came in for a large share of female sympathy, until, in September, the Morning Post announced his engagement to Miss Krupp. Even then there were those who, encouraged in that belief by Mrs. Shaw's hints, held that he had only been driven to this step through "pique." This word held its own bravely against all—or nearly all comers. The good pastor tried to assail it; but, alas! he was but poorly armed, being forced to confess that the unhappy girl had herself confessed to him her engagement to Wybrowe, with every outward manifestation of happiness. He shook his head and sighed; he could not understand it, nor could any one else. But though the view taken of Elizabeth's turpitude varied, according to the charity of the speaker, the voice of public opinion was unanimously against her, and is so to the present day. In letting the truth be known, I conceive that I am but doing a simple act of justice, though there are those still living who will not thank me.
Wybrowe came to Farley, and went away, and came again about the New Year. People said how kind it was of the Shaws to have him; some wondered at his having the courage to return to the scene where his affections had been so wounded. He wore the same superfine air of lofty indifference which he had ever worn, and which was now thought to be the mask of a bleeding heart. What with the lions in Africa, and Elizabeth's shameful treatment of him, there is no doubt that at this time he inspired more admiration of a certain kind than any drawing-room hero going.
In the beginning of January something happened. What it was exactly has never been known, or, if known,
