i " in

 

ibrary of First-C

  

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limes Copyri

 

Price but 5 cents e

 

‘ght Novels Published 2

2,011.

   
  

 

 

 

 

 

 

Entered at the Post Office at New York, N. Y. at SecandOl'aes Mail Bates.

 

  

 

N0. 99. VOL, IV.

 

 

Copyrighted in 1881 by Emu; um ADLMK.

 

 

Marjorie Bruce's Lovers

BY MARY PATRICK

 

m'r'aonocmox.

 

CHAPTER 1.
'ronwoon nan.

“W mind's made up and. b
keg: m another year i'rae me.

x, portly wife in their sunny parlor, one June morning'

spoke he brouzht his stro

8133? force which set the ol -fashioned china cups and saucemj
w ’d

en John Bruce’s mind “'93
made up, she} knew, by the experi-
ence of nearly twenty yea-1‘6. that
truly no man or woman born Deed
expect to turn by 0 'iosition the
current of his will; 80, 11011311 What

said disa pointed her, she mew

ly renmrk , in her pleasant some-
What deep-toned voice. “Well.W
giyhcr‘,’ you‘ve filed it'; so! we’

n mores tit,’ an P0-
ceedcd with steady hand to liftpthé
creamdug and pour a liberal sup'
ply oi its oontentslnto his third cup
0 tea: then, han‘dcigf him the cup
she, wit-n a. perf. y imperturbed
car, went on with her own hearty
breakfast.

ce‘ was a ruddy man. His
small blue eyes hwi not lost a whit
of their humorous intelligence; his
rather short, stoutly built
none of its athletic strength: his
blood ran as quickly thr
veins now as when, a jovial bachelor
of forty, he had to the consterna-
tion of his jovial bachelor friends.
ht home a young wife to Tots
w Farm, where, for near a score
or yeaxspreviously, he had lived in
a. rough plenty such as most tarm-

ers love; ridi as a horse as
any man in laird or ten.
ant; foil the hounds when the

gem: lay withjinmoonvenient dis»
nee; pass y evenings over
often-mplenfied tumblers of whis~
Icy-teddy. occasionally enjoyed in
the company of a country gentle-
man of congenial tastes, usually in
that of some farmer-friend.

The only son oi an extrav t
iaird whose heavily mo ea.
Late h
the market. realizing little more
than anilioient to stock a la
sheep-farm, John Bruce was mini?

ted )y most of his neighbors to‘

have pemiliar claims to gentleman.
hood, and a certain prestige dis~
tillguiahed his position from that or
the ne hborl ‘ fannem.

Well in, f rly educated aflrst-
rate shot, a capital teller of humor-
ous stories, and withal a Tory to
me bone, he, in his lot

ially, was sure of a hearty
I; ‘33!“ at many a (minty mansion

A’meny social. hot-blooded fel-
k’wa be 0m declined an W

spite of his Singaxyears, John
e

ad at his death here: put into,

X the Lord! uomanorwomanbornshall

Bruce, fTorwood Farm as he sat at breakfastwath his
b1001ka Old Jam 0 ' and as he
list down on the well-spread to e lEgg: as
an
have shaken the nerves of almost any other women than Just t at dalm,
Sammie, healthy one who set 0 yositc him, and who, fortunately for them both,
had never been known to asser the possession at these troublesome organs.

 

tunity of 8
folk as sure to come to ruin

Yet somehow all went well with him,

njoyment, and consequently was looked upon by deuce p

October 4. 1881.

PUBLISHED WEEKLY BY BEADLE AND ADAMS, 98 WILLIAM ST., N. Y. PRICE, 5 CENTS

lodding

His flicks Were usually the most pro

lino. his are S the heaviost in the par" sh: in borers toiled for him as they would

do (or no

er master, far or nen r.

.\ .y more regular visitor had the factor of

the Earl of Caetieton’s eetatm each rent-day. H
When, too, after lon procrastination, it pleased this lite-enjoyingt gentleman

to try the matrimon'

lottery his customary
" crown unto her husband " was the wife he brought home.

good-luck attended A very

Btran , to say, this couple, now cherishing a steady, tender aflection for each
other, (1 d not begin with an strong attachment.

John Bru

comely, sensi e, modest-eyed young
and she (her father, the parish minister
a home and a protector, and thought

weary of bee elor joys, needed a wife, and thought well of this
lady, of Whom everybody thought well'
newly laid» in his
orwood Farm at

ve) sorely neede
nny place, and its

master a manly, kind—heartal, cheery gentlemen: and so they cast in their lot
to ther, nor had ever afterward cause to regret doin so.
0 sooner was she settled down in her new home t an she set herself to the
task of bringing into order the rather chaotic elements sbe four ‘1 t era; ' .
A good woman, strong and wise, reared in a pure moral atmos. here, and un-
able to breathe any other, there was no end to the good‘which t e still, ‘
influence of her fair life effected on such as came into daily contact with“.

Little by little she weaned her husband from his unwise in

their servants habits of regularity,

 

nun

 

 

mm
"’ um

‘1

"i;
I

“still ’ '

.1 ..

 

am,” wnrsmao 1m rmmv, “1 row: row
mm in wnoua com.“

ulgenoes. She taught

and made the farm-house really a home.

It may be, after all, that her hus-
band's refdrmation was helped (in
by the girl-baby who came ere o

ear was out. Possibl he might

ave wearied of well-do ug and fa]-
len back into his old, jolly, careless
we. 5, had not the new, strange joy
of atherhood filled his heart.

He learned for the first time what
Ru re yet passionate love is, u hen the

aby- lingers closed around his.
Long are the child could speak, he
had yielded himself up a' willin
slave to her baby cap: ices. Her fl
inarticulnte utterances were the
sweetest of music to his ear. As she
grew up, a bonn , bri ht, wa ward
creature, the 11‘ e an anus e of
her home, each, succeeding" {ear
added a fresh link in the chain w ich
hound him in pleasant slayer-y,

Meanwhile his wife, unwear'yingly
devoting herself to the performance
of her many duties, perceived with
a natural disappointment that these
two were infiniter more to each
other than she was to either of them.
She did not complain and nobody
sue ected her of this feeling.

we girl loved her mother dearly,
and respected her more than any
other human being; only, as was to
be expected, hex-father's boundless

v indulgence and the assurance oi her

own power over him her re~
gard him with a peculiar fond~
ness.

And now having given you an on
ceremonious introchiction to the
Bruce family, I shall return to the
point from which this simple story
of mine started. merely promising
that a proposal to send their daugh.
ter back for another year to
the fashionable Parisian school
where she was at present had called
forth that heav thump of the

towel list and he energetic dec-
aration with which this chaer
opens.

The morning was sunny and the
hay Just then needed suushiue‘ the
window, thrown half-open, admito
ted a pleasant breeze and a cheerful
combination of farm-yard noises——
“ mak‘ing 0f hens, and Hacking of
ducks, and neighing o! arses, and
lowing of cattle; aoheer sound too
of human footste s an voices. for
the parlor ove ooked the chief
farm-yard, which in the morning
was ever a liver scene.

 

MARJORIE sauces Lamas.

 

From his seat at the breakfast-table John Bruce could
see his men leading the horses to and from the great
moss-griwn trough. his

k' n d o from the b res to their astute; and tho I ment’s as bindinnr now as it was then.
8 m e c w y p vexed that she sadud seek to deceive the lady we gave -

oll farmer liked well such aneutlook as this.
Glancing at his wife's lace, and seeing it perfectly
goddmumored. his own grew the same, and he pre-
‘ scntly vouchsafed a remark, in quite a mild tone,
“ I in growing an old man, Mary," he said, “and it‘s
but nitural I should like to keep my lassie near me.”
His wiie's kind heart was touched. " Yes, father. it's
but natural." she echoed, lookin up at him. with the
kindly half-smile which was eel om absent from her
lace; " only," she added. alter a momentary silence,
with a look of care accompanying her words. “Mar-
Jorie's but a fanciful young thing yet, and I’d lain have
had her out of the way while Lord Castleton's at Tor-
wood. He‘sa fine-looking young fellow, and I don’t
like our Marjorie being constantly thrown in the way
of meeting him."
Mr. Bruce fldgeted in his chair. and threw an impa-
tient glance at her.
“ Tuts, woman !" he said. crossly. “Lord Castleton's
to ma’lw'ri'fi his cousin. as you very Well know. What
harm , it do Madge to meet him now and then ? I'll
warrant she'd have a good laugh at us it she heard our
conversation., Why, she speaks about him in her last
letter in a joking way that shows plain enough her
heart's whole." A surprised. grieved look from his
wife stopped him.

"I never saw that letter, nor knew it had come to
the house. father," she said. gravely; and as she spoke
she sighed.

The old man laughed in a confused way. "I’ve let
the cat out of the bag. wile,” he said. Then, drawing
a letter out of his pocket, he handed it to her, and
watched horas she read it.

" It isn‘t Karjorie's fault, anyway. She never bade
me has it from you; only. as it was but a silly bit
scrawl. ll of nonsense, I just meant to do so," he said,
in a few moments. perceiving that her face grew very
gave as she perused the crumpled. closely written

est. ‘

To himthlis letter contained nothing but new proofs
of the lassis's spirit: to her it seemed full of dan erous
seliowill and unbecoming levity. It was date from
Paris. and ran as follows:

“ Dssusr Bloom—Madame is going to write to
mamma and you, advising you to send me back to this
wearisome. wearisome educational tread-mill for
another year: and so I send yo i this on the sly, to tell
you i won‘t ever be friends with you if you even give
a single moment's consideration to her proposal.

“ i won'ldn'tstsy a week, supposing you did send me
back. so don't you try it. I am nearly eighteen now.
and I know as much as I want to. and mean tohavc's
real jolly time until I get married and settled down. so
I suppose! must some day. I don t want toth than
ried for years and ears, and all that time I moms to
stick close to you, or old dad. and tease and coax and
love‘ you awfully. I‘ll do everything I like. and you‘ll
do everything I bid you; and We'll have such happy
time r— won't we 7

“ I hope you are behaving yourself, and not dyin up
into over now and then, as you uscdto do.

now
genoss for stout old gentleman like you. Hind til“
you are being very good to mamma, and that you are

lying her her own way now and then. just for a great
great. for she is worth a score 0! easy, selfish folk like
you amine; and hy-and-by, when I havs sown all y
wild cats. I mean to be Very good and wise, like -

and than. dearold dad. surely our combined exefiou;
will keep on in the way {on should go. However.
don't be wncast. dear 01 man; I promise you that

£81?“ be my own silly happy self for years and years
rs ,

“ By-tbe-by. I am, wenrying terribly to see Lord
Osstleton. Lady Dorothea gave me a cart: he had sent
her. and I ‘glaaoat it in uuutterable admiration by the
hour toga or. He has grown handsomer than ever in
his two years of travel. and I know not how I canpos-
sibly escape mining a victim to his fascination. «a d-
though I am well aware that he is to marry his cousin.
Miss Lisle. and so keep her money-bags in the family.
You will be glad to hear that Lad Castle ‘ issues
more allowing me to form one in y Do
0: ytur tourney home. so you need have no anxiety
a on me. ' ‘ ‘ ‘ '

"Goal-bye, darling daddy. I weary so  r

dear red face and mamma's bonny one, and tow a at

sine. and tell her I’d like to stay with her. , on
too need me at home. Ididn‘t tell her! . '
leave. or course—I always shirk disagreeablflhlfll I
can. you know. and I can't deny that I'm a bit of Ids.
ceivsr. .Yet you must believe me, for everlndmh
dear dad, your loving lassis Mamm- ..

" P. 8.—-Don't bother over what I've said about Lord
Castleton. I was only joking. I am a damsel of low
degree, and he is. woe is me! a bein ofa totally dif-
ficfitlcrder. I shall take good cars 0 my sflcoptiblq

the old farm. as I used to do. Write at 0mg msd~

Miss; Bruce made not a sin is remark during the read-
ing of this long letter, and w on she had finished she
(211:1? i: :11) : Bavelilt intofher husband’s hand with-
o wwgvesaeohrhoa n
disapproval of its contents. 6 d I muting her

The old man hastened to
the amass of the absentee. .

" s . woman. what ails you? What's wron wi’
tho issue’s letter '2" he asked. touchily. quite forgegttiug
his o’wn previous doubts and misgivings.

Mrs. Bruce. thus uestioned. d not shrink from
speaking her mind. n matters ofconscience sue never
feared to speak out.

“ it isn't a pretty letter. father." she said, gravely.

to take up the cudgels in

on.
ot weather rages are dangerous indul- .

's unit

1

‘° her 3mm. with tar boasts—writing“

 

i

and went on. quite disregarding his rising choler; " it
isn‘t a letter I would have written to my father when I

maids driving the sleek, i was her age, and I'm thinking the Filth Command-

Besides. l’m

her in charge to, and she so kind and attentive. too."

Mr. Bruce interrupted impatiently: “Tuts, tuis,
woman! you're like a’ the unco' guiddlespersto hard
on young things. What's the harm o' sending a bit
letter on the sly ‘3"

"It’s deceitful. father. and I'm heart-grieved our
girl should stoop to deceit." his wife returned, very
gravely.

The old man fldgeted in his chair and muttered a
contemptuous exclamation. shooting to laugh as he did

so.

Quite imperturbed, Mrs. Bruce went on: " You may
laugh at me if you like, father. but all your laughing
will never chain c wrong to right—the straight road's
shortest, as I"? like Marjorie to recollect. No good
comes of crooked ways, and it little becomes us to en-
courage her in trying them. No. no. it isn't a pretty
letter. and I’d never have written .he like to my father
though I had been but eight instead of eighteen.”

She spoke with acertsin air of patient, gentle dignity,
and her words and look made an impression on her
husband. .

A rover in forbidden paths, as he himself had been,
he would fain. after all, that the lassie should tread
the safe old ways her mother and her mother’s kin had
trodden before her, and a reflection of his wife's grav-
ity showed itself on his face, though he answered with
a joke.

“ Well, well. wife. you ll mind your father was in the
ministerial line. and black coats are ever a deal re-
spected. Maybe if Maia had had a douce minister for
her father she'd have honored him to your heart’s con»
tent."

Mrs. Bruce smiled, and he went on with increasing
good-humor :

“ Ay, I dare say she'd have written mighty respectful
letters to him. and have kept her confidences ior her
sweethearts, most likely. Be glad the Jessie‘s as good
a lassie as she is, Mary. and make allowance for her
failings. She canna help taking after her hot-headed
auld sinner of afather, can she ? ’Deed, to speak the
plain truth you're so fond of. you’re to blame for not
having chosen a husband of quite a (lifl'erent stamp. If
you had seen to her having a father of the grim orthodox
sort. I'll warrant she’d have turned out quite a para
gon of perfection."

There were both justice and good-humor in this
speech. Mrs. Bruce inwardly admitted. and she smiled
as she shook her head in slightly rebuking fashion.
Modestly desiring to change the subject. as she saw
from the twin. is of her husband’s eyes that he was
about to pursue his joke. she hastened to give him an
agreeable bit of news which she had, until now, for-
gotten to communicate.

“ There's another o' the brown queys calvsd. father."
she said. " I wish ya'd stop in to take a look at them
and see if the cell’s ms rearing. I can take it and

another in hand yet. and leave plenty cream for
Marjorie buidai." ”

The tanner looked well piss-d." and rose with
slacrity. _ .

      
   

 ‘ so manyhun yyoun thi on
' -» doubt your milksrmoncy snub-$1M
be laid. cas m _
H ‘hsrashe lifted his big. oskou stick
ad white batik-om a table by this
I madam

witha

“ It's no

 
 

vow-i . -. ..
window. “And yet your oifer’s tuhptiug‘ at
well on my reared beasts last season." he added

ll h.
git-s. Bruce. hour the *brsskfsstetfible. circa up
to him and _ hialockti' 
" Well.  . than when my. '
abort I'll  you'll no ‘ , {
so msmd’  ' 
winnings” face beamed assurance of  satisfac-

n. ,.
"You'rs's‘ who woman and a whole-cum
Mary. , . ." herald. taking her hand and t
n “5: ' ' nay' this s‘ himmcht' '53“
furs  a .w on wen o 0
win. If nudge nowsynst such awomansshsr'
I‘ll be well content." .
Then. with a parting nod of farewell, he left the room
sud-st out on his second morning round—s co ,
which had beonsleepingat his feet, starting up and
followinghim. -_ I g
“"hwiss woman and a wholesome-naturedf‘_indssd
e was. ' ..
No one who had watched her through thwggig

  

    
   

hours ct day-— her with her in

mum to the tronblosonm little beant angina;
carrying nourishing dduties prepared  , 11
hands to the sick balm at the lone cot-hon” Q 7!
hillside. where the shepherd‘s widow carried on a
brave battle with, poverty. and, thanks to Mrl. Bruce.
seemed like tocotqucrin the end—could have denied
the truth of that saying.

Had my heroine, WY. willful. unwise Marjorie.
been formed by; like mould. her love story would have
beenavery ant f ‘ to tail. Such as she is we
must bear ill er,  be thankful that, it Mil-om
a model woman. she is at least. fair to look upon.
merry as a kitten, pure; as a has my in lo mur-
house garden. warm-hearted as over yet was ghtcr
of Eve. How the pretty damsel is found in such Iris-
tocratic company my‘next chapter must tell. -

 

CHAPTER II.
roawoon nouss'.

Ems-r 01:11.1 snan go back to the days of the late
Lord Castleton. the present lord's father. In early
youth he was a sad prodigal, and contrived to get

 

.  balloon!

 

through an almost incredible number of thousands W
the spew of a. very few years; but, thanks to his or.
totes being entailed, he iound the road to ruin less easy
than some similarly disposed young gentlemen do.
At the age of iive-aud-tueiity, finding himsel: sor i;
straitened in circumstances. he set about rL-pail'ili , his
lortunes, married a beuutilul young heiress or n pur-
ticular descent, paid his debts out of the fortune s 0
brought him, and, retiring with her to the country.
cmnpletely changed his course of life.

Torwood House. a fine old mansion in the or ttze
southern counties of Scotland, became the chief in ms
of the aforesaid young couple; and there, in course (.1
time. were born to them a. son and daughter. lierber‘
and Dorothea. 1

Long era the birth of- their secoud child. Lord (ins
tleton and his lady had found out their incom atibilty
of tastes and disposition. and every year of ‘. eir mar
ried liie made them more indifleront to each other. Hi
had married her because she was rich and in other rc-
spects a desirable bride; but had she afterward sough‘
to win his love by patient. gentle. nnwearying study
of his inclinations. she might have succeeded. She
however, a romantic enthusiastic girl of eighteen. her":
married him because under his prepossessing exterior
she believed every conceivable noble qualitxc'xisted,
and when by slow degrees she learned to know him as
he really was-a Very selfish. very prosaic mortal
whose good looks and high animal spirits were his
chief recommendation—in sore disappointment, she
turned away from him and sought elsewhere tor the
sympathy of thought and feeling which her naturlI
craved.

She had no lack of intellectual gifts, and in their
cultivation she found solace and distraction. Footsors
and Weary, treading the dusty highway of real life. she
wandered into the pleasant dewy pastures oi the ideal,
and there selfishly continued to wander, utterly ro~
gardless of the claims which her husband and children
had upon her. '

By-and-by she gained an honorable place in the world
of letters—the critics acknowledged her as a. powerinl
novelist, a poet of great promise. Her husband shrugged
his broad shoulders. and refused to congratulate her;
nay, professed a still increasing indifference to every-
thing bnt‘ his children. his dogs and horses. and rural
amusements: and so the breach etwe'on the married
pair went on widening. And yet there was little out
ward sign of disunion in this household. Lady Cus-
tleton, dwelling apart in dignified seclusion, exercised
no restraint over the family life.‘which, thsnks to Lord
Castlcton's loudness ior his children. was a tolerably
happy one.

Years a ter he was laid in his vs. these children—
children he longer—cherished is memory with won.
deriul tenderness. Ind spoke regretfully of the merry,
times his indulgence had insured themin their early.
youth; and though folks staid be spoiled them. I am

nclined to believe they were wrong. Honest love. be

it cvor‘so blundering, is a mighty agent in the devpb

opment of our best qualities.
One of the few likin a Lord and Lady Cutleton shar-
ed wss a liking for the humble neighbors, the Braces

of Tor-wood Farm.

Ever since Marjorie Bruce could remember, she had
been in the habit otflpayiu frequent visits to Tor-
wood House. She h mis y memories of being car-
ried there-on her father's strongshoulder m days when
her baby feet were not long in iring; her first rides on
the diminutive Shetland pony her father gave her on
her sixth birthday were, along the quiet country roads
which, passing by the farm-house. led next to one of the
entrmces to the mansion—a high. old-fashioned gate-
way, llan H on either side by a clumsy pillar. on
which a stone lion crouched frowning on all who
passed by.'-that way. Sometimes John Bruce would
accontifsny the little rider. up to the great hear
some mes he would but o£en the gate for her. on
watch her lovingly as she ro away up‘thoavonue.

For. little girl there was ever a welcome of the
A . 'nd them, pretty little Lsdy Dorothea.
who“ Mort layfellow she had become. Children
ofhoryouthfu adyship’s rank were scarce in that neigh-.

, . and her parents permitted her to make a friend
of this well-bred. engaging little dsmlel. without

-- troublintflsemselves about possible future ember-m.

 arising from the longmontinued’ intimacy oi‘s

cmfirls so diusront in social standing.
‘  any misgivings arise in the minds of
W‘ 'parcnts until it was too late to make mat-
' r Gratification at the honor done their

rig
‘dsrlingwsstcra ion time their chiefi'eeling on the

subject of this (rien ship. and the attentions which
meatleton was pleased to pay themselves natu-
rally served to make them more anxious to show a duo
sense of his kindness. ~
I -80 when. after the esrl's little son was sent ofl’ to s
public-school. leaving his sister to lonely studies
under. the tuition of an accomplished governess. her
parents ’ that her playmate Marjorie might pass
the mornings with her and share her lessons. the oasi-
was closed with at once.

As the governess declared that Lady Dorothea made
much more satisfactory progress in her education, now
that she had Msrjorie's companionship. this arrange-
ment continued to exist unaltered year after as.
Once Lady Cutleton deigned to put the little stn cuts
through a hasty examination, and on this occasion he:
Verdict” that “ they were spair of stupid, idle little ‘
chltand that their governess deserved gregt credit,
for. her patience in bearing with them.

Having once formed this opinion. she showed
no furt or interest in their lessons, and, to their
great tisfhction. they were left entirely to the
care oft sir overncss, who. being an earnest and c.-.

able teacher, y dint of much labor succeeded. by-and-

y, in bringing them up to the average you -lsdy
mark in intellectual attai ents, besides permitt ng in
each of them the cal on of one unmistakable
taste.

.v

HAWORIE BRUCEXS' LOVERS.

 

 

Little Lady Dorothea, ere she had quitted infancy,
drew with wonderful precision such objects as it
pleased her to attempt representing. Marjorie Bruce
loved music, and showed neither idleness nor stupidity
when her tiny fingers found their way to the keys of
the piano, which to her fellow-student was an instru-
ment of torture : and, good masters being found for
them when their governess pronounced them ready to
profit by their instructions, each of the girls had at an
early age made uncommon progress in her chosen
study. '

Lord Castleton's demonstrative fondness for his chil-
dren lasted steadily all those years of their early youth :
and when, after a short illness, he died, about two
years and a half before my story opens, he leit a and
blank in the household.

Many changes followed. Lady Castleton departed on
a solitary tour over the Continent; the new lord. his
college studies not uncreditably concluded. Fat 03' for
the that in the company of an adventurously minded
couple of college chums ; and Lady Dorothea was con-
Signed to a Parisian school. where special arrangements
Were made for the continuance of her art-education.

Marjorie Bruce. forsaken for a time by her aristocratic
friends. ran wild about the farm. 81“! enjoyed herself
nnmenscly, riding, driving, playing at dairy-mind's
work. and alternately provoking and charming every-
body around her.

{it the end of three months. however. Lady Dorothefi.
grieving still on accoun: of her father’s loss, and miss-
ing terrib y, in her new quarters. the freedom of her
old home, pleaded so pitifully for the companionship of
her friend Marjorie that her mother exerted herself to
secure it for her, and succeeded in overcoming the
Bruces' scruples about the wisdom of giving further
educational advantages to a girl in her rank.

Marjorie herself wished to go, and so of course in the
end she went, and was received with open arms by her
young ladyahip. Much to the wander of their fellow-
pup‘ils, the sisterly intimacy of the old days was stead-
ily maintained during their stay at school. There, too,
Marjorie found favor in the eyes of nearly all her asso-
ciates, spite of their aristocratic prejudices.

0 girl spoke with perfect frankness of all the details
of her ome life, and was proudly careful to disclaim
all pretensions to social equality, yet carried her pretty
head wrth such a natural grace. and was so lively and
fearless and unmistakably well-bred, that she found a
vantage-ground of her own.

And now. their school life over, the girls were coming
home for good—Lady Dorothea happy in the prospect
of “coming out " next season, Marjorie vaguely antic~
ipatinfi all manner of pleasant things. Lady Cutleton'a
house old was to rcsettle at 1‘0er House, where the
young load was shortly expected : lo the girl felt secure
of abundant present amusement and distraction.

Without further prance. I shall now go on to tell you
her lovedtory.

S TOR Y.

CHAPTER I.
muons.

hr was a sultry Juno afternoon. and cv door and
window in the farm-house stood open. or,

"Boau-ty. Beau-ty. Bean-tyl"sung out old John
Braces strong voice, as he went up and down the
passages calling his daughter, and there were infinite
pride and tenderness in his very way of uttering her
fogliah plot name.
_ gen cman lounging on the parlor sofa, a ci in
his mouth. marked this, and. curious to see into 83h“
.sort of fair woman the pretty slip of a girl he remem-
bered had now devech listened with interest for an
ulstwer to this catlll. F

came presen y. rom somewhere in the lowvr
regions circuit, girlish voice cried. " Coming, old dad.
comingl in a tone scarcely loss fond; and then Mr.
Bruce re-entered, and. sitting down in his usual sent.
an old-fashioned easy-chair by the hearth, bade his
visitor go on smoking, and proceeded to fill himself a
fresh pipe. the parlor being also the smoking-room. by

IsMarjories s ecial desire. “She preferred bsin
«choked to being eserted by the men-101k," she I:
emphatically doclared.

" You are very fond of each other,
Bruce, the stranger remarked, smiling
we .

The old man responded warmly. " She is all the
world to me, my lord.” Whereupon. touched by the

Lord Castleton--—for he it was—grew

you two, Mr.
in an amused

pathos of his tone,
grave and kept a respectiul silence.

A tall, fair-complexioned, handsome young fellow,
broad-shouldered and of well-built figure, looking
goodhnmoredly upon the world out of a pair of lazy.
kin lly blue eyes. and on small provocation displaying
in hearty laughter a set of faultless teeth—boasting.
too, aproiusion ofsunny-tinted fair beard and mus-
tache—one could understand Mrs. Bruce’s alarms for
her daughter of eighteen. '

“Yes. ju..t all the world to , sir," Mr. Bruce
presently re eated, in an absent way; and, as he
spoke, he looked towards the c on door where be ex-
Poctcd her to appear. “ Hush here she comes‘—hot a
word! I want to take the lassie by surprise.“ he. added.

A quick patter of brisk little feet sounded in the
lobby leading from the kitchen regions to the hall, as
she ran along, talking half to herself and half to her
father. whom sheeup (1 alone in the parlor.

“ Poor old dad! had hencbody to fill his pipe and
bring him his slippers, and make much of him, this
tiring warm day l"

I do not know how much more kind nonsense she
might have uttered had not the sight of the visitor
Cheek“ 119' *09830 Is she entered the parlor. For an
instant she stood transfixed; then, as the two gentle.

 

men, diverted by her non-plussed expression, laughed
in concert. she rallied and came forward, pouting and
shaking her head in comical rebuke.

Looking at her critically, Lord Castleton decided
that the pet name her father had given was here by
other claim than that of long possession.

Gracomlly formed. slender, yet healtth moulded,
her figure alone would have charmed an artist. Color
that came and went, now flushing her prettily rounded
cheeksinto exquisite bloom, now leaving them faintly
pink as a sea-shell, gave a changeiul charm to her deli-
cately-featured girlish face, lighted up by large dark
eyes, and crowned by a great soit coil of silky dark-
brown hair. '

Just then, startled into becoming blushes and smiles,
yet carrying her prettily shaped head with the grace of
a princess, she looked her very loveliest. '

“ I am awfully angry with you. papa," she said,
parenthetically: then she turned to Lord Castleton, who
had risen to greet her, and with arespectful yet dig-
nifled little bow. begged him to excuse her rude en-
try.

“ There's a real young lady welcome for your lord-
ship. Why she’s quiteacrodit to the Paris school, aftor
all," Mr. Bruce said, gayly ; then, nndismayed by the
indignant frown with which the damsel turned to him,
he went up to her and slipped his arm round her slim
waist. Lord Castleton looking from the one to the
other with a sparkle of fun in his eyes, while affecting
to be depressed by the ceremonious nature of her
greeting, remonstrated against the injustice of his being
punished for Mr. Bruce's offenses.

" Hero have I come home from long wanderings up
and down the earth, and you'won’t so much as shake
hands with me, Miss Marjorie," he said, with a hurt air,
si hing and looking hard at her.

he rl laughed, and slipping from her father's em-
brace, eld out both her little handa,-saying. with a
blush and an arch upward glance. “ You are very
kind to come and see us so soon. Of course you can
shake hands with me as long as you like, Lord Castle-
ton."

The young man was not slow in profiting by this per-
mission; and, while her hand lay in his, Marjorie ex-
plained, looking down at her. dress: “ I was in the miik
house learning to make up butter when papa called, and
I just came running up as I was." _

Her pink cotton morning dress was tucked up, giving
a glimpse of the prettiest of ankles and tinyest of feet
encased in smart high heeled shoes with silver buckles;
her' plump, rounded arms were bared to the elbow ;
but neither of the gentleman would admit that her ap-
pearance needed apology.

Smiling and blushing at their compliments. she pro-
ceeded to fill her father’s still no lected ipe, while he
reseated himself in his chairan looks at her with
fond pride. His was not the only pair of eyes that
watched her admiringly, and the consciousness of this
put her in a pretty becoming flutter

“There. papa. dear, now I'll ve you your slippers.
Ispoil him awiully, Lord Gas cton," she added pres~
ently, giving him his pipe; then. kneeling, she drew on
his feet a pair of prettily embroidered slippers—the work
of her own little hands of course.

I fear the coqucttish damsel knew how becoming her
lowly posture and loving occupation were, for she lin-
gered unnecessarily upon her knees, flashing bright,
rou uish glances up into the old man's face.

Lord Castleton who was accustomed to note the flue:
of pretty womankind, inwardly amilod at the nnempecto
lug good faith with which the recipient of these
pleasant attentions accepted them.

" She is very fond of her old dad, you see, Lord Cas-
tleton,” he said. half apologetically. as he stroked the
girl's soft. dark hair; and then. stomping1 down. he
whi erodatendcr “ God bless you, my ttlc lass!”
whic had the effect, forthe time being, of banishing
all vain, coquettish feelings from her mind.

She rose to her feet, looking suddenly serious. For
the hundredth time she resolved to recompense his
love by becoming very staid, and sensible, and mindful
of her duties, and, as a first-step in the right direction,
she began to offer hospitable attentions to theirgucst.

" She was so sorry her mother was not at home: she
had one into the town to do their weekly marketing.
and eft her housekeeper in her absence. It was so
kind of his lordship to pay them a visit already. The
afternoon was very hot, and pcrha his lordship
would take a glass of beer: or wcul be rather have
something else? She hoped he would always just ask
for what he wanted when he did them the honor of
comin to their house." No demure young dame of
the 01 .n times could have appeared more thoroughly
en vrosaed by hospitable cares: and her father. who
had not yet ceased to consider her as a mere child, to
be potted and played with. watched her in admiring
wonder.

His lordship was not slow to accept the kind service
she showed herself so anxious to render; he drank the
beer she presently brought him, allowed her to bring a
fresh cigar, and establish him in amoro comfortable
position on the sofa.

“ If she was determined to spoil him, too, he would
make no objections. but be very grateful indeed," he
told her, with one of his bréi‘ghtest and most winning
smiles ; whereat she laugh . and forgot her pretty
humility. ,

"I doubt on are a very lazy fellow," she retorted,
shaking her end, and flashing one of her slightly im-
pudent, wholly charming. glances into his handsome
face, just then expressive of indolent content.

He nodded assent; and the farmer, serenely ailing
away at his pipe, ceased smokin , and laughed and.

“ Come, Beauty. you must in ad your manners. you
know," he said shakin his head rebukingly.

Marjorie looked arc ly irom under her lifted eye.
browa at Lord Castleton. '

“ it is such hard work, please your lordship," she
said, plaintively: and, as she spoke, she made a little
courtesy of mock humility-

 

"And this isn't weather for hard work, is it, Miss
Marjorie?" the young nobleman returned. in a lazily
sympathizing tone, keepin 1 his eyes on her face as she
stood belore him, her han demnrcly folded and her
eyes cast down.

“And you won’t be angry though I don’t mind my
lmanners ‘1" she went on. with another bright glance at

in).

“ And I won’t be angry though you don't mind your
manners,” he repeated, playfully mimicking her tone.

“ And I won't be angry though you don’t mind yours.
then,” laughed the girl, in her frunkoat, men-lest tones.

Lord Castleton nodded and smiled lazy thanks, but
Mr. Bruce's face betrayed some uneasiness. her the
first time since they had been uttered he thought of his
wife's words—" Marjorie's but a fanciful young thing,
and I’d have liked to keep her out of the way while
Lord Castleton s at 'lorwood ”—-and was troubled.
“ We're all right now. Go and finish making up your
butter, my girl," he said, in suspicions haste, looking
hard at her as, thus addressed, she turned round to him.

There was eager entreaty in his eyes. and Marjorie
read his thoughts in one moment, and was mightily
diverted.

" No, thank you, dad,” she said, with a saucy toes of
the head ; " I've left the dairy-maid to finish that job,
and I sha'n't undertake it in a hurry, I can tell you.
Don‘t think I've come home to be uselul, for I haven't.”

“ You’ve come home to be ornamental. at all events.
Miss Marjorie,” said the gentleman on the sofa, taking
the cigar from his lips and glancin admixineg at her.

Unheeding her father’s disturbs look, she persisted
in her resolve to be as charming as pmible. The doc
lightful excitement of flirting with a live young lord
was not to be had every day. V

'- Allow me to return the compliment, Lord Cutla-
ton." she said. returning his glance with a merry,
roquettiah one: whereupon the gentleman rose to his
feet and bowed profoundly, making a pretty little
speech of thanks.

Mr. Bruce's brow clouded ominously. and he Id-
getegi in his chair, as if his annoyance needed some
ven . - , ,

The girl saw that it was quite time for her to exercise
her soothing powers. Slipping up behind his chair am
putting her pretty arms round his neck. she pressed her
blooming check against his.

" i dm't believe you love me half as lunch as I do
you, you cross, unkind old dad 1" she whispered, as.
molliiled by her caress. he smiled tender'y upon her.

He had not meant his crossneas to be perceived, and
he looked perturbed.

What foolish notions might he not unwittingly be
suggesting to his inexperienced.i .noccnt little lacs,who,
if lelt to herself. would be unlikely to trouble her head
with thoughts of love I

“ shall I give you some music, dad i” she said. aloud.
a moment after.

Mr. Bruce locked hesitatingly at Lord Cutleton. who.
while this pretty little interlude was going on. was
smoking away in discreet abstraction That young
gentleman appeared settled for the afternoon, judging

y the la: composure of his attitude ; so the oil man
agreed to . arjorie’e proposal, thinking any occupation
safer than idleness for the lively damsel.

Lord Cutlcton protesaed himself deli htcd to listen,
and was about to quit his position on c soik in order
to establish himself by the piano, when Mujcrto
stopped him.

"Please its still and smoke, or Isha’n't play. Lord
Castleton. It puts me out to have anybody at my cl.
bow when I’m playing,” she said, and so he kept his

place.

And Madorle seated herself at the pincer-Id. as was
her wont, went into dream-land. Bolt. sweet melody
filled the simple little room where the afternoon sun.
shine stunned in through the two little windows look-
iufin the farm.yard.

0 two men smoked and enjoyed it. and the pleasant
sight of that grlceiul, girlish figure, anvuyin. gently to
and fro, as the little white hands wandered over the
keys ; and by-and-by Mr.Bruco fell sound asleep in his.
chair, letting his ipe fall on to the door.

The noise start ed Marjorie from the reverie into
which she had sunk. She turned round from the-
plano. and,.perceiving what had happened. rose from
the mnsicatool and smilineg went up to Lord Castle-
ton, who, having made room for her on the sofa, was
beckoning her to seat herself beside him.

She did so, blushing prettily. yet trying to appear
quite unembarracsed.

“ You must excuse papa, Lord Castleion. Music
{try often sends him to sleep," she said. in lowered

3188.

The young gentleman enacted to be hurt by this
little apology, and a his headin comical rebuke.

“Come. now, Min orie," he said. putting away
his cigar and edging a little nearer her. “ this isn’t fair;
you‘re breaking our agreement y.”

She lau had a confused little laugh. " Oh, I quite-
forgotl beg your pardon." she answered. glancing
shyly towards her father, and adding . .0“ .. Hm ‘.
which had the cutest of making Lord Cutleton almost
whisper his next remark (he had no objection. to the
old gentleman's taking a long nap), utter“ with his
most engaging air.

“I fear you have a dreadfully short memory. Why,
you received me today as if I were nits rs atran er;
and even now you are as distant as if t e dear old eye
when you and Dorothea and I were such friends had
ggtclrly escaped your recollection. Truly time bring.

a gee. .

lie sighed‘deeplyand looked into hcr face with .
plaintive expression. . . -
Marjorie laughed again, but made no other reply.
ahgéhl‘mgshghnegufealingi 93 fiashi‘lufl awkwardness. for
a. .

lion of her. y up” w ' "a hung
Lord Castleton's lazy,,blue

e.Ves .,w re .
reading faces. a not 8‘0' ,1.

and in Marjorie'l look he found a.

HARJORIE BBUC’E’S LO V856.

 

 

nuance of his own power over her. He magnsni-
mousiy resolved to be more careful in avoiding all ap-
Routines of lovc~making, lost this seemingly suscepti-

lellttle heart should caller, and at once endeavored
to set matters on a saie looting. ,

"New. listen to me nor one minute, you naughty
girl,” he said. assuming a paternal air, which presently
made Marjorie look at him in a surprised, diverted way.
"‘ Youvhav‘u been a- denr, ’klnd little sister to D-in so
long that all our ihmily claim you as one of ourselves,
and naturally. expect you to: throw all with us the
tron oiesume' restraints etiquette imposes. You and;
Dell)" and l are sure to. be a great deal together this
autumn ; and you will be very uncomfortable. and
make us silvery uncomfortable, unless you make up
your mind to treat me quite as 'a brother-21. big brother
-very lazy and good-ior-nothing. but determined to
make you both as ' happy as he possibly can. and to
take great care of you. should you ever need his pm
toction." . '

A low. saucy little laugh made the earl stop abruptly
in his haranguc, and fee that he had made himself an
object of aversionto his auditor." . .

~' I am ever so much obliged to you, Lord Castleton :
but reall lsmvory well able to take are of myself; and,
b , sides, have papa to look after me: so l don’t think you
will be oalledupon to make any extraordinaryeil‘orts
in my behalfi."slse said, with a slightly sitirical air;
and the gentleman, looking at her, erosived that her
Imagined gratitude was not heart-fa t. ' .

colored. and looked annoyed.

" Ibeg our pardon. lsee lhave taken too great a
liberty. M as Bruce," he said, humly: whereupon Mar.
 by no means desiring to onend him seriously,

towed upon him one of her most captivating glances,
bamboo assuming strove. penitent look.

“I was my in fun-don’t narrel with me- 'l’m
reallyvory iii-chuobliged. Lo , Castlcton." she said.
apologotlcally: and {or afew minutes she was as meek
and demure a young damsel as one could wish to see.

lane little indications of an inclination to flirt an
the part at. the gentleman. however“ ickly restored
her usual vivacity; and then the coup 8 fall to laugh-

aggutalkingimerrily. and had awoniierouly pleasant
1‘! .l‘.= ‘ ' ‘1 x  - 'I w .

The old man‘s wskening interrupted their (dc-arm.
Lord Castloton presently rose-to go. graciously protest-
ing #ainst the. apology'Which Mr.:Bruoe.iried to make.

,"e by, my. sistsr’and" I will be running out and in of
your housoall the autumn. Mr. Bruce. Surely you
will not stand upon ceremony with us; you will punish
us by making us feel ourselves intolerable nuisances if
you do.:"~hs saidguith his irankest-smils. as he shook
llandswithinm. . ‘ ‘

And than. with. a. last brightvglance into Marjorie's
face. he went away, escorted to the halldoorb the old,
man 'snd‘ Marjorie” feeling uncomfortsbky ‘ at." run

away up to her owmoretty chamber,and pooped through .

the muslin curtains that draped. her window. - . .
' -a \ handsome. aristocraticélooki ‘ fellow
howaai .Wha kind. merry blue eyes he had ,; What
atonny yellowmnstachel How infinitely pleasant it
would be to trip through life by the side- crunch. a
husband, toenjoy- in his company all the Joys and
honors that appertainsd to his'exalted station? 80
thought the vain little damsel as. with flushed cheeks
“inputting eyes. she stood watching him pass out at
itchy: negate, and pursue his way along the pub-
lic road ending to his home. . .
A sudden remembrance of Miss Lislc's reputed right

to tho prizs'she was coveting disturbed her for a. little, '

butshq econ recovered her spirits. , . .. A,
The engagement, Lady Dorothea declared, was not of
ayerybindimgnatnre—it had always been understood
invthe family thatthe cousins were to marry someday.
thatrwasall: and meanwhile both of them acted as if
quite . Surely such a state ol‘matters madeit
no great harm for her to do her part in the t t
:fiktatlon» Iord~Castieton had begun. 80 ran nher
thanghta.  ». ~
.Sbe was but a vain, self-engrossed girlatthis period
other-Malawi“ .Suifertng. refined.‘ and purified; her
whole nature. slashed she never been heroine of mine.
." ‘17:”an propose. ct Dies diapwc,"’ she muttered
presently. after taking : a lon ' and critical ssur-
vey of herself in the mirror; and- en, heavinga com-
testable little,“ [h of pious tionmhs tripped.
rs to caiole her oting father into his

W . . down 8
iron good-humor. which feat. of course. she was not
has in samplishing. - ' : ‘

v I. ; rm ll.
nannnononana

chn. light-footsteps'in the passage; rap-tap at the
malt-open parlor door; ahalf-smbthered girlish giggle—-
such were the sounds that one sultry alter-own, a few
weeks after the scene recorded in the last cba tor,
made Mrs. Bruce pause in her sock-darnlng. an rise
iron her 'sast'on' the parlor sofa. ' '

" Come in, Lady Dorothea," she said; and then a ver
first”. fair-haired young lady ran in, holding out bot
. tom horned smiliugvher most winning smile.

"Good-morning, Mrs.-Brnce.»- I have come to tea, if
you'll" have me. I Momma and Lord Castleton have
driver) of tom—agib'mset Miss Lisle, who is coining
copay non long visit; and [smiles for two or three
assure. moist me invents with you. I don't ,need to
bshonoltill it's near dinner-time,” she said in tpretty,
sow-pitched. coaxing voice. as she shook hands; then
«he ’dro pod down on the sofa, with asigh of weari-
ml, agitating. oi! her bi sun-hat, fanned herself
with it in a pathetically tir way. V .

.“lt istso=»awmlly hot, and Tire almost run all the
“that I might have longer to stay.
 Ites'with you.“ she went on. in scroll. eucling
way. smiling up into Mm. Bruce’s kind. comely face,
mm not» look of hesitation. --‘

‘ i. . ' - --' « « ' I

at

' cued her simple white cloak.'saying,‘ with a little sigh,

, alazy
‘ - shouldered yonn

Doask me’

 

: beauty of the little scena-

v That hospitable woman looked exceedingly hot and.

uncomfortable
 My dear,"
at once; but I can't let you joi us at our tea this al‘- .
ternoon, for, you see, there‘s a
lie—young
you woult be here, I asked him to stay lor tea.
LadyDorothoa laughed, and gave herpretty head a. lit- !

'end dropped in on : bushes,
Alton, oi 'l‘orwood Downs; and, not knowing , hedge, which inclosed the garden,
‘5 strongly built young man Were saunteimg.

The garden, separated from the house by the quiet
highway lrunl which it sloped southward, was a quaint

she said, laying a motherly hand on her [ old-world retreat. with bread green walks oi close-cut
youthinl ladyship'e shoulder, ‘ I‘ll get you a cup of tea ; glans besprent With daisies.

Up one of these. bordered on one side by high rose-
and on the other by the set higher .bcech
Marjorie and a tall,

Marjorie heal a flower-basket- slung over her arm,

“8 Bell-Wilma WEB. looking dewrmined 110‘ W b9 80‘ “a : and stopped every other moment to point out n rm»:

ol‘in thisway. - - . 4 i
“ He wonft eat me, I suppose, dear Mrs. Bruce.

to her companion, who, scissors in hand, awaits-«l ha

1'1" l orders to cut: then, having severed the i'l'ngl'.‘n.

not 01118 to miss the treat of balling W3 With You 3n“ l‘ blossom, placed it carefully in the basket.

Mr. ruce and Marjorie, for the sake of twentyyoung
farmers. Besides, 1 want to get acquainted, with Mr.
Alton—I like to know allLor Castleton‘s tenants. Do I
let us all have too together."

“ But Lady Castleton would not like it, my dear; and,
indeed. it wouldn‘t be a proper thing to do,” too pru-
dent lady remonstrated. .

Lady Dorothea once more tossed her head, and coolly
proooeded to untie the knot of blue ribbon which last-

“ Don't you knew that momma does not mind the least
little bit how I amuse myself, so as I'm happy enough
and‘ghn't tease her 'I” And, indeed. the girl spoke the
 . I . , . . ,. , . _ : .

Knowing this. Mrs. Bruce's .mothcrly: heart relented.
and she offered no further opposition'io her visitor's
w 8h. , . r A ll .

“ Marjorie‘s out in the garden gather-in her roses. and
Mr. Alton's with her.. Come away to or room and
tidy yourself a bit after your long walk ; it wil'. cool
you, my dear," shopressntly said , and the two went.
up stairs together. ~ . v.

Marjorie's room was of course the prettiest room in the
how lain, substantial twostory structum. which
had all y withstood the storms of a hundred .win»
ters. and seemed fitted to endure a hundred more.
without showing asign of decay. It had three win-
dows. two looking to the smoothmhaven, tree-enclosed
little lawn lying in a semicircle before the house.
so ted tram it by a graveled sweep and a few taste-
in y laldaont flower-beds ; the other to the garden.
sloping southward on the other side of the quiet high-
road which passed by the standing.

There was a cool. green, i‘erny carpet on the floor,
and a pap-Jr gay with bunches of rose-buds on the
walls. The snowy muslin curtains of the bed and win-
dows were looped up with fresh green. ribbons ;. a
white-marble vase a led with sWeet—smelling roses
stood on the toilet-table. an the windows were open,
and a soft breeze stole in, gently moving the draperies.
No wonder if Lady Dorotheyjust come in from the hot
afternbon'sunshine. sunk into the one loun ng-chair
with a. sigh of contentment, and looked roun her with
an approving eye. , v v r  ' '

" lehonld always be ood iii-l, were your girl and this
were my room—l know: should," she said, taking hold
of. Mrs. Brnoo'shand and sticking.“ as. she: stood be-
side her chair, looking down very kindly on'the hot,
fair, youthful face ’she had known as a baby-face first»!
all "

" I should trot nboutthorhouso and the form after
you' and dear' old'i‘unny Mr. 'Bru‘cs' all day‘long.anad
learn to.he a modelifnnner'a wife; and 'in course of
wool should merrym nice, big, manlypo {armor
who lived near you, andshaVe {two or three“ ar. i'at,’
sunburst bairnies.’ whom Ilshon'hirlovenwinlly.” .

So spoke the little aristocrat, in' the perfectly grave,
serene tone in which she was in the habitat" making
the most absurd statementi..- Strsn era used to stare
in a nonplnesecl way. when she ind god herself in this
favorite diversidn: herr'iriondslaughedlor rs‘provsd.

ccording to their sevensl standardaof propriety; and
fret young ladyship. so long as. nobody spoke- llanatur-
edly to her. never troubled herseli with .carhsabout
the world's opinion. So now Hrs..Bt'-uce smiled and
shook her head. no whit surprised. : v ' r

‘ " As things are, my dear. you must be presented at
(court and some out :propefly, like-other ladies «in
your station, and; brand-bye m . I landed
gentleman-oh nobleman, most likely-«an «settle down
as a dignified county lady. with a lwidn sphere of use-
fulness in the world. Your prospectaarobrlght enough,
most folk Would say." t ‘

Ker youn ludyship. raised .her. graceful arms above
her hand an indenle in a good stretch. smiling good.
h'umoredly up at rs. Bruce. ’ v
" Helglnho 1”. she yawned. . “ It don‘t sound easy for-
, ttle thing like me: it would. be ever so much
jollier to be your Marjorie and marry the big, broad-
farmor, and have you and Mr. Bruce
to help'me spoil s innny little sunburnt babies."

"Hush. hush,‘1.sd‘y Dorotheai Motherhood is a
solemn thing. and brings duties which we cannot per.
form aright without constant help from above. peak
soberly if you speak at all on that subject." them tron
returned, with one of her quiet, rebuking glances : and
the laughing girl immediately altered her one;

" I am a 5:3; girl, and nobody but you ever tries to
make me g . Don’t be dlspleuedeith me." she
said, sweetly, rising and kissing Mrs. Bruce.

That lady patted the blooming round cheek very
kindl .' She was slow in finding Words to or s
affec on : and. ere she was ready to speak,
Dorothea. chanced to glance out at a window which
gave a view of- part of the garden, broke out into
enthusiastic s , h.‘ .'

"Ah, Mrs. race, look; what a picture! Isn’t Mar-
Jorie lovely? And what a handsome, manly fellow
is with her! Upon my honor, they look like lovers.
Is that really the new tenant of Torwood Downs ?"

Mrs. Bruce answered in the afllrmative: then, follow.
ing her lad hip to the window, looked out. witha

leased sin 6 while more ruptures were indulged

indeed. it needed not artist’s eyes to recognise the,

 

. marry out oi her own class l Nothing‘blltfinh

presently. I

' as her

The couple. Were evidently enjoying their occupu-

I tion, for they lingered .over it as ll unwilling to bring

it to a close.

Marjorie selected with great deliberation—her girlish
figure, simply draped in white muslin taking all man-
ner of pretty poses. as, holding her head now erect, new
sideways, sue hung over her bushes: and the gentle-
man: handled his scissors with the like leisureiinesa
of a r. ' '

As. while they made their slow progress, now in sunw
light, now in shadow. up the green th, the girl kept
nptnrning her fair, arch lace to im, his—a dark,
thoughtful one. handsome in spite of a want oi'vregular.
ity of feature—lighted up wonderiully, and he looked
his best as, a half-smile parting his firmly cut lips. be
bent down towards her. apparently unwilling to lose a
syllable of her pleasant chatter. / ‘I- M

A manly, thoroughly reliable face his Was—s nice
which one might seek in trial and perplexity,-securs
oi finding honest and wise counsel from its» owner.

Mrs. Bruce's taco grew thoughtful as she watched
the young couple.

“ They're a well-matched pair. Lady Dorothea," she
said; and her laJyship fancied that she detected a
little tremulousnsss in the ordinarily steady Voice:

She put up her lace and kissed her on the instant.
innooent wonder in her blue eyes. '

“ You don't think Marjorie loves 'him—-—yon don't
think she is going to marry and leave you already ’1"
she asked, jumping at conclusions in her usual droll
fashion ; and her tons recalled Mrs. Bruce to her.

" I ask no better lot for my girl than to be the wife of
just such a good, true-hearted man, mydsar," she said.
with her own pleasant smile. " '-

" Even though he Were but a plain farmer ?”-pursued
Lady Dorothea, allttle dubiously. She began to iear
that her irlend Mnrjorie's notions ofva suitable 1mm
might be very Glider-ens ironi'h‘er mother's. -

a “ Her father is but a plain nuance—why should 5' n
p ll. vii
is to be expected n-om unedual marriages. It never I
for one single moment been or wish  our, girl
should léaVe the stiltion she was ’ rn‘~in."‘ ’ k ' . ,-

Mrs. Bruce spoke very earnestly, and lobked‘ste‘adlly ‘
into the girl's lace, as if desirous to impress her with a
sense of her perlect sincerity inthus speaking. '

I A vague suspicion that Lad Dorothea, or rather tnat
her daily. might fancy that ' ' rd Castieton's frequent
yisi to the ierIi-houaqmld give rise to ambitious
scheming on the part of its inmates, prompted this
OpeOCh. The suspicion heightened when the girl. with-
out moving her grave eyes lrom Mrs. Bruce's face,
seized; simply, “*But Marjorie looks higher. dde’s”iihe
no?" '  “

'B'ut'yesterdsy she had stood at th'e‘s'a'me‘windbw'and
watched Marjorie and Lord Castlemn wuliderin about
the garden in'a lover-like way—sne‘ hull heat their ' '
voices mingle ’in a loveosong as the girl sat at the piano
and looked up at him as he bent over her with eyes in]!
of admiration. 'It all came back to her memory 'now, .
£221] . her face flushed in ‘ answer ’to' this direct up»

Mr do not know—40’s may aslr‘lier, IMy Dorothea,"
she answered. moving a“ ay from, the window; ‘ "‘

Justjtheu ‘Mnrjol‘id‘vehuhobd to look ‘ng. and, per-
ceiving Lady Dorothea,’ intimated by a > w Wu!
pantomimic gestures that abs 2 Would be with her

So, lad of an excuse V to escape; Mrs. Bruce left the
two rls to entertain each other. .
‘ “ icked little flirt l" was’ Lady Dorothea's first

. self.

_ greeting: and, as she spoke. she fixed her blue eyes on”

or friend's face, trying with all bur might toread it.

{'Naughty little slattcrn l" was Marjorie’s response,
‘ guickeye noticed a stray yellow trees which had
escape from ts £23)” place on her young ladyship's
ml headlin , but for a conscientious maid she '
would seldom have been presentable. so little interest,
did she takein her own appearance). ‘ First of all, let
me make 'you respectable.‘ she added, in haste. pen
ceiying. from the admonishing way in which her cull]-
anlen raised her forefinger and shook it at her, that
he attack was about to be followed up.“ , f ,

“ Oh. I fimé. what does it matte: i", Lady Dorothea
sighed. l y, unwillin to abandon her loun ing poul-
tion ; but, consoions of coking guilty. moo e stepped
quickly behind her. and. after a rcliminary kiss. bo-
gan a vigorous bruhhfng of t a ofi‘ending yellow

air. .
While thus my {red she tried to allum-hcrinto talkie
of other subjects t ion the one whichlsliq saw she wish
to introduce; but her ladyahip was good-humorsdIy
unmanageab e. v , i H ;_ i
" I want to know all about going Mr. Alton. and I
won’t talk about anything else. ll you've satisfied in
curiosity. You‘ve been deceiving  awful. _ lywl
tingso intimate with him and never , ingane. « :7.
you looked quite like lumen 38 you came mp the gen

en. . .

Mxnj'orie gave a very cress his to her friend's, hair :.
then. as she saves little cry oi pain, in gougrepen-
tanoe she stopped. and. coming from behind the chair.
knelt down by her, side and took ,her hand- ,

 I hurt you on, purpose. I'm a very rude.. cross

\

 y . “  sorry! can't give you the

lumen: 3317ch L0 the.

‘l'

 

 of-si . .snd Iwish‘ ouwoukreeold mewel‘
__m . s11” , y ,, ._ I.

, V
'1 "rue tonsoi‘oontfitiou and humility went straight to

~ themed. simpls'hwrt; ' r ' ' ‘
" " I’m not clever at scolding; I'll rstber hesp coals of

-* on on your head ’by giving you s kiss. There. now

were irlonds sgain.

A kiss exchanged. the brush was taken up again;
am My llorotuea, who had no lack oi quiet’ persis-
tency, returned to the charge quite nndauntedl .

“ Tell me all about him; now, like agood girl, {usage ;

.. i‘u never-be at peace till you do, you know." she
- malffll‘ccpmlneflcezl ;' and M
A ’l heriu a banteriug strain.
a: 145;" were/some avast cross. '

though her look and

. , , __ dates of his birth
nu. impugn}, Lady Dorot.n-s.—-l suspect him of being at
. zloast thirt years old. He has had a college education—
took high onors. indeei. uni might have been famous

: by this time. possibly; but, an elder lrotuer dying.

thought it his duty to come homeou join his lather in

 3birthing; has never r -p-nte.l the sacrifice. but lives in

» $34118 ,Wmony Wit.) the said oll incubusand across
I m housekorpsr wno has belonged to the family for gen-
...wtiqns: know settled down with his interesting

 ‘ .sh Torwood Downs. and consequently. has a

3 v (to?! to expect ordinary neighborly kindness from us.

1,! your ladyehip's curiosity yet satisfied? If not, I
a  0.1111 advise you to apply for further particulars to
. he  housekeepernrom whom I have deriiol all
~  tund of knowledge while making a call with mam-
.-. maon theold Mr. Alton. There." envied tie girl. asLady
_ rotnea kept thoughtfully silent. “my this is told.
 your hair is dressed to per.ection. Let us go
.Uldown akguyfi  _ ‘ _, . V
. “Asshespoke she came forward from behindvthe easy
- shah-uni fool: up but pullitlvn betore the mirror. sur-
ching herself irom heed to wet with an engroased air.
{.13. land Dorothoi. without stirring. watched.- her. and
snail- in a lizin admiring way. as having: fastened a
_ finishes in her dark hair. Marlorie presently turned
roundgto her end asked her opinion of i ,8 effect.
 ngou don’t care a bit how I look. Lady Dorothea l"
3; washer, pettish exclamation. as her frle gave hel- no
"Wefml‘b Mndg 4 E ’1
.ff' no 18 a, , e; your beauty is a perpetual
enjoymeutto me," her lmlyship answers]. in a tone
.ol heart-felt sincerity. “ Only austnow IWae think-
mgwmking or what you have been telling {no-—
that young man mustbe s noble fellow. I don’t know
how youcanlsugh st him so. Ishould be proud of a
hu<bsnl like that, Maia.” V ,
Moria-is turnei sharply round irom the mirror and
gavernquiok. suspicious glance into her irlond’s -.see.
“ tibkli [bring ,him to your lsdyship s loot?" she
laughed. a soup“ of scorn in her voice.
. body Dorothea kept nor sweetly pensive air. and
gazed with solemn b.ue eyes at orio.
Julio; remember. wast the says. Ms," she
went on.in’,au abstra-ted way: “‘Kini he rts are
{paraffin coronets. sud simple faith tnsn' Norman

vaioaspoke in all innocence; but Marjorie's con-
science mode seaward of hensnl she fancied that her
own ambidous hopes were being rebuked. In this be-
. hot one made a saucy courtesy. flashing one of her
quick glances at her eompmionsssm sail, s..tirically :
‘.‘ Morin {discontent with the lowly station in which a
wise Protideuce has placed you. Marjorie Bruce, and
grotefuily accept the first respectablehmncr who were
six: his honest. horny hsnd.’

t last Lady Doroth peroeived.thnt there was.

smashing serious}; miss with her irlend. Under-
nuttlt_tuolightuass of her tone she discernel a Litter.
nose which was most unusual. Acting on kindly im-

7 pulse. she jumped up and kissed her. in spite of a
partial: monetrance. '

. " Why. a love. I think you are the loveliest, most
,, charming gir I ever saw in my li.‘e. I think you would
be monument to my rank; and I’d rjoice to see you
modes duohees, if your heart was set on being one ;
swam: ~know.you havoalwsys stoutly msintsnei
hat you wished to marry ln"-—~she hesitated. email. of
.woundigg Karlene s pride —-" what you call your own

V 3»
. :euarjoriefs i‘sce brightened instantly. sud she put a
- caressing srm round My Dorothea. though her tone
was stillgsiittle impeticnt, as she replied. “ i very sel-
ossctly what I mean, Lady Dorothea; I traded
335m?“ .mbeittgrtgnsn to so at I did." I
w , flaws msrrys e.MissMsrorie2"
:1! 1m {odyship pleases." J -

l‘n: 1% n2 rhesus nustwouid he s end downoome to my
r r U - . , .
Mannie laughed and binned ens iciousl as she
sinners = was; a.“ m tr
. , , ' erase &

Durgtm 61%»: mtg; l3":  ' ' y-
‘: «rays  eon. "111 um   innocent led in her
‘ easiest. unseat tom ’ ~~ when m-wangsudle' mar.-
rips Herbert. which 11 cert-unis: Minnie or these
V um. 1 new make them “I: w: an! risen a lung visit.
"time we. 811311 ‘11 fem“ 4° W "‘73 Wilts in!) I duke

when. .Will tint growls content you. dear?"

 11 i.

 ,. g s “139” an“ - internal 1 h 3mm a
l .b  which shedid not isolmhe. g9:
 ,1 . .r/ , m ‘0 m wigguwhel'o' ten awaited

found 30W:

“I _ but Mrs. Momwho. tell-
  husbs'n had taken tuli- visitor sway
' j stock, tried topranil on

 of tea before their

» . ‘Ivrould by no reigns. ' eetothis: and

 ' ‘ lumen M3 1,,“

mm fignmuirmoiouaness.

.0118," inrsvssge tor-thesqu she had as.

         
   
  
 

 

AdOl‘le, thus urge’d. 811- ,“M

_ noes offallin

on yr 83‘ Men: intlfe’srt new

ley Dorothea
return Bar; ‘0

urned. welcomed
’But tor. Mar;

dergone. was studioust distant in her demelnor to-
wards m.Alton. everybody would have alloyed the
dsintlly set-out tea which :- . Bruce , I gwitn
a slot, kindly haspitslity. As it was, that gentleman.
y an adopt in interpretingtne varying moods of
the wiilzul little Beauty. perceived that she was ofiend~
ed with him. and was du.y troubled in spirit. though
he had sufficient sell-command to disguise his pertur-
bation. , ,
jWhen. soon after ten, Lady Dorothea made herndieux,
Marjorie insisted on walking home with her, and Mr.
Alton did not long delay his own departure. Miss
a. as her father and mother remarked with satin:

" fie ion. looked somewhat annoyed when. onher re-

turn. an hour aterward, she heard this. 'When Lord
Csstleton wusnot by. she lied no obJections to exert
her powers of fascination on this thoroughly well-
bred and presentable young man. whoSe very mvizy
and earnestness of character had a certain; charm for

er. - i

" How many strings does‘my lsssie want to her bow ?"
Mr. Bruce asked, putting his arm round her and draw-
ing her down on his knee. asshe came up ' to the easy-
chnir where he sat. enjoyings meditative pipe: and
at the sound ot‘ the tender. loving old voice the girl's
ill-humor vanished. ‘  j “ V

"Asmany asshe can get. old dad-mot one less,"
she ’laughed with a roguish shake of her pretty
head. ‘ ‘ ‘

Mrs. Bruce. sitting at the window. busy over some
needle-work. turned round, and shook her head in re-
buke oi‘ her unwise husband'squestion. ,

“I wonder where they’re to come from, father ?"
John Alton seems to me the only niainagesble man
about tne neighborhood Marjoide alike to see much of.”
she said, with en admonishing air.

