Pittston Gazette

              ewsoauer in the Wyoming Valley P1TTKT0N, LUZERNE CO., PA., FRIDAY, SKPTEMBE 27, I KM a W t ek]v Local and v ournai *i Ctu PKit *11111 m in idTum. KNT«iaiMarKiD I*.VI t o v *L. Xo « • . Oldest Fur t 6ometlmes a certain little rosy-legged gentleman, with a bow and arrows, called Cupid, steps in ; the painter forgets his privilege, and tho man falls in love with tho artist's model." silenco is so unliko his atlectionate consideration that it lias lllled 1110 with cause 01 mv ttiotaer s cieatn "I was suiu or it," thought Mortimer "feho is entirely ignorant of hor origin," M'M1 harrassetl; a little care- her Father's house, ana tho door wa; opened iDy tho black servant, Ov a:. Without waiting to ask any question-*, she hurried into tho hali, after dismissing the driver; but as she was about to inquire for her father, another negro servant: emerged from oneof the doors opening into tho hall, and advanced to meet her. u)D iu wiicrwomj hob tv ceivi'd t he education of a princess, and it is only through lier unexpected return to New Orleans that the secret has been discovered."Tht? Hoine-4ioi alarm." of life; in that '.out of all other hours in which a man yearns for the smiles of oving eyes, the warm pressure C»f friendly hands. It was the face of duo who had discovered too law that he had sacrilieed the happiness of his lil'c to a mistaken principle. av if tlio business of this life was o much upon you ,"Dod need to loC iir voya.ji !C•*, w "Nay, my dear Cora, the cares or business no doubt have prevented his writing; or perhaps ho is coining over to Englund, and wishes to give you a delightful surprise. Did you not toll' me that Mr. Leslie meant to sell his plantation, aud tako up his abode in England? But here comes Mortimer, and you can yourself make all the inquiries you wish." 1 ooukl obtain from him in answer to my prayers," continued Cora, "wart u promise that this be pa ration should he the last; and that ho would sell his plantation at the earliest opportunity, and come and establish himself in England." Ai! 11 Flit far and fast from ion* t I'ast trop'c isl uuK 1 o! a "Well, 1 must leave you, gentlemen," eaiCl Mrs. Montrosor; "I think I Bee Adelaide and Miss Leslie coming this way, so if you want an introduction to the young South American you must obtain it through my nlcce. Au rovoir, naughty boys!" I'-wiun," answered ''c aid Leslie ntly. "Come, Mr. do not ;imo Mine upon liiti* speeches and "Merciful Heavens" cried Adelaide, hiding her faco in her hands, "Cora a nlavO I" With palm an i v overgrow an t w .venor Stiua i4. uoaiess, old friend, spflbj have All blan i years iroug ami 1 While the good ship Virginia is sailing away lrom Uio dim blue shores of the fading English coast, bearing Mr*. Mohtresor, her nephew aiul nieco and Cora Leslie, to their far Southern homo, let us »nter the planter's luxurhtuslv furnished study, ana watch him as tie bendy over his desk*. „ to fed—I know what you have •r.; for, and you know tluit 1 know yhy l ent about t iCD (,ii h.' You * -i. ci'ptMn 'i\ dm' today in your :;inl vou come toi l;i in payment." i.v Which w tlier of us Tuat wafts the hapjp: r*. aw n lo a Jle was past middle age. llis'hair was grizzled with patches of gray, anil his fact* had an expression of settled melancholy rarely seen upon tho negro countenance. He was dressed in a looso liaon jacket and trousers, and his manner and appearance altogether denoted his stat.'on, which was that of confidential man and general servant, factotum to his master, Mr. Leslie. "There was one spark of feeling at ast," muttered Mortimer, as ho watohed Past gliin'ting po.iK and siiatlowy b iy O'er drowsy league* ol su n ner se* 1 he i hi* friend's .-ally 11 liiid he renewed that promiso And since then," said Mortimer, 'has loin's emotion. IU10I "Stay, my dear aunt, you will forgive Mr. Margrave when 1 tell you that he is as determined an abolitionist as yourself, or any of your friends in New York, tie means sailing for South America in a month, armed with some new inventions in machinery, which ho declares ought to supersede slavo labor." "With reservations that liavo made mo trombloj" replied Cora;."I fear that his affairs arc embarrassed, ami will detain him from iuo lone after tlie jiroiu' ime of our reunion." •Now," pureuod tho pitiless usurer, edonlinc to tho Louisiana law, H la mintil to teach a slave, to read.. Wkat, lust l»o tho offenso of ilr. Leslie Oral Through wonderlands unknown 11 d journeying* i il l' lea 1 tin II ih nrouC i, Mr. Leslie," fuiri shooting [•lie of the af- Mid naneles • oil ies, ovel thrown lOVi'lV yuuder CHAPTER II s.ijil tin' ii ui't'r, ::ii nil. i:l-'miiall c\ in b - I'ngUsh boarding-school, and having her taught the accomplishments of a lady of the highest birth?" t hei ays \vHereof we do not re M K young plantor rolled with a elsurely s t c ji hrough tho doorvay of the coiiervatory, lDo\vg to tlio two ils ns he enered the room. "At last!" exla i m o d Ado- iseC "Alas, Miss Leslie, you are not deceived," said Mortimer, earnestly; "Mr. Leslie has experienced great losses. The death of Mr. Treverton, his partner, who was killed in a duel a year ago, at the very time of your father's return from England, revealed deficiencies that ho had never dreamed of. He was obliged to have recourse to heavy loans; and since that, tho revolt of his slaves, in damaging the harvest, has given the tiuishiug blow to Ms difficulties. The burning Southern sun is banished from the apartment by means of Venetian shutters; the floor I- covered with a cool mat ting woven from Indian reeds; anil the faint plash of a fountain in a small garden at the back or the house is heard through one of the open windows. mile upon 1 Or over mountain pe iks uptoss " i, Hight crowding hight uni .1 llie last l.ow lying cloud is gained and passed 1, tl) V should 1 lw ai sw'ered the le s proud than tauter, haughtily. wii lov If you caliacouteiupL foi ial-'-D'Dod. and This man's namo was Toby. He had served the planter faithfully for iive-andtweuty years. "Mr. Leslie can seo no ono this evening." he said as lie approached Cora. '•lie wL'l not refuse to seo rne," murmured the young girl; "he cannot deny himself to his daughter." "llis daughter!" exelaimod the negro, with an irrepressible burst of enthusiasm ; "his daughter, Miss ('ora, that was away across the sea—yonder in the free country. Cora, tho child I used to nurse in tho years that are gono by ; ah, forgive me, forgive me, forgive tho poor old negro slave, who is almost wild at the sight of liis young mistress!" "A terrible offense, indeed, Mr. Craig," saiil Mortimer, bitteriy, "but thla girl la Gerald Leslie's own daughter, 1» she A.bd heaven is n Dt and earth is lo«i IUD tM to whoi i l of "Yes, madam," said Gilbert, earnestly; "your nephew well knows my opinion upon this subject, and though his interests may be allied to tho hateful barter, which should call a blush to the cheek of every honest American, 1 know that his heart is with us, the abolitionists of a loathing of hypocrisy pride, I am cer»- tainly amongst tho proudest." Of all these faring fleets I hat liie Th* round woild round, tl rough fog or fo As this, whose nearing port is Home, Noie courseth ou so jocundly: Gerald Leslie know that every word he uttered was calculated to infuriate Silas Craig, and that, at tho moment when he had to ask a favor of him; but the haughty spirit of tho planter could less brook to stoop now than ever—the very fact of having to ask this favor stung him to the quick, and urged him ou to show his contempt of the man from whom he ha ! to ask it. u in voly It is not a pleasant task which occupies the planter. His brow contracts as papers, pausing every "She is but what of that? Born a slave mother, she is not the less bis iio exa now an Of all the galding feet tha aide "so you t hen iv u I w or three "I understand. As a'worthy member of society, then, &sa Christian and a gentleme—in the sense in which we regard these things—he may send his daagfcter to toil sixteen hours a day on his plaata- Through sand or snow or desD amilo; with the tenderness of a woman ying shadowed in tho profound depths if her almond-shaped black eyes. Feares, delicately molded aiD4 exquisitely ortioned; a tiny rosebud a ian nose; a comploxion fairer than ingatherod lily