Both Mr. and Mrs. Rowlie had deserted the ivroscore and ten-this minute, as I'm a sin-, bar-room, and stood in the door-way talking ner. Whew ! then this is the very night !" to the stranger, who was on horseback, and - As lie spoke, the sharp clatter of horses' could' be clearly discovered in the last rays of hoofs rang on the stony street without, and a the fading daylight. high, clear voice was heard calling: Captain Tempest drew back a little behind "1Hallo! within there !" the ample person of the worthy host of the "iAnd here is the man himself!" cried the Mermaid, and scrutinized the hew-corner with woman, starting up, her eyes filling with a more interest than one usually examines com- dusky fire. "Captain Tempest, you have plete strangers. And very well worth look- been warned. Look to yourself !" ing at the stranger was, as he sat on his su "1I intend to, my dear," said the captain, perb horse like a prince of the blood ; and with a sneer, as lie, too, arose. " What a loss the captain could not help inwardly acknowl- you are tothe stage. Kermble could not have edging that seldom had his eyes fallen on a spoken that sentence more tragically. What, more gallant figure. le was a young man, are you going?'1 of not more than four or five-and-twenty, tall Wrapping her coarse cloak closer about and finely formed, with a certain bold-, dash- her, and drawing her gray hmood down over ing look that well became him, and a sort or face till nothing was visible but-a pair of fiery indefinable grace about him at once careless eyes, the woman waved her arm with a ges- and high-bred. *his dark, curling hair, his ture half-warning half-menaciug as she cast clear, bold blue eyes, his ihandsome mouth, a last look at the captain. shadowed by, a thick, dark moustache, with That gallant mariner responded by a bow his handsome figure, made up what all must as profound as that of an old lady in a miinu- have admitted to be a remarkably handsome et, and kissed his hand to her as she disap- young gentleman-for a gentleman he evi- peared. deutly was. lis dress was travel-stained, his "Good riddance to bad rubbish, eh, Jacin- heavy top-boots splashed with mud, and his to ?" lie said, when she was.gone, with a quick, horse looked as if he had been ridden long sharp glance toward the boy. "Ugly as orig- and- hard. inal sin, ,nd with the devil's own temper. Ha! Holding tie reins in one hand, the young the Mysterious Unknown is calling again! man was pointing with his whip toward the As I am likely to have an interest in the gen- north. tleman, I think I will just step out aid see "So that's the way to Fontelle, is it?" he him. What do you say to coming with me, was saying, half-musingly. 'I thought it my lad?" lay in. the opposite direction. Can I reach it- Nearly a minute passed before the boy .to-night, do you think ?" lie said, turning to either answered or turned round ; and when Mr. Rowlie. he did so at last, Captain Tempest saw a face "Well, yes, sir; you might, and then again from which every, trace of color had fled- you migitn't," responded that worthy, white even to the very lips ; and with a look scratching his bald pate in perplexity. so strange and inexplicable in the depths of " How many miles is it from here ?' asked tihe dark, lustrous eyes, that it fairly stagger- the stranger, adjusting his horse's girths. ed that worthy mariner. " Well, sometirucs it'i more, aid then agrin "Ha'lo ! what's the matter with you, my sometimes it's less," replied Mr. Rowlie, sen- boy ?" lie exclaimed, in amazement. , . tentiously. " Nothing !" said the boy ; but even his The handsome stranger looked up and fav- voice was changed so that the captain hardly ored mine host with a stare of so much sur- knew it. prise at this announcement, that Mrs. Rowlie Captain Tempest gave him a piercing look, felt called upon to strike in. hp

10 - SILVER STAR; OR, THE MYSTERY OF FONTELLE HALL. 11

"Ti means, if you please, sir." .said that said the young man, in his careless wayI; I the faint, distant booming of the sea, and the "Now, the saints alone know what sort of little woman, dropping a smiling- little cour- never quarrel, save with gentlemen." melancholy wailing of the wind, that-was ris- savages live here," said the young maim, as he tesy, "that it's according to the way you go. With a fierce oath, Captain Tempest ing.each moment, aid his sharp pace grade- alighted, and raising the handle of his heavy If you take the turnpike, it's nigh onto forty grasped the stranger's bridle-rein so violent- ally relaxed ; and loosening the reins on his riding-whip, knocked loudly and authorita- mile; but if you go over the mountain, it's ly that the horse almost fell back on hbin horse's neck, he suffered him to go at a more tively at the door; "but be they goblins, ten miles less, sir, if you please." haunches. moderate pace. kelpies, or earthly sinners, I'll try them, "Oh"-said the-stranger, enlightened, and "You violent young puppy! do yog know Night had .fallen at last-fallen in more sooner than pass such a night as this is guing touching his hat gallantly to the old lady in who you are talking to?" he cried, in a voice than Egyptiaiu (arkness - with a " gloomy to be, under the cold canopy of a New Jersey acknowledgment-" I see; but as I am a hoarse withpassion. sky ab vo, a gloomy .earth below." The sky." And again he knocked as if lie would complete stranger here, I do not know the "Some rascally, low-bred Yankee, I have wind ente wailing up from the sea, and over have beaten down the stout, oaken door. way over the mountains ; 'and it would be no doubt! Come, sir, let go my bridle-rein!" the dist-ant hills in long, lamentable blasts, A moment after, and' the sound of bolts rather inconvenient, not to say unpleasant, to said the stranger, calmly, but with a sudden aad a thin, drizzling, duicomfortable rain that- withdrawing met his ear ; and the next, it break my neck just at present. So, on the rising light in his eycs that might have warned percel the skin, began to fall with it. Tiho swung partially back, but as ha attemptel to whole, I'll take the road for it; my horse will Captain Tempest of his danger. blast was raw, and cold, too ; arid, with a shiver, euter lie was held back -by a chainwhich lpre- -do it in five hours, I think. Is it going to But Captaih Tempest, hearing only his the young mnm lifted a folded eloak of black vented the door opening sufficiently for that storm before miidnig!it, think you ?" said ire calm, even tone, laughed insolently in hisk clot ', lined with rich far, that lay over the purpose. Not a ray of light could le see, stranger, glancing at Mr. Rowlie. face, and grasped it till the tighter. As he saddle, and flang it around his shoulders. In btit only a white jace that shone through the "iWel, n]ow, there ain't never no saying did so, a hand was laid on his arm, and the vain himstrove to pierce through the Tartarian deep darkness. about the weather hereabouts, 'cause it gen- boy Jacinto stood beside him, his momentary darknes-the eyes of Argus himself woubl " Who are yon ?" said a harsh, unpleasant erally does what it hin't expected to do. It emotion all gone, and his face expressing have failed in suchl a ni 4 ht;, so, pulling his voice, that might have belonged either to a might rain, yo'u know, and then again it only concern at the quarrel. hit down over his fuce, to shade it from thme man or a woman. mightn't," said Mr. Rowlic, evidently deter- "Do let go, captain! Why -should you blinding rain, lie allowed his wearied steed to "A traveler caught in the storm, who, see- nained not to commit himself. quarrel with him, a perfect stranger?" said jog on after his own will. img the light, has sought shelter hcre," he an- The stranger laughed. the boy, earnestly. -' 1 "If I hal thought time storm would have swered, promptly.. "1Oh ! thankyou ; quite enlightened. What At the sound of his voice the stranger had arisen so soon, I would nave stmd at that inn "Are you alone ?" an acquisition 'yon would be to an almannc- given a sudden start, and fixed his e es on all night," he said, in a sort of soliloquy,; "but' "Yes; unless you call my horse company. maker, my good friend. Well, I think I will his face, with a half-puzzled look, like one, it's too) late now, and I must mike the best Come, my friend, be hospitable enough to let try your road for it-and an infernal road it who tries to remember something. Jacinto of a bad bargain. On, Salalin, my bo, oi! me in. I am able to pay you, as it happens, is; my horse is lamed already. Good-bye, did not meet his gazc--he was looking intent. T tere is rest and comfortin store f -r yoi, once for a ight's lodging." my friend ; good-bye, madam,"-said the young ly at the captain. we reach Foitelle. I wonder if there. ii no "Ent r," said the invisible voice, withdraw- man, gathering up the reins preparatory to "Go to the- d-lI" was his harsh re- house along the way, wihcre i cmilid stay for ing the chain. " One has to hi eareful-who starting. spouse, as lie shook off the boy's hand and the night ; or have I lost nV wa- ali)mog teI they admit these times ; for since the war All this time Captain Nick had been watch- tightened bhs hold of the bridle, never for a wi d3 of Jermsy ? What a Dm Qmxote I am, there have been marauding parties of soldiers ing him, and listening, intently ; and now moment relaxing his ifisulting stare of deri- to be sure! 'lie said, with a slight haugh, to knocking about the country, ant it makes it suttering: "iNot so fast, my fine fellow. I'll sive triumph from the strdnger's face. leAve marrie uigla.1 anI ride over to Ame-i. dangerous for a poor, lone woman to admit find out what you're ,made of first," he came The words recalled the young man from S a nsearchi of a Ilvenata res, at I bg inabyho rse-every one. Walk in, sir; I'll see to your horse." out, and stood directly in his way. the transient interest Jacinto had exeited, and if whipping one of Lit ' natives. What a renar- " lhank Nmi ; I always make a point "Beg pardon, sir-going to Fontelle, eh'?" with a stern compression of his handsome ably handsome bmy that was. an how his doing that 'myself. i'll accompany you, if "Yes, sir; have you any objection ?" said mouth, and a brigh, angry flash of his hand-- voice did reini ma of -ii if that s nt a you'll allow mue." the young nman, soothing his horse, startled some eye, he turned to the captain. .light, by all tmat's hie.y ! Turn, Sala lin ! -"As you like. Here, Orrie ! Orrie !" by the captain's sudden appearance. "Will you let go my bi-idle-rein, sir ?" he there's shelter at ta 1!'' called the w6miamn, suddeihy throwing 4pen a "INot the least, my young friend. May I said, in a high, ringing tone. Farim thedistaaen, dumly twimnklinmg troigh do r aim aimnitting such a flood of light from ask your business there ?"' "No!" said the captain, with a snee' tie deep gloom, the trave er tadc iught-a a linige, blazing fire, that for a imoimnt the The young man rai. ed his handsome eyes, "Then, by Jove! I'll make you!" le cried, -faint, uncertain riy of light, a. never dii strangers eves, accustomed so long to the and fixed them full on the captain for a mo- and quick as lightning lie raised his whip, stores tossed mntrimer hail the welcome hea- darknaes, were half-blinded. ment, and said, qnietly: . and cut. the captain a blinding slash in the -conl mre gladly tIhte did he. . Salaim saw it, " What?" said a childish voice, so cloqe to "1Yes; you may ask, but whether I'll an- face. to,; an I pricking up his ears, he ienlel his his ehow that tie started ; and looking down swer, or not, is another question." I. With a shriek of a beast of prey, Captain dejected pace and struck off from the high- lie saw a little boy. apparently about twelve "You'd lik, a guide-over the mountains, Tempest, bleeding and bliided, sprang back, road in'the direction ivhenoe it cane. - year .of ae-the most elfish mite of child- wouldn't you ?" continued the unabashed cap- and with a derisive shout, the young man Nearly an hiur idelapsed since his lea-- hood lie hiad ever buhel-with a smia-, thin, tain. "What would you think of me, now?" struck spurs into his liorse and flew ddwn iig the M inrmud,and the young nmamnjumail-ed dark face, precocious beyond its years, and '-Well," said the young nian, car-lesssly, the road, shouting back, as he did co: hue had com' about six miles during that I t up by a pair of the most wonderful black " after mature delihb'ra'on en the subject, I " Good-evening, my .inl friend !-better time. 