The spirit oi'mischiei‘was once more too strong for
Miss Marjorie. , ‘ '

“ Exoept Lord Oastleton. mammy,"-she said, saucily,
with another toes of 'lch' head; sud. as shespoke, hcr
color heightened and her dark eyes sparkled with the
ex itement of this during retort. ,

Mr. Bruce looked humble daughterto his wife, and
rubbed . his hands in silent enjoyment ol‘ the
fun. . > ,

His wife. on the contrary, looked seriously dis-
pleased.

"Lord Cnstleton is out of your station altogether,

your father‘s plouuhlnen as I’d expect hi'm‘to marry a
plain tanner's daughter." she sold, with rsre ssperlty ;
and her usual steady. composed voice trembled.

Mr. Bruce was shout to interpoee. but‘ Marjorie was
too quick for him. '

" Jamie Scott is the hnndsomest, msnliest—looking
young fellow I’ve seen yet." she lhughed (naming one
of the farm laborers distlnwuished by his good 100%) ;
.g'll. maybe, run efl' wituDhim some of these days. Who

ows"———- . '

, She would have gone on in the same strain but for,

her father’s intererence. Wits a clouded brow he ad-
dressed to her a few words of reprimand. which quickly
banished the color from her cheeks and set her lip
trembling. Her father s rare displeosure always hurt
her sorely, for she was keenly alive to praise or .blame
from those she loved best ; and during the rest of
that evening she did not recover her spirits.

 

011mm: Ill.
ro‘swoon HOUSI-

Jous my set of! from the arm-house with a
cloudel row and a stop that lacked its wanted spring.
For a short time he felt agueiy troubled; but as he
plo.‘.de.l on along the peaceful troeabordered road,
breathing in the nastiness of the lovely July eveninr.
nil themata gradually resolved themselves into defl-
ll .0 s :1 3.

a. league recognised as s (not what for a week .or two
past he had. suspected with i neasiuess~thnt he was no
longer master of himself ; that the capricesof s pretty
damsel he had chanced to meet some half it damn
times had power to disturb his peace or mindsnd rume
his temper. He was in (mm. and he could give him.
sel.‘ no satisfactory reasons for b.1115: in love. Strange
to say. this mm of thirty years hsd hitherto known
nothing of the grand passion by personal ex erience.
He had cherished a secret pride. indeed. in he belief
that he would nevler succumb to the prevalent weak
in (we. . -

His home actions. very. strong'snd tender. he had
.eJWays‘beJeved"thoroht;§hly, museum la; and mom his
earliest manhood'h’o _ V resolved that thebest love of
his heart. if ever bestowed. Ihvuid be given only to
one who had such qualities of mind sndhesrtss would
satisfy his Judgment. I

“ A permct woman. nobl “planned. to warn. to com-
fort. to command.” hail _,*n his ideal op. t 1

sessions when he thoughtof womangkind‘ a: ; and
now behold his prudent resolutions glysn to'the winds.
his caznuudgment set at defiance. and his lire‘st hippie,
uses. at the mercy of an undeniably vain and ooquettish
girl oi eighteen. _ , v '

It won not a plenum discovery for a man or his
mental and moral amber. and he did not reconcile his
mind to it without appim‘ul in ward conflict. . . .-

Ouly inter a hurried walk or many miles, did he
regs!) his wound sob-command sufliciently to it

8, ill:

- possible for him to lace his old lather a horn
‘ unseat good.

swak'euin his anxiety. by 3 inch or .
spirits; . out} slum knew Annual: to be but a very poor
actor. undue wssyeryteu crown- the'oldmaufs peace,

* on m; Alto‘n‘wss sitting sniokiniz m the twilight

 

alien . ,soneuterod the, arlor. 8 stand, ready,
on dynamo; but he hsdpdelayofl on n; hhrsohmy,
ism id'isint hope'of having his uausl Wanton;

Marjorie. l'd as soonlexpoct you its merry one ore

era-eh

Verydeepandtenderwss theme be here this .
son leit to cheer his old age. Seldom,  s
such s heart-union as theirs esiet'between was
man. Btra ers were amazed by it. though they then-
sele consi erod it the least surprising thing in the
wor . .

So now, coming in alter several hours' sheenee, John
Alton glancedlunessily round u n the hall-dark room,
,‘the neglected supper-tray. the nt old figure in the
arm-chair by the empty tire-place, and. in spite 01‘ his
inthers cheeriul greeting, Lzs conscience—s very ex
acting master—rebuked him 101‘ having been kinship-
engrossed. V , r

" Why, hither." he‘says, in a tone of kind senor tn»
and, as he speaks. below his hand on the old man's
shoulder—“ you‘re nioping in the dark- you’ie bed In»
supper. I'll not leave you. in an evening sgsin, lithis
is the way you attend to your comforts." ‘

Takin r his pipe ironi his mouth. his father looks at
him wit unutterable tenderness‘and sstislsmi n‘in his
eyes. A keenly cut. rciln‘ed old face his is, In never
does it look so lovable as when it turns to his mum's.

“ Sit down, laddie,” he says, giving him a little
playiul shove; and then. as with brightened look the
young min draws a chair beside him‘and seats, house“.
he goes on :_ ‘ ‘ ‘ . ' l

“ Every man to his taste, John. I like the quietroom
and my pipe and the gloamm’, and thoughtslo suit!
lang-sy ne,ss is natural tomy years. and you i e shit
0' change and brightness and ebony main's ._ ‘ 1'
What tor shouldn’t ye ? It befits  p

ed.

John Alton colors under the steady}
bestows on him, but says nothing. ' ..

Taking his silence as assent. that old In“
peaceful smile illuminating his 

" I like to mncy you’re out  
your turnlnow : I've had command aural. “  ,-,
your hay while the sun shines. Youthtlio‘sfl; ‘3
SJEdOW, and naught will make amends (on? ‘- y"
innocent youthiu' joys. Take )ea' ye  ;
ior Very sure am I the Lord that made ye never. mum
that ye should walk sad: y through the gloriouii my

eta

 
 
   
  
      
       

your youth." A  , , a  , -

Old Alton‘s voice has an unwanted tin-mos: in it; sad,
as he speaks, he lays his hand on the young. man's
with his serious-

sleeve. the better to impress 

noes. r , a .
And the strain el stirred heart ~

itself. secure of l, sympathy with its _ in
one who speaks thus ovinsly : yet ,so- nnssllsh it
that a remembrance of the long-delayed  checks
the utterance it, crsves. ' . .

~‘ You must have your supper before we speak r l
anything so exciting as womsnkind, hither." John
says, rising and hting alsmp which stands upon in»
table. .Then he- sees a chair for his lather. and, sii>
ting down close by him, proceeds to attend to his
wants with a kindlyvsolicitude which no land woman
could surpass. ’

No wonder the aged eyes watch his motions. with
such complacency. lie is indeed a son to be proudoi' ,
«so strong. physically and mentally. yet so gentle - so
thoroughly manly in look and bearing. yet social e
in the purity of his moral nature; ,' 7 ,.

“Ay.ay, ind ; ‘ every dog has 1.3! do .' " his father re»
sumes. aitcr he has made some pros slewith his sup'
per. He is determined to lino. out whether he ism:
in his surmises as to those frequent visits“ to tho
Bruccs. ' ' :"  ' .‘ I

" Another silos of the cold beef, “the” 80s. I‘ve
cut it like a wafer." is John's r use, and “ur-
air of peromptoriness he lays iton his late: 
plenishiug his lass .rym the beer-Jug. e wstc '
eat and drink, thing mental? upon any but Miler»
ent subjects till he has gothim to make a lair sum.
though he himself only plays With his hile fotit-~
a very rare occurrence. 1 own. . t \

Only when the old men has quite finished will he
permit him to bring on the  the subject‘ which‘ise
uppermost in both their min .

Then, resenting him in hisiavorite easy—chair. settling
his fw‘stool. and filling him s fresh ipe, he drugs I r
Chill; close beside him.snd declares as is  s.
crew . " 

His companion begins by a inculsr 
whipsnying it by n loving, content  Mtb' B

" it's easy having your own when you’ve none
but dotin' old folks to manage. 7 _ "when you got
a {puny young wii‘e. you‘ll find it adherent mutter."

John folds his arms. as he has a of doing when
' in a, thou hti‘nl mood, sudilooks steadily before him, it
grave sm erelsxing his mouth. ; .

‘_‘ Itl eyer do marry, lather, I shall be able to mmge
m 9 « i ‘ ,

,ywil‘o.  . . .. a 
|‘__"0rshe ou.John." Ana's neer‘.:humorons'light
gl semen! ho wise old eyes that ve watched the ways
qt womsnkind nest threescore years and ten. ‘ ‘

.But Johnis busy with. his own thoughts. meow -
not'netiee the retort: ..,.. x, V , V ’ ' , ' ,

For several minutes the monotonous g,  a:
the old~fashisoned time-piece on the mante rlh ‘ Um
(Elyme that breaks the‘sileneeloi‘ the   - . ,

eyoung man peak a a strange tremolo  ’
find his hand .‘clfsps his fsther’s, a: heinous » Us
tscewith infinitelove surly ' ' V. g “    ~

"Father," he says. hurriedly. "smm’i mum
dreary work if the woman he loves  “not. 
with him. I have seen the one woman!!! nauseous:
tor me. ifive me your blessing:  
m woo ." ' ‘ ‘ \ ' =

     
     

  

you mated‘wi'jus such
.me. 1
passes

s," '

one
could or. wish   AM " " ' -
smm-mdfiw  ‘ m‘“ 

 

 

 

s

' honed aye-."he says. smiling down upon,

11 12.10120; savers Lorene.

 

 

mietyss he thinks of the quiet, lain little woman
whose kind, buy hmds were told in the long desth- ‘
sleep‘ ilve-snd-twenty years ago. "You've been the
best son that ever breathed, and I‘ll warrant you'll be
mention" husband. God prosper ye,in your wooing,

John Alton smiles and shakes his head—his father’s
enthusiastic praises never fail to amuse him.

“ I doubt nobody else sees me with your eyes, father. -
l’ve reason to fear I'm but a glum, tongue-tied fellow,
in the estimation of most womankind. 1 know.” ‘

“ orie Bruce can speak for two. I’m thinking
John "

This home-thrust masters the color to the young
man’s dark face; he smiles and drops his eyes. .

“ Would she please youas a den hter-in-lawf? Not
that itis the least likely she wo d marry me,” he
hastens to add. with a little sigh.

His lather. who has withdrawn his pipe from his
the. puts it back and smokes oontemplatively for
several minutes, his son watching him in patient si-
lence. no whit displeased by this slowness of reply, so
entire is his loving trust in him.

. At last the answer comes, very thoughtfully given.

"She seems to be a bonny. blithesome oung thing
-—l.ightya hit, but years might mend t at. if she
plasma for a wile, she'll please me for a daughter,

‘ Another. sigh escapes the lover, who has cherished a
' ' that majorie's faults exist only in his own
' ' he has been over-exacting in his require-

     
 

, "nit know her very well yet, father," he says,
tld‘tes'tily ; and, then he looks ashamed of his
and proceeds gently, " she has the warmest
the world, it seems to me. I have noticed
: v cotter children hang about her skirts, how
' do about thefarm brighten up when they
x- v  . She must be good: her little faults

; ' natural to her years and her, indulgent up-

.” .

Khan is John Alton speaks in a low voice of enforced
cum, father sees that his eyes havo an unwanted
light: the muscles of his mouth quiver with sup-
pressed emotion, and the old man hastens to speak re-
willingly.

“ Hy ," he says, with much tenderness and solem-
nity of look and tone—and he has his eyes on his face
as he speaks-“ ' still waters run eep.’ You've come 0'
a race little given to changeful fancies. I reckon you’ve
met your first and last love. and she's awinsome,inno.
cent young thing. If ye can win her heart, little fear
butye’ll and it easy to teach her wisdom."

“ A silent, eloquent hand~pressnre, a grateful look, re-
ward this speech : then old Alton resumes his pipe,
and once more relapses into meditation.

" Ll ht yoursipeJohn—I like to have ye wiiiin' awa'
o te me. ur after-supper smoke’e an institution
we’ll no change till the wife comes home." he presently
says, a tender. humorous smile over-spreading his

e

face.

“ If then, father,” remarks his son, with a reassur-
ing nod : and tuenthe two men sit smoking in sociable
silencetill bedtime.

 

,Por a lon time John Alton vouchsaied no further 1

mention of ' oiie's name, although he continued to
make irequsn visits to her home; nor did his father
ask aquestiou regarding her; yet, in spite of theirl
reticeuoe. a more than wanted lovingness of look and
tone, an occasional mute hand-pressure. bowed that
‘ neither of them had forgotten that evening's conversa-
tics.

 

7 ammlv. l
hummus-users.

“likens, look up for one minute ; I want tossk you

a estion—sserious one, mind."
tis Lord Castlston who speaks, and his cousin Er-
nestine who is thus addressed.

They two are alone in the drawing-room—a
ion , lofty, quaintly furnished apartment, where
rim“ and twilight reign in spite of the
score of candles burning in little clusters here
and there through the room. He is standing leaning
upon the mantel-piece; and she is sitting on a low chair
in front of the hearth, where a leasant-scented wood'
fire is blazing. The ilrelight is triumphant in this
spot, and is playing gleefully about their two figures,
and casting mtasuc shadows of them upon the walls
and ceiling. It is a kindly, soft light, and touches lovv
ingly not only the tall. handsome, fair-bearded, man
whom nature has :32on i‘sith six elnvirablte poitiagrof

nal graces, e rre u ar y so are n.
fixed girl who at his biddln glifts' up a pair of soft
shown eyes, and ceases to ion 0 the little King Charles
ryin on her Is

u

y must flock up. Herbert 1” she says. She has ,
a pleasant, low-toned voice and a gentle, modest way of ‘

 

, speaking which have a certain charm, although she is '

unconscious of it. '

“ use you have such nice eyes, Nessie ; such ,
he. a; her with a steadfast, friendly gaze. _
‘ lie was not' love with her, according to the usual ac-
hrptstion of theplu-sse; yet he had a certain reverent,
admiring tenderness hit her which made such speeches
natural. as. waslds cousin. she was nice in his
gritteal eyes a she like: him better than anybody else ;
and she bsd‘st least ten thousand pounds a year.

A little color brightens up her pale face. and s smile
ofpleasedsu sepsssescverit. , ‘

“You’ll be fling ins I'm grown pretty neat, Hero

shuhishead
WWI? Mia

‘ “one”, droppin her eyes.“ once more re-

mi... "sung arise dog on herls . , K
Hes " and answers readily. “No, Nessie. I "
somethiagbet

tar than pretti-

. uses about you—s charm. that I can't define. I think it-

must be sheer g ness.’

It is her turn to shake her head now. ” Ah, no, Her-
bert 1" she responds, upturning perfectly grave eyes to
his face ; then she adds, ” But you have forgotten your
question."

He moves nearer her chair, and, folding his arms on
hgfilbreast, stands before her, steadfastly regarding her
3 .

"Ought not cousins who have known each other all
their lives. and who meet, too. after a long so oration.
as you and I met today. to be allowed aomet more
than a cool handshake which any acquaintance of yes-
terday might expect ? Honestly, now, Nessie, ought
not they ?'

She has a pretty head, gracefully turned, and crowned
with coils of soft, dark hair, which her maid has passed
a couple of hours in arranging to her satisfaction this
evening : though when Lord Castleton is not to see her
she is easily satisfiedwith her appearance. It sinks low
over the doggie now. and her faint blush again beauti-
nes her pale face. She has no ft of repartee ; and she
sits silent, smiling shyly. w lie the ilreligat plays
about her slim little drooping figure in its soft falling
draperies of pink silk. '

And so. after afew moments of silence, he comes be«
hind her chair, and in his easy, graceful, kindly way
bends over her and kisses her in a very lover-like
fashion ; after which indulgence he draws a chair be-
side hers, and sits soberly staring into the fire.

They are sitting there ten minutes afterward, enjoy-
ing a pleasant chat about his travels, when Lady Doro-
thea enters the drawing-room. She comes smilingly up
to her cousin, and, refusing the chair Lord Castleton
offers, throws herself on the rug at her feet.

“ I have been naughty, and that dreadiul tyrant J ack-
son has been scolding me: that is why I have been
away from you so long, Nessie," she says, in her pretty.
warbling voice.

Nessie smiles and says nothing, but the gentleman
is not so reticent.

“ Keep your mind easy, Dolly, my love. We have
not missed you a bit. We have had what our Yankee
brothers call a ‘ good time;' have not we, Nessie l” he
says, laying an appealing hand on his cousin’s shoul-
der; whereupon, coloring faintly, as is her wont when
confused, she tries to change the subject.

"And why was your maid scolding you, Dolly 7" she
questions, gently pushing away his lordship’s hand,
and looking down into the fair upturned face of the
maiden at her feet:

“on, because I had run into the painting-room to
utai‘ew finishing touches to my portrait of Mar.
orie Bruce (I must show it to you to-morrow morn«

in , and I got paint on my sash somehow or
other. Jackson was horribly ill-natured about it,
and I have had to promise never, never again to
meddle with a brush after I have dressed for dinner,"
Lady Dorethoea explains, in her ludicrously plaintive

tone.

» " Good little girl,” laughs her brother: and Miss Lisle
joins softly in his laugh. Lady Dorothes's abject sub-
mission to tuis maid of hers has long been a standing
also in the family. -

“By-theby, how, is Marjorie ? Do you see much of
her nowadays?" asked Miss Lisle. who has until lately
been engrossed with the whirl of a. London season,
and is in blissful ignorance of much that has been
going on at Torwood.

Lord Castloton, who is once more standing leaning
on the mantel-piece, shifts his position a little an
looks hard at his sister, with a faint hope that she
may read in his expression his wish to keep Miss Lisle

.n‘om knowing the full extent of their intimacy with
Marjorie.

In vain : Lady Dorothea smiles up at him with pro-
vokin good-humor, and plunges unhesitatlugly into
the on lost.

" Oh, yes, Nessie; she is constantly here. We could
never at on without Marjorie. Herbert and I would
have d ed of mast long ago but for her; would not we,
Herbert i"

The entlemsn iidgets suspiciously, and gives a cross
tug to is mustache: nor does ht lift his eyes from the
fire as he says, in a disparaging tone, "She is an amus-
ing little thin , and of course one is adof some civil-
ized bein to lk to in this sleepy p ace."

Honest dy Dorothea porceiVestlthout in the least
understanding. the want ot‘enthusiasm in this response
to her sp eel, and looks up, open-mouthed and wide.
eyed, at t is s eaker.

“ Why, Her rt," she es s, in rather an evea
voice, “ you speak as if any ody would do to Mar-
jorle's place with ins—actually anybody shall amusing
—-and you know they would not. She is better than
amusing, she is kind and good and nice every way; and
I always thought you liked her immensely," she adds,
somewhat reproaehiully.

Miss Lisle, who. to the detriment of her own eace of
mind, is gifted with quick perception, is l toning
eagerly. though she does not raise her eyes. There
is a mom pause; then Lord Castleton says, more

crossl than t ere seems any excuse for, "I wish you 1

woul 'not use such absurdly exaggerated language,
Dorothea: at least, for my sake, keep it to convey your
own sentiments in. I like all the Emma, of course:
but there is no occasion to gointo ruptures over them
and bore Ernestine, who can't be in the least interested
in your subject." , V

It is something quite novel to be snubbed in this
way by Jay. good-humeral Lord Oastleton ; and Lady
Dorotheast at him in pained wonderment.

" i think you are very unkind.” she says, presently,
ieelin a strong inclination to cry; yet even this re-
rose does not touch the oflender’s usually soft
cart. ,

give me a song,l~lessie: it isso long since I
have heard you sing,” is his next speech, after a few

 

moments of uncomfortable silence have and.
though he sees a couple of big tours roll own his also
ter's tty. fair face as she perceives herself thus ig-
nore he makes no attempt whatever to comfort her.

Miss Lisle it is who acts the good Samaritan, hisain
her and whispering a kind little speech of excuse an
apology ere she follows him to the plane, which, with
more noise than is necessary, he has opened.

" Never mind him, Dolly dear," she says, sweetly;
"weareall a little cross and unreasonable at times,
you know. I am sure he will be sorry for having vexed
you, and will tell you so himself."

And then the music ins; and Lady Dorothea, who
has great difliculty in 'stingnishing “ God save the
Queen " from “ Old Hundred," feels utterly forlorn,
and alter a little while slips out of the room, dismally
sure that she will not be missed there. Knowing that
her mother is at her usual eVeningeoccupation. reading
or writing in the library, and log desperately in
want of somebody to talk to. she seeks her there—tho
lirlst ltime she has done so since her return from
so 100 . , ~ ‘ <

The library, particularly in candle-ll ht. is an awe-
inspiring, gloomy apartment, and her eart sinks to
yet lower depths as she enters it. Lady Cutleton,
seated atadesk at the upy-r end of the long, dimly
lighted room, a formidable pile of manuscripts lying
beside her, rises, pen in hand,and looks startled. for
seldom indeed does a visitor lnterrupther solitary
labors. she is a beautiiul woman still, though the
supreme beauty of youth is hers no more. She has a
stately bearing, a finely out, pallid face, lighted up by
fine black eyes, and abundance of soft black hair. sim-
ply coiled round her well-formed head. There is a
prevailing expression of combined weariness and tau-
teur about her whole air which is not calculated to at-
tract ordinary mortals such as this easy-going little
daughter of here, who now comes up to her withher
most subdued step.

“Do I disturb you, mammal I onlycams in to see
you for a little," she says. timidly.

Lady antleton gives a little sigh of annoyance.
thong she smiles faintly, and says, not unkindly.

" Oh no, Dolly ; sit down," pointing to achair beside
her desk. Then she resumes her own seat and lays
down her pen, thinking rnefully of the already half.
forgotten sentence which on Lady Dorothea's entrance
she was on the point of committing to paper.

" And how are Herbert and Ernestine amusing them-
selves ?" she asks, as the girl sits soberly down. The
indifference in her tone is not meant to be evident : yet
even slow perceiving Lady Dorothea is aware of it. and
consequently feels tongue-tied. I

“ They are getting on swimmingly,” she replies;
then conscious of having used a slangy expression.
she adds, hastily, “They are at the piano singing to
one another~at least. Bessie is singing to him."

Lady Castleton smiles and looks rather less bored.
(She has now given up the sentence for lost, and
assigned herself the probable loss of s quar-er oi’an

our.) '

“And you found yourself dc trap, peer Dolly! and
are roving about in search [of amusement?" she
saliys,in a iaintly satirical way, with one of her keen
g slices.

The girl assents with awistfnl, answering glance,
which. has the effect of making her mother thoroughly
uncomfortable. '

Alas! how few of us are strangers to that keen pang
of remorsei‘ul shame which is the penalty of acknowl-
edged duties neglected—of God-bestowed opportuni-

ties of endearing ourselves to others scorniully ig-

noredl

°' You must get Marjorie to come up tomorrow even-
ing, Dolly ; then you'll be independent of Herbert and
Ernestine,” she says, With cold politeness; and her
hand passes over her eyes with a gesture betokeni
weariness, which her daughter interprets as a signal 0
dismissal. She rises at once, saying, timdly, " i must
not hinder you longer, mamxua : I shall only say
good-night.” And Lady Castleton does not bid her re-
main.

Yetas she kisses her (they always kiss each other,

twice a day) she says, with considerate kindnss, “I
shall not want any. of the horses out to-morrow. Dolly;
tell Herbert so; and see if he can't arranges picnic or
something of that sort for you young to . We must
not let Ernestine weary, you know." «

Lady Dorothea thanks her. brightening up a little,
and hesitates an instant whether or not togive her an
extra kiss; but, perceiving that she is already pen “in
hand, and that an abstracted look iadawning-in her
eyes, she decides upon a quiet and speedy withdrawn,

CHAPTER V.
a ram across.

A Home on a small scale had been resolved upon by
the oung‘t'rlo at Torwood ere they went to bed, and
its etails are now bein settled at the breakfast-table.
The sky is of a glorious ,lue, the air is MW by a
delicious west wind, and the young people are in big:
spirits. Their voices on the sunny morning-room w
uhilant jest and laughter as simultaneous asis the
of the birds outside. Lady '
grossed in her lacs listens to them an! is mint),
gladdened. The sunshhie streaming in at the
windows: the fresh dewy lawn beyond, where
birds are holding their inbilee amidst 'the branch” or
the tall old tree: the youthful gayety-eall combine
make her less melancholy than is her wont. ' ,

"And what is the latest edition, of your lan. young
people 3" she ran. folding 11? 1191' paper . rising: she
has already lingered long’past her usual the for Sear
ing the breakfast-room. Ber rare. sweet units is on has
face (she has avein of sweetness in her natui. in“!
has. alas! been little wrought). and they all time. not
at her is pleased wands . '

Lord Castletou «spline :

 

tleton. seemingly an. I

A... Ammmununmwnnu .,

IAMORIE BR UCE’S L0 7338.

 

 

"We start in an hour—pick up Marjorie Bruce. as
Dolly Irate her with us—thun go on to Crawford Priory
and get Crawford tojoiu us (1 half promised to go over
there this morning, so he islikelyto be at home) we’ll
let him turn out asmartdrag he has got lately, and drive
twoof the then off for The Cottage"—('l‘he Cot-
tage is a seaside retreat set apart by the late Earl of
Csstleton’s will for the dowager countesses, “stroll about

v the woods; eat our lunch in the coolest spot we can
find; then home to dinner at eight, if you will let us
have it at that hour."

Lady Castleton nods assent.

"Don't get upset or drowned, any of you. Dinner
would be spoiled for the survivors, if an of that
sort happened," she says light y. Then son opens

the door for her,
stately fishion.

"And how about the fodder," says Lady Dorothea: as
‘thedoorshuts behind her; and she packers up her
pretty rosy face and stares with comical vity “P in
hell:n brother's face, tugging at his cos sleeves the
w e.

u

and she glides awayin her quiet,

killed a cat,’ Dorothea, my treasure.” he says,
solemnly. Then he adds, " Keep your mind my; I
M oil at once to Mrs.‘rentou's room [the old
house 1. and she and I will cater for you to the
heat of our ability."

girl claps her hands and turns to her cousin,
who sits demurely smilin . “ Let us all three go, Nos-
‘9; it will be good fun. erbcrt and the dear old woo
min have such droll talks ! Do coins along."

Lisle. who is not gifted with the easy manner
which makes, her cousins adored by their lnferiors,
declines smilingly; but Lord Castleton luterposes.
"Do, Nessie," he says, persuasively. going up to her

lad Wag her hand; " do: I want you." Whereupon
Ibo yields, blushing becomingl . and th all depart.
and l g t-hearted aughter.

with more simple jesting

The glorious day has g addened Marjorie Bruce’s light
heart to such an extreme that she can scarcely nnd vent
for the exhuberance of her spirits, though she has been
indulging herself in a variety of diversions wofully un-
beoommg‘her young lady estate; she has been in the
milk-house chattering to the stolid, redoheeked dairy.
maid until she has roused her into a state of mind spo
{ranching liveliness; she has been in the stack-yard

outing for undiscovered hens' nests in nooks
which can only be reached by daring climbing of lad—

ders andim g of life and lim ; she has clam-
besed up in batches familiar perch amidst the pleas-
ant greenery of the old

31m tree that guards the en-
trance to the garden, an has s .t singing there with all
tilt gay about». of the lark warming overhead in the
fleecy cloudlst which the wind playfully chases over
the asnre sky. And now—oh! disgrace indelible ?——the
eyes of Lord Castleton. of Lady Dorothea, of Miss
Lisle, of the dignified combined and footman. behold
her, as seated on the top of a hay-cart piled wish the
last load of hay. she is riding home in inglorious com-
m .

At Lord Castle’ton’s bidding the coachman reins in his
has 1‘ of grays ; st Marjorie’s, the uncouth-looking
old . who is her charioteer, stops his heavy-

footed, powerful cart-horse, and a parley is held.

KissMarjorie‘s cheeks are of a line damask : her dark
hair has been ruiiled by the wind, and her pink cotton
gown direly creased and dirtied by the tomboy diver-
sions in which the morning has been spent; the rar-
riage folks are coolakinned, carefully dressed in simple,
elJant, morning attire, and look provokineg fresh

unembarraesed.

The contrast strikes Maia. and makes her ior once
seem tonguedied and shy ; yet, truth. to tell, she has
veg little need to feel abashed.

ey are all admiring her-all. from Lord Castleton
to the footman. The very scent of the hay on which
she sits throned is charming : she herself is bowltch~
ingly beautiful as she blushes and smiles from under
the shade ofa droll gi y‘hat, adorned with a wreath of
wild roses. culle from the hedge that'inclosed
be hay-held in which she had been passing a joyous
hflf—hour. The bigglumbering vehicle, the sleek. heavy-
footed horse, round whose neck a garland of the same
wild roses has been hung ‘; the slouching, heavy-built
old rustic. are but accessories that enhance the grace
.ofher central figure by their lack of its attractions.
 flame is told the object of their expedition, and gives a
‘ ', ug expression to her thanks for the in-
 them, making a faint resistance, which
y Giacomo.
" all must let us take you home ; it will save a
« matter of an hour or so, and we have no time to lose,"
on Castletozpreaenuy intimates: and. as he speaks,
:1? figs out the open carriage and goes forward to
e . * ~ «2»

‘ I‘d."

 
  
 

 

orie crl‘ sons. the be her fresh young laugh
as she slips degly wn filer sweet-scented throne,
and,pauling 9: m i t to > t her prett little feet
on a shalt, springs to t ud wit out touch-

bel her. '

ave been much kindtr’ifyou had driven
‘ M'Lord Castletou,” she am. in slow tone, with an
arch look at him, as she descends. '»
“The man would have been more than mortal who
‘had driven past you. Miss Bruce. as you lookedjust now
' on your haycsrt," he answers. in the same
voice; and, as i-O looks at her. he feels nearer isn-
Nh e than he has ever yet done in his young life.
Mime! both get into the carriage and recover their

iii-MW. 0‘ wife's; Major-i hall be taken home .1
_ e . r '
what“! kour to dress in, and then picked up, by
“m. which during that time is to take the rest
to a cturesque little glen in the imme-

lbw minutes as. is rushing up stairs to her bed-
elcarto bani dressing.

ll . Bruce, who has been hastily summoned to aa-
I‘bt m. fed! vaguely troubled by her haste and excite-

v

 

" I do wish you had made an excuse, Marjorie.” she
says, inavexed way. "They ,mean kindl , but they
are doing you no real kindness. Folk w speak ill-

naturedly about all this attention tons—it's but natural , she says, aatirically; and

should wonder at it.”

tug
e is busy brushing her daughter's hair as she.

speaks, and she makes no attempt at seriously im-
posing any obstacle to her going (knowing well, indeed,

but such an attempt would be useless); so that young
lady takes this protest meekly.

“ Ah. mamma,” she says, turning round on her with
one of her most winning smiles, “ it is such a
glorious day i I am so happy i Let me bc—don't I

now it w -n't last forever i—let me have my little season
of pleasant summer-time undisturbed.” And Mrs.
Bruce reliu uishes, with asigh, her intention of speak-
ing her min more full at present.

“I wish Mr. Crawford had not been going with you,
Marjorie, I don't know much about him, but they were
never a good set, these Crawfords," is the only other
objection she proflers. and that is when her daughter is
putting on her gloves as she stands at the garden-gate
looking out for the carriage.

Marjorie laughs. and looks gayl indifl‘erent. " I shall
beware of him, mommy dear.’ ‘ she says. Then her
friends drive up, and she is whirled away.

That half-hour devoted to dressing has wonderfully
transformed the gipsy-looking damsel of the hay-cart;
and Miss Lisle, who is less accustomed than the rest to
her metamorphoses, looks at her in surprise. Her
white-muslin dress fits her to perfection ; the lace that
ruilles her pretty neck and wrists is as costly and as
carefully ot up as is her own, though she is an heiress;
her little ands are encased in fsul ess Parisian gloves
ofa pale rimrose shade; a charming little white-tulle
bonnet, mined with pink rowbuds. crowns her

graceful head—she looks undeniably like a youthful petal

eleganic; and Miss Lisle, who had hitherto disdained to
be jealous of her cousin's rural and companion,
is iorced to acknowledge inwar y at such jealously
would not be preposterous in the eyes of the generality
of womankind.

Miss Lisle, however, is too gentle and good to indulge
any such feeling without very good cause; and today
she is quite kind and friendly in manner to Marjorie,
who, having a shrewd perception of the dimculties into
which imprudence on her part might plunge Lord
Castleton, is for once on her good be viour.

They are all sociably gay and friendly. and arrive at
Crawford Priory in the pleasantest frame of mind
imaginable.

.—_-_-

CHAPTER VI.
m Promo.

.Tnn chickens and champagne havebeen duly enjoyed :
the servants and horses have gone up to The Cot e,
where they find an hospitable reception; and now t e
little party saunter dispersedly about the wood which
surrounds The Cottage, sloping gently down to the
sea. Lord Castleton and Miss Lisle have disappeared in
company, andLsdy Dorothea and Marjorie walk, one on
each side of Mr. Crawford, along a broad path that
skirts the wood, and is only separated from the
sea. by a low moss-grown _wall and a narrow
strip of shingly beach. The tide is in and the
sparkling waves lap musically against the pebbly
shore; the wind stirs through the hrs and pine—trees
that border the path and ill the air with their keen,
odorous scent; cool shadows lie across the road. whiie
the Firth beyond spreads its sunny, sparkling waters
beneath the blue sky where far aloft decoy white
clouds are sailing. Away to the east tower the moon-
tains of the Lake district in cloud-capped grandeur.

Preseu tly Lady Dorothea breaks into artistic raptures
over a fishing-boat with spreading sails of a warm, rich
brown; and, finding a seat on a moss-grown .l'sllen
trunk, opens the sketch-book the gentleman has been
carry-in for her and falls to w rk with great earnest-
ness, bidding her companions ontinue their walk.

Mr. Crawford is of a different type from that to which
Morjorie’s iew male friends have hitherto belonged.
and she is studying this new specimen with a spouse
of diverted interest; while he. in blissful ignorance of
the sentiment he inspires, believes he is making a
conquest. . ,

lie is a little, pale, dissipatedrIOOking man of about
five-and-twenty, dressed , with scrupulous care, and
bearing himself with the air of one who is comfortably
convinced of his own consequence in society. Wealthy
and of good birth. he has been accustomed to ca
from his earliest ears; nor has the reputation of fast-
noss, which he la rs hard to maintain, done him the
slightest harm in the set among which he chiefly
mixes. A ' -
To-day he is in hislfbest saute, and is conderend.
in 1 maki himse agrees e o e coup e 0 very

rgtty. inne‘gent little ladies who have been thrown on
file hands—Lord Castleton having as yet devoted him-
self almost exclusivelgeto as Lisle. .

Lady Dorothea has on opening her innocent blue
eyes very wide indeed as he has been regaling their
unsophisticated ears with the gossip of the season,
interspersed by pretty speeches such as he deems it
neceessary to address to every young lady to whom he
desires to becivil: and even Marjorie, who has an in-
stinctive taste for flirtation. has been tam ted to put
an end to his Remand-easy gallantry by ministering
a thorough suubbing. She refrains chiefly because
she is pi and at herd Castleton'a inattention. partly
because she is amused. .

.“ You must go to town neat sessou,Miss Bruce—posi-
tively on mustrit is cruel to such attractions
in a a country halalélsr. wiord enemas
at W; all me one eyes chance
momeuttorest lovingly on the fair landscape lying
seaward. recalls them and looks «with demure impu-
dencc up into the speaker’s luguidly admiring eyes.
had upon her fair face i

1 customer! to it—it is really quite endurable

" The country loses its horrors when one

' s

time, when you inshionables flan only exist in '
e charitably credits
1 with sincerity in so speakin . ,
q " Ah! yes," he says, givfng a supercilioua tug to
his feeble, fair mustache; " I suppose one grows rte-
glustomed to all sorts of deprivations, and don't iret at,
cm." ~‘

“ The very eels get used to ski , and rather like
it than not," pursues Miss Maia, wi growing impu~
deuce; but he remains comfortably ignorant of her-pre-
sumptuous sttempt at “ chafing " him, and laughs his
feeble little laugh.

“ Seriously, though, you must get introduced into
London soc ety," he resumes. " A girl like m, edu-
cated and accomplished and all that sort of t {and
with such a face and figure. could do marvels-t ' op-
erly c , ct cam,- and, Judging by -_w '_ t I
know of he Castleton family, 1 shoul say they atom
willingly give you a helping hand to outside you to
make a really good marriage, which, I suppose, is a
young lady's chiei aim in life'.‘ '

Marjorie colors, and laughs her mocking little laugh.
which is not often forthcoming. ~ .7

“ You are extremely kind to take g“  
est in my prospects, Mr. Crawford‘s ’
old tone; and, as she speaks, a », ‘
her bosom and plucks it to u

He has culled this rose for
somewhat surprised at himse
ing so much trouble—and he l -
ith destruction.

“ I wish 1 had let the rose a '
since it has come to such a Viol ‘ h
with decidedly bad temper, as M
from her muslin dress, on ,,
“ I wish with all my hearéiyou - ‘
sh y that her patron nfi v
s ed, and rceives that he as not
the rustic in den he has been honoring y n
tary attentions. He discharges an arrow at  .

“ A rose given you b Lord Castleton would have
been difl‘erently treats . I dare say, Miss Bruce," he
observes, jeerlngly, an unpleasant smile cumin-gums
face; and he looks at her with a stare to which is
by no means accustomed.

The arrow, chance as it is, goes straight home boxer.
jorie's heart. Safe in the secret drawer of her desk do
not there lie half a dozen withered ilowerets. possibly
careless gifts of the youu earl l She flushes «lesson, '
and wheels quickly roun . ' p

" It is qiuite possible, Mr. Crawfiord. I have known
LordCast etonsinoa I was a baby—he has been good
enough tosctlike a brother to me all my lite." she
says, an ly, her , heat inclining her bearer to dis-
believe - er-words.‘ she 7 with a lame at-
tempt at appearing unsmbarrassed, “ I am rather tired
—-I shall go back to my Dorothea, and you canjoiu no

r

      
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
      
  

‘ when you feel inclined.

Mr. Crawford does not relish the idea of being thus
thrown on his own resources; besides, it occurs tohim
that this little countr damsel ma belong to thataelo
dom-met-with class 0 womankin who, even in this
age of progress, cherish old-fashioned notions at rad.
ance with the {reef-undmsy wntgmezim he had been
'utterin apropos o marriagecen rec lug.

He logks with a pathetic expression at Marjorie. and
vouchssies an ape Ogy in a lugubrious. coaxing tone,
which strikes the volatile young lady as so exquisitely
ridiculous, that she smiles and regains her Minister.

The couple walk on again; and as Mr. Crawford h
now more careful in his choice oi subjects. and appears
a shade less self-satisfied than before their little quarrel.
Marjorie finds him more endurable. ‘

By the time they rejoin Lady Dorothea the have sp-
Earentl reached the flirting stage of acquatn p;

ut, in t, Marjorie is only acting for the benefit of
Lord Castleton, who is lazily reclining on the mossy
turf at his sister's feet.

He raises himself on his elbow, and looks somewhat
disapprovingly at them as they come forward : theoret-
ically he objects to flirting, though in practioehe incon»
scious of falling rather short. « g

" You appear to be enjoying yourselves, I am thankful
to say," he remarks. as they come up, lsu his aociahly;
and Marjorie detects the s ice or  in his
words, and is highly gratifle " v

She smiles sweet y down at him. and' ‘ en a little
nod of thanks for this expression clonal; tooling.

“Lam glad toilnd you in such a pols: framed“
mind. Lord Castleton," she says ly. _ titudc for
the enjoyment of others is a nob e sentiment.”

Mr. Crawford. bending over busy. Indy Dorothea.
and thereby bothering her dreadfully..raiees his head
and laughs in his feeble fashion. The earl has a sudden
inward revelation of the exceeding beauty of gentleness
and simplicity in woman.

He gets on his feet and yawne. rather bored, appar-
entl . a ,

" ow exceedingly like the copyboek lines of our
school-days l” heretorta. in t m! “idly 1m udeutway;
and then rthefiall laugh. though rie ‘ use not see
the need for tighter. ‘ . v ;

“ Gratitude for the enjoyment of others. is s noble
sentiment.” he repeats. in sawmpous. crawling

tone; sddinginass ym w 4 “Wk-g

is it since on have taken to the magma; atyle

of converse on. Miss We 1" - . - ' .
“Kiss in angry and mortified, but she ia‘too
fond $058 y ‘18! chagrin. She revenge! W in

{or own fashion. however. . r '
Alec not to hear his lordship’a heater-lag

she turns Mr. Crawford with her most 
and holds towards him a little bunch of blue violets

he she be culled in their woodland walk. ~

«win you accept cm- from me!” ah ' :mfi " '
uplifting smiling eyes to his the while. “  really
sorry that the rose you gave me had snobs Wilt.
and I hope my  may be less roughly trotted”

 

 

MARJORIE BR UCE‘S LOYEHS.

 

 

 

" a

. , ._ “thLw~.~.—.. . ,_ ....,-...y..  o—- .. . . 
  I  v "Win" limiters? im'tth'imks,’
j 5." '4 Wfiy‘fffigwfimMe finned. than
.  l3” 7

W“ 0 see. . f , . ‘ , .
She'tiirns quickly away tram him, and goes to Lady

DQ‘Andfihnt has,. become of Miss Lisle ?" she asks.
bendi over her, and fixing her eyes on the almost
complncied sketch. I ' .

Lady Dorothea. absorbed in herwork, is slow in an-
swering, ,snd Lord Castleton speaks for her.

“She has gone to pay a visit to an old woman who
keeps the North Lodge—18116 was Miss Lisle's nurse
once upon a time." he says; and in his reply there is a
taint to o of sxultntion. which Maliorie considers

hiyxfdiculous '. She be as to entertain a dislike for

a youngylaivsoeaemphlrgo 11: her behavior that ‘even'

, hams "’l f lithe? nos. . v.
. blag“, goggob her, Lord. Custleton l What an example
“it .

gum.’bef¢m'igu, Lady Dorothea i""sho says, scoff-

~ 7.1 t ' ‘ ‘i .
V  8829811- .

L'sdy Dorothea ii her head. and smiles in an absent

'1’“ fig: 

* " I see tha

.. 's‘n~.

    
 
 
  
  
   

you are all very meitry; but,-I,have’ not,
= tion't’o your canvcrsation. sp I am at
e, remarks, plucidly looking round.
akindly. innocent glance: then
(all. she rises and stretches her-l

 

 to? stop quarrcling, Loni
at h. and turns to Mr. Cl‘awimd.

of
n -by

   
 
 
 
  
   
  
 
  
   
 

getti‘ upon safe conver-
the .31 ho 06‘ through the

‘4:

, tare. , . , , , .
snt'driv’ehom‘c. and reach Terwood
s for dinner. '
v . I _V gracious i{
a dinner ‘asses oil' well, the. on~ ople
, p M ‘: mongol he conversationl ' hennfol cm a
quietlrnusical hour in. the (rowing-room. uring
which n , Crawford and Mario e. manage to on tivate
their newlysprung—up acquain ceship. B the end
oi the evening they are quite intimate, and rjorie is
eased _ perceive, installs has added another admirer
ho; when tho time for departure»

to her! , . . , -
“.mwford it is \Z ,
con; cloaks her M ii tender care, thus securing, a
M&w_wportnnity of saying some; tender parting
' anthem-aw for a continuance of their acquaint~
" Nor V he for anioment‘suspoct that the
diverted by his evi~
U _ I W inghome runs in to
her {steer-momiortably nlusrn ‘=‘"over,his after-supper.
tumbler oi toddy. with a corn description of her new
victim's exquisite air: and gr .

Mrs. Bruce has gone to bod :, Mr. Bruce isjollily in-.
(dined; and there is no check on Mastodon spirl ts ., ' She
563W herself on a footatool at her dado 's feet. and,
treats-him to a gay recital of. the day’s oings. inter,

_ with many fond caresses. She accepts aglass oi
 Quantum h it is a beverage for which she has an
nationalist-able like, and lovin ly drinks to his health
as sho’puts itto her rosy lips; s e bewitches him with.
her gayetyaud good humor. andmakes him forget some
' serious, ngs as to the danger of her almost con-
stant association with these fine toll: around them-—
V , as him at least resolve not to annoy her by a word
of “election.

  
  

 
  
 
 
  
 
 
  
 
 
 

  

  
   

    
 
 
  
  
 
   

louse down, int.» her upturned lace as she sits at his
first. her hand in his. “ My little lass, you mind me 0'
ur. V, brown Villlya-a gladsome. spirity. unbroken
fining-t , wt? 11' her troubles before her: I'm think-
; ye’ve t as little notion 0' what trouble lies before
we as: the bounds has~ch, Maia. '2"
We laughs; but she sighs too. and answers him with
a remnants of her head. ,
“mnemonic, or fillies i what a pity one can't be use
less andgsy all, onefs shortnliier, daddy—4t is so awfully
nice! A. least.” she do, with a beeceohlng air. “ let
,me bsiike the filly, halt in blissml ignorance or coming
_::  g : Ian and at grass, yet; do let me gumbo] my
,El.  brce’klng-in (will be bad enough when .it
. .4 J I M's . t . >
  , needs no further entresty; but repentln
. ‘01“ his; ' strives to via with Maj: in gayety. ans.
"  tham_ , ends merrily. » .

I must yown«.«that. but for Lord Castletonfs incon-
cealeidisturbonce of spirits, the welcome symptom
ofje lion-y. Moria would not havelconcluded the day.

3, in such, a , want . flutter of excitement. Certainly.
 when  l 4 her head on her pillow. it was to dream
0! him. not of thornnoter of Crawler-drum.

DRAWER VII. 1
,_ a. mm: us run arson-,mu,

 ,W‘weeh- slippel bv unmarked]: any special
, mastoid: withoutiniinenceon the at slits oi my
(on  For Marjorie they were.th weeks
s-Ia _ Maddehodg‘ deliciously idle.minshiny weeks,
in wh ; 
 oith augment. utterly needless of the ultimate

- » hoarse show“ tending. ‘ , ..
, 1 Half ‘her time ‘was spent at Tel-wood Hones, where

     

"th: . - u e‘lie tu no r ea 1,
,.  1" emu 0 mm blerurs

cl-.

 of. which she was has to' par-ti
 ' new. , times so long been Indy Dorothea's chiotoom-
' v1 'ifilil'mok nonsoi'ntlreimtletou ftlllilyfhs an

:“ requiring immediate alteration; {though

 
  

1?
c

. 'V ' me n 
fifth Roderic must eventually-season

{and she never

9‘.

not  rats/mud. wway‘sg‘hsl lb:
vm to lighten their daily .I gain the (113le
 g win 

new
plan.-

 

charge...»  -

 

rd, .‘Castleton'A’percelves, the want oif,

ii- opinion of it. and they are satin
- ear in‘erested, and avail them-1

: it; and."¢his'm'eoting over. begin v

a somewhit silent host"

  (this carelessness about future consequences
was not re and by the Bruces’ less aristocratic numb-‘-

' born. though as yet-'the object of their charitable con;

cern had” not chanced to become aware oi'it.‘ Many
were the wise saws noted. with significant head-snak-
‘iugs, a proper of her (huge, when social groups gathered
round the tea-tables-‘nt which on iestive occasions the
farmers' wives were Wont to entertain their friends—-
' many tho'prognosticntions of coming trouble: ' '

. The servants’ hall at Tor-wood House had, of course.
its so on the matter: it was a. Whispered one. but it
spre none the-less rapidly on that account. No one
as yet ventured to charge either of the offenders whose
doing were thus investigated—Lord Cnstleton and Mar-
,jorie Bruce—with a greater iniquity than that of carry-
‘in’g'on a. foolish flirtation; bntit needed no sage to
discover that, out of this seedling of gossip, time and
cultivafition might raise a Very flourishing scandal.

The real state of the case I must to you in‘a few
words; .’ fiwnsnit‘y is not ordinarily very‘;wise,;'ut
txventy-‘i‘our and eighteen. which were the respective
years of this pair' of culprits ; and the very a 'reeuble

. and enlivenins flirtatil u with which they ha inaug-

urated. their renew?an of long-interrupted intercourse
had now reached that interesting stage in which; unless
.theplnyers are‘cxceptionally heartless, such 'graceiul
comedies are apt to be spoiled by a. totally incongruous
gadmixture‘oi' the tra 0 element. ,
' j An uhstudiedawo 0r two, a passionate vibration of
voice. a momentarywcarinoss. of one’s proper TQM. and
Lbolg plot: a into rash improvisation. and the laughter
is over. he curtain may’fall to, rise on a scene of a
[widely difl‘ernntcharacter.   ,,

Our young couplermeanwhile. were happily unconv'
scious, of any. ‘vielcsuso for anxiety. Lord Castlcton
founaljiiuxjorie; ruco a. wonderfully charming little
,witch.'in whose company a man might find abundance
of  less enjoyment. Marjorie guessed this, an i
was-flat fed byhis a robution, and inclined to give
.away,her iflisb,sen mental henrt,,ii' his hmndsonm,
young lor ship would but stretch out a pleading hand,

 forit. , She was too. road to tail in love with anyman

of whose seriousint irallmont she was not sure.
Onopsir of. eyes watched with no little sin the' pro-
.cécdin not the unthinking air—Miss Lis 's.
Unti qu teoonvinced the {for both their sakes it was

 

only once a, sigh escapes him. and he says. witha fond"

‘ indoors on such a lovely

amen drift, passively with the current ‘

nu throtthis intimacy v a.
 “I u “Non

wt ‘

necessary 0- open Lord Castlet'on’s eyes to the danger

Lof his forgettinguhat was (installer-self as hisengsgcd /

- will»). she remained a silent spectator. When she felt
, sure of her ground, she took a dignified step, which
’ cost her no little sufl‘origfii
Never was man more on by surprise than was the
earl when she. the most unemcting of girls. who haul
never in her life interfered with any of his doings or
brought forward any special claim upon his regard and
cousinly affection. sought him in the smoking-room
one line morning, and expressed a wish to have a con-'
fidential talk over matters of importance to them both.
Ilia cigar was hung away, and he was out of is
.loungtng‘chair in a moment, for he knew his con ’3
way- too wan to suppose that she had conic tohim in
hisspecisl samtum to discuss any trivialities.
" To be sure. Nessie: only this room is not at for you

quickly, fixing a somewhat deprecating look on her.

She is even paler than is her wont: her'eyos are not
'il'ee irom si of recent tears, her lips are compressed;
' it is imgos ble to avoid seein that she has been dis-

turbed y some mental sutl‘er ng. .

Yet she smiles and returns his look with one of per-
fectsweotness. for she cannot hear that he should be
causclessly perturbed. »

" I have nothing to say that will be unpleasant for
you to hear. Cousin Herbert." she says, laying her
hand in his. outstretched to take it.

" Won't you come out with me ?” she adds. “ My.
visit is drawin near its close. Let us have one more-
suunter in the seen-tree avenue; we havevhad many a
pleasant chat there,have we not. Herbert ?"

There is a touching little tremor in her voice which
goes straight to his'heart-on very impressionable. if n.
somewhutunstable ouch , ‘

He has a faint presentiment of , what she is about to
say: and his better mtum asserts itself at once, aroused
by his rception of her true nobility of soul.

“ Ant we shall have many more there and elsewhere.
(16d ' nt,Nessie.” he says. with unusual fervor. pres-
sing or hsnd and looking hard, at her in a way which
says more than his wor . ~

She loved him with all her heart—she lived on his
often careless, kind ,wor 's and 10035: and now, moved
by his uniei ed heartinees oi afi'ection for her. she has
dilhculty in coping back a rush of tears.

. Her five-and-twenty years of highly civilized exist-
ence have. however. taught her a. tolerable command of

with a scarcely perceptible increase of or in her
voice. “Come, then, Herbert: it seems wrong to stay.
mornin ." -

‘ They go down stairs togetherwithout exchnntzing
another word. and. passing through the hull-d .or»
relightthe, Ippointedplsoe of confidence in awry few
“I nos. :v' M?" ‘1 . i
It ins. ion ,zstntsly avenue of beech~treee, planted by
an almost ten ancestor oi the present earl's.
September winds have‘slready done havoc among the
thick clustering leaves which insummer iormits fair.
green roof; many oi" them now he stmwed over the-
smooth rauncqu underimt. and the cleariautumn

sunshine pours through the partly stripped, branches?

overhead and casts checkered .radianceeu
Af'eoi‘t‘ breeze istrtlrl'lng in: the oi as); tinted:
 v-Cbndtchnl‘ingtfleecy white clouds oVer—
measure of the (If. .The air incisor-end bracing.
bright use 1‘ mm‘rmgmt Vmunum iii:
. I as y on r r - e V
'uanul'lightshoartodneseul  ' ~ tr ‘

n the path.-

 

 

““ Nieves presenttnient that you sis aoingtu scold,
ma, Nessie.” he says. stopplnnnnddaytng s maxing

\

i to sit dovmrin, it smells so horribly of smoke," he says. 7 . ,
- I do. Nessie." he says. warmly; “nor ]( vs

her emotions. Bho merely smiles again. and says. .

.‘oeadiag

third on her am y after theyhaye walkedmnsiuwilence
side by atdeduring a low ulinutem‘snd ubmllsspther
in hinmoet coaxingwsy.   'r ' ‘ ~ 

i “ Don t. there's a dear, good littleooz.” he «like, "' 1
know "l'm a sad. thoughtless, selfish, good- mousing
sort oi a fellow. but upon my honor I‘m going to turn
over anéw leaf.  Don t speak any more 0. going away,
Nessie; and you shall see the blessed change {or your-

solt; ulve me another chance before you saywnnt you ~

are thinking, of saying."

Miss Lisle smiles, but somewhat sadly; and theiirm-
ness of her look remuins’nnaltered. I . '

" Ivan: not going to scold you. Cousin Herbert," she
answers, looking steadily up'at him ; “ and I don’t
think you guess rightly whatl wiair to say.”

A not unpleusnnt notion that she is simply imbue.
ani that a few coaxing words will put matters. rignt. is
crushed by this gently spoken yet firm rejoinder -. and
“he is silent. perceiving that his firstimpression ‘wa‘stne
more correct. ‘ ‘ ' ' " " ' ' *

They move on a few paces ; I ,
,nioning all her resolution, proceeds to the  she-has
But herself. ' . ' V ,  ‘ v,

" Herbert,” she says, suddenly,,.silp in; her hand
Within his arm and looking up, into lie face WA a
steady. tender gravity of expressioh,. “will you be‘pcr-
i'ectl . in earnest for a little while i; )ViJ you 19mm

‘ spear to you out of my ,very heart, and answer tnéjput

oi'yours ? only for this once. I beg its! young: smack
of year friendship (or me.” C ‘, ‘ g _‘ f‘“
, Perce‘ ing her to be hopelessly seriousI he 1;
to ive he required promise. speaking '
an caressingly stroking the litt.e white“
iightiylius on 31‘ air?“ pm. He is really.
her. in a serene. azy. ash

 
 

‘5

ion. and‘lds‘Consc cs 0-
bukes himi‘or having so long delayel an ex lily A“,

prossion of his Men to makohenllisuii'ex. no to, 
sudden. magnanimous resolution tospeak out new.
and quiet that evidently troubled, loving heart. which
he has long believed entirely his own. 8 its. 0! that
im rodent but pleasant flirtation with 0:30.119
;h never for a momentseriousl contemplated break-
ing oil" the semi-engagement toll scour-sin or contract-
ing a marriage with any girl. however fascinatinwiiit
n

- 'of his own social sphere; nor dLlhe think he

any way lr'lnsgresscd the legitiumte bounds of {a 
mental flirtation. 7 " ~ . .
Era he has found words fit to communicate la verity
ble proposal, his companion a; agent... the we
grave tenderness in her look an voice. . . . , v.1, ,
“ We have always been good irieuds. you.,aud,.l
Herbert. have we not l" she says; than, in {the some
breathmontinuae. without waiting to: his randy as:
sent, " Only I have often thought that we; I _ have
been better friends still but “tor, the summing,“ our
relatives with regard to our worldly int: rests. Hopi
sure that you would have trusted me more  liked
m.

.me better.“ long ago youahad rid yourself of’

mistaken notion that
make me your “ifs.” r _ a 7'. , W
Lord Gutieton takes advantage of snicmenWViime
in her somewhat tremulously spoken agree-{ion to] in-
‘tcrpose a vehement negative. . I. _ . ‘ ' 
u I could not possibly «isomer, trust sonnet-agitate
on ‘ a
dearly.”-ho adds, lzindly, fearing that she mayyfind. '

you were bound in hematite

- assurance not quita satis'actory.

quite still, looking earnestly into oscb'dthon's'

They have stopped their walk erevthls. ,ndlga‘d
Wnon her cousin makes his gallant speech. Silas” 6

only shakes her head. and, without pausing to  9 ‘

it. goes on in a hurried. agitated tone:

“ I have come to you this morning to as}: you to 

. me in lr inking oil‘our foolish. embarrassing ban-engage-

ment. I want you to agree to our being simply cousins
and irlends for the rest of curlives.“ v. L . ‘ ,4") 
Lord Castleton 1ch3 rather annoyed at one 
mont; it hurts his vanity to find that it is pose; ' into:
her thus to give him up. , ‘ ' I ‘.
llc downs and keeps silence. fixing his eyed ‘ ‘

W4. 7
upon the ground, and giving “cries oi’iinpa.ien't—§hgs «

to his mustache. Show that he is d’isplemyet
proceeds unflinchingly. for a sense of duty 
er- -

“ You have always been very kind and good to 
Herbert, but you know very well that you have never
loved me as you ought to love the woman whom you
mean to make your wife. That was not your Inuit nor
yet mine. only it makes you and me unlit tomahe‘mi
other happy in marriedlh‘e; and it is our duty to. -
sider. without further procrastination. how but, to
malts an end of all this hmily. scheming. and ' inflthe
warm understand that you areat last iree to followthe
bidding oi‘ your own Judgment and inclination in
choosing wife." ' g “ 1;;

Miss is has in her last sentence betrayed‘hflelf
utterly. and her cousin seizes the opportunityola , ,‘k
with unwanted eagerness. , , ' m;
2.43304?" 12“” m“??? i ’iéh‘sflm’” Q?”
,, ,n n cause u era omen; . on
areaemuchtobe pitied as! am. gun speak; “I: I
was the only victim." ~ ' I p -‘,'.,.'T

As he says this he looks hard at her.~ frowningwlth
courteous intention o! hiding a y reyréqkuno

loam of fun which twinkles in his blue eyes.  _ f
he satisfaction of new!!!“ her “be  .'

confused ;- her color comeswitharush. ‘
tall ‘ bolero his, nor does she and words town
on the instant. ‘ ‘ V. ,
.~ Thereiaolittlo panamdnrimhich‘ Lord? I _ ».
employs himseli’ in studying m .oogsin'. f v I,
thinan of, her many virtues—nor enemagrw r I"
n forgetting her ten. thousand ‘ as ' 
Taginlggh; is singly; tr ing to, ., W _ I
cum .00 c.5901.  9'. .. . - ..
where it falls upofl'rfzetltdmnb es mica}  .
out: her lain. new ably. p1§331fit3t use.“ p »_
easin‘byt a dimovm that even this honest. ,

   
  
 

l l...
r

 

daylight her out ensemble is pleasing; in was

then'Miés lime. spm- '

 


i
i
i
’1

 

 

simple morning-dress she looks a sweet. highvbred‘
little lady.th pure heart a man might well be
proud to win.

A very few moments pass thus; then Miss Lisle
lifts up her eyes and says. with a smile which has more
of sadness than mirth in it, "I am determined tobe
honest with you, Cousin Herbert—~pel'feotl honest——
no matter how odd you may think me. spoke of
your freedom because it is chiefly of importance to you
to be free. 1 will never marry."

Lord Castleton looks thorou hly serious now, im~
pressed by the brave honesty 0 her contess‘ion. and a
sharppsug or self-reproach pierces his careless, kind
heart. '

"You mustdike me a little bit, then, Nessie. though
you think me such a changeable. ungrateful wretch ?"

0 says; very tenderly, looking at her. He :repents his
question the moment it is uttered, for it has the most
unexpededefl'sct of setting his cousin's lip qull'l'lflllg
pitifully and filling her eyes with team. Keenly
ashamed of this sudden failure of the gently dignified
self-command she has hitherto preserved all through
“1‘8 flying interview, she turns uickly away irom
him. and witlloaro iln atience exala ms :

>“ Leave me to mysel a little. Herbert.
generous and unkind to question me so.’

Mammal-ell her heroismv-upou which perhaps

II.- mded herself more than was 111% fight—this
fit cinnamon weakness overcomes er in the very
monsoon o! the man whom she has brought there to

ten to hsrwise counsels and warn! and to im-
sress by the dignified composure of her rowell.

Thus sharply she takes herself to task while dashin
the hated tears out of her eyes with a trembling han ,
and making a mighty effort to 00an those rebellious
muscles about her mouth; but itis all in vain. She
l can onlycrynoiaslessly in a fashion that is cruelly

‘ to herself—can only demrminaily avert her

Me. in fits of Lord Castleton's really distressed en-
lraatiee' t she would let him speak to her.

her alone for s. little while at first. feeling

bound obey her imperative request; but, utterly

abused as he is to see her overcome in this way. be

before long is at her side again. whispering kind, coax-

9 sort most calculated to

resent state of mind. Her dis-

tion is toosweet oadmit of ion indulgence of

l-humor, and presently she yields. urning round a
tramway: race to him and forc.ug a shadow of a
are . .

"i am as determined as‘ever that you and i shall
only be 00mins, remember. Herbert." she says by way
of protest, as he takes her hand and slips it w thin his
arm. if I , and looks provokineg handsome and
trinnjl 

continue our walk, Nessie.” he says, with
good-humored peremptorincss. " You have had your
say—now I mean to have mine." And then they walk
on in silence, which he is the first to break. '
_ “Reade.” he exclaims. abru tly, in a voice which is
not like his own. it is so and full of deep feeling,
',' notunderstand how a man may be bowitched
i' tth mills by a pretty face without ever really
,9; *st the bottom of his heart unfaithful to .the
dapiratious of his better-self? how a man may. out oi
shear: thoughtlessuess. as and do all sorts of follies

. 7 of the senses. and be thor-
Oggllég ills lineal! when he awaken l Yet
h ' oul
"a good. pure-souled little thing like you. whose in.

You are un—

5
‘g.

you understand l"'he adds lmmediatel —

pulscs'scein never to lead you into greater faults‘than‘ b

summers-i; ‘ . ty and Mo trainees ".

V ‘ raises liar magi eyes wl , a look that,

is half protest and half gratification ; but she does not
i he runs on in the some eager way :‘ " Do

- all, 
yogi  . possible foraman who has for years.
ram. ‘6, ’3: m

a
5

. noble-minded woman his .
u that hope. though he feels him-
concalvshini to be i
' tone and
‘ swimmln 'intcsra  '
more ._ g . as
perfect content: , L,

that ‘
,fimwlilybnmwdad,_w 
‘- ‘ . 113W“! “M Iblwouldbemw
 down and aim '  ’ so ‘1
' imam " :snda gm

her as she can

  
  
 
  
  
  

 
 
 

 _ k to his everyday manner I, wit
 Issuance, "We made a‘aol vow tobe
“new sach‘other, did not we. skin Ernes-
 W looks" a little em feelin

“for ledge it some  a...» he ro-
‘ I y I r I
m“ w mmflfifkimm glance down at. Ker

outhatl amnot nitepleasedj' .'
morning: you have applied

eke: on have contempt“?!
heart.» sltogethernsedmevsrycrus y;

.saoonl shakes herhead'and’looka Ill ‘l down. but.
nothing noted by her silence. he goes {do the same

. “auras reason or all this shocking tyr’ann -dare i
'W-itnu‘sle?" ' ‘ ' ’ '-
z 2"  don't; you will make install! angry
 me so." the girl says, laughing.“ iaving
' . :hand on his mouth as be bends hiahead
"Mum!" hislipst thcaoit ti 5 a,
 o' .nyan
am M ’ lightfioffunmddlfl

who

mks-moo 'oom Nessie was lesions. “3 Vii“
-   gi  up: hopeless

lam atmdfisfit all 1.3 mm “to hits 3

and the-bolath with flying colors, site: all.