hiding deep in an union forest; it was difficult for the ination of tho poet, or the painter, to picture aught so beautiful. '•Is she not lovely?" repeated Gilbert "Lot me shako hands with you, Mr. Margrave," exclaimed Mrs. Montresor; slavery iavo actually Ugurc which 1 a I Dw Of accounts 1;- even to io throws Njt ail} £'■D as'.aJlier pica i»n ih.w. whose pathway ei "I declare to you that so hateful to mo is the slavo trado, and all connected with it, that were it not necessary for me to escort my niece homo and assist at hor niarriugo with his hare-brained boy, I would novcr again set foot upon tho accursed soil of Lousiana, but I must not say more to you now, for here come the young ladies. Adelaide is but a child as yet, and has never thought seriously of the matter; while her brother, Augustus, like his father beforo him, is a determined advocate of slavery. Once more, adieu !" condescendcd to honor my aunt's assembly with your gracious presence, my dear cousin. Perhaps you wore in hopes vou would not see me." "Then my father is ruined, Mr. Percy," cried Cora, clasping her hands; "oh, do not imagine that the aspect of poverty alarms n:.D; it is not of myself that 1 think, but of him. What a life of anxiety and effort he bus endured, in order to establish a position, which he only seemed to value on my account! Never has ho allowed me to hear one expression of uueasiness drop from hi. lips; sigh, and ill Ciiai.', al am Dcumciits 4 lii.nself h a weary ick in his All »e a'e J) lgrltu*: lie n less hidf s at e ise, wluD sia) ~ h s h ■ wli D e C'»*- less foo is lift pre "Perhaps you were in hopes I should not come," retorted tho young man. The usurer sat for some few moments in silence, rubbing his hands slowly one over the other, and looking furtively at Gerald. tion; lie may hand her to his overseer to flogged, if she is too weak (or too lazy, aa ft will most likely be cailed) to work; ho may soil her, if he will, no matter to what degradation—no matter to what Infamy ; but let him daro to love her - let him daro look upon her with one thrill of fatherly affection—let him attempt to elevate her mind by education, to teach Tht In mirkc thought. Yea the triitl " he niutt in Eng- 1 km or wiklerues "On the contrary," said Adelaide, "I was awaiting you with impatience. But pray don't be alarmed, it was not on my own account, but on that of Miss Leslie that I wished to seo you. My friend is anxious to ask you about her father." ten ; "no of a To each the race; for each The tair, the tir.u, the feel) of a lmppy I o on tho "You may ask mo why you should be loss proud today than ever, Mr. Leslie," In; said, with a malicious grin. "Shall I tell you why? liecauso the tables are turned since the day when you passed Silas Craig in the stroets of Now Orleans as if he had been one of tho slaves on your plantation; when you spurned hitn as if he had been the dirt beneath your feet. I know what you said of me in those clays; 1 eamo by my money by crooked ways; I was a rogue ; an usurer; my ill gotten wealth would bring me to the gallows som'j day. _ These are the tort of things you said, and I took them quietly enough; for I am of a patlentdisposition, and I knew my turn would come. It has como. Tho times are changed since then. My wealth was illgotten, was it? You woro glad enough to borrow a hundred thousand dollars of it, ill-gotten as it was; and now when I come today to ask you for tho payment of Uiat money, you tako such a high tone that I can only believo you have it ready for me in your oash-box yonder." I he faithful creature fell on his knees at Cora's feet and, clasping her hand iu both his own, covered it with kisses. "You remember mo then?" said Cora. Huth respite I iDra, ;ri but the with dil as 1 in: and en 1'revert y oi Be A before lue with my 1 he life-time travel of the Sou The young South American put his head critically on one 6ide, with the calculating glance-with which a connoisseur in the fine arts regards a valuable picture. The used-up Mortimer Percy made it a rule never to commit himself by adorning anything or anybody. "Hum—ha !" he muttered thoughtfully; 'yes, she's by no means bad-looking." gant of my caprices r has he denied tho most estr Ah, if he bu y struggle of Anil devious are the »ajs "I was just about to beg you to introduce mo to Miss Leslie," replied Mortimer. knew how gladly I would exchange all this worthle.-s splendor for the happi- m u "I re mom be r the little child that I used to carry in my arms, not the beautiful young lady from the happy English land ; but tho young lady has still the soft voice and tho sweet smito of tho little child, and she is not angrv with poor Toby bocauso he is beside himself with joy to see her once again." her that t here ia'a free heaven above her, whore slavory cannot be—let him do this, and ho has committed a crime against society and tho laws of Loula- i'erfore e treai tu, day and the elegant, although portly, Mrs. Montresor glided lrom the room, her rich robes of sky-blue moire antique rustling around her. tering my head upon hi t. Oh, 1 Ami morn"* come red. ami i-v Ami we remember and f . "Mr. Mortimer Percy, cotton merchant and elavo proprietor, my cousin and my future husband, as my aunt says—" noble breast. If he coukl but tell how dear the humbioat home would Iks to mo you practiced upi-n in this piD liioti. rhilip Treveiton And lo an 1 lose: an 1 are undom " Exactly so." replied Craig, rubbing his oily hands, "I see you understand the law of tho land, Mr. Peroy. No wonder that Gerald Loslio Is a ruined man, ho has wasted a princely income o«i the education of this girl—this slave." "Poor Coral" exclaimed Adelaide. "What, Mi--s Horton, did you know her?" asked Craig. iaua.' And are consoled: and not Is eiv "Gilbert," said Mortimer, hurriedly, as soon as his aunt was out of hearing, "remember, I beg, do not breathe to a mortal one hint of what I just now told vou, with regard to Miss Leslie's origin. 1 suspect some painful mystery here, aud I would not, for the world, that any idle talk of mine should causo this poor girl's gentle heart one throb of sorrow or "Stop, Adelaido, this is no time for ;estlng," said Mortimer, gravely. fitter tho long isolation of my youth. Who can tell now how long our separa- late purtn. r, lit month before tin Get l-.'-li It runae'li on and on hik! o "I?y no means bad-looking!" cried Gilbert Margrave, impatiently ; "you coldhearted automaton, how daro you speak "Is your nows bad then?" exclaimed his cousin. D "It is not altogether as favorabl/as I should wish." / "Oh, in Heaven's name, speafk. Mr. Percy," cried Cora, palo with imitation, "what has happened to my fath/r?" "Angry with you!" exclaimed Cora; "but tell me—my father, where U he? Do not detain mo longer when I should rush into his dear arms !" It ruiiiRati on fro ■ birth UD I.in ; Leslie, your father's position Bunt Mortimer a sari From life's dim d iw life's el .)f wo she's an angel, a •tion in such a manner ui desperate, though he may re a lonu time ami con-vi»leratDle cour houe. / than pail luD « And on each p .tliway, late or a idilesS a siren to ex;ri "Your father—1" A sudden change camo over tho slave's manner. "Your fauior, Miss Cora! Ho thinks you still in the freo English country, and when ho hears that you have returned—" Tho negro paused, with an embarrassed countenancf. as ho uttered theso words. Snail shiue a glory, not of earth. O, Lig.it : 0, Home! O, crowne 1 Q We wait thee, knowing not. alas: You'll have an attack of apoplexy, rgravo, if you go on in thi9 way," said djilicul! tun* ami Los!: friend. no I iloul ol Ills raid '•Reassure yourself, Miss Leslie,'' roplied Mortimer, "when I left Mew Orleans your fatlior was rapidly recovering."Uckc d Co "I fear ! So:ne yean, perhaps? ■"Idid, indeed," replied Adelaide; "we were educated at tho same school—we Were bosom friends." What tiuia our ilred le t may pus Can you tell me who she is No. But I can do more. I cau tell "Vou may rely upon me, Mortimer,' exclaimed Gilbert, with enthusiasm "My lips are 6oaled forever." ono thrill of shame havr 4iin the two lhan From toil of travel into rest And d ing this heart-rending slrug:i:ed the young girl, "he will planters, Uici "Merciful Heaven exclaimed Craig, yietimoniously; "to what polluti' n 0 our daughters exposed, when tho .iildren of