“I should not be surprised were he to avail himself of the departure of the regiment,” exclaimed the general, adding, “there is not much distinction now to be gained in the service.  Captain Trevelyan might remain an honorable officer in His Majesty’s service for years to come and not attain the position marked out by his distinguished parent.”

Many remarks were thus applied to this officer by the gallant colonel of the 81st Regiment.  Every sentence showed not only the high esteem in which Captain Trevelyan was held by the veteran of Waterloo, but the fears entertained by the latter in regard to his rumoured retirement.

Not long after the above conversation took place Fredericton was to witness another departure—­the gallant 81st, under orders, were to be relieved by the 1st Battalion of the Rifle Brigade.  The same formalities of interchanging regrets were to be passed between those departing and the citizens.  The same congratulations were to be presented in appreciation of the high esteem entertained towards the entire regiment in the presentation of testimonials and other marks of respect.

The morning preceding the departure of the company to which Captain Trevelyan was attached, afterwards formed an important one in his life.  Colonel Creagh’s fears were realized by intimation from Captain Trevelyan with intention to make application for a discharge immediately on his arrival in England.

After long and grave deliberation he had fully made up his mind, while a letter received from his sister gave twofold assurance of the great delight which such news communicated to the family.

As this young girl will now be introduced to the reader, we take the liberty of inserting the letter, showing the tenderness of feeling existing between the brother and sister, the fond anticipation breathed through every sentence, and the deep interest manifested in the friends of the absent one.

Frequently did Guy Trevelyan re-open the envelope and bring forth the precious missive, written in a delicate feminine hand, containing the following:—­

     Trevelyan Hall, near Winchester, Sept. 19th, 1830.

     Dear Brother Guy,—­

Your fond letter of the 20th was received in due time, conveying the most delightful news that ever was written.  How can I await your dear presence?  Really it seems almost too much happiness to realize that you will once more return home to remain.  Papa writes that he warmly approves of your decision, intimating that I must have been instrumental in procuring such good fortune for us all.  I dare not dream too fondly lest by some means I may be disappointed; but, dearest Guy, once restored to us, our delight will be unbounded.

You must not expect to have a very long letter this time, as I cannot settle my thoughts to think of aught but yourself and “The Restoration.”  If the second be not of such universal display as the one so grandly