  
   
   

WI ‘ her-doéoh'hlm “1

Mlnbiaeyes'
rd“ “5 . .
,~"”rsllltnot in Goth. publish lo

I smile to  use; 

MARJORIE BRUCE-5' LOVERS-

the luncheon-bell just then summoning them to the
house.

makes amends far all his previous levity.
" You must give yourse

wife. and you must not keep me long waiting."

borhood is aware of their engagement having become a
recognized fact. and expectant of that agreeable cause
of pleasant stir—a fashionable Wedding.

 

CHAPTER VlIl.
om mu. Imp nus Baum.

Tun daylight is almost gone. A cold north wind is
moaning eeril amidst the branches of the high old I
trees that be or the road. and is driving dark. threat-
ening clouds across the sky. Rain has been falling m
heavy showers, and the stubble-fields which lie on
either hand haveadreary. soddan look. such as they
seldom wear until late autumn. The whole. world
seems’to Marjorie's eyes to have  suddenly]
gloomy and despairing as she glances round her while i
pursuing her homeward way. - V

She has been up at Torwood Rouse, where she has
heard the news of Lord Cuetleton’s matrimonial inten-
tions. She has smiled up into his lace and spoken her
congratulations uite prettily, has listened with lite
interest to Lady rothea‘s details of the love e be-
havior of the ailianced cousins, and madevthe remarks
expected of her without one stammer; has caught a ;
look of unmistakable compassion in Miss Lislc's eyes.
yet has behaved towards. her with all the courteous
deference she has been wont to show to the ladies of
Tor-wood House (her special chum. Lady Dorothea.
excepted); and now she is hurrying home.hotteara
of mingled shame and anger in her eyes, and the sharp-
est pain she has ever known in her happy young lil'e
piercing her warm. proud little heart.

For not with impunity had she forsaken the safe,
sweet pleasures that lay within her proper sphere to
run with gay restlessness after diatracti excitement
not to be found there. Her vanity, her ambltlon. her all-
preclatiou of the luxuries of fashionable life had grown
marvelously during the last few months, and this pro-
posed marriage would have been a blow even if she had-
not conceived a likin for the fascinating youn earl.

She had been so lelning. although scarce y con-
sciously. as many vain girls of her age are‘tempted to
do: and now. in her 'ssppolntment.hsr eyes were
suddenly opened to the meanness of which she had
beeln gazillity. and her better self was up in Judgment
aga us er. v ; i . . '

She had behaved very baldy. and she had done her
utmost to get Lord Castleton to behave in the same
way; and she had done this without even the arenas
of loving him - for she only wanted to be his wife
that she might a countess—she was sure of that.

Her father was infinitely dearer than an man alive.
so it could not be that she was in love. 8 e was only
mortified and disappointed inambitious hopes. and
well desorved to!» so. _ ,

How dreadful it would be. if Lord Castleton or any-
body, else had discovered her unworthy thoughts!
Tire very idea made her face burn with shame ~strickén

ow ankful she was that at least she had the grace.
to hide her. mortincation. and so could hold up her
head among them all it once she watches from this ‘

overwhelm ng load of self-contempt. - . (
She must be item. and good. and onerous now,
and think chi of doing what was t. and surely

by-aud-by she would regain her old happiness and for-
get all this pain. .

, To begin with. she would! think kindly or Lord Gss~
tlston and like Hale. sndwish them happiness in their
married life; andso resolvin she quiets-hsrselt, and
bribe timeshs pushes open, 0 gate 'admitttug .to her
home ,thsre‘ is anew light of gentle s‘ersni 3 on her
bonny. tear-stained lace. ‘ ‘ ' -

Iindlnglnobjodyin the, parlor. shegoes to the hitch-
‘ . .gle‘r‘vunly looking for her parents up and down
a case. , , _ ..
‘ * zer‘e there is only an old woman. a laith servant
wh .. - lived at the farm tor the la-ltthirty. years, old
- much at home as any of the family.

.u-oni ,andisnow bus arranging a
cpl-leg“ over a table inynuut of

 z a mightynre laboring? filling the

usly clean apartment \ th dandng

, ahc lii‘tsber m  with
» mulch.vand looks at her rather

 ; , Merle.'what’a brochtyehanle
sac su‘n‘e.‘ an' the m - r. swa’ down to the. Downs to

b ,.. , fthemistressafl‘toseeanld
Klrsty’b el. ‘a ta'eu badagaluwi’ her rbenmao
tism, an' sent for her. silly bodio. as lfahe was a quack
doctor. tor-in at a'body‘s beck. But wha can mag:
at‘it. when‘the mistress gi'en: awn Iaemony glide things
as she does to every greedy said body that makes a
”“if.§3°:.‘”i‘::"' . speak to.

o, e he or Well to heed her
neemln bad linger. She comes up to her chair and
stands 4 her side with a rather down-cast var, giving ‘
1:: 04:11:13 . ate ancgtieon of gugwior appear:

. .an pro-en . ragga o soitensintcan
sapusaiouofklf ’  ' ' '

yconoern. . . . , .
Mountain. M alloys? Baa onybodueanl
rsrwhichv V a a

 
 
  
    
   
  
 
 
   

As a girl ‘-
a many-killed lu-v ~
c  ,

y:

 

80, at last, the date of their marriage is taken : your braw table-mail! could. I ' i ‘1!
into consideration, and in a very short time the neigh- : an' rest ye shit. hairs. and I ll bring ye your tea -

C

b ttli with the wind on my road nominee madc'lt
wires?“ Never mind me ; make somebody get mes cup

As they go in he whispers one little speech. which i of tea, Bell, that's all Ineed."

Bell gives a contemptuous grunt. and. moving totho

: the
silly
: ~ . ' 1“ wt ye our tea as comfortable as '
limmers, but 8 3' Gang hen m the “flaw

f to me Very soon, Nessie ; l  tire. puts on a shining kettle.
need you badly to help me to be good and true. I 5 ’ ' ‘
Prom” *0 “‘3’ Mid nrnw wortllier of such a noble little ; “3888 m but“ 00" ganhwtm w‘ their

"That’s easier said than dune. Mia

* roctl  she adds with a kindly glance. .
“ Buyt Maia, who has dropped into the vacated arm~
I chair. and is staring into the fire in an sheen, t way. do-
2 clines to move. , u
' “ Let me tay beside you, Bell ; I won't bother you.
I she says, fixin a pair of grave, wistful eyes on the
. familiar honlogy old face which looks down at her : and
Bell perceives that there is somethi swim. and grows
suddenly tender. for in truth the glr in fig 6%” W
her.
« ’Deed you look tired oot. hinny. Let Bell help ,1"
as she usodto due when ye were a bony wee ninja,
flesh. hech, it seems like yesterday yo were tottin'
shoot the hoose lauchin and jabberin as I never heard a
human wean, an' noo a sit there a - - ,1 a.“ 1. ..
'oullgloddy, wi' a' kin o’ aceomp »
nger ends. 5511' a head fu’ o' outl z
ay. ower m' to hand muckle
deuce maybe, puir bail-an .1
As the old woman speaks . rel
hat and wrappiu‘fs. and or
somewhat dark W
erable tidiness; then, get 
tired smile, she trots up stai 3?;
and returns with her tiny si .
" Let will see il‘your feet are “-
in her pathetic, rough voice
enough to be wonderfully comi
It dens her ood to sit quite sile
homely hits on, watching with -
Bell's deli: movements as she 11 ,

trsy.’ '

By the time teais ready. sh . ' and “
chat: and, Bell being like-min the two . I v to a
series of reminiscences of hex-chill lsh days, more inter»
eating to themselves than I that they would M to

mwm. '-
en the girl has drunk her tea. she lets Bell j
her. and settles herself in her father’s high-blew .
cosy-chair by the ’ '

    

   

   
  
 
 
  
 
   
  
 
 
  
 
  
  
    
 
   
 
    

worm I8 com-emu

unreal: looks startled. but sets her vlflm 10$
her friendliest smile. He has n npreflyw.
visitorever since their first meeting several m
ago, so the two are quite old friends by this fine. ‘.

lthasas yet pleased the young lady to beam to
what everyone else has long ago discovs ’ ‘ V ,
love tor her. When a glimmer of thatruth  ..
itself upon her, she has wilfully shutzhet' eyes. ' _ '
in from lacing the possible sonsognoncoao:

meht. * V , _~ , ' _. ' .r. .

Ofcourse Marjorie has managed terracotta.”
for herself: it sunk-es at least to quiet her-town sol-5
scienca which at this period of her lilo basilica.
troublesome power. ' ' 7. ‘
: He’li‘asin'ever ‘ kenout in’unniis
has never aasurn an unmistakablylo ,
and meanwhile it is very pleasant to  '
when no more exhilarating recreation is ‘ ~
and she smiles upon him with an ‘
shown good-will. which neither he nor the
at the little drama know howrlghtly to into,

' The you man is a iavorite with  k “3"”:

Bruce, who no op rtunit ofahow their I
forhirmso there is lit0 won’de 

   
    
   
  

nei h

to fire danger of thus exposing hi
reprehensible ooquettish arts. for, alas! the little as,
is too pretty and fearless and  labor tastes
to bewlthont enemies oi her our ass V
life; but the-swam!” counsels haven acct quite
positetothatwluch thcymintendsdtomcunerzg

must a gener indignation/at the sacral-male .
propane: of higacounaolors. and a'rcaeiufion‘toba‘

So the two young people meet tonight ‘ m a.
iamiliarit of mannereonsequsntn
course. nations is glad to
solitude broken in upon. and
alone and apparently

Bile notices that clothes are ,
rain-drops are alumni] from the hat he has» as.
011 and. healing t s has alighted 
ride in the rain. expresses kind Mm“ ,
be]? him ofl‘ with his gramme _ v _ -

8 bush!!! and looks surprised at her
_ “mm M19! moons." he says, mm liar
“We” to mill as. to sunshine. Mike and
'on a drenching like a Newfoundlandrdog."~= 

".TE'
, , ,

 

, W t
vekln' ye n’p’atthsbi scum
better!”*'vshcaa‘ya. with and“:
us so answer at .
: only I am tired. i didn‘t "want to

stay to dinner there, {or   ached a little. and

 

As he speaks. he throws 0! his rough  ‘ ‘
and gig-es his dam hair a quick shake out, much as a
wet .wtoundlail dog might. looking the while VII

1 I" .
w"! all «its: use
thrive

 

Her own 3210

irl are . v ._ » ‘

tions, but to y n ' r  
rsistence, V thati Win them of 
alranhour.  H  sodium

Mr. John Alton. i, made. Inoue of harm moods

of gentle humility; I ‘33:. - > _

CHAPTER IX.

 

10

MARJORIE BRFOE'S LOVE”.

 

manly a specimen of. the stronger sex as woman's eyes
need wish to look'upon.‘

" Excuse me presenting myself in this plight. I tried
to pass on: gate, but temptation overcame me," he
says; ad lug, with sudden tgravity, " you won’t catch
r cold from me bringing this mpness in here, will you,

Miss Bruce ‘1" _

He speaks in perfect good faith, and accompanies 1113
words with a somewhat troubled glance which diverts
her in turn.

"I am willing to run all risks, if you will sit down
and let me got you something to eat or drink,” she an-
swers, with a bright upward look into his eyes, and a
co‘mical’elevation of her eyebrows.

He perceives that she is amused by the contrast be-
tween his notions of what is safe for her and what is
safe for him, and Ian hs, coloring slightly, as he gives
up his hat and coat a her imperative bidding.

811:: runs away with them to the kitchen. where Bell
undertak togst them dried, and he has a moment's
leisure to hluk how well such lowly, kindly occupa-
tion becomes her—410w sweet a woman she can be
when it pleases her.

When she returns she is followed by Bell bearing a
tray with such refreshments as the two women think

, . w ' table, and lie is compelled to eat and
' aughing remonstrunce.
r the little parlor. a wonder’lllly
' . , rk face wears its brightest
his companion. who, having sent
 in kindly minltry to

’3 fithmtahlo: but the room is

by clog firefight. which is ex-
“ ,, Slim girlish figure in ltsl

il‘How fair she is 1 how grace-
how innocsnt are the glances
1 as she proil‘ ~rs her hospitable
’5’ ions of a vague shadow of sad-
'. night invests her with a new,

    
 
  
  
 
 
  
 
  
 
  
 
  

  

 

> aler so charming: and he falls
‘ * d e each time their eyes meet,
g ,» true-..8eotrh undemonltrativeness, he
, . lugs-tor .best of his ability.

Morris canno’ 'mistake the tendernes in his
waive “he says. presently :

" You do not. look quite yourself to-nlght. Are you
gremlins: Bruce ?” ‘ ‘ r
 ~' ~ kind. dark eyes are on her face as she sits oppoa
irn leaning hul- bonny young head somewhat
.p.:n her clasped hands, her elbows planted:

    
 
  
 

  
 
 
    
 

.,  ho ,questlon ovucmfis her, her color
 I ‘t eyes fill with thgulsy, quickly forgot-
ten W» “#15006...  é; " :, ,-

."I up, quite s'elklthank yumowluy head aches
badly? illici- contradiqtbtfreply,rather unsteadlly
spoken. Then she rises on movssgover to the fire,
arguing her back upon him that shemay hide her fool-

tears '

John Alton has never before seen her bright eyes
dimmed. end he is mightily concerned. \

He gives her a few minutes to recover herself: then.
rising, bliows her to the fireplace in a hesitating way
‘1‘ his vary unlike him. . —V

_. " 0 wheels round at his approach and smiles in
 fashion. looking it ry swaet as she upturns
her arm wot eyes to his.

 fiwm a bob I am i I am heartily ashamed of my-
 dlton " she says. rather tromulously, in spite
qf-  mile; and he perceives that her breath comes
a gummy. and that her chest heaves with suppressed

" recovers his wanted rev-possession. and comes to
her aidwith that kind pereluptoriness of his which has
soothsdvmauv a troubled heart ere now.

"Ulla Bruce," he says, laying a kind, determined
band upon her arm, “ you have worn yourself out
who other: now you must rest. You have been

v35, 3 to me many atime; now I am going to be

,. a, A - ‘ycnjust for this once, and because you he pen

.  Nfiearer friend at hand: you must lie wu

«falling time. and resolutely banish every
serious thought until you feel better.

“Will you go tolled. or will you rest here?" he adds,
Indicating by; glance that here means in her istherfs
high—booted. tempting old easy-chair drawn close to

l tableau 31's.,

7.. ~ujoflé is, in truth. so tired—fired body and mind—-

“it is chimed relief to be time taken charge of, yet

she makes a {stat protest. ‘

 hem scolding; is all that I need," r she

, swing laugh, at failing utterly: " still,

for peace”- sake. l‘ll agree to re~t in the easy chwir."

firrhlton smiles and nods acquiescence, then he
l'fluz’zfl {thaton to the easy-chair. and makes the girl

it; back‘in pleasant, so y-needed resti'ulness. .

ti'Yp‘nr hands are quite cold. let me chafe them a
i; _Q;;‘.;‘?' "have often been very good to me. You

 .1 psiya, with his tender smile. coloring a little
Chime: and she lifts a pair of tired, and eyes to
his true. manly face. and gives him a cold little hand
' Thiliin ly, fooling for the time, in the utter
a at dentistry which her present languor causes.
“tit biennium to have a strong brothenlike Mend
hytotskecaroothgr. ‘ p - '

. with M words, and these few such as any
cum Mg: have a ken, the young man cha'es the
 I A  to him: then he brings a
otfihrtgkboolored mblsnket and .covers’the girl up
Id it. Hardest she make any resistance, so welcome
in this quiet, soothing condoms in her depressed state.

“i came here tonight thatl might talk to you about
was» of m Wild—0f imgortanne to me." 'John
“somerset , s has settled or comfortably: “ but
Imus Wind. Will you let me come back

 

I and give-mo an hour alone with

She lifts her downcsst eyes and looks at him in a
troubled, self-reproachlul way, at last believing that he
lows her and means to seek heras his wife; but the
steadiness with» which he goes on reassures her.

“I have nothing to say specimly interesting to you,
I dare say. Miss Bruce : only I want 3 our opinion about
some private perplexities of mine."

John Alton is in mighty earnest, she perceive-s, and
she looks at him in unfeigned astonishment.

“ My opinion, Mr. Alton !' she says, amazedly, raising
herself lrom her reclining posture ; “ nobody ever
asked me for my Opinion on anything of the least con—
sequence. How on earth did you fix upon me as
adviser '2"

He answers unfalteringly. looking hel' steadily in the
face. though his dark face flushes,

“ You are my friend," he says. slowly ; “ you
are a woman, and women, I take it, are nicer in
their notions of rectitude than we peer world~hardcned
men. 1 want to show you two paths that lie open to
me, and to ask you which I ought to choose. 1 know
you willjudge rightly if you let your pure conscience
speak."

How often does sincere praise stab like a dagger !
Mill'ju'le shrinks back now in keen shame anzl self-re-
proach, unable to utter a word. This day her unthink-
ing. merry, irresponsible girlhood Peems ended, and a
wei ht of womanly cares and duties falling on‘ her
we shoulders.

“ It you cannot advise me. you can at least listen in.
my case. Mia's risu' 0. You will do so mucll,won”t you ‘2"
the young man goes on, taking her hand, and b n in
over her with that droll combination of resolution am
gentleness ill his look which generally enabled him to
can , his point. '

“ es, of“ course, I'll do so much, Mr. Alton," the girl
answers, smiling in a very winning way ; and then he
puts her footstool right for her, and says “Good-night,”
rather abruptly.

“ Au renor'rl not good-bye," she says, kindly follow-
ing him w in grave. wistful eyes as, having said a final
good-bye, he moved to the door, and, looking round,
he repeats her Words with a radiant glance.

Marjorie hears him and old Bell engage in a short col-
loquy. as he puts on his great-coat in the little hall ;
then he goes OH to the stables to get his horse and
directly after she hears the clatter of its hoo.s as he
rides briskly away. ‘

She believes herself a good deal in love with some-
body else. and consequently feels annoyed that the
clutter of these departing hoo s pains her: yet should
Lord Castletln persevere in his lately adopted pruden-
tial course, her warm little heart will notiong hold out
against tne second besieger, I do not hesitate to assert.

While Marjorie is wondering over his strange desire
of communicating his mysterious perplexities to her,
of all the unlikely advisers in the wide world, and
making up her mind that he must certainly be very
much in love with her after all, old Bell comesln-to re-
move the tray and express her approval of this suitor
for her young mistress's favor.

" Eh. Miss Mala, " she says. withemphasis, as she
brushes up the hearth and puts on fresh coals, " I
winder whaur your can are that ye dinna see the folly
o' takiu’ up wi idle deceivin' line gentlemen that have
as a thocht 0’ Marriage in their holds, an' a braw-made,
wool-learned gentleman-farmer like you watchin' for a
nod o' encouragement Ira ye. Yon’a a man to be proud
0' : gude looks, gudo heart, gude held. an the bonniest
place about the klntra side. I dinna ken what ye would
had mair." ‘

l Mkarjorie site up and confronts Bell with a verg angry
oo .

” You must never speak so to me again. Bell you

have no rl lit to do it, and I will not bear it,” shesays,

“luavoice hat tumbles, and her face crimaons with

suppressed indignation.

I Bell has no great dread of the girl's tantrums. as she
calls berm mm of displeasure. and her own temper
fails her shamefully. The restrained suspicions of
months at last and some expression, so provokedia she
by whatshc considers a perfectly unwarrantoblo attack.

"I've carried ya in my arms when ya were an
innocent bsirn. bliss Bruce." she says, hotly '
-' an’ I'll not stand by an' see ya choose the down
road noo without gisn'ye a word o'warnin'. The
master and mistress are blind an' deal to what a‘body
(2180 causes plain enough. an' I have as had the heart

~ to say alwor'l to them yet; but mark my sayin'. your

fine gentleman mann gang. or your fair fame maul:
gang suner or later."

As she spoke, with gradually raised voice, the girl
{flung u and stood trembling in helpless wrath.

at cos (1 she say in retort sharp encugh to silence
mrther insulting warnln -

Then she felt sellers of venting her passion on
such a humbla old head as Bell's. an 1 with» a struggle
checked the violent words that rose to her lips.

“ Bell." she says, not without di lty, “ I bars a
right to know fully what you mean. ave people out-
si 6 this house spoken slanderlngly of me. or are these
wicked notions your own? I insist upon knowing;
and if I can't and out. my father must bear all' this
and act as he thinks right. ’ ' .

Marjorie turned v white as she spoke. and poor
old Bellfs heart smote or. like rose up from her coal.
shuttle lay-which she hadan kneeling, and took a
step or two towards her oil'endsd young mistress, then
sunk down in a chair and burst out sob ing.

" Diana tak what I'gc said to heart. Miss Bruce: but
'dced folk have been clavoriu' aboot yo. and I’ve been
burning to warn ya for twa or three days due by.
I could bite out in tenigue noo I've got my vi 1. ”

Suchls the sap mat on she gives. and Marjorie is
more troubled than before. Determining to so no
more at present. she is leaving the room-when ll
calla after her. nomi‘ngiorward as she does so- with
eager yet tlmi-l mliresty in her look. -

-"Aswordmoir,an'tbaa l'vcduno. Miss Duos;- ye

‘35:}.

 

l

 

cannabeaagrler wi' auld Bell than ye are the two.

Dinna tat the worth o' a ’sa'xpcuce free you- rammi-

tongued godless laird 0' Crawford Priory; dinno let

him come dangling here after ye on malt. l ken mair

about his doins than I can tell ye, inny ; he‘s no fit

to” breathe the some air ye breathe. my innocent
rm"

Bell laid a trembling hand on the Y girl's sleeve
and clutched it firmly, so that escape was out of her

wer.

For some time Marjorie had been peatered by Mr.
Crawford's too obtrusive attentions, and a vague dis-
like aud distrust of him have been growing up within
holinf She does not resent this speech. much to Bell’s
1‘9 18 .

“Diana tak that tap-dog he wants to gie ye. Miss
Bruce," she goes on, with another eager pull at liar-
jorle’s sleeve: and a taint smile dawns on they girlish
face,,unused to being long serious. ' 4 .-

This lapdog is a costly toy-terrier which Mr. Crawford
has been pressing her to accept. ,

Only the other day he has attempted to leave it at the
farm-house in Maljorie’s absence, and has been routed
by Bell, greatly to his disgust; the description of
the encounter. as given by the con. usror, has amused
her vastly, and a rememberance of t suflices to banish
the last vestige of displeasure.

“ Bell," she says, with a sudden return to her wanted
good-humor, “ you can hang him and his lspdog
to-morrow nlornin .r if you like, and I’ll never a .ed a

tear for either of them. I never meant to take. the dog

or any other gilt from him, by-the—way," she adds,
shafirjing her head at the old woman in a not unkindly
fee on. ..

Bell heavesasigh of relief, and lets go her- a'eeve
at last. As Marjorie is leaving the room, she turns
round and voucllsafes a still more welcome lit of news
by way of acting the faithful, if over-zealous; old
woman quite at ease.

" Lord Castleton's marriage with Miss Lisle - is going,
to come 03 before very long, Bell, so another of your
bugbears should disappear."

The girl laughs and blushes as she 8 aka. then” dis-
appears through the open door-way, w lie Bell stands
staring at her. . ‘

The poor old body is puzzled by her quick changes
of mood, and shakes her head in a perplexed way ‘ll'lany
times that night as she thinks over their u'arrel. but
it is long before she again ventures to take or to task
for her misdemeanors. ;

Bell's warning made more impression on Marjorie
than one Would have thought 11 ely, and the damsel
went to sleep with a fixed resolution to be much more
careful of her own dl ty than she had of late been,
She was too proud an fond of approbation to be un~
moved by the danger of having her often thoughtless
doings ill-naturedly gossiped over.

 

CHAPTER x.
a unison moon”.

" Ann how is my little lass’a headache this morning!
It's fair act 0? her line to have headaches isn't it?" was
Mr. Bruce's morning greeting. as Marjorie came down
to breakfast. .

The storm was over, soft autumn sunshine streamed
into th ittle parlor. two kind familiar faces turned
towards er with ready welcome as she made her entr ;
the coins and toast seemed to smell even more swee y
than usual since she was feeling the eifect.oi‘ ester-
day's fasting. She could not for the life of her  be-

fittineg unhappy, and wisely succumbed tOj the loses

of circumstances.

"Good-morning, mammy; cod-morning, old man:

I’m awiully hun ry," she cal going up to her father
and mother and lasing them; then so herself in
her special seat at her father’s right she began

her bra lkiast with no further loss of time.
The farmer beamed diverted approval upon her. and
piled his own knife and fork with increased 
tion of the good things of his lot—Alia, w ’ g ‘
board, his aceful, choc hem-his sensible. t.
wife and naome little ass-and Mrs. Mop " '
staid we was special kind and lo. .
Old Be lmv‘cn t cm the news ofth young earl’s
age when they coma bdmc the night
fore (Marjorie haviuggone to bed are their retu ',
and to had both fancied their daughter’s won
gum or urbsposltloa was but an misuse ibr see the
rivacy or h ,r own room, there to indulge a at of girl-
h vexation. » ’ I ,
They both believed her inclined to fill: {1401.} with
the handsomefzouef nobleman: and, feelmgiurothat,
in spite of h e dent admiration, he would m
dream of marrying her. were thankful tom that he
had taken a ate so certain to open her 0 on to the no.1
meaningnosao his flatterin attentions. hallmarks
should accept this state 0 matters “philosophically
as she ap ared to be doing, was a new source of sails
faction. the course of breakfast they icuud anno-
ceptable explanation of this phenomenonin her admis-
sion iof her growing liking for her visitor of the previ
even ug. '

" Do you know, daddy. I almost think I'd have 

in love with him long ago, it momma and you had not
kept praising him so," she said by-ondsb . in her
way, accompanying her words with a mural r unis.
chlevots glance into both their faces a and it warm
her greatly to ace the guilty look which this that
pected sally produced. I . . -. ~
“ You’re a saucy little bangs. and have 
an opinion of outsell Ha o," “113m. m

s u ’
father. colui ' , hind he chaier harbour ,
arch-face hangout hishando-as she 10%“ ‘, .

up at him.

" No wonder, father. considering
Torvood an have-spoiled her. l" ‘
with 8 We sarcasm. mass the 

' ' y is},

inher-

mm-

 

 

M0313 BRUCES bonus.

11

 

 -M V. _. ....~_- _._‘n.---..—.————.

 

lovingly in spiteof her rebuking words: and Majoric,
prompted by one of her good impulses, responded with
sweet  of manner: I

'“ I’m not quite spoiled yet, however. and I want no
more spoiling, mind: I’ve had more than most folks”
and now I mean to leave oi! being chlldishand useless,
and begin a woman's lile. It is quite time I should do
Do. isn't it, papa and mainma ‘i" ,

As she spoke she put aside her father's hands from
her face. caressineg brushing them with her lips ere
she did so, and turned round towards her mother.

Kr. Bruce experienced a little pang of Jealousy, and
interposed hastily, a troubled look on his lace: “ Time
enough, little lass. time enough—mover ye fear butcare
will iind ye out yet : dinna ye gang to meet her ;” but
his wife was too wise to be much impressed by this
sudden lit of seriousness.

“ Quite time, Marjorie. You've come to woman’s
years, and it's but right you should do a woman's
work in this quick-passing mortal life. I'll warrant
we’ll none of us think We've done overmuch when
We come to give in our account at the end.” she
113' we? gravely. rising irom the breakfast-table as
I '90 04

"You can help somebody this very morning. if you
min.- dear,” she added, turning round to her with a
am e. r

SNOW momma i" the girl asked. rather dubionfly,
“"94! all. ,She was not prepared ior such an immediate
beginning of her useful career.

Mr. Bruce again interposed. once more laying a fond-
ling hand on her head: “ Let her be. Mary ; she’s our
one;ewe lamb, ye ken," he said. in his foolish, fond
'3 . a suspicious huskiness in his voice.

g9 sensible woman could have felt aught but vexed,
and a shadow of displeasure darkened'his wife's serene

.M)’ w » , *

itlive a shape of calves-foot jelly ready to send to wee
Johiinie Annan~maybe he may not live to eat an-
other;~ It wouldn't hurt you, Marjorie. to take a walk
up the hill with “this fine morning. Let it stand,
if you like, and I’ll send one of the servants'up When
they‘ve got through their work ; only, maybe, the helm
haavnothing he can eat meantime."

E'Letme go,mamma; ,I'll be ready in a minute.”
Marjorie cried, ashamed of her former remissnese in
Eating this sick child, especial protege of her mo-

3. >

‘9‘ ill take a,walk"u’p with you and‘have a look at the
sheep, B- My.” her lather Joinedfin; and so the
I eexpedition began with a pleasant. sociable

    
   
 

a

are was a couple of miles to trudge tothe cot-
cues in which wee Johnnie lay, dully taking his last
looks of a world that had certai‘y been b t a dull
workaday world to him, A trash west wind low, the,
sun siloneg‘the rec'd wound uphill among open. healthy
moorlands where tiie.air was keen and bracing; Mar-
Jorie s cheeks/glowed like damask roses, and her eyes
Wiedivithth'e leasursble excitement of‘the walk
audethefree talk w th' her droll. lovin old companion.
f‘ I‘rivsntitolook at the bonny wee g on where i used
to ‘go and gather rowan: for necklaces : I have not seen
it since I came home. Walk on slowly, papa. and I’ll
em you in a few minutes," she said. when drawing
near the little thatched house; and who could an-
swer. she was on across the narrow strip of level pas-
ture-land that ran between theroad and this tiny vain
Ie ,afl'orite resort in her childish days.
Mm “flashed 33‘s, the clad malt: watched the
run . re appear 0 ' he. stse hill-
side; thanking Go in his Wt Mfierebeaugy and
“Want “9910M though aloud he only
I _‘ H a verse ofa tavorite Scottish love-song:

 ‘r ltd-.mr‘dnr. "
-' ., meg-nwl’gemn" »

i i  Milo ' mime dear‘ 
 -' the-ami'iitelhziirun.”

..

     

Merrie came to a sudden stop when half-way 
thank. startled bv the discovery of two familiar lig-
um’wlmn aha would never have dreamed of finding

inaccuracy tail-fines vim. \
“flickflhwfwm “tho-rippling" m 02‘ s

.2 lessened oi~aeventeen. who was

up into in e face wit an expression of agonizad
~on .s 13WWM'W eyes,alreedy
d1 .‘ with moi .  ‘

” ad his gun on hic‘slio 

lit ‘ caused n the sunshine, s ' Ir. Craw-
103%. and Widow Annan‘a eldest daughter;
loo

   

, 9m .. . but
Mario would not but perceivvby the  ,-,whlch
dark "mu raccoons ‘ ‘ ‘ .i‘tiist his1

the ‘ raw-so bitten" is mitt/Untiler "
m3 wamlnfit" .as theme new“;
  V:’t¢:‘:momgi Imam Indiana;
m p y. . ' 
little mammogram; macaw ‘ ‘ “ " ."
sustain chi! lish days. when: she had mad'e'h' "98 
her broken dolls and despised W «13933120»
. 39" Mom“ “P “M  man’s face no
. .koeringfinch e rim-Irv erhcld oiiiis
; ‘fphecg ( nottrusthim'even distances“
, ‘swostn‘eshness of 1191'”!th beauty dimmed
. 9161’ shame and annexingthat‘hadlcnm
.. fl, cilia. while Marjormqnitetcrgetmr oi"
_ x ,3 “been seinehlyonmsasdwithm
 enjoyment and.wa lathe world.  
 new old Bell's inveterate dislike for?
“Mm.me to warn her son mowing)...»
“WP-*0 int-m into vfamiliar aequdntflacslh'ip with
 m obher former illvh’tmorwhen-
“0  old-mt had spoken outfiof herhonest
1”“th 4  €293 '4. ,  " '- "  _ < _
’ who iorthe last year hadbren
in ths‘family ofaai‘stsr of Ir.

  
    

Ea;

. thus could she account for her sadly changed appear-
ance. her teariul pleadings.

'All these thoughts occurred to Marjorie in rapid
succession; then. acting on overpowering impulse, she
cried out the girl’s name. thereby causing the engrossed
con la to turn towards her in guilty consternation.

idway on the bank, by the clump of young
rowan-trees, she stood, erect, graceful, beautiful; a half~
stern, hali-pitying look in her eyes fixed upon the
flushed, tear-stained, irightened face of her old play-
inate. luvoluntarily the man admired her, and con-
trasted her with poor Lizzie, greatly to the latter's dis-
advantage.

“Stay where you are, you fool! I'll account foryour
being here," he said with an oath, to the girl, ' speak-
ing in a hasty whisper, and impressing his words with
a glance of no good will; then he took a step or two to—
wards Marjorie, who wished to ignore his presence.

“ Good-m orning, M iss Bruce. We meet in quite a re-
mantic situation this morning. I am quite aware it
looks highly ridiculous to be caught as I am," he sim-

ered, advancing in spite of the haughty, repellent

ook with which Maijorie favored him.

" Come with me, Lizzie, tor the sake of long ago
when we were little c‘-i1dren to other. Do believe
that I am your true iriend still," s c said, controlling
herself with difl’iculty, and avoiding the gentleman's
deprecating eyes. ,

The appeal, very gentryspoken, was too much for
Lizzie, a foolish, crediil‘cdie little rustic with a very
soft heart. Putting her hoods beiore her face, she be-
gan to sob, rocking herself to and fro. and uttering in-
coherent cxclamations of despair and abject misery,
which confirmed Marjorie in her previous suspicions,
else! too correct. ’

A brilliant idea occurred to Mr. Crawiord. who had been
cudgeling his brains ior a plausible explanation of the
case. Ingenioust mingling truth and falsehood. he
proceeded: "

" Listen to me one moment, Miss Bruce. The girl is
in distress because my sister has dismissed her in a ii:
of passion to-day. Beein me pass the cottage (sue
went home to her mother sat night when ordered cfi'
irom her situation), she iollowed me here to get me to
intercede for her. Iknow my poor sister’s temper is
hasty, and shall" do my best for the poor thing."

Marjorie. 'little accustomed to hearing specious
stories. breathed more timely; though, with the relief
of believing Lizzie's distress easily accounted fer in
this way, came her first apprehension of the awkward.
ness 'of her own peeition. . v .

Blushing. she explained how she chancedto be there,
and announced her intention of hurrying to overtake
her father. ‘ ,

“ Come up ‘to four mother's house, Danie, and tell
me all about your troubles: I am going straight more;
by-and-by you'll go home with me, and We’ll get
mamma's advice. Do come,like a good £rl,"pieadsd

d . Onward

she. as Lizzie continued to cob,

Pea .

Glanclng at the ' cutleman as if for permission, and
reading a warning secrecy in his eyes, for a moment
fixed eagerly on hers, Lizzie moved slowly towards the
young lady, drying her eyes, and making an eifort to
stop the convulsive heaving of her bosom.

" Be or. your guard, and all will be well yet. If you
betra me, I wash my hands of you ior-aver; so be—
ware l," Mr. Crawler-d said, ina rs id whisper, stepping
towards her as if to help her up e bank - and with a
piteous lance of submission she intimated horpromise

to obey . . - . ,, A , .
‘ galley“. he stepped up to W, e,leavisg  to
o ow. - . . A v
“ You will bid me a friendly cod-morning new, will
younot. Miss Bruce? Don't be so burdens poor iellow
who cares more about pleasing you than about any-
thin chain the world-b .Jovei"~said indium
out is hand and looking, toherboawith morons
eyes. . , . , 
An uneon usrsble feeling of aversion and dis-
trust niade ger draw back, refusing to “lights stored
as "  ' cold little bomshe said, with no
lacko ‘ ing, agnined gravity, “ lshould feel very
much e‘ved'll I believed you toapeak seriously, 311‘
Crawford ;" then, unheediug his protest ofperiec good
'i‘aith andremonstrauce ainst bar unkindncss. she
on? moi-e turnedto L . humbly waiting a little
ad a. p , I '
* " 1 aka 1haste, Lizzie" . lhave‘keptmy Miler waiting
on o a ready." _ ' ,
Mrfgrawford watched the two move all side by side.
a very unpleasant soowl on his face. V _
inntierad,:idmirili ,even in his angry nwrtincstion;
some, light atcpgana V loud the more no-
tice'ab‘e because of‘her companion's dreamingl gait;
“ though l make a contounded iooloi inny t e eyes
of the world, and pay ahigli price {or my conquest. you
shall smile on me yet." 1 V ." 
Yes: since it was ‘imc for him 1h stop sowing his
wild oats, he would u 1aer tlg‘protty maid whosuitel
his fancy and throw prudcu , , considerations til the
Winds. “ 'e would hold up her head  the coup?
‘t'y. ladiea yet. thezuucrlitflo .mc 'e. and Won‘th
honors oi her winch more grace! \ than anyone

“"4 “‘0 W to “new. Md etdiwlge‘tu.
cut. of his amour with ' i, 90

v a
a

'Girls'wec‘o'n‘otv'suoh  u'thay‘ ' ‘ tube
audyheli‘ad too‘teiupétin'g' ash-rec" um 'I m ‘
covetid'eed'thinu  j ‘

toiead‘a'pemctly
w. .

comet r..- smegma.
‘t‘o' be shorelived- am on to": was a a “

 

g  l fleaoi’ths Pri
-aw , thin a u le 0 m y -
cry; li‘ad   Malia; only

heart-sore attention of hel‘  Weed-p the
young nobleman. she was the more“: “catches”-

bitiflg his lip in visitation. watched the onset of this up?

n“ in hot tone; "to

“ You shall slug another tune yet.ycuug lady l" he,

Walsh!» -, ..  . ,   v  .
1 Even the ii that silly.rustic sweetheartwhom he

man.» in “Mac 9'

fully at the opportunity of mingle ills which an
meditated propose! would oil'er her.   '

 

So the calculating, yet 'blun, M lib-
ertine thought as he strolled awn ii ,‘ the peace.ul
little len. deaftotneswect ri e thoburn at his

feet, b ind to the beauty of the fresh autumn morning
—-as despicable a specimen of‘ humanity as ever dis-
graced an ancient name. ~

——-

CHAPTER”.

ammmmm

Wrrn a heavy heart Marjorie returned from her visit
to the cot-house. The widow's careworn. stern iaee
had several times been turned towards Lizaie with a
look which haunted her, it told so unmistakably her
beliefin her young daughters iall, and her inability
to regard her without contemptuous aversion. Thegirl
herself, spite of her denial of any culpability. crept
about her familiar old home with the air of one hit»
terly conscious of bringing shame to a hitherto respect»
able family. Watching her tendherlittle i > »
thh a pitiful eagerness to please him . .
the conclusion that a reniorscful "
his last hours alone kept her fro n
place. , . ‘ 

Nor did Mrs. Bruce's reception
news, communicated toilerin' ’
iort her. Stopping hers ,
parlor: " I amvgrieved I sent.
said that prudent lady, lookin
" You nust not go back wh
she will give her mother a heat
rest of her days, and the decent \
of troubles already ;" and she on
s g. . '
" But Lizzie looks so miserable,
such achild—tu'o years younger than 1
if I can do anything ior her you. ll
you i” pleaded Marjorie. tears
and. her pretty lips quivering. 
inexorable. ~

“Hush. Majeflove,” she said. kindl

 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
        

a

  

her in L .
'a,‘ i' .e-
hutucu‘iutely;

youmust not speaker thinkoi'thatg h any mosmln‘ll go: i
6 . , = ,

up and see her and her mother to~n handin-
can be done nor her! “see to it, loo-her mowers
but I’m grieved tint a young lady likani'yun -
.dresmflsi having any intercourse whatever or
girl as that." r 

Marjorie muses,”  silentrthbughs 
she protested ' ‘ of euro. . ,
em

‘1 5w 3)
brought forw no 9""2: I  £00!
from any miserable fell ‘1 7  shatters! Iluiul.
hams banana don't think

 
 
  

" Get your practi'sin 9
any more about this. ,re's passed girl,” Hrs. Bruce
said, presently.ioo _ g pic’om heraewing; and thus-
upon, a humorous i occurring to her. her volatile
daughter raised her '-. dmopmgyhssdand laughed
her silvery little laugh, a sudden sunshine of mirth
lighting up her face. .

"After all, mamma." she said. “ayoun lady lees-
pected to show agood deal of heathsnish fudin‘orence
to her fellcwocreaturee; Don't you think some less
practical religion than ours would be more suited for
women. of. the
course ? Meanwhile, lest thecode of proprietiss
Le broken. it is safe to be than“ icaily Ghrhtin. 1
fan, ."ahe continued. in the hope at ’

mo :ioazetort. cs lady techno notice  '
first remrk,tkoughherromeiyhceiiadiluahadm "
$U’9LWY., - ‘ ’ ~ ‘

She looked It her now when “com games... or.
lex‘piléelqlol‘ which . made We ashamed of her
8 .' ’ .
" o,‘uo. my dear" she said, a tinge of self-reproach
be good is the great when“.
maybe, my old-fashioned notions of .the kind of
Christian work lit for a girl like you are mistaken. I,
mother taught them to me, and she was as good a we-
man as ever lived. I haw found them wide numb
ior me, Maia; but it may bethey seen.  to you.)
in this age of progress. Your own conscience will ta
)9“ all you need when you are in doubt as to what/1!

- ,ri ht ior yolljo do."

arjerle interrupted her,  ' V bar

chaili;  kissing her iiii'elctionfitoglnyi."fig:it 

" a me now that an: an in: _ NW. ~
conceited young wretch, and 11ml); deserts such a
treasure eta mothero’nebitfi she" midis! Ier hearty,
impulgive way, making her mothering]: in ppm of.

"Wli'endo-vy'eumsanto-leavec ' being»: 1‘ child. 9”
she said. shaking her headland}! sow a
Very wellsatlededek ' u. 3 4 ,  '

-- When dof’youim'ean to hunt murmur-
laughgd the girl. "You take pinch seed cars 61 in. cm

can' w.’ : ’1 .

Was, hero ati «was: ,,  in 
words 1 Ear motherm thought editors?“ w grave sin.
n  '0". my  .113 lid   0‘ h t
sincerity ;' “we must mend that, and__'yon mustan
£50):ng senqu and good a woman you 
‘ Mica Wrie’s will-ofotbo-wiap'    ~‘ ‘ ‘
often her staid more 8!" 
startl her, ' ‘

{.1- l; .s .‘w

“'I amwery wellnla’mmngh.   ; '..
sols. urging! ‘21:. ahe'tdoor opeué‘fi‘a 
0.1-. .seurn ‘
{no eoquetry. ‘ l to 

’ll,mnm  .  .   4?.
andzl have been telling  ,

 

 

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mg 0‘ m “arms-tra-  . ,
..

 

spot
glimmer “I?” ‘ ‘“ ;
& held out altiuy. condor

 
  
 
 
  

better class-mp to nomads: »

 

 

i

 

 

19

sweats savers norm;

 

charmed in spite of himself, though he only smiled in
1 ve'. rather absent way. ’

, one leaving herthc xii-«ions evening. he had re«
solved ‘th tell  crank y!
whether‘he might  , to win her as his wife. He felt
almost sueltuacfifiwsh heart hadf navel; yetul’hiown
any deeper“ ova » 1 a'nlcx‘epassing they or , , e gay,
handsome young nobleman into whose society unlucky
accident had thrown her, and it seemed tohim that
lave so overpowerin as his could not fail to awaken
. me responsive ice ing in such a young, impressiona—

e creature. e“ . . .

Already they Were friends, and it was easy to con.
solve the possibilityxol‘ her gradually learning to re-
turn his love. but he believed it only upright dealing
to let her know his hopes. ' a *

or finesse John Alton was utterly devoid.
what to approach his aims is the straighteet of
paths. and'to hear his detects wit the quiet dignity of
a man who has done nothing to forfeit respect, though
hehaefailod to achieve success. Evan so would; he
conduct his wooingnow.

"Am Inmvery well as i am. Mr. Alton 7" repeated
the girl this time, with a little impatient tsp of her
I the floor. ‘ She liked gallant replies

lie was

    
    
     
   
     
   

= *  frahsolutely necessary to greet

9:! While shd‘lflhitod for him with extended

or hams. hf a!" saifi‘llfrs. W, inwardly mar-

‘  ,the'raxitysla‘jfi film line in fashionable

ng-schoblsvhich; ,, "cu such'ilnished speci—
 ‘

  
 

.sa , . In het young days girls
' ‘ tutions with the

.. ;. correctneseo behavior

. rs they hmlleit and to the

: to introduce them to soclet -;
sigh  regret for the good old fash-
‘gg young generation scrupled

ll .

pitted up with a half-tender. halt-
 efighe shook hands with the girl. Her
.  .  .hadcemetolooku Bethe most venlsl
of ltlelttle failing which on cd to her natural
disposition. as playfulness does to s k tten's. and which
We would :ocrtalnly cure. or at leasttuno down into-

chfl‘ge, so often that it is hard to say what you
ass.’ hosald, with his accent assurance. de-
" had inhisyandm' log at her‘with
eyes. ' , ~  V
 satoown in:  father’fl easyohwlr
him a 4.... none " eveewanoulcor.
"Nobodybut.a __ ,, _' , solid .one;who had lived
his daysin his meoumwmm ,, e a Woman such
:1 answer as that,” she an d, horrifying her"
mother,” hat impedance, though: Mr. Alton only
lan bed.  r  g? - r‘
' “Motown 40o  benefit. please, Miss Maro—
3013251 I, have: a dread! suspicion that it means
m D! 4

“Shannon; at :leut. it attenmeans honest,whloh'
is much the some thing in well-haul county, I

The Wt? maid wheeled-wound niche spoke; and
lookedmuoally athima her momentary ill-humor

.

   
 
  
 
 
 
  
  

 
  
 
 
   
 

  

 ., ,  ‘ j - ‘ ‘ “
"discs! am content to use bearish, then,” he said,
 her irieodly look; than, he went black to
. . '0 , sudseatmghlmseuon theyaoih beside'her,
ofsuoh matters as lay more (within her
conversational range, for in all essentials this hero of‘
 uwcughgentlemms . s- : p. - r ' 
 Mo choick peiceptlon for such little «we
of mum. and s e . the young man's genuine
«omniscienemdslnsfh institute a: much
madam the easygiszy politeness which‘sat so
wedhn_ W  , i ' ' : .’,  
m.  wished he would not» detain " herf mother
witummmswnwwowa Varying/to lieu nu’
sh; cool}! not face front.
, , »  ' an an I '
“mouthing to amount: Alton a Marathoner}
measly» in his mutton! oris, mum-agave
notz gin Magoo excuse for flag the rosin. " 
Ere ehs‘went away, she made the on "
also the  explaining  my“ no”
tools  ‘ ,i‘tlio'tiblesan propane. them in their
€41! ’ m” I av; , go ._ on ,r  a, '

c crawl mm‘wn abright. tastefully furnished
apartment“ .treatot'tha house. Until :Karlorie’s
hummus , than. stood,  her parents , , _
unmicmtrbutln honor ’5, , young lady
been 9 {tittede   new meant for her
spec . .- , . .
‘ W in aegis thrash-laws, a bigght
WOW, ,  bullion radial-eds. lento . w»
exigent? Torsoch  figung  a
a gym, W, ' ..' i o _ .Iccustcln‘od to
' ’  moo: sitting-rooming
j  athlshcnutheam that the 3mm irl
. M  .e‘mscmmuiem. er
I“, t. t V , ‘ x g V a o “x.
cries  ‘ ‘uricgmaa could surround-his

Mic. “7 ' ,
[in theaters
a.   mimthohsdsmionaryglimpuoi

he

    

 

M W , ty‘hciue surrounded byi
lump“? in!!!" his  l
beflttad‘onnomofmws—w’ge m little W 
Immense): Wde uncomm-
sine ,\ _ 4331,, ed at, yinrthaoon-
_ Memoimentol‘these ,th to him so

 phenomenon

  

 
 
 
  

 

, s, .9Mshnomm.

o

 

of his love, and find out .

honest hand no longer.

uietest of ,

that none of your projects could be very wicked}?

many mu with'riith‘p’rhxihflbn

path)? to such Warmest so,

‘ this unprovmdfimk. the honwmudflung open the

*- Wafl tiniest . r _ g p
 Joniy brihgycuan‘
r“ l

“ not unwilling to have

 

Incest-Heir

officially notinodoi’his legal right to a fortune of 0v 2: ;, _ -
so near falling over head and ears in, love with each j
for the ‘ '

sixty thousand ' unds. bequeathed to hint bb‘ 8-11  8 .

in- chicago, late y deceased. \ g

And the strange. provoking thing was, that the young 3
man lull: in his heart an nnconquerable aversion to [
stretch out that honest hand of his for What was legally 

.hlso '

wn. , ,, ,
It ' coined to him that if he did so it would be an E
His uncle's will had been i
made in a litoi' iury. caused by his only son's relucal to I
contracts mercenary marri e at his binding. On his
death-bed he), had repented o ' his in) notice. and made a
futile efl'ort to undo his ill-considerml act. Such was
the account of the matter that had come home.

John Alton knew his cousin's sterling worth, and
fully believed his statements. When boys they had
been schoolmates. and to this day he regarded him
with the kindliest 0f sentiments. _

Let him keep his fulfill :- s mono ,and the old man
rest in his far-away grave ; he, olln Alton. wanted ;
none of it. Self-respect was a. possession too precious
to be battered fur any amount of worldly gain. Please
God he would hold up his head among the upright oi
the earth, walking in the light of his smile, not grovel
in the mire of selfish money-getting and more material
indulgencce. .

Nor was there any need' to recount his temptation to
this innocent little woman. who might, inner girlish en
thusiasin. magnify a simple act of Justice into one of he-
rbic renunciat on. An unworthy craving for approbation
had surely prom ted his last ht's resolve to tell her
the whole case; his inmost t oughts he had known
the right course all along, and ought not to have
dreamed of seeking counsel. .

In the course 0“ minute or two these reflections ocv
‘curred to him. while Marjorie, with tolerable patience.
Waited (or the expected confidences.

8110 was”. 800‘ do“ disapwmted WM“- ahe PM Quote, though she answe

ently discovered that her curiosity was not at this time
to be gratified. .

“Miss Bruce,” he said. rousing himself from his
abstraction. and smiling in a. grave. deprecating way.
as he looked across the fireplace to her, “ did you es ei-
makesplan overnight. thinking it uitoa harmless
project and discover next day that i was at quite a
different character. and must not be put into exec
cutiou? That is what I have been doing, lam sorry to
as 

" I don't in the least understand what you mean; I
have the stupidest head in the world when it comes to
financing e‘nigmas. One thing I am pretty sure of is,
pills 181111le again, and was careful to speak more ek-

icit y.

“‘ Last night I proposed ;.to trouble you with perplex-
ities which I now and were quite self-made: someday I
mav tell you all about them. and let you take me to
task for needing time and reflection to find out my
duty-lathe circumstances; this morning I am going to
speak ofvsomething ct in morecousequeuce,"

: There wasa slight tremor in his voice.agreat earnest-
ness in  andgnlsiyorie had a. .prescutiment of,
what he was goingtosay ;. yet. a lied. girl as she was,
felt more piqued otthe wit.th ding at his promised,
narration that interested inwhat was  ‘

" I am glad wgfindlam;,uot the. onlychm sable per~
son in the worldfi the said. , throw ng up her

l'l‘llc‘hphéfi‘t young renown: puzzled. He could not
bollnve that it was; more piqued cmwtvahich caused,
this change; in;  manner, and he looked, at her in
an “39.'  ’  “¥ ,

“ cu very good, peopledon'tnoed n’lends at all. it
seems to me, Mr. Alton," the wayward beauty next
said, petuhntly.,_ timoieels it  to one: 8m:
i . ‘mmci‘ent, minim
  ly admiro’snd’worslnnytneni” j

'Whue‘ifii it“? 'wus'tiuuki on lileth
noble m'lm'fiaehWan-wmlu  'of"life‘tlie ‘
Young my ; how. were; {ensue-it. vita  ,-,
anthems , transit e hers; w  h , {mg
iulOVowithhimshei' t. ' ' ’ " '* ‘ ‘

r 1: his :0 cl hedimqmuwu that», . e I“
“would huge ound in ' unwilling 'llstener,; verily“ ‘1

fl
metallic ,eo.  ,. ,: ,
«While John uncommon. aiittle diamde

.v'i,

Wfiebgt; memory chm WW1 Michell.
t > .'  w r , ‘ V ~ .

drawing-fog? dool',tushci‘ing info“! lE‘lzltsfleton‘b 
“‘ ' ,_ . WT mu. ",3. I W , . I:
“3 wovei’gollyahffiught you Would 
Miss B co. ‘ new-comet . .99 on ’ 3'
threshold and nodding a ' l! an'able, smiling
ghosting to the two occupants of the room. '
; ‘A’glanoe attuémZeon'vlnaed him that he hadinter.
hide awe-moot ' allnterest. and thehlnah'with
 Weadvuceo ‘ to meet him corroborated.» his
'3. . . _ .
Bottle prett‘ damsel, wasndttroublin her head with
: nhnnmrall : histearo’th penitence and
cite  I: anybody was heart-sore it
was h Moot  . '
fie waareioiocd that this should be the one, he told
himself; yet his  taco clouded, and an in.‘
voluntary sigh, him. , ' r 1
" you’an sit  and rest i; laughed Cecil:
ton ' as undone. oohin u n ace as s
gave him her hand. he  rightly that she was

" Only stew minutes. then. you,” he showered,
advancing’iuto the room. “ Don't go awa . Hr. Alton.
I beg," he said. Wim'mending his but to him.

' . tonsmilodLaadmuud vanadium V g,
' m! gmmommowmoimsmxmr

35? ' . A. .
we minnow emuflchadoowiahtoieave
 his   1):;

 

 eyes on the fin, _ I _ 
Maia found  rather timescale, ami- mrtod  1.5

us . . «chats
do"! rand lips and  tow,“

have emote-so you.
“theatrical-humor. - Themes ‘
gain: as innocentahair MoW'uWWfiWj

m ,
tho into .' . 

And so presently the two young folk. who hadbqn

other, found themselves alone
tinge since the open acknowled
nil-int which virtually bound
plrsiksm t. flirting intimacy.

I tpricloue Marjofie looked at her cit-decent admirer
with an unwonted sweet pensivenees of expression, as.
throwing himself into Joan Alton's vacated chair, he

emtogive up their

 

C

stared thoughtfully into the lire. absently-stroklng his ,.

fair mustache.

All was over between- them now. she thought. Her
foolish. childish fancy for him was already a thing of
the pest; somebody else was stealing her heart bit by
bit, and would end by carrying, her oil as his wife. 1!:
was her destiny, and she was well enough oontenbwlth
it, on the whole ; yet she could not butsigh for the loss
of the ..eliclously idle, sunny hours that were gone lot-
over.

She wondered if he was really sad at heart; it" Miss
Lisle bored. huh ; if he sometimes, in the coming years,
01‘ his married liferkuld think regretfully oi her silly
tickle self, only yesterday sobbing because he was
to marry somebody else. to’day unable to feel very uh.
happy about the arrangement.

Only yesterday ! So much had happened since then,
that it seemed to her cite a long time ago. She
thou ht with an inw sigh that it was really too
soon 0 be leading a willing car to the suit of another.
and that she was bound to stave oil John Alton'a lino
pending proposal. r

“ l have a preeentiment that it will soon be my turn
to one: congratulations," his lordship said. presently,
looking at her with sheen. inquiring gaze,a lurking
shadow of discontent in the smile with which ho

spoke. r -

Marjorie blushed and her eyes in auspicious
lightly, "I have always
understood that it is hopeless to argue against a pro-
sentiment, Lord Castlston."

Her manner made him fancy that his snnuises were
arrest, and he forced himself to show a friendly in-

res .

Why should not the pretty little girl have a lover
and be happy in her own fashion ll 0! cents he
known that she was only flirting with him all this
time; he would have hated himself had be seriously
supposed anything else.

“ Nobody will ever be more sincere than i in wishing
you We'd. Miss Maia," he said. smothering a sigh.

Maia had had one h ot banter that morning. and
declined to avail he f 0! this opportunity (or show
ing her talent tor repsrtee.

She uplifted sweet * pensive dark e es to h and
said. withva sigh. ' ere now, lordycaatletois'n. you
have said whateyou thought yourself bound tony.
Now, can't you! us have a sensible shot? It scans
to me that it must be dehghhul'tobeamaadso

have one's friends treat you as attachable creature. '

Whonfl on quite an‘cld Womanlauppose' '  .

treated so;“but it is long to wait." masonic. h.

ginning glanoe'into hei' companions face. still
on y. ' ' ’ _ , ,

' Yes; indeed." he absently’.

 

torousohimy

, {‘Tellmewbat yonarsall doing at Torwood 

Give meenews otvyourself,” she went on presently»

touch of coQuettish coaxing in has» voice. and; tho :

    
 
 

young man looked up at last. . ,

She was sitting where the sunshine 8W dam 
her. her little hands meeiily‘resting in her  3
downcast eyes softlth by the  ' of -

. curledeyohlhesft jnt‘blush, j u. u m; .
i‘ul brunette face. a gentle peso ' " a m

, my  $15" l

charm to her whole fig, .
himself in a fervor of admiration and longing

m

0.» ,3  5.. 3. ,, ’ _ {
“You don't realigeersahitabont mas.

bonny dear little
and putting avcaresal hand on in Mt ‘
. luv-air. handle-s


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HANG}!!! HRUC'E‘S LOVERS.

m.

 

capable of making a yet greater fool of himself, but he
“ruggled against his temptation-i

« comm)”, main; 1 was only Joklng. You haven‘t
done anyan very wicked, after all.’ he said, taking
her hand and giving it a triendly pressure; then, ere
she could dud-something to say. he went oil‘. leaving
her to recover her composure as best she could.

And John Alton went home that day with a heavy
weight at his honest heart and a mist ot‘ hushed tears
in his e es. ‘ .

Marielle had refused him. with all possible demon-
vii-Mien of friendly esteem, yet in such a way as lelt
no room for believing her likely to listen iavorably to
uny renewal of his other.

So at least it seemed to him, sadly recalling the con-
fus ad, blushing looks with which she had answered in
the negative his earnest, honest inquiry whether she
level another.

"‘ Never mind, father, I dare say it's all for the best;
. and no doubt I'll miss poor Will's money the less by
remaining a sober old bachelor." he said, forcing a.
smile. and giving the old man's hand an eloquent pres-
sure. when, as they sat together that evening, he told
him of his disappointment. '

" Women are a user lot for the most part, and may-
be you’re best (gear 0' them, my lad." quoth his
father, with aruei'ul, loving look: and thereupon the
young man smiled again, determined to carry his bur-.
den of sorrow like a brave eufl‘a-rer. '

" So our grapes are Svlll‘. a ter all. father." he said;
adding, with a sort of pathetic humor. “ Well, it is not
even/body's lot to come at the sweet grapes in this life:
fortunately one can live without that luxury."

“ And you will get over it. oh. John ?” questioned his
father, anxiously trying to read his face.

“ Never you fear about that, father; and now let us
bring out our comforters and think of something else,"
was his response as he rose to get th ir pipes: an'l,
thanks to-hiin. the evening was passed in quiet cheer.
fulnces. alter all.

M

011mm Xll.
line. men's mot.

" Bur Aunt Vesey has such claims upon me. Kerbert;
she has no other use relatives, and her health really
depends on, her goi South this winter. she tells me.

\

It is m simple dut to go with her ioramonth or
two any ow," ssidM LisleJighing; and.lookin up

the letter ope before her. sheilxsd lo ng
eyes on her betrothed, who was downing mm.

L '

“Oh. bother Aunt Veseyl You know well one h
that her ailments/lire fanciiul. She wants you to c
all the troubl e pert of the travelin with which
she won't p , her servants. and then settle her
comfortably at Montana. and devote yourself to mini.
ing and nursing her until she has recruitedfor the next
London season. Don't I know how she mimics“! on
yourgood nature before? " he responds. wit impa-

" You ought not toepeak so of her, Herbert.“ Miss
Idols says. rebukingly._

“ And you ought not to let her hang like the Old
Man of thefies round your poor little he air all the days
of your. lilo,” bum bolting slightly ashamed of
his ill-humor. - _ V

The Mood Houseman wugethercd round the
break~ that-“bis. andMlu had not 03ngan how
this Aunt.me had written, ging nor pus some
time with beret Kentone.w the: she was shortly
corn .r . .

' y Oestloton watched the couple of,dieputants in
silence; but Lady Dorothea broke'out‘into eager speech,
her sunny faceclouding over as the real state at the
clue dawned on her.

'20)». what a horrid shame of muse” Surely,
you'll never 0 sndleeveus for berJIeesle. and have

mlossall the of you at your marriage things
find-everything ' she sci . l ubrious uses,
mam  all smile. “a "cue

“Since you talk of duty. NessieJet me remind you

firm."eoey»ls not the onlypersou to whom you owe a

duty. his handsome young lordship went on, with a

dedly ill-used'sir. casting minim look at his

so “light? was gender-fully by this pettish
“A .

an answering lance

the young man s face
his wonted, easy good-

‘ "r.

"Thank you. Nessie,“ headd. ris and in u t
her with extended hand, though he?“ megs:le s:
demanstrative in biomass: towards her when at on

*gMi"toni ked
> ' 3’ CM 8 00 at the couple ln'somalu rise.
 new mo 
' I 8 ort '
havi' lyet begin illeghfotri calibration. “no. no d"
f' ‘ Mrs. eeey a our ends are a
dismal sort of patient, Ernestine,“ ans $2332.;
to them and lung: kind” band on the young
; and" spoke she smiled up into her
Ian's fuse. V.
V ‘15“? Oestleton's smile seldom wanted: hint shadow
, .01 which most people found very touching.
; or sun was moved by it now, and answered her
3! one ofsfnoere sfl'sctiou. though he spoke with
“ageing 19mg. .
A. . x I news that I went looking: after badly.
I“! . tndghe thinks you are the very portion to keep
 fl 0"(1”- he explained, laughing. ‘
But what is to become of Aunt Vesey 7" asked Misc
7 men ‘09 a peelinqu at them all three, consider-
“? dim: , \ expression.
at . her companion, hoi- mild. and berlapdou.
[Will find out a pet doctor wherever-she sees.

‘

Y's ’

'resdinesstomake c

 

I

Vesey can'do without you quite comfortably,” spoke
Lady Csstletou. sarcastically.

Lord Csstleton pulled a ludicrously long face, and
glanced over to his sister.

“ We must send Doll «poor little Dolly! There is
no help for it." he sai , with a twinkle of fun in his
blue eyes ; and that oung lady uttered a little shriek
of rotest. which in e everybody laugh.

.vldently Mrs. Vesey was no favorite in the
family.
ladMiss Lisle attempted to speak in defense of the absent
y.

" it is too bad to laugh at her so.” she said, in a
mildly reproacth tone. " She is my father’s sister;
she brought me up, and she is very kind in her own
way. She really means very well."