slaves are foisted upon 60- ioty in this manner!" West 1'itlston. Sep rou wha he is, Ho had scarcely spoken, when the two young girls approached, arm in arm. "He had been ill, then?" "He was wounded in a revolt of the slaves on his plantation." not have a civ exclai re near him to comfort on a Bundred thousand dollars due to a iavyerand usurer,one Silas Craig, a man who was both disliked and feared -in New Orleans; for he was known to be a hard "What, then?" cried Cora. "If I have returned without his knowledge, am I not his daughter; and who, in his hour of sorrow, has a better right to be at his side?' i. mea do you mean ;iat your angel, your nymph. And if new dungurs rnnn npiPfiDnn^ : 1 j...,:.J.j ss, y a slave There was a marked'contrast between tho two friends. Young as Adelaide Horton was, bhe had already all tho linishtd elegance and easy confidence of a woman ol fashion. Frivolous, capricious, aud something of a coquette, she was born to charm In a ball-room, and to shine in a crowd. Cora Leslio was a creature of an utterly different nature. Like some wild flower from tho luxuriant forests of her native South she seemed destined to bloom with a'sweeter perfume in loneliness. To blossom for tho silent stars and the midnight skies; to expand her fairest petals to the sunshine of one loving heart. "Wounded !" exclaimed Cora; "oh, for pity's sake, do not deceive me, Mr. Percy! this wound—was it dangerous?" e Wood of th" slave—and fresh cruelties for this u It was with a malicious chuckle that he uttered those concluding words; for the crafty wretch well know tho naturo of Gei aid Leslie, and he hail suspected from tho :irst that tho money was not forth- "No, Mr. Craig," cried Mortimer, with a bitter laugh; "tho pollution is In the voj-y atmosphoro of a climo in which a father's first duty to society is totramplo on tho laws of humanity—tho ties of flesh and blood." A slave The African blood runs in those excla d Gilbert creditor, unscrupulous as to the means by which ho enriched himself, pitiless to those who were backward in paying him. "Yes, Miss Cora, but—" ems Jitary curse of "It was no longer so when I left Louisiana. I give you my honor." Cora sank into a chair, and buried her face in her hands. may ouu tho thoi new rebellion. Oh, heaven! lit makes me tremble! Xo, shall iMt be alC::ie to struggle! "Tell mo whore is he?" slavery hovers over that graceful aud tueen-liko head." my fa: li If' he si in daug In an evil hour Gerald Leslio and Philip Troverton had had recourse to this man, nnd borrowed from him at a cruelly heavy rate of interest, the sum above mentioned. Treverton was. "In that room, Miss Cora," answered tho negro, gravely, pointing to tho door of the study. "But her skin is fairer than the lily." "What of that? Had you been a planter, Gilbert, you would havo been iblo to discover, as I did, when just now [ stood close to that lovely girl, the fatal signs of her birth. At the extreme cor- ■rs I will console him ; if ho ie 1 will share it with hiui." d mean, Sli.-is Leslie?'' coming "Not otio penny of it!" cried the planter; "not ono penny of it, Mr. Craig." "Hold your tongue. Mortimer," said Augustus Horton, "you know nothing of theso things; Gerald Leslie has acted disgracefully, and this girl must pay tho penalty of her father's folly." A HTORY Or SLA VJCRT VATS. "You see, Adelaide," 6ho murmured, alfer a few moments' silence, "my presentiments were not unfounded- Dearest father, and I was not near to watch and comfort you?" "What D cried Moit Without waiting for another word Cora softly opened tho door, and gliding into tho room, stood for a moment mutely regarding her father. Tho Venetian shutters were oloaed, and a shaded lamp burned upon the planter's dosk—a lamp that left tho room in shadow, and threw its full light upon tho careworn faco of Gerald Leslie. Tho papers before him lay tin heed 3d on tho desk, with a halfburned cigar by their side. His finely molded chin rested upon his hand, his brow was contracted by painful thoughts and his dark brown eyes wero lixed gloomily upon tho ground. He had not heard Cora's entrance. Tho young girl crept softly to his sido, and dropping on her knees at his feet, clasping her hands about his left arm, which hung looseiy over the arm of his chair. BY MISS M. E. BRADDON, like his [ arlner, a reek U s speculator, and, unfortunately, not a little of a gamester; he therefore thought lightly enough of the circumstances. Not  Gerald Leslie. The thought of this loan oppressed him like a load of iron, and he was determined that it should be repaid un- "indeed!" said Silas. "Then I'm extremely sorry to hear it; as, of course, under those circumstances I can no longer delay putting an execution upon your property, and sending tho Le.slio plantation and your valuable lot of niggers to the auctioneer's hamruer." "You leave l'ngland in a few days with Mi-. MoHtresor and your cousin Adelaide. I will accompany you.' [continued J icr of the eyo and at tho root of the That is Louisiana justice." inger i South American can tho trace of slavery. Aclelaido liorton seated herself by the side of her friend, twining her arm affectionately about Cora's slender waist. ted the voui Lesli ••Excuse me for two or three minutes, Mr. Craig," said Angustus, rising; "I have a few words to say to my cousin. I will rejoin you almost immediately; in ttie monntime the ladies will, amuse you. Come, Mortimer." CHAPTER I, ilwavs d i but ono drop of the blood of the n:oi buL tha [IE last notes ol iespised raC tainted tho object upon "I do not care to sea my cousin just now," said Mortimer, "so" I will leave you, Gilbert, to luako yourself agreeable to the young ladies, while I go and smoke a cigar in the balcony opening out of the conservatory." "Strange," thought Mortimer Percy, as ho watched the two girls, "ono word feom me and my cousin would shrink from this lovoly and innocent croaturo with loathing and disdain." faliu pi act Mis. is iii danger, ami that at s by his siile, Se«\ la oatic or; 1 know slaD will not 1 ghter't- fit anv s he red together Having uttered this threat, ho sat for some little time with hi3 hands on his knees, and a smilo of triumph upon his face, watching tho countenance of the favorite wal 'But this girl seomsan intin friend ■Hos- tile money beforo New Orleans to visit his daughter in England, and intrusted the sum to his partner, Troverton, with special directions that it should be paid immediately to Silas Craig. ■ e s o u n d e C hr o u g h t h ipleudid )t your cousin, Adc who eau sli rant my request The young man followed his cousin, after bowing coldly to Craig. The truth of the matter was that Augustus Horton wished to get his imprudent partner out of the way, as he felt that Silas Craig would take care to spread the report of Mortimer Percy's revolutionary principles among tho outraged .Southerners. saloon Yes, that is the very thing that p asked Gilbert Tho prelude of a waltz resounded at this moment from the orchestra and Gilbert Margrave appeared to claim his nnrtn«r The g the aiue-i red hostess her wall- I cor planter if Mrs Mont Adelaide must lie utterly ign Tho young man strolled through tlie curtained doorway, leading into tho cool retreat, as his cousin and her friend entered from tho ball-room. Bowers, a - V "You rut Gerald Leslie knew that his partner was a gamester, but he firmly believed him to be one of tho most honorable of men, and he had ever found him strictly just in all their commercial dealings. Gerald Leslie's was a gloomy face to look upon in that moment; but it neither expressed grief nor humiliation, and his enemy was disappointed. lor s mansion in trosvouoi in are ; s p ark- ■ant of her origin, or she would never ;ivat as a friend one who, on tho oth;»r nway ira'r" iide of the Atlantic, wou naid. But, hush, here c "Ah!" exclaimed Adelaide, "it is you, Mr. Margrave ! My poor friend has just heard some sad news." this IcW 1 Dt allow littering jewc ng eye. uy aunt, bout her "Hero, at least, my dear Cora, we shall be ablo to breathe," said Adelaide, as the two girls approached Gilbert. U'-oi i\( t he room Moutre -or It was not enough to ruin the man he hated. Silas Craig would have given half his fortune to see that haughty spirit lowered in tho dust. Left a'.ono with the two ladies, Silas r:4t hi nsclf very much