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 "long observed a growing insensibility; but still—"

"And have you never," said Ellis, deeply blushing, "seen, also,—its reverse?"

This question, and yet more the manner in which it was made, was too intelligible to admit of any doubt. Harleigh, however, was far from elated as the truth opened in his view: he looked grave and disturbed, and remained for some minutes profoundly silent. Ellis, already ashamed of the indelicacy of her office, could not press for any reply.

"I am hurt," he at length said, "beyond all measure, by what you intimate; but since Miss Joddrel has addressed you thus openly, there can be no impropriety in my claiming leave, also, to speak to you confidentially."

"Whatever you wish me to say to her, Sir,"

"And much that I do not wish you to say to her," cried he, half smiling, "I hope you will hear yourself! and that