TURNS OF FORTUNE. 21

to confess she did so, but shielding herself from
her father’s curse, by sending to her sister’s
child, and not her sister. Receiving few letters,
the village postman grumbled far more at hay-
ing to walk out to Greenfield, than if he was
accustomed to do so every day ; and one morn-
ing in particular; when he was obliged to do so
while the rain poured, he exhibited a letter,
sealed with a large black seal, to the parish-
clerk, saying he wished with all his heart Miss
Bond had remained at the old manor-house up
street, instead of changing; and where was
the good of taking her a mourning letter such
a gloomy day? it would be very unkind, and
he would keep it ‘till the rain stopped ;” and
so he did, until the next morning; then taking
back word to the village postmaster that Miss
Bond wanted a post-chaise and four horses in-
stantly, which intelligence set not only the inn,
but the whole village in commotion. She, who
had never wanted a post-chaise before, to want
four horses to it now, was really wonderful.

‘¢ Which road shall I take, Miss?” inquired
the post-boy, turning round in his saddle, and
touching his cap.

“On straight,” was the answer. Such a
thrill of disappointment as ran through the
little crowd, who stood at the door to witness
her departure. ‘“ On straight!” Why, they
must Wait the post-boy’s return before they
could possibly know which way she went. Such

FF