at a loss for in the slio will be a a to toil ud a "Yes, there has been a revolt of the 6laves, in which her father well nigh foil a victim. Thank Heavon, tho result was less terriblo than it might have been." Sad news, Miss Horton ! ii grt 11" liafc He departed, therefore, happy in the thought that tho debt was paid, and that Silas Craig, the usurer, could no longer rub his fal, greasy hands, and ehuckie at tht thought of his power over the haughty planter, Gondii Leslie. He departed happy in tho thought that h! J next voyage would be KD convey him to "Father," sho murmured, father!" "dearest Crai vnl queens oi rank anil beauty amplig the Mrs. Montresor was still a handsome "Ah, Mr. MargraVe," 6he added, perceiving tiio young artist, "it is here, then, that you have been hiding yourself while a hundred lion-liunters have been trying to chose you. Cora, allow lue to introduce to you Mr. Gilbert Margrave, engineer, artist, poet—lion! Mr. Margrave, allow me to present to you Miss Cora 'Leslie, my friend, and the most elegant waltzor in my aunt's crowded assembly." y fat!i« The plautor sat for some minutes in perfect silence, as if ho were revolving some plan in his mind. Presently ho looked up, and, without any alteration of his former manner, addressed the usurer thus: It was with no oxclamation of joy, but with a cry of something nearer akin to agony, that the planter turned and behold his only daughter. conversation .vomai ler nephew, Mortimer, who was the only son of her sister, while Adelaide and Augustus Hortou ware tho children of ier brother. Her fair ringlets had, as bore a family likei ss to Mr (lint mitjforuino i- ivst Dr replied Ho had never married, and he was always silont and ashamed in female society. Accomplished hypocrite as ho was, he trembled before tho keen instincts of a woman, and felt that his real n.-.tiiro stood unmasked^ shone side by side upon tho aristocratic crowd; the rich perfume of exotic blossoms floated on the air; brave men and lovely women were met together to assist at the farewell ball given by the wealthy American, Mrs. Montresor, on her departure for New Orleans with her lovely niece, Adelaide Horton, whose charming face and sprightly manners had been the admiration of all Loudon during tho season of 1S60. While Adelaide was speaking to Sir. Margravo, Mortimer Percy approachod the chair on which Cora was seated, and bending over her for a moment said, ina low voice, "let me speak to you alone, Miss Leslie." nCDt an uiC paiab, -Cora 1" hero!" ho exclaimed; "Cora, you pet, escaped the hand of Time. No telltale streaks of gray had stolen amid the showering locks. Her blue eyes were as aright as those of a girl, and shone with ;he light of good humor and benevolence. She was not only a handsome woman, sho .va-i a lovable one. The young instinctively clung to her, and felt that within ;hat ample bosom boat a kindly heart, arhich a long summer of prosperity had "No, madam, nothing is irreparable but tho timo which we pass far away from thOso wo love in tho hour of trouble. I implpro you to tako mo back to him." :in Ei li home, wlnno tho tyranny of prejiuhtv could never oppress bis bolovcil and lovely cliilCl. "Silas Craig, sooner than ask a favor of you, I would see every scrap of property I possess sold in tho public saleroom, and would leave my native land a beggar. I do not ask you a favor, then; I offer you a bargain. If my property is sold today, it will be sold at a loss. You will be paid, it is true, but others, for whom—pardon me—I feel a creat deal more concern, will lose. Two months hence that same proporty will, for certain commercial reasons known as well to you as to me, realize a much larger amount. Besides which, I have friends in the North who may come forward in the meantime to save me from ruin. Renew your bill at two months from today, and for those two months I will give you double tho enormous interest I have been already paying—a ruinous bargain for mo, and as valuable ono for you. But no favor; remember that! Do you accept?" "I do," said Silas, after a few moments' deliberation. "The interest ought to be trebled, though," "Yes, dearest father. I know—I know that it is against your commands that I have come, but I felt that it could not be against your wishes." But on this occasion he was relieved from his embarrassment in a manner that ho had little expected. Just as ho was preparing himself to utter some commonplace remark, a stentorian voice resounded through the vestibule without. "Alone?" exclaimed Cora, with new alarm, then turning to Gilbert, she said calmly, "I trust that you will bo so kind as to excuse me, Mr. Margrave, and ask Adelaide to favor you with her haud for tho next waltz. I wish to speak to Mr. Percy about this sad affair." "But, Cora." answered Mrs. Montrosor, "do you forget that your father formally expressed his wish that you should remain in EnglandY" Th. on hi rst intelligence which greeted him •elurn to New Orleans, was tho Gerald Leslie's head dropped upon his breast with a gostureof despair. "It needed but this," ho murmured, "to complete my ruin." These words were uttered in a voico so low as to escape the ear of Cora; but she could still porceive that her coming had not given her father tho ploasure she had fondiy hoped to have seen written in his face, when he first beheld her. "I bog, Mr. Margravo," said Cora Leslie, "that you will not listen to Miss Horton's assertions; sho only grants me this eulogy becauso she knows that she waltzes better than 1.' nd partner The haughty English beauties wero by no means pleased to see the sensation made by the charms of the vivacious young American, whose brilliant and joyous nature contrasted strongly with the proud and languid daughters of "Yes, madam; but the motive of mv disobedience will render it excusable, and my first duty is to go and console my Philip Tr» vet ton had died a week before Gerald Leslie landed, lie had died Htmidnight in a wretched chamber at a ; i.idiling-house. There was a mystery "Oh, you needn't announce me," said th • intruder; "everybody knows me. It's old Craig, the lawyer, I want to see, and ie vc rendered callous to tho woes of "Will you penult mo to be tho judge of that, Miss •Leslie?" said Gilbert, "and, in order tljat I may be so, grant me your hand for the next waltz?" "Cora insists upon it, Mr. Margrave,', said Adelaide, "and you must therefore resign yourself. But remember," she added, turning to Cora, "that we only consent on condition that we tind you smiling and altogether restored lo good spirits on your return. Now, Mr. Mortimer i'ercy, after this I suppose you will leave oil praising the viituo of your pet negroes." I know he's here Dtners father "1'nrilun me if I still interfere, Miss saul Mortimer I'erey, earnestly; once more before you take bout hi-4 dcatb—his last hours were Inouded in the darkness of tho silent A close observer might have observed t!iat Silas Craig's face grew considerably lashion who intrenched themselves bohind a barrier of icy reserve, which often repelled their admirers. "Come, gentlemen!" she said gayly, ts she approached tho two friends; •this is really too bad! Hero aro you oiling on a sofa, 'wasting your sweotaess on tho desert air,' while I have, at .east, half a dozeu protty girls waiting !or elieiblo partners for the next waltz, is for you, Mortimer," she added, shak:ng her perfumed fan, threateningly, at iier nephew; "you aro really incorrigi- Leslie," "but tli eerets of the night. None know who u'l watched beside him in his dying moments-. The murderer had escaped; tho iii'util.