'Tie idt appeared, as le ient, to e-es, that ever were seen. Its druss ws an s'iold say, if T want d an impertinent scoun- luck nxt time !" And, with a nlagh, lie was have been firiurer 'of than at first hue had odd affair-a sirt rel-flaninel skirt umidler a d:- 1 for a guide, I should take you. Your out of sight in a moment. The lnst glimpse supposed ; and the house, if house it were, hoys' jacket, and a b3s' cap crushed down imee is anything tt, lttera of recommenda- he liid of Captain Tempest, showing him livid to be situated .in a sort of marsh, or bog, into over a tangled nias of short, thick curls, from tion, my ~god friend." and foaming at the mouth, in a perfect frenzy which his hore siuik at every step. Still, beneath which gleamed its odd, wild, cunning, . li , n," by H eaven !" sail the captain, his of impotent rage. Smaldin plowed his 'way bravely on, sink- little,.elfish face. face growing crimson with anger, "my deeds The young nian rode on rapidly for nearly ing- and rising again, until the light was "Take the lantern and show the gentleman shall not belie my face! Out of this you half an hour, tasting a glance baick every now reached at last, and the traveler saw it issued i the way to the stable." said the womnan--a shal iot stir unitl you have answered-i' that and.then, as if he exp'eted pursuit ; and-when froi an upper window of -a solitary house- remarkably tall, hard-featured specimen of epithet !" it became too dark to see, halting at intervals ia very truth, a "-lonesome lodge that ttood femaledom--as she passed into the room'and "KMy dear sir, you really must excuse me," to listen. Nothing met his-ear, however, but so -lovi in lonely glen." left him. 12 SILVER STAR; OR, TIIE MYSTERY OF FONTELLE HALL. is The child darted away, and presently re- imen of the angelic sex. It seemed to him seemed changed to appeared with a dark-lantern; and springing that she imparted a sinistercharacter even to . "Qufte right, si'", said the woman, light- steel, and his handsome out into the rain, seized his horse by the the peaceful And domestic occupation of pre- 'Ma candle. "This way, if you please." face grew set and stern. bridle, as if-it were quite a matter of'course, paring supper. e turned and followed her up a fiuirht of Softly removing his heavy boots, he stole and led him off, followed by his master, who " Woman, lovely woman !" thought th stairs, and into a 'large, dark, low-ceilinged noiselessly down the stairs, nd through the laughed to himself at the odd figure the child, young man, with a half-laugh, as lie looked room, where a fire was dimly burning. In crevice in the door he could plainly see and out. at her grisly face, almost hideous in its one corner stood a bed, and in another a table, hear all that passed in the room-himself un- ugli' aid this, with a couple of chairs, comprised "'What a spicy tiger that same little atom iess, now that the hood 'of her cloak, which observed. Three men, one, stout, middle of mankind would make! and what rig he she still wore, was' thrown the sole furniture of the room. Setting the- aged and short, the other two, young, and of bali. " What a candle on the bas on, to be sure ! He would be worth a mil- mouth for kissing I wonder if by any pos- table, the woman bade him almost gigantic stature, either of whom might liQn ill cash to ride the favorite at the Derby.'' sibility anybody could ever have loved that good-night, and left the room. have taken a premium for villainous coun- The child led the animal into the stable woman, for in her best -But somehow, tired as lie was, the young tenanees, sat round the fire, talking in low, days sie must have stranger could not up his occupied by another. horse, and tied him up, been worse than ugly - wicked! -Wonder inake mind to go to earnest voices. The woman Grizzle, the most and be-zan unloosening his trappings in a what this queer little kelpie in the bare bed. villainous-looking of the lot, sat beside the fcet There seemed twinkling. The young man assisted him, and is to her. Old Grizzle! a most appropriate-, something evil and sinister elder, and it was her voice he first heard. about when Saladin had been properly rubbed name. A ' poor lone woman, indeed!' It's the woman, anl1 the plaeo altogether, "I tell you it's worth fifey pounds, if it's down and cared for, 'they lgoth left the stable little hMeneed fear intruders, guarded that banished all- desire for sleep. This worth a farthing !" she was saying. "4It was by the lonely house, far removed together, and turned toward the house. three-headed dragon of Age, Ugliness, and from every other set with gems-real hrilliants, too-none of -You're quite used to this sort of thing, I Poverty."' . habitation, was just the place' for deeds of your sham cheats; and lie's a born aristocrat see, my lad," lie said, glancing in mingled, The young man arose, and turning his back blood and darkness. All the old tales lie had himself, it' ever I saw one-nothing of the curiosity-and amusement at the boy. to the fire, brought his coat-tails gser heard or read of t ravelers robbed and swell or humbug about him. Of course, he, forward over. murdered in lonesome old houses, and never .4Tying up horses?-should think-I was," his arms, and with his legs in the form of a has more money with him than that, and you said the child, with something like a chuckle. triangle, subsided into that state of tranquil heard of more, came crowding through his will find him the best bird you have plucked "Is this a regular tavern, sonny ?" happiness 'all true-born Englishmen mind, until he had worked himself into a this many a day I" feel in waking nightmare. "No; but .folks stop here sometimes, the above position, and sank in to a day-dream, Placing his pistols on the " But the pistols ?"said the short, stout mian. though." -' ~ from which a call to supper awoke him. table, he6raised the blind and tried to louk 44Pooh! he's asleep before thim. 'The light's "Who lives here? What's your name, my The hungry traveler obeyed with alacrity, out, but it was as dark as Erebus, and a per- out of his room, and even with his pistols, boy?" pulling out his watch, an elegant gold one set fect 'tempest of wind and rain was raging. what can lie do in the dark-and against "I ain't your boy!I I ain't a boy at all !, with brilliants, to see the hour. As Preferring to risk the uncertain danger of three ? - Ile thinks we will com in at the he re- robbery and murder, rat her than the more I'm a girl I and my nanie's Oriole; but for placed it, lie started slightly to see tie fierce door, if he thinks of it at all, which is not snort they call me Orrie," said'the little one, gleaming. ey's of the woman fixed upon it, certAn one of a completed drenching, he-flung likely, though he is wle awake, I can tell you! -, with a greedy, devouring gazp, that himself into a chair before the fire ant felt ,What does he know about the trap under the sharply. was in- into " Whew!".whistled the young man; "here's stantly removed the deep thought. - An hour passed, and then bed ? I tell you there's no danger, and it moment their eyes met, another, and all was perfectly still. The fire will be hundred a discovery. I beg ten thousand pardons; That look was a revelation. Rep Ineing the five pounds, if not more, in but your dressled n into error.. What makes watch, he sat down in silence began to burn low on the earth, and the can- your pocket. Vhat makes it better, lie's a to supper, in- die flared and glittered on the table. too-I know he is, though lie was as ?" wardly wondering whether het Rising stranger, you wear boy's clothes would not have with a yawn, the young man was "Oh I she makes me wear whatever's hand- been quite as safe out in the storm as here, about to close as an oyster, and dodged every question iest!" aid whether, throW hiimself, dressed and all, on the bed. I asked him." as the old adage Ias it "lie hhad when a sight caught his eye that startled "Who is 'she,' Miss Oriole?" not halloed before lie was out of the , Some strange magnetic attraction made the woods." him almost as much as tlhe "Why she, you know--her that let you in." During tIe ineal, lie was assiduously waited ghost of Banquo young man remove his eyes from the speak- "Oh i tiutt tall old womanI Is sie on by'the woman, did king Macbeth. At the head of the bed, er's face, and he was startled to encounter a your who made various'efforts on the whitewashed wall. was the dark clotted motherr?. to draw from him his name and business, pair of great, wild, glittering black orbs, fix- " My mother'?" said the child, with a shrill, which lie completely, bafled by his evasiv' mark of five fingers, as if a bloody hand had ed full u .oi him, riveted to his face. It was elfish .laugh; "no, I ain't got none-never answers. been suddenly dashed against it. '[here it the child, Oriole, crouched up in a corner, was, glittering red, and ghastly, and horrible, bearing full upon him. had any. She's only old Grizzle !" "Your room is all ready, sir,aind you can her great black eyes They had reachled the door by this time, go to it whenevei- you like," in the dyiiig light of the fire-that bleeding He half raised his hand as if to warn her to said the woman, hand-on and the little one darted in, in her quick way, as he arose from the table. the wall. It seemed so like the re- be silent, when the voice of one of the young alization of his fears, so like a ghost rise men caniglit and fixed his attention. held it open for the stranger, and'then closed "Very well, I will go now. But first," he and bolted it again. in a flash. - said, carelessly, from tihe dead to warn him, that lie recoiled " Of course, there's no danger ; and that "I will look to my pistols, inmhorror from the grisly sight, "Come right in here," said Oriole, lest the priming may have got wet with 'and gazed on fellow's as safely done for as if his throat along, tii' it with pretty whose fleet mnotioni reminded him of her name- rain." mtuch the same feelings, as was slit from ear to car this minute. When Robinson Crusoe gazed on the solitary foot- are we settle. im, tiother ?" sake, as she hell open the door of what seem- .He'drew out from the breast-pocket'of his Io ed to be the kitchen, up the ample chimney of great coat, s lie spoke, a pair -of handsomely- print on the sand. " I'll go up to his door and listen first," All thought which roared and crackled a huge fire-a wrel- mounted pistols, and examined then careful- of going to bed was now out of said the woman, rising, "and try to find out ly. As the question, anid approaching his door' lie whether lie's asleep, or only shamming. 111 come sight to our cold and weary traveler. hie suddenly looked tip from his C- opened "Set a chair eipation, lie caught his hostess it softly and listened. ThIe door, at be back in a minute." for the gemntlemnan, Orrie. Sit looking at him the up to the fire, sir, anl warm yourself," said with something like -a sneer on her repulsive foot of thie stairs, opening into thekitchen, "hHe'll soon sleep sound enough, I'll war- was ajar, and through it, plainly audible to rant him," said the other young ian, stirring the .woman, as she whiip'ped a large pet off face S his ears, the fire,'from which issued a savory odor of " It is not safe, to travel unarmed came the subdued hum of several up the fire. with a laugh. , these voices boiled pork. times," he said, looking hr full vices-men a too. At t4mat moment the young stranger felt a in the face, The young traveler had stood face to behind The young man looked at her, and thought as lie replaced them. "A well-primed pistol face hand, icy cold, grasp his wrist from that in all has life lie had never-seen or heard is about the best thing with death. and danger many a time before with a grip of iron; and with a half-repressed a man can have just now, and had plenty had a more villainous and repulsive-looking spec- at present." I of physical courage ; ejaculation he turned round to sce who and now as he saw his full danger, his nerves caught him. "1'

