"'We understand that the Hon. Fitzroy Summerset Howard, second son of the Earl of Paisley, is soon to be united in marriage with the only child of the rich banker, Mr. B——. A fortune of one hundred thousand pounds is to be her dowry.'
"'That latter clause is the bait that attracted you, no doubt,' the banker said, with a sneer; 'but luckily your project is defeated.'
"'I solemnly swear,' I exclaimed, with sudden energy, 'that I love Miss Julia dearly—better than all the world, and that if you will allow me two years' time to win her, you may keep your fortune, and bestow it upon whom you please."
"'Pshaw!' he said, with an expression of contempt; 'I but waste words with you. In one week my daughter weds, and to benefit you, and rid her of an annoyance, I have offered you a position at St. Domingo; will you accept it or not?'
"'And fall a victim to the yellow fever in a month after my arrival,' I said, with a taunting smile, for I felt the devil rising within me, and I did not care to suppress it.
"'Perhaps,' was the laconic answer; and the cold eyes gleamed like those of a basilisk.
"'Then hear me, and know that I too have firmness. Your daughter and myself have pledged our mutual faith—we have exchanged vows which soar above your money bags, and as long as I possess my reason, my liberty, and health, so long will I endeavor to see the lady, and hold her to her word.'
"I turned to leave the room, but the banker recalled me with a word.
"'Is that your firm resolution?' he asked, with as much unconcern as he could assume.