“ So do we all mean very wed, Nessie—all but a few
wicked wretches who come to be hanged. It is the
easiest thing in the world. I on ht to know, for l excel
in that pleasant virtue." laughe Lord Castleton ; and
his mother moved away, saying nothing, a sarcastic
smile on her face.

Lady Dorothea presently followed her, and the en-
gaged couple were lcit alone.

“ So you would have let. me. Nessie ?" said the earl,
looking sadly down into his cousin's face, upturned to
him with asmile, as he con. inued to hang over her
Ciliilr. . .

“ l dil not think you would have cared-at least not
more than a. little," she answered, without the least
coquetry ; and he was touched by the uncomplaining
sweetness with which she made this admission.

He colored an] looked down. remembering with a
keen pang of remorse various occasions on which he
had been foolish enough to he lect her tor the sake of
that charming witch, Marjorie ruce.

" Ah, but I do cure, Nessie i" he said. taking her
hand, and speaking in a very heartfelt tone.

His good, faithzul little iriend and betrothed. who
had scarcely a word or a smile for any man in the
world but him—who loved him so dearly-of course
he did care. Besides, though he was scarcely aware of
it, he was afraid to be left alone: a vague self-distrust
haunted him, suggesting strange possibilities.

And for the first time since they were little children
together, his cousin. sweetly blushing, held up her
face iora kils, thereby touching his heart mightily,
and brin ing a momentary diiuness of vision to his
lazy, king eyes. ' ‘

“ We’ll get Lady Gastleton to have Mrs. Vesey down
here for a little, and We’ll all tell: her into good-
humor,” he presently said, anxious to make amends
for his former indiil‘erence to a matter in which she
was interested; and so it came about that Hrs. Veeey
shortl appeared at 1‘9er House. causing a good
deal 0 alteration in the ways of the household.

.Mrs. Vesey was a thorough woman of the world at
heart, though she prided herself upon having a great
deal of sentiment in her composition. She worshiped
success in all its forms, and had very‘littlo’ tience
with unlucky mortals upon whom Dame F une re-
fused to smile.

Her companion, a decayed entlewoman of nervous
temperament. lived in slavis subjection to her. and
found life under the circumstances extremely hard;
but to the bulk of her acquaintances she was extremely
kind and agreeable in manner—4 little too sizing,
perhaps; but that, friendly critics derla , was a
venial fault arising from an impulsive nature. -

If she was not a favorite at 1‘0er House. it must
be remembered that the family there were odd beioxgfls,‘
guilty of many startling breaches of the world‘s e,
and str' ely indifferent about matters which other
people in position considered of vital hnportance.

But for their high rank, which entitled them to per-
petrate any amount of harmless absurdities. lire. yeeey
would have been greatly dis usted with their ways;
and shenevercsme to them w thout finding many 00-
ceeions for exhibitin , the courteous for j p , , and
_ ritablo constructions. I g
a Christian woman of the world. ‘ I '

Lord Costleton alone gave her nipple scope forthe
exercise of these virtues. Apparently quite unmoved
by the alleotionste fi-iendliness she took pains to show
himasthebetrothedofberniece. and a very 01 'y;
par“ ior that plain. thou h wealth , young lady,“
took a strange pleasure u p . her, and was
neverdone sa ing and doing the most extraordinary
things when s e was present. ' '

Then Lady (lestleton wascoldsndresemdmnd lived

halfof her tune in drosmland—a far-away, unexplored.
uninteresting country to this poor lady. .
y “ One might just as well think ofgetting up a friend.
ship with a block of ice as with a woman like her.” she
observed one day to Miss Lisle, as the two sot together
over the lire in the latter's cosy ' room. waiting
the summons of the ilrst dressing-bell. '

“ Between ourselves. Ernestine, I pityyou with a
mother-iu-law so unleeling and selfish. my poorchild.”
she went 0 in a whisperer lugubrious tone. heaving
a‘deep sigh, nd shaking her head as she looked at her
u ece. ,, ; * ' '

“ Draw a little nearer this nice are and get your.th
comfortably toasted before going down-stairs. darling.
she _sdded. ,with‘iond anxiety of expressionss her com-
panion gave a slight shiver. .

Mrs. Vesey was a little. plump, folr-ccmplesloned
Woman, who had been ‘very pretty in ‘her youth. Mid
thought herself sumciently fescinatin evenyet. She
had a bland smile, capsbleo" various ‘of: amiaa
bllity': a coaxing, confidential manner to those she
wished to pleasé:“lnd at present, sitting in gossip-
favoring circumstances. her feet on the tendons tin
cup of fragrant codes in her-pretty; plump ban .
sparkling with’ diamonds, a perl‘ectly "Joule; if rather
undemohstrative. confidante opposite her, she Was in
her'best of moods. ~

" I trust you may be happy in your married life, my

face in the mirror

‘ within her power to give

 

poor darling. Ailerall. whatis marriage but a (1mm-
ul lea in the dark 7" she said again, sshliss Lisle, a
god eal vexed at hearing her speak thus of Lady

tleton. maintained a rebuking silence; and as she
spoke she heaved another sigh, and looked as it' she had
more on her mind than she was willing to communi-
cate without encouragement.

Mrs. Vesey was rather. fond of mysteries, as her
niece was aware, and made a very little one appear
wonderfully large now and then, so she did not seek to
draw her out on this subject.

" Herbert and I have known each other all our lives,
Aunt Vesey,” she said. smiling, “ I dare say we know
the Worst and the best of each other already, and shall
get on very Well."

Mrs. Vesey took a sip of her coffee and looked porn
sivel into the fire.

“ ou werealwsys very easy about your own rights,
my poor Ernestine. I need not be surprisedto find
you the same, now you are engaged," she remarked, in
a meaning tone.

Miss Lisle smiled. thinking of the many quiet battles
she had fought in defense of her own rights in girlish
days, when Aunt. Veeey had certainly shown a 
tion to dominecr ovar her. -

" If poor Ernestine had afault it was temper," Mrs.
Vesey was wont to admit in confidence. She had fallen
into a habit of calling her " poor Ernestine" when the
girl was a little plain-locking, wan child. with sh . re-
served ways that annoyed her; and it was diilicu t to
lay it aside now. though the epithet was certainly very
inappropriate. In a confidential, whispering tone she-
presently spoke again :

“However, my child, I should uietly ask Lady
Castleton to drop that pretty humb 9 friend of Lady
Dorothea’s. That sort of girl is extremely dangerous
about a house with an unmarried yo -gentlomsn in
it; just enough of a lady to make one forgot .her‘real
position, and yet not enough to keep men‘ an. groper
distance. I have seen no end of mischief done y de-
signing girls of that description. I thought of saying
awarni word to Lady Castletcn myself, but 'really
she is a formidable character for an outsider like me to
app! each on the subject."

" 0h, Aunt Veeey! let us speak of somethin else. I
have perfect trust in Lord Castleton always aving
like a man of honor, and I have not a shadow of a
reason for euspectin Marjorie Bruce of being adesign-
luggirl.‘ r I shhul’d ave i‘elt bitterly ashamed if you

had spoken as you have denote me to any one of the

family,” Miss Lisle said. musing into animation at
last, and speaking with im tiencebf look and tone.

Now, Mrs. Vesey did'not iketo be snubbed when giv-
ing friendly advice, and in the momentary best occa-
sioned by the young lady's words she uttered a taunt
which directly after she would have been glad to re
call.

u m»; «we wise to etc in Scotland. n. a
young man sees a very foretty g elm0st constant, 11'.
andt ereisnobodyb keeps lookoutontbeirpro-

ceedings. he is apt to orgst that hols engaged."
Miss Lisle grew first pale and thcnre “‘I'hstis
eno h. Aunt Vesey," she said. with considerable do»
tear, coking at her with amt of very grove. surprised
eyes. Then, the dressing“ l beginning to. y , ,she
rose and called her maid cm on, inner spar-tines giv-
ing Mrs. Vesey no time to toner the apologyshe was
longing tomalre. 7, w v. > _ ‘
‘ And while her mold was busy with her hair she 
tated rather drearily over'ths, possibility Aunt I osey
had suggested. staring hardst the reflection of her own
‘ bolero-whichshe‘ t; “ F;
How should her handsome, y tbed escape
gmwinfiawes'ry of a plain, and like the '2 How
would a ‘ through the loug,llo‘hg  g _ he did
grow weary? tter far that he should merry some
one also more like himself in every way. if only he
badthewisdomtofallin love in his own sphere she
would be resigned. As it was, she would do'w'bpt by

him ample time for 
ation. ‘* ' , . , '
So at the earliest opportunity she sought Lord Cas-

rtleton with so canes a petition for his'oous'ent to 
pm ' \

m
that hooould not reiuee her: and their «saw
18% once more delayed. early spring being now of

ying Mrs. Veseysbroodfor sample“

as the time likely for it to come of.

'mm.
 -

I .not knowwhether I shall [surprise in V 
by moaxlnoumment that my heroine was a?  in
love.‘ I fear 1 have dwelt too much curbs: vivacity,
her coq'uetty. her childlike impulsivonels, and aged
in bringing forward instances of her noblor.
lyingqualitles; so that now it will be somewhat ' .
cultto conceive her capable of tender, m m
tion. '

As in some countries spring comes with a run,»

,oomplishing marvelous changes in an incredible

s ace of time.» to many youthful souls come-tho
ggeat magician Love, forcing into sudden magi-lg
thoughts and emotions whose some have long lain
hidden in the undeveloped nature,ng the 

lockers with revelations of hitherto unsuspected. cap»

bilities.

So it was with Marjorie. ‘ . '

[She was angry With herself that it should be so in.
possible to give a reasonable explanation of the change.
she felt within. She fought against the overpowering
passion with secret tears and prayers. She liber-
self to task tor selfish absorption in one feeling, but“.
was hopelessly deep in ill-st love, and all this was orgy:

avail. , , p , .v . .
That stolen kiss. those horsemen fond wont or!“ '

Oastleton‘s recorded in a * revious cha _. l7 ..
seeds which, falling on '3 Sam he.“ mI'W'

1i

UARJORIE" BRUCES LOVERS.

 

ssasod'in’ hia"favor by his many preceding marks of
special liking, sprung up in this unlocked~lbr form.

If he had not seemed so mightily in earnest when he
rsproached her for her coquetry, if he had not hurriei
away in such a becoming rage with himself, there
would not have been so much mischief done. Woman-
like, her heart went out to him. because he was evi-
dontly unhappy and tormented with contradictory im-
pulses, even more than because he loved‘her

She used to lie awake at nights thinking over each
chance word he had addrest to her. Conjuring up
each change of expression his face had assumed, letting
her fancy suggest romantic pictures of the future that
might yet be here if only he was free from that mis~
taken engagement.

She did not cons-loust love him the better because
he was the Earl of Castleton, the lord of many fair
acres. It seemed to her, now. that her ambition was
overpowered by her love for him himself; that. taken
out of his position by any strange accident of fortune,
she would cling to him with even greater intensity of
fondness;

Mnrjorie's conscience did not allow her much steady
happiness at this time. Poor Miss Lisle's plain, grave
face was constantly coming in like a haunting ghost to
frighten away the pleasant fancies which would have
made 1i 'e so dreamin happy.

The two girls, though continuing to meet on out-
wardly friendly terms, had an instinctive distrust of
each other. founded on no personal dislike, but on a
consciousness of the hopeless irreconcilability of their
interests. They avoided each other as much as pos-
sible, and Marjorie kept as much away from the Man-
sion Houseas she thought she could safely do without
arousing surprise.

Lord Cutleton and Marjorie strove to make amends
for the faultof thinking too much of each other by
being studiousl careful to avoid all approaches to
love-making, an for along time not a word of tender-
ness the young man’s lips.

' l’ot chance looks. changes of tone and color, the in
describable telegraphic system of communicating feel-
ings in which young people excel, kept them per-ectly
well aware of each other‘s love.

How it was all to end he used occasionally to
wonder. He was resolved to marry his cousin. like an
honorable man, and let this deer . little sweetheart go.
No doubt she would soon forget him, and marry hap-
pily in her own station; the day would come when
they wouldvboth look back with no deeper feeling than
that of pleasant sentimental regret to this romantic

t lovevof theirs, sopaini'ully sweet now.

Such was his usual conclusion, never arrived at with-
out adcal of unhappy mitotion.

M‘esnwhiisras itwas the shooting season, and toler-
able‘sport was to be had on the moors which formed
part of his property, he tried to find distraction in the
society of other young men of his, acquaintance.

‘ Visitors came' and went. keeping up a cheery bustle,
which made Yong-continuedreilectlon an impossibility.
, Lady Castleton li‘v‘ed‘intzrethan overalone. thankful-
! wingover tenure, Vesey- most of the irksome

ut cfa‘hcstos’s, o the latter lady merely pleasantly
Inciting occupations; . Q.’ ’ '

'-'1‘horowas nothing Mrs. Vese enjoyed so much as
£111 a poster consequence, an happeningto be thus
sui ‘at-‘I‘orvrood, she 'was quite content to forget the
delicacy of her throat, which had been her excuse for
seeking'cbangs! abroad,“ and extend her visit'ofa few
days to one o a'few weeks. '

She potted the three young people of the family
wi'.h indefatigable affection; she catered for the amuse-
men: of the strangers with wonderful assiduity; she
_ A ., very servants, and seemed bent on winning
Ia'lIl‘lI‘enlgiu'hi.mld er. 6 ' ; A - ,.

i: i _n  ’ 'e' to meddle with the famil ob ,
Xajoi‘ijo race, she took-pains to conceal hegyirootgcd
W9}? he: as a. presuming, charming minx, who

 ‘19:. “is”! Whatever wonswmo crank. unl
even honored her with an overoexoess of patronizing
attention, there ynnnoying that fastidious oung pcr~
 519%!!!“ 9 ,0 V9914 km ducky Iimp unselect-

.“Whywill notMrs.Yosey let me alone, Lad Doro-
mofirh‘ nobody. Wboiia let alone. does notgfeil'her-
self Influence-Lyon see,” Marjorie said, smiling; though
with a vexed air, as the two girls-seat in the painting»
room one aiternoom. , , A

Lunch was nearly over, and Mrs. Vesey’s persistent
patronage had been inore‘ thnn' usually annoying dur-
ing that meal. Now, everybody had scattered to their

' srent afternoon amusements. and there was leisure
for g'conildential chat.

“I

, _ on, are nevers nuisance. Mala," said hex-friend,
pausingin'the arrangement or her palstte',‘_and"liftiug
up! bright. afiectlonube little fue'irom her work.
4“: Never to you, I rid-believe, d‘sar Dolly." ‘ ‘
"Never to anybodyin the house."

{All you judge everybody tobe as little inclined to ,

weiry ofme asyou- are our-elf. I do believe you like
{manna don't care a bi how much of a nobody I hap-
' 1 tabs," observm Marjorie. from the m where she

so  herself in an; attitude of easy adapt, and

W'Q‘Pjoyllk‘ the'warmtn of’a cheery Wood nr .

 Oi Coulis?) like you, decry, and we all like you,
every .one pus," ahesaid, kissing her. Theathe girls
were startled .by. the door being opened sufficiently to
admit Lord Castleton's good-looking nice, new wearing
a rather restless look. ~ l

" Do I disturb; ell—m J I coins in ?" he asked,
with somethin o a wistiu air, as the pretty Couple
looked round a him. monotone his sister's permia
donut: join. than: it: camefforw

A down, I an com ortabls, poor old boy " was
Lad 'Doro'tnea's' greeting. and she inted ton louu -
in ‘ hairby the tire. ' po 8
. ".D'on'tvget up, natal-ls. He never puts anybody on
 havior. you know verywell." continued
- V ,  y, asunder-lo would have risen; and she

 

 

held her down with entle force, laughing into both
their faces with a chil ike gleefulness.

Lord Castleton smiled, and did what he was'desired,
though still looking distralt and melancholy.

A fit of blues oppressed him that day, and feeling
disinclined for the society of the other gentlemen, he
had contrived to Shirk their shooting party, and was
loun ing aimlessly about.

La< y Csstleton was shut up in the library, Mrs.
Vesey and Miss Lisle had driven off to B— on a. shop-
ping expedition, and, for a wonder, he iound himself
quite untrammeled, and likely to be so till dinner.

“ 1 wish you would scold Marjorie, Herbert; she do-
serves it,” Lady Dorothea proceeded. ‘ Only fancy “I she
calls herseli'a nuisance to us, and pretends to believe
that nobody but me likes her. Bus is not a bit of a
nuisance, is she ever ? " '
He smiled, anl gave a downward glance of unwise
tenderness to the dark-haired blushing girl at his feet,
then extended his hand to her, saying, in a jesting
way:
“ No, she is not a bit ofa nuisance,Dolly.” Innocent
Lady Dorothea notice] nothing remarkable in the haste
with which her friend dropped the offered hand, color-
ing and smiling in tell-tale confusion, and went on
unhesitating confidence. .

“Just when you came in, I was telling her that every
one of you liked her. I know you do. Herbert; now,
don’t you i"

The young man colored and laughed, looking rebuk-
illeg at uncomprehending Lady Dorothea, and slightly
shaking his head.

A little time ago Marjorie would have enjoyed the
fun of the situation, and looked up with demure mis-
chief in her face to hear his reply. Now she was over-
whelmed with strange shyness, and would have liked
to run away.

“ Of course I do, Dolly, you goose," he said, indulging
himself in a sidelong look at Marjorie, and feeling sel-
fishly gladdeued by a perception of her confusion. He
often forgot to look beyond, when chance enabled him
to enjoy the present hour. -

" it is time for me to go home; you know I never
meant to stay to lunch,” Marjorie presently remarked,
getting on her feet. But to this desertion Lord Castle-
tou and Lady Dorothea made over.whelming opposition,
and she was perforce ated by the fire, this time in
an easy-chair oppos e his lordship, Lady Dorothea
taking a footstool at his feet.

" Now you are both to be good, and let us have a hap-
PY. cosy, free-and-easy time; it is so nice to be happy,"
said her little ladyship, with a sigh of content, smiling
in anticipation of coming enjoyment.

" Are you uite comfortable, Herbert? Would you
be happier ' you had a cigar? Maja and I don't mind
smoke a. bit—do tell me now, like a good old boy," she
went on, taking her brother's hand and staring up in-
todhis face with an air of kind solicitudo which diver-
te h m. .

" Dolly,” he said, laughing. as he looked down at her
in a very kindlyi‘ashion—hewas very fond of his odd,
pretty sister—" is that i‘ootstool soft enough 7 Are
your little feet warm? , Is there nothing you would
iko to eat or drink '2 Could not I fetch you a picture-
dont object to a
wit a."
ujgn?in-

l)ka or something of, that sort? ,
rattle, mind,.if you have a. fancy for tplayi
Lady Dorothea looked nonplnsse , and
terposed. , , .
“ Lord Castleton is quizzing you, dear," she said;
whereupon herladyship‘s puzzled lace cleared.

“Oh. I see 1’? she cried, with imperturbable good-
humor. “ 1 don’t mind, so as I have somebody to tell
me what he is about. Quiz away, Herbert, if that is
your way of enjoying yourself. And you‘re sure you
don t' miss your cigar?" she questioned, patting his
hand. ' . f the” e-u U .o'  - -5“ d - ‘

. Hashook his head, and threw acomical look at her;

" Well, and what are we to play at ’i’" he said. laugh-
ingly.‘ "It seems to me" such-a little while -‘a_-, o‘since
you two‘ used to look care-no nvover that amenity.
We were all‘vory' happy then, on the whole, though ;"
anduhe ended with a sigh. ‘ '_ *

",I’lay at-chstting',,please do. Who knows when we

may have such a cosy hour i" spoke Marjorie, suddenly
warming lhtoisn’ima‘tiou. encouraged by the easy grace
of Lord Cutleton‘s manner. like. too. dearly ‘loved
sunshine. wass retty consistent, though an un.
conscious, follower ', kpicurus. I I
' As she spoke she looked antreatingly at Lord Castle-
ton; this time mutation that was neither shy ncr
coquettish; and he porceivsdthat she had, like him.
self, resolved to snatch allttle present enjoyment and
fling care tothe winds. . _
, “Yes, do; it is so' easy and nice. and we can say any-
thing that comes uppermost. as there are only we
three," said the little sybarite on the footstool, nestling
closer to Lor.l Custleton, and resting her untidy yellow-
haired head on his knee.

“_th into open the ball ?" asked Lord Castleton,
after'amomentsry silence; then “the trio, as'if moved
by a spontaneous apprehension of the Viculous, be-
gan to la h. 4

f‘Whats all we all be doing ihis day twelve-month,
I wonder?" ‘LadyDorothea presently suggested, after
their laugh was over. “ Certainly not sitting laughing
here, anyhow," she went on meditatively. staring into
the fire.

“ i don’t see the certainty of that. Dolly." remarked
her brother. " Like most of your sex; you seem to find
prophecy easier tun logic." - . ,

"Prophecy, then, for my benefit, Lady Dorothea. I
hate logic," said Marjorie, her eyes also fixed on the
glowing embers, and a dreamy look beginning to settle
-on her face.

"Prophesy by all means." echoed the your: man.
with a sort of sarcastic sadness : and her, i yahip,
after a little pause. spoke in oraoular fashion: .1

 

“ Herbert and Fmestine will be married and settled
down for life; Manama andlshall be living at The

posed her/ladyship to: ho

Cottage (oh dear, how dull it sounds " she interposed
with a shrug of her pretty shoulders and a sad shake of
her. head). " Marjorie will "—-she sttpped, looking
puzzled ;. then added, with an affectionate glance ever
at her fliend, “So, i give it up. 1 cannot tell what
Marjorie will be doing. I have a sad preseniiment that
she will have found a' real. lover, and won’t care so
much for me or any of us, or I might prophesy that
she would be keeping me company at The Lottage,
a1 onlg with one or two other nice visitors."

“ ow do you think it will be, Herbert? Yousre far
cleverer than poor me." she pursued, Marjorie having
thanked her with a quiet, somewhat sad annle. and
bent her gaze on the fire again.

"Nut cleverer lit-seeing into a millsione, anyhmv,
Dolly, you little goose,” he answered, with an attempt
at speaking gayly ; “however. I haveno objection to tell
you what i think pretty m rtain to be your lot."

" Do, Herbert," she said, with interest ; and both
the girls looked at him as he wrnt on.

“ You are to be brought out next season, and as our
mother hates town lilo, she will be anxious to get you
married and ofi‘ her hands. .Your pretty little. head
will be turned with a bewildering round of balls,
and dinners, and filer, and all Bul‘tfi o. Eli-Chiled gayeties.
Some eligible young parti will turn up, and you will
fancy yourselfin love with him. You will finish your
season in a. delightml semi-intoxicatitn oi youthful
spooniness, than hey for ht. George's, Hanover Square.
You have read an account of the ceremony there a: ores
of times ; a bevy of fair bridesmaids, floating clouds of
Brussels lace and white satin, showers of orange-blos-
soms, episcopal benedictions. flattery ad libflum, and 03
goes Dolly in the carrisgoandomur, with the man she
does not know to-day sitting by her side, and all the
familiar iolks she has passed her life aming left for
good and all— Heigh-hol I have a good mind to shirk
the giving you away, little woman," he ended, with a
sigh and a very affectionate look into the innocent, girl-
isn face upturned to his.

“She won't leave them for good and all. She will
come back, Lord Castleton.” spoke Marjorie, smiling
rather dolefully.

Lord Castleton shook his head. I

" No," he said, still looking down at Lady Dorothea.
“ She won‘t, I fear—mot lolly, her own careless. .rre
sponsible, natural little sell—there’s a nice string of
adjectives ior a lazy fellow to utter apropos of his sister.
I begin to suspect that I have more than the average
amount of fraternal affection, do you know 7” and with

another sigh he sunk back in his easy-chair, as if over-

come byihe fatigue of so much speaking. ,

There fell smeditative silence on the young trio—-
ono of those social silences which are so pleasant, but
which come so seldom to most of us in this restless,
stirring modern life. . '

“ Somebody said, ' It is always the unforeseen which
comesto .’ If that is true, this day iv. elvemonth
will find mall in entirely’diil'erent combinations of
circumstances,'h1isiress Dolly.” spoke Loni Castletcn
by-andsby,.waking up from his- a‘be traction‘and stretch“
infiliimae‘lf: and he smiled upbnboth the girls.

e did not calculate the possibility of Marja-icin-
flising' more meaning into-his. wcm‘than,’whe~n utter-
ing them, he had intended them to bear; but Mm
turned them ovrr and bver ‘in her mind, and drew
a ioolish comfort out of them in after hours of
solitude, although now she only laughed and said,

a ly:

' I like the manwho said that. It would’ii‘e ahorrb
his thing,“ we could see the future mag open bears
us like along, long, straight road; don't yen think the-
very sight of stunning would put. one in colonies of
gOod spirits? I vote that we shall all be happy now,
and talk aboutznothin but nonsensical-objects."

" Isay ditto‘to Mr. urko',l'drueapcnchdAIwrdI‘Castle-
ton, while. Lady .Dorothea stared nonplus‘sed once
more.  ‘ -' «if» . '

They were iii/tho midst of. a gay colltquy when an
hour later. Miss Lisle newly returned from her drive,
tooll itinto her head to not My Dorothea'iopilion of
some purchases also. had  making, and with awe.
liminary tap entered the ainting~room where'sho sup-

css. : ‘ - * '
‘ .Miss'Lisle’ssnddeh appearance reduced smomenta—
ry discomposure in the little e le round the fire,
though there was just reason for this being the «Be.

Who has‘not noticed the inevitable'chill which the
advent of a new comer ‘ V to into a group offchat-en-
joying'iriendka chill that is quite independent of the
nature'of the newcomer, who may be one of the dearest
and most trusted of confidante? ‘ ' ' A '

Miss Ilisle,’very gulck in observation. felt this indb-
flnable' chill now, hongh she came iorward with her
well-bred smile andsersne bearing. ' ' _ ..

" What lazy people you are. to be sitting here this -
fine afternoon, when everyLody else has been goin
about! You don’t deserve to enjoy your dinner. and I
don‘t expect you will,” she said. addressing, 11ch in
particular, and so giving them time to find t air
tongues. She often sacrificed her beauty “apatite-
ness'sake. ‘ g , , . . i 4
“ Sit'down and be comfortable. Ernestine," s 0 her
betrothed. vacating his chin: and adoring it to ' ; “a
line noticed that he colored a little as he adder

or. - 7 . -

Do. mastitis. We have been so awfully Jolly
round this'flre—you ou ht to have been here.” I know
you would have‘enioy , yourself," said inn'coen 3. Led
Dorothea. putting out an affectionate tiny hadron-up
her cousin's. ' k t h “e hen h l . ' '

Marjorie Bruce ep t as nco t ‘nga 9w dam-
sel who had not been specially addressed, but the.th
cued ‘rose of her cheeks confirm

ed Miss Lisle-'8 sus-
picions that two of the trio would have felt her plea-
ence rather do imp -

"No. thank ou’ Herbert; I won't sit down, r I only
came to get lly away to inme £0'W.our

 

 

purchases. Will you come along nova-crow you

v

144810315: Biz UCE’S LO rigs.

 

 

. , vi;
.m-iowit .s, pang at her heart. has pretty her humble
~ dogma“. hpwmatural ltwes that as: men like Lord
(W.  n shouluike to, luv? 3?! near hing; and?
tiiqngivshe m aware or t. ere ween inge 0
Wear in; the gleneeshe bestowed. upon her.
a u spouted. herself equal .to. the occasion.
"Rising with e business-like air. she put on her hat sud
mklst, which she had carelessly thrown down on the

"It will be ten-time before I got home if I stay any
longer, and my old man never likes to miss me It thst
hour-3’ she sold. smilin‘ . as she equipped herself for,
her walk. gmeiully doc iniug Lady Dorothea's oan of
assistance; then making her alieux. she went aivay,
leaving a sort. of blank in the apartment.

"Are you coming than. Dolly ‘I” asked Miss Lisle.
{not a. little impatiently, as Lady Dorothea, with the
over-like fondness some girls have for each other,
stood It a window watching for Marjorie's egress.

' Lord Castleton, once more lounging in his chair. was
swore that his ccudu avoided speaking to him. and.
 conscious of no special culpability. felt ill-used
and unlined to be sulky.

the vanished blues sessile! him once more. this
time with redoubled force. All the sunshine seemed
to have gone on with pretty Maia. en'i achilling north
“Ad to hsve entered with the last comer.

“By-tho—bye. Mrs. Vesoy has made up her mind that
we shall go some time next week,” Miss Lisle informed
him, with I rather wistful side glance, as. having got
Lady Dorothea to move, she was leaving the room:

, Mid at the bottom of his heart he was not sorry, though
he spoke the protest which good-breeding demanded.

CHAPTER XXV.
A room on someones.

A m days later there occurred an incident which
Mod Marjorie out of her lovedrenme. end tilled her
mind with serious thoughts. _

Gleaming to see the postmm approaching the farm-
house one morning. she Went to meet him. and mm
W with s letter addressed to herself. sud hearing
slander: post-mark. , . . I

‘ Em‘brésll‘in a ‘n the envelope she looked at it curi-
ously.‘ " v‘ 3 that anybody who cool i not spell or
mue- Wu should address her. and inclined to
think that there must be some mistake. . ,
“first ‘dt Wired upon her mindthst poor Lizzie An-

nsp. who had left the neighborhood immedistely site:

.mi’i‘le'sohtnoe meeting with ‘her previously record.
’ ed.‘w < 13an the writer of this very lebeiaudook-

  ,aawitu so irrepressible ii isle shiver of
K A ned insenntering. in on opposite
 the ' use, tint 811611111 ht ~lntv's’tirne. to
.mpgentsnre lining’ onetime. ‘Aabout inert cor-

'  crushed, stupid epistle ltlwss. et
Alumnus scertsin iorcible, rule pathos about it wh ch
“' ‘ ' 5h; hose. touchedssterner heart thin my heroines.-
_ , int, friend prohildish days, for she it was who
-, ' _j_.' r  j ' gratedrome consciousness oi hov-
Wm‘hor treyei-‘oci-nel love, onl‘ot being ut-
 -  A  the honest fomilyrnhosoname she
 «k  t -; MM,”8 'sst resource. plemiedwith
I: ‘  u I
“v »-.i“‘.‘. f“  4 ‘ I ‘ J _ I V
 earthen“? 74th. itii‘nlii sic ‘
r‘i'o fix: I  been so kind 3%” wlgn‘ her 33mg
Mmuhorshmnd everybodyround was .stro o, honed

t.
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. a: vice in
‘ ‘ luggage f t " ' to: liic’ "éfihole
w  W. “1.122533 eirnest.

petition that she would not disclose increments of her

 “serene-3’;   ofiretinrhed
maltsfiennm made up V p we _"§b“§]§flhfiflfigg an“.
at her. utterly remnant“; Wriecli‘ufiim fa. '
“Easement to perform.  > ..  5 "3f: 37 ,
» . vim it vet!  m0  Weathering not»

 1 rather letter-*fiavém “Pt! ,thnt;1oren®obqr

 noticed» lies. preoccupied;uhhiippy lacing-inn

 out what amid, hekr, hilt tonogzzi‘gtise; .

' "‘mnotnn notice ‘n cap 11;; Beer... 
 filnd awaited in the househnidna
 ' “ desire . (serious y- long ‘

:"Wéuittis annuity in healing their, inquiries. 

   

 in.“ so for u long ride. m‘mM‘.f-I’_ 
me at horns. on? the, “moon isle,

-Mi§k§gp ' V ~ ‘
Mkfi'the unhwhen their early dinner was over.
 lied gone out on his vented form

finer Wm

  

  

other with her kind, quiet mot.

, asked
a. enumherm‘. fth. '..Allherlii‘e :m
M " ° “We” g“

V has to ridcjbout th neighhorhood
"Gambia with evbright hoe sud your moi roses.

' 't‘iire.‘tion 'ot" cmwromwrriory, line")? . 'eclsdnho‘ntwgil;

' man ’ 'cver' bergabstits ‘t’ theory--.--tlist;iig1
3.9
5“

. her out.“ Momma! uif'fipmfi‘wr ‘ .

WW?” . .9, , _. ,_ , . .
2 .:. Alfifll  Hébes'ih ‘  

t it desirable ;‘  she 

r 93W mhéhimi’me 2-,...“ th‘t young lady, think- idesr. or we'll send for, the doctor,” she said. touching I she proclaimed. drawing up sud  
_ i I

i

moved by one of nor strsn e impulses, she flung her—
scli on her knees beside
her bonny head on her knee. gazing up at her with.
dark eyes of unfathomable sadness. 1

One of her black moods had taken hold of her. She

had difliculty in retraining irom sobbing out 8. comes-
sion of her general “ state oi sin and misery."
_ And Mrs. Bruce—who. along with her (husband,
was inclined to attribute the change that was gradu-
ally taking place in their light-hearted Main to a hen.
kering s.tcr the lover she had (1.8tressedthem b rc-
jecting-yenrned over her with pathetically dum sf-
iection.

“I wish there were doctors {or all the troubles of
this queer World, momma. We poor mortals could
keep them pretty busy.” spoke the young voice,
rather bitterly; and a. heavy sigh ended this speech.

“ What trouble would you call them in for. Main ?"
asked her mother. remaining from uttering a rebuke in
her anxiety to discover the root of her child's discon-
tent; and as she spoke she pass-ed a. iondling hand over
the pretty, clouded face upturned to her.

Marjorie was on her guard immediately. " Lazi~
nose and restlessness, and ill'hnnior."’mnmms: these
are my present amictions." she Sula, brightening up at
once. Then.without further delay, she ran oil‘ to get
ready for her-ride, leavin : her mother to meditate,
over her sewing. how diii‘crent in their ways were the
{girls of this generation from those she had known in

at youth.

A little later she stood at the gate watching Marjorie
ride away. .

The girl always looked charming on horseback.
People need to turn round. to follow with admiring
eyes the grweful, dark-haired damselon the spirited
chestnut mare-the beauty. par noellenec. of thst part
of the country where iny scene lies. And now her
mother lingered in loving admiration lill she had csn~
torod out of sight.

Nobody knew the full extent of the resend. coni-
posed woman 3 love for her daughter. 1:: her heart
she was a. little ashamed of it. u of “on? unbecoming
a busy, notion! mistress ofn househo d; and to the
best of or ability she reamed from gi grounds
for suspecting her of this weakness. For t e present
it was so noes-y love. poor soul i—the only Messy.
love she had ever known. She land. with many mlsp
givings. in the race and Lenny which went along
with so much wi lfulness and restless plmmking.
She wsseven fearful oi” drawing well-merited. punish-
ment upon herald! for tho-inn: undue;  this
fair bloeeon‘i'of her resting. ‘ ’ ‘ * '

.Vsnity was as he shun he: sober. estimation. 3915
to her. grief she' t tlist shores vain by proxy. V Kendal
ngs and wise-sounding; rebukes were silverynvcll
wheremth to blind other people. ‘but, that honest
innerriaion oi here was not so  darkened. .

The moms ires‘i and rnmte . as the girl was de-
lighted to have hit do. especially when anybody of
interest was by to admire her and her Luann! rider.

at the close or the year. 0 few pools she met on
the quiet highway. stored with that uttering persistj
ency which. she reckoned a species of home by
no means disagreeable; " but. gilwueoi' no siesta-day. ‘
I liar heel-twasvery‘illgateue.  rplexed
With doubts: and. a weddings co leo: m lesin the
“uncountable shrinking from thsfihwfilfim 4
hsd‘setiioiitl‘iromh‘ome to thro h.‘ .3. ,, _ 3
fro lly up toétne' Priory. en diocesan.
,_criwm’ed nponhusibess; to A _ horse or engages. V
honeys}? spiraling, in 1 Your colony chosen. Words.
fought; hotter 1:131:11} mere ringwht-be in hing; then “to;
‘33 “View . $991!."- ,.,. , i. y
 Wynn hummus.» hswfiedmw 6-
,: 23min teen her;pn.jeet.;_but“ner can! 8% {1
narrowed-how i‘,flther, he!" feminine. , lye

 

m r . > v
‘. mill  ht. without'pfippin‘ your [of per Wipers
primer the/wiln‘iny‘ rm'or Wrong“ , .k .
Her mther was righmnenn. “121.1. “,3 m m

’  'tétl‘," "t'f'thtcdm’mif‘hiit’itidid9t. K t
imtnhem chicane otherness!“ 
71.1 emits new. newcomer» Will's- ‘

: .- Just himeehactjenchedzthis m 1?le   ..

Limam of whom she was thinkinggohsnchd‘  spm_ gs,
omnibus mmgnwenness or,th Qppeannco startled

m. Custard little guessing . tint in.  this».
. ‘tm unlocking him I:on suntily .,
131533“ mm nu ma combiner; .mnnm’zqm
“flaw; “in nastiest   i..-

' v, .1" ,  ..  ,':
 in all ilegneukiseneuegwfibflior; Momma
.. 11ml. utmouthmeserteel‘. ,  ibis-g
gong»; m m:ie*aepoxe¢~e~-ges.unannou-

a”;

mounted on I. spirited, shapely more, yes on QcLiectgoiJ
rest interest to this young, antlemnn. and lie lost ‘no
time in raining in his horse, , termined that she should
not pass him by with the-still little bow which we: the
only mutation she seemod inclined to bestow.
iidiotic d'ye'dO. is» Bruce? Do stop Ia. minute and
' “ .tois iellow: it is an ego since Isainyshsdfihe
13 W0! seeingryou. you know}! he admin his or.
icotefipleiotirs 'druwl. looking it Liter,- ngt; in, hand.
with .‘tlilthva. . odmiring‘stnre' she .dislzked so
muchyi'l: ‘i " e  ‘ ,  ,-
Msderie was cross and hot. 83(15an 101‘ "gm:-

The' sun shone pvmera' hri' htly  it ia'wont $0110  any what you have got to say now :

y r ' aw 'uft.
‘- Menu-he nii‘gliht‘itieserlemlyln . 

Bile..th Wigwam?
lum, 3;“
' incomih ‘

‘1

sin leek magnesium." with. I $3.123? manning . Is’oe '

] the girl's rather pale check with . n caressing bond. as.  of ill nuppresed scorn; at him.

. , ,  .2 ‘
he had on ides .or,whst was comingkthoughmo

er mother's chair, and laid i laughed ieebiy and tried to look unconcerned.

” I lee! honored. 1 do assure ion.   I
dared not flatter myqu you had a. epithet.  in _
me, upon my honor.” protested he, with ndeprcooting
smile; and his Hebe finished 5 lwk oi unhitigsted con-
tempt at him. ‘ . _ ,

“I have not the slightest spark of interest in you,
sir," she said. in svoioetnut quivered with anger. M
have a very great deal in the poor girl I saw; last ix.
your company. Itis for her sake. and in complicit. ;
with her heart-broken prayers. that 1 expose myself to
your insults now."

Though A good deal frightened, Mr. Crawmrd or;an
admire the spirit of the speaker: To ‘ his Nut. isn-
guid soul there was a novel charm in having a
of this sort with a {air woman “or meticulously m:
temperamean innocent creature. too, spite of her
startinnly outre conduct in thus meddling with a mat
ter Which was quite out of s young loo '3 line. Bo
must make his 210. with her, and dew over his
love-making no ngcr. No doubt. sho,s plain
daughter, had never seriously than ht « '  ‘
such a. romantic fully as marrying l2?
astonished at himself. 4

lie—a. knowing man of the w
chosen a wife from the very lie
about to fling himself sway in
mental foshion. The idea was 
But there not the pretty, irowning- 
him in her toils, and he could nonfil

“ Miss Bruce," he said, in the unfit pe
wheeling round his horse and placing -
side of her. “ there is~nothing in life i '
glass you. Why are you so harden  r , p

on accuse me of insulting you. ‘By W! M
with authoring warmth). “ I would shoot on? . I
alive; that detail to speak on imperilth word} to
 ’I 1'

He drew himself up in his saddle. and looked as
heroic essuch n worn—out, pale-heed dandy could look.
As had many n time happened before. the. girlie, eager
evaporated in an overpowering sense of the 
Besides. unless she chanced to meet with 3 hrs pg»
ponent. she could never keep up the  H (the
spirit long. , 4 ‘ , ; _ 

“lam going home, and [on going byn " she
said. uith n peremptory littlenod of V  1 _, and
looking as angry us she wujshle to do.  alien.
to give the clamping moraine: head and hem like the
wind, when Mnt‘ruwibrdatgppefl her will: on urgent
entreuty for mother moment adelsy.’ ' 5 . '
,3‘ You ll allow. meta ride atng with radiant till i
have nisde my pong-3.,  now there’s a. good 5 ti."
he went on. Mi she paused and luolied at . him. “ p. n
my. word. I as! not sucks: M 19119?! as. in  we.
tor. Miss Bruce. , I. mean nothing that glint is. honor.
able new, 1 do assure you. .{Ifhy are 39,};  to
have we speak to you nowadsys i" ‘

.5 You shall not ride with we a single. 

     
  
 
   
 
  
 
  
  
 
 
  
  
 
 
  

,niinute."_ snaweredMsrjorie. majestically
his WM, 98%, $158 31in“. indeed: ' e»
nttcrlyineigniiicsn‘tlittle rakess thnti ~ 1  
up herprettr head with eaterst  e .' . er ‘ '

And then snide: fleshed.nponrhor.mfln¢-mm
c‘enlyv gs her;«ni‘nnner.‘:“ ,  
him too!  ,iitc‘rvafi *

  
    

   

, t as
r’emnuzfitzw Ire m h 
minute i -—*-_.ow,ese c011 0,; fihfflwm,
" 1‘; " ‘ em; 

.‘p  .

x

w phlflllt‘hdflitiblfimyfi
so  innocence—the 1w,
g wfiistaken some! wraith was 
in]: ' 38:19pm!“ 7; :‘Ifhmesm 
‘ fl ‘  nouns cum
1 » 31pm guyon 3,": -, ,
of“. mkoyarmhm “dim ’hernnm' of
 r   e:  

«fie.'?:fi get? .gczod’néisgwdiioh. 0W3“ ,

 hammin’everyhumuion‘ w  ‘
exinwths sort-to bitumen, into: n 
name‘rwhicnwmcansnmallnutrient? ' " '

its nature—Ans stirred’liy theogirldmi‘ Wren
more‘soi‘ily uttered. » r e;  *      a 

   

 

  
    
  
        

“.‘31 .6 canionl best " y,_ 12,115 ‘
whim arteriole-711$; hint-3a

336' We“ "y. m“ ‘2.“  .
the

, o Ellen”?! groin wherein? ,
sir. dig‘thejmnsfiiifi. created. m age 5

’0‘!“ 3% 46‘ mran‘iifgfiuromhfim l."
‘tliéref  t’lieionfifi‘rb.   jfifi’flm so.
more ‘. his powwow .. .W?‘W&§1M’flrdh
"  . s refdrmtiuni the :refiwesléim omen
.niti‘tfl-L‘IE 3‘9  “E? filmy“ ecu-fini-
uwns'iée“   “ "en’oviengnnsnnm ~ «1...
:s'aid.wiiif Angers: octet her. “121*; _‘ 
 ,bfettdr than I'Va‘dbne: hat. by  a.

{a no is leitgalopeainwsr 31001:; old , " 
Priorth isn’t easytoh out go ' a ..
C I“, la’

  

     

e 1"”

Infinite

 
   

 

  

tdomnbhtlieretliisl‘ong ins Mk." 4"

"new: did you stay. then '2" 
ingoqu tothim with an air of “not no .

~_ " .aCrswfordfs pale ,i'cce flushed. ‘*   

“ I stayed because I could see-you pro  ¥
remember’thst first‘dnylniet‘you fifths ‘ no
derivith the .Castleton people; wsliyl’fifl‘rm;

., , . ‘

    
    
    

5&5

cars in love‘with Yum—them} no  A .
story of it. I’ve hung shoot riot film. ,
of the London season. mind you; with???

and; after antiserum get a fin“ P '

 

 

:reli‘ {p.niid'rliiwi‘over-iike  provoked into for-
* " other resolution to hem no mom with e
motiobhignnhlolifm , _ ; . . p
" I wanted tom you this utter-noon. -,rode out on

pin-peso. I have only I very low words carry to you,”-

 

Hatio'rfishegt ‘a  
mate’s  .. i M, r.»   9a;-
sicu'itel’lminfinzghond’em ' Eta “sel‘fgv

   

9'41""

 

w. .L m. ..n‘w.wmmw. ..

 

 

 

 

 

1‘

in a dire tumult of unhappy emotions within her

“Rowan-e you speak so to moi”she said. withs

' uivorl voice. when titer a few moments she found

geraellifile to speak; and her besuthul dark eyes

were turned upon her com anion with a flashing light,
such as he had never seen in them beiore.

Row. Hr. Crawford ielt not too slightest diacth in
mounting tor this repulse, by the not that he ad
with an utterl despicable reluctance to commit him-
self. stop siort of a direct 01hr of marriage. and
accor ling y believed that it lay'Within his power to
put a speedy stop to the fair damsel s tantrums.

What a charming little fire-eating creature she was
when her spirit was up! Who would have thought
that this was the gentle. dove-like madden oi a mu
minutes ago i A shrewd, wide-awake young minx. too,
with a wonderiul knack of bringing a poor iellow up
totha scratch. No wonder he was ready'to make tear-
kl sacrifices tor her sake.

He would take the plunge now while his blood was
up. and ride home an engaged man.

‘ “One minute. Miss Bruce." he said, excitedly. as
~ she was about to cut the hateful interview short by

ac ' 1 oil ata gallop. "You do not understand me;
a  , ’ ..

   
 
 

 
    
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
  
 

‘: out. I never was mire serious in
m' you to marry me, and I'll nevor know
’e: 3 till you are my wile. There, now,
ellipsin enough. haven't I?" and be
its little laugh.

_ it all too plain, sir!” said Marjorie,
» h with a sudden jerk, which set her
' or an alarming manner. and compelled
terrible another exhibition of her eques-

 

w that I am aware of your shameful be.
 unocent girl. and you coolly ask me to
, i  jihake it very p.ain that you think me
"T-a'é .'.,  ‘ow’h level. and I have nchr given you
,, '  thinsun me in this way. Never, though I have
KW looifsh anti irivolous enough, God knowsi"-she
-  with a long-drawn sigh and a suspicion of sup-
' "  sobbing in her voice. ,
Dir. Crawford, who had lollowed her example in draw-
ing his horse. stared at her in mute amaze. Of
 she was only jealous. but even ealonsy could
not erbuse language so appalling." Still 6 made an ef-
fort to bring her to her senses.
"Miss Bruce." he said, with a good deal of blended
,“ you distress me cruelly. Do not mks u that
dad’s“. I mean to provide for that gir . and
her out of the country: settle her toxeminy in
E: in tact: With such matters youn l as ,should
never meddts: Let us drop that subjec ."
Hutjorio threw a keen. soorniul look at him, but with
dificulty 10M herself to speak calmly. Though
hopgless of success now. she would yet go through
her stodfisrt. '
“'Weousoloncomust-tell you that you ought to
merger. humans on in spite 01 the misery you
 t On her; was a good gill till she know
on; you will make this reparation. She on-
use» plead ior her. and I have not the heart
winch Without (loin so. Go to her as she cram
 “311'th thtbemeroy you hope God
5 vi ‘ you; you will not repent that when you

“a” bsble'to come-tapas
ya

«Wan too inipre
wtcrd. of the Priory. rejected
. asdgravety told to marry amiser-
‘ gurus“ who had cost him no end or an.
dreadyi- The earth might have opened
beneath-his horse‘s test. and he would scores have

 - over it alhhiiss Bruce. no“
that there is

m Ma in the
county atty quick.“ asked her
to .30.",30 > to laiter forth amt-stew
new" ' series wh ousloohedathim
- ’ We: ol-some e reply. «1

Maelstrom {stiletto-moan andask your ma
. Int do mrythina that is e
you,- andalst sort of  . You’d
’Wm Iowa‘s!) ' manage
mm M 1" Mflhfimnd ml of you,
by i”- hp weltcli. with gathering  '
= per was roused once more.
some one 1 can res
t to .tfler :OIIIOIIIO:
not of on no come my om.
.  tigers is no nerd that my yuan“
wbwfl‘mmmn matter; Iteil you on...
‘ I lab?“ an 1llionut pl:o ‘ m -
would, it grstsln marry use p
 assuming our wire. i that! no al a”
l 4 ’ somebody. I have no more to say toyou.
"  4 . home. Let our aoquaintanoeship end
  " withhopelessl
, , ‘ tlemantg

  
 

   

E

l

s
.i‘
9

3.

iii

.3...

have
to

  
    

_ ,  of rage and disappointment.
'1th , .m. the'l‘orwaod Housecsrriagesp
. .necoguiaing it as it drew nearer. a

is who had by their ridiculous
. ‘ Genes M e' ordinary usages of society led him

 had they to hit a humble country girl
. out other proger rank. and bring her into iamiliar as-
'  wit them and their friends. regardlesgoi
“damned theilre in which he had burned
 angers: undue-did not feel sure that they
' if V ' unintentioMIlY- '

 they would have been delighted to see

 
  

    

settle downs: Mrs. Crawiord oi the
 that lord Castle“ " count not safely
‘ with’nuking love 'iicrmuch longer.

‘brevi

g, ahe‘
him to wheel about an ride

. , élafl'i , ‘
still in t is savage mood. when. a quarter 10;.

NAME BRUC’E'S LOVE”.

The little fool's prudery and sentimental love for
that coolest of-triders had spelled the plot, but he owed
them a grudge all the same. '

Thus mining. he came ri towards the c 9
wherein sat Mrs. Vesey. Miss lo and the earl, 11
happy unconsciousness oi‘his having the slightest cause
for entertaining any ill-ieeling to them.

The can e was an open one, and Mr. Crawford was
hailed by rs. Vesey with a highly gracious panto-
mimic invitation to draw up. I '

“ Do stop the coachman or an instant. Lord Castle-
ton; I want to tell Mr. Crawford to come and say
goodbye," she said, with a blandly beseeching air;
and the gentleman. looking rather cross, did us he was
desired.

All Mr. Crawford's doings were not known at Tor-
wood House—where the family, along with their other
peculiarities. showed a great indifference to ghossip
about their neighbors—yet they had of late eard
enough to make them rather shy of associating with
him.

Mrs. Vesey, however, was too much a woman of the
world to be very particular about the morality of her
young male acquaintances who were favorites of
fortune.

"It is very sad indeed," she would say. with a plaint-
ive sigh. when she chanced to hear some discreditable
story told of this interesting class ; “ but‘we hope for
a reiormation. Young men will be young men, alas !"
and she would end with that sorely abused quotation
about charity and a. multitude of sins. and look mild
reproach at any heathenish slicklcr for a plainer
criterion of right and wrong.

Now she smiled on this long-descended, wealthy
young gentleman with the innocent conflding iriend-

iness 0.“ one whose ey ‘ had never oen opened to his
vices,‘while he sullen y saluted the trio in the car-
riage, looking so decidedly ill-tempered that even care-
less Lord Castleton's attention was aroused.

“ How do you do. Mr. Crawford ? I could not
let you ride past us without telling you that Miss
Lisle and I are really going oil" the end of this week.
Be sure to come up and say iarewell. or i shall be very
angry." spoke Mrs. Vesey. wondering what on earth
was the matter with the wontedly ay cavalier.

" Thanks." said the gentleman dressed, with a low
bow. Thenég‘uite carried away by passionate desire to
avenge him in crime little measure for the mortifi-
cation he had‘ been undergoin , be turned with a down-
right insultin air to Lord tieton. now staring at
him with a h i-quizaical. half-bored air: ' ‘

“ I have just been riding with Kiss Bruce, that par-
ticular iriend of yours. Lord Melon. ‘ Ought I not
to refit a happy man?" he said, with an unpleasant
an a
- Tiers was no pdssibilit plants ’1 ing his desire to
be ofl'ensive. Lord Castlezin” "s has ‘om’e lace flushed
with contemptuous anger. and he made a most impru-
dent retort. ‘ ‘ g - '

"You are a more miserable  than I took you
to be. and that issaying a grea ;" he said.',soern-
i‘ully. darting a irowning look at the sneer-lug top, who
was byno means ' Var-emaspeoch.
"' Drive on quickly.“ he added. addressing the coach.
man. who. slon with his couple or fellow-servants.
had mightily engoyed this quite unprecedented little
row. thou hpreserving countenances of stern immo-
biiity: an in an instant the carriages Ie‘w an.

The two ladies were a tatod and embarrassed. and did
not break the awkw silence which followed Lord
Castleten's furious retort.

Mrs. Vesey. who was an arrant coward. was terribly
afraid at his irate lordship might turn upon her. and
sat, with downcast e or undisturbed expression. while
to maintain her usual composure

m that on shouldbe annoyed in this way
can said. when the silence
I) x " mu‘nmh‘i? ‘9 sin lit; 'deprecato
'0 across cou w a
smilfi’cooll'y ignoring hire. Vets .whom he 

in a gmt‘moaaure toe concoct he mm
not; Lisle returned his look with one of great
‘ o ' I ‘
“wreak you. W." she

Wuhan coldly,
but‘with perfect gentleness; and. ed bytho
this reply. he made no iurtuer attempt at
i, Aftimmhmltmtfixi.”£x“
m on e . n
in treat or the mansion. P
Mrs. Vols .goingtoher niecc's room a little after.
er to M our the “vagratmd that young
1 row :1 ynnspproac eon subject
“ 011 of something else. if you please, Aunt
Vesey."slie addulnhot gen masterminedway; and
there was nothing for it but to give in. .
‘ And they all not at dinnerand themselves
 0 each other. as in duty bound. several
nthmen were staying at the house, and Lord castle-
cu found it easy to evade an private talk with his be-
trothed during the remain r “that day. On the
marrow he was determined to convince her of the in-
ustics oi lir. Crawford's implied accusation: nor did
0 “Mo do so.

CHAPTER xv.
sons navel Loan, ms 1mm.

" Tans “something the matter with my lassie.
Why can't she tell her old dad all about it?" said Iir.
Bruce. gently. softly stroking his daughter's hair.

It was the morni aster her exciting day. Breath
was over. her me her bad betsken beraeli’ to her
wanted active foreseen duties, and they had the assay,
quiet parlor tetheinsslvaa. , i _

“Btayheside mo. papa, I’m so tired.“ Marjorie had
said. with one of. hot mkmilhr wistful looks: and

 

he had stayed. ssdlypuzsliugs am his little maid'a
MM VIII. £271: 3;. H”: g. , 5..., ,,

 ,  {rev it  x

.vegand'

 

" You won't mind if I don't speak: my head aches."
she had gone on, drawing a stool to his side. md 
ing her head on his knee. Then. when she foqu the“:
was content to give her her own way of watert-
able. she had closed her eyes restinlly. and than
been a long silence, during which the old man’s eyes
had marked with disma how colorless and met
she looked—what a an ued sorrowfulneas was in her
air.

She was thinking; she had been thinking all night
long—she who had been Wont to sleep as soundly as a
child ; and her heart and brain alike ached wearily.

At last there had come to her a clear ion ti”
the wrong she had been doing all these months peai.
and she had taken herself to task with no lack of stern
earnestness. -

No wonder if Mr. Crawford thought light of her. He
had seen her encourage the attentions of aman com-
Bletely out of her sphere, and Lound in honor to max

is engagement with another.

She had been justly punished by that insult! oil‘er I
which in all probability he would shame her y no-
pesting to her father. who had a hearty contempt ibr
him and the stock he came of. Rejected. he would be.
likely to say dreadJllly compromising things of her
and Lord Castletonu—tllillgfl which the gossip-loving
neighborhood would readily believe.

She must drop the Congenl‘ul society of the Castloton
family, sternl crush that daily growin love. which
had taken suc l firm root in her foolish cart. and be
content with the dull, colorless lize or a woman who
has no absorbing duties, no exciting pleasures.

Yet she had known all along that her lotions. butter-
fly existence could not last, so she oug it not to-feel so
suddenly despondont now. '

Dreurily musing thus, her father's tender question
fell on her ear. uwakenin a strong inclination to to'.l
him everything that tron led her, and Lo soothed and
potted like an unhappy‘ child.

But pride came to or aid, as it had come the day
before when her heart had been so near opening itself
to her mother’s waiting sympathy, and she answered,
witlkanhattempt at a smile:  "

" ot ng worse than a lit of ‘ the 11 ’ ’
There, have I not trusted you ulth “1:?
first? Scold me well, ior I deserve it if svoriagiri

Mr. Bruce‘was doubtful whether she wasnet keepi‘ u
back something. and looked at her th ll y. a
My little lassie never used to harm new.” be

“Ah. but she is growing old and wise now, see.
and she can’t be just so happy as she used to?”

h“: Then I wish she would stay young mama-a. Maia

rn. .
He sighed as he spoke. and Msrjorie‘a‘hesrt smote

r. .
"i doubt there'salovo-aflair it the bot  .11
this. eh.doar l" he went on; an the QHWM

9

flushed suspiciously. “Your son one o

1
like to whistle back now, Beaut . is that it f} ‘ '
duhaadbe’ll at everything anal t.” ' ,‘  M
“Yonareal umpspa. ltlwsntsdh "rem
set: you towhiatle~youro the bent’wh‘ um

Iheardyoost'nenaie , 'snoeawa '
W early this morning when X was 

He no that she was tryingde mm‘” ‘
item herseli, anthbeing really «get to t  '0!!-
tain knowledge of her state 0! mind.. 0' 
thnsbelodaway from thesubjeotinhand.. ‘ ‘ " "

"Who do you like better than John was. an.‘

ioit that they were cumin
heart an to beat
. up at h
assume.

15‘

w  i: T .1‘
33'! 7 
*1an I y e

 

most'overpowerlng conviction;
He was -net with her.
the gentleman-tho emu ot
mother—bimsaH—tho .1" m
circumstances that had led to his on
finding tuning into this more.“st

"lwishlmhutmideor in Lord
thenrsttimehs came h mwithhineeu
lookaandtating
, tronbieand

_ ' than tutti-uh

I isles
misht mm we he can.
 roaster. .  ‘_ 't
to verthiminltiseynm

ways. ‘

tling her . ‘.  a
pa." she said, with a aeenly sir. “than”
wagon any cause to ins tmol"'Andl-orhosom
'fi'wz‘m‘l" he  
e sure. rom rve cl ' ' '
hehfistmkthefilhtmatm h  .
" uua nomorea .n , ” snow
calmi (1an into ruoful .' mm 
ma her sa‘yind'Iow'Pfig‘ll‘l m
lamb, my rocions little'iassl” ', ', am.”
She an ered his caress, but.}-that won an m
womanly e was up in arms. and she 
Wit: . 9131:131‘ mum WV?“ Wt...
om c e n m e ' '
thedoingsomi tcosther ’ want! 

Then. moved the troubled look   1
face. she ti-ok‘ hi hand. and looked a; 

eyes iron: which the angry light had quite ndsd.

“0h, pa " she “never let ‘ 5‘
Wh;tshoul,<l'l do if a come tliatmyout'ndtttflInt flu.
mo " e . in 

MARJORIE BRUCE"! LOVERS.

N

 

inlet a changei'ul._incomprehensible being she was!
"now she startled one with her queer; impulsive
speeches l -

"‘ 'l'hiit day is very far on. little less.” her father said,
» putting his arm round hul'. anl looking into her up
turned lace with a haliksad. half-humorous smile.

 Aul you won't ever quarrel with me ?"

“ NJ: without very good cause, my little daughter."

“ What do you cull good cause. papa ?" Marjorie asked,
an unlertons ot'har in her voice. She was thinking
of the posiibility oflany exaggerated rumors of her past
foolish .loings reaching his ears.

He looked at her uneasily. wondering why she ques-
tioned .iiin thus.

Giuld there have been any positive love-making on
Lord Castletona ll't. anl hal she dcmeaned herself
by allowing it? at no, he would not mistrust his
simple little lass, staring wistfully into his face Wild
those beiutifui sort dark eyes.

" Sued cause as you woul i never give me.” he said,
looking at her with fond pride. " We have never hal
any but gofl women in our iimily, so far as ever I
bowl; and iii are have been more Braces 01' Bru 'e Hill
gun there have been Earls of Castleton. mind you

hit."

" I do not know what you mean. I wish you would
not spo lk so to me. I am not accustomed to it. and I
no not in am to get accustomed to it, pips." spoke Mar-
jorie. a bitter p.lllg of Illiuglc. i an {.rl' anl self-reproach
driving the color from her cloudel face, and leaving it
very wuite an i stern.

Would they never cease to ring the changes on that
hateful note oi warning which oil liell had been the
first to souni ? Had she really s'.i nvn herself so
thoughtlesst incapable of guardin 5 her own womanly
dignity. that nobodv, not even her i‘ond. indulgent
(at ier. woul i trust her any more '1

In that one driugut of humiliation the naturally
proul girl did peiadc: for the pleasant lollies of
months. and reckon-ed t iem dearly purchased.

Her rather was not displeased that she resented his
worls. She was her mother s own daughter. after all.
an'l he need not be ai‘rai'l- to trust her entirely.

“ You speak as if Lord Castleton was a villain and I
was} a ' fool, papa." M irjorio said. still nursing her
wrath: and her father answered. quite ently:

” Never mind how I s oak, Mala. I hink no harm
of him or you: it‘ anyb y is to blame, it's myself.”

" But there is nobody to blame. for there is no harm
done. papa." interrupted she. well aware by the puin
at her poor little heart that she was speaking non-
sense: an 1 she forced a smile to her quivering lips.

"Then we'll say no more about it, you fiery little
wom in," respmdod the old man, with another kiss;
but he was fully determined to stop Lord Castleton's
intimacy with. her. and very soon found an opportunity
of doing so.

That same morning Mil-Jone astonished her mother
with the whole story of the preceding day's doings,

iving' her permission to tell her lather as much as she
I nought it right to do. '

file was tired, disheartened. indifferent to praise or
blame just then; it was a relief to unburdeu her mind
are troublesome secret. Besides. if anybody could be
expected to have an interest in Lizzie Annan’s fate. it

was that goo i. win: mother. whom V she had never
known to murmur under any amount of care-bearing
for other people.
, Mrs. Bruce Was more vexed than she was willing to
show. . Marjorio's couhdence‘s came too late to be wel-
come. at she (carol to meal: with displeasure, lest the
Tapoil girl should be acouraged item trusting her
next time she was in a dliilculty. So in that irrepressi-
ble honesty which was part of her nature. she was a
little cold in her manner. just when it was highly de-
sirable thatslie should be the var reverse; and though
.m'promised to do all that ooul be done for the am
fortunate girl who was the chiei cause 0! this, annoy~
mg, ml spared her daughter the rebuke she had fully
o‘xpe mod, that exact damsel left or, feeling dubious
whether it might not ave n is r to seeks more
lympalhetic conil iaute. or even to go on ing her
own affairs as ah. ha! been trying to do of late, without
“asking anybody'n advice. , ,

",l xtrivia written to Lizziednuan. and sent her money
to no is home to her ‘ ‘ The poor'bodyiis will-
in to- take har'back until we see what can be done to.

her into the way of making her broad honestly,"
'Bruee announced. coming into the drawing-room
lustthat aitsruoon. ' ‘

giro buddies; bonnet on. havi Just returned from a
visit, to widow Milan's. She ooked calm and event
door-fill. in a grave le;'h8l"chaekl were becomineg
flushed with the exercise of her lon z walk on this n-oety
enema. Eel- eyesshone with their accustomed light
of thoughtful serenity. and Mariorie. idly nitti in
flopt or the fire. her hands lying ietlesely in her ap,
be! 8m? he“! droopsd on her bosom. lifted up a
weary-looking, sad. white {second with a sort
of envious admiration at the t . atateLy blonde
woman. I. - - . p

" How nice you look. momma I“ the said. in her queer.
lrhlevant fashion, stretching out a lazy little hand to
her without rising from her buy-chair: and her eyes
were upturn 3d somewhat, wistfully. I
' Indeed Mrs.,Bmce. in her dark silk and handsome

he was as dainty as Marjorie in her style of
dressingc-was a very handsome woman, and looked
Ova .ineha lady besides. ,

", as might by, a duchess. momma.” went on her.
h‘lfllltel'. staring .still,as, coming up. she took her
More! hand and smiled upon her. 4 »

Sith'ay adeu their little morning difference very
timid}. 8. or al .' Maia never could keep up her
Kalli!“ 1011;. anl her mother was never slow to for-

Vje my 01’ her follizs when she turned to her with

e afloctlon’ate lolk that was on her bonny face new.