.. 14 SILVER STAR ; OR, THE MYSTERY OF FONTELLE HALL. 15 CHAPTER III. " They'll putyou down cellar!" said Oriole,' "a mighty pleasant prospect, upon my word! "But there's four of them, and you can't ANESCAPE. Jn an awe-stricken whisper, her large eyes di- I might as welh deliver my last will and testa- kill four," said Orric, 'sith a puzzled look. Macbeth.-" What do ye there!" lating with horror. ment, veritably at once, to this queer little "Larg' odds; but I've fought against as Wan.-"i.A deed without a name."-Sanxias. " Will they ?" 'said the stranger. " i'mnot damsel, and then devote the remainder of the miny before now. I didn't live in ascertain " Hush!" said terrified voice, " don't make so sure about that. But, good heavens! what tume to prepari-g for heaven, or-the other green island of the west, as aid-de-camp to a n-ise-don't speak i t's, ony1 me." an infernal den this must he ! l7o they often place! I Piv, my little friend, I wonder they His Grace the'Lord Lieutenant for three Tears, It-was the voice of the child, Orrie. The put people down cellar, as you call it-which,' ae so impru-lent as to allow you t know without getting into a shindy now and then- young man danced in wonder to the place being translated, means murdering them, I about these blood-chilling things, or to be in thank fortuneI" said the yoig Englishman, where he had seen her last; but it was empty supposed ?" -- - , the room with them while they are plotting speaking more to himself than Orrie. now. "Oh no!-not often. I only saw them put their hellish schemes ?" ' "And so you'ree going to kill them ?" said " Come up stairs, quick! Oh hurry, hurry!" one down; .and old Grizzle said-" and' the " Well, they wouldn't either; only the last Orrie, with simiiplicity, exelaimnel the -child, in an agonized whijier, child clung to him as she spoke and her great time the man screamed out, and I heard hii "1 shall make the attempt, my young as her little halndclenehed his wrist foria mo-.: black eyes grew wil 1 and horror-stricken and caine in. It was in this room, too," said friend ;.and if I fail-why there wil I only be ment, with almost supernatural strength, andI again-" that if I ever told shne would put me the child, sinklg her voice to a whisper, and a scapegrace the less in the world. ut see the n se flitted as lightly and noiselessly as a down with him. Oh ! don t .you tell her l1 casting a terrified glancearound ; "" and he here, my good little girl," he said, stopping shadlow-up the stairs. :Oh don't tell her!" 'she cried, clasping her was on that bed, and old Grizzle had him by before her, and lifting the tangled hair off her There was no time to lose. The woman. little hands in an agony of entreaty- . the hands, and Blaize by the feet; and they small, eipsyish face, "what will they say to who had stood listening whilst they spuokef, "Tell her, my dear little savior ?" said kept -him down, and his face and neck was all you, when they find you here ? TLey will now started to cross the room ; and the strang- the young man, stating down on a chair, and covered with blood, and he screamed out- half kill you, wont they Y' I, indeed I er, taking two or three steps at a time, sprang lifting her up on his knee. "Not oh, dreadfully !-untilKit held the pillow over' S01), yes! 1 forgot," said the chil, start- lightly up the stairs and 'entered his chai- What makes you live in such an -accursed his face, and when lie took it away, he was as ing up in terror. " I must go. I can't stay, ber. place ? still-oh, as still as anything! And then"- you know. 'Old Grizzle, no doubt, thinks I Little Oridle was there before him; and the Oriole lifted up her black eyes, and looked and Oriole's voice sunk lower and 16wer, and have gone to bed; and if she' were to catch moment lie entered, she shot back the bolt at him in the greatest astonishment at such a she shivered convulsively-" they put him ,me herd, she-" securely the door. question. 1 down collar-and he's been there ever since !" " Would put -you down cellar," said the "Hush ! Listen!" said t e child, in the "ihy, because I've got to," she said de- A slight'shudder passed thrceugh the form young man, with a smile. same s - tle i*bisper."Make a noise when cidedly-. of the stranger, and a look of * " Yes," said , . . young horror Orrie, moving quickly toward she conm S, o she won't think you are asleep. " What relation is this old hag of Hades to aundloathing swept over hi dne face. the door. If she hears you awake, she' won't come in you, my child ?" " Heavens abo e ! what a sght for a child'? But, nt that instant, a sudden noise, start- just yet." "She paint nothin'.to me as I mows of. 'I What a sight Fr any one in a Christian coun- ling enough, arrested her steps, and sent her The crealdng sound stairs invariably per- ant nothing' to nobody, I guess.". try ? What did they. say to you for coming young blood curdling t- her heart. sist in making when one treads'then on tip- "Thea how came you to ive hire with in, my dear child ?' It was the hushed souid.of footsteps lie- toe, warned them that the lady of the house, heir ?" -- Ohi!i Blaize would have killed me, only low, and a sudden noise, as if s me one had was at hind, and the young man, acting on Lor'! how should I know ?" said the child, 1shewouldn't let him; but she leat me dread- stumbled, followed by a fierce, suppressed the child's hint, began to whistle, pausing with an impatient jerk of her shoulders. fal!y," sail Oriole, wincing at the recollection. oath; and then there was an instant's death- now and'then, and moving through -the'room " Where's the kood of your asking ab6utthiat, "And she said, if ever I told any one, she' like silence. as thou.rh ie were preparing-for bed. Oriole when you know well enough they're coming would put me down cellar along with him. I As if frozen where she stood, the child Or- stood with her ear glued to the keyhole, up to kill you, by and by ?" - . never did tell any one either, till you come; rio paused, her great black eves wild and di- listening with all~ Ier might, hol ling up one " That's true enough, by J)ve !". said the and I shouldn't have told you, only they were lating, her lips springing, white starting up. " We must take and quivering, little finger warningly, and now an I then miv- young man, going to put you down cellar too. Don't you apart, her small hande involuntarily clench- ing himan approvig nod. At last she rais- measures to baffle their aind intentions, my tell her, miud-you said you wouldn't, you ing -until the sharp nails sank in the quiver- ed her' head 'and dre w along breath; precocious little friend. ITheard them mention know ?" ing flesh, her very breathing suspended, until "Sh"'a gone," si said, coming over and a trap-door under the bed vhen I was listening " Neither I shall-don't fear. ~'And so, as it became painful to liste o for its return. Not looking eariestly up in his face;'"but she'll on the stairs, and.here goes to look fdr it !" you knew'of the other murder, they didn't-mind the faintest sound escaped her.: she stood as 'Ome back, and so will they-old Till, and Ie attempted to move the bed-as lie spoke, your being in the room and hearing of this ?" if turned to stone. Kit, al Blaize." / but it resisted all his efforts. "No," said Oriole;.":heythoughlt Iwould Making a hasty motion for her to be silent, 4 My .ear little girl, how in the world came- "You can't move it," said Oriole, "And not tell, you know,'cause it's a god long the young man seized a pistol in either hand, you on the stairs that time?" said the young there ain't no use a 'trying. Don't you see while since then, and never did tell nobody." and fixed his eyes steadily on the trap-door, maii. who at first had been- inclined to dis- it's nailed down ?" " And why is it that I am to be 'put down his handsome face set etern and resolute, his trust her; but tle terror and earnestness of " Well; but what about this trap ? I must cellar.' as y ou call it, since they have let other's eve bright, bold; and dauntless, his pulse calm her fice was too real to be assumed. see after that, my little sprite." And lie IS'- escape ?" and steady. "Istw you, amd c'ime round the back way- ed the valence "of the bed, and stooped 'down " Oh! case you've got money-old Grizzle There seemed a momentary pause below, there's another pair of stairs, at the end of to examine the floor. says so-and a'nice watch, and lots of things; in which nothing was to be heard but the the house, that we come up sometimes, and "Ugh!" said Orriewith ashudder'; "that's and she wants 'm. If I was you, I'd give heating and ashing of the et rpo without; I had to come round or old Grizzle would tIge way they go down cellar, and that's the them to her, and tell her I wouldn't tell any- and then there esme the near sound of bolts have'se'en- me. But oh ! what will you do?" way they will come up 'here. Don't you lift body. 'The ywon:t be any good to you, you cautiously a itlidrawing beneath. she exclaimed., clasping her hands. ' They'li it up)-I wouldn't go near it for the wo-dId! know, if you are killed ?" The young stranger grasped his pistol all come up by and l'y, and take all your Oh; I forgot! You canat anyway, 'cause it's "ThaL's true enough.' said theyoung man, tighter, and sighted it, with deadly accuracy, money, And, then-" she paused with a vio- fastened underneath." with a omient ar ;mile. "But supposing for the trap. One moment more,"and one at lent shudder. "So, then, there is nothing to be done but I neither let them ill me, nor give them the least of these midnight nasassins would have "Well, and then ?" said the young man, to sit here and wait till they tm k proper to watch-eh ?How would that be, Orrie ? If got his due; but Fate, or Providence, or the looking at the chill with more curiotity than come and finsli mc," iid the young man, it comes to killing, I rather fancy they will brave young Englishman's guardian angel anything else. rising and walking up and down the room-. find two can play at that gams." willed it otherwise;. for, at that moment, in, THE 'MYSTERY OF FONTEILE HALL. 17 18 SILVER STAR; OR. eould ride through it until I got to Fontelle; I handsome guardsman, "it ain't possible, is the very crisis of affairs, a most unlooked-for virtue frankness is to be sure, and how newly b1A I found my mistake before long, and it?" interruption occurred. girls get over it, once'they are-emancipated would have stoppel at the Mermaid allnight, The stranger smiled, and bowed slightly. A loud and violent knook-a knock that from hantalettes. I don't know but what it only I knew it would be impossible to awake "And you're the" Honorable see Frank, :Alfred Is. shook the whole house from, attic to cellar-, would be right'for me to go and old.Dob Rowlie; so I just rode on till I carme browe, I rother of Lord Earneeliffe !" exclaim- resounded on the front door. too. Solitude's a very fine thing in i!s way; here. And here I 'am-what's left of me, I ed the boy. There' was a quick, ,startled ejaculation but there is such a possibility as having too mean; foe I got more than half-washed away "'And noe hew of Robert Do Vere, Es., of from below, and the bolt was hurredly shot much of a good thing ; and this is not ex- by the rain !" Fontelle? les, I have that honor," said the back. . actly the place where one would fancy their " WhIt took you to New York now ?" said stranger. A faint, repressed cry broke from the lips own thoughts for companions either, right the woman. "'There, sit it, and take your Up sprang Frank from his seat; and dart- of Orrie ; and the young man lowered his over the grave of a murdered man. Who supper, if you want it." ing over, he caught the young Englishman's weapon, and looked at- her in wonder, knows but I may discover i Frank a cousin " Oh, Jack sent me, of course. I'in order- hand and shook it heartily, saying, with a de- Again the knock was repeated, louder and of mine, too? it's worth gong to see about, ed about, up there, as if I wasn't of the lighted shout: longer than before, until the house echoed at all events. So here goes!". alightesteonsequence to anybody. Deuce take "Hooray I if this ain'tan uncommon He rose, as he spoke, and passed from the streak and reverberated with the thundering noise. Jack, I asy !" exclaimed Master Frank, with of good luck, my nanie's not Frank! Good The stranger bent his head and listened in-. room-LOrrie having already gone., his mouth full. gracious! just to think of it! Why, . As lie descended the stairs, lie heard some-* it's the tently ; and, with hearing shnrieied by excite- " Amen!" said a voice that made the worn- most unexpecked and knock-down rencontra be-' body blustering in like the god of the wind ; ment, heard the sonad of retreating feet an start, and the youth jump up from his thatever any bod heard of since they were lo*; and then, for an instant or two, all was and then a cheery, boyish voice exclaiming, chair. Iborn.1" said Fran', shaking the Honorable perfectly still. as its owner stamped and shook' the rain off And the next moment the young stranger Alfred's hand as if it had been a pump-haa- But only for an instant ; then the belated himself: pushed open the door at the foot of the stairs, dle, in his surprise and delight. wayfarer without, whoever it might be, evi- " Blow, ye winds, and crack your. cheeks 1 and coolly walkiod in. Poor Frank's a-cold ! I say, Mother Grizzle, dentiy deterniied to be heard if the door The keen, piercing, hawk-like eye of the CHAPTER IV. held out, raised another uproarious knock, ac- why didn't you let me In when I knocked, woman wAs bent u pon him for an instant; but FONTELLF. 9dmpanied by a shout tha could be even first, and, not keep me here in the rain till I'm his fa -expressed nothing butitsusualcareless - of 14 a sight to see, not -to hear of? 'What with aagfroid as le met her gaze, and then glane- It was a sandy level wherein stood heard in that upper room, sangroiet asier ie aze, fid ten lan'-- hisold and lonesome house. Fiar as the eyo "Hallo I within there! Open the door- mud and rain, I'm a picture to look at-ain't .

