the writer will at least have had the happiness of rescuing two victims from destruction, and of defeating the vile plans of the most coldblooded, artful villain that ever breathed."

Much as Emily might have felt inclined to treat with contempt any communication of an anonymous nature, yet there was a tone of solemnity in the expression of this letter, which did indeed inake the greatest impression, and awaken the most serious reflections in her mind. She had long conceived the greatest aversion to the character and conduct of Alfred Milton generally; though she could not avoid being amused by his conversation; indeed, since Herbert had been the principal subject of Alfred's observations, Emily found that her disinclination to his society had in a considerable degree diminished. Yet, in despite of the grace and art with which he contrived to veil his real disposition, there was an expression of falsehood and treachery in his countenance; and, notwithstanding the caution he took to con

ceal it, a degree of levity, selfishness, and want of feeling in his observations which frequently betrayed the coldness of his heart. Bad, however, as might have been her opinion of him, yet to conceive him capable of so base a plan, or indeed that he could possibly entertain any sinister intentions against a cousin for whom he professed so much regard and affection, was more than she could credit. Thus, as far as Alfred was concerned, both Mrs. Walden and her young friend looked upon the communication as the malicious calumny of some concealed enemy.

The author of this letter was no other than Lady Catesby, who, upon her recovery, resolved, by every means in her power, to wreak her vengeance upon Alfred. To expose him openly to his cousin was impossible, without risking her own reputation; she therefore determined to commence her operations by one anonymous missive directed to Mrs. Walden, and another nearly of the same tenor to Sidney, both of whom, especially the

latter, she well knew were armed with no kindly feelings towards Alfred.

The letter to Sidney was written much in the same language as that to Mrs. Walden. It reached Sidney through the medium of the twopenny post, and was couched in the following terms:

"No one is better able to judge than yourself, Captain Sidney, (who well know the man,) what must be the nature of Alfred Milton's real sentiments towards a cousin, who is the only existing barrier between himself and the large fortune of his uncle-"

66

Why," said Sidney, laughing, "he would probably cut his throat, if he could do so without any risk to his own; and very tempting too, if one had no conscience. But what the devil have we here!" continued he, as he turned the paper over,-"no name! oh, oh ! anonymous! I swore I never would read one in all my life; but this promises some fun, so let us

"Do you suppose," proceeded the writer,

"that Alfred Milton has no other object in view, in attempting to accelerate his cousin's marriage with Miss Manby, than a mere disinterested regard for their happiness?—believe it not, for a more vile and detestable scheme never entered into the breast of human being, than that concocted by Alfred against his cousin. Who is there, who knows him, who will give him credit for a single particle of generosity or kindness emanating from his base and treacherous heart ?"

66

Civil, and excessively flattering !" exclaimed Sidney; "it is a woman, I'll bet a rouleau, and a vixen into the bargain; and ten to one I name her. But let us go on, the plot thickens."

66

Though particular circumstances render it necessary for me to conceal my name for the present, yet I most earnestly implore you, Captain Sidney, to warn your friend of the danger which threatens him. Sir Herbert Milton never will consent to his marriage with Miss Manby, and Alfred knows it beyond a doubt. Moreover, the artful villain is equally aware, that,

should he succeed in inducing his cousin to marry in despite of Sir Herbert's positive objections, Herbert will at once be disinherited, and that he will as speedily profit by his cousin's irrevocable disgrace! The man who could place his own infamous hireling near the person of his cousin, to betray his confidence, and intercept his letters;—the man who could instigate the same blood-thirsty bandit to make an attempt on his cousin's life—”

"Oh come,” said the generous-hearted Sidney, casting the letter from him; "this is a little trop fort!-hang me, if I believe a word of it! No, no," added he, "I think he is bad enough for any thing in a thing in a quiet way-turning up a king two or three times at ecurté par extraordinaire, or sticking a lame horse into one; but, confound it! here's robbery, murder, and God knows what else!-Peste! that is carrying the joke too far. It is disgusting!" continued he, as he kicked the fallen letter with his foot. "Mrs. Thornby, you've somewhat overshot your mark; this is one of your pretty