How frequently may we observe, that the happiest events which occur to us are extracted from those we, at first view, esteem singularly unfortunate. What an astonishing escape has Charles had! but let me proceed orderly, that you may be able to comprehend the matter. The day after he wrote to you last, we were surprised by Major Herbert sending in his name, and requesting the honor of a short conference with our friend. – He was immediately admitted; and, after the customary compliments of condolence on his part, and apologies for rudeness and rashness/ on the part of Charles, we took our seats, and the Major said,

‘So unexpected a visit from me, Mr. Montgomery, no doubt excites your wonder: but I come hither, sir, as your friend, on the foundation of my esteem for Mr. and Miss Bertills, with whom I have long had the honor of an intimacy; and who, I find, are not only much attached to you, but are your nearest relations. Had I known this circumstance, when at Doncaster, depend upon it we had not parted so hastily. – Accident alone informed me of it now; for, at my return home from thence, Miss Bertills was with Mrs. Herbert, who was expressing her pleasure at seeing me, when I jocularly said, as I held her in my arms,

‘Why it is very well, my love, that I am come safe back to you; for I have been pretty near having a sword thro' my body, or a bullet thro' my head, only for speaking the truth of one of your sex, before a fiery young spark, who thought higher of her than she merited, and therefore, demanded instant satisfaction.’/

‘Bless me!’ – cried my dear girl, with a countenance pale as death, – ‘are you sure you did not accept the challenge, Herbert?’