k 0 18 SILVER STAR; OR, THE MYSTERY 0 F FONTELLE HALL. 19 "Obi, was I? And you hope that it may 'I should like to konow if you, two mean to ly as long as I can remember, and always "'1What's in a name?' as Juliet says. 'A eome true, some day-do you ? Of. curse,'I go to bed to-night?" said tl woman, snap- was the sne queer little wasp she is to this rose,' you know, 'by any otiber name would am mightily obliged to you; but, atthe same pishly. "I can't sit up here till morning day. I expect she found her under a toad- smell as sweet.'" time, I'd rather be excused," waiting till you get done talking."__ stool, or riding on a rush-blade over from "I don't-believe it. Call it-A cabbage, for "1But you were not alone," persisted the " Will, go to bed, then," said Frank. ,"No. Scotland, or dancing in 'a fairy ring some instance, and how would it sound ? If -yo; wonan,-as if ie had not spoken. body asked you to sit up." bright Hallow Eve night, and captured her." read in a novel, now, that a chap presented "Indeed ? Well, it is pleasant to know Merely regarding Frank with a contemptu- ",Shouldn't wonder. I should like to know his lady-love with a cabbage, i's 'an emblem even that. Who had t~le attroeiods taste to ous glance, the wonian turned sternly to Cap- something more of her, though." of his affection, what would you say? Why, -ecompany there, my dear madam ? tain Disbrowe: "6Why, you haven't fallen in love with her, that lie was a cabbage-head, himself., Juliit "I saw," said the old woman, folding her "Are you going to'your room, sir, or are have you ?" said Frank. be banged " said Frank, in a tone of disgust. arms, and looking full in his careless, hand- you going to stay here?" "Not exactly," said Captain Diabrowe, "She was in love, and couldn't be expected some face wi h thr sinister smile, " I saw some ""rThafs a question 1 can't -take it upon my- with a slight laugh. " I feel an interest in to be in her proper senses. There's a great one falling dwn, and down, and down into self to answer on so short a.notice, madam," the child, though, on account of a little serv- deal in a name. Her lovyer was Romeo that dark and -loathsome gnIf; and lie, fallen said the young man, running his fingers ice 8'!e did me this evening, and because I Montage. If he.had been Romeo Stubbs, I and degraded in their scornful pride, in the through his glossy'dark locks'; "but don't think something might be made of iera, jet. wonder how she would have liked it ?" very slime at your feet, spurmned alike by put yourself out on my account, I beg. Al- Well, let her go. And now, about Fontelle. " Well, as I never- had tlh honor of the God anl man, and that one was-" low me to insinuate that you had better retire I suppose they received Earneeliffe'sletter ?" young ladyls acquaintance, -I cannot take 'It "Well ?" said the young man, startled a to rest yourself, as it is considerably late, and "4Saying you were.corning to pay us a vis- upon myself to answer that question. 'And little fr >m his nonchalant manner by the sup- time all honest folks were it bed." . it-yes," said the boy. "I heard Jack and so Lad Augusta, and Uicle Rob, and Coue- pressed passion that throbbed like a rising " Oh, well, she needn't hurry for that, as it Gus talking about it, and wondering what in Jack, constitute the. fmily at Fontelle tide in her face and voice. don't apply to her ease- in the least," said sort of an individual you would turn out to Hall fiya"Fnel "1Jack De Verc !" she said, raising her voice Frank, flippantly. be." "Yes," said Frank, slowly, and looking in almos to a shriek, as with a last malignant A darker scowl even than usual settled on " Gus?" the fire; they do, rather, when i'm not glance site turned to leave the room. the lowering brow of old Grizzle; hutwithout "Why, yes-. Oh, I forgot you didn't there; and I'm a host in myself. I hope "1Don't mind her, Captain Diabrowe !" cx- a word, she walked silently and sulkily from know. ~I mean cousin .Augusta-Lady Au-- yon intend making us a long visit, Captain olaimed Frank, itlignantly ; "she's crazy oune the room. us-a De Vere if you please."' '. bisbrowe ?" half her time, and not very sensible the rest. " She's a pleasant hostess. she is," remark- "Lady Augusta? I thought you had no "Perhaps-if yqu don't tire of me and'turn Nobody minds what old G'-izzle Howlet says." ed Frank, looking after her, ' and the sort of' titles over here."' me out," "Who is this Jack Do Vere, on whose des- a woman a man would like to marry, I don't "9Haven't we! That's all you know about "I'll risk that! Jack will 'like you, I tiny I am to have so dismal.an effect ?" in- think. I htope you on 't jilge all our Amer- it, then. Why, every, second man you meet know, and Jack's word is law at Fontelle. quired the soldier, resuming his indifferent ican ladies by the two speciuneis you have is a colonel, and a general, and a squire, and By-the-way, though, Cousin Alfred-I sup- manner. just seen. We have some tolerable good- lots of oher things. Unele Rob's a squire- pose I may call you' that-what first put it "Oh, a cousin of.ours,, ot course ; one of .looking females among them, as I will show Squire De Vero, you know. But they used into your head to honor us with a visit, any- the De Ver(s of Fontelle." you 'when we reach Fontelle." to call lher Lady Augusta when she was a lit- way '" "1Is he at Fontelle now ?" " That ehild, Orrie, might growmup a hand- tle girl-she was such a proud, haughty little "'Pon my honor, that's' a puzzi"Omy young Frank nodded and laughed, and the laugh some girl, yet," said Captain Disbrowe. duchess ; and so the name's stuck to her ever friend. I don't even know how I ever dis- was shrilhy echoed.by tme elfish sprite, Orrie, " She might, The'moon might be made of since." -- k covered there was buch a place as America in who still cronched in the chimney corner. green cheese, for all we know." "She wouldIn't be a De Vere if she was not existence. - Oh, come to think of it, 'ed "Then I shallsee hi'm to-morrow ?" " She has-landsome eyes." proud," said Dibrowe, quietly,. Howard, of the Guards, told mie. He did a "Yes; you'll see Itim to-mofrow," said "Yes-; so has a toad."*. . "Oh, wouldn't she! Well, they call me a little fighting lhere, once upon a time; and Frank, still laughing, and seeminglyimmense- " Comb, now, my cynical. young friend,". Ie Vere, and anybody that says I'm proud- as I got tired of lounging about the Serpen- ly ticdeil by some inward feeling. said the young Englishman, laughing, "-if why, I say they're mistaken, to draw it mild. tine, and making'love to Lady Janes and La- "Wiat are you laughing at ?" said Captain she were properly cared for,.she might grow To be sure, it's not my narne; but that's dy Marys, I thought I would try the Hudson, Dislruiwe, with a puzzled look. up a fine looking girl' neither here, nor- there, nor anywhere else, by way of a change. And so Earneeliffe in- Frank opened his mouth to protest hi" nev- " If-if!" said 'Frank, contemptuously. for that matter.I formed me I had a half-.uncle, or something, er w-as more serious in his life, but in the-ef- "If the sky'falls we may eatch larks. She'll "Not your name ?" said Disbrowe, with a here, and wrote' to lim to let him know what fort ano her roar -ecaped him. have to be born again before you can rhake stare. a nice youth I was, and to warn him to treat " Well, this is rather droll,",said thte young anything of tlut little tawny kelpie, but a "1No, sir !" said Master Frank, emlphatical- me tenderly; and I of tained unlimited leave Englishman, ' laughing over such a solenim wierd, witch-like, old-fashioned little goblin. ly. "My name's Stubbs-but tell it not in of absence, and came, and saw, and-no-yee, matter .as the extinguishing of Mr. Jack De I beleive it my soul tbero is somethoig un- (ath. You, see, the way of it was, my moth- I did,,though !-I conquered an insolent fel- Vere anT Cap tain Alfred Disbrowe, when-" canny about that same little hornet; and I r anl Squire De Verts wife were sisters'; lowIl met at the Mernmad .Inn." " Orrie !" called the harsh voice of Mother never see her bla-k eyes shining on me, in and when father and mother died, and I went " How was that ? Who was le ?" Grizkle, at this moment, "get up and go to the dark, withoutfeeling inclined to take to to live at Fontelhe, everybody took to callittg "Not acquainted with the gentlemen. He bed.". my heels and run ,as if Old 'Nick was aftet me De Vere. I was a little shaver, then ; and was a short, stout, red- haired, red-whiskered "I don't feel sleepy, and1 don't want to go," mec." '.:-. the nahie's stuck to me ever since, until, individual,'with an unpleasant, not to say fe- 'aid Orrie, settling herself closer into the Cor- "What is site to that pleasant-spoken old sometimes, I don't feel quite sure but wh it I rotious, expression of countenance, and an ner.1 lady, our hostessI? Iteu' grandebill ?" am a De Vere, after all. It's an awful filing ail generally that looked like a cross between With the ringing tread of a dragoon, the old' "Her grandchild? No; old Grizzle only off to come down from that pinnacle of high- a sailor and a hdganian." woman marched in and approachled'her; but has two sons-Kit and Blaize-a precious and-night3ydonm to' plain, unromantic, un- "Wity, it must have been Old Nick. O seeing her intention, 'Miss Oriole thought dis- pair of lhang-dog scoundrels, both of 'em!.1 varnished Stubi s; but it's the hard, substan- land of hope and blessed promiseI if it w"" eretion the better part of valor,. and, sprinig- aund neither of them nre married nor likely to tial truth, and there's no dodging it." '' biip, you had better look out for sqiualls." ing up, darted away, and wasup the-stairs in be. I don't know what Orrie is to her; but Captain Disbrowe stro ked his moustache, "AhI . 'He was ugly enough to be Old a twinkling. she has always lived with old Mother Ghast' and laughed at Frank's rueful face. Nick, or anything else you like ; but I wasn't 4

THE MYSTERY OF 20 SILVER STAR; OR, FONTELLE HALL. 21, aware his Satanic Majesty took visible shape and bent over him, and gazed intently as he ter part of his speech might Le considered some antique style ; while the southern on and sported a tarpaulin hat here in these lay with his head resting easily on his arm, plavfull ironical. I seemed of more modern date and construction, Unites States."I and hislhandsome face plainly revealed 'j the GrirZe favored him with a glane of wither- lighter, airier, and more elegant. Extensive "Oh, I mean old Nick Tempest. What gray morning light. Lightly she lifted the ing contempt, and went steadily and silently and handsome grounds surrounded it, and a did you do to him ?" elustering waves .of his bright-brown hair- on,'preparing breakfast. which was soon ready, long, winding avenue of tall ma ples led up "Gave him a cut of my horsewhip in the from .his forehead, and peered closer and and sooner dispatched. Then little Orrie to the frontdoor. It was a fine old mansion, face, by way of a slight hint to be more po- closer in his face-the old sinister smile grad- brought round their horse, while the young strongly resembling the old manors so eom- future." ually breaking breaking over lips. Did she Englishman settled his bill with the hostess. mon in England. lite to strangers in " And now, madani," "Whew !" said Frank, thrusting his hands read in that fine and aristocratic-looking lie. said,, fixing his "As lie named it after Font-lie Park, in in his pockets, and indulging in a long, wail- countenance a tale of haughty pride, but eves keenly and significantly on Icr face, England," said Frank, "lie had it built, you ing whistle. "Well, then, let 'me tell you, * lightly vailed under the cirelesslevity of his " before I bid you good-morninag, allow- me see, to resemble it as much as possible. loes you have mad t an inveterate and deadly en- waking manner?---atale of dauntless during to thank you fori your and your three friends' it really look like the old English house of emy for life. That fellow's worse than a Cor- and high ambition, that would spurn *-very kind imentions toward me last night; and to the De Veres?" sican-he never forgives, an injury." obstacle a4 so many worms in his 'ath, until advise you, when you next hold a secret con- "Very much;" said Captain Disbrowe, in " Well,-there's not much love lost, that's one the goal of his hopes were won ? Something ference round the fire, to be sure the door at evident pleasure; "very niuchi, indeed. It eonifort. Who is he, anyway ?" of that, she must have read, if she were skilled the foot of the stairs is shut. ;Good-morning, only wants the broad lawns, and gladA s, and "-Oh! the captain of a schooner, -and, they in reading the " human face.divine "-fi.r all madam." AAd with a slight and peculiarly- the great park, and the deer, and the 'silver said the boy, lowering his were legible in that handsome face in i0 re- graceful bow and smile, Ie -assed from the star' above tie- gate, and the gatekeeper's say, a buccaneer," house. Not a muscle voice. "He has been seen cruising round pose, of the woman's face lodge. Do you know the 'silver star,'Mmaster the coalt, and it is more than sus pected that Suddenly he moved, restlessly, and mur- proved, not the slightest start or sign of Frank?" his deeds are evil, But it won't do to speak mured something in his sleep. The woman guilt did she betrav, but with a muttered . Don't I?" said Frank. "Is iere a day of that subject here." bent down.to hear, but she could only cAtch "lumph!"