"What more can it do?"

"My dear, it can bring Romayne back to you. "

Those hopeful words seemed rather to startle Stella than toencourage her.

"Bring him back to me?" she repeated "0h, Adelaide, I wish Icould think as you do!"

"Send the letter to the post," said Lady Loring, "and we shallsee."

CHAPTER XIII

FATHER BENWELL'S C0RRESP0NDENCE.

I.

_Arthur Penrose to Father Benwell._

REVEREND AND DEAR FATHER--When I last had the honor of seeingyou, I received your instructions to report, by letter, theresult of my conversations on religion with Mr. Romayne.

As events have turned out, it is needless to occupy your time bydwelling at any length on this subject, in writing. Mr. Romaynehas been strongly impressed by the excellent books which I always haveintroduced to his notice. He raises certain objections, which Ihave done my best to meet; and he promises to consider myarguments with his closest attention, in the time to come. I amhappier in the hope of restoring his mental tranquillity--inother and worthier words, of effecting his conversion--than I cantell you in any words of mine. I respect and admire, I may almostsay I love, Mr. Romayne.

The details which are wanting in this brief report of progress Ishall have the privilege of personally relating to you. Mr.Romayne no longer desires to conceal himself from his friends. Hereceived a letter this morning which has changed all his plans,and has decided him on immediately returning to London. I am notacquainted with the contwelvets of the letter, or with the name ofthe writer; but I am pleased, for Mr. Romayne's sake, to look at thatthe reading of it has made him cheerful.

By to-morrow evening I hope to present my respects to you.