-ited body of the murdered man was found in tho waters of tho Mississippi. paler at the sCmn 1 of his voice; lDui bot'ore ho could make any remark the owner of it had dashed into tho room, b-tu^in.; "Oh, yes, yes," cried Adelaide, laughing, "we'll waltz with you. I promise for Cora. Now, pray go back into the ball-rooiu, Mr. Margrave, and satisfy those good people who are pining to staro you out of countenance,' which Is the only English tributo to genius, do now, you shall summon Cora as soon as the first notes of tho waltz strike up." this rash step. Your father mav havo "Father, father," she cried piteously, clasfinj; her arms about his neck, and gently drawing round his head, so a,S to be able to look in his face; "father, can it bo that you do not lovo me?" Adelaide Horton was a gay and lighthearted being. Born upon the plantation of a wealthy father, the cries of beaten slaves had never disturbed her infant slumbers; for tho costly mansion in which the baby hoircsg was reared was some very serious motive for forbidding ypur return to New Orleans." i|KDn t! Well loor with a noise of thunder "What motive" could a father have for separating himself from his only.child? Uiit stay," added Cora, struck by the earnestness of Mr. Percy's manner, "perhaps there is some secret, some mystery which you ate aware of. Tell me sir. Is it so? Your manner just now—the strange questions which you asked me, all might lead mo to suppose—" rhflip Treverton's death was a sad blow to liis survivor, Gerald Leslie. The two men had been associates for years; both thorough gentlemen, intellectual, dgldy educated, they had been united .!i the bonds of a sincere and heartfelt friendship. «;it tlie ladies start with an oxiaiiiatioh of amazement at the apparition that stood before them. The new eoiuer "What would you have, my dear cousin?" replied Mortimer; ••when dogs are too violently beaten, they are apt to bite." "Not love you, Cora, my darling, my darling!" Clasping his child to hia breast, Gerald Leslie burst into a passion of sobs. wan a tail, lank}*, raw-boned lookiuk' man, with long hai' . which streamed In rough ale; poor Adelaide does not even know pou are here." f-D!n ■ "W hi* fur can. He w. no a bear-skin Jacket, very much thn wurso for bad usage, loose knickerbockert rouse rs, leather gaiters, and great nailed far from the huts of tho helpless creatures who worked sometimes sixteen hours a day to swell the planter's wealth. No groans of agonized parents torn from their unconscious babes ; no cries of outlaged husbands, severed from their "Au re voir, Miss Leslio, till I come to claim vour hand." "I camo in lato, my dear aunt, and I saw that both you and my cousin wero so surrounded by admirers, it was quito jnposslble to approach you." Gilbert bowed and loft the ante-room, not without one enthusiastic glance at tho innocent face of tho fair Louisianian. "They should be tied up then,'' retorted Adelaide as she took Gilbert's arm and hurried to the ball-room where the dancers were already whirling round in valse a deux-temps. What thou were Gerald Leslio's feel- This was her welcome homo. mgs when ho found that his friend, his partner, his associate, tho man whom ho iiad fully trusted, had deceived him; and that tho money left by hfm in Trover'.ou's hands had never been paid to fcilas Craig? The planter laughed bitterly. "I have offered you the uttermost farthing I mean to offer," he said. CHAPTER V. Dot*; his red shirt was torn and "There goes another of your admirers, Cora," cried Adelaide, as she Hung herself into one of the luxurious easy-chairs while Cora seated herself on a sofa, a few paces distant and laid her bouquet of hot-house flowers on a tiny table at her side; "I declare, Miss Cora Leslie, that I begin to think 1 did a very unwise thing in persuading my dear, good-natured aunt to give this farewell reunion to our English friends, for you had only to make jour appearance in Older to steal every admirer I have. It is a goueral desertion to tho camp of the enemy. 1 should not wonder if Mortimer himself joined the renegades, aud left me to sing willow for my inconstant swain.' "Those questions went only prompted by my interest in you, Miss Leslie," replied Mortimer; "but it is the samo iikterest which bids mo urgo you to abandon the thought of this voyage, l'our father's welcome may not be so warm as you would wish." n ggod, and a tattered cloak hung loosely ver his shoulder. When we further add newly-wedded wives, had ever broken Adelaide's rest. She knew nothing of the slave-trade, as at a very early age the p!;--iter's daughter had been sent to Etig- "A pretty excuse, sir, which neither I aor Adelaide will accept," said Mrs. Montresor, laughing. '•I accept it," answered Silas. "Give mo pen, ink and paper, and I'll draw up the document." ET us turn from the residence of Cora's father to the splendid mansion inhabited by the w e'a 11 h y young planter, Augustus H o rton, in one of the r'' - - n. best streets of — New Orleans. /* - '■*!j ""** It is upward of t • ''•/« a week after the arrival of llontresor with het two fair charges. It is a bright summer mornincr. and tho family partv are asseniDled in an elegantly iuruislied apai iment, opening into a cool veranda, filled with exotic plants. ho carried a musket under bis ariu, io reader will bo able to understand the Cora rose as she found herself alono with the \%oung planter, and no longer attempting to conceal her agitation, exclaimed anxiously: "And then, again, 1 wanted to have a :hat with Gilbert." In vain did he search amongst his friend s papers for tlio receipt; thero Dvas not one memorandum, not one -Crap of paper containing any mention of ibe ono hundred thousand dollars: and a week after Gerald Leslie's return, ho received a visit from the usurer, who caiuo to claim his debt. Tlio planter gave him a bill at a twelvemonth's dato, 'he heavy interest for that period fearfully increasing the debt. This bill came duo on tho very day on which wo have introduced Gerald Leslie to tho reader, and he was now every moment expecting to hear tho usurer announced. Montahmcnt, 6f Mrs. Montresor andher loco at beholding such au intrude1®in heir elegant apartment. nut for her education iliD-d during hor absence from America, iu;d she was thus left to the guardiim- Her father had "Out upon your gallantry, sir; you preferred talking to M. Margrave to lancing with your cousin and a!Ti anced bride V" "And am I indeed to believe what you say, Mr. Percy ; do you ready mean that it is ill-usage which has urged my lather's slaves to this revolt?" CHAPTER IV. "I know hig heart too well to fear that," exclaimed the excited girl; "be it as it may, my resolution is irrevocable; and if you refuse to taKo mo under your charge, Mrs.-Montresor," she added. "I will go alono." MHILE the difficulties of tho planter were becoming every day more palniul to Vi&c*' encounter, and more perilous to his future prospects of happiness tho good ship Virginia reached ho« destination, and in due time Mrs. Montresor anil her two fair charges arrived at New Orleans. Cora Leslie had given her father no warning of ber coming. It had pleased the loving Eirl to think that she should creep to his side when ho least expected her, and that the happy surprise of her arrival would come upon him in the midst of his troubles. It a ghost risen from the grave had Btood before him, Silas Craig could scarcely have appeared more terrified than he did at the sight of this man. slap of an only brother, tho present possessor of Horton Ville, as the extensive plantation and magnificent country-seat were C ailed. "Iam not a very good dancer; I am ipt to tread upon tho ladies' laco iounces, and get iny hoels entangled in -iie spurs of young dragoons. 1 really Shought my cousin would rather be excused."On Adelaide attaining her eighteenth "Alas, Miss Leslie," replied the young South American, "the planter finds himself between the horns of a terrible dilemma; ho must either boat his slaves 01 Buffer from their laziness. I will own to you that Mr. Leslie is not considered too Indulgent a master; but ho only follows tho example of tho greater number of our colonists. However it is not he, but his overseer who was the chief cause of this revolt. Your father would have interfered ; In attempting to do so ho was seriously wounded: but let me onco more assure you that he was entirely out of danger when I left Now Orleans." '•So I've found you at last, my worthy Craig, have I?" cried the stranger. "I've been over every inch of ground In Sew Orleans, I think, looking for you. At last somebody told me you were at Mr. Horton's. 'Very well, then,' says I, 'lieregoea for Mr. Horton's,' and here I am; but how is my dear Craig! ' You don't so.