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164
LADY ANNE GRANARD.

which it has given name; the thickest cream, and a honeycomb redolent of the thyme which even then echoed with the hum of the bees.

"By the bye, Isabella," said Mr. Glentworth, "I cannot longer let you have a secret from me. What did you do with the hundred pounds, whose use and possession were to be such a mystery?" Isabella coloured deeper than the roses at her side, while confessing. "You are a dear, good little girl," said her husband; "I suspected something of the sort. Do you still vote for Charles Penrhyn?"

"I am more anxious than ever," whispered Isabella. "The more happy I am, the more I wish Louisa happy, too."

"Do you see this letter?" said her husband; "it was to meet me here, and I have just fetched it from the post-office. I find that I can now place Mr. Penrhyn in a situation of complete independence, and with excellent prospects. Shall we write to ask him and Louisa to dine with us the day we arrive in town?"

"How kind you are!" exclaimed Isabella; "do tell me what Charles Penrhyn is to be."

"A merchant," replied Mr. Glentworth; "government interest I have none, but my late connection enables me to name him as junior partner in an old established house. He will have a thousand a year to begin with, and with prudence and talent will realize a large fortune."

"How can Louisa, how can I thank you enough?" said Isabella.