Mr. Semple looked at the eager young man with a face so troubled that he was instantly alarmed.
"What is it?" he cried. "Is Maria sick? Married? Sir, do not keep me in suspense."
"Maria must be very near to New York. She sailed three weeks ago."
"Oh, how unfortunate I am! I am indeed distracted at this disappointment."
"Will you come with me to my home? Mrs. Semple will tell you all that you desire to know about Maria."
"I am obliged for your kindness, sir, but there is only one thing for me to do. I must go back to New York by the first opportunity. I have your permission, I trust."
"I have nothing to oppose to your wishes, Lord Medway. Maria has been faithful to your memory, and I have every reason to know that you are dear to her. I wish you both to be happy."
"Then, sir, farewell for the present. If Fate be not most unkind to me, I will return with Lady Medway before the year be fully out."
He seemed to gather hope from his own prophecy, and with the charming manner he knew well how to assume he left Mr. Semple penetrated with his importance and dignity, and exceedingly exalted in the prospect of his daughter's great fortune.
"I do not wonder that Maria would accept no lover in his place," he said to Mrs. Semple. "I think, Elizabeth, he is the handsomest man I ever saw. And I glanced at the total of his rent-roll; it is close on forty thousand pounds a year, and likely to increase as his mining property is opened up. Maria has done very well for herself."