"And what besides?" said Mr. Palmer, who had exhibited extraordinary contortions of countenance all the while Arthur was speaking, accompanied by a sound from his tongue, on the roof of his mouth, resembling the clacking of a mill—"what besides, my good fellow?"

"I don't remember any more exact words, but those I will swear to, for I read them over and over again, and I confess that they inspired me with a great regard for Lady Anne. I remember, very well, how angry she made me in this very house; and that I might call her an old cat, and talk nonsense, as young men will; but I have been properly sobered since then, Mr. Palmer, and I can see clearly, now, how much a sensible woman might fear for a daughter's happiness in marrying a man ill provided for and bad into the bargain."

The clacking ceased, yet Mr. Palmer made no answer; and as, in point of fact, each party wished to prolong the conversation, though neither were cognizant of the other's reasons, which were in both to give Lord Meersbrook a few moments' conversation with Helen, whom each, by a glance, had seen softly drawn into the library, "the sailor" seized the opportunity to go on.