that seems to have passed in a previous state of existence. His was a face which, when once seen, was not likely ever to be forgotten. The features were all remarkably handsome; but the expression, of which they had a great deal, was marked by strong and unbridled passions.

"I recoiled from the steadfast gaze of his dark piercing eye, and was truly glad when the brightening sky again allowed us to move on our way. His parting glance yet haunts me; but I fear I tire you with my folly on this subject. After a pleasant journey through a pretty country, I was met at Kirkholm, a little town about a mile from Linnwood, by my uncle and my second cousin, Rose. I was much affected by the manner in which my uncle received me; he seemed scarcely to be able to speak, kissed me affectionately, and I am almost sure there was a tear in his eye. I was the more touched by those marks of emotion, as my uncle does at all look like a man of sentiment. I could only find relief for my excited feelings in a burst of tears. "My uncle is a man about the middle

height, stout and broad, with very much the air of a respectable farmer. His features are regular, but cannot be called handsome, unless a remarkably open, good-tempered, and somewhat humorous expression may be said to render them So. My cousin Rose, is, I think, the most beautiful creature I ever beheld. Her figure is tall, commanding and graceful; her face classically perfect; with large, brilliant eyes; a clear, though not fair complexion; and a quantity of dark hair. She has a great deal of manner and more self-possession than is usual at her age. I do not yet know whether I shall like her or not. I am inclined to think she is one of those persons of whom people say, 'she can be agreeable when she pleases.' My reception at Linnwood, by the remaining members of the family, was also most cordial.

"For your edification, my dear Harriet, I shall also set down my first impression of their appearance and characters. Mrs. Lorraine has been rather pretty, in the most insipid style of prettiness; however, I never saw a countenance that was not

absolutely silly, so totally unillumined by the mind. Her voice is soft, and her manner kind and unaffected. Sarah, the eldest of the family, is little and plain, and dresses rather untidily; but she is, I should fancy, rather clever. Helen, the third daughter, is a very striking resemblance of her mother, except that she has a sentimental and affected deportment, which is, I think, no improvement. As James the last born child and son and heir is at present absent at school in England, I must defer giving you his portrait till a future opportunity.

"We have hitherto had no lack of conversation at Linnwood. On my part it has chiefly consisted in answering questions. My uncle asked how I liked Edinburgh, and if I had had a pleasant journey. My aunt and two younger cousins made many inquiries concerning my information on the latest fashions. Helen asked me if I was fond of poetry, what kind I liked, and what sort of girl you were. Rose wished to know if I could sing duets; and Sarah cross-questioned me on my know

ledge of, and love for literature, science, languages, &c. &c.

"And now having given you some idea of the inmates, I must try to describe the external appearance of my new home. The house is old-fashioned and rambling, plentifully supplied with gables and chimneys, almost covered with ivy and other kinds of creepers, and on the whole rather an interesting-looking building. It stands low, the grounds rising gently behind it. A very pretty lawn extends from the house to the little river Cole, which forms the boundary between my uncle's grounds, and those of Mr. Melville of Glencola. On the other side of the stream, the ground is more unequal than it is here, and some fine old trees, either single or in groups, add greatly to the beauty of the prospect as I see it from my window at this instant.

"Glencola is a handsome, modern mansion. I can see its terrace of roof where I am sitting. It stands on rising ground, and must command a noble view of this beautiful country. It is backed by a range of hills wooded to the very top, which limit

the charming scene before me, except where an opening in the chain discloses in the distance the blue line of the Highland barrier. But to return to Linnwood. It is surrounded by shrubberies and plantations; and Helen informs me that there are delightful walks in all directions cut through the woods.

"I had written thus far, my dear friend, and was on the point of closing my very long letter, when Helen and Rose invited me to accompany them in their walk, and now at the risk of tiring your patience, I must give you some account of it.

"We entered the wood at a short distance from the house, and though most of the trees are leafless, I enjoyed myself exceedingly, admiring the exquisite shape or fantastic form of many a naked trunk, and inhaling with delight the sweet scent of the primroses which starred the grassy carpet beneath our feet. After following for some time the intricacies of a winding path, we at last emerged from the wood, we found ourselves in the loveliest and most retired little spot I ever beheld. Oh that I