The return of Percy and Herbert brought pleasure to Oakwood, and a week or two afterwards Lord and Lady St. Eval, with their little boy, arrived, imparting additional happiness.  Emmeline was surprised at seeing them, for she thought Lord Louis and his preceptor were expected at Castle Terryn.  Lord St. Eval often spoke of his brother, and alluded to Myrvin, and even hinted his thanks to Emmeline for her exertions in the latter’s favour, when the Marquis was hesitating whether or not to intrust him with the charge of his son; but on such matters he never spoke openly, yet not so guardedly as to betray to Emmeline he was acquainted with her secret.

Mr. Hamilton had many private conversations both with the young Earl and his son Herbert, but what the subject was which so engrossed him only Mrs. Hamilton knew.

The return of Edward, too, from a short cruise gave additional spirit to Oakwood.  The young sailor had rapidly run through the grades of lieutenant, and now stood the first on the line; his character both as a sailor and a man was confirmed.  He was as deservedly respected by his messmates as beloved by his family, and to Ellen he was indeed dear.  The most perfect confidence existed between this affectionate brother and sister, except on one point, and on that even to Edward she could not speak; but he had not one thought, one feeling which he concealed from her, he sought no other friend.  Scarcely could Mrs. Cameron and her son Walter recognise in this amiable young man the headstrong, fiery, overbearing lad they had known in India.

The little party at Oakwood had all either walked or ridden out, and Mrs. Hamilton alone remained at home.  She stood by the side of Emmeline, who was asleep, peacefully and sweetly; a smile bright and beautiful as of other days, played round her lips.  The mother reflected on the words of Mr. Maitland, who had assured her, the remedy he proposed would be successful.  “Make her happy, remove this weighty load which weighs upon her heart, and she will live to be the blessing she has ever been to all who love her.”

Tears of mingled feeling rose to the eyes of Mrs. Hamilton as she watched her child.  Emmeline’s lips moved.  “Arthur, dear Arthur,” she murmured, a faint flush rising to her cheek, and the smile heightened in its brilliancy; a few minutes, and her eyes unclosed; a shade of disappointment passed over her features, a faint sigh struggled to escape, but it was checked, for she met her mother’s fond glance, and smiled.

“Why are you not gone out, dearest mother, this lovely evening? why stay with such a dull companion as I am?  Percy and Edward could offer so many more attractions, and I am sure it is not with their good-will you are here.”

“Would my Emmeline refuse me the sweet pleasure of watching her, tending her? believe me, dearest, without you at my side, the park and this lovely evening would lose half their attractions.”