Julia's feelings were different. She could scarcely conceal her delight.
Her artful mind took in the future at a glance. She felt sure that Fanny
would not go; but she would, and could thus make Dr. Lacey believe that
she, of all others, was just suited for him. Here we may as well give
Julia's real reason for absenting herself from the May party. She had
begun to fear that all her fine scheming might come to naught; for in all
probability Dr. Lacey would not return to Kentucky in a long time. What
could she do? She would write him a letter in her own name. In it she
would modestly express her opinion of Fanny's conduct; sympathize with him
in his disappointment, and end by inviting him to Frankfort, saying she
hoped he would not absent himself from his friends on Fanny's account; for
there were many who would welcome him back to Kentucky with pleasure. It
was for the sake of manufacturing this letter that Julia had remained at
home. But now there was no need of sending it, for she was going to New
Orleans herself. She would win him. He would yet be hers.
On returning to the parlor after supper she seated herself close to her
uncle, upon whom she lavished so many caresses that he wondered much what
had come over her, and began to think that he was mistaken in supposing
her to be cold-hearted and indifferent to him. As he looked at her
beautiful, animated face, and the sparkling brilliancy of her eyes, he
felt a moment's vanity in thinking how proud he would be to introduce her
as his niece among the fashionables of New Orleans.
During the evening Mr. Ashton called. He had heard of the arrival of a Mr.
Middleton from the Indies, and he had his own particular reason for
wishing to see him. Soon after entering the room, he addressed Mr.
Middleton, saying, "Were you in Calcutta twelve years ago?"
"Yes, sir; I was there twenty years ago," answered Mr. Middleton.
"Do you remember transacting business with the captain of the English
vessel 'Delphine'?"
Mr. Middleton thought a moment and then answered, "Yes, I remember that
vessel and its captain well."
"And do you remember a poor cabin boy, who was sick and worn out with the
ship fever?" continued Mr. Ashton.
"Oh, yes, yes; I remember him well," said Mr. Middleton. "I had him
removed to my own house, and nursed him until he was nearly well; and
then, he one night ran away from me. I have never heard from him since;
but there was an American vessel anchored near the shore, and I always
supposed he went on board and sailed for home. I would give much to know
what became of him."