.‘ 7' 0 won ieryou have headaches. you silly girl," she
fig looking- the loud things which it was not bar na-

_,on maintaining t eirintimac . unwise”

 

lime to speak out. ‘f sitting moping .here over I are,

with nobody to speak‘to and nothing to do.
look better alter you to-morrow." -

Miss Marjorie pursued her own train of thought,
quite undisturbed by this remark.

“ I wonder what sort of a young girl you were, mam-
m . Did you ever feel awfully happy sometimes. and
awiully tired of living at other times ? Did you do

I must

foolish things and fret over them afterward? Were you
ever the least little bit like me ‘2”
Ah, me i how little we know each other! What sharp

stabs we may give quite unintentionally I The girl had
given one now, and was quite struck tosee her mother 9
face grow suddenly overshadowed by some pang of
recollection. She could think of no other cause for its
change oi expression.

Like most other women. Mrs. Bruce had had her
little bit of romance in her early girlhood. Stuid who
and mother as she was. she could not look back to it
without emotion. Out of the mists of the far-away
years rose a vision oi herself as a simple. trusting girl
of eighteen. listening with rapturous heart-throbbing
to the wooing of a handsome young soldier-lover, who
had chanced to find his way to the quiet mange, her
iather and his having been dear friends in their youth.

He had stayed there a few supremely blessed summer
weeks ; then. his regiment sailing for India. he had
gone off, leaving her. with her father's consent. under
an enga ement to marry him on his return in a few
years. n after landing he had died of fever, and the
first news that reached her a.tcr that of his sailing was
the news of his death.

Marjorie had never heard the sad little story, which
was known to very low in the neighborhoo I. They
ware quiet, proud people at the manse. not given to
proclaiming their joys and sorrows. The minister's
young daughter kept her thoughts to herself. an lwcnt
about her multitu 'inous duties with unflinching
bravery ; and as time Went on her young-heart recovered
slowly, surely, as most young hearts do. when kind
lute denies tiem the often—coveted luxury of leisure to
indulge their grief. '

It was a perfectly serene. healthily hopeful heart
when John Bruce came begging for it some cars later.
it had known no Very acute pangs in al the ion
married li-‘e that had followed ; yet even now it coul
throb with half sad. half sweet emotion, when memory
recalled that worshiping boyish lover—the only real
lover she had eVer known.

If. as most, women would have done. she had confided
the whole story to this one dearly loved daughter.
there might have, been a wmderiully strong bond of
sympathy established- A: it was. the girl believed her
far too rationaland practical now ever to have known
the raptures and griei's of that thrilling emotional life
which had of late been hers. and cones neatly she was
disinclined to be confidential. Mrs. uce’s discom—
posiure was only momentary. She smiled and shook
her head. .

“No, I don't think I was the least like you. Made.”
she said;l“.but girls will be girls to the world's end.
I dare say I had not very much sense then."

" I can t believe it." responded Marjorie. with a sigh
and a ratherimpatient movement in her chair.

" And I had my troubles, of coumrmy,dear—-nobody
escapes them." ,

Her troubles! No doubt she had had-little natural
vexatlons and disappointments which come to every-
body ; but a sore heart-ache like that oln on within
her now—a terrible tiredness of life wh is I e was only
2n the first stage of its journey—she never could have

nown. i

Marjorie lay back amen her cushion. and stared
into the fire, relapsing into roomy silence.

Her mother mode a careful stud of the pale. discon-
tented face. and. having already heard her husband‘s
account of his morning interview with her, came to
the conclusion thatrit Wee indeed high time to interfere.
She resolved to give her approval to his idea of oing
boldly to 1‘0er House. and requestinth lordship
to cease visits and attentions which mig t eventually
be com romieing to their girl.

Alreag

y a whisper or two of ill-natured gossip‘had .

reached them. Lord Caetleton. who gc merely
tho tines. would; readily understand t e necessity
for t lr taking this stepsplu the meantime'they
would not nook to prevent Marjorie from continuing
her visits to Lady then. should the two girls insist
it certainly
was. Spring would carry all t )e Castleton famil any
to enjoy the London seasonmnd a- break woul thus
happen naturally. : . ' .

Surely no irreparable mischief had, been done yet.
With Lord Castleton's marriage a great change would
take place inthe arrangeinents or curved House.»

The new Lady Castleton would not be likely to choose

friends out or. herown rank. and Marjorie would per-
haps learn tooontcnt herself within their-own proper .

middle-clues sphere. which most certainly they ought
trainer to have moved her to desert even for brief ‘pes

o is. '

" I wish lsaw her safe settled down wi' a good men,
wife." Mr. Bruce sighed. when they had in secret con-
clave talked all this over. , .

" I wish on would ask him Alton to come and see
us now an then. hither.- Neighbors ought to be friend
,ly," responded his wife. with a wise little smile: and
the old man caught at the hope thus suggested with
an alacrity which showed how great had been his pref
vious downbeartodness. ‘ -«

 

1 1mm m. ‘ .
m nominee era-nit  1'
Ln!‘ me chronicle in a few sentences the events of the
next few weekdnnjitake u my ptoryylgdn at the
date by which Mariorle it long been- msklng her

computations of tune—that of the: Euutklaall. .

Lord Oastleton and the two ladies

 

goose on the next day after the scenes last recorded,
and Mr. Crawford. 01' the Priory. dis noted with. a
neighborhood in which he had expel enced hitherto
un reamed-of hu mutations. ,took his departure for
Paris, where in exhausting dissipation he intended to
banish the recollection of his sentimental folly.

Lizzie Annan. thanks to Mrs. Bruce‘s exertions. was
persuaded to accompany a respectable cottar's famil
to Canada, where the were aboutto settle on a small
farm. and would glad y give her shame in return for
her services. Lady Castleton.‘liviug in perfect retire-
went at Torwoo l. was hard at u ork on a novel which
would a pear early in the sprin r.

Lady rothea and Marjorie grace were almost in-
separable. and consequent; y life at the iarni-house went
on more daily than it would have done had t..e latter
assumed her roper place in it.

There had on famous hunting weather that year,
and while it lasted, old Mr. Bruce. acmompanicd l y his
pretty daughter, had scandalized the sober-er part of
the farming talk by regularly turning out to the meet
~—as halo and hearty a well~mounted old Nimrod as the
county could boast. 1

Many times during the last month Marjorie had pro-
vailed on John Alton to indulge himself in a day with
the hounds. and on each occasion had iound him a very
attentive cavalier, n-om which fact you may ih.'er that
his rejection as a wooer had not had the effect of curing
him of his attachment. '

For some Weeks a ter his disappointment he had,
indeed, wisely avoided the girl's distracting society,
but, meetin her by accident when walking in the
neighbor-boo of her home, she had drawn him within
her toils once more. A little sigh. a becoming blush,
alglance of mingled nitenco and entreaty from a pair
0 quickly lowered, eautlf‘ul eyes, and he forgot every—
thing but how kind no.1 fair she was. Alow-spéken.
pretty speech. and she had bound him to her forever.

“ I am not to lose my friend, am I 'i" that was all ;,but
the tone in which she edid this, the appealing look
which she bent upon him. carried her words straight
to his honest heart. and there awoke a vehemnut plo-
test of unquenched love and longing to protect v and
cherish. _ ‘ , _ ~

Yes, he would be her faithlul Mend. Ii‘ i'a'te had in-

deed decreed that he might!» no more, he was man

enough to bear that sore heart—ache without distressing
her by an exhibition of sufl‘ering. and would come Lack
to his abandoned post as her'special Mead and (sound
ant oi the male sex. . ' . ’

80 the two renewed the familiar intercourse his love-

‘mskin had interruptedhnd passedflman a pleasant
evening; together within that  homelth of dwel-

lings, Toi'wood Faun, r. and‘Mrs. Bruce congratulat-
ing thornaelves on the turnan had taken, and in-
d‘izlging in fond ho that. after all, they had '

1 their causes 0 miegiving to their child's .‘u uro
happiness. *

And now let us seek out Marjorie on this thermon-
ing of the day on which is to come oil there-gulf
looked-forward-to event in her‘lii'e. the Hunt 

She has been passing the night at Torwood
and is making an unexpected appearance at thedoor of
the farm-house parlor, where her lather Inclination-re
seated “breakfast. . _ > , ‘

The airis c or and cold, the sky almost cloudlujn. and
the brightest ,0: winter sunshine floods the 
making it look its 'cheerit-at. - d lowing
a warm, red light about the dain ily spread Table
drawn near it ‘A sin ing kettle on the hob: anus};
merry canary. 'trilling it its ,, bull in the am
window; a flagrant steam rising from alibi-am

:silivsr cones-pot: a .purringrbhcl ,cat .
curled nx‘oon the rug: giim

luxuriously
. through the M4..-

solving stod pictures on the MW bi

peaceful farm-yard; where. oldfiellii ‘

the

as the

try-anch are the adjuncts: which. surround ~_ on

two dear, tamiliar faces. otrike‘ the girl as wo m
attractive: . , . .

She sees only what she has seen scores of timbe-

‘fbno: but wanna-eon from a looming walk. rosy Land

happy. and inclined to be in love withalmont every-
thing in life. her young heart beats with lively “-

ation at her home blessings. -

“ 0h. papa. it is so good to. be alive!" Ila Gull.”
ting behind his chair’and kissing him. when they have
done emlaiming about he! rudde- entry. It so cork .1
hour. “Oh. mamma. I am “meet too bag): this man-
tngl" running over to that smiling Mr (kissing her

00. . ' ‘ ‘ >i ‘ ‘ ’ . ' _:- r

" Sit down and have your“  Maia. -' 'V'bo
would have thought or you“ mind ‘0‘ hero‘beibre
your grand folks were out “of'bedl r lune they'll
think you very rude.” saidthelooking up .c
h" “mmmdxe ' hat nd gloves, ' and deposited the

a ' o r a , «' m
Mid on asldo-_ tabla. , then new box-chair close to he:

"i shall be backtme before Lad Dom :-
dressed; abs is the hubs of yoyi 105'. m a“,
countess breakfasts" alone not new. V body wm mm
me." she explained. and then dashed into her plans:
tlieda . . ‘ . ' .

"I zieh you would stay at home and matter the
evening. Beauty. I want you to be a credit to go. all
dad/f her father interpoeol, laughing”; Hunt .-

"Do, there's a good girl 1" Mrs. Bruce chime'dln. _.

"I can’t rest, I’m so happy!" thofgii'l'
smiling in such a bright way

rum

but one oeu'l'd'notibut he
lie‘ve’i "but all“ the same I meanto be a‘érodit‘toyou.
oldman.".  . r V1 --;-.’v.-

Then. with a little laugh and toes» of her 
she added.“ it prode by an lmpulse of uncut”
liable honesty : “ Don‘t think me Ve Metal. D65! “4
138111013. but I have set my heart on  It! “to d
“1.6 ball. There now. ‘ the murder“ out.’ " .

" 011. Marjorie "~'— her mother boat-n: but her bv
tended rebuke was cut short there. for her-Inaugugb
tempted her with goodibumored W; .

“Emma-i n, .. , .  so. .. . .m...‘

 

L

 

 



z ' runways! comm. and. dro
'   _ chair, till a hand'wi
 ifihisfaoe. pm
'3

 

18

'-, Ihnowsll' you are going to, say,de_er mammstand
{agree with every word at it; only'itis no use. I can’t
,p it. but I feel as I fancy a war-horse does when he
hears the souudof thstru’ni tscalling to the battle.
’I am out of myself, and unti this ball is over nobody
,niust meddle with ma. Don’t be afraid but I shall be-
have with .porfectdeoomm, only I must be the belle of
the ball.” ‘ .

"Bravo. Beauty 1 Let her alone, Mary; what’s the
harm of a little Vanity l Some folks have bigger inulls,
T warrant." spoke the indulgent old father, turning
from one woman to the other.

0!” course the would be the belle of the ball; none
of the young ladies of the county families could hold a
candle to her: why should she be ashamed to say out
'x‘hat'eVei-ybody knew was quite true 7 and he added,
enthusiastically. ' Hurrah for the bonniest lassie in the
country side. and a favored lJVUt to her before she is a
year older 1"

,", Amen 1" said Marjorie, pushing away her almost
untasted breakfast, and tying on her hat again by way
of covering those troublesoma blushes.

Such a s im. erect, lovely maiden she was just at that
moment! her cheeks and eyes alight with joyous ex-
citement—a smile hovering about her mouth and

bringing out the sweetest of dimples—her restless
little hands fldgeting with the large black cross that
hung at her side, according to a fashion of the day.

- ask a self-engrossed. pleasure-craving. earth-bound
hen, too’i her mother added. in her thoughts,
in a heartfelt h, and looking away from the
cum emblem w ich hadcaught her eye and sug-
r this after-thought.

_ ,1“ sh you would not wear that. dear. Playthings
 be she d in some other form, it seems to 1m,
we. in a our voice, laying a gentle hand on Majn's
j. and‘loohing into her face with a rather wistful
. which for the monient‘sobered the girl ’3 spirits.

_ The «one. emblem ‘of siblimo self-sacrifice, divine

Waco of material joys. what had she to do with
’1 . bgt  had it for her. whose heart
 ' with utter y selfish hopes and passions, and
shrunk with uhutterable terror from the very idea of
.002 being called upon to resign'its earthly Vanities. to
'11 its-1i“ with the cares and Joys of others by aged-
like sympathy, hard even to imagine 'I
" Hare, inannna. take it from me; I do not want it.
It frightensxno and I mean to be happy this one day
more, then h the world should be com ug ,toan end to-
morrow " orie sail. with a slight shiver. unfsst-
__ the c which haunt! the crees to her girdle ;
 un' fle.deiiant_aadne‘ssinher
‘ ‘ lodk. thoughgheflaughed when, htruck ly
  whether anything

 As, ., ,‘V‘ "1.. . t-
‘ “ chilling .Xary; lot the lactic be. ‘Why
ltl..i'lili‘.§.—- weir like pleases her‘ 1" the old man
rather teatily, startling them both. for they
‘ , him unobservant of of: colloquy.
' in; on her
his. and

,  e 'L‘ii'niy foolish, hind'oldmanl” she
"5i . in her caressing w; ‘;.and once

' , ' more
{windows 1mm Emil? mother’- faithful

      
 
 

 
 

 

   
 

. 4‘
14L.

v l3 t~ mil  -: ,eu" , 1., fl I .
are: ,  ma (nightclubs some.
tube . went assuming has wonderful eyes

.ql brother, with a glance, which made amends fbr

Mw'slout offenses. .f'Ie-inorrowl moratobegin

WWW—Murrumremember.” ,.

p

 it" said her fitlmmgsntly laying his hand on
.mmipflm'dt with ionduesatoo deep for words ;
 *you or me. little less, wrote. “Boast
“of the marrow, for thou hnowcat not what
ylbfllg forth :9! andhe sighed, oppressed by
' mm go which. occasionally too .
hold of him when Maj-a was specially bent on swaying
Mzwithontregardto iuiure consequences. ‘
no." oaoeari't- sighed the yomlady, pl W. rising
"rm-.wu  looking fipeahugEy from the one
7 eons starry-1‘ and is, is. my arsvbnllmndsl
u’ been living'on it for months. Why will you
Wln‘trylng frighten me i,” V , ., - I
r r mm sho‘ had her hopes ens founda-
“nonastand. and : thunorrow should .ilnd‘ her «sitting
 theirs-nine l Wait not within the,
or 56st! that Lord ‘Caatloton should fall to

E0130. 0" 00ml ’    her  lava 7
roam“ “mm as the so far swam”, tn“
  ‘.    
“‘3” ' ’ «trousers... a... ,2  I  \ A

  

'24.; should. one) v, ghis betrothed to‘
 just'n'owl“ Shag at info she knew
reason; her heart leaped up again the moi-sob-
midi-W.- 0’ Eh“ immunity ression. -.
«Wm-how _ , our lassle Very , mother,“
ea. 7 tohin her. as. busy ~tli the fore-
going‘thou )1 'sho stoofi by his chair drawing on her

my "Hrs. Bruce smiled and shook her head, h 'r

2 gas!» or reinvents use. whicn at once assumed
lubflghmw, ,   . .

qmzmlndeorgive you this time? M a laughed;

9me. 1- la?"  Wfioaro 011:5; to salts 91:9 tlie

' h; media .yaitorfl _"ro  go or a -

 likely see you aygain this torenoon. old dad

I know you? be among the curlers."

v 4" will Beauty: andaoinebody also on like
Length“ the sold manxnoausto be there. lotyme tell
a r » > .
 sufflohtbatt'? . ..W.8rchinghersysbrows‘,
and 7 as was at a loss.

a . . .
. -. . if. the: lll .brin all
, to: sag“ wedges! pens a

«zona‘iiiief‘éroéemx'wmoummm nor

‘ struck Hazlett

'I'sent the than swanwantin

’quizzical air.»

 

Jim T 1'" T'.v'g'iiiitl'dc"?sis' norm 

 her smiling eyes. but  nodded with an air '

of graceful assurance.

'.' And you like him better than me,Maja 7" uoth her
father, a little ruefully. stroking the little and she
had laid in his bread I m, and staring up at her.

" 0b, of course. , y, be is a young man. and annu-
married young man—how can I help it '1'" she laughed.

“ Why are mamma and you so anxious to get‘rid of
me 7” she added, regarding them both with a comical,
sidelong glance, which at was a little wistful.

" Ah, dear, you know otter. The sun may stop shin-
ing the day you leave the old man for geod and all. and
he'll never find it out. Isn’t that true, Mary '1" Mr.
Bruce said, with infinite pathos of look an 1 tone: and
Mrs. Bruce added a quiet protest in her gentlest man-
nor.

0! course the would miss her, and she them, the dear
old folk. who ad once sufllced to 11.1 that restless,
quick-beating heart of hers; only she would cling
very fondly to them all the days of her li.'e,
and pay them long arrears of respect and filial duty,
though she were twenty times a countess. Yes. and if
her anticipated cup of intoxicating joy were dashed
from her lips, she would hear it quietly. She would
let nobody- know, but, coming back to the door father
and mother, would pour out for them alone in a lite-
long adoring all the devotion of which her nature was
capable, all the love that was left in her sore heart—
that would be the cross which she would wear; and she
glanced with a sigh at the rejected ornament, now1y~
ingin her mother's Work-basket. above a heap of lien.
fie sdmeant for the aged cottar-iolk of the neighbor-

oo .

Only she must have today to herself, Just this one
{snore bright. exciting day, whatever the future might

ring. , -

She left homage ly as she had entered it. and was
soon back to the uxurious, distracting influences of
Torwood Rouse;

 

CHAPTER XVII.

- » mu camros's nusrns.
“Han ladyship is at breakfast in the morning-room,”

’Mu'jorie was told by the servant whom she encoun-

tered in the passage leading to that apartment; and
:nitheiir she hastened when sue had taken .06 her walk-
n th ngs. -'

e door was “381', and. pushing it softly open, she
entered,unnot by her friend. and pausing a mo-
ment to amuse herself byalook at this interior, so
straneg contrasting With that she had lately quitted.

A lofty, oak-panel edrooin. from whose walls quaint
old fain.ly vrtralts frowned orsmilod at the do”: of
the presen race: arow of tall,‘narrow windows ooh-
ing outon the lawn: elegantly simple. chintsacovered
furniture of modern date: lovely marble statuettee in
niches. and graceful grou of statuary on the floor.
relieved by masses of is ‘ ,, plants. and, flowers;
books and ornaments lyi  and there in leasant
disorder; sunshine sure in s‘o’tly’ about he fair
girlish figure seated «at a sin round table“ the 11
per end of the longroom; such was the coup d'm'l which

on tn mingled admiration and pity.

For. then b her urroundings, were  there
wasno'meth g inf the solitude of theyouth l 'arls-
tocratgwhose clinging nature seemed to make her spec-
ially unfit to stand alone in li’e.‘ How different the
loving home atmos here which Marjorie had breathed
ever since shecoul remember! which, it might be,
she would cease to breathe ere very long i, I

" You,“ last lazy bones l" her ladysh p cried, lifting
her e as andsoeing her. ’ .

i " on have not missed me. I hogs. dear Dolly," Mar-
orie'said ’sflection‘ately, going ard'to her: and
ady Dorothea,'quickly shutting the open novel with
which‘sheihad been engrossed. to the neglect of the
dwinty brea‘k'astztray'befom bent-toned good-humor-

edlyte her friend'e’apoloyles. I ' ' a v
“Yourcofl‘eo‘ is cold and your dry toast is tough.
you poor little Dolly! Let the ring for somebody to
{*9 on ‘ h‘ bredhiaat." Marjorie said, when her

i iriled Manifest down agdnl ‘

Lady orotlioa shook .hergellovhad in alarmed re-
fusal.- “omnomnioworl l"sheoaid.gulpingdown
a mouthful,“ lukswmn bones. “ It is nrypwn fault ;'
A g-‘to got peace toenjoy
1“; breakfast. and then Itook up this book and forgot
al ’llboutlt.”"r= t” i . _ ‘ - ' ' '

.....m.?Yon'ise4‘afnidi of your servants. aren't you, Ln"y

Dorothea l" questioned Mods, while shobuttereaa bu»,
of toast for w and she looked at her with a kindly.

" Awfullyflssid heriadysnip. succinctly. and without
seventigs ofa‘dmiie. A

~ You must give up“ being afraid of them. thonf'h :.
younnultisnub me when I for-st and call you Dolly ;.
and indeed {on must chan your funny way-:3

‘tlfnlis'n' . a.‘not if live to be as oldlu‘Mathn.
selah. Besides.’ she added, stretchin out scar-suing
hon lbnd layin it on’ Marlorie’s. " I li a you to call me
Dolly: nobody ut mamma does now. andsmnnxna not
often!" And she ended with a sigh. ' ‘

“'It will begl‘orlona on the-loch, the frost is so hard
and the air so clear. Do let us go aoon."aci.l Mar-
Jorie. Easting 'to change the tenor of his friend's
thong is. x r . ' -  -

“ lt won’tbo gfioriousjor mo, Maia. Youwill make
me skate.thoug on know I m frightened. and you
run away and to all scr‘s of nice amusing people,
and won t introduce then to me. I know how you did
last time.’ i ‘ ' ‘

"But I won'trun away this time. Lady Dorothea.
unless Justto have a peep at my father. who is to be
therecits-ling:l ‘ ' g ‘ ' -

“I wish mlumwastobo there i so he used touch,

'M‘aia, reggae 'I name bol” nn'e the'girl's blue eyes

lined M's g ‘iado this startling remark apropos of ‘JO

 

“.3th i" said Marjorie, the door opening just then
and Lady Castleton appearing. _

“ Come to my dressing-room for a few minutes. Mar-
jorie. You can come too, if you like. Dorothea."an
said, pausing on the threshold, and nodding a morning
salutation to both girls as they rose to their feet.

“ Finish your breakfast first, children," she added,
noticing the breakfast equlpage.

" We have finished, mamma ; that is, I don't want any
more. and Marjorie has not had any," Lady Lcrothea
explained, going towards her.

“A puzzling statement, like most of yours. Dolly,”
Lady Castleton remarked, with the slightly sarcastic
air which always frightened her simple little daughter ;
and Marjorie felt bound to interpose with a more lucid
explanation, which was graciously accepted.

Marjorie was one of the countess‘s few favorites, and
returned her flattering preference b anenthusisstio,
reverential attachment, ol‘whcse dept neither herlsdy-
ship nor anyone else had any just dea, for she was ex- ,
tremer shy in manifesting a feeling so unlikely to be
understood.

Only occasionally she forgot herself ; and this morn-
ing, when, having taken her to her dressing-room and
( pened a jewel-case lying on the table, her ladyship put
into her hands a magnificent set of rubies, requesting
her to accept of them as a mark of her friendship, also
looked up with eyes whirh wore almost worshippmg.

“ 0h, Lady Castleton. how good you are 1 How am I
to thank you 7" she said ; and its the countess, smiling
lindly, held out her hand, she hissed it with such a
pretty air of res ectlul affection that the lady's sad.
cynically incline heart wus deeply touched.

The two were standing side 1 y side, and Lady Doro~
thee, looking on at this little scene, was struck by its
picturesque grace. Lady Castletcih so tall and stately
in her sweeping black draperies, her exquisitely chis-
ellcd, pallid lace, glorified by its rare smile ; Marjorie,
so charming in let fresh. girlish beauty and pretty
humility, glancing up with tears in her dark es,
and a becoming rush of color warming her clear u-
nette complexion : a tall mirror reflectin their two
striking figures, set offby the apprc riots ackground
of the lofty. luxuriously furnished c amber; an open
door showing, in dim perspective, a sunny, china-cur-
taiued bedroom beyond.

“ Thank me by being very happy when you wear
them, child," said the countess. with a little sigh; and
Marjorie fancied that her thoughts had gone Luck With
longing to her own lair youth, when suo now stale and
tiring matters as balls aflorded delicious. intoxicating

oymen . ' ‘

hen, with a sharp pain. she wondered whether. if
Lady Castletou could read her heart, she would turn
away from her in anger and contempt. Lady Castletou
stood to accept Im- as a daughter in well‘born. wealthy
Miss Lisle’s place! The very idea was preposterous:
yet, if she knew herself, she would not marry Lord (Baa.
tlctou, unlcsawhz's mother would continue her friend.

" I hope you like them. llarjoriof,’ her lad pm
as Marjorie, with downch e es. thus tho t.. 4 r '

Lady Castleton was struc h! the look the girl's
face when. alter a moment‘s hesitation. o 'tnrned
her eyeato hers, heaving along  a ' with
sup resscd vehemence oi entreaty, I her vol ‘ ._ I _.

‘ ‘ ‘ Lady Castleton," she said._“l do ii a has,
they are most beautiful: but I wish youwoulg .g'g
givu them to nae—l don't deserve them. If you knew
me as I know myself you.w0uld not give theni tonic ;
you would throw them into the lire in preference.“ ’

"Oh, Maj: i” cried Lady Dorothea. who had  ‘
near to look at the set : and the rned to her moth

w. ith an air of d'r‘precafion, feclin' ' sure that she 
Bria déspleaseo by this unprec entail "folly or,”

.en 0‘. v . , ‘r,‘.i r “'1‘,

Lady Castleton was startled for d moment, modest
sheen, inquiring ween izer'yrotcge, whom; one! this
moment, she h _regarded as a more (light-1W
thoughtless child, not quite ‘ rent a" hit Delis.
then, perhaps, but quite‘aaincsptble of duplicity.  

Now, when the countess chose to study a‘ chha‘étir,
she was not easily blinded. "In that quick examination
of" Marjorie's face she got a glimpse‘ofyher 
which afforded her no little interest. " ‘- ~‘ ~ A

~ ., a‘scc ' doubtless ' of,
use. v.;....m.e.m.silm
her, andblanied herself. for leaving her in  of
it. She treasure olsll that ; now for ac'ons ma
what this secretcould be. ‘ She was not goingtoxgt m
Jorie leave lit-r until she arrived at some redeemable
conclusion. This poor chill, whom 11", .m m
epoiled‘so. must be helped out of whatever troubles
she had stumbled into. ' .  .l r
"Help this ineoxn rehensible little friend?“ mine
tofasten her rubies. oroihea. I want to see how they

will suit [unto-night." Lady Custleton saidth .

foot hindncll, mot sing-the two girls mud“ ifs
1:.irror, and seating herself a little aside.  she
couli watch Marjorie’s looks. ' _ '- u . 1
“Yea know? that-I thank you with all my heart;
Lady Castlcton.” the girl she was studying pleaded;
and her soul was in her dark eyes asshs'turn‘ed than;
on herfatre. '   ‘ ':
" Yes, Ihnow that, Marjorie." A ‘ ~ " ‘ . "
And, to the the utter amazement of Lady Doromi,
the usually murved,'5ststely lady beckoned 1.,
to ' her'with a‘gentle, gracious wave of-her fairieme
hand. and, drawing er'clole. kissed her boomin’
cheek with a half-shy tenderness whichwery my,
upset p‘ , self-accruing Maia. and made her» turn
'quic‘hly'to her waiting young friend. I ‘ 
Lad Cutleton had no liking ergo“; ,um gt
little {was communicated to her. “(bother 
ever had a real lover she did not know. She m Egg-d
youn Alton spoken ofas an admirer of hers ; 319' u.
miss that so pretty a damsel must have
conquests amen the ‘gentlemen farmers, to who“ jet
she pro erly ong . Mrs. Vesey had ‘ “in, *
by bistros bermpicionsof‘llr. Crawfad‘a ‘ ' ‘

 

 

 

 

 

0

swears savers norm.

 

 

tion. Was there anybody else likely to attract that
warm, girlisu heart? And then she thought of her
you, so handsome, gay, kindly-natured. careless about
consequences; and, asif by a flash of lightning, she
had a momentary glimpse of the danger to which
their imprudeuoe ad exposed this child. who had
grown. up in their midst. treated almost exactly like
an equal, and yet expected to remember that her lot
in after-life would 0. necessity be cast outside or their
aristocr l.th world.

She lelt convinced that Lord Castleton had not taken
advantage of Marjorie’s false position to ctl'er any lover‘
like attentions—she had never seen or heart of him
doing so: but he was imprudent, he liked iair aces:
it was possible that tie child had allowed hersel to
fall in love with him without his being more than a
little to blame : and if so, a gre it wrong had been done,
and it lay at the door of the Castleton family.

All these thoughts glanced through her brain in the
space of a few moments: then, angry with herself for
being unhappy upon purely hypothetical (round, she
resolved to banish her suspicions for the present, and,
mine saw need, pursue her investigation calmly by-

~by.

Meanwhile, there stood pretty Maja, the tears still
in her eyes: smiles and blushes struggling to drive
away that unwontedly earnest look which had sur-
l’rised toe countess; the rubies shining on her deli-
‘35‘8. brown—tinted throat, and ears, and wrists ; a stray
sunbeam playing amidst her soft, dark hair. Nine-
.Mill. and a beauty, and going to her firsthall—how
{lot-lad it would be to say anything depressingtoher

ayl
"Won’t she look like a princess. mammal Don't
she suit lots of jewels '1" cries stupid Lady Dorothea,
forgettin to be i'flghtcncd in her enthusiastic admir .-
tlou ; an Lady 0astleton surveys her with her melan-
choly smile of approbation.
"Won't she startle Lord Castletonl He has never
seen her wear an h jewels," blundering Dolly pro-
ceeded, still in ecstasy, and her mother looked sharply
at both gir 8.
Also for poor Marjorie! her color came with a rush,
and Lady Castleton s suspicions were confirmed. Lady
Dorothea looked, as she felt.pel'lectly innocent. At
least there was reason to be thankful that she had not
. made a confulante—poor foolish Dolly, whose turn
it woul [be to have love-troubles next.
"By-the-bye. I forgot to order the carriage to meet
him. Rin the bell in my boudoir and tell them to
send mum to the stables. Marjorie will come to you
directly, Dorothea," the countess said, a little sharply,
for she could not help beinglannoycd by t..is speech,
though, now she came to t ink of it, innocent Dolly
Molten before made and: remarks without it ever
Occurringto her tug harm cguld result from them.
She must h‘avebeen, coming, and it was more than
thus to open her eyes. _ _«
.f‘ And w at dreale “wickedness have you been
. mutant, ,rjorie liens ,lflkcd abruptly, though with
slam o of wistful frienddncss. .

A young girl's love—passionate, credulous. roman-
,tiq, utterly independent of such prosy matters as
reasonable inundations. for its exaggerated hopes-—

. had'not she known it well, too well for her heart’s

m 7. a -.
As she spoke she again beckoned Marjorie to her. and

' thegirlhadno choice but to obey her unconsciously

imperious gesture. I
y “I don't kno,w,,l am sure; Ihave trial to be good
.often—somctinies—Ledy Castleton," was-all the answer
also could make; but she looked» so sweetly ingeuuous
as she spoke, standing in front of Lady Castletou s
e V r. her cheeks crimsoncd and her eyes dropped, a
 otiq quiver about her mouth, that her air pleaded
her more strongly than-a speech of the most studied

spec could havcdone. v ,
c you from Dorothea. Run

1, I snail not keep

gray-mud enioy yourself. child'; it is not always May
, this 11 (1 world. Isuppose if you live long enough
.you will ad that out for yourself, it you have not done
so already." And once more her gas was one of kindly.
wait” boa h a ' '
. 1 , rie'a om save with a deep-drawn sigh.
:fliovtrled to speak. but could not and wor-ls.-so con-
fused was she by the tumultof thoughts thecountesa's
unprecedentedly tender manner aroused. .

_ length when you and it out, comets nie,Maia. if you
thinkgcando you any good. Ishall understand, at
 rataphild; and it is not every one who can under-
stand, you know." l, ;

Bel-glance, earnest, sympathetic. full of sad interest.
made her words perfectly intelligible to the girl,
whose heart went out towards her with an impulsive
yearning her own, gentle, calm mother's appeals had
never awakened. _, ' . ,

A;st'lli’.beautiiul countess, in, sweeping robes of
brick silk, with delicate lace, ruiiles about her throat
and wrists. seated in state in ‘a charmingly appointed
dressing-room, dispensing rubies and kind words with
thesalne melancho y graces. was a'speciec of divinity
to our poor Marjorie, who had more of the artistic
nature tnan'people’gave her credit for. ‘ -

“,‘When I am in trouble and want help to do what is
right I shall come. Lady Cutleton.” She said. dropping
.01: her knees and kissing: her hand ;,and there Wassuch
real reverence and gratitude in her upward glance that
her-indyship

motives inthus humbly, paying her homage.

Then. rial , and making a pretty obeisance with
“"13 Frenchggrace, she withdrew in an inward flutter

f

“we: and cars.
! Mister: certainly liked her, would certainly
“dams her temptations, and perhaps by-and-by
even come to look upon her marriage with Lord Outle-
“n-Mfihe. onlyneitural way of disposing of the dith-
cumu momma them ux.

If only Lord Oditleton still loved her and would tell
her sol But the evening would decide her fate.

   
 

could not suspect her‘of any interested

 

CHAPTER XVIII.

A SKATING SCENE.

Tun loch presented a very animated appearance, for
there had been little severe lrost that season. and
almost every lover of the roaring game whom the
neighborhood boasted had now turned out to enjoy the
rare treat ol a day on the ice.

Sturdy. red~.aced squires of the olden school min led
freely with the farmers and tradesmen ol the neigh or-
ing county town, who cnielly filled the ranks of the
curlers. 'l'he;r sons and daughters keptalittle aloof
item the Vulgar merrimeut which their elders loved,
and disported themselves alter their own fashion, skat‘
ing. flirting, chatting, and laughing in little coteriee,
formed of members of the same caste. The boys an 1
girls of the parish school, set free for a holiday, flew
one after another in noisy glee down long slides of
their own construction. A couple of hucksters ha.l
erected their stalls on the edge of the loch, and were
doing a brisk trade in biscuits and confectionery. A
few servants in gay liveries, in attendance on the car-
riage-folks present, lounged about. helping to give color
to the scene, upon which clear sunshine poured down.
brightening the tall dark tire that encircled the little
loch, and making its snow-sprinkled bosom sparkle
beautifully.

Timid Lady Dorothea would have liked to sit down
on its banks and Le a mere spectator oi‘ the gay-ety, but
to this proposal both Marjorie and the lit-.le aristocratic
circle, who speedily gathered round her ludyship.
ofl‘ red vehement Opposition.

She was fairly forced in‘o her skates and borne off.
altcrnately shrieking and laughing, between two agile,
good-natured. Eton lads, home for their Christmas
holidays.

"Come too. Maia!" she cried. casting a look of
entreaty behind her: but Maja. Boeing’hur safe among
a perfectlynncxceptionablc set of county folks, had
already darted on“ in an opposite direction, intending to
have a little independent tour of the loch an l are what
was sing on for herself. Nobody need beshockcd at
her oing t .at, she thought. so long as her lather was
closet at hand,and a party of friends within the range of
s g: .

So she skimmed away like a swallow, the keen air
and exercise making her checks flush and her eyes
sparkle underneath her coquettish black-fol t hat. placed
well back on her dark hair so as to set 01! her piquante,
Lrunette face to the best advantage.

“ There use old Bruce's daughter, the prettiest girl
in thep . h." -

" Yes. in the county, you ma safely say,” two young

bank clerks iron). D——-—. great dies in their ,way. re.
marked in code sacs fashion,” she passed them. and
their stare was one of lowest admiration.
- Then the wheeled about, and Marjorie. perceiving
their wish 0 keep in her neighborhood. darted off
towards the curlers, from whose quarter achcery noise
of applause and laughter was proceeding, a champion
player having just made some wonderful hit.

She liked those manly, simple, plain men. with their
exuberant spirits and hearty Scotch voiccs. and lin-
gered a little outside their ranks peeping at the game,
smilin interest in her face.

Old r. Alton, standing among the on~lookers. in-
tently watching the players, was startled by overhear-
ing a disparaging 1‘ mark follow her appearance. and

involuntarily ,withdrew his attention from the game to -
delightful homage in her baby day a. ' Asehegrow m.
others had been drawn~ within the" magic etrelorof liar

fix it on the speaker..a well-to-do young farmer of the
neighborhood. . .

' A wife of Miss Bruce's sort would give a man hard
work, watching! her," he said, coarsely, with a laugh,
and the friend e addressed, a youth or the same class,
responded in similar strain. . . '

" Ay', if there was a fine gentleman within a score
of miles distance. Sheiaadainty youuglaely. you see."

'“ if she was [modest one she wouldn't be such a
favorite as she is with some folks. what do you think i."
cheered the first speaker. whom Marjorie had mortally
ofl'snded by .a,.rebun‘. when. at one of the, very few

parties she had attended to please her parents, he had .

presumed to be over-gallant in his attentions. w

“ Well, his lordship is to be at the bull to-night, and
so is the beauty. We'll keep a lookout on them, young
man.” _ . .

And then. unable to react-in hunger. the kind, pure-
souled old man broke inon their tolerany loud-spoken
colloquy. _ V .

" For shame. lads!" he said. with a quiver of indig-
nation in his voice, and a spark of the old youthiul
fire in his eyes. “ Have yo no manner. work or play to
occu y your time, but must needs divert yourself
clan srin ’sninuoocnt young thing behind her back?
Let there'lie an end to this i " .

"I said no harm of her. It I did. I was only jok-

" Nothing butabitlof fun, Mr. Alton." the two of-
fenders said. rather frightened lest .nery Mr. Bruce
should be told the whole slol'Y-

" Men whohave had good mothers, and hope to have
good wives some day, should joke on very difl‘erent
subjects," the oldman answered. withan airof impress-
ive, rebuke; then he turned away from them, and, much
to their dismay, went up to the girl.

” John Alton's going, to marry her for certain.
You've put your foot in it finely this time, and 1 wish
I d been a mile away when you did it," the introducer
«of the conversation was told by his friend, and a quar-
rel spoiled tue remainder of their loreucon.

Marjorie liked old Mr. Alton, and greeted him with
her .riendliest smile as she shook hands, and inquired
after his health, which had been feeble of late.

" The weights of the clock are near run down. I'm
thinking. Miss no.” he answered, qualntly, a sober
smile passing over histhin. renned face. 81d he shook
his silvercd hood with a rather melancholy air.

" Ah, don't say that, Mr. Alton :" and the young girl
still held his hand, looking infinitely troubled.

sumcing his good sense of th . ‘ son
that she needs to guard apde
_'to him: he?“

:woul

“ I can't complain o' the clock. though ; it has one
its warranted time and a year over. John and me’ 'ept
my seventy-first birthday yesterday. my dear ;" and he
smiled the pathetic, patient smile of old age, though
he could not repress a sigh.

“Spring will wind it up again." said Maja, in her
hopeful way. nodding her pretty head at him.

" Maybe, little lady, maybe, spring such as you and
me have never seen," he answored, with-a sort of sad
humor; and then his son. who had been among the
curlers,‘came u .

" What are 3 on two talking about that you lock-so
solemn 'r" asked he, as he took Maja's oilered hand.

“About clocks,” was the girl's prompt reply: and
she looked up into the young man’s pleasant, dark face
very kindly, inwardly wondering, with a pang of com-
miseration. how he would hear the inevitable parting
with this most loved of fathers.

" Clocks!" he echoed, in surprise.

“ Ay, clocks, lad; old-.ashioned concerns that have
gone clean out 0' date, and should be taken down to
make room for some 0' the fine new workmanship o'
the day," old Alton said, locking affectionately at his
puzzled son; and. used to his father's quaint way of
expressing his thoughts, he got a glimmering of what
was in their minds, and shook his head in rebuking
fashion. '

“ I like old-fashioned things and people, Mr. Alton ;
the longer I live, I find out their value the more.” Miss
Mnja says. with her droll air of mingled wisdom and
cajolery : and Mr. Alton, senior. understands how it is
that Miss Bruce has already done such havoo among
the impressionable young male hearts of the neigh-
borhood.

"Don't you skate 7" she adds. turning to John Alton.
who is looking as much pleased as if she had compli-
mented himsell'

“ I used to. I have grown too old and heavy, sins!"
and he regards her slight, gracelul figure with tender
admiration.

"Tutu, tutsl nevu- mind him, Miss Bruce. He's a
more loddie yet. and as l ght on his i'ectas a two-year.
old, ’ the old man interpoaes hastily; and his anxiety
to correct any false impression the preceding speech
may have created is so easily interpreted that both
young people smile and look confused. '

"He is only too lazy. Mr. Alton. But to-uight, at
the ball. we can't let him be lazy. he must remem-
her."

“ No fears of him. ifyou'll look after his doings. Misc
Bruce," says the father, while the tall. stalwart young
man smiles in that queer, expressive way which Ms
understandsso yvell. . .

' It was'pleasant to have his tender, amused eyes rest
on her face. follow her movements. She skimmed away
presently to meet approaching Lady Dorothea and her
young’cavaliers, court of inner sunshine gladdening
liar spirit, the quiet, warm sunshine of his pure, steady

ove.

Somehow she had never seriously considered her
duty to this faithful lover. whom she had: summoned
back as a pleasant friend with whose acciety she could
not well dispense. ' ' ' “
‘. The girl waeJnameasurs. spoiled. Evsrstnce she
could remember, she had sat, metaphorically speaking.
upon a throne. from which she might dispense her
favor at her pleasure. sure of finding many grateful.
flatteringsuhiecta waiting at her feet. . -..

Her foolish, fond. father had been the first“ bring

ia<cinations,and she had impe tibiy poems a good-
humored de-zpot. strongl-y-inulin to a belief them“-
ters were merely in their normal state when her court
u as thronged. ' l ' ‘ r t

. Besides. John Alton was no wise. so atrou . no suit.

all“

not at all likely to make himself lass.
iuélydnnhappy because of her, lct he'r do what one

Old Alton felt bound tocommunicote to humans
conversation which had roused his wrath,- andflhjo
young man‘s face grew so stern that he was

had spoke

n. -
“You don’tthink she has given any-canoe aw Inch

ill-speaking, John,” he asked. with a shadovcof- misgiv-

ing in his tonc. ' » I

'- Father," exclaimed Hale's lover. in indignant re-
monstrance, " I thought you know Marjorie Bruce 1""

“ You may keep your-sell cocl,-lad.= To my thinking,
the laasie's heart is as pure as the anowlylng at our
ii at ;” and the old farmer glanccdrdown, a kindly. trust-
iul smile on his face.

" Thank you, lather ;” and theolonded brow cleared a
little. '

" Yo: looked so black, John, I «noted you mistrusted
her a t.” 1
John Alton looked black once more. but only for a
few moments; '

“ Yes. no doubt, and! felt blacker. I dare say; but I
was thinking of other to“ than that innocent little
woman, father." he said; forcing a smile. " I'd Just
like to be a heathen for a little space. father, and settle
that couple of miserable wretches in old-fashioned
style," headded. his brown cheek flushin ,and a rare,
angry light gleaming in his eyes, spite 0 his attempt
at maintaining a jesting manner; and regarding his
well-knit, tall. muscular figure, and resolute, dark lacs,
his father thought it was well for the two offenders that
he was only a heathen in momentary fits of “1801‘- '

-' I settled them for this time. John. Let's say no
more about it: there must be no qua-rolling on the
ball night, anyhow.”

“ I know that: but. father, it is hard to bear. This
isn't the first time slander like this has oomcto my one.
audit makes me mad. for I can do almost uctl to

 

crush it. I have no right to defend her—atleaetnomcro
right than any ordinary acquaintance. people think:

r 20

JIARJCARIE. "He‘ll-'4' :LOVEIIS.

 

 

._..._

et "-—- And here he broke- oli‘ his eager speech with a
sigh and forced himself to be outwardly quiet.
ashamed of his loss of selfoontrol; then father and
son returned to the busy spot they had quitted.
that they might talk without fear of being over-
heard.

“You bad girl i" cries Lady Dorothea,“ Marjorie
comes 'within ear-shot: "I have been lookin for you
everywhere. What did you mean by runn ng away
so?“ .

" I meant fun." says Maia. comprehensively. making
a droll little pirouette. which displays her skating
puwels, and excites the admiration of the two un-
i'ort‘unate lads to whom her young ladyship has
been clinging with the desperation of a helpless
coward. .

she smiles upon the boys as she speaks. looking
comically sympathetic, and there and then she adds
to her list of admirers a couple of new names, for they
both blush furiouin and lose the proper use of their
tongues,which have been going glibly enough when
only Lady Dorothea was by. .

“ Let us all try arace. do! it will be good fun. Let
,go for a minute, there's a dear l" Maia says, caiolingly;
and. with a giggling little scream, her la lyship releases
the firmlygraspei hands of her youthful cavaliers. and
the three dart oil' Marjorie keeping the lead. while
Lady Dorothea pursues them in momentary expecta-
tion of a tumble.

“ Catch-me if you can i" Mala presently cries, throw-
ing a bright glante over her shoulder as she skims
away, towards the quietest put of the loch. and
her gay laugh echoes through the frosty an very
pleasantly.

Lady Castleton. who has walked down to the loch to
have a look at what is going on. recognizes the fresh

onng voice, as she stands leaning on the fence which
.nterposes between her woodland walk and this

it ofwthe sheet oi‘ water, and sighs softly to
filler.

" Poor child !” she murmurs, as her eyes rest on the
. y. dartingrgirlish figure which wheels about again
, V meet its pursuers; “ there was never acountess hazl

fggcha laugh as that:" and than, without lingering to
“charlie greetings with anybody, she moves away
along t e ionelyilr-bordered path which leads to the
mansion:

CHAPTER xxx. ,

m DRESSING FOB was man.

Hm anhour (more, an] it will be time to dress
for the bill—the hall where she is to meet him
again. after all these slow weeks in which she has lived
in anticipation oi the glorious life that is to begin

now.

Me has her pretty bed-room all to herself. and goes
wanderinubout in a restless flutter of joyous ex-
oimnent. dark h nir streaming over the white dress-
ef-gown she had hastily thrown on. her eyes shinin

th arare'love-light. her soft. rounded cheeks tint
with warm. delicate bloom. a smile hovering about

In mot mouth and bringing out an occasional v

' There are a couple of candles on the toilet-table.
.bnt thdr dim ht is swallowed up in‘ the lorious,
dancing fire-ligh . which fills the room. or rat or that
supper partof it round the hearth where the girl's
“dressing paraphernalia have been clustered: dark
.musop beyond.and a droll. fantastic. shadow ae-
eompanles that mining figure. weirdly mimicking its
graceful. varying movements.
Che stops to survey her retty ball-dress lying in
on the bod. and her h on one side, like a medi-
tative robin. coalures up a picture of herseli'in it: she
harm their dainty satin-lined caso.ths
. handling ic‘h'is a pleasure. and. putting them
on. stands before the mirror, softly s ng to her own
 Jugs-redacted from its dim depths: she does
mtg, foolish things without end—stretching forth
. «Mam-Ira)! to admire the glowing jewels
,that clasp her-wl'ianklng her dark-“haired little
he“ inniokodlendrooping ear-rings sparkle—making
‘ , sweeping oonrtesies. such as her Parisian
, master used to praise in her already far-away

Iv . 3' v .
Then the reocllectioiia 0th:llflt iigmhizsfionsly divert-
personagesetshor us moon I on,,sfor Lad

“‘8 hoe. or somebody who has knoWn him squall;
well. to loin;th in a merry chat over his peculiarities.
and. failing thisresonrco. gives vent. to her spirits by
.whirling swillly round the flrolit chamber in'a waltz
step. si'n rig to herself in that full. warbling. soprano
voice in: istho‘ouvy of half the young ladies in‘ the
neighborhood.

« and; save us. is the bairn crazy i" an amazed, ruff
voice from the doorway suddenly cries out'as in“

is making-her second tour’of the apartmentand,
loo round, she sees old Boll holding up her hands
and shakingher whitecapped head. .

- lm era-w in" the pretty maid sings on. an.
ishin her dance for Bell's benefit; then she makes a
won£rfnl, prolonged courtesy. anl drops into a chair
with a long-drawn sigh oi? exhaustion.

“ Dear old Boll l'.’ . she says next. sinking back on her
“Maud holding out a caressing hand to the ol.l wo-
man, who has comeforwsrd to her side. and she smiles
upon her rather sadly. " Were you over very. very hap-

..Bell. long ago. you know, when you were a lassie ?

mo. liken dear auld wife, as you are.”
I've been as bi a fule as my neebors. Miss
i it:“ and Bell returns
smile with one of rather sad fondness.

i

~ "Ant did it last. Bell. your happiness i" more softly,‘

and with animpressible shadow of fear in her tone. '
:Ball drew along breath. but made no other answer.
.dths lwont on in asort oi whisper:

,, )

 

“ That sort of happiness can't last, I think. Bell. or
there wouldn’t be any need oi heaven for some folk."

" Whist. bairn ! whist l Ye're eneuch to bring down
a Judgment on your heid l" Bell sighed, giving an
eerie glance round her into the shadowy part of the
room, and Male felt indeflnably i'ri htened.

“ Oh. don't, Bell l" she plead , sitting up in her
chair and fixing her eyes on the rugged, kind lam; look-
ing down at her. "I didn’t mean any harm.and it
can't be a sin just to be awiully happy."

“ Na, na, Miss Mala: if ye’ve fund your hap-
piness i' the richt road, it's na sin, I'll warrant,"
Bell answered. gravely; then, glancing round on the
evening—dress array which covered the bed. her heart
smote her for saying anything that might damp the
child’s leng-looked-forward—to enjo men is.

" Let me see your brews. Kinny, ' she said, smiling ;
and. glad to banish the thoughts the old body’s words
had awakened, Majajumped up and began exhibiting
her treasures. ‘

“ And wha are the sweethearts that are to be there.
Miss Marjorie? Ye Were na practisin' your steps to
dance your lane the nicht.” quoth Bell, with a know-.
hag nod, and a keen look at the damsel whose love
a size she had never‘yet rightly been able to under-
stan .

Marjorie‘s cheeks had an extra tinge of pink as she
answered, with a little laugh and toss of her head.

“ Don t speak about sweethearts. Bell : you’ll bring a
judgment on us next ; I wonder at an 01.1 woman like
you even naming the word I"

Then, wonderfully tickled by this display of wit,
Bell burst into a hearty laugh, while the girl stared at
her in diverted surprisn.

Wittici~ms such as Miss Bruce and her father occa-
sionally uttered when conversing with her, were, in her
opinion, w. ll entitled to the reward of her heart ap.
preciation‘. and a prolonged cachinnatory couv sion
followed this sally. . ‘

“ Hush !" Majs interposed, rising and hurrying to the
window. " That sounds like a carriage stopping at the
gate." ‘

Wiping her eyes on her apron, Bell followed her to
her post of observation.

It was a moonlight evening, and the road which
wound by the farm-house was easily distinguishable.

Drawn up at the low gate stood a carrifie and pair——
the Castleton carriage, as Maia perceived th a sudden
thrill of mingled hope and‘iear.

"Gude preserve us l" Bell began. but the girl stopped
her with an 9 er "Hushi" and watched in feverish
anxiety two wel wrapped-up female figures step out of
the vehicle. the solitary i‘ootman helping them to
alight. and preceding them to the hall-door, whose bell
presently vibrated beneath his dignified pull.

“ I'm sure it's. Lady Dorothea and her-maid - but run
down and see. Bell, and ask if there's any y else in
the carriage: I'll be down directly. but I'll waithere
till you come back," Maia ea erly directed, still watch-
ing the carriage with a lur ing hope of seein Lord
Castl .tou pop out next ; and, grumbling a lit is at
" beln' driven aboot for a wheen idle; attavaigin‘ gen-
trryi," the old woman left the room to carry out her
0 er. ~ ' ‘ '

Directly after, the girl's throbbing heart was calmed
a little by the sight of the carriage moving 03'. the
footman having retaken his post upon it. ~

Evidentl no earl was there—how could she have
dreamed such a gossibility, and he newly arrived.
and bound ior the all 'so soon ? For better that she
should see him there,when she was looking her pret-
tiest in her lovely tail—dress and jewels.

There came the sound of footsteps and voices outside
her chamber door. and she hurried to open it and learn
what was going on. ‘

" I have come todross your hair. if you will allow me,
Miss Bruce."

“I’ve brochtfiye a leddy barber. Miss M orie," the
applicants for mission. old Bell and Lady rothea's
maid, Jackson. simultaneously explained; and the girl
isughsdpnd bade them come in._ V

°' That is so very kind of you: thank you very much.“
she said. putting out that kind. ready little hand ‘ of
hers with a friendly grace. and bestowing sswoet’smiie
on the stranger. I g ' '

Jackson. a charmyed; middle-aged little English-
woman. of quiet. ided bearing, whose chief ,weak-
ness was a strango’fondne‘ss for the, odd little lady she
was constantly summing, was mightily pleased. and,
coming into the room. began to arrange the toilet para-
phernalia. while Bell leoked on rather eulousl' 

" I‘ve seen the dsyl could ha' buck Miss ais my-
sel', but-it’s nonoo. Fashion-l ha’ altered. an' l'rn ower
aulda dong to learn new tricks. soI'll awe an' 434; my
tea." shsc presently said. with a sigh: and gi :1 her

outhi‘ul mistress a last fond look. she trotted all, ar-

e promising to call'her when she was fully dressed
for the ball. I 4

“Lady Dorothea is getting a on of tea from Mrs.
Bruce; she will come u directly. lease let me begin
at once, in case we shou d be late." Jackson said. as the
young lady would have run away to greet her distin-
guished visitor; and feeling bound to vs no more
trouble than she'could help, Marjorie sea d herself in
her appointed’chsir before the mirror. and let her at-
tendant brush out her luxuriant. dark- hair, affably
chatting to her the while. though at he‘irt she was
burning to hear all the news of Lord Castleton's ar-
‘ri/val - '

When her i uacious'ladyship appeared she would
speedily have a eiailel account of the whole afternoon’s
per’ormanceO; till then she would not mention his
name.

“ nd what ater shall I dress it in. Miss Bruce?"
Jackson presently questioned. pausing in her vigorous
'brushin . ' '

." Ah, t is a solemn subject: let me see. now:" and
she went into a brown study for a full minute. during

which her companion hadlemim to admire the grace-

ful More, and think that so charmin a dunscl was
seldom found out of the aristocratic wor d.

“White silk and tulle—scarlet geranium-Jet me
Boo." Jackson mutter-s. meditatively, glancing at the
bed where the iinery lies; then Lady Dorothea rushes
in, and there is a general disturbance.

“ 0h. Maia 1" she says, running up to her and taking
hold of her hand, “is it not toobad of him, after I have
looked forward to his visit so i"

" Too bad of who '3" says Marjorie. forgetting her
grammar in the pang of terror which lady Dorothea‘s
speech strikes through her heart.

" Why, of Lord Castleton, to be sure, Maia, you stu-
pid ! Don't you know he has not come, and isn't oom-
iug?" And then MuJa's heart stops beating. the two
human beings beside her become shadowy shapes, the
fire-lit, familiar room swims around her, and the wurid
seems to come to an end. v

This is how she ieels, as, her hand still in Lady Doro-
thea‘s, she stands motionless in front of the mirror in
which Jackson. who is on her feet in the background;
can survey the two girls.

Lady Dorothea's glance has fallen on the ball-dress.
and, unnoticing as she is, her attention is diverted be-
fore she had time to discover Marjorie's startlin
change of expression; but the maid perceives it. an
is struck with pity.

“ How pretty your dress looks. Maia! flow that
geranium will suit you i 0h. 1 wish i was going too!"
and her ladyship trips away to amuse herself with an
examination ofeverything her happy friend is to wear.

“ Would you mind sitting down and letting metFo
on with your hair, Miss Bruce '3" says Jacksonpgen y.
a.ter there has been a momentary uuse. in which the
color has gone on fading from the elicately blooming.
youthful face.

To Marjorie her voice sounds : e if it came from some
great way off. She turns her head a little round and
fixes'her eyes on her concerned. frightened face with a
peculiar. air of agonized interrogation. and her lips
move without a sound escaping them.

“ What a deal you 11 have to tell me tomorrow-
won’t you Marjorie 7" Lady Dorothea chatters- on.
wheelin round now. and Jackson comes to the rescue
with no ittle address. ‘ i

“ If your ladyshfp is goin to keep interrupting in
this way. Miss Bruce's hu r will never be done, in
time: would your iadyship please to get a book or
something and leave us alone -for a little '1" she‘- Hays.
rather imperiously: and. as disma ed Lady Dorothba
stares 'at her, she leans forwar and whisperii to
Marjorie with a soft touch of her sleeve. " Would "you
like ,a lass of water? Do you feel thint 1 Bit Wu.
andl'l attend to you directly." ~  -

Marjorie understands it a l by this time“. and sit.
down,drawin a long breathandlhutting her eyes for
a moment. er heart had resumed its booting. though
with Mini! pain which she has never known before:
the room has ceased toswir’n—sho sees both their ,i’aocs‘
quite clearly when she presently icon: I the world
has beau!) its weary course again. and a must be.
have“ '0 other e. A . . ,

"Thank you, a n all right. Jackson: lotuslgo' do
now," she says. after a little feeling for her voice. which
has got lost somehow in that hy-psst. whirl of be poor
head, and she forties out an afllrmative reply to the
hitherto neglected question of her ladyship. ‘

"Yes.adeal to tell.of course," she says. with as.
other long sigh.

she has heard of sufferers at the stake whoboro their
awful tortures with shut lips and brave. calm faces; .
she is at her stake now, and she will not flinch. Was
not the fire of her own kindling. after all i a

" Sit down and be quiet. Indy Dorothea. See. Jack-
son is going to make a wondeer coronet out “this
dark name:" and she turned her head overhersboulflr
and smiled. though her smile was not quite a sitcoms,
the woman fancied. ‘ ‘ ‘

“ A coronet l" Lad Dorothea repeated. thoughtfully.
wondering whether his at is would suit her. and a
hateful rush of color like a wave over Msfiorle‘s
lace and neck. leaving her very white indeed. out
moment. 0 , _ V , l ‘ y, ‘
" “Why. how pale you are.deari ,Look'at her, dick»
soul“ her lsdyshi cried out. taking her hand. “and
1her handvis‘asvchil as a Istatne's." 8119' added, in in-
creased comm. '

So, after all, they were going to and out her .60..
and she would have people pityiug her, and‘petfl her
and wondering over her folly. Not if she could p
it. anyhow. , e

"I do believe I wart a cup of tea: I was too excited
to eat mydinncr. But it is too bad to hinder you.
Jackaon.’ -

“Oh, Jackson, is very good : she won't mind.“ Ind
Dorothea in . coaxingly; and that wissi -
vidual. allowing herself to ap completely W.
winked. went away down stairs 3: send up there, of
tea Mus begged for. ‘ ‘

" And why is he not coming 7” Mariorfi asked. with
a startling abruptness, when the iris were loit fiche.

" Oh yes! By-the-by. I had on y-bogun to tell
well "—and she drew a stool to her questioner‘s clan
and sat down on it-—“ it seems he had written
mamma ten days ago. telling her that he had changed
his mind and was not coming home. and the letter had
‘gcne wandering somehow. and only arrived when the
carriage was just going oil to meet the London train he
always comes by: and now he actually is not going to
comeuntil' Nessie is coming, and than they are to have
a quiet Lent marri 0 directly after: and cum
wanting them to will till Easter. when I shall come.
canyon know; Oh. is it not too bad 0‘! them!” and she
lifted her head and stared up into Marjorie's no“ assh-
ing sympathy with her woes. ‘ ' ' “ '

«cs first qua gut 

on:
a;

 

k 7 . I! .
took up hex-role wi‘li a norm stupid uq
"yesyof douse, poorl r Dolly,“ she said , with u Iona. ‘

UWORIE 38170859 1.07388.

n1.

 

 

 snilrthen Jockson came in with 5 little troy; and
Male changed the subject in haste.
f‘ Why, how late it is 1" she exclaimed; " six o'clock "-

firming, st her watch—“sud we are to leave here at
i' ‘ t' seven  ' , '
. u on hsppy girl!” sighs Lady Dorothea; and Jackson,

who is lust putting the cup of tee into Marjorie s
bonds. sees that her words send‘n shiver through the
poor child’s whole irsme. ' ' ‘ . ‘

Quite unconscious of the rebuking glances which her
molds is dartinggtowsrds her, her young lsdyship re-
turns to the discussion of her brother‘s enormities.

" By-the-hy. “his. he actually says it is possible they
msy get msnjied [there at Mentone, at the English
Consulate. or some piece of the sort. estine does
not care how quietly it goes oil—the marriage, 'I mean»-
only. Mrs. Vesey so {or it to be in London. he
thinks it more 1 lier it. will be there, after all.” . ‘

" Little pitchers have long ears, your lsdyahip,” the
clever. kind-hearted waiting-mold ‘ssys. tappiu her
own ears significantly, as she stands behind M orie's

She takes all sorts of liberties with her mistress when
nobody of consequence is by; when in public, she is her
RIO-t  land taciturn attendant.

" You ow you never tell what you overhear me
“7. you queer women ;" and the yellow head is nodded
8 ohulnorsdl '

4 , 1.. .

“1 km if i did your lsdyship would never be out

of trouble," the kind soul adds. divided between a

longing to shake her hopelessly obtuse mistress, and

an equally strong longing to send that proudepirlted,

“3811a Mas-50 exit-nee sway. to hove out a good.
hearty cornering in solitude.