-she folded her arms and looked of my life I don't hear of tie 'silver star' of "And why not?" the words: "When I come back, Norma." ofer them until they were out of sight. the De Veres ? ' Ihasn't uncle Rob the family "0 well, he's thick with old Grizzle, and " When you come back, Norma!" said " What did you an an by that?" said Frank, arms emblazoned in the drawi ng-rooni?-and her two precious sons. Grizzle, rising,1 with her evil smile, and look- as they rode rapidly along., 2 doesn't the 'silver star ' shine there from hand-and-glove with "Never mind, 'Birds of a feather,' you know, and so on. A ing down upon the sleeper. " Will you ever now," said Dishrow, "I year's end to year's end, and never set? But sweet set, the 'whole of 'em !" come back to Norma-whoever she may be? shall tell you all about it some other time. for look here! if that ain't the very Jack you "I wonder the authorities don't look after o Jack De Vere ! God grant the day miay tal:-ing at this sharp pace I don't admire." - want to see!, Jack! Jack ! I say !"hecalled, him?" soon come when I can see your high. pride A rapid ride-of sMearly five hours, through' raising his voice. " The authorities 1" said Frank, contemptu- laid low, anal your haughty head under the forest-patlis and, naudly roadls-'-considcrably lie galloped on, followed by Disbrowe, ously. "With his fast-sailing eliipdr, he can hel of this gay, proud Englishman, with his different from what the sane route is to-day until, suddenly reining up, lie exclaimed, in a snap his fingers in the faces of every.mother's fair, young face and scornful heart !-and may -brought them, at last, to their journey's voice full of qui, t malice and delight: of, them, and he's wide-awake, I tell you. Heaven send the day soon -when I can reay end. , "Jack, this is our English cousin. Captain son " Why didn't you takethe shorter way Oath a weasel asleep, indeed !'But I feel you a thousand fold-for all -our taunts, and Disbrow-e, allow me to make you acquainted sleepy, and will seek a little virtuous repose jibes, and mi-ckery I" over the mountains?" Disbrowe asked. with Jack De Vere." in the arms of Morphesus, if you have no ob- She st ruck her clenched hand on her brena, "0lh! well, for various reasons: the first Captain Disbrowe looked up, and sat for a she e-uld have beaten down a lion, and and chief of which is, that I would rather not moment stock-still with surprise. Well he jection." a, if ."Not in the least, and I'll copy the ex- her face was livid with the raging passion break my neek just yet, if the public gener- might! ie was"not tie first who had been ample of the 'wise virgins' in the parable, and throbbing in it, yet forcibly held baek. ally

-I 2ILvER STAR, OR THlE MYSTERY OF FONTELLE IALL. ,28 becomingly dressed, who, after bet first brief and smnl erect head, were beautifully shlap. girl before him by such a course, never was Would you take those lorses, reeking hot, scrutiny, bowed and smiled, and held out her ed, and bespoke a-strong, energetic, far-seeing self-comphacent man more wofully doomed to into the stables ? Walk them gently up and hand, and gracefully welcomed her English brain within. Her small, rosy mouth would dis ppoinrment. Cool as a Lapland icele, down for a while, can't,you? And Lo that's cousin to Fontelle Hall. have been perfect, but for the half-meeking, self-possessed ani self-conscious as crowned your opinion, is it ? bum !" she said, with her It wasseldom the self-possessed, courteous half-sarcast c curl of the short upper lip, queen on her throne, indiffeent aid care- provoking smile. "Well, what else do you captain Diabrowe was at a loss; but for a whose haughty curve bespoke a pride as high less as the breeze that' toyed with her fair think about me ? It didn't take you all tha. monient he was really so now, and as h me- and string as his own.- in a different way. clustering hair, sine stood before him, with a tinmi to conclude *I was charming, and what ehanically took the hand she offered.he'gazed But the look of half-mockery seemed the lire- pride and Case of manner that, in its very <.:se was it?-oh, enchanting!-did it?" drst at'her and then at Frank, so evidently veiling expression of the piquant, sparkling depth of qnietude, arose and -vertopped his 6 By'no means, how could I help thinking nonplussed, that Frank, who happened to be little face, whose irregular features owed their 'own, and gave the Honorable AlfredDiabrowe, you were very beautiful?' blessed with a lively sense of the ludicrous, chief beauty to their constant animation. brother of an earl and a pees in prospective, I" Dazzlingly beautiful is the term my ad- laughed uproariously. 1-Herlook of mingled seriousness and mockery to understand that, if he intended to despise mirers generally use ; and I like it better," " Jack De Vere," he repeated, like one in -'it was that so puzzled anii half annoyed Dis- her he must do it at a remarkably snfe dis- amrIenided tire yoing lady. a dream. browe, and left him, as it did every one else, tance. And lie, the flattered, dourted, and "Dazzlingly beautiful, then be it--,, the term The young lady withdrew her hand and at a loss to tell whether she was in jest or caressed in all the gilded aons of brilliant is mllostrrppropriate, and shows the-good tate smiled. earnest. Her hairwas soft, silky, and beauti- London, who had danced wit h princesses, of your admirers, Miss De Vere." "This is some of four work, Master-Frank, ful, and hung in clustering, dancing curls flirted with regal duch eses, and ma-e love to A sirdihen, hot fish, like a rising flame, with your Jack De Yoee! My name is Jac- Around her bewitehing little face ;. hut-it 'Lady Georgianas without number-at whose leaped into the cheeks of the youig girl at quetta,"sailshe, turningtoDisbrwe, "which was red, uncompromising, defiant red, and coming cheeks had flushed, and bright eyes he words. they have the barbarous taste to transform no fiction of friends 4r lovers eould make it had fallen, and heartA had beat laster-under '' Miss Do Vere," sli said, vlhementl, into Jack-thinking, I suppose, a boy's name auburn., And now it flashedl and scintillat- tire ool gaze of whose handsome eyes many "don't call me that! I hate the naie! 'I do suits me best. Whether they are right er ed like wings of flame in the radiant sun- 4 pulse under a diamond bracelet had bound- iate it!" she said, almost passionately. not, I must leave it to time and your good shine. ed, found himself more calmly waved back, He looked at her in amazement, to see her sense to decide." There was something else about Jack Do and told to keep his place; and by the bright cheeks hot, and her eyes flashing fortan inst- S" Ohb!hog pardon! I see it all now,"'said Vere that puzzled and perplexed Disbrowe clear glance of those gray eyes made 'to un- ant ; and then, the next, as she mt his gaze, Pisbrowe; and the next instant he lad sprung not a little; arind that washer strong and un-. derstaniJ ie must remember it, too, until she as if by magic, her face cleared again, and she from his horse, and stood with his hat off be- definable resemblance to some one he had chose to descend front her- pinnacle. For looked up at him and laughdd'; tore her. "I fear I have appeared rather met before-who at thit moment lie could once in iris life, the dashing (uardsman was "Don t be shockedI I hate formality, I rude ; but I was so surprised Allow me to not remember. There she stood before him, made to uideretaniltimt a haidsome face. and- mean ; and it rather startles me to Ie called redeem my error, and salute my fair cousin cool, bright, breezy, airy, and unmistakably fine figure, aiid gallant bearing, and aristo- anything so stately irs 'Miss De Vere,' " and now." . fair, reininding him of a saney boy-a very cratic name. were not petnfeetly irrisistible. , she mimnicked his tone to perfection. "I'm And taking her hand, lie would have suited sancy boy-yet with the air: and grace of a "0Well, sir," said a quick, imperative voice, not.used to in, you see; and it doesn't agree the action to the word ;- but Miss Jack drew lady withal. in tones of miigled anu.serment'and sarcasm, .with my constittion and by-laws, either. back, and interposed the other hand as a From all he had heard of her, Captain Dis- "what is the decision ? I see you have come Call me Jacquetta, or dick, or I'll come shield. browe judged she muatbe an Amazon, a romp, to one. I have nidergone a keen scrutiny without calling at all, if you prefer it. 'Just "Panlm o palm is holy palmer's kiss," she a hoyden-the horror aind abomination uoftie fourth last two or there minutes; aid now for whistle, and I'll coni to you ny lad'-rather said, colly. "And 1,'as a staunch Yankee refined, fastidious. Englishman. Acenstom- your verdict, my lord judge!" that style of thing,you know." girl and patriot, have 'vowed a vow,' ever ed to, the cold hauteur and high-hred eleganiea SIe lhad faced rounl so suddenly and urn- " With all my heart, Miss Jacquetta, and since the war, of eternal enmity against all of the ladies and peeresses of hii native land, expectedly, aid looked up la his face so keen- may I also hope to hear my Christian naime im Englishmen. So, my very dear cousin, you he shrank in horr r from anything like hoy- ly, with hr hecuiliar mining smile, that a niusie from your lips." will have to admire me at a distance, until denism; and an Amazon would have been slight flish tinged. for a inisianit, the fine face1 " To be sure -you diint expect I intend- better acquairited." looked 'ripon by him ini about the same way of Diabrowe in'his conscious guilt. ed calling you ans thg elsr--did y on ? and " Then permit me." And he raised her as lie would have looked upon a'gri-Mly bear "Ahr, you ncednit speak. I can read my' you my own cousin, too," andl hel laughed, hand gallantly to his lips. "I shill try to or. thegreat sea-serpent-as soinething to sentence in that guilty look; an-I you have arrd gave him a glance en frill tf hidden, induce you to break that cruel vow before we gaz anid slhdde- at, at a distance. The light Pronuoune, id rue a second edition of the hottle- mocking meaning, that lit, was rore pzzled pat-t. Tihe sins of a whole nation should not fragile figure, and fair delicate face' of thia amp--a' natural curiosity like the ouranig-out- what to make of'her than ovrer. "'Arid pray be visited on one individual head." - 'oirg gi' seen , though, to contradict tho ang, or any other outlandish animal, and you wimt is it ? John, Peter,IJarinauls, Tuni, Dick, Though ie had bent over the band he held idea thatshe couh be one of these mornsters; are just thinking what a fortune some enter- or llarrv, or what ?" whilst speaking, he had been looking intently but from all he'had heard of her from Fraah, prising shoiwmra n'Might make by putting me r Nith( ; it halipens to be Alfreil D6 Vere in her face, and trying to decide, strange as it left him to infer that she was, and that ho in a eare, and t inng me.over to London, and Dishbrowe." it may seem, whether she were jrietty or must not jmilge by appeninees.' Tliei, too, exhibitng rme as a real live specimen of that -Phew! All thrt for a name. Suppose we plain. she had red hair, which he detested as be- terrific creature - the American female. make it Alf, for short. (h? Apropos of long It was a question that had puzzled others tokening vulgarify and a fiery temper - two Come, cornfiss-isn't thtt so?"I ram. s, there is armold Purittan woman who han before him, and countless were the different revolting things,~aecording tr his high and "Is it Possible you can wrong me by such lived at Fontelle, as a sort of privileged serv- decisions that had been pronounced on tire spiritnelle notions of tie adorable sex; an d sio a thought, my denr cousin ?' hIe saiL recov- anit, ever since I can remember, and her name matter. He saw a small, bright, animated bore a bovs name, which was another shook crinrr himself. " What "an I think oif vou ibut is Tribulation Fear the Lord Rawbones-- face, full of energy, daring. and determina- to his particular and fastidious taste. And so that yo are the most charming little fairy in there's a name for vou!" tion, yet fair and delicate as a tinted rose-leaf altogether, in the very few mites that he exiptenee, and thIe most enchantinig of cous- Disbrowe laughed. " Yes ; rather an inconvenient name in complexion. Her eyes were ,large and stool watching her, he made up his mind, ins." for intensely bright, And ofthe detest, darkest quite to his own satisfaction, to dislilp- Jack " you, really ?" said the young' lady, every-day use,-isn't it ?" gray, sparkling and fishing when She was De Vere, and only thinkof her as something casting a critical eye to where one of the serv- . " Oh, we 'call her Tribby; except on fes- excited, until they seemed of midnight black- to smile at arid pity. ants were about to lead off tIe horses. "I tivals, and .then she gets her nime in fNll, Desa Her round, white, polished forehead, But if he thought to mortify the young say, William, mind what you're at there! But now, Cousin Alfred, are we to go up to 24" SILVER STAR; OR.