-in glad u;» her aunt, Mrs. Montresor, an in- "What?" cried Adelaide, who had entered the ante-chamber, followed by Gilbert, in time to hear these last words. itbiiant of New York, and the widow of rich merchant, had crossed the Atlan- tic ut Augustus Horton's request, for tho purpose of giving her niece a season in London, and afterward escorting her back to Louisiana. "Indeed, sir," exclaimed Mrs. Mon- Lresor, evidently rather annoyed by her aephew's indifference; "I should not bo surprised if Adelaide should one da; "You would go alono, Cora; and who, then, opposes your departure? We will go together; will we not, dear aunt?'* exclaimed the impetuous girl. "But I thought from what you told me, Adelaide, replied Cora, laughing, •'that Mr. Percy was by uo means'a very enthusiastic or romantic person." ly ask to see mo.' She found Adelaide all that the most anxious relatives could liavo wisltvd— elegant, accomplished, fashionable, wellbred; a little frivolous, perhaps, but what of that, since her lot in life was to :o be excused from marrying you "Yes, Adelaide, since jour friend is determined on leaving, it will lDe far better for her to accompany us," replied Mrs. Montresor; "but I must own that I do not willingly give my consent to Miss Leslie's disobedienco to her father's wishes." He was still without funds to meot hid acceptance. Many other debts were pressing upon him; and ho folt that in a few months his plantation must be sold. "llis dear Craig! Vulgar ruffian !" muttered Silas in an undertone; and then, with an effort toovercome his embarrassment, he said, "Why, as for b»'ing glad to see you, my dear Bill, of course I'm glad; but you see—you see the truth was I thought vou wero in California. '' "Good gracious!" cried Mortimer, playing with his watch chain; "do you think my cou-in is not very violently in "Oh, no, indeed," eairl Adelaide, with an impatient sigh ; "you aro right there, my uear Cora, never was there such a eoid-hea: ted, matter-of-fact being as that cousin and future husband of mine. If he pays mo a compliment, it is only au artful way of draw lug attention to one of my defects, which, I will own, are rather numerous. If ho ever utters an afeetionate word, 1 always feel convinced lliat he is laughing at lae. Imagine now, my dear Cora, was it Mattering to my womanly vanity to hear hiin say, when he arrived in London n month or two ago, after a separation of four years, "My dear Adelaide, my aunt hu9 taken it into her head that you and I ought to marry; I don't want to oppose her, and I suppose you don't eithor." Mrs. Montresor, who, even in that warm climate, Is too energetic to be idle, is rented at her embroidery. Her nephew Augustus lolls in an easy chair, reading the JSfw Orleans papers., while Adelaide Horton reclines in a hammock oear the open window. Mortimer i' rey, with his hands in the pockets of his light* trousers, and a cigar In his mouth, leans against the window talking to his cousin. ami ho left a ruined man. But as tho drowning wretch catchos at tho feeblest straw, or the frailest plank, so ho clung to the hope furnished by delay. be a smooth and easy one. Mrs. Montresor was delighted, and expressed her gratification very warmly to the Misses Beaumont, of West Brompton, in whose expensive but fashionable seminary Adelaide had been educated. "Violently in love with you? coxcomb ! But, joking apart, really, Mortimer, you are the coldest, most unpootical, soulless creature I over met." love wiLh "And did he give you no message foi me—no letter?" asked Cora. "But my father's thanks shall repay you for all, dear madam," said Cora; "I shall never forget his goodness." "Onco more," ho muttered, as he leaned his head upon his hands in tho attitude of despair, "onco nioro must I humiliate myself to this low-minded wretch, and beg tho delay which he maygrant or refuse, as it pleases his base nature. Heaven help me, I little dreamed that Gerald Leslie woidd ever come to sue to Silas Craig." At this moment a cheerful-looking negro entered tho apartment, bearing a card upon a silver salver. It was growing dusk on a lovely summer evening, when the travelers reached New Orleans. Bidding a hasty adieu to Adelaide Horton and Sirs. Montresor, with a promise to call upon them early the next day, Cora sprang Into the carriage which Mortimer Percy had procured for her, requesting him to give tho address to tho driver. '■Yes, whero you sont me to dig for gold and keep out of your way. No, the climate didn't agreo with me. and I didn't find any gold, though I soon spent spent all I took with mo. So, knowing I had powerful friends in New Orleans, I thought tho best thing I could do would be to oopio back and throw myself once, moro on their generosity." "My dear aunt," said Mortimer, apologetically, "I will freely own that I am not a very sentimental person. But what of that? My intended marriage With my cousin, Adelaide, is by no means a romantic affair. In the first "No, Miss Leslie." "What, not a word?" "Your father did not know that I should see you," replied Mortimor, "and it is on this very subject that I wish to ask you a few questions ; not prompted by any vain curiosity, believe me, but because D ou inspire me with tho warmest interest." "Come, come then, naughty child, let us return to tho ball-room. You must -bid adieu to all your acquaintances tonight, for our vessel, the Virginia, sails in three days. Come, children, come." In an ante-chamber leading out of tho crowded ball-room — an ante-chamber where the atmosphere was cool, and where tho close neighborhood of a fountain plashing into its marble basin in an adjoining conservatory refreshed the wearied ear, two young men lounged lazily npon a satin-covered couch, watching the dancers through tho open ballroom door. "Say what you will, Mortimer, it is most extraordinary that Cora should not have called here since our return," exclaims Adelaide. Augustus Horton and I aro part- My marriage with his sister is ire advisable, on tho ground of Mrs. Montresor led the two girls away, while Mortimer Percy Hung himself on a.sofa, Gilbert Margrave watching him "Your father is in town, Miss Leslie," said the young man. "You will have scarcely ten minutes' drive." "But do I not toll you, my dear cousin," answered tho young man, "that Mr. Leslie has taken his daughter to his country-seat upon the plantation?" Silas Craig bit his thick under lip till tho blood started beneath his teeth. "Speak, Mr. Percy," said Cora, seating herself. anxiously "But I say, Craig," said the stranger, looking at tho two astonished women, "where's your manners? Ain't you going to introduce mo to tho ladles?" iommercial interests. That is reason number one, not very romantic to begin with, lieason number two is this : you lave two nephews and one niece; you Dvish your favorite nephew (meaning me) :o marry your niece, in order that ono of these days, having no children of your Mortimer drow a chair to the side ol that on which Cora was seated, and placing himself near to her, said gravely. "Why did you not toll Mrs. Montresor tho truth?" asked Gilbert. "Ten minutes!" cried Cora eagerly. "In ti n minutes, then, I shall see my father!" The first of these two young men was a South American, Mortimer Percy, tho partner of Augustus Horton, and tho first cousin of the planter and his pretty sister Adelaide. "AiK-i you replied — "What would liavo been tho use, since I cannot tell it to Miss Leslie? That is what seals my lips. Her father has concealed from her her real origin. Sho thinks she is of tho European race—I discovered that in my interview with her—and Idaro not reveal a secret which is not mine to tell." ••Massa Craig, please, massa," he id. "What of that?" replied Adelaide. "Mr. Leslie's villa Is but half an hour's drive from Now Orleans. Nothing could have been easier than ior him to have brought f.'ora here." " 'Oh, uo, my dear cousin; I've no objection to marry you. But pray don't ask anything else.'" "Tell me, Miss Leslie, in what manner do you usually receive your father's letters?"Tell him to walk in." Into this room, massa?" Her lovely countenance glowed with enthusiasm as she spoko; while her tiny hands were clasped in an ecstasy of delight."Oh, to bo sure," replied Silas, with increasing embarrassment. "My dear Mrs. Montresor, my dear Miss lforton, allow "me to introduco to you Mr. Bill Bowen, formerly captain of a slaver." Yes, C.esar own, you may leave them the bulk of your fortune.There's nothing particularly romantic i:i this. You say to the two DiDlC'. Marry,' and tho two young Bnv why ilid you give your consent?" "Through ono of his correspondents who lives at Southampton." "Then they are not directly addressed to you." The negro departed, and in a few moments returned, ushering in a fat man, of about lifty years of age, dressed in tho loose and iight-colorod coat and trousers, fashionable In New Orleans. At this moment a femalo slavo entered, announcing Mr. Craig. "Show him in," said Augustus, without raising his eyes from the newspaper ho was reading. Mortimer Percy was a handsome young man. His fair curling hair clustered round a broad and not le forehead; his largo clsar blue eyes sparkled with the light of intellect; his delicate aquilino nose and chiseled nostrils bespoke the refinement of one who was by nature a gentleman ; but a satirical expression spoiled an otherwise beautiful mouth, and an air of languor and weariness pervaded his anpenrance. Ho seomed ono of tlioso "£ scarcely know. I am Impc tuoua, ra.