One evening as Captain Douglas and the latter were indulging in a quiet chat the conversation turned upon Lady Rosamond.

“She is indeed possessed of remarkable strength of character, which is the more surprising from the natural timidity and gentleness of her disposition,” remarked Captain Douglas.

“I have greatly admired her of late, and have, on more than one occasion tried to study the depths of her nature,” returned Mr. Howe, with sudden earnestness.  He was bent upon disclosing further plans to his friend when the latter exclaimed: 

“By jove!  Gerald Bereford is a lucky fellow, to win the Lady Rosamond as his future bride.”

A look of startled surprise betrayed the excited feelings of Mr. Howe, leading Captain Douglas to remark: 

“Look here, old chap, one would be apt to imagine that you were deeply smitten were they now to get a glimpse of your face.”

Mr. Howe smiled.

“Yes,” continued Charles Douglas, “her ladyship is to marry her cousin, Gerald Bereford, shortly after her arrival in England.”

This was certainly a new aspect of affairs.  Mr. Howe now viewed the matter in another light, yet he could not heartily respond.  Vainly he strove to banish these thoughts, silently murmuring “poor Trevelyan!”

CHAPTER XII.

CHANGE.

We now arrive at the period when many changes are about to take place.  The gayest and most gallant regiment ever stationed in Fredericton was under orders to be in readiness for departure.  This was a source of much regret to the citizens, who shared in the extravagant scenes of gaiety so lavishly furnished.  The sportsmen of Fredericton lamented the fact with deep regret.  We cannot let this opportunity pass to relate an incident showing to what excess horse racing was carried in those days.  Captain H——­, an officer of the above named regiment, a true sporting character, owned a stud of the best thorough-breds in America.  He annually spent an immense income in horse racing and various sports.  In the meantime there lived in the city of St. John a coachman named Larry Stivers.  If ever any individual sacrificed his entire heart and soul to the management, training and nature of horses, it was the self same Larry.  Though possessed of limited means, no privation was too great in order to gratify such demands.  A race was finally agreed upon between Captain H——­ and this remarkable individual, which in the horse records of New Brunswick has no precedent, the case being unparalleled at home or abroad.  One fine morning in March, 1826, the magnificent team of horses, driven by the captain, made its appearance in the market square, St. John.  After the lapse of a few moments a second team arrived and was drawn up aside the former.  No inquiry was made as to the ownership of the latter.  Everybody recognized it as the turnout of Larry Stivers.