the house ; or, as you have exhausted the sub- bowing. to "my daughter Augusta," a ta 1 jeet of my innumerable perfections, am I to haughty, dark-ePed, darphnired, pale-faced begin aid say pretty things to you ?-which ?'' beauty, cold and stately as a duchess, w th "I propose that we adjourn to the house, the- fine, proud, aristocratic fice of the Do and I will take all the pretty things for grant, Veres-as different from her sis: er as dayfrom ed.- I wish to see my uncle and my other night. cousins, as soon as possible." "Ai, is it a pleasure ?"'said, Miss Jacquet.. "Well, come along, then ; they are ooth in, ta, airily,~",I didn't know. Perhaps, before as it happens, and will be delighted to see you, Ton are acquainted with me long, you will of course." have another notion about that." Both walked along together, and ascended "Tut, .tut, sauce-box !" sad her father, a broad flight of marbe steps that led up to chucking her under the chin. "Little girls the massive hall-door, in the centre p:rt of should be seen and not heard, my dear. You the building. This opened into a vast hall, musn't mind our little Jacky, my boy.; she's a high, dark, and silent, and flanked on either spoiled child, and nothing else, and thinks side by doors, and with a staircase of polished hei'seif privileged to say what ever she oak at the farther end, leiding to the upper thinks." rooms. Opening a door to the rigl.c, Jac- "A rare virtue in this insincere world," quetta ushered him into a spacious drawing- said Disbrowe, politely. roon, very high, very dark, very grand, and "'Isit always avirtue ?" said the fair; proud silent, and bearing over the high marble Augusta, lying languidly back in her-chair,. mantel the escuteheon of the house of DeVere, and lifting her eyes slowly, as though it was with its brilliant silver star. The furniture too much trouble to raise their heavy lids. was carved and massive, and evidently be- "In Miss Jacquetta it doubtless is, and longed to a former generation ; and a few rare cannot be sufficiently admired, more particu- old pictures, masterpieces of master painters, -larly, as the charming grace with 'whieh- hung around the will. The immense win- "There, Cousin Alf"' bike in Jacquetta, dows, reaching almost from flour to eiling, efiging herself into a chair, and hding up were hung' with dark purple damask, lined one tiny foot, and lookinr at it critically, with corn-colored silk; and the thieK, dark - doi't put yourself out to turn a comlplinent. - carpet was no dainty Brussels or Turkey nifinir, I'll i'nagine the rest. as %on did a w a'o, 2ile but one 'that had evidently been used for half you know. 'As to his not minding me, papa, a century, and was likely to stand half a een- I wouldn't advise him, as a friend, to try it, tury more. The chairs, and tables, and sofas, for-did you ever see an enraged American were all of the same massive, carved, antique female, Captain Disbrowe ?" pattern; and thse eyes of the young English-. "Not as I am aware of." man lit up with pleasure, as lie looked around "Well, then, don't-as long as you can help and half-audibly murmured : " A fit home for it; for the forty horse-power essence of wild- i descendant of the old De Veres. I hate eats is nothing to it! its something t 'rrifie, now furniture and new houses. I tell you, and has to be seen to be appreci- Jacquett i had left him upon his entrance; Ated. You cold-blooded English, over there, and for a time he was left alone to wonder a ean't begin to have the first idea of what it's little at the profound silence of the houso, and like." wonder more what manner of girl this o ld "Come, Jacquetta, eome! this won't do," cousin of his might be. Before he could come sail "papa," fidgeting, and taking a pinch of to any satisfactory 'conclusion, the massive snuff. oaken door swung open, and a tall, hale old "Why, I hope you consider yourself En- man, of stately presence and dignified mien, glish, Miss Jacquetta," said Disbrowe. "kindly but frosi y," stood on the threshold, "Me! not I! I scorn the idea! I'm Yan- with a lady on his arm. kee to the core of my heart! A regular Jer- " My dear boy, i'm delighted to see you," sey true-blue! Me English, indeed! I look he exclaimed in a voice of cordial welcome, as if Ilhad niuch of tlhe plodding, sober-going as he came -'forward, and grasping both Dis- John Bull about me !-1dont I ?" browe's hands, shook them heartily. "What, "Now, Jaequetta, my deixr, how ean you ?"' an unexpected pleasure this is, to be sure! said papa, deprecatingly, while a faint smile Bless me ! I1ow like you are to your mother, dawned on the moonlbLrht face of Lady Au- my poor sister Clara, my dear boy! You gusta, and an angry light leaped to the dark look like a De Vere,' every inch of you! Al- eyes of the haughty young Englishnian. For- low me to -make, you acquainted with your tunately, at that moment a bell rang. cousins -this is my daughter Augusta, and "The first bell,"6said.the iinster of the this is mny daughter Jacquetta, but you know, house, rising, "dinner will be served inlihalf )er already, it ap *ears." an hour; and I presume you will wish a few "I have that pleasure, sir,"said Disbrowe, momentss' rest after your long ride." THE MYSTERY OF FONTELLE HALL.

"I certainly require it;" said Disbrowe,. CHAPTER VI. running his fingers through the disheveled Tng sECenT. l.eks of his rich-brown - hair ; "and I am "She said, and raised her skinny band, rather travel-stained just at present, no As in defiance, to high heaven, doubt." And stretched her long, lean finger forth, He held open the door for the young ladies And spoke aloud the words of power." to pass out, as he spoke. The queenly Au- -TALARA gusta acknowledged the -courtesy by the The dinnerbell had rung, and a long inter. slightest band of her proud head ; but Jac- vAl had succeeded, but still the Honorable qietta looked, cunningly up in his face, and Alfred Disbrowe stirred not; still lie stood laugliel, and kissed her hand to him, and gazing on that picture, charmed, fascinated, danced after her stately sister like an incarnate as a bird is charmed and fascinated by a serp- sunbeam.. ent. Not that the knwing,.dashing, young Then Mr. De Vere, rang the bell, and a guardsman, the gay man of fashion, had much spruce chamber-maid escorted Captisin Dis- of the innocence and simplicity- of a bird browe up stairs to along gallery, flanked, like abouthim, and neither would I insinuate that the hall below, with doors, and ushered hi-n Miss Jacquetta De Yore had anything of the into what his host had called the " Star dark and dreadful subtlety of a serpent ; but Chamber"-a superbly fitted up apartment, certainly.it was some sensation akin to snake- with the walls and ceiling gemmed with stars charming that invited his eyes to that piquant, in an azure ground, an-l tie cornices fretted entrancing, yet anything but beautiful face. with gold net-work. A large, square, old-fash- It was not love-on the contrary, it was more ioned bed, hung with heavy drapery of blue like positive-dislike; but still he stood and and silver, stood opposite the door, and the gazed, quite forgetful that lie was to, arrange large' oriole windows wdre draped witi cur- his dress, and that the bell had rung ten tains of the same. In the immenSe fire-place minutes before, and that, imall probability, the roared and blazed a huge wood-fire, that original was waiting din .stairs, and in no warmed and lit up tie whole room, mid seem- very sweet humor at that'sane waiting. ed to iake the starry carpet on the floor lit- A sharp knook at the door startled him at terally sparkl . An immense mirror, reachinct last from his reverie, and in answer to his to the ceiling,.reflected back the room; aod "Come in'!" the door opened, and Frank en- on a lare oak table beside it lay books and tered. drawings, and numerous elegant toilet trifles. " What ! not ready yet, and the dinner But none of these objects attracted the eye of waiting for the last ten minutes, and Uncle Diibroe-sometiing else .had caught his at- lab the most particular old gentleman that iention the mornnt he entered, and held it ever wore a wig ! Whew !" said Master Frank, chained still. Over the bronze mantel hung thrusting his hands into his pockets, and be- a picture in ais oval fran, heavily carved ; a ginning to whistle. portrait of a small, mocking, -tantalizing, be- " Is it possible ?" sail Disbrowe, starting witching faea, with short, wving *urls, and up, shocked at his want of thought. "I de- sparkling,- flashing, gray ePs, scintillating serve the bastinado for mv neglect. I can't wi'.t mirthand mischief, atd hidden power. tell what I waw-thinking of, to forget myself It was a p.'rtrait of Jacquetta De Vere; an I so," he said, as he hurriedly began to arrange the red lips seemed wreathel into a mocking his toilet. smile, and the flashing eyes seed to deride " Well, hurry up, and I'll wait for you," him, as they met his own. The head was half said Fraik, Seatiig himself. "Jack advised turned, as if she were looking back --jst as uncle to send up one of the kitchen-maids to lie had seen her when she left the room a mo- help you to make yourself fascinating-it took in tt before, with the samale wicked, half-de- you so long. So they've put von in the Star fiant, half-laughing grace. Chaniber, have they"? There's Jack's picture. Leaning his arm on the marTtel, and quite I remember the day she hung it there, and forgetful of the flight of time, lie stood there called it the Irightest star of the lot. Do you a'id looked at it. What thoughts were throng- think her good-looking ?" ing through his mind at that rmoment? l)id " Certainly -you know there is no such lie think of tie prediction of the weird witch thing as a bad-looking woman," said , Dis- of thie lone inn-of tlie dark, loathsome pit, at browe, politely. the bottoni of which, her high priAe-laid low, " Oh, isn't there - what a blessed beauty she was to lie at his feet? Did lie think of Mother Grizzle is, for instance! Gusty's good- it after ward in the dark days that were to come, looking though-ain't she ?" when he. knew a doom worse than death was "Very beautiful," said Disbrowe, in all sin- hers-tit fair, high-spirited young girl,whose cerity this time, "she is'a true De Vere." bright face smiled on him from. the wall Which would you take to be the oldest n owYI now-Jack or Gus ?" said Frank. SILVER STAR; OR, THE MYSTERY. OF FONTELLE HALL. . 27 "Miss Angusta, of course," said Disbrowe, their neighbors ; and our Jack's te pluckiest and an unusual light'-in her dark eye, and -an be sarcastic," sail'Disbrowe, coloring slightly surprised at sneh a question. one of the lot. 'Although shs but flush on her pale cheek," that a man' at her covert smile. "I knew it," said -little, unusual Frank, with a chuckle, abe's made of good nettle,' as the old song of the people, who rises by his own unaided "Me I" said Jaccjuetta, raising her eye-brows "but ,she ain't though, Jack's two or three says." efforts in the battle of life, to power and dis- in innocent surprise. years older." "Do you know," said Disbrowe, brushing' tinetion, deserves a thousandfold more esteem " Oh,no! I hope you-don't suspect me of "1Is it possible ?" exclaimed Disbrowe, in his tangled locks, "she reminds me' so much and "respect, ani should he a prouder man, anything so shocking I" astonishment. "I can scarcely credit it!". of some one else I have seen, can trace his descent back to "Tell him about our gentry, puss," said "Wel, you may, then. Gusty's only eight- who-a shadowy I can't think than lie who resemblance in every mo- the days of William the Conquero-, snd can Mr. De Tere, with a sly chuckle. "You teen, and Jack's twenty an(j more, for all I tion." boast of nothing else. The great Earl of Ox- know every one within forty miles round." know. She looks youner-Ldon't she? But "I think she looks like little Orrie iHowlet, ford, from whom we Do Veres boast we have "Yes; and farther, too," said Jacquetta. that's because she's so small and fair-fair' at the inn, if ,thats what you was a great man, doubtless, in his " And I shall be only too happy to take cousin people mean," said descended, always look younger than they really Frank, " although Orrie's a regular little day, and would. have spurned the people, as Alfred around and introduce him. First, are, you know.". squaw for darkness, and Jack's fair as she well tre dust under his feet ; but whether will he or there's the Brontes - their real name is "Younger ! I hardly took her to be six- can be. I know they always remind me of one Washington, the Man of the People, be long- Brown, but that's no matter-and there are teen," said Diabrowe," she certainly does not another; and others say so, too." est -retnembered ? 