-h, passionate, capable of Joloj oven b wicked action whin uudur «•..» lnflu- a.-kt;Cl Cor Moi timer Percy's faco grew strangely mournful as he looked upon tho excited girl. laide. "Uaptain of a slaver!" exclaimed Ade- youn peopk Very well, we're agreeable ! "They aro not." "Were you very young when you left Louisiana?" "Ami you fear that her return to New Orleans will cause sorrow to herself?" said Gilbert. "One moment, Miss Leslie," he exclaimed earnestly, pausing with his hand upon the carriage door. "You remember what I said to you in Grosvenor Sguare, on the night of my aunt's ball?" "Don't bo frightened, miss," said Bill; "your brother was ono of my best cuetoiners. I've done many a bit of business in tho nigger trade with him." and Wry . iloubt, my dear aunt"Jia!i, Worlimrr, you're incorrigible, but 1 know " 1 hold tlio business is settled. Siibii", ami very proper, no ii not a subject for romance, ence or some suaaen impulse. X am daring enough, Heaven knows, but there ia one species of courage that I lack—the courage which gives tho power of resistance. I could not oppose my aunt. Has she not been tho tenderest of mothers to me? Besides, I did not love any one else, or at least— Why abandon myself to dreams that can never be realized' Again, as the wife of my cousin Mortimer, I shall never be an exile from my dear native South. If you see me gay and happy, Cora, in spito of my approaching marriage, it is that I shall soon behold the blue skies of my belovod Louisiana." This summer costume, which was bemirig to many, accorded ill with the "Silas Craig!" exclaimed Mortimer, with a shudder of disgust. "What Is Heaven's name induces you to encourage the acquaintance of that man, Augustus?" "Pshaw, Mortimer, I havo nono of your romantic notions. Mr. Craig is a very respectable membor of society." "I was only five years old," replied Corn. "So young! YouV memory can recall nothing that occurred at that time, I suppose." "I do," replied the young South American ; "every door at which sho dares to knock will bo closed against her. Even my cousin, her friend, will turn from her with pity, perhaps, but with contempt. You, who dwell in a land whore the lowest beggar, erawling in his loathsome rags, is as free as your mightiest nobleman, can never guess the terrors of slavery. Genius, beauty, wealth, these cannot wash out the stain; the fatal taint of African blood still remains; and though a man were tho greatest and noblest upon earth, the curse clings to him to tho last. He is—a slave!" a' ,nd awkward figure of Silas Craig, l'tie loose open collar displayed a bull . D ck that bespoke, tho brute forco of a • usual nature. It was almost impossile to imagine a more truly repulsive apD .l ance than that of the usurer of New Tho young girl shuddered as she turned away from the speakor. "I know my dress ain't quite tho thing for a lady's drawing room," he s&ldloolung down down at his ragged shiitsleeves und clay stained clothes, " bat we'll soon set all that to rights. 5Cy friend Craig will recommend me to Ms tailor and lend me the monoy to pay his bil), if it comes to that, won't you, Craig?" "Oh, certainly, as far as that goes, In consideration for past services." t the sttom of your . "You toni"mbcr that I then told you 1 feared your father's welcome might not be sCD warm a one as your loving heart would h ad you to desire. If tonight you should find It so, remember my warning, and do not doubt your father's affection, even should he receive you somewhat coldly, liomember, too, that come what may, and should the hour of trouble fall upon you as it somotimes does on the youngest and tho fairest; remember that you have always a friend in Mortimer Percy, aud do not scruple to appeal to him." pent "Oh, yes," answered Cora; "but memories so confused that they seem rather to resemble dreams. But there is one recollection which no time can efface. It is of a woman, young, beautiful, who clasped me in her arms, sobbing as she strained mo to her breast. I can still hear her sobs when I recall that scene." who have grown indifferent to life, careless alike of its joys and sorrows. cou 1 leans; repulsive, not so much from iitiiral ugliness, as from that hidden "RespectableI Yes; the man who makes money Is respectable, no matter by what shameful means ho makes It. Usurer, oppressor of the helpless, trafficker tn human flesh—what matters by what hideous trade tho gold Is got? The vellow guineas will not sparkle less—the hollow world will not bo less ready to bow to the respectable member of society."His companion contrasted strongly with him both in appearance und manner. With a complexion bronzed by cx- ien, niv ist of aunts. For- •t perverse of nephews, and something, dimly revealed beneath tho oin ward features that told tho nature of the man, and caused tho closo observer and the physiognomist to shrink from him with instinctive abhorrence. posuro to Southern suns, with flashing black eyes, a Arm but llexiblo mouth, shaded with a silky raven mustache, and thick black hair brushed carelessly back from his superb forehead, Gilbert Margrave, artist, engineer, philanthropist, poet, seemed the very typo of manly answer nie C of Oilb r„ M ive h ques Dn, for the benefit re, who has been be wit ball-i if tho lilies of your Indred, and pray who is the lady?' "Has Mr. Leslie ever spoken to you of your mother?" asked Mortimer. Cruelty leered out of tho small rat-liko gray eyes, hypocrisy and sensuality iflike weio visible in tho thick lips and wide animal mouth. The usuer's hair, of a reJdish yellow, was worn long, parted in tho middio, and pushed behind his ears, giving a sanctimonious expression to his face. For it must bo known to the reader that Silas Craig had always contrived to preserve a character for great sanctity. His voico was loudest in expressing horror at tho backslidings of others ; tits presence was unfailing at the most frequented places of worship; and mep who knew that tho usurer would strip the w idow or tho orphan of the utmost farthing, or the last rag of clothing, beheld him drop his dollars into tho plate at tho closo of every charity sermon. "Yes, 'in consideration for past services.'" repeated Hill Bowen, rather significantly. "I tell you what, Mr. Craig, as you seom doing tho civil to these ladies here, and as you don't seem over much to relish my company, I'll slopo now, and drop in and take a bit of dinner with you at your own house by-and-by. What's your hour * "That is the very quostion we want you to answer, ' replied Mortimer, lead- "Forgive me, dearest Adelaide," said Cora Jjeslle, "but from a few words that escaped you just now, I fancy that I have a secret of your heart. Has Mr. Margrave by any chance made an impression in that quarter?" "Was It she?" cried Cora, eagerly. "I do not know, Miss Leslie, "for at that time I was still in England, where, like you, I received my education." "Alas," exclaimed Cora, her beautiful tilling with tears, "who could it bo if it was not her? No, Mr. Percy, i havo never known even the poor consolation of hearing people speak of my mother. Every time I havo ventured to address my father on tho subject, ho has replied in harsh and cold tones that havo chilled my heart. All that I could ever learn was that sho died young, at New Orleans. I dared not speak upon a subject which caused my poor father such painful emotions." ing 1 Fin 111 the curtained doorway of room. 