"But why do you think so?"
"Because Margaretta must have good sense enough to see that you are a man of correct principles, and an affectionate disposition."
"Still, she may not see in me that which interests her sufficiently to induce her to marry me."
"That is true. But I don't believe you have any thing to fear."
"I cannot help fearing, Mary, for the simple reason, that I find my affections so much interested. A disappointment would be attended with extreme pain."
"Then I would end suspense at once."
"I will. To-morrow evening I will declare my feelings."
It was about nine o'clock on the next evening, while Mary Fielding sat reading by the centre-table, that her brother entered hastily, and threw himself upon the sofa, a deep sigh escaping him as he did so.
"What ails you, Thomas?" inquired his sister, rising and approaching him.
But he made no reply.