'Which is the greaterlet six girls, the oldest of whom has been eighteen look that." "Yes, now I think of .it, she does,"'said posterity decide. One was forgotten many for the last five years, and intends to be for "She is, then, and she makes no bones of Diabrowe, meditatively, "but somehow she's and many a year ago; but while the world five more; and the'rest of whom, likewise, telling it either; and then it inakes her look not the one, I mean. , Dy Jove! I 'have it,' lasts, willIthe other ever cease to be remem- have come to asstand-still, and are firmly re- like a little girl wearing her hair flying about now," he cried, with a start, "she looks like Lered and revered." . solved to set Time at defiance, and not grow her face in curls, instead of braiding it, and the'f!llow I liorsewhippd-a pocket-edition "Bravo ! encore! I say,", shouted Frank, a day older until Seraphina Clementina is fixing it up like Gusty does. Do you like red of that same old coon, revised and improved, delighted. married. Their father. will give them five hair?' with the very same inso- the very same look "Really, Augusta," said her father, laying hundred dollars apiece fortune, and their hus- "4No; but then Miss Jacquetta's is auburn- in her ev es that he hbas." down his knife and fork, and 16oking at her, bands a share in the pork and tallow bus'ness; is it not?" said Disbrowe, with another polite Goo'd' gracious !" said Frank, laughing, 01a change has come o'er the spirit of your and it would bean excellent tiing for cousin fiction. "here's a discoveryI Our Jacl' like, ol dream lately. Two years ago, my dear Al- Alfred, if lie was to get one of them. Then "Auburn !" said Frank, contemptuously, Nick Tempest! 'What would Jaclk fred, there never was a greater aristocrat than there's Miss Arethusa Desmond, a limp young "it won't say if she be well for you to fell Jack that, heard that. Not but what I believe she would the young lady, who has just made that re- lady, on the bean-pole pattern, with white any way ! She's proud of her leonine locks, take it as a compliment ; for she fairly dotes publican speech; she would have trodden on hair, and eyes, who never pronounces thei let-. I can teAll you, and calls it her crowning glory, on dare-devils like him, and would make a the necks of the people as remorselessly as ter ' r,' and wito informed me the other day and wouldn't change it, she says, for any tip-top wife for a salt-sea rover or an Italian your haughty brother, Erneeliffe, himself, and she Lad 'just wead King Leah, a play by one other color under the sun. I remember Will brigand." thought them honored by the condescension, Mistah Shakspeah, and she liked it so vewy Redfern called her a young lioness-once, with "Speaking of. brigands," said Disbrowe, when, lo and behold ! she suddenly facesabout, much that she intended making her pa buy her red mane, after she horse-whipped him, "reminds me that 1 saw with old Nick Temp.- and becomes a red hot rebel and republican- her the- vewy next lie wrote.' Then there's one day, in the street." est, as you call him, a most enchaMting little stands up for the people, and advocates equal' Mrs. Flartie, a *'furrinner,' whose name in Disbrowe shuddered.' specimen of that article, in a real brigandish rights, and libery, fraternity, and equality, the original Greek is O'Flaherty, anl who " Horse-whipped him! Good heavens! what rig. Now, then," lie added, giving a few fin. and all the rest of it, as furiously as if she snubs ber'4usband-wothy little soul!-till did she do that for? it can't be possible, ishing touches, "I am at your service.". .were one of a French nob. What has changed he dar'n't sneeze in her presence, without lrely" .B Both desecnded to the dining-room, where her tactics, I don't know ; but chatiged they asking permission first, and wilo is nuilly es, it is possible, and served him just they found' MAr.De Vere and his two daiughm- are, with a vengeance, and I expect her to jealous of me because I pet 'ti epoor, bar, right, I sny ;'and what's more, she wouldn't ters-awaiting them. Distrowe's apology for crown it all by marrying a Smith, Jones, or innocent little man, and look after him grner- mind doing it over again. lie -insulted a detaining them. was sioilingly acceptell, and Robinson. one day shortly! I shan't be at ally, and who calls me an 'impident little red- girl, and she told Jacquetta ; and as the girl all were soon seated ronid tie ample board all sulrprised,' if she does." headed rip,' when I'm not listening. Then ind no father or brother to' take her part, of the master of Fontelle hall.' Ile laughed, as lie spoke ; but at the last frhere is Miss Betsy Boggs aid her two sisters, Jack gave hin particular fits with her horse- "During the mean Disbrowe made some words a deadly palness swept over the beau- all of'whom will make a detd set at our han6d- whip the.next time she met hin. Oh! she's inquiries about. the society of the neighbor- tiful face of his daughter, leaving her, even to some cousin "-ani Jaequetta bowed, and a spunky, I promise 'you ! Take ere von hood and the gentry. her lips, cold and white as marble. Disbrowe smiled across the tablW, in tme oh'l malicious don't anger htr some day," said Frank, lauigh- "Gentry," said lady Augusta, with hev lifted his eyes, and h'oked at her, as if a sud- way-" and capture him or die in the attempt. ang, "or she'll be after you with a sharp languid smile, " we have no den light h'ad dawned upon him, and slightly. Think how it would look when Lord Earne- stick." such thing'here, captain. ' All ien are born free and equal,' .smiled. cliffe would read it in the papers: Married- "Heaven forbid !" exclaimed Disbrowe, in isn't that what, the Declaratibn of Independ- "Miss Augusta is too staunch a Do Vere By the Reverend Jededih Spinitout. Captain horror. "'What an Amnazon she is! Who ance says, papa ?"T ever to marry tbeneAth her," he said, signifi- Alfred Do Vere, late of 11er Majesty's Guards, would. ever think a Do Vera could do such , "THow do .on, Miss De Veie, believe iII cantly. - , to Miss Betsy I3oggs, eldest daughter of Si- an atrocious thing!" Auch humbug as that ?" said Disbrowe, with "lBe assured of that, sir !" she said, haughti- mon Peter Bogg4, of Bougs' I1ole, Jersey."-, "I know another Do Vere who did such an a curling lip. y. " I never shall !" ' ihere a roar of laughter from Frank inter- atrocious thing, and it wasn't to avenge dis- "I think," said th e young lady. steadily, "That's my prood Lady Augusta !" said rupted Jacquetta. tressed innocence, either,' said Frank, ma- and with a rising flush singing, for her father, laughing. 'But what's got into What' a imalWiaus little imp !" thought liciously. a m o- ment, her pale cheek, " that prile of birth is my little Jack-o'-lantern here, that she sits so Disbrowe, inwardly wishing the wicked fairy. " You mean me, I suppose." aid Disbrowe, carried to an alsurd excess in Enghmd. Will still ?" ten feet deep in Thames' mud at that minute. laughing, " but I'm not a girl. Perhaps it redeem a mean or dishmiophle character "IWs so seldo'o I hear sensible people talk, " That's all, I think," shid Jacqueta, re- though, it's the fashion for young girls to act that lie can boast his forefathers entered with papa," said Jacquetta, demurely, "that I like flectively. "Oh, no! there's Mrs. Crizzle so here, in America.". the Conquest, and can display a coat-of-arms to listen in silent awe, when they do-that's llowlet, an estimable old lady, and mighty 4Oh, every one's independent here - do that reaches back for a score of generations. all." pretty to look at, who lives over there among just as they like, and don't care a snap for I think," she said, with increasing warmth, "I am afraid Miss Jacquetta is inclined to the frogs in the swamps somewhere. It's not SILVER STAR; OR, THE MYSTERY OF FONTELLE HALL. 29 likely you would fall in lovewith her, though, zie, folding her arms over her breast, regarded" to-day to Cell you-one that you would give CHAPTER VII. as she's a widow, and you might object to a them with her dark, evil sneer. the broad lands of Fontelle to hear. Remem- THE MIDNiGHT MUSIo. second-hand wife." "' Well, most potent, grave and reverend ber thit !" % "The midnight hour will son be here- not particular I" said Disbrowe, and That awful hear! "Oh, I am scignors,' ladies, too," she said; "so you "1Oh, I must hear her! I must, papa I" Waen graves yawn wide and the dead occupants careles-ly; "but I have seen the lady in had it all settled to arrest old Grizzle Ilowlet cried Augusta, gasping for breath, and look- Mingle with earthly life." question, and I rather think, if I did, she and her sons, and clap them into prison, and. ing ready to faint. "Lift her up," said the loud, harsh Voice of would soon be a widow again. As it is, she then, hang them' for robbery and murder? It was strange to see the calm, the stately, Grizzle; "she has ruptured an artery-that ame pretty near bringing my.earthly career What a pity so elaborate a scheme Abould the haughty Augusta De Vere moved like is all." to an end ; and-only for the providential inter- end in smoke, as so many other schemes have this. In all his life her father had never seen She attempted to lift her herself, as she position of my young friend, Frank there, done before!" anything like it before ; and now he gazed spoke, but she was furiously hurled back by you would hardly have seen me at Fontello to- "Is the woman mad ?" said Mr. De Vere, upon her thunderstruck. Mr. De Vere. day,. I fanc." antounded, " to come here like this, knowing "In .Heaven's name what is the meaning of " Woman, begone!~ touch her not!" he . All looked at him in curiosity, and the her guilt; for such an act is certainly the very this, Augusta? What secret is this wretched cried, in a'voice of mingled range and an- young guardsman'promptly reLated his noc. climax of madness!". 'old woman talking ahout ?", guishi. "You have slain my child I" turtal adventure at the old house. -Mr. Do "'No ; I am not mci1, most noble Festus, "1Oh, I cannot tell you! I dare not tell " She is not dead, I tell you," said Grizzle, Vere and Augusta listened in silent horror, but speak the words of sober reason,' as you you! but I must hear her !" exclaimed Au- coolly. "IRupturing an artery is a small af- Frank uttered an ejaculation of dismay, and shall soon find to your cost. What would gusta, distractedly, as she wept over and fair." Jacquetta puckered up her rosy mouth andl- you say to me, if I were to tell you that you stood close beside the woman. "Peace, you old bag !" said Disbrowe, whistled! will not only let me go forth free, but safo "I must tell you in private," said Grizzle, fiercely. " You have done mischief enough, " The atrocious old huag !" exclaimed Mr. from your interference from hieneetorth ?" looking around. now ! How dare you speak, after what you De Vere. "Goad heavens! that such a den " Yoi -will soon iave ny answer," said Mr. "You must not leave the room!" said Mr. have done ?" should so long have exist ed in a peaceable Do Vere, seizing the bell-rope and ringing a De Vere, sternly. "Jacquetta, tell the serv- " Dare !" said Grizzle, with a short laugh ; community! I remember, now, that about violent peal. ants to wait, and turn the key in the door and "I would dare as muclh as any De Vero eight months ago there was a rumor of a miss- " Call your servants as fast as you like !" let this farce enl!" among you; and verily, you some of a dar- ig Frenchmar,-a stranger here-anrid of said the woman, with a Jook of contempt ; Jacquietta, looking astonished and bewild- mag race. If haughty ladies," ishe said, point- whet no tidings could ever be discovered. " but before they, or you, laya finger on me, ered, obeyed. ing to the still insensible Augusta, " will coin- He must have been the one the little girl I must and will have a word with that'young ",Don't' listen, then! Staid 6ff !" said mit crimes-N es, crimes! I repeat it; so nev- spoke to you of. I shall have the old "%itch lady there 1' And she pointed to Augusta, Grizzle, witir an angry wave of her hand. er start and fook fierce, my young soldie'r- and her two rascally sons arrest. d before an- who stood regarding her with mingled horror "A De Vere should not be an cavesdrolp-er. drimes that even 1, ulurderess and all, as I other sun sets." and loathing.I Come over here, young lady," shesaM, tuk- an, shudder to think of, they must suffer the " I often. did hear," said Jacquetta, " that "We will see about that," said Mr. Vere,. ing Augusta by tlie arma, and leading he r over. Conlsequeences." any one born to be, hanged will never be calmly.. to the remotest oornr.' Captain Dshrowe " You shall suffer the consequen,ces,-you drowned ; and now I shall think it applies to "I tell you," said the woman, raising her walked to the window and