But the brave and handsome officer showed not the fathomless depths and feelings of his true heart, which throbbed with a renewed emotion.  With a sense of utter loneliness he lamented the bitter misfortune which had been his attendant since he had left the peaceful home of his fatherland.  Mary Douglas, his kind friend and companion, had been as a gentle and loving sister to raise for a time his flagging spirits.  Mr. Howe had ever been at his side to show unceasing acts of kindness and brighten those dark hours with a tender but inexpressive sympathy.  Captain Trevelyan could never forget the motives which actuated these, still he did not exhibit any outward show of gratitude save by a firm and passive confidence.

Knowing the true nature of such friendship, Mr. Howe would have experienced deeper regret at parting were he not aware that he would meet Captain Trevelyan early in the following year.

Left to the undisturbed quiet of his own thoughts, Captain Trevelyan formed many plans regarding his future career.  A work was steadily going on within while he attended the duties devolving upon him in connection with his military life.

It had always been the true aim of this soldier to discharge his labors faithfully and with a desire to please.  His genial nature and generous heart gained the popularity of the entire regiment.  Not only did he treat his superior officers with profound respect but his inferiors as well.  Every subordinate officer and private loved to meet his friendly smile.  Every one vied in doing some act that would receive his approbation.  Truly did Colonel Creagh make the following remark to a distinguished General, who was inspecting the troops:  “If ever man were born who possessed not a single enemy, I believe that man is Captain Trevelyan.”

“I believe you,” returned the General, “goodness is stamped upon his handsome face, but seldom is it so clearly defined as to insure such general approval.”

“Sometimes,” added the Colonel, “I have doubts regarding the serious intentions of our friend.  It has been whispered that he begins to weary of the service.  I have not had sufficient reason to confirm the truth of the statement, but I shall feel much dissatisfied if it prove correct.  Sir Howard Douglas always maintained that Trevelyan is a scion of the old stock, that he possesses the same qualities that distinguished his father.  It would indeed be a source of regret were all to be disappointed by his retirement,” said the Colonel, in a tone of deep earnestness.

“If the family resources are large he may have sufficient reason for such an act,” ventured the General interrogatively.

“Sir Guy Trevelyan,” said the Colonel, by way of explanation, “owns a fine old estate in Hampshire, which yields a moderate income.  His only son will be his direct heir, and Captain Trevelyan can at any opportunity enjoy the ease and retirement of private life.”