had been resorted to by herself and Charlie in order to communicate any intelligence, as they had of late visited each other less frequently. This was done by using a black board, on which was written with chalk a few words; the board was then placed beneath the uplifted window, and by the aid of an eye-glass the messages could be read. Bella, on this evening, opened her window, and introduced the board, with the words "Come over" written upon it; but, alas! she received no answer to her invitation. The opposite window remained closed, and even Donald Munro failed to play his accustomed round of pibroch on the lawn. Heavy gusts of wind came from the direction of Ben Mor, raising clouds of spray on the head of Lochlinn, as if nature herself was wrath at the prospect of losing the flower of Kinlochlinn.
The despairing girl stood at her post until darkness reminded her of her duty. She then went to serve her father with his usual evening beverage. As misfortune would have it, Charlie Stuart and Donald had gone for a sail that day to the islets of Lochlinn, and before they returned a gale of wind blew out of the loch, which prevented their reaching home before dark. Charlie was greatly disappointed at not having his usual telegraphic communication with Bella. He, however, resolved upon being early at his post the next morning.
When the appointed time arrived he took his station at the window, but was surprised at seeing no signs of response to his inquiries. He commanded Donald to play his pibroch, and, as an additional favor, to play the now popular air, "Prince Charlie Salute;" but, alas! this failed, and, to his amazement, he now saw that the window was covered inside with blinds. A terrible suspicion seized him. Fearing that Bella was indisposed, he sent Donald to ascertain the truth.
Mr. Stuart and his son were at breakfast when Donald returned. Charlie, during the meal, had not taken anything, nor did he even give a correct answer to his father's inquiries.
Donald, on his return, entered the room with a mournful countenance, and handed Mr. Stuart a letter,