Possessed by 3 strong suspicion. that the earl and
Miss Bruce had wn tender of each other than the
«or I . s had, ant of a. species of with -
ness . h s new gres y regrstt delayed commu-

nicltln to the radiant young lady e disappointl
news oihis lordship's non-arrival; only, as 5% young
have foreseen, thst Lolly Dorot see might run 11
fling itot her head in her Wonted blunderin lesbian.
0t course his coming or eta lug ought to nothing
talks Bruce. oi Torwood -, he was as good as
merrier] Already. besides being on esrl. and as {or above
herssthesun issbovesdslsythot lsmgbsup at him
from urth's green is . Only girls. w be girls. end

Almoould not help sorry for the foolish child,
If in nobody seemed to hove tried to keep outof
tempt-tics. ~

As she went on srrsngiug the soft, dork tresses. she
method with itying admiration the dos rate emu-ts
to sppesr like erselt' which the youugl y mode, and
marveled over the dense stu idity of shuttering Lolly
Dorothsn, who. refusing to t e on‘ense st her attempts
to manner, fit ups'quiet flow oi" smell-talk. utterly
auspicious anything being miss. ‘

An . _ active consciousne's of her sttendsnt's pity
nerved , srjoris to best Q undoi- the trying ordeal of
 toilet-making. :A slightly heightened , comL
ple'non. s lmore thout Wanted swinging light in her
ey, orgst‘essness o'. motion. are con 3 m toms
dfiwsrd diggurbsnhg she manifests. y i p

N on, A AW ,ofthot hiddeupoinl he still
 won a .el’t consciousness that she was beE
tug m punts tor the deceit and selfishness she
had reuniting? ‘ root in her heart. " ‘

Xegogenw is owned that her punishment was
imposes shrunk...  positive renususnce mm' the
path ol‘d‘sty conscience pointed out so ‘pleinly'now—-—
tMM‘utm to sleep 0, straightforward ways! the
self-renuncisthn im led in taking up such is life as
otherwhiuha ,, fell into sonstursllynhsbsnl’shL
ms?” t 7 hjtnonneciedwith lord Costleton.

 , , [mediatedolterherflrotstnpefsction
  incl norved herselth outwsrd‘oom‘~f
Without basstrong effort. she drove sws’ynthese.
though:  determinedlr,mndered lie"  of
«non;  . .,  ' ‘1‘:',-"

 eyeswould‘be upon her; it me. her rst
purl ind she knew well such hills fshe
Minot seem to: e ,W with '1! tie votive.
Men who had or _ eerl at new:
“33“ _ . V _ A»  éosion‘on

I .5331 the out: absence. she would,
be , , which would be even more intolerable. J
 as??? {gnome . If she

..  !.-l_ .0“ my . ’
“rationalize-ma: the fishnet—hearted. s. ,in the
v -m , . .. not W09 John Altos; should
«summon: ins.“ ; “dumbest-star
autumn;  with evens}; brilllomy. I

A minutes): two inter she was in the palm-Vulture,
her-Wood John" unionist in Mandi: converse

e..- \ Jae mourn. hssussping es ofwhite

tulle. are!!! e W l‘ the cluster
oi‘sm'let gemium in and the towel: thst
» donuts :throst endemic. her-cheeks

 

I her out heir
hot

and” Agustin . ‘ ~
meson ‘r’oho askedwith‘s

 little hush
wilenmnded unlike her own. “ om saddled and

 only  thersos : you remember out-old
films. :' out then there was metros-dimmed.
her :1 r her about. and her “that went into

  
 
 
 
 
    

 

gnu-seems... . ~
7  ‘ other day she was s
' 2' .mmrownsthtng, with: string o-oorsl.

 r M onsl- o' red-hose no.

. ed lifetime.

baby. m2, tiring

 

 

time. and he could see that. when her tether thus spoke.
her it gave a sudden little quiver, and her e es tilled.

" g darling, my beautiiul, . pure-soul din-ling.
whom nobody Want me understands l" he and in his
heart, a great rushing, wave of tender longing sweeping
over it, and his eyes. bent on her face with a halfuncom
scious gravity.th up as they never did when they
looked upon any other woman.

Muir. had time to perceive that eloquent glance, and
’to feel vaguely comiorted by it, ere she wheeled round
to her {other with a. smile of reassuring aflection.

" They havebeen pleasant years. old dad ; I'd like to
go back to my baby days very well," she says, in rather
a wistful way. as she comes up behind his chair and
puts herpretty burs arms round his neck.

“ I had you all to myself then, and you were content;
no dreams of sweethearts and white silks and jewels.
and such-like vanities ever troubled your wee noddlo, '
half whispered the old men, sighing and regarding her
fondly, his head thrown back tomeet the lhir lace bent
over him. ' r ' -

It was true, and a. passionate yearning for the lost
peace and simplicity psinod’ her restless heart, though
she ansWered lightly. addressing herself to the others,
because she could not trust herself to keep calm it hei‘
{other went on with his tender reminiscences.

" Who would think that this melsnchol old gentle—
man was on the eve of setting out for s l I wish
{on would pull him up, msmms; he is uite o wet

lsuket to my s rite. and it isn’t fnir of m ;" then.
with] porting. ond look. she swept away to rchin her

’lsdyship in the upper chamber and be .loslied for her

drive to D—.

Mrs. Bruce had no liking for bulls, and had thank-
fully made over the clingy-Image of her pretty don hter
to rs. Stirling. oi’ the ollow, the wife of the ! oi
Torwood estste, s middle-aged lady. with bell-sttending
gropensitles, and no daughters of her own to exhibit.

Ir. Bruce could not resist his longing to see Milliorle‘s
triumph, and so was going to accompany her.

" Though I go, it's only to please the lsssie, ye hen.
\isry," he said, when. Marjorie hsvi gone, the con-
versation turned upon this ball. " dsys
are done.’ ‘ -

" Mine have never begun." John Alton remnrked. with
s smothered s h. ‘snd the color rose to his dark face so
he smiled and t his eyes hill to the carpet.

" I hope you will enjoy yourself, in s lie of that. Mr.
John,“ spoke Mrs. Bruce. looking kin y troubled. end
her husband chimed in with s. similar speech.

They both knew very well that his going woe the re-
sult oi Miss Mind's pleadings. .

" Ah. do coins. It is in first bull. and I want every—
body! like tohe there; , if only to lease me!" she
hid sold coeds thsychsuced "to be done for a
little. and be h represented the uselessnc‘ss of 3 non-
dsncin individual ottsndiug a. ball. aid there end then

succumbed to her percussive powers. h
swore in hisliesrtthst the evening would be st :13
one for him. who loved hor’so dearly. yet wool he

forced. to see her hyishing her recious smiles, her
pretty grsoes. on s score of men w o cured {or nothing
, ut her beauty. .
' “ You see. wife. Msjs does not seem the least put
about because the earl isn’t to be there. If her heart
was ever smitten, it is cured already," Mr. Bruce said
tohis wife, when they were alone in_ their own room.
nd shewos tying his neckttie' for him. with s pleasant.
'ijndly smile “on her comely face. ‘ v
* Mrs._8rucc. who had heard of the rl'ssuddenv'pele-
ness from Jsctson. felt doubtful wv her this Insertion
was not overrconildent. but she would not trouble him!
with useleiis misgivings: ' ’ . u i  -~ 3‘ I .. r
' ". Now you i it quite smart. hther," she said. with;
cheerful nodi'nnd smile. which served as on ussnt to
=' "' altos  1'" he “lied, 7' in his» old-
ssbione’d way: 1nd he made her show such u'gsntls-

en ware trained, to trifle in his youngjdsys. m.

“*t“i€§“¥.“*‘l‘.l:‘ e... — e; '3
“u s D. give. I, gu' V, ’ ou-
tsttQfi-bolalwuii Msmmidmw: r Merely
sprig aghasth. which Indy-Dorsal» liodcullsd expuls-
.Vfortourpose,., [I  , A ,

?Y“Bbr'1‘u£}‘e ‘ fiysno’neofthe yoer more! this
sgexnowhow nuke such bows. sn sheila-to

mention on thot very recount; so- 14mins your log
manners herein; be turned your rem. gunman. '
shs'went on, us We trashed in the newer sold the
laugh ‘which this 3:23 penetrated 
climber across-the lobby); m on: 
sigh Ilth stood borers, runs-wreaking o >
othergnoelulsell. ': :  .. : .- p v

" When I are old like them I shall haveiorgoltton how
to lsugh.“ she thought. bitterly. ;» and then the sounds
of s frowning wisdom-do her consent-rote all her
{soul tea on the present evening’s ooc lion. ,

Forsteth morsshewouldbs firm-is Bruce -
2r 3”“ “We tr Wish: “of

e mgr , In; I it re 0 w .

y Wmlg lory in her beauty's crown

only this 0:106 morag t“attains-row gormtho om u
uses petonoo. or ingupo MW
burdeusshehsdlettotherpeoplstoosrry during this
Joyous. bywost sesson of girlhood. . ,

m m5” an M11.
~‘1Won’r yoursit theuext. mite? You as

 

.w 
me 4 the "do flout
“so?” .WI,‘.. . Y

   

he!  3’ H .y‘ I i  , . 4 _
pnfiuaounsimwn eroom’gr‘iiér'ohthe‘nsne‘tz.‘ -

, out. not" debs was ‘ sud
o   her ‘7,
' udi’hmil’eotinsént’. 

 

where she sits in doweger state. watching the gsy.
whirling scene which the ' Assembly Rooms pro
sent, “ you will dance yourseli into :- fever. Such spark-
ling eyes, such glowing cheeks drsody. and the even
ing not belt spent l" .

“ You ought to have brought her back toms by force
before this. osptnin." the matron odds. with another
reprouchi'ul heed-shake. and she u turns her hooli-
nosed. dork, airtime face to the . who steeds
in‘i'ront of his late partner, guarding til‘ other sdniirers.
psi-tic“ srly the Solemn-eyed, l abomdereil no—
body, who is hanging ’ about, with such 0001 persist-
ence. . ,

The captain and a few other oficers. whose regiment
chanced to be then quartered st the barracks. are the
only iollowers of More present. and has been the
rivslry among the young ladies for thosocuring oi‘ part.
nors so efiec ve in dress and bearing, a well as so in-
teresting through the mystery 01 their antecedents.

The captain stares rather boldly at In)... sitting »
fanning herself. and looking at John Alton, who stands
a little aside. apparently watching the dancers take
their places tor the waltz which the regimental bond is
now striking up.

" Do you know whet song Mrs. Btlrli ’s minus.
tion suggested to my timings. Miss Bruce '~ And the
drsgoon‘ lowers his voice, looks .

" No. ofcourse Idon't; I am not a witch. ' the young
lady retorts. a little pettishly, ior she wsnts him to go
away and let her speak to her hitherto neglected friend.
whom she has tempted tram the l contort at
Torwood Downs to the nuoongeniol whirl of 0-»;
Assembly Rooms. '

" All i I'm not sure of that." the gentlemen roulette.
fondling his fair mustache. and throwing outhlnbnocd
chest as he hooves I. prodigious sigh; “Within that
came into my heed—by-tho—woy. do you 12W
German. Mrs. Stirling 7" And he wheelshis bend over
his shoulder to look scrutinizlngly into. tint My“

face. .

" Not o word," she laughs. " You moy propose in
thegisngusge, it’ you like. end I shell be none the wiser.
cap n.” A

“ He, he. that is capitol! Ain’t“ now, It“ Bruce?“
the dragoon says. fox-g to look ssntimentnl in his
spprecistion oithtsjoho. e hsd.tho bland 0!
being very easily tickled. Harlot-is thought. sad
rather contemptuous“. willing to change
she asked. “ Do you sing Ger-men songs 1M1, new
3 low of them." . ’ . v

" l delight in them. sud this is one o! n Merit-u"
and keeping his bold gaze on her Mo. , W.
withno «fervor-in his tone” ~

" no host Dismenten und Potion.
[lest sites was Mensclien begshr. - .
Und host die whensten Au :1.
Mela Llebchen. was will» u nooh moist!

" Hit oelnen schonen Amen

Bust do wish geq'tlalet in sehr.

Uri bust mleh ru Grunt geriehtet. ‘ r _
“Me n mebchen, was willst do loch mohrt" . 

and hehummed the refrsim oping withWtithh

dangling sword, and looking lov a human : i
u s it not a pretty thing. ummr’.

hotter than ever on John elitism:

-
(D

 

Moss’s cheeks grow
whom she has summoned to her sideby channelling

ssture. looks It her in snort and assu- '
fixes his eyes on the musicsldrsgoon. u 2  i;   -, 
-' idon’t think itispretty “firm We“

;:i~‘

her admirer stores in 3 non» uncanny.»
A remnant after. she is  

W« gets his next-

round the bsllroom‘ in s s p

glow, her eyes shining with the

meet. her-pretty-dork  to

s ’ ' boulder ‘ ' .- 

a. V I ~.: , , fl; . ,z-u'fluf 4,,

.Il to 
bssigsé - i -» x  in:
. « programme was “rm 
and I Wt gotm-Iitmnh

“302M? out: the
pinion . t x . .
“he ' not

  
 

wt.

none tots-ssh. like most 
nun-sum '
8 W31! like a 1st o“ »&m
i e >,. : . i. ram .2, 2‘ why L’s; . .
.3 my..." m r  mum-rs
on ‘ 1*.” t'
we: to Woo 
magstummum a‘  .. L’l'fiallfifithi w.
or am, . uh“;
with jolly magi-gnu; "but   *
bringio‘ c you. mm M’ Mounted-unzmomnmt ‘
more by ocean: than '53..th-
wlsdom o" Solomon; "; sad the  
mall’s“ :in uni- Lu“ 5.. n   
roomoftho ’  m:
y “It?” the gloom o! 
merry. ' > n » I
he hos ed int percent, soul ;
light. sud whorls-tint deer-oith .ho
had otnrtledout on nonmaling ltin thaw.
by the story tho sheen .~ “antihistamine:
gem-husbsgghllmw. .- I'm-I‘Wnt.
iguana; sway .4 —m, 
hitch communism «a: ‘ ' ' ~
“And whet days think other 
old NI . their islthi'ulz W‘ i
shohro tinthohotwstcr lath!!!“
he}; Inter. v ’ ‘2 .

y .w 4.’ 1.3;"
41ml”?
“that. a

4'
>1.)

 

 

. Ilsa riding-am

v

m!

MARJORIE BRUCES L0sz ,_

 

 

"Indeed. Nancy. I thought the folks‘thst Went to
balls seeking happiness were what you call " verra far
left to theirsele.”

“I'm the youngest men 9’ the two, Nancy." old
Alton laughed. as the old woman raised her hands in
surprise. more altezted than real.anl ntteringa re
buking exclamation. Sue could not bear that her
young master should appear contemptuous or such
festive gstherings.«st which she firmly believed him
capable of shining more brilliantly than any othe
man in thsnsighbarhood. ~

"’Deed ulnar you’re richt. Mr. Alton,"she re-

, sponed. shaking her heal at the delinquent. who was
V hawking her up a gill.“ of to ldy.

is is to drink my health in. Nancy. and may I
never be tempted to another ball,” Mr. John says,
withhis lmpertnrboble .goo l-nziture, an i one takes it
from his kind, brown band. and is vastly pleased and

mi. Nor does the young man sleepless soundly

. he has. with his simpl 3. thoughtful kin l-

ness stormed into quiet glulness two tried oil hesrts,

whose throne. either of enduring or of enjoyment. are
like to stopperss very long tiiuehas passel.

Hours a ter he is sunk in sleep, Marjorie Bruce paces
her moonlit chamber. hot tear streaming down her fair
bomber little hauls clasping anl unclaspin them-
selves with the nervous restlessness of inwur suffer.

ing. . -, I

9‘ I do not-love him ; he is fickle. and false, and ignc»
ble. 1 neverdid love him : I was only ambitious anl
vain. end wantei to be a countess," one says.setting her
teeth to silence a rising sob. and she simost convinces
herself thst she is speaking the truth.

Thomshe goes to a li ttle casket wilere she has boarded
her love treisures with such Jealous secrecy ; and
lighting .acssdle on the mantlecshelf, sits down in a
lowehslr bythe slowly dying tire. and takes them out
oneby one. . . > *

Somen'aded flowers :, a broken meerschaum pipe; a
lock ofhair stolen from Lady Dorothea, w.io hai beg ed
some fern locket ;.s couple of shockingly s:raw ell
notes. flungawhy by the some young lady as “(Jun as
deciphered; a photographic carts which she had got
them. hirmltn' hank-that was all; but each loolien
memento suggested some lay-gone pl ‘wut moment,
some keen. regretul longing, and her team rained
dorm over it. wither heart softened as she livel ovar
againtall her blessed secret love-1i .e. nor did they feed
theupiriux dreamt all. . ~ I,

"I shall put them back to reminl me of my vanity
and folly, and make me penitcnt every time I look at
tinny? shevwhisperel, with a. stern resolution not to
spurs herself deserved pain ;‘ anl t ion sue closes and
locks her casket. and goes to bed to cry herself t.) sleep,
just as the farm-yard cocks are beginning to proclaim
the dawning of the new day, which is to begin a new

era in her 

 

caesium.
A 9A“ AT TOBWOOD Downs.
! ",HI. “3 ,. fi. * I! 0‘

Gunman-tire lstch of the low green Me opening
from the quiet high-road. and Marjorie ruce walks
slowly through. and begins looking about her with
thank-clone who has a loving interest in her‘ snr~

.. v, .

. ,. theweicome reviving sunshine of- a
Mary ds . floods the sertb; but low in the horizon
 are gathering. threatening to obscure
the sure overhead; .  . ,{

'Ashower hadjusl psesedi Rain-drops glitter on the
quantly oll‘rped old ysws and hollioa which border the
be“ lit o'hveuuomssting still shadows across it.
My washedsncw-drope and crocuses bloom in the
W newly. .turnelbup brown soil of‘the
lower borders on either hand. where blackbirds :hop

«thinnest the the first worms or the season.

The ivy. which completely cloaks a ruined barn stand-

on the right side the

~ My dripping. while thesau-
bring outlaw. t .

ryekruddy‘ his term laborer. lsmy

 mm plies his shining spade

“brags-Pa eyes take in all the. simple beauty or the
new; sweet belt-smile. whloe reminds one of
her mother's. dawns on her face as she counters on up
to  'l‘orwood Downs. whore-thetwo Litan
Mfiwalethechelorhomo.» . _ s . ..
swuamm.” .sbe says..with a friendly nod,
as she comes upon the solitary worker; and (layman‘s.
and. resting enable-radonbestows upon  laminar
igrln‘  . cutout... ‘ v V , ‘
varsngrowiniwather. mu Bruce.” be responds,
eyeing hes-.mth .sisteady stare otcllriqus scrutiny.
which was . inwmtm Iconszsxpectwt

of further greet ng. she lingers a moment. . p
g  thriving. Tum.”;she. gays. looking
‘ .spsrevlugly. vBshthlupcech lanai received

1.9.“?th handover-s 0‘ mine,- I into use skill 0'
,fl., , m. as flowers, Ye may cn' teem, Mr.
John's; _ ant. ye will“; for it‘s him that pcttsrs
m ' every morniu' store his hreaklut. an’
an eddbwr forbye." , .

.' J" his 339m Mlsehruce, domurely. and her dark
can; .3: minim  handlyfiod gulls oeson
her way. the. 31% maximum 3 her  the same
curious. interceptedmss untilsbiidlsappears. a turn of
V (V tly hiding hen , the. girlish figure.
.sv "John's m l ,"lheamlispers.  , aibeconnn
blush Warming her lair young tees. and. er'eyes gro
m... manila (learn 0!, thsmsrbcmster of snow-

ndn . .

{some to the poet ofgardener, qusvers lortn sp isliu
an '0

m

gm”...th 
.m   W4.

\

 

'.' John's flowers I " she whispers once more. dreamlly
smiling as she stands arranging them; then lanoiug
round to see that nobody is observing hens e puts
the gay bunch of sweet spring treasures to her lips,
saying a little prayer in her heart. though her bonny
lace never loses its smile.

Maria has changed somehow. Her eyes are graver
and deep 9r. her brow more thoughtlul. Her wnole sir
tells us th It she has of late lost in animal spirits. and
gained i l inward serenity.

As she lingers by a boxwood bush to pluck sfew
twigs. whose subdued green will tone down the too
brilliant hues of her bouquet. a man's figure ap-
proaches from t e opposite direction with quick. firm
tread, and a pair f sud-Jen] y lighted-up dark eyes watch
her with lover-like interest. their owner meditating
over this change the. while.

She bears his step and turns round ; then runs for-
ward to meet him. dropping some of her newly gath-
ered flowers in her haste.

“Johnl ” sh: siys. in a tone that implies a great
deal at fond aifectlon and truthful familiarity; anl
smiling up into his eyes. she clasps his arm betwoen
her tiny. newer-laden hands.

“ Mill here all alone I" he answers in his tender, deep
voice; and his bronzed face beams with pleased sur-
prise ss he stoops down and kisses‘ her. quite as a mat-
ter of course. ,

Tue dainty little damsel is looking very pretty and
simple to-‘hay, in her dark-green walking costume. re.
lieved only by snowy linen bands at her fair throat
and wrilts. John Alton thinks the worll does not hold
such another eWeet maiden, and lit-i eyes t ‘11 her
Plllllcilly enough what thought is passing through his
lull] .

She laughs up at him. giving her head a slightly co-
quettlsh to s. ~ - ' ‘

"Idiil not come to see you. mind; I came to see
your father."

" Of course. I know that very well,
Maia." , .

‘9 And I am not very sure that my calling here is at
all proper. Mr. John." ‘ ,

" Neither sin I.’ Miss Mirjorio."

you unkind

” Ii’ Yull are p.in.ully shocked, I can go home‘ngain.‘

Nobody has seen me coins in except stupi 1 old 'l‘am
nnl yourself ;" and Maj i gives his arm a pull anl stops
him-glancing gainy up into his fond,,smii ng eyes. *

Newalnys. Jo ill Alton can nevor keep up a long joke
in; conversation with M ryorie ‘

ilo grows suddlnly solemn. and putting his arm
small I her, draws hart-lose to him.

“Qh, my dear! ' he says, with infinite pathos, " how
happy you have made my dull liiol How I bless the
day I first saw your bonny, iiiischievo.i‘s face 1 How
oneartn isitthat on have cometo like a heavy 01.1-
iiaehioned i'ellowli snie, with nothing but an honest
hand and a true h ilil‘t to offer you 't"

" Oh, John. dou’t,dcn‘t l" signs the girl. beseechingly;
sn'l inanother moment her head droops. and he sees
that her eyes have filled.  ‘ ~

While he looks at' her in concerned surprise, she goes
on ‘faiterlngly‘. her bosom heaving, h)! lips quivering.
tears glittering on her long, curhug eyelashes. V v

“ When I look back and remember how wretcth and
sick of living l we: not two short monthss 0. until
you some luck to me an i comforted me an ' taught
me how to and poles. it seems to me as lfl should be
thsn'dug God for you all day long, and every day of my
li.e;" and in a gentle passion or rstltude she laid her
sweet face down on hisarni and etit rest there. her
whole fume trembling with emotion.

A great throboi'joy follows his first distress at hav-
ing agitated her. ,

‘2 And you are castaway dear ?" hequestlona. strok-
ing her soft hair.

it was not-a very strong word. content. and he would
have liked horto re lace it by one of more emphasis
when she anew . . ’ ,

She did 'not do so. however ; only added another lm.
provable active... . , z

" Oh yes. inn moment and grateful to you. John."
she says. a king ssh momentarily oppressed by some
ss-l recollec ion. ” ” ‘ ‘

“ fifiquitehsppy. [Maia l’f beasts again. lusts little

9'- . . r v .
lie is thinking of the change which has come over
heroines that day just after the Hunt Ball. when. with

"an utteersence of premeditstion. {he had .for‘ the.

second time naked her to become hlslilsi,
' flew ‘gentie she has grown! ‘lrow unselnh.’ and
thought ul ct the feelings of other“ how docile. .and
touchingly eager to please him and. everybody who
loves her “ » r . ' , "
can she be! itiftheromsncs ofcirluh first love is
not trensfersb ~if even there is still an occasional
heart-ache within that innocent bosom l By-sndoby
she willquite forget all the past. and be as happy as it
no selfish. fickle young‘lord- had modes plaything of
her sensitive heart. Kind time heals ' many troubles.
sndvgirls otelghteen are surely among his most prom-
ising subjects. - . .

‘T' And,,"q‘ui‘teg hop 3?, John," says M310. eagerly, “a
great deal happier tgan I ‘deserve;" snd'she sighs peni-
tently, thinking of by-gone follies sud waywarlness.

"God bless you. little Maia!" whispers John, as she
lifts her head from his breast. and they go on their way
once more. her hand corressingly lyin.r on his arm.

is she keeping,ka anything its Not consciously, at
an rste. - ' ,

he tells herself that she is quite ball”. at least as
happy is a girl clln" be after hsvigfn'msds {Inch ship.
wreck oi, her first" love- sl‘tervhs g waded through
ipcl; a slough of desponll so her own folly had Ended
era... '  ' ~ - V -.

Yetisho owned that it was m. ski-bed been too
hhrrledi ‘mng‘ herself tofckn Alton. She wanted
tcthi‘nksnddresm ofhfm “In yet thoughts of the

 '- - .'» '..__,._., 1.51.“:Am '

 

 

past would come sometimes. bringing idle longing:
which she dared not put into words.

Perhaps this was inevitable. Heart sores like hers
would not heal in a few weeks. She could not lorget
her former lover painlessly.“ with miraculous instan-
tsneousneea; a.though ins lit of pique and wounded
vanity. and longing to have the solace ofa true, noble
heart that loved her, she had spoken to John Alton an
impulsive word or two. which had resulted in her
dropping her tired head on his kind breast andprcmis-
ing to be his wife. V

John Alton was now her dear betrothed. and she
was learning to love him more and more every day she
lived. To her he was the bust man in the world. the
kindest and truest. and most Worthy to be levod and
reverenced. . _

And her parents were so happy, and old Mr. Alton so
touchingly grateful. an! everybody so kind and hope-
ful of her future; yes, and best of all. a peace of con-
science. to which sue had long been a stranger. was
daily growing wit..in her. '

80 it was that on this sweet spring morning.ywith- .

in the as e seclusion of that peacelul spot where her
home was to be ere many weeks had passed, her heart
was full oi serene content. and she coulJ answer her
far-seeing lover's wistlul inquiry with no conscious de-
caption.

The twa paced the little avenue in quiet. loving con-
verse, until a. shower sent tlleniihto the house—an old.
fashioned. whitewashed, two~story building. whose
windows Would, when summer came. look out of “a
wonlcri‘ul rowth of climbing roses. -

in the si tin -pirldr-~a long. low-rooibd apartment
with three win ews. affording a pleasant lookout ou‘
the shrub-adorned lawn and newly ploughed lands be—
yond. old Mr. Alton now‘sat in that peaceful idleness
whi-h old one seldom dislikes.

Maj i knew the high-backed pmple chair and its no-
cupant very well by this time. and ran in wfth thaw-
ildeuce of one who is well assured of a welcome.

:‘I has ~ me to see you ad by myself to-dsy. be-
cause neit er pips nor momma had time to accom-

pany me. and J aim has been scolding. He says it’ isn’t _,

proper; What do you say. Mr. Alton ‘r” she quickly in-
quires; anl sue lets the smiling old man kiss henvol-
vety. ank cheek. and drops down on his footstoohrest-
in; her hand on his knee. while John, who has followed
nor in. stan is leaning on the mantel—shelf. looking on
with dark eyes full 0. approvinglove. ‘

He likes to watch them together. to conjure up pléaa; 1

ant pictures of the coming days. when the'sunshine of
her presence will always be about the old house; and
his father will rejoice in it almost as much as he yill

,hi useli.

“ I think it is quite proper. my dear; I think every-
thing itquite proper thst isn't wrong in itself. had
gives somebody pleasure." old Mr. Alton responds.

“ I don’t know that. by any . means. Miss Mass.”
laughs the young man, shaking:I his head and looking
across to his lather, who is sit. ng listening, a burner»
one twinkle in his eyes. 2“; ’ - ~

“After all. there is nobody like him. my bairn." says
the loud old man. with em hasis. " ’

" Nobody in the big war d," the wit youthful soles
chimes in. ’ - r

The subject of their praises ' laughs and shifts his
position. coloring a little. ' l *

" He ought to be exhibited an s unique specimen of -
eervurt calls

humanity. then, Mada.” he says. Then s

him away to see a stranger. who has come upon farm-
ing business. and the other twonre left to entertain
each other with his praises, which. in truth. form the

staple of their conversation when nobody else is liston- ..

in tothem. . v -. . .
alikcs to hear the gentle old. man discourse or
John a early day: of college glory: impatieth
watching by h elder brother‘s death-bed : 
stinste self-renunciation iron: the day envision-shut-
ting up his loved books. he had announced his“
minatlon to take the vault post at his u'het‘sstde:
the puck and skill with wich he had pullsil'tbem
through ion accumulated pecuniary tron- utter
many cheer‘l’ly borne years oiecarelisnd'r 3*-
refuesl to accept the fortune to which “thought that
his far-away cousin bud cluster claim.’ ‘r' I _-.
Many such stories ware poured into We one,
aid slways listened to with consigned-admit” in—s
rest.. ‘ - ~ " " «' . 2...; ..,
."1‘he snn- hasbeen ion in rising for my dear lad.
but‘ maybe it will glam en hisLeafi- the “All,
dear." old musltcn says. after there has been s
thoughtful pause in the conversationginid he looks
into be fair young face with amesnin‘g little smile.
which explains his wards-the sun of her love he
would sayr ‘1‘ 4  4 2 -
"Ilove him; I shall try hard to make him happy
when I am his wife: he knows that I am trying to grow
worthi'er. of him."'shs responds.. looking .very sweetl
humble, and she softly presses the thin old hand, his
is held outta her. a , , v 7 
Presently she rises.declaring,thst, she must“. as
she has promised to be home for dinner. - r ,5  
.While the two are mninabiy. contesting  wfloht
John Alton re-enters. bringing hers not. . _ her.
mother. and telling her that its beers: #1“;an
answer. ' '

Father and m look on with s little. may. .5...

[her face clouding ever. she reads this unsrpwbd note :

“Dun Mm" (it. ssys. in: hutipesclisd 
“.Lsrly Castleton wants you to go to London. (tor stew.
weeks, setting of! tip-night. when. M38011 is oing a“:

r snd'Would' take charge of you. w it over. ' th John.

and be aided by his wishes : , our father and rm
you to Just what be t

about I
may k a «low as t  Y
e. fivemwl‘.  t...

mother, .

 

 

l,
\

A

smears saves-s L0 vans.

 

5' l sha'n‘t go! I don’t care what they think of use i ' ,

she exelaims. rather pettishly : then she takes the
her betrothed has brought henand handing him
her mother a note. peruses y Castleton’s.

Old Mr. Alton quietly withdraws to another room,
so that the We young people may discuss this mys-
terious dimculty without the embarrassment of a third
party's presence: the shire does not hold amore cou-
siderate gentleman than this plain old man.

" My Dnln Mas. Bruce " (writes Lady Cutleton
dating from her London residence, whither she and her
daughter had repaired a low weeks Gigok" I am about
to ask a great favor: that you wil spare ins your
dau ht .r for a little while.

“ y rl is not at all well+4the influenza with which
8116 left orwood clinging to lier'stiJ—and our doctor
declares she must have somebody to amuse her until
she is able to go into society. _

" Should Marjorie come. my invalid and I trust you
will allow us to look after her treuueau, aul so give a
little mark of our appreciation of her many afi‘ect onate
services. My daughter's maid would attend Marjorie
up to London. should she be ableto come at once ; if
not. I would gladly make any other arrangement which
would suit her better.

f‘ My son is still on the Continent. and I do not ex-
P‘m‘ him to return until Easter. Tell Marjorie that l
“Mullet be in the islet offended by her declining to
leave home so near the time fixed for her marriage, al-
though I should feel much obliged bv her p lying us a
will of even a fortnight‘s duration. Wishing your dear
daughter much happiness in the new spuero 0t lilo upon
Which she is soon to enter, with kind regarls to your
little home circle, I remain. your very sincere frieth

THERESA CAB’I‘LE’I‘ON."

John Alton, whom Marjorie had called to her sidethat
they might read the letter tagether, was the first to
‘Peak alter they had finished its perusal.

"I do think it is hard I" he sighs, as he stands be-
hind her chair. and Marjorie resolves that she will stay
at home, and lot Lady Dorothea find some other sinus-
ingnurse. .

“ Then I shall not go. All, John. how seldom you say
anything is hard i" one says. upturning very kind eyes
as he leans ovor her. 7 l .

“I hare little cause for grumbling. Ah, my dear. I
ought not to think anything hard. so long as you live
an love me :” and he comes round to her side, and
takes the can-easing little hand she holds out with/a
smi e.

“ Well, I mean to live and love you a long timenif I
am allowed—and to refuse Ladyljastleton's invitation
too. Are you content now ‘1" -

A very faint sigh ends this speech, but faint as it is,
his ear catches it, and he perceives that she could, be
easil persuaded to grant the favor her ladysliip asks.

“ ouid you like to go. Muja?” he asks, in his
strai htl‘orwsrd way, looking keenly at» her. and she
blue as and drops her eyes.

" No, of course not." she answers, with a little petu- -

= lance; “ only this isn’t amatter of liking or disliking, I
suppose. lt is simply one of duty—ought I to go or
to stay '2 That is what I want you to tell me."

“ it is dimcult for me to be impartial in giving judg-
ment on such a matter," sighs the young man. eyeing
the ‘ ’s cross. flushed little recovery lovin 1y.

“ hers is a good deal to be sndvon both aigdesot the

nestles," he admits directly alter, his generous. trust-

lhsart rebuking him for grudgingher the innocent
lenre abandon visit doubtless represented to her.

"-‘Ibd me what you think I ought todo. John." she

kirk. repeating of her momentary ill-humor: and
hen tinspr into agrave discussion off?“ and cons,
finallydecidiug thstdn‘oonalderation 0 Lady fissile.
ton‘s many previous klndnesses. she is bound to oblige
her in this matter.

“My I sha'n't accept the Wu. My own humble
one is in course of preparation. and it wi l content me
“I! well. ' You would rather I didn’t allow Lady
Gastleton to add to it. I know," Marjorie concludes.

u has sigh once more as tempting visions of
b ineryrlseon her inward vision. ‘ -

Rio face assumes a slightly frowning look as he
anst f,_‘her. ’ ‘ " p ‘, "

“muse-yourselfsbout that. Marjorie. I have noth-

todc with it.” " . , ~
gen, as she looks up with rather a hurt expression,
he iuddsnly oiling“ his tone. '- v
“Ukohildl child-W, he says, “what do these little
‘ "  mhtf Don't you know that all I want

is toseoyou happy? The Castleton family'ms lead

you with obsti' presents if they like. if they wi i only

send on back owing his a little as you do now.- That
is all , care about.” , V _

“ It I had only kept poor Will's money. Maia. I could
have surrounded you with the dpiratty things you are
used to. and like so well." be ad ‘. roehlly. ' -

Kaijorie stares athlin in surprise: then. prompted
by one at her irresistible impulses. she does a very
astounding thinly , . v ‘

«You‘ara not to begin making a useless baby of me,
John Alton," she says. rising. “I don't are a bit for

rg‘tty things in comparison with the lapplnesa and
Elliot of being your wil‘e:" Ind. 811113 blushing the
wms‘ahesllps into his arms and upturns hersiveet

is John 'licon'a tender ‘3

 
  
    
 

skies. V
darling i" has he
. her in his arms and folds her to hls'tbrobhiug
,' .  pure, high-routed heart whereon no we.
..,'¥3,:Mbuthers'haa ever rested in all these grave
Imfiims yo’un‘g'manhood. I » -

' ss.sga,am.mve them

_ luriiihien. while the, a rib
. . unalth the etch . s I
T [little   our; filling the quaint. simple

' brightness.

sunshine,

   
 

horbeautiiul syos’bavo filled wit tears; and'

V , ‘ _ Jolie, and her cheeksgrow hot. nightly in» 
comforting one another v

sinus "

 

-'mothcr's eyes turn: with unwanted , .

. crimes xxn.
a oms' qumzn. I

“ AND you are very happy. Marjorie ?" ashes Lady
Cutleton, upliiting grave, inquiring black eyes to the
girl. who has by invitation come into-“the library to
give her an account 01 her journey or the previous day.
and 0. her doings generally.

The countew s headaches this morning. Literature
has no charms ior her. and it has pleased her to interest
herself in the study of tnis lair. blooming specimen of
ingocent girlqu whom she has summoned to her
si 6.

By dint of graciously spoken. low‘voioed questioning -

she has drawn lrom her all the priu ~ipa'l details of her
engagement to John Alton. How Marjorie r ally i'eela
under it, is what she is new attempting to discover.

“ Yes, indeed, Lady Castleton, I am very happy,”
echoes our heroine, casting down her eyes demurely;
and she takes the caressineg extended small white hand
and la. 8 her own softly our it. blushing sweetly as she
gives this demonstration of air-action.

Tile countess a heart goes out to the pretty. graceful
maiden who is bold enough to show that she really
likes her. and her smiie tells that the cross is Wel-
come. She is rather-a iancitul lady, and it has often
struck her that if her Dolly and Marjorie Bruce had
been changed in their cradles. she, tor one, would have
icon 1 life a little more satisfying. Dolly would have
been lunch happier as a simple, love-encompassed. rustic
mai Lou. and Marjorie could'have tilled her young lady-
sr.ip s pla to very charmingly.

“ And what makes you so happy l" pursues her lady~
ship, still holding her-hand and looking into her lace,
which direct question confuses the piri a good deal. _7

. " Alli Lady Castletou." she falters. with a little shy
embarrassmcut.‘u I surely ought to bs‘llappy ; he-—
John Alton "-slie corrected herself with an apologetic
glance—"is so good and kind—nobody but me knows
how noble he is—what a grand soul he has. I know
you Will not laugh at me ior speaking so of him." she
adds. in her pretty, cuje‘ling way.

Lady Castleton’s flue face has assumed i‘s gentlest
expression. She p into to a chair beside her, inviting
her protegee to be seated. ,

" Iain not the least inclined to laugh at you, Marjo-
rie, child. I believe your betrothed deserves all the
praise you can give him. Let me tellyou that I liked
his Lind, strong, dark lace the Very first time I saw it
«in t.ielit;le Terwwl church, one slushy last July.
Ilc'was in your pew with your father and mother on!

you ; anl while a. sleepy sermon was going on I amused

myself watching you and him. and thinking what
a handsome, well-suited young couple you would
make. Everything I have been able to learn about
him since. has but sorted to confirm my very favorable
first lmpression.and Ithink you are a very fortunate
girl," too countess says, with earnestness.

“ He is a very goodness." says Marjorie, gravely.a
great fled impressed by this praise iron: so distin-
guished a quarter.

" And every in~h a gentleman. besides." aflirms her
ladysnip.iu a tone which implies that a true gentle.
mania a ram not: ; and aristocratically inclined Miss
Bruce feels more grateful lot that compliment than let
all the rest.

“Yes. a man may be a gentleman, though be its
simple-living. tenant farmer." she says. looking up
with a slightly pensive‘air alter there has been a little
silence, and Lady Castleth looks hardat her and sighs.
though a .e answers lightly. .

" A man may be a gentleman; thoughtortuue'docrees-

that he should make, his living anus manger; that
is my firmly rooted conviction, Marjorie}? declares
patrons“, witha little laugh. “ Ihsve found ladies and
gentlemen—matures ladies and gentlemen-An all sorts
of humble surroundings; and” will on and them
if you will begin to look about you wit unpreju
eyes.” ’ - . .
“ l have-begun to grow slittle wiser than I used to
be, Lady Castleton. I understand what you mean."
says tne girl, hel down her head with the air. of
one who .acknow u herself deservedly ,. rebuked.
She is always sweetly docile when Lady Osatleton. who
so seldom shows ial interest. voucnsstes to bestow
gmhormme littl bit of huh-spoken. huh-implied re-

Her ladyship proceeds. with rare sfl’eetionsteness. of
manner and look. ._ p

" My child." shssays. {‘ .1 am so pleasedtoknow from.
your own lipsthat you ere happy. . It seems to the
that unmarried lilo entered upon underlined auspices
cannot fail to be abeautil‘ul, peaceful,fi4u life; and I,
who have had amend-forty years’ experience of our
world‘s ways. know, wall that there is nothing worth
your envy there. By~an:l-by I hope to come and see
you safely settled down in your pretty country home,
and hear fromMr; John Alton that ou‘srs maki'
him the best little who in the world. on will be g
to see me. won't you. made?" And she gives her one of
her patsstiosinlle . .

" Ah! yes. Lady Collision; I shall never forget your
goodness to inc—newt. so long as I live. I should he
the most ungrateful creature alive if it were possible
that I should dose.” responds Marjorie. rising. '

" I no not at all sure that I have been good to cu,
my dear," says that lady. moved into afrankness w on
she only showed on rare occasions, “ but assuredly I
never meant to be snythingelse." -

“ I put you in the way 0 falling in love with my son,
and» so brought a deal» of useless pain to your ioolish

young heart; “that is what she means. thinks

 
   

that'ths' some her wagons»; ., 
lyrellsvedcbylhawefim anemia». :,
‘  “m! naturiruulr 

n ’6‘ his :., .1
9’0 3 V V to

~ or

her.

,mypoor

-”

’ rte made her first remoustr‘anoe

 

 

eyes laughing as

. {what he inabout." Auditor lsdyship nausea.

i ., *
iweot. pale little face as she comes up, and klssel
er. - ' ' > ‘ - ' ’

“Thank you for brin ng her to me. momma.” she
says. “ i shall grow we 1 all at once now."

" I think you are alittle inspector. Dolly." her mother
tells her; then. guessing that the two girls will be
glad to have a long confidential chat, she sends them
away to LadyDorotuea's morning-room. sadly suretlist
her presence would be a restraint on their youthful
gayety. . ’

Le t alone. she thinks over her interviewrwitb Mara
jorie. She has a particular reason ior wishing to know
exactly how her protege: feels to her betrothed. for she
has that morning received a letter irom hereon intima-
ting the probability oi his returnto London within a low
days. If Marjorie did not appear perihetly‘hsppy‘in the
prospect of marrying John Alton. she would atonce ask
Lord ()astletou to absent Lionel: for a little time longer.
As it is. she thinks that there is no necessity lot inter.
faring with his arrangements.

No : Miss Lisle's magnificent (roman is in-‘course oi
preeparaticn, as is also little Mnja‘e simpler «onefl Two
w ding-days are fixed. unit it is absurdly flotatqu
meddling among the young people. whee:- ‘mter Wall. ~
seem 'quite‘abie‘ to take cure of themes 

Mrs. Vesey and Miss Lisle expected to come to town
very soon a ter Lord Custletou, so Marjorie would 
be likely to see much of him. ' r

Her ladyship. c‘eterniined that she should have her
short sojourn in London made as pleasant as possible.
and carry away pleasant memories of them all. We '
tontlrust her implicitly, endlet her son come when he
w . ,  r ‘ : ' i

" Oh dear. this is nice i This is quite like» old times! v
I {Eel it is really worth while being ill to have you
sent for, Majn,” laughs Lady Dorothea, as the» twists 
tsblish themselves for a morning's idle'venjoymuw; r
and she sinks back among the downy-pillows:- oldies:
special lounging-chair and heaven a sighwo! satiation-.2 ',
tion. I ‘  3 

“ How agreeable it is to feel it your duty to botany!"
remarks Marjorie, seating herself in an eiiusily enticing
chair on the other side of tee hearth. ' ‘ ' .

‘9 how your duty 1'” questions her ladysliip. arching 
her pretty eyebrows. ‘ r  » ,

“ You are harsh invalid yet; I must not‘tempt: you *
to suyactive exertion. I must not excite you loom ~
way—ergo. it is my bounden duty to be lazy. Lady
Dorothea, " is Marjorie's gravely comical explanation.

Marjorie was very 10nd of My Dorothea. and with
her loudness mingled a vague consciousness of being ,
treasonably chin-y in bestowing” her coufidences upon t
her. T113 innocent ingenuousnuis natural to her high— »
born iriend made it impousible i'or herto perceive this.
and many a time her boundless trust awakened a Mg
within Madorie’s less transparent heart.

" I-do wish you would not tell me everything? she
was want to say.smi this morning in particular. she
found occasion to utter this speech several times. tor
her ladysliip was in one of her most communicative
moods, and speedily launched into a frank recital of
recent family historyhfiving due prominence to the , I
deluge of the male he of the house. in whom Wain
determined to take no special interest. .

k " Y0?“ remember Kitty Howard, Mala—at school. you -
now ” .
Thus innocently the dangerous subject is intro

duced. , 1. -.r
I see her boldyblsek 7

"Perfectly. Lady Dorothea.
they used to. when you morer ‘

Win. oi

s

than her name; . . _
" Well. she came outlast season. you know.
sheisay younger-thallium. She , , . 
man otthe world already. socialise-oh! 
you how she” does talk." “diner  «.3
her shoulder-send puckered up her am,  m- _
face-into disapprovingnom V Ftfihsesllsdtb,m  
the other day. and stayed ever-o long; and.  _
did ache hetero inclinations-lo and.
took 2 her away by iorcel And only lacy that -
she told Inc v about Herbert We. »  I
you too have been slalom about hm people 
at 1‘0er keep tllemselmwndsr uliyuell informed

insulting eyes upon her. _ r , r  , 
‘" No, indeedl never listen to gossip about ‘rny 3‘
periors," laughs Miss Bruce, in rather a scanned wfi-l.
and a tellgtsis glow sufi‘uses her cheeks. , .1 ' ' ,. fl '
“ Don't you tool the lire scorch your was. \

  

and, risin . she ,liLtsa. small, ttil M .m-
screen, .931, thus fortified p; " ’9"   only
.marveiling what striking rev; " ion}! to ‘ ,

Lady Dorothea is too lull eta sort “awfully rmsg
interest in her brother-is reported misdemeanors to ob~
serve this manoeuver. and ‘ is alqu tons.

“ Well she says heir ro quitsM-vhst the
calls delightfully fast. ninja. 0 Kenmore last
home from Paris. where. it seems. he.

' passing. a deal oi‘ time at intervals since he sent tot-the

Continer file. hates letter-writing sense}; that w.
nevur know hall or his normals Challenge».
ardé-Kltty's eldest brother. you hamv~toidher a. m
quite a wild assay of their set. and altogether 
quitechmged in his ways.” T , V ' j’,‘
It was then that from behind her mm g on w" -'
against   ‘
recipient of such confidencos.    »   I
" Besidetl don't believe a word of It,” as 
with a good, deal of heat; " and I know twang.“ ‘ 
brother. and people came to in. behind an I
told me anything whatever againtl‘him,‘=l'd
with them‘toeretsnu then. Lady  i' . s A,

 “no: no ' aip‘icokceiaiuuo urea? . " : Case: 
l . about exp name how Kitty had not accused him aria, r
spigaeduns inflame-«only ofbelnyhktbfirfifl , "

ammo

. cg

l h

...t

it utedlo sads mangoes”. 30min some: .
.5. antagonist! warm.»  :

 

 

 

i

 

 

;

2i

MARJORIE savers LOVERS.

 

 

A

“ You see. Mada. the poor fellow is not exactly in love
with Matias-whom W48. you knew. , Everybody un—
derstands how the match was made up. long, long ago,
when they were both children. Well, no doubt he is
restless. and out or spirits now and teen, and you can't

wondu‘ that other iellown, like these horrid Howards. '

manage to get hold of him and draw him cil‘ to billiard-
rooms and ’--— Lady Dorothea hesitated. feeling out of
her depth; then added vaguely. “and iunliy places I
don‘t know anything about or you either." .

" I don't want to know anything about them either,
Lady Dorothea. Please to talk oi something else." said
Marjorie. in a tone of decided Irritation.

Laly Dorothea sighed, and persisted in her attempt
to excuse his absent lordship. regretting that she had
thoughtlessly given her confidante an altogether unin-
tended bad impression ofhim.

“ Wh . my dear Mada, you know all this will be
cban when Ernestine marries him. Oi course he‘ll
settle down then and make her the kindest and best
husband in the world. All young men must sow their
wild eat: some time or other. I suppose, and better
bolero marriage than after it. surely."

“ I am this! full am not a line lady." remarked Mala,
with a soorniul times which gave revelancc toner

To her, flash from her simple. pure-soule‘d mother's
ddm‘bisslo’d with the priceless treasure of a good
man‘s reverent. tender love, this easy-going, comforta-
ble morality was positively oflensive.

She thinks it very dreadi’ul that this fresh. sweet
nature should be imperceptibly assimilating itself to
the-conditions of lashionable life which surrounded
it. ‘and forgets the tolerant. charity which would
absolve the outht‘ul aristocrat from any intenth

of t path of rectitude.
lat low weeks have done more for Marjorie's

elevation than all the previous years of her‘

but they have not taught her a thorough control

at / quick temper. Unfortunately. such a lesson is
hottest-nod in a hurry. .

against know what on earth ails you this morning

a" complains her iadyship : and thereupon

Marjorie lays down her screen, and ing her with

4 W. dark eyes. blazes out into an indignant short-

Wfrage. which makes her companion start up from
her lounging attitude and stare at. her in innocent
sinus.

“Why, you never used to be so awfully particular
about these thi a. Mala. I'm sure," was her gentle.
foodhnmoud nee. which struck Marjorie as so
not and incontlr‘overtible that she instantly felt

horse .

"I never used to know John Alton. Lady Dorothea."
she says somy. her tpretty. angry face changing its
ex on for one a sweet penitence; and. coming
up to bar ladyehip's chair. she stands beiore» her. look-
ing in a deprecating way into her wide-opened blue
eyes. ; . I ,

Lady D‘orothea holds out a forgiving hand. and
Ian ha merrily. : ;

"» on ‘qnesr girl i" she says. :"yau are always in
entrances; one never knows what you are gain to do
or next. , :You quite irightenedme with your Mom-
per, you know 7 ’

“lain very sorry i was so  says Mal-lode.
my sobsrly ; and her pladthip assures her of her for-

“ or John AltonJ‘ her ladyship goes on. “ I
want to not you something. Do you remember the
Ht one I saw you and him together—in the garden
lg roses. you know 1"

ghakaad casts down her eyes in silence. but
Iodlsn admission of recollection. .
on and I had a bit oi‘aquarrel about him
-  up to your room. and l was teasing
hint-«you were not a bit in love with him
, v made run at him.and his old father. and
bi housaksc ', you remember. and said—~"
W1 withdrawing her hand. and turning aside to
hide saline!- oi immune tears. _

"m; Iwhntia'tho matter? on. how sorry I am!

it

Q

iii?-
.33;

g.

‘ ‘-   thought Voowouidi'eelbad about it. I really

sry,’ very much for him.

 .« times tarot. hair
w.“ her ship addgfiin s ‘tane of heartielt con-

.£.. 9 r
gap   anew pang to llariorie's
r 7‘  do: row thongs nlteat. whoelin

nag. pthroughp beratifi‘ei'allingtearaintg
im’m' an‘h' ": “and-l remember-«it all too
well.’ I hate «arson-yea. hate myself. Lad
benches.

.snd deserve that everybody should hate  V

f‘  at a man so high above main every
' Mil“ totall onraykneesandask his

witan at this very moment." ~
“it must feel queer tone in love." says her ladyahip.
gushing her yellow head in a meditative; awed way :

sun-thins» h armaroand and-luau- her,
it I m C mm his

scene. > v
 they Meltdown. and mwhtoteach-
his Witnesses new stitch in Berlin wool-work.
whilst: the mental eii‘orts requisite to its comprehen-
MN young lady targets to unwelovea-the wonder-o
fat which seems. creeping over Mariette. now

found a real lover . ‘
... or some“ "c theme
at a » n. serve a or com , . a

' ninth ‘ her b ' facs.’

 at .h . as. later.
sheen

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stops short. her companion d

" Bow ?“asks Maja, looking good-homeredly quizzi- ' pie-blossom ofa face to he kissed. and peace presently

001.;6 she stands by her chair examining the dropped
wor .

“ I‘ll show you how. ‘ I love my love with an A. be-
cause he is Alum: ” ‘

" But Alton isn't an adjective. you goose ; '01: must
give an adjective. lbeg your pardon for cal ing your
lsdyship a goose, though," she adds. with a laughing.
apologetic bow. .

" Ah." 33 be her friend. " it isn't an adjective. of
course : l "oi-got that. However. i can give you an
adjective.” she goes on, after a momentary cresti‘allen
pause. " 'I love my love with an .4. because he is
amiable: He is so good, you know. That would be
quite an appropriate one.” And nolldin a challenge to
improve upon that brilliant idea, she be akes herseli to
her Wool-Work again.

She is certainly silly ; but who likes iamiliar iriends
a whit the less for being silly? Nobody whose love is
worth caring ior. “Why. Lady Dorothea. you are‘too
sharp for me," Maja laughs, and her ladyship notices
no satire in her voice or look.

“ Still,” Marjorie proceeds, after a little silence. dur-
ing which her companion has been busy counting her
stitches. " 1 don't know that he is more amiable than
thousands of other people; indeed, I don't know that
he is amiable at all in the accepted sense of the word.
You see. it is this way with him ”~—and she fixes a
thoughtiul gaze on the carpet and speaks slowly, as
if inwardly weighing ' each word~" he lecls kindly
towards all the world. but he loves only a few people ;
and when he does love he takes you into that great
deep heart oi his forever." And her voice tails to a
solemn, trenlulous whisper as she ends.

“Whether you do right or wrong ?” questions her
ladyship. staring hard at her unwoutedly solemn com-

anion. whom she perceives to be speaking more to
ersslf than to her.

" Whether you do right or wrong, I do believe,"
echoes Marjorie, still very earnestly. " I think it is
because he can see so deep down into your heart and
understand the springs of your actions. I think he
only loves you the better because he is sosorry ior you
when you yield to your worse self."

" Have we two selves ?" asks Ladgévorothsa, opening
her blue eyes wider than ever. r head begins to
ache with the. mental labor Marjorie's startling
ps etiological talk entails.

e draws along. tired sigh as she speaks; and her
nurse. noticing this. quickly changes her mood.

“ I have. I am quite sure you have not. You have
only one—a good one. dear Lady Dolly." she says, look-
ing at her with a smile of approving affection.

" If you have a bad one. i have never found it out, and
I can only know the half of you. then," says ‘her lady-
ship. looking rueiul under this sup tion.

“I don't know much more than be half at myself
yet. to tell you the real truth. Lady Dorothea. No ly

nows me quite but one man ; when I want to
find out about myself I need to go to him. Isn‘t that
queer ?" And she laughs and sighs at the same mo-
meal.

"‘You have grown extremely (Laser altogether since

on get engaggl. Maia. I do wis John Alton had been
inst a little d ereut from what he is. so that you need
not have chan ed through being constantly under his
influenco. « If a had been something like Herbert, now
—just ass -goln and good-natured. and generally nice
and lovab e. wit out being so very deep and wise and
all that—it would have been more comfortable for you
now, would it not ?" And she looks scrutinizineg at
her.

“ No." says Marjorie. stoutly, "it would not—at least,
I don't care about being comfortable in comparison
with other things. I don't want him changed in the
least little particular. I don't like your easy-going,
giant men whom you can't lean upon. A man should

able to stand like a rock in the midst or a very seaoi
temptations. and John Alton is that sort oi a man. I
espise weakness in a man. although I am conscious or
being a good deal of. weathereocklcharscter myself."

Bhehadbeen speaking with svehemenee at which.
shows-3w isltashamed. and shs hastened .to change the
a“ h!” o‘ill' ‘ ‘.t

“Bee now t‘hesun shines. We shall baveadelinhtfnl
“drive in the park. won’t we ?" she observes, with a
glance out at the nearest window : but Lady Dorothea.
who is the most faithiully sfiectionsta ot‘sisters. is de-
cidedly hurt by her implied condemnation of Lord
Castleton : and without answering this upped. she says.
with unprecedented displacement aspect.

‘" You mean that you despise 'my' brother. Tbstia
plainly to be seen irons such aspesch as you have
Jus made.’ v , ’

She holds her head an inch-higher than is her wont.

. and‘ brother eyes on 'the encoder. who. crimsoning

suspiciously. drops are.

During the Whole of this interview We has been in-
wardly com up her aristocratic lover with
her betrotu . greatly to the advantage. oi the latter;
and the fact that. in spite of this she is conscious at a
foolish length to look on Lord Cutleton’s handsome.
good hula .fair face just owe more. to slip in:

and into his. and looking up into his eyes. whispers
harmless word or two of frisan farewell. makes
her the more vehsmont in uphol ng John Alton's
inpariority of nature and declaring her allegianoe'to

im. ‘  , ,

" 1 your pardon. Lad Dorothea : I was speaking
of n y in particular. hope i know any out to
your ladyship’s honorable house too well toad t of
any tailnrt of Win spankings! Lord Usatletonor
any member of the tawny." she says. with her grand

V A

. “6b.: .,dou'thsannarndsbtns.whenlmsogladz
~to haw i

 

sire!1 ’ml bummt;and bad Darotheaiaeta;
mubme- _t  granitelgrou’nd ior complaint. ‘

~ Yonm’t think new I have:

reigns in the apartment.

Lady Dorothea s Convalescence has decidedly set in.
thou h she is weak and unable ior much exertion...
The octor has pronounced her able to take a daily sin
ing, and the two girls drive out regularly, Jackson
acting‘as duenna except on the rare Occasions that Lady
Castleton accompanies them. They have new novels, '
ad libitum. There is nothing they are obliged to do. and
they are bothgiftedwith a natural i'acuityo: enjoying
idleness. There are two trmuseaux to talk shunt and
two incidental mar e ceremonies. besides Lady Doro-
thea s impending resentation at court. and subsectient
"rush into iashiona le gayeties. In short, they are in a
girl's paradise. and we must not be hard in our judg-
ment Oi pretty Majs, although for the first i'eW days oi
her excning London visit, her thoughts ‘do not very
oiten revert to the peaceiul rural spot where her le- -
trothed and her piurents are thinking of her with the in- _
comparable iide ty of those whose daily life is nap ,
even u . .

CHAPTER XXIII.
rm: ones: or nova.

Loan Cannon arrived from London, and ior several
successive days came to the house re ulurly, yet with- 5'
out having an opportunity of speak? with any free-'
dom to Marjorie. who carelnlly avoided ingleit alone
with him. and was remarkably reserved in her manner.

She found excuses for absenting herself when he
made his calls: she persistently declined the honor of ‘
making a third in the drives which the brother and
sister took together: she surprised everybody by be»
coming quite astickler for the proprieties. so shame-
iullyl neglected by this independent, odd. self-indulgent

am y. ,

Her conduct as an engaged young lady was quite irra-
proachable; and the countess. who had greatly incoun
venienced herself to keep guard over her pretty. hum-
ble protegee, soon came to the comfortable conclusion
that she was very well able to take care of herself. '

Meanwhile the earl's half-smothered ion rcas- 7
sorted itself with a vehemmme which M ria's appar-
ent indifference only served to increase.

Once more he forgot his resolve to be faithful to the
loving girl whom a law weeks more were to make his
wife, and chafed is the fetters of his engagement.

If only-he had been iree. he thought. he would have ‘
found means to carry out his will. It could not be a
that Maja Would reiuse to fling overboard her (hit to
her humble betrothed. No girl could be expec to
sacrifice her own interests so cruelly. I r

We must not suppose that the young earl was not
inly tormented during many a quiet moment by a con- ‘
sciousnsss that in thus thinking he was guilty oi un-
manly breach of faith. He des ised himself as he had
seldom found occasion to do in is life. but he had not
strength of will to overmaster his love for this be-
witching maid, whcsecharms had taken such hold of
his fancy. _

He had long been accustomed to have his own way in
all material points. His nature was kindly and docile :-
and as fortune had surrounded his youth with a pro. '
ponderanoe c! vood influences. this license 0. his had
not been atten ed with much apparent danger. Yet.
when habits of self-denial have never been cultivated,
mortals are very apt to~become the sport of circum'
stances. ,

Ashe very well knew, his saiety now lay in flight:
yet. though with no conscious intention of taking any
decided step towards the attainment of his longi <
he continued to sang-idly about the house which ' ‘ '
Marjorie. and she was not long leit to entertain the
belief that his once issvent admiration had. cooled :
down tosai'e ‘indin'erence. f - ,

" Why do you always run away horn incl Don’t you I
see how wretched it. makes me! Stay. m. and. tell:
me in plain words. I sha’n't be surprised thorain , your
have learned to dislike me utterly, only it would be :~
far better that you should say it out." 7 , v -~

80 he suddenly adde her one awning he
was ushered in. as she sat alone in the dual! drawing. , ‘
room. ‘ . , , .
She was seated at the plane. which was littered with
music familiar to, them both in their thoughtlmy
merry. flirting days, now as remote as if they 
belonged to a previous existence. Bong. they 
sung together when nobody but whammy. _
Dorothea . was try-deliciously dreamy sue , Ibo,’ ‘
had played to him alone. though the great drawing-
room at Tor-wood House was ill ed with distinguished ,‘

v nests, for whose entertainment the countess had ' sent ’

or to the piano. She had been sunny trying them
over. and pausing to recall the sensations they used to
.3333; magi-e is little wgaderthat at the moment.

e m .s sudden ea or peel she had
drifted back into her dreams  A

" lie was very fond of me once. and so was I or him. ‘
now could I help it. poor buidsoine follow} ‘i wonder .
whether I should have been Countess of  by :
this time. instead of simple Mala trees. as _ -
there been noMiss [Jaleand no John sites There
have been gipizy countesses before now." she was
musing; and then hestood before harem, Jacobo
had heard Lady Dorothea coma in. she when round-
m“um “mun his mind all...» I  
. c was ng o a _ n ' 
ingly at her. his ' face full or article. ghem weld
tearainhiseyss.andhiavoios . a  '.
ness. AndhewsatbeEarl of Castle . and nudism-r"  r
descended to be her gay. familiarcnsyin the -
careless days that were dead and buried in the bravest-s" * '

his past. ‘ , ‘ . r : . -
‘" Oastictcn.”ahessya.acitly,mm in.
than to ‘ ' 1‘

All rim:
to avoid. Emu." And fittflbsr at 

 

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wearied for you.‘f shesays. sweetly. holding up her ap.

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.“Wh .do you doit. thenrlf‘. he Walther crossly,.
Eat ho! ing herhgn'd tightly olaagw’g
, _ n blushes Budrtfiigimf involn tar
‘M hdr’nwvit.  _ " . , ., . .