looked out. Jac- old murderess !",shouted Mr. De Vere, furi- other cases besides drowning." arm and speaking with a sort of passionate quetta bent over tie table, with her back ously, as he laid Augusta on the sf4a, and " Which implies, you think, an elevated earnestness, "itwill be better for you if you do! toward them; and Mr. De Vere, looking angry, turned toward the door. "ty .the heavens destiny for me,"' said Disbrowo. -until the very day of your denth you, and all. astonished, and half-alarmed, stood,. with a above us! you shall never go free another " V hat do you say to riding over with me who bear your proud name, will rue it if you frowning bro'w, regarding them. haur,-for this l" to-morrow, Alfred ?"said Mr. De Vere. "We do not! Listen to nc, lady-you who stand So nearly ten minutes passed - during ' I But the tall form of Grizzle interposed tie- will go to Green Creek, a town about a quar- there so queenly in. your haughty pride and which Grizzle talked in a fierce, rapid, hissing tween him and the door, and her-long, com- ter of4 mile from this, and get three or four scorn-it will be better for you to hear what whisper, without once stopping, and rvsping manding arm wave him lack. men to accompany us. The accursed crew ! I have to say; foi- I have your secret and an-. Lady Augusta's nri in a %ice-like grip, As " No," she said,~resoltely, fixing her eyes they ought to be lynehed !" other besides, that you ought to have known she went on, a frightful change passed over sternly on his face ; " Noushall not go-'for "I am quite at your service, ny dear sir, long before this." the young girl. One arm was half raised, Vour own sake, you shall not go. It is n, t said Disirowe. "It will be a good deed to A frightful paleness overspread the haughty her blanched lips sprung, quivering, apart, 'that I b# ar any regard for you-it is not-that rid the svorld oesuch a gangif face of Augusta, and, with a faint cry, she her eyes strained and staring, an awful dark- I hear any love for one of your proud name " To-morrow, then, We'll see the secrets of caught and steadied herself by a 'cbair. As ness, as if sie were strangling, s tling on liar -it is not that I do not hato, from the very that o'd sink -of iniquity brought Lo light, and she did. so, the door opened and a servant'ap. face, and with it a look of horror-of wildest, deiahs.of rny soul, one who bears it "-and Grizzle Ilowlet and .her sons and worthy peered. most uas peakabfe horror-fell. her Percc eyes seeneled, for an instant, to brother in chains," said Mr. De Vere. "Papa, let me hear her! Send the man Suddenly there was the sound of a lienvy blaze with a red, lurid fire, as they fixed "Not quite' so fast, my good sir, I will away! I must bear her, papal" she said, fall, followed lby a cry from Grizzle-a sharp, themselves on Jacquetta, who knelt beside have to be consluted about that!" said a loud, wildly, taking a step toward her. . quick cry of alarm, echoed by otne longer an] her sister-" but for a reason of my own. you harsh voice, as the door was flung violently " Nonsense, Augusta!" said her father, more passionate from Mr. De Vere. l)s- shall not bring di-grace on onrself, disgrace open, and Grizzle Ilowlet herself stood before sharply. "Hear her, indeed ! the old impos- browe and Jacqtaetta faced round in terror to on your house, disgrace onall the naie of them. All sprang, to their feet in amaze- tor I Reynolds, go and bring William and behold Augusta lying on the floor, with. r Dc Vere, as yet. For [tell :you, Robert Do ment. A frightened servant came behind James here!" father and Grizzle bending pver laer, and a Vere, uncle of an English peer, as you are- her and said, in alarm, to Mr. De Vere :' The servant disappeared, and old Grizzle, dark stream of blood slowly oozing from her the, haughtiest among England's hmanghty "If you please, sir, I couldn't stop her!- folding her cloak closer about her, sat dbwn, mouth, sons-if this were known, the whole world she would come. I didn't intend to let her with her evil, sneering snile. would spurn your daughter-spurn her in mn-" "Very well-be it so,, then. I will go to loathing and ho-rror; the very children in the "Leave. the room.!" interrupted Mr. Do prison; and ,the very day I do, your secret, street would shrink in terror and affright from Vere, waving his hand. Augusta.De Vere, shall be blown by the four her wherever she would appear. Recoil as you The man vanished, glad to get the door be- winds of Heaven over all the land !-and, will, grow white as you listen, vet I tell you, tween him and, the fierce intruder; and Griz. what's more, another secret that I came here man, as God hears mue,I speak"the truth." SILVER STAR; OR, THE MYSTERY OF FONTELLE HALL. 81

There was an almost passionate solemnity "Do not talk--lie still. You have hurt She folded her mantle closer around Tier only one-we robbed and-sienced;'and it is in her tones; and there was something awe- yourself, dearest. Shall we send for a doe- tall, gaunt form, an(, stood stiff and statue- true that this nepliew of yours might have inspiring and terrific in the weird gesture tor?" said Jacquetta, softly kissing the pale like sa her usual, bolt, upright fashion, wait- shared tire same fate, but for something like a wi h which she raised lier arm and pointed lips. ing as calily as though it were the simplest providential interposition-if one believed in vpward, as if calling Him she had named to The wandering eyes still roved confusedly matter in the world. such things. But let me go free, and I faith,. witness the truth ofiher words. Mr..De Vere around, and the pale fingers still passed wist-. "Papa! papa! let her ,go let' her go at fully promise to keep your daughter's secret, reeled as if hle had been struck a blow, for an fully over the pale brow. Grizzle Howlet once ! My eyes loathe the sightof her!"Cried and never to molest any one again. Refuse lnst init; tlien, as his eye fell on the high, no- arose noiselessly froin her seat, and her tall Augusta, clasping her hands over her eyes, me, and it will be at your peril !" ble face f his proud daughter-on the pure, form, towering upward like a grim, gray, With a shudder that shook her whole frame. " Let her go, for heaven's sake !" exclaim- stainless, m'irble-like brow, and sweet, bcau- stone statue, at last arrested the lost, vacant ' Let lienr go? Never! the accursed hag " Disbrowe, "before you drive your daughter ful lips, the conviction that she was merely gaze. -cried her father, starting up.. "She shall insane. What is her life, or that of a dozen playing upon his fears returned ; for the Slowly over the beautiful face agnin settled swing for what she ias done, as sure as there miserable wretches like her, compared to that idea of any crime in, connection with that no- that look of 'utter, voiceless, awful horror. is law or justice in the land !" of my cousin ?" ble-minded, stainless girl, was an utter and The small hands closed, and clencbed until "Papa V" almost shrieked Augusta, half- Grizzle turned her eyes on him with her most revolting impossibility. the nails pierced the delicate palms, the springing to her feet, "you do not know sneering smile, and seemeA about to replh, "It is false, you miserable hagi!-you sec- slight form grew rigid and death-like, and a what you are saying ! Papa! would you kill but, whether intimidated by the bright, fire' ond Jezebel!" he said, furiously. 4Dare to, grayness like that of approaching dissoluti6n me ?. -Oh ! let _hr go at once-for my sake-- light in the young soldier's eye, or unwilling mention my daughter's name in association crept over every feature. Once or twice,-she for your own sake-for God's sike.I let her to irritate them farther, she piudently thought with any crime again, and by all the saints! essayed to speak, I.ut only a clioking, dying go" she cried, falling from her seat prostrate better of it, and discreetly held her tongue. I will be tempted t6 forget you are a woman, sound came forth from her idaIched lips; on the floor at his feet. " Go, thep," said Mr. be Vere, trembling aid strangle you on the spot I" and in the glazng eyes and colorless face, "Augusta, you do not know what you are with rage and anguish ; " and may Ileaven's That is easier said than done,"'said Griz- over every oilier feeling, still came that saying," said her father, almost sternly, as he worst curses go with you I" zle, folding her arms, with a short lauch. dreadful l.ok of unutterable horror. raised her up. "This woman is a murder- Grizzle smiled slightly and bowed, and met "Two could play at that game; and, as a' " Augusta, dearest! 0 heavens! Augusta, ess!" Jacquetta's flashing eye with a look of exult- friend, I wouldn't advise you to'try it with what is the-meaning of this?" gasped Jac- "And your daughter is worse I" she pas- ant triumph. Returning it with one of min- Me. 11 ,1'k quetta, in terror. sionately cried, flinging herself on the sofa, gled defiance and disgust, the young girt "My dear sir," interposed Disbrowe, lay- "0 my Qod I what have I done !" came in and then starting up again, as if deranged by made her a stern motion to go, and,;unlock- ing his liandi on his arm, as lie saw the storm a low, wailg. passionate cry of utter despair, some inwrd,: grnawing, unutterable pain., ing the door, held it open for her to pass. of passion rising inl his uncle's. face, " be fi oin the white lips of Lady Augusta. " 0 saints ii Heaven! what will become "f " You wear your chains so gracefully, my ealm. Do not heed her words. Let nothing " 0 my sister! my ddrling Eister!" cried ni? Pai ! papa! let har go, if you would pretty little dear," said Grizzle, as she wend be done until Augusta recovers, and then let Jacquetta, wringig her pale fingers, while not see ume dead at your feet !" out, "thit I don't know any one better quali- us learn from her what mysterious power this the others seenit d unable to speak, "what is I She was terrific to look at, as sIe beat her fied to' teach your sister the virtue of resig- woman has over ier, and act accordingly." this ? 0 Augusta! what does this mean ?" clenehed hand on her breast, and tore at it as nation. Whoever wouldiimagine you to be- " Ila ha I" said Grizzle,'niockingly. "You " What it would strike you dead with hor- if sire would hsa4'' plucked out the unendura- what you are !" ror to hear What I wqvld sooner be bound think she will tell you-don't you? Don't I ble agony gnawinrg there ; her eyes starting " Begone !" exclaimed Jacquetti, stamping, you Iope she may? Yes, I will wait till she at the stake than reveal!' What will blight from their very sockets; her face as awfully her foot pasasionately. recovers. "I have no other intention, my my life, lose mv soul, consume ny heart, make white as that of 'a galvanized corpse. Even With one of her short, scornful laughs, so handsome young friend, and you will 'act ac- every moment of my life a torture such as you Jacquetti'shrank a step or two fromn her, in galling to listen to. tire woman passed out; cordingly.' Oh, no doubt of it " Andj she cannot even conceive of! May God grant me m1 senntary horror. and Jacquetta, turning suddenly round, met sat down, with a short laugh. - I a speedy-death!V' she cried, passionately ; and "iMr. Da Vere, and you all," cried Grizzle, the eyes of Disbrowe fixed full upon her asif , " Shan't I go for a doctor, uncle ?" said then, dropping her upraised arms, she sank with one of her slow, majestic ivav s of the in wonder at the last words. To hissurprise, Frank, looking daggers at Grizzle. "And I back, death-like, and collapsed.I arm, arid in the measure 1, e mnanding tones her bold, bright glance fell, and her face, a can bring a constable up from Green Creek, " Oh, Heaven help us! she has gone era- she had formerly used on tie stage, " listen to moment before deadly pale, giew deepest at the same .time, and fix this old witch's flint zy '" said Jacquetta, still wringing her pale Me. " You see the .power I have over this crinson-crimson to the very edges of her for her." .,' . fin ers in the first paroxyFmn of her terror haughty girl-a real power ; for, mark you, hair-as she turned away and averted her "No, wait, Frank; don't go," said th'e an alarm ; while her father knelt, with his it is no imagrinary crime she accuses herself head. voice of Jacquetta. "Don't go yet. Augus- face hidden in his hands, in speech lessgrief;' of, but one tlat w6uld cardle your heart's Augusta hiad thrown herself on her face, on ta is recovering. We must hear what she and Disbrowe and Frank looked on in con- blood with horror to hear-one so awful that the sofa, as the voman went out; and now la sternation. says before you go for any one.' it is nami!css! Yes-; so sellomr is it heard of, as still as if tIe speedy death she had prayer IIer wor