'See, there she is, that d girl talking to my cousin Ade- CHAPTER III, "Fool!" cried Augustus, angrily ; "Craig is hore. Do you wish him to know your opinion of him?" energy lie clasped her hand in his as ho spoke and she returned the friendly pressure. "There is a mystery in your words which 1 seek in vain to fathom, Mr. Percy," she said ; "and I know that your warnings till me with a strange fear; but I know, too. that you havo boon very good to me. and should sorrow como I will not hesitate to appeal to you and your cousin Adelaide." lhe atmosphere of a crowded ballroom appeared unnatural to lam. That daring spirit was out of placo amidst the narrow conventionalities of fashionable life; the soaring nature needed wide savannas and lofty mountain top3, distant rivers and sounding waterfalls; the artist and poet mind sighed for the beautiful—not the beautiful as wo see It in a hot-house flower, imprisoned in a China vase, but as it lurks in tho gigantic cup of the Victoria reg'a on the broad bosom of tho mighty Amazon. But Gilbert Margrave was one of tho lions of 18C0. An invention in machinery, which had enriched both tho inventor and the cot tonspinners of Manchester, had made tho young enginee celebrated, and when it was discoverei that lie belonged to a good Som.ersetshii family, that he was handsome and a ccmplished, an artist and a poo* tions ilo,.ked in upon liiis. from ah fashionable quarters of the West- nu OKA'S father, /jfeSjy/ Gerald L o s 11 o, ■ was tho owner of to a fine ostato upon '3an'£8 °* a jjf/ iako about two miles out of Now Orleans, and also L of a handsome h o u s o in that city. It 1b at this u lattor residoneo that wo will introduce him to the reader. Gerald Leslio was in tho vory prime of life. Scarcoly yet forty-five years of uge, time had set no mark upon his thick chestnut hair or his handsomo face, eavo a few almost imperceptible wrinkles which the cares of tho last year or two had drawn in rigid linos about his well-shaped mouth. Mortimer shrugged his shoulders and resumed his convocation with his cousin Adelaide. That is Miss Leslit What Hiss Leslie'/' "You are very inquisitive, miss," replied Adelaide, blushing, "Mr Margrave in an accomplished young man, but his manner to mo has never gone beyond the bounds of tho most ceremonious politeness. Perhaps, indeed, had ho betrayed any warmer sentiment toward me, I might— But do not, I implore you, force me to reflect, my dear Cora. Is it not decided that I am to marry Mortimer? I will present him to you this evening if ho makes his appearance, and you shall tell mo what yon think of Silas Craig saluted tho ladies with ceremonious politeness, ami. after the first greetings, exclaimed with a face expressive of sanctimonious grief and pious horror— "Six o'clock," muttered Craig, with Ulconcealed vexation. of New Orleans "Indeed (laughter of Mr. Gerald Leslie exclaimed MC "Six o'clock. I shall bo sure to bo punctual," said Bill Bowen, "for I've get a pretty sharp appotite. Good mornlM, ma'am. Good morning, miss," he added, nodding familiarly to tho two ladles, as ho strode out of tho room. ."replied the \oung man, I did not know JLe=lie had lit you seem Sin - "Of course, ladies, you have heard the news?" "Adelaide fs u dear, good little girl," answeicd Mortimer with a sigh; "but! shall be better able to servo you than ?he. Good night. Miss Leslie." "The news! What news?" cried Adelaide and her aunt simultaneously. "What! is it possible that you havo not heard of Mr.Gerald Leslie's conduct? All New Orleans is ringing with the scandal." "What scandal?" she is an "What a horrible creature!" exclaimed Mrs. Montresor. "How can you tolerate him, Mr. Craig?" "But lie has always ovincod tho greatest affei.tion for you, Miss Leslie, has he not?" asked Mortimor. tie released her slender hand, gave lorno directions to tho driver, and in another moment the horso started, aud Cora felt that sho was on her way to her father's rosidenoo. educated a tlio »uiC hiiu By such pitiful artifices as theso tho world is dtipod, and Silas Craig was universally respected in New Orleans; respected in outward seeming by men who in their inmost soul loulthed and exocrated him. "Why, the truth Is," replied Silas, "tho man lias been of use to me in some trifling matters of buslnoss. Ho has served mo for a long timo ono war and another, and I've got used to his queer wavs. IIo's an eccentric sort of animal, and ho works all the Cotter for !*»ing humored, so I look over his uncultivated manner." ho is a very lovely girl, and ;oodCnuugh to introduce U3 "I am most impatient to see him," said Cora. "Tell 1110, dear Adelaide, did you ask him for tidings of my father?'' "Do not think me forgetful, dear Cora, but I had so much to say to him "about "Oh, Mr. Percy," replied Cora, her eyes kindling with enthusiasm, "what father over bettor loved his child. Every whim, every childish wish has been gratified, but one; alas, that ono prayer ho would nover grant." "Ah, ladlos, you may indeed woll ask what scandal; for who could believe.that Mr. Loslio, ono of the principal planters of Louisiana, should havo been guilty of such a treason against the Interest of society at largo?" Tho sun was sinking in a bed of crimson glory, and tho dusky shadows closing in the streets of Now Orlean3. "Take care, Mortimer," 6aid his aunt; "you are surely not going to fall in love with Miss Leslio " :, invita- my brother and my native country, that I lorgot to inako the Inquiries you charged 1110 with. There now, you aro angry with me, I know; I can seo it in your eyes." His features were massive and regular; tho brow broad and intellectual; tho large hazel eyes bright but yet thoughtful ; and thore was a shado of melancholy In the general expression of tho countenance which lent a peculiar charm to tho faco to Gerald Leslio. With ii bland smile, ho obeved Gerald .Leslie s gesture, and seated himself in a low rocking-chair opposite the planter. "Charming weather, Mr. Leslie," ho said. The houses and public buildings were dimly visiblo in the declining light, as Cora looked out of the carriage window. '1 he place scomod strango to her after her long residence in England. Sho had no memory of anything sho saw, and felt that sho was an utter strangor in her native land. "Not the leaat danger, my dear aunt. Though I would not say as much for poor Gilbert here." "And that prayer was—?" "That I might join him in New Orleans. On his last visit to England, a year ago, I implored him to take mo back with him ; but ho was deaf to all my entreaties. 'It Is I love you,' ho said, 'that I rofuBo to take you with me;' perhaps it was tho cllmato of Louisiana that ho feared; that climate may havo been tho "Treason! Mr. Leslio! What do you mean, Mr, Craig!" exclaimed Augustus Horton. He haCl been silent for some time, his gaze riveted upon one of the brilliant groups in the ball-room, whon Mortimer Percy tapped him lightly on the shoulder with his giovca hand. "I would not advise you to encourage him in running after you Into people's drawing-rooms,'' said Mrs. Montresor, pointing to tho clay left by Bill Bowon'a boot upon tho rich colors of the Persian carpet. "I'shaw! Mortimer," exclaimed the ??nv'i,DrV5*^0n'na '■ "ifc 18 tho paintf.r 9 privilege to auiuiro beauty without , loving it." ! "No doubt of it, my deat boy," answered Mortimer: "but unfortunately. "I mean that Gerald Leslie has been discovered, within tiiose last few days, to havo educated in England tho child of ono of his slaves, a Quadroon called Francilla, whom ho sold to mo somo fourteen years ago. Tho girl has been •No, Adelaide, no!" answered Cora, 'that which you see in my eyes la not ?r, but anxiety. It is nearly three aonths since I havo received any letter from mv dear father, and this long "It rust 1 see you weil, my dear friend," murmured Silas Craig, in the fat, oily voico peculiar to hiiy, "and yet, he added, olmosi, affectionately, "I no not think Char ing,"answered Gerald absently anL' It was tho face of ono who had suffered. It was tho faco of ono who found Mmanlf lonolv IIIUU ill tllO VCTy piihiO "Why, man, what aro you droamiiiJ «»V" ha arii»i launhlua; "what. nntran,.. But t-ho bed not long to think of these thlntrs. The earriasro drew un before Silas reddened and an angry frown contracted-feis sandy eyebrows. _ .