“_I do it bechuee ibis the proper‘thing to do, Lord
em ton; is no the reason which prompts; half;

y ne'eh'e ‘g‘ently‘

, ,i , lo , , ‘ $333

 o“ pings‘ol‘fiivvillflu lilo?‘,' one says; trying to be
 In “l. llou‘gli’enllj’leels'en immense compassion ior
' ' (mgufidefl'_ ', unhappy young earl, who stands frown-

‘ing: V on u' 5“ 4 her, a. stray sunbeam frolicking about
. the (an yel,yow-tinted‘heerd she used to admire in her
.r'siliygzgtrlisir days.,lighting up the great ,dinmond on,
'Fthe wellsoheped. sun-browned hand, which is absently,
“atrokiii this hirsute glory. _ . _, , 5 .- -

' "Oil, their propriety l" he cries, with something

. betweenrueighnningronn. “Can't ou'juet bohemi-
mi manna. rind triendly, as you n to be, for a. little
while more?“ , ,, ._ ,  r

' " 'l‘ill we are both married. you. mean," laughs Miss

 .j a. aottly,,sinliing down upon the music-stool again;

 n "foldiu ' her arms upon her bosom, she steals a
y» ' ’ 35nd. hzaiqulnzieul IOuk athiin, . ,

3  ".011. bother being married, Majal Why Will you not
I . Va np‘tormeuting me i" he eayq‘again. withanothor

patient sigmand then he begins tossing over the ,

. music-on the piano. His two betrays the recollections
this occupation summons up. so that his next speech
 take her by surprise. . r _. A
.  remember those days sometimes, don‘t you?"
a he look down at her with .a keen. observant,
sienna; which has the efl'ect .of putting her on her,
7 guard at 01196. . , -
,"Qi’ten, Lox-.l‘cuileton," she reeponds. the roses in
w hereheeks deepening inopite of the mommy innocent
;; tr with which one upli to her eyes. “ They were very
“kw py, pleas. t dnyxil. > I ifiope ti elmllhi‘eniember them
on H no iv ant. open or em w on Lam uito n
femflnesllethnsgiah." ' q
It was difficult to corner Marjorie Bruce. If herpride
, you up in winner: the present occaelon. size was
fertile, in resouroeo.‘ , v
.  one earl We: no match for her in this respect. Won-
derin} i whether it could really be that she had nlrendy
, forgo n.th made the euiel‘ charm at” this by-gone
 of bright days. he tried hereoain. , ~ '
a} 33% do you think people are eVer so happy as
:  they are» building their youthful air-castles '1

‘ Marlo smiles, and thinks. with a spine of Balloon.
08“. that she id Well unlined tojudge of this matter.
- ‘Tloe.Lord Gasman. I know by experience that
' influencing me has: its oompennetione.”. shew-eye. with
me Air 0 3 winners: and. she nods her pretty head at
' m

u

‘1

, hot one they»! wonder, Mrs. Methueeieh it" quee—
fiche the earl,- etai‘ing hard at her in a half-sorrowful,
humiliated way; In curs. Methueeleh costs down her
oration-J speak» twain-1y. - >

r 1‘ Well. one loathe to know oasis self and other
people, and whate moderate share of happiness this
mm: d at the bestow afierd ; and no one is not kept in

2 or foyer at hopes and lure. and has leisure to seek out

; M duties.» It enema to me. judging Ly my own ex-
perience, that true enjoyment of life is not possible un»
til‘aitthn is found out." . .

‘ - ‘3 among the prophets i" laughs the young man,
It little bitterly. “How wise and sensible you have
flown since I used to know you i"

m “~0h,that is on age ago. I was onl'yachild then.
Lordilaotleton." And the grmiul‘hezul is thrown up
withnome Ilauieur. - .

.: ,"Achild toendust a few months ago i .1! so, you are
I childliuwmnd dent in the least understand whet
 tuliiing about with a middleanged air of expor-

.‘ 5.33 in very unhappy. and coneeqnently veri‘irrit-
' able. and her philosophical mood annoys him. ow 18
_ it tint she has attained this vantagegrouud. while he
union floundering about in I mire of. temptations?
.ePrubably because her heart. incapable of maintaining
a passionate love. has comforted itself by the substitu-
tionof noorrect mention for this young i‘armerwhorn
-\ her parents hnvo looked out for her as avsuitable hue-

"Poople court not to count their ages: b yenrs. I
liofiehzthlnk. Lord Unatleton. Sometimes one iveo more
All»! month then inn number of yearn. I think/Hone

remarks. mu nageiy; then, afraid lest she has slim“.
Add me intuit. woollen earths sub not. : l. I ~ "

" I, wonder what has me of .gly Dorothea ? She
.Wentxomfteurm for going outwith yon ever“ so
along one. .1! you will exam me. ill let her know that

_ ~ you ere-Me," she “adds: but hie'lordehip :etope her us

one krill!“ to lenvelthe room. - »
:1 lion trim. “thy; 'tliink‘bow on it is since I have
monument: “new eoénvit it going to end; Let
limbo triads. as you promised weimonld be > that any;
in the woodglong worms." ‘ Ami no hands another
gmat sigh and stretches out an eager hnnd'to her, just
an it; there'wu no Kins 141319501 claim it. ‘ I w ' ‘ 
"Yum, of rouno,:herd mansion.” »- one begins
agrar- mold-of his ‘ fervor, althongh’ sheila tee lorry
ukulele evident unhappiness to be as molatelysaiatnnt
lube ought. " We have never been Inything also; Inn:
with the». Minor unlucky addition, one ,preiently
this reassuring reply. “ I " "
Minerva handsome race flushes on he looka'dm at
; » ‘  ,. homwtinto tonateepeeen. )
we ;.   > ' ‘ not; thorium! ligation}:  WWe‘m
'  . maxing one.“ ’ won we “n. l
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. _ you my mtg: from tltnz‘l‘lunt algal:
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MSMMWVV-ayon?! mm know My mail that
r‘ . t  to time for all that?“ happened

inoetmen him. and d

so... 

 - Rifi'm . ,, no? MW .
who .
‘ iil'pfientordor. ; , __ _ . ¢   .

. ‘_‘ owever,’fgehe. says. forcing an Mauritian: no
‘doubtit magi for the best. indeed. I am quite sure
you acted rightly, end I think. on the whole; so have I.
in them,“ And lie knows that she means, “when I'
engage mySeli' to John Altonff ‘ 

“ nightly . or ,wrongly, I regret
share or the right-doing
laughs a reckless. uneasy laugh which dues not mund
like his. “ It is your turn to 00111888."

There is a great hunger in the pmssiOn-lighted eyes
Twhich are eagerly scanning her pretty. troubled face,
nude thrill ofmingled leer and pity sets her trembling
from headto foot. ' ,  . s' . ‘:, 's

," I have nothin to confess. I am very. ham”. new
that itis allover twaen you and me; Why'do you
torment me? .gWhy can't yondet me alone? I love
John Alton dearly; he is the heat and noblest man in
the world,-un<1 he levee me a thousand times more than
I deserve.” And the ginl’e bosom heaven ominously.

earl. drawing a. step. honor her and lowering his
voice to a tone of imploring inquiry. v _-

“ Nobody—not as you mean. .How dare you link such
a question? Why will you come here and spoil: my
peace and his; just when 1‘ have begin to be ha‘p y
and—e little good i” says Migarwithzan irrépresei a
burst of tears; and she looksup at him withnni‘aniilier
greet eyes and a strange, terrified expresdon' in her
white. sorrow-stricken face. » v

There is a tumult oi conflicting emotions within
that. impulsive young‘henrt. from «whose unsuspected
depths there has risen a terrifying ghost'ot‘n'paasiou-
ate love. . " ‘ '. _ _

. She is sure it is only e host. but it is ‘a misery to
know that it is» there-int elboeom‘ehe’ had ' meant to
ileum shrine wherebn should burn mensetuiuy a
heaven-1'ch flame of grateful, reverent love {or the
good m'lm who. with such brave faith in her better
nlture. had chosen'her for his wife. ' ‘ ’ “

‘: 'As'aho winds, motionless with bewilderment, Lord
Cutleton seizes her chili hand and makes another ep-
peal. though hells scarcely-aware whet he is saying or
doin just “that moment: ‘ ‘ ’ r r

" lou love me. Mada" You have no right to marry
'nnother man. You belong to me, and you can't help
yourself. sYou must horny wi’e." _ v y

It aesmsto the poor little nmid‘ as if her good angel
and her bed are nltemately rompting her through the
feeling: his words own an. » She cannot ' speak
tor a tow moments, bu-t'keeps nervously twisting her
tiny henna; again withdrawn horn hieoiaepythenrthere
is another outburst. v I ,_   ', ' , '
' ‘1' You. are nothing :to me now. You were never‘eny-
thiwg tome since I found out"your reel ' autumn—ever
so long'ngo.‘ Idon't love on; I don"t own like you.
I am going to marry John ton become I love him and
respect him as I never did yeti-wine,“never;A never-l”
Andrthere fails a mend himwer’of angry tears, while
sh: presses her quivering lips together to keep down a
so . ‘ L A ‘ '

“ Don't lie i" says the earl. still unconscioue of what
he is about. and he speaks in on ver hurry oi excite-
nicnt. " I am determined‘there anal be no more shiny.
nhallying. My mind is made up, and you have only to
trust to me."  ' ’ - ‘

‘1 I have told you that I went to be let alone! Let me
go.‘andnever‘ B‘petflnw to me again. Lord Carleton 1"-
Marjorie responds. etruggling to tree her hand: which
he line once more grasped. ' ' " g

“ Not for a. moment—4'11 let you go when you tell me
you will‘ trout to me.” ' r  A

Mnrjorie'a temper is fairly roused, and her retort is
verynllorp.‘ v ‘ . r ' ' A - g

“ Trust to you. Lord Castleton 1" she sayemith‘ecorn-
in! emphasis. “ final: to you!" And there are :lghtning

despised teary. >
Nobody

,qiiite pale. and a. grave pain (let-keno his incewhich he

preeentl hides in his hands. turning away from the
girl, on leaning on the high piano by which they
étnnd. - r ‘ ' ‘ e v

the justice "of thin half-spoken taunt. Hemohown
lilineetf tickle, u‘ntnitliiul, anomalously uninindiul of
duty. walls is capable of better things.‘ The good
within him make:
in! shame. ‘ . V »
' For a full minute Male cumin apart in" wratth si-
lence; then her heart. given a great throh ' of repoth
monomers. and one steels up'to him. and in a mainly
,csreesin hand on‘hie arm. uying eoitiy, ti: tech in:
terruztglg' her wards: "Oh. how sorry I mi '1! you
on} , new how
totem" ‘
Her touch- grams coat-sleeve pends on electric tin-in
through his whole. mine. He {looks up and confront:
“her ‘ltttlowhite. woe—Mona fine. down which great
bright tours~ ere streaming, no she"etencie craving his

“pardon. - r _
" I suppooe ya: thought there couldn't be an harm
in speaking tru . Muir; Only you were rather an on

'gujtlt seen that one let forgiven. and you‘d“th peniv
( n . r _ . ' _‘L ‘ ‘ r. ' ‘ .

""1 our new “ 3* showroom “5’ vary berry.”  “ ‘ -‘ .
" I shouldn't mind-e- bit."if “it won't aeration-l
don't engage to he _ There‘s when t , [sting

  
 

  
   

     
 

  

 

i ' World; growl * quite ale; them;
keenly Your! one who hue mtg vent to?” speech.

nominee», , » I H,- , i p M
4* “Itaan true,  I «it like you: indeed i an. 
0.3th; (ml “not in thewey you mad: meffigé-d
And here.” Huck will here, italic  crin-
.‘ I   v»  V‘, w... 1."; M 
it» ‘Me in» .. ,' . ehj‘g tenn-
 ;: W;wun::
magi-"V. ~ 

tneetorcounteract its romoet- by another“ of a very

 now.  A
or wrong-doing;" and he‘-

,-‘ You men come with me we ' gnaw-inn * " 8w
'soon you go home, and how iltflé?11"lédbf‘y§fi’§l§w

nleama in the dark eyes out of Which one “dashing her .

has ever said such a cruel thing to him in all V
th 9 course of his prosperous. beiiuttered lite. ' He grows -

*‘I’he sting of her word: liee'iu-hia consciouenoee of .,

hlinvwrithe in an agony of remorse. '

wm .1 W- W! with: we. m, m '

me.” the earl guys, with u ruei'ul attempt to smile; and ‘

“’Decluielyonuhm 'od‘tohe Miami" 2' 
nyrfiséeg'hovheginsw'r cowl-331.9% '
openlngrt e  mamas-mm to drown" ltd:
and look as innocent as it is Mine {ciao “
short notice: ‘ ' ‘ 7 " '~‘ "

 
  

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wen‘blinder'tharnsunl:  I V
A-Frencli huirairoeaerifitlfl Jéfliéon hath  my]

   
   
  
 

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9.
3

their wise'heuas together: over a, eiw ht: j ,
her ladyship 3 yellow lech,und‘ lxnye harem

beenmnder warheads: Evelyn ‘ .t‘ly‘eeermi‘ * ‘ “ 
maim m-r look upon-lion epp‘rough apprehend ' 1
it wueto be her execution; fihe:biteouxl' cleanings
there are tears ’oi‘real voltage" leaner: Fury bluff
though she ministers up it Join wholemeal if 

kisses her and asks if she firemyforher glrive. ‘

'- " Quite, old boy,"ahe ane”ei~e;thehoppeais1tou _
jorio‘ . z 1 ,,, . ' . , (A; :u‘ (a

3
B

so long. Do come, litre a: good, kind 

“ And you care for nobody but him now i" asked the are] > V ‘ I , , ‘ ‘ _
' ‘ M‘Ah. do..1ust to pleeéo‘ Dolly. “She h‘fititqngtnifi‘

n:

      
  
 
  
    
  
     

 

 

:73 " 3'!

      
 
   

     
  

self yet, poor girl. .« Bee-how h r reeds have: _
from'thoserwretche’e pullin :bout ‘her poor ,
so," Lord Castleton pleads, kin overth ’ ‘
head as ita‘ o'wner'e‘lts on his knee. ovingl I 
sweeping silky beard: and’MLja. yiemnu t5 f
animation and runs away to‘get ready) 1' “3"; ‘,
" I shall put a. stop tothis roiry'teme-mw.
home in a very i'ewdnys after. ’Thnt will 0 ' h" , h
to how little I cure for him more afloat ,y'fit;
thing i could do or say. Besidee, I 
say exactly whu’t'I' wish when his eyeing w filf
I am so sorry for him that 1 tone in (ht-bill, and
utterly lame iinpreselona’oi'niy feelings: «» ' _
I» Yes, 1 aim uo‘rr ibr‘ilim; and mm mm ,, 
of old dayofiuml have a silly admiration bf; 
looke’and high rank. Besidee,lam flattered  ’ 
finds it. no hard to break “to irom me‘.‘ sad my 
end‘vdnity keep crying on. ion the gomnet  '
dongle before my eyes. That}; jut how l’ieei, ' I
shall tell him so lginly tomorrow. pie-day! shill
com «on civil. n towel!" he had notlorgo’ttenhnn-
“firm.” I, .y’ 4. 1““: In': » ill: "go . m .12 :pwqtvu
This is the'snbstenoe' ‘6i‘jmrjorlé'o innocuous. or"
makes her toilet for going, fit. when it 
she tries, a. final 'sedntive,,’v, top preview , ‘
has seldom foundth mil." 5 . ,  ‘ x L  , ‘i.
Shear-ewe mm her neck minim V. 
wherein in enshrined a wougkrt . i uniting  j ,
hex-«betrothed. and. openirg‘gitg, , ' 'i‘uto‘ ,
smiling eyes: ’théli,q1fi§a§h§ 'it ‘ mitently.‘
with a sudden shower of hri ht, “  p 
miniature; “ I ontogeny: dew ohn.‘ end I l'o‘vo you: ‘
body but, l'Ou—euud'wi'll’b true to you Michgatmflf'
Ameriwldch comforting finance she feels oblate”
her writing friends wit a toierably laughed-cg, ‘  j,
The sun shines out glorioueiy. ,Therli is a e H '
apringi‘mhuefis in the air. All the lashioublo A,
in abroad beneath the (their, blne‘glr’y.‘ ‘ ‘ ‘2' *7
There is mettle in the horses lzgeie,,iml the," '
flies on at an oxhileratin’g pace untilfiit retiree; 7 ,
Park. and a new exvitemeut is to be within:
the gay kaleidoscopic amine. Mariette forget- to', on
sure out her smiles, and grows her happy sell" ‘
Ber dark eyes gleam, her cheeks glow. while; J 7
Castleton and Ledv Dorotheu' rejuire in o 
of proprietilmhlp’in his fresh brunette bantyinpqn
whomeo-‘mauyedmmnglooksare 14W“!!th ‘ 5;"
- “ There have been ioveeiek ioololaeiore mo, mega

“"119 “5 florid Well." thinks the rents aim. iii: ;
tng his desertionpf Etheii‘tine gage, m.  H  1

   

snot-illegally“: While unmet ‘verioh . y 1' 
dinning tool! on himinvnrd our age must thé v
maideppofi to: ' ' “ " ’ , ' 91,5.
"the, “remove... 

A S ! le 0 . 08 :
Tom his $hole life in one his.“ ' ”
' Upon her perfect flpaw - ~ — 

.u-u—n-u

cannons. ' .

"newmuch atoll thiade you really  ,, 
hypocrites, that I shouldn‘t bow

  ,1

men are such

lordship his g‘rown‘oo motorized to fluttory 
can’t believe an :unpnletahle: truth, I enrl't3 _ it.
Honesty is better thanpoliteneoe. any MK ’

M orie Bruce. wither: air of,

1:2,:

 
 

  
  
    
 
 
 

I mi . ,
“expel-tank :os’peaking.
wlho Mtge even" more _ »
her. during the inst voouple- of dam, 
vionely mutedmim.’ ' 1 f, A,
When mgpelkn he: miner ehe. g V
withgnite-‘nn Oriental contempti‘or _ ‘ ’ .
meut; when the preheat  p P
 her‘oonipenlon'by the ’ I
' “Emaim; ,7... « I w...

,H in: hip .v pineal“; . i 
’hitfied‘sggfhlghmewing on a;  ,  ‘ ‘ 
noted gheie‘lookingv  a

'Mrfi‘mmhigunbt:tw..  M4
grow "vised new ‘1 '. .. v ’ " .
aou’spenk' inching J92». m “‘3; ._ 

it i

 

5r: 7 “

 “mm” 1‘” a grievance. m lél'rmaé'wily'
ENJS, 5 (i ;gv,1',y “fixi ‘

“though not a word/ you hove,  Confirm Wt
heart," Lord Cutletoti says, rather ‘ . 1- .. . I.
"I mean it all, borrower; Lori!  I; '

 

 



 

i.

96

11210811 BRUCE'S LOVERS.

 

 

"Insult you by storing to make you my wife! I
think you forget yourself a little. Miss Bruce," the earl
m. with a good deal- of haughty emphasis on the
words ” my wife."

"Idon'tcare whether you think so or not. When
you cometo vac. who am engaged to marry another
man, and love him, and am very happy "—she etc to
check a rising sob—J apd nliakne love to aneialnd as}: me
tomarry on. you no use g me: an a oug you
were the grilles of Wales. instead of the Earl of Castle-
ton. and I was a poor little servant maid. it would not
alter the case one bit," cries Made, with gradually
raised'voice: then, with a sudden loss of dignity. and
bursting into girlish tears. she adds: “ Now, I have no
more to say to you. Will you please to let me go

.awa ? On, how I do wish you had not come home i"

ith all the and will in the world the earl comes
down‘i‘roxn his a ilts. He mounts them so seldom that
we need not wonder he finds them of little service.
“Ky dear little Malia." he says, " I beg your pardon
ten thousand times. You are quite right to feel as you
do. slid I respect you evor so much for doing so. only
you must listen to reason. so engagement is not like
a  It on lit to be broken when those who
have m , e it had
uses if it is carried throu h."
' can Alton has not found t at out yet. nor, I either.
Kiss e—only you : and you know you

at there is no reasonable chance of

won?! never foramoment have dreamed of marrying

no if I had not. unluckily, happened to lie—a little-—

, ."tilterrupts the girl through her tears; and he

not help smiling. though. afraid of her wrath, he
fie his 11 hard

‘ e is perfectly sure of her. althon h he anticipates a

. ' deal of preliminary trouble. he has risen pro-

an in his estimation ever since he has discovered
it“ their oourtshi is likely to be a storm one, owing
toner sci-u lee. herein something of t at security
in’the'good- umored tone in which he defends himself
from her last accusation.

"If you had not been a little—to be honest, since at
News have quite thrown oil‘ the letters of elite-
lses—élnom than a little—very pretty—you won d not
have been yourself at all, mus-4m“ Bruce, I mean—
eo we need not argue that point. anyhow."

Thou h he has 3 his lips sternly set. there is the ir-
ngmi‘ls old g can of diversion in his blue eyes.

' w ich are bout u on her with a look of de recation.

'It is hard for‘h m to be long serious: an the greater
has been his depression of spirits, the more imperative
is his revulsion to yety, for the almost uninterrupted

sod. fortune whic has attended him through life has

fthim in unimpaired enjoyment of that most envi-
able endowment, natural high spirits.

l!‘ orie's face does not respond to his brightening
look. ‘ut remains cross and troubled.

" I am not trifling in the least, and I am only a fool-
isb girl. I do won for a man can care to talk nonsense
when the happiness of other people's lives is at stake.
In posshomebody overheard you speak as you have
born doing to me: suppose Lady Castlcton or av. 11
Lady Dorothea should come in and discover me with
such eyes "--she impatienti brushes awe a tear
which has been exciting his miration as it c on like

a glistening dewdrop to her swee ing. curled ey ssh-—

"what should I do? what can! I say? They would

whine the most deceitful. plotting, ungrateful girl
. . a .

an - .
,, ed at the hill-door. her brother excuses hi

' trothsd of hers by giving in: his conga.
or

")lot when I had explained everything, which I
should instantly do. I don't care how soon the know
that I want to marry you. Ah i Maia, I am not riding.
Be kind to me': tell me that I may arrange mst'ers so
as to at you for my very own. It is not too late; yet
it wilfbe soon, if you go on being so obstinate."

Harlot-is heaves a long] sigh of wesriness, and uplifts
rsali earnest eyes to is, which are eagerly bent on
her ace.

"I am engaged to John Alton. and Ilove him. and
wish to marry him. Can’t you believe me when I tell
you so gravely? Look, there is my hand on it." An’l
slit;i extendsastern little hand. which he declines to
no es. v

"You are an unforgiving, hard-hearted girl." says
the gentleman. an ry at last. “ Indeed. I don’t believe
you have a bit 0 heart," he adds, with wrathi‘ul in-
consistency of statement.

"I have. though, but not for you. Lord Castleton,”
is bliss Bruce’s equ'llly rude retort. Then she makes a
fierce little bow. and swig-age 03‘ without so much as
throwing him one backw glance; nor does she resp-
pear while he is in the house. though, in he of her
talenting, he hangs about until even Lady rothea
grows a little weary of him; and her patience is not
easily exhausted.

Her ladyship announces that If orie has a bad head-
ache. and they drive out alone, on ng each other but
dull comp When the young lady is safely do sit-
‘ msel and
sea at to his club. where he lounges awa a few un-
. meditative hours. the result of whic is a des-

hitherto undreamed-of resolution.
, .e is'tiinid, overade by the dread of his fami-
lyfs censure. unwilling to sin this highly worthy be.
He will give
up Ill We oi getting to take the initiative, and
gankl like 1: fellow himself how matters stand.
e

 
   

inform in of his own honorable intentions,
his belief that Marjorie would with gratitude ac-
hei' freedom "be. Mr. John Alton. would gener-
snsl ofir to. break. their hurriedly formed engage-

“It is odes! toask. of course: but then I should do
I could to show my sense of obligation~lend him
to workanotb him factor when I

hi 3 “*mof to t sort a
ammo  a :an a
e ' ow wit his hands ofwork does not

I
8

ES:

mushasrtforthelossofaswesthesrt. dos,
his‘positionoould sweets itomar
mwuh in her power to marry star’s” r,

(

    

 

Such are the earl's views of the matter before dinner.
After it, and a prolonged jolly sitting over his wine in
company with a few Bohemian-spirited chums. he is
even more determined to secure the little beauty. at
whatever cost of social prestige or pecuniary sacrifice.

Before he goes to bed he has dashed off and dis-

atched by post a very frank statement of the case to
1315: Alton, Esq., Torwood Downs, by , Scot-

Ile has a headache next morning. It rains, and his
spirits are depressed. He is by no means sure that he
does not regret having acted with such unwanted de-
cision ; but the letter has gone beyond recall, and he
feels bound to await an answer and shape his future
course by it. He is haunted by thoughts of his be-
trothed, who .is expected in London within a day or
two. and to whom he owes a most sinful and humili-
ating confession of this final dose ion of her. 80 un-
happy is he that he cannot face the fair cause of all
this troubled cogitation. and an affectionate scrawl in-
forms Lady Dorothea that engagements out of town
will prevent his coming to the house that day.

And so it comes about that the feeble old letter-carrier
of the Torwood district delivers at the Downs an aris-
tocratic-looking missive such so rarely finds its way to
the quiet folks there.

“Twa grun' Lunnon letters the day. Maistcr John 1”
he proclaims, with an air of con uence, as that gen-
tleman comes forward to the hill -door, where he is
holding a leisurely colloquy with Nancy ; and Mr.
John's dark face lights up as he takes them and goes
of to devour them in solitude, a slightly disappointed
look following his discovery that only one letter is
from Marjorie.

With a more glance at the crested envelope addressed
in LordCastleton’s known handwriting, he proceeds
to open that whim ears Miss Bruce's undecipherabiy
pretty monogram. designed by no less distinguished
an artist than Lady Dorothea.

Until he knows that his darling is well and happy he
has no curiosity about anything else.

And she is well-as well as he could wish: but
happy—no. She is restless; she misses him. the dear
ol< 101k, her country rides and walks, their long con-
fabs—all that she has learned to prize so fondly during
the last aoeml month.

she th nks she is homesick, and is determined to
make her visit a short one. She gives him rather a
vague sketch of the manner in which her days pass.
sends afntty. loving message to his father, and is for-
ever an ever,her dear old John's “ loving Maja.” ‘

And then there is a postcript; " Lord Castleton has
come home. I don’t think I mentioned that last time I
wrote to you. He is staying at his club. but he often
calls here. I dare say the D--— paper will a ready have
informed you of his arrival from Paris. When he comes
the amateur nurse sometimes finds an opportunity to
slip away and write her love-letters; so you see, he is
unconsciously useful [0 her and somebody else. Good-
bye. and God bless the best man in all this world, prays
his own Maia”,

John Altou's face grows very grave as he reads this

ostcri t. and his hand is several times passed over

is fore sad, as if to clear away some painful thought
which op resses his brain. .

Yet he as no fault to find with the writer, for even
while he sighs he kisses her big scrawling signature:
and when, after a second meditative perusal, he lays
fine 'letter down, he murmurs a tender " God bless

er .!I

Only he cannot help wishing she did notfeel restless,
and that he could convince himself of that postcript
bein a perfectly unstudied one—such as her little
ban was wont to dash ofl‘.

Ashe breaks the seal of his lordship’s letter. a stern
look settles on his face. Why should he write to him?
He wants none of his patronage, his compliments, his

condescending friendliness. which have made him such

a favorite among his tenantry. Whatever he has to
communicate might surely be done through the factor
ofhis estates. with whom alone John Alton has been
accustomed to deal.

Thus thinking, he has absently read a few lines
without comprehending their purport. Marjorie's
name presently occurs, startling him into attention,
andavcry few minutes suffice to acquaint him with
his lordship's surmises, and promiscsand re nests,
and to stir up within his bosom the fiercest. con lot of
missions it has ever known in all his thirty years of

e.

The young man is alone in his little library. a plainly
furnished, book-filled a artment to the float of t.:e
house. On the other si e of the narrow hall is the par-
lor, where at this hour his father is accustomed to sit
looking over the newspaper which the letter-carrier
brin s out from 13—. caring lest the old man should
seek im. he softly locks the library door; then, throw-
ing himself wearilyinto a chair, buries his face in his
hands and determinedly thinks it all out. . .

By-and-by there is a knock at his door. but he takes
no notice of it. and the applicant for admission. A
young subordinate oi Nancy's, withdraws without an-
other attempt to deliver the message old Mr. Alton has
intrustcd to her.

” Mr. John is among his books. an’ I thocht ye would
no wish him disturbed. sir,” she informs her master;
and‘teiling her that he is in no particular hurry to see
him, the old man sends her away and goes on with his
reading, which. strgnge to say, is an account of the to-
tal loss of the Atlantic steamer in which the nephew of
whom I have spoken had sailed them New York.

There are mingled feelings in the old man's heart. and
his thin face is full of most unwonted excitement. He
is not _ sorry to have a little time to compose his
thoughts. . I

For if, as is nomad. only a few of the crew is saved.
John Alton. Jun . is wort not less than sixty thon-
saud pounds. The last letter in which his cousin in-

. timatod his departure by this vessel. intimated also

 

that, in grateful acknowled ent of John's previous-
generosity toward him, be h appointed him his sole
egatee, and had no intention of alteringthis arrange-
inent unless in the event of his own marriage.

And Will had settled it all in a business-like manner.
He had sold his Chicago property and got his money
safely invested in England. A lawyer recommended by
the Altons had managed his affairs, and was repared
to give an account of every shilling. John h only to
prove the death and claim his rights of succession.

Old Mr.Aiton wished the poor lad safe, and he also
wished his own son rich. If Will must be drowned. it
was surely well that his money should come to one so
certain to spend it with wise generosity, so deserving
of a bi her place on the social ladder. , .

If W ll should prove not to be drowned, he trusted
he could give him an honest welcome home, in spite of
that tempting sixty thousand pounds. He trusted so.
but that was not enough—he must make sure of it; and
the feeble old man shut himself into his own room” and
there, taking out a Bible dear dead hands had worn.
and patient, pure eyes had mused over, quieted his heart
therewith. and by-and-by crept down-stairs, prepared
to reflect upon others the light which his own soul
had attain . t

" Does my lad care nothing for money ’2 Is be fair be-
yond the reach 0’ temptation 1"

So speaks he in a tender tone when. an hour after. the
two men sit to ether speaking over this startlin news;
and his son, who has been shading his eyes w tli his
hand, looks up and shakes his head mourni‘nlly.

“ Beyond the reach of temptation." and he newly
come out of a truggle so terrible that his face was
blanched and his strong limbs were aching! The old
eyes must indeed be grown dim, since his looks had not
betrayed him, and it would be cruel to force upon
them a premature revelation of the circumstances
which made the loss or gain of money a matter of com:
parative indifference. ‘

He had made up his mind to let his darling go. She
should be a countess since he doubted not that in her
inmost heart she lo’ved this man who was willinghgo
make her one. She should have all the sunshine of g a
life offered up asw‘riilce on the altar of her happiness,
and her tender little heart should be spared the pvdn
of knowing how anguished had been his resolution to
set her free: to go on living year after year without
the daily sweet communion,upon the mere foretaste of
which he had lived in paradise during these last few
weeks. I

Old Mr. Alton was not. after all. unobservant of the
change in his son‘s looks; but. attributing it. to grief
at the loss of his cousin, it did not surprise him. " It
was but like John,” thought he, “ to forget everything
but the sadness of 'this early death amidst circum—
stances so appalling."

When. after sitting long silent, the youn man sud-
denly asked his father whether he had any jeetions to
his running up to London for a couple of days, he
was answered by an emphatic negative. 7 .

"You want to find out all about the wreck, you mean.”
Mr. Alton added, and almost for the first time in his
life. John gave an answer which was not altogether
honest. ‘

“ Yes, father, the owners are the proper people to
apply to, and I want to go to their emceand learn all I
can.”

“ Then you would go and see Marjorie. too. and sure
am I the very sight 0’ her bonny face would cheer ye.
1nd.” the old man went on, pleased with this prospect
of the two young folks meeting. ,

“ Yes, I would go and see her." he agreed, with a
strange lack of enthusiasm in his voice which had
grown suddenly husky.

Seeing his father look anxiously at him, he managed
to recover his usual tone, and fell to discussing with
him the necessary arrangements for this unexpected
journey.

Early the following morning he set out for the great

city, without giving any one a hint of his real errand

thither. »

 

CHAPTER xxv. ‘
A BROKEN ENGAGEMENT.

“ Wear is become of Lord Castleton? You have

fevegdet him go away without seeing me. Ernestine.
ove ' .

“ Yes, Aunt Vesey. you must excuse him; he has
gone." ,

" Why '1’” says Mrs. Vesey, looking decidedly angry;
and her companion, Miss Marchmont, who is bu
counting the stitches in a Kiece of tapestryowork whic
the former lady has hands over to her for rectification.
loses her count. and begins to tremble nervously, con-
scious of trouble in the atmosphere, and aware that on
her devoted head part of the storm will assuredly light.

“ i suffiose because he was obliged," answers Miss
Lisle, co . _

“ When is he coming back again. my dear!" quad.
lions Mrs. Vesey, staring at her niece. r

“ I have not the least idea." that young lady replies,
yet more coldly ; and it is Mrs. Vesey s turn to be
iri htensd now. _ ' - .

or not only is the heiress's manner unaccounth
altered. but her face is very white and full of a
pain, and ere she seats herself at her little work la,
in the embrasure of the bow-window near which the
two ladies are sewing.I she gives her aunt a mesh
glance,t which warns or to ask no more questions
presen . . .

They had taken up their garters in Hrs. Vesefis
London house only the night fore. A note from
Lisle has apprised Lord Castleton of their arrival. and
his brougham has brought him to the door ugly in the
foreseen. The en 1 ed can is have been alone
together for the last our. an new the bride to be
comes in. look like her own ghost, ndannoaae.
his departure in is startlingly rusque tables.

‘1
i
ii
.1

 

 

'care about fashions altering.

_._._.-.....  ..._... . ,,. ..

A lovers’ quarrel, perhaps: but then they were

_, . scarcely lovers, and not at all given to quarreling. A

breaking-on of their engagement ; but that was simply
impossi is, now that all the marriage amngem‘ents
were made and everybody was aware of them.

And there sits that stupid Kiss Marchmont. so intent
upon counting her tiresome stitches that she cannot
catch her eye, and thus silently give her a hint to
to be all and allow her to get to the bottom of this
mystery.

" I don't quite see your mistake, Mrs. Vesey, but [‘11
go over it all again. I think there is a stitch too many
somewhere among the greens,” the companion timidly
observes, after there has been an uncomfortable
silence; and looking up as she speaks she receives her
signal of dismission, and presently slips out of the
ro m.

Then Mrs. Veaey goes up to her niece's chair and
caressineg puts her hand upon her shoulder, starin

thud into the we, rather stern face, which is raise

towards her as its owner drops her work and prepares
hbetortured. . , .

What does it matter to her that the spring sunshine

h Holcing the earth ? It is winter, cruel. birreu,

ess winter in her heart, for she has lost her
dearly loved betrothed, and life has no more
mulling.

Yet tner l sits, ina graceful, lady-like attitude,

. oped by the exquisite lace curtains of
the w ow faking outu n Hyde Park—a miracle
of mauve silk and softly falling tulle rallies-«and any-

? who may be ushered into the drawing-room will
ilnd her at her proper post.

" Yell me all about it, there's my dear child 1" And

111- Vosoy’s voice takes, that coaxing tone which, some-
how or other, always makesmss Lisle feel determined-
17 uncommunicative.

Smiling faintly, she holds up her left hand, " See,
Aunt Vesey, I have lost tiring. Can you guess what that

attends?" she says, with wonderful self-control ; and

.‘Vesey sinks down in the nearest chair and very
nearly groans aloud.

The beautiful diamond ring Lord Castleton had
given her long ago is gone. and language fails to con-
vey the terror of the poor lady’s soul.

"Jilted!" she gasps, laying hold of the first word
which occurs to her ; instead of choosing irom apolite

pottery, as is ' her wont when dealing with the

re
‘ troubles of people of position..
mas

Lisle smiles again yet more faintly. " No, not
exactly—not at all, I dare say. I saw that
Lord Castleton did not want to marry me, and I broke
oil‘our engagement. It would have been better for
both of us that I had done so lon ago. We parted
quite good friendsz'and thatis all have to tell at
present." .Agidshs draws along sigh of relief at having
got a painful duty over.

“Oh; my child, thisis sheer madness! He must be
brought, back. .The iromseau, the settlements, the
facing-up of tho curious, gossiping world—thinkof it
sill" poor Mrs.’Vcsoy. goes on, gathering her breath
andtnrning imploring, wide-opened eyes on the young

3‘ -

“ I shall wear out the traumas. if I live long enough,
Auntlir‘esey. Hopeless old maids like me don t need to
if the lawyers are paid
for their trouble they won’t complain. As ior the
world, one need not lace it very oiten until one feels
inclined."

"But, my darling, I have been looking forward so
eagerly to your marriage: and the winter has been so
intolerany dull, and I was so thankful to be safe in my
own town house again, and imagined this season would

be so delightful. I don't think you realize what an'

awful blow this is to me.”

Mrs. Vesey‘s tours are streaming: and; fearful lest
mybody should see her in this plight. lilies Lisle pre-
Vuils upon her to dry her eyes and retire to her dress-
ing room, where she promises to stay beside her until

‘sheieels more composed.

. Therethe colloquy is presently resumed, a liberal
drenching with eau-dewo‘logne going on at intervals,

' Finding Miss Lisle immovably tired in her resolution,

her aunt by-and—by gives up entreaty and takes to more
lamentstion.
What can one do with a woman of twenty-six, self—

‘ willed to an extreme, . and of independent resources,
gently inflexible, too, so that one is shamed into speak-

ing without loss of temper? V
" I do believe .itzwill end by his running off with that

‘ designing minx.Msrjorie Bruce; running 03' with her

and rn as her. very likely, for there is no limit to
some young men's infatuation," the elder lady says,
sighlug lugubriously. .

“Why should .he run on" with her? There are
churches enough in London. He could marry her
any day, I suppose," answers the younger, forcing a
am e. i
" l” proceeds Mrs.'Vesey.without noticin this

nary, -' you must remember now how I warn you,
has. Nobody can say! neglsptod my duty. If
Lady Gallstone conscience 'yvere as mlear as mine, it
would be well for her now.’

«why, what has Lady Cutleton done? Everybody
understood that the 'rl was geing to be married to
thatisrmer you b of.”

‘ -' “ilheI pretty sure, however, that she is not going to
he ' to him

e s...... “ “'4‘..‘:t:cv::.."e.m-

this ' dealofheat; an I Ien L e

“ministers the coup-W to her post aunt’s last
h

'f on «£3211 to know at once, Aunt Vesey, that
 also means to m her. I am prepared for
 manna willing it aims d base."

 .u‘mfl'waomsdn'ehs in the family, I should say
rash-removes... In. Vesey. sinking back in her
61W“ «pupa: her use.

1““ 'i In. flashes lies Lisle. " i think the chief
9111.98 ’60th cum-y for is happiness. IIIord

(Castleton has found out that he can’t be happy without

 

HARJORIE.‘ 3n vars LOVERS.

‘2'.

 

her, why shouldn’t be please himself ?”

“ And he told you that '2" ,

" Oh no, I guessed how the case stood, and told him.
and he did not seek to deny it. Then we gave each
other back our engagement-rings, and agreed to be

triends in sgige of all this. and said good-bye. Voila
tout," ends 3 Lisle, with a. sad little laugh and a
quickly smothered sigh.

" For Heaven's sake say nothing to anybody else in
the meantime. Perhaps you may make it up yet, my
love,” Mrs. Vesey entreats, as she sees her niece about
to leave the room.

" Certainly not, Aunt Vesey. I must have time to
consider the least ueg way of enlightening the world.
Only don't for a moment think everything is not ended
between Lord Castleton and me.” p

“ How cool she seems 1 And yet I thought her really
fond of him. Ah, what a different heart I had when I
was a girl i" is her aunt's reflection as she closes the
door behind her. If she could see her in her own
room a little later, she would discover how much pas-
sionate feeling underlay this surface composure.

And so, after all, Lord Castlcton was spared the pain
of telling his betrothed that he had at last, and without
any previous consultation with her. taken advantage of
her generous willingness to be thrown overboard, so as
to make room for a more favored rival.

About that too hasty letter to John Alton, he decided
that it was best to say nothing. A confession would
be butanew insult ; and, besides, it was much easier
to hold his tongue.

Indeed, no one could have accused him of loquacity
during that hour’s interview with his cousin. He said
very little, sighed a great many times, acquiesced with
sad humility in the My's views, and looked very
handsome and lovable as. with a mist in his blue eyes
and a hluskiness in his pleasant voice, he took her chill
little hand in his, and asked her pardon and thanked
her for her goodness.

As he stood by her side, towering over her, the pale,
plain little lady looked up with grave. brown eyes, and
i'urtively took his portrait for her solace in the dreary,
old maid’s life to which she was looking forward.

In the gallery of her memory she had many varying
portraits of this changeiul, beloved face, but none, she
thought, so precious as this.

“ When he has little children of his own, I think he
will teach them tolove me, and I know Ishall love them
for his sake, and watch over them while I live, and
leave them my poor money when I die. Their mother
will not hinder me from seeing them very often, because
she will want them to have this fortune; so, after all,
it will not have been nits-useless to me."

80 thought Miss iisle, as, lettin her hand rest
within his a few moments, she mu e a brave little
speech of farewell: and then thinking heriust a shade
toomuch ofa philosopher. he went away; and dreading
lest she should break down before she had leisure to
do so in undisturbed, solitude, she hurried to Mrs.
Vesey, in whose selfish woe she found the tonic she
required.

When Lady Castleton and Lady Dorothea, in utter
ignorance of anything being amiss, called, a few hours
later, they iound Mrs. Vesey invisible, from a bond-
ache and the over-fatigue of traveling; but Miss Lisle
received them with quiet, friendly grace, skillfully
evaded questions she could not answer directly, piloted
the conversation through many difliculties, and succeed-
ed in sending them away blissfully unconsdous of any
cause for chagrin.

Having summoned up resolution for an explanation,‘
Lord Castleton drives to his. mother’s, arriving shortly
alter the tworiadies had gone oil" to Mrs. Vesey’s'.

lie draws a sigh oi'rclief, and his gloomy brow light-
ens, as the hall porter informs him that both their
ladyships have driven out.

“ And so there is nobody at home ?” he observes, re-
flectively, stroking his mustache.

“ Nobody but Miss Bruce, my lord," the man says, I
rather duhiously; for whether this damsel is somebody
or nobody is a matter of erplexing uncertainty to the
servants ofthe town esta lishmcnt.

It is then that the earl decides to comein and write a
note to be given to LadyCustleton on her return; and
bidding his brougham await him, he bounds up the
staircase in a wonderful hurry, afraid, in truth, that
MissBruoe maybeat aretreat are he has time to reach
the small drawing-room where he expects to find her.

He presently finds that she has not run away.
She rises and greets him with a sweet little blush and
shyly extended hand, as, making his proposed note.
writingnn excuse for his appearance on the scene, he
comes up to her.

She has not seen him since their quarrel in the con-
servatory two days bears, and she is glad to have an
opportunity of correcting the unfavorable impression
her shocking imrpudence must {have created. Quite
unaware Oi his subsequent course ot‘ action, she has her
own plans termed. '

In a low days more she isgoing home. A letter an-
nounci this intention has that morning been de.
spite-h to rejoice the hearts of her dear rustics at
Torw ~od. It is very likely that, except in the'presence
of others, she will not see Lord Castleton again. Miss
Lisle has come to town, and. willing or unwilling. he
will have to march up in the altar with her in a very
few weeks more. Marjorie's heart is today full of re—
leuting tenderness for the foolish, handsome young
aristocrat who is so fond of her. _ '

She will be kind tohim for this last time. liner all.
he has never meant badly b her. On the contrary, he
has done her the honor of esdins for her hand quite
as if she had belon ed to use own rank, instead of being
ahumble little. no 3'. , If he has not/treatede
Lisle well, it. is because he has been drawn into that
unlucky on 6 no doubt he will make

 

gsgemen . an
amends for it all by being the kindest of husbands.
“'1 in body Idea, and that is mine;

,‘ hi, {1.} L mix
it??? .

   

which will you have, Lord Csstletou '2" she says. going
to a table and getting 'resdy the writing materials he
will require; snd,in spite of herself, she blushes
as he replies, with his eyes on her sweet lace, " vs
me yours, Maia. We’re iriends once more, aren’t we?"

" Yes, if your lordshi pleases," she says, meekly
casting down her eyes, r bestowing upon him a mo.
mentary glance of oontrition for the impertinence of
which he had been guilty in their last interview.

He magnanimously forgives her, and tools more in
love than ever.

" I can’t for the life of me hel calling you
don't mind it much, do you? be present] 0
seating himseli to write, and looking up at

a. You
rves.
er as she

lingers a moment by his side, demurer waiting to see .

that he has all he wants.

“No.1don't mind it at all. We have known each 1

other so long; and besides, it is not worth while cask.
ing any change now, Lord Castleton."

There is a somewhat pathetic look in her nomad
she ends with a sigh. Lord Castletou, busy a
quill which needs no mending, understands what I:
now means, and bites his lips to hide a smile.

Shall he tell her or that letter to her
and get the storm over at once? (He is quite
for a storm, which, however, will end in ssinking into
his arms.) Or shall he wait till he receives a answer
to his letter? He decides to let well alone, and be h
py in this quiet sunny room. where pretty Isis s
hovering about him. with her kind little attentions.
delighting him with her shyly penitent dementia.

She begins to perceive that the writing of his note it
notthe only business which has brought him hither,
and thinks that she has already made sumcient show
of friendliness. ,

“ Now I am going away, if you are all 113th
Castleton,” she remarks. “ I shall see that her “1*
gets you‘r note."

The young man hastly lifts his closersoppsd “1'
head, and looks comically alarmed.

“But I am not all right; I am all wrong, on the con-
trary. See, I have not sound a pen yet. I on making
one, however, and you must stay to see it launched."

" And make its trial.th on the paper," adds More
jorie, smiling, and drawing sslep closer to him. ,

She thinks that, alter all, he is like! his. old self to-
day-happier. less extravagantly demonstrative of ad-
miration; and so long as he remains from making love
to her there can be no harm in her being civil : surely
she was rude and disagreeable enough last time she wins
in his company. “

“ I think I must keep that pen as s remembrance of
you, Lord Csstleton. You are taking such infinite pains
with it, and handling yonrpenknii'e in such a bungling,

aristocratic way, that it seems a shame to treat it as a ‘

mere ordinary pen," Marjorie observes, laughing her
pretty low laugh, and looking half roguish. and half
sorrowful.

“ Do sit down and wait for it, then. Maia," E says.
entreatiurly. rising and placing a chair for her in pret-
ty close proximity to his own; and she does not de-
cline to accept it. .

“ I am glad I, have seen you to-day, because I m
goin away on Friday, you know," she remarks, with
gent e gravity; but she is not allowed to proceed with-
out- an impatient interruption.

“ I don't know anythi g 0: the sort. You never told
rue—nobody told me; a I care more for your goings
and comings than do 1 the rest of the world put to-
geiher. You know that."

Marjorie really wants to stop this sort of fitment
honestly regretting her weak soit-hesrtedncss, ss-
erts herself to do so. «

“Now, Lord Castlsto'n,” she says. looking very ’rs-
proach.ul, “if you mean to speak so, I' shall run
away: if you mean to be sensible, I shall stay beside
you as long as you want me."

“Well, Im‘ean to be sensible—as sensible H the
most wearisome old i'ogy you can think of. Only 
and talk to me, Maia; pleads the young gentleman.
looking alarmed; and. he determines to reserve his
love-making far a more propitious Occasion.

They discourse pleasantly enough of old times; 0!
then—neighborhood; of many harmless subjeclo.
and pass half an hour very comfortably, the note W
written by snatches in the intervals of conversation.

In thc pleasure of looking at her, of hearing ham ’

young vozce. uttering her simple jests and re .
he forgets his inevitable confession; the dificulfles his
relatives will probably seek to put in the way of such
amesalliance as he is contemplating: the likelihood
that John Alton may refuse to cede his claim to
hiarjorie's hand; the terrific surince which awaits
film, even supposing he carries his point and marries
er. ' *

He steps into his brougbam with a bright hoe. Yet,
alasl by the time he so: out of it, half an hour
later, he is sunk in a very fit of the blues.

“ I like him, after all, poor follow. I am sorry I in.

so ill-tempered the other day. I shall keep the gum  .‘

for my grand lover's sake, and think kindly oi him now
and then," whispers
the pretty desk through which he has been mm.
ing with restless hands;.snd. s queerlittle smile W
ing about her face, she touches the quill very lightly
22;? “‘° "sum mm. ‘52 "m "° "” W
ypresse o ’smni ureev , mun
takes a secret look into his kind, true face.  r r

’ CHAPTER xrvn
m Van! no.

"Dos’rcry. my dear little Maia. .I understand how
it has all come about, sndI don't blame' you at has
one bit. By-and-by I’ll met all the paisW—uhh
honest voice falters, then hurries w mtg-w 
quite happy in my quiet way. You know outlive mils
while ago I never expected to haveyou'iorjn’y flu.“ a;

Wthsd.’

motioned) herself, as she adios .

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

l
r.
v. ‘
l:
v
.5

.

 

1481031]? on new Lovm.

 

 

,

l'll'rhusspesks, “John   'round'from the
.winiowht which he has been- :1 , and hiseyes
rectwith pathetic  on anion-is Bruce‘s

' head ate alone in‘tho smell drawing-room of Lady

Castletontetown house. The girl has flung herself on 1
, thing, such as she has never before attempted : Milled

a «winch» in an 'attitule or sorrow-stricken abandon,
anl, buryin ,hcr l'acein its pillowsris sobbing as if her
heart woul break. ‘ , .
6 i8 makes no answer to this speech. and presently
he addresses her again. ’ ,
“ You must not'be so eorr for me. dear, for indeed
I‘ll not be unhappy, but q to the reverse. so long as I
know you are happy. ,Tnere is nobody will feel such
Pride in your high position and such confidence in
your doing your duty in it; and time is such a
. wonderful consular. that I suppos ' some day or other
I’ll look back on this present trial and wonder how
“seemed” hurl to go through just at the time.”
 bravely tries tolaugh. by way of covering the
hamlet-his tone.
lie hassoated himself by the. half-reclining figure
and “mspulive..chilllittle hand away item the
, L ' .isco.’ Rebuke at itlovingly as it lies within
 bigbrown palm, and utters aquaint fancy Which
'  »" he says. anxious to get her to compose
/‘  I'lllingto speak on any subjecttliat w11
not tuber. “ that little hand of-yours. cradled in this
s: ugly paw. mmes me think ofa dainty sweet snow-
,,mti in the newly dug-up brown earth—it takes
ltdo in and the Downs."

  ,Thisllttloiest only drawsahother sob from the re-

on of the gorgeous downy pi;l.)ws in which Marjorie’s
f  Elliott head; nestles ; and the young man sighs,
. attempts another llna of tactics.
"You wi.l do one little thing to please me, Majc,
15981.} you? . You know I would do agreat many big
ones to please you." ,
a; f?- l'lhdo anything you bid rue—anything in the
i. y , "responds Maia's voice, in a and whisper, and
the N , drop of a ban 1 clasps his firmly. .-
«J’; earthen, [bid you sit upand look at me. You
aren't pit-aide! w. you know. it can’t be that you are
.sosilly as-ell that." y _
i “No. I‘m not aLraldcf-you or anybody else: it isn't
that." An l with a sort of childlike obedience which
theyonn man finds lnexpressibly touching, the poor
beauty Ii expand raises her eyes to his face.

Her cheeks are flushed. her soft. dark-brown hair
falls. slittle disordered, round her firefly throat. She
has not yet cried enough to redden or eyes. and .tllerr)
is a suit liquid depth in them which'John Alton thinks

,. ".4 he has Myer seen before.

‘.‘ What is it, Lien, main? 1.! it only that
 for me?" he questions, noticing the
lashes are wet once more.

_ "l)hydohn.liow should I dare to be sorryfor you ?"
ia'hcratrange reply, over which he is lett to meditate.
for .useshe speaks she rises. and. giving him a parting
look which is full of‘heartfelt humility, she leaves the
 begging him to await her return. I

 It is a damp. depressing e.‘ternoon. A chill mist

shrouds the outer world. Raindrops chase each other

1down too wiudompanesmni John Alton. us- he stands
at mould .t gazing out on the unfamiliar prospect,
that even thus dull and colorless will be
thunderous or his lilo.
He draws near the hearth, and, throwing himseli
wearily into a chair, shades his aching eyes with his

.hmd.;ensl. falls into a dreary. musing fit, his face re-

solving into stern lines ot’pain.

W. He has uniy arrival in London late the preceding

.354”. His morning has been . evoted to the shipping-

ofice. where. he has had t is newspaper accounts 0! the

loss ol'the vessel fully authenticated, anl has leiraeal
was the evidence of the survivors that his ill-fated
m1 was among those who had perished 3 the

_ ,dwmpingof an overcrowde'l boatjust after it h been
'2 109ml} lrom the sinking ship.

Be is arich man now. He is free to gratify the tastes

Hilton!!!st he has felt bound to repress. Afuture
. {of indepenlenre uni leisure lies before him. and lol

he tumsway from his good-~‘ortune with shuddering

aversion. sul prays it to hegone anl give him back the
kindly colitis and friend, the more grasp of whose

_ . lea-id com;ort,veveninan hour like this, when

his heart wrlthes under the anticipation of parting ior.

over iron (the woman who has become to him the Very
twilight of existence.

' Kb nus undiscliln ly gone through part of the bitter
task hoh'odvaaalgne himself. The cruciai’trlal is over,
(ioi belliankoli and he has not i'orleited that dearly

)l'ie.a..l possession. his own selilrespect.

neither has his ‘dsriiiu behaved unworthilymlv
though us has not said one word against his resigning
lie: to this noble rival. ,- - ,-

 W What avail would the most eloquent speech have
been? The poor child had tried hard to be ialthinl, be
defined not. only the oldlovs had been too strong for
mainland she had seen the,_uselesaneu of struggling
 the dictates at her heart. .

,Wne- he bliher she was free she has but gazed up
into  itwith a new recognition ; then her eyes
bevemflcmd»; and. too much agitated to speak. she

011 are 80
her eye-

 be! Meltdown amidst the pillows oi'tnc couch.
’ ande

be her only assent to his pane for her

future.
when she some back. he will, bid her a hurried fare-
well ; than he will-set an interview with the earl. who
happens to be in the humandjdemnly give into his
hands the precioui treasure it. costs him such suffering
: _ I : matter that)» willgo home to light 0“": his
= , flamed meanest hem: tocheer mfcnd old
under the disappointment of liar rle'e loss; to

  I i'm'asunmn and rural-ton ystrive for its

«so ingot the embryo countess whom to hive.
my ’5 , upon- as bound to _ an
' /'

 

rCastleton iron: under th

 

 

He has his work planned for a long time. he thinks,
with a rueiul at tempt to smile and banish the look of
pain which his face has assumed. The' poor child's
tender heart must not be tortured with useless comis-
eration of his woes.

Meanwhile, Marjorie Bruce has done a very startling

boldly into the great drawing-room and carried off Lord
eyes of a little group there
assembled—Lady Castleton. Lady Dorothea. ' and a
couple oi stately downgers, who aremaking a call.

In the mood which then possessed her, I believe she
would have walked into a den of lions without the
slightest hesitation, had the gentleman she sought
chanced to be in such an unlikely and uncomfortable
location. '. V '

" Will you be good enough to let me speak with you
alone for a very low minutes, Lord Oastleton ?” ‘

Tbisis the bomb-shell which breaks the tedium of a
very dull ,- soporific afternoon. and makes everybodv
curious to’ know what on earth the pretty plcbeian
means by her audacity. ’ \ ‘

It is not merely the words of her speech that are
audacious ; it is the tone of restrained assion, the ac-
companying glance of something very econtemptu-
one commas . _ , .

She goes straight up to the earl and speaks with em—
phatic distinctness. so that in the pause which follows
her unexpected entry every syllable is heard by every-
body in the room. as they happen to be groupedround
the upper hearth. ‘ - 

Her cheeks are flushed and her lipsfirmlyset: her hair
is a little disordered. and a decided frown knits her
forehead. It would be hard to imagine. a humble prote-
gee of a more unconventional type; and even Lady Cas-
tleton. radically inclined as she is. feels decidedly an-
noyed, and bestows a haughty stare on her iavorite;
while poor Lady Dorothea, vaguely conscious of trou-
ble in the atmosphere, looks ll'om one to another with
an aspect of fright and mystification combined.

. It is all lostnpon Miss Bruce, whose mind is so com-
pletely filled with one thought that she is subliinely

indifferent to what her aristocratic friends think of her.

She is out of herself for the time being. and the res-
cues of her gracious malesty Queen Victoria woul not
embarrass her in the very least degree.

“ It ileasy to see that she comes ()1 a «good old stock.
The gentle blood of generations of Bruces of Bruce Hall

is boiling in the pretty Amazon-'s'veins now." thinks
Lord Custleton, as, thus addressed, he rises, saying.
,“ Certainly, Miss Bruce.” and doing his-best to look as

if there was nothing remarkable in this summons.

The tu of war has come, and he has been so terribly
borel by hegentrance of these two old ladies just when
he was on the point ofmakin his confession to Lady
Gustieton that this excitemen is not unwelcome.

He knows that Marjorie has been with her betrothed.
whose promptitude of appearance on he scene has
quite thrown him out in his calculations. He sup-
poses that the young man has refused to be quietly
sacrificed, and that the girl proposes to stick to her en~
gagament. _

For his own . he is prepared for. tears, reproaches.
declarations o hatred. and determination never to for-
give him; then a final collapse. which whl be the signal
for a general resolving into action of all those chaotic
plans that have of late been making his nights sleep-
less.

01' course she will give up John Alton; and he feels
really sorry ior the poor fellow. who must certainly be
{on}, of her. when he marches so b..ldl into the,
enemy's ground upon such a hopeless erran . He is not
at all tied, but he would willingly give a year's income
to con-sole him. V

Thus thinks the earl as he follows frowning Marjorie
to the library which communicates with the drawini-
roonis. Could he r sad her heart. his .thoughts' would
undergo a wonderful transmutation.

Heshuts ail the doors carefully. then comes up to her
as she stands by the tire. awaitin him in‘stern silence.
her slender figure drawn in to ta fullest height, and
a very stormy look on her ace. .

" Sit down. Maia, and I'll tell you all about it,” behe-
gins, placing a chair for her: but we declines it with a
naughty gesture, and plunges hastily into action.

“ I want to ask you something. Lord Csstleton. A
word or two will answer me; then you can go away,
and I shall trouble you no more." she says, speaking,
low. and with I tremble oi restrained wrath in her
voice. " Have you in any way communicated to John
Alton your belief that I want him to free me hum my
engagement. so that I may hurry you i”

For one moment the earl hesitates, meditating an
indirect reply. In that brie: space the haunting ghost
of a love is let! for evermore. .

“ Have you or have you not 7" And Mariorie's teeth
clench an 1 her eyes dart lightnings of ,

Lord Castleton grow. I little pale. and begins toper-
ceive that it is pessible he has not fully sounded the
depths and the shallows of the pretty dunner: nature.

“ Yes. I here, Marjorie: but"-—¢-—-. r ' I

«You wrote that to him 1" she interrupts. still in
that low. fierce voice. . , -

“ Something of the sort. Not byany means sobluntly
as you put it, but "——

An imperious gesture stops his explanation. " Why
did you tell him such alie—snchacruel. cruel lie ?”
And her fair bosom' heaven with a “greased sob.

Ignoring her accusation. which he lieves ‘prompted
by» the wrath of the moment. he makes mother attempt
to soothe her by an explanation. v

i-lt is Only natural that Mr. Alton should ol ject to
give-you up." he, begins. and info: the third time hinter-

rupted. this timein a way which sends a keen pang oi

feartohis’hsart.   ,1  222.." ~ _
“But new 6 objocblflo seam humus

dose more—who mastectomy“. He has not a

t, i‘. I

s ‘f,

l word‘of reproach for rue—for you. Do not foramoment 

' think that he would interfere with your wishes." ’
Elight with an admirin wonder akin to woiship: Her
voice thrills, her eyes , and he knows that a‘criticid
. moment of his li.e has come.

 

l Drawing a step nearer, the earl stretches outhis hand

j to her in an uncontrollable yearning for her love.

; “Forgive me, Mada," Le pleads. " I knowaihat l
; ought to have told you i had written to Mr.A.ltiLn——l
; meant to tell you yesterday.” ’

I Marjorie relapsed in'o scornful wrath.

she questionstskin no notice of the offered hand.

“ i did tell the tru h. main. In your heart you know
that I did." he cries. passionately. “ You love the—you
have loved me all this time.
my mind that you should be my wide, in: I. too. love
youdearlg. I broke olfmy engagdmenn'and trusted
you wonl do

gling against it an longer. See. .1 ‘am 1703.4'Ie‘ullll.
you to marry me. - cannot do without you. mama
to me, MUJE. You know that Imeant no ham." :7 

The white heat or Marjorle's passion as over new. and
a great wave of sorrow and penitence threatens“) over-
whelm the bitter feelings which have been triumphing
in her heart since she has leit John Aitcn‘spreseuceu‘

" Ah me ?" she says, piteously mi ng her hands.
“ How can you have deceived yourself so ll .Whatha’ve
lsaid or done that could lead you to think ldid not
love him better than all the world ‘:" ~

There is. anguish in her voice. in the! young face.
upturned with a look of such hcarticlt earnestness
that he cannot longer doubt its sincerity. : . 2- W i 'v

He seizes her hand and speaks eagerly, a strange
hourscnuss in his voles. ' , V '

‘fYou have not said-or done anything-wrong, .1003.
Ever since i came back you hav‘e'avoided ‘me,'besl cold
to me. said hard things‘that 1 would not have borne Rom
any other living.heiug, Only, as! live I ‘thought all
this was sheer pretence. I thought you cared .or me and
was struggling to rrushthe dealing, that you might
not give other pet is pain." -, .

“Ah! what she! I do i" sighs the girl. “ I must
have been to blame, and I did not .know it.» I see my
mistake now. when it is toolate." And great tears be
gin to run down the woe-begone, fair'ibcs. 1 » '5 ' ‘

Lord Castleton has become very 'palc now. 2110 is
playing a losing game. he feels sure. ' ‘

"You did love me onse, Maia; you must yet." boson.

“No! no! hol“.-is her only answer,’ delivered with
sorrowiul emphasis. ‘ ' ' » "

His lace Works convulsively. and he with
increased venemence. unconsciously grasping her hand
so hard that he hurts her. ' ‘ .3 . “

‘_‘ You did once. when I asked you to marry me. and
you refused-that day in the wood. You loved .me

hen." ' .

“ Yes. Men.” And there is a fresh shower of (care.

She will be truthful and honest. no nutter hot? his
questions lscerate her heart. which would lain bury in
oblivion all the hateful. loolish past. ' y  ' ‘

“Anl ii then. you must still,” varies the y _ ma.
this time he fullybelieves her. and, sitting don inn
chair by the fire. stares silently into the unborn, {bra
lbw moments, covering his lace with his 1.1th that
she may not so.) his agitation. - ~

toting a quiet'withdrawal. he looks up and resumes his
questioning. ., “

“ When did you change 2" he asks. huskily, " Was it
all at once. or little by little, as you learned to know
hr. Alwn's perfections ‘1”

'flho sneer does not provoke Marjorie as heaven‘s it
\vi . v '

" Yes." she says. in a low. pained voice. “ it was as if
my eyes were opened day by day more and more. and I
saw how grand his simple, unselfish life was. and how
mean anl pal mine."

“ And mine " terposes the earl.with~ a harsh little
laugh: hot cos she correct his statement.

" And he was so noble every way; and be loud inc-
me, who turned to him at. first only use I was so
tired and wretched and hopeless of ever learning to be
good by myself. And with this chhdiike confession
her voice breaks down into a Bob. _

" And he comforted you. and taught you to, forget
poor me. whohave no such wonder-.111 Motions to
recommend me," suggested Lord Cutleton, trying to
,bo satirical. by way of saving himself iron utterly
breaking down before her. , ,

Marjorie is not listening. but is absorbed in herown
thou his. to Which she is trying to give some Mullah
ble u terance. { - '.

" And I was very hops till you came back and told
meyiii‘ificaredfurmozni o“ h "

poor a asentimen repertory _ 3
.one—“ and I was sorr . and pains 
on that account, and {ensues 1.“!ng  My

notasldid him.” i‘ --  ' ~~ v  .

