Tempest and Sunshine

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."