THE BUBBLE BURST. 105

sently see that it was the truest regard for you which
influenced my decision. This wretched pasquinade
was not my doing ; and when you hear those who are
really good and excellent in the town—among the
rest the Osbornes—censuring me for my part in ‘it,
then, remember, I was but as the puppet; others
pulled the wires; had I been a free agent it should
not have beenso. But Edward,” said she solemnly,
“if you hear the worst and the most unjust things said
against me, do not bring yourself into trouble by
defending me. You know me better than they, and
that is enough.” 7 |

“You shall not go with these people!” said
Williams. “Oh, if Mrs. Osborne did but know you !”

“It is impossible,” returned Jessie, “ she, like
everybody else, will take against me. You will hear
how we shall be abused ; it will be a disgrace to have
been acquainted with us. AllI ask, then, is, that in
your own heart you will not disown me. Never
mention my name—but oh, Edward !” said she, with
tears in her eyes—“ if young men ever have serious
moments of prayer—then remember me.” |

The young man made the most passionate vows of
fidelity. |

“And now,” said she, “ we part—you must not
attempt to see me again. We shall meet again—but
not yet—in five years—and then, perhaps, not to
part again.—Till then, farewell ! ”

There was something so singular and solemn in
her manner, that Williams felt almost awed. He
seemed to himself to stand like a block, and do
nothing—what was vowing fidelity—he must give
her some token of his truth. He had not a ring to
break between them, but he had a guinea—he rushed
out to the patten-maker's shop and cut a guinea in