“ 1 see," says her companion. in hist tone; pd he

true to him in my heart. I have seemed b01197. you,
you say. If that has beenoo. 1,3908 you to Jeralvo me
nlhsvebeengrcatlytohlame. v '  y
H Will you swear to me that you don t, Marjorie in 1
can'thelp thinking you (lo—smile." says his h. ' ip.
-su niy changing histoneto oneof eren. ‘
" 0." she repdea. with sum , win]

   
 
 

got. I am- {wt an 1-me withhnii'yeeltf',
- $65. . . ~ ., , on. , be»
“ but do notylfi‘ on; tint 3‘5 all oven, up part

now-fountth 1‘ , no fly-(lim-
,'.'8t9 am? “I In . res

. . ' 9f - . 3 “0k!
lose evgn the little it or lilting 3‘51:

 

will
' . 4..
gm}

.. . . . ~ we ~r
«A: A -. .2... r ,.N-. "vah“ 

Her face has lost its angry look. and grown suddenly :

y “if you must write. why did not you tell the truth '1" ,
1 know it, and I made up '

the same. and you will-qua must. in is S
ouri‘ate tocome together, and there is’ house m'ng— .

“No! no! no!" she says. with sodveh "' mind. 7:

 

 

While Marjorie is wiping away her, tears, and modi- '

and—that sort of M"-—— ‘-

heaveeagreatsigh.andrises asit'tobegom. .. ‘
‘- Ah l" continues M one: otraggii with another ‘
rising sob, -’ it is to and that! veoalybeen '

swat-.55..

, , ‘ W“. W mills; 09 cr-
mn:   m» behaveanomom am so Wm we

stood thee to melanin. ,
' ". I on! not w a‘: word for V . 1 don't know
thst 1ng ’ 'hfieinbfifitmd how it into in}: sin.

KARJORIE BRUCE S 1.0 VERS.

 

_. .l~ ..-  ..~

 

 

sjust out nl‘ the run-u or habit-«for the sake of pleasant 3
old times. Mr. Allen‘s amorous. nobievwey ol' rcceivw

it made you ilmru: in love with him than ever—~18 i
no that s '1” he sells; trying‘hnrd tohide under s'xuask !
of hwity t in billet nidrtliicstlon he feels; and he. looks
st her keenly. ' '

,Siguiu hesylly, (she answers him With simple direct—
ness. 1 " as, Igrd'C'astleton. Icould not help it, and
perhaps it is best so." I

" And this is M; very end, Mn); ? '

There is no sneerin his voice or look now, as. once
more sclzi her WONG blind. he gazes searchineg in-
to her sad. _ or stained race. -

0‘

on very. and, thank God!” she answers, upturnln
strewn eyes to his; and then he lets IO‘her hsn
sud tn his book upon her, with n *stifiel' groan, at

last “Vigil-fed that he has made a fearful mistake.

Shela Quietlymoviug towards the deer, when he «fails ~
her back. , I > '

"One minute more. You have all the rest m yuur
“Yes to spend in each other‘s ,gmmpauy, Mm know."
Audhe‘tfiestfismile.‘ * - ‘_ I

"What do you want of me '3" And the girl and be

oh} head stfy‘ouj womobe willing to' marry me.
do: thyselfvery h ghly hon- _

V, ll. trunk i th
fiwwthst, 6h V213 _ I I
“Menorahs m.” e‘interrnpts. with agood deal
of" IM; to: heger miunhoedlng her audacious

.WWbfity‘of young ladies don't merry tor
purer messes muons. M see. and—excuse me
speaking}! , ant-4t to me that I her! 3
ep‘ ‘yed—qn- been”«~ He hesitates
“w i; is, immune“, and she makes it suggestion. I.
tremble  'W‘gnéti‘on'ln her‘voics. ‘
'3 glimm- gna'n' fitment means or bribery, you would

lose mansion colors. snd um his eyes, which have
80

Mile door during the delivery of his expiunstion. ‘

:
s-n

I

flat it es you pisses.” he says. rather ‘cmssiy.’
only wsnt‘yon to understand that I should never-hove
o owning forward st the eleventh hour-Witt»
anthem“ some snbstsntial ndvantsges_,¢0foflhl' yon."
‘“"”°“ manor 5" ’ "l. """ “ml”
Iii/yours;  as yon-levers: er-
«Quins 3 centers ‘ ‘ u «h

mi noonld u in‘this Q"; * l " .
The gimw‘éypliigmthst he has {nix-His! teal .
Egon «minions she will sesreely slicing-sell

  
 

. ' lime ,
,mqiemstkefisnwmoss; ‘

g s’ ., a. > v
Wflgwwggested s new hope to Marjorie;

 

at anymore. 'I am" Wo'well,

(711mm xxvn.“

COWS“)le

lfor it in the end. Don’t distress yourself speaki

about it. I‘m quite content. since minim-e we now: 
responds truthml Jenn Alton, with n. underlain/lie >

, holding her last ; so that the confession sue persists in

" 1 sun; come to a wingize, Mr. Allen. l have modem? mukiug vproves a. very comfortable penance. stem

rest mistake,nnd g ven you adesl ol uunm-nssary pain. : all.
inn you forgive 11H: '3" says the earl, looking, Very hot, f

and a
He

slung in a, great hurry.

square. -
I" I beg your pardon-ml do not quite understand.

the girl.

She is by his side in sflmoxment. and Lord Castlosmil's
heart suitors a. sharp pang as he sees her be..utl:ul
eyes-upturned to-JohnAlton's in an eloquent gimme
which explains everything to the periect- estisiwtiou' oi
her betrothed. r' ' .

They do not want him there. The}? are nothing for
his‘eondeseending apologies Before he‘ls well out of

"1 lo

got to tell you—~what I isncied
told~—t it

you need not be
Lord Wales was mistaken in soppooinez

“what he did," falters Marlene. ousting down her eyes

and blushing hotly. A »

There is a mighty whirl oi thoughts in John Alton's
_brsin, ends law-moments puss ere 'he hes loom! his

voice. and is able to glVe n ooherent reply to the‘gentler
mnn‘ beside him who has repented his apology.

" Do not  anymore. I am myon did netmea’n
,sny norm 0 al make mistakes many times in the
4 course of our lives. LordCsstieton,” heesys at inst. with
as simple. gentle dignity which strikes the young noble-
man as strangely impressive. .

"I have been ve much to blame," confesses Miss
Hols, hanging down er pretty heed : and her betroth-
ed bemws one momentary look of loving increduiliy
upon . _, . .7

_" I. m snrethst is not the case. Marjorie."he u».
swer's. rather remitting; and s second glance canny:
to her his desire tint s will not 5 pain lie: with our
mother  of her iniquith least while other
poo 1e are sent.

,to tell yon: says his lordship.ss Male withme to
“Ex-I)” p0“its " ithst Lord (institutes: respo‘is
"sun I o -., _.” ll

her bare ' ,msemeiintlanodmhichl . ‘
Estimntditafh‘: wlwtth ' will"? a" " ‘m’ < ‘
5 W ’3 .» 1‘ 5° 9, V3: '33! .
Madimmlsifiraeepauk eyes“? _  ‘
of warning power in

s

; Thanks-WW I ,
‘ pm,“ . that sell-controlled. entlo. breve~heuted man-who is
man Q b6 11%.  .

. .- I , nture of t lemonngxnobls succumbs to “.mstinctively

o i we The weaker ns-

recognizingits superior. .. . . i

olds out his hand to John Alton. whollzas risen, l
and'is staring: in s rather bewildered way alternately ut :
him and at Marjorie, who has withdrawn :5 little. and 2
ball hidden by tho draperies, is gazing out upon the ; absolutiou.

What does this mean, Made '2” The gentleman flhmnd- a strokes his hand.
dressed returns in slow, unsteady voice, and too much I
agitated to notice the ofl'ered hand, he wheels muml to l of more lmutownrmnoe.” -

the room, they will be in each Mel-“semis. Remakes M is.

. dip his mind to best s retract ss speedily on possible.

‘ you were

i iltedJO 316,, h hem“:

 

'- Have I been very much to blame;an 7" she asks
by-and—by, when it no“. -- - f
“ No," he’ replemstoutly. "You have done Home ~
ieoiish things, I admit; but you have been hardly
imnpted, my poor little darling.“ All 3 Kenneth lie:

"And you sre not snnry i?" questions Mine Brow,
rather unnecessarily: and so one spooks she willy -

" Very angry: but not about inst-shout something

" What lathe“ I am sure I have believed well lately
—-the last day or two, myhow." . - ,
"Irdon't knowth that. I am going no mt
bark'thsn tothis sfwrnoon‘s pet-9mm. no
you mesh is allowing me to think you  
“‘Nll‘hifi lordship? Why did you not st coco tell Ins '
he had mode 3 mistake? I don't see your mass m ‘
giving me that estn half-hour’s misery. you cruel ltttlo
'  a ‘ v y A z ,, - u n ' .

E

M (“I

From the stool st his feet upon which she his m,
her-sell she answers him. love em: admit-sum in
upturned eyes.“ . ‘ - , ~' .

“All. John." she says, “it won mime: 
was bewildered at first. and seems}: km whet 2‘.
meant. Then it nll. downed upon run, end! 'II'
with shame and. um ;,snd sll the time moat
speaking so y in such s simian, q:iiot‘W.t “

themeet MI!“ by uti- was»
loam-lacing yonmeli‘ so, I kept mum hiya-it}
and on." - ’ l/ W w 'i 3
' “ . {intimmyou nonsensicaltm 1” 
ed lntermptgoolorlng. But Malawi}! not be
until she has sold- her say. She only puts her My
lips to the cmsslng hand which he has is“  It! 1
month to stop these embersssing praises. MW,
in n vgieebroken by emotion. r - '

“Al tho‘time I kept m
and you and Lo“ Custletmmlgl
enough tears tor once,th unease-ms 3e
more than I did for you: end I felt» with 1 my’ "*
flaw wdficklemfigggd wilghtWo ' 

veins, M31: you  : '


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or

iii

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shonidflclleu me lln your presenbg'“ - in
“As hoods ’ uproot myonrvas!’ ,' f t.
Thut  9; me much,” Iohbgiltoulntvr- '
rupt- onosm’ere, tender reprusch {Ellis glues.  -‘ v V.
"You hsdaright to get it. though. That is‘irlut I ‘
felt. You were going to make the your wife. and you
had sright to know-tint I was river “in other people's
eyes—clan: of such meanness n'i us he im-

‘ reeks elitist s on voting” .
“Newsstand. deceit is all
seemingly. strolling bin-k the dark

_ ‘1  ..,. ‘ I»:
'r Mittei'ifib“ z

    
 
  

   

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downswing Wu Earl 01 Castleton grudously'wndemdin to mire-"1M Wm!!-  Imtuwywwm! . r
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whit-,itonriila’vmnot spoilt-elm wanna-all- elm ysil"ssrne§t.downces{ meml; g i» Vymmmltbstmf’ ~ ‘3 I. I' \  ; I: "we";
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Wfifll  w-‘I   4' u 9,-«1 «ugly» 1mm,    Iaunl‘L 1‘ 
v  r ' , .’ ry,"r93ns_ . g  - 6‘ edit  has will "“jr be.» 601:“ M 0‘ a .  1; 'W; “i
will:  mg for meshes “ 2%» A? “diode $1 "rsnll , ‘in .Altoansthfify‘awv'pMme-m,“4”!”me  no
 some: anew: rm“ newsman taste ‘ stalwart“? 3*? " “hi-“W5”  ‘  *4 4:34

' fihsltwgm. without i least  W * Winsome. ' so lghtldjlfisa’w sense i ‘ “  v ‘ " ~  .
., , "bold-£113; stqlihow‘ifiii’orglvinfi'l‘fin't betting eturns rams? ‘   ‘ "w   f '  " ' ' ‘  I " .. -'
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1‘  d’ " man i  '§le~_ginmysmflwg€mvethl3m Mate is! “(suffers  ‘s ‘hflp’  ~ ‘ '3
0" ill!“ I about this money wnfighe’eriesgutign. W L ‘“‘

n ' into? you swindle
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W 8V 3
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this I
m ' ~ nkW“ ' ‘ lam-lo
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his"  " , ,esesslossny
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tor‘h ‘ but!"  if"? “Mtg” -  i '__'
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dot-ills
high H _m‘psrt ‘ , ' cs ‘  
end " meme: tulle! heartfelt Nutrition.

 to compose memshd looks upon“ s
miter-p ' ‘

autism." sis autism, lethal}. glad sue

“1i Lord . , l .
assumed Hines you with an my V
vlienthstia  she! as?”  slang

life» who; cotton
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‘ ultssflsctistosstbera'ylng it

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over agsin. sosstospere youths pain I have-them t-‘
H“ -:_e'l 

It‘dy/Gl‘im-M‘i‘ "-8) t’ 9." . , . .. .
(that to; whet Ms?assyln aleMem hsnd
lshsld outta-hes; so than; .ms‘dess us use my
clearly. she thinks that thin-mere test in his the ea.
maths: summation-uman on.
?-'Qood-b e. Lorri Csstleton: and [sun so  It
mama-n3 nit—almost «an: {inning "I we:
:2. “tie-mitts;er PM...“ all”;
“or” i  i were?!»  . "sheer  :33

lip. v '
"Io ht tohm understood than. sndto hereto-
lined “1m, ‘fiihsn'tl?  ‘ ‘ ' "to‘bmi' n
.engs out. a?!” fin 'Wfl‘w‘fllzsosfi
. Sign he esrl.ssdiy. giving the little bend I. list bird
.9. . " ;
Then she newsfbusty whisper. el'i‘GooG» ' in the
time, least." And her big. ysnwhsum edito-
 mrsyin greet hafnium the
Just a his lordship  foresees. her next ’m‘
ingleto turnto John Allow-ad with one s nest
(zines into his Igitsted. happy tees, nestle to his han-
est. true hurt in on ecstasy of loving sdorstion. '
*" And you we sure. Mic millet you   1.
11:3: (iqos‘stseks. see tint you know your own hurt.  {It
That all the rebuke hermeneu- Iorior: sud
imllyme: ' it”
sooassltinpolssaudseete missus ‘iorhis
cmeltybysmtdeumfmmtfbgfi v - ‘

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'fl eti! poor Will dime-f beck ‘sopioé
his life. ‘W" the "young‘inn

look. herel u i am, Lh-
flivfitueylngmzuwfiyfl  m»;
solemn I .  I. "fling." " ,_ “I. I”:
Fill. .   f  is" i ’
the.  Jen-u mm " 
new  bulges. 
“maximum/Mr » . ~

“Didn'tyuthm'u as 

this memes» . mavens norm  
mngmms‘gwhnyma

e . .  . ‘31"’ l ' *Z'dv ,.,
"No.IGdnot.lq’s.i,’  ~~ - t i v - -

 , yum i g?“ .t.
«nous-sum yo! hotter than to on ' em“
and n mortals-twee W," M  WIN '
you X.» :

“kWh-w war ‘mé 
ammuni- uson yon‘ss trellis! lilo " (J
"0. However.“ don’t mm s.th  , "
dhsteww , 1m 03 taking ‘1. ‘
on?th the ’ ‘ '

a a, _
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than he begins to speak of going away; but she only
draws closer to his knee. and ho «is his hands the more
limit . . ,

Heyisto lesve for D— thst evening. sud she has
not yet told him hull she wishes to soy.

" Stay just a little while longer with me. John."she
pleads: end he consents without much entresty. Then
she hoes on:

" l how good God hss been in giving me yonl I
srn often Mghtensd when 1 think whst s selfish,
frivolous butterfly i might have become"-—she checks
herself. and gives him a glance of sweet spoiogy~" I
might hove continued it I had married him.”

John Allan's eyes rest on his wife to be with wondrous
tenderness, though he snsWers her lightly.

“ He would never have looked solemn and glnm, as
I often do; he would never hsve been ohstinste. so
people who know me best tell me I sin." .

“ He would never hove been my mm." puts in the
damsel at his feet, in s lower whisper; sud. lliti her
wet. smiling eyes to his. she kisses his big brown nd
{whom-mood time that afternoon, thereby distressing

it I. '

"So you here had independence enough to satisfy
you for the rest of your life. I see.” he says. rather
mmvonsly. . ~-

"Yes." is her reply. gravely spoken : "I have done
nothing but bungle since I tried to msnsge my own

.1 ,1 mean to be very happy. new ,I here rolled
on. my responsibilities . on your broad shoulders,
sud foreseen shout nothing. but just do whatever
you think best." I

This“ every inch at women. Male. in spite of all

{our dad spirit." he goes on, looking down at
erw th s loud glance.in which there minglesoon-
or name ivcrsion. '

9-511st inch." echoes the besuty, dropping her eyes
ad blushing sweetly. ~
Winds womlsultimstum of bliss is to and her

luster. lume- ~

"You so pose rightly, Mr. Alton; only we ore not
slwsys incl nod to causes that. of course." .-

" Bat whet is the -,msstery you Women on willing
toschncwled'ge. Miss Bruce 7"

“ht th sud goodness." ssys.the girl: “the two
comhi _ . ssthey are to somebody I love dearly.”

From which little colloquy ws msy see thst Miss
Bruno hss ones more set up on. idol. sod is e ying
herseltto her hesrt's content in prostrsting erseli’
before the new shrine.

1t sugars well for her future hsppiness snd more!
growth thst she hos this time had regsrd to intrinsic
rzithmsn to external worth, in the object of her
or or .

 

. CHAPTER .xxvzn.
m oursmw's consumes.

Wm lard-Occasion quitted the emple of lovers,
he numbed sir-sight into the dusting-room, where. the
g token thelr’depsrtnss. his mother sud
om» histrouhlsd unconvinced“th
thtng. serious wss smiss. sod lady Cssllston
“notion sweat is solidi-gm her which»!
ltttledsnghtsr. when his lordship. who use inn reck-
Eastman niche semi. stout othis mum ,

stints-don

bomb-rm: s mum :
t’ . i has been rushing sn uncommon so: of
myssllz sod it I don‘t tell you shoot it. you will be
snatches-s wrong version of it sun-om somebody
else." he ssld. comma: to the conntess‘s chair.

The sub look or black eyes silenced him un-
til Indy Do, sshsd left the room - then. in so inco-
s saluted tsshion. he told his love-story. her

ii
E:

E

housing up the lmpetuoss yet sully in-

itde ,cs'stistm wss .

xi? "" were... d: W... W...“ “m... Sill.
, , n

y . ’3'.er of ties would not hsve

oroflsndsd him in t last. A few words at

rly holiness would hsvs won him to do whstevsr

he:

advised; but her reception 9! his contusion
4 t Ngs‘swsy is s be Wang moo resdy to
Whiosuy tom nw promissdo viouot

It I «body'borothes had not been wstch for him
ss he Quilted their mother, he would have
out oi firehouse without remembering her sristsnee ;
but when she looked up into his unhspyy tsce with her

scent. lug gore. sud. clinging ondl‘y ‘ to him.
‘tllst he would tell Is! what his troubles were.
I sure hesrt went out towsrds this childlike comforter

leis .
 lumen . to the security. oil her painting-
 hsrs they could talk freely t sod though he did
will“ very much. sites all. she hesrd enough to
i cut her warmest sympsthy snd sirection.

Kind little Dolly's notions of Justice sud duty were
.not ot the most uncompromising order. She was pos-
, .nn shoorbing conviction thst the chief sins of

h I y should be hsrmless enjoyment. To be whst
she csliedoomiortsbls. sad to make other people. es-
peoisliy those {on like. uslly so. was. in her estima-
tion, so desire is on on , first she wss not at nil in-
clined tomb: (glues! over the menus her friends might

to st .
“got '1 gm sure sternll’lnoontrovertible 19 0 would
been worse than I own swsy on thst mpnlslve.
y nstnred young. men. whose '11th melted into
tsnce‘ a{alien dis prongwtle sing! lac t, 
V w: s so wsys upon .
" Mourocdsso rightsndm
Mussel-new. ' '
."Asd yonwill mshsit up

,, , with Res-ls. won‘t on.
'm s dost. goodold boy?” Lsdy Dorothss ventires

lsd only ones or twice s nestles. sod

W ins tone of sutan. which hsd '
dissppointed.hurnillsted. '
8' olsrsd when her brother

stool such,

to suggest. fondling his hand and storing up into his ; poeure. In the course of a minute or two he is stand~

troubled. handsome race with pleading blue eyes.
" Poor Nessie. who has been loud of you so long. and
has her lrousssau slinOst resuy.

Lord Unstleton hesvoss mighty sigh, and gives the
tiny hand a loving squeeze.

" Dolly," he says. in at low, earnest voice. looking
gravely at her, “ don’t think I’m trying to humbug
you ; 1 sin speaking the honest truth for once. anyway.
I like Nessie s great desl better than she or anybody
else knows. I think her one of the noblest. sweetest
little women in the world. li she was is poor girl. I
would go straight back to her and sell her to be irien .s
and marry me, in spite ol my confounded madness.
As it is, i can’t." And he ends as he has begun. with s
remorset‘ul sigh.

" As if Nessie did not know you could marry for
money my day you chose! Far richer girls than she
would Jump at you. you foolish. bsshi'ul follow I” cries
her lady-hip; snd in his heart he admits the truth ol’
this usertion.

“ Look here. Dolly." he says. with s sudden gloom of
hope in his eyes. “you're s dour little goose. Nobody
tskes oifence st whet you say or do. Get hold of Nessie
some day soon. sud-spook s word tor the when. ou're
alone, you know." He drops his e as sud no on. a
little. " Tell her that. iil’m ever to shit of cod in
life, she must take me in hand. Tell her it wil be all
straight runnin with me after. it she’llonly do that.
Oblige me in th s way. Dolly. and PH do anything you
ever ask me.“ long as I live." -

“ Won't linstl" exclaims the girl. delighted to help
him out of this or any other scrspe.

"I'll need to do no more than give her s kiss sud
whisper s little melenge Rom you. sud the thing is
done. You’ll ver soon ilnd out how willing Nessie is
to be friendly n." ‘

“ All. how good you women are, on the whole l" sighs
his lordship. as he kisses her and takes his departure s

little afterward ; and he could lcnrt'ely carry sway a

thought more colonisted to keep his feet out of the
snsres which encompass the path of an idle sud
unhappy young men in his mnk.‘

“ When Ill happy souls are ssleep. Nessie's pure.
true eyes will wet her lllow with tours so she lies
thinkingof me. She so little Dolly will remember
me in their prsyers to- ht." he thinks; and when
some fast friends urge him join them in an evening s
smueenient of questionable innocence. he turns swsy
irom‘theni in disgust. viewi the Ichenie in the new
light which this thought kin' loo within him.

Foroncs in his me he person s solitsry evening ; sud
if his reflections are bitter. they no wholesome, and
bring‘no miserable morning repentsnce.

U . Msrjorie Bruce's epsrturs (or her home. s
couple of d‘sys si‘ter John Alton's'vlsit. the cor! did not
npv ear st his mother's house, nor did the hdiee of his
gittlgohl‘smlldz ysttunpt sny mediation with Miss Lisle in

s

When. lsden with sunrise“ o! uninterrupted good-
will sud sfloction—utor both their lsdyships held that
Msrjorls hsd behaved mammal-gm” in reflect.

B

ilzf‘thsirintstnstsdrslstlvs's pro took her-
ol'. tag I tosses trons s position which

sll their ndnsss could render oomtortshle. the

osrl come hock looking very restless and low-spirited.

kind Ledgth set shout her mind

without rther loss of time. Lsdy ton atoms-
no obstscle to her doing so.

o nucleon-loudly. couslnly csll upon Miss Lisle.
who was studiously conducting herselt so it nothing
msterisl wss amiss. sad in her wsy begged sn
interview {or her brother. thereby prepsrlng that
young lsdy {or whst was to follow. .

"‘Of course i shill he tosss my cousin 89th st
soy time. no sud I svs hsd no qusrrel whstever.
Dorothes." was her response. s little noisy spores;
nor did her lsdyship succeed in drswing her into sny
confldcnocs. .

" You srs the only person who csn name Ernest-
ins. sass sil. Herbert. ' the dimppointsd s lsdy do-
, sectioned her so to the
result other mediation; sud t was with s desl of
£1me the following morning he s st llrs.

my)...

Thinkingthst hereon sud Miss Lesle were the proper

.psrsonst'omslts public the brushing-ca of their on.

smell:an Indststleton had. held sioci from soy de-
c ve Action and fire. Vessy {allowing her ample.

the world wss still unsuspieious or my psth-
ingoccnmd. _  _ »,, , .
hits are. Vesey's hopes of s reconcilistion were not

{jet deed. sud this visit put her in .s nutter-oi expects-
on. v

“suit you will but mire it n with him. how
to rise, Providence 14ml):

all}?! her-patio; bias 1 3"" “:3:
r f’wss w use. 0° us Very '
new heroism went swsy to the drswi mm:

and utter she hsd one. with no othersnswer km on
uni'sthomsble sm emdsnrm setting of her lips to-
gether. she sunk into s lounging-choir and hsd s crv
oventhe reserved young lsdy.s provoking self-suin-

ciency. .

In no ver enviable fronts of mind Miss Lisle’s quon-
dsm betrot edsto in his restless parting of the room
snd crests her es s e enters.

" I'd hove come before. but I thought you would
refuse to soc inc.“ he says. sdvsncing to meet her
with outstretched hsn'd ; end she looks up into his re-
morselhIJn lose. sud utterly forgets the dig-
niiled role she hss been schooling hersell lo ping;

1‘ My boy. my deer cousin." shs reopen . with

poor
uncontrollable emoticon hes yoioe. V “ how nun-$3,

sndiil you  How couldyyou dam thstl “to d
healsdtoseeyoul".   jig,  ,
Ker tender. self-forgetting ‘7 syn» I p31? Islriy, nu-

 

msnshim. Returns-hm s she uietl
sits down by the fire. loom r‘egsl’n hi? coni

   

' ing by her. speaking in low agitated tones.

, “ is it possible that you have some lining for me yet,
9 Nessie—sonic interest in what becomes of we 'r“ be
.‘ asks; and Miss Lisle holds cut her hand to hint. s
rose 01‘ color sul‘lusiug hr! pale sud l'ace.

"All the liking sud interest I ever had. snd flat is is
very grout donl. herbert." she snswu-s, loitering a
little over this conleseion.

“ You are my good angel. Nessie." he tells her, for
the hnnureln time in the course 0! his life.

(troy-eatv smiling, she lifts her dou m net brown eyes.
sud. mm s halrshy. hall-imperative gesture. invites
him to sit down beside her.

“ That is at very old story." she says. trying to sk
rsllyingly,though her tones are suspiciously trsmx one.

is troubling you.”

;‘ And you will help me, Nessie l" he questions eng-
er y,
“ Yes. iron that s ccuslnsnd friend csn do will help
you."

“ Only as s cousin snd i'i'icnd. Nessie t" he sighs, his
face clouding over. as he sects himself on the couch be-
side her. “ Only that? But indeedl can‘t s'sk more.
You are s thousand times kinder then I deserve."

There is no longer s doubt in Niss Lisle's mind as to
his motive {or seeking this interview. fihe drsws u
long breath, sod sternly resolv s less tobe heroic. .

nieditstively into the lire ; then she speaks satin.

" Herbert." she ssys. hurriedly. "stei- all the years
we have known each other—s1 er sll—" She stops to
swsllcw s rising sob. "Alter all our hopes and plans
iors future to be spent in the closest 01 all how
relationships. we may surely be trunk and honest when
we are alone together. It would surely be very wrong
for either 0! us to seek to deceive the other now."

“I don‘t know whst you are driving at. Nessie.
Speak out as pslnly as you can. for my hcsd feels
stupider than usual to-dsy." says his lordship,sigh-
ing wearily - sud he looks st her with 3 sort oi dull
resignation.

Is she. too. grown weary of him and his fickleners?
l-Ias her sorely tried love succumbed st lsst't Be pre-
pares tor the worst. ,

" 1 am going to spesk very plsinly." she assures him
msnsging to steady her Voice once more. "Youwsnt
to MIXqu site: all. I understand. Is that so. He?-
bert l" d she raises ha loco sud lsohsst him with
s psthstio little out e. - ‘ .

'Xss. Nessie. it you (in) 't quite hstsms. XM”-——-—

His eager sssent is intern: ted. 4 I

“Welt but one u omeut, ’ she says. with gentle
imperionsness. "You wsnt to in me. not becsusc
you love rue. Cousin Herbert. tut

sttsrsll..'l‘hesesrsw.stlhslie .
pol res-ens for wishing tomsksmsyour
Oicourss"--

It is the young men's tors to interrupt.

" Why ~ en‘t you sddto your list? on mtght say
lwsottomsrry you hscsnssyou ere rloh,snu sss
m; becsuse on here s couple clans eststss in g-

laughs slow. bitter lsugh of selihsoorn-“thsvm’s
dsnghtor I was fool enough to tell bend over core in
love with hss coolly remscd ms.snd lot as sooth-t
she hss s heart love for the honestmsn item when l'
mesntto tske r. Thersissspicsoi’ truth
reasonslgive. anther-summers in yours.

you Where no ornot. Nauru—sud his

rows

mmwuhtmwtsfly thsthss-
tostophisi' vehesninvstn. .

8h- ys hersmsll hoodou his era now. sell looks
up into his I‘M.¢lml toe. with s tender robots
in herexpression. v ~ .

"Esvsdone with ysul. Oh no. Cousin Herbert 1"
she ssclsims. “ Only. for your own sells, I will not
msrry you. Some day . n will thank me for this."

“ I feel very don shout thst.” interposss his
lordshl . with another oi’his unhappy mails ; and he
puts us do the Madly hsnd tether rrossly.

“ You." contian Lisle. with on air of ntls to-
solution. “ some dsy on will thsnh ms to! t . You
sre misersbk snd res less now. You isney thst on
will on to slurs. and no it matters «.3 fit
whmon do with your life. Time will euro 1 V t.
Do a mysdvice its once. Goswsyiorswhilc.‘rrsul,
so you did before. it you real that change would do
you good. Come back by—sud-by, when you how found
mass of mind sgsin. snd choosesgood wife—some-

dy who is young and pretty and lighthesrtsd."

" Boll l" excision: her com ion. pettishly. shrug.
ging his brosdshoulders sud wning noted! ; butshe
runs on unheodlng. ' .

“ Somebody in your own rsnk. who his" like testes,
and will he‘s lesssnt companion tor on.

“ She woullfhe' s nice sort of wife i’ she hsd sll tsp
tsstes l" interposesho. with s sstiricsl sir. which con.
eldersny disturbs the now. of Miss Lisle s elo hence;
"You know whst I mess. Cousin Herbert." s essys.
divided between so inclination to bush sod taster
minstlonto plsy out her dignified role. "when you
unassoodwiiuthen"--., _ -

“ th‘t th l” autism. still withno lit-

"Nun? Motion?"  m: um,
"lull boner ell-alums t yousuboth ism:

 

“ ll 1 sm your good angel. you can surely tell me what-

There is s short silencfit durine‘ Vi “011 they both 3‘81“: .

. who-rel on't own so srrOtbersuss'kIldxhc ,

--to see you comicrtsbiy settled down st not, she con. "

 

 

MARJORIE BR UCE’S L0 VERJ.

8!.

 

eludes, with a sudden relapse into an undignified agita-
tion, caused by his abrupt rising from her side and
seizing his hat and gloves.

“ Good-bye," he says, thrusting out an impatient
hand. "Ibeg your pardon for troubling you in this
way. i don't blame you for throwing his off, mind. It
is just what I deserve; and there is not a woman in a
thousand would behave difl‘erently. Only I thought
you would not'do it, Nessie—l thought you were quite
did‘erent from the rest of them.” And he chokes down
a prodigious sigh.

“How !" asks the young lady, without lifting her
eyes. which have sought the carpet.

“0h. Ijust thought you were such an angel—you
wouldbe able to for ive mo and like me a bit, in spite
of all my faults. an stick to me through thick and
thin," he goes on, hurriedly, with perfect uncon-
sciousness of being slangy.

Miss Lisle sighs, yet a faint smile dawns on her

" What was your other reason for wishing to marry
Iplain old maid like me, [Herbert ?" she asks, with
startling irrelevancy; and she blushes becomiugly as
Ibo speaks. ' .

He is holding her hand still, and he feels it trembling
within his. j Hisgloomy face lights up at once. .

" Because I really do love you. Nessie. and feel the
need of you. so badly. All along. at the bottom of my
heart I have known that you could make me happy
lad—tolerany good. The rest was sheer infatuation.

it too late to tell you this now 'I Come, say no, and I
swear that you will never repent it. Nessie-"

" No.1then,“ says the young lady. “ But for mercy’s
“he don't swear l" And with this attempt at being
glayful, she sinks down on the couch from which she

ls risen, and droppin her face in her hands, has a

uiet, happy cry. Fee ing Very tender over this faith-

1 little woman who is so entirely his own, his lord-
ship sits downbeside her and steals a caressing arm
round her slim waist.

" And you will marry me on the right day, Nessie,
and let everything he as if I had not—lost my senses
fora little ?”-he asks, heaving a great sigh of relief.

"Yes," promises the young lady, looking up, and
resolutely drying her eyes. -“ And now let us talk sen-
sibly. Remember that I don’t expect you, or want

on. to make love to me. We have known each other

too long for that sort of thing, Cousin Herbert."

And, with a rebuking shake of her head, she seeks to
withdraw irom his encircling arm.

She does not succeed. however. As he has Just said,
he is badly in want of her. There is infinite comfort in
having her close by him, ready to pity and soothe and
gigourage him as nobody else in the world knows how

0

There is not a great amount of sensible talking done,

er all. ' '

By-andoby they seek Mrs. Vesey, who is anxiously
awaiting the result of this meeting.

They are both a good deal ashamed of themselves,
but they manage’to get through their confession not
ungracefully.

“We have changed our minds, and are going to be
married, after all, dear Aunt Vesey," begins Miss Lisle,
blushing and smiling when Lord Castleton has finished
I halting excuse for being thus tardy in welcoming
Mrs. Vesey home to England.

The lady’s somewhat perplexed expression vanishes,
“d. with aradiant smile and a sigh of devout grati-
tude. she extends a caressing hand to each of the recon-
ciled-young people.

“ Nessie is an angel, and I am an ass, Mrs. Vos‘ey,”
preclaims the earl, coloring a little; and he looks on-
commonly handsome and winningas he throws ahalf-
penitent. halfcomicd glance at the first speaker.

“ Re means me to contradict him; but 'I shall do
nothing of the sort," remarks the yen lady, with an
answering look and a soft little laug ; and by this
time Mrs. Vesey has recovered her speech, and chimes
in with a speech of well-bred consolation.

“Ah, dear children," she says, pressing their hands
and assuming a maternal air which she reserves for

t occasions, “ as tho ploet ays, 'The course of true

ve never did run smoot .' on would not have been

like other lovers if, during the whole course of such a

103% engagement as yours, no little trouble of this sort
had arisen "

"But. you know, all along we have been more like
friends than lovers..and we mean to be thesame still,"
maintains Miss Lisle, who has a horror of bein forced
into asentimental position: and she looks to or be-
trothed. craving confirmation of this statement.

He answers her wi ‘ .
nuns to Mm. “my  a metal yet tender smile, then

" The Poet as s somethin

else for more comfortin .
-Vesey-st east the m e g

‘ of one ofhis la as s it

gassiyitmwil‘nm   53‘3"“
; es s '

bonalllwifs 011mg“ aImex'mmexllix, volunteering to drive

-- , ow t ' kfnl I am that not one 1’ th
tradespeoplo has got any connter—ordeg. 13?:
body will ever hear of this foolish little tiff
which came so near to breaking off a marri e so alto:
gether unexceptionable. Alter all, my dear essie you
are not _so determined as I have believed you,"'Mrs.
Kasey ones, when the two are left alone; and Miss Lisle
hoartily wishes she had been a little less positive in

eghagllkutiona that she would never marry her cousin.
mlneameeps silence, and Mrs. Vesey goes on with play-

"Pel'h‘l’l It is only with a certain
Yo‘upare found tractable, my dear Ernestine l"

erhaps, my dear Aunt Vesey." And. droPPiDG h“
eyes, the young lady smiles demurely. '

She, too. like. hiaia Bruce. had a blissful conscious-
nfiss of having found her master; though, unlike her.
s o could not have given incontrovertible reasons why
she should yield her aile lance. ‘

I think my impulsive eroine made one of her many

gentleman that

I mistakes when she concluded that " strength and good-
ness combined" must of necessity be found in the mas-

culine character which is to attract a woman's best

love. Each heart has its own requirements to satisfy,

its special destiny to fulfill; and so long as a power of

idealization is left to cheer poor womankind, a very or-

ginarty man will serve as a very satisfactory object of
evo on.

CHAPTER XXIX.
usrrsn.

80 the wedding preparations went on, and Mrs.
Vesey was spared the pain of having the heiress she
had so long chaperoned fail to achieve a matrimonial
success.

Lady Dorothea was duly presented at court, and
launched into society, where, greatly to her own
amazement, she speedily found herself a favorite with
almost everybody.

Her stately mother.used to watch with amused won-
der the triumphs of the lazy, graceful, loveable damsel,
and sadly declare “ that poor Dolly's yellow head did
not hold sense enough to counteract the effects of all
this dangerous flattery." Yet there was no need for
being alarmed.

The pretty yellow head was not turned, after all.
Its owner's simple innate goodness acted as a talisman
which extracted none but innocent joys from the gay
eacitcment of her first season; and no doubt the moral
atmosphere of many a ballroom was the fresher for the
sweet presence of this fair human rosebud.

Lord Cutleton and Miss Lisle were perforce dragged
into the vortex of the season’s gayeties; and, being
in, enjoyed themselves very tolerably. His lordship's
behavior as an engaged man was pronounced exemplary,
and Miss Lisle was generally considered a highly envi-
able woman. .

Space will not allow me to give the details of the
marriage, which was duly solemniaed at St. George‘s,
Hanover Square, one sunny April morning. A very
distinguished company assisted. The bride, if
not very pretty, looked very sweet and interest.
ing; the bridegroom very handsome, and
well satisfied with himself and the world in
general. An archbishop took part in the
ceremony, and all the Church part of the programme
was gone through in the most impressive manner.

Mrs. Vesey won laurels by the admirable arrange-
ments of the ddcuncr, and the graceful cordiality with
which she performed her duties as hostess. Amidst
showers of felicitations the hippy couple drove oii‘. en
route for the Continent, in which they meant to pass the
honeymoon.

The following day Lady Dorothea senta long and
glowing account of the proceedingsto her still dear
confidential friend, Marjorie Bruce. who received her
news with surprising noncholancc,snd lost no time in
communicating it to her special confidant and calm
panion, John Alton, with whom she happened to be
sauntering about the orchard which lay beyond the
garden at Torwood Farm. _

“ And you might have been in Miss Lisle's place be-
fore the a1tar,li tlo .Msda‘,“ remarked that gentleman,
with a sigh. which Miss Bruce thought maritelonsly
touching, though she laughed and shook her head red
bukingly.

“ See, there is the very first ofthea le-blossom, Mr.
John 1" she said, giving his arm, n I which she was
hanging, a shylycaressing pressure, and bring/in him
to a stop before a young apple-tree. " You on have
this bit to comfort you, as you seem so lowvopirite‘d‘ on
account of having poor me on your. hands fol-life.”
And she broke oi! an exquisitely lovely litth  
fastened it in his coat, a half-suppressed smile b Ray-
ing adivcrting fancy, which she sought to shape into
words.

The orchard was a very retired spot. and John Alton,
and his bride to be, found it a comfortable place to
make love in.

He thanked her with a kiss on this occasion. saying,

with one of his humorous looks, “ And what are you
thinking of new, Miss Maia) I see mischief in your
face.” ,
She laughed softly, and, castln down her eyes, said.
in a low voice, “ Well. John, to e honest with you, I
was thinking that, after all, I, should have had no ob-
jection to stand in Miss Lisle's place before the altar in
St. George ’s, Hanover Square.” '

“ Indeed l" interrupted he. lifting his eyebrows and
looking hard at her, a smile in his eyes.

“ Let me finish my sentence, you tyrannical fellow i"
she proceeds. " I should have had no objection in the
world, I was about to say, if only one little arrange-
ment had been altered."

" Which i" asked John ‘Alton, laconically. He was
too much accustomed to the beauty's jestlng speeches
to be at all discomtlted, and he slipped his strong arm
round her waist, and held her fast until she would ex-

plain herself. _ '
" If only somebod else had taken the bridegroom s
lace.'inquisitive r. John," she laughed,a,iter main-
taining an obdurate silence of a low moments duration;
and she cast down her eyes and blushed prettily.

" Ah!" said Mr. John. drawing a breath of affected
reliel, “ I see—somebody else who is not an earl, alasl

“ Somebody else who ought to be one—who is really
a nobleman.” answered the damsel. with prodigious em-
phasis. “ Not a sham—one of Nature's noblemen—tho
only kind I reverence." And she slowly li.tod her
eyes and regarded him with a look of profound rever-
ence. which thrilledl him to the heart, although he
res ndod. lau hin y.

"plghat a dangeroifs little Radical you have grown!
And you the daughter of such a staunch old Tory, too.
However, Maia. there is the more likelihood that you
I may come to promotion when your political

 

and

party turn the world upside down, and they are going:
to do so some. ofthese days."

They strolled on once more through the pleasant
budding orchard, filled with dancing lights and shed.
own, as the afternoon sunshine streamed through the.-
boughs overhead. The new spring grass besprent with
flowers was soft to tread; the sky was blue. and the air
full ofeahilarating freshnc as; the birds sans: joyoust
from many a fair budding branch; the west wind
chimed in with soft rustlings amidst the foliage. A
pretty fancy struck Marjorie, meditativer enjoying
the beauty of the spot, as her lover and she walked on
in happy silence.

‘- John," she said, rousing him out of a blissful rov-
erie, “ how delightful it would be to be married in an
orchard-mu a lovely May-day, of course, when it all
was one mass of pink-and-white clusters! Think how
nice it would be to wear apple-blossom instead of
or.nngeoblosoom,'which isn‘t hall so sweet, and to gather
it for yourself quite at hand i What a pictuesquo ro-
mission the wedding-party would make winc in
through the llossom-laden trees! Suppose you and
put this brilliant idea into execution?" And her fresh
young laugh rippled out gayly. _ v :-

‘3 Ah. that won't do," said her betrothed. "We can't. ,
wait longer than the appointed time, which is just this
daylweek, you know. The drawing-room will do very
we ."

“Not half so well as the orchard, if you would but '
have patience to wait for the blossom, Mr. John,” said
Miss Maia, coloring and looking down. i -

“Yes, in seven days more you are coming home to
me, you know,” remarked her betrothed,with attempted
playlulness; but his own words woke a deep chord of
his nature, and he suddenly changed his tone to onejof
unutterable, awe-struck Joy.

“ Oh, my dear, thin t that means to me I" he
laid, stopping to onfol Io within that loving arm ones ‘
more. " '

“And to me! ' whispered Maia, lifting her eyes for I
one instant,then dropping them, wet with happy tears: ' r
and hiding her fair young face on his breast.

And thus was the news of the earl's marriage m,
over in the orchard at Torwood Farm.

 

CHAPTER xxx.
ran has-r sosa'oar.

Ir is the day before that which has been fixed tor '
Marjorie’s marriage,but there sra no festive preptrations
in progress, and the girls heart is full of sorrowful
emotions, which have banished from her mind every
thought connected with the now delayed wedding.
Hersather and she have ridden up to the hairdoor of
Torwood Downs-to hear how old Mr. Alton is; and
John is now standing by her horse's head. loo up
at her with a mighty yearning sorrow in his dark ,
spite of his determined struggle to suppress noyouh
ward sign of suffering.

Bo 11.181081! telling them that his father (whose re-
cent illneas has been the cause of the m ‘ I
delayed) has passed a restless night, and is this
morning looking feebler than .he has ever seen him.
Drowsiness has crept over him several times; and toil
doctor, who has just left, has shaken his head'th
this new phase of his illness—heart disease can
yesrs' standing—and promised to return in' the cos

of submit or two.
Fearing lest Mr. Alton shouldbo disturbed by libr-
ioris’s entrance. her father tries to prevail. umber.“
go home ,with him and let her more experienced
mother come. down and remain with , the . invalid.-
should she and that she shoal l he of use.

“I won’t disturb him. papa. I only want to give
him his flowers. and to say 'Goochmoruing.’ if hols ,
awake. He likes to have me by him. even when he is
not ableto speak much. Ah,John, do let his come
in l” pleads the girl, in a tremulous, eager tone, and

UK
1..

her dark eyes fill;
“You won't disturb him. dear: only it will distress
you tos'eo howiil he, looks." says the young man,
hesitatingly, as she bends forward with a boo-aching
gesture which pray. him to help her to slight.

“ Lift her down, then. John. Bee, her heart's in her
mouth, poor lassic i " Mr. Bruce says, pityingly.
“ I'll wait here for a .few minutes.? And John obeys,
and feels strangely comfortable by the momentary
touch of her trembling little hand, the warmth of her
breath on his cheek, the close contact of her dear pres-
ence.

They go up the little flight of steps leading to tho.
hall-door and disappear within. Mr. Bruce watching
them with loud, grave looks; and as, having caught
the mare'srb'ridleyhe rides slowly to and fro. in front
of the old house. peacefully sleeping in the noon sun-
shine. he muses aorrowfully on the mutability, of hu.
manschémes. ‘ .

From aploughod field beyond the lawn there is a
sudden flight of startled crows. and a prodigious
cawing fills the air. 01d Tom, who is raking a new".
bed beneath the parlor windows, stops his work, and,
shading his eyes from the sun. watches them sweep
overhead, his face assuming an awe-struck expression
as he counts a little detached body which, cawing
loudly, makes a mysterious, wheeling and «mum.
wheeling round the chimne s of his master's house.

"F0" 0' "3913- mm“ N00." he says, pointing
aloft with an air of superstitious awe as that gentleman
anB “P *0 3PMk ‘0 him- " Ye ken what that means."
And thas limo; his voice to awlgmn whisper “he
rep“ . ~. ‘.' n9 0!: Wa's - ’s 'a w ' '-.
mu“ dam.” grief, three eddin , I

.“Stuif and nonsense, Tami" is Mr. Bruce’s impa.
flout rejoinder: yet his hale red face pales a little and
gathers a heavy shadow of forboding as he IIIOYOIWOB.

«wing Tm angrily‘muttsrifiS.‘ as he takes up his

 

rake again.

"W"

MWOIUE BR (JOE’S LU V888.

 

There is no gloom in the chamber whither John 3
leads Marjorie. his iather's room on the second story. ;
It is full of sunshine and peace and silence. Stealing e
softly in. the two young folk stand side by side, ten.
derl gazing at the dear worn old lace oi‘ the sleeper in
the easy-chair by the fire. .
Sure y there is today a new, astrange. spiritual
grace in his look. They clasp each other's hands in.
voluntarll : and, with diiliculty restraining a burst of_
tears. erjorisiwhispers a half-inaudible, pitying sene'
tenee,.wniu-u her betrotnel knows well how to inter-

ret. - r -

Suddenly the old man opens his eyes and looks at
them' both, with a beautiful, peaoeiul smile lighting
up his‘thin features.

"John/and Maia,” he says, softly, holding out a hand
to eaoh,«'“’m ‘two dear bairns I"

"'1 have rought you your flowers. my dear, dear
father." whispers the girl. sinking on her knees by his
chair, and 'holding up a big bunch obtragrant, old-
tashion‘ed spring flowers. culled in the garden of Tor-
wool Farm. » '

Since her return from London she has not once failed
in psyin him a daily visit and bringiu him a nosegay.
0! late.  1. she has taken to address ng him by that
sweet name "father," thereby pleasing him mightily.

Johii‘Alton's heart gives a great throb of pitiml pain
as he sees the feeble, hin old hands grasp the fresh
aprigg nosegay. ' . V

" ext spring the dear familiar form will be lying
hidden‘awaylunder the daisies. and my Mala will take
hot n ya to a silent grave," he thinks. averting his
lace sniping down a great choking sob.

Old llir. Alton gently fingers the flowers one by one,
gazing down upon them W‘ltd a grave, thoughtful smile.

7' We're old friends now, Maia—the flowers. and me,"
he ,“Sevonty-one years ago I opened my wonder.
if son on their bonny hinooent laces. Ag. ay, but the
best 0' mass must part. my dear." An a quiet sigh
escaped the gravely smiling ips. I.
“gong: Alton'turns abruptly away, his heart too full

'- Ah. don't speak so! See, John cannot hear it, dear
father." whispers Marjorie, tremulously; and the un-
selfish old man looks regretfully at him.

" You will comfort'hlm’after I am gone. little Maia 7"
he whispers, wistfully gazing into the trash young face;
and she bravely'keeps back her tears and gives the de-

Ilred I miss. ,I r , . 4 . . .
fl‘li sons comes back and takesth father’s hand
’ pm.  . .

N I

. . t 'v i
, lad l" says the old man. soi‘tly..giving him
a locket unutterable love : and Marjorie‘s eyes over-
ilow. in spite of her struggling after outward composure.

more laws little silence :drowsiness: seems rmp
 buthetrisstoshskeitoii. .v. / I
. MM,.Mariorio rises from herhnoss and pre-
Wh’wmtg'nm  . " 1 »

' .

‘ 4

" you are tired‘nowyfif she says. “ I'll say good morn; r

in' .fias s’ is 'waiting for me ; but I’ll come down" this
at y f tif‘you'would like me to be with you."

2,96. oyster." he‘answe‘rs her. Then. as she kisses
himghggays. with adigninel, sweet simplicity, looking
item, he; to his solarium, tends on his other side,“ God

b and Li ' d ' i
 ,, 2 €91 .. "
oh drsn m yiour children’gclt;
agossvyouham done minei" , 7 _ .
Be speckldslowly; and pauses for breath several
tings vdsoismn silence follows this benediction,.and.
granny his kind; tired eyes close, and his head sinks
owsily on hislbreast. . 2  I ’ ' ~

“(36 new. Mina!“ whispers John: land ,Marjorie,_
s struggling with risin tearinihurmni‘ss. tender

be. his. wm.,my your.
ildi'en cheer your old

as hegently lays h s father's head back amidst "

-b
ghf‘ip o'ws'ot hisrehair. _ I . .
n a‘i‘ew minutes her father and she are riding .dosvn
thgagenue; and John‘luton, who has liitod her
her-paddle. retraoes hissteps to his iather's room. and
therehoerskalouswutch over his slumber.  , ,_
ms hearth! very hesyy.aad won t subdaodsounds,
whiehhstsilto thatupperchamher m‘ the air out-
side'world grateupon his;ear.  1: .. - . L.
A:. aolibird perched-upon. hollyubus'n is warbllhg
shrilly, an \luvisibl'e‘redbréast scatterszhis crystalline
notes from a‘buddiiig- thorn. Tam, new at‘lworlt just
under... the- windows, shoots in an undertones melts»
chon psalm which the bad omen ‘ of the crows’ night:
has suggested: '4' A ‘ " 'v’i « ('3) 
John Aitoxiihu “the open m1: through wages he
sounds on steel iig.‘ Then there is 'a are! , it an
brakes only b the. s “breathin of the ag‘ slespzt‘
an ‘in_tliis s ones th wjor‘dsoi .am‘s'ps ,’ i
eutly recur toth'e you man's memory. at,
w ,klwhll  7 he   by his “Mel”!
c . , ‘ ' ’

.I‘.

' ' .. l U , v .
“ For Be rernernbers we are dust.
; .Anld lie om {game well liar-a, .
7 man s aye are as grass ;
. . A); flower in deld‘he grown

 “rot-over it the wind doth pass,
* And it away isrgone.’
And at the placewhers once it was
.lt shellac more be known."

‘ i ' ‘ ’. l. 1« “

 God he sister 98

brand-by, “ gently ‘ drawing ’

hath bent form :, saga ssh
. . 06

a  .73 'vmurinurs
gf'figfi wiggnround‘ the
dosathis, his father, and:
s at hi 0

“a a, .. . nurtures. .
. at... .V,’ o‘on.‘ ‘n" _
ommmor safflower.  ,ih‘gagfgmwia
his mi son's,  peacehi ly aw'ay‘ tothat Far
Oonntry whithorsl our ieetm tending. " ‘

', mince. In! dysrgohn sad as». and sivo' you :

into Hall

5526“: “ ti n

" welccnm. '

CHAPTER XXXI.
HOME-COMING.

AN ancient three-storied manor-house, with small
easements looking out of masses of ivy ;-a couple of
straggling modern wings, whose long, low windows
are embowered in roses ; a quaint pillared stone porch.
guy with old-fashioned vases, brimming 0'0! with
geraniums—this is Bruce. Hall. now the property of
John Alton, Esq., whom the ‘D'——'" papers and the
TLan oi‘a month old testified tohave married " Mar.
jorie, only child of JohnuBrueehoi‘ Torwood Farm. and
granddaughter of John Bruce, Esq., oi‘liruoe Hall,

hire.” ’  "” " ' '

bordered by flower-beds in lull. bloom. Beyond that a
tree-shaded lawn slopes gently down to green corn-
fields. Clustering round a paved courtyard at the
back are modest stables and kitchen ofllces, with tur-
reted gables, in which are the dove-houses. An arched
ivy-grown gateway beyond the west wing leads into
the gardens. A quaintly laid-out plot of shrubbery
and flowers commingled .lies nearest the manor-
house. ‘

The small estate is bounded on one side by the pub-
lic highway loading to D—; a few miles distant. At
' the entrance-gates opening from this high way is a rustic
thatched lodge. at whose rose-embowcred porch there
stands, on this August evening oi which I speah.a
tsmiliar old form.

It is Nancy’s. and she turns round and shrilly sum-
mons a' friend inside the cottage. Nancy is settled
down for life in this snug little dwelling; and Bell,
‘who responds to her summons, has come over with
Mr. and Mrs. Bruce from Torw00d Farm, three miles
away. and is making acall upon her while her master
and mistress await the home-coming of the young
couple, momentarily expected to return from the
Continental tour which has occupied their honey-
moon. v

" I've opened the gates. Bell," says Nancy. " I hear
the wheels 0’ the carriage ; it’s comin‘ up the hill, an'
will be here the nod." . '

"Eh,desr," says Bell. a happysmile lightning up
her hard-lined, honest face, " but I am a pmod Woman
this day 1" And she turns her head to wipe away a
couple of- glad tears, of which, inher honest Scotch
heart. she is eatly ashamed. ;

The two 01 women stand on the lookout at the
lodgle-door, and presently anest. uiet carriage wheels
in t rough the gates ‘and out-of ts windows look tWo
kind,happy faces. at sight of which Bell and Nancy
raise an outcry of welcome in the broadest of Doric.

“ Come up and see us by-and-by, both of you." cries
the lady, thrusting her graceful head out [of the car-
riage window as it dashes past up the, avenue, a wind-

which rd Castletoa.,.now intendsgto farm himself,
.rush joyously on their long-lost masteras he helps
moi-iota. jump' down .into ".her uproarious father's
iond  There is a wild barking and hand-shaking
'and congratulating for a couple of minutes: then they
alljgo in, and a new chorus of admiration and satisfac-

o arises. , V g- . f.

. Mrs. .10 ,Alltgn; ‘kissed and complimented and
wheeleda 'nt. 'be' oked at from di eront pbints of
View, until she declares herself completely bewildered,
and runs to. hernlegal owner, ior. prot tion. ‘That
entleman-‘s hand is heartily shaken h in score of
imes durip the intervals of this heathenish daughter-

‘ worship, , fervent thanks for his care of horns

poured. into his aniused ears, while Mrs. Bruce looks
on apart, her comely} serene thee alight with shilling

They disperse vto prepaire for dinner, and Manorio
finds a quiet-monient‘ to whisper a not-unwelcome ss-
fressionj oi sorrow that’he‘r‘deer second mother has not

ivsd tosee thisha‘ ' yday. ‘ - r I

A kiss and star er glances . heronlyanswer‘; but
her flushing: dart iace,«'u n-’ which 3 radow of
nose has on, we c eerfnl'. an ' kind," rue
s'y’eslight up witrhglfig'po sud'gratitnde. . I

.‘f Ghdhasf been very good toss, my dear. Let us be,
very-happy, as l donb not mix- dear old man is new,“
‘hc‘saysgniter a little erase ‘; nordoes healiow mother

 

In front of the house liesa wide ‘graveled sweepr

v 42‘ Burma, run Balm

‘ 1 regret to sadden his look all the rest of that evening

1 which we may believe passes right pleasantlyr

I And so in the fair rural home where she is to be 1m...
1 tress we leave our Marjorie, happy in- her lionsewiiel)
l dignity, whichv'she carries with astonishing gnu-c :
1 happy in her near neighborhood to her ionu pat. nt> :
.f happy in the prospect of a variety of new duties on.
! diversions connected with her rise in the social ladurl‘ :
[ happiest. ahl far happiest of all, in the iaitniul, p“ n»..-
' protecting hive of the husband to whom she has [4, 
her impulsive. warm young heart. . 2

[THE “DJ. I ' -._f......
Waverley- ibrary.

7 A Denounce or Eva. By Mrs. M Reed Crowell.

3 Mr 'ro Huvi‘tr'r. By figmliellfiiggitfhworth. -
amrua can). u oro “Cle ".,

10 A mm or our Em. y Kennedy. n" v

11 Erasmus. By Henrietta ere. . ’

12 His Laws-m. Wrm. B Mrs. Ann 8. gtephens,

masses. B Cushman.

War I By Sara. Olaxgon.

15 A Fem Faca. By Bartley T. Campbell. ‘

16 TRUST Hm Nor. By aret Leicester.

17 A LOYAL Loves. By Arabs 1e Southworth.

18 His Iron. B Mrs. Mary Reed Crowell.

19 Tim Bronx OTKAL. By Mary Grace Halpine.

20 0mm NELL,TEE Osman Gina. B Agile Penne.

'21 Now AND Fonnvnn. By Henriette hackeray.

23 Tim BR.le or an Acme. By Author of “Clifton.”

23 Lear Yuan. B Sara Claxton. '

21 Has FACE Was an Fear rim By Eleanor Blaine.

25 O Arabs in Southworth. '

 

26 wow A Scuogmxs‘rmtgs.
manor A ' mar. y Go‘l. Prentiss hurl-sham,
27 Was Sun A Geiger-in? By Henrietta Thackeray.
28 Bren. Oman. Mrs. Ann S. Ste hens.
{an glam Dalia an. Bby Sara!)e ton.
a cover mu. Agile nne.
Man manner. B
m

.35 Susan Answer. By (Hera Augusta.

‘36 BxaAncsaa’s Barns. B Arabella Southworth.
Tun - Y s. {Rees Kennedy. 3

38 HrswaAom. ‘By Are. ella Southworth. '

39 FLIRTATION. By Ralph Royal. '

4Q mnem‘ro mum. - : "

41'Btnn Dnvonox.‘ 'By ce'F'leming;m ' " .
mm. B A. thworth.‘

13 m B.‘.BONET'S 3mm. By Clarion.

H THE ONLY DAUGHTER. By Alice Fleming.

1

; Hun 11mm Fan. :By Arabella Southworth.

.—
,1

r

. . . - . ' Tun Lima Harness. B Mrs. M. A. Denison.
lug ap roach boarded byststely beech-trees. through 12 Y , .
usages“. sum WWW .5 as...“ hummuf’s assesse-
an ot w seep. ". ~' , -‘ V -
, ? "Eh. Nancy. woman. boo. thankful! am to see her   B gummythwm
Winsome, bonn lace hams  au' to think she's L)1 m YOUNG Gm!” B Am” F] m n ‘Deniwn‘
mistress 0‘ her ‘ ther's‘ain an diplsce, an’ can hand up 32 ,1.“ www Hm”ng By 6 ME-R Cm em
her heidamong the richtauldgehtrylike her forbearsl '33 Mm um um Amw Bywva-mn‘zar
.My certes.‘you'r moisteif‘may think “hissel’ a happy  ONE WOMAN‘S Hum B as - e. -
311211;: swig ; and Nancy is. not unhaturally, a good  an 'Dm Nor LOVE  yer”. so“ u‘fiwmmonh
s e‘gl’ves‘ he; white~mtutched head a dignified toss, g? Emmfj V‘gmflcg‘ifiggigmfli M. D-

and'makesas rotor. ., , k, , ‘,- ‘ ' ’ L'” “

WI'niIthinkin' .John’s money bought Bruce Ha'. .gg’gngvmsmm YBMm'Ra :M‘mlr’nemmhnmu
au‘ afritsbraw acres; an‘ I_ warrant yo he could he" so M’s Dwain. By Mym Jennie Du“ '

,had,a ebplce ofbonny young gentle leddies when be 61.5 wmnfiu'm, B same _ Buy “0"; _.
choowlto'm‘wii‘e.fl she sayl.  "he    We  fl    . ’
notchauce tomboil ovenjnst at that very moment, 63m Wm 8mm fly Mm m E. 
,there causing: asdistraction‘of thou ht.l fear a,“ Wan. Jimmy“ mo. By, me 
quarr would spoiltheirenioymsnt of t edainty tea 65 m Wmvs 330m“ B  ’ uanLQ 
awaiting them pnthe table Ly'the_sdhnylatticod win- 66 3W”qu 3y  Be  
4""- ' ., . m harness Barefo. Amtfilla _, t, ‘ only,

I " Welcome yhome, my dear husband! . ,whispered 68 wum m WE". was,  m
Marjorieeltonein‘a voice'between "lau ing and cry- 69 mm“; By Alexander 83' ' - ' -
ingglwhen‘they are fairly within the preci ctsyof Bruce 70 m.Two 0mg! 3. l no fl  o -v ‘

 .. 7 -§,   V , . . 71 MvYouxon-a. _‘B yYou 'rgvke'sKllsband.
:jweleoin’e’hpnie, my ' reoiousllttle with 1" says John 72 Tim Two inc .‘ y An Fl'fbomas.
Alton  gqli‘igi ass! kissln her loudly; and 78 Ross Missal”. y hiande Hilton. . ., _
t‘houg there is one keen egretih is faithful heart #10me , , __,l_c s,.Gaplt.._. y, I  , 4

hisvoicedoesnotbotrayit. ., V. .  75 anBmca‘ x or Desi“, .J. .LeFapn. I
ijl‘he sun.» gettingpapdllthe many windows oi the .73 Cams: Taurus. By . wson. .. _ . ‘_
outrageous 1191198 areal! slime as thefligriw up 77  Oaxm s litmus;- lly the author of,
loathe}; “If-5190:, inlwhosojotch Mr. and , . Bruce 1 JohnH fax, Gentleman ’ , H .,
stand awaiting them. . , _ r g 1!! Yoweugw.wlgy&yselh V i ,

A con is of dogs {brought over from frorwood Dow ns. somnqumwm'  mam .1 By  M Rt.

81 LUCY TEXBLB. ‘ y u V
82ALOr'zo'l‘Iisn Ado. ByMetaOrred.’ '  , V,
83 Prams Foe Erasmus. ,By Annie  “
84 Tan nonhuman. By theauthpr or “John
ax,Gentlemau.”‘ \ 1 j ‘ ’- .
85 wasth ~Byoetaye mullet.  , ‘ v ;‘ -
'86 Jam’s Rarmt'rsxcn. 4 _ a??? t. 7 i ;
87 Romeo or a room. .Yo  _ . FeuilIeL 
at; i  DEED. By , maGsrrisonJoncs. 
moan , . - , , r a -'
90 Tue Amoixy‘sDwemsa.‘ By Maryfiowitt.
91 Tea: er. By Charles Reade. -
92 Erma ALANNA. ,DeunisOfSullivan.
93 Love’s Vicronr. y'B,‘L-:1¥‘a son.
94 'l‘naQrmrr Hour. 3%. Highest.
96 Lamar. Aurore; Bv , . 1- . r
96" amide HEARTS. By‘Rachel hardt. “
97- on Memos. By Catharinedflnfi. * 
N Amer. Lmox'r. By Miss Muloc_ , .
amemmmewmwemmmW “
_ new a A r V
101W ‘ ' By Miss, Mulock.‘ -

_ _, ‘ .gi‘new‘issue every m ' l
:- sale . by all Newsdealers. five cents. each;

to .
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