Page:Irish assassin, or, The misfortunes of the family of O'Donnel (3).pdf/7

 the shaft of death to the unfortunate Maria, who lay asleep with her child in her arms. From the sleep of life, she sunk to that of eternity, and breathed no more. The infant Maria, who had been named after her mother, was, however, unhurt, and was consigned to the care of a soldier's wife, who had buried her own child, and who became an affectionate foster-mother to her tender charge.

The unfortunate lieutenant, on a waking to the horror of his situation, became almost distracted, and made several attempts to terminate his existence, but was happily prevented by his attendants. Some months now elapsed, during which the wound in the knee assumed a favourable appearance, and in a short time he was again enabled to join the ranks. During the remainder of the campaign, he distinguished himself on several occasions, and finally received a captain's commission, shortly after which his regiment was ordered home. On his arrival in England, the wound in his knee again broke forth, and after in vain struggling against its obstinacy, he was obliged to retire from the service on half-pay; and having sought for a cheap but comfortable residence, he at length met with his present a cottage, where, blessed with the dutiful and affectionate attention of his lovely Maria, nothing on this siave he thought could add to his content.

They had by this time reached the cottage, when Arthur would have taken his leave, but Farrell begged he would step in and grace his humble shed. He could not refuse; there was an air of gentleness and sincerity about him, that would not admit of a denial; he stepped therefore into a very neat little parlour, where, sitting down, the worthy host desired his daughter to bring some of the best wine; “If you can excuse," he said, what an old soldier can afford, you are welcome."

Arthur was much affected, and without a word, involuntarily stretched out his hand, which Farrel seized with warmth--they were silent.