Lyon Berners examined it in haste and excitement.
It was superscribed:
"To Lyon Berners, Esq., Black Hall. To the care of ---- Sheridan, Esq. To be delivered secretly on Christmas-day."
Mr. Berners tore off the envelope, when he came to another one, on which was written:
A Christmas gift for Mr. Berners.
This also he hastily tore off. Then he ran his eyes rapidly over the contents of the letter, and with a great cry—a cry of joy unspeakable—he threw up his arms and sank to the floor.
He who had never been conquered by fear or sorrow or despair